#EDIT THEY SAID IT WAS A SAFE JOURNEY

[unriding]

MOZE DINOSAUT

[acesofspadess]

Track Walk

landoscar x content creator!reader

part 1 // part 2 // part 3

series summary: You were invited to the Miami GP for your Track Walk series on social media, what follows after you run into a certain Papaya boy, no one could prepare you for...

series warnings: cursing, angst, smut, making out, mentions of people you may not like, mmf, threesome/throuple, if there is more let me know... ;)

a/n: this a long 4 part series, but the chapters will be released daily!! also... there is no hate to anyone mention in this story, it is a work of fiction and any hate towards the characters/people will be deleted.

Miami 2024 

“Hello lovely F1 fans!” You said to the camera you were holding quite close to your face, “We’ve got a bit of a different setting today, because we are at the…” You took the camera away from your face to show the full setting, “Miami GP!”

You were a small F1 content creator who had become known for your at home ‘track-walks’. Every Thursday you would walk around your neighbourhood or get on the treadmill and walk the length of the race circuit for the weekend.

“This is my first ever GP, as you all know, and I just can’t explain to you all how excited I am. A big thank you to Liquid IV for sponsoring this trip, and this video. We are starting at the P1 box, because obviously. We’ve got a total of 5.4 kilometers to walk, so let's get to it.”

Throughout the walk you filmed information on the track, the city, the race, and even some snippets of fans who happened to know who you were.You were doing a light run when at one point in the video you saw a group of papaya and flipped the camera at them and slowed to a light jog, “I think those are our papaya boys, if I’m not mistaken.” You whispered into the mic. As you jogged past them you looked up and saw it was just Lando with some of his team. 

“Good luck this weekend.” You called out as you surpassed them. “Cheers!” Lando called out with a small smile. You smiled back and continued with your jog and video. “Meeting Lando Norris, can check that off the bucket list.” You laughed softly to the camera. When you made it back to the P1 box you started to end the video. “Well that was so much fun, thank you again to Liquid IV for bringing me out here. Cheers to a hopefully amazing weekend.”

An amazing weekend it was indeed. That Sunday you watched Lando Norris get his maiden win. It was safe to say you were crying in the VIP box as he crossed the line. That night you went back to the hotel with endless happiness, your life couldn’t get any better. Or so you thought.

You woke up that morning to your phone buzzing relentlessly. Every two seconds it felt like someone was liking, commenting, and following you. You sat up in shock logging into tiktok to see that your most recent track walk video had jumped from a few thousand views and likes, to millions of each, and your follower count was soaring as well.

You went through some of the comments laughing at them saying this was your first grand prix and it was the best one ever. Some said you wishing him luck was the reason he won and you replied to those comments teasingly.

It was a few hours later when you were getting ready to head back home that you saw the best notifications. 

Lando Norris liked your video

Lando Norris commented on your video

You were thoroughly freaking out. You opened tiktok for the hundredth time that day to see if your eyes were deceiving you, they were not.

Lando Norris: "Maybe this was my lucky charm. Thanks for the good vibes! 🧡"

You screamed in the comfort of your hotel room as you read it, replying back.

“I’ll need to come to a lot more races this season if this is the outcome. Congratulations! 🧡”

Hungary 2024

A few weeks had passed since Miami and everything that came with it. You still continued on your content journey with track walks and other videos with your new following. “Hello lovely F1 fans, old and new. We are here with another special edition track walk!” You cheered showing your surroundings. “I’ve been doing some overtime and made my way to the Hungaroring, so let’s go on a walk…” 

The walk itself went as normal, shared some info, showed the surroundings, and made it seem like a facetime time call. It was almost comical how when you were walking off the track you actually bumped into someone, that someone being Oscar Piastri. “I’m so sorry, I was not paying any attention.” You apologised immediately. He just chuckled, waving you off. “Don’t worry about it. Making a video?” He said looking at the camera. You nodded shyly. “Yeah another track walk.” He nodded at the information, slowly getting awkward. “Well, in true fashion. Good luck this weekend.” You bid and he thanked you with a chuckle.

Once again, it was a Mclaren win. This time, it was for Oscar. You were starting to go a little crazy. How was it that everytime you came to a race McLaren won? Again your video blew up, and like clock work, Oscar commented.

Oscar Piastri liked your video

Oscar Piastri commented on your video

You opened the video and tapped on the comments to see what he had put…

Oscar Piastri: Guess I owe you a huge thank you for the good luck wishes. Let's see if this works every time!”

You giggled lightly at the comment before writing a reply back…

“I’d go to every race if I could! Congratulations !!!”

Zandvoort 2024

Over the summer break you worked endlessly on your upcoming finals for your graduation in December. You were missing F1, and needed your fix. In a last ditch attempt at getting your best friend to come with you, you ended up back in Zandvoort.  “Hello F1 friends! We are here in Zandvoort, home of Max Verstappen. We’ve got lots of orange here so I’m just going to say everyone is in papaya.” 

There was no meeting on track this go around, but that night just as you were getting ready to call it, you got a DM from McLaren. You thought it was just a community thing and glanced at it, but when you saw your name, you sat up quickly. You opened it with shaky hands and read the message:

“Hey Y/N!! Hope you're enjoying your weekend in Zandvoort so far! You’ve got a name here in McLaren and we want to invite you to spend the rest of the weekend with the team in the garage! If you send us a photo of yourself, we can get you your passes by morning! Just give us a call when you get there and let us take care of everything else.” 

It was safe to say you might be receiving a noise complaint from your neighbours. Immediately you grabbed your camera and turned it on. “Hi friends, I’m shaking right now,” you laughed in shock. “McLaren just invited me to their garage this weekend. What the fuck?!” You showed the camera your phone where the message was still up. “Your girl is going to the McLaren garage, which means vlog time.”

You cut the video there and replied to McLaren with immense gratitude and a photo.

Walking up to the paddock entrance you had phoned McLaren and let them know you were walking up. You saw someone in Papaya and they waved at you enthusiastically. She passed you your passes over the barrier so that you could scan in. “This is crazy.” You said while she laughed. “I run all the social media accounts, and when I saw your videos I just had to pull some strings for you. You’re genuine, we like that at McLaren.” She told you honestly and you smiled bashfully. “Thank you, that means a lot.”

She then gave you a run through of everything happening in the garage, in the hub, and in the paddock revolving McLaren. The paddock wasn’t new to you, but this whole experience was strange to you. “And then you have a scooter to get around as well. Just don’t hit anyone because papaya is an easy colour to notice.” You laughed with her knowing how true it was. “I’ll do my best.”

You bounced between sides all morning, watching the teams set up the car for Lando and Oscar. You loved both drivers equally, you would never be able to choose one. You were on Lando’s side not paying much attention to your surroundings when two bodies stood in front of you. You looked up to get out of the way when you saw Oscar and Lando. “Following us now?” Lando asked with a smile. “I should ask you the same thing.” You shot back and Oscar chuckled. “They told us this morning you would be here for the rest of the weekend. It’s nice to see you.” Lando nodded in agreement and smiled happily. “It was a last minute decision to come,” you told them, “and then I got invited into the garage, it’s definitely going to be a good weekend.” The three of you laughed softly knowing the hidden meaning. “Well I’m certainly looking forward to a win this weekend.” Oscar shared. “She was my lucky charm first.” Lando pointed out. “Don’t fight!” You laughed, “I’ll be cheering the both of you on, see?” You took off your hat to show the underside of the brim. Each side had a number on it. “I stitched two of them together.” You informed. “That’s actually really cool.” Oscar said, taking the hat for a closer look.

“Your nails! Osc look at them.” Lando said taking your hands in his and showing off your nails, one hand was dedicated to Lando and his famous helmet design, and the other side was Oscars helmet design with a croissant on the ring finger. “Very funny.” He said when he saw it. “It was this or a cat.” You shrugged and Lando laughed as Oscar shook his head.

“Boys!” The two drivers looked behind them to see the clock counting down. “I will not be the reason you two don’t win this weekend so do go.” You pushed them lightly. “Thank you for coming, we’ll chat again later.” Lando said, going in for a hug. “Of course, go top both practices.” You cheered as Oscar also gave you a hug before the both of them went to their respective sides of the garage.

f1gossipofficial 

liked by user4 and others

f1gossipofficial Who’s that? Today before FP1 both McLaren drivers were seen talking and hugging with someone in their garage. In a different view, we can see that the person is content creator Y/N L/N who has gone viral for being the duo’s ‘good luck charm’. The three seem to be very cosy considering they’ve never officially met. 

view comments

user4 THAT SHOULD BE ME

user5 she posted a mini vlog on her tiktok this morning! She said McLaren dm’ed her and asked for her to be in the garage

User9 awwe that’s so sweet of McLaren to do for her 

user6 something about her doesn’t seem right

user7 don’t start, she’s one of the nicest people I’ve seen on tiktok

user8 another McLaren win is incoming

The following two days of the weekend were spent filming and nerding out over being in the garage. Lando and Oscar of course got super busy over the following two days, but they still managed to give you a wave when they could. Watching the race from the garage and hearing the live feed, watching the pit crew get ready for the pit stops, the actual pit stops, it was beyond magical for you. And without fail, one of the boys won, this time in Lando’s favor by 20 seconds.

You got to celebrate with the team, some of them recognising you and saying you needed to be here more often. Days like this were what you dreamed for. In between the chaos, you never managed to say goodbye to the papaya drivers, but they did DM you.

Lando Norris has followed you

Oscar Piastri has followed you

You’ve been added to a groupchat with Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri

Your eyes almost flew out of your head when you saw the notifications. This wasn’t happening, you thought but you clicked on it anyway.

Lando Norris: We didn’t get the chance to say goodbye, but we just wanted to thank you for your support and coming to as many races as you can!

Oscar Piastri: Lando’s said it all, but hopefully you can come to another race soon, and we’ll try to win even if you can’t.

You laughed at the very opposite but almost the same message from each of them. Your hands were shaking as you replied back.

Y/N L/N: You were having too much fun celebrating the win! A big thank you to you guys as well for making it so easy to support a great team. Hopefully I can get to a race soon! If not I’ll be watching from home still cheering you guys on!

Oscar Piastri: you don’t have to be so formal 😂I feel like we can call you a friend if you keep helping us win

Lando Norris: what osc said, don’t be a stranger.

Y/N L/N: no need to bully me! You’re a-listers! How else was i supposed to respond

Lando Norris: OMG!!! I can’t believe you texted me!! You followed me too OMG OMG OMG. I LOVE YOU GUYS SO MUCH 🧡🧡🥰🥰🥳🥳 ASGKWBEWOEHJ

Oscar Piastri: like that ^^

Y/N L/N: that’s what I’m doing on the inside lol, but i think I would block myself if I did actually typed that

Lando Norris: yeah it was a bit weird to type 😂

Oscar Piastri: great, now I have two of you

You tilted your head at the comment but shook it off. You were pretty similar to Lando on the goofy side of things.

Y/N L/N: Don’t worry Oscar, when I’m not on an adrenaline high like I am right now, I’m more like you than you think

Lando Norris: great, now there’s two of you

Oscar Piastri: i’ll have to see this in person then

Y/N L/N: is that an invite I’m hearing?

Lando Norris: sounds like it to me.

Oscar Piastri: it was indeed.

Y/N L/N: i’ll see what my work and class schedule looks like and I’ll get back to you on that offer. Graduation is soon so i’m balancing a lot of things

Lando Norris: its my offer too!!!!!!

Oscar Piastri: what do you go to school for?

Y/N L/N: noted Lando, and sports journalism, dream job is to work in F1.

Lando Norris: That’s mint! I think you’ll do good

Oscar Piastri: you’ve got a very warming personality that I’m sure all the drivers will like. If you ever need to practise, we’re here.

Lando Norris: If you twist my words I’ll know you did it

Oscar Piastri: Lando!

Y/N L/N: Lando!! 😭 I promise I won’t, this season especially really helped push me into this because I hate the way the media portrays two/three of the nicest people ever.

Lando Norris: i know we’re the two…but who’s three

Oscar Piastri: guess 🦁

Lando Norris: NOOOOOOOOO

Lando Norris: WHY WOULD YOU DO THIS TO MEEE

Oscar Piastri:  😂😂😂

Y/N L/N: IM SORRY!!! I CAN’T HELP IT!!

Y/N L/N: Oscar!! Why would you throw me under like that!!

Oscar Piastri: *this user is no longer available*

Lando Norris: invite has been taken back.

Y/N L/N: nooo!!! I’m sorry!!! OSCAR!!!!!

Oscar Piastri: *this user apologises for the chaos he has now unpacked*

Baku 2024

Within the three weeks that passed between Zandvoort and Baku, Oscar and Lando never stopped texting you. The three of you figured out you had a lot in common and clicked like magnets. Over that time, you had plenty of new followers and decided to do a Q&A on your tiktok.

“How am I able to go to so many GP’s? Are you a millionaire?” You laughed after reading the question. “I’m not a millionaire by any means. I saved up for about a little over a year, didn’t go out with friends unless it was a birthday, didn’t buy unnecessary stuff, just was really good with not spending so I could treat myself this year. I’m in my last months of uni, which I got a full scholarship for, so not having to worry about school costs is also a great help.”

“Have you spoken to Lando and Oscar since your time in the garage? They follow you now too.” You thought quickly about it, “I haven’t no,” oops. “They were just being polite and doing their jobs when they saw me in the garage. As for the following thing, I can’t tell you why they decided to do that, but I'm not complaining.” You chuckled.

“What are you studying in Uni?”

“I’m in my final months of my sports journalism major. That's why I’m a big fan of F1, but also F1 got me into journalism, it's a circle of interest.” You mimicked drawing a circle that never ends.

In those three weeks you had also moved your group chat out of Instagram.

Osco: Is it terrible to say I miss having you in the garage?

Landito: wow Osc, straight to the point

Osco: leave me alone

Y/N: if it's anything I miss being in the garage, but no it’s terrible

Landito: what he means to say is…. we miss seeing you in person

Osco: facetime isn’t enough

Osco: come to Baku?

Landito: we took back her invite remember?

Osco: you took back your invite…

Y/N: i’ll be there already

Landito: WAIT REALLY???

Osco: is this a prank?

Y/N: yes really

Y/N: and no not a prank

Osco: answer please

Your phone started ringing just as you read it. You were in no position to be facetiming two people you now had a crush on… yeah, that also happened over the three weeks. You tried to tell yourself they were just being nice and you were caught up, but the way they acted sometimes led you to believe otherwise.

“Why am I looking at the ceiling?” Lando pointed out. “Because I am in no way showing you what I look like right now.” You laughed at them. “Yes you are.” Oscar commented. “We facetimed you for a reason.”

“Face please.” Lando asked sweetly, and you rolled your eyes. There you were in your McLaren x Reiss jacket, curls thrown up into a mix of a bun and ponytail, and glasses over your eyes. “You wear glasses?!” Lando said peeking over Oscar’s shoulder. They were always together, you started to realise.

“Yes, Lando. I wear glasses.” You shook your head with a small smile. “Well, you look beautiful as always. What’s this about you coming to Baku and not telling us?” Oscar moved on swiftly. “It was supposed to be a surprise! I was-”

“Nope, if it’s a surprise we shall wait.” Oscar cut her off. “I don’t want to wait though.” Lando groaned from behind him. “It’s in 2 days, Lando.” Oscar said, looking at the head that was now on his shoulder. “2 days too long.” He mumbled. “I promise it’ll be worth it!”

And worth it it was. After your track walk, there you were, the media pen, questions about the upcoming weekend ready, with an F1 TV microphone in your hand. F1 had reached out to you after your Q&A video asking about your sports journalism career. One thing led to another and here you were.

“Hey Max, first things first, how are you feeling this weekend?” Max smiled. “I mean, I’m feeling fine, I definitely need to get in the car to see how we do on track. Not very well if you’re here though.” 

“You know who I am?” You asked in shock. “All other drivers hope you don’t make it to the races with the track record you have, but someone told me I was one of your favourites.” Of course they did. “Well they wouldn’t be lying.” You chuckled shyly. 

Max leaned on the gate as you got your questions ready. "This year has seen a shift in the competitive order with McLaren and Ferrari stepping up. You’ve still proven to be one of the best drivers this season and currently lead the Drivers' Championship, with Red Bull fighting to stay at the top in the Constructors’. With three titles already under your belt, how do you maintain focus when the dominance you’ve grown used to in both championships isn’t guaranteed anymore—especially heading into a high-risk, high-reward circuit like Baku, where unpredictability often plays a major role?"

Max seemed a little shocked with the question. “I mean…” You nodded along as he answered and when he finished and the camera was off he smiled. “Those were very good questions. I look forward to seeing you the rest of the weekend.” You smiled at him. “Thank you, it means a lot.”

You got similar style compliments from other drivers and when the papaya boys walked in and spotted you they both smiled but had to work their way down the pen. Oscar was the first to get to your station. A quick glance to his eyes showed the professionalism he was using to hide the sheer excitement at seeing you again. “Hey Oscar, you’re going into this weekend with a double podium from Monza, how are you preparing for this weekend to get the same results if not better?”

Oscar chuckled. “Well if you’re here then a McLaren win seems to be in the cards.” You shook your head at him as he smirked. “But…”

“Thank you Oscar, good luck this weekend.” Before he left he reached over the barrier to give you a quick hug. “Nice to see you again.” He said before walking off. Lando quickly took his position and gave you his eye-closing smile. “Hey you.” You chuckled, shaking your head. “Hey Lando, after the double podium in Monza, it’s clear that McLaren has made significant strides this season. With the Constructors' Championship in reach with just 11 points to Red Bull, how do you approach a circuit like Baku, where opportunities and risks are amplified? Do you feel this weekend could be pivotal in swinging the fight for the Constructors’ in McLaren’s favor against Ferrari as well?"

Lando tilted his head. “You’re one of the only people who’s brought Ferrari into the Constructors fight.” He pointed out and you shrugged lightly. “You’ve said before that Red Bull isn’t your competition, Ferrari is.”

Lando’s interview came and went just as quickly as Oscars and he too ended the interview with a hug. Charles and Carlos were just after and both of them mentioned knowing who you were and to take a stop at their garage.

The weekend went really well. Any free time you had was bouncing between garages and meeting new people. And like clock work, McLaren won the race, in Oscar’s favour. You were doing post race interviews and the wide smile on Oscar’s face when he saw you made your insides warm. “Please come to every race.” He joked and you laughed lightly. “Congratulations on your win today Oscar, after some very good fights with Charles…”

Because you had to go through every driver, and then got invited to talk about your experience on F1 TV-

“We are bringing on the voice you’ve heard all weekend, Y/N L/N.” Laura introduced as you walked into the middle of the group. “How are you?” She asked. “I’m doing really amazing. It’s been such a busy weekend for me, all thanks to you guys for inviting me and giving me some on the field action.”

Will Buxton spoke next. “You’ve become a big name here, everytime you come to a race, a McLaren driver wins. How is that even possible?”

You laughed alongside the rest of the panel. “I just put 50 kilos of extra weight in everyones car before the race this time. I think I’ll run the engine out next time though. Make everyone have grid-penalties.” You joked and they all laughed again. “It’s been so nice having you with us this weekend! We hope that you can join us again sometime soon!”

-you were able to stay much longer into the evening. Making your way to the McLaren garage you saw that they were prepping for a team photo and you quickly got your camera out to snap the moment for yourself. “No, you get in here too!” Zak yelled seeing you and the team cheered in agreement. You shook your hands not wanting to spoil it but then you were getting picked up from behind by a shoeless Lando and plopped right to Oscar.

Oscar placed an arm around you with a wide smile. “This is too much.” You told him. “Nope, it’s not.” He smiled again. You shook your head but smiled and cheered for the picture as well, and then the champagne. The team member next to you handed you their bottle with a wink at Oscar. Right as the photo ended you shook the bottle and made sure to douse Oscar as he tried to run away. Lando also joined you and the three of you were getting drenched in everyone else's champagne.

“There are two of you!” Oscar joked. “Yeah you might be right about that.” Lando laughed, clearing champagne from his eyes. “That was fun!” you laughed clinking Oscars champagne bottle. “You’ve got about 5 minutes before you start to smell.” He laughed and then your face fell. “I don’t have a change of clothes!” Lando laughed as you freaked out and Oscar just hugged you. “I’m sure we can find you something to wear.”

They did, you were wearing a team kit from their spare room in the hub. It was enough to get you to your hotel room. “Want to ride with us to the hotel?” Lando asked coming to walk with you as you reached the doors to walk out. “Yeah that sounds good.” He took your hand just as you were going to exit. “We have to wait for Oscar.” He said and you nodded and without letting go of your hand he dragged you back towards the main area.

“Did you enjoy your weekend?” He asked as you two leaned against a wall. “It was an amazing weekend.” You smiled giddily, closing your eyes. “I hope this doesn’t change that.” You opened your eyes to see Lando coming closer to you, eyes looking down at your lips. You nodded lightly and he closed the gap between your lips. His teeth nipped yours, with a sense of impatience. “Just couldn’t wait could you.” You broke away with his head resting against yours. Oscar. Why did you feel so guilty? “Oscar I-” He just shook his head with a laugh coming to your otherside. “I won, does that mean I get a kiss?” 

You looked at Lando who still had that dazed smile, then back to Oscar. “You didn’t tell her, did you?” He said and Lando shook his head. “We’re dating, now can I kiss you please?” He said quickly before taking your lips in his. His kiss was softer but still as impatient. “We’ve wanted to do that for so long.” He sighed when he pulled away. 

“Really?” You asked softly, hand coming to press against your tingling lips. “Yes, since we started texting you. Oscar and I just couldn’t get you out of our heads.” Lando said with a small smile. 

“I thought I was being delusional.” You chuckled softly. “Not at all.” Oscar's hand went to your hip softly squeezing. “Come to Singapore with us, please.” You looked at Lando who took your hand and held it in his own. “Please.” You nodded almost in a trance.

[monstacheol]

𝓓𝓪𝓭𝓭𝔂'𝓼 𝓗𝓸𝓶𝓮

❀Pairing: C.SC x afab! reader

❀Summary: When your husband goes on a two-week business trip, you are left alone in the comfort of your shared home until your heat hit unexpectedly. With Cheol away, you have to break this heat soon before he comes back. Turns out….he came back sooner than you thought.

❀WC: 4.3K (Originally supposed to be 2K words but I wrote too much.)

❀Warning: Dom! Alpha Seungcheol, Sub! Omega Reader, oral (f receiving), unprotected sex (stay safe everyone), mild dirty talk, breeding, mention of a baby, pet name: (y/n): baby, princess, sweet girl; Cheol: cheol, daddy( a few time) (I'm missing out a lot. Let me know and I'll add more.)

❀Taglist: @kyeomiis @onlywonwoorideul @scoupsieee @jimintopiaaaa @gyuguys @rissepuffs04 @yawnozone

❀Notes: It has been a while since I wrote smut, especially an omegaverse one, so I don't know if this is good. I worked hard on it the best I could. Please bear with me. I am rusty and my writing style has changed. It is also proofread and edited. I edited it the best I could. So if there is any minor grammar error, I'm so sorry. If this is any good, I'll write the next prompt I had in mind. One of two or three that I have before school starts for me. So I hope you enjoy it and if it's awful (I think it is but that's my opinion because I was stressing about it for weeks), I'm so sorry and I hope to improve soon. Please comment, like, reblog for support.

You were curled up on the bed, panting, hot, and wearing nothing but your husband's t-shirt and your fingers stuffed inside as you were surrounded by your husband's clothes in your lovely nest. Your mind was lost in a daze as you could smell his scent flowing around you, leading you to fuck yourself in bliss. You could feel the coil in your stomach tighten as you imagined his hands on your body, his voice in your ear, and his breath on your skin. You moan softly, feeling the intensity building up inside you. The fantasy of him being there with you pushed you over the edge, bringing you to a shuddering climax that left you breathless. But you didn't stop. You couldn't stop. You kept pumping yourself, imagining how he would do it.

How did we come to get to this point? How did this even happen? Well…

"Two weeks," you question.

Your husband nods his head as he adds, "Yes, two weeks."

A two-week business trip alone here in your home. You knew that your husband would be taking an upcoming business trip, but you didn't know it would be this long. You anticipated a few days at most, not the entire two weeks. The thought of being alone in the house for that long makes you feel a bit anxious and lonely as you pout.

"I know that look. You're pouting," Seungcheol said with a teasing smile.

In denial, you softly argue, "I'm not pouting; I'm just... not used to you being away for so long," you reply, trying to mask your disappointment. Seungcheol chuckles, knowing how much you will miss him. He then wrapped his arm around your waist, pulling you close. As I breathed in his scent of cherry and sandalwood, "It will be alright. I promise to call you every day and make it up to you when I get back," he reassured you, kissing your forehead.

You knew he was right, but what to do in a house by yourself? You and your husband have always been together. You were first college sweethearts, meeting each other through a mutual friend. Then, the moment you both graduated, he gave the sweetest proposal, and you've been inseparable ever since. But after three years of marriage, this will be the longest he has ever been away. You can't help but feel anxious about being apart for so long, but you have to make the most of it. Maybe you can hang out with your friends more often, or take Kkuma to that park she likes to go to. Perhaps you can finally finish that project you've been putting off. The possibilities are endless. He finished packing his luggage for this journey, and after he was done, you both walked to the door. You could hear tiny steps coming behind you as Kkuma followed closely. You both stopped at the entrance doorway as Kkuma sat there below your feet, looking up with those big eyes. Your husband kneeled down to pet her and show her lots of affection.

"Kkuma. Be a good girl, princess, while Daddy is away. Make sure to look out and take care of Mommy," Seungcheol cooed as he ruffled her hair, trying not to ruin the cute pink bow he placed on her head. He stood up from his kneeling position, and he turned to you, still pouting.

"You promise to call," you assert, looking up at him. Seungcheol smiled down at you, his eyes filled with love and reassurance. "Of course, I promise," he replied before kissing you.

"Don't worry, I will be back before you know it," Seungcheol assured you with a smile, grabbing your face and pecking your lips.

That was nine days ago. And now, here you are, sitting on your shared bed, surrounded by his clothes. In heat. Trying to relieve yourself before your husband returns. The first day without him was fine. You got your daily message from him, telling you how he misses you and sending you pictures, and you always responded. You even get to spend time with your friends. The second day went without a hitch as well. Then the third, then the fourth. But on the fifth day, you felt off. You sensed that something wasn't right. You felt tired. You didn't feel like yourself. You care less about eating or drinking and more about just lying down and resting. You tried to shake off the feeling, but it persisted. It was then that you realized that, you were about to go in heat. You didn't think it would happen so soon and on the day that your husband was gone. You gasp as your fingers pump inside you vigorously, the pleasure building as you give in to your body's desires. You came so many times, leaving the bed and your panties soaked with your release, but it wasn't enough. You need more. You crave for him. You need his touch. You need him.

"Cheolie," you whimper.

"Y/N," you heard.

You froze as you heard the voice you didn't expect to hear. You look up to see your husband staring there, wearing only casual clothes with a surprise on his face.

"C-Cheol. "W-What are you?"

"You're in heat, aren't you?" Seuncheol asked.

You didn't say anything, but your silence said it all for him. "My poor baby," he said as he stepped closer to you. He climbed into the bed toward you, his hand reaching out to gently touch your face.

"Left alone, all hot and bothered. Missing your Alpha so much that you made a nest out of all of his clothes. So much that you have to finger yourself just to feel a little relief. It must hurt, doesn't it?" Seungcheol said as his hand brushed through your hair.

Tears trickled down your cheeks as you nodded. "It hurts so much, Daddy," you said as you reached out, clutching his shirt. "P-Please," you begged.

Seungcheol shushed you gently, wrapping his arms around you in a comforting embrace. "It's okay, baby girl. I'm here now, baby. Daddy's home. Daddy will take care of you," he whispered soothingly, kissing your head.

