#First dates

[creativepromptsforwriting]

First Date Prompts

It was their first official date and despite both of them already knowing each other, they were both incredibly nervous.

He was not one to kiss on the first date. But he had done a lot on this date that he normally didn't imagine himself to do.

Their first date was an absolute disaster. And everyone was shocked to find out that they were already planning the second one.

As far as first dates go, this one was special.

Having their first date in front of cameras was less than ideal.

They couldn't remember what their first date was, so they plan the perfect first date, even though they've been together for some time now.

A date is not supposed to last more than a few hours, much less more than a day. Especially not a first date.

This first date was a perfect example of Murphy's law. Nothing worked out how they had expected it to, and every time they thought it couldn't get worse, it did.

Having been in an online relationship for a while, it was weird and exciting to have their first date in person months after saying I love you the first time.

Their friends had arranged a blind date for them, and because their friends know them best, they were already planning a second date after this.

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[penvisions]

coffee and candor {one shot}

Pairing: Frankie Morales x Reader

Summary: Frankie picks you up for date number three and he's got it all planned out. Unfortunately, you're a little out of your depth with what he has in mind...

Word Count: 1.8k

Warnings: insecurities, frankie being excited and adorable gets it's own warning, competence kink, kissing, matching clothing, this is so fluffy and soft, um i think that's it tbh

A/N: while i'm still taking a short break from regular fic updates, this was a commission by the lovely @whocaresstillthelouvre. the prompt was 'nervous frankie x not outdoorsy! reader go on a hike early in their relationship'. i rather like how this turned out! i am still taking commissions even if i'm not working on wips at the moment. anything helps, please check out this post and this post to know more about what's goin' on in my lil corner. no pressure all all lovelies, i know things are tough for everyone! love y'll and hope the day is good to you ♡♡

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Body tingling with anticipation, you wait on for the rumble of a truck engine to round the corner. You were nervous, this is only your third date with the man you had met by chance at a coffee shop. A mix up of to go cups and you found yourself placating a very tired and embarrassed Frankie Morales.

He had picked up your drink by mistake. But if you were honest, it was totally okay that you had to wait an extra few moments to get it remade before you blipped off to work, because it gave you the chance to chat with him and scrawl your phone number onto the cup that was supposed to be yours. His kind smile motivating you to be a little bolder than you normally would.

The truck does indeed rumble around the corner and within minutes you’re sat in the passenger seat with the radio playing low and cruising down the highway.

“So what did you plan for us today? The truck looks suspiciously empty.” You eyed the cooler sitting in the extended cab, lid propped open and empty. Then the simplistic backpack beside it, it was always in the foot space between the two front seats. Frankie had admitted to you that it helped to ground him to know he had essentials within reach at all times, just in case. You hadn’t pushed for more of an explanation, knowing he had faced more than a few situations he felt less than prepared for.

But the rite in the rain notebook with the matching pen he had in his pocket along with his wallet at all times told you he was good at preparing for anything within reason. The situations he faced out of his control had not been shared with you quite yet but you would be content if they weren’t, only wanting for him to tell you if he was comfortable enough to do so.

With pink tinged ears he turns to you with a lopsided smile.

“The pack has everything we need, don’t you worry your pretty little head.”

“Not worried, just curious.” Your tongue peeks out from between your teeth and you see the way his adam’s apple bobs in response. His eyes snap back to the road and you feel a giddy sense of satisfaction at having flustered him a bit. He’d been the perfect gentlemen, his large hands only skimming around your body to lead you through doors, a tentative palm on your thigh as you sit beside him. No kissing, at least not yet. You were hoping today would be the day.

“I figured we would get out of the city a bit, go on a hike. It’s a really short one, only a few miles. Not too bad of an elevation gain, cleared out of poison oak, leads to a view I really think you’ll like. It’s an easy looped hike, so I figured we’d have a bite to eat at the midpoint. I packed up some snacks too, plenty of water. Even got some bugs spray and sunscreen.”

He rambled on, excitement obvious as he detailed the plan for the day, his face lighting up in the most endearing way. He was totally in his element and you….you were not. When you didn’t quip back immediately, he loosened a curled fist from around the steering wheel and reached for your thigh.

“That okay?” He jostled you slightly, worry seeping into his voice.

