#Daniel is bitter not that I can blame him

[gh-0-stcup]

Daniel and Armand spent four years meeting up and having long, intense conversations about philosophy, culture, and history before they officially got together.

They had a very active social life and seemed to spend several years doing a wide variety of interesting activities together.

Daniel mentions how he grew increasingly bitter over the years. Things between him and Armand fell apart due to Armand not being willing to turn Daniel.

Daniel is free to leave at any time. Armand won't try to chase Daniel down if Daniel doesn't want to be there.

Daniel's alcoholism spirals out of control when he isn't with Armand. Daniel has been on the verge of death because of his alcoholism multiple times prior to this chapter.

[i2sunric]

𝐆𝐄𝐓 𝐘𝐎𝐔 𝐁𝐄𝐓𝐓𝐄𝐑 (p.sh)

“fucking all the time is wrong when you're not mine, baby"

PAIRING: boyfriend's best friend!sunghoon x reader (f)

SUMMARY: just like eva did in the garden of eden, you fell under the serpent's court and now are under his spell. you knew you shouldn't betray your boyfriend, jake, like that when he was (not) so right for you, but seeing that he spent more time out for work made you seek the love and affection you needed, and who if not sunghoon could give you what you deserved?

WARNINGS: cheating (don’t like, don’t read). unprotected sex (don’t be silly, wrap your willy), they fuck everywhere and i mean it, toxic, creampie, masturbating, pussy eating, fighting, kissing, jealousy, doggy, missionary, rough blowjob, angst if u squint? jake is a toxic bf, sunghoon low-key corrupts reader, reader is designed with a weak personality. lmk if more. NOT PROOFREAD.

(RE)PUBLISHED: 6th August 2024

WC: 13.6k

TAGLIST: (permanent) @stolasisyourparent @jaeyunsbimbo @jwnghyuns @bangtancultsposts @shawnyle @jooniesbears-blog @skzenhalove @ro-diaries @onlyhyunjin (oneshot) @mitmit01 @lilyuwon @whoslai @simhinata @ihrtantn @deobitifull @heeswif3y @skylalyla @lanapaz @run2min @rizz00 @yeorns @rayofsunshineeee @kim2005bomi @lhspeachie @star4rin @nyxtwixx @skipiuki @camprock101 @acolytees @hoonsdrnkdzd @jjklvr9 @sophi-ee @iamliacamila @nctislifue @dengenej @yorukoshii @nshmrarki BOLDS COULD NOT BE TAGGED

a/n: before some loser tries to throw shit at this i have to say that no, cheating is NOT hot and this is purely fictional. this isn’t the only fiction with cheating as a trope and it comes from a project that IS supposed to have heavy and bothering themes, mostly because it comes as inspiration from a song (go listen to it, daniel di angelo ‘GET YOU BETTER’) that gives me toxic vibes. anw, LIKE & REBLOG please and lmk your thoughts (again) on this fic <3

“Again?” You asked with a deep frown after hearing that your boyfriend had yet to go to another work trip, despite having just returned from one “I know baby, what can I do? They need me.” He said it as if you were complaining already.

But could he blame you? You had spent two summer weeks alone and bored without Jake and now you had to go through another couple of weeks.

“Why you? They have other workers.” You commented, raising a brow.

Jake sighed and walked closer to you “Because I’m good, aren’t you proud of me?” You looked away and murmured “Of course i’m proud of you.”

Jake noticed your sudden change of mood and turned you to look at him “Come on, I'll be back before you even realise it.”

You rolled your eyes at his statement, something that Jake did not like “Don’t be selfish, I need to work to have money.”

“I'm not being selfish,” You reminded, tone cold. “I just miss my boyfriend who’d rather be miles away from me.” You snapped, stepping back and crossing your arms to your chest.

Those words had been left unspoken on your tongue for too long to be able to hold them back anymore.

“We both know that’s not true.” He hissed, rubbing his temples “Do we?” You scoffed

Jake clicked his tongue, “Listen, I'm just asking you to understand.”

You frowned again at him “I understand Jake, I've always done it!” Your voice raised out of frustration “So why can’t you understand me?”

“You?” His frown matched yours, a few wrinkles appearing on his forehead “What is there to understand about a needy and clingy girl?”

As soon as those words left his mouth your eyes saddened. Were you really being that whiney? So many questions formed inside your head while Jake regretted ever speaking.

You were just being honest, that’s what Jake always wanted from you; honesty, to voice out your feelings, so why was he mad at you?

“Taking many short distance flights is also not good for your body…” You murmured, bitter tears running down your cheeks, your gaze locked on the ground

Jake’s face softened, realising that you weren’t complaining— you were worried for him “Baby I—“

You shook your head “Save it.” And walked away, disappearing in the bedroom. Jake ran a hand through his hair in frustration, leaving you to cool down.

However you both were two stubborn beings so, instead of resolving it, you laid on opposite sides of the bed with heavy hearts, hoping the night to wash the annoying feelings away.

Heleft early in the morning, without a single message or a note and not even a kiss on your shoulder.

Whenever he had a flight in the night or early morning to catch and you would still be asleep, he used to kiss you softly on the shoulder, but this time he hadn’t.

Had you been too harsh with him the day before? Were you really being selfish?

You glanced at the clock and noticed you had already slept the morning away so you decided to get something done.

You stretched your limbs and exited the bed, doing your usual routine and some chores as well, trying your best not to think about jake. If he wanted to stay mad, so be it.

When you were cleaning the living room’s floor you heard your doorbell ring, so you went to open the door.

In front of you a tall man with a sheepish grin stood, waving his hand “Hi, Y/N.” He greeted warmly

“Hi, Sunghoon.” You said back, stepping aside to let him enter. you closed the door behind your back and walked him to the living room “What’s the occasion?” You asked, smiling

Sunghoon looked around the house “Is Jake home?” You shook your head in reply “He’s on a work trip.”

Sunghoon’s eyes widened “Again?” He asked and you couldn’t help but chuckle, you two had the same reaction to the news of Jake's departure “Again.” You nodded

“Aw, man.” He sighed, “I haven’t seen him in forever since he changed job.” You wanted to reply that you too hadn’t seen him since he decided to pick a job that required to travel around the world, but Sunghoon didn’t need to know that.

Sunghoon tilted his head, looking you up and down “So, home alone?” You smiled sadly “unfortunately.”

He gave you a wide smile, one that showed his two fangs “I took a couple of weeks off work because I had to go on vacation but the hotel shut down,” He seemed to debate whether to continue, but then added “I can keep you company.”

You blinked faintly at his offer, you two weren’t really close, you never really hung out apart from Jake’s friend group so it’d be awkward.

However , loneliness made you desperate so you just smiled in return “why not?”

Little did you know that Sunghoon had another plan in store for you.

⪩⪨

“Good morning, Y/N.” Sunghoon greeted a few days later, entering your house with his awkward yet comforting demeanour.

“Morning.” You said back, guiding him to the kitchen and placing down the casket of fruits he had brought you “You didn’t have to..”

“Dot’t be silly, it’s a pleasure.” Sunghoon smiled, sitting on a chair “Can i help you with anything?”

You quickly shook your head “No, no,” You took a pear and showed it to him “I'll cut this so we can eat and chat?” “Sounds good.”

It had become a small occurence that you’d sit together and talk about anything. You two had got to know each other, and you realised you had a completely different prejudice of him.

At first, you thought he was cold and awkward, but he actually was very soft spoken and kind. your heart always felt content when you were with him, but you chose to ignore that detail.

It was probably just because Jake hadn’t replied to your texts since he left the country, your heart was just pulling tricks on you.

You placed a small plate on the table with the pieces of pear and began to talk with him, laughing at a story of his dog scaring Jake's family dog, despite being a lot smaller.

“Layla and Jake are so alike,” You commented, chuckling “Indeed, I see no difference between them. like an owner like a pet." Sunghoon replied, taking a bite of the pear.

A small drop of the fruit’s juice rolled down his cheek, reaching his jawline. You had never paid attention to his features so closely, but he was so attractive. His jaw was sharp, you thought that if you ran your finger on it, it’d cut.

His skin was pale, porcelain-like and his eyes were so dark in contrast, his eyebrows thick and hair that seemed so fluffy.

Before the drop could fall down, you quickly extended yourself and dried it with your thumb, making both of you stop in your tracks. Sunghoon ‘s deep eyes widened and you pulled away “I—I’m sorry..” you stuttered, embarrassed

But Sunghoon didn’t seem to mind “It’s alright, thank you.” He reassured, resuming to tell his story. You try to shake the awkward feeling but get sidetracked when your phone screen lit up.

You quickly took it, hopeful that it was finally a message from your boyfriend, but your face fell when you realised it was just a notification from YouTube.

You sighed and looked so gloomy, like a whole storm fell over your shoulders, Sunghoon blinked faintly “Are you ok?”

You didn’t want to annoy him with your problems, you two had just started to be friends, but you just needed someone.

All your friends were busy working or living their adulthood somewhere, while you had been inside that house too much it felt almost sickish.

You sighed “It’s just that Jake and I had a small argument, right before he left.” Sunghoon’s eyes were so attentive you felt exposed, so kind and gentle.

“Is that so?” He asked, letting you know that he was listening “Yes,” You breathed out “We said harsh things and now he won’t even reply to my texts.”

Sunghoon’s jaw clenched at your admission, How could Jake ever ghost you? He could be mad all he wanted, but he was on the other side of the earth, for Christ’s sake, he could at least reply to your texts just like he did to Sunghoon a few hours before.

Seeing you so sorrowful made his heart ache; he wouldn’t admit it out loud but he had always found you attractive, since the first day he saw you on campus.

Screw his introverted personality, he never tried to speak to you, only admired from afar.

However, when he learnt that his best friend had found a girlfriend and the so-called girlfriend was you, he couldn’t help but blame himself.

Especially since jake was treating you like you weren’t worth anything.

You were worth it, you were everything Sunghoon dreamt of— if only you knew how better he could get you. good for him, he had two weeks to prove you so.

⪩⪨

“You just didn’t strike me as someone who likes doing grocery shopping.” You commented, putting milk inside the cart Sunghoon was gently pushing for you

Truth to be told, Sunghoon hated grocery shopping. He’d rather starve himself than get out of bed to buy himself food, which was why his friend Jay and his mother would often bring him food or just something enough to survive.

But it was for you and you needed to eat to be healthy, he could do an exception.

“I don’t have anything better to do, do I?” He said, chuckling at the sight of you trying to take a bag of chips which was on the top shelf, clearly too high for you.

You felt his figure hovering over you, the warmth of his body surrounding yours, his chest caressing your back as he took the chip for you.

That movement lasted no longer than five seconds but to you, it felt as if time had stopped.

You snapped out of your trance at the sound of the bag of chips being thrown inside the cart and Sunghoon moving forward.

You failed to notice the smirk on his lips, but the man was quick to hide it before his undercover was caught.

“What’s left on your list?” He asked, scanning the cart’s contents to see if he mentally remembered

“Uh—“ You quickly took the grocery list that was crumpled inside your pocket and cleared your throat “Just… donuts.” You said quietly.

You weren’t usually one to overeat, but since your heart was upset, your stomach was the same and you craved junk food.

You waited for Sunghoon to make a comment over it, to call you ‘gross’ the same way Jake once did when he saw you putting a bag of chips — the same type Sunghoon helped you take — inside the cart. You waited for it, but nothing came.

Instead, Sunghoon pushed the cart a little further in the lane until he reached the snacks section and eyed the shelves “There’s strawberry, brown chocolate and oreo.” He turned toward you and looked genuinely interested in your choice.

“Which one do you want?” You blinked faintly, unsure on how to handle that situation. He raised a brow, awaiting your answer “Strawberry.” You murmured.

“Strawberry it is.” He took the donuts and placed them in the cart “Do you want something?” You asked, reaching for him with a smile.

“Me?” You nodded in reply “Yes, take something you like, I’ll sugar mama you.” You joked nudging his shoulder.

Sunghoon stayed silent a few beats, “No.” He said sternly, “I’ll buy this for you.” He pointed to the food you wanted to purchase.

Your brows furrowed “What?” Sunghoon smiled, a wicked grin creeping on his lips “I’ll sugar daddy you.”

It seemed like you had hurt his pride trying to say you’d pay for his food, but you still didn’t want him to spend money on you, so you shook your head “That’s not necessary.”

“I insist.” He took another small cartoon of donuts and placed it in the cart, hurrying away before you could talk back. You reached him again “No, Sunghoon.”

“Yes, Y/N.” He kept taking useless things from the shelves and you kept putting them back, this went on for almost two whole lanes until you placed yourself in front of the cart.

Sunghoon tilted his head “What?” You narrowed your eyes, clearly upset. Seeing your change of mood made Sunghoon freeze. Did he overdo it?

He let out a small sigh “Alright, I’ll stop adding things.” You nodded satisfactorily, placing yourself back by his side.

“But I’ll pay.” Your head snapped back to him and Sunghoon chuckled “It’s the least I can do, you invite me to your house and I pay for your groceries, it’s even.”

Arguing with Sunghoon seemed to be a losing battle, so you just nodded your head and smiled back at him “Okay, thank you.”

“Anything for you.” They were just three words, but they were the most sincere you’ve ever heard.

After paying for your groceries, you two made your way towards the parking lot, you walked in front of a window, a crimson short dress on a mannequin.

You stopped to glance at it for a few seconds, your eyes sparkling. Sunghoon noticed you stopping and took a few steps back “Like it?” He asked, smiling at you

You were so stunned you just nodded in reply, eyes still glued to the dress. It seemed so perfect, sleeveless and not too short but not too long as well. You could see strings on the back, leaving it a little exposed.

“You want to try it?” At his question you snapped out of thoughts, turning to face Sunghoon (who was also a rather nice view).

“No, no, we should go home.” Sunghoon frowned at your reply “But you like it.”

You sighed softly and chuckled “Yes, but that doesn’t mean I should try it.” He eyed the dress and then you, studying you from head to toe “Even if I want to see you in it?”

His words took you by surprise and you widened your eyes “W-what?” He smirked, his fangs showing from the corner of his lips “Let’s enter.” He took your hand and dragged you inside the shop.

He sat on a small sofa in front of the dressing room, patiently waiting for you to try that dress on.

The way your eyes seemed to light up made him want to buy you anything if it meant to see your pretty face smile and be bright.

He knew you were still shaken from your argument with Jake, and by the fact that the bastard was obviously ghosting you, and he’d do anything to take that sorrow away from you.

“Ready?” He asked after a few minutes of not hearing anything from you.

You carefully opened the curtain and lord if he didn’t get an erection on the spot.

Seeing that tiny dress hugging your perfect curves, the shy blush on your cheeks and still that perfect smile on your lips “It’s so beautiful.” You commented

“Give me a twirl.” He asked and you complied, twirling gracefully “You’re beautiful.” Your smile lit up the whole room, you nodded in reply “I think it’s pretty nice.”

Sunghoon stood up and walked toward you, his arms raising and taking your hair away from your back.

The proximity between you two made your breath hitch once again. You could smell his manly cologne and the fabric softener of his hoodie.

“This should be tied.” He murmured in your ear, sending a shiver down your spine. His breath hit your skin, so warm. You closed your eyes, waiting for him to finish tying the lace behind your back.

He placed your hair back where they were and placed one strand behind your ear. He pulled away satisfied and smiled “Now, that’s even better.”

You looked at yourself in the mirror of the dressing room and Sunghoon brought his hands on your shoulder. He leaned beside your ear and whispered huskily “Let me buy it for you.”

Your brows shot up and you quickly shook your head “I can’t let you do that.” Sunghoon gave you a mesmerising smile from the mirror “Why not?”

“Because you already paid for the groceries.” Sunghoon tsked at your reasoning “And?”

“And it’d be too much if you also bought this dress. Besides, I don’t even have a reason to wear it.”

“We’ll make one.” You felt a sudden rush of coldness when his breath left your skin and he stepped away “It’s settled, I’ll buy it.”

You turned around, “But—“ He brought a finger to your lips “Sh, I said I’d sugar daddy you and I always keep my word.”

⪩⪨

Y/N: Please Jake, can you reply to me?

Y/N: It’s been five days, at least let me know you’re fine.

You sighed and dropped the phone on the mattress beside you, tired of reading ‘delivered’ beside your messages. Had you crossed the line when you argued? Personally, you thought what Jake said was far worse, but you were ready to forgive him if only he swallowed his pride.

You bit your bottom lip, your body craving to be touched and screaming for release.

Not only had you and Jake not spent time together, but it had also been more than a month since you last had sex.

You tried to ignore your primal urges, however your hips unconsciously moved back and forth, trying to soothe the aching feeling between your legs.

Your breath got heavier as you let your palm wander under your nightgown, touching, trying to turn yourself on.

You bit your bottom lip, your hand reaching down to touch your clit, circling it with your fingers; using your slick to wet it more.

You slid one digit inside of you, fingering yourself for what seems like ten minutes, trying to find that one spot that makes your head spin— it didn’t feel good.

You decided to try and squeeze your breasts, fingering yourself at a fast speed… nothing seemed to work out.

Frustrated, you pulled your fingers out and curled yourself in a small ball, checking your phone just to see that again, Jake had not texted you.

At that moment, a new message popped on your screen.

Sunghoon: Hey Y/N, movie night tomorrow?

You unconsciously smiled and replied with a positive answer, feeling strangely giddy at the thought of having another plan with him.

Y/N: Sounds good.

It didn’t take much for him to text you back, only a few seconds needed.

Sunghoon: Awesome. Tomorrow @ 9pm?

Y/N: Yup. I’ll make sure to do some pop corns.

Sunghoon: Haha ok

You turned off the lights, placed the phone back on the bedside table and tucked yourself under the covers, ready to fall asleep when it buzzed again.

You took it, the screen light too bright for your poor eyes. You narrowed them, trying to read the new messages

Sunghoon: What are you doing now?

Your cheeks flushed at the thought of what you had been doing before he texted you.

Y/N: About to sleep

Sunghoon: Aw :(

Y/N: Why the sad face?

Sunghoon chuckled at your innocence and kind self. He bit his bottom lip and leaned back on the chair, typing his reply.

Sunghoon: I was playing a game and wanted some company.

Y/N: I’m not really sleepy

His eyebrows raised, he thought you’d just turn him off.

Maybe his plan was working.

Sunghoon: Can I call you?

You jolted up, sitting on the bed and looking around in panic.

Y/N: Voice call?

Sunghoon: Anything you want, x

The way Sunghoon was treating you wasn’t the way you treated fiends, but you decided not to overthink it much. Sunghoon’s contact name flashed on your screen as he called you.

You cleared your throat and tapped on the green button.

“Hey,” His voice came out as hoarse from the other line “Hi.” You whispered back, hugging your knees to your chest and fidgeting with the sheets

You could hear some keyboard tapping and asked “What are you playing?” Sunghoon chuckled “League of Legends.”

You hummed “I’ve never played.” Sunghoon let out a sound of disbelief “Never? Jake never let you play with him?”

Jake would always complain when you ever interrupted his gaming nights with friends, “No.” You replied simply.

“Shoot!” He exclaimed from the other line, making you jump in surprise and gasp “Sorry about that— I didn’t mean to startle you.” He was quick to apologise.

“It’s okay,” You reassured, not wanting him to feel guilty about that. “So, how was your day?”

You two started talking about everything and anything, laughing and just enjoying each other's company.

You hadn’t even realised you had fallen asleep, your light snores and deep breaths probably became Sunghoon’s favourite sounds.

Because he never hung up, not until you woke up the next morning and did it yourself.

⪩⪨

Something didn’t feel quite right that day, you let Sunghoon inside your apartment and the two of you prepared the living room for the movie night… but he had something different. Perhaps, the other night something changed between you two.

Maybe it was his not-combed hair, all fluffy and wild, or the white tee he was wearing that showed the shadow of his muscles and abs— or maybe the grey sweats he was wearing. You gulped down, it was you, you were the one off.

Not cumming for so much time did tricks to your brain.

You decided to ignore it and you two sat side by side, but still keeping distance “What movie do you wanna watch?”

Sunghoon asked, lazily eating a pop corn while scrolling through Netflix “Cause I had one in mind, but we can watch something else if you want.”

You hummed “What did you have in mind?” Your voice was softer and quieter, making Sunghoon feel goosebumps all over his skin.

Oh, the effect you had on him.

He took one pillow and sneakingly placed it on his laps, hoping it wasn’t obvious that he was trying to cover his growing bulge.