You buried your face in his chest, inhaling his scent, making your head spin. He pulled away to drape kisses across your face until they finally landed on your soft lips. You melted into the kiss as it became passionate and intense, completely losing yourself in the moment. You wrap your arm around him as he deepens the kiss, laying you down on the bed. The kiss became electrifying. His hands traced the curves of your body, causing you to gasp in pleasure, allowing his tongue to explore every inch of your mouth. His lips then traveled from your jaw to your neck. You couldn't help but lose yourself in the passion of his touch.

"My sweet girl," Seungcheol murmurs into your neck as he inhales your scent. Your sweet scent of (whatever scent you want it to be). He groans softly, his touch sending shivers down your spine. You were going crazy. Him. His touch. His scent was intoxicating. It was enough to make you go wild. You never wanted it to end.

"I've missed you so much," he murmurs, his voice filled with longing. His lips attacked your neck, kissing, biting, and sucking, which you were certain would leave a mark. You uttered a soft gasp, feeling a rush of desire and anticipation coursing through your body. His hands gripped your waist tightly, pulling you even more.

"Miss you so much that I came back early to surprise my darling wife, and what do I see? You in heat, wearing my shirt, fingers inside that pretty pussy of yours, smelling so irresistible." He presses his lips against your neck, leaving a trail of kisses down your collarbone. He grabs h̶i̶s̶ your shirt, pulling it over your head, revealing your naked body underneath, just for him. "It's enough to send me into a rut," he whispers huskily.

His words made your pussy clench. God, do you need him? You reach out for him, grabbing his shirt. "Cheollie. Your shirt," you whine.

Seungcheol faintly chuckles. "What? What do you want?" he teasingly asks. You grab his shirt and pull on it. "I want it off," you whisper, your voice filled with desire.

Seungcheol obliged, removing his shirt and throwing the piece of clothing on the floor, not caring where it landed, revealing his well-toned chest and toned abs. Was this man gorgeous or what? You couldn't resist running your hands over his chest, feeling the warmth of his skin.

"Like what you see, baby?" Seungcheol asked with a smirk, his eyes full of mischief.

You nodded eagerly, unable to tear your gaze away from him as he leaned in closer, his lips brushing against yours, and you couldn't resist kissing him back. The kiss deepened.

His large hands cup your breasts, massaging them with care, and then he leans down to attach his lips to one of your nipples as he toys with the other. You arch your back in response, a soft moan escaping your lips as his touch sends shivers down your spine. He continues to suck and bite your sensitive flesh, making you squirm with pleasure as he repeats it to others.

You wrap your legs around his waist, pulling him close and feeling his cock pressing against the front of his pants, hard and ready for you. You gasped as you felt the fiction of him grinding against you. "Cheol," you whimper.

He looked up at you with a smirk. "Patient baby," he whispered before teasefully biting your nipple. You pouted. You want more. You need his lips. You need more. You need to feel him inside you. He releases your swollen nipple with a 'pop' before trailing kisses down your stomach to the waistband of your panties. You knew you were going to get exactly what you wanted. He hooked his finger on the waistband of your panties, pulling down slowly until they were completely off, revealing your wet core. You could hear a sudden, small curse fall from his lips as he saw how wet you were.

"Baby, you're dripping so much," Seungcheol murmured. You gasped as his fingers traced the outer edges of your folds. "How many times did you cum?" he whispered, his voice husky with desire. You felt a surge of arousal at his words, your body responding eagerly to his touch. "So many," you admitted breathlessly.

Seungcheol softly chuckled at your cuteness. He lightly blew on your wet heat, causing you to shiver and whine. He then grabbed your thighs to place them on his shoulder, placing kisses along your inner thighs and making you shiver with anticipation. "Then allow me to make you cum some more," he whispered seductively as he trailed his lips up towards your core.

His tongue dips between your slick folds, eliciting a moan from your lips. "You taste so sweet," he growled before diving back in with fervor. The intensity of his actions sent waves of pleasure coursing through your body, making you arch your back in ecstasy. His tongue traced from your dripping hole to your clit, as he sucked on the sensitive bud, sending a jolt of pleasure through you. Your hands grip his hair as he continues to expertly work his magic. "Please don't stop," you beg, desperate to reach the peak of ecstasy.

"Feels good," he murmurs. "So good," you whisper, feeling the tension building within you. He groaned against your core, the vibrations adding to the overwhelming sensation. If there's one thing that Seungcheol loves the most, it's pleasing you until you're a quivering mess of pleasure and desire. He could eat you all day if you let him. The way he makes you feel is unlike anything you've ever felt before, and you never want it to end. Seungcheol's skilled tongue continued to work its magic; you could hear the knot in your stomach tighten. You were close.

"I'm close," you gasp, your body trembling with anticipation as he brings you to the brink of release. He muttered, not even letting up, "Let go, baby."

His voice was low and husky, and his words sent a shiver down your spine as you finally let go, the intensity of your release washing over you in waves of pleasure. Seungcheol continued to please you, drinking everything you had to offer, his skilled tongue never faltering in its movements. As you came down from your high, he leaned up to your lips to kiss you, tasting yourself on his tongue. He pulled away for a moment to pull on the waistband of his sweatpants and boxers, revealing his hard, throbbing length. Your mouth watered as he wrapped his hand around his cock and slowly stroked it. "You want it?" he asked, his voice husky.

You nod eagerly. "Beg for it," Seungcheol growls.

"P-please. Cheol," you begged, your voice filled with need and desperation.

"Please, what?" he titillated, his warm breath sending shivers down your spine. "Please put it in, Daddy. I want to feel you. I want you inside me so bad. I want you to knot me up. I want you to fill me up completely with your cum," you whimpered. Your body ached for his touch, aching to be filled with pleasure.

"You want Alpha to cum inside? Want me to fill you up? Give you my knot. Fill you up so deep with cum until you are swollen with my babies? You want that, don't you?" He whispered seductively, his voice low and husky. You nodded eagerly. Just the thought of him breeding you and filling you with his cum just sent shivers down your spine. You want it so badly right now.

"Please, Alpha," you begged, your voice barely above a whisper. The anticipation of feeling him inside you was almost unbearable. "What a good girl, asking so politely," he compliments.

His hands roamed over your body, teasing and tantalizing you as he positioned himself between your legs. With a smirk, he leaned in close and whispered, "I'll give you everything you want, my sweet Omega."

With a low growl, he slowly pushed inside you, making you gasp and arch your back in pleasure. He groans as the feel of your tightness envelopes him. "Fuck, you're so tight, princess," he murmurs.

As he began to move in a slow and steady rhythm, you felt every inch of him pulsating within you, sending waves of pleasure throughout your body. The sight below Seungcheol was so mesmerizing. Just seeing you writhing beneath him, your eyes fluttering and your lips parting in silent ecstasy, was enough to drive him wild with desire.

With each thrust, he could feel your body responding eagerly to his touch, igniting a fire within him that only grew stronger with each passing moment. His thrust began to pick up speed as your moans grew louder, the sound of skin slapping against skin filling the room with an intoxicating rhythm. "Alpha," you moan. Your voice is filled with desire and need. You are in ecstasy right now.

Seungcheol's name on your lips only fueled his passion further, pushing him to give you everything you craved. As he continued to move inside you, the intensity of your connection soared to unforseen levels, rendering both of you breathless and lost in the moment. The two of you were intoxicated by each other.

He lifts your legs to place them on his shoulder, deepening the penetration and intensifying the pleasure. The change in angle allowed him to hit all the right spots. "T-There," you utter. "There?" he reiterates, his voice husky with desire. "Yes, right there," you moan as he hits that sweet spot inside you, making your body tremble with pleasure. He chuckles slightly as he repeatedly hits that spot, causing you to lose control of your senses. Your hands grip the sheets tightly as your hips move in perfect sync with his thrusts, the sensation becoming more intense with each movement. The way your moan was mixed with the squelching sound of your wet cunt was music to his ears.

He paused his movement to pull out, leaving you to whimper in protest. He lifts you up and changes positions. His back presses against the headboard, and you now sitting on his lap. Holding your body in place, he lines his cock up with your entrance and slowly enters you again, filling you. Your body takes over, and you ride him with wild abandon, the sound of skin slapping against skin filling the room. "That's it. Good girl," he mutters as his eyes roll back, biting his lips.

Your moan mingles with his groans, creating a symphony of pleasure that echoes through the air, heightening the intensity of the moment. His hips thrust upward, meeting yours in the middle, his fingers digging into your hips as he thrusts deeper and harder. "Alpha," you whine.

With his half-lid eyes, he saw the pure ecstasy on your face. Drinking in your fuck-out expression and my god, you look beautiful. Stunning. Gorgeous. There were so many words he could use to call you right now. But right now, at this moment, you were the most exquisite sight he had ever seen. You were everything that he had dreamed of, and so much more. And he could fall in love with you again and again and again.

Your bounces become more urgent, and your breath comes in short gasps. "So good. So deep," you whisper breathlessly. "You like that. You like your Alpha cock deep inside you, don't you?" His words send a shiver down your spine as you nod eagerly, unable to form a coherent response. His eyes lock with yours. He leans in to capture your lips in a passionate kiss, swallowing your moans and whimpers as he continues to move inside you with a relentless rhythm. The kiss deepens as his hands grip your hips, pulling you closer to him.

Seungcheol's hand reaches between your bodies as his thumb finds its way to your clit, rubbing small circles that push you closer to the edge. You moan at his touch. Pulling away from the kiss, your gaze is locked on his half-lidded gaze, a gaze full of desire and intensity. You felt the coils in your stomach tighten as the pleasure built, and your body was on the brink of ecstasy. You were close, and he knew it. His lips twitch into an amusing smirk, the corners crinkling with amusement. "That's my girl. Such a good girl for me, riding me so beautifully. Are you close, baby," he whispers huskily.

"I'm close. So close, Cheol," you gasp out as your climax approaches. Seungcheol's movements become more urgent as he whispers in your ear, "Let go for me, princess. Let me feel you come apart around me."

As you cry out his name and finally reach your peak, "That's it, baby. Let's go. You're so beautiful when you cum," he murmurs, his voice husky with desire, as you ride out the waves of pleasure crashing over you. Your body trembles in his arms. Your cunt clenches around him as he continues to move inside you, prolonging your ecstasy. "Fuck!"

Seungcheol groans at the feel of your walls pulsating around him. Seungcheol holds your body close, flipping you back into your previous position, laying you on your back. His hand grips your hips tightly as he pounds into you relentlessly, his own desire evident in his intense gaze. You arch your back in response, reacting to his movements with equal fervor, surrendering completely to the pleasure he bestows on you. The room is filled with the sound of skin slapping against skin, mixed with your moans and his grunts. Seungcheol's pace became more erratic as he chased his own release, his movements becoming more desperate and erratic.

"Fuck. Are you ready for Alpha knot?" he growls, his voice low and husky with need. You nod eagerly, your body trembling with anticipation as he finally locks you in place with a deep, primal thrust. His knot thickens and swells, filling you as you cry out in ecstasy. In that moment, you are overwhelmed by the feeling of being claimed by your Alpha, and you can't help but surrender to the primal pleasure coursing through you. His primal growl, his fast, aggressive pace, and the feel of his knot locking inside you send you over the edge, bringing you closer to another orgasm. His breath ragged against your ear as you clung to him desperately.

"C-Cheol," you begged, your voice filled with desperation and desire. You feel his body tense up as he releases it inside you, filling you with his warmth. The sensation of his release triggers your own, sending you both into a state of blissful ecstasy. You cling to him desperately, lost in the overwhelming pleasure of being claimed by your Alpha. Your bodies were entwined in a tangled mess of limbs and heavy breathing, totally exhausted by the raw intensity. The room is filled with the scent of sweat and sex.

Seungcheol waited for his knot to swell down before he could pull out and collapse next to you, completely depleted. He wrapped his arms around you, pulling you close in a tender embrace. Pushing your hair to the side. "Are you okay?" he asked, his voice filled with concern. His hand caresses your waist gently. You nodded. "I'm fine."

Seungcheol smiled, relieved to hear your response. He placed a kiss on your forehead. You were so happy to see him. If this was ever a dream, you never wanted to wake up. Your husband is home. Early... Wait. Why is he back here so early?

"Wait. You came back so early. I thought-."

"Ah," Seungcheol interrupted. "We ended up finishing up early, and instead of me staying for the next few days, I decided to go home. I wanted to call you to let you know, but I wanted to surprise you. Turns out you surprised me," he chuckled.

Oh, so that's why. You didn't expect him to come back early, nor were you expecting your heat to come either. But you were glad. "Welcome back home. I'm glad you're back," you replied, grateful for his presence. Seungcheol thanked you, pressing a sweet kiss on your lips.

"I'm glad too. I felt awful leaving you here on your own without anyone. So I was thinking, " Seungcheol started. Your eyes turn to him, curious about what he is going to say next. His hand grabs your hand, twirling around your wedding band on your finger before he places a kiss on the back of your hand. He looked into your eyes and finally said what he wanted to say.

"I was thinking, and I know we have talked about this so much, but why don't we start trying for a baby? I think we are ready to take that big step," he said, looking at you with a hopeful expression.

His sudden suggestion stunned you. A baby. A baby with Seungcheol. This. This was a huge decision. And you know you both talked about it during your marriage and said that you both would give it some thought. But now, faced with the reality, you couldn't help but feel overwhelmed by the weight of such a life-changing decision. You took a deep breath, gathering your thoughts, before responding to Seungcheol's proposal.

"Now before you answer, if you don't want to, I won't force you, and I will wait as long as you want. Whatever you decide, I will respect it. But just know that I love you so much, and I want to take that next step with you in our marriage. I want to be the father of our children. Plus, I think Kkuma will love having siblings to play with," he added.

You giggled at his last response. Deep down, you knew that you had always dreamed of starting a family with him. From the moment you said, 'I do', you knew he was the one you wanted to share your life with and raise a family with. And this. This new chapter of having a baby together would be the perfect step. "I love you too, and I can't imagine a future without you by my side," you finally said, feeling the weight of his words sink in. "Let's start planning for our family together," you joyfully say.

Seungcheol smiled back at you, his eyes shining with joy as he held your cheek, placed a gentle kiss on your lips, and then placed a few more. He smiled softly at you, looking into your eyes, before flipping you over on your stomach on all fours, causing you to squeal. "C-Cheol," you say.

"What? You didn't think this was over?" Seungcheol responded with a mischievous smile. You could feel his lips tracing kisses across your back. His lips trace up your back, making you shiver, and you cry out in protest.

"B-But. Shouldn't we take a break? You just returned from your trip," you mentioned between breaths.

Seungcheol just chuckled and disregardingly ignored what you had just said. His hands roam your body as he leans over, his chest pressing against your back.

"We both know your heat doesn't end there. If we want that baby, we need to keep going. I did promise I would make it up to you, and I intend to keep my word," he whispered, his warm breath sending shivers down your spine.

His hand grabs your face, turning you to look at him with a mischievous glint in his eyes.

"We got all night, baby, and I want… No, I NEED to make sure you're nice, full, and swollen with my baby. And Daddy will make sure that happens," Seungcheol whispered with a devilish grin.

You softly moan in response, feeling a rush of desire and anticipation. Seungcheol's lips curled into a knowing smile before he pressed them against yours, sealing the unspoken agreement between you. It was then that you realized that the night was far from over.

[truelovepolinator]

Nicola and Luke are ABSOLUTELY TOGETHER and have been all along and here’s how I know

(Friends, I’ve just finished this and it is INSANELY LONG. Like, two looong book chapters long. But I PROMISE it’s worth it. I was gonna cut it into multiple parts to make it more readable, but I’m going to be super busy over the next few days, so I wouldn’t have a chance to post subsequent parts until probably Christmas, so I’ve decided to drop it all now so I don’t delay the final victorious conclusion. Sorry, it’s so long, but I don’t really have time to rethink it and try to tell the story in a more concise way. Again, I think you’ll be glad you stuck with it if you want to feel as thoroughly confident as I am that Nic and Luke are absolutely together.)

So I want to start by saying something I’m sure I’ll repeat. This is, of course, just my opinion and supposition based on the evidence available to me. But I also want to say, I am absolutely, positively sure now in a way I have never been. Genuinely not a doubt in my mind, and I think you’ll agree by the end of this.

It’s also worth noting that this may be nothing new to some of you. I’ve only been on this platform for a week and have barely scratched the surface of the great content here. So this is how *I* came to the final, joyful conclusion that everything is right with the world where lukola is concerned. I had long been sure they belonged together, but was afraid to embrace the theories about them actually being together now for fear of heartbreak, plus all the confusing signals about A & J, etc.

But all that changed a couple nights ago when I finally got the last piece of the puzzle I needed to see the big picture. There were just too many things that didn’t make sense, until they did! I literally couldn’t sleep that night (seriously only got about 2 hours) and then spent next day telling my husband the story for hours (in 20-30 minute increments as he could spare them during his slow, Christmas time work day).

My husband has been a patient, long-suffering skeptic through all of this. He’s put up with my rants and constant videos I just had to share, but he’s been completely convinced from day one that they simply leaned into their friendship to turn on faux relationship vibes for PR. He was absolutely sure it was all just make-believe for the fans. No matter what I showed him, he could not be convinced.

Until yesterday. Yes, I convinced the toughest skeptic in town.

I think it’s important to start with my journey into the Lukola fandom for context. I was a casual Bridgerton watcher until this season, and had never read the books. I liked season 1, I loved season 2, and I was looking forward to watching season 3.

I had planned to wait to watch the first 4 until the second half was about to launch (so I wouldn’t have to wait for more), but I realized after about a week that we needed to watch it immediately before everything was completely spoiled by timeline gifs and clips.

Needless to say, I was beyond hooked. Instantly. Season 3 was another level for all the reasons you all know. Finally I could engage safely with the fandom, but the process from occasional Polin/Lukola content to nonstop immersion took some time. So even following the second half, there was a TON of footage I hadn’t seen.

All of this to say, I basically missed all of the World Tour stuff as it was happening, and it took well into the summer to finally see so many amazing clips and edits that I was absolutely fucking sucked into the lukola wormhole. However, I was well behind many of you on the curve, and even to this day, I’m still catching up on things.

But by late summer, I was all in. I was sailing high on USS Lukola (or I suppose that should be the HMS Lukola!) because I saw exactly what you all saw. This was clearly real, their feelings were indisputable, and everything about their behavior and much of what they said was so far beyond PR, even “faking couplehood” PR.

They were real. Even if he had this dumb girlfriend. (I say that only in the good-natured, abstract sense that I wanted him with Nic, not in a personal “actually about her” sense. In fact, I’ve never said anything hateful about either A or J and I hope I never will.)

WHY AREN’T THEY TOGETHER???

I couldn’t resist the mystery.

It drove me absolutely crazy for months trying to understand why they weren’t together. Nothing made sense, but I mentally explored literally every possibility. They’re afraid of ruining their friendship? They’re afraid of disrupting the production if it goes wrong? These possibilities at least made some kind of sense and seemed to be the only explanations I could find. But in my mind, they weren’t good enough reasons to resist what these two so obviously had. Still, I’m not them, so that was easy for me to say. I had nothing to risk in this.

One or both of them is/are secretly gay? Soulmate besties instead of soulmate lovers? I didn’t think this was the case and nothing made me believe this. Yet, I was attempting to allow for every possibility. Still, with Nicola being the super vocal “gay icon” that she is, it was hard to imagine she wouldn’t live out and proud if that was the case. And apparently she lived with an unknown man for two years. Though she does always keep her private (romantic) life super private, so I suppose who knows? And, of course, Luke had two very public past relationships with women, but again, who knows, I suppose? This option doesn’t ring true at all, but it does exist in the universe of possible explanations for this inexplicable situation.

They love each other in a soulmate way, but somehow one of them just isn’t “attracted” to the other? Certainly, if the stories about Antonia were true, that might suggest that Luke might be attracted to an entirely different physical type than Nicola. But that didn’t ring true either because LOOK AT THEM TOGETHER! He can’t take his eyes off of her, let alone his hands. And the same for her. They are magnetized to each other. If that’s not attraction, what is?

One of them has baggage and isn’t ready for a real, serious relationship? This one seemed possible. People can have hang-ups or wounds for all sorts of reasons, and letting someone in – especially someone who might actually be your soulmate – can be terrifying. Self-protection by avoiding relationships and/or distracting yourself with less meaningful relationships is a natural way of coping with baggage. Yes, maybe this one? Neither of them seems obviously wounded, but what would I know? Most people don’t wear their wounds on their sleeves, least of all during a PR tour. Still, the energy flow between them seemed anything but wounded. It seemed like the healthiest, happiest thing in the world.

People kept saying, they’re blind and they don’t see it yet. But I don’t believe anyone can be that blind. Especially after watching all the countless edits and clips of their tour, which we know they did because Nicola is chronically online and sharing with Luke the best of it all (and sneaky Luke is likely lurking also).

So at the end of the day, I had no good explanation. It just kept not making sense.

Then those music festival photos of Nic and Jake (I’ll abbreviate sometimes for ease, but I do say their names) showed up. The fandom erupted into chaos with full reactions across the spectrum including a bizarre, almost immediate burst of (not yet named) jakolas, which felt like a disproportionate response to a few photos.

Admittedly, those photos did look quite friendly, and touchy, and yes, they stood arm-in-arm. But lots of friends stand like that at concerts. And Nic is known to be touchy-feely, so let’s not go overboard, I thought. However, I did acknowledge (in my head, I didn’t weigh in online at all) that it suggested that it COULD be romantic. I opted not to freak out, because either way, Nic’s love life is her own and I want her to be happy.

And it’s worth saying here that both of their private lives are none of my business, none of any of our business, and even writing this is completely at odds with that truth. I acknowledge that. But what I told myself, and actually meant it, was that I was going to stay out of it unless and until NicLuke got together. That was the only place I would invest my energy since they’ve both said they think it’s sweet that fans ship them. If they dated others, good luck to them. Be happy. But when the time comes…

Yes, friends, the time has come!!! But back to my story.

Note that (because again, I was still catching up), I hadn’t yet seen the swimming in Sorrento photos and had missed that piece of the puzzle at that point. Throughout this time, I’d see people refer to things on Twitter like everyone already knew what they were talking about, but hardly anyone ever took the time to explain. So I got lots of glimmers of things that others felt were notable, without actually knowing any details. Those pictures were an example. Another was the Claddagh ring.

I’m very grateful to some amazing deep dive blog entries by @threeacttragedy that explained the ring, “Bless the Telephone,” and other meaty, important history that I’d previously only heard mentioned in passing. In fact, one of her blogs is what first brought me here by referral from Twitter. And if you don’t follow her, you should!

In the past week, as I started reading blogs that broke down past dates and clues, I finally started looking them up one by one and trying to put the pieces together in my head. I’d seen the swimming photos by then, but I revisited them. I dug in to try to understand the references to a “New Year kiss” from the night the friend group (Rory, etc.) posted photos together from a Soho House party. I reviewed Hot Boy Summer, I rewatched the incredibly emotional video of Luke meeting Nicola’s mom, I looked at photos of the Claddagh ring and went to Chupi’s website. I learned about the LA photos from April, both Antonia’s version and the InStyle Polaroids. I reviewed all the photos of Luke and Antonia that I could find. And I reviewed all the photos and videos of Nic and Jake that I could find. Also, I listened to “Bless the Telephone” about one hundred times. Lol.

Regarding Luke and Antonia, I had the same response in this deep dive I’ve had every time. Weird. I mean, if I didn’t feel so strongly that Luke was in love with Nicola, and if I knew nothing about him except he was some hot actor, could I see him dating someone like A? Sure. But the fact that there are almost no pictures of them posing together, alone like a couple, is weird. Even if it’s super casual and she was just his date to some stuff. The fact that Luke looks grumpy in both sets of pap photos (premiere night and swimming in Sorrento), but A is smiling happily in at least one of the premiere night photos is weird. The fact that after the Sorrento pap photos, Luke seems to leave his friend group to come home early, and then stops liking any of his best friend Rory’s photos from there on, weird.

The fact that in the fall, she posts pictures harkening back to a place and time they were apparently together, but without any actual photos together, weird. And the continual drip, drip of Likes from Luke is weird. And then when a photo of Luke in a restaurant in Rome is posted by the restaurant, she immediately follows with a video story of someone making pasta in the same restaurant, weird.

Perhaps weirdest of all, the fact that she pre-posted the LA pictures, and then he gave other versions of the same shots to InStyle. Especially the switching seats thing. If my husband and I were taking pics of each other at a café, I’d take his picture in front of the traffic, and he’d take my picture in front of the restaurant, because that’s where we’d be sitting. Across from each other. So why switch seats to take the photos? It’s not like that street with traffic was such a fantastic backdrop that we’d each need our turn with that shot? And they’re the same, with the same table number, but different. Sure, traffic moves, but weird coincidence that they each had a white truck, but a DIFFERENT white truck. So, like I said, weird. Always implying they were together, but never actually saying/showing it. Weird.

I read all sorts of theories from pragmatic (we just have to accept that they’re dating) to hateful (they’re not together/never were, but she’s obsessed and keeps inserting herself in a pathetic, desperate plea for attention and followers) to seemingly far-fetched (some sort of NDA that means for some reason Luke is obligated to Like her photos). Only the first of these seemed plausible. I maybe didn’t like it (not maybe, I didn’t like it at all), but I thought, “Yes, I guess we just have to accept that they’re probably together until they tell us otherwise.”

(Though I held out a small sliver of “but we don’t know anything for sure until L and/or N tell us themselves” hope, which remains true even as I write this.)

Now, let’s talk about Nic and Jake. First, there were those shots from the concert (discussed above). Then, I believe, were the NYC shots (if I’m not confusing the order). In the NYC shots, they were both there, but they weren’t especially intimate in any interpersonal sense. Then, the pap shots on the street posted on DM, ostensibly catching them walking home together, holding hands and arm-in-arm after a night at the pub. With those photos came an onslaught of fandom fury and gossip site reporting about how “Nicola Coughlan confirms her relationship…” Same story runs across a bunch of trashy sites, all saying the same thing and citing an unnamed source talking about how besotted they were, or whatever the quote was.

Admittedly, I was among the furious fans. Not because of what the pictures showed. Again, I was trying to be serene and Zen about them and their private lives. I believed with all my heart that NicLuke belonged together, but if now wasn’t their time, I’d have to wait. I didn’t love that I’d heard he was only 24, but I was trying to balance my efforts to be a non-judgmental person with my discomfort over that issue and reminding myself that her choices are none of my business (unless she chooses Luke!).

So I did my best to refrain from judgment, even as I saw the fandom erupt into toxic madness about whether it was true, whether he was gay, whether the age gap was wrong, whether DM lied about the date, and if they did (which they did), why? But I figured, unless the photos were very, very old, things weren’t likely to have changed in their relationship over a couple weeks, so I wasn’t overly concerned about the date.

However, I was angry about all these stories (basically the same story across the board) announcing that she’d “CONFIRMED” the relationship. It made me very angry that they said she confirmed something when she’d done nothing of the sort. I wasn’t prepared to argue that she wasn’t dating Jake at that point, but why would they all run this story, with this headline, when what actually happened was a paparazzi photographer snapped shots and sold them, then the media drew conclusions from what they saw?

Nicola never confirmed a damn thing. So why were they running this headline so universally?

I was also angry that the photos existed at all. Photos in her neighborhood could reveal her location and put her safety at risk. Also, how did they happen to be there to take those photos late one specific night? Felt like they must have received a tip. But I moved on and forgot about that part.

Time went on and I saw more and more discussion of Jake’s sexuality. I don’t really want to get into that here because I don’t really feel comfortable speculating about anyone unless they choose to explicitly come out, but I did finally start poking around his page, Douglas’s page, etc. and began to understand why people were saying what they were saying. However, I reminded myself that bi/pan-sexuality exists and I wasn’t willing to partake in bi-erasure, so I held my tongue and kept watching.

Now, at this point, I want to remind us all that Nic has always been extremely private and uttered nary a peep in public about her romantic/sexual life. And fair enough. It’s none of our damn business. Also, she’s talked extensively about how women are not just men’s girlfriends and her feminist take on many things and how it doesn’t feel nice to know that people are more interested in her love life than her work. She’s worked freaking hard to achieve the success she’s now enjoying, and she certainly should not be reduced to a woman in a relationship. No matter who is on the other end of that relationship.