“Oh, um, y-yes.” You tried to muster up a smile, but it paled in comparison to the one he had only moments ago.

“I knew I should’ve run the idea by you. You don’t seem as excited now,” His bottom lip was taken between his teeth, worrying the skin of it as he regarded your profile. The slight furrow to your brow, the way your hands were wound around the flaps of your open overshirt. You had picked out a tank top and shorts outfit, tossing on casual button up over it, not sure what he had planned initially.

The first date had been coffee: to make up for him stealing yours. He had been nervous, his energy spiking and waning as he admitted he didn’t do this often. Date. Get random phone numbers. Have a lot of free time. He was a dad, to a bouncy and energetic seven-year-old. Nothing to worry about on the baby momma front, she wasn’t a part of the picture. A story you didn’t push on either, just making it as comfortable as possible between you two for him to want to tell you.

The second date had been dinner, with him in an ironed outfit and you in a slinky dress. It had been so much fun, the excitement obvious as you both hoped for another chance to see each other.

And now, the third: a hike.

You did not hike. You didn’t do anything considered outdoorsy if you were being completely honest. You were a lazy, take the day off to look through thrift shops kind of person. A curl up on the couch with a cup of steaming coffee or a cocktail and a book kind of person.

“Hey,” He breathed, soft brown eyes watching the way you had closed up. “It’s okay. We don’t have to, I promise I won’t be mad.”

“You’re so excited, though.” You move a hand to tangle your fingers with is, hand still on your thigh. Your stomach flutters, his skin is calloused and warm.

“I get excited about spending time with you, hermosa. It doesn’t matter what we do.”

“I want to do the hike.” You insist, wanting him to go back to the enthusiastic way he had talked about his plans.

“Please don’t feel like you have-“

“I don’t feel like I have to, Frankie, I want to. Because you want to. Simple.” You squeeze his hand in yours, placating him along with a soft smile.

“Simple.” With a lopsided grin and a press of his lips to your knuckles, the tension eases.

Gravel crunched underneath the tired of the truck as Frankie maneuvers off the secluded highway. Tall trees and various shades of green surround you. You both sat and listened to the clinking of the engine cooling down, taking a moment to breathe in the pine and cedar.

“I, uh, got you something.” He huffed a little as he reached for the back and hauled it into his lap.

“You didn’t have to- oh my gosh!” It was a hat, a baseball cap just like the one atop his head. Dark navy blue, emblazoned with a ‘standard heating oil’ patch. Your stomach fluttered at the implication.

“To help keep the sun off your head and outta your eyes.” He plopped it atop your head, the stiff thing just barely resting over your hair. “We’ll have a lot of tree coverage, but better safe than sorry.”

“We’re matching.” You can’t help the teasing smile that took over your lips, heat blooming in your cheeks as you realized you would look like an official couple to any onlookers. Something you had thought about more and more as Frankie filled your thoughts and messages.

“Yeah, would you look at that.” A dimple in his right cheek had you reaching out to caress it, silently thanking him for his thoughtfulness. “I wasn’t sure if you wanted one like mine, but I’m really glad you like it.”

“I do like it! I like matching with you, Frankie.”

His smile was dazzling as he looked back at you over his shoulder. You perked up a little, not wanting him to see the way it was hard to catch your breath or the falter to your steps as your legs began to ache from the incline. The slight brush of the long grass and reaching limbs full of leaves tickled but you tried your best to ignore it, opting to focus on the broad set of shoulders carrying a backpack.

Another bout of time passed, allowing for sweat to dampen your brow and the small of your back. You had removed your overshirt, tying the long sleeves around your waist. The stray pieces of your hair that had escaped from your hat floated around your face as you puffed out a deep breath.

Frankie seemed to pick up the moderate pace he had been keeping, his boots thudding the ground as he turned to pivot from the path as it began to curve.

“Uh, the trail goes that way.” You pointed over your shoulder, having followed the man’s lead regardless.

“I know, got a map in the pack if it makes you feel better.” He tossed you a reassuring smile, over his own shoulder. His eyes alight underneath his cap.

You were about to respond when he took another step and suddenly the trees fell away from around you, leaving you stood on an overlook. Valley open and wide in front of you, the view took your already short breath away. Frankie looked from the view to gauge your reaction. And he broke out into a wide smile as he saw how much you were taken off guard by the beautiful view.

