#FULL Auto Switch | Explore Tumblr posts and blogs

lambtotheslaughterr · 6 months ago

Text

One Way Or Another

A Rafe Cameron Oneshot

[THIS STORY WILL CONTAIN THEMES OF NON-CON/DUB-CON, MENTAL-EMOTIONAL-PHYSICAL ABUSE, ETC. YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED. READ AT YOUR OWN RISK. 18+. MINORS DO NOT INTERACT]

WC: 16.5k (just for a second, holy fuck. spent all day writing this. from 10 am to 8pm. i am feeling good & feel like i'm on a writer's high. thank you to all of you who made this happen: 62 pages of pure dark fiction)

Dividers provided by @firefly-graphics

OONA'S MASTERLIST

request for anon

requests are currently CLOSED

Summary: Reader's life couldn't be any better. She's working her dream job, living with her best friend, & may have met the one... but none of those things matter when her bestfriend/roommate begins seeing a volatile man from reader's past...

It was Coyote Ugly night at your work, & you made sure to request the night off weeks in advance. There would be nothing to stop you from singing your heart out to the soundtrack of the movie as it played in the bar or dancing on the bar with your friends, not even having your coworkers & boss witnessing it all unfold. Ever since you were a little girl, you wanted to be a bartender all because of the film. It inspired your fashion choices, your music tastes, & most importantly, your attitude.

As soon as you turned 21, you applied to every single bar in your area. And before that, you practiced your cocktail making, just enough to at least get hired. You knew without experience, it was difficult to land a job as a bartender. If you had to accept a position working at a hotel bar or fine dining bar, you’d take it, anything to get the experience, but your long-term goal was to find a bar with the same energy & vibes as your favorite movie. Your wish came true a year later.

The Garage was just that. It was inside an old auto-shop with three large garage doors. During summer nights, those doors would be raised & they led out into the enclosed patio area where a stage had been built for nights when live music would be happening. The owner, as much as you wanted it to be a tough-as-nails woman like Lil in Coyote, was an older man in his 50’s named Rosie. Yes, Rosie. His full name Roosevelt but he had been going by Rosie since he entered the bar business. It was your first favorite thing about him.

Rosie ran a tight-knit crew at The Garage. He was a no-bullshit haver but knew how to have a good time. It was him who trained you behind the bar, switching you up from making prissy, fancy shit & teaching you how to make a real drink, as he said. You loved him. And you loved your family there. Everyone accepted you & welcomed you with open arms & cold beer. It was all you could have ever dreamed for. And now, you were going to live out your ultimate fantasy.

It thankfully didn’t take a whole lot of convincing on your part to get Rosie to agree to a Coyote Ugly night. You advocated for how it would bring in a good crowd, good money, & good times. Moreover, you promised to do all the leg work. You would take it upon yourself to work alongside the social media handler, Rosie’s daughter Angie who worked in the office alongside her father, to get word out & generate interest. A week before the event was supposed to happen, you had a guaranteed 100+ people wanting to attend. There was no RSVP, but just an event page on Facebook, & your work had paid off. The night was happening, & you would be at the center of it all.

At your apartment that night, you got ready for the night. You admired your look in the mirror, scenes from the bar film playing through your mind. You smiled proudly at yourself. You look damn good.

But your night would only be complete if you convinced your best friend, & roommate, to come with. As far as that morning, she was still on the fence. But the time was now. She was either coming or not, & if you had anything to say about it, she would be forced along.

Leaving your room, you skipped down the hallway before turning a corner & entering the living room. Jules’ room was just off the living room, kitty corner from your room on the other side of the apartment. You were grateful for the distance, but only because you both were sexually active women & didn’t need to hear each other get your kicks in.

Jules’ door was open & you swung around the frame, poking your head in.

“Tell me you’re coming!” You hollered, noticing the door to her en suite bathroom was open & the light on, but she was out of sight.

“Uhhh.” Jules laughed awkwardly, “No?”

No? N O ?Well. You wouldn’t be having that.

Entering her room, you marched up to her bathroom entryway, prepared to bribe her into coming, but before you could get a word out, you felt your jaw drop onto the floor.

Jules stood in the center of her bathroom, posing with her hand on her hips & hiding her coy smile behind a lifted shoulder.

“Wow.” You grinned, impressed, “You look fucking hot.”

She was wearing a torn cropped lack crop top, the sleeves & hem shredded, & a mini, mini black leather skirt. To bring the whole look together, she wore a pair of black cowgirl boots & a black cowgirl hat. You giggled at the bolo tie around her neck.

“Do I look like someone not to be fucked with?”

“Hundred percent.”

Jules scrunched her nose cutely, turning to look at herself in the mirror, “Good.”

You joined her in the mirror, double checking your own look. You definitely didn’t look as man-eater as she did but you were still happy with what you wore. The two of you would undoubtedly be some of the hottest women there tonight.

“Ready?” You questioned as you applied some of her lipstick to your mouth.

Jules winked at herself in the mirror, “As I’ll ever be.”

The night was in full swing as you danced among people. Dirrty by Christina Aguilera vibrated the room as you swung your hips & ran your hands along the length of your torso. Never before have you felt more like yourself than you did in that moment. Everywhere you looked there was women in backless tops, leather pants or denim skirts, a plethora of country rock fashion choices, & plenty of good-looking men. The only thing that would make this night better was bringing a stranger home for the night.

Sweat coated your skin as you moved off the dance floor between songs. You had curated the playlist for the night. There was over 150 songs on the queue, all of which were either from the soundtrack or had a similar, fitting feel for the night. You knew that any moment Pour Some Sugar On Me by Def Leppard would come on & you were determined to drag Jules onto the bartop with you.

Sliding between the sea of people, you eventually spotted Jules standing at a tall table near the patio entrance. She was facing you but hadn’t noticed you yet as she spoke flirtatiously with the man standing across from her. He had his back to you & was leaning over the table to hear what your roommate was saying. Jules laughed, smacking him gently on his arm. You knew that you wouldn’t be the only one bringing a man home tonight.

As apologetic as you were to break up their conversation though, you had a goal in mind, & no potential suitor for your roommate was going to stop you.

“Jules!” You greeted happily as you jumped towards her, “It’s almost time.”

“Oh, hey, _____.” Jules smiled at you, “_____, this is Rafe.”

But before she had even said his name, you were already looking him over & felt your world slow down at the familiar face standing before you.

It had been a couple years since you last saw Rafe Cameron. You two were in the same grade in high school & attended a lot of the same parties, but you two never spoke to one another. He had a reputation in the halls as a cokehead & was known to snap at a moment’s notice & get into a brawl over the smallest of things. Definitely wasn’t the kind of person you wanted to hangout with. But you had to admit he knew how to throw good parties.

“Rafe, this is my roommate _____.”

Rafe smirked at you before offering his hand, “Nice to meet you.”

You took his hand, ignoring the static shock you received when touching your palms together, “Likewise.”

Jules was about to say more but the opening instrumentals to your most-anticipated song of the night began playing over the speakers.

“Sorry, Rafe. I gotta steal her for a couple minutes.” Before Jules could resist, you began dragging her towards the bar.

“Hey! I was talking to him!”

“Talk to him later, this is way more important.”

Jules then realized what was happening & started shaking her head knowingly, “You’re lucky I fucking adore you.”

“The luckiest.” You smiled back.

The two of you were quick to climb onto the bar where a few other women were already dancing to Pour Some Sugar On Me. Jules & you were naturals at dancing, having many dance nights in your living room. You danced sensually to the song as it blared over the speakers. Your cheeks hurt from smiling as hard as you were, enjoying the ooh’s & awe’s of men & women alike as they cheered all the women on. You spotted a few of your coworkers behind the bar filming you on their phones. You’d be sure to get those videos sent to you before the night was out.

Jules slowly fell to her knees to whip her hair around her as she bumped & grinded the air to the music. You reached behind the bar to grab a pitcher of water & did the honors of pouring water on her as the first chorus blasted. Jules’ dancing & your pouring elicited an eruption of cheers. When the first chorus was over, Jules returned to her feet & the two of you danced seductively against one another. All eyes were on the two of you as you stole the show. Your lifelong dream of being a Coyote was coming true before your own eyes.

The song continued & by the time the final chorus came it was your turn to have everyone cheer for you. Jules’ was handed another pitcher of water & as the famous Pour Some Sugar On Me chorus began, you modeled yourself atop the bar. Your butt was down & your legs extended out the length of the bar. You were facing up, your arms holding you up behind your back, your legs bent at the knees. Then as the titular moment of the song happened, Jules poured the ice cold water over you.

A wave of cheers & enthusiasm erupted throughout the bar. When Jules finished pouring the water, you repositioned yourself to crawl along the length of the bar, catching eyes & stealing hearts. You spotted one man sitting at the bar, his eyes never leaving your own. He was cute, more than cute, he was Kevin O’Donnell cute. Your Coyote Ugly dreams were demanding you to end your performance in his lap.

The man grinned to himself as you swung your legs around to dangle off the bar on either side of him. He leaned back in his seat to stare up at you, a closed smirk across his handsome features. As the song closed, you slid off the bar & into his lap. With no introductions needed, you tangled your fingers in his hair at the nape of his neck & brought his mouth to yours, sealing the night with a kiss from a perfect stranger.

His name was Jack. He was new to town. You were happy to be his welcoming committee.

“What you did up there was…” He laughed, raising his brows in knowing.

“I know.” You giggled, nursing your drink.

After your kiss, Jack insisted on buying you a drink & you couldn’t say no. Jules’ hugged you once before returning to her object of desire. You were too distracted by your own man to question her own.

“So, you work here?” Jack asked, looking around the place.

You nodded proudly, taking in the environment, “It’s my second home.”

“I like the energy. Seems fun.”

“It is.” You confirmed, ��Couldn’t have asked for a better place to work.”

The two of you talked for a bit longer before you were interrupted. Jules slid in beside you at the table you & Jack were sat at, & her man for the night, the reputable bad boy from your high school, took the spot opposite her. You didn’t miss how his eyes lingered on your face for some time. You frowned internally but ultimately ignored it as you turned to your best friend.

“Are you drunk?” You asked incredulously. It took a lot to get Jules drunk, she was a prime time heavy weight, & she was fine when you saw her only ten minutes ago.

Jules pressed her lips together, smiling knowingly up at you, “Maybe.”

“What the hell did you drink?” You chuckled as she rested her head on your shoulders.

“We took a couple shots at the bar.” Rafe added to the conversation. You flashed your eyes towards him, taking in his appearance.

“You look fine.” You pointed out, yet your heavy weight best friend was growing more drunk by the second.

“I just hide it better.” Rafe smirked. His face was flushed. And after working in the bar industry for the last two years, you did know men’s bodies handled liquor better than women’s. So, you let it go.

“Do you wanna head home?” You shook Jules.

She shrugged but her eyes were fluttering closed.

You felt disappointed but didn’t show it. The night was still young, you had yet to even partake in the karaoke aspect of the night, but Jules wasn’t going to last much longer, chugging water be damned.

“Jack,” you glanced across to him, “I’m sorry, I’m gonna have to get her home.”

“I understand.” He nodded, pulling out his phone, “Let me at least get your number. Maybe you can give me a tour of town.”

You smiled at that, sharing your number to him out loud. Once he entered it into his phone, you told him you looked forward to his call & began to get out of your seat. But as you did, your world began to spin.

“Whoa.” You mumbled, catching yourself on the table. You must’ve had more to drink than you thought.

“You alright?” Jack asked, rising to his full height to help stabilize you.

You nodded but you weren’t, “I’m a lightweight. Guess I drank more than I thought I had.”

Jack grabbed your jacket, “Do I need to order you a Lyft?”

You shook the offer away. But you couldn’t drive. Jules didn’t have a car so it was you who got the two of you there tonight. You glanced over your shoulder at the bar, wondering if maybe you could convince one of your coworkers to give you a ride but they were still slammed. The bar wouldn’t die down for a couple more hours.

“I’m sorry, Jack. Would it be shitty of me to ask you to drive my drunk ass & my roommate’s drunk ass home?”

Jack chuckled at that but ultimately shook his head no, “I don’t have a car. Don’t really need one here, ya know.”

You nodded at that. It was true.

“Fuck.” You moaned. Your head was growing dizzier by the second.

Most times you would bite the bullet & cough up the money to pay for an expensive Lyft, but with rent due in two days, you didn’t have the funds. And you didn’t work tonight so no tips would help.

“I can drive you.” A voice sounded from the other end of the table. Both you & Jack looked towards Rafe as he pulled out his keys.

“I thought you had a lot to drink, too?” Jack questioned. You were relieved he wasn’t too trusting of Rafe immediately either.

“Not really.” Rafe returned, his eyes on you though, “You want the ride or not? She looks like she’s gonna be sick any minute.”

At that statement, you bent over to look at Jules. He was right. Her skin was looking ashen & she was frowning in her sleep. The last you wanted to worry about was her puking before you got her to her bed with a bowl on the floor.

��Okay.” You nodded, accepting your jacket from Jack’s hands. “Thanks.”

Jack helped you gather the rest of yours & Jules’ things. He attempted to help you carry her outside but your legs were beginning to grow weaker, your strength quickly dissipating.

“I got it.” Jack reassured you as he lifted Jules into his arms cradle style.

“Hey, uh.” Jack looked towards Rafe.

“Rafe.” He shared his name. Jack nodded then gestured to where you stood leaning against the wall, “Wanna help her?”

You raised your head at that. Rafe approached you, offering his hand.

“I got it.” You faked, forcing yourself to stand up. Rafe made an unimpressed face but you ignored it. Just outside the door to the parking lot though you felt your knees buckle. Before you could hit the ground, you felt a strong & firm arm catch you around the waist.

“Just lean on me. My truck’s right there.”

As much as you didn’t want Rafe’s help, still unsure why you were feeling hostile towards him, you knew you needed to. Accepting his help, you leaned into his side as he kept you on your feet. A truck a few feet away beeped & the headlights flashed. Jack was ahead the two of you, waiting for Rafe to help him get Jules’ into the back seat.

Rafe first brought you to the passenger side, helping you up into the cab. Your movements were slow & languid, like you were already half asleep. You shook your head, trying to clear your mind enough to fasten your belt, but before you could, Rafe reached across your front to secure the protective strap.

“Thanks.” You mumbled, avoiding his eyes.

“No problem.” He shut your door gently before joining Jack on the other side. You vaguely listened as the two men got Jules into the backseat before the door shut.

By the time they finished, Rafe was quick to hop into the driver’s seat. You were holding your head in your hands, trying to keep your vision from swimming. Fuck, you really needed to keep better track of your drinking, but you were just having too much fun.

The door to your side opened & Jack was there, “You gonna be okay?”

You hummed in response, not trusting yourself to speak, worried that your speech would be slurred.

“Okay. Text me when you make it home safely. I’ll text you right now.”

All you could manage was to give him a thumbs up.

“Alright.” Jack nodded then he looked towards Rafe, “Make sure they get home safe, man.”

“Yup.” The engine roared to life as he pressed a button on the dashboard.

“I’ll see you later, _____.”

You wanted to return the parting but Jack closed the door. The truck jostled beneath you as Rafe drove through the gravel lot.

“What’s your address?” Rafe asked.

Pulling out your phone, you languidly types in your address into the maps app. You hit ‘start’ & handed your phone to Rafe.

The ride was mostly silent until the final couple minutes of it.

“I remember you, ya know.” Rafe commented. You forced your eyes open at that. It wasn’t that you thought he would remember you or not, but you didn’t want to have one of those walk-down-memory-lane conversations with someone you knew was problematic in high school. Times changed everyone, you supposed. You weren’t always the confident & extroverted woman you were today. Perhaps Rafe had changed, too.

“Yeah?” You responded. Thankfully, you didn’t sound as drunk as you felt.

“Yeah, you dated that Junior kid for a while.”

“Mm.” You had forgotten about Junior. You weren’t one of those people that considered high school boyfriends as real relationships. After all, the two of you only dated for two months your senior year.

“What I remember most is your guys’ dramatic breakup at Phil’s prom after-party.”

You frowned at that. That whole night was a messy blur in your memory. You remembered prom fine but the after-party was another story. You had always been a lightweight, but as you thought on it, you vaguely remembered catching Junior dancing with another girl that night.

The memory resulted in a light chuckle from you, “Oh, yeah. Well…he was an asshole.”

Rafe shared in your chuckle, nodding in agreement, “Yeah, he was.”

“So, Jack, huh?”

His sudden change in conversation made you finally look at him in the dark. The streetlights you passed under were doing little to light his face.

“Jack?”

“Think he’ll be any better than Junior?” Rafe questioned.

What did that even matter?

Searching for the right words through your addled brain proved difficult, but you eventually found them, “I don’t know… not like I’m going to date him seriously.”

“No?” Rafe flicked his eyes to yours, “Why not?”

Okay, you were not going to have this conversation with Rafe of all people.

Ignoring his question, you were relieved when Rafe pulled into the parking lot of your apartment complex. But the night wasn’t quite over. You knew you wouldn’t be able to get Jules upstairs & into your apartment on your own.

But as if he was reading your mind, Rafe switched the truck off & unbuckled his belt. He hopped out & you watched through the windshield as he rounded to your side. When he opened the door, you moved to get out but was stopped by the belt you still wore. Oh, right.

Rafe beat you to it though, reaching around your front for a second time to release the buckle. You felt a chill riddle up your spine when his thumb grazed against your front, just above the top of your shorts. Rafe then placed a hand on your hip & guided you out of the truck. Even though it wasn’t a lifted truck, it sure felt like it as Rafe helped you climb out & down.

“Good?”

You nodded in response, wanting to keep your words few & far between.

Next, you followed him around to the other side of the truck. You noticed that you weren’t as drunk as you were when you left. Your head was still pounding & your vision was still swimming, but at least you could hold yourself up now.

Rafe swung open the door to the back & began gently pulling out Jules. She mumbled in her drunken sleep as he slung her over his shoulder.

“If you want to lead the way, I can carry her.”

“Thanks.” You sighed, desperate to get inside & crash into your bed.

Inside the secure building, you used your key fob to alert the elevator of your presence. When the three of you loaded on, you pressed the lit up button for 5.

“Thank god for elevators, right.” Rafe joked as he shifted Jules to piggyback him. Fortunately, she hung on.

Once you reached your floor, you sped walked ahead to your door & swung it open. Rafe passed you by.

“Take a right at the corner & her bedroom is at the end, off the living room.”

Rafe followed your directions in the dark. You turned on the lights behind him as he went, hoping he didn’t bump into anything or accidentally drop Jules because of it. He managed to swing her door open & enter her room, you were right behind them.

Rafe turned to face you before bending his knees to lower Jules closer to the bed. Once she was close enough, Rafe let her go. Jules groaned again at the sudden drop, her eyes fluttering open briefly before closing again. You entered her bathroom to dampen one of her hand towels.

When you re-entered her room, you paused, watching silently as Rafe tucked Jules’ legs under the covers of her bed. He glanced up, likely having feeling you watching him, & shrugged.

“I can’t sleep without a blanket of some sort when I’m drunk.”

You nodded, mustering a smile. Approaching Jules, Rafe moved out of the way. You placed the damp rag on her forehead, hoping it’d help her feel less sick if she did end up throwing up in the middle of the night.

“Would you mind doing me a favor?” You asked Rafe, glancing at him over your shoulder.

“Sure, what’s up?”

“Above the fridge in the kitchen are big bowls. Can you bring one?”

Rafe nodded & left the room. You listened intently until you heard him in the kitchen.

“Grab a glass of water, too, please!” You hollered.

The faucet began running in the distance, so you took the time to lift Jules’ sheets. You overlooked her body, ensuring that Rafe didn’t do any weird shit when you were in the bathroom. But nothing looked out of place. Even her cowgirl boots were still on. Chuckling lightly to yourself, you quickly removed them from her feet before tucking her legs back under the covers.

It wasn’t that you were a man-hater, you loved men. But recalling all the rumors surrounding Rafe in high school, & how even despite that he was a stranger, you didn’t want to take any chances. So far he had been helpful & friendly enough so you didn’t want to be quick to stuff him into a box labeled ‘creep’, but you’d certainly keep your eye on him.