(Again here, I feel the need to acknowledge my hypocrisy in writing this, but I really do genuinely love Nic’s work and spirit and activism, etc. as well.)

So, in light of her position on all of that, we wouldn’t expect her to go public with a new love interest. The fact that she was papped with this guy (if indeed he was a love interest) was just an indication of how much her celebrity and profile have grown. There’s greater interest now and she’s more recognizable now, so it’s to be expected that she’d have a harder time keeping her love life private now than in the past. Not so strange then, that she got caught a couple times in paparazzi photos at this point.

However, would she really then go public with that guy? That would mark a radical change in her behavior just when you’d think she’d want to be the most private because the glare of the spotlight is brighter than ever. Still, she allowed a public photo with him, Camilla, and Evan Ross Katz to go out shortly thereafter. If one believed they were dating, that could certainly be interpreted as a launch. Yet, as I said, would she really do that if she were dating him?

Then he started popping up everywhere. I won’t get the chronology here right because I don’t want to research the dates right now, but there was the Charlie xcx concert, in which she appeared with Jake and Dylan, who is out and proud. The Queer premiere where he was just caught in the background of a fan photo. The simultaneously released photos from the red and gold restaurant (with a mysterious third person taking the photos). There was the apparently brunch-time photo of her with Jake and two others, taken by Dylan. And most recently, Louisa’s photo with Jake and Douglas (who is also openly gay and close friends, if not more, with Jake).

I’m not mentioning all the players in all of these because it’s not critical to the story, and I may be forgetting some photos, but there is a point to all of this. First, there’s potentially a notable shift in what she’s allowing to be shared here. Again, historically, she’s never shared anything about her love life. Suddenly, she’s letting him be photographed everywhere. Also, at most of these events, there were other queer participants and/or queer content (the movie premiere).

And while she’s never allowed her romantic life to be shared, you know what she has often shared? Photos with all of her platonic friends, including her huge friend group of many, many gay men. So this trend in what she’s allowing to be shared suggests that she’s telling a story and clarifying Jake’s role in her life.

But then there’s that one mystery release, the simultaneously timed restaurant photo drops. Clearly coordinated, clearly indicating they were there together. No indication about the third party. Why? Just enough to hint that there might be something going on, and to continue wreaking havoc in the fandom.

Because remember that toxic fandom bickering over all of this? The jakolas swearing they’re in love and soon to be engaged and furious at the lukolas for “being blind and refusing to accept the truth and it’s so disrespectful to Nic ('who you claim to love') by disregarding her feelings and treating the love of her life so badly. They keep showing you they’re in love and you won’t listen!” Etc., etc.

Meanwhile, the lukolas fall into a couple camps. By this point, most have decided Nic and Jake aren’t dating, but some remain circumspect. Some scream back at the jakolas, ostensibly in defense of Jake, saying very similar things about “Jake and his friends are doing everything in their power to show you the truth and you refuse to see it.” And a variety of other responses. Everyone’s mad at everyone.

And all of it, every bit of it, keeps us ALL talking about Nicola Coughlan and Luke Newton. Nonstop, every day.

Now, we are nearing the big mic drop of all of this, and I want to say at this point that we need to remember that Nic and Luke are HUMAN BEINGS who have a right to privacy. And they are celebrities living in a world that has an intense interest in their love lives. And sometimes, we might not feel good about the measures they must take to protect their privacy. We might hate those measures. We might feel manipulated, and we are. But if we love and respect them as much as I hope we all do, we can also understand and forgive them for taking such measures.

A quick review of important factors in all of this:

THINGS THAT TELL US IT’S REAL

The Galway trip and that very emotional introduction to Nic’s mom, which looked for all the world like a woman meeting her future son-in-law

The Claddagh ring and how she’s been wearing it

The things reporters, cast, and crew have said in passing and/or posted, not to mention recent open shipping from Ryan Wheeler and Shondaland’s IG

Everything we saw with our own eyes on the world tour, not to mention everything we’ve seen in the BTS

Little droplets of NicLuke over the recent months like Bless the Telephone and (not yet mentioned above) the S4 selfie and the photo of them in costume that Nic said she thought she’d shared, but now it’s ours (while she hasn’t posted any Jake)

The absolute consistency of all of this as a story that makes sense

THINGS THAT MAKE US DOUBT IT’S REAL AND/OR KEEP US GUESSING AND DISCUSSING

The premiere night pap photos (and though I didn’t mention it earlier, the fact that Nic went home that night so she wasn’t around for A’s attendance)

The friend group photos at Soho House with Luke, A and others

The weird LA InStyle photos

The Sorrento swimming photos

The multiple sets of pap photos of Nic and Jake, including grainy night-time neighborhood photos (with a woman walking a dog in the background)

The way every gossip news outlet ran the same “Nicola confirmed her relationship” story with the same headline and the same anonymous quote

The weirdly devoted, intensely defensive jakolas/Jake stans that seem to care about nothing but Jake/jakola out of nowhere and love screaming at and stirring up shit with lukolas

The chaos and constant discussion of all of this over the past 6+ months

The absolute inconsistency of any of this with anything in the top group

So, this mystery just gets deeper and deeper, and none of it makes sense. Every time I’d try to accept that they were just seeing these other people, something would bump in my head. There were just too many weird things that didn’t quite make sense and the biggest, weirdest one of them all was that NICOLA AND LUKE ARE CLEARLY IN LOVE WITH EACH OTHER.

So while the pieces would always almost fit, the puzzle never quite took shape. Until two nights ago when I stumbled on @lukolafan ’s page after they liked one of my posts. I scrolled down their page and found a link labeled “Lukola PR Strategies and Fake Narratives.” I cannot scream this loudly enough. GO VISIT THAT LINK!!!!! (I’ll add the links myself later if I have time.)

I did and it led to a series of Reddit posts taking an academic approach to teaching us, the general public (and lukola fans) PR Media Literacy. Among the various topics it discussed were things like:

“PR Firms and Entertainment Media: Coordinating “News” Across Gossip, Entertainment, and Official Publications,” which talks about using anonymous sources, more about staged paparazzi, and repeated narratives (“outlets echo identical stories, reinforcing PR-approved messaging, for example, multiple outlets platforms describing a celebrity ‘rising above’ a controversy, quoting the same anonymous insider” – Sound familiar?)

“The Invisible Hand of Celebrity Privacy: How PR Fabricates Narratives and Manipulates Fans,” which includes ways that PR strategies intentionally manipulate fans to fight/debate celebs faking relationships, and more (sound familiar?)

There’s honestly so much meat in all of these (there are a couple others as well) that they are ALL worth reading. There is definitely some repetition, but still, the content is super insightful and revealing and can help us all be more savvy consumers of media.

But I want to focus on two CRITICAL posts, in particular.

“The Role of Staged Paparazzi and Gossip Outlets in Celebrity PR Campaigns”

The first part of this piece talks about the method for staging fake paparazzi photos to create narratives. Two items of particular note (and I’m excerpting directly):

Quality Control of the Image: While professional photographers use high-quality cameras, staged paparazzi photos are intentionally manipulated to appear grainy or blurry. This adds a layer of authenticity to the photo, making it look as though the photographer stumbled upon the celebrity by chance.

Extra Figures in the Background: Another key tactic in staged paparazzi photos involves the use of background extras—people who might be walking with dogs, pushing strollers, or simply in the vicinity.

Think of Nicola’s photos walking home with Jake, a woman walking a dog behind them. Some of them are clear, but some are quite grainy, despite the fact that professional photographers have great equipment and are more than capable of taking a night-time shot.

Another excerpt…

Gossip Outlets: DeuxMoi and the Symbiotic Relationship with PR Firms

With the rise of user-generated content and anonymously submitted tips, gossip websites have become integral to the modern celebrity PR machine. Sites like DeuxMoi thrive on rumors and speculation, providing a platform for fans and anonymous sources to share celebrity gossip. PR teams exploit these platforms to feed their desired narratives without appearing to directly control the flow of information.

How Gossip Sites Like DeuxMoi Work:

Anonymous Tips and Leaks: PR teams often send anonymous tips to gossip outlets, offering details about celebrity activities or sightings. These tips are deliberately vague, leaving room for interpretation and speculation. Once posted on sites like DeuxMoi, the stories tend to snowball as they are shared across social media and republished by larger outlets.

Fueling Speculation: These posts generate buzz and speculation, keeping celebrities in the public eye without any direct confirmation. Gossip sites become a key player in amplifying the narrative, as fans, influencers, and media outlets continue to discuss and spread the information.

Mutual Benefits: While gossip sites operate independently, there is a mutual benefit to the relationship between them and PR teams. Gossip sites thrive on traffic and engagement, while PR teams can ensure their client’s name stays relevant in the public discourse. By subtly feeding stories, PR teams maintain control over how their celebrity’s narrative unfolds.

The piece goes on to give specific examples like Kendall Jenner and Bad Bunny, Tomdaya, Gigi Hadad and Zayne Malik, etc. then talks about fake fan interactions and how to spot them.

It offers key questions to ask about the photos you see (like what story is it telling and why and who benefits?) and then it gives this example. If your ears aren’t already fully perked, this will do it:

Example: 37-Year-Old Famous Actress and 24-Year-Old Lesser-Known Celebrity

Narrative of Romance or Distraction: In this case, the 37-year-old actress is likely fueling rumors of a relationship with the 24-year-old to either distract from something else in her personal life (like a real romantic partner) or to refresh her public image. The younger celebrity could be hired to play a temporary love interest or interest figure in the media, leading people to speculate whether they are more than just friends.

Creating a Romance or Mystery: The photo of them walking arm-in-arm, laughing, or holding hands might suggest that a romantic connection exists. This could be used to make the actress seem more relatable, desirable, or single, even if there is no romantic involvement behind the scenes.

Diverting Public Focus: If the actress is privately in a relationship with another celebrity or involved in an ongoing controversy, the staged photo with the younger celebrity helps to deflect attention. By inserting a "mystery romance," the public is more interested in who the new partner is, leaving the actress’s real partner or issues to stay out of the spotlight.

PR Stunt to Revitalize Publicity: The actress might not just be looking for romantic gossip but also fresh exposure. A curated paparazzi shot could serve as a PR tool to keep the actress's name in circulation—be it through romantic rumors, new partnerships, or simply new media content to fuel speculation.

Potential Body Double for Real Partner: If the real partner is shying away from the public eye or trying to avoid the media, the younger celebrity might act as a "body double" or decoy. This helps maintain an image of the actress being in a public relationship, while allowing her to keep the real relationship.

Don’t think I need to explain the relevance of this very specific example. There’s a lot more in the post, but I’ll move on for now to the next key post.

“Breadcrumbing and Coordinated Campaigns”

In this piece, they offer first some key breadcrumbing tactics, many of which sound awfully familiar.

Common Types of Breadcrumbs:

Cryptic Social Media Posts: Celebrities post vague messages or abstract references, sparking fan theories. Example: Harry Styles posts cryptic images or quotes, prompting speculation.

Coordinated Social Media Timing: PR teams synchronize posts to create the illusion of a shared narrative. Example: Taylor Swift and Karlie Kloss posted similar content at the same time, fueling relationship rumors.

Accidental Social Media Interactions: Liking posts or commenting on ambiguous tweets creates intimacy and speculation. Example: Kendall Jenner engages with fans on social media, fueling rumors.

Seemingly Innocent Photos: Casual photos subtly hint at a larger narrative. Example: Zendaya and Tom Holland posted photos together, teasing their relationship.

Cryptic? Like Bless the Telephone? Or a mysterious left-handed guy holding a phone in the background while Nic gets ready?

Synchronized like Nic and Jake at that restaurant? Or as far as that goes, like Nic and Luke with the S4 selfie?

Accidental social media interactions? I didn’t go into that here, but we’ve seen lots of odd likes and things, lots of Nic interactions, oh, and those RW and SL likes of late.

Seemingly innocent photos. Like very happy looking S4 pics and the “now it’s yours” BTS photo?

Perhaps most of this could be interpreted as just genuine fan interaction and fan service, which I think it is to some extent. It’s a natural part of the business. But it’s also very often done with intention.

But here’s the more important part of this piece. It gives some case studies (Ben and JLo, Shawn and Camila), then it gives two “abstract” examples.

YOU’LL LOVE THIS. Note that the second example changes to an actor and a musician, but don’t let that fool you. Keep reading for some unmistakable specifics.

Breadcrumbing with a Fake PR Girlfriend: Case Study of Celebrity 007

For Celebrity 007, breadcrumbing is used to create a false narrative about a relationship with a PR girlfriend. This helps maintain fan interest while deflecting attention from the celebrity’s true personal life.

How It Works:

First Breadcrumbs: The PR strategy begins with posts from both the celebrity and the PR girlfriend, hinting at a connection without confirming it. Example: Celebrity 007 posts a picture from a Paris restaurant or cafe in LA and the PR girlfriend shares a similar post from the same location but from a different day with different white trucks in the background (double check the Instyle Stunt images!!!)

Expanding the Narrative: Shared travel posts and indirect interactions continue the illusion of a relationship. Example: Matching geo-tags in posts from Rome suggest they were there together.

Indirect Engagement: Likes, comments, and ambiguous interactions increase intrigue without confirming the relationship. Example: The PR girlfriend comments, “Great to be here with you! 💖,” on Celebrity 007's post.

Paparazzi Shots: Carefully timed candid shots further reinforce the illusion of a relationship. Example: Paparazzi photos of Celebrity 007 and the PR girlfriend walking hand-in-hand, fueling speculation.

Note:

Café in LA, same location, different trucks?

Matching tags in Rome?

Likes and ambiguous interactions

Carefully timed (say at a premiere party) candid paparazzi shops w gf walking hand-in-hand

And then there’s the next one. In the interest of length since this is already hella long, I’ve removed some less relevant parts, but I encourage you to read it yourself.

Breadcrumbing to Hide a Real Relationship: Case Study of Celebrity 009

Why Hide the True Relationship?

In celebrity culture, the decision to keep a relationship private—or hidden—can be a strategic move, driven by a mix of personal privacy and professional interests. Some celebrities may choose to share their personal lives openly, but for others, particularly those who value their privacy or wish to control their public image, keeping a relationship private is key. This is especially relevant for two celebrities who are romantically involved but prefer to maintain discretion, despite public curiosity about their relationship.

Whether it’s a high-profile couple like Beyoncé and Jay-Z, or a less conspicuous pairing, the decision to hide the true nature of a romantic relationship often involves balancing personal desires with career strategy. In this scenario, let’s explore why two celebrities might choose to keep their relationship under wraps and the complex PR considerations that lead them to do so.

Media Scrutiny/Escaping Constant Surveillance: Navigating the Spotlight Together (I’ve combined two sections here for length)

When two celebrities become romantically involved, the media will inevitably take notice. The relationship can quickly become the focal point of constant headlines, paparazzi photos, and gossip columns. For celebrities who value their privacy, this level of scrutiny can feel overwhelming, as every public appearance or moment shared can quickly turn into speculation, even if the couple doesn’t wish to attract attention.

Romanticized Expectations: The Pressure of Perfection

Media scrutiny often creates an unrealistic, romanticized version of a celebrity relationship. Fans and the public tend to project their fantasies onto famous couples, imagining them as the perfect, unbreakable pairing. The real complexities of a relationship—differences, compromises, and struggles—often don't fit neatly into the idealized narratives created by the public.

For a couple like Actor A and Musician B, the pressure to live up to these idealized expectations can be exhausting. By choosing to keep their relationship private, they can avoid the constant pressure to fit into a preconceived mold. Hiding the relationship from public view allows them to keep things grounded and avoid being turned into a media spectacle.

Brand Control: Managing the Image of "Singleness" or "Availability"

For many celebrities, their public image is closely tied to their brand, and that brand may depend on their perceived "availability" or their status as desirable, unattached individuals. The way the public perceives a celebrity’s romantic life—whether they are single, dating, or in a long-term relationship—can have a significant impact on their professional success and marketability.

Creating Room for Desire: The Allure of the Single Celebrity

Consider Actor A, a leading man known for portraying romantic heroes on screen. The public’s perception of Actor A as a single, unattainable figure is key to their marketability, both in the media and as a brand. If they were to publicly reveal a relationship with Musician B, it could diminish that aura of unattainability. Similarly, Musician B may want to maintain a flirtatious public persona, which could be undermined if they were publicly involved with someone. By keeping the relationship private, both celebrities retain the allure of being desirable and unattached, feeding into the fantasies of their fans.

Avoiding the "Couple" Brand: Risk of Being Reduced to a Package Deal

When a high-profile couple’s relationship is made public, they may become known less for their individual work and more for their collective identity as a couple. In some cases, the couple's public appearances or shared brand messages may overshadow their individual projects. Think of Beyoncé and Jay-Z, who have an incredibly powerful couple brand that often eclipses their solo endeavors in the media. For celebrities like Actor A and Musician B, the fear of being seen as a "package deal" might drive them to hide their relationship. This allows both to maintain their distinct identities, keeping their projects and brands separate and preventing the public from viewing them solely as a pair.

Respecting Boundaries: The Vulnerability of Celebrity Relationships

Even when two celebrities are involved, the vulnerabilities of a relationship can become the focus of media attention if they go public. Romantic relationships—especially those in the high-pressure world of celebrity—are often fraught with ups and downs. The public might demand to know every detail, fueling rumors of breakups, infidelities, or relationship drama. By keeping their romance under wraps, Actor A and Musician B can avoid becoming the subject of constant gossip and can maintain some semblance of normalcy in their private lives.

Avoiding Disruptive Publicity

Celebrity relationships often attract media scrutiny not only about their romantic lives but also about how their relationship affects their careers. The public and the media often delve into the smallest details, speculating about how the relationship might impact their professional trajectories, previous relationships, or future projects.

Career Disruption: The Challenge of Balancing Love and Work

For celebrities like Musician B, a new relationship can take attention away from their upcoming album release or concert tour. The media’s obsession with their personal life might overshadow the launch of a new professional project. Similarly, if Actor A is in the middle of promoting a film or preparing for a big role, the press could focus more on their relationship than their craft, disrupting the flow of their work.

I won’t bother reviewing the relevance of all of the above. I’m sure you can see it plainly for yourself. The examples are absolutely, positively referencing Nicola and Luke, and the reasons for hiding it are super relevant. Especially boundaries, disruption, pressure to be perfect, and being reduced to a package deal.

Now at this point, it’s worth asking the question, do we trust this source? I don’t actually know who posted this content, so I can’t verify their credentials. Perhaps this is yet another PR person’s tricky efforts to continually confuse us and keep us guessing? That seems unlikely since the entire purpose is to help lift the veil on all the other tricks. If you wanted the other tricks to be effective, you’d hardly be revealing them to your target audiences.

But even setting that very logical assumption aside, the reason I know with every fiber of my being that it’s true is that this is literally the only version of events that makes sense of absolutely everything.

All those mysterious and confusing signals, all those weird photos and changes in behavior, all the inconsistencies between what we all saw with our own eyes (they are IN LOVE) and what we saw subsequently with the adjacents, all the tiny Lukola crumbs keeping us hanging on, and all the fandom bickering, especially from bizarrely rabid jakolas.

Every bit of it makes complete sense if we accept that Nic, Luke, and their PR teams have been using a classic PR handbook to distract us from the very real truth that they are together and in love.

Does it hurt to know we’ve been manipulated? You bet it does! But I quickly accepted that because I was so happy to have the truth verified at last. And because I understand why they would do it.

Relationships are hard enough when lived in private. No relationship, no matter how much people love each other, is without challenge. Even soulmates have issues to navigate. Can you imagine the pressure on them if the whole world was watching?

And their lives have added challenges. Travel and separation. Long work schedules that may often be at odds. Possibly romantic scenes with future co-stars that could stir up uncomfortable feelings. Career ups and downs that may not always synch up. Fans and media watching their every move, dissecting them, judging them, rooting for them, and just putting massive pressure on them. What if they fail? They’re letting down the whole world, not just themselves.

And what about Nic’s longstanding demand for privacy? And her emphasis that no woman is just some dude’s girlfriend. She wants to be known for her own work and achievement and passions, not for who she dates or marries. Even if it is wonderful Luke.

Likewise, Luke is just now achieving a newfound level of success. This is a moment for him to seize and make the most of. Being a hot, sexy, ostensibly single guy is good for his brand right now. Even if we know he loves Nicola, his stans need to be able to fantasize about him, which is easier if his relationship is unconfirmed.

And let’s face it, if they come out as a couple, IT WILL BE LUKOLA all the time. That will be the story. Certainly if they’d come out during the World Tour, every question at every stop would be about them and their personal “friends to lovers story.” It would be irresistible to reporters. Too good a story to ignore. And they’d spend way more time talking about their personal lives than about their work. Does that sound like something either of them would want?

And one last thing. Back to their changes in behavior. Does it make more sense that Nicola, who has always been super private about her love life, would suddenly be willing to be photographed constantly with her new bf Jake? Or that Jake is not her bf and she’s keeping her actual bf (or fiancé or husband) secret?

Meanwhile, Luke, who has always been open about his relationships in the past suddenly decides to tighten up and share absolutely nothing about his private life? Well, that makes complete sense if he’s now in a relationship with a woman who is famously private and shares not one word publicly. Suddenly, literally everything makes sense and is entirely consistent.

So there it is, folks. To me, this is the Holy Grail. There’s not a doubt left in my mind about them. They’re together and everything else – literally everything else – is a decoy and a distraction, and every bit of it comes straight from the PR playbook.

I’d like to maintain a sliver of hope that they’re leaving much of it to their teams and they’re not in on the worst of it, but in any case, I don’t blame them one bit for trying to protect their love. It’s too special to let it be destroyed by public consumption. You gotta do what you gotta do.

Given that I don’t actually know them and haven’t confirmed anything directly, I’ll leave 1.5% room for doubt, and adjust my certainty to 98.5%.

And you may dismiss all of this and draw very different conclusions, which is okay, too. But if I’m being really honest, I’m actually 1,000% sure. And I couldn’t be happier for them.

What do we do now? That’s up to each of us. Personally, I’m going to be blissfully happy for them, not sweat any of the distractions, let them live as quietly as they like, and patiently await the day (whether it’s very soon or far in the future) when they finally go public. I hope you’ll do the same.

And until then, I’m going to keep watching Lukola videos on repeat.

[emmyspov]

A Lifetime (Gil-Galad x reader)

Summary: It seemed like it was forgotten in the lore that there were not only Elrond and Elros, but also a third sibling: you. Before Elrond became the High King’s Herald, you had already chosen your fate. Like your younger brother, you would live as an elf, serving the High King and getting a bit closer with him than imagined. Set in the time of the second season of Rings of Power.

author’s note: it’s been a looong time since i actually wrote something, so excuse this crusty-rusty excuse of work, but i just had to write something before i start my job tomorrow, especially after seeing the interview in which benjamin walker stated that he wants Gil-Galad to be kissed! i used “meldanya” for my beloved in the story - and tried my best to keep it gender-neutral :)

warnings: mentions of war and terrible times and kissing? that should be it, if not, let me know <3

word count: 743

edit is mine, all pics are from pinterest :)

You bowed as you entered Gil-Galad’s chambers: “How may I assist you today, High King?”

Ever since Elrond had been appointed Commander to lead an army to Eregion, you had found yourself almost constantly in the king’s presence, helping him not only with his speeches and council planning, but also your regular tasks. You, personally, were responsible for his well-being, ensuring he ate and drank regularly, selecting his garments for each day, and – over time – also keeping him informed on Lindon’s gossip. It led to you two being… closer with each other than expected. Which in return made the king ask for your presence in the evenings as well.

He never told you, but with the growing shadow over Middle Earth, you were the only one who could put his mind at ease. Especially when you brushed his hair – you were far gentler than any of his maids – and made him smile like no one else could.

He shook his head at your bow. How many times had he told you that you had long surpassed such formalities? With a sigh, he finally spoke, “I’ve made the decision to ride to Eregion.”

Your head shot up. “High King-“

He interrupted you, dark eyes staring into your own. “A king’s place is wherever the need is greatest.”

“You are needed here. What am I supposed to do if something happens to you?”

Yes, one could say you were worried about High King Gil-Galad, but not for the reason others might assume. Sure, he was the King of all Elves in Middle Earth, but now seemed to be the moment to admit to yourself that he had also become the king of your heart.

He smiled sadly. “Let us not part with such dark thoughts in our minds. Please, help me gather my armor and whatever else I might need for this journey.”

What was needed on a journey like the one he was about to embark on? A journey he might never return from. No. No, you couldn’t think like this. So, you did what he asked. You helped him gather his clothes and armor which made him look even more majestic and beautiful, made your way to the stables to check on his horse and even sneaked into the kitchens to provide him with his favorite treat.

The whole time, your mind was racing. Could you tell him how you felt? What exactly were you feeling? All you knew was that you were happiest when you were with him. He challenged you mentally and, at the same time, brought you a sense of peace. You longed for him whenever he was away. Yes, you were infatuated with the High King Gil-Galad.  

Which made your parting even harder. You knew that you couldn’t burden him with your feelings – not now, when everything seemed to be on the brink of darkness once more. You watched him as he spoke with his soldiers before he made his way over to you.

“It is time”, he said, taking your hand. “I truly wish you could accompany me on this ride, but I’d rather know you are safe here. Will you wait for my return?”

You couldn’t help your smile. “I’d wait a lifetime.”

“That’s quite a long time, meldanya.”

You nodded and took a step closer, placing your hand on his cheek. “For you, it’s worth it.”

You were so close. You could smell him, feel his warmth even through the suit of armor. “I think, I would really like to kiss you, High-King. May I?”

He stared at you with an open mouth, nodding slowly. He would have never though that you from all beings would feel the same for him. His thoughts scattered when your lips came in contact with his. Oh Eru, they were warm. And so soft.

Before he could process it further, you took a step back. You didn’t want to overwhelm him. But apparently, the High-King had other plans and pulled you close again, capturing your lips in another kiss. He could taste the sweetness of berries as his tongue swept over your bottom lip and and you cupped his face with both hands.

The whole world seemed to stop as you were standing at the gates of Lindon, engulfed in each other’s presence. The king was breathing hard when you finally pulled apart: “Wait for me. Please.”

You only nodded, tears forming in your eyes. You’d wait a lifetime.

[platinumshawnn]

Bound by Blood and Fire | Benjicot Blackwood x OC!Tully — pt iv

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A/N: wow, another update four days later and ahead of schedule for once!! this chapter has been half-written and in drafts, waiting to be finished a whole month. sorry if it has some errors, i did my best to proofread and edit. i wrote most of this to someone to stay -- vancouver sleep clinic if that doesn't explain the soft moments this chapter gives, i needed the soft moments for my own selfish reasons pls enjoy <33

Synopsis: Amidst growing turmoil, Elmo Tully works to forge alliances with old rivals. As wedding planning forges ahead, storm clouds gather over Raventree Hall. Guests arrive for the betrothal feast, while Serra and Benjicot struggle to find common ground to ensure their marriage's success. Benjicot's olive branch to Serra offers some hope, despite her doubts. The families celebrate amid rising tensions and news from King’s Landing. Lord Samwell hears of the Brackens coming close to their borders and finally cracks underneath the pressure of his council.

Content Warning(s): MDNI — 18+, adult language, mentions of blood, violence, and war; era related sexism and gender based harassment/discrimination, sexual content, mild depictions of family based violence, implied suicide ideation.

Word count: 7.1k

“How did it go?” 

Kermit had met Oscar at the doors upon his return from travel the past five and a half days — he couldn’t even hide his disgust at the sight and smell of his younger brother whose return was whispered to him as he had been sifting through the contents of the library that morning. He had made sure to be notified as soon as he’d stepped foot within the gates of Raventree once word had reached him that Oscar was expected to arrive that afternoon. 