Removing is pack, he set it down and reached to turn you toward him.

“This last month or so has been so amazing. Getting to know you has been some of the best parts of my life, hermosa. I was worried dating again after so long and not even looking for it would’ve been another lesson learned but everything with you is just so….”

“Simple.” You allowed him to caress his hands over the small of your back, your own reaching for his shoulders. The bills of your matching hats bumped, easy laughter bubbling up from you both.

“Simple.” He agreed, tongue swiping out to wet his plush lips. His eyes flicked down to yours briefly and your heart fluttered as warmth blossomed in your chest. Pressing more into his space, your chest bumped his, giving him the nudge he needed to close the gap even more.

Out on that ridge where you never would’ve trekked to on your own, you shared your first of many kisses with the man who had taken you completely by surprise. His lips soft and pliant against yours, his warmth seeping into you much like the sun on your skin underneath the open sky. You were the one to lick into the seam of his mouth, something he readily allowed you to do. The slid of his tongue on yours like heaven.

Breaking away, Frankie peppered kisses over your face. Lips tasting the salt from your sweat but he didn’t seem to mind one bit. Turning side by side, he kept his hand around your waist and you mimicked him.

Maybe hiking wasn’t so bad.

dividers by the lovely @/cafekitsune

taglist: @tuquoquebrute @sawymredfox @jessthebaker @littlemisspascal

[thebunnednun]

My Medic! Smoker x Nurse! Reader

Request:

THIS BIG MAN NEEDS SOME LOVE!!! Smoker x Nurse!reader. After a battle, Smoker gets injured and goes to the Marine infirmary and the reader [his crush] takes care of him HJSHSHSH I LOVE HIM!!!!

@sosongstrawberry You ask and you shall receive!

I swear this man smokes at least 15 packs a day.

On with the show!!~

______________________________________________________________

Smoker trudged into the Marine infirmary, his usual confidence tempered by the pain radiating from a deep gash on his side. The battle had been fierce, but the Marines had emerged victorious. However, victory came with its own set of costs. Smoker, ever the stoic, had refused immediate attention until he was sure his men were safe and accounted for.

The sterile smell of antiseptic filled his senses as he entered, the bright lights causing him to squint slightly. He growled in discomfort, muttering to himself about how much he hated hospitals. But when he saw you, the nurse he had a secret admiration for, his annoyance turned into a mix of awkwardness and hidden delight.

You were busy tending to another patient when you noticed him. Dressed in a crisp, white uniform with a light blue apron and matching cap, you looked both professional and adorably cute. Your eyes widened in concern when you saw the blood-soaked bandage wrapped around his torso.

"Commander Smoker! Why didn’t you come sooner? You should have been treated immediately!" you scolded gently, guiding him to an empty bed.

"I’m fine," he grumbled, though he didn't resist your touch. "Just take care of the others first."

You shook your head, your hands already moving to unwrap the makeshift bandage. "Everyone else is stable. Now, hold still."

Smoker winced as you carefully peeled away the blood-soaked cloth, revealing the deep cut. You could feel his eyes on you as you worked, and it made your heart race a little faster. Despite his gruff exterior, you knew he had a kind heart, and the idea of him being in pain bothered you more than you wanted to admit.

"This is pretty deep," you murmured, more to yourself than to him. "You’re lucky it didn’t hit anything vital."

He grunted in response, his eyes fixed on your concentrated expression. "I've been through worse."

You glanced up, catching his gaze for a moment. "Doesn’t mean you should neglect yourself."

There was a brief, almost awkward silence as you cleaned the wound. The tension between you two was palpable, though neither of you dared to address it directly. As you worked, Smoker found himself relaxing under your care, the pain becoming more bearable.

"How do you do it?" he asked suddenly, his voice softer than usual.

"Do what?" you replied, not looking up from your work.

"Stay so calm and composed, even with all this chaos around."

You paused for a moment, considering your answer. "I guess... it’s because I care. I want to help people, make sure they’re okay. It’s why I became a nurse."

Smoker nodded slowly, a small, rare smile tugging at the corner of his lips. "You’re good at it. Really good."

You felt a warmth spread through you at his words. "Thank you, Smoker. That means a lot coming from you."