You heard his footfalls coming nearer so you stood up. When he entered the room again, he carried a large bowl in one hand & a glass of water in the other.

“Thank you.” You offered him a small smile when taking the objects from him.

Once you got Jules settled, you turned to face him, gesturing for the two of you to leave the room. You closed the door quietly behind you. In the living room, you eyed the kitchen on the opposite end of the space.

“Did you want anything to drink? It’s the least I can do for helping.”

Rafe sighed, contemplating your offer, “An energy drink if you got it. Feel like I’m gonna fall asleep behind the wheel if I keep going like this.”

“I don’t have any of that, but I can make you a coffee?”

“Yeah, sure, thanks.”

You nodded, walking towards your kitchen. Rafe followed behind you, taking a seat at your small two person table in the corner. You felt him watching you as you pulled out the coffee grounds & began putting them into the coffee maker.

“Thank you again.” You repeated, tossing him a look over your shoulder, “For helping.”

“No problem.” He repeated, “Again.”

You laughed quietly & softly at that. Once the coffee began brewing, you pulled out two mugs & left them by the pot. Then you turned back to face him.

“How are you feeling?” He asked.

You felt your brows crease, “What do you mean?”

“Well, you couldn’t walk at the bar, but now you seem totally fine.”

“Oh.” You straightened up that, also then realizing how much better you were beginning to feel, “Better, yeah. Must’ve just been a wave.”

Rafe nodded at that but said nothing.

“So.” you began, shrugging your shoulders. Small talk wasn’t your forte. It made you feel awkward.

“So…” Rafe repeated.

The two of you shared an uncomfortable laugh.

“You looked really hot on the bar tonight.” His sudden & unsolicited comment surprised you. There was no hiding the shock on your face.

“What?” You laughed, really believing you misheard him.

“You heard me.” He smirked at you, his eyes trailing the length of you. You shifted under his gaze, shaking your head, “Thanks? I guess.”

Fortunately, the coffee pot finished & you were able to distract yourself with pouring the two of you a mug of coffee. You brought Rafe’s his before returning to the fridge to pull out some French vanilla creamer.

“Want some?” You shook the carton. Rafe waved his hand in dismissal.

After flavoring your coffee, you joined him at the table.

“So, what have you been up to since high school?” You finally asked, forcing yourself to partake in a dreaded topic of conversation.

“Not a whole lot.” Rafe blew out air, “Working for my dad mostly.”

“And what’s that?” You blew on your coffee before taking a sip.

“Business. Real estate development. That sorta shit.”

You nodded, “That’s good money though, right? You rolling in dough?”

“Why? Want me to take you out on a date?”

He was teasing but you still laughed uncomfortably, “Not exactly.”

“No? Not the dating type?”

Shrugging, you made a face that confirmed his suspicions, “Not really, no.”

“Why’s that?”

You sighed, leaning back in your chair, “No reason, really. Just haven’t met the right person, I guess.”

“Having too much fun stealing & breaking hearts at the bar?” Rafe smirked.

You rolled your eyes, “Something like that.”

“You stole mine. Watching you up there…”

The way he looked at you made your skin erupt with goosebumps. You bit your lip & Rafe’s eyes flicked to the movement. You shook your head, unable to hide your embarrassed smile, “You’ve always been a flirt, ya know?”

Rafe’s eyes widened at that, “What does that mean?”

You shook your finger at him, “We may not have talked in high school but you had a reputation. You were ‘the bad boy’. Breaking hearts and faces.”

Rafe scoffed at that but chuckled nonetheless, “I won’t confirm nor deny.”

A silly giggle left you but you immediately reeled it in the second you heard it. Were you…flirting with Rafe Cameron? Jesus. If someone had told you earlier that day that you’d end your night flirting with Rafe Cameron in your own apartment you’d say bullshit. It was funny though sometimes how the world brought people in & out of your life.

“Oh, c’mon.” You shook your head, “All the girls wanted to date you & all the guys wanted to either be you or beat you.”

Rafe laughed at that, nodding in agreement, “Maybe.”

You lowered your eyes, memories of high school passing you by.

“What about you?”

You raised your eyes to meet his, “What about me, what?”

“Did you want to date me?”

There was no helping the sudden burst of laughter at his question. You bit your lip again, shaking your head, “Actually, no. If anything, I was scared of you.”

Rafe’s eyes glinted playfully, leaning across the table, “That so?”

“Mm.” You nodded, “I saw a few of your fights. You’re pretty hot-headed, ya know. All I wanted to do was not piss you off.”

“You couldn’t even if you tried.” Rafe eyes lingered to your lips.

A part of you was undeniably enjoying his apparent attraction to you. You didn’t care if it was the alcohol or whatever it was that was sexually charging the energy in the room. After all, you did want to take a man home tonight. Rafe isn’t who you had in mind, especially since he started out as Jules’, but Jules’ was lax. If you did end up sleeping with Rafe, she wouldn’t care. All she’d be interested in was how he was in bed. And now, you couldn’t help but wonder yourself.

Inhaling sharply, you pushed your coffee to the side so you could place your elbows on the table, leaning forward so there was only a few inches between you.

“But I’m sure I can make you happy.” You flirted suggestively.

“I think you can, too.” Rafe stared at you through hooded eyes. Yeah. He wanted you, too.

That being the only confirmation you needed, you rose from your seat, offering your hand to Rafe, “C’mon then. Let’s go to bed.”

Rafe grinned up at you with that. Then he rose to his full height, but he ignored your hand. He towered over you, your head only reaching his shoulders. Before you could say or do anything, Rafe suddenly had his arms around your butt, lifting you until you were forced to wrap your legs around his middle.

“Let’s.”

A week passed before you saw Rafe again. And you honestly never expected to see him again. After the night you two spent together rolling around in your sheets, you passed out. When you woke the next morning, Rafe was gone. It wasn’t the first time, & likely wouldn’t be the last, that one of your hook-ups escaped into the night, but you’d be lying if you thought Rafe would be different since you two went to high school. But alas, Rafe only proved to be like most men. You weren’t miffed though. You moved on fast.

As far Jules, her reaction to learning about you two hooking up wasn’t what you quite expected. She laughed it off at first but you could see that she felt something about it. You eventually got it out of her. She said that she actually liked Rafe. Unlike most of her conquests, she felt a natural draw to him & had thought that perhaps Rafe could be someone she’d date. It all surprised you.

Jules, of course, didn’t blame you whatsoever since she had only met Rafe that night, & after you explained your history, or lack thereof, with him, she understood. But you could tell that she was disheartened to not get to know him more. But as the week passed, she got back into her usual good spirits.

As for you, you heard from Jack a day after you met him. He started out giving you a hard time for not letting him know you made it back home safely that night, & you thought it best to lie & say that you passed out as soon as you got into bed rather than telling me the truth. The two of you texted for the whole day & before you knew it you had scheduled a date.

The date itself was fun. You took Jack to some blacklight mini golf then the two of you had a couple beers at one of your favorite bars. The night ended with a hot make-out session in your car. After that, you two saw each other practically every day. Tonight would be no different. In fact, Jules was going out to the bars & you were staying in, wanting Jack to come spend the night with you. It wasn’t like you to wait to have sex with someone you were interested, so Jack was a rare case.

But with Jules being out of the apartment for most of the night, you thought it an opportune time to have him over & you two could be as loud as you wanted.

It was almost nine at night when Jules finally left. Jack was supposed to be there around that time, as well. But before she left, she poked her head into your room. You did a little spin for her as she tried to pick her jaw off the floor.

“Damn, _____. Jack isn’t gonna know what hit him.”

You smiled happily at that, admiring your lingerie in your full length mirror.

“I hope so.” Jack was quickly becoming your Rafe. By that, you meant that you enjoyed his company beyond more than just the sexual tension. He made you laugh, carried a conversation, showed interest in your life but also wasn’t afraid to share details of his own. Plus, he was hot as fuck. The more you hung out with him the more he reminded you of a young James Franco. And Franco was always cute to you.

�� “So, I wanted to talk to you about something really quick.” Jules revealed, stepping further into your room.

You tossed her a confused but wary look, “…Okay. Everything alright?”

“Yeah, at least, I hope so.” She laughed sheepishly, “I’m going to bars tonight, as you know, but…I’m not going alone.”

You reeled back at that, but were smiling nonetheless, “Okay, babe, if it’s a date you know we trade info incase the guys are creeps.”

“Yeah, I know.” She sighed, avoiding your eyes, “That’s kind of why I didn’t say anything to begin with. You already know him…”

Done admiring yourself in the mirror, you sat on your bed, staring up at her in waiting.

Jules moved forward to join you on your bed, “It’s with Rafe.”

Oh.

The revelation wasn’t what you expected but you nodded hesitantly, “Okay… that’s okay?”

“I don’t know, is it? We’ve never really navigated these waters before.”

You rolled your eyes at that, “Oh, my god, Jules, it’s okay! I have no claims to him. If you want to see him then see him.”

She frowned at that, not entirely buying what you were selling, “Are you sure? I know we have a pretty lax friendship, but it’s not weird. I’ll admit, I did feel weird after you told me you guys hooked up last weekend.”

A pang of guilt hit your chest, but you dismissed it with a forced smile. You had no interest in Rafe. He was a decent fuck, but that’s all he was. If Jules was serious about him, the last you wanted to do was have her thinking you were standing in her way.

“God, I’m sorry. I’m such a slut sometimes.”

Jules giggled at that but shook her head, “That’s not what I’m saying. I just want to make sure that you & I will be okay. And, obviously, if it gets weird or messy having Rafe around then I won’t mind kicking him to the curb.”

You laughed at that, “It won’t come to that. Besides, I have my own man coming over tonight. Rafe…feels like it was ages ago at this point.”

“Okay.” Jules grinned, her dimples appearing. You could tell she was really excited about this date. You only hoped that Rafe didn’t disappear in the middle of the night on her like he did you.

“Okay!” You exclaimed, standing up. Jules stood with you. You hugged her, “Thank you for telling me. I’ll make sure Jack & I are all finished by the time you get home.”

“No worries.” Jules pulled away, grinning at you, “If we do end up wanting to hook-up I’m going to try to get it done at his place, that way you two can be alone all night.”

“Well, thanks, I appreciate it.” You smiled, letting her go, “But if you do go there, you know to text me where the address is.”

“Yes, mom.” Jules rolled her eyes.

With that, you exited your room & walked with her to the door. Jack would be there any minute & you still wanted light some incense & candles.

You were unlatching the door & swinging it open, preparing to wave Jules off but a yelp escaped you at the tall, looming presence just on the other side.

“Rafe!” Jules shrieked. The both of you were not expecting him on the other side, let alone anyone.

Rafe’s eyes danced amusingly between the two of you as you both recovered from the jump scare but when his eyes stopped on you, staring at your chest, you glanced down. It was then that you realized you were still only wearing your lingerie.

“Oh, fuck.” You muttered, quickly standing just behind the door out of sight as you tied the thigh length silk robe around your body. Jules realized what was happening by the time you finished & glanced up.

“Sorry ‘bout that.” You laughed sheepishly as Jules stepped out.

Rafe said nothing but was staring at you like he was trying not to respond.

“Oh, jesus, let’s just get this over with.” Jules finally spit out, “You guys fucked. It’s nothing he hasn’t seen before. Right?” She looked at you to which you nodded quickly.

“Right?” She focused on Rafe. He only mustered an awkward smirk.

“Great. Now that that’s over with, _____...” Jules eyed you, “Have fun with Jack. I’ll see you either tonight or tomorrow.”

At the mention of Jack’s name, you felt Rafe’s eyes flash to yours in curiosity. You blatantly ignored his wonderous gaze & waved at Jules, “Bye, have fuuun!”

Then you hurriedly slammed the door. As much as you loved Jules for her direct nature, you sorely wished she hadn’t mentioned the two of you hooking up while you were standing there in practically nothing. But, fortunately the moment was over & you could focus on the task at hand: Jack.

It was nearly three in the morning when you tip-toed into the kitchen to heat yourself up some leftovers. Jack had passed out. You had tired him out. You had always considered your endurance your best quality in the bedroom. It wasn’t often when a man could keep up with you. Jack was no exception, but he was fun, nonetheless. The sex was rushed at first. The second he saw you he couldn’t keep his hands off you. The after having sex that lasted for roughly fifteen minutes, you two relaxed & laughed about it.

Then you ordered the two of you some food & while waiting for the food to come the two of you hung out on the couch watching an episode of The Boys. After eating & another episode, Jack gathered you in his arms & carried you into your room for second round. The second round was a lot more sensual. Now that the two of you had had sex in a hurry, you two were able to slow down & really learn each other’s bodies. You were winded by the time that session ended. You fell asleep as he scratched your back & when you woke up an hour later, he was still awake watching videos on his phone. You knocked his phone out of the way & straddled his lap. The third time was even more mind-blowing than the first two—being the perfect mixture of animalistic & intimate.

After that, it was Jack’s turn to pass out. He had commented on your skills in bed & you kicked your feet about it. It wasn’t that you felt validated by hearing a man’s thoughts about what you could do but you also wouldn’t deny how good it still felt to hear.

You tried sleeping yourself, getting only ten or so minutes when your stomach growled you awake. There would be no good night’s rest until you ate. So, that’s when you decided to go heat up some leftovers from yours & Jack’s order.

Your apartment was quiet save for the metallic hum of the microwave. You stared at Jules’ closed bedroom door, & it was only then that you realized you hadn’t checked your phone whatsoever since Jack arrived. There was still a minute left on the microwave. You decided you’d go snatch your phone from your room really quickly then give Jules a call while you ate. But just as you entered the hallway, you heard the familiar sound of her keys in the door.

As quietly as you possibly could, you backed up back into the living room then raced across the room to the kitchen, trying to look as natural as possible. But as you listened for Jules’ footsteps, you picked up on another.

She wasn’t alone.

You glanced down. You were in your robe but only your robe. Jack made quick work of discarding your matching bra & underwear. There was a throw blanket on the back of the couch. You made to move towards it, hoping to get it wrapped around you since the robe did little to really cover you, but just as you did, two figures appeared on the other end of the room.

“Jules?” You frowned. She was slumped against Rafe.

Your eyes flashed to his, your state of dress forgotten, “What the hell happened?”

“Yeah, I don’t think she’s much of a heavyweight anymore. She was falling asleep at the bar.”

Shaking your head, you approached the two of them. Rafe still held her up as you patted her cheeks, “Jules, babe, wake up.”

But she only moaned & swatted your hand away, “Sleepy.”

“Okay, okay.” You couldn’t help the glare you threw at Rafe. Whether or not it was his fault, she had only gotten this drunk in the last week while in his presence. You hoped it was just a coincidence but you wouldn’t settle on it quite yet.

“Can you get some water, I got it from here.” You told Rafe before slipping her into your arms. Jules managed to use her feet to assist you in assisting her as you brought her back to her bed. Jules sighed happily at the sight of her bed before throwing herself down on it.

You knelt beside the bed, tucking her hair behind her ear, “Did you drink a lot again?”

“Mmm. Probably.”

You sucked on your lip, “Jules, you can’t be drinking like that. You gotta be safe.”

“Safe…very safe.” She mumbled, turning her head away from you as she curled into herself.

The air in the room shifted as Rafe entered behind you. You stood up, taking the glass of water from him none-too-gently & putting it on her nightstand.

“You can leave.” You told him without looking at him, “Thanks for getting her home.”

Rafe scoffed behind you but said nothing. You listened as you heard his steps leave the room. Releasing a breath of air, you stared at your best friend as she slept soundlessly.

“Jules…” You whispered to no one. Taking her shoes off, you threw one of her loose blankets over her & switched her light off. You’d be talking with her in the morning. You had to make sure that her getting so drunk was her doing & not Rafe’s.

A muffled gasp escaped you as you closed her door, not expecting to see Rafe leaning against the wall just on the other side.

You had your hand over your mouth to keep from waking Jules or Jack, but you glared hotly at Rafe over your hand.

Closing Jules door, you stepped closer to him, hissing, “I told you to leave.”

Rafe frowned, “Okay, sorry. I thought you just meant the room.”

“You knew exactly what I meant.”

You turned away from him, quietly stomping towards the kitchen. Rafe followed behind you.

“What’s your problem? I thought you’d thank me.”

“And I did.” You bit back. You were struggling to contain your anger. You had no proof that Rafe actually did anything, after all, he was helpful just last weekend & brought Jules back home tonight, but it still didn’t sit well with you. And your mom always taught you to trust your gut.

“So why the hostile attitude? Did I do something wrong?”

Inhaling sharply, you yanked open the microwave door. The food was steaming. But you had lost your appetite.

“No.” You replied shortly, uncaring if you sounded convincing or not.

You touched the plate but as you did, you hissed in pain. You were too caught up in your frustrations to remember to grab the plate of food with a hand towel.

“You okay?” Rafe moved closer, peering down at you as you stuck your thumb in your mouth, sucking on it.

You grunted in response. But Rafe just stared at you in disbelief.

“If you run it under cold water it’ll help better.” He told you, his voice flat.

“I know that.”

Instead of approaching you, he backed up to the sink, flicking the faucet handle. Then he gestured to the sink, “Well.”

Biting your lip in mild irritation, you neared the sink & stuck your thumb under the water. It wouldn’t burn, not visibly anyway, but it still hurt like a bitch. The cool water helped though.

As the water cooled the sensation of your pulsing thumb, so did your anger. Shaking your head, you finally looked at Rafe over your shoulder, “I’m sorry. Thank you for helping her home.”

“You’re welcome.” He returned, but the nicety has left his voice. He was as irritated as you had been.

“It’s just, she doesn’t get drunk like this.” You told him, “I mean, she does! But it takes a lot. Like a lot, a lot. So, seeing her get this drunk twice in one week, just has me concerned.”

“Well, I was there, & I’m telling you, she didn’t drink a lot. I don’t know, obviously, what her ‘a lot’ is, but it wasn’t a lot to me. A beer, three cocktails, & two shots.”

You thought on it. That was still excessive, at least in your opinion. Jules could normally handle a bit more than that but perhaps Rafe was right. Maybe her tolerance was just changing for some reason all of a sudden.

“Guess it makes sense.” You mumbled. Your thumb felt better at that point so you turned the faucet off.

“So, what’s a lot to you?” You asked him, wanting to shift the negative energy between the two of you.

Rafe glanced at you in momentary confusion before shrugging, “More than that.”

“Guess that makes sense, too.” You chuckled softly, “You were a big partier in high school.”

Finally, Rafe’s stone expression cracked as a smirk tugged on the corner of his lips, “Yeah, true.”

The room was silent for a beat until your stomach growled. Your appetite had returned. Turning your back on Rafe, you went to the microwave & tapped the plate, testing the heat. It was grabbable now. You removed your food from the appliance then took your plate to the table. Rafe watched you silently before slowly approaching you.

“So, you & Jack, huh?”

“Hmm?” You flicked your eyes to his, before realizing what he had asked, “Oh, uh, yeah.”

Rafe nodded, slowly dragging out the chair opposite you before sitting down.

“And you & Jules.” You added, not wanting you or Jack to be the focus at that point in time.

“Mhmm.” Rafe pursed his lips, cocking his head as he peered at you, “And you & me.”

You scrunched your nose in discomfort, but offered an awkward smile nonetheless, “Yup.”

“Does Jack know?” His question surprised you.

You glanced away to cut into your enchilada, blowing on it, then placing it in your mouth. You chewed, staring back at Rafe. Then you shrugged.

“I take that as a ‘no’.”

“Well, it’s not like we’re together, him & I. He doesn’t need to know about my hook-ups. I don’t ask about his.”

“But you want to date him.” It wasn’t a question but you still treated it as such.

“Um, no? I don’t know. Why do you ask?” You took another bite, a lump forming in your throat at Rafe’s invasive questions.

“Ah, well, Jules was saying that she thought you really liked this Jack guy, more than normal. Said you guys have been seeing each other pretty much everyday since last weekend.” For some odd reason, you felt like you were being interrogated, like a parent trying to get to know their teen daughter’s boyfriend before ultimately deciding that they weren’t good enough for her.