“How to lose a guy in ten days?” He asked, faking innocence when you widened your eyes and physically squeaked “I love that movie!”

“Is that so?” Sunghoon asked but he already knew the answer. you had said that one day when you were having a group hang out with the others.

He remembered, actually, he remembered every detail of you— even the ones you may think of stupid.

“Then, let’s watch it.” He said and clicked play, the movie beginning peacefully.

It all went alright until Sunghoon’s knee got closer and closer, touching yours.

He acted oblivious, focusing on the scene unfolding in front of him but he was painfully aware of you.

Maybe it was also because of your exposed thighs, the shorts hugging your legs so perfectly, making him almost drool. He took a deep breath, trying to calm himself.

Seeing that you didn’t reject his touch, Sunghoon grew a little bolder and placed his hand on your thigh, caressing it.

An alarm inside your conscience screamed danger! stop! but something told you that his touch was safe, soothing and so attractive.

Your mind went to Jake, how he would react if he ever saw your best friend touching your thigh, too close to where he shouldn’t be touching.

Nonetheless, Jake was so far away and Sunghoon so close to you, his hand slowly creeping closer to where you ached, where you just needed him.

Your breath hitched and your stiff state made sunghoon smirk sly. his plan was working smoothly.

His hand squeezed the flesh beside your thigh as your gaze was still fixed on the tv; however your attention was all on the coldness of his fingers, the way they felt on your skin.

“Sunghoon.” You wanted to say sternly but only a small whisper left your lips “Hmm?” He hummed, his dark eyes back on you

You gulped down and turned your head to meet his face, you glanced at the hand on your thigh and shook your head “You should stop.”

“Stop?” Sunghoon asked, his voice teasing and soft “It seems to me that you are enjoying my touch.”

Deny was what your brain told you to do but his hand moved even closer, resting just below the hem on your shorts.

Your hesitation made Sunghoon’s smirk turn more cunning, “What is on your mind?” He asked, his position shifting so his whole body was facing yours, the pillow falling on the floor.

You didn’t move a bit.

“That it’s weird…” You murmured “What you’re doing.”

“Yeah?” He cooed “And why do you think that?” He asked and his finger tucked a strand of hair behind your ear, making a small tint of blush appear on your cheeks

You weren’t naïve, you knew what Sunghoon was hinting at with his actions and words.

You knew it, yet you didn’t want it to stop.

“Because Jake wouldn’t like it.” At your words, Sunghoon’s smirk fell.

You were loyal and that was admirable, but it was only because his best friend made a move on you first, before he built the courage to talk to you.

Though Jake wasn’t treating you like you deserved, like Sunghoon would.

“Don’t think about him,” He said, his voice harsher than he intended to “Think about me.”

You watched him with hooded eyes as his hand that was tucking the small strand of hair behind your ear slowly slid down your shoulder.

Your heart was pounding so hard you could feel it in your throat and your breath heavier than before.

“This is wrong.” You whispered, unable to voice out the coherent thoughts forming in your brain with his hands touching you ever so gently “we shouldn’t do this.”

Sunghoon gave you a smile that was meant to be reassuring even if it was just victorious.

He knew you’d give in to him, sooner or later.

“It's wrong only if Jake finds out.” He looked down at your body, the way your nipples hardened and their outline could be seen from the shirt, he licked his bottom lip “Besides, don’t act like you don’t want it to happen as well.”

Silence filled the room except for the sound of the long forgotten movie, Sunghoon could sense your hesitation and your pretty brain overthinking, so he let out a small sigh “I’ll try something, you can tell me to stop if you don’t want to.” He said but remained still, waiting for your permission

“Try what?” You asked, your voice so soft and quiet it made his cock harden inside his sweats

“This.'' His voice sounded more like a growl, Sunghoon cupped the back of your neck while his other hand hooked around your waist, bringing you close; his lips connected to your neck, leaving wet kisses all over.

You instantly closed your eyes and a shaky breath left your lips, Sunghoon took it as a clue to add more pressure and suck small spots, careful not to do anything sudden.

One of your hands raised and placed on his forearm, feeling the muscle of his arm, Sunghoon smirked on your skin and detached himself just enough to talk “Do you want to stop?”

You sighed softly and grasped his hair with your other hand, bringing his mouth down on your neck “Keep going.” You said and sunghoon felt as if he was the luckiest man on earth.

His kisses grew hungrier, not leaving even a single spot untouched by his lips. one hand grasped your hair back, bringing it back to have more room while the other groped your breasts from outside the shirt.

You squeezed your thighs together, trying to find relief. “N-no marks.” you said as he sucked a spot for too long, he pulled away and bit his bottom lip, repressing a chuckle “Too late.”

Before you could reply, his lips found yours in a heated and desperate kiss, it was so wrong but it felt too right to stop.

You let your hands slip under his shirt and roam freely, feeling his sculpted chest under your palms, earning a deep groan from sunghoon.

His tongue slipped inside your mouth, he was the one in control of the kiss but you didn’t mind. You just craved to be taken care of.

He pulled away from you and began to lift your shirt up, too eager to feel your whole body— to make you his even if you didn’t belong to him.

He threw the shirt on the floor and widened his eyes as he saw your naked upper body.

Sunghoon stared in trance at you, but it made you feel self conscious and your arms wrapped around your chest.

Sunghoon frowned, taking your hands away “Never,” He murmured, kissing your lips once more “Never cover yourself from me, understand?” You nodded in response “Yes, Hoon.”

He squeezed your tit and lowered his lips to the other one, sucking on your abused nipple “Such pretty tits.” He commented and you unconsciously grind on the sofa, the wetness of your pussy glistening your panties.

He left one breast to pay attention to the other, sucking and flicking his tongue on it, making you whine “Mhhh.. Hoon.” You encouraged him to continue

Sunghoon smirked and looked at you, moving your hips while your eyes were closed and your mouth slightly opened, soft whimpers exiting it.

“Lay down, princess.” He ordered and you complied. His voice was so low and demanding you thought you’d do anything he asked without contemplating anything. Maybe he truly did a spell on you.

His fingers hooked under the hem of your shorts and he looked at your eyes, waiting for your approval. “Don’t ask,”

You said, trusting him and knowing he’d stop if you ever asked, but Aunghoon pecked your lips “Are you sure you want this?” He asked, because no matter how hard he wanted you, he’d never force himself on you.

You nodded, your mind hazy and you body in need to be touched “Yes— I need you, Hoon.” Your soft pleading made blood rush straight to his cock, the visible bulge pocking through his pants.

“Fuck, Y/N.” He groaned and pulled your shorts down, discarding them on the floor “You’ll be the death of me.” He stared at your body like you were a sculpture to admire at a museum, his hand tracing your curves.

“My gorgeous baby,” Sunghoon noticed the wet patch on your panties and smirked widely “So wet for me? We haven’t even started.” He cooed as he tucked the hem down, leaving you completely bare in front of him.

With one finger he gathered your juices and took his digit inside his mouth, humming in approval “Tastes good, so fucking good.”

At such a sight you couldn’t help but let out a small whine “Hoon..” You murmured and his attention immediately snapped back at you “Yes, baby?”

You moved your hips closer to him “Touch me please.” And how could he say no when you asked so politely?

“Want me to touch you?” His finger went down and played with your clit, making you arch your back “Want me to make you feel good, s’that what you want baby?”

He cooed, one finger slipping inside your needy and wet hole, your walls squeezing around it “Fuck, you’re so tight.”

He frowned, working his finger in and out your hole while you moaned under him “Does jake even touch you, uh?” He scoffed

He added another finger, keeping your legs opened with his other hand.

The movements of his fingers inside of you made you see stars, he was so skilled it almost made you forget you had a boyfriend that should do such filthy things to your body.

Not that you cared at that moment, and neither did Sunghoon.

Your hips moved back and forth to match his digits, deep inside of you.

He curled them and caressed your g-spot, making you squeeze your eyes and pant heavily “Faster.” You asked “Please Sunghoon— feels s’good.” His fingers moved faster and faster, the knot in your stomach about to snap when he abruptly pulled away.

You opened your eyes and whined, looking at him with a huge frown which made Sunghoon smile.

You were so cute like that, face all flushed in desperate need to cum “Don’t worry.” He reassured, pulling his sweat and boxers away “Just wanted you to cum all over my cock.”

You smiled but it soon transformed into a huge jaw drop as you saw how big and fat his cock was. it pulsed, angry red and thick, up on his stomach.

Sunghoon chuckled at your reaction, “Too big for you?” He asked, taking your chin in his hands and bringing your face slightly closer to him “Jake isn’t as big as me, is he?”

“That’s… never gonna fit.” You whispered, embarrassed “We’ll see that.” He pulled your head down on the sofa again and he fisted his shaft, your juices that still coated his fingers acting as lube.

He pressed the tip of his dick by your entrance, teasing it “Hurry.” You whined

Sunghoon smirked “Such a needy girl,” He scowled at you and pushed his cock into you in one deep thrust, making you gasp. you felt so stretched, your walls hugging his member, making his eyes roll back “Shit, princess,” He panted “You’re really so tight,” he pushed himself deeper, already bottoming out.

You whined in a mixture of pain and pleasure, gripping the sofa beneath you, Sunghoon noticed you and connected your lips with his, trying to distract you “Relax,” He cooed, one of his hands caressing your forehead with his thumb “It’s all good, you’re doing so well.”

His sweet words made you instantly relax, you looked at him through your teary eyes and he smiled warmly, pecking your lips once more.

He started moving inside of you, slowly at first and when the pain subdued to pleasure, you moaned “S’deep,” You breathed out, gripping his arm.

Sunghoon couldn’t hold back anymore, his hips started moving faster, your skin slapping together as he tsked “Bet he can’t fuck you like i do,”

He circled your clit with his free hand, while his other snuck around your neck, adding small pressure, just enough to make your mind hazy.

He groaned, trying his best not to cum right there as he heard your sweet moans, your tits moving back and forth alongside your body as he pushed his cock so deep he could see the shadow his bulge in your stomach.

“I’m the only one who can fuck you like you deserve,” He kept saying nonsense while you laid under him, the knot in your stomach about to snap.

You nodded at his statement, not registering his words at all “Hoon— s’close, i’m close.” You said, your voice cracked and quiet.

“I know baby,” He circled your clit faster “Can feel you squeeze me— fuck— squeeze my cock.” He threw his head back to move the bangs sticking to his sweaty forehead, revealing an image of every girl’s erotic dream.

He felt your walls squeezing his cock, signalling that you were about to fall apart and so he hurried his movements “Don’t cum yet,” He ordered but you shook your head, unable to resist anymore as you came, your orgasm hitting like a crashing wave, making your body squirm underneath him.

Sunghoon slowed his thrusts but never faltered, he helped you ride out of your high until you were able to open your eyes again, your breath so heavy.

He kissed your lips, holding your chin in his fingers while he resumed his speed, trying to reach his own release

You moaned louder, probably even your neighbours could hear you but Sunghoon pushed you to overstimulation, “Gonna cum, just a little more baby.” He panted, gripping both your hips and rutting inside of you until he pulled out and came all over your chest and body, shots of white seed painting you.

You spread it all over yourself, waiting for him to calm down as the realisation of what you had just done hit both of you.

You exchanged no words but Sunghoon carefully scooped your figure from the sofa and carried you bridal style to the bathroom, making you sit as he prepared you a warm bath.

“Hoon..” you murmured, guilt eating you alive. Sunghoon turned around and saw the state you were in.

Ignoring the hard-on he had again at the sight of you all dirty in his cum, he pressed a featherlight kiss on your forehead “Don’t overthink it,” He said gently “it’ll be alright if he doesn’t know, and you can keep a secret, can’t you?”

Sunghoon asked and you nodded “That’s a good girl.” He pecked your lips but you brought him into a deeper kiss and before you knew, his tongue was inside your mouth again.

He reluctantly pulled away, shaking his head, feeling like he’d be taking advantage of you.

Sunghoon closed the tab of the bath and helped you in, despite your legs that were like jelly, you felt refreshed and happier.

He let go of your hand but you didn’t, keeping it secured in yours. He looked at you with a puzzled expression.

“Get inside.” You beckoned to the bath and he shook his head again “I’ll take a shower later.”

You pouted “Let’s save water.” Your eyes were so soft and glossy he couldn’t help but comply and he entered the bathtub with you.

Nedless to say, you found yourself on his laps, needy grinding against his hard cock as you two made out with the warm water around you both.

Maybe you could do more than that while Jake was away.

⪩⪨

The next morning you woke up to a strange sensation between your thighs, it felt hot but also good, waves of pleasure rushing through your body.

You slowly opened your eyes and looked down, seeing a ruffled head buried between your legs, two strong hands pinning you down the bed.

“Hoon..” You breathed out, your mind still hazy and eyes too heavy to keep open.

Sunghoon momentarily detached himself from your cunt, your wetness coating his chin “Mh, hey princess.” He smiled as if he wasn’t eating you out for breakfast “Just relax, let me take care of you.”

You already weak heart melted at his statement and you just nodded, resting your head back on the pillow while Sunghoon flicked his tongue on your tongue, stimulating it with his fingers as well.

You closed your eyes and placed one hand behind sunghoon’s head, grasping his hair, trying to bring him closer, needing him closer.

The phone on your bedside table started ringing, making you take it and frustratedly checking who was ruining your moment.

You would’ve jerked away if it wasn’t for Sunghoon’s grip at the sight of Jake’s contact name “It’s Jake.” You half-whispered, half-screamed, trying to pull Sunghoon’s head away from your pussy.

He reluctantly let go and nodded “Answer.” Though his tone said that was the last thing he wanted you to do. With shaky hands, you took the call and placed the phone beside your ear “Hello?”

“Y/N, hi… it’s morning there, did I wake you up?” Jake’s voice seemed to foreign to your ears it felt strange at first; as you were about to reply, Sunghoon’s lips attached to your pussy once more, making you gasp.

“You good?” Jake asked from the other line, worry lacing his tone “All good!” You exclaimed, a little too high pitched.

No matter how hard you grasped Sunghoon’s hair, the man was not going to pull away from your pussy and the way he pinned you more down on the bed confirmed your thoughts.

Instead, you bit your bottom lip and tried your best not to give away the pleasure your boyfriend’s best friend was giving you. “Listen, I'm so sorry.” You frowned, confused “What are you sorry for?”

A whimper died down your throat when Jake answered “How I left things, I shouldn’t have ignored your texts..” He sighed softly “I was just mad, I needed some time alone, but it isn’t an excuse.”

No, it wasn’t, but you had forgotten about the fight thanks to Sunghoon’s magic bed skills, so you just shrugged it off.

“I understand.” You breathed out as Sunghoon inserted a finger into your sticky walls, fingering you while his tongue worked on your clit.

Jake sighed at your answer “I said hurtful things to you, can you forgive me?” You moved your hips, fucking yourself on sunghoon’s tongue, earning a hum of approval that sent waves through your body.

“Yes,” you replied, though you didn’t know if it was meant for Jake’s question or to incite Sunghoon in his act “Really?”

Jake’s voice sounded surprised, you usually took things personally, so why brush it all off? He wasn’t going to complain, though.

“How are things going there?” He asked “Alright,” You murmured, Sunghoon’s skilled tongue making you see stars.

“There?” You managed to ask without letting your voice shake when Sunghoon added a second digit inside of you, curling them like he had already memorised where your sweet spot was.

And he probably did.

“Well.” Jake chuckled “But I miss you so much,” You felt a pang of guilt, because since Sunghoon occupied your daily life, your mind had started to drift toward Jake less.

“Miss you too,” You whispered, your words making Sunghoon’s fingers move faster. You bit down on your fist to prevent yourself from making unwanted noises.

You heard a second voice from the other line but couldn’t quite understand what it said, and then Jake sighed sadly “I have to go baby, I'll text you when I finish this meeting.”

You hummed, your back arching “I love you.” Jake said sweetly and you answered with a quick “Me too.” Before hanging up, throwing the phone on the mattress.

You pulled sunghoon’s head away and pushed it on the bed, strangely he let you do it, not fighting you.

He laid on the bed while you crawled on top of him, hovering just above his face “You’re so hot when you’re pissed.” he teased, knowing that you would’ve been anxious about being discovered.

That was what added the thrill to Sunghoon, it would be boring otherwise.

“Shut up,” You shushed, lowering yourself on his lips and gripping his hair, pulling his lips on your pussy, the sweet sensation appearing again.

You bucked your hips down, riding his face while you moaned, trying to reach your orgasm.

Sunghoon’s tongue found your entrance, fucking your hole, drinking all your wetness like you were his last meal.

On other occasions you would've been scared of choking him, but with the pre-orgasm bliss, your selfishness appeared and you just worried about cumming.

His nose poked your clit, his tongue fucking in and out and his hums of approval to let you know that he was, at least, still breathing made you reach your high, legs shaking.

He helped you ride out of your orgasm, your breath still hard as you laid down on the bed again, chest raising up and down.

He sat up and kissed your lips, tasting your cum on his tongue “Morning, Y/N.” He murmured in a hoarse voice.

“Morning, Sunghoon.” It was the same thing you two had been telling each other for a week, only this time, it meant so much more.

⪩⪨

“Let me see them, come here.” He demanded as you two got home from your nail salon appointment, which he insisted on paying.

You smiled widely and walked closer to the sofa where he was sitting — or rather, manspreading — and happily showed him your pinkish nails.

“I love them.” You confessed, the small brush of Sunghoon’s thumb on your knuckles making your breath hitch “Pretty nails for a pretty girl.” He smirked when he noticed the effect he had on you.

Sunghoon was no innocent man, despite his shy appearance.

When he said he’d do anything for you, he meant it, even betray his best friend for you.

Maybe you didn’t want to dump him because Jake was, in fact, a good boyfriend if you didn’t count the bad moments you had together.

But Sunghoon was better than him, and he was planning on showing you.

He let go of your hand and patted his lap, beckoning you to sit on it.

Complying, you straddled him and wrapped your arms around his neck “But you didn’t have to pay for them.” You murmured, feeling guilty that he spent so much for you, along with the necklace and earrings he bought you as a gift

“Shhh,” He hushed you, pressing a finger on your lips, brushing his thumb over your bottom one.

“I want to spoil you baby, you deserve it.” His voice was barely a whisper, so deep and husky.

Your lips hitched with the urge you had to put them on his, kissing until you grew sick of it— but you couldn’t.

“Actually,” You mumbled and pulled away, just enough to resist your deepest thoughts “I don’t want to send you away, but Jake wanted to FaceTime me,” You gulped, fidgeting with his shirt

Sunghoon tilted his head, his hands securing around your waist, protectively keeping you close “So?”

“So, I thought it’d be better if he didn’t see you here.” You added, nodding at your own statement

Sunghoon frowned, “I can hide in the bathroom until you’re done.”

“Hoon— you’ve been sleeping here for four days..” His jaw ticked “Am I bothering you?”

You were quick to shake your head “No, never.” You bit your bottom lip, afraid to voice out your feelings since that useless argument you had with Jake

He sighed softly and took your chin in his fingers, making you look inside his eyes “What’s wrong, baby?” He asked, holding you so gently you thought you’d shatter right there and he’d be able to pick up all your pieces

“I—“ You shook your head, but Sunghoon’s grip tightened on your chin “Tell me.” He demanded, not harshly.

“I just… I don’t think Jake would like it if he knew about this and I feel so guilty.” Sunghoon felt his anger rise, because he wanted to tell you that your relationship was more off than on, he wanted to tell you to just break up with Jake and live with him, spend your day tucked under his protections so that no one could hurt you anymore.

But, you weren’t his and he couldn’t do anything about it… yet.

“What we’re doing isn’t bad, alright?” He tried to sooth your worry “We’re just two adults trying to satisfy each other’s needs,” Sunghoon licked his bottom lip, looking at your glossy and innocent eyes made his dick harden inside his jeans.

“And I want to take care of you..” He whispered, his hand slipping under your shirt, groping your breasts, earning a small whimper from you “Will you let me?”

Were the necklace and earrings he gave you cursed? Because no matter how much you knew this was wrong, you only craved for more.

“Yes,” You whispered, “I want to make you feel good too.” Sunghoon’s eyes softened, you were so cute and innocent and so his to ruin “Is that so, princess?” You nodded in response

“Want to make me feel good?” You hummed and Sunghoon got close to your ear, purring “Get on your knees.”