It had been a long several days since the feast, and in the aftermath of the meeting between some of the Lords of the Riverlands, Oscar had been sent on horseback with a fleet of men from House Tully to the Arryn’s — a long journey that he did not outwardly protest against, but Kermit had seen the twitch of his eye as he gave his father a nod that was curt and far too formal for their usual dynamic; the war had shifted something in the air between the father and his sons in recent days. But the journey was one of necessity, sent as a messenger to House Arryn in the Eyrie -- one that would have been quicker if not for several storms that forced them to shelter for the night, issued with the task of reminding the Lady Jeyne of her vow to Rhaenyra and of their houses’ long-standing alliance and support of one another. A task that seemed easy enough, now days later and two less horses after having hit a snag and walking into a trap that had been rigged on the forest paths. Kermit had been there when the raven flew in with updates from their journey, notifying Elmo of the accident, which had involved his brother. Oscar was safe and otherwise unharmed aside from his pride and sore. 

Oscar, with his dirt stained face, smelling of fields and horse shit, yanked off his riding gloves as he shoved past his brother; his left cheek scuffed with a scab from a fall off his horse amidst their return after a last minute detour towards House Baratheon -- a decision his brother had made in his emboldened enthusiasm.

“What did they say?” Kermit asked again, earning a huff from his brother who continued his brisk walk towards the great hall where their father waited among the councilmen. 

“That’s a promising answer,” Kermit sarcastically said, striding alongside his brother and trying to keep up with his pace as he mimicked his huff, “I take it you replied with a sort of…” he continued, giving his brother an animalistic like grunt from behind him. 

Oscar abruptly stopped outside the doors and whipped around, scowling as his brother collided with his shoulder and awkwardly stumbled to keep from falling into him, “Do you know when to shut up? Have some patience, brother.” He muttered, shoving his brother back a couple of steps and re-establishing the small bit of space between them as he turned, his brother letting out a snort.  

He shoved the doors open, Elmo sat at the head of the table and deep in conversation with Lord Rivers who had yet to return home as the feast celebrating the union of his sister and Benjicot neared, the final details being cemented for that night, much to their reluctance -- Kermit and Oscar both heeded warning at the thought of last feast’s events, but their father insisted at least on something smaller and more intimate than dozens of random elderly Lords and their snobbish sons. The invite had only been extended to select few entrusted vassals of House Tully, Elmo reassured.  

He stopped at the opposite end of the table as he entered with Kermit in tow, his father’s gaze watching him with a look of expectancy, awaiting his words as his head bowed out of respect. Lord Rivers withdrew to his seat as Oscar glanced towards him, waiting until there was silence among the table of men, his gloves clutched in his right hand at his sides, “I have news from my journeys to House Arryn and House Baratheon.” He announced. 

The last of the mutters ceased, pausing as he moved to shift his stance, suddenly panged by a wave of anxiety towards the eyes that watched him from around the room. Oscar was never an insecure, timid boy -- he was confident, well-spoken and self-assured, and had never shied away from attention. But with his age, in comparison to the much more experienced men around him, oozing wisdom that countered his own youthful inexperience, he was painfully aware that he was just a boy in their eyes; stood there in armor, like a child playing ‘knight’. He knew that they did not view him as equal to his father -- not like he expected them to. 

“Proceed, son.” Elmo stated, his voice warm and encouraging. 

Oscar again nodded slowly and took a breath before he spoke, “House Arryn has once again pledged their support in favor of Rhaenyra Targaryen as the rightful heir to the Iron Throne and has pledged to support our military efforts as much as they can afford.” He spoke, his tone more confident than it had been when he arrived. 

“And that of House Baratheon?” His father asked. 

“They have declared for the usurper, Aegon.” He replied, his eyes scanning the men around the table who broke into a series of mutters. “They plan to support him and his army should the time come.” Oscar explained. “Craven cunts.” Kermit muttered from behind him, reminding Oscar that he stood only a foot away from him as they spoke. 

Elmo’s eyes darted to his brother, in response to his words, his frustration evident in his face as his brows furrowed. 

“It does not come as a surprise to me.” Samwell said, speaking up finally. “I recall their Lordship expressing his…reservations about a woman sitting on the throne when she was first declared apparent heir. I was just hoping he would come to see reason.” He said, letting out a small sigh and looking to Elmo, who gave a small nod. 

“We can only do so much to guide others to see better judgment. I’ve received ravens from House Manderly and House Celtigar who have declared for Rhaenyra at least.” Lord Tully stated, his fingers drumming against the table as he seemed to linger on the update. While not the outcome they had hoped for, Oscar had done his duty successfully in all other words. “You’ve done a good job, Oscar.” 

Oscar nodded again, his head lifting to where his father stared at him, the two men in silence. A moment passed before Elmo leaned forward in his seat, placing his elbows atop the table and glancing towards an empty chair on his right as a sort of hint to his son. “Well?” He asked. “Do you plan to sit and join us?” 

Oscar turned his head and glanced at Kermit who looked back at him, the brothers sharing a look, his mouth opening to stutter out a sentence, “I…I was hoping to change first, make myself presentable.” He softly explained to his father. 

His hand waved dismissively to the idea, “Nonsense. There’s no more pride than that of a knight in the raw.” 

He visibly hesitated, letting out a small grunt under his breath that only Kermit could hear, a choked sound that came from his throat as though he wanted to refuse and insist on at least changing out of his riding gear; the little armor he wore streaked with mud and his own blood from the gash on his cheek. There was a sound of leather squeaking as he clenched his gloves with a white knuckle grip, before he let out a breath from his nose and walked forward, his head down as he moved to take his place at his father’s side. 

“And what of me, father?” Kermit asked, his brother’s chair dragging across the ground as he sat down.  

There was a glimmer of pride in his father’s eye as he watched Oscar scoot his chair forward, making himself as comfortable as he could, though Kermit could compare him to a wooden plank; stiff as he adjusted his cloak underneath him. His father turned to look at him after flashing a smile to his brother, chin lifting as he spoke, “Oh, check on your sister, will you? I haven’t seen her yet today.” 

Kermit gave a small nod, visibly disappointed at the request. 

 · · ─────── ·𖥸· ─────── · ·

She found the castle had been quiet in the days that followed the feast -- much quieter than she was used to. In the aftermath, her father and Kermit were much gentler than normal with her, careful as though they feared she would jump and run if they spoke too loudly. She felt like a child they were coddling and the whole situation was humiliating, feeling as though she was six years old again, clinging to her mother and crying because some boy was mean to her. 

In some ways, she was grateful for it however. 

They gave her more space than they had before and didn’t interrupt her as often; instead, they hung back from a distance and occasionally walked by her rooms, to glance in and make sure she was okay but would leave without saying anything. On the odd occasion she caught them staring, they would offer small smiles and nod, before carrying on. It gave her an opportunity to breathe, ground herself and reel from the events of the feast -- she could almost pretend that it hadn’t even happened and convince herself, this was not her life and was just some nightmare. 

Once she had moved past the feast and its chaos, she was faced with a new challenge. 

She watched from the treeline as Benjicot trained, too engrossed in his spar with his cousin to pay her any mind as she kept her distance; Alistair posted a few paces behind her. Her hands remained preoccupied by the small purple flowers in her hands -- violets that she had managed to find at the edges of the property, plucking them with a childish excitement. She had turned from her knelt position on the ground, summoning Alistair forward and insisting he hold them as she picked whatever his hands could hold. There had been a hint of apprehension, hesitating as he eyed her, before nodding and accepting the flowers, holding them in his left hand as she resumed her task of collecting them and rambled on about the knowledge she’d obtained over the years; familiar with herbs and plants and their medicinal use -- she had rambled on about a tea she could make with them when they returned. In the aftermath of the feast that had turned out disastrously, she found she actually enjoyed Alistair’s company and found comfort in his presence. He listened and was polite when he responded, and in the few words he offered, he provided her with wisdom. 

“Should we return to the library, my lady?” Alistair asked. She hummed inquisitively in response, eyes still transfixed on the boy Lord she was still working to figure out. “I can summon one of the kitchen workers to fix that tea for you.” He offered. 

She turned to look at him, offering a soft smile, “No, no. It’s quite alright, I can do it later. I’d like to stay out here a little while longer.” Serra replied, her gaze turning to look again towards the two young Blackwood men. “I…have something I have to do, actually.” 

“Might I be able to help somehow?” He offered. 

She shook her head, but paused, “Could you actually take these inside? I’d like to invite Lord Blackwood for a walk and then I will be in.” She explained, turning to him and once again scooping half of the flowers into his hands, her gaze down and avoiding his eyes. There was a moment of silence that passed between them before he spoke again. 

“Would you like me to summon him for you?” Alistair pressed again, her eyes finally coming up to make out the skepticism in his features, a look of concern in his eyes. 

She smiled again, “No, I…feel this is something I should do.” She replied, voice soft as she withdrew, keeping a few of the flowers for herself. 

Even through her reassurance, she could still see his concern, reluctant to nod and leave her to the task. Though he gave her a nod and passed her, walking towards the house and leaving her in the spot near the trees some feet away from where Benjicot’s cousin let out a yelp as he fell back into the dirt with a thud. Emrys was quicker to shoot up, rolling onto his side and reaching for his sword that had slipped from his hand in the tumble, just as Benjicot kicked it further from his grasp. She slowly approached, the small flowers in her hands as she stroked the petals between her thumb and forefinger, Emrys’ gaze finding her first as she neared the edge of the circle. 

Emrys looked relieved as he panted out a soft greeting and began to scramble to his feet, “My lady.” 

Benjicot turned towards where his cousin’s attention was placed, finding his betrothed standing before him and offering the smallest of smiles. The two men issued a bow, breathing heavily and flushed in the face as the heir wiped sweat from his bow, “Lady Tully.” He greeted, mouth ajar. 

“My apologies for interrupting.” She softly said, glancing between the two men. She paused, her gaze dropping briefly to the flowers in her hands, looking then to Emrys, “Hopefully he’s not been too hard on you today.” She remarked, her tone hinting a stiff attempt at teasing the Blackwood cousin. 

Emrys barked a laugh, brushing dirt from his doublet, “Hardly. I’m starting to think he’s deliberately trying to maim me.” He commented, shooting a look to his cousin who let out a quiet snort, the closest thing to a laugh that Serra had witnessed yet since her arrival. “In the event I die, he would no longer have any more competition in vying for your eye then, isn’t that right?” He flirted, smug as he leaned to shove Ben with his shoulder. 

The action hardly caused Benjicot’s feet to move beyond his right foot dragging against the dirt in a half-stumble, the two boys jokingly shoving each other and wrestling for a moment. Serra watched as Benjicot quickly slung an arm around his cousin’s neck in the scuffle, laughter ensuing as he muttered something incoherent at him that resembled a warning of ‘watch it’. “Okay, okay-- easy!” Emrys cried out, laughing and shoving him away. 

They settled down, straightening themselves out before they both looked at Serra once again, the smile she wore both shy and hinting her amusement at their antics, finding the interaction rather endearing. “I also mean to bring gifts for you both.” She said, finally stepping into the circle and approaching them. She witnessed the look the two men shared, Emrys’ interest piqued and smiling at her as she walked first to him and offered the small purple flower to him, bowing to her as he gently accepted the flower; bringing it towards his chest. 

“Thank you, Lady Tully.”

She sweetly smiled at him, before her gaze reluctantly found Benjicot’s as he watched the interaction before him, though his expression was one that she found unreadable, his lips parted and eyebrows raised. She hesitated, slow in stepping towards him and offering the last flower to him, placed in her palm and waiting for him. 

Benjicot glanced up at her face from the flower. He had never really understood women’s fixation with flowers, even as a boy, as pretty as they were -- he never viewed them as anything more than decorative things that adorned banners, armor and were a nuisance in the yards of Raventree. They were hardly a gift, but he moved to place his sword underneath his arm, pinned against his side and holding it as he reached out to carefully pluck the flower from her palm with his fingers, forcing a tight smile while holding it up briefly, “Thank you.” 

He watched as she offered a sweet, giddy smile and stepped back, her face lit up with joy as he accepted the flower, “You’re welcome.” Her hands clasped together in front of her, her eyes darting to Emrys who hardly made an attempt at concealing the wolfish grin he gave his older cousin at the sight. She looked back up at Benjicot, his own gaze lingering on his cousin and shooting him a glare of warning, “I understand you are probably busy, but I was wondering if you would care to take a walk around the grounds? Whenever you’re done here, of course.” She hurriedly spoke, her own look shooting to his cousin as if to ask if it was okay, not wanting to intrude more than she already did. 

“I think that would be lovely.” Emrys quickly replied. “We were actually just wrapping up.” 

Benjicot wanted to turn and slap him by the back of his head in that moment, eyes fixing on him again as if to question what the fuck he was doing-- 

“Are you sure?” She asked. 

However, he suppressed the urge to argue and deny her hopeful stare, sighing softly, “Of course. Let me just bring my sword back inside and we can go.” Benjicot grumbled, his annoyance boiling under the surface of his words. 

Her mouth opened to respond, but she was cut short before she could even utter a word as he turned on his heel and stalked away from her. She blinked, shrinking back once again as Emrys watched her deflate, watching after his cousin, “So moody-- I promise he isn’t always like this.” Emrys whispered, trying to make light of the situation, reaching out to touch her shoulder, “I’m sorry.” He quickly said, running after him. 

Her eyes met Kemit’s from the doorway as she watched Emrys run inside, his expression stoic and plain as she forced a polite smile before he turned and walked in the opposite direction as the two men before him. 

     · · ─────── ·𖥸· ─────── · ·

She could still sense his anger when he returned to the yard. 

The pair were silent as they walked, her watchful gaze fixed on observing the outer parts of Raventree — tall, sturdy, and appearing just as powerful as its men. Although her feelings towards the man to her right were that of indifference, she struggled to comprehend or make sense of his own attitude towards her, as she had hardly ever done anything to him aside from existing in his presence and that, even as children, had enraged him to such a point that at times she could not deny Benjicot was nothing less than what his houses’ reputation stood for. He embodied that very idea. Loyal but brutes. He did not seem to outgrow that as adults as even now, he didn’t seem to care for her and just seemed to search for any opportunity to humiliate her. Unlike when they were children, it came in forms of snide remarks and innuendos dismissing her as nothing more than some…object to one day warm his bed, or a nuisance — if not, even worse, it felt as though he treated like some sworn enemy to the likeness of a Bracken at times. 

Even though his father could sometimes scare him back into line, it only came in brief moments before he seemed to fall back into his habits. And his father couldn’t follow them and play mediator at all hours of the day. How did they plan to enter a marriage and live under those conditions? In which he despised her and she was nothing more than some doll to take his anger out on? To one day show her some warmth, only to come back with rage and lashing out at her. 

She almost preferred his childhood antics and would have rather he’d shove her into mud and call it a day. The thought of a lifetime spent living this way felt unbearable, the realization weighing heavy on her chest, almost as though she was being both physically and figuratively crushed by the very idea as her gaze anxiously darted to the side of his face from the corner of her eye; taking in the sight of him, so nonchalant and blissfully unaware. Unfazed. Her eyes darted back straight ahead as her clasped hands released themselves, smoothing over the fabric of her dress to wipe the sweat from her fingers, hands shaking slightly as she then clenched them, her breathing deep and heavy with each sharp inhale and exhale of air; even her breath shuddered as she attempted to ground herself, trying to force air into her lungs which felt as though they, too, were being crushed— 

“You’re breathing quite loudly.” Benjicot suddenly said, having been unaware that she had managed to walk ahead of him by a few paces while in thought, her hands once again going to smooth over her bodice as she abruptly stopped. 

She was quiet in response to his statement, too frightened to turn and face him immediately, like a scared child who was fearful of getting in trouble for something they had done — scared that if she showed even the slightest hint of weakness, he would pounce like a predator does their prey. But there was no hiding the fear in her eyes as she slowly turned towards him, one hand at her stomach and gripping the fabric there as if it would somehow steady her shaking hand and hide it in plain sight from him, her eyes meeting his. Though she could only bear to hold his stare for a moment before it dropped to the chest of his doublet, sucking in a deep breath, Benjicot’s eyes narrowing with a furrow of his brows. 

“What…” he began to say, pausing and taking a step toward her, “pray tell, is the matter with you now?” He sighed as he spoke, shoulders slumping with the words and a roll of eyes. 

If she had had even the smallest bit of boldness that existed within her and coursed through her veins, his words could have enraged her — his tone, speaking to her like she was an unfortunate bastard child that burdened him by simply existing, maybe then she would have had just enough courage in her so that she might have been brave enough to shout, yell, even swing a punch at him— but she couldn’t. If she had been born a man, she may have been lucky to possess such bravery. Instead, she was frozen in place, swallowing and instead looking up towards a window of the castle that overlooked them to avoid his eyes as she felt him continue to stare at her. She realized in that very moment, realizing how trapped she truly was, that she would have rather jump from the very window she was standing underneath than be married and stuck with Benjicot the rest of her life. She heard him sigh again, though the sound felt muffled and distant — not like he was standing only half a foot away from her, the sound of her heartbeat pounding so loudly she could barely hear over it.   

“My Lady?” 

She subconsciously had stepped towards the house, her breathing still rapid as she closed her eyes, a cool breeze flowing through the court that blew a few loose strands of hair into her face and across her cheeks. She was snapped, however, from her daze by the feeling of his hand closing around her elbow, eyes shooting open and immediately moving to withdraw from his hold as she leaned away; shrinking back with her mouth open to protest, his eyes on her face — for the first time since her arrival, though, she couldn’t find any trace of disgust in his features as he scanned her appearance. His grip tightened as she tried to withdraw again, tugging against his hand but to no avail. 

“Easy— just… just wait.” He commanded, his eyes darting over his shoulder as though he was looking for someone or something and scanning their surroundings before he quickly looked back at her. His other hand mirrored his right, grabbing her other arm just above her elbow and holding her in place as the sinking feeling of panic set in, her eyes widening and gasping for air as she used her entire weight to try and force herself backwards and out of his hold. Even with all her strength, she was unsuccessful beyond more than a stumbled step forward, only bringing him closer, bringing them chest to chest, “Serra, please— stop.” 

“What are you doing?” She suddenly cried out, voice small as her arms attempted to flail free from his restraint. She looked up at him, a look she couldn’t quite place flashing across his features — hurt, disgust? She gasped inwards, leaning back. 

He suddenly released an arm, stepping back from her and scanning her face, the furrow in his brow remaining, “Do you really think I’d deliberately seek to hurt a woman?” He asked, voice quiet but not hiding his offense, though he knew it was hypocritical. He wasn’t always kind, he was aware of that. 

He hardly allowed her a moment to process his words before his hand around her second elbow loosened and he blinked rapidly a couple of times with a glance towards his feet. He looked up a moment later, his hand dropping and cautiously taking hers, the move slow as his hand covered hers and watching her face as though he was searching for any sign to stop; any further protest — her own eyes still watched in complete and utter fear, confusion on her face, “Just…trust me for a moment. Watch.” He pleaded, voice quiet and desperate as his gaze dropped briefly to her chest, still heaving with the breathless pants that left her mouth before returning to her face. 

His hand was gentle over hers as it lead hers from her side; unfolding her fist and spreading her fingers as it was outstretched towards him, only feeling a small bit of resistance as her hand was guided inwards towards his body — he caught her eyes, that looked between her hand and his face, “Easy...” He repeated, his voice softer than before. Her body was still rigid and her skepticism still evident, but even Benjicot could not blame her for being so unwilling to trust him. What reason had he given her to do so thus far? He’d been nothing short of cruel to her in their childhood and had been so selfishly engrossed in his own fury that he hadn’t even pieced it together that she was as equally innocent in this scenario as he was. It seemed to dawn on him, looking at her face, the pieces falling into place. 

He pressed her hand to his chest, the heat of her fingers felt through his clothing as he pressed it flat, her palm pressed against his sternum over his heart; the steady thrum of his heartbeat felt underneath the layers with his chest rising and falling with steady, regular breaths, “do you feel that?” He quietly asked, her gaze still flipping between her hand and his own eyes before settling there, watching him. “Feel my heart? My breath?” He asked. 

He didn’t expect much of an answer, but her gaze dropped to her hand which seemed to relax under his, which was enough of a reply, “Just feel…breathe.” He quietly instructed. “Follow my breathing, in…out...in…” he guided, giving her a few moments and watching as the tension seemed to slide from her shoulders like a piece of clothing. 

The image of her fear-stricken face was still burned into his mind as he watched her relax — the memory invoking a flurry of guilt and shame to wash over him. He knew he could be cruel at times, but he’d never intended to be the source for her terror; hells, he’d never even realized just how much his actions had affected her. Looking at her in that moment, he’d come to remember she was just as much a pawn to the games of politics as he’d been — if not, more innocent than anyone. She hadn’t wanted this anymore than he had but she didn’t have any choice in the matter, just as he hadn’t. But he was prideful and had to swallow down the urge to say anything more about it, standing there silently as his gaze scanned her face. 

He pitied her, truly pitied her. 

“Your heart is beating faster.” She quietly pointed out, her eyes looking upwards from where her hand was placed, Benjicot having not even realized he was still staring at her as he’d pondered his anger these past days. A sudden rush of heat flooded his cheeks. His mouth opened as if he wanted to say something -- the urge to spit out some sarcastic quip readily on his lips, but his words were halted by the sound of Ser Eryn’s voice as he approached them. 

“My lord.” 

Benjicot stepped back immediately, almost jumping and dropping his hand from her wrist as she simultaneously withdrew her hand from his chest; both their heads whipping towards the guard, “I apologize for my intrusion…but your father has summoned you.” Ser Eryn explained, his gaze fixed explicitly on the young man. 

Benjicot found his voice finally, nodding as he swallowed, looking down at the ground beneath his feet and then glancing towards Serra, her hands at her sides as she briefly returned his glance -- they both then looked back at Ser Eryn, “Very well. Thank you.” He simply replied. 

The guard nodded, turning with a clank of his armor before striding away, but not before he shot a last look in the direction of the young woman who was still standing timidly a few inches shy of the heir, wordlessly. Benjicot waited until he was out of earshot before he looked back at her, his hands going to clasp behind his back, “We should make our way back now, my lady. Shall we?” He spoke, his voice regaining its prior confidence, head tilting to gesture her along -- she nodded, a meek gesture in reply as she tentatively took a few steps to come back up to his side as he then began to lead them back down the path that circled the estate. 

The walk back was just as quiet as the one there, both keeping their eyes straight ahead. Serra wasn’t sure she had accomplished what she had set out to do when they first left — not sure she felt she understood him better or felt they had bridged their feud; she wasn’t even sure she could say she knew him better. But she was at least reminded that he was still human, under the brutish behavior, that he did possess the ability to be gentle and kind, if that’s even what she could call it. Occasionally, her gaze would wander towards him and even though he seemed set on avoiding catching her eye again, she still took the brief opportunity to observe him as she tried to figure him out again for the hundredth time that week. She noted the lines at the corners of his eyes that crinkled when he scowled and she could assume they were prominent when he smiled, too. From this angle, as the sinking sun caught his eye, she could make out that his eyes were almost green — maybe even hazel? Regardless, in this lighting he did not appear as intimidating or even menacing as she had previously thought him to be. Nothing more than a boy, she realized. 

The main doors were opened by guards as they approached, creaking open so loudly the sound echoed throughout the halls; Benjicot walking ahead of her and letting out a puff of air as he began to approach the familiar doors where the council and his father were awaiting him, though he paused. He visibly hesitated in turning to her, the same pensive look on her face as they stared at one another a moment before he took a step toward her, “I apologize for having to cut our meeting short. I will see you at supper, yes?” He questioned, reaching out to grab her hand and bringing it to his mouth to press a kiss to her knuckles. Her eyes briefly dropped to his mouth, noting the scar above his lip before returning to his eyes and nodding. 

“Yes, of course.” 

Benjicot straightened up and nodded, letting her hand go in order to turn and make his way into the hall where Serra briefly caught a glimpse of her father sitting at the table, along with Samwell and other council members as the doors opened. Though a silence settled over them as Benjicot entered and sat down, her father and Samwell both casting looks in her direction as their quiet discussion ceased at the doors being held open. It was then that her attention was drawn to the sound of her elder brother coming down the stairs quite quickly, one hand at his sword just as she and Benjicot parted; his gaze following his friend before looking at her. Kermit appeared to slow as he approached the bottom two stairs, pausing and sharing a silent exchange with his sister, his shoulders visibly relaxing. 

“Sister.” He suddenly said, breaking the silence and nodding at her before rushing into the room behind the young Blackwood who had entered moments earlier. The doors were closed behind him, leaving her standing in the hall, more at ease than she had been the past several days. 

    · · ─────── ·𖥸· ─────── · ·

A soft knock echoed through the room as Benjicot stood in front of the window, straightening the neck of his cloak, shoulders rolling as he assumed it was a reminder to hurry from one of the guards, “Come.” He called out, growing frustrated as the fabric would not sit right against his throat no matter how much fidgeting with it that he did. He felt as though he was being choked and deprived of air as he sucked in a sharp breath. 

He heard as the door opened and footsteps shuffled against the ground, entering the room and closing the door, “I will be down shortly.” He replied, giving the clothing one last tug and beginning to fix his sleeves, however his companion was silent. He turned, sensing that it wasn’t a guard afterall, and finding Kermit stood behind him with a look of contemplation, his eyes moving to scan his appearance. His eyebrows furrowed. They quietly stared at each other for a moment that left Benjicot almost uncomfortable. 

“I look ridiculous, don’t I?” Benjicot asked suddenly. 

Kermit forced a smile, “You always do, don’t worry.” He said, the attempt at a playful tone painfully forced and not unnoticed by Ben. His gaze dropped again, fixed on the Blackwood sigil across his chest, mouth opening to speak again, “I don’t want to be the overbearing brother who nags you with the same warnings your father already has, I know there is only so much I can say that has not already been said a hundred times...” He said, his voice soft and looking up to his eyes again. 

Benjicot did not attempt to interrupt him with a reply, settling on listening intently. 

“She’s a kind girl.” Kermit stated, matter of factly and more confident as he stood upright. “Kinder than most. She feels so much, so deeply, and she cares too much for her own good sometimes. But she is good…more so than anyone I have ever met. She possesses both intellect and wit, and despite the chaos of the men around her-- she remains such a gentle, good-hearted spirit who keeps us grounded. She is terrible with a needle and thread, but she knows how to soothe and mend the worst of wounds-- I used to go right to her whenever you kicked my ass when we would train as boys. And I know one day she will be equally as kind a mother as she will be a wife, just as our mother was.” He continued to speak, stepping closer to his friend who held his gaze. 

“I’d like to think we’ve always been good friends,” He said. “I even consider us to have become like brothers.” Benjicot’s expression softened, his shoulders relaxing, “I do too.” 

“Then please treat her with kindness.” He pleaded suddenly, stepping forward one last step until he was mere inches from him. “Treat her with decency and be good to her. I have never trusted anybody else with her as I do you. I know you are a good and generous man, Benjicot, and I know somewhere inside you, you still possess the kindness and warmth my sister needs. I ask…” He spoke, pausing to catch his breath. 

He reached out to place a hand on Benjicot’s shoulder, “I ask that you be a better man than your father was to you. Because otherwise she will not survive this marriage if you cannot, and I cannot bear to imagine a life without her, knowing I was the cause for my own sister’s demise. She does not deserve that.” He explained, his voice thick with emotion as Ben watched his friend nod as if to silently ask that he understood after a moment. 

He reluctantly nodded after a few seconds that felt like hours. 

They did not part immediately, staring at each other in the silent space of Ben’s chambers, the weight of his pleas lingering over them. Kermit gave a final nod whilst clapping his friend’s shoulder and sniffling once before he stepped back and folded his hands behind him, “I’ll leave you to finish getting ready, then.” He quietly said. 

Kermit was slow in retreating from the room, leaving him to his thoughts, his words heavy on his chest like the boot of his opponent in battle; the ache there deep and raw as his hand instinctively rose to massage his chest over his heart with his knuckles, as if to rub away the anxiety their conversation left him. He turned on his heel and faced the desk that was shoved against the wall, stacked with books — and there, among all the strewn papers and ink stains, sat a small purple flower against the brown leather of a history textbook he had skimmed through days prior. 