You shrugged, “Yeah, I guess. But, same could be said about you & Jules.”

Rafe raised his brows at that, “Yeah?”

You nodded, “She almost lied to me tonight. Didn’t tell me who she was seeing. She’s never done that before. Plus, she admitted as much that she liked you more than just for hooking up.”

“Hmm.” He looked away, deep in thought.

“How does that make you feel?” It was your turn to interrogate him.

“Not a lot.” Rafe returned quickly. His cold response had your earlier anger become lightly reignited.

“And that means…?”

Rafe leaned forward, his elbows on his knees as he gazed at you, “She’s nice, hot, fun. But…she’s not you.”

The sound of your fork clattering against the plate as it slipped from your fingers made you jump slightly. Your body felt tense at Rafe’s confession. But you had to play it off. Quickly snatching the fork back up, you brushed off his comment with a sheepish chuckle, “Funny.”

But Rafe didn’t share in your amusement. His unwavering stare was only evidence of his seriousness.

“What are you trying to say, Rafe?”

He sighed, his eyes dropping to the opening of your robe. You glanced down & quickly snatched the fabric closer to your chest. He smirked at that.

“I’m saying that I know you’re wearing nothing under that & I want to see what you’re trying to hide from me.”

You sputtered in shock, staring at him wide-eyed, “Are you fucking serious?”

Rafe raised his eyes to yours, “Deadly.”

“Alright, okay.” You stood up, your half-eaten food forgotten on the table, “I don’t know what the hell you think—’

But Rafe stood too, quickly invading your space as you stood there attempting to talk him down. He pressed his chest against you & you didn’t have time to create space before he gripped one of your hips. A surprised hiss escaped your lips at his abrupt manhandling.

“I think that dumbass in there can’t please you like I can.” Rafe spoke lowly, his voice even but firm.

You swallowed, putting your hands on his chest in an attempt to push yourself away from him, but Rafe was quick to snatch both your wrists in his other hand.

“What are you doing?” Panic flooded you. If Rafe was fucking with you, you weren’t finding it very funny.

“I told you.” Rafe then quickly yanked on the ties of your robe & your robe fell open.

You gasped as cool air suddenly brushed over your exposed front. You instinctively made to cover yourself help but Rafe still held your wrists in his hand. You were breathing heavily, watching in a daze as Rafe’s eyes darkened, staring at your body.

Then, just as quickly as it happened, Rafe looked back up at you & smirked. Then he let you go.

“Have a good night.”

Like whiplash, Rafe was there one second then gone the next. You stood there in the center of your kitchen staring into the direction of the hallway where Rafe disappeared to. The front door to your apartment closed in the distance & you finally released a breath of air you had been holding.

Then everything that just occurred finally hit you.

“What. The. Fuck.”

The next couple months were weird, to say the least. After Rafe revealed yourself to him he was around way too much. He & Jules began spending a lot of time together & before you knew it, they were dating. DATING.

You sat on what he had done for a couple days before you finally told her about it. Or least, a little bit about it.

First, you started by asking her if she was really serious about Rafe, like had real feelings for him. When she admitted that she did, you felt torn on telling her the whole truth or just a version of the truth. You eventually settled on just telling her variation of it.

What you ended up telling her was that he came onto you again but you had rejected him & then he left. That was basically what happened, but you didn’t mention him undoing your robe, & you weren’t sure why. Rafe was no friend to you so you had no need to protect him, but Jules was your friend, & you had never seen her hung up on someone the way she was about Rafe.

You had seen Rafe multiple times in the window between his harassment of you in the kitchen to telling Jules about it, & in that time he never said or tried anything again. He hardly even looked at you. You reminded yourself that he was an asshole in high school & that he likely viewed what he did as just a humiliating prank. But it wasn’t. Had you not already hooked-up with him you likely would’ve told Jules the whole truth, but since Rafe had already seen you naked & was just pulling one of those idiotic Alpha moves on you in the kitchen, you figured as long as it never happened again you could deal with seeing him & Jules together all the time.

But it still ate away at you. It bothered you that he had the audacity to not only do that but then move forward & decide to date your best friend. But Jules was happy, more so, she was drinking less. It was the least you could ask for in her questionable relationship with Rafe Cameron.

On the bright side, Jules wasn’t the only one to enter into an official relationship. After a few weeks of hanging out with Jack & having some of the best sex of your life, you & Jack progressed into a relationship. It felt like ages since you last had a boyfriend, but it felt nice. He was quickly becoming one of your favorite people. Even better, he & Jules got along great. She’d often join you guys on the couch when you watched a movie or show or even help out in the kitchen as the two of you made dinner. They were all good times, but they were often soured by the presence of Rafe.

Now that you & Jules were in relationships, there was an ungodly amount of times when all four of you would hangout. It was like double dating all the time. If Jules & Rafe wanted to go out to the bars, they’d always convinces Jack to convince you. And then on nights when you worked, Jack would sometimes come in to see you, & right behind him would be Jules & Rafe. Your apartment with Jules was quickly becoming a home to your respective boyfriends.

Your relationship with Rafe was interesting, too. Though he never made comments or did anything like he did that night in the kitchen, he still always found a reason to talk to you. It was never about anything especially important or engaging, but always just enough to have you two at least carry a conversation for some time.

Jack still never knew about you & Rafe hooking up the night you all met & you wanted to keep it that way. In fact, you made Jules promise that she would tell Rafe to keep his mouth shut because if ever said anything, even eluded to it, you would make sure he’d regret it. And so far, Rafe never peeped a word about it. The only downside to Jack never knowing about your tryst with Rafe was that they too became good friends.

�� Oftentimes, you’d see them laughing loudly with one another, like slapping each other laughing, & always having each other’s back on nights out if for some reason they came across a belligerent asshole. A small part of you was relieved that everything was seemingly working out, but a majority of you knew everything was too good to be true. It’d only be so long before the other shoe dropped. And what kind of shoe it would be had you constantly on the edge…

But that was the least of your worries as you rushed to get ready. That morning, your mom called you to remind of the charity gala that was being hosted in her name & how you promised to be there. The event had completely slipped your mind. So, all day you were frazzled with that now being your mission. You were forced to call Rosie & explain everything to him, apologizing that it slipped your mind & you would be able to come into work. Fortunately, Rosie said he’d take care of it & that he would see the following night.

After that, you drove to the shopping district hoping you’d find a dress that would be appropriate enough for the gala. These gala’s your mom attended were high class. No ball gowns or anything extravagant like that (though some people did wear stuff like that), but it was definitely an excuse for those in attendance to show off some of the nicer items in their closet. You had none.

You got lucky when you found a dress that you could keep & wear again. It was equally elegant as it was just the right amount of sex appeal. Unfortunately, due to the short notice, Jack would not be able to come with you. You learned early on in your relationship that Jack moved to town to open his own café. It had a rough start but once the warmer months came it became a huge hit so he was spending a lot of his time there to help out. And tonight they were having an open mic night for comedians, poets, musicians. It was their first one so he couldn’t miss it.

You were going to ask Jules next if she wanted to be your date but when you went to her room earlier that day, you could hear her throwing up in the bathroom. She had come down with the flu. So, she was a no go. It bummed you out that you wouldn’t have a date but it was your own fault for completely forgetting about it.

It was thirty minutes before the gala started & you had just finished getting ready. You still had to drive 20 minutes to the venue so you would be cutting it close but at least you’d be on time. Before you left, you sped-walk to Jules’ room to check on her. She was sound asleep in her bed, a humidifier next to her bed billowing warm, wet air. You quicky stepped into the room & kissed your fingers before placing them on her forehead. You couldn’t afford getting sick after bailing on Rosie tonight.

Then, you were out the door.

You recognized the address as being somewhere in the industrial district on the north side of town. That thought made you groan, you hoped they had valet parking.

Traffic was a bitch but you made it with two minutes to spare. Thank you, Valet.

Once you were inside, you sought out your mom. You found her in the middle of greeting guests as they entered the building.

“Oh, honey!” She exclaimed, “I’m so happy you could make it.”

“Of course, Mom. Is there an open bar?” You asked once she pulled away.

Your mom rolled her eyes knowingly, “So much of your father in you. Yes, yes. The venue is up those stairs there, the bar portion is in a separate room across from it.”

“Great, thank you.” You kissed her on the cheek, antsy to at least get a glass of wine in your system.

She waved you off to continue welcoming guests while you went to go retrieve a drink. After you succeeded in getting your wine, you entered the gala. You nodded impressively. There were a few faces you recognized as close friends of your mom’s & forced yourself to make small talk as you mingled your way over to a table by the windows. Once you made it through, you took a moment to yourself to relax. Your whole day had felt rushed & chaotic so you were happy to finally be off your feet with some sort of alcohol before you to keep you going.

The charity event started soon thereafter, & before you knew it, you were enjoying your drink, watching as a couple hundred middle aged rich folk raised their hands for the auction portion. Once the auction was through, the host announced that dinner was served & to help yourselves & to enjoy the night while it was still young. You checked the time on your phone, noting it was only 8 in the evening. Your mom begged you to stay at least until 9 that way she can finish making her rounds then she could focus her time on you. You begrudgingly promised you would.

When she disappeared, you decided to get your glass refilled. You were snaking your way between bodies, aiming for the doors that would lead you to the bar when you abruptly ran into another person.

“Sorry!” You exclaimed, feeling embarrassed for not watching where you were going. But when the person you ran into turned around, the apologetic expression on your face fell.

“Well, well. Fancy seeing you here, huh?” Rafe grinned, clearly not expecting to see you either.

“Fancy.” You deadpanned, turning away to continue on your way. What the hell was he doing there?

Once you made it to the edge of the room though, you felt a slight tug on your elbow, deterring you from your destination. A curse died on your tongue as you glared at Rafe dragging you through a set of glass doors & onto a patio. You didn’t even know there was a patio. Had you, you would’ve hidden out there all night to avoid Rafe,

“What are you doing here?” He asked, admiring your outfit.

“You first.” You battled.

Rafe chuckled but answered, “Networking.”

“For?”

Rafe rolled his eyes, sighing, “My dad’s business?”

You pursed your lips. You supposed it made sense. But Jules hadn’t mentioned it.

“Why isn’t Jules here then?” You knew well enough that she was sick & resting at home, but since she had never mentioned it, you wondered if Rafe had even bothered to mention it to her.

“Because I didn’t ask her.” Rafe responded like it was the most obvious answer in the whole world. But you wouldn’t accept.

“God, you are such an asshole. She’s crazy about you, ya know. And you treat her like crap.”

Rafe bit his lip in though, narrowing his eyes at you, “You sure about that? Pretty sure I actually spoil her. More than she’s worth.”

“Oh, you—” All the possible offensive terms you could think of threatened to spill out but this wasn’t the time or the place, “That’s it. When I get back home, I’m telling her everything.”

You spun on your heel then, prepared to go find your mom & apologize but you had to leave early. You couldn’t stand to be here for a second longer knowing Rafe asshole Cameron was present.

But when you left the patio & entered the hall, where there was conveniently no one was around, Rafe snagged you by the waist before shoving you into a bathroom.

“Rafe, goddamnit!” But Rafe shook you to your core when he pressed your back against the wall & covered your mouth. His hand going to the handle on the door & locking it.

“I’m gonna take my hand off now, think you can shut the fuck up for two seconds?”

You glared at him but nodded once. Rafe removed his hand but only stared at you.

You slapped your hands together, waiting for him to get it over with.

“I don’t know what the fuck you want, _____. You’re so annoyingly confusing. More than most women.”

You frowned at that. What was he talking about?

“You come onto me the night we meet then you suddenly want nothing to do with me. I never asked you out on a date because you said you weren’t interested in dating. I was fine with that, though. I could live with just hooking up. But then come to find out you’re dating Jack, fucking him, too. So, now I look like an idiot because you told me you don’t date. And that’s a lie. So, when I found out & tried coming onto you again that night in your apartment, you rejected me. All for that dumbass in your bed. I mean, what is a guy supposed to think? I’ve been very patient, waiting for you & Jack to get through whatever it is you guys think you’re doing but nope, nope, Jack’s here to stay, Jack’s such a good guy, Jack’s the one.”

All of his words were becoming jumbled together in your brain. You could do nothing but stare at him wide-eyed & in shock.

Rafe was huffing, his lips in an upside down smile as he stared through you, “What do you have to say, huh? Because now, all this time, pretending to be into Jules, I’ve just been trying to get close to you. To show you that I’m who you want. That you regret rejecting me. And you can’t say I haven’t been good because I have been. I don’t touch you, flirt with you, make it obvious that I want to fuck your brains out, that I want to beat Jack to a pulp every single time I see him put his hands on you. It should be me, _____. You know that.”

A surprised but unamused sigh left you. Everything you thought about Rafe was true, but just much worse. He was only dating Jules because of you. Only hanging around because of you. You needed to snuff this man out.

“Rafe…” You licked your lips, struggling to find the words, “I don’t know where, at any point, you got into your head that we were something more than just a spontaneous, convenient hook-up but that’s all it was. Okay? That’s it. There was sexual tension & I acted on it. Simple as that. I mean, you were gone the next morning! We had nothing more than just casual, one-time sex.”

Rafe’s eyes narrowed as you spoke.

“And as far as Jack goes, that’s none of your damn business. I meant what I said when I told you I don’t date but things change, & I don’t care how fast they change, I don’t owe you anything. I’m not some fucking prize that you are competing against Jack for, & even if I was, let me tell you, he is by far a better man you will ever be. A real man doesn’t use a woman to get closer to her roommate, to try & make her roommate, I don’t know, fall for him? That’s some psycho sociopathic shit, right there. Okay?! So, what you’re gonna do now, is you’re gonna call Jules & you’re gonna break up with her. I don’t care how you do it, but you’re gonna get it done. I would love nothing more than to tell her myself about how much of a piece of shit you are, but she’s my friend. My best friend. And I don’t want to hurt her. So, the least you can do is soften the blow.”

It looked as if he wasn’t listening anymore, his eyes glazing over, but you knew he was. He was hearing every single world.

“Man up.” You stepped forward, “And give her what she deserves.”

His eyes finally shifted back to yours, “Careful what you wish for.”

The look in his eyes sparked a bout of fear within you.

But then Rafe was unlocking the bathroom door & next thing you knew he was gone. Your heart was racing, the interaction an explosion of emotions. But with him gone, you were finally able to relax against the wall. You placed your hand on your chest, willing your heart to slow down. Jesus. This day just wouldn’t give you a break, would it?

Unfortunately, your night never improved. When you got home later that night, you could hear Jules crying in her room. As relieved as you were that Rafe called her, you were still disheartened to hear her sobs from the front door. Stopping by your room first, you kicked off your heels & tossed your keys on the bed. Then you hesitantly walked towards her room. Her door was cracked open.

You were about to enter her room but another’s voice stopped you.

“I’m sorry, Jules.” Rafe.

What the fuck was he doing here?!

Not waiting to get answers from Jules, you slapped her door open, standing angrily in her doorway. Jules & Rafe were on her bed & Rafe was holding her as she cried into his chest.

“What the hell’s going on here?”

Jules looked up then but her solemn face quickly turned to one of anger as she set her eyes on you. She stood up, looking you directly in the eye, “I should be asking you that! I trusted you!”

You stared at her in confusion before glancing at Rafe who sat smugly on the edge of her bed.

“Jules, look, I don’t know what that fuck told you but he’s ly—”

“Lying?!” Jules questioned, her voice growing louder, “Yeah, he said you’d say that. But he told me everything!”

You crossed your arms over your chest, glaring at the unapologetic look on Rafe’s face, “And what was that?”

“That you’ve been coming onto him for months!” Jules screeched, “I knew bringing him around was going to be weird but if you still had feelings for him then you should have told me! Now you’re telling him to break up with me so you can have him. I can’t believe you would do that!”

“What?!” You raised your voice, “No, no, that is not what’s happening. He’s the asshole, the creep!”

“Oh, shut up, _____!” Jules glared at you through her angry tears, “He has proof of you saying so!”

You stumbled at that, “Proof? What? What proof, Jules?”

She spun around, snatching a phone that wasn’t hers off the bed before raising it up between the two of you. She clacked on it & then turned the volume up. It was your voice that came out.

So, what you’re gonna do now, is you’re gonna call Jules & you’re gonna break up with her. I don’t care how you do it, but you’re gonna get it done.

“Motherfucker…” You whispered in disbelief. But then the recording stopped. Jules played it again.

You shot your eyes between the two of them before settling on Jules, “That’s all he recorded? You don’t think that’s weird, Jules? There’s nothing before, nothing after, it’s all out of context. Yes, I told him to break up with you but so I could have him! He’s a fucking psycho!”

Jules shook her head, chuckling darkly as she tossed the phone back on her bed, “I want you out of this apartment. Tonight. And then I never want to see you again.”

“Jules! No, what? Wait!” But she was shoving you out of her room & before you could get another word out, she slammed her door in your face.

“Rafe, you fucking asshole! Tell her the truth!” You beat against the door but all you could make out on the other side was Jules bitching about you before her room started blaring music.

You couldn’t believe this was happening. Rafe had gotten to her. Turned your closest friend against you. Well. Fuck him. He wasn’t going to win. Not that easily. Jules wanted to never see you again, that’s too damn bad. Because you weren’t going anywhere, not as long as Rafe was in her ear feeding her lies.

You walked into work angrily the following night. Your coworkers greeted you but you could only manage a grunt. Jules was far from happy to see you when you came out of your room that morning but you needed to show her that you weren’t going anywhere.

“My name’s on the lease. I pay rent. I’m staying.” You told her to which she sneered at you before grabbing her coffee & disappearing in her room.

Her door was closed but you told her through the door that you would never betray her like that. That the person who was lying to her was Rafe. She never responded, & you never saw her again before you left for work. But you wouldn’t give up.

You threw on your outfit for your shift then left in poor spirits. Working helped you distract yourself from the bullshit of your disastrous home life & potential friend break-up. It was busy & your regulars listened to you as you told a few of them about few details of your dilemma. They all held hope for you & Jules to figure things out. That left you feeling slightly better. But around midnight, an unexpected guest appeared at the far end of the bar. You smiled for the first time in 24 hours but your smile quickly fell at the furious expression on Jack’s face.

“Hey.” You said warily, flipping over a 16oz to pour his usual beer.

“I’m not staying.” Jack told you, his voice hard.

That wasn’t a good sign.

“I just came to tell you that Jules told me everything. The recording, everything.”

“Jack.” You sighed exhaustedly. After last night’s intense fallout, you didn’t think to call Jack & tell him what happened. But you never thought Jules would reach out to him herself.

“Save it.” He held up his hand, “I just wanted to tell you in person.”

Before you could try to defend yourself or even explain a little bit, Jack was out the door. You watched tiredly through the windows as he sped off.

Jack didn’t understand either. He would, but not yet. First, you had to get Jules to know the truth, get Rafe out of the picture, then after all that, you & Jules would tell Jack the truth together. You just had to be strong.

“You alright, kid?” Rosie’s voice sounded behind you.

You pressed your lips together, feeling them shake. You felt like crying but you forced yourself not to. Rafe couldn’t get away with this.

Turning around, your head hung low, you simply nodded to Rosie.

“Why don’t you take a ten. I can man the bar, start closing duties.”

You didn’t have the energy to debate it. You exited the bar & went to sit at the far end. Pulling out your phone, you hoped to see any messages from Jules but there was nothing. You tried calling her but your call went straight to voicemail. She likely blocked you. Good thing you lived down the hallway from her.

Holding your head in your hands, you thought about how you got here. How the fuck did you get here? Everything was fine & then suddenly it wasn’t. You realized you should’ve told Jules about Rafe from the beginning. Told her about how he came onto you in the kitchen that night. If you had, Rafe wouldn’t be in the picture, you & Jules would still be friends, & Jack would be drinking a beer less than 10 feet from you.

“Fucking Rafe…” You muttered out loud.

Could this night get any worse?

Unfortunately yes, yes it could.