You complied right away, climbing down his laps and placing yourself between his legs “Need those pretty hands around my cock,” He said and you unzipped his jeans, palming his already hard length through the fabric

“Do you know how to give a blow?” He scoffed, almost being degrading “I bet Jake couldn’t even teach you properly.” Sunghoon caressed the side of your cheek and then his hand gripped your hair, pulling your head toward his hips “Hurry up, sweetheart.”

Not wanting to make him wait, you quickly pulled the hem of his boxers down and let them fall to his ankles.

His cock sprung free, veiny and thick, you let your tongue trace it, giving kitten licks to the tip.

Sunghoon groaned, holding your hair up to a semi-ponytail so they wouldn’t bother you.

You circled your tongue all over the tip, tasting his bittersweet precum.

“Stop teasing.” he warned, pulling your hair back and looking into your eyes, his tone softening, “Understood, baby?” You nodded in approval and took him whole inside your mouth in one swift movement, his long shaft hitting the back of your throat, making you gag.

He ard your slight gag but the sensation of your warm mouth wrapped around him was enough to cloud his mind. you bobbed your head back and forth, filthy sounds filling the room.

“Shit princess, you feel so good.” He groaned “Mh— could just cum right here.” His praising fuelled your confidence, so you gripped both his hips and moved your head faster, trying to provide him pleasure

You palmed his balls as well, gripping them gently as Sunghoon let out a low moan, throwing his head back on the headboard on the sofa.

You spied him from your eyelashes, he looked like the epitome of erotic: mouth hanging open, eyebrows furrowed and eyes squeezed shut.

He pushed your mouth further, trying to bottom out when your phone started ringing. You got distracted, looking to the side, about to pull away as you knew it was Jake.

“Don’t you dare.” Sunghoon groaned, standing up and pushing his cock deep inside your throat, you gagged, it being too big to fit.

You tried to push him away to catch your breath but Sunghoon didn’t seem to care. Only when he saw your teary eyes did he give you the chance to breathe.

You panted heavily, spit rolling down your cheeks and wetting your shirt.

Your ringtone started once again and Sunghoon watched you wild his eyes, he took your chin in his hands and raised a brow “You going to answer?”

Your eyes were glossy and the tip of your nose red, you shook your head in reply “That’s what I thought.” he smirked and yanked you by your hair, snatching them to push his fat cock inside your mouth once again.

The way you were just staring at him with those eyes made him grin, the sweat dripping down his forehead added a small spark to the whole situation.

Your phone rang once more and he let out an annoyed groan, taking it in his hands “Maybe I should just show your boyfriend what you’re doing right now, uh?” You panicked and shook your head, trying to pull away from him.

“Keep sucking,” he warned, maintaining his grip on your hair. He showed your phone screen to you, Jake’s contact name appearing before your eyes.

You murmured, trying to tell him not to do anything reckless but that only sent waves of pleasure to his length.

“Shit Y/N.” he panted, throwing your phone back on the sofa, not caring about its ringtone anymore.

“Always ruining the moment, that fucker.” He murmured, holding your head with both his hands and pushing his dick in and out your warm and went mouth

“I’m so close baby,” You nodded, dropping your arms on your side and letting him do what he needed to reach his high. His moans were low, more like growls which made the wetness between your legs grow more uncomfortable as time passed.

You liked when he acted so possessive, when he acted like you belonged to him.

You wished you did.

“Fuck, Fuck, Fuck.” He chanted, eyes rolling back “Such a good girl for me,” He groaned once more, pushing one last time, deeper until released his seed inside your mouth.

He took deep breaths, trying to calm down “Swallow.” Sunghoon ordered, his eyes so dark and red.

You gulped down and then stuck out your tongue to show him that no trace of his cum was left “Good girl.” He smiled, helping you up.

He helped you up and was about to pull your body closer when you shook your head “What’s wrong?” He asked, confused at your sudden coldness

You glanced at your phone on the sofa and smiled faintly “I think I should call Jake back.” You took it and bit your bottom lip, “I’ll be back later.”

You didn’t spare Sunghoon a glance and just disappeared in your bedroom, closing the door behind your back, leaving Sunghoon in the living room with the realisation that your heart still belonged to Jake.

⪩⪨

Jake was a total asshole. He had always known that, but realisation hit him the moment he saw you coming out of that room bawling your eyes out.

Despite not wanting to tell him, he had a feeling it meant Jake’s foul mouth said things he shouldn’t have.

And as he rocked you to sleep, whispering sweet nothings while gently caressing your body, he was more than determined to take you away.

What made it worse was that you took your time to clean the drool from your cheeks, combed your tangled hair and even put some mascara on to be pretty.

Jake didn’t even consider that, or didn’t try to think how happy you’d be to talk to him and harshly destroyed your mood.

The next morning you woke up feeling groggy, your eyes were puffy and tear stains lined down your cheeks.

You looked at yourself in the mirror and sighed, trying to fix the damage that was your appearance.

After washing your face and doing your needs, you exited the bathroom thinking you’d be alone and mentally preparing to make something for yourself to eat when you came across a tall male figure cooking.

You stopped in your tracks, eyes wide as you drank him in. Sunghoon was toasting something with the pan, his forearms flexing as he twisted the bread.

He was quietly humming a melody, quiet enough not to wake you up, the smell of caramel and first loves filling the air.

You felt a sudden peace of mind, dreaming about waking up like this every day, lazy sunday mornings spent in, cuddling and just being with each other.

Your dream was crushed when you remembered you actually had someone to do that with you, and he wasn’t Sunghoon.

You walked towards him and hugged his waist, your small arms wrapped around his toned torso. He stiffed for a second before realising it was you “Morning sleepyhead.”

“Morning Hoon.” You said back, snuggling your face closer to his back. He turned off the stove and turned around, his arms wrapping around your waist, pulling your body closer

“Slept well?” Sunghoon asked, placing the palm of his hand on your cheek, his thumb giving it gentle strokes.

The way he talked and looked had you so weak and vulnerable and the only place you wanted to be in was the space between his arms, pressed in so close and so tight.

“Yes, thanks to you.” You gave him a sincere smile. His lips twitch up into a smile and you can feel the warmth of his gaze on your face.

He shook his head and placed a featherlight kiss on your head “I did nothing, really.” He did what Jake should’ve done, instead he chose to be the reason for your hurting.

You were about to answer when he held your waist tightly and placed you to sit on the kitchen counter, you blinked faintly in confusion. Sunghoon smiled and pecked your nose “Breakfast will be done soon.” He announced, winking at you.

He turned back to the stove and placed the toasts on a small plate; he walked to the fridge and took some jam along with butter.

You followed all his movements with your gaze, noticing how his muscles twitched at his every movement. He was wearing a t-shirt that was supposed to be Jake’s, though you had to admit it looked way better on Sunghoon. You shook your head, getting rid of those (not so) untrue allegations.

Sunghoon finished making the toasts and turned towards you, his fang smile so addictive. “Are you hungry?” He asked “I made toast and found strawberries in the fridge.”

“I think you’d like to eat something else.” You murmured, voice still hoarse from sleeping.

Sunghoon’s gaze darkened as he registered your words, placing himself between your legs “And what is it?” He questioned, face so close to yours you could feel his hot breath hitting your skin

With one hand you held yourself on the counter and wrapped the other around Sunghoon’s neck.

You two had only four more days together, and you chose to make the best of them.

You’d deal with Jake when he came back and could talk face to face.

“I have a perfect meal for you.” You smirked, looking down at your lower body. Sunghoon let out a soft sigh, his bulge already poking from his shorts “My favourite.”

His palm traced all the way from your breasts, down to your stomach and hem of the shorts.

He slipped one finger inside and cursed under his breath when he realised you were wearing no underwear

You chuckled at his reactions and Sunghoon attacked your lips with his, sucking on your bottom lip, making you squirm.

He squeezed your breasts and simultaneously played with your clit, touching you in only ways he could.

He detached his lips from yours and lowered himself, kneeling in front of you.

He kissed your clothed core, smelling the scent of you, so addicting.

You felt your pussy clench around nothing, the usual warm feeling building inside your body.

You looked down at Sunghoon with pleading eyes and he was more than happy to satisfy you “On it, baby.” He licked his lips as he pulled your shorts down, the cold air of the room hitting your sensitive skin, making you shiver.

Sunghoon placed kitten kisses all over your thighs, so close to where you needed him but not exactly there.

“Hoon.. please.” You whined, pulling him by his hair closer to your core. Sunghoon flicked his tongue on your clit, making you gasp out.

He continued to lick your pussy like a popsicle, his skilled tongue brushing against your shaven mound, making your head hazy.

Your breath grew heavy and you couldn’t help but throw your head back, desperately pushing Sunghoon closer, trying to find satisfaction.

Sunghoon rewarded your bravery by inserting one finger inside your hole, brushing it against your g-spot “Fuck— Hoon, yes” You moaned out

“Pussy tastes so good.” he purred, diving again between your thighs “All mine, this is all mine, got it?” in your blissful state you nodded your head in reply, bucking your hips to meet his movements

As Sunghoon’s fingers kept brushing against a certain spot that had your eyes roll back, you felt something snap inside of you and liquid spurred out of your pussy.

You widened your eyes, looking down at him with an apologetic look.

“I— I’m sorry.” You said, taking in the sight of said liquid dripping down Sunghoon’s chin and having wetted his shirt.

Sunghoon, on the other hand, seemed to be on cloud 9 “That was so hot, Y/N.” He said with sparkling eyes “Squirt on me again baby, please.”

He was really pussy drunk, drinking all your juices, fucking you with his tongue and fingers.

He raised himself on his feet and brought you into a sloppy and messy kiss, you could taste yourself on his lips.

His painful clothed bulge pressed against your core, rubbing against it.

Sunghoon made his shorts and boxers fall down to his ankles and rubbed his red tip on your wet folds, gathering your sweet juices.

He pushed his thick cock inside you and your breath hitched, its length still something you weren’t used to.

You propped yourself on your elbows and took deep breaths, trying to distract yourself from the burning stretch.

Sunghoon moved slowly, rubbing your clit to make you even wetter so that he could slip in and out without hurting you.

He held your face with one hand, his thumb inside your thumb while you sucked on it “You’re so dirty.” he smirked “My dirty girl.” He got close to your face and hurried his thrusts

“Tell me baby— shit— you mine, uh?” He asked, voice husky

“I’m not y-yours.” Ah, wrong answer. He stilled his movements, looking down at you with a raised brow “Not mine?” He scoffed, “Then you don’t deserve to cum.”

You felt him pull out and panicked, gripping his forearm desperately “No!” You exclaimed “Please Hoon.”

He gave one deep thrust, making you whimper “What did you say?” You blinked faintly “Please..” He shook his head “Nah ah.”

You sighed “I’m yours, Hoon.” His lips twitched into a sly smirk “Good girl.” Sunghoon praised as he gripped your waist.

You raised your top just enough to let your breasts run free and squeezed your nipple, stimulating your body.

Sunghoon joined you and squeezed the other one, bringing his lips down to circle it and send waves of pleasure through your body.

Sunghoon took hold of your hips, raising you from the counter while your hands were still gripping it, moving your lower body to meet his in quick and deep thrusts.

“Fuck, get down.” he helped you down the counter and manhandled you, turning you as he pleased.

He took your arms and hooked them around one of his, your back pressed against his chest.

Sunghoon entered your body once more, his movements so fast. You clenched around him, your moans so loud.

“You were made for me.” He groaned in your ear, kissing your shoulder “Mine to fuck, mine to own, mine to love.”

You felt the knot in your stomach tighten, crying out in pleasure “S-sunghoon.” He breathed out “I know baby,” the speed of his thrusts hurried, rutting inside of you as he hit the sweet spot “Cum for me.”

At his words your eyes rolled at the back of your head, mouth agape as you came apart on his cock.

He looked down, the white circle forming around his shaft, almost making him cum as well on spot.

Your legs started shaking, his thrusts never faltering even as you squirmed in his grip. He circled your clit with one hand, your eyes getting watery.

“Shh,” He soothed, letting go of your arms to make you stabilise yourself by gripping the counter; his hands grasped your hips, grip so tight it would probably leave marks by the next day as he thrusted inside of you, trying to reach his release.

“I’m gonna cum,” Sunghoon panted, the speed of his movements increasing even more “Inside—“ You choked out “Cum inside me.” Your words made him release his seed right there, coating your clenching walls with his warm cum.

He hugged your back, lips brushing against your shoulders as he fucked his cum right back into you, not wanting a single drop to fall out.

He raised from your figure but still not pulling out, turning your head by your chin and connecting your lips.

The kiss was sloppy and uncomfortable due to the position, but it held so many feelings it made you melt.

Sunghoon’s fingertips caressed your stomach, holding you close while gentle thrusts kept uniting your bodies “You begging me to cum inside really did something to me, pretty girl.” He chuckled, kissing your jawline.

“Fortunately,” You started, still out of breath “I’m on the pill. Sunghoon chuckled huskily, “I wouldn’t have minded even if you weren’t.”

He pulled out, drops of his cum running down your thighs. He turned you around and kissed you deeply once more “Let’s get you cleaned up, then we can eat.”

You gave him a weak smile, you were sticky and sweaty, probably your hair was also messed up, but Sunghoon still looked at you like you were the most beautiful person in the world. “Yeah. Let’s do that.”

He kissed the tip of your nose and chuckled “I’m taking you out for the night, so prepare that dress I bought you.” Euphoria took over your face as you nodded happily “Thank you, Hoon.”

“I already told you I’d do anything for you.”

⪩⪨

You were putting the earrings he had bought you, the crimson dress hugging your body.

You stood in front of the full-length mirror inside your room, trying your best not to poke another hole in your ear.

You felt a pair of strong arms wrapping around your waist, Sunghoon’s head snuggled in the crook of his neck. The familiar cologne filled your nostrils, bringing a sense of peacefulness inside you.

Sunghoon kissed the back of your shoulder, his arms bringing you to his body. You felt his erections pressing between your ass cheeks, making you chuckle “You’re gorgeous.” He whispered in your ear, his kisses raising toward your jaw

You let out a shaky breath as he started slowly grinding against your ass “Hoon… We have a reservation.” You cleared your throat, trying not to think at the wetness between your legs

“So?” His voice was so low it made you shiver in his embrace. His hands moved towards your breasts, squeezing them from outside the fabric of your dress. “I’ll be quick, I promise.”

You shook your head “We’re going to be late.” He pressed your lower body even closer to his, rutting his clothes cock on your ass “Please baby…” He groaned, “I’m so hard it hurts.”

His eyes locked with your from the mirror and you couldn’t deny him when he looked so desperate for you.

You loved it, you loved the way he seemed to be so obsessed with you.

You nodded “Alright.” He didn’t waste time and flicked your skirt up, pushing his pants and boxers down and pushing your panties to the side. As his cock sprung free, you could feel it rubbing against you, so hot and hard.

He took your arms and held them in his hand, rubbing your folds with his shaft with the other. With one swift movement, he entered you, moving fast already.

Your moans were music to his ear and the sight of you rolling your eyes from the full-length mirror made his cock twitch inside of you.

Sunghoon groaned, sweat coating his forehead as he sped up, letting go of your arms to grip your hips and use your body as he pleased.

You put one hand behind his head and pressed yourself closer to him, your back tightly against his chest.

“My perfect girl,” He chanted, biting his bottom lip, trying his best not to cum just there “This pussy was made for me, uh?”

His heavy breath sent shivers through all your body, the sweet feeling of his dick bottoming out, hitting your cervix repeatedly made your legs shake.

“Close already?” He asked, the sound of skin slapping and the wet sounds from your cunt filling the room “Y-yes.” You managed to say, the feeling of euphoria approaching you.

“Fuck— me too.” He let out a few breaths, hurrying his speeds “Let’s cum together baby,” Sunghoon hugged your body from behind, spooning you while standing up as he rutted fast your abused pussy

“You’ll let me cum inside, right?” You nodded your head, “Please.” You breathed out “Want you to fill me up.”

Your words were enough for Sunghoon to empty his load inside of you, your own hand went down to circle your clit and you came right with him.

Your walls pulsed around him and his cock twitched, with slow and deep thrusts. He kissed the back of your shoulder, his breath calming down.

“You did amazing,” He whispered, pulling out and covering your folds with your underwear.

He pulled his pants and boxers up and pulled you by your waist, kissing you hungrily “Now, you’re going to dinner with my cum inside,” He murmured on your lips “And after we come home I’ll fuck it right back, filling you up again.”

You were still dazed from your orgasm, or maybe it was the spell he gave you, because all you could manage to do was nod blissfully. Sunghoon’s plan was indeed working.

⪩⪨

Saying that you two had been fucking like two rabbits was an understatement.

Sunghoon took you in the kitchen again, then on the sofa, in the bathtub and so many times in the bedroom.

Like now, you had the insane idea to blow him around three am, the day before Jake was coming home.

Nobody could blame you, though, because the way he was sleeping with his lips open, bare chested and hands ruffled turned you so on you wanted to give him the sloppiest and messiest head of his life. And so you did.

Sunghoon was now cuddling with you, his fingertips brushing against your sensitive skin, the quiet of the night too comfortable as you laid in his embrace.

His breath was even and soft, his body heat should’ve been bothering you since you were in July but it only made you seek more. Maybe it was the fact that the day before, it would be gone forever.

“Hoon?” you asked, tone gentle “Hmm?” he murmured sleepily, sniffling his head closer to your shoulder

You stayed silent for a couple of seconds, trying to gather your thoughts “When tomorrow comes, can you give me some time alone?”

Sunghoon frowned “What?” You gulped, looking down at him, smelling your shampoo scent in his hair. “I need some time to figure things out.”

Sunghoon was scared to feel hopeful by your words, he still said “Figure what?”

“My feelings.” You answered, sighing softly “It’s just that, I’ve never felt so happy like when I’m with you.” At those words, he raised his head, his tired dark eyes meeting yours

“With Jake, everything feels on autopilot, we just live our lives as if we were two roommates.” He caressed your shoulder, letting you know that he was with you, that he had got you

“But with you— you made me rediscover how love feels like, how it feels to be someone’s first choice.”

“Y/N..” He whispered, feeling a sudden urge to protect you “But I’m saying this after spending basically one month without my boyfriend.” Hearing you utter those two words felt like a punch in the stomach, even though you were just stating the truth.

Sunghoon had just been a replacement for you, something to fill the void created by Jake.

“I need to see it for myself if I really have no feelings left for him or if..” He interrupted you before you could finish “I understand.”

You blinked faintly, “You do?” Sunghoon nodded, a smile forming on his lips “Of course, I’ll wait for you and understand if you choose to be with Jake.”

Your eyes sparkled at his words, he was so gentle despite the fact that his heart was breaking.

But that wouldn’t happen, because as he held you close to him, he knew his spell had worked.

No matter how much you tried, you wouldn’t be able to get away from him.

“I’ll always be there for you.” No matter how many times he repeated it, you always felt the sincerity of his words.

⪩⪨

“I’m back.” Jake announced, entering the front door with his huge luggage “Y/N?” He asked, walking into the living room

“Hey,” You smiled, reaching him “Welcome back.” Jake smiled wrapped his arms around you “How is my love?” He asked rather happily

“Layla’s alright, I think.” Your answer sounded harsh, still not fully having forgiven him for the horrible things he said on FaceTime.

Jake frowned, knowing his sins “I’m so sorry, baby.” You sighed, pulling away from his embrace “I know.” You just said and took his luggage “I’ll put the dirty clothes in the laundry.”

Everything went smoothly, he had talked to you all about his journey, how awesome Los Angeles was, everyone was so kind and supportive towards him. And, not a single question on how you had been the past two weeks.

Shaking the feeling off and trying not to think about Sunghoon anytime Jake brushed his fingers against your skin, you successfully managed to get through three days.

What you told Sunghoon was true, your life went on autopilot when you were with Jake.

You woke up, went to work, did the chores and then went to sleep. You barely spoke to each other and the awkward silence in the house was always present.

“Baby?” He asked while you were cooking by the gas stoves, you hummed in response, not turning around.

“Since when did you buy all those jewellery and clothes?” He raised a brow, leaning against the counter “They’re pretty expensive, they’re from Pandora.”

“Oh?” You turned around and looked at the jewel case in his hands, trying to suppress a smile at the memory of Sunghoon buying you all the things you liked. Honestly, you wouldn’t even care if he had bought you diamonds or just paper rings, you’d take anything he’d give you.