He reached out for it with the hand that had touched his chest, careful in picking up the delicate violet that had been plucked from the yards of Raventree and eyeing it under the little light that the sun cast in through his window. 

“Because otherwise she will not survive this marriage if you cannot.” 

His mouth twitched, sighing as he lifted the flower across his chest and gently tucked it into the pin of his House that rested over his left shoulder as he turned to leave towards the door. His guard stood to attention, stiff and proper as he bowed his head while he was still preoccupied by the task of adjusting the flower against the fabric as he stepped into the hall, Ser Eryn’s eyes drawn to the plant that was neatly placed among the uniform. Benjicot exhaled, cheeks ballooning with air as his eyebrows rose briefly at the guard, his head tilting in the direction of the stairs, “Shall we?” 

The young Lord Blackwood led them throughout the halls of the keep, the sun beginning to set with the end of the day as evening enveloped the riverlands in darkness; the walls lined by lit torches that provided an orange glow despite the hour. He was given the odd bow of head as he passed workers House Blackwood employed, mutters of ‘my lord’ following him as he descended the stairs to the entrance. The doors to the great hall were already opened and readily greeted him as Ser Eryn followed close behind, relieved to find that the only commotion from the room was the sound of joyous laughter and the light hum of conversation filling the hall as he entered. 

His father had spared no expense with the extravagant display, the room lined with yellow and red decorations, the finest of silverware adorning the table as guests lined both sides of the table. 

He anxiously fidgeted with the cuffs of his doublet as he approached the head of the table, where his father and Serra’s family sat, waiting for his arrival. His father’s gaze eyed him from over his chalice, taking a sip as Benjicot found his place at a seat next to Serra, snug between her and Samwell. 

“--your men should reach the borders within the hour.” Elmo said in a hushed voice, leaning towards Samwell, attempting not to bring attention to the conversation. “They should meet the camp as soon as they get there.” 

Benjicot frowned as he pulled his chair forward, “What?” 

“Nothing.” Samwell quickly replied, setting his drink down and scanning his son’s appearance. “You look well-rested.” He said. Ben sensed his struggle to utter the words, not used to extending compliments. 

“Thank you.” He quietly replied. 

He could feel his eyes linger, following his father’s eyes to the flower on his left shoulder, “You’ve added some personal touches to your uniform.”

“It’s from the yards.” He answered, reaching for the wine pitcher from the table and bringing it towards his cup, pouring himself a drink. 

In the corner of his eye, he could make out the sight of movement as Serra had turned, mid-conversation with who he soon figured out was Oscar when he turned to look over at her whilst setting down the jug. Her gaze was fixed on the flower that was tucked in as part of his pin, delicate and perfect there, her lips parting but not saying anything. 

“It’s a nice touch,” Samwell said. “I like it.”

Serra looked up at him, a blush creeping across her face as she flashed a small smile, shy and genuine as she then looked down to her lap. He tore his gaze from her and looked once again at his father who rose an eyebrow at him.

“Yeah, it’s nice.” Benjicot mumbled, lifting his cup to his mouth.

masterlist | backward

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[mxauthor]

Beginning of More

Summary: Two best friends in a dungeon. They might kiss.

Word Count: 2,236

Warnings: fluff, secret mutual pining, brief mention of dead husband, mention of kids, Chilchuck and Reader being besties, sneak peak into matchmaker Marcille

A/N: I was thinking of making this into a little mini series or adding the other parts to this draft when I have them. Let me know what you think and enjoy! Edited and Proofread

Y/n and Chilchuck have been best friends since forever.  

Having grown up in the same village, the two of them spent most of their time together while they were young. Moreover as they grew older, so did their friendship; they had been the best man/maid of honor at each other's wedding, first ones there after the birth of their children and became the god parents to said children. They moved away from home and started the half-foot union together and began adventuring. It was very unusual for adventuring parties to get one without the other.

The two were thick as thieves. Always there for each other. 

So when Chilchuck had been introduced to Laios’ forming party, it was no surprise when Y/n also signed a contract with them as well. Starting together and ending together, that is the way both half-foots worked. Always going where the other leads. 

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

Marcille’s favorite genre of books are romance. Where a princess gets swept off her feet by a prince and they fall madly in love. Or when two people are forced to go on an adventure together only to realize that they began to fall in love during the journey. She couldn’t get enough of them, which had caused her to strongly lightly project onto others, specifically the two half-foot party members that seem to be insanely close with one another. 

It wasn’t hard to see the natural pull the two of them had with each other, or the instinct of making sure that one is safe after a battle with a monster within the dungeon. Marcille would catch glimpses of the two of them leaving when it came to getting water or heading off to the bathroom. Just always making sure the other is safe. 

She knew they were friends beforehand, it wasn't hard to keep track of the infamous half-foot duo despite her not being the most well kept with rumors. She knew that they have history before forming the party. So as she watches them now, after deciding to go and rescue Falin, she knew it was much deeper than just friendship. 

Marcille’s main focus is rescuing Falin; but if she said getting the two together wasn’t a separate focus on its own, then she’d be lying to herself. 

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

Chilchuck sat irritably on his bed roll, gaze locked onto the door for night watch. After spotting the mimic in the room over he knew something was going to happen. Mimics have never brought them luck before and it sure as hell wasn’t going to bring them luck now. 

With an irritated huff, Chilchuck felt his stomach growl with hunger. “My stomach’s gone soft on me. I used to go two days without eating.” He reached for his water skin only to find it empty. Chilchuck huffed to himself, before instinctively reaching for Y/n’s water skin, knowing she wouldn’t mind. He lifted it up to drink but only a few drops came out, “We need more water.”

He rose to his feet with the water skins in hand. He turned towards Y/n, calling out her name. She groaned lightly, only shifting in the direction of his voice, Chilchuck huffed before reaching over and shaking her. Y/n groaned at the forced movement of her body. She turned her head, inhaling and exhaling deeply before speaking, “What is it hun’?” 

Her words came out muffled and they were laced with sleep but it still rang loud and clear in Chilchuck’s ears. The softness of her voice and the endearing name was enough to make his face blush red. He’s heard her call her late husband that or her kids or even his kids, but never has it been directed towards him and not once did he feel like it needed to be, but his heart still fluttered; his face still flushed. Chilchuck stumbled over his words, “I-I’m going to get some more water.” It was only a simple sentence and yet it was still hard to get out, her half lid eyes seemed to be drawing him in. Almost like she wanted him to stay. 

“Want me to come?” Y/n asked, lifting herself onto her elbows. Sleep clinging to her eyes. Chilchuck watched as she tried to fight it, but it looked like she was going to lose. 

“Nah, I’ll be alright. It’s only in the next room.” He reassured her, he stood to complete his task. As he lifted himself, Chilchuck gently nudged her head with his hand, giving the indication for her to lay back down, “I’ll be back. Go to sleep.” 

“Yell if you need, I’ll hear.” She replied, before allowing his nudge to force her to lay back down. Chilchuck watched as her breathing went even. He stepped out of the room, a single thought on his mind. 

“She looked really pretty.” 

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

“Golly!” 

Y/n shot up from her bed roll; the sound of a voice waking her from her sleep. She scanned the room only to find Chilchuck still gone. Panic swelled, causing Y/n to quickly make her way towards the door. In her haste, she disturbed Marcille causing her to wake. Marcille only had a moment to watch Y/n swing open the door to their makeshift room and take down the hall. The elven woman then looked around the room and noticed the missing Chilchuck. She quickly sprung up from her bed roll and woke up Laios to come and help. Y/n heard the loud thump of a box hitting the ground behind her. She spun on her feet and saw the previously opened room was locked with bars. She rushed to the door trying to find a way to unlock it from the outside, standing in front of the bars Y/n saw as Chilchuck pressed the last brick before the gate opened itself. 

In his panic, Chilchuck didn’t register that Y/n was standing right in front of him nor did he slow his pace when he ran straight for her. Before Chilchuck could fully collide with Y/n, she quickly pulled the man into her once he was within reach, providing him a wider gap between the mimic and himself. Y/n watched as the metal bars slammed down onto the mimic's body, killing it. Y/n held tightly to the panting Chilchuck, just relieved that he was okay. She pulled back to assess him of any major damage, only to see the slight gash on his cheek. 

“I told you to yell if you needed help.” she rushed out in false anger, seeing his new scar.

“I had it under control.” Chilchuck laughed, knowing if he was patient enough, Y/n would’ve come running. Y/n smiled warmly even her false anger dispelled, she knew that he would figure out a trap like that in no time. 

The door to the room opened to reveal a sleepy Laios being dragged out by Marcille, her panicked expression matching the one Y/n had on seconds before, “I saw her run out like something was wrong! And Chilchuck isn’t in the room! He must be in trouble!” The small group looked over and saw the two half-foots conversing, Y/n taking off the pouch on her leg to reveal a couple of needles and thread, Chilchuck following suit.

Laios and Senshi stared at the dead mimic on the ground. “Whoa! You bagged a mimic! Nice going!” 

Chilchuck groaned, sitting back as Marcille gave him a once over with her healing magic. “Thank you.” 

Y/n shook her head in disbelief before assessing his green neck warmer. Seeing how much she can sew right now, before having to add more fabric to it. “I can sew most of it, but I’ll have to add some of the spare fabric I have.” 

“Thanks, you’re a lifesaver.” Chilchuck commented, happy he could keep it for one more day. Seeing his happy smile caused Y/n to share a smile of her own, his relaxed nature making her heart flutter. Knowing he was only this level of relaxed with the two of them, their small bubble yet to pop even with the rest of the party around them. Even with the small trickle of blood on his face, Y/n couldn’t stop the thought that passed through her head. 

“He looks so pretty.”

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

Marcille silently observed the interaction between the two half-feet. She always had a leading suspicion that they held some sort of feelings for each other, but seeing the way they’re acting almost like it was only the two of them within the dungeon, Marcille knew it wasn't her imagination. 

She could see that the two of them held the other close to their hearts, but seeing how close would be the fun part. 

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

Y/n watched as everyone settled around, ready to eat the dinner provided for them. She was a couple stitches away before Chilchuck’s neck warmer was finished. Which was about the time everyone's portions began to be served. Chilchuck sat next to her, holding the other end of the neck warmer so she could sew it more easily. 

Marcille continued to munch on her piece of the mimic before turning towards the duo, questioning them. “If you knew the mimic was in there, why didn’t you tell us?” 

“Because I’ve had nothing but bad experiences with them. The last thing I wanted to do is deal with another one.” Chilchuck grumbled. He flicked his gaze towards Y/n only to see she had finished mending the fabric and was folding it up to place it next to his pillow. “Anyways, I made a lot of bad decisions.” 

Y/n hummed in agreement, eating a piece of mimic as Chilchuck continued to talk. “The first was panicking thinking the mimic would eat the treasure insect.” 

“But mimics don’t eat treasure insects. Treasure insects eat mimics.” Laios announced. His small explanation going over the irritated Chilchuck’s and the amused Y/n’s head. Chilchuck grumbled as Marcille tried to pat his head, only for Y/n to slap her hand away. 

“You know he doesn’t like to be coddled.” She said simply. “It makes him feel like a kid.” She finished her plate of food and placed it down for it to be washed later. Marcille ignored her  words and turned her attention towards Chilchuck. 

“Tell me how old you are and I’ll never do it again.” Marcille compromised, “what happened to you today only happened because you wanted to be so secretive. Now come on and tell me how old you are.” 

“Fine.” He grumbled. Hoping she’ll keep her word. Marcille’s eyes sparkled, before turning towards Y/n. Her face held an expecting look, almost like she was waiting for her to share the same details.

“What? You never asked my age. I would’ve told you if you just asked.” Y/n answers simply. It was true. She never hid anything about herself, like Chilchuck did. Just no one was interested enough to ask, or they didn’t think to ask since Chilchuck always refused to share anything and everyone always assumed that she was the same way. 

“I’m turning 29 this year.” Chilchuck grumbled out, seeing Marcille’s eyes land on him expectantly. 

She groaned at the information, expecting to hear an age older than the one she got. “Man you’re just a kid after all.” 

“I thought you were way older than that.” Senshi said. Y/n laughed at their reactions, knowing that other races don’t fully understand half-feet life expectancy. Especially races with longer lives. 

Marcille watched Y/n chuckle at the scene in front of her, before lighting up, “What about you Y/n? How old are you?” Marcille asked. Excited that she’ll get the answers to some of her questions. 

“Me? I’m 30.” Y/n answered casually. Watching Marcille’s excitement withered slightly. 

“Really? You guys are so young.” Marcille huffed, leaning back onto her hands looking at the ceiling. 

“Okay then! How old are you guys! All other races look like kids to you ‘races with long lives’!!” Chilchuck shouted. Y/n laughed at Chilchuck’s faux anger. Knowing he was more irritated than actually upset. 

“There, there, Chil, those lifers will never understand our day to day struggle.” Y/n joked, watching as Chilchuck fumed silently sitting down and crossing his arms. She thought that steam was going to pour out of his ears. “Come on guys, we should rest a little more before we start moving again. Especially since not everyone got a chance to sleep.” 

Marcille watched closely as Chilchuck’s body seemed to instantly relax once Y/n began patting his shoulder and how Y/n’s touch lingered for a second more before she moved and began reassembling her bed roll closer to the new circle the group had formed. 

The party grumbled in agreement before dimming down the fire and getting back into their bed rolls. Most fell back to sleep almost instantly. Y/n turned over, now face to face with Chilchuck. She reached out slightly and tapped his arm with her fist. Not enough to hurt, but enough to convey her displeasure with him, “Don’t go anywhere without me next time, got it?” 

“Yeah I got it.” Chilchuck replied, tapping her arm in return. They two adults shared a smile before dozing off. Resting until they woke up naturally to continue moving down.

[a-d-nox]

Hii, can you tell what idea does our Vertex Persona chart in general ??

what's a vertex persona? what can a vertex persona chart show you?

your vertex chart can show you what in your life is destined/fated to occur - all of us are here for a reason and it is our soul that has determined why it wished to be here in the first place and thus what these fated occurrences/reasons are / will be. it's a bit final destination -esque but there is no avoiding these things in this lifetime as they are the lessons your soul wanted to learn/experience most.

sun

ego shift you are meant to have / how you are put in you place or get out of the box you were placed in in previous lives, how your identity is meant to change, the amount of attention you are meant to receive attention, the authority/power you are meant to have, how generous you are/should be or how selfish you should be, how aware are supposed to be, and/or what is meant to make you happy / bring you joy.

moon

the emotions you are meant to experience / focus on this life cycle, how emotionally responsive you will be, how you are meant to care for others / show you care, where you will feel most comfortable, how close you are supposed to be with your maternal figure, the connection you are meant to have with family, how your childhood was meant to be, your experience of making children, how you are meant to adapt / your capabilities in adapting to what happens to you in this lifetime, what habits you are meant to have, and/or how safe you feel in the world in this life cycle.

mercury

type of conversation you are meant to have, how you are meant to think, how your health is meant to be, what you are going to notice most often, type of local trips you are going round take, how you will travel, what you are meant to forget, mistakes you are going to make, gossip you are going to share and that will be said about you, and/or what you are meant to read.

venus

who you are fated to love / be attracted to, type of romances you are bound to have, how you will experience/view beauty, how sympathetic you are meant to be, what will bring you pleasure, your journey with self love this lifetime, what you are meant to share, what entertains you most, what you are meant to value most, and/or what you are fated to possess.

mars

what you will be passionate about, what you will desire most desire (in general), how confident you will feel, how ambitious you will be, your experience with sexual encounters, impulsive decisions you make that were meant to happen, tasks you will preform, what will motivate your soul to fulfill its tasks this lifetime, and/or violence you are fated to experience.

jupiter

where / what kind of luck you will have, where you are fated to live an abundant life, what type of wealth you will have this lifetime, fated success/opportunity you will have, where you will be most knowledgable and what type of knowledge you will have, wisdom you are meant to gain, where you are meant to travel (click save > add to "my astro" > edit the gender to male or female instead of event > then check your astroclick travel map for more definitive details/info as to where you are meant to travel and why), what comes to you with ease this lifetime, how blessed you are this lifetime, where you are destined to be optimistic, what you are meant to explore, what you will be most devoted to, how you are meant to grow, and/or where makes you feel fulfilled.

saturn

where you will work hardest, what you will have achieved by the end of your life, where you are meant to be challenged, where/what you are likely to struggle, how close you are supposed to be with your paternal figure, the work you are destined to do, what you are meant to fear in life, what is meant to delay you, limitations in your life, how disciplined you are going to be, what you are responsible for, where/what you will feel that you lack this life cycle, where you are fated to be practical/detached, what makes you feel trapped, effort you exert, where you will be most mature, and/or where you will be consistent.

uranus

friendships are fated to have, films that are meant to change your life, how you are meant to be unique, changes you are meant to experience, where you are independent from others, unexpected/surprise events that were plotted by universe and your soul, where life is meant to be chaotic, and/or the fans/followers you are meant to have.

neptune

kindness/compassion you will experience, creative ideas/pursuits you will have, how sensitive you will be and where you are going to be most sensitive, intuitiveness/intuition, the hidden, dreams, deception/lies you are meant to experience, confusions that lead to where you are meant to be, your spiritual journey this lifetime, inspired thoughts you are meant to have, how you will transcend after this lifecycle, and/or what is meant to be your fascination.

pluto

how you are meant to change, power you have, your sexual experiences this lifetime, endings that are meant to experience, how close you are meant to be with other, what is most intense in your life, what obsesses you, and/or manipulation you experience/preform.

1h

self exploration you are meant to do, how you will approach life this cycle in comparison to other cycles, how you will appear, how confident you will feel, new beginnings you explore this lifetime, and/or how your presence will effect others.

2h

how you treat your money this life cycle, short term jobs you are meant to have, how your work ethic differs this cycle, what material possessions you are meant to have, how much you value your self, what value this cycle, how stabile you feel to others, and/or what you are meant to give and/or receive from others.

3h

how you are meant to communicate with others, how you are meant to think, your perception of others, how strong your opinions are this lifetime, how aware of the world around you you are meant to be, what interests you are meant to have, gossip you are fated to hear and/or take part in, ideas/information you are meant to have, what you are meant to read, how you are meant to interact with social media, who you are meant to interact with socially, and/or short trips you are meant to take.

4h

where you are fated to feel at home/find home (click save > add to "my astro" > edit the gender to male or female instead of event > then check your astroclick travel map for more definitive details/info as to where you are meant to feel at home - make sure you check your 4h ruler's planetary line(s) and the moon), how your relationship with you family is meant to be, how you are fated to treat and manage your inner child, emotions you are meant to experience, how your childhood was meant to be, what you inherited from family genetically, how you maintain traditions, and/or how you are meant to treat yourself.

5h

child(ren) you meant have / be around, talents/hobbies you have, drama you were fated to experience, risks you were meant to take, moments you are meant to be the center of attention, short term romances you are fated to experience, what is meant to bring you pleasure/joy, and/or vacations you are meant to go on.

6h

routine you are meant to have, how your mental is meant to be, how what you do is effected by fate, how you are meant to be consistent, how you are meant to be innocent, and/or what you are meant to do for others.

7h

long term romances you are fated to experience, conflicts you are meant to experience, who you are meant to partner with, open enemies you are supposed to face, negotiations you meant to make, and/or who is your equal in this lifetime.

8h

major transformation / changes you are meant to undergo in this lifetime, deaths you experience, what you invest in, what you inherit in the material realm this life cycle, what seduces you in this lifetime, intimacy you experience, secrets you meant to know, mystery you are meant to uncover, and/or trauma your soul wanted to experience.

9h

wisdom your soul wanted to gain, beliefs/religion(s)/philosophies/ethics you were meet to adhere to, languages you were meant to speak, long trips you are meant to take, and/or what you were meant to learn.

10h

legacy you are meant to have / leave behind, career you are meant to be in, your fated reputation in this world / how you are meant to be known by others, what your long-term goals are, what responsibilities you are meant to have, how respected by others you are meant to be, and/or fated achievements in this life cycle.

11h

friends you are meant to have, what you are meant to gain, what desires you have coming into this lifetime, how you are unique when compared to old versions of your soul / how you soul wished to stand out in comparison to others around you, what you are meant to witness socially / via the media, influence you are meant to have, fated moments in society/the public, and/or who is meant to be your ally.

12h

healing you are meant to do, what you are meant to intentionally hide, fated karmic balancing moments, how old you are meant to get, what your mental health is meant to be like, fated dreams / precognitive dreams, who is meant to be your secret enemy, illusions/fears about life you are meant to have, endings you are meant to experience in this life cycle, life limiting beliefs your soul wished to experience, what your soul let's you subconsciously know, fated self-undoing, and/or how you are meant to deal with your past.

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[heartofbusan]

Finally.

As we hit the halfway point of AYS, I've been wondering about the overall story arc. What part of the story is the one that floats over the entire narrative? To me, it is also the story that is the most sensory one, the one thing about AYS that touches me and sets my mind off of these tangents.

I'll give you a clue:

It's them. Their interactions.

The way jikook as a pair kicked off this journey was a contentious one. We all remember the first episode and the talk they had. There are many reasons, from the editing to the self censoring jikook do in front of the camera that have led to #TheCarScene making the audience feel either uncomfortable or made them sit at the edge of their seat. Hanging off of every word (and translation). There is both a lot happening and not enough. But not many can say that scene left them unmoved. I like that! That means that the audience is engaged! It pulls us in. Especially those of us who love to observe human communication. Yet, now we long to move on from the discomfort that interaction sparked. We long for catharsis. To feel that the conversation they had isn't just hanging there balancing them on a precipice, but that it will be OK for them in the end.

Jungkook’s "Finally" went a long way to guide us to such a resolution, but to me, his relieved exclaim is just the beginning. This, to me, is what the entire show portends to be about.

How does that 'Finally' look like throughout the 8 episodes? How will we look back on that 'Finally' once we've seen them all?

Like I said, we're at the halfway point (already 😭), episode 4, and where is that on-screen relationship building towards? What kind of 'beats' does the story NEED to hit in order to come to a satisfying conclusion within the shows narrative? How does the show earn that 'Finally'?

Sure, Are You Sure is a 'travel-vlog-mukbang-buddy-cop-show', but it's also the story of two seemingly estranged best friends/lovers who've been incredibly busy and who've taken it upon themselves to carve out time to be at ease together. If we look at their busy schedules as being in the way of them being THEM, then the most important goal of AYS is to get them back to that state.

Are You Sure is jikook's safe heaven.

If we were to look at all episodes as a way to work towards that hypothetical goal (Jikook back on the same wavelength) then the story beats per episode look a little like this.

Ep. 1: Two friends embark on road-trip, they've missed eo and want to do fun things together. Lot's of eating.

Ep. 2: Even short term illness can't keep them from sightseeing and eating, more warming up together: spanking in bed edition

Ep. 3: Surprise guest! Cut the camera's: the duo take a pause on domesticity and play games as a trio.

Ep. 4: The duo is the core of the story, pick up where they left off: re-kindling. They make beautiful moments together.

Ep. 5: I expect another conversation about their desire to spend meaningful time together 'Deep talk phase 01'. New location?

Ep. 6: New location but treasured memories pop-up from their first Tokyo trip. What does the future for this duo look like (the military service talk?) aka 'Deep talk phase 02'.

Ep. 7: Level-up: fun snow time activities?!

Ep. 8: More deep talk, 'Phase 03' that cements this duo as utterly and completely besotted with eo. They either talk about their joint enlistment or about traveling after MS...maybe both.

How do you think the next episodes will play out if we think of each episode as building towards a satisfying conclusion?

[zepskies]

hi lovely!💗 first, I wanted to say that I hope this next year is filled with lots of love and light for you!!🫂 may all of 2025 be kind. 🫶🏽🙂‍↕️

you are for sure one of my favorite comfort blogs, besides how amazing your writing is you are so kind to everyone, your blog is filled with lovely interactions and it just feels like a big safe space <33 you have without a doubt helped me get through this trainwreck of a year lol :’)💕

for the asks, there are so many good onesss lol but i’ll only ask a few 😅 👉🏽👈🏽

1. describe your journey this year (in three words)

7. comfort character to create for

8. most challenging character to write

12. a concept you’d like to develop next year

13. a fic or artwork by another creator that made you happy

sidenote: I can’t wait to get home & read the final part of ATW :p have a wonderful day!!🤍🤍

Hello my lovely!! Same to you, friend! A lot of us have had a crappy 2024, me included, but you know what, we're here and we're getting through -- hopefully with a little kindness and support from our friends here. 💗

Wow, I'm honored to be one of your comfort blogs. 🥹🥹 I really appreciate you saying that mine feels like a "safe space" because that's exactly what I've tried to do. I'm truly grateful people who read my writing and interact with me on here. Like you, a lot of them have become mutuals and lovely friends. 💕

I talk to some people on here on a weekly basis now, and tbh those connections have not only fueled my creativity to keep writing, but have also just made me happier as a person. Or like you, they've gotten me through the hard times I've gone through this year. (I do reread comments and reblogs btw -- yours have never failed to make me smile. 🥰)

But yep, on to your EOY Asks before I just keep rambling on and throwing hearts at you. 💓💓💓

**Lots of fic recs/author recs below the cut!!

#1. describe your journey this year (in three words)

Oh God lol. Like I said, I've had a rough year personally. But in 3 words?

Exhausting. Painful. Creative.

I've been mentally, physically, emotionally exhausted for the better part of 9 months. I've been in physical pain and discomfort for much of that time and have had 2 surgical procedures, countless doctor visits, and too many life changes to list.

But through all of that, I feel like I've also done some of my most creative writing in 2023-2024 than ever before, including starting a Patreon, and dipping back into writing the fantasy romance novel I've been working on since grad school. Use the pain, I guess. 😅

#7. comfort character to create for

It's changed over the years depending on my fixations, but right now (and for the past 2 years), it's definitely Dean freakin' Winchester.

#8. most challenging character to write

Lmfao. Definitely this guy:

#12. a concept you’d like to develop next year

Oof, how much time you got? 🤣

I have a few WIPs that are already drafted and in the editing phases for next year -- including all of my remaining fics for @jacklesversebingo. (Jacklesverse Bingo24 Masterlist here!)

More specifically, I have plans to write sequel fics for the following series:

Break Me Down (Soldier Boy x Reader): Their son's first birthday, with a flashback to their wedding day.

Unravel Me (Soldier Boy x POC!Reader): The prequel series to Lost in Translation, in which Ben meets the reader (afro Latina).

Every Second Counts (Russell Shaw x Reader): Can Russell make good on his promise to "get out" and start his brewery? (AKA: his past comes knocking, and might just put the reader in danger. Diving deeper into the Shaw family history too.)

Take Me Home (Beau Arlen x Reader): @luci-in-trenchcoats put the idea of Beau and the reader from this series getting married into my head, and I feel like it would be a fun and somewhat angsty road to get there lol.

#13. a fic or artwork by another creator that made you happy

Again, how much time you got? 😂😂

I can rec so many of my mutuals and favorites here, so here's a few:

Dean Winchester

The Dangers of Hope (Endverse!Dean x reader) - @dean-winchester-is-a-warrior

Things Learned and Unlearned (Dean x reader)

Some Sunny Day series (Dean x OFC) - @talltalesandbedtimestories 💞

That’s How It Should Be (Sheriff!Dean x reader) - @rizlowwritessortof - and all of her Jackesverse bingo fics. 🤌🏽❤️‍🔥

NSFT Alphabet [Dean Winchester] - @chevroletdean

Feral (Alpha!Dean x reader) - @luci-in-trenchcoats

Wild Flower (Dean x reader) - @deanbrainrotwritings (so many rereads 🥵)

Remind Me (Alpha!Dean x Omega!reader) - @justagirlinafandomworld

Worthy (Dean x reader) - @thatonewriter15

Girls, Girls, Girls (Dean x OFC) - @spnbabe67 - plus so many of her other Dean x Tori fics.