You kicked at the tire of your car, frustrated that it suddenly wouldn’t start. Rosie had already left. He closed up The Garage with you & walked with you to your vehicles. But while he started his up & pulled out of the parking lot, you sat behind your wheel staring mindlessly out the windshield. You so desperately just wanted to talk to Jules, to just tell her everything. It had only been 24 hours & all you wanted was your best friend back.

So, when you finally broke out of your thoughts & went to start your car, it only added to your shitty night that the engine sputtered then died.

“Fuuuuuuck!” You screamed, beating your hands against the dashboard. Your hands were throbbing afterwards but you could barely feel it. And if you thought it still couldn’t get any worse, pulling out your phone & finding it dead only proved you wrong.

“’Course.” Tossing your phone back into your bag, you glared at the bar across from you. There was chargers inside, but Rosie had the keys to get in & you had no phone to call him.

Getting out, you locked up your car before rounding to the front. There was no point in checking under the hood, you would have no idea where to look first. You had always said that one day you’d learn car stuff for shit exactly like this, but you had yet to do it. It would be next on your agenda. After getting Jules back.

You glared into the darkness of the road. The Garage was on a long stretch of a two-lane highway. During the day it was used regularly, but as soon as night came, the only reason people were on it was to come to your place of work. There would be no one. It was then that you decided you were going to be forced to walk back home. It was only a mile or so walk, most of it being spent on the highway, but you weren’t stoked about walking down a dark, desolate highway in the middle of the night.

But what choice did you have?

Facing your car once more, you kicked at her tire, “See you in the morning, princess.”

You were only about ten minutes into your walk, your jacket wrapped securely around you as you stomped along the pavement, when you heard an engine in the distance. Now, you weren’t one of those girls who thought to yourself ‘oh, kidnapping wouldn’t happen to me, that’s only in the news’. So, you had no plans to put your thumb out & hitching a ride. Even if it was a nice elderly woman. You had seen too many true crime documentaries. It was better to be distrusting then it was to trust the wrong person.

Unlike Jules, you thought bitterly. But it wasn’t her fault. It was all Rafe’s.

When the engine grew closer, you moved off the highway. There were no streetlights on this stretch of the highway, so the driver wouldn’t spot you until they passed you. It also helped you were wearing darker clothes. Otherwise whoever it was might get some sort of idea. And if they did spot you whether before or after they passed you, you were mentally preparing yourself to launch yourself into the woods & make a run for it.

You glanced over your shoulder as you walked, spotting two headlights in the distance. You hoped they would hurry & pass you by so you could walk freely again without worrying about getting snatched off the road. You already had enough stress on your plate.

The engine grew closer but as it did you could hear begin to slow down.

Great.

Still walking, not wanting to let whoever it was get closer, you spun around expecting to see a middle-aged man giving you a toothy smile. But the lights were so bright you couldn’t make out anything. All you could see was the silhouette of someone sitting in the drivers seat. They didn’t move closer, they didn’t signal for you, they didn’t do anything. Just idled there in the middle of the highway.

“Alright…” You could feel panic begin to grip you. “That’s not a red flag.”

But it didn’t stop you. You just kept walking. And as you did, you heard the truck begin to roll closer. As it did, you moved further off the highway until you were forced to walk on the dirt along the tree line.

You breathing fast at that point. As subtly as you could, you reached into your bag, looking for your taser. You had never had to use it before but you always kept it charged in the off chance you’d need to. And now seemed like it would potentially be that time.

“_____.”

The sound of your name horrified you, but more than that, it was the voice that carried it.

You spun around on your heel, staring wide-eyed as Rafe hung an arm outside his window, his eyes dead set on you.

“What the fuck do you want?”

“Need a ride?” He asked, ignoring your question, but there was no sense of wanting to help you in his tone.

“Fuck no.” You spit, glaring hotly at him, “I am walking home. Carry on.”

“I’m heading there anyway.” Rafe smirked, “Booty call. You know how it goes.”

You made a face of disgust. He still had the audacity to talk poorly about Jules even after convincing her that you were the bad guy. But were you surprised? No, no you weren’t.

“Just fuck off, Rafe.” You dismissed him with a flick of your hand before marching ahead. Much to your chagrin, Rafe only followed alongside you in his truck. You made sure to keep a good distance between where you walked & where his door was. If he decided to jump you again like he had at the charity gala the previous night, you wanted a head start into the woods.

“We can talk.” He stated, “Work something out. I can get Jules to forgive you.”

You shook your head in disbelief, running your tongue along your teeth in annoyance. He was just egging you on, wanting to get a rise out of you. Like always.

“C’mon, you know you’re tempted.” His voice grew lower.

“The only thing I’m tempted to do is rip your fucking throat out & shove it up your ass so you can taste your own shit.”

“Well,” Rafe chuckled darkly, “I’d need my throat to taste it, wouldn’t I?”

Stamping your foot against the pavement, you finally stopped to face him again, “God, can you just leave me the fuck alone?! You got Jules, you won, she fucking hates my guts. I’m the bad guy in this story, I get it. Your narrative is working out great for you, Rafe. So if you’re done boasting, please! Leave. Me. Alone.”

He peered at you through heavily hooded eyes, an unimpressed smirk appearing on his face, “I didn’t win, _____. Jules isn’t who I want. You know that.”

His words chilled you to your core. It was then that you were reminded of where you were, or weren’t, which was pretty much in the middle of nowhere. Just you & Rafe.

“I just want to walk home, okay?” You felt your voice shake with fear. Rafe smiled then. He heard it, too.

“Ad I’m offering you a ride.”

You felt your eyes begin to water as you stared past him into the cab. If you got in the cab, there was no saying what he would do to you. Your chances were better outside of the truck.

“Rafe—”

“I’m not gonna ask again. Get in the truck, or I’ll fucking make you get in the truck.”

You shook your head, taking a step back. His eyes flashed to the movement before flickering back up to yours. His gaze hardened, “Fine. My way it is.”

Before he could shift his truck into park, you were already diving into the trees & running at a full sprint. It wasn’t a second or two later when you heard Rafe’s door slam shut before the sound of foliage being crushed sounded behind you.

“_____!” Rafe yelled, “Get back here!”

His voice, full of anger & determination, bounced off the trees as you ran past them & further into the woods. You couldn’t see shit in the dark & you could feel your ankles stumbling & whining in discomfort as you tried to keep your feet ahead of you on the uneven earth. Scared tears coated your cheeks as you pumped your legs, begging to any god anywhere to please get you out of there. But no divine intervention intervened.

It was the worst feeling you could imagine when you felt a hand grip the fabric of your jacket & yank you backwards. The wind was knocked out of you when Rafe threw you to the forest floor.

“We coulda worked this out.” Rafe huffed as he stood over you.

You rolled onto your side, desperate for your lungs to open so you could breathe. But Rafe circled around you like a vulture getting ready for the kill. You weren’t sure you’d even get another breath of air before he stole whatever you had left.

“We coulda talked, came to some sort of agreement!” He yelled in frustration, “But you’re just so fucking stubborn, so fucking defiant. You like that with Jack?”

Rafe laughed darkly to himself, “Something tells me you’re not. You’re probably the most perfect woman with him.”

You gasped sharply, painfully, when your lungs finally opened. Then you were coughing. But as you were coughing, you were searching for your bag in the dark. The taser. If you got your hands on that, you may have a chance.

“Looking for this.” Rafe questioned.

In the dark, you peered over at him as he held your purse by a single finger. He shook his head knowingly before gathering it in the palm of his hand & chucking it into the forest. You heard it thud somewhere in the distance. Fresh tears escaped you as Rafe used his shoe to roll you over onto your back.

“Please, Rafe, don’t. I’m sorry for running.” You weren’t, but it was survival now to kiss up to him.

But Rafe just stared down at you, “It’s too late for your apologies.”

He bent at the knees then before grabbing a fistful of your hair & forcing you upwards into a sitting position. A pained whimper parted your lips, forcing you to bite your lip to stifle them.

“What do you want then?” You cried out, your hands clinging to the grip he held on your hair.

“Same thing as before.” Rafe responded, his voice flat & emotionless. You stopped crying to stare at him. He only gazed at you unfeelingly.

“No.” You shook in his hold. “No!”

You screamed & thrashed, trying to kick at him but Rafe easily overpowered you, forcing you back on your back as he climbed on top of you.

“No! No! No!” You screamed, cried, begged over & over again. But all of your fight was falling on deaf ears. You beat your fists against his chest & back as he wrestled with you to get your jeans off. The chill of the forest erupted your skin with goosebumps & you felt like your heart was going to burst outside of your chest.

Rafe was quick to remove his own jeans, shoving them down his thighs. Once he did, he focused on your upper half, yanking your arms out the sleeves of your jacket before pulling the top of your tube top down. You were practically fully naked in the middle of nowhere with Rafe Cameron on top of you.

But that didn’t matter. You never stopped resisting him, never stopped trying to get him off you or hurt him. Everything you did though, it was like it didn’t register to him. Like he didn’t feel any of it. You knew Rafe was scary but this was a new level. He was a fucking monster.

His fingers hooked around the fabric of your underwear & tugged on it until you heard the seams snap & tear. You desperately reached for the back of his hand, grabbing two handfuls of his hair before yanking as hard as you could.

It was the first reaction Rafe gave. He hissed in response, ripping his head out from under your grasp. It was a short-lived win before you saw him raise the back of his hand & whip it across your face. A sharp gasp left you at the assault, & you tasted blood on your tongue as your lower lip burned.

“This is what you said, _____.” Rafe snarled as he finished tearing your underwear from your body, “’Man up & give her what she deserves’. Those are your words.”

Sobs racked your body as he repeated back to you your own demand of him.

“That’s exactly,” He snatched you by the throat & raised you up enough until his face was only an inch away from your own, “what I’m doing. I’m giving you exactly what you deserve. What I should’ve done from the beginning.”

He released you, & your head smacked against the soft earth but it did little to comfort the blow.

You whimpered like a beaten & abused dog as Rafe wrestled your legs apart to fit himself snugly in between them. You placed your hands on his chest, using all your strength to prevent him from crushing you with his body but your strength was nothing compared to his. He forced your elbows to bend as he lowered himself on top of you until your chest were pressed against one another.

“Don’t cry.” He kissed you on the side of your mouth, forcing you to whip your face away from him, “It’s nothing we haven’t done already.”

A sharp pain shot up your spine as Rafe forced himself inside you. He chuckled darkly to himself as one of his hands caught you by your chin, forcing you to look at him. You desperately searched for anywhere else to look that wasn’t him but he was all you could see. That smug & evil smirk, the glint & prideful glow in his eyes. It only grew worse when he began to groan as he snapped his hips against yours.

Your fingers dug themselves into the earth as Rafe raped you on the forest floor. You were hyperventilating beneath him, unfeeling from the waist down, but it was a nightmare you couldn’t wake up from. You wished you could do what some women had reported happening when they were raped & how they were able to shut off their mind & go anywhere else, but yours wasn’t doing that. It was happening & you couldn’t stop it.

Rafe tucked his face into your neck as he moaned loudly & freely, like a predator having caught his unwilling prey in the world of beasts. No one was coming. No one could hear your cries. This was Darwinism at it’s finest. Only the strong survived.

Your tears had stopped but you were still panting, staring past Rafe’s head at the tops of the trees. You couldn’t make out the night sky beyond them. Everywhere you looked was pitch darkness, & you saw it most whenever Rafe forced you to look at him while he fucked you to his hearts content.

It felt like hours before he finally came. He growled like the beast he was as he thrusted himself inside you as deep as he could go. You groaned in pain as your hips flared at the stretch of them. Your body shook beneath him as he stilled completely above you. But you could still feel his cock spitting his seed inside of you. The fact of that made bile rise in your throat.

Rafe rolled off you a second later, hissing as his own body shook with the aftershocks of his orgasm. An ungodly burning & stinging pain originated from between your legs & you were terrified to see what he did to you.

Then he started laughing. It wasn’t the loud, jovial kind you often heard in your bar, but the snarky, cocky kind that reminded you exactly of who he was in high school. You had heard it plenty of times.

“God, that was good.” Rafe breathed out, “My imagination whenever I fuck Jules doesn’t even come close to that.”

Jules’ face flashed through your mind & you rushed upwards. You turned to the side, holding your stomach as you bent over & vomited. Tears returned to your eyes, blurring your already dizzying vision as you emptied what little contents were in your stomach. As you continued to only throw up stomach acid & a few bites of food, you felt a hand on your back.

A fit of fury came over you & you lashed out at Rafe as he attempting to comfort you. After he just raped you! It was a joke.

But Rafe yowled as you swung your arm at him. This stole your attention & you peered through your dirtied hair as Rafe held his face. When he removed his hand to inspect his hand, you marveled at the three scratch marks going from his forehead down over his right eye & ending on his cheek.

All you could do was start laughing. And then you couldn’t stop. You were laughing hysterically, pointing at Rafe like he was a kid on the playground who just got humiliated in front of everyone. He snarled at you, knocking your hand away & catching you by the throat.

“You think that’s funny?” He sneered.

You grinned, still laughing despite your air being restricted. Rafe growled before throwing you back to the forest floor.

“I’ll tell you what’s funny, _____.” He yanked on your shoulder, turning you over to face him, “Here’s the deal. And its your only two options so I’d listen real fucking close.”

You glared up at him, wanting nothing more than to finished what claws did & tear his skin completely from his face.

“You’re gonna get in my fucking truck, we’re going to the apartment, & you’re going to go to your room. I’m going into Jules & I’m either going to A. break up with her & tell her we’re together or B. do to her what I just did to you. And I’ll do far worse to her.”

The threat forced your panic riddled body to leap upwards, “Don’t!”

“I won’t, unless you make me. That’s your choice, _____. I either stay with her & hurt her every fucking day, or I get you & I’ll never lay a finger on her.”

You shook your head, staring up at him, “Please, Rafe, you got what you wanted. Just leave us alone.”

He sighed, kneeling down to be eye level with you, “I want you. All of you. All the time. And for everyday I go without that, Jules will suffer.”

Imagining Rafe doing to Jules what he just did to you forced fresh sobs from you. You covered your mouth to stifle the cries. You couldn’t let him do that to her. You didn’t care if it meant she’d hate you forever. You just couldn’t let him hurt her. No one deserved that. Not even you. But were strong. You may have been Rafe’s prey that night, but you were a survivor. But if you knew what Rafe was doing to Jules every day in & night out, you’d never be able to live with yourself. One way or another, someone was getting hurt. You knew it had to be you.

“So?” Rafe tucked a strand of your hair behind your ear, “We have a deal?”

You leaned away from his touch, but peered up at him through your wet lashed.

Rafe saw the resolve in your eyes. He grinned devilishly.

Only the strong survive, you repeated to yourself.

Only the strong survive.

i'm fuckin' whipped, babes. like whhhhhiiiipped. i cannot believe i cranked this out in less than 12 hours but fuck. i. did. it.

this is 3/10 requests from my 500 followers celebration request opening!

as always, please share your thoughts w me via commenting, reblogging w reviews, or talking to me in the ask box. i'm super antsy to here what ya'll think of this ridiculously lengthy one shot.

thank you for reading! & thank you for the anon who requested, i hope they are happy!

oona<3

Read this post on why doing more than liking a tumblr writers work is essential to our content creation.

[my love language is words of affirmation, it would make my day if you could comment your thoughts, reblog with tags, or drop an ask that shows your support. thank you for reading tumblr writers, we appreciate you]

taglist: @jsrafesgirl @bunnycvnts @ditzyzombiesblog

to be added to a taglist read rule 11 here. requests will be dismissed otherwise.

#dark!rafe cameron #rafe cameron x reader #rafe cameron #dark!rafe cameron x reader #dark!fic #dark!fanfiction #rafe cameron fanfiction #outer banks fanfiction #non con fic #dark!outer banks #one way or another

355 notes · View notes

moodyvoid · 11 months ago

Text

The League of Villains get interrogated.

Cop: “So, you’re the leader of this operation, huh? Tell me about your crimes.”

Tomura: “You first, pig.”

—

Cop, hasn’t even spoken yet—

Twice: “OKAY. I confess! I’ll tell you everything. In kindergarten I stole my classmates erasers. They were shaped like fruit and I just wanted to see how they tasted—“

—

Cop: “I wanna know about the arson.”

Dabi: “Which one?”

Cop: “The one that happened on Tuesday.”

Dabi: “Oh, that one… Was that the gas station around like 8pm?“

Cop: “Yes. That one.”

Dabi: “Wasn’t me.”

Cop: “The fire was blue—“

Dabi, lighting a cigarette with a blue flame: “Could have been anyone.”

Cop: “You’re on the security footage igniting the flames!”

Video of Dabi starting the fire then flipping off the security camera plays.

Dabi: “Not sure who that handsome bastard is, but all this useless talking isn’t going to unburn that building.”

—

Twice: “In middle school, I snuck into an R-rated movie, but I got the wrong room and had to sit through an entire documentary about the origins of yodeling—“

Cop, absolutely bewildered.

—

Cop: “Tell me about the crimes.”

Toga: “The only crimes here are your tacky uniform, your lopsided mustache, and my wasted Saturday night.”

Cop, lightly touching his mustache: “Lopsided?”

—

Twice, now crying: “—and then, I offered to walk this old man’s dog for some extra cash. The dog got off the leash. I chased him for four blocks, but he was too fast. I switched the dog out for an identical one and took the money. The old man never noticed. I still think about that dog every day. I’m so sorry, Porkchop—”

Cop, now surrounded by several other cops all bewildered at Twice’s stories.

—

Cop: “Confess your—“

Mr. Compress, holding out a deck of cards: “Pick a card!”

Cop, picking a card: “Uhh… okay.”

Mr. Compress: “Memorize it and return it to the deck.”

Cop, slipping the card back into the deck.

Mr. Compress: “Now close your eyes and focus on your card.”

Cop, closing his eyes.

Mr. Compress: “Open your eyes!”

Cop, opening his eyes to see Mr. Compress holding a gun, his gun missing from its holster: “What the fu—“

Mr. Compress, holding up a card: “Is this your card?”

Cop, smiling: “Oh shit, it is!”

—

Twice: “I went to the self checkout aisle at the grocery store. I had a bag full of bell peppers and one jalapeño. I rang up the bell peppers, but I didn’t ring up the jalapeño. I felt so bad, I broke into the store to put it back—“

The entire station is sitting around listening like a children’s story time.

—

Cop: “Get to talking.”

Spinner: “…”

Cop: “We can do this all night, kid. I suggest saying something.”

Spinner: “Wanna know what my favorite video game is?”

The cop looks away for one second, looking back to see Spinner gone. There’s an open vent on the ceiling.

A second cop enters the room: “Hey, so that Spinner guy punched-out the sheriff, stole his squad car, and yelled Grand Theft Auto?”

—

Twice: “—and that’s everything. I feel a lot better…What were we here to talk about again?”

All the cops asleep.

Twice, standing up and tip-toeing out of the room.

880 notes · View notes

st4rbwrry · 2 years ago

Text

SMITTEN ☆ eren yeager.

★ 𖥻 synopsis. being cuffed to the bed was the last thing eren expected on your date night home.