“I liked them, so I bought them.” You shrugged, turning back to stir the soup inside the pot

“You’re so rich you can buy anything you want now?” He scoffed, placing the jewel case on the table and crossing his arms.

You stopped in your tracks, raising a brow “What?” Jake clicked his tongue “Did you pay the rent?” You nodded “Of course I did, last week.”

He let out a satisfied sound “What about the car insurance?” Now did you turn around and stared at him in disbelief “It’s your car, I’m not going to pay for you.”

Jake sighed “Come on baby, I’ve spent all my money on the trip.” You narrowed your eyes, dots collecting inside your brain “It’s a business trip, the company should’ve paid for you.”

Jake widened his eyes, stuttering “I— I meant the food and…” He trailed off. You weren’t going to buy it, you didn’t want to hear his excuses anymore.

“I don’t care, it’s your car. I don’t use it.” You informed, cleaning your hands in the apron and crossing them on your chest “But I’m your boyfriend.”

Your brows furrowed at his statement “Only when you want to.” Jake rolled his eyes “Here you go again.” He ran a hand through his hair “Could you stop being so over dramatic?”

“Oh, so now I’m over dramatic.” You said sarcastically “Yes! Yes you are.” He snapped

You didn’t flinch or look away this time, you weren’t going to show your weak side. Jake always took advantage of it, and you weren’t going to let him.

“Sunghoon was right.” You murmured and Jake’s head snapped back toward you “What?”

“You’re an asshole.” You narrowed your eyes but Jake just dismissed your “Yeah, ok. What about Sunghoon?”

“I’ve spent a lot of time with him lately,” Jake laughed at your statement, seeming genuinely thrilled at your information “You and that weirdo?”

Your mouth hung open “What did you say about him? He’s your best friend.”

Jake tsked, “That’s what he thinks. He was a loner and I just talked to him. He has stuck with me since then and I’m growing pretty sick of it.”

“How dare you talk about him like that?” Jake’s brow raised “Why do you care?”

“Because he is ten times better than you.” Jake chuckled again “Oh, he is? Baby, I’m better than him or you would’ve been his girlfriend by now.”

He leaned back against the counter “And what have you two been doing, eh? Reading books? Watching corny films? Playing table games?”

“Sex.” You replied, your tone monotone, having had enough of his bullshits. His chuckle died and he frowned, looking up at you.

“You heard me, I slept with Sunghoon.” His jaw dropped, anger building inside of him “So you just go around and act like a slut? Is that what you do when I’m not home?”

“Don’t you dare call me a slut.” You snapped, your voice raising for the first time in three years “You cheated on me, Y/N. When were you going to tell me?”

“I needed a few days to figure my feelings out, and thank you for making me realise how much of an asshole you are.”

Jake scoffed “You're the one who slept with another man when you’re supposed to be my girlfriend.”

“You’re right, and I’m sorry for cheating.” His face held some victorious feelings that quickly died as you added “Because I should’ve dumped you before.”

“And that’s what I’m doing right now, Sim Jaeyun, I’m breaking up with you.”

“You can’t do that.” His face filled with anger, but no regret could be found.

You were glad you opened your eyes before you were stuck with him “You’ve sucked my happiness out, you took the life out of me. Now I’m going to take it back.” You took off the apron, throwing it at his chest “I’ll come and get my things tomorrow.”

You heard him throwing other harsh words to you, but you didn’t care. You didn’t even wear your shoes, just ran out of your old apartment in slippers, towards the only place you knew would always have space for you.

⪩⪨

“Don’t shoot me!” Sunghoon was playing with his friends at a video game, the sound of keyboard taps filled the whole house along with his shouting.

It was strange his neighbours hadn’t come to complain already.

“At your back!” Jay informed him, Sunghoon was taking the aim to kill the enemy but his doorbell ringing distracted him, making his shoot pointless. “Shit man, I think it’s Miss Choi again.”

Jay snorted, “Alright, go deal with her.” The friends exchanged goodbyes and Sunghoon got up, the doorbell kept ringing, making Sunghoon groan

“Here, Here.” He sighed as he opened the door only to widen his eyes when he realised it was you in front of him— not his neighbour.

“Y/N—“ He couldn’t even finish saying your name when you threw yourself on him, lips meeting his. Sunghoon was taken aback at first but soon enough kissed you back, your lips touching and moving together.

You pulled away, panting heavily “What are you doing here?” He asked, taking in the sight of you.

Home clothes, slippers on and heavy breaths…

“Did you run here?” You took several deep breaths before speaking “I’m so sorry I made you wait.” Sunghoon blinked faintly at your sudden apologies

“Why are you—“ You shook your head “Please let me finish first.”

Sunghoon nodded slowly, waiting for you to continue. “When I first met Jake, I had never experienced love, so I thought what he did was normal…” You recalled in your mind all the times he and treated you unfairly for a span of three years and shivered

“But you made me realise how love actually feels, and I want to learn all the other forms it comes with.” You looked up at his eyes “He called you names and said he’d only been your friend for pity.”

You continued “I just wanted you to know that you are not pitiful, in fact, you're the best person I’ve ever met. Please, don’t listen to him.”

Sunghoon couldn’t care less about Jake’s opinion about him. But a small smile appeared on his face at the way you seemed to be so annoyed by the fact that he had insulted him.

“You defended me?” He asked softly, and you nodded as if it was the most obvious answer “I also dumped his unworthy ass.”

Sunghoon’s brows shot up in surprise and a smirk crept on his lips “That’s my girl.”

He brought his arms around your waist, pressing your body on his “I want to make it right, Sunghoon, I want to be happy and I want you.” You bit your bottom lip “If you want me too?”

Sunghoon chuckled and twirled you in the air, your giggles filling his usual lonely apartment “I’ve always wanted you, from the first day I saw you, I knew you were the one.”

His answer surprised you, “You liked me?” Sunghoon booped your nose, you looked so cute, all rebel wannabe just for your insecurities to stop you again “I think I love you.”

Your breath hitched, those words leaving his lips made you feel so warm on the inside, your heart skipping so many beats you weren’t sure it was still working “I think I love you too.”

Sunghoon kissed you deeply, his tongue entering your mouth as he claimed you, finally able to call you his.

You pulled away and chuckled, wrapping your arms around his neck.

You tilted your head, tone flirty “So.. You’ll let me stay for the night?” Sunghoon secured your waist in his grasp “I’ll let you stay forever.”

[necordek]

Everything I love about Kaneeka

Kaneeka gets way too much hate in the Scarlet Hollow fandom and I was going to share some thoughts on her childhood and compare it to Tabitha's and how that affects how they interact, but frankly enough has been said about that. Instead I wanted to talk about some things that I love about Kaneeka:

~ her conversations about aliens are so delightful and I love how much fun she has talking about it even stopping herself if she gets too into it

~ I love that she'll tell off Tabitha for dragging you back to the car on day 2. even though I love Tabitha, Kaneeka is right that dragging a full adult to the car when they're in the middle of a conversation is incredibly disrespectful and I appreciate her saying so.

~ in fact she's the only person in the town to call out Tabitha's mean behavior to anyone. when Tabitha enters Oscar's home and immediately insults him and boasts about the Scarlets owning all the property in town Kaneeka rightfully tells her to cut it out.

~ if you're scared when meeting Wayne during your investigation and want to stop Stella will tell you to keep going and Kaneeka will tell her to respect your boundary and that if you're scared you can stop

~ if you insult Reese's art she sticks up for him and gives him genuine compliments.

~ she's the only person to call out red flags about Joan Kelly's abusive behavior (this one is rare I can't remember how I got this dialogue)

~ when Pastor Daniel asks to speak to you alone she looks out for you and makes sure he knows she is. yeah he might just be cursed but she doesn't know that, she just knows that some guy she doesn't trust wants her friend alone and she's not going to let that happen.