Run Baby Run

I Just Died in Your Arms Tonight

Five Star (Dean x Indian POC!reader) - @artyandink

Taste (Alpha!Dean x Omega!reader) - @kittenofdoomage

A Simple Kinda Man (Dean x reader) - @impala-dreamer

I'll Be Home for Christmas (Dean x reader) - @wayward-dreamer

Sam Winchester

Samnesia - @princessmisery666

English Cottage-verse - @sam-is-my-safe-word

Soldier Boy

Power Play (Soldier Boy x reader) - @venus-haze

She’s Out To Please, She Pouts Her Best (Soldier Boy x reader) (So many rereads 🥵)

Take a Chance on Me (Soldier Boy x supe!reader) - @lamentationsofalonelypotato

If The Stars Wish It So (Soldier Boy x soulmate!reader)

Beau Arlen

The Change (Alpha!Beau Arlen x Omega!Reader)

The Change: Beau - Sequel from Beau’s POV.

Polaris (Beau Arlen x reader) - @waynes-multiverse

Taken for Granted (Beau Arlen x reader) - @pink-sparkly-witch

The Fix (Beau Arlen x reader) - @waywardxwords

Russel Shaw

Tuesday's Gone (Russell Shaw x reader) - @pamwritessometimes

He's My Man (Russell Shaw x reader) - @luci-in-trenchcoats

Waiting for the Real Thing (Russell Shaw x OC) - @rizlowwritessortof

Thank you again @wvffles for being such a lovely support and friend to me this year! (Aw I hope you enjoy Part 4 of ATW! 💕💕)

[oakdaddypreserveme]

halsin x briar

warnings: smut, vaginal fingering, p in v sex, daddy kink

i did not edit this

summary: briar gets hurt and halsin helps her

minors dni

another day of going through the wretched shadow cursed lands. though they had been fighting the undead that haunted the area for days, briar reckoned that she would never get used to them.

the latest scrap had left her with a scratch and more than a few bruises. it hurt more than she let on when shadowheart first enquired about her condition. this place was dangerous and briar couldn’t afford to let her weakness slip in front of her party. as their leader, they needed to see her as a pillar of strength and briar knew that shadowheart was out of spells for the day, just as she herself was.

so when the glow of their camp’s fire could be seen in the distance, briar was more than overjoyed. there she knew gale was waiting with a meal, and astarion was waiting to give her comfort.

and halsin was waiting to tend to her wounds.

ever since she’d freed him from the goblin camp, she had to admit that there was an undeniable chemistry between them. on their journey he’d mentored her about being a druid, especially as she was fairly new to being one before the tadpole got stuck in her brain. oftentimes they would walk through the forest as he showed her the bounty of the oakfather’s gifts. they meditated together in the stillness of the evenings.

when he guided her hand to feel nature around her it seemed that it lingered. when he encouraged her to close her eyes and take in the forest, she felt his breath on her neck. it was enough to make her ache.

but he’d made it clear that the shadowcurse was his priority when they’d celebrated with the tieflings. they’d had plenty of moments since then but briar was certain he wouldn’t act.

so when she walked into halsin’s tent, bruised and battered and in pain, it melted away immediately when their gazes met. for a moment it was as though they weren’t in the shadow cursed lands anymore. for a moment, it was just the two of them.

“you’re hurt,” he said after a pause. he stood up and approached her with a worried eyes and eyebrows knitted in concern.

“a scratch is all,” briar said noncommittally. “shadowheart and i don’t have spells left. could you spare any?”

“of course,” he said. “but this looks like more than a mere scratch, briar. what happened out there?”

she chewed her lip. “we were ambushed on the way out of the gauntlet of shar. shadows and undead. i transformed into a bear to get them all once we got over our surprise. it won’t happen again.”

briar didn’t tell him that she barely had the energy to shift in the first place. that she was exhausted. but he took one look at her and it was like he knew.

“these lands are treacherous, little one. you don’t have to take on the burden of navigating them alone.”

“i don’t—”

he shook his head. “i understand that you need to be strong in front of the others. they rely on you; you are their light in a near hopeless darkness. but i am not them. you don’t have to be strong around me.”

briar laughed humourlessly. “you would say that.”

halsin looked at her steadily. “at the grove the other druids looked to me for strength in the same way a pride of lions looks to their own leader. but i had no one who could be strong for me when i needed it most. at least, not until you saved me from the goblins. so i ask this of you: let me repay the favour.”

it took a moment to realise just how close he was. his soft breaths fanned across her face. his l skin radiated warmth upon her own. briar sucked in a shaky breath as he grabbed her hand. he still had such an effect on her.

“i’m exhausted,” she admitted in a small voice. “i could barely transform into a bear when it counted, and we only just managed to stave off the undead. gods, halsin, what would have happened to everyone here if i’d made a mistake? to thaniel and oliver?”

he pulled her into a hug and she felt safe in his strong arms. “let it out.”

briar didn’t realise she was trembling until he steadied her. she processed her emotions as best she could as halsin comforted her. she truly didn’t realise that she had been hanging on by a thread this whole time and all it took for her to come crumbling was his kind reassurance.

after a moment halsin released briar and she found that she immediately missed the way his arms felt around her. when he gestured her to sit on his bedroll, she complied.

briar sat and he rummaged around his belongings before finding some bandages and ointment. then he looked at her.

“now, where does it hurt?”

briar gestured to her mid section and there the archdruid rested his hand atop her armour before he looked at her. she nodded her consent and he lifted the top to reveal her midsection.

“silvanus’s tears, briar. this…”

her dark, freckled skin was littered with bruises, while scratches made a tapestry of her. she hissed he placed his hand on one of her many lesions.

“this will hurt but a moment, little one,” he said.

she nodded and gasped as he cast lay on hands. it stung, but eventually the feeling melted away and was replaced with a cool warmth. she found herself relaxing under his touch as she closed her eyes allowing the spell to tingle through her body.

“good girl,” he said softly. “that’s it.”

briar moaned softly at the praise, forgetting herself, but the moment she heard it coming out of her mouth it clamped shut and her eyes whipped open.

halsin’s movements stilled at the sound and he looked at her.

“gods, halsin, i’m sorry. i didn’t mean to—”

“i thought you were with astarion.”

the two of them spoke at the same time and briar felt herself getting warm.

“i am…” she started. “but we’ve discussed…my nature as a wood elf. he’s accepting of me, and gave me his blessing to be with you if it ever came to that.”

“how generous of him,” he said softly. “so accepting of our culture.”

“he’s full of surprises,” briar said fondly. “but you need to focus on the shadow curse—”

“i’ve done all i can on my end with thaniel and oliver reunited, thanks to you of course.”

briar felt herself warm at his words. “it was nothing.”

he leaned in. “finding art’s lute? keeping the shadows at bay while i entered the shadowfell? finding oliver and convincing him to stay? you sell yourself short, little one. i could not have done any of it without you.”

the praises shot through her.

“in truth, i’ve admired you the moment you saved me from the goblins,” halsin said, his voice barely above a whisper. “i had my duty to liberate these lands from the curse, and i thought your bond with astarion would prevent anything from happening between us regardless. but i would be lying if i said i enjoyed our lessons together for more selfish reasons. any excuse i could have to touch you, to be near you…

“i’ve lived a long time, briar. i’ve taken many lovers. my heart does not stir lightly. but it does now.”

he placed his hand on her cheek and she leaned into the touch.

“i cannot express how much i’ve wanted you. if you would have me.”

his words were pure poetry, something the wood elf had no experience in. they flowed like water, sang like the melody of the forest. it was a wonder how she’d made it this far at all without getting charmed by the way he composed his words.

“i’m right here.” her voice was breathless as she responded and before she knew it, halsin’s lips were on hers.

briar moaned into the kiss as his hands trailed up her sides. the remnants of the spell tingled through her as he brought her closer to him, creating a delicious sensation wherever he touched.

his tongue prodded her lips and she welcomed him in, relishing the how he explored her crevice. she shivered at the sensation of him brushing her gums, which earned a smile from the archdruid.

the way he felt under her hands, so firm and warm and safe, awoke something in her. where with astarion she felt protective, with halsin she wanted nothing more than to let him have his way with her. to be whatever it was he wanted her to be. to let nature at its most primal take over.

briar bit halsin’s lip and he growled as he grabbed her hips and pulled them to his. his excitement became very apparent against her.

“poking the bear, are we?” he asked between kisses. his tone was almost feral and she relished the way he sounded. being the reason that the usually calm archdruid lost control filled her with some kind of pride. “you’re playing a dangerous game, little one.”

“from where i’m standing, it seems the bear is poking me,” she snarked and she felt him smile against her lips before he moved down to her neck. she moaned softly as he gently sucked an area that made her go wild.

afraid others would hear, briar muffled the sounds she was making with her hand. she heard halsin chuckle against her. “good girl. we wouldn’t want anyone else hearing us.”

she whimpered at his words and halsin pulled back. “it seems you enjoy when i call you that…or when i give you any sort of praise in general.”

she felt herself get warm under his gaze and couldn’t help but look away to avoid it. “i…i like it.”

a delectable smile graced halsin’s lips and he leaned into her neck to kiss it again. “you like being told how good you are for me?” he murmured against her skin. “to be told you’ve done well? to be told that you’re my good girl?”

“hells, halsin,” briar whispered. “i need you.”

he kissed her with more fervor, guiding her down so that she lying comfortably on her bedroll with his form enveloping her. halsin was large and everywhere, with his hands on her breasts, gently tugging at her nipples.

“the noises you make,” halsin whispered, his eyes glowing gold as his hands travelled lower. “gods, briar. i can’t wait to taste you on my tongue. to feel your thighs on my face like a vice. to have your walls clench around me as you cum. you have no idea how long i’ve wanted you under me, the amount of times i’ve rubbed my cock at the thought of you taking every inch of me. of marking you with my bites and having everyone at camp see them the next morning, of staking my claim—”

halsin stopped abruptly as his hands glided against her underwear . a shudder rocked through him as his eyes slid closed and he nuzzled her freckled neck.

“oak father, preserve me,” he moaned against her dark skin, his voice absolutely shattered. “you’re so wet, little one. i’ve barely touched you.”

“i can’t help it,” she responded. “you have such a way with words.”

he chuckled. “talking isn’t the only thing this mouth can do, you know.”

he moved lower, kissing every scratch and bruise on her torso like an act of worship. taking a breast into his mouth, he suckled it while the finger that was circling her drenched underwear teased her folds. briar gasped, her back arching as a soft moan escaped her lips before she watched him tear off her underwear with a growl.

“white panties on a body like yours should be considered sinful,” he muttered before tasting her on his fingers. he groaned when her taste coated his tongue and he took a deep breath as if to compose himself. “not even the sweetest honey can compare to your nectar, briar. i want to drown myself in your scent. to lose myself in you completely. i’m going to absolutely devour you.”

“is that a promise?” she asked and she gasped when he grazed her clit in response.

"you'll be the death of me," he groaned. he placed his forehead on hers and looked deep into her olive green eyes. “if that’s how you want it, we’ll need a safeword,” he murmured, tracing her jawline affectionately with his knuckles. “something you’d never say during sex.”

briar thought for a moment, noting that though his tone was soft, his intention was incredibly serious. this wasn't something that she should take lightly. “drider?”

halsin paused his movements and looked at her as he considered her suggestion before accepting it with a nod. “that’s good enough. say it out loud for me.”

“drider,” she repeated with more conviction and the older elf smiled and kissed her.

“good girl. if things get too much for you, just use that word, alright?”

“you underestimate my abilities, master halsin.”

he raised a cheeky eyebrow before plunging two of his fingers into her. “you’re going to be the death of me.”

briar opened her mouth to retort but just then halsin sent a delicious thrust of his fingers along her walls which caused her to gasp. “fuck.”

“that’s the idea,” he responded before setting a slow, teasing pace. “i'm going to taste you, but first i need to see you cum on my fingers. i need to know how you look like when i do this to you.”

though his fingers felt delicious, the pace was agonisingly slow. briar bit her lip and gasped as she closed her eyes, but her chin was grabbed suddenly which made her whip them open again.

"don't close your eyes," he said firmly. "i need to see you."

briar mewled but nodded her head, focusing on the sensation of his fingers dragging along her walls as she made eye contact with him. it felt divine, almost sinful to feel this good from such a simple movement.

though slow, the pressure began to build inside of her, trickling through her. she tried to form words between gasps around her swollen lips but was too drunk on the feeling to be able to be coherent.

"what is it, lover? use your words," he said before giving her a particularly hard thrust that made her see stars.

he knew what he was doing if the way he was smirking at her was of any indication.

"mmm...~ how m'i s'pose t'say anything if you tease me like this?" she asked between breaths, breasts heaving at another particularly hard thrust.

"hm?" he hummed. "i don't know what you mean."

"fucker," briar said without bite.

"i will be, in a moment," he promised before kissing her full lips again. "now, what was it you actually wanted to say, hm?"

she gasped again as he suckled on her neck once more and felt his teeth graze against her skin. "more."

he let out a soft, teasing breath and she knew he was chuckling. "you'll have to do better than that, briar."

"how do you mean?"

he looked her square in the eye, not for a moment pausing his ministrations. "i'm not in the business of giving in to those without manners. ask nicely."

his words cut through her. briar was never one to demean herself so easily, to give in so readily. but the way he had her in the palm of his hand, the way he got her teetering on the edge so easily...gods it did things to her. she found it easy to submit to him in that moment, to want to submit to him. to want to trust him with her whole being.

though, she didn't want him to know he won so quickly. like a child she let out a petulant hmph and said, "make me."

he paused his movements and regarded her steadily. there was a look in his gaze that was foreign to her. yes, it was still somewhat soft but there was a whisper of something darker lying underneath his eyes.

she shivered as he completely disengaged from her, leaving her cunt aching with emptiness as it tried desperately to squeeze the fingers that had left it. halsin grabbed her hands and pinned them above her, and she squirmed under his intense stare. a new pool of wetness leaked out of her as she saw his eyes flash gold.

"i'll let that slide for now because this is our first time together and you're injured," he said gently. "but if that's the kind of game you want to play i promise i can be a lot less accommodating."

his tone shot through her. she had no idea that she would enjoy being reprimanded like this. being the subject of his present ire only made her want to misbehave more.

"silvanus's breath," she muttered.

he shook his head with a smirk. "that's not the name you should be calling out when i'm having my way with you."

"oh?" she asked with her own smile. "what would you prefer? 'master halsin'?"

he cringed. "i'd prefer not."

briar smiled wickedly. "daddy?."

he froze and let out a deep breath. "you're playing with fire, little one."

"even forests get burned as nature takes it course."

halsin's grip on her hands tightened. "i was going to treat your body like an altar. i was going to taste you until you saw stars. i was going to worship you so thoroughly sune herself would be envious. but now..." he brought her leg to wrap around his hip as he slotted himself between her legs. briar felt his bulge nudge against her engorged clit and she moaned. "...i see you don't want that. at least, not tonight."

"and what do i want? enlighten me."

he growled lowly. "you want to be fucked. to be used as my plaything. to be so utterly wrecked that you forget your own name. did i get that right?" his voice had dropped an octave and she bit her lip at the promise.

"gods, yes."

"yes what?"

"yes, daddy."

"good girl."

he smiled and kissed her gently before look her in the eyes once more. they were soft, and inherently she knew he was asking if she wanted him to continue. "i'll be rough. what's your safeword?"

"drider."

he nodded before unbuckling his trousers and finally, finally, setting his glorious cock free. immediately briar's mouth watered, and halsin must have noticed her lick her lips because he laughed.

“i’ll use your mouth another time. perhaps even later tonight. but right now…” he teased her entrance with this tip. “i’m going to have my way with you, little one.”

briar struggled with her pinned arms.

“since you asked for more earlier, that’s what i’ll give you. however, because you’d forgotten your manners, you don’t get to cum until i say so. is that clear?”

“what? wait that’s not fair—”

“i didn’t ask if it was fair, i asked if i was clear,” he interrupted.

she genuinely didn’t know if she could do it, but she trusted halsin enough to know her limits so she nodded.

“the safeword is always an option,” he reminded gently. then more firmly he asked, “am i clear?”

“yes daddy.”

“good.”

slowly he began to sheathe his cock into her and the stretch burned but in the best way. she realised that he had been preparing her earlier, opening her up as much as he could and she was grateful.

“i’m halfway in,” he said gently and her eyes shot up. only halfway? gods she could die on his cock. it was better than dying by tadpole, that was for sure. what a way to go.

when he finally slotted himself into her fully, her legs trembled uncontrollably. she had to take a few long breaths as it grazed a sensitive part inside her that made her see stars. “ahhhh, halsin wait. if you move i think i’ll cum.”

“already?” he asked and when she nodded he swore under his breath. “oak father, preserve me.”

it took a moment for the intense feeling to subside and for her to nod the okay.

he began thrusting at a steady pace, slowly at first to get her used to his length. he reached down and flicked her clit which made her arch her back from how good it felt. his hips snapped into her which sent her soaring and she felt herself trembling again.

his forehead was laced with concentration as his eyebrows stitched together. sweat beaded all over his body as his muscles rippled.

briar struggled against his arm as all she wanted to do was touch him. she needed to feel his skin under her own but gods he was strong.

“halsin,” she said, closing her eyes. “please. need to touch you,”

once again he grabbed her chin and made her look at him. “what did i say, briar? as soon as you learn one rule you forget another one.”

“m sorry halsin it just feels so nice,” she said.

he tutted and increased his pace. “you learned your manners at least. as for touching me,” he rubbed her clit again, “if you can promise you can be a good girl for me, i’ll let you go.”

“yes, i promise to be good. please let me touch you.”

he loosened his grip and gave one of her hands a light kiss. “the way you beg could turn the most hardened of hearts.”

“thank you,” she said, at both the compliment and him allowing her to touch him.

their fingers interlocked as her other hand explored his torso. it was damp with sweat and rippled as he fucked into her.

the string in her was tightening once more as he carried on. the way he looked at her as she panted and gasped was almost with reverence as she fought to stave off the orgasm.

“i’m so close,” she warned.

he slowed immediately, taking his hand off her clit and leaned in to kiss her. “good girl. i didn’t even ask you to tell me.”

she whimpered into the kiss and wrapped her arms around his neck, not wanting him move away from her. briar pulled his hair when he thrust deeply and he moaned, swearing under his breath when her nails dug into his back and scratched him as she arched into him.

emboldened, halsin lifted her hips so his thrusts could reach deeper inside and briar screamed at the sudden change in angle.

“how does it feel, briar?” he asked softly.

“you’re reaching all the deepest parts of me,” she managed. “it’s like i can’t get enough.”

“if you can still speak so coherently, maybe i’m not doing as thorough a job,” he said before picking up the pace again.

he was rough, and briar knew she would ache for days to come but she didn’t care. she craved him like sun craves the west.

he left bites and marks all over her body to pair with her earlier bruises. she sobbed from how good it all felt and from holding onto the impending orgasm with all her might.

“halsin please,” she begged, tears in her eyes.

“just a little longer. you’re taking me so well,” he said gently.

the juxtaposition between his tone of voice and the way he was fucking her could send anyone into a dizzy spell. briar cried and begged and pleaded but not once did she even consider using the safeword. it all felt too good and a part of her wanted to see how far halsin would take her.

finally, finally, “cum for me, briar . let go for me.”

she came the hardest she ever had in her life, sobbing and thanking him as she trembled. the feeling washed through her like a river of pleasure.

with a roar, halsin came inside her, pumping her with his seed and fucking it into her. it felt good, and she whimpered as he slowed until he stopped.

halsin kissed her forehead as his orgasm waned. briar shivered when he pulled out, once again feeling empty.

halsin was on her immediately, kissing her gently before grabbing some water and a towel for her. briar drank her fill while he wiped her and got ready to cast healing touch before she grabbed his hand.

“no, i like the pain,” she said softly.

halsin looked troubled. “i went harder in the end than i intended. please, let me—”

she shook her head. “safeword, remember? i trusted you not to hurt me.”

“even then—”

a stern look from briar quickly shut him up and he shook his head. “at least let me lie with you until morning.”

“i can manage that,” she teased.

[alienoresimagines]

Masters of the Air Masterlist

Misc.

Mota Incorrect Quotes

Why we should give Crank more love Ted Talk

Mota Characters as John Mulaney Quotes

Buck x Bucky | Clegan

Sheepskin HC

What If John Was Never Shot Down HC

John edition Gale Edition

Clegan as written by A. E. Housman

Part 1 Part 2 Part 3 Part 4

Drag Me Under (2519 words) also on AO3

For the Prompt : [ CAREFUL ]: sender gently lifts the receiver out of their seat and carries them carefully to bed after noticing they fell asleep and not wanting to waken them. Or Gale fell asleep on the couch, leaving it up to Bucky to get him to bed without waking him. He has feelings about it all. Mostly, he's in love.

Of Safe Places and Kisses (1419 words) also on AO3

It is Gale's turn to fall victim to the nasty cold that spread through the 100th, which leaves Bucky in charge of bringing him back to health. He takes that duty very, very seriously. Gale just wants to some cuddles.

Gale And His Feelings For Bucky, in Four Acts (6239 words) only on AO3

No dam could've withstood the force of nature John Egan is. No strength on Earth could've stopped Gale from loving him, not even himself. And now, both sat on opposite ends of the couch, Gale reading and John intently listening to a baseball game on the radio but Buck's right hand holding on to Bucky's left, he can't keep the words in his mouth. "I love you." The words curve around his tongue, twirl in the air until they're embedded in every wall of their house, and dance around Bucky who immediately smiles wide, as if Buck hasn't said the words a thousand times by now. It took him two years to figure the words out from the maze in his head, another one to admit them to himself as something eternal and inevitable, and then an additional two to voice them, give them shape and sound until there really is no escape from them, and now he can't stop uttering them. It's freeing in a way he never knew words could be. As though he gives a piece of himself to Bucky with every utterance, and he wants Bucky to have all of him. Or Gale's journey from realizing his feelings for Bucky to realizing Bucky feels the same towards him.

Your Heart Will Always Be Known To Me (7005 words) only on AO3

For the prompt : [ NAP ] while receiver is resting, sender joins them in bed & cuddles up close Or After a long day at work, Gale cannot wait to go home to Bucky, especially since today was a special one for his better half. But instead of the enthusiast welcome home he is used to, he finds Bucky fast asleep in their bed, and is overwhelmed with so much love he has to let it out and let John know how loved he is.

Never Coming Down (With Your Hand In Mine) (1862 words) also on AO3

For the prompt : [Knuckles] for a kiss on the hand Or Gale's hands are terribly cold in the Stalag and John's more than happy to hold them until they're warm.

And so the weed of sorrow springs at the four cross ways (6536 words) only on AO3 (Outsider's POV)

Neil and his wife never had children, and yet, he realizes as he watches Bucky’s bottom lip tremble and feels the lump in his throat growing in answer, he’s already familiar with the grief of a father. - Still reeling from losing Buck on the Bremen mission, Chick tries his hardest to keep his boys together, especially Bucky. But an overheard confession that could get the other man sent home with a blue ticket forces him to make a decision that could change the outcome of the Münster mission and drastically change Buck and Bucky's fate.

I'd rather be in hell with you (Than in Heaven with somebody else) (681 words) also on AO3

Seeing John arrive in the Stalag, bruised and battered, brings Gale more joy than he's felt in days; until guilt knocks him off his feet. John is having none of it.

Driving In Your Car (I've Never Felt Safer) (790 words) also on AO3

Buck hasn't had enough sleep lately. Luckily for him, Bucky offers to drive him to the mess, allowing him to sleep for a few more minutes. Little does Bucky know that a sleepy and pining Buck proves to be devoid of the reserve he's accustomed to, and it isn't long before Bucky finds himself with a blush on his cheeks.

S'Cute (853 words) also on AO3 (clipped video of Bucky's "S'cute")

Gale is already looking at him, eyes bright and fond and loving, the golden light of the pub shining in his hair and creating perfect shadows on an already perfect face. He's cute. Gale's eyes widen a bit, a blush immediately finding its way onto his cheeks, and it's only then John realizes he’d spoken out loud. Alcohol made the words slur a bit in his mouth, coming out more as "S'cute" than an appropriate sentence but still Gale heard him. Now ducking his head shyly, a small pleased smile on his face, golden hair perfectly styled making him glow among the rest of them, he looks so sweet and handsome, and he's all Bucky's to love.

I'm On The Run With You, My Sweet Love (9,250 words) only on AO3

For the Prompts : "I don't want to move" + Lake Sex -- On a hot summer day, John and Gale enjoy an afternoon off-base at a nearby lake, far from the war and its destruction. They laugh, cuddle, kiss, talk about the future, with no one but the warm summer sun as their witness. Also they come. Twice.

Tell Me You're Going To Be Alright (I Don't Want The World To Turn Without You) (14,564 words) only on AO3

For the prompt : Classics - muse a tends to muse b’s wounds with more care than necessary -- Perhaps life really only started when he opened the door to his room in flight school and shook hands with Gale Cleven. Perhaps the twenty-four years before that were only to learn how his legs and arms worked to get him to this moment, where he learned how his heart did. Or After the Regensburg Mission, John cannot forget just how close he came to losing Gale forever. He copes how he can, tending to Gale's wounds, and holding him when the adrenaline leaves him and Gale can't keep up the officer façade anymore. He lets Gale take care of the cuts that adorned his face even though John had forgotten them. And then, when all the wounds have been treated, desperation to feel just how alive the other still is settles in, like a wildfire of urgency that not even the presence of their men a few feet away can soothe.

Half Of Your Heart Beats In My Chest | Clegan Vampire AU

HCs Part One

HCs Part Two

Dog!John

Dog!John and Meatball

Every inch of your skin is a Holy Grail I've got to find (3063 words) only on AO3

For the Prompt : Thigh or Stomach Kisses -- Kissing John might be one of Gale's favorite things in the world, but right now, there's nothing he desires more than to watch the other come undone beneath him. His left hand leaves dark curls to brace on one broad shoulder, giving him leverage to sit back up, even though he can't help but crane his neck to steal quick kisses. John starts leaning up on his elbows to chase him, and even if it makes something swell in his chest, Gale stops him with a hand on the valley of his chest, fingers tangling lightly on the dust of hair there to push him back down gently but firmly. "Don't," the word comes out as a rasp, arousal making his head swim as he straightens up. Beneath him, John whines pitifully, the sound high in his throat but he flops back down obediently, looking up at Gale with half-lidded eyes, chest heaving.

Clegan Royalty/Bodyguard AU

Moodboard + Premise

Our love, for eternity (1536 words) also on AO3

In all the years they’ve known each other and amongst all the different things they’ve done with and to each other, few things have felt as intimate as Gale kissing his hand, no matter how many times he’s done it. Each one feels like a vow, full of more emotions and words than anyone could ever see behind the gesture. Many people have brought John’s hand to their lips- or their forehead, an alternative he prefers with strangers, he has to admit- in a sign of loyalty. But Gale always does it in absolute devotion and love, so sincere and raw it never fails to tighten John’s throat with so many emotions he cannot name until he almost chokes on them. To all assembled in the throne room today, it is a common gesture meant to show utmost servitude to a monarch. To John, it’s timeless proof there is no one more devoted to him and his heart than the man currently kneeling at his feet. There’s a reverence in how Gale does it. -- After two weeks apart, Gale and John are finally reunited, and though they cannot greet each other as they would like, the eyes of too many on them, they still find a way to show just how much they've missed the other.

Disclaimer : Anything written here is purely about the actors' portrayal in the Apple TV show, no disrespect to any of the real guys intended of course :)

Band Of Brothers/The Pacific Masterlist Navigation

[rebelwrites]

First Christmas with Mr Leclerc???? Like maybe you start a tradition with him and he's just so in love and can't believe you want to spend the holidays with him 😍

Can We Go See Santa?

Charles Leclerc x Reader

As this is a flash fic it hasn’t been edited

As always reblogs and feedback is highly appreciated ❤️ if you want tagging in future parts let me know ❤️

The arrivals area of the airport was practically bursting at the seams, everywhere you looked there were multiple bodies darting around the large room. Everyone was in their own world, hunting for their bags and family, ready to start the festivities that would follow over the next couple of days.