‍ ‍ ☆. warnings — 3.5k nsfw, pwp, lowercase intended, fem!reader, she/her pronouns, black coded, girly girl reader, mechanic!eren, bondage, established relationship, riding, switch!reader, switch!eren, eren’s sensitive, chubby!reader, readers needy, male oral, finger sucking, eren is fussy, unprotected penetrative sex, creampie, kissing, mutual praise, voice kink, vulgar language, edging, pet names ex. mamas. baby. princess. daddy. minors aren’t welcomed! reblogs & comments are appreciated! <3

“baby. . . you're in so much fuckin’ trouble when i get outta these.”

eren knows how much you love him. how much you appreciate him, care for him, wanna be with him for the rest of your life. the matching ‘till death’ tattoos imprinted on the inner corner of your ring fingers proving so. he makes sure you're always taken care of financially, mentally, and even physically. works from sunrise to sunset, praises you with kisses all over your precious face for making him a meal every day. buys you whatever your heart desires. runs you bubble baths when you aren't feeling well. gives you full body massages which usually leads to him burying his face between your plush thighs. eren loves you. eren needs you. without you he isn't sane. you complete him. so because he treats you like a queen, it's only right that he receives king treatment.

while eren made his way home to you, the only person he wanted to see after a tiring, stressful day with customers who complained about their cars to him and loud-mouthed, gossipy employees at his auto shop . . . he was surprised to see that you set up a romantic atmosphere. eren is greeted with a soft, neat kiss to his pouty lips. his biceps tensing as he wraps both arms around your body in a tight bear-hug, giggling as he lifts you off the ground.

you've got scented candles lit around the loft with ceiling high windows, a bottle of stella rose black and a classic meal of creamy mafaldine tuscan chicken pasta prepared. strawberry cheesecake in the fridge for desert. eren’s eyes soften, picking you up and carrying you to the dining table to eat your meal, not before showering you with more kisses and a hundred thank you's.

you enjoy your meal under the moonlight, sipping wine and having deep conversations which you envied because there's always something the two of you can talk about without getting fussy. debates, political topics, wellness, issues with each other. remaining mature since you have the best communication. you wanted to let him know that he's been so understanding, so attentive to your needs and you felt like you needed to do more to show him you want him to feel secure. that this is a forever love and you don't take him for-granted, not for a second.

“baby, never think that you don't do enough for me. i make the decision to cater to you and i have no issue in doing so. you deserve this lifestyle. being in my presence is all i could ever ask of you. i pray everyday that i don't fuck up what we have. you're my girl.”

and immediately, you're taking the air from his lungs when you pull him close with your arms lazily thrown over his shoulders while you kiss him deeply. madly in love. it's a scary thing sometimes. and it's crazy how such a sweet moment turned into a salacious act like this. after finishing a film in the living room cuddled up with your pets, a cat for you and a dog for him, you tell eren you have one more surprise. standing to your feet with a cheeky smile, holding both hands out for him to grab. eren is curious, raising his brows before standing to his full height, towering over your figure and it never fails to make your skin heat up.

“don't pull no scary shit,” eren runs a tatted hand through his long hair before holding yours.

“shush, i promise it's not that.”

eren can't see you biting your sanrio themed acrylics with excitement, too busy staring at your bare ass underneath that slutty slip you have on. he recognizes it, in fact. an old piece by victoria's secret you've been searching on depop for like a madwoman. it's a mesh coquette cherry colored slip dress with a ruffled trim tulle skirt and damn did you wear it so good, the slip hugging your curves just right. his mouth waters, instinctively smacking your ass as you step into your shared bedroom.

before you could speak, as you turn to him he's already pulling you in by your waist, using his foot to kick the door closed so the kids wouldn't interrupt. they liked to jump on the bed mid-fuck a lot. you try not to melt in his hold, his lips gliding with yours, molding your ass in his hand, moaning from your taste.

“er—”

“who said you could look this fuckin’ good, unh?” swatting your ass again, the force knocks you closer into his chest, face burning when you feel his dick thickening in his jeans against your tummy. print evident.

“it's all for you, ‘ren,” chewing your lips with a smile, you give him a quick peck before releasing his hands from your ass. “but first, i need you to take your clothes off.”

“ooo,” he sings. “you feed me some good ass food, get all touchy and cuddly, and now you tryna fuck me?” eren tongues his inner cheek with a smirk. “nasty.”

“shut up and strip.”

“yes ma'am,” eren hums, still giving you those flirty green eyes as he stretches his arms behind himself to tug at his stained white tshirt, usually getting his clothes dirty when working. he still manages to smell so good though. a mix of musk with his daily cologne and body wash. you'll never forget the time when he came home one day, car grease on his hands nearly turning them black. hair messy and a dangerous look in his eye when he caught you in the kitchen with an apron baking a pie. bending you over the sink, hiking your pink sundress up on your waist and holding you still as he fucked you hard. rough hands groping every inch of your aching body. keeping you balanced by your forearms he held back while he ground his cock deep into you, expletives spewing, sweat coating his forehead, and nutting copious amounts of cum. point is, you love when he's fresh off of work. makes the thrill all the more inviting.

jeans come next. and that's when he takes his time, eyeing you as he torturously drags the zipper down before dragging the black fabric down his muscular thighs, dick bulging in his tommy hilfiger briefs. commentary ensues. “gonna kiss it for me?”

you shake your finger at him, a tiny tsk following. “don't ruin the surprise, keep going. wanna see you.”

“i feel like i'm being filmed, there better not be a camera,” he rolls his eyes, finally discarding every clothing piece on his body, your legs clenching tighter together where you stood as he moans when his dick hits his tummy. the tip is drenching precum it's almost inhumane. you needed to lick that up real soon.

“you wanna be?” you question, serious.

eren deadpans. “be for real.”

“you can wear a mask!” you protest, actually enjoying the idea. “mhm, you'd look so good with a balaclava on.”

“no.”

sucking your teeth, you continue with your plan, walking towards the closet to find a little box with his gift inside. holding the black and red compartment, you face him with a cheshire cat grin. “get on the bed and lay on your back.”

eren’s too horny to argue right now, still anxious about what you're planning, but does what you say nonetheless. naked, heavy, tall figure dipping the bed with black satin sheets and pillows as he sits up against the headboard, tucking some strands of hair behind his ear, wrinkling his pierced nose. “i don't like you.”

“you will in a minute. close your eyes. no peaking or i'm going to bed and your gonna have to fuck your hand instead.”

flaring his nostrils, he closes his eyes. you try your best to be silent with your present, removing the lid to take out the baby pink fuzzy handcuffs you ordered a few days ago. thinking this would be the perfect time to put them to use. he's quiet, leaning his head back when he feels you climb on top of him, stifling a breath when the mesh from your slip grazes the head of his dick. beyond sensitive. taking one of his wrists, you unclasp one cuff and chain him to it, eren’s eyes shooting open before you restrain him to the headboard completely.

“no fuckin’ way,” eren licks his lips as he shakes his head, a menacing glare in his eyes as you sit on his abdomen and keen in achievement. “baby. . . you're in so much fuckin’ trouble when i get outta these.”

“why? scared i'll slut you the fuck out, baby?” a sadistic smile casts your face, eren nearly trembling from your words. what exactly did you have in mind? he had no idea. but he's kind of . . . amused? aroused mostly. it's rare when you tap into your dominant side. loving to be his pretty little submissive.

“if you wanted to bounce on my dick so bad you could've been straightforward.”

“mhm, this is more fun. i get you all to myself. i can do whatever i want. promise it's all for you. just wanna make you feel good, daddy,” you suck on your lip and press your weight down on him, trailing your hands up his chest to his tatted neck, eyes drifting low and moaning from how good the view was. he's truly an ethereal man.

“g’na fuck me empty, princess?” his voice drops an octave, knowing what that does to you. the way his voice summons you to do things will never make sense.

“till your shooting blanks,” you grin.

“well, if that's the case,” eren ponders, inching his face closer to yours, accepting his fate and playing your fantasy. "then put that pussy where it belongs, princess.”

it's not in his position to make orders, so ignoring him, you scoot backwards so his angry dick is in your face and your ass is arched into the air for presentation. “wanna suck it first,” you mumble, delicately wrapping both of your soft hands around the vein protruding, throbbing weapon. just the right thickness to make it impossible to fully engulf it in your throat.

eren spreads his legs, and the act is so sexy yet desperate. hissing as you watched you intently through his long lashes, your lips hovering over the leaking tip before taking it gently into the warmth of your mouth. suckling it like your favorite flavored lollipop.

“goddamn, baby,” he stretches out his arms as a force of habit, ready to hold either side of your face so he can work his pretty cock in nice and easy. but he's irked the minute the chains clink on his wrist, remembering he's bound. he sighs out, fixing to say something until you remove one hand off his cock and massage his balls while taking him further down your mouth. working both hands simultaneously. saliva building, bubbles forming the quicker you bob your head and stroke his dick.

“yea, stroke it while you suck it. mm,” eren's eyes are scrolling back, thighs twitching as he lightly moves his hips as you gag and suck. releasing him with a wet pop, maintaining eye contact as you slick your puffy lips along the sides of his cock, darting your tongue out and moaning deeply. your ass moves in the air as if you're getting fucked from the back, rolling and rocking back. pussy sluice in your thin thong, needing him now more than ever. one more thing though, and it's his damn favorite.

“wait, baby. don't . . .” a gasp flees from his agape mouth as you nudge his balls with your tongue before sucking one of them into your mouth, keeping your rhythm stroking mostly the tip, spreading your fingers languidly, sticky with his precum and your spit. you know that's his sensitive area, the breaths leaving him frantic. you can feel the blood rushing in his cock, rotating your hand and sucking the heavy sack as the whimpers that vibrate in your throat travel to him.

“f-fuck, { name }. g’na cum. keep goin’.” the chains clank along the headboard as he struggles, spreading his legs even wider, his tummy sinking in as he buried his head into the pillow behind him. the ball in his neck protruding and you watch him, so in love, so intrigued . . . you stop. and he whines, which is the last thing you expected to hear from him. it's so needy that it makes your clit throb even harder.

“fuck!” he curses angrily, groaning with pain and pleasure stirring inside. his dick jumping for attention. “don't fuckin’ tease me baby, or i swear to god i'll fuck you sore.”

“yea, whatever,” you giggle, purposely pissing him off further. “you mad, daddy?” you pout, tone teasing. reclaiming your position previously as you hover above him, his jaw clenching, black painted nails balling into fists.

“you know i'm fuckin’ mad. stop playing, { name }.”

he's got a lot to say but he shuts up the instant you tug your lace thong to the side and reach behind yourself to sink slowly onto the tip. both hands lay flat on his stomach as you ease down, eren mumbling ‘slow, slow’ as you sink halfway down before riding back up. your nails dig into his skin briefly, the relief you receive maddening. it's such an easy fix when he's available. eyelids squeezed shut as you accommodate his size, the fire in your chest blazing.

“oh my god,” you suck on your lips, face screwed once you pick your pace, rising and dropping your ass effortlessly, like a mystical creature. your hips move like waves, grinding slow to feel him reach that spot within you, moaning and tossing your head to the side.

“so fuckin’ wet, baby. listen to you. listen,” eren’s eyebrows are knitted, jaw unlocked, completely entranced by the way you move, the two of you panting heavily, listening to your slick coat his dick lewdly. ass clapping onto his thighs you lean back to grab onto with one hand to balance yourself. cupping a handful of your tits and whimpering as you fuck him quicker.

“unh, if you could see what i see, baby,” eren chokes, rocking his waist with yours to heighten your pleasure. it felt so good to take control. “you look s’ good when you fuck me.”

“love how you feel inside me,” your juices drip down his balls and onto the sheets, squealing as you lean forward to angle your faces together, his hands reaching far enough to graze your hair and cheekbone. focusing on the look in your eyes as you steady yourself on the tips of your toes before slamming your ass down harder, the two of you gasping in sync. “fill me so fuckin’ good, baby.”

eren thinks it's so ironic how your lettered necklace dangles over his face, making a noise he's never made before, focusing on the silver swaying. now he gets how you feel when his chain swings over your face when he fucks a dent into the mattress shaping your silhouette. he's succumbing to you willingly, breath hitching from the euphoric roll and dip of your thick hips, wishing so badly he had access to grip and grind you down on his dick harder.

this position weakens you both, your knees buckling and his waist twitching. your voice quakes and you cum without warning him, flopping onto his chest as your hips stirred lazily. eren’s close yet again, can feel it but can't get to where he needs to be without you. he needed you to move.

“c’mon, princess. fuck me, lemme cum,” he sounds incredibly submissive, that whiny tone partaking his usual asshole demeanor. it was such a turn on seeing his face switching from grumpy to ‘please baby fuck me’. eyes low and seductive. begging sounded good on him.

you sit up, cupping either side of his face before kissing him. eren rushing the kiss meaning he's extra greedy for it. gliding his lips over your chin, groaning in your mouth and sliding his fat tongue over yours, a sloppy french kiss. your mind goes blank when you feel his tongue on your neck next, wishing it was between your legs right now. that thing is a demon. the way he fucks you with it makes your soul leave your body every time. he's a gift from the gods, truly.

“not yet.”

“not playing fair, baby,” eren clicks his teeth, bushy brows entwined to showcase his frustration. he's so cute when he's upset. “all i wanna do is touch you. why's that such an issue? if you're gonna fuck me, do it right.

you huff, knowing he's saying anything just so you'll unlock the cuffs. “talking too much, ‘ren.”

a dark glint is in his eyes, those jade irises no longer it's stunning bright shade. his voice becomes gravely as he says, “am i? that's cause i wanna lick your fuckin’ clit. n i can't do that properly without touching you. she's soakin’ all on me.”

“mmm, wanna put your mouth on my pussy?” your voice softens tauntingly, trailing your hand down your stomach to slowly roll your fingers over your engorged clit. eren’s mouth waters.

“yes,” he clenched his jaw. you're so goddamn infuriating.

“she needs more. i wanna stay full while you eat it.”

“i’ll put my fingers in it. you like those, baby, right?” his eyes go all big like a puppy. “taste you while i fuck you open. jus’ like you like it?”

as tempting as that sounded, again, he’s in no position to make demands. ignoring the way your tummy flutters from the delicious thought, you're back to fucking him nice and slow. overstimulating yourself and edging him. it's so painful he just wants to cum. he wouldn't necessarily consider this a gift. you've just gotten in your head and took advantage of the situation. but that's okay, ‘cause he's gonna fuck you sore like he said. your necklace hits his forehead, chest in his face as you clap back on his pulsating dick. sucking his fingers and squeaking unexpectedly, eyes widening as eren plants his feet into the bed and pistons his cock up into you, knocking the wind from your lungs.

“eren, wait. . .”

“shut the fuck up,” eren growls into your neck, fucking you as best he could with his restraint. your screams fill the air, unable to hold him still. there was no point. he was pissed off now and wanted nothing more than to fill you deep with his cum as punishment.

and for some reason you underestimate eren's strength, because in a matter of seconds he's yanking his right arm forward and breaking the cuff with just a blink of your eye. you can't even comprehend what the hell he just did because he's grabbing your neck and pining you beneath him to fuck you deeper. nothings processing in your brain but the sound of his thighs clapping with yours, the grunts from eren and your second orgasm shooting through you. arching your back into him, his hand constricting some air in your esophagus which only intensifies your pleasure.

“i hear you, mamas,” eren releases his grip on your neck just a little, pressing his nose to yours with a clenched jaw, his one arm hanging above you since it's still chained up. eren shifts his body slightly down yours to put your legs over his broad shoulders, slipping his dick back in and folding you in a mating press.

“this is what you get for fuckin’ with me,” the way he's fucking you has your toes cramping and your voice disappearing. you can't scream anymore, sounds of pleasure dying down to cries and whimpers, tiny figure compared to his jolting beneath him. eren’s whines are muffled by the pillow he buried his face into as he shoots his cum into you, filling you up warmly. his orgasm so overpowering he can't help but still fuck through it. wheezes and ragged breathing is all you could hear since you had zero energy to open your eyes.

throwing your arms around him to claw at his backside. eren’s still moving inside of you, your legs shaking the further he pins them down with his one hand after sitting up on his knees, looking down at you, long hair sticking to his fucked out face. he takes two of his slender fingers to tug down your bralette to retrieve the key you stored in there. freeing himself and tossing the cuffs somewhere in the room.

“cheap ass cuffs,” eren says, spanking the outside of your thigh. “gotta give it to you, i enjoyed that.”

you perch up on your elbows, happiness shadowing you. “really?!”

“just don't try that shit again. now lay on your stomach and lemme eat your pussy.”

#eren x you #eren x black fem!reader #eren aot #eren smut #eren x black yn #eren x y/n #eren yeager smut #eren yeager x black reader #eren yeager x reader #eren x reader #aot smut #snk smut #snk eren #eren jaeger x reader #eren jaeger smut #𝜗ৎ ˚⋅ 𝖘𝖙𝖗𝖆𝖜𝖇𝖊𝖗𝖗𝖞 𝖈𝖆𝖛𝖊𝖗𝖓 𝖔𝖋 𝖉𝖗𝖊𝖆𝖒𝖘.

2K notes · View notes

sdr2lovemail · 1 year ago

Text

Anything for My Lady!

Synopsis: You're Muzan's faithful aide and she rewards your hard work with sweet words and a kiss. In reference to this post I made.

Note: Manipulation (kinda, reader is aware and is fine with it.) Gn Reader.

Requests are open!

Becoming the perfect being is what Muzan wanted. She almost had it all; immortality, eternal youth, and an army of bloodthirsty demons. Though there was one thing stopping her from becoming perfect, her inability to conquer the sun. Muzan had spent years, decades, centuries trying to find a way. She looked through every book, every village, every person but has yet to find an answer.

Nothing, not a single book in the infinity castle had any new information. Flipping through pages and tossing them to the side, Muzan was getting frustrated. Before her resolve could fully snap, she found something. A formula dating a few centuries back, one she had not tried before. With an almost crazed smirk, she called out to the demon with a biwa.

“Nakime, summon my precious aide for me.” Her voice practically purred.

Positioning her fingers on the strings, Nakime gave a subtle nod. “Yes, Lord Muzan.”

You were confused, being pulled from your home and into a never-ending labyrinth so suddenly. Though the confusion quickly wore off. Seeing the familiar complexities of the infinity castle made your chest warm. It meant your lady needed you.

A shiver goes down your spine when you hear it. The sound of your name falling from soft lips. Muzan stands tall in the center of the room. Her hair was in its usual bun, her kimono perfectly draped. With quick yet elegant steps, she’s in front of you. Her sharp, red eyes pierce through you. “Kneel.”

It was as if your body switched to auto-piolet. You get down on one knee, a hand on your chest, bowing your head. “Lady Muzan, it’s so wonderful to see you again. Is there something you need of me?”

Muzan reached a hand down, bringing the tips of her fingers to lift your chin. She smiled. The sight caused your stomach to flutter. “Yes, there is something I need. Rather urgently at that.” With her free hand, she holds a sheet of parchment. “See these ingredients? I need you to collect them for me.”

Your eyes look into hers, shining with pure devotion. “Of course, I will go right away.”

Muzan gleamed at your eagerness. She kneels next to you, her hand cupping your chin. “Always so happy to please. You’re unlike my demon subordinates. No, you’re far more special. You can do things they can’t. I can call you day or night.”

Your spine tingled as she leaned in close, her breath tickling your ear. Her voice was low as she whispered.

“Make quick work of this task, and I’ll reward you. Don’t disappoint me.” Muzan’s lips grazed against the shell of your ear. Her waxy lipstick left a faint mark.

Clasping your hands together, you look on at Muzan with awe. She was so close. The floral fragrance of her perfume wafts into your nose, sending a jolt through your body. “I won’t let you down! I’ll get everything on the list, I promise.”

“Good.” Muzan pulls away, standing to her full height. She turns around and gives a dismissive wave of her hand. Nakime sends you off with a strum of her biwa.

Once you’re gone, the demon king walks back to her desk with a smirk. You were so easy to work, so malleable. You would do anything she said. She liked that. Unlike some of her demons, you never complained or whined; never asked for anything in return. Just working for her seemed to be enough payment. She couldn't help but wonder, would you still serve her in her other forms?

Hours had passed, and the sun was going down on the horizon.

“They have returned, Lord Muzan,” Nakime announced as she strummed the strings of her biwa. The infinity castle shifted and shuffled until you were back in front of Muzan. You held bags and parcels of many shapes.

You stand tall, bowing your head, and a light blush covers your face. “I’m back, my lady. I got everything on your list.”

In a flash, the items were out of your hands. Muzan takes her place in front of you. The way she looked down at you made your heart beat faster. She brings her hand to your cheek, a well-manicured nail grazing against your skin. “Well done. You didn’t have any trouble, did you?” Her voice was like honey, and you just wanted more of it.

“No! No trouble at all. I found everything with ease. I only had to visit two villages as well.” It didn’t matter how many villages you went to. You’d scour the whole globe if it made Muzan happy.

Slowly, Muzan leans in. Her fragrant perfume fills your senses once more. “Perfect. Now, for your reward.”