~ when Avery theorizes that you might be a magical catalyst Kaneeka will protect you, knowing full well that if things get worse people might start blaming you

~~~

In conclusion Kaneeka is a wonderful character and I wish people would give her more of a chance. There's a reason even Tabitha admits she respects her, she's a sweetheart who will defend her friends to the bitter end.

[shamixlour]

IWTV - Louis, why?

I am really curious to know and like don't get me wrong, I'm not being sarcastic or judgmental, I really want to know why as this gets me quite baffled and dumbfounded and what I mean by this is people who are surprised or don't understand why Louis stays with Armand after Paris or even SF.

Like, sure, in a way I understand where you are coming from... like how can Louis stay after what Armand did to him and Claudia in Paris? How can he continue to be with him after SF even though their relationship has been nothing but decades of boredom? Why is he still with him, years later in Dubai? Why didn't Louis leave him after everything? Imho, regardless of the mind controlling and all that memory erasure that did happen between them, it is a rather simple answer.

Where do you want Louis to go?????? Like genuinely. What do you want him to do?????? Who do you want to meet??? Is there anyone else for him now???? Is there someone????? Same for Armand, really. They are both almost forced to hold along because who would want to be with any of them? Who would want to be with Louis? Who would want to be with Armand? They both think no one would, and so they hold onto each other, they've seen the worst of e/o anyways and so they stay with each other because that is the only thing they can do and there might have been love at some point, affection but when we see them in Dubai, only an empty shell remains or rather they are both a lap of resentment and unuttered feelings.

Louis's got all eternity spread out in front of him. He is immortal and he is all alone, or at least he believes so. Claudia is dead. He probably thinks Lestat doesn't want anything to do with him anymore or maybe they can't be together for some other reasons, the point is Louis is alone and has nowhere else to go other than stay by Armand's side. He has nowhere to go.

He's like a bird stuck in a really pretty cage.

Louis is all alone, and his hands are tied, and his heart aches, and he is half a world away from where he belongs, from where he really wants to be. Again, it is not complicated, it is that simple and tragic (for both of them btw) and so i don't get why it is such a big deal for a lot of people although I'm always open for conversations and speculations and all of that but for this particular thing, idk I feel like it is quite crystal clear. It is made crystal clear, it is painted very outwardly and it is utterly sad and purposefully expressed in subtle ways but it is here.

Daniel and the interview shine a big fucking spotlight on it, on the entire situation, on all the flaws and pain and bitterness of Loumand's relationship throughout the years but also the mere condition of being a vampire and coming in terms with it and all the struggles that comes with it.

Daniel and the interview also will be, imho, what will help Louis break free from this cage, from this golden prison and finally be himself, accept who he is deep down. It will free Armand too because they deserve better and it is definitely not each other.

But yeah, that is why they stay with each other all these years, because what else could they have done??? Who would have want their company? Would Louis even indulge himself in accepting said company? *crickets* yeah exaclty.

Anyways, this was way too long, so if you read all of this, heart on you! Also, in no way i'm trying to belittle people's interrogations and emotions, it was mostly just some brain splash of things i wanted to express but also because Louis is not to blame for staying...like there are plenty explanations as to why he stays just like there are some explanations as to why Armand does what he does for this relationship to keep going forward. Besides, i'm always curious to read how people view them ect so feel free to hop on the discussion!

[valyrfia]

am I incredibly cynical if I say that him and McLaren PR have noticeably doubled down on Lando’s struggles with mental health since his general misguided cockiness has radicalised a majority of the F1 community against him or

No you are not because i feel the same. They really use his struggle with mental health just whenbthey need it

I think that mental health is a difficult topic to approach with the nuance needed because it is such an emotional one and I can already see "user valyrfia on tumblr used LANDO'S STRUGGLES against him!", but nonetheless I think McLaren have folded it into their PR strategy and it leaves a really bitter taste in my mouth. Bad mental health can explain you being an asshole but it doesn't excuse you being an asshole.

In general I'm not a fan of how the internet and stan culture handles mental health in that 'protect your peace' and 'put up boundaries' only work if you're being kind and intentional in it, instead internet mental health seems to adopt a 'no blame' culture where it's somehow okay if you're a cunt because you have anxiety. This seems to be Lando's current PR angle and as someone who's struggled with mental health it makes me rage. It removes the intentionality and agency of those struggling with mental health, certain situations make me anxious and therefore more snappish but if I snap at someone I damn well apologise.

Also, it chills me McLaren are always only desperate to push this angle when their driver or the team is in hot water, despite the fact I have it on pretty decent authority that the team culture is crap. Let's not get it twisted no F1 team is a good employer, but McLaren make it very sinister by pretending they're all about mental health–they did the exact same when Daniel Ricciardo was more open about the ED and loss of mentality he experienced in that team. I think if they truly cared about Lando's actions and mental health they would force him to work with a professional, but what do I know.

[stardustbarbarians]

Go to Sea No More

A Daniel Wagner / Sam Kiszka fic

Summary: You can take the sailor off the ocean, but you can’t take the sailor out of the man.

Tags: humor, fluff, hijinx, very very light angst at the start, ofthecaravel's Brandy au

Words: 3.6 k

A/N: Hi I missed the Brandy world a normal amount so I wrote this. This all began when I started to hyperfixate on shipwrecks and fell down a rabbit hole. All of the superstitions I use here are REAL I did not make a single one up. Huge shoutout to the youtube channel Maritime Horrors for posting about all of these hilarious beliefs. Dedicated to @ofthecaravel because yeah this is her universe. Title taken from Go to Sea No More by Sean Dagher. Enjoy everybody! <3

+++

Old expressions float around and are used almost daily. You can’t teach an old dog new tricks. When it rains, it pours. You catch more flies with honey than vinegar. But one old phrase in particular haunts Sam near daily: You can take the sailor off the ocean, but you can’t take the sailor out of the man. Sam was very aware of that when Jake had chosen the sea over his own family for two years. Even more so when the man he loved had abandoned him in the middle of the night for that briny, fickle mistress. 

However, both men had returned to port and promised to stay forever. Sam had never been more elated, finally feeling complete with their constant presence. All of them knew that while Josh was able to hold his own with his twin out at sea, Sam was worse off. Each time Jake would visit or send letters and gifts, it would make Sam more temperamental and anti-social. 

But, that was the past. With Jake and now Danny remaining in his life for the rest of the time they were able to spend on this earthly coil together, Sam was practically unrecognizable to his bitter counterpart. Instead of clipped conversation with shopkeepers and vendors, he was pleasant and amiable. While this could be blamed on the return of those he loved, Sam was also just tired of being a curmudgeon. He never wanted to be that venomous firecracker of a man, it was just his defense mechanism. But just like the change of the current is controlled by the sun, when Danny stepped into his life with the promise of forever, Sam had slowly shifted and made himself a better man. 

That wasn’t to say that their relationship didn’t have its quirks. 

Sam, having been born and raised in a port town, knew firsthand how superstitious sailors could be. He’d always signed off all those ridiculous fears as nothing but the salt water rotting away those seadog’s brains. While he paid them no credence, he found it was mighty easier to simply follow along with these fallacies. He’d long since tired of hearing “you’re trying to summon pirates, boy!!” roared at him after accidentally letting the dinner knives cross as he served men their dinners. 

And then he started living with a sailor. Suddenly, all those old seadog tales that Sam had scoffed at had to be heeded with the utmost respect. It was always extremely strange for Sam to watch the very level-headed and reasonable Daniel to act superstitious and fearful on a dime. It seemed logic and rational thought were all thrown out the window when it concerned the volatile nature of the seas. 

It all started one day when Sam was doing chores around the cantina. He had opened the windows to let in the cool ocean breeze to combat the scorching hot summer day, hearing the calming crash of waves against the shoreline. As he was apt to do, Sam was whistling while he worked hard to maintain his family’s bar. It was an old shanty that had been rattling around his skull for a few days now, hoping that whistling it would finally relieve him of the cursed tune. That was when Daniel had made a mad dash towards Sam, clamping his large and calloused hand over Sam’s mouth. To say the least, Sam had been startled and slightly afraid of Danny’s now erratic behavior. Sam had started to fear that perhaps some of Danny’s enemies from his old job had been spotted - Danny silencing Sam to avoid being noticed. 

It wasn’t until Danny had hissed a reprimand at him that Sam understood Daniel’s reaction. 

“Are you mad?? Are you trying to summon a gale?!” Daniel had this almost crazed look in his eye as he spat out his scolding. He kept his hand firmly pressed against Sam’s mouth as he leaned out of the window Sam had been mopping next to, screaming: “Apologies, Neptune!! He doesn’t know what he’s doing!!” 

Bewildered and more than a little annoyed, Sam managed to wrestle Danny’s hand off of his lips. “What are you doing??” 

“It’s bad luck to whistle! You’re challenging Neptune! Next thing you know there’ll be a hurricane battering us!” 

Sam looked out the window to see nothing but a clear blue sky and calm waves lapping the harbor. 

“You’re joking, right? Please tell me you’re joking.” Of course Sam knew Danny was a sailor, it was hard to forget. However, he had, apparently wrongly, assumed that Daniel was better than all those superstitions. 

Danny only blinked at Sam, sparing one last nervous glance out at the cloudless sky before slithering behind the bar to grab a bottle of wine. Sam watched on incredulously as Daniel walked towards the door with a bottle of the bar’s good wine in hand as if he were a soldier given direct orders. 

“What on earth are you doing now?” Sam cried, trailing after his sailor as he tore through the Caravel Cantina and out the door. 

“Making an offering to the sea god,” he solemnly answered, not even glancing at Sam as he spoke, his eyes dead set on the shoreline a few hundred feet from them. Sam could only watch on in dismay as the man he loved more than anything kneeled down onto the rocks of the shore, raised the wine bottle as Cain had raised the club on Able, and smashed the dark green bottle onto a rock, the crimson alcohol splashing everything in the vicinity. The former seaman watched as the briny water drank up his offering, picking out shards of glass from the rocks. Kids toddled this beach very frequently or else he would’ve left the glass shards as an additional appeasement to Neptune. 

Later that night when Sam would talk to Jake about it, he far from expected the man to take Danny’s side on the matter. 

“You should never whistle where the ocean can hear you, Sammy,” Jake had told him very solemnly. He had even taken on a somber look as he lowered his eyes to lock them with Sam’s. It had unsettled Sam to no end. That was when he knew there was credence to his belief that spending too much time out on sea rots your brain just like the driftwood she spat out from the shipwrecks she claimed. 

Making sure neither seafarers he kept company with were in sight, Sam stood on the pier and whistled a tune into the still waves of the night. When nothing happened for the few minutes he stood there, Sam walked away with a self-assured smile, proving to himself all those pointless worries by the sailors were just that. 

The near gale force winds the next day were just a coincidence. 

+++

Despite knowing how ridiculous it was, Sam kept his whistling to himself when Jake or Danny were near. However, that was far from the only superstition they subscribed to. Sam would learn all of these the more time he spent living with Danny. 

For instance, Danny just about had a heart attack when Sam handed him a salt shaker rather than set it in front of Danny for him to grab. He went pale as a sheet and refused to take the shaker out of Sam’s hand. 

“You don’t want to give me bad luck, now, do you?” Daniel nervously bargained with his boyfriend, an anxious smile tugging weakly at the corners of Danny’s lips. 

So, now Sam had to make a conscious effort to place the salt shaker in Daniel’s reach and not hand it straight to him. 

Another fear, the most ridiculous in Sam’s opinion, was that of bananas. It was agreed that Danny and Sam would trade off weeks getting groceries, writing down items that were needed on a list in the kitchen. So, when Sam had brought home the groceries one Tuesday and set down a bunch of bananas, he hardly expected to see Daniel gazing at them as if they had killed his sister. 

“What? Don’t you like bananas?” Sam innocently asked, glancing between the yellow fruit and Danny. It was eerie the way Danny refused to take his eyes off the fruit. 

“You don’t know? You’ve lived around sailors your whole life and you don’t know?” Daniel finally looked Sam in the eyes, that haunted yet slightly afraid look in them Sammy had come to associate with another superstition. 

The land-lover sighed heavily. He felt himself deflate as he forewent unpacking his groceries to lay his hands on the table to ground himself. You love him you love him you love him- 

“If you tell me they’re bad luck-”

“THEY ARE!! They’re nasty little buggers that rot all your rations and harbor poisonous snakes and spiders!!!” Daniel raved, his arms flailing as his eyes went wild. Sammy loved Daniel. He really did. Daniel was the only one who had wanted him for him and not just his pretty face. However, he was making it very hard to remember that at present. 

“Daniel,” Sam started, gently taking his lover’s face in his hands, making sure those picturesque hazel eyes were trained onto Sam’s, “you mean so much to me. I have been abiding by all your superstitions and asinine fears. However, I am not giving up bananas for you. So for the love of the sea you regard so highly, please let me have this one little thing.” 

After Sam’s speech, Danny took a deep breath. He leaned himself into Sam’s touch, sliding his rope-hardened hands to cover Sammy’s. “Alright,” he breathed. 

Laced into his single worded reply was an apology. Sam had heard it, Danny didn’t need to say it. As a sign that he accepted his mea culpa, Sammy left a tender kiss on Danny’s tanned forehead. 

“I’ll put them in the cupboard so you don’t have to look at them. How about that?” Sam offered, keeping his hands in their place at Danny’s cheeks. 

“You’ve got yourself an accord, matey.” Daniel’s smile was wide and dazzling, reaching his eyes and making them crinkle at the corners. 

Sam couldn’t help himself, he started to pepper Danny with hundreds of kisses all along his face. 

+++

The next few superstitions all came in a batch of a few weeks. And there was a good reason for that. Jake and Danny had finally saved up enough money to buy a two sail, forty-two foot cutter. It was an older girl, perhaps a few decades spent traversing the blue brine, but it was nothing that two experienced sailors who were former pirates couldn’t handle. Sam helped where he could with the maintenance, but there was only so much he could do. It was as if you asked him to speak Latin. But, he lent a hand and some elbow grease when the occasion called for it. 

Within a few months, the old battered cutter was more than seaworthy. Sam had wanted to get out on the water right away, eager to see the mighty and vast ocean he’d only glimpsed at from his port city his whole life. However, as usual, there was a superstition preventing that from happening. 

“It’s bad luck for a ship not to have a proper name, Sammy,” Danny gently explained, tucking a piece of Sam’s hair behind his ear. 

“It’s amazing she hasn’t sunk yet,” Jake strained, his torso hanging over the port-side bow of the ship, taking in the chipped paint where the name was meant to be. 

“But, it’s such a beautiful day out,” Sam lamented, looking longingly out at the sparkling, cerulean waves that seemed to beckon him with every undulating swell. 

Danny, glancing over at Jake to make sure he wasn’t looking, snuck a quick kiss to Sam’s temple. They weren’t a secret, but Danny had always wanted to save his former captain the grief of seeing his little brother getting kissed - Danny knew he’d appreciate it if Josie’s boyfriend did the same. 

“Tell you what,” Danny started, lacing his finger’s with Sam’s, “you can christen the ship. How does that sound?” 

“Why does he get to do it?” Josh whined, no longer distracted by the fish swimming along the harbor. 

“Well, it is traditionally done by a woman,” Jake mused, unable to hide his teasing smirk. The mirth in his eyes was all too telling that he knew he’d gotten right under Sam’s skin. 

“Oh, fuck you,” Sam spat, not really meaning it. Jake knew this, shoving Sam on the arm with a chuckle. Sam reciprocated the gesture, giving a begrudging smile to his older brother. 

“Josh, why don’t you pick the name?” Danny suggested. 

Josh pondered for a second, kicking his dangling feet off the railing of the ship. “What about The Clarice?” 

“Josh, all due respect to you and your daughter, but I’d rather walk around with a pegleg, an eyepatch, and a parrot on my shoulder before I name any ship I sail after a chicken.” From the look on his face, Jake was not kidding either. He picked off a piece of flecking paint from the railing Josh was sitting on, casting it into the water below. The paint job was the last thing on their to-do list, wanting to pick out a name for her before finishing up the maintenance. 

Josh grumbled, a knit in his brow as he said something under his breath that sounded like “you’re a terrible uncle”. 

“What about Calypso? It’s pretty close to Clarice,” Sam suggested, his thumb absently rubbing Danny’s knuckles. 

“I love it,” Danny added, instantly backing Sam’s idea. 

“God, you guys disgust me,” Jake groaned, rubbing at his eyes, “but, it’s a really good name. Nicely done, Sammy, you actually had a good idea for once.” 

Sam flipped Jake the bird, causing Danny to purse his lips to keep himself from laughing. 

Josh sighed, conceding to the fact that he was outnumbered. “I still think The Clarice is better.” 

When the time came to finally set sail on their fully refurbished boat, it was hardly recognizable from the near derelict ship it was months prior. Calypso had been carefully painted in neat print in a beautiful dark green on both the port and starboard-side bow, Sam watching Danny dutifully sketch each letter as he sat on the pier. 

Now, Sam was standing on that same stretch of pier, bottle in hand the same color as the paint Daniel used, his heart pounding in his ribcage hard enough to bruise. Just like everything else in his life after Daniel became a permanent fixture in his life, this moment was colored by superstition. A bad christening for a ship is the same as a death sentence, Sammy, Danny had told him one night, the two of them lying in bed after spending their day fixing up the new ship. 

“Swing it as hard as you can, Sam!” Jake cried, sending his little brother two thumbs up and a reassuring smile. As cheesy as it sounds, the fact that Jake trusted him helped ease Sam’s nerves. 

With a steadying breath, Sam clenched his jaw before swinging the bottle of liquor above his head and bringing it down against the side of the bow as hard as he could. 

To his absolute relief, the sound of shattering glass filled his ears. 

In an instant, he snapped open his eyes to see amber liquor pouring down the wood of the ship, the smell of saltwater mixing with that of a fruity aroma. 

“I thought you were supposed to use champaign,” Sam breathlessly inquired, his head turning to take in Danny standing at his side. He was the one to hand Sam the bottle used in this ceremony. 

With a blinding smile that made Sam’s heart flutter in his chest, Danny shrugged his shoulders. “Figured brandy would be more fitting. And this way I know this ship will be lucky if you distilled her christening liquid.” 

He pulled Sam into him by his waist, planting a kiss onto the top of his head. Sam all but melted into Danny like butter against a hot knife. 

“Blegh! Get a room, you two!” Jake pushed himself between the two lovers forcefully, the pair of them giggling at his discomfort. 

Josh smiled at them, always the more romantic of the twins. “Don’t listen to him. I thought it was delightful.” 

With the christening done, they were finally able to sail out on the ocean. As soon as Sammy stepped onto the deck of that cutter, he knew in his heart he was going to run into numerous more superstitions. However, he was far from expecting to run into one as soon as they finished shoving off of their port. 

“Right,” Jake started, glancing over at Danny standing to his left, hands on the helm he was manning, “you know what we have to do.” 

Before Josh or Sam could even ask a single question as to what that vague and slightly ominous statement meant, they watched helplessly as both sailors produced a herring. Their confusion only mounted into abject horror as, almost in slow motion, the former pirates bit off the heads of the fish and began to chew. 

It wasn’t clear who screamed first, but soon both land-farers were shrieking in terror. They were both frozen in place as the sailors not only continued to chew the heads of those poor fish, but swallowed them whole. 

“Oh, stop your whining! We did this for you, you know!” Jake yelled, tossing the rest of the half-eaten fish off the side of the ship and into the water below. Danny followed suit, his face scrunched up in distaste. 

“How was ANY of that for us??” Josh shrieked, his arms thrown out in dismay at the horror show he just witnessed. 

“It’s frightful bad luck to shove off on a Friday,” Danny explained, going about checking the various knots and lines along the deck. 

“So that means you’ve gotta eat the head of a raw fish?!” Sam cried, feeling like he was on the brink of tears. 

“We had to make an offering to Neptune! This way he may forgive our transgression and keep the seas calm for us,” Jake defensively shouted, his eyebrows knitting together. 

Sam and Josh looked at each other. They didn’t have to speak a word to understand what the other was thinking: they’re insane. 

“God, it never gets easy, though,” Danny lamented, picking a scale off of his tongue before tossing it overboard as well. Sam had to hold back his gag, a hand flying to his mouth to keep the bile threatening to purge itself at bay.

“I’m never kissing you ever again.” There was a firmness in Sam’s tone that lent severity and weight to his words. 

That solemn promise only lasted a few hours. Daniel had brushed his teeth under Sam’s watchful eye. Three times. 

+++

While Calypso was meant to be crewed by at least three people, you could get by with only two if you were only going out for a few hours. And after a few weeks of Sammy asking Danny and Jake to teach him the ropes (quite literally), he was deemed trained enough to go out with just Danny on the water. 

It was going to be a fun day out on the water, Sam helping Danny pack enough food for lunch and dinner. There were also a few bottles of liquor carried aboard as well, the day well prepared for. 

After they had shoved off without a hitch (and not on a Friday, thank you very much), Daniel had stepped away from the helm and sauntered up to Sam. The inexperienced sailor was tying off a knot as he felt a rough hand cover his own, ceasing his movements. 

“You know,” Danny started, his voice low and rumbling like a roll of thunder, “it’s bad luck for a lady to be on board.” 

Sam was, understandably, shocked. In a dramatic move, he swiveled his head around to look for whatever lady the man was referring to. “Daniel, it’s just us two.” 

“Unless she’s naked. Now, unless you want to piss off good ol’ King Neptune,” Danny continued as if Sam hadn’t spoken, “you might wanna lose all your clothes.” 

For a moment, all Sam could do was look at his boyfriend in shock. The man in question held his gaze with Sam, a wolfish smirk growing on his lips. 

“I’m not a lady, Daniel,” Sam spat, throwing down his rope and crossing his arms over his chest. 

This only seemed to amuse Daniel more, teeth poking out of his crooked grin as his raven curls haloed around his head at the behest of the wind. 

“Don’t you want to be my Brandy girl?” His voice had dropped to a lower register, sounding as smooth as the very liquor Danny was invoking. It had worked unfairly well to Danny’s favor, the other man weak in his knees. Sam had to grab hold of the wooden railing on the ship to steady himself, his cheeks getting hot. 

“You’re pretty enough to be a lady,” Danny continued, reaching a hand out to caress Sam’s jaw and beckon his eyes to meet the sailor’s, “I don’t think the king of the sea would be able to tell. Better safe than sorry.” 

Sammy couldn’t suppress the shiver that wracked his body, feeling the warm breath of Danny’s honeyed words ghost across his skin. He knew he’d lost the battle, but he was far from upset at having to concede. 

“Yeah,” Sam swallowed thickly after his voice cracked inside his throat, “better safe than sorry.” 

That evening, under a burning red sunset and with their blood humming with brandy, the Calypso was christened once more. 

+++

tags:

@doodle417 @sammykiszkasunusedshoes @jmks-housewife @ageoferin @alwayssotiredbutneverofyou @etoilesnoor @ascendingtostardust @godlygreta @s0livagant @gretavanflowerpower @morganic-goods @dannythedog @baguettejuliette @fan-girl-97 @gaby-gvf @age-of-nyahh @mzbrightside @myownparadise96 @xserenax-13 @sammysvanfeet @loofypoofy @chalametpwk @seventieswhore @razorbladekiszka @capturethechaos @unfortunatelykristin @welightthefire @gretavanfleas @sammiejane22 @satanplayshisfluteforhim @starsasone @mintysammykiszka @writingcold @tearsofbri @gretasmokerising @streamofstardust @lunaindigoraven @jakeydoesit @tripthelightfandomtastic @sunfl0wer-power @wingedgardener2000 @gretavanbitches @teddiie @gardensGateDaisy @sparrowofthedawnsworld @angelbabyyy99 @sammysprincess @whollyfreeamongststars @gretaswhore28 @l0rdoffli3s @kay-jordan @lightmyloverry @kenzie18 @gotavansleep @roosterbbradley @freckled-wonder @flower-power-anthem @Gabyvanfleet @Sarakay-gvf @Mamalikes-gvf @josh-iamyour-mama @st4rdust-ch0rds @pr41sethemoon @fallonfatality @earthlysorrows @jessicafg03 @rossy1080 @hippievanfleet @spark-my-nature @hayley1623 @schleeble @gretavanflipflop

[just-an-enby-lemon]

I think for all their similarities Marvin's and Clay's tragedies are the exact opposite of each other.

Marvin's tragedy is that in the end of the day he is sweet. He sees the terrifield face of a son that despite it all, despite wanting otherwise, still loves him, and he realizes the answer for the attention (and affection and love) he always wanted and he CHANGES. Marvin is still petty and still jealous and controling, but by understanding the wolrd owes him nothing, he also understand he has to work on his faults. He makes friends, he makes amends, he improves his relationship with Jason, he even gets Whizzer back (a thing Marvin wasn't planning nor expecting at all because he stopped thinking he should get all he wants), he also hates himself less, and less often.

And that's his tragedy. Marvin changes. He works hard. He spends an evening home pacing anxious afraid Whizzer is cheating again, and he chooses trust, to not make it another pointless fight. And Whizzer changed as well and wasn't cheating. He goes to Jason's games. Hell, even the Bar Mitzvah's fights. He is still figthing Trina but now he let's her speak. He does his best. He does all he can. And it almost makes a difference. But that's is 80's and the Reagans and the AIDS crisis and so by something completly real and totally out of his control it is to late. It doesn't make a difference. He still loses Whizzer and he still dies.

Clay's tragedy is that he is bitter. He sees his son refusing to see his worst self, and responds by showing it again and again. He sees his son's love turn to hate, and responds with the ultimost bitterness. He blames the kid. He blames the wife he doesn't love, and the job he doesn't want, and all the things he has that are for him just new things to choose between hate and indiference. He was hurt by life, doesn't understand love, and has no idea how to make it better.

He thinks he is already doing the sacrifice and doesn't undersrand why it isn't enough. He thinks the world owes him the perfect happy family, and anytime he could have questioned it, he had conservative christianity to tell him, that no, as a man, as a moral man, he did deserve it all. And so instead he blames everyone else for not getting it. Even when Danielle leaves him. He can't understand why. He can't assume it is his fault. Clay got lost too deep in his faulty morals, in his trauma, in the acohool and in his hate. If Marvin's tragedy is that he changes and loses anyway. Clay's is that he can't change and therefore can never win.

[robbyykeene]

I’m a bit confused and as you have a good memory I was wondering if you could help me understand something. So silver canonly has mental health issue right? And drugs made it worse and he was corrupted and manipulated by kreese right? And he was medicated? So why do some fans treat silver like the devil and want him dead but want kreese redemption

I mean I would say everyone in this show canonically has mental health issues, but that’s not an excuse for their behavior. If we’re going with ck’s canon then yes, his actions in kk3 wre motivated by “revenge and cocaine” but also I wouldn’t say that’s an excuse for his actions or even something that’s blame can be pawned off onto Kreese. Silver chose to do those things to Daniel because he wanted to and he liked it, and this is something that imo ck does still make a point of showing. Also I know a lot of people who have done cocaine (and harder drugs) and it may have made them act erratically and at times violent, but it did not cause them to gaslight, stalk, and psychosexually torture teenagers. Or anyone for that matter lol. I would agree ck made a point of showing Kreese try and manipulate Silver, but I would also say Silver seemed one step ahead of him at all times. And even if we say that Kreese was successfully manipulating him to an extent, so what? Silver is a grown adult and a billionaire, with all the power and agency in the world. He is responsible for his own actions, and his actions show that he genuinely enjoys wreaking havoc and causing pain.

That’s not to say that I think Kreese is more deserving of a redemption. Neither of them are. They are both bitter old men who bring chaos, destruction, and sorrow wherever they go. And whatever their motivation may be, neither one of them have any qualms about hurting people, and children in particular, to get what they want. Personally no ending where these two make it out alive will be in anyway satisfying to me because the implication will be that this cycle of violence will only continue. And this is coming for someone who loves them both, specifically together. At this point I am almost exclusively watching this show for their dynamic lol, and I low key hate the way this show has depicted it because in kk3 there was no manipulation or attempts at power grabs, they were both just evil and gay and insane and in love and it was glorious.

I’m not sure why people want redemptions for either one of them tbh, especially now that their insane gay shenanigans have led to a child literally dying. I have zero sympathy for Silver, and zero sympathy for Kreese. But I think some people see Kreese’s “love” for Johnny and Tory and view it as humanizing, whereas Silver is not really shown caring about anyone at all except Kreese himself.

[papa-evershed]

If you're up for it, your top 3/top 5 hottest (RJC) characters (and why)? Based SOLELY on looks. Feel free to include gifs, if you have the time. Gotta say, Daniel became my #2 and is competing with Saul Silva for No.1 spot. I mean...Goddamn..🤤🍽️ Is Rob aging like a fine wine or do i just have daddy issues?

I think he's aging beautifully. Aging well doesn't only have to mean a lack of aging, but simply getting better as you do it, imo. When all the features of aging—wrinkles, greys, eye-bags, skin spots, etc, actually make a person look like a more beautifully seasoned version of their younger selves? That's aging well too.

As for Daddy issues, IDK, only you can decide for yourself if it's daddy related. 🤓 I ain't here to judge either way. Don't we all want a dad in the streets but a daddy in the sheets? 🤡

I'll put my top five under a cut! Not only just for the length but general cringe and possible thirst talk. So if that isn't someone's thing they can only blame themselves for continuing to read.

#1. Top honor is undoubtedly Daniel fucking Watson. Because speaking of aging beautifully, it's his most recent role so it was pretty much guaranteed to become my new favorite in terms of looks for that reason alone. I'm never going to be that person who is most thirsty for a role that happened fifteen years ago simply because I like men with some age on them. I want a whole ass man. I want the salt and pepper hair, I want the almost-white facial fuzz, I want the eye crinkles that cut deep towards his cheeks. That shit is sexy as fuck. If I wanted someone that looked like Timothy Chamomile I'd be out here giffing Willy Wonka.

And Daniel Watson is serving. The neck fuzz alone tickles the cave woman portion of my brain and makes me feral.

He just walks and moves and carries himself like A Man™ but not the sort that has so much swagger that it seems like they're over compensating. Important difference. A bit tired, a bit weary, just all the things I relate to a good, tired, dad. It feels natural and that's what makes it sexy. (Also the belly.)

And this show is finally giving us proper close-ups and beautiful profile shots. Like you said, based on looks alone, 1000/10. There's nothing to complain about. And another reason it's my new favorite—freckles! They aren't covering the freckles. I just like people's faces to look natural, is that so much to ask for?

The next four are probably interchangeable, it really just depends on my mood as far as who ranks above who. So don't put too much weight into the order, just know they'd round out my top five.

#2. Saul Silva. Specifically, season one Saul Silva though, because yes I'm still bitter about the hair dye. I realize it was likely bc of DA filming but I give not a single shit, I'll stay bitter about it until I die. Saul ranks this high for the same reasons as Daniel Watson really. A bit of grey, a bit of scruff, just looks natural and delicious.

^ That look is pure 🔥🔥 and anyone who attempts to claim otherwise (not that anyone ever has) is a lying liar that tells lies. Also, wardrobe is superior in Fate compared to a lot of his other roles. We got a good mixture of casual wear in addition to his little uniform.

(And also the belly.)

3. Hutch. That's it, that's all I have to say. Just Hutch.

It's a shame that he died but I get it. If I were some big monster I'd eat his ass first too. Literally and figuratively. 🫡

4. Martin Evershed! Can't leave off my boy Mr. Evershed. Again, for a lot of the same reasons as mentioned above. I prefer him recent. I prefer him with greys. I prefer him looking soft and delicious. What Ackley lacked in wardrobe it made up for in just indulging my Dad™ kink.

(And also the belly.)

#5. This fucker from Vera, Richard.

This role isn't talked about much, likely because it was small, but damn if he didn't look great. The scruff, the nose, the plain black tee? Fucking perfect.

(And of course, also the wee bit of belly. 🤠)

TLDR - I think he looks better the older he gets so my favorite roles tend to fall in line with that and I'm a cave troll that wants men to look as natural as I can get 'em.

[9haharharley1]

For the new post I'm really interested in your stuff for Vlad for 002. I love seeing stuff about this stinky man/hj

How I feel about this character:

I love him (no one should be surprised)! More specifically, I remember watching the show back in the day and thinking, "Wow, he's really fuckin creepy, I'm getting Slade vibes." By the end of Bitter Reunions he had unironocally become my favorite character and I'd get excited any time a Vlad episode came on. I almost always wind up loving the villains more than the MC. He's creepy, he's scary, he's pathetic, and sad, and scared, and everything in between! How can I not love him?

All the people I ship romantically with this character:

Almost exclusively Danny, but also a little bit of Jack, and with Valerie and Danny in a polyship.

My non-romantic OTP for this character:

Jack Fenton! Vlad will never escape Jack's unconditional love and friendship.

My unpopular opinion about this character:

I'm just gonna quietly admit here that I hate hate hate the babygirl thing people do with characters, and that extends to my villains, but especially Vlad. To each their own and all that, but it annoys me to no end.

One thing I wish would happen / had happened with this:

I wish Danny had actually become legitimately scared of Vlad at some point. I know it's a kids' show, and I know that Danny is supposed to be the snappy hero who triumphs every episode, but one of the reasons I like The Ultimate Enemy episode so much is because Danny technically fails. Had Clockwork not had a soft spot for him, Danny wpuld have lost everything in that episode and only "wins" on a technicality. Up til then, he develops a legit fear of his future self, and we see more of this in the GN.

Vlad is someone who has had nothing but time to hone his skills, and Danny struggles to fight him multiple times throughout the show, and it can be inferred that Vlad is going easy on him, especially when Kindred Spirits rolls around and he punches through solid concrete trying to capture Danny. "Funny, ha-ha Vlad isn't here today" - that is a horrifying line. Danny would have failed in this episode, too, if not for Danielle having a change of heart when Vlad reveals his true colors, and I would have loved for this to be the time when Danny actually starts to realize that, "oh wait! Vlad's scary as fuck, and I still have a long way to go to reach his level!"

But once again, snappy/quippy kids show, hero's gotta win.

my OTP:

Pompous Pep, aka Vlad/Danny

my cross over ship:

None

a headcanon fact:

I don't know how much of a headcanon it is, especially since we get hints of it in canon and now in the GN, but Vlad is possessive af. Of items, of people - once he's claimed them, they're his, and he won't let them go for any reason, and he lives in constant fear of losing them. Maybe it's a result of losing his best friends after the portal incident. Maybe it has something to do with being half-ghost, but this man has a constant undercurrent of fear lying just below the surface, and when threatened, he responds with anger, claws and fangs bared to the world, ready to lash out and blame everyone for everything but never himself.

[overtake]

max really is “babygirl have some couth” personalised. thank you for the gifs i need to go be sick behind a bush now cause they disgust me.

I can’t blame him. Can you imagine being a teenager, fighting your way to the big team amongst the attention and controversy of moving into Kyvat’s seat, ready for all the animosity that comes with battling your teammate for a legitimate chance at wins and podiums, and you get slapped around the face with Daniel Ricciardo? Getting all the on-track tension and a teammate who will fight at all costs to beat you, but keeping the fight on track? And off track, just big brown eyes and huge smiles and indulging all your immature jokes? Understanding that media duties suck but trying to make them a fun experience for both of you? Not resenting you for being a generational talent, for becoming the golden boy number one, even though almost anyone would make things weird and bitter for the way it all played out? A Cool Popular Guy™️ giving you so much individual attention and kindness and enjoying your company on top of giving you the on track battles that Max probably dreams about? I’d get on the ground and stay there.

[merv606]

Two Fiona Apple Songs both with strong Silverusso vibes but different POVs - Terry or Daniel

I've been a bad, bad girl

I've been careless with a delicate man

And it's a sad, sad world

When a girl will break a boy just because she can

Don't you tell me to deny it

I've done wrong and I want to suffer for my sins

I've come to you 'cause I need guidance to be true

And I just don't know where I can begin

Ooh, what I need is a good defense

'Cause I'm feeling like a criminal

And I need to be redeemed

To the one I've sinned against

Because he's all I ever knew of love

Heaven help me for the way I am

Save me from these evil deeds before I get them done

I know tomorrow brings the consequence at hand

But I keep living this day like the next will never come

Oh, help me but don't tell me to deny it

I've got to cleanse myself of all these lies 'til I'm good enough for him

I've got a lot to lose and I'm bettin' high so I'm begging you

Before it ends just tell me where to begin

What I need is a good defense

'Cause I'm feeling like a criminal

And I need to be redeemed

To the one I've sinned against

Because he's all I ever knew of love

Let me know the way

Before there's hell to pay

Give me room to lay the law and let me go

I've got to make a play

To make my lover stay

So what would an angel say the devil wants to know

What I need is a good defense

'Cause I'm feeling like a criminal

And I need to be redeemed

To the one I've sinned against

Because he's all I ever knew of love

What I need is a good defense

'Cause I'm feeling like a criminal

And I need to be redeemed

To the one I've sinned against

Because he's all I ever knew of love

You wanna make me sick

You wanna lick my wounds

Don't you, baby?

You want the badge of honor when you save my hide

But you're the one in the way of the day of doom, baby

If you need my shame to reclaim your pride

And when I think of it, my fingers turn to fists

I never did anything to you, man

No matter what I try, you'll beat me with your bitter lies

So call me crazy, hold me down

Make me cry, get off now, baby

It won't be long 'til you'll be lying limp in your own hands

You feed the beast I have within me

You wave the red flag, baby

You make it run, run, run

Standing on the sidelines, waving and grinning

You fondle my trigger, then you blame my gun

And when I think of it, my fingers turn to fists

I never did anything to you, man

But no matter what I try, you'll beat me with your bitter lies

So call me crazy, hold me down

Make me cry, get off now, baby

It won't be long 'til you'll be lying limp in your own hands

And when I think of it, my fingers turn to fists

I never did anything to you, man

But no matter what I try, you'll beat me with your bitter lies

So call me crazy, hold me down

Make me cry, get off now, baby

It won't be long 'til you'll be lying limp in your own hands

[lostonehero]

Ghosts in the insistute

"Uh, sorry about your brother Daniel." A older woman adjusts her glasses floating behind the man in urban explorer gear and looks to be stitched back together.

Danny sighs. "Don't. Gertrude. We both know he didn't have a choice, and i can't tell him to stop because he's going to get himself killed going down this route. I honestly thought he was finally making a turn for the better. Guess that won't happen now."

A man floats by missing both of his eyes. He's in a long button-up shirt, black dress pants and a name badge stating artifact storage, and Elias Bouchard. "Eh, it ain't that bad he might even join this hell hole of us being stuck, not you, but still." Eli shrugs. "Honestly, still kind of jealous you get to travel."

"Don't be bitter, Elias." Gertrude rolls her eyes.

"To be fair, he has to watch Jonah use his body and watch it get older as he stuck like this." Danny sighs. "At least you're not stuck to your sister."

Eli shudders. "Oh, don't you even put that out there. I don't need her visiting here to make that a possibility. Trevor attached to his brother when he visited to make a statement. I don't need to have my sister suffer with that. I abandoned her after all."

"You didn't, though." Gertrude gave a half-hearted pat on Eli's back.

Eli narrowed his gaze. "I really, really didn't like that."

Gertrude rolls her eyes again, pinching her brow. "If it's any consolation, I hope Tim dies first."

"Missing the entire point of me wanting my brother to live a long, happy life." Danny huffs. "You literally just died like a few months ago. You have no claim in this."

Gertrude sighs but doesn't say anything.

"Good morning, Martin!" Danny waves.

"The living can't see us." Eli crossed his arms.

Danny smiles floating next to Martin. "Do you think this fear stuff will trap you too?"

"Seriously?" Eli floats next to Danny. "The living can't see us. How many times do I have to tell you this?"

Gertrude clears her throat. "I can concur with Elias. The living, even those avatar to the eye or even end, cannot see us."

Martin sighs and in a quiet voice. "I'm half dead."

Eli froze, staring at Martin. "You're what?"

Danny scoffs. "I told you! That's Martin he's dating Tim. I asked him not to tell Tim about me because i knew Tim would hate him, and it's a healthy relationship. I dont want to ruin it for my brother."

"What do you mean by half dead child?" Gertrude raised a brow.

Martin quietly removes one glove to show a skeleton hand and then quickly replaces it. "I'm half dead. It's probably from my father's side because I never met him." He quickly quiets himself when the three left the archivist office.

"As I was telling you before, Martin can see the dead, which means us. He doesn't excatly make it known to the living." Danny crossed his arms floating back next to his brother.

"That's kind of upsetting." Eli frowns. "I'm sorry, kid. My father was a fucking monster. Yours is an actual monster, not a fear freak, though. He could be a decent guy, well not decent, he did abandon you."

"He didn't, Martin's mother had a one night stand and blamed Martin for being born." Danny floats upside down. "His Mom is the problem."

"Oh ew." Eli makes a face.

Gertrude sighs. "That's unfortunate, but maybe I'll be able to help you guys survive. Sasha was my pick for Archivist, but Jonah has other plans."

"Still don't get why Barnabas still likes him." Eli shrugs.

"I'm sorry, as in Barnabas Bennet?" Gertrude stares at Eli.

"I keep forgetting how new you are. You haven't even met all the others here." Eli chuckles. "Robert Smirke is here too. He and Mordechai have an ongoing bet about Peter, his great, great, whatever grandson who is in a relationship with Jonah. Barnabas likes Peter better anyhow and thinks he can just join the two when they eventually die. He's quite stubborn and still in love. Oh right there's others as well, but you'll eventually meet everyone. Speaking of that, I have to talk to Laura she always has the best gossip."

"Oh! Tell me everything. I have to know the deal with accounting." Danny smiles. "I mean, come on, that has to be a polycube at this point."

Eli winks and floats through the ceiling.

Gertrude follows.

.......

Martin puts his coat on and sighs. "So how long have you been stuck?" He was just outside, and the night chill made him put on his coat as soon as he stepped outside.

"He really wasn't kidding. You can see and hear us." Eli sighs. "Day before Jonah promoted my body. For a few decades now, well, two and nearly three decades. It's not all bad, I do have to admit we have the same taste in men, although I've been informed i am demi on all accounts, but I guess I'm still somewhat connected to my body because I share the feelings for Peter. It's really weird."

"That is quite odd." Martin nods.

"What are you doing waiting outside here?" Eli raised a brow.

"Tim and I agreed we don't want the others to know due to the gossip machine. So I catch the bus out here, and he picks me up from the closest drop-off." Martin messes with his gloves. "I do want to tell him. I've never been in a relationship this long before or cared about someone like I do him, but it don't know how to tell him that his brother hasn't left his side since he died. He only told me last month about Danny."

"I don't really have advice for you. However, he will catch you without those gloves one day." Eli chuckles at Martin's shocked expression. "Im good at reading people, and I know for a fact he doesn't know about that."

"Gloves and lies mostly." Martin sighs. "I don't want to scare him."

"He watched his brother die, I don't think bones will scare him." Eli waves at the bus approaches. "I'll see you tomorrow."

Martin nods and gets onto the bus.

.......

Tim was humming cutting vegetables in his shared kitchen. "Ok again. I'm sorry, I didn't think Jon would be such a dick to you. Look, I know we agreed to keep this a secret, but I don't like how he treats you and..." He turns to look at Martin, who was messing with his gloves in deep thought. "Marto?"

Martin swallows and blinks. "I uh right, sorry. It's fine, Tim."

Tim puts his knife down and sighs. "Are you ok?"

"I have to tell you something." Martin looks up with impossibly blue eyes at Tim.

Tim swallows. He probably fucked up and ruined the only good thing he had. He should have told the others. Martin didn't deserve to be hidden like a dirty secret. Every one thought he was a slut and that was fine. Even Sasha played along, but even his best friend didn't know the truth. Fuck he was such a dick. "Martin I'm so-"

"I can see the dead!" Martin sputtered out loud and clearly embarrassed.

"What?" Tim blinks clearly, not expecting the words to come out of Martin's mouth. "I'm sorry. Did you say you can see the dead?"

Martin rips off his gloves, showing off his skeleton hands. "I met Danny when we first met. He's kind of stuck to you since he died. He's the one to ask me not to tell you. I didn't... I don't want to lie to you anymore. I love you, Tim, and I've been terrified to say it. I've been so scared you would be scared of me because of this and... and..." He was crying thick tears dripped from his eyes.

Tim rushed forward, grabbing Martin's hands. "Martin, i could... wow, why are they warm? I'm sorry. I know this is serious, but they're warm, and that's weird, right?"

Martin pauses and chokes out a laugh. "To be honest, I don't understand it either. You're not mad?"

"Mad? Martin, I love you. Fuck I thought you wanted to end things." Tim gently places his forehead against Martin's. "I don't think i would have been able to handle that. You're the best thing to ever happen to me, and I just..." he freezes. "Wait, you can see Danny?"

Martin chuckles. "You know he was counting down till you would ask that."

"Fu-" Tim had tension bleeding out of his shoulders, standing back up. "It is him. You really can see the dead. I have so many questions, but I don't care. I need to do this first."

"Do wha -" Martin is cut off by a deep kiss.

......

"Oh, please don't tell me he watches." Tim groans covering himself with the blanket.

"He has a 30-foot radius around you, Tim." Martin chuckles. "He makes himself scarce during all your fun times."

"Is this why you always leave the TV on when we get busy?" Tim hums and scratches his chin. "That makes so much sense."

"That or he spies on the neighbors. He doesn't blame you." Martin smiles softly. "He wants to see you happy. He also wants to see you get old because it would be funny in his own words to see you break a hip being a idiot."

Tim snickers, and it turns into a full belly laugh. "That sounds like him. Where is he now?"

"Tim, I can't see through walls." Martin smiles, sitting up and looks around.

"Oh, you're done? That's fast." Danny poked his head through the door. "And your hands are uncovered?"

"He, however, can go through walls." Martin smiles, pointing to the closed bedroom door. "I know you can't see him, but he is now in the room."

"You told him?" Danny raised a brow.

"Danny?" Tim sat up, keeping the blanket over him. "Danny, I.... I've missed you."

"Dude, I've been following you for years. Why the bloody fuck is he being shy now? We shared a room!" Danny huffs.

"He's complaining that you're being shy." Martin thins his lips.

Tim groans. "You know what I lied fuck you Danny."

Danny burst out laughing.

"He's laughing at you." Martin grins when Tim starts laughing.