Reaching up you tugged the hood of your boyfriend's hoodie further over your cap before making sure your three year old’s hood was still covering her face, she was fast asleep in your arms, soft snores escaping her lips every so often, the flight completely wiped her out and honestly you were happy about that. For the past couple of days she had been a little terror, but in all fairness it was all due to excitement of getting to see her ‘Char Char’ again. Over the last couple of months fans had started to raise their suspicions about you and the monegasque driver. He had started soft launching you on his social media and you knew that one day the world would have to know you two were dating. But your main concern was your daughter, she was too young to understand what was going on, all she knew was the love she held for Mummy’s boyfriend.

Somehow you managed to spot Arthur amongst the crowd, you couldn’t help but roll your eyes at the youngest Leclerc, his disguise was shocking and he was lucky to now get trampled in the busy airport. Shaking the thoughts out of your mind you slowly pushed your way through the crowded room. Dropping your gaze you realized that Arthur had grabbed your suitcases meaning that your escape was going to be quick and hopefully uneventful.

“Comment s'est déroulé le vol ? How was the flight?” The youngest Lecerc beamed, reaching out to take Alice from you. The movement caused her to stir, pulling her tiny fists to her eyes, the moment she realized it was Arthur holding her it was like someone had flipped a switch and she was wide awake.

“Arta,” she giggled, placing her hand on his cheek. She had always struggled to pronounce his name but he really didn’t care.

“Hi, my sweet girl,” he hummed, pressing a kiss to the top of her head. “Let’s get the two of you back home, Maman is so excited to see you.”

The journey back to his car was relatively quick, he had managed to secure a really good parking space right near the main doors. The moment he opened the back door of the car my heart melted when I saw the brand new car seat secured onto the back seat of Pascales’ car. “Maman wanted her little bear to be safe, and she said she had a feeling you would be spending a lot more time in Monaco.” Arthur chuckled, looking over his shoulder flashing me a warm smile.

“Let’s not rush,” you hummed, slowly pushing the hood of Charles’ hoodie down before climbing into the front seat of the car, “We haven’t been together for a year yet.”

“Yet I have never seen my brother so happy,” he grinned, double checking the seatbelt was secured before he quickly made his way to the driver's seat. “God, he is gonna be so happy to see you.”

Nothing could wipe the smile off your face as Arthur backed out of the parking space, making his way towards the exit of the car park. “I’m honestly surprised how we have all managed to keep this a secret,” you hummed, resting your head against the window of the car. The sounds of giggles from the back seat filling the small space, “especially Alice, she's been so excited to see you all.”

The journey from the airport didn’t take long and the moment you stepped foot into the Leclerc household you were pounced on by Pascale. “Oh my dear, it is so good to see you,” she beamed, practically crushing your ribs with how tight she was hugging you. “Char will be home within the next ten minutes.”

Your heart started racing at the thought of him walking through the door with no knowledge you were here. You couldn’t wait to see him, this would be your first Christmas together and hopefully the first of many.

Charles abruptly came into your life one rainy day in the UK, to this day you still felt some embarrassment from the day you met. Alice was two and she decided it was a good idea to run away from you in a busy park. She went sprinting across the field, she had spotted Charles before you had, screaming his name before barging into him causing him to spill his iced coffee down himself. But instead of being angry he smiled softly at my daughter before chasing after her causing her giggles to echo around the park.

Pushing the memory to the back of your mind, you followed Pascale into the kitchen, taking a seat at the kitchen table whilst Arthur chased Alice around the house. You found myself fumbling with the sleeves of Charles’ hoodie. You had never done anything like this before so my hands were starting to get clammy, what if he didn’t want you here? What if you had made a mistake? Was it too soon to be spending Christmas with him and his family?

Because your mind was spinning you didn’t notice the man you were worrying about was currently standing in the doorway. Taking a deep breath you finally looked up when you heard someone cough from across the room. The corners of your lips tugged into a wide smile as you let your gaze scan over your man leaning against the door frame. His green eyes glistened with happiness as he saw you sitting at the kitchen table.

“Hi,” you breathed, slowly pushing yourself to your feet.

Charles couldn’t believe what he was seeing, he had no idea you were coming to Monaco but he was happy to see you standing in the kitchen of his childhood home.

“When did you get here?” he whispered, scared if he spoke too loudly then you would disappear and this was just a figment of his imagination.

“I actually only got here about fifteen minutes ago,” you giggled, closing the gap between the two of you. The moment you got within arms reach of him, he wasted no time in pulling you into his chest, squeezing you tight, never wanting to let you go.

“Êtes-vous ici pour Noël ? Are you here for Christmas?” he whispered, pressing a kiss to the top of your head.

“Thought we could start some new traditions, you, me and Alice,” you responded, looking up, resting your hand against his cheek. “Make some better Christmas memories for the two of us.”

Before Charles could respond we were attacked by the little terror that was my three year old daughter. “Char Char,” she screamed, trying to climb him like a tree.

He quickly pulled away from the hug to scoop her up in his arms, the moment she was high enough he pressed a small kiss to the end of her nose, causing her giggles to echo around the room. Nothing could wipe the smile off Charles’ face, he had both his girls with him on his favorite season of the year. The distance was starting to kill him, all he wanted was both of you by his side as he traveled the world, that was his Christmas wish this year.

“I missed you, Princess,” he whispered, brushing some of her loose curls away from her eyes.

“Missed you more, Char Char,” she whispered back, resting her small hand on his cheek. You felt tears threatening to spill over your lash line. Charles had completely changed your life for the better, he treated your daughter as if she was his own and there never went a day where he didn’t shower either of you in love. “Can we go and see Santa?” Alice asked, widening her eyes and fluttering her eyelashes at Charles.

“I can’t think of anything better, Princess,” he whispered, pressing a kiss to the top of her head before placing her on the ground and watching her sprint towards the front door.

“You willing to stand in line for hours, waiting to see someone dressed as the big man?” you hummed in amusement, tucking your hands into the back pocket of our jeans. “You know there is a chance we will get spotted.”

The smirk on his face melted your heart and if it wasn’t for the fact you were leaning against the counter top, you swore your knees would have given out on you. “You and Alice are my entire world, babygirl and I don’t want to hide that away anymore.” he whispered, closing the gap between the two of you, planting his hands on your hips. “I want to start new traditions with you, Y/N. And if the first one is making sure that every year Alice gets to go see Santa, followed by a walk around a Christmas market with hot chocolate.”

“That sounds perfect, Mr Leclerc,” you giggled, brushing your noses against his.

@chibsytelford @dragon-of-winterfell @ohthemisssery @a-distantdreamer @sgkophie @stillbreathin @angywritesstuff @enchantedbytomandhenry @scribbuluswrites @dangerouspursepeachbear @livo676 @buendiabebeta @ferrarifwendvale @hungryhungariann @theplobnrgone @charlesleclercje @queenslife @panicforspec @justme2042 @liv67 @derpinathebrave @clcspeonies @pleasantducktimetravel @raaaaabzzz @mehrmonga @sbgal @fangirl-lb @pitconfirmbutton @oslokij @tall-tanned-tattoo

[backtothefanfiction]

TOWER

PART TWO OF THE GREEN LEAVES TRILOGY

Summary: Follows the story of the Two Towers. You catch up with your friends in time for the battle of Helms Deep.

Word Count 9.5k+

Warnings: battle, violence, injuries, angst, fluff, bad elvish translation

A/N: finally managed to get this one finished. I have not gone back over this with a fine tooth comb (I’ve done enough of that already with my actual book I’m currently editing to have the capacity to do this here) but it should read mostly okay. This has been sat in my head for a while so is nice to get it out. Also I seem to be creating some extra drama with Èomer to set me up for part three but I have no idea how that’s going to pan out yet. Anyway, enjoy!

When you were finally informed of the latest impasse of the Fellowship's journey- the death of Boromir, the separation of Frodo and Samwise- the urgency that had been with you before seemed to increase tenfold.

You continued to travel along the route you had been advised by the wise Elven queen to take, but it seemed harder and harder to track the company of Aragorn, Legolas and their smaller companions. That was until you ran into a group of riders from Rohan.

You had moved off the path, taken shelter behind a series of nearby trees as the thundering sound of hooves made their way towards you. However when you realised who headed up the company, you took your horse by the reins and walked out to meet them. Spotting you, they quickly came to a stop.

“Èomer!” you called out.

“Lady Raea,” he said tentatively from his place atop his horse, “what are you doing out here alone? These lands are not safe, there are Uruk-hai running around all over these hills.”

“I am looking for some friends of mine. I was wondering if they had crossed your path.”

“Perhaps…” he said, but still seemed reluctant to give you a straight answer. You knew Èomer, had travelled with him and his men for a time after you had separated from Aragorn and Legolas the first time around.

“Èomer, please.” you appealed softly to him.

He looked to the horizon to his right as he fought with the thoughts in his mind. “You look for the man, elf and dwarf.” His words still you- that was only three of the company. Where were the hobbits?

“Yes.” you say a little too eagerly. “You have seen them.”

“They rode in search of two of their kin, alas I gave them little hope. The two halflings he described had been taken by a pack of Orc… We slayed that pack the night before we saw them, we had no recollection of the halflings with the pack.” Your heart sank as you understood what he was trying to tell you.

“When was this?” You asked.

“I would say four sunrises back.”

“Do you know where they were headed?”

“Alas my dear lady, no.” You bristled at the term as it fell from his mouth. You both knew you were no lady, not really. “Maybe you can take refuge with my Uncle at Edoras as you wait for news. You can take shelter, rest.”

“Thank you.” You replied with a small nod.

He gave you a small nod in return as he began to turn his horse and lead his men away from you. As you reached for the saddle ready to re-mount your horse, you heard him call back to you. “Raea!” When you turned your head he had halted as his men continued on. “Be safe out there.” He cautioned.

You motioned to the blades attached to your back. “When am I not,” you called back as you lifted yourself back up into the saddle and began to make haste in the direction of King Theodin’s kingdom.

However when you got there, the city was empty, save for a few reluctant stragglers. “Where is everybody? Where is the King?” you asked an elderly gentleman mucking out a seemingly empty stable.

“They all rode for Helm’s Deep my Lady.” he informed you.

“When?” you commanded from atop your horse.

“Day before last.” he informed you. “A wizard, Gandalf,” he said the name eagerly as if it was a name that held great importance- which it did, “come with a ranger, an elf and a dwarf. Seemed to wake the King from his stooper he’d been in as of late.” The mention of the company you sought out invigorated you. You were getting closer.

“Me and Florith over there were having none of it though. Said, we were born in Edoras, if we were to die, it would be in Edoras.”

Fools, the pair of them. You thought, however you were grateful for the information their reluctance to leave had granted you.

Helm’s Deep was a few hard day's ride through the white mountains and with the whole city in tow, they wouldn’t have gotten far fast. You rode hard through the mountain pass, but when you reached yet another battlefield, dead Rohanese men and orc scattered the clearing that overlooked the river. However, the lack of any notable deaths to you, told you the company you sought had won, but it was clear their numbers dwindled. As you stood on the cliffs edge surveying the scene, you noticed something strange moving along the bank of the river, further up the pass. A lone horse. Not just any horse though- it was Brego. You stomach turned to stone. Aragorn.

You climbed back atop your own stied, pushing it at top speed to catch up with the darker coloured horse in the distance. You had no idea what you would find when you reached Brego, but you just knew you had to get to him- follow him. As the wind whipped past your ears, you could have sworn it was whispering to you in Elvish. It imbued in you a spirit of urgency that spurred you on.

The horse finally came to a stop at the Riverbank and moved towards a dark figure laying atop the slate that marked the edge of the water. You climbed down from your horse and quickly made your way over to the fallen man and his horse.

‘Aragorn.” you said breathlessly as you fell to your knees beside him. He was wet through and the top of his arm was badly injured. Your fingers reached to feel for a pulse, grateful when you felt the faint thrum of his heartbeat. His eyes fluttered as he became aware of your presence.

You stood, moving around him to hook your hands beneath his arms and drag him from the water. “Come on, Aragorn.” you muttered to him as you pulled him across the dirt towards your two awaiting horses. “Come on, wake up.” you said as you let go of his body again and moved back down onto your knees beside him.

When you reached to touch his face, his eyes suddenly shot open in defence, but upon seeing your face he quickly relaxed. “Raea.” He sighed, his hand struggling as he reached for your hand that now rested on his chest. “Am I dead?” he asked.

“No, I don’t think so.” you reassured him softly, yet still slightly playful. “What happened?” you asked, your brow furrowing.

“We were attacked up in the pass.” he said.

“Legolas.” you breathed his name, your concern for his well being flooding your voice.

“He lives.” Aragorn confided and you knew his response was more than just literal. Legolas had always loved the thrill of the chase. Longed for battle and stimulation.

“We have to move you before night falls.” You said to him. “Do you think you can ride?” you asked.

He shifted his body, somewhat strained and it was clear the pain he felt in his limbs right now, but he fought against it, “Always.” he tried to reassure.

“Come on, let’s get you up.” you said, reaching an arm out and around him, helping him to stand and hobble towards Brego. You let go of him to help hold the horse steady so he may haul himself back up into the saddle. He hesitated, his upper body slumping to the side slightly as his thighs held him tight atop the horse. You carefully climbed up atop your own horse, pulling him alongside Brego in order for you to reach for the reins.

“Hold on, rest.” you told Aragorn, “I’ll lead us until you are strong enough to do it yourself.”

He had long known not to fight your will or advice, after all, it was your counsel and wisdom that had helped shape him into the compassionate man he was. As a man who loved an Elven woman himself and had thought often of future offspring with her, being friends with you and your own heritage had given him nothing but hope the whole time he had known you.

It was a gruelling three day slog along the river and back over the last ridge of the mountain range. You were grateful that on that third day, your companion began to feel like his old self again.

“You know you won’t have a warm welcome when you arrive.” he advised as you slowly made your way over the uneven terrain on your horses.

“I know.” you sighed, resigning yourself to your fate and the inevitable argument that would come when Legolas saw you.

“You know it has only ever been you for him. After you left us his mood became like a dark cloud. It took a long time for him to find the sun again.”

Before you had a chance to reply, you both heard something that rocked you both to your core. You hid under the cover of a ridge as you watched an army of Uruk-hai marching forward through the valley below. “Aragorn.” you said, worried.

“They’ll be headed for the fortress. We must go.”

You both picked up your pace then, pushing your horses harder, faster, until you reached the clearing that led to Helm’s Deep, an old fortress built into the very side of the mountain. “Hi-yah” you both commanded your horses as you raced the final stretch to safety.

As you cantered up the ramp, there were shouts and the gates were pulled open for you both. You couldn’t help but look up at the sheer size of the fortress as you passed through the large doors, but the vastness of the keep was quickly diminished as you rode through over occupied pathways until you came to a stop at the heart of the fortress, the growing crowd too dense as they grew excited by the presence of your companion.

“Where is he? Where is he!? I’m gonna kill him.” the dwarf Gimli commanded as he pushed through the crowd, but when he saw his friend's face he smiled. “You are the luckiest, the canniest and the most reckless man I ever knew.” He bellowed as Aragorn got down from his horse. As the two men embraced you used your vantage point atop your horse to look through the crowd for the flash of blonde hair you knew would be your undoing.

“Where is the King?” Aragorn asked and his small friend pointed in the direction of the hall. That’s when you saw him, stood just outside the large double doors. He froze as he saw his friend, then his eyes moved back to you and you watched as his face fell.

You mustered your strength as you slipped from your horse, handing off the reins to a waiting aid, quietly thanking him.

Although you had prepared yourself for this conversation, you still found yourself hiding behind Aragorn as he and Legolas greeted each other. “Le ab-dollen.” The elf said, You’re late. It was an attempt at a joke, the Elven Prince had long used humour as a coping mechanism, but his expressive eyes spoke of his true feeling as he smiled at the man before him. Legolas really took Aragorn in then; the state of his clothing, the wound at his shoulder. You then watched as he stepped forward and handed over the Evenstar pendant Arwen had given to Aragorn. The relief on Aragorn’s face after thinking he had lost it was palpable. The rugged dark haired man gave the elf a smile and nod before he stepped past him in search of the King to inform him of what you had seen on your journey. You made to breeze past the tall blonde elf, but his hand caught your arm as he pulled you to the side.

“I thought I told you not to come.” he said, his brow hardened.

You hesitated for a moment under his stare, but found the courage to stand tall in your conviction. “I heard news of Gandalf, I could not just sit aside any longer.”

“There is great danger here.” Legolas warned, but you were having none of it.

“There is danger everywhere.” you pressed. “And I know where my talents are needed.”

“All the same, you shouldn’t be here.”

“Yes, she should.” came the gruff voice of the dwarf from behind you. The two of you turned then to look at him. “From what I hear, she’s a good fighter- and we’re gonna need all the help we can get.”

As the dwarf continued past the two of you, making to follow Aragorn and join the discussion with the king, you shot the elven Prince a look that stressed that none of this was up for debate right now- there were far more pressing matters at hand. At the change in your expression, Legolas was able to read the looming situation without you having to say a single word and he quickly moved too towards the discussion in the great hall.

“A great host you say.” Theoden’s voice echoed around the room as the two of you joined the convened assembly.

“All Isengard has been emptied.” Aragorn informed.

“How many?” The King asked.

Before Aragorn had a chance to respond, you found your voice calling across the room, “10,000.”

“At least.” Aragorn quickly added as his gaze appraised you.

“10,000!” Theoden replied in shock.

“It is an army bred for a single purpose.” You found yourself stating.

Once again the dark haired ranger looked to you appreciatively, nodding his head in agreement before continuing your sentence, saying your implied meaning out loud for the king, “To destroy the world of men.”

“And who is this?” Theoden asked Aragorn, confused by your sudden presence.

“This is the Lady Raea, she is a well skilled warrior who has travelled from Rivendell to aid us in this fight.” Aragorn explained, however his choice of words and their implied implication that you were born of Lord Elrond’s people made you bristle. You found yourself looking nervously to the floor, now unable to meet the kings eyes for fear he would see through your dear friend’s cleverly worded statement. Being presented to the king as a true full elf would give you more standing and credibility with the man, though you worried that if he looked too long at you, he would see the real truth. You had lived amongst the men of your Father’s world long enough to know their stance on women and their perceived place in the world- and it was not fighting side by side with men.

“She is a skilled fighter, I trained her myself. She will be invaluable in this battle if the numbers of the looming threat ring true.” You looked to the elf at your side in earnest, surprised by his statement and the way he stepped to your side with pride.

“Very well.” Theoden replied, dismissing your presence once again. “How long until they get here?” He said, turning back to Aragorn.

“They will be here by nightfall.” The ranger replied.

You all watched the king closesly as a small glimmer of fear crept into his eyes, but respect for the man rang true when he pushed it aside, bolstering his courage, as he commanded, “Let them come!” before he strode from the room, ready to rally his men for battle. The rest of you following close behind.

You walked proudly at Legolas’s side as you all followed the king, listening to him give commands and plan battle strategy. “I want every man and strong lad, able to bear arms by night fall.” He said to one of his wards, before turning back towards us. “We will cover the causeway and the gate from above. No army has ever breached the Deeping Wall or set foot inside the Hornberg.” He said confidently.

“This is no rabble of mindless Orcs.” You tried to say, suddenly concerned the King may be underestimating his adversaries with his over confidence. After all, you had seen the droves of Uruk-hai for yourself and they were bred for one thing and one thing alone - death.

“The Uruk-hai’s armour is thick,” the dwarf beside you’s gruff voice spoke up in agreement, “and their shields broad,” he warned.

“I have fought many wars Master Dwarf and Lady Elf, I know how to defend my own keep,” Theoden bristled.

At his words and gaze towards you, you felt Legolas stiffen and grow taller beside you defensively. You had no doubt of the piercing look of warning he now fixed the king, but you kept your eyes forward on King Theoden as he continued to speak. “They will break upon this fortress like water on rock.” He continued as he marched back into the hall. “Saruman’s hordes will pillage and burn, we’ve seen it before. Crops can be resown, homes rebuilt, he said confidently, “Within these walls, we will outlast them.”

“They do not come to destroy crops or villages.” Aragorn said strongly, willing the King to see reason, “They come to destroy its people. Down to its last child.” He stressed.

At Aragorn’s words, the King’s facade cracked slightly, as he drew closer to the dark haired man. “What would you have me do?” He asked of the younger looking man before him. “Look at my men, their courage hangs by a thread.” Theoden stressed in hushed tones, before saying a little more confidently, “If this is to be our end, then I would have them make such an end as to be worthy of remembrance.”

“Send out riders my Lord, you must call for aid.” Aragorn stressed.

“And who will come?” Theoden retorted. “Elves? Dwarves?” He said, motioning slightly to present company in the room. “We are not so lucky in our friends as you. The old alliances are dead.” He said defeatedly.

“Gondor will answer.” Aragorn stressed again.

“Gondor?” The king scoffed. “Where was Gondor when our enemies closed in around us? Where was Gondor-“ the king began again, but quickly quelled his growing anger in favour of deplomacy. “No, my Lord Aragorn,” he said placatingly, “we are alone.”

As the king made to stride from the hall once more, shouting about getting the women and children to safety- Aragorn and Gimli following in tow- you felt Legolas’s hand reach for your own, holding you back. You met his awaiting gaze and held it, as he waited for the hall to clear. “You will stay with the women and children.” He began to command, “Be their last line of defence if things come to it.”

You frowned up at him with disbelief. “No.” You said defiantly. “You speak on my behalf and call me a great warrior then do me the disservice of commanding me to stay behind.” You accuse him in shock, “No!” You said again, moving to pull away from him, but his hand reached for you once more and holds you firm.

“There is no one better to keep them safe.” He stressed.

“I will fight at your side like I always have.” You replied through gritted teeth.

“Im wil ú- tir- cin bel-“ I will not watch you die.

“Ben im cin.” Or I you. “Your immortality cannot save you from meeting the end of a blade.” You reminded him.

“All the more reason you should not be there.” He said to you softly, willing you to see reason. But there is no reason in this for you. Your place has and always will be at his side.

“Dab- nin ceri- hi.” You said back softly. Let me do this.

You watched closely to the battle within him. Kept your eyes on him, even when his faltered. But eventually they found yours again.

“Cin shall ceri- sui im treneri- cin.” He conceded. You will do as I tell you. “Im treneri- cin na nor- cin nor,” he reasoned. If I tell you to run, you run. You silently nodded your head in agreement. You stilled as you felt his hand raise to cup your cheek softly. “Im shall ú- guin- in a ambar cin ceri- ú- guin- in.” I will not live in a world you do not live in.

His earnest words brought tears to your eyes. You had both been in many skirmishes together over the years, but never in a battle like this. You had seen the forces you were up against first hand and you both knew that without aid, the likelihood of you both coming out of this alive was slim, but you knew there was no other way you’d rather leave this world than fighting by his side.

As night began to fall, you sat in the great hall readying your weapons, surveying the room, it’s strengths and it’s weaknesses, the entrances to the tunnels, establishing strategies in the likelihood you were commanded to fall back here, as the last of the women and children were ushered underground to safety. You had already restrung your bow ready for the start of the battle- the one opportunity you knew you’d get on the front lines- before starting to sharpen your blades, in preparation for any close up attack.

Your stomach turned as two more young boys were brought back out of the caves to fight. They couldn’t have been older than nine or ten. Far too young for a battle like this. Too inexperienced in so many more ways than just war. There was no doubt Theoden and his men were sending them to instant death. You continued to watch them as they fell from view of the great doors, even when a familiar presence came to a stop beside you,

“Hain glenn- na bel-“ you said to the air with sorrow. They go to their deaths. At the thought, your eyes dropped to the weapon in your hands, the very same short sword the elf beside you had gifted you during your training with him many years ago. He reached out to take it from you.

You watched as he brought it closer to his eyes, examining it. “You have maintained the blades well.”

“Of course, just as you taught me to.” You replied, taking the blade back carefully from his grasp and sliding it back inside it’s sheith. You hesitated a moment as you placed it back on the table, unable to meet his eye as you thought on the question that suddenly plagued your mind. As you slowly turned towards him, the look of concern in his eyes was palpable, but you knew this might be the only opportunity you would ever get to ask him, so you mustered your courage. “Will you tie my battle braids?”

He stiffened for a moment, but suddenly flustered with pride from your request. A small smile tickled his lips as he nodded. He silently ushered you to stand so that he could move to sit atop the table, beckoning you to sit back down on the bench between his legs once he was seated.

You both sat in soft silence as his fingers began to dance and weave through your hair, pulling strands and pieces into one braid after another as the rest of the keep continued to arm themselves and ready for action. At one point you were sure you heard the bellowing tones of Gimli beginning to echo through the hall as he and Aragorn made their way through the doors, however Aragorn had taken one look at you and the Elven Prince sat behind you and quickly ushered his smaller friend back outside, knowing how significant a moment this was for the two of you; allowing you to have the tender moment before the battle to come.

You felt his hands move away when he was done, but neither one of you moved or said anything. When the silence permeated the air for too long, you finally turned your head back to him. When you finally met his eyes, they held both pain and somehow peace. You wanted to ask him, but the sudden sound of a horn outside and a commotion amongst the men stopped you. You both frowned at the familiar sound.

“That sounds like-“ you paused, questioning if you were indeed hearing things right.

Legolas quickly rushed to his feet and you quickly followed on his heels as cries of “Open the gate,” began to ring out.

You both came to a stop beside Aragorn and the king as an army of Elven soldiers made their way up through the winding path from the gate to where you all stood. Your heart warmed as you spotted a familiar face amongst them, Haldir.

“How is this possible?” You heard Theoden ask as he took in the sight before him.

You looked to the elf beside you then back to Haldir as he stepped towards the king. “I bring word from Elrond of Rivendell. An alliance once existed between elves and men,” he said. “Long ago we fought and died together.” He then looked to you, then Legolas beside you, then to Aragorn and Gimli. “We come to honor that allegiance.” He smiled warmly.

You watched as Aragorn stepped forward and smiled at him gratefully. “Mae govannen, Haldir,” he greeted him formally, before wrapping his arms around him in a firm embrace of gratitude and hope that seemed to shock the elf and make you smile, but Haldir quickly embraced his old friend back- if not slightly more modestly.

“You are most welcome!” Aragorn continued to beam hopefully as he and the elf parted so that Legolas and yourself could welcome your old friend.

You let Legolas step forth and embrace him first, but their embrace was short and sweet. When Haldir turned to you, he had a look of both surprise but also fondness at seeing you amongst familiar company again. “Haldir.” You smiled fondly as you wrapped your arms around him and he you.

“Raea.” He smiled back. “It is good to see you back where you belong.” He said as he stepped back from you, before turning back to the King, “We are proud to fight alongside men once more.”

You didn’t have much time after Haldir’s arrival to get in position. Before long, the glow of the Uruk-hai’s torches was on the horizon. True to his word, Legolas allowed you to stand at the front with him and the other archers.

“You could have picked a better spot.” Gimli grumbled from the other side of Legolas.

Neither yourself or the prince beside you could contain your smiles as the dwarf continued to crane his neck in an attempt to see over the wall and work out what was going on. As you turned your head to survey the impeding doom for yourself, you couldn’t help but let your stomach turn slightly. Although you had seen them not hours ago with Aragorn as you made your way here to the keep, it was another to see their looming numbers in the dark and hear their snarls carry on the wind.

The feeling of a pair of fingers reaching for your own helped to ground you and bring you back to the present. To help remind you why you were here and what you were fighting for. As if he was having the same thought, you weren’t at all surprised when Legolas chose to reiterate his conditions, all the more desperate now to protect your life after your bonding ritual. “Enyal, ir im treneri- cin a nor- cin nor-.” He stressed. Remember, when I tell you to run, you run.

You nodded in agreement as Aragorn passed behind you, moving to a gap the other side of Gimli.

“Well lad, whatever luck you live by,” you heard Gimli begin to shout, “let’s hope it lasts the night.”