The touch is light, but it still invigorates you. Her lips were soft and gentle against yours. Still cupping your cheek, she used her thumb to stroke your skin. The smooth feel of her lipstick was pleasant on your lips. Just as quick as the feeling came, it was gone. Though it was a chaste kiss, it felt like an eternity to you.

Once Muzan pulled away, she smirked. “Hm, you just might be my favorite. If you keep working this diligently, I’ll have to keep rewarding you.”

#muzan kibutsuji x reader #muzan x reader #demon slayer x reader #demon slayer oneshots #demon slayer #kny x reader #kimetsu no yaiba x reader #muzan kibutsuji #kny muzan #x reader

534 notes · View notes

stormblessed95 · 3 months ago

Text

Who Thoughts and Theories

First, it's such a good song. I'm genuinely so in love with it, with Jimins vocals, with his dance, with his backup dancers. I'm so impressed with how hard he worked and all the choices he contributed to it. While this is the only song on the album that Jimin doesn't have writing credits on, he was still very much involved in every aspect of the songs creation and it was written with the feelings Jimin wished to portray. I talk briefly about what I believe the overall feelings that Jimin was trying to express in the album Muse, here:

And of course because you should refresh yourself on the song and get that extra stream in before you read....

youtube

I'll otherwise just be talking about what I think, my thoughts, my feelings and my theories about Who, the song and the MV in this post. These are of course just my opinions, coming from my perspectives. You are free to agree or disagree as much as you want.

First, I want to say that regardless of the pronouns used in the song, I don't think it has any bearing on Jimins sexuality. People (read: homophobes) cannot use this song as a way to try to say Jimin can't be queer. Not only is that nonsensical and ignoring the fact that Jimin would be closeted if he is queer. But it's also ignoring the way Jimin speaks about the song, which is solely in gender neutral terms. From the original lyrics being "you" instead of "she."

To the way he says "people" instead of "girls/women" about the scene where people walk past him as the options of who he could be looking for. Along with the fact that the billboard with a man's eyes drop right after he sings "who is my heart Waiting for?"

The way that Jimin dances with both men and women and the scene then when they come together, it's absolutely giving west side story. Which is my personal opinion. Which one of the themes of west side story is love striving to rise above the hatred.... And idk about you, but I think that can easily relate to queer love as well. But again, personal opinion only! So this BS that I know everyone rolled their eyes at with the "this proved he is straight" nonsense, is at its core.... Nonsense...

Speaking of his dance, this thread has absolutely nothing to do with what I'll talk about in this post but is so cool and FULL of Jimin appreciation and you should check it out if you want!

Jimin switched aspect ratios of film during his MV of Who. An ARMY linked together all the times he changed ratios, which you can watch here:

As well as going through multiple different types of media: television, comic strips, movie, billboards, etc. Jimin is showing us multiple different storylines within his MV. This same person from above goes into great detail about how all this can show the various details of storylines and storytelling. It's a good read, worth checking out

It's super interesting the way the words play across the screen during certain parts of the MV and how it changes the screen ratios as well. I would love an actual interpretation from Jimin or the MV director over what they actually mean or if it was just in the 90s theme with zero correlation or meanings, but I doubt we will ever get that. So all we can do is guess and make our own interpretations. Which will be affected by our own personal biases. That's the beauty of art though!

The ones I'll point out that I'll say something about are:

Play, both in the corners at times and on the little TV's around the MV

Auto calibration, with the burning wrecked car, where the words flash quickly across the screen at the bottom, right before hand too, the screen ratio had changed again too. And it changes again as he does his partner choreo with the girl

Rewind, which appears during the bridge. Right after the billboard falls and the screen ratio had changed again

And then pause at the very end before the whole screen cuts.... And then we get the end screen with the words play again, basically looping the video, and the Smeraldo Flower

So let's talk about it!

It's interesting that the video basically loops, it's really giving storytelling. Jimin being an actor basically. "Play" being inside the story for the most part. And it's interesting that those parts happen right before a lot of the partnering choreo too. Auto calibration means bringing something back into an acceptable range. Which if we relate this at all to queerness, it's absolutely giving "don't stray too far out of that closet." And it does happen right after Jimin dances with men, before dancing with the woman again. And play is back in the little TV's. It's giving, trying to be perfect and fit into expectations and be in the perfect storybook. And at the end, Jimin is left behind by all the dancers and the billboard drops at "who is my heart Waiting for" and it's clearer and clearer that it really is most likely JKs eyes. If not, it's absolutely a man's eyes and that is screaming queer energy. And even if it is just a promo of some kind, since we don't know the connection between the eyes, JK, "keep going" and AYS yet, it's WILD to put Jikook promo in this type of love song. And yet, these are the two that publicly claimed the song serendipity as theirs. So it tracks.

And when we get to rewind, it's at the same time as he is talking about "people" walking by him as potentials for his perfect match, as well as how he is not able to "match" any of the women he attempts to meet with through dance in his short walk. It is also right after that billboard with ?Jungkook? drops too. Interesting. Trying to get back into the original story perhaps? Perhaps it's not working so well?

Pause. Off. Smeraldo Flower which represents the Truth Untold.... Speaking yourself. Loving yourself. Being true to who you are..... Which is maybe not what was the perfect story that was being depicted through the MV. Who knows! But that is the end. Just to loop around and start again with Play. Where he literally tells us with Muse to "please misunderstand." Again, just interesting. And if you are following my thoughts here, you already know why that is "interesting."

It's giving closeted queer energy and it's giving I like people, not genders and it's giving love.

Which brings me to the very LAST thing I want to talk about. Sorry, I know this is already SO LONG. Jimin is singing amongst natural disasters. So did V and JK actually too. They are singing about declaring love in the middle of some kind of disaster. And I can't stop thinking about that honestly.

youtube

It's giving peak grand gesture kinda romance. It's giving intimacy found between two people in love no matter where they are or how loud the world might be around them. It's giving raw and honest declarations of intent and love type vibes. And i just love that they are into and going for that exaggerated confession scene and storybook kinda romance. It's absolutely tracks for who they are as people and the romance they've all talked about wanting too. And who else do we know who always seems to like doing grand gesture type romantic BS for someone else?

Anyway! This is the feeling that people write epic romances about. Your favorite ships? It's the same type of feeling that's inspired here. Let me try to explain this in some kinda way....

It's a trope. "Love conquers all" where it doesn't matter what life throws at you. All the trials, the tribulations, the natural disasters, the normal disasters, any and all shortcomings or failures you might face in life.... The moment of being with the one you love? Of being vulnerable and baring your soul with another person who means the world to you? Making sure they understand how much they mean to you and how much you love them? That's always going to be the most important thing and moment. That is the significance of the intimacy and the romance displayed.

It's the peak, idealistic version of the best relationship you could find yourself in. Nothing and no one matters more than the moments you create with your loved one, even in the middle of a raging horrific apocalyptic disaster ridden world.

And how sometimes, just building up to that confession can make things feel like a horrific apocalyptic disaster ridden world, until you confess. And you let those feelings out. And it's okay. All those disasters quiet down, maybe you even start to enjoy the rain. It was your emotions all along. And then you discover that hey, maybe the reason I'm feeling so calm now is actually BECAUSE of this person I love. Being with them calms my mind, brings me safety, happiness and joy.

Sometimes, in the middle of all the madness and chaos of the world... You are only minutes away from finding that moment with that person that's going to give you something infinite. Something that no natural disaster can destroy or take away from you. Something, and/or someone, so precious.

And there is something so beautiful in depicting this in their love songs. It's inspirational. As well as humorous in regards to Seven. Lol

I'll just finish this off with a link to this twitter user as this moment just came out, and it's about rebirth, but I do low-key agree with them here 😂

And anyway, that was my essay! Lol if you read all of this. Bless you and thank you! You are appreciated! A reminder that this is all just personal opinions. You are free to agree or disagree as you choose!

#jimin who

50 notes · View notes

sergeant-macho-nacho · 24 days ago

Text

3d Printed "Biggus Dickus" Glock Frames

by chairmanwon at Odysee

#spooky #spoopy #glow in the dark #2nd amendment #3d printing #ghost guns #martial law #california #fmda #martial arts #spooptober #lon horiuchi #glock switch #full auto #fully semi auto #3d printer go brrrrrr #Glock

1 note · View note

moeitsu · 7 months ago

Text

The Tie Which Linked My Soul To Thee

Summary: A well deserved hunt with Charles, met with an unexpected surprise back at camp...

Ao3 Wattpad Masterlist - All Chapters Ch.1 Ch.2 Ch.3 Ch.4 Ch.6 Ch.7 Ch.8 Ch.9 Ch.10

Tags: Arthur Morgan/Original Female Character, Widowed, Original Character, Mutual Pining, Slow Build, Eventual Smut, Eventual Romance, Fluff and Angst, Hurt/Comfort, High Honor Arthur Morgan, Friends to Lovers, Child Loss, Trauma, Canon-Typical Violence, Arthur Morgan Does Not Have Tuberculosis, Arthur Morgan Deserves Happiness, Chubby Arthur Morgan, Alternate Universe - Canon Divergence

Ch 5 - My Heart Beats On As Warmly Now

“What began as a journey had become a retreat into the unknown. We were backing into the abyss; so worried our sins would follow us we didn’t bother watching where we walked. And behind us was a cliff.” ~ Elsa Dutton 1883

Arthur’s anger dissolved with the storm, replaced by a heavy sense of regret as he trudged back to camp that evening. All he wanted was to drown his shame in a few bottles of liquor, away from prying eyes, away from the disappointment he felt in himself. He hadn’t intended for Kate to see that side of him, not yet at least. And certainly not against a sickly innocent man. He let his anger and frustrations get the better of him. Like he switched on auto-pilot and let the outlaw in him take control. He worried now that Kate might actually leave, and he blamed himself for that.

Swiftly, he made his way to the crate of beer bottles behind the chuck wagon, grabbing a few before retreating to his tent. He craved solitude, a respite from the demands of camp life, from the weight of his own mistakes.

Seated on his cot, a beer wedged between his legs, Arthur opened his journal, the one constant in his life since Dutch and Hosea taught him to read and write. It was his confidant, his sanctuary in a world of chaos. John always gave him shit for it growing up, calling him a pansy and constantly trying to snoop in his personal entries.

Despite being in a gang for most of his life, he still felt incredibly lonely. There weren't many people he would truly open up to. So his journal became that person. It was the one thing that did not judge him, ever. But even as he poured his thoughts onto the page, he longed for a human connection, someone to truly understand him.

Hosea and Dutch had been like parents to him, raising him from a young age in the ways of the outlaw. They had their flaws, but they had also shown him kindness and guidance when he needed it most. He always saw Hosea as his father, he would consider Dutch his father too, although he was more like an older brother at times. Hosea was probably the only person who truly knew Arthur, and saw the things he wished not to speak about. Neither parent was perfect by any means, and Arthur could recognize that. But even as an adult, there is still a child inside that longs for the comfort of a father.

It was that fatherly instinct that drove Hosea to Arthurs tent that night.

“Evening Arthur,” he greeted, holding open the tent flap, “may I come in?”

He put down his journal and nodded. Gesturing for Hosea to join him on his cot.

“I noticed Kate didn’t ride back with you, is she okay out in this storm?” He inquired.

Arthur smiled with a slight shake of his head, that's Hosea for you. Always worried about others, here he was checking on his son but was more concerned about the lady he left behind.

“I’m sure she’s fine, saw her heading into Valentine,” he answered, taking a sip of his beer. He handed one of the full bottles to Hosea as the older gentleman sat down.

“I take it things didn't go well then,” he said with a hint of sympathy.

Arthur sighed, “when do they ever.”

As they sat together in the dim light, the rain drumming softly on the canvas roof, Arthur felt a sense of comfort in Hosea’s presence. He didn’t need to explain himself, didn’t need to justify his actions. Hosea simply listened, offering silent support.

“I don’t know why I do it,” he confessed, his voice barely above a whisper. “The man was sick and weak, I should've just given him a warning.” Arthur concluded with a shake of his head.

Hosea sighed knowingly. “I think you can blame your fathers for that son,” taking a sip to clear his throat, “Dutch and I did what we thought was best at the time and well, you were quite impressionable when you were young. We used that to our advantage to turn you into a grade A outlaw.” He said gently with honesty.

Arthur chuckled at the memories of his youth, before John came along he was the golden child. He used to love it when Dutch would teach him how to pick locks, or when Hosea taught him a whole book of curse words. Had he not been the son of outlaws, his life would’ve looked very differently.

“We’ll always be thieves,” he mused with a hint of nostalgia, “only difference now is that the world don't want us no more.”

Hosea nodded, silently agreeing, “We're doomed just like every other creature on this rock Arthur,” he remarked with a wry smile. “I just wish I had acquired that wisdom at less of a price.”

After a moment of contemplative silence, Arthur spoke, his voice heavy with regret. "I just wish I’d done things differently," he admitted, his gaze fixed on the floor. His remorse mixed with his actions at the Downes ranch, and for every mistake he’s made in the past that led him here.

Hosea laid a comforting hand on Arthur's shoulder, a silent gesture of understanding. "We can't change the past, son," he said gently. "All we can do is learn from it and strive to do better in the future."

Arthur nodded, the weight of Hosea's words settling over him like a blanket of reassurance. "I don't want to be the kind of man who hurts others for no good reason," he confessed, his voice tinged with vulnerability. "I want to be better, for Kate, for everyone."

Hosea squeezed Arthur's shoulder affectionately before rising to his feet. “She’ll come around, son.” He offered a parting reminder, “underneath it all, you have a good heart.”

Before he disappeared into the night, Hosea turned back with a final piece of news. “By the way, your brother wants to speak with you about using that oil cart you found to rob the train tomorrow night.”

Arthur scoffed, shaking his head. “He ain’t my brother,” he muttered disdainfully.

Hosea chuckled. “Well, you two sure argue like brothers. G’night, Arthur.”

He tipped his head to the old man as he left, “night Pa.”

Arthur laid back on his cot, tucking his journal into his satchel when something small and round fell out and made a soft pitter on the ground. When he looked down he saw the peach pit, the one Kate gave him on her first night. He reached to pick up the small seed. His thumb ran over its hard wrinkles.

He held it tight to his chest, and silently promised he would make things right with Kate. If he ever saw her again.

━━━━━༻❁༺━━━━━

Kate took in a deep breath of the crisp morning air, reveling in the freshness that lingered after the storm had passed in the night. The scent of newly sprouted grass and moist earth filled her senses, while dew-kissed leaves sparkled under the gentle caress of the rising sun. A light breeze danced around her, carrying the promise of spring on its wings. It felt like the start of something new as if the world itself was awakening alongside her. It was the perfect day for a ride.

She met Charles in the early morning, exactly where he said he’d be. Waiting for her to begin their journey into the wild lands in hopes of finding a fresh hunt. They were a few hours into their journey now, heading north into Ambarino to hunt cow elk. Just one 200 pound elk is enough to feed the entire camp for a month. Maybe more. It was a day's ride there and back, short enough to keep the meat fresh in time.

With a satisfied sigh, Kate exhaled the tension from her shoulders, “this is exactly what I needed Charles, thank you.”

Charles smiled warmly, guiding his horse closer to hers. "Thanks for joining me, Kate," he replied, his own gratitude evident in his tone.

With her face tilted to the sun, she savored the moment. Allowing Lorena to guide her. A silent trust shared between them, that her mare will take her where she needs to go. “You know, I always thought you preferred hunting alone. I never see anyone go with you.” Kate remarked, eyes still closed in bliss.

Charles nodded thoughtfully. "Arthur and I have gone together a few times, but other than that, I don't seek much company from the others," he admitted, his words tinged with honesty. It was clear that while he valued his fellow gang members, solitude was his preferred companion in the wild.

“That why you’re always so quiet?” She inquired, innocently.

Charles chuckled softly. "If the choice is folks thinking I'm dumb but not knowing for sure, and folks knowing I'm dumb because I sound like them, I think I'd rather keep them wondering," he explained with a grin. The confidence in his voice a testament to his strength.

Kate chuckled, her eyes reflecting understanding. "I get that. Sometimes it's better to keep people guessing," she replied. Under her breath she added, “I know some of those men can be pretty dumb,” loud enough for Charles to hear.

Charles exclaimed in frustration, “tell me about it! All this death and for what? Just so we can have enough money to be able to run from what we've done?”

Kate pondered for a moment, she still didn't know what happened all those weeks ago that drove the gang of outlaws here. It was the one piece of information they didn’t talk about around her. Perhaps Charles would share the missing pieces. “What happened to everyone to cause you to run?” Her tone colored with genuine curiosity.

As Charles recounted the events of that fateful day, Kate couldn't help but feel a pang of sadness for what they must have been through. The gang did not like to talk about Blackwater, and the consequences must have been devastating.

"It was a fucking execution," he began, his voice tinged with regret. "We thought it would a simple job robbing a ferry, carrying payroll. But there were civilians too." Kate could already imagine where this led. $5000 for his head alone, the words echoed in her mind.

“We raised a lot of hell that day, and things got out of control. Next thing we know, the Pinkertons are on us along with the law. And everyone just starts shooting. I don't know which one of us shot first but that's all it took. There were passengers caught in the crossfire.” He shook his head with disappointment. She couldn't imagine the terror those innocent people must have felt as they found themselves caught in the chaos.

“Dutch he,” Charles hesitated, “he killed a young girl. Just to get the law off him. And no one batted an eye.” His voice heavy with emotion. Her stomach churned at the thought of such senseless violence. “We lost three good people, and John barely made it out alive.”

He turned, facing her, "I don't kill for fun Kate; I kill when I need to," he urged, his tone pleading. It was clear that he was grappling with the moral implications of their actions, and Kate couldn't help but admire his integrity in the face of such darkness. One so hauntingly familiar.

“Arthur came out different after Blackwater,” he added with a sigh.

“Being an outlaw can’t be easy,” Kate added, trying to lighten the mood. She understood the hardships and turmoil that came with senseless violence.

Charles huffed and shook his head at the memory, “easy certainly wasn't in the job description.”

As they rode on, the weight of their conversation hung heavy between them. She couldn't shake the feeling that they were all running from something far greater than the law. A feeling she was not immune to.

━━━━━༻❁༺━━━━━

Their hunt had been successful, tracking and swiftly killing a massive elk. They settled in for a fire and camped near a lake for the night. Enjoying fresh fish for dinner. In the morning they tied their game to the back of Taima, and began their journey back to camp. Kate’s spirit felt lightened in a way, the two of them spent most of the night sharing stories. And she realized she and Charles had a lot in common. A gentle reminder that she is not entirely alone in her struggles.

The ride home went by quickly, and with the sun tickling the horizon, they arrived at the great plains of New Hanover, and eventually, the familiar overlook.

As they rode into camp, the air was thick with urgency, Miss Grimshaw's voice cutting through the chaos. "Alright girls, everything into the wagons, now!" she barked, her tone sharp.

Charles swiftly brought their kill to the chuck wagon, while Kate hurriedly dismounted and rushed to join the flurry of activity. The girls worked frantically, packing crates with blankets and clothing, fear etched on their faces.

"What's happening?" Kate asked, her voice tinged with concern.

Mary-Beth paused in her task, her expression grim. "Arthur and John got into trouble with the law in Valentine," she explained, her hands moving quickly. "Dutch says we need to leave, fast."

A surge of panic swept over Kate at the thought of Arthur and John in danger. "Did they get caught?" she asked, her heart pounding.

Mary-Beth shook her head. "I don't know," she admitted, sympathy in her eyes. "But we have to go."

As Kate’s mind began to spiral with the worst outcomes imaginable, a voice rose above the commotion. Speaking of the man himself.

Dutch's voice cut through the chaos. "Charles!" he called out, his tone urgent. "Find Arthur at Dewberry Creek, we need a new hideout." Charles turned on his heel with a nod, mounting Taima and taking off back down the trail they came in on only a moment ago.

With his words she felt a sudden sense of relief, Arthur is okay. Their last conversation weighed heavy on her heart. And she would be damned if that was the last time they spoke.