Tim grabs Martin's hand. "Thank you for giving my brother back, Martin. I dont think you need to get me gifts anymore."

"I'm still going to knit you a scarf." Martin kisses Tim's cheek.

"So now that there's open communication. I know we have years to catch up on and whatever, but I have to know, was Jon really in a band? Micheal talked about seeing him in college. The band was called Mechanisms." Danny floated closer to the two.

"Seriously? You can talk to your brother again, and that's the first thing you ask?" Martin huffs. "Micheal, and different spirit stuck at the insistute says Jon was in a band in college called the Mechanisms and he wants to know if that's true."

Tim's eyes widen. "No, Danny's right, that's a way more pressing matter. Jon, the stick in the mud academics who threw a hissy fit when we threw him a birthday party because it's unprofessional can not be cool or have a cool past."

Martin chuckles. "We do have the internet to help."

Danny is right next to Tim as he pulls out his laptop.

"Hell yeah, you're amazing, Martin. Also, thanks, Danny." Tim smirks.

"Fuck yeah. Less talking more, searching. I have to see this." Danny grins.

.......

"Oh, what has gotten you so happy, Tim?" Sasha chuckles, listening to Tim practically skip into the archives humming a tune. "Did you get lucky with Aaron from HR?"

Tim grins. "Even better." Hs tosses his phone open to a YouTube video.

"No." Sasha stares at the video.

"Aha! See, I told you, Eli." Micheal points at the phone screen.

Eli snorts. "This is something I don't mind being wrong about."

"Good heavens." Gertrude rolls her eyes. "If he dressed like that here, he would probably have a better chance of fitting in with the avatars."

Danny snorts. "I would pay to see that."

Martin bites his lip watching Jon pale as he exited his office because of the noise, and he went right back inside.

"It would have been easier to just ask his parents." Micheal crossed his arms. "They are attached to Jon like you are to Tim."

"Isn't that weird, though? I mean like hey, we're also dead, so tell us about your son, who you obviously been attached to a long time because you both are way too young to have a meaningful impact in his life." Danny frowns.

"We can hear you." A dark skinned Asian man huffs. He mumbles something in Japanese.

"Be nice, Shiro." The woman elbows the man. "But he isn't wrong. I died when my boy was six. Cancer is nobodies friend. I'm May, and this is my husband Torshiro."

"I was killed when he was 2." Shiro motions to the spot where his heart was carved out of his chest it was incredibly gruesome. "My past caught up to me from Japan." He was a scary looking man. "Ex Yakzua met May while she was teaching English in my territory."

"I was just killed by some stranger horror creature." Danny motions to being stitched back together. "You're thing sounds so much cooler."

"So tell us about this, Jonah. He is in your body, right?" Shiro points to Eli.

"Yeah, yeah." Eli sighs. "Jonah Magnus found a way around death through the fear god Beholder." He motions to his bloody holes where his eyes were. "You can guess how. He's going to use your son to initiate his plan unless he figured things out like Gertrude, or he cuts out his eyes. You can hear his whole thing if you talk to Barnabas or Robert. Honestly, I'm just glad to be stuck here than attached to him."

"That's great for you." Micheal sighs he was fading. "I'm attached to whatever possessed my body. I'll see you guys when the spiral returns." He salutes and vanishes.

"He way too polite to curse you out." Eli motions to Gertrude.

"I deserve that." Gertrude sighs.

"Well, we have to figure out a way to stop it." May huffs. "I will not have my son be used like a pawn for something he has no idea about."

Martin sighs. "I would love to help, but the man hates me."

Tim raised a brow and then made an o face. "Who's talking?"

"They're all talking among themselves, but before Danny mentions I could help Jon. I must say he hates me." Martin crossed his arms and points in a direction near Jon's office. "Jon's parents are attached to him like how Danny's attached to you."

"Ok, but help Jon, how?" Tim raised a brow.

"You can see us?" May gasps.

Martin nods. "Honestly, with the way you guys gossip, I would have thought everyone knew by now."

Eli shrugs. "It ain't my secret to tell, kid."

"Oh, um, thank you, I guess." Martin rubs the back of his neck. "But as I was saying Jon hates me, anything I will say to him he will dismiss. I get the whole fear thing, and you are his parents, but he hates me."

Shiro frowns. "The boy has a point. Jon is stubborn like myself. Your mother raised him, and she was an awful influence."

"Well, I didn't want her to raise him, but she forged my signature!" May pinched her brows. "Look, how about we start with getting jon to like you. He likes cats, and he does really like the tea you make him."

"Oh, I understand that. I basically raised my sister, and then my father disowned me, and I was banned from seeing her. I'm happy that she never saught me out to see Jonah puppeteer my body." Eli hums.

"Dude that's really fucked up." Danny frowns. "How about something more reasonable like finding Eli's sister."

"Well, if i knew her name, I could do that." Martin blinks. "That is really fucked up. You raised her, and your father disowned you? Was it to keep her away from you?"

"How about we stop talking about this?" Eli floats through the ceiling.

"And he's gone." Danny sighs.

Tim made a confused motion.

"Uh, Eli mentioned he had a sister he basically raised, and his father disowned him to keep him away from her. Danny wants to find her." Martin pauses. "It's been a while since I've translated for the deceased. I'm a bit rusty. I forget how you can't hear the conversation."

"Ouch, but yeah, no, I agree with Danny. The fear thing will take a while, right?" Tim hums. "And if that's the case, we have time to help the others, right?"

"I suppose Tim is right." Gertrude crossed her arms. "My efforts will slow him considerably things considered."

"As i said before, I literally can't get sucked off until Tim dies." Danny huffs.

"Why do you call it that?" Shiro riased his brow.

"Because wisked off seems too whimsical." Danny shrugs.

Martin rubs his face and sighs.

"Did Danny call moving to the next plane getting sucked off again?" Tim snickers when Martin nods.

"Disregarding that... wait, that's possible?" Gerturde blinks shocked.

"Well, yeah, it's possible. You're still very new to this. Things are tricky when it comes to being dead. Uh, I've had some experience talking to others, so let me -

Martin cuts off Danny. "Ghosts attached to a place like this insistute are stuck for a reason normally not known to them, and once that's filled, you'll move on. Ghost attached to loved ones can't move on until their loved one moves on. Other ghosts can't move on because of unfinished business, but they will eventually gain experience while dead to finally move on. Children are never ghosts. Eli is an exception to the rule since his body is still alive. He's still attached even if he doesn't feel it. He's lucky Jonah doesn't drag him along. You're new you havent even truly settled in yet. I've met spirits that are a few tens of thousand year old. It's like purgatory or hell. If you don't learn, you won't be allowed to move on, or something else is keeping you, and you're unable to fix that. Sometimes, that's as simple as cremation, or someone solves your murder. Others, it's incredibly complicated." He sighs. "I've heard old rumors about reapers that used to be around, but I've never seen them nor the spirits who I've talked to. Only the oldest ever seem to mention them."

"How do you know so much?" Shiro looks amazed.

Martin shrugs. "I've been like this my whole life. I was practically raised by the original settlers of Britain. They were much more civilized than the romans I've met."

"Celts?" Tim raised a brow when Martin shook his head.

"Older. I dont think they've been recorded." Martin hums. "That's a story for a different day, but yeah, there's a lot to learn. You won't find it in a book. You have to talk to the others and learn yourself."

Gertrude paused. "I see. I do have a lot to learn. This is out of my realm of expertise. I shall help you with the fears."

"I can help with ghost stuff." Martin smiles, watching Gertrude sink into the floor.

.......

"You killed me out of jealousy, so your opinion has no weight here." A French accent scoffs.

"Barnabas, it's a petty point. We both know Jonah loved you more. That isn't the point! I think that man can see us!" Mordechai motions to Martin, who was staring at them.

"I'm with Barnabas. The living can't see us. Even with the Beholders' power, Jonah can't see us." Robert crossed his arms.

"He can see you three." Eli pulled himself from the floor.

"Good heavens, Elias, can you not do that? There are plenty or staircases in this building. I designed this damn building." Robert huffs.

"Shut up, Smirke. What do you mean by living can see us?" Mordechai points to Martin.

"I'm half dead." Martin sighs, sipping his mug of tea. "Also, can one of you poke into Jonah's office and tell me why it's taking so long for me to be let into his office? He asked me up here about 20 minutes ago."

"Oh, that's easy Peter's visiting." Eli clicks his tongue. "Always feel cold when he does. It shouldn't be much longer unless Peter is horny than I would say. Come back in an hour."

"Ew." Martin pinched his brow.

"Half dead?" Barnabas raised his brow. "Boy, what do you mean?"

Martin looks around the empty darken hall and pulls off one glove. "See?" He ignores the gasps as he puts his glove back on.

"Impossible." Mordechai floats closer. "You shouldn't talk out in the open, Jonah can see and hear you."

Eli with his head through Jonah's office door. He pulls himself back out. "Yeah, no, he's pretty distracted at the moment. At least he kept my body flexible."

"O!" Barnabas slips through the office door.

"Pervert." Robert rolls his eyes. "But this is quite fascinating. Did you have a near death experience, or were you born like this?"

"I was born like this." Martin gets up. "I'll be back later since they're busy together."

"Wait before you go, could you tell us why we're stuck?" Mordechai sighs. "I really rather not be stuck here."

"Just because I can see the dead doesn't mean I know why you're here." Martin shakes his head. "Sorry. I can, however, pass messages over to the living if you have any requests."

"I do, but my family won't talk to you." Mordechai shrugs.

"Is it true Timothy now in the archives wrote a 12 hour dissertation on myself and my work? Daniel was talking about it." Robert smiles.

"Yes. And yes, I've heard it." Martin chuckles, shaking his head. "He does love your work."

"Amazing, you must set up a time we can discuss. That sounds absolutely riveting. Oh, I'll just pop on down and talk with Daniel." Robert sinks through the floor.

Mordechai shakes his head. "Thank you for your offer. However I must implore you to stay away from my family the Lukas's. You don't deserve that kind of death, and serving the Forsaken didn't do shit in my death."

"Um, thank you for the advice." Martin smiles and walks away.

Eli raised a brow. "That was nice and out of character for you."

Mordechai rolls his eyes. "Hush."

......

"Finally, it's Halloween!" Eli laughs. "Time for a festival! New faces and new spirits we can see only once a year."

"Isn't it a bit stereotypical for a ghost to be excited for Halloween?" Gertrude floated through Jonah's desk.

"That is right, you are quite new. This is your first all hallows eve festival." Mordechai hums. "Those who died with instruments live for the holiday. Well, we aren't alive, but Eli does like to perform."

"Oh, it's always a fun affair." Barnabas smiles. "You be surprised how far the property line is for us. Lots of singing and dancing. The oldest of us even come out from the tunnels for the festivities."

Robert nods. "Sure, we can no longer partake in carnal festivities, but that doesn't stop us from having fun. Your first time is always an odd one. You still cling to how you behave as the living when that doesn't matter anymore."

"What that means is let loose have fun. It's not like anyone alive can see us besides Martin. Even Mordechai has fun." Eli elbows Mordechai.

"Elias isn't wrong. I do hope the nice maid comes up from the tunnels. Clara is always a delight." Mordechai chuckles. "Almost convinced her last month to join me up here. She's a lovely little spitfire."

"They've been going back and forth for decades." Barnabas shakes his head. "Both are too proud to compromise, but everyone knows they love each other."

Eli nods. "Its like a will they wont they but both are too stubborn to admit they are in love."

Gertrude hums. "So i will be meeting the others?"

"I mean, they are always curious about the newbies." Robert crossed his arms sitting on Jonah's desk going through his computer. "I've already spread the word."

Eli shudders. "Fuck me, would it kill Jonah to now have sex at his desk." He barely glances at Peter who materializes. "Like I'm all for sexual liberation, but like how hasn't he gotten caught?"

"Years of practice." Barnabas chuckles. "Oh, I could tell you of our days. Of course, we also had to hide the fact of Jonah's privates, but it was still glorious and exhilarating."

"I may of been a slut but at least I wasn't a freak. I caught you both several times." Robert shakes his head. "Anyway, do you think young Timothy has finished his cooraspondace yet? I haven't been this excited in ages."

"I dunno, you'll have to ask Martin or Danny." Eli shrugs. "Anyway, this has been fun, but I have to talk to the others with instruments. I have no idea why they made me the host this year." He sinks through the floor.

"The boy is too modest. He's a great host." Barnabas chuckles softly. "Oh, you're in for a real treat, Gertrude. Elias always makes it a spectacular evening. Alas, he is right, though I have to prepare my performance. French or English this year? I still haven't decided."

"I am partial to your french." Robert smiles. "Although you better decide or someone will request German."

"Bite your tongue!" Barnabas huffs and sinks out with Robert following who was laughing.

"I suppose they argue about that every year." Gertrude smiles softly.

"Every year, but it's all in good fun. I suppose I am glad they dressed me properly before I died." Mordechai hums. "Come along. I suppose I could introduce you to some who come up early. They are always out in the yard while everything gets set up." He holds out his hand, which Gertrude takes.

"For the first Lukas, you are quite cordial." Gertrude looks skeptical.

"The forsaken didn't do shit but create problems in retrospect. The fears hold no power once you're dead. Speaking if which I do not envy Simon. He's nothing but a fool. I am fortunate enough I do not have to watch my family suffer due to my mistakes. Peter, i am proud of at least being different enough to be in a good relationship, even if it's with Jonah. I've watched long enough to see the outcome of my hubris."

Gertrude hums. "I suppose I have forgotten it has been over two hundred years for you. Very well lead the way." She takes his hand, and they go through the wall.

......

"Ugh, can you guys wake up now? It's Halloween, and I want to see the others!" Danny groans.

Tim's eyes flew open, and he stared up at his very clearly dead brother. He shrieked. "What the fuck!"

Martin was startled awake. "What?!" He sits up going through Danny.

"Nightmares suck dont they, anyway can you both get there early today it's Halloween and you know what happens. Eli is even hosting it's going to be great!" Danny floats back.

"Dan-Danny?" Tim stares at his dead brother.

Martin is now wide awake. "You can see him?!"

"Wait, you see me?" Danny pauses floating really close to Tim's face. "You can see me! I wonder why? Martin, do you know why?"

Martin shakes his head. "Again, I'm not an expert on this stuff! Maybe the older spirits might know."

"Danny... I..." Tim swallows. "You look like shit."

"I'm dead. What's your excuse?" Danny snickers.

"You woke me up." Tim smiles wide.

"I did!" Danny grins.

Martin sighs. "I'll make breakfast."

.......

"You are not seeing your dead parents." Jon mumbles under his breath as he is the third to arrive to the archives, which never happens. "You're perfectly sane and just need new glasses." He looks up seeing Martin and Tim, which is incredibly odd, but he also sees elias without eyes and a man that looks similar to Tim in a very realistic distasteful costume.

"Oh, morning, bossman!" Tim smiles wide waving. He was wearing a cat ear headband and a matching tail.

"Can you see me too?" The man who looked similar to Tim rushed forward, making Jon stumbled back. "Ooo, I'll take that as a yes! Good morning, Jon and Shiro, and May. Are you two excited for the celebration tonight?"

"We would be if we knew why the living could suddenly see us." May rubs her arm. "Again sorry Jon for scaring you."

"Stop scaring Jon, Daniel." Shiro sighs.

Danny huffs. "I ain't scaring anyone."

Martin chuckles softly. "Danny, you do look scary to those who don't know what happened to you."

Danny scoffs floating back by Tim. "At least I have my eyes still."

"Fuck you." Elias stick up his middle finger. "I can still see you're a little bitch."

Tim snorts. "I'm sorry I can't get over how fucking different you actually are. I thought Martin was fucking with me."

Jon swallows and takes a breath. "Just what is going on!"

"Long or short explanation? Because the short one is that the living can suddenly see us and we have no idea why or when it started. The long reason is you probably have to ask the oldest ones here for answers, but they are still in the tunnels." Elias shrugs. "Honestly, I'm surprised Robert hasn't flown down here yet to bother Tim, but i think that's because they haven't realized the rest of the living can see us."

"Your parents have been attached to you since they died. They'll move once when you die." Martin sighs. "I've been able to see the dead since I was born, so this is weird for me as well." He holds up his uncovered hands.

"Same for me. I'm stuck to my brother till he dies. I'll say it again you better live a long fucking life!" Danny huffs.

"Nobody lives long working in the archives." Gertrude slips through the wall.

"And there's the ray of sunshine that is Gertrude." Eli sighs heavily. "Surprise, she isn't missing she's dead."

"Who in God's name are you speaking to?" Gertrude gives an unimpressed look.

Tim waves. "Us we can see you today for some reason."

"Good heavens." Gertrude gasps.

"Ooo, do you think if I bother Rosie, we can talk some office gossip?" Eli hums. "Nah, she's terrified of Jonah she won't talk to me."

Jon rubs his face. "I have so many questions. This can't be real."

"Oh, it is." Gertrude narrows her gaze. "Now that we can talk, I can warn you and tell you you have to handle this position to stay alive."

"Oh yes, that would be great." May smiles. "Come on, Jonathan, this is important."

"You have much to learn." Gertrude sighs.

........

Danny huffs. "It is nice to meet you, Sasha, but you've lost Tim for like the rest of the day." He motions to Tim in a very animated conversation with Robert.

"Is that..?" Sasha motions.

"Yeah, that's Robert Smirke." Danny groans. "Its bad enough they've been pen pals."

Martin shakes his head. "Let him have this."

Sasha furrows her brows. "What do you mean by pen pals?"

Danny points to Martin's hands. "That isn't a costume. Martin is self-proclaimed half dead. Although born dead is a cooler title."

Martin rolls his eyes. "That won't catch on. Now, if you'll excuse me, I will be making some tea. Lord knows Jon needs it."

"Yeah, Gertrude isn't sparing any detail." Danny grimaced. "She's still pretty new to this being dead thing."

"I'm back!" A soft voice interrupts. "Oh, I am very glad I came back for Halloween."

"Micheal!" Danny waves.

"Gertrude's assistant Micheal?" Sasha gasps.

"Oh, right, hello. I was warned about this from some of the ancient ones. Something about the moon and such. I'm kind of like Eli, but I'm stuck to my husk of a body and not the insistute. Anyway, did I miss anything?" Micheal smiles.

"My brother and Robert have not stopped talking. Eli is debating on confronting Jonah. Martin is making tea, and Gertrude is talking to Jon, the new Archivist." Danny sighs. "The old ones are still climbing out of the dirt."

"Oh, that's great last year. I missed all the fun stuff. I hope I stay for everything." Micheal smiles.

"Fun?" Sasha looked over to Micheal.

"Oh, every Halloween, all the ghosts here throw a big festival. Eli is hosting this year, and all the people who died with instruments have a blast. I'm not much of a performer, but the others do put on a great show. It's dancing singing and fun all around." Micheal chuckles. "Honestly, this is the first year I will be able to see Eli host, and I heard it's a real treat."

"That does sound fun." Sasha hums. "This happens every year?"

"Yes!" Danny jumps up. "It's something I always look forward to."

"Oh shit welcome back, Micheal." Eli pokes his head through the ceiling. "Anyway, I need your opinion. Should I confront Jonah? I mean, he's still with Peter , so there's another person, but also, the other avatars are coming tonight as well. Wait shit isn't this place doing a collab with ODIAR? Ugh, more variables. Do I even want to confront him? Like there isn't anything I can do yaknow. Like fuck you for stealing my body and killing me. Wait, why am I even asking you you still haven't even yelled at Gertrude for killing you?" He groans.

"Holy shit I thought you were lying about the body snatching thing." Sasha blinks, staring at Eli.

"I was not." Martin sighs, handing her a warm mug of tea. "You should just talk to him. If anything, it will bring some sort of closure, and you can tell him to stay away from your sister."

"That is a very good point." Eli sighs. "I should probably do that before Barnabas realizes Jonah can see him." He floats back through the ceiling.

"You know all the ghosts here?" Sasha looks back to Danny.

Danny makes a so so motion. "I have a 30-foot radius around Tim that I can move around. Eli knows most of them, but you have better luck asking Robert, Barnabas, or Mordechai since they're the oldest that don't stay in the tunnels. The really old guys perfer the underground because watching the world change can get depressing."

Micheal nods. "Being tethered to someone isn't as great as it seems. I mean from my experience. Granted, I'm attached to the thing puppeteer my body, and it kills and eats people. But I have seen Gerry again, and that's always great. By the way, Gerry said he's happy Jonah killed Gertrude."

Danny snorts. "Of course, he would say that. He's another guy Gertrude got killed. The list is quite long actually, sucks that Gerry is trapped in a book."

"Gertrude killed people?" Sasha looked bewildered as Martin entered Jon's office.

"Oh, you have no idea." Micheal chuckles. "She was ruthless. Even if what she did meant, the fears wouldn't win. I really don't care about the fears anymore since they can't affect the dead."

"Ooo wait, is the stranger that killed me going to be here?" Danny gasps as Micheal nods. "Fuck yeah I'm going to haunt the shit out of them since they can see me."

.......

"Alright, don't scream. I have a few things to say." Eli floats through the floor. "One dick move taking over my body, but I'm pretty much over it at this point. Two the suits are tacky and pompous. Three stop having sex in this office, your office, where you're going to get caught, besides the fact that Barnabas likes to watch." He huffs sitting on Jonah's desk. "Also, your god will not serve you when you die. None of them will. Honestly, the fears have no effect on the dead. Also, hello Peter, nice to actually speak to you for once."

Jonah blinks. "Is that all?"

"I mean, what else can I say? I'm dead Jonah it's not like I can do anything but watch at this point. The irony is not lost on me." Eli sighs. "Also stay the fuck away from my sister."

"You have a sister?" Peter stares at Eli.

"Huh." Eli deflates. "Never mind then."

"So why are you here?" Jonah crossed his arms, leaning back. "I didn't think you had any earthly matters to attend to."

"That's not really how it works." Eli lays down on the desk. "I'm still somewhat attached to my body, but not enough. I'm tethered to it. Uh, like Micheal Shelly to the creature using his body like a puppet or Danny attached to his brother. I'm stuck here in the insistute well this entire property. Which is much bigger than you would think."

"So why are you here? Why is Mordechai here?" Peter frowns.

Eli shrugs. "There isn't excatly a manual for this. I stopped being mad about this like two decades ago. There isn't really a point to clinging to anger. As for the others here again, I don't know. Mordechai is just happy he isn't confined to that family home of yours. Anyway, I should go before Barnabas shows up. I've said my piece." He throws up a peace sign and sinks through the desk through the floor.

"W-wait." Jonah curses. "I have more questions."

Peter frowns. "Do all the dead have the injury that killed them?"

"More or less." Barnabas floats through the wall, startling the two. He motions to his skeletal frame, clearly showing he died of starvation. "Unfortunately, Mordechai didn't let me drown."

"Do you all just float through?" Jonah takes a breath.

"Why wouldn't we? It's not like living can normally see us." Barnabas hums softly. "It is quite nice to finally speak to you again, Jonah."

"He does have a point." Peter shrugs.

"Thank you." Barnabas smiles. "Anyhow, we do have a lot to catch up on. Although Smirke is in a heated discussion with Timothy, Mordechai is with his love Clara, who just returned to the surface. Oh, this year you can actually join in the festivities. It will be quite fun."

......

"Ladies and Gentlemen, or whatever you think yourself to be in ain't judging." Eli shouts, and his voice seems to echo over the fair grounds like he was everywhere. "Now this Halloween is a special one. The living can see us! Exciting, I know, but don't let that spoil our fun. Now, to the living joining us, I'm the actual Elias Bouchard, the one who stole my body, life, and eyes is one Jonah Magnus, so do with that what you will. I dont care. I'm dead."

A few snickers from the dead ring out.

"Now, to start off this spectacular, I would normally perform the opening act. However, it would be rude of me to ignore the living in the room." Eli smirks as there is laughter. "Now feel free to mingle, scare, or just converse about modern-day politics with the living, and when I give a shout, whoever gets the first bar starts the performance! The rules remain the same, but we do have a newly dead with us now."

Gertrude blinks as eyes land on her.

"So! Rules are first to start their performance has the stage until it's over, then you have to be fast to be the next one to start next. Dancing, singing, jokes, or just stories you wish to share are all fair game. Most audience participation will be the winner, so have fun, and myself being the host means I have no skin in this fight."