“Your friends are with you Aragorn.” Legolas continued from beside you and you couldn’t help but look to your fellow companions with pride. It took root in your belly as you looked at them and you nodded in agreement. Come rain or shine, life or death- this was always where you were meant to be.

“Let’s hope they last the night.” Gimli said hopefully and you smiled to the dwarf gratefully. You too hoped you would all live through the night, just so you could get to know your old friends new loyal company a little better.

There was a sudden bright flash across the sky, followed by a loud crash of thunder and it was as if fate willed it and the heavens opened up. As Aragorn began to give the Elven company around you commands, you looked back to Legolas beside you, taking in every feature, mapping every line, one last time, just in case; your eyes blinking rapidly to dispel the raindrops as you did.

Although the sound of the rain roared loudly, the roar of the approaching enemy was still louder and it forced your attention away from your love and back to it and the task at hand. You watched as the leader of the Uruk-hai stopped, raising his sword in the air with a loud horrific cry, bringing his army to a halt,

“What happening out there?” Gimli asked, straining to look over the wall again.

To your surprise, Legolas smiled and responded to the dwarf in jest. “Would you like me to describe it to you? Or would you like me to find you a box.”

The dwarf laughed and it made your heart melt. Now you all really did need to live through the night, just so you could see more of their dynamic and how it had shaped your lover over the course of the journey they had already been on.

It’s still for a moment before the Uruk-hai leader cried out again and his army begin to rally behind him, grunting, roaring and thumping their spears violently against the floor in a sound that was unnerving yet made you muster your courage. You heard a call to your right and quickly readied your bow, focusing up and setting your sight lines on your first kill. You were suddenly surprised though as that same Uruk-hai was suddenly struck by an arrow, an older man along the line losing his nerve and letting loose too early.

“DARTHO!” You heard Aragorn’s familiar voice command. Hold.

The Uruk-hai slowly stopped their catterwalling as their member who was hit slowly fell to the ground. It took mere seconds for them to realise what had happened and grow angry. Their leader gave his newly riled up army his signal and they began to charge towards the wall.

“TANGADO HALAD!” You heard Aragorn cry and there was the mass sound of arrows being pulled from quivers and notched onto bows, the strings being pulled taught as the elves that surrounded you prepared their bows. You reaffirmed your stance and placed your bow string to your lips as an anchor as you set your sight lines again, breathing deeply and calmly, counting each breath in your head as you relaxed into the familiar stance.

You heard Legolas’s voice call out from beside you, but you didn’t dare look at him. “Faeg i-varv dén na lane a nu rane.” You heard him say. Their armour is weak at the neck and beneath the arms.

You made note of the instruction and adjusted accordingly then waited for Aragorn’s command.

“LEITHIO I PHILINN!” He cried and there was a collective release of held breaths and arrows as they began to soar through the air, before raining down on the Uruk-hai, hitting their intended marks, a flurry of bodies rapidly hitting the ground. You let out another proud breathe and allowed the corner of your lip to raise in triumph as your own mark collapsed sideways into the orc next to him, the pair of them crashing to the ground.

“Did they hit anything?” Gimli’s booming voice asked his compatriots; but before anyone had a chance to respond, a cry came from atop the gate and another flurry of arrows were let loose from the troops stood atop it.

You watched as your own fingers raced to ready your next arrow as orc after orc hit the ground, but it wasn’t enough. There were too many of them and for every Uruk-hai that fell, another swiftly took its place.

There were more cries of fire and one more wave of arrows after another was let loose in an attempt to do as much damage before they hit the wall.

You readied yet another arrow to set loose when you began to notice the ladders being brought forward. You began to aim for the Uruk-hai carrying them, focusing your efforts on killing as many as you could. For ever single arrow you sent, your lover next to you sent two, sometimes even three more.

But once again it was no use as the Uruk-hai began to lift the ladders up towards the wall.

“PENDRAID!” Ladders You heard Aragorn call as they began to clatter against the stone. You bravely stepped forward and aimed your arrows straight down as the orc began to climb but a hand reached for yours to stop you.

You turned to see Legolas look at you with desperation in his eyes. You heard Aragorn call for everyone to ready their swords. You looked to him as you hesitated, but Legolas’ firm hold drew you back to him and the promise you made. To run. Not necessarily to the great hall to protect the women and children just yet, but away from here.

His blue eyes quickly rose to where Theoden stood and you followed them before nodding in acknowledgment.

You placed your bow across your back before pulling out both your swords ready to fight your way along the wall to get up there and out the way of the carnage about to unfold where you currently stood.

There was a clatter of metal to either side of you as the Elves began to clash with the first of the Uruk-hai to reach the top of the wall. You knew you had to leave, but as you looked to the beautiful tall blonde before you, you found it hard to move your feet and part from him, just in case this would be the last time you saw him. When he quickly turned to let loose another arrow you attempted to seize the moment, but his hand was quickly at your wrist again pulling you back to him, his lips crashing into yours in one last bruising kiss before he literally pushed you away again and you ran.

You quickly pulled out your swords from your back and began to cut a path through the many Elven soldiers as they stepped forward and began to battle the first of the Uruk-hai now climbing over the top of the walls. You aided as many of your brethren as you could, slashing at any orc that came your way and running them through with your sword, turning from one to the next, not looking back until you reached the stairs up to where Theoden and his men stood.

You were halfway up the stone steps when you heard Aragorn’s cries call out over the din of clashing metal and grunting. “TOGO HON DAD, LEGOLAS!” At the sound of your lovers name on your friends lips you froze, turning your head to look back out to where they stood. Then you followed your dark haired friends gaze down and saw the two bombs being brought forward.

You quickly cursed yourself for abandoning your bow once you had run out of arrows, the need to do all you could to help them taking over. Your legs burned as you pushed your way up the last of the stairs as quickly as you could, racing over to the edge of the parapet, snatching a bow from an older man’s grasp, before sliding an arrow into place and pulling the string taut. Your eyes scanned the line of elves doing battle for your Prince just as he let loose an arrow over the side of the wall as one of the Uruk-hai now ran forward with a torch, ready to light the two bombs.

It lodged itself in the creatures shoulder but he kept going. You took aim and loosed your own and Aragorn continued to cry out, “DAGO HON! DAGO HON!” Kill him.

It was like time slowed down as you watched your arrow lodge into the Orc’s neck, but still he kept going, even as Legolas’s second arrow also hit true, the Orc using the last of his strength to leap forward into the gap at the bottom of the wall.

Your eyes went wide and your mouth opened as if to scream as the blast rang out, obliterating the wall, but no sound came out. Your chest ached as you attempted to keep your eyes on them through the crowd but it was no use. It was complete carnage.

The blow to your forces only bolstered the army of Orcs and they charged forward with a renewed zealousness and soon it was all you could do to keep fighting what was in front of you, than keeping a tab on your friends and where they were in the mess along the causeway.

“Brace the gate! Hold them! Stand firm!” You heard Theoden roar and you mustered as much energy as you could into firing more arrows down at the mass of Uruk-hai now charging forward. However your good aim quickly made you a target. As you let loose another arrow, a spear was thrown up in your direction from below. You felt a body collide with your side and you were quickly slammed to the ground, the old man who had pushed you out the way crying out in pain as the spear hit him instead.

It was the same old man you had taken the bow from and as his body collapsed down beside you and you watched as the life left his eyes, you couldn’t help but feel guilty for his sacrifice.

You suddenly felt like you were drowning, the noise of the battle falling out of focus as panic gripped you, but you knew you have to keep going. You thanked the man, although you knew he could no longer hear you as you pushed yourself back up to your feet, Gamling calling out to the men fighting below from somewhere further along the line and at your friends name on his lips, a confirmation of his life, you were able to find that renewed push to keep going.

“ARAGORN, FALL BACK TO THE KEEP! GET YOUR MEN OUT OF THERE!”

You made your way back to the edge of the wall as you heard Aragorn call out to those around him, telling them to retreat. You sought out another quiver of arrows, sending one after another into your enemies in an attempt to buy them as much time as possible to get back to the keep. But when you heard Aragorn call out Haldir’s name, it made your veins run cold.

Your eyes sought them out in the crowd and you shot one arrow after the next, clearing the path forward for the ranger in order for him to get to your friend, but it was too late. You watched as the Elf’s body crumpled and your hand hesitated on your next arrow. It was a distraction that cost you as another arrow was shot up at you from below. It hit your shoulder with a thud and you let out a shriek of pain as you stumbled back from the edge of the wall defensively.

As your hand reached up to clutch at the wound, the arrow lodged just under your collarbone, you heard Theoden call out to his men to rally and protect the gate. You knew this was your sign, your signal to move to the hall to protect those hidden down below on the off chance the gate fell and the Uruk-hai got through. As you began to move another stray arrow came over the top of the wall, slicing through your thigh and you sneered again in pain. Luckily it was merely a scratch, unlike the arrow that still stuck out of your shoulder and you were able to hobble down to the hall.

Your fingers clutched around the length of the arrow, ready to take it out so you could get your swords back out to fight with, but it wouldn’t budge. That was when you realised how far through it was. As you raced through the doors to the hall you were grateful to find a few men and a small medical set up for quick fixes in order to get men back out fighting again, but they were all young and useless.

As the thudding of the Uruk-hair’s battering ram continued to hammer at the gate, sending a wave of panic through you, you forced yourself to will the sound away and focus on what you needed to do to get back on your feet. You couldn’t fix your shoulder just yet, but you could strap up your leg. “You, bandages!” You commanded one of the young men and they raced forward. It was then you really cursed your lack of healing knowledge and really wished one of your companions were with you to do this for you. They’d know exactly what to do; which mixture of herbs to put on it to stave off infection and promote healing, not to mention wrapping this thing up properly.

You hastily began strapping up your leg as you head the men outside at the the gate calling out to one another. “HOLD FAST THE GATE!” One of the soldiers cried out and there was a clatter of heavy wood as the gate was barricaded shut.

Your heart lurched as you heard Theoden’s booming voice cry out, “GIMLI, ARAGORN! GET OUT OF THERE!”

As the young lad you’d called forward tied off the bandage around your leg, you quickly waved him off, just as a clatter of metal collided with the stone above, echoing throughout the fortress.

“PULL EVERYBODY BACK!” You heard Theoden cry out and you fought to get back on your feet, pulling one of your swords out ready with your one working arm, as men began to filter through the doors to the hall.

You scanned their bedraggled faces covered in dirt and blood. Some of it their own, some of it not.

Then you heard the words that struck fear into your soul. “THEY’VE BROKEN THROUGH! THE CASTLE IS BREACHED! RETREAT!”

There was a thundering roar as the Uruk-hai pushed through the gate and began to charge past the stone walls. Your heart leapt as you heard a familiar voice call out for people to get inside but you didn’t have time to acknowledge it as a rogue orc pushed through the doorway. You didn’t hesitate as you plucked an axe from the hands of a man collapsed beside you and through it. It lodged itself right into the beasts forehead and he growled in pain before he collapsed to the ground, just as you saw King Theoden come into view of the doors.

“Quick, move aside!” You shouted to the men lingering by the doors, willing them to move and make space for the King and his men. As he passed into the hall, the King took one look at you, arrow still protruding from your shoulder, your arm numb with shock and adrenaline and gave you an appraising look, but your eyes were quickly moving away from him as Aragorn came into view behind him. He was still giving out orders to those around him but when his eyes landed on you he stopped, instantly rushing over.

“Get everybody in! Get those doors closed!” He commanded to Gamling as he strode across the hall towards you, ushering you back down on a bench at one of the tables. But as you sat down, you caught a flash of green and blonde hair coming through the door and your face became ashen as you locked eyes with your lover.

“RAEA!” He cried out, rushing over to you and the ranger now observing more closely the arrow in your shoulder.

“Legolas!” You breathed out his name in a sigh of relief as he fell to the floor at your feet. “Ahhhgg.” You sneered, your eyes flashing dagger at Aragorn as he pulled slightly at the arrow. “That hurts!”

“But it needs to come out.” He stressed calmly in that chastising way you hated. He moved to pull it again and you cried out louder, Legolas’s hand flying out to hold yours. “It’s stuck.” Aragorn turned and said to him.

“Just cut off the end and pull it through then!” You both grimaced and commanded. It was something you’d seen done before, but never experienced it for yourself.

“Are you sure?” Aragorn asked as Theoden’s men continued to move around the three of you barricading the doors.

“Yes, I’m sure! Just pull it out!” You said to him desperately,

Your eyes fell to the elf in front of you as the two of them shared looks between each other before silently agreeing. “Këp cin hen bo nin meleth nin.” Keep your eyes on me, my love. He breathed out and you nodded keeping your eyes on your Prince as Aragorn quickly snapped off the end of the arrow in preparation. You hissed slightly as the length of the arrow pulled with the force and your fingers gripped tighter around Legolas’s as you braved yourself for what came next.

You steeled yourself as you took a deep breath, seeking out your lovers ocean blue eyes, fixing your sights on them as you nodded your head and psyched yourself up. He reached his other hand up to brace your side, ready to hold you still as Aragorn braced one hand on your shoulder and his other around the arrow tip sticking through your back. You kept your eyes on Legolas as he glanced up at Aragorn and gave him a nod and pain ripped through your shoulder as he pulled the arrow all the way through leaving a clear hole through your chest, just beneath your collar bone. You felt Legolas’s fingers grip you tighter as you cried out from the initial pain.

“Thûl, meleth nin.” Breathe my love.

“Nîdh!” You hissed as your body rocked back and forth trying to ride out the pain as Aragorn rushed away to get something, no doubt herbs to place on it before he wrapped it. “Nîdh.” You said again. It hurts.

“Im ista, meleth nin.” I know, my love, he cooed to you softly as his hand moved to rub soothingly at your other arm.

“Get this on it.” Aragorn grunted in instruction as he handed over a couple of leaves to the elven Prince, the younger lad from before following close behind with more bandages, before he strode away to talk with Theoden about what you were all going to do next.

“The fortress is taken! It’s over!” You heard the King cry out in defeat as Legolas began to chew on the leaves he had been handed, mixing them with his saliva until they made a paste before he pressed them to the wound on either side of your chest and you let out a small hiss and he gave you a small sympathetic look as he diligently worked.

“Is there no other way to get the women and children out through the caves! IS THERE NO OTHER WAY!” Aragorn bellowed, trying to get a straight answer from the now panicking king.

“There is one other passage. It leads through the mountains! But they will not get far. The Uruk-hai are too many,” Gamling offered up as Legolas began to wrap up the wound where the arrow had been, sliding the bandage over your shoulder, across your chest, under your arm and back round again.

“Send word for the women and children to make for the mountain pass. And barricade the entrance.” Aragorn continued to instruct, taking charge as Theoden descended into madness.

“So much death. What can men do against such reckless hate?”

You watched as Aragorn took stock of the room and tried to formulate a plan. “Ride out with me.” He said in a hopeful tone, turning his head back towards the King as Legolas tied off your bandage and helped you back to your feet, holding you firmly in his arms, close to his chest.

“Ride out and meet them.” Aragorn said again.

“For death and glory.” Theoden said hopefully.

“For Rohan. For your people.” Aragorn stressed.

“The sun is rising.” Gimli noted and you all looked to the windows where the first rays of light were coming into view providing hope of a new day.

“Yes! Yes! The horn of Helm Hammerhand shall sound in the deep one last time.” Theoden said, continuing to be emboldened by the idea now taking hold.

“Yes!” Gimli cried out and you watched as he raced to the horn in question.

“Let this be the hour when we draw swords together!” Theoden cried, moving to a horse in the room and you looked to the elf at your side as the King continued to make his speech. “Fell deeds awake! Now for wrath! Now for ruin! And a red dawn!” He cried out and the men began to rally.

You kept hold of Legolas’s hand as he stepped aside and reached out for the reigns of one of the horses as it was ushered towards you both. “I will ride and fight with you until the end.” You told him.

“And I with you.” He replied before climbing up into the saddle and holding out his hand to haul you up behind him, your hands snaking tightly around his waist as the horse bristled beneath you and you all lined up ready to ride out.

Legolas turned his head back to you and you ensnared his lips into a kiss just as the horn rang out, bellowing deep throughout the keep and Theoden led the charge out through the door, Aragorn close on his heels, followed by yourself and Legolas.

You worked as a team, cutting down orcs with your blades as they neared your horse. The higher advantage point gave you the upper hand, but their sheer force of numbers continued to close in around you all as you made your way out of the keep. You couldn’t think of anything else except hold tight, slice and kill, repeating the actions again and again as your company slowly carved a path through the Uruk-hai. That was until the rays of sun coming up over the hill caught your eye, a lone figure on a white horse being back lit by the rising sun.

Your hand clutched tighter at Legolas’ waist to get his attention and he too looked, just as a mass of riders cantered up behind the figure. Reinforcements had finally arrived. As the power of horse riders made their way down into the valley, it gave your company one last plight of hope in which to keep fighting until every last Orc was slain.

As Legolas charged forward, carving a path into the masses for you to fight a body collided with the back of the horse and you lost your grip as Legolas ploughed down yet another Uruk-hai body. You were thrown from the back of the horse and you sneered as your shoulder took the brunt of the fall.

“Raea!!!” Legolas called back to you, but the horse wouldn’t stop.

You fought to get back to your feet, just in time to raise your sword and block an oncoming orc. You kicked it away, turning sharply and using the momentum to cut it down, just as another filled its place. You kept going, kicking and slashing, turning your body this way and that, cutting through one orc after another as you waited for Legolas to make his way back to you.

You could barely hear anything over the clash of metal so when a nearby war cry rang out and a horse came charging into view, a large spear impaling one your your assailants, you welcomed the sound and looming relief of aid. You quickly turned around, slashing through one more orc as you sought out the hand outstretched to you and were overcome with joy as you caught a glimpse of the familiar face of your rescuer.

“Èomer.” You breathed out his name as you were hauled up onto the horse.

“Hold on.” He commanded, using his sword to slash at another charging orc and clear your path forward.

You clung to Èomer tightly as his horse made haste and you both seized every opportunity to cut down the remaining orc forces around you until there was nothing left of them.

As your eyes scanned around you to be sure the fight was over, you finally rested your head on the back of his shoulder with relief and you swore you heard him let out a breathy chuckle as his own relief washed over him.

“Thank you.” You said to him as you lifted your head and looked over his shoulder, searching for his face.

“I guess we can just call ourselves even now.” He mused and you couldn’t help but smile at the memory that flashed into your mind at his words.

“Raea.” A breathy voice called to you as another horse approached your flank and Èomer turned your horse to face them. Your eyes swam with relief as they fell on the elven Prince as he came to a stop beside you.

“Legolas.” You cried as you raced to get down from atop Èomer’s horse, the man quickly climbing down after you as Legolas too got down from his horse and wrapped you in his arms.

“*Hanta- i elena cin moina.” Thank the stars you are safe. Legolas practically breathed into you as he held you close.

You parted from him only enough to look in his eyes and be sure he too was safe and well. But when you turned your head back to Èomer watching the two of you, you moved too quickly to not see the flicker of hurt within him before he pushed it down and concealed it once more.You knew exactly why it was there too.

When you had left Aragorn and Legolas before, it was Èomer who had picked up the pieces. Èomer who filled the gap left behind by the friends you knew you had had to leave. He who you fought with. He who you drank with, talked late into the night to and even lay in bed with. You knew how he had grown attached to you. Knew you had grown attached to him too in certain ways. But you also knew there was only one your heart truly belonged to. However it didn’t hurt you any less seeing the pain flash across his face at being faced with seeing the one he loved in the arms of another.

But for all you saw, alas your love did not see. Your stomach turned as he strode forward with an air of great gratitude to the man before him. “You protected her life. I owe you a life of gratitude.” The elf said, holding his hand out to the man before him.

“Don’t mention it.” Èomer grunted, his eyes moving from the elf before him to you, before he turned away from you both, climbing back up onto his horse as he went in search for his fellow riders.

Legolas turned back to you perplexed, attempting to work out what was unsaid. “Cin gar- govannen fai?” You have met before? He asked.

“Ho na- a mellon.” You replied. He is a friend. But Legolas knew from the way you said it and the look in your eyes that it was more than just that and he bristled with jealousy before he pushed it away. He had known as well as you did that there was still so much you had yet to speak of about your time apart but he also knew that to hold any of your actions against you from that time was beneath him.

So instead he simply nodded in understanding. “Tul-, le ammen rad- min mellon.” Come, let us find our friends.

You nodded in agreement as you let him help you up into the saddle before he climbed up behind you, taking the reigns and encompassing you within his arms and you sagged back exhausted into his embrace as you set off slowly towards where you could see Aragorn, Gandalf and Gimli congregating across the battlefield now that the battle had been won

[chilapis]

edit: refined/updated version of the content below -> here.

—

I am. deeply struggling to word my thoughts but I’ve been thinking about Childe and Garnets since morning.

Did you know garnets are gemstones generally known for their gorgeous blood-red hues (though like most other gems, they do come in other colours as well)? Did you know their name actually comes from the Latin word for pomegranate because of the similarity in colours?

Did you know that because of that similarity, garnets have been seen as a symbol reflecting the affection shared between Persephone and Hades? Did you know that the gemstone actually developed an association with Persephone, the Greek goddess known for her duality? The goddess of spring, and fertility but also queen of the underworld?

A duality finding balance of gentle innocence and growth, and death, reincarnation; even referred to as a protector(ess) in reference to the latter?

And on the topic of protection, did you know it was used by travellers journeying far from home so popularly that it’s sometimes referred to as the Traveller’s stone? It was seen as a bringer of good fortune and protection for those travelling; it was thought that it would bring them back to their homeland safely. It was actually given to loved ones embarking on faraway journeys quite commonly, with the hope that this stone would guide them home safe and sound. It has also been noted to be a popular gift among lovers to symbolise their affection but its most popular tradition (at-least in the past) remains that of it being gifted with the hope of being reunited, of having this person who means so much to you, finally come back home to you. And whether or not you believe in stone-related superstitions and myths, is there not sweetness to be found in the desperate human impulse to find comfort? Even if you view the belief to be silly, the fact that to console the anxiety and fear rooted in that separation, the people from those times dedicated these feelings and warmth to this stone, isn’t that special?

That said though, this stone also stands to represent passion, strength, vigour and life. It’s recommended for those who feel fatigued because it’s said to energize the wearer’s mind and body alike, while granting protection and strength alongside. This strength is generally seen to be mental but some might even argue it to be physical due to the belief that it promotes health of the heart and bones; and in association with the heart, promotes recovery from disorders or deficiencies regarding the blood. This stone protects, strengthens, energises, protects, and impassions.

I mean, I don’t know, the idea of a blood-red stone related with life, passion and strength that also has a history of being given to loved ones journeying away from their homelands to protect them and bring them home in one piece while also standing to represent the goddess, the protector, that balances both the gentle spring and the depths of the lower world just sounds strangely suitable for a certain someone.

+TL;DR: [desperately trying to flirt] wow handsome, you are so. rock

[ialwaysknewyouwerepunk]

queer signalling: louis and harry living their beautiful queer lives, collected by me

since we must take note of our fellow queers when they signal that they are very much one of us, despite being closeted. since i've had a very very queer few years thanks to them, thanks to their signalling, thanks to them being brave.

(!! this list isn't exhaustive, and if i've forgotten your favorite, by all means let me know. there's always room for another edition. it's been a while since i made a compilation and felt there was a need of a new one on my blog. this one goes a few years back, since my last one dates from 2021 :'o. so yeah. here we go.)

harry in my policeman, playing a closeted queer man, based on the book that's long been one of his favorites. lauded by the director and co-stars for how well he portrayed this character, how well he understood.

harry wearing a green flower on his chest for the mp premiere, placing himself (once again) in the same line of history as oscar wilde.

louis's green flowers on his initial 28clothing jersey at the first afhf, which includes bonus roses and 28s all around

the entire late night talking mv bc!!!!!

louis's rainbow stage lights during sibwawc. he really did that. every single night.

the entire dazed magazine happening. “I’ve always tried to compartmentalise my personal life and my working life,” he explains. / “I have unlocked an ability to be myself completely, unapologetically,” he says with conviction." / “I think through my own sense of self and personal journey, I am realising that happiness isn’t this kind of end state.”

louis's gay exit songs: most notably 'ever fallen in love (with someone you shouldn't've)'

harry flirting with stanley tucci

louis and his gay ass tank tops !!! we must point it out !!!!!!

all along

harry kissing a pride flag during harry's house ono in nyc

rainbow flare during the btm mv

harry being gifted a mask of his own face at munich n2, which prompted him to say that he feels like he's wearing a mask sometimes

28 in a triangle for 28clothing!!!!!!!!

kit connor soft launching 28 clothing. a young actor starring in a queer coming-of-age series, who was forced to come out after being accused of queerbaiting. he was the first one, besides louis, to wear 28clothing

harry's grammy's speech "people like me" (which ppl sadly misunderstood), echoing what he's been saying on tour for years. this doesn't happen to people like him. if they only knew, right?

harry's freddie-inspired outfit for the grammy carpet (which also brought back his theme for clown/jester fits, like harryween 2021 n2. wonder why)

louis's merch graphic where a boy is trying to smash a glass ceiling

harry posing for david hockney, actual living legend, gay artist of the ages. "Styles seems to know how lucky he is, adding, with a tinge of disbelief: “I’m in awe of the man with enough one-liners for a lifetime.” As to what those one-liners might be? Styles and Hockney’s mutual silence on that question suggests that what happens in the studio, stays in the studio."

louis having suspicious visuals during back to you, the only visuals of that type on tour

harry's 2022 harryween outfit: dressed as danny (literally. he did that. he went grease on us.) but wearing sandy's jacket

louis at barricade aka held safely in the arms of strong security personnel

harry singing man, i feel like a woman and still the one with shania twain. while wearing a rainbow discoball jumpsuit (parallel with kacey musgraves wearing a rainbow dress to sing it with him years ago.)

louis's gay ass merch for the away from home festival

harry dressed in nina ricci by harris reed, an explicitly gender-fluid line. "At 18 I found myself living in london creating ruffle blouses, corsets, fabric flowers and flares from my kitchen floor (...). My creations at the time were met with nothing but criticism for being “too feminine” or “costume”, teachers said I should focus on “menswear” or “womenswear”. l remember it really wasn’t until I started dressing for myself and who I was that it all clicked. @harrystyles was my first ever client who embraced the fun, fluid and expressive clothing I was creating."

continuous bluegreening. to name a few: harry's werchter fit, all this time lights, satellite caps in two colors only, louis's smiley flickering bluegreen on tour in 2022, the james cordon shit, louis in uncasville. enjoy this post here

harry's snl shoot unseens: him as ariel

louis out in amsterdam at a gay bar

harry going to the women's only swimming pond (on a day it was open for men, but this is important to me okay)

harry's use of orchids in his visuals during 'she' during love on tour '23

the 'hairy mermaid' tour visuals

harry as a mermaid during the mfasr mv. as a supreme physical manifestation of harry as the mermaid he truly is inside. but in his true form he gets chopped up and consumed. literally

as it was mv and its parallels with the matrix, hints to harry as the woman with the red dress.

louis jumping up on barricade against the one spot where a pride flag was draped over it

oh yeah that exact same thing happened in 2022 too

harry forming a skirt with a pride flag in brasil after his pants ripped

that gay ass denim getup with the fur collar?? while wearing the fucking peace ring????

harry and phoebe breaking gender norms in the tpwk mv dance. no i'm not over it yet shut up

louis wearing a basquiat t-shirt, another famously queer artist joining the ranks

harry bought an actual genuine basquiat. flex

harry dressed in skirts for gucci

"happy pride! happy pride! 'tis the season! can you tell i'm relaxed?"

"isn't all of this sparkly bi music?"

satellite mv rainbow planet tshirt

louis's bigger than me promo where he's literally george michael like??? IM SORRY???????

harry kissing lewis capaldi at the brits

harry kissing nick kroll at the dwd premiere. lol

and... harry as friend of D O R O T H Y. sang over the rainbow. we all cried. especially me at this clip of harry glancing in relief at his band after over the rainbow.