Dutch's voice commanded attention once more. "When they give us the all clear, we move out! Let's get to work, people!" he shouted.

Mary-Beth and Tilly went back to their work and left Kate alone with her thoughts. She returned to her belongings, packing quickly. But her moment of respite was short-lived as a sickeningly familiar voice cut through the air like a bullet.

“Well hello Kate,” Micah said with disdain and arrogance.

“I don’t have time for your bullshit Micah,” Kate retorted, her patience wearing thin.

Micah advanced, his eyes blazing with hostility. "Funny how you show up right when trouble finds us," he taunted.

Kate scoffed, the idea completely absurd, “you idiots robbed a fucking train, did you seriously expect a welcome home party?” She shot back, her voice filled with sarcasm.

Micah's gaze narrowed. "We were set up in Valentine, someone ratted us out," he growled, his words dripping with bitterness.

“I was just hunting with Charles,” she explained, not bothering to hide the bite in her voice, she refused to play his game.

Micah approached with malice, his fist twitched at his side, ready to pull his pistol any moment. "Well Charles ain't here now,” he gestured around the camp, “and we think it was you," he hissed, the accusation cutting through the chaos.

Realization dawned on her that he was setting her up, but the reason why was still unclear. “And when Charles comes back he can testify to that,” she spat, turning to continue her packing.

He closed the distance between them with predatory grace. In one swift motion, he raised his pistol. Before Kate could react, the butt of the gun connected with her temple, sending a searing pain shooting through her skull. Stars exploded behind her eyelids as she stumbled backward, the world spinning dizzily around her. Darkness threatened to engulf her.

As she struggled to regain her bearings, Micah loomed over her, a twisted smirk playing across his lips, “we’ll be long gone by the time they come back princess.”

With a sickening thud, Kate's head hit the ground, the impact reverberating through her skull. As the world faded into blackness, she felt herself being pulled into an abyss of darkness. The last sound echoing in her ears was the distant whinny of Lorena, a mournful cry that seemed to fade into the void.

━━━━━༻❁༺━━━━━

The commotion of the camp kept her drifting in and out of consciousness for the next hour. She heard Abigail's voice call out to Kate in concern, and Micah snapped back warning her to keep her distance. She also realized her wrists had been bound along with her ankles, with Micah standing guard over her like a dog. Like she could run away in this state anyways.

The darkness began to creep in again, and in a moment she awoke and Micah was gone. It was almost dark and she was in a different spot now, away from the center of camp and behind the tree line. That fucking bastard tried to leave me here. She thought with bitterness.

In the midst of the chaos, a familiar voice pierced through the camp, but Kate's mind was still swimming in a fog of confusion. Wagons rattled as they hurriedly departed the overlook, leaving Kate struggling to make sense of the commotion. Summoning all her strength, she pushed herself up onto her knees, squinting through the haze.

Then, like a beacon in the night, Arthur's horse appeared, Belle’s white coat gleaming amidst the darkness. With a surge of relief, Kate locked eyes with Arthur, who rushed over to her side, his expression etched with concern.

Her consciousness flickered like a dim candle in the wind as she slowly regained awareness. The throbbing pain in her head was a harsh reminder of what had just transpired. Blinking away the haze, her vision blurry.

"Kate? Are you alright?" Arthur's voice cut through the fog, filled with concern as he took in the sight of her bound wrists and ankles. Swiftly dismounting Belle and pulling a knife from his belt to cut her free.

Her head throbbed as she recounted what happened and she felt sick in the stomach. She couldn’t stay with them anymore, not after this. Micah was a real problem, and if what Charles told her about Blackwater is true, then Dutch is likely the same.

“I’m okay,” she answered wearily, “Micah set me up,” a hint of fear mixed with rage creeped into her voice. Arthur helped her rise to her feet, just as the last wagons were leaving the overlook. Without missing a beat she turned to find her horse.

Arthur was slightly taken aback, unsure if she was still upset with him from the nights before, all while trying to make sense as to why Micah had set her up.

“I-I’m sorry Kate,” he pleaded, “I shoulda been here,” his voice was laced with remorse. His strides quickened as he closed the distance between them. Kate's heart clenched at the sincerity in his voice, but she knew she couldn't stay.

“It’s not your fault,” she reassured, “but I have to leave.” She decided in the moment, ripping the bandaid clean off. She longed to stay with Arthur and the gang, but she no longer wanted part in this trouble. “Goodbye Arthur,” she bid him a solemn farewell.

“Kate,” he called out, desperation filling the air. He wanted to stop her, to grab her and beg her to explain what happened with Micah. But the look in her eyes told him everything he needed to know, she had made up her mind. So all he could do was stand and watch as she rode off.

She clutched at Lorena’s reins, taking off in the same direction as the wagons, intending to ride past them and make her way to Rhodes, hopefully putting enough distance between them so she could get her bearings and be on the move again. Her heart raced with adrenaline and disappointment. Things could not have taken a turn for the worst.

She used the darkness to her advantage, slipping away from the wagons as they took a path down following the railroad tracks, while Kate veered off towards the twin stacks. As she climbed altitude she watched the wagons below, specifically watching Arthur take off behind them, his mare flying through the train of carts and horses like a butterfly dancing between flowers.

She paused for a moment, letting herself consider that perhaps she wasn't just running away out of fear, but something else as well. She thought about the girls, and Charles, who had just become a dear friend after their hunting trip. She thought about Abigail, who must be clutching little Jack close to her heart at this moment, praying John will see his family out of this alive. Her last conversation with Arthur still ate at her heart, so many words went unspoken that she wished she had said that night.

Memories of her past came back in waves along with the painful throb of where she had been hit with Micah’s gun. Her fear, mixed with her disappointment and anger. A reminder of her own weakness.

Yet, she decided long ago that she would never live in that kind of world again, where the weak would rather guilt the strong than become strong themselves. This world doesn’t care what the weak want. This world eats the weak. Therefore, she became strong.

The sudden sound of gun fire dragged her from her thoughts, she rode farther up the slope looking for the source of the noise. She saw in the distance the tiny images of wagons and horses, and a group of raiders descending to their location..

Gripping the reins with such ferocity, Lorena reared on her hind legs as Kate spun her around and took off back down the slope. She would not let death sink its venomous teeth into the belly of another.

72 notes · View notes

xenodile · 1 year ago

Text

I don't know if it's a bug or intentional, but rapid fire weapons are really bad for stagger in AC6 because for some reason their low Cumulative Stagger rating causes the stagger to fall off faster in addition to causing less persistent stagger to begin with. So if you keep sustained fire up, the stagger from your older bullets will fall off in between shots, causing the target to not actually gain more stagger. I have experienced more than a few moments where my target began regenerating stagger while I was shooting them with the minigun because the stagger of the bullets that hit them 3 seconds ago has already worn off, despite taking constant fire.

Conversely, weapons with high Cumulative Stagger rating both cause more stagger per hit AND the stagger lasts longer, so single shot or low capacity weapons aren't even hindered by having to reload or overheating because the stagger they inflict reliably sticks throughout their downtime.

It creates this weird situation where the game just. Kind of lies to you by saying that rapid fire/automatic weapons are good for applying stagger and preventing enemies from recovering when that is just not what happens. I expect you can somewhat compensate for this by using dual trigger builds with two automatic weapons to double that stagger build before the Cumulative falloff, but it's still a bizarre issue that makes full auto weapons just markedly worse than single shot and burst weapons. Once I switched from the minigun to the Zimmerman shotgun, fights that gave me trouble were a cakewalk, and enemies consistently staggered, whereas the minigun had me tearing my hair out as enemies hovered at like 90% stagger while I unloaded on them.

If you're having trouble with full auto weapons, just try out a grenade launcher or shotgun and see if things get better.

#Armored Core 6 #it took me getting to chapter 6 and finishing all the arena fights for it to finally sink in #that full auto weapons kind of suck #Fires of Rubicon #AC6

401 notes · View notes

genshingorlsrevengeance · 6 months ago

Note

Your pick of T-Dolls(/Angi) watching S/O dive into the extraction helicopter, ala Helldivers.

And of course, the customary “what the fuck were you thinking, making me worry like that?!?” After the fact.

(GFL) RO635, HK416, AN-94, and Angelia's S/O diving to extraction

I thank Super Earth everyday for giving me the Light Medic armor, juicing myself with stims as I'm diving from the hordes of bugs.

[Commander's Voice] "AR-Team, Pelican-1 has landed, get to extraction!"

(M4A1) "Understood, pulling back!"

The T-Dolls of the AR-Team were sent to protect a group of refugees escaping Sangvis Dolls that had pursued them.

RO's S/O had joined the team, alongside a myriad of other medical personnel from Griffin.

She initially voiced against their inclusion, alongside the other humans but the decision was final.

And sure enough, her fears of them getting attacked came to fruition, but now wasn't the time to let it paralyze her.

S/O was focused on getting the refugees out first before finally joining the team, rushing for cover as bullets flew overhead.

(RO635) "S/O!"

Switching her gun to full-auto, she began giving cover fire by keeping the enemy pinned down, with SOPMOD and M16 joining her.

(RO635) "We can't stay any longer, come on!"

With the last refugee on board, S/O sprinted for the helicopter as it slowly began to lift.

S/O dove headfirst onto the helicopter's floor from a small cliff, and painfully sliding across the metallic ground.

RO flinched from both the sight of S/O getting themselves hurt, and the bullets bouncing off her frame.

The team leapt onto the helicopter as it finally departed and left the combat zone, letting RO quickly rush over to S/O.

(RO635) "S/O, are you hurt anywhere?! A bullet didn't catch you, did it?"

(S/O) "O-Ow...! No, it didn't."

Noticing a red stain smeared on their uniform, RO quickly sat them on the seat and began tending to their wounds.

(RO635) "That was extremely reckless, but...I'm glad you're alright."

She at least understood why they dove, but getting themselves hurt at all did not ease her in the slightest.

(RO635) "Next time, don't get yourself hurt just trying to get to safety..."

With a quick hug, she quickly attends to the rest of her squad and other personnel.

Squad 404 was caught in a bad spot as they ran towards extraction.

Normally, no human ever came along for their operations, but this time was an exception as they needed one for an undercover story.

S/O was the only one with the technical expertise who could come along, a decision which 416 quickly regretted.

As soon as they had to make a break for it, S/O was one of the last ones left behind as they were slower than the team.

(HK416) "Dumbass, GET DOWN!"

Immediately, 416 and G11 tried to cover S/O as they rushed forward, pinning down the human mercs after them.

S/O threw the item they were stealing onto the helicopter first, ensuring they were able to get the data needed.

It was after that, S/O dove face first onto the Black Hawk before the rest of 404 could hop on, barely in time as the doors shut.

416 sighed loudly, grabbing S/O and shaking them.

(HK416) "The hell do you think you're doing?! Why did you toss the data first instead of yourself?!"

(S/O) "A-Agh! It worked out in the end-"

(HK416) "I'LL WORK MY HAND ON THE SIDE OF YOUR HEAD IF YOU THINK OF DOING THAT AGAIN-"

(UMP45) "Alright, calm it down there. We know you're concerned-"

416 rolled her eyes as she gently let go of their collar, trying to act unconcerned.

(HK416) "Whatever, just get yourself looked at, I'm not going to babysit you."

(G11) "...That's a lie-"

(HK416) "Shut the fuck up, G11."

UMP45 and UMP9 snickered before G11 promptly fell asleep, with S/O taking a seat next to 416.

DEFY was moments away from escaping on Pelican-1, the only thing stopping them from leaving being S/O.

AK-15 leapt to the cover S/O was hiding behind and nodded to them, letting them escape.

94 and AK-12 both took out enemy drones hovering above them as the bullets went flying above S/O's head, with RPK-16 providing suppressing fire as she slowly walked back to the helicopter.

(AK-12) "Time to go."

AK-15 grabbed the sheet of metal before throwing it at the approaching dolls, bisecting them and tanking the retaliating fire with her arm.

94 saw S/O dive and hurt themselves as they rolled on the helicopter's floors, making her quickly rush back and block them from any incoming gunfire.

The rest of DEFY jumped in before the helicopter quickly took off and finally getting them to safety.

94 immediately grabbed a first aid kit and helped S/O onto a nearby seat, still not taking off her combat mask.

(AN-94) "No serious injuries, but are you okay?"

(S/O) "Agh, y-yeah...! That floor hurt a lot more than I thought it would."

The rest of DEFY took off their masks and relaxed into their seats.

(AK-12) "Yeah, I could hear you slide against the metal."

(AN-94) "Please do not hurt yourself like that again."

(S/O) "Hah, no promises. Next time I hopefully don't need to dive like that again, or at the very least I can slide on dirt."

(AN-94) "I am being serious, S/O."

(S/O) "Come on, that was a joke-"

(AN-94) "I am aware, I do not find it funny."

(AK-12) "Ouch, think that might hurt more than your dive."

Angelia waits for the Black Hawk to land as she stands next to the Commander and Kalina.

Finally, S/O stepped out with DEFY, though they were limping unlike the rest of the T-Dolls.

(AK-12) "Hey, Ange. We're back in one piece."

(Angelia) "Surprisingly."

She dryly commented, turning to S/O.

(Angelia) "AK-15 told me what stupid stunt you pulled to get on."

(S/O) "Ah, so she did..."

DEFY, the Commander, and Kalina all stepped away for a moment, knowing to give those two some time alone.

Which Angelia immediately sighed, half tempted to hit them on the head with her metal arm.

(S/O) "L-Listen, it was the heat of the moment, I had to get to cover!"

(Angelia) "By diving off a rock and directly into the helicopter?"

(S/O) "Well, when you put it that way-"

(Angelia) "Next time dumbass, just try sliding, not diving. That's metal you're jumping onto."

(S/O) "Can I dive into your arms next then?"

Angelia stared at S/O, completely unamused.

(S/O) "...C-Can we go inside, it's freezing out here."

Angelia rolled her eyes and walked ahead of S/O, letting them catch up.

#girls' frontline imagines #girls' frontline headcanons #girls' frontline x reader #ro635 x reader #hk416 x reader #an 94 x reader #angelia x reader #st ar 15 gfl #ro635 gfl #hk416 gfl #an 94 gfl

103 notes · View notes

luigiblood · 4 months ago

Text

An interesting view of Retro NSO Patents

So a bunch of patents from Nintendo recently got published and got my attention: They are related to the retro Nintendo Switch Online service and how it works and it brings a bit of an interesting view of it, with features that are DEFINITELY not inside the apps as of now.

As I went through them, I decided to also go back a little bit to earlier ones.

Just in case, for every reader:

At no point this describes the future of NSO! Let that be clear!!

Unlike most people who reports on patents, I actually will LINK the original patents.

US11003312B2 - NSO User Interface

You can find this patent here: https://patents.google.com/patent/US11003312B2/en

This seems to be among the earliest ones, it's from 2018, right before the launch of NES NSO that happened in September 2018.

This is an exact description of how the NSO UI works, where each image (or box arts, as they are usually used) are scaled roughly equivalent to each row so it always fits perfectly.

They had planned initially for details to be basically on the box art, thankfully they changed that completely for a full window in the final version.

They also had Special versions / Extra versions also nailed down already at that time, which are just games with preloaded save states, which the patent does explain. And the whole NEW thing where a new game is packaged like a gift and you just open them as you select them, that's already in the final app as well.

But here's something cursed:

This is a full vertical version of the user interface, which we've never seen so far.

US20240165505A1 - GB/GBA Multiplayer

This patent can be found here: https://patents.google.com/patent/US20240165505A1/en

This existed since late 2022 in Japan, but got a US version the next year, then published this year.

This patent explains how multiplayer works for GB and GBA NSO, as in emulating multiplayer between different linked systems, whether through LAN or online.

It gets complicated to read, but it's really about different ways to handle emulation of multiplayer, from one way where each player run their own emulator on their systems, to what I believe to be actually used: Running up to 4 emulators on each player's systems at the same time and keeping them synchronized through each player's input, but only display one of them corresponding to each player.

I believe this last way is used because all data sent through link cable is expected to be instant, you cannot delay this data, because this is asking for constant lag, but emulating all consoles on each player's system does solve this problem.

There also some quick algorithms in there about how to handle connections, disconnections and so on, but at this point it's not too interesting to explain because it works just like the apps.

US20240181342A1 - NSO User Interface (Save System)

This patent can be found here: https://patents.google.com/patent/US20240181342A1/en

It's dated just like the previous one, actually.

It might sound like the first one, but this one is more than meets the eye. Some articles talked about this as like, new Switch OS UI which is just bullshit (hi GameRant), or as GameCube NSO (wtf are you smoking to think of that straight up), but this one is actually about saves!

This image is actually having the main game on the left side, and everything to its right are all save states! You can see 2 saves for the first game, and 5 saves for the second game, it even has two rows for a single game which never happens on NSO apps. Of course, each save are just essentially having a screenshot of when the save state was taken at that moment.

This can very well be an alternative way of things, as I think this looks quite a bit cumbersome in how much space it uses.

But what's interesting is the Auto Save feature, which is not a feature of retro NSO currently. It is explained that the auto save can be enabled or not, and can happen anytime, including within a repeated time interval. This would be very nice in case of crashes.

And then, the elephant in the room: Yes, this looks like you could do more than 4 saves, with a peek of the suspension menu with a way to scroll through saves, the first option being to create a new save, without necessarily having to choose a numbered save state ID.

US20240173627A1 - Mission Play Mode

This patent can be found here: https://patents.google.com/patent/US20240173627A1/en

Now, this one is really sad because this shows an actual mission mode for retro NSO apps with objectives and rewards!

This has a new mode included called Mission Play, and you are provided with a mission that you can enter.

In this case it's about hitting enemies, keeping a count for a mission, but also even keeping a count of every single player in a region, and then the world!

This is really cool! I really think they should be doing this, but it seems Nintendo World Championships: NES Edition might do it instead.

That said, this being planned for retro NSO systems is definitely not entirely news for me, because I had noticed a long time ago that the SNES NSO emulator definitely kept track of specific game information as you play, it wasn't necessarily sent anywhere, but they were thinking about it, for several SNES games.

Funnily enough, these are real examples of detections for Super Mario Advance 2 specifically. This is pretty much how the memory and code looks like for the game.

I want to insist though: These are patents, these are for ideas, so this patent might have been publicly published because of Nintendo World Championships: NES Edition, but through experience, most of the time, as much as they describe stuff for illustrative purposes, it is usually describe a real example that was in development at one point or another.

Again, though: At no point this describes the future of NSO! Let that be clear!

But it gives us a view of what Nintendo and NERD had in mind for development. And, at least, I actually give links unlike a few who loves to tease bullshit through those.

#nintendo switch online #patents

52 notes · View notes

antiquatedplumbobs · 9 months ago

Text

Spring 1916

Joe's grand plan for a full service automotive service station in Brindleton Bay cleared a large hurdle in the Spring of 1916 with the securement of a sizeable investment from a certain Walter Fernald (heir of THE Fernald shipping fortune), who summered at the Cavalier Hotel every year. The sharp rise of excitement Will felt was mirrored by the swoop of dismay as he realized there really was nothing else for it: he had to tell his father.

It wasn't until after the evening milking that Will got the nerve to broach the subject. Twilight had descended on the farm, muting the verdant green of the grass poking up in the pasture. A soft breeze was rustling the newly unfurled birch and maple leaves. The air carried with it that particular spring quality of hopefulness and new beginnings; an aura that Will — nervous as he was — was rather oblivious to. He'd spent the day worrying over what to say, how to tell Hamish this huge news. The perfect words had been elusive, so what came out when he finally got the nerve to speak was terse, if not to the point.

"Joe's offered me a job as a mechanic. I'm going to take it." Will felt an immense weight list from his shoulders as the words left his lips. His concern over his father's approval was still there, but it no longer ruled him; it was as if speaking it aloud had freed him.

Hamish, who had been washing his hands at the pump, jerked at the statement, splashing water over himself.