Danny loudly laughs.

"Oh, that always gets the Strangers victims a laugh. Keep an eye out for my signal for the festivities to start! Enjoy talking to the living. Also, to avoid last year's brawl, please stick to English. Seriously, there is only so much room in the tunnels for you guys to sulk, im looking at you, Barnabas."

Barnabas sticks up his middle finger as Robert snickers.

"Now to the living, try not to die, alright? I ain't going to hold your hand through the learning curve." Eli chuckles as there is more laughter. "I'm just fucking with you guys. Enjoy the show, everyone!"

More cheers erupts from the dead.

[socialhumanhealing]

Anatomy of a Scene

Synopsis of Being John Malkovich: I found this movie to be many things! It was incredibly weird, but so hard to stop watching. I almost caved in a few times, wanting to shut it off as it is not something I would typically watch. The movie is paced like a pinball all over the map. You never know what is coming next. The scenes are never with much light and the entire movie has a "dark" overtone to it which fits this movie very well. Made in 1999, it is about a man named Craig Schwartz that is a puppeteer, but that is not how he makes his living. He got a job as a file clerk on the 7th and a half floor of a building. I know, it sounds bizarre but the whole movie is. In his office behind a filing cabinet, he finds a weird, small door that becomes the focus of the movie. It is a portal to being inside the mind of actor John Malkovich. Apparently, it’s so awesome that everyone wants to go and can only stay for 15 minutes (For $200 bucks) before they’re dumped from the sky on the side of a New Jersey highway. Catch the drift on weird now? It gets weirder. Some people figured out how to stay longer and control John.  Especially Craig, who then began puppeteering him to the point he takes over his life. The movie had very erotic points where people fall in love and lust, through John. Not with him, but through him. There are many crazy twists and turns I don’t want to spoil for my reader, but I will say you should watch it once. Once will be enough.

SYNOPSIS: A GOOD PERSON

(2023) Allison, a beautiful 20’s-something girl is talented, blessed and full of life. She’s engaged to Nathan, the love of her life. They have everything going for them until they get into a car accident. Although the accident wasn’t entirely negligible, Allison is to blame because she was looking at her map app on her phone. A heavy equipment operator pulled out in front of her, and she didn’t react in time. Her fiancé’s sister and another passenger were killed. Allison is injured as well, and her injuries and unresolvable grief leads to addiction. A friend in her recovery journey ends up being her would-be father-in-law, an ally in her healing.

The scene that is particularly effective is when Allison decides to attend an addiction recovery meeting. It was hard to finally attend, and when she finally walks in, she sees her former fiancés father who blamed her for the accident that caused his daughters death. He’s been in recovery for 10 years and he knows how hard it can be just to get yourself inside the door of a meeting. He intentionally welcomes her in, regardless of his pain and bitter feelings. She immediately makes eye contact with him and freezes. In a recessional shot, she turns and runs out, where he runs after her saying, “Allison, don’t go!” In a processional shot, Allison stops and Daniel walks toward her to encourage her to stay. The scenes here are set up in a quiet, dim setting keeping the focus only on the two of them. This contributes to the emotion and intensity of the moment. The heaviness of the courage they both have in the scene is present. Allison, for finally getting there, and Daniel, the father of her ex-fiancés, for knowing the crucial aspect of recovery and the importance of putting his own painful feelings aside to keep her there. He must show grace and understanding in that dramatic moment. These scenes contribute greatly to the broader message of healing in the movie. Daniel is a constant source of friendship for her.

A recessional and processional shot above.

[samgirl98]

Cain and Abel Wept 21/23

Prev | Next

TW: Mentions of past torture and death

Well, here we are, the next chapter. After this, there will only be two chapters left and maybe an epilogue. Enjoy

Danny and his family helped the Justice League clear out technology and explain what it did. Justice League-approved doctors were looking over Jason.

Danny felt his heart squeeze at Jason’s vacant expression. If only Danny had been faster. If only he could’ve gotten rid of the GIW sooner. If only—

“You’re blaming yourself again, little badger.”

Danny scowled at the older halfa. Vlad Masters stopped by Danny, looking well put together for someone who just came out of a fight.

“So, another one joins the ranks of the halfa. Good to see our population is growing.”

Danny snarled, “Stay away from him, Vlad. He won’t be your son; he already has a father.”

Danny and Vlad watched as Batman flittered around Jason.

“Yes, I suppose you’re right,” Vlad said, “How’s Danielle?”

Danny’s scowl deepened.

“Listen, I know we made a temporary truce to eliminate our enemies; that does not make us allies, Plasmius. Stay away from my daughter.”

Danny left the older halfa behind and went to Bruce.

“He’ll get better, B,” Danny said as he approached the distraught man. Jason still hadn’t acknowledged their presence, “He needs to process what happened to him. Let him rest.”

A doctor came up to them. She eyed Danny’s white hair and glowing eyes and slightly shuddered before getting herself together.

“Good news, Mr. Batman. Jason’s vitals are a bit slow but they seem to be his new baseline. He will be physically fine and will make a full recovery. He can stay with us overnight, or you can take him somewhere you feel will be more comfortable for the both of you.”

Bruce said nothing as he picked Jason up. Jason rested his head on Bruce’s chest (right where his heartbeat would be.) and finally closed his eyes. His breathing tempered out, and he lost consciousness.

Danny walked alongside his biological father, not knowing how to comfort the man.

“It’s not your fault,” Danny said.

After a moment of silence, Bruce said, “It’s not yours, either.”

They both stayed silent after that. Neither knew what to say as they walked toward the Batplane. Despite that, the silence didn’t feel awkward. (It was somber.)  Danny’s parents, sister, and the rest of Batman’s brood stood by the plane. Even mother was a bit further away from the rest of them, with Damian the closest to her.

Once they saw Bruce holding Jason, everyone ran (or, in Talia’s case, walked) toward them. Nightwing put his fingers on Jason’s neck, feeling his pulse.

“How is he,” Red Robin asked.

“The doctor said his vitals are a bit lower than they should be, but that’s his new normal baseline. He lost consciousness when I picked him up, but he wasn’t responsive before that. He needs rest.”

“Dying and coming back is not pleasant,” Danny started, “I died violently but quickly. Jason was tortured to death and then brought back. It was slower. He’ll need time to process what happened to him.”

The Bat clan nodded in understanding. Mother approached Bruce and put her hand on Jason’s chest, watching his rising chest. She gave a bitter smile and kissed Jason’s forehead.

Talia al Ghul didn’t want to say goodbye to her children, but she had things to do. Things her beloved would not approve of. (Like destroying any remaining GIW bases she could find.) She looked at Bruce, “Take care of them this time, beloved, or I will take them away as is my right as their mother.”

Talia and her assassins melted into the shadows before disappearing altogether.

____

Samantha was allowed to stay in the manor that night. She mostly ignored the Batfamily and talked to the Fentons. Damian was fine with that; he wasn’t there to make friends. (Though she seemed a bit too close to his older brother.)

‘They like each other,’ Cassandra signed. Damian scowled. He didn’t want to share his brother’s attention more than he had to.

‘Stop that. They make each other happy.’

Damian let his scowl fall. Well, if Samantha Manson made Danny happy, he supposed he could learn to deal with her. At least she was vegetarian.

Soon, Samantha bid the Fentons a good night, and Pennyworth escorted her to the guest room. Maybe Damian could tell father to keep an eye out for Danny and Samantha that night… No, he was better than that.

“How you feeling, Dami,” Danny asked while approaching him.

“Fine,” he lied. One of his older brothers had died. He had seen his strong father break down, and Damian feared his time with Daniel was limited.

Danny took Damian’s hand, “You know it’s okay not to be, right?”

“Tt,” Damian looked away from his older brother’s understanding gaze. Damian felt tears burning behind his eyes and stubbornly held them back.

“How are you,” he asked instead. Thankfully, Danny let him change the subject.

“Tired, pissed,” Danny sighed, “We got their main base, but this won’t be over if the government that doesn’t change those damned laws.”

Damian watched their father fluff Jason’s pillow. The man hadn’t taken his eyes off Jason since he brought him into the Batplane. (He even allowed the Fenton’s to pilot it while he held Jason.)

“Father and the Justice League will repeal those laws,” Damian reassured his brother, “And I’ll be there with you every step of the way.”

Danny smiled at his younger brother and hugged him. For just that night, Danny allowed himself to break down in his younger brother’s arms.

Meanwhile, Jason opened his eyes. He stared at the familiar ceiling, noticing the lack of white. (Noticing the absence of pain.) Something was different; he could tell.

“Dad,” he mumbled.

Bruce Wayne’s worried blue eyes came into view.

“Jay-lad, you’re home. You can rest.”

Jason hummed before falling into a restful sleep.

@spectralstardustandphantomnights @avelnfear @idfk-man10 @blackroserelina @candeartist422 @luer-mirin @mur-ururu @insufferablecrab @skulld3mort-1fan @meira-3919 @aethernorwood @mimilikey @marshmelloe @latheevening226 @ahyesanerd @lexdamo @chrysanthemum9484 @spooky-fm @gmkelz11 @jotaroslooseeyebrowhair @supershot73199 @starscreamlover @booberrylizard @pastalavistamf @itsberrydreemurstuff

[roanofarcc]

PROJECT SUNSHINE CHAPTER SIXTEEN → HOME

summary: steve harrington x oc | on Ao3

when another product of Hawkins National Laboratory escaped a long-survived nightmare alongside her sister, she crashed into one unsuspecting teenage boy and dragged him deeper into the dark mysteries that made up their hometown.

word count. 2.8k | masterlist

warnings: cannon typical violence, child abuse, horror, gore, and depictions of mental illness. parts of this story were written pre-season 4 release. cannon divergence.

notes: we're almost at the end of season 1! the story only gets better from here, so stay tuned! and thank you for your lovely feedback and for reading my little story <3

previous chapter ← → next chapter

The sun began to rise over Hawkins, casting rays of gold and light blue across the town. Most of its residents were still asleep inside their homes, unaware of what had occurred only hours before. 

Sunshine’s head rested against the cool passenger-side window of Chief Hopper’s car as they pulled into a driveway of a quaint house. 

The one-story home was covered in cream-colored siding and the yard was covered in leaves from a couple of tall, old trees that were scattered throughout the front. A couple of lights were on inside, unlike their distant neighbors. 

Hopper put the car in park and picked up his hat that he’d rested on the dash before he turned to the anxious teen. “I’ll go talk to them first, okay?” 

Sunshine nodded but said nothing. Hopper couldn’t blame her after the night they all had. To her, her parents were strangers. He only hoped that wouldn’t be the case for long. The Torres were good people, with the same kind of unwavering hope that Joyce held. Even though ten whole years had passed and there was an empty grave with their daughter’s name on it in the town cemetery, Hopper knew that there was a small part of that family that wouldn’t give up hope until a body was found. Their daughter would not be handed back underneath a white sheet, but rather with a beating heart. 

When he reached the door, Hopper knocked and waited a moment before it was swung open. A well-dressed and wide-awake Mr. Torres stood before him with his jet-black hair combed back and cut short, and his complexion still tanned from the summer months. Hopper didn’t miss the sudden flash of irritation that flickered across Mr. Torres’s face at the sight of him. 

“Mornin’ Chief,” he greeted with a small nod of his head. There was no cheery smile on his face like he once had held when he and Jim would meet at the bar on the weekends to catch the game. It felt like a lifetime ago, when they both had their little girls, and the world was a lot brighter. 

Mrs. Torres padded up behind her husband, blurry-eyed and dressed in her pajamas. “What’s going on?” she asked, folding her arms over her chest. 

“Walter, Mary-Jane,” Jim greeted. “I’m sorry to come by so early.” 

“What is this about, Jim?” Walter had no patience, not anymore. He’d become quiet, a little bitter even, but his wife kept him in line enough to be civil with the people of his hometown. 

Jim cleared his throat and tried to figure out the right way to break the news to the family that they had been right all along, and no one believed them. He needed to finish bringing lost kids home that night, which had turned into the morning before his very eyes. 

“The other day, Mary-Jane, you came into the station and swore you saw a girl that looked like what you thought Danielle would look like now-” 

She cut him off with a quick shake of her head; the rollers on her head threatened to fall out with how quickly she moved. “If you came here just to tell me I was wrong, you can save it. I know that I…I’m crazy, right?” Her husband sighed and placed a hand on her shoulder, but she shrugged him off angrily. “I’m just as crazy as Joyce Byers. We’re a couple of mothers off their rockers, right?” 

“Will Byers was found last night, alive,” Jim said. 

The news would break later that night to the rest of Hawkins, but if any residents outside of the group who had suffered through the night together deserved to know, it was the Torres family. 

The couple’s expression changed instantly at the unexpected news. Their eyes widened and any irritation they held melted away. “What?” Walter muttered in disbelief. “How is that possible? I thought that state trooper found his body in the quarry?” 

“It was a different boy, some out-of-towner, not Will,” he lied. The situation was anything but easy to explain. He’d have to tip-toe around it for the rest of his life, probably. 

Mary-Jane held one hand over her heart and took in the news like a mother who had dreamed of such an outcome for herself. She felt for Joyce Byers, that much was clear on her face. 

“Oh, my,” she gasped. “Is he okay?” 

Jim nodded. “He will be.” 

“You came here to tell us that?” Walter asked, confused. 

“No, actually.” Jim looked between the couple, two people who had experienced something too similar to what he had. His daughter, Sara, would never come home, but at least he knew how she died. It didn’t make it any less painful, but he couldn’t imagine not knowing what happened or where she was. The Torres family was left in the dark for so long, holding onto what everyone else believed was false hope, but it wasn’t. 

“Will Byers wasn’t the only kid we found last night.” 

Walter asked, “What do you mean?” 

“You were right,” Jim said to Mary-Jane. “You were right, and I should have believed you. I should have believed both you and Joyce a lot sooner than I did.” 

Growing more impatient, Mary-Jane narrowed her eyes. “What are you talking about?” 

In the cold, early November morning air, Jim Hopper delivered the news that the couple had prayed for the past ten agonizing years. 

“We found Danielle. She’s alive.” 

The parents stood in shock as the words worked their way through the years and years of hopelessness they faced when it came to finding their daughter. It struck Mary-Jane first; her legs nearly buckled underneath her. Walter caught his wife’s arm as he stared at Jim with a glazed-over expression that started to form into tears.

A sob came from Mary-Jane, only this time it wasn’t of pain, it was of relief. 

Walter blinked back his tears and glanced toward Jim’s truck in the driveway, where a shadowy figure of a girl sat in the front seat. 

“I-Is that her?” Walter asked, his voice barely above a whisper. A part of him didn’t seem to believe that he was being told the truth. 

Jim followed their gaze and waved at Danielle to get out. 

She still looked like hell, but the oldest Wheeler kid gave her a change of clothes before they left the hospital and a nurse cleaned up a couple of the wounds she acquired over the past week. 

Silence stretched between the merging parties until Danielle reached them. Her moves were hesitant and unsure, while Walter and Mary-Jane waited with baited breaths. 

Tears fell freely from Mary-Jane’s eyes as she took a step toward Danielle. “It’s really you?” she asked, chin trembling. 

Danielle said nothing; instead, she glanced at Jim, who nodded in reassurance. 

Jim didn’t know how to explain, mother’s intuition maybe, but the moment Danielle met Mary-Jane’s eyes there was all the confirmation she needed that the girl before them was her daughter. She let out a shuttered breath and smiled. “It is you.” 

Closing the space between them, Mary-Jane cupped her daughter’s face in her hands and brushed her thumb against the bruises splattered across Danielle’s skin. 

The teen’s lips twitch upwards in the faintest smile as she whispered, “Hi.” That broke both parents. They both fell into a fit of tears as they gathered their daughter up in their arms and held onto her tightly, fearing she’d slip away from them all over again; they weren’t going to let that happen. 

All three members of the Torres family stood together on the front porch, bathed in the warm glow of the rising sun. A broken family had their missing piece returned. 

Little Ellie Torres found her way home, and the town was gifted a very bitter-sweet ending to a brand-new day.  

-ONE MONTH LATER-

Everything across Hawkins was covered in powdery white snow. It decorated rooftops and windowsills and blanketed yards of homes ready for the holiday season. Strings of colorful lights and festive snowmen with carrot noses provided a sense of warmth during the cold Indiana winter. 

Sunshine was tucked snugly inside a brand-new winter coat that was the color of the poinsettias people all around town purchased for the holidays. A matching hat rested on top of her head and gloves covered her hands as she knocked on the front door of the Wheeler’s house. Cars were lined up in the driveway and loud chatter echoed from inside. 

The door was opened by Mrs. Wheeler, who looked awfully cheery in a red and green outfit and matching makeup. 

“Oh, Danielle, what a pleasant surprise!” She stepped aside, making room between the door frame before she ushered Sunshine inside. “Come in before you freeze to death out there.” 

The home smelt like fresh cookies and music played from somewhere toward the back of the house. Mrs. Wheeler closed the door before she shouted, “Nancy, come here!” 

Sunshine slipped off her winter gear in time for Nancy to arrive at the entryway with Steve at her side. 

A bright smile formed on Nancy’s lips. “You made it!” She rushed forward and drew Sunshine in for a quick hug. 

“I did, and I have gifts,” she replied, excitedly. 

Sunshine had no memory of celebrating the holidays before the Lab, so she was treating the Christmas of ‘83 as her first. 

She and Mary-Jane spent a whole day picking out thoughtful holiday cards for Sunshine’s newfound friends. They each were complete with a handwritten note, in Mary-Jane’s handwriting but Sunshine’s words. 

It was her way of thanking them for everything they had done for her, for giving her a second chance. Of course, she knew it wasn’t exactly an adequate form of thanks, but it was the best she had at the moment. They showed her more kindness than she was sure she could ever repay, but she wouldn’t stop trying to. 

After handing Nancy and Steve their cards, Nancy nudged Steve’s arm as she said, “We got you something too.” 

He hurried off to the living room to fetch it and came back with a gift bag. 

“Open it!” Nancy instructed, clapping her hands together excitedly. 

Sunshine dug through the red and green tissue paper until felt the item and pulled it out. A yellow coffee mug stared back at her, with little white flowers drawn all around it; she loved it. 

“There’s something else too, inside the mug,” Steve said. 

Peering inside, Sunshine caught sight of a golden chain. On the end of the necklace chain was a beautiful pendant of the sun, golden and glittering in the light of the Wheeler’s entryway. 

She smiled brightly, admiring the gift like it was the greatest thing she’d ever received. It was a process for her, to realize that good people did nice things for each other. There were no motives or hidden agendas; Sunshine’s friends gave her a gift, a wonderfully thoughtful gift and that was that. 

“Thank you,” she said, unsure of what else to say to show her appreciation. 

“It’s a Christmas gift mixed with a ‘thank you for saving our asses’ gift.” 

Nancy playfully rolled her eyes but nodded, nonetheless. “Do you really like it? Because we weren’t sure. If you don’t-” 

Sunshine cut her off. “I love it. I really do. Thank you.” 

The brunette sighed in relief before gasping out, “Oh! The boys, they have something for you too that they were pretty excited about. I’ll go grab them.” 

She left Steve and Sunshine alone and disappeared behind one of the doors in the hall. 

A beat passed between the two before Steve broke it. “How are you holdin’ up?” he asked, keeping his voice light but the question still held weight.

After everything she’d been through, that they all had been through, she was recovering slowly. The town had gone back to somewhat normal, but there was still a buzz in the air about the return of herself and Will. Gossip spread like wildfire and people in the street couldn’t help but stare at a teenage version of the little girl that had once occupied every milk carton in town. 

The group itself was still shaken up, but they all tried to ease back into some semblance of normalcy; however, Sunshine didn’t remember what “normal” looked like. She was still trying to figure it all out while coping with the loss of her sister. 

“I’m okay,” she answered with a small sigh. 

It wasn’t a lie, she was okay. Some days were a lot better than others. There were days when she felt excited to be a part of the world again, to learn how to function like every other teenager in America. There were other days when she felt inconsolable.

On those days, she couldn’t get out of bed or speak to her parents. Her limbs felt too heavy, and her heart felt ripped clean from her chest. When she slept, oftentimes her dreams were plagued with all of the horrors she’s witnessed. 

It was give and take; she lived day to day. 

“It’s just weird, I guess,” she continued. “All of this. It’s new, but it’s good. I think it’ll get better.” 

Steve smiled softly. “Yeah, it will.” 

“Sunshine!” Her name was yelled by a series of voices that raced down the hall toward her. Four boys gathered around with infectious joy. 

Dustin flashed her a toothless grin and exclaimed, “You’re here!” 

“I am,” she chuckled, soaking up their energy. She held out the cards she made for each of the boys. “These are for all of you.” 

They snatched them from her grasp, all trying to talk over one another until Mike pushed himself to the front of the group. He held out a wrapped box to her. “This is from all of us.” 

Sunshine peeled back the glittering wrapping paper to reveal a walkie-talkie almost identical to the one all of the boys carried inside the box, and underneath that was a piece of paper. On it was a drawing of a girl with short black hair and a blue dress. She was surrounded by rays of yellow light that stemmed from her outstretched hands. 

“We talked and thought it was only right to make you an official party member since, um, since we…” Mike trailed off, the words catching in his throat as his attention suddenly shifted to his shoes. 

Lucas patted his friend on the shoulder gently and finished Mike’s thought. “We wanted to make you a party member too since we made El one.” 

Sunshine’s heart seized up at the mention of her sister, but she tried to not let it show on her face. She knew that all of the boys hurt too, especially Mike. He had bonded with El the most in her short time hiding out in his basement. 

The sadness in the sound of her name coming off any of their lips was something noted by everyone, but a subject none of them wanted to talk about. The loss was still fresh a month later, and Sunshine knew that Eleven’s death would squeeze itself into the same spot in her heart her other losses lived. She’d remain there forever with Ivy, Nine, Ten, and the other kids she had lived with inside the Lab. 

“That’s your character, the sorcerer. The Sun Sorcerer, to be exact. Because of your superpowers,” Dustin explained. “Will drew it.” 

The smallest of the four boys blushed slightly and pointed to the walkie-talkie. “And the super-comm is in case of ‘code-red’ emergencies or if you just wanna talk. It’ll probably only reach Mike and Lucas. Dustin and I are almost out of range, so the connection’s spotty.” 

“We can teach you the lingo too!” Lucas added.

Sunshine placed her thoughtful gifts back inside the gift box before she looked around at the group of kids that reminded her so much of the kids she once looked after back inside the Lab. The same protectiveness she had over them- that she learned from Ivy- she began to have over the party. Sunshine wanted to keep them safe from the bad men and monsters of the world; she never wanted another child to be hurt because of the Lab. More than anything, she wanted to keep them from meeting the same fate all of those children did. She didn’t want to let them down. 

“Thank you, all of you, so much,” Sunshine said. 

Her thank you extended far beyond the holiday gifts, and by the look on all of their faces, they knew that. 

“Merry Christmas Sunshine,” Dustin said with a smile, and she returned it. 

All of Hawkins was merry and bright, with only the ghost of grief lingering in the shadows. The monster was slain, and the bad men were gone. They all believed the worst of it was behind them, but things were never as they appeared to be inside the small town, and the group’s trouble was far from over.

Tagged: @sattlersquarry @lovefrom-theother-side