The rest of the procedure went smoothly, the two of you sharing occasional glances and small smiles. Once the wound was stitched and bandaged, you stepped back to admire your handiwork.

"All done," you said, your voice tinged with relief. "Try to take it easy for a while, okay?"

He nodded, but as he stood to leave, he hesitated. You noticed his ever-present cigars and frowned slightly.

"Smoker, you need to stop smoking, especially while you’re healing. It’s not good for you," you said firmly, yet sweetly.

He looked taken aback for a moment, then chuckled. "I’ll... try."

You smiled warmly, your heart fluttering. "Good. And if you need anything, anything at all, just let me know. I’m here to help."

Smoker nodded again, feeling an unfamiliar warmth in his chest. "Thank you. Really."

As the days passed, Smoker found himself looking forward to his check-ups, not just for the medical attention but for the chance to see you. Your tough yet sweet demeanor was a refreshing change, and he found himself falling for you more with each interaction.

By the end of his stay, Smoker was fully healed, and though he was eager to get back to his duties, he felt a pang of reluctance at leaving you. On the day of his discharge, he walked into the infirmary with a small bouquet of flowers in hand, a rare, almost shy smile on his face.

"These are for you," he said, holding out the flowers. "To thank you for everything."

You took the flowers, blushing slightly. "Thank you, Smoker. They’re beautiful."

He cleared his throat, his usual gruffness returning for a moment. "And, um, I was wondering... would you like to go out sometime? Maybe dinner?"

Your eyes widened in surprise, then softened with affection. "I’d love to."

Smoker’s smile widened, a genuine, heartfelt expression. "Great. I’ll see you tonight, then."

As he walked out of the infirmary, you couldn’t help but feel a sense of excitement and hope. Maybe, just maybe, this big, strong man needed more than just medical attention. Maybe he needed someone to care for him, someone like you.

And as for Smoker, he realized that perhaps letting someone in wasn’t as terrifying as he thought, especially if that someone was you.

Bonus!-------------

The sun was setting, casting a warm, golden hue over the bustling streets of the town. Smoker adjusted his coat nervously as he approached the quaint café where he was meeting you. The place was known for its cozy atmosphere and delicious pastries, making it the perfect spot for a first date.

As he stepped inside, the smell of fresh coffee and baked goods greeted him, along with the soft hum of conversation. His eyes scanned the room until they landed on you, sitting by the window.

You looked adorable in a light pink dress with delicate lace trim, a small white cardigan draped over your shoulders. Your hair was styled simply but elegantly, and you wore a sweet, nervous smile as you spotted him.

"Hi, Smoker," you greeted, standing up to hug him lightly.

"Hey," he replied, a bit gruffly, though his expression softened as he handed you another bouquet of flowers. "These are for you."

Your eyes sparkled with delight as you took the flowers, inhaling their sweet scent. "Thank you, they're beautiful."

He pulled out a chair for you before sitting down himself. The two of you ordered your drinks, and as you waited, the conversation flowed naturally. Smoker found himself relaxing more with each passing minute, your presence soothing his usual tension.

"So," he began, taking a sip of his coffee. "How’s your day been?"

"Busy, but good," you replied, smiling. "Seeing you has definitely been the highlight, though."

He chuckled, a deep, rumbling sound that made your heart flutter. "I’m glad to hear that. I was a bit worried you might get tired of seeing me so often."

"Never," you said firmly, your eyes locking with his. "I enjoy our time together."

There was a brief, comfortable silence as you both savored your drinks and the peaceful ambiance of the café. Smoker took a deep breath, feeling a rare sense of calm and happiness. He knew he wanted to make this moment special, to solidify the bond you were forming.

He reached across the table, gently taking your hand in his. "I’ve been thinking a lot about us, about you," he said, his voice uncharacteristically soft. "And I wanted to ask you something."

You tilted your head slightly, curiosity and anticipation dancing in your eyes. "What is it?"

Smoker’s grip on your hand tightened just a fraction as he mustered his courage. "Would you consider being my personal nurse? If I promise to be your personal soldier, always there to protect you?"

Your heart skipped a beat, your cheeks flushing with a mixture of surprise and joy. "You mean… like us being together?"

He nodded, his gaze intense yet tender. "Yeah. I want you by my side, both on and off duty. I want to take care of you just like you’ve taken care of me."