"Christ, Will, not one for a gentle breaking of news are you, son?" Hamish cursed under his breath as he removed his now soaked overcoat, leaving only his shirtsleeves. "He's expanding I suppose? I'd figured he might with how many autos there are on the roads these days." He sighed, and fished in his pocket for the slightly crumpled pack of cigarettes he always had there. Happy that they were dry enough he shook one out and busied himself with the business of lighting it.

"I didn't know you wanted to leave, Will." While the words were spoken softly, they may as well have been shouted for the impact they had upon Will. He looked down, gripping the fence rail hard enough to hurt, not wanting to see the disappointment in his father's eyes. He was surprised when a work-worn hand appeared, offering a cigarette. He looked up to see his father's eyes did not hold disappointment, but some other inscrutable emotion. Will accepted silently, and his father equally silently held up the lighter to him before turning to look over the fields.

"I don't think I ever really told you why I bought this farm, son." Will stayed silent, not wanting to ruin the moment. Hamish loved his son, but he was a taciturn man and had never been quick to share his feelings. Will sensed the story he had to tell was more than the simple one relayed to small children at their father's knee; that his father was offering Will a side of himself he had not seen before.

"My father was an exacting man to work for, you might not believe that 'cause he mellowed out with age a bit, but when I was young everything had to be done exactly how he wanted or there would be trouble. There was all this literature on new farming techniques, ways to increase yields, and I'd show it to him but he never wanted to hear it, never even let me try it on my own." Will thought he heard the ghost of the anger his father had held as a young man in those words.

"So I bought this place." He said it matter of factly. "If he wasn't going to let me do anything my way, I didn't see the point in working with him. Old Mr. Sable had always liked me, I'd help him out sometimes when I had extra time. After his wife died he just wanted to get rid of anything that reminded him of her, the farm included. He sold it to me for a steal really," Hamish said looking around at the farm; the buildings so lovingly maintained and improved by a quarter of a century of his father's hard work.

"This is a good opportunity," Hamish said, abruptly switching the conversation back to the present. "I'm glad for you." He clapped Will on the shoulder. "Now I think your mother will be wondering why we've let her get her supper go cold while we stood out here." Will looked up to see his mother standing in the open kitchen door and grinned.

"Well, now," Hamish said thoughtfully as he smiled up at Will's mother. "Meeting your mother was the real push to make my own move, has Ms. Parr been influencing this decision at all?"

Will started at the question, asked in a jovial, almost conspiratorial tone. As if his father was sure he knew the answer but only wanted to tease Will. The truth was, Will hadn't thought about Clara at all when making this decision.

His mother's impatient call to come to dinner saved Will from having to answer the question that should have had an easy answer to. As he sat down at the laden table in the warm, cozy kitchen and his father leaned down with a small smile to kiss his mother's cheek, he was gripped intensely by the desire to have something like this for himself. He found himself imagining a smaller kitchen, the table set for two, and the arms of his wife to welcome him home.

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

next / previous / first

#ts4 #ts4 legacy #sims 4 #sims 4 legacy #decades challenge #ts4 decades challenge #sims 4 decades challenge #ts4 historical #sims 4 historical #ts4 storytelling #sims 4 storytelling #sewell legacy #william sewell #hamish sewell #violet sewell #sewell 1910s

75 notes · View notes

ferigrieving · 4 months ago

Text

god please reveal me the truth.

⊹ ࣪ for you are dust, and to dust you shall return

⤷ masterlist ; requests open ; 3.8k words

it was snowing.

dust fell from the sky, dancing in the wind like a flame flickers. strewn across the barren soil, ingraining itself into the very nature of the world. the light flickered from inside the house, and if he really focused, tenko could hear the sounds of his family eating dinner together, the laughter ringing out through the empty house.

tenko sat in the yard, staring up at the sky. the moon was full tonight, staring down at him, unblinking. unflinching. he wondered if the moon had friends. the cold air bit at his skin, and he found that he felt nothing– no remorse, no sorrow. the itching had gone away.

and he could not cry. could not scream, could not shout. his father would be livid after he finds out what tenko did to the yard.

as he stood, he found that his reflection in the sliding door did not look like him anymore. had he grown older ? his hair was greying, and his eyes were a bright, bright red. a trick of the light. tenko felt tired, feet moving on its own accord as he walked barefoot across the house.

someone left the lights on in the bathroom. he kept moving. they were having tonkatsu. the stove was on, and the microwave was beeping.dinner was set up for five; five bowls, five sets of utensils, five cups. the rice and soup were still hot. he kept moving.

and it was snowing.

the white flakes of ice slowly fell down, collecting on his hair and eyelashes. the air was cold, and a thin layer of ice was collecting on the trees and grass. tenko did not shiver; he continued walking.

his legs brought him to the street. it was empty. it was dark. the only light was the street lamps, bathing the roads in a sickly yellow light. tenko felt like he was in a dream. perhaps he was. maybe he was already dead.

he walked, and walked. everything felt like he was in a haze.

like a dream, his thoughts were fogginess, his body on auto-pilot.

he passed by the park, the playground empty and hollow. someone had left their stuffed toy on the swing.

he passed by his school, all the lights switched off. had he done his homework this afternoon?

he passed by the library, still and silent. tenko couldn't remember if he had returned the book he borrowed last week.

he kept moving.

it was a quaint neighbourhood.

houses with manicured lawns stood beside each other, their porches and windows lit up with a warm, golden hue. the moon hung high in the air, an artificial star against the dark canvass of the sky.

tenko stopped dead in his tracks, a cold sweat beading on his brow. he recognized this place.

this was his home.

the street was quiet. peaceful. the snow fell on the road in soft, heavy flakes. and yet the streets were deserted, the windows of all of the houses dark as he walked down the street. like a dream. like he was a ghost.

tenko shivered, staring up at the house. he suddenly realised that he was scared. had he ever felt scared before?

one foot in front of the other, hands to your side, and face forward.

it was almost muscle memory at this point.

he opened the window, slowly so that the metal did not creak unnaturally. tenko carefully swung his legs over the sill, his feet touching the carpet silently. he did not bother to close the window behind him.

the room was dark – the only light coming from the digital numbers on your alarm clock, and the faint glow from the moon.

tenko stood in the room for a moment, staring at the bed. from this angle, your form was almost indistinguishable in the dark; he could only make out the vague shape of someone sleeping peacefully.

you looked so different when you were asleep –- all of the sharp edges you had in the day faded, the hard lines around your forehead smoothed out, and your brow was no longer furrowed. in the dim light of the room, with your hair splayed across the pillows and your bedsheets tangled around your legs, you looked calm.

tenko felt his heart skip a beat, his chest hurting inexplicably.

he wondered if his mother ever wandered into his room at night to fix his blanket.

you looked so vulnerable, curled up on your side with your arms wrapped around a toy he had given you for your birthday. tenko was reminded of a cat– of all the strays you would bring home, and all the ones at the animal shelter you forced tenko to volunteer at with you.

he found himself walking towards your bed, his feet gliding against the carpet, footsteps unnaturally quiet. like a ghost, tenko sat gingerly on the edge of your bed, one hand reaching out to brush against your hair.

you stirred – your eyes scrunching shut, your hand tightening around the sheets. tenko froze, his fingers suspended a few inches above your hair, the tips hovering above the strands. he found himself holding his breath, unsure if you have woken up or not.

“–mama?” you whispered out, mindlessly grabbing onto anything you could touch, eyes unfocused and blank.

tenko felt like his heart was in this throat.

you rolled over on your back and opened your eyes, face pinched in an expression of sleep-muddled confusion. in the dim light of the room, tenko could see your glassy eyes stare at the ceiling, unfocused and disoriented.

he heard you murmur again, your voice barely above a whisper, "mama?"

your voice was hoarse, as if you had just finished crying. you blinked a few times, your eyes focusing on the shadows around you. then, you tilted your head, your gaze slowly moving until it was fixed on him.

“...tenko?”

it felt like someone was slowly tightening a noose around his neck. tenko was frozen, his hand still hovering in the air, his heartbeat quickening by the second. he wasn’t sure what he expected when he snuck into your room– what he wanted. he felt like throwing up.

wordlessly, you scooted over in your bed, back pressed up against the multitude of stuffed toys that lined your wall. he felt his throat dry up as you opened your blanket up to him, blinking wearily as you invited him in.

tenko felt his chest tighten, a heavy weight settling in the cavity of his heart.

you were looking at him, your eyes still half-lidded with sleep; you had just woken up, yet the first thing you thought of was him.

he looked at you, his eyes wide as you shifted in the bed to make room. your blanket was open –- an invitation, a welcome – and tenko found himself moving, his legs shuffling automatically until he was lying under the covers next to you. it was warm.

the bed felt too small for the two of you. you had already taken up quite the space, with your tangled sheets and your stuffed animals, but now tenko was there as well. the two of you were lying side by side –- not touching, but not quite close enough. tenko could smell the shampoo you used, feel the heat radiating off your body.

the silence was almost deafening. tenko could faintly taste the metallic taste of copper in the back of his throat, but he could feel his heart thundering in his chest. it hurt.

he was lying next to you, and nothing had changed because of it. you had simply shifted, moved over to the side to allow him space. no questions had been asked. and he found himself staring up at the white ceiling, swallowing around the lump in his throat.

he shouldn't have done this— shouldn't have snuck into your room. it wasn't fair. it wasn't fair to you.

tenko felt the too-familiar feeling of his throat closing up, and he wrestled the urge to claw at it, beg it to stop. his eyes were swimming with tears, and his head felt like it was being punctured.

tenko felt his breath becoming laboured, and he slowly brought his hand up to his face, covering it. he found that he was shaking, the tremors starting in his hand and rapidly moving to the rest of his body.

the ringing in his ears was deafening, and he wanted to yell– wanted to scream at himself, wanted to hit himself, wanted to do something to make himself stop–

he tried to breathe. found that his lungs weren't working. found that his chest hurt. found that he couldn't even bring himself to look at you. he had to go, had to leave before he did something–

and then he was collapsing against you, hands coming up to clutch at your shirt, a trembling exhale falling from his mouth. his frame was shaking violently, shoulders shuddering as silent, ragged gasps wracked his body

tenko desperately tried not to sob, not to break down in front of you. his face was buried against your shoulder, and his hands were shaking as they clutched onto your t-shirt, knuckles white from the amount of pressure he was exerting. his body hurt. everything hurt.

he felt like he couldn't breathe, like there was something sitting in his chest, pressing down on his lungs, but at the same time, he felt so much lighter.

“go to sleep, ten’.”

ttenko found himself swallowing, his breath hitching in his throat; you said his name like it was something sacred. he forced his voice to work, forcing himself to speak, even if it was only a broken, raspy whisper.

"...don't want to," he muttered, his words coming out thick and wet, nearly incomprehensible.

he found that he was trembling, body wracked with shudders and uncontrollable tremors. he was cold. and hurt. and scared.

“we can talk about it tomorrow–”

“no!”

he closed his eyes tightly, breath coming out in ragged gasps. he shook his head against your shoulder, and he felt his grip on your shirt loosen for a moment, only to clutch at it again, almost as if he was scared of letting go.

"need to talk right now," he whimpered, his voice breaking on the last syllable, "..please."

"but im sleepy, tenko. we can talk tomorrow, kay? whatever it is can wait."

tenko hated the whine that escaped his throat, wanted to hit himself for how pathetic he sounded, but he couldn't bring himself to care, not at that moment. his entire body was shaking and aching and hurting and he just needed you— "don't care," he mumbled in an almost petulant manner, "i want to talk to you now."

you didn't understand, and tenko couldn't blame you. you were still half-asleep, and you didn't know what was going on, and he found that he was suddenly frustrated, because he was being selfish and you didn't know what was wrong.

"please," he nearly begged, pulling back slightly so he could look at you, "please... i–i need to talk to you."

“...fine” you sighed, wrapping your arms around him loosely. you were acutely aware of how his hands were balled into fists between you, but you couldn't exactly pinpoint why. “just cant promise that i wont fall asleep on ya’.”

a strangled laugh escaped his throat at the comment, but he quickly brought his hand up to cover his mouth. it came out sounding wet and pathetic, and tenko silently wished that he could just sink into the ground.

"don't care," he mumbled, repeating the phrase for the millionth time. his voice was quiet, coming out in a ragged whisper as he slowly pulled his face away from your shoulder, "just need to talk."

“‘mkay.”

you were indulging him— humoring him, like he was a child throwing a fit. which in all honesty, he was. he had snuck into your room at ungodly hours of the morning, woken you up, and was now demanding that you listen to him.

he hated himself slightly for it.

he swallowed, leaning his head back against your shoulder, breath shuddering as he slowly brought his arms up to wrap them around your waist, pulling himself closer.

and so tenko fell silent for a few moments, his eyes drifting down to stare at the sheets of your bed. now that he had stopped panicking, he found that his brain was finally working, trying to formulate thoughts beyond the buzzing noise in his head.

he swallowed, his heart pounding in his chest; he could feel your eyes on him. "...i did something bad," he started, his voice shaky and low, as if he was admitting a secret.

tenko was still staring down at the sheets, refusing to make eye contact with you. his body felt heavy, his shoulders hunched over, like he was trying to shield himself.

"...you're gonna be mad at me," he admitted in a small voice, "you're probably going to hate me, after i tell you."

“you’re being silly. theres nothing you could do to make me hate you.”

the flinched at your words, his shoulders tensing, and he finally managed to look up at you, only to immediately regret the action.

you were looking at him with such a soft expression, the edges of your mouth curled up into a sleepy smile, your eyes crinkled at the edges, and tenko felt like his chest was caving in on itself, because that's not how you were supposed to look at him. not after he what he just did.

"...it's bad," he mumbled in a strangled voice.

he felt like he was going to throw up. the sick feeling was back in the pit of his stomach, and tenko suddenly wished that he could disappear, because he didn't want to watch the look on your face change, didn't want to see the moment you pulled your body away from his, looked at him with a disgust and a fear that he deserved.

and you were still looking at him with that same, sleepy smile, like he was breaking your heart slowly, piece by piece.

he closed his eyes, and tenko wondered what would happen if he just stopped speaking, if he never actually told you what he did. would you ask him? would you push him to tell you? he wanted to know, and at the same time, he didn't want to find out.

he felt nauseous, his mind and body at war. his eyes were squeezed shut, his fingernails digging into his palm as he gathered the courage to speak up.

"...i don't remember everything," he mumbled, his voice coming out in a shaky whisper, "everything's kinda fuzzy and— and i'm just— i'm so tired."

“then go to sleep, ten’. we can have waffles tomorrow.”

and that was what did it— the simple offer of food, you wanting to make him food, like he would deserve to eat afterwards— and tenko found himself squeezinghis eyes shut, blinking furiously in an attempt to prevent himself from crying. but his body ignored him, and the tears spilled over before he could stop them.

tenko hated that he couldn't stop the strangled noise that left his throat.

“g’night.” you whispered, and tenko didnt know if you couldnt tell that he was crying, or you chose to ignore it. he hoped it was the latter. he didnt know what he would do if you became like his father.

there was a choked sob leaving his mouth again, and tenko desperately tried to reign in his emotions, tried to stop himself from crying. he felt like he couldn't breathe, like his chest was being crushed.

he just wanted you to look at him differently, he didn't want you to treat him like everything was normal. he didn't deserve to be treated like a person.

tenko hated how warm you were, how soft you were, how comforting your words were. he didn't deserve it, didn't deserve to be treated with care. and he hated himself for how much he wanted to just sink closer to you, bury his face in the crook of your shoulder, beg you to hold him—

and tomura woke up, screaming.

he had dreamed about you, for the first time in a while. it was the only dream he’d ever have of you, a broken record destined to play the same song in his mind forever. he remembered that dream vividly, remembered the way you'd looked at him, remembered the feeling of your arms around him, the sound of your voice in his ear.

it seemed so real, like he could still feel your presence next to him, like the ghost of your hand was resting against his spine, your breath ghosting over his face.

but you weren't there. yand ou hadn't been there in a very, very long time, and he knew that, yet tomura still found himself reaching out into the empty sheets next to him, running his fingers over a spot of cold, empty mattress, where you used to lie.

he knew that the dream was just that; a dream. the product of a tiredness and desperation. it was nothing more than a hallucination created by his traitorous mind, wanting nothing more than to remember the comfort of another being's embrace.

and he hated that he'd had that dream, because he knew it would stay with him for the rest of the day, would sit in the back of his mind and pick at him incessantly for hours. haunt him the way that you always did.

it was silly, and he mentally berated himself for it; like you had just gone out to grab dinner, and you'd be back in the apartment in a few minutes. it wasn't true, and he knew it, he knew and hated it, but he refused to acknowledge it. he hoped you’d get him some tonkatsu

tomura didn't know how long he spent laying in that bed, his mind racing and his body aching to touch you. part of his brain was telling him to move, to get up, to go to the kitchen and distract himself with a glass of water. the other part of his brain was telling him to stay there, to lay there silently and replay that stupid dream for as long as he could, to try and recapture something that he'd lost. maybe fall back asleep and continue it, wake up ten years ago and tell him how much he missed you.

but he eventually managed to force himself to get up, sitting up against the headboard of the bed and running a hand through his hair. it came away sticky with sweat and tangled with knots, and he cursed under his breath at the feeling. when was the last time he had showered?

tomura found himself reaching for his phone, his hand groping across the bedside table for it with an almost angry desperation. he needed a distraction, needed something to take his mind off of that dream, because if he spent even a moment longer thinking about it, he'd probably start crying again.

the screen was too bright, and he hissed at the sudden glare, blinking furiously while he waited for his eyes to adjust to the light.

and it was almost muscle memory at this point.

the sound of the phone ringing was almost soothing, a steady, familiar tone that tomura found himself relishing in, despite the fact that he knew you weren't going to answer.

he called you just so that he could hear your voice on the other end of the line, so that he could hold the phone to his ear, listening intently until the familiar voice started playing, telling him to leave a message.

tomura felt his heart rate slowing slightly, the rhythm of the rings almost bringing him comfort. he was listening intently, waiting for the sound of a voice, because he knew the routine, knew that you'd always pick up the phone after a few seconds, even though he knew that you wouldn't answer it.

he was listening intently, hoping against hope that you'd pick up the phone and tell him that you missed him, that you still loved him. that you would come back for him.

he didn't know how long he laid there, phone pressed to his ear, listening to your voice. it was only a few seconds long– you'd never been good at leaving voicemail, never knew what to say, and so you'd just blurt out a few words and end the call. it sounded the same now, your voice crackly and low, a familiar recording that comforted him more than it should've.

finally pulling the phone away from his ear after a few moments, he ended the call and just sat there, looking at the screen pathetically, like you would magically call him and tell him everything was going to be alright.

wrapping his fingers around the device, he watched it crumble and rot, turning into dust in his hands. the way mon did. the way hana did. the way you should have.

as the screen begin to crack and crumble, he felt an odd sense of satisfaction, like this was a form of payback for you not picking up. it took a few moments, but he eventually put the phone down on the bedside table, leaving the now broken device in a pile of decaying rubble.

he sat back against the headboard of the bed, his knees pulled up to his chest, and he pressed his forehead against them, eyes squeezed shut. he felt exhausted, like the simple act of breaking it had taken all of the energy out of his body.

he hated the silence.

he'd never been great at dealing with it— it was too loud, and it always left him alone with his thoughts, which meant that the screaming in his head was even louder.

his ears were ringing. he could hear his heartbeat, and he wondered faintly what it would feel like to reach into his chest and pull it out. if it would mean that he'd no longer have to listen to the sound of silence.

he could still hear you.

he knew that it was his mind taking pity on him, playing tricks on him, trying to remember you. but he could still hear the way you’d call his name after you’d snuck him an onigiri. or the way you’d berate him for accidentally decaying the swing set. it still felt like he could feel your hand in his hair, feel your breath against his neck.

he wondered what would happen if he stood up, if he walked over to the other side of the bed and pressed his face into the sheets.

would he still be able to smell you?

#⊹ ࣪ ˖ greywrites #boku no hero academia #bnha x reader #mha x reader #my hero academia #shigaraki tomura #tomura shiragaki #bnha tomura #mha tomura #tomura x reader #shigaraki #shimura tenko #tenko shimura #tomura shigaraki

32 notes · View notes