Tears of happiness welled up in your eyes as you squeezed his hand. "Yes, Smoker. I’d love that."

A rare, genuine smile spread across his face as he lifted your hand to his lips, pressing a gentle kiss to your knuckles. "You’ve made me the happiest man alive," he murmured.

The two of you spent the rest of the evening talking, laughing, and sharing sweet moments, the world outside fading into the background. It was just you and Smoker, wrapped in a bubble of warmth and affection.

As the night came to a close and Smoker walked you back to your quarters, he felt a newfound sense of purpose and contentment. He had found someone who cared for him deeply, someone he wanted to cherish and protect with all his might.

And as for you, you knew you had found a partner who, despite his tough exterior, had a heart of gold. Someone who made you feel safe and loved. Together, you knew you could face anything the world threw at you.

As you stood at your door, Smoker leaned in, his lips brushing against yours in a tender, lingering kiss. "Goodnight, my personal nurse," he whispered.

"Goodnight, my personal soldier," you replied, your voice filled with happiness.

With one last smile, Smoker turned and walked away, already looking forward to the many more moments and memories you would share together.

As Smoker was about to turn the corner, he heard your voice calling out to him from behind.

"Smoker, wait!" you called, your voice tinged with excitement.

He paused, turning back to see you standing at the doorway of your quarters, a mischievous glint in your eyes.

"Would you like a nightcap? Or... better yet, a check-up?~"

He couldn't help but grin at your suggestion, a surge of warmth flooding through him.

"Why not both?~"

With a shared laugh and a knowing glance, you both ran inside together, the promise of a night filled with laughter, love, and a little healing, waiting just beyond the threshold.

The next morning his cadets couldn't help but notice the ease in their captain's attitude.~

___________________________________________________

I hope you enjoyed your request my dear! I took a softer approach to his personality.

To be posted on the ao3 account soon.

Be sure to check out my other works and leave likes and comments, they really help. I have a fic for almost everyone here in the master list. Drop a follow as well if you please. Don’t be shy to leave me a little reblog if you want.

I promise I bite~

Seen you soon my loves!!~ <<33

[masterjedilenawrites]

Ready Or Not

Howzer x fem!S/O | 1.9k words

Content: blind dates, bad first impressions, Howzer has some thoughts and feels to work through, maybe some demi vibes?, no real fluff but I think it's sweet in its own way

Prompt: I came across this concept of a "Meet Ugly" and thought it'd be interesting to explore. Used this scenario: Getting set up on a blind date and not having the best reaction when they first see each other.

Part of Operation #MoreHowzerFics

He did not have time for this.

Maybe the rest of the galaxy had been duped into thinking the war was over, but Howzer knew better. There was still a fight to be had, and a more dire one at that. A fight for his brothers. Their fates were hanging in the balance... and here he was, sitting at some cafe on Pabu waiting for a date.

He wasn't even sure how it had happened. Rex had insisted there was a reason soldiers took R&R, and even though they technically weren't soldiers anymore they should still try to relax every once in a while. Fireball had taken to saying "you need to get laid" every time Howzer was in an even slightly bad mood. Greer was always going on about how they needed to think of the future, find a dream worth fighting for, like a home or a family. And Gregor was weirdly interested in figuring out what everyone's "type" was; everywhere they went he'd point someone out and gauge their reactions.

All of that somehow had culminated in setting Howzer up on a blind date the second they touched down on Pabu. As if he had time for such things. As if he cared about such things.

And yet... here he was. Wearing his armor and a frown, but he'd still shown up. If he wasn't so busy cursing his brothers in his mind, he could have analyzed why he was here. Or whether he maybe secretly did care about such things.

His leg bounced and his narrowed eyes stared unfeeling out at the planet's glistening waters. He glanced down at his watch every few minutes, growing more upset at how the time passed without this supposedly "cute" date of his showing up. A memory of Echo whispered in the back of his mind, saying something about "Pabu time", how people here didn't need to move with the same urgency he was used to, but he didn't listen to it.

A few people passed by and gave him pleasant smiles. Some entered the patio and gave warm hugs to neighbors they recognized. An elderly couple went up to the counter, leisurely reading the menu as if they had never dined here before. One girl confidently strolled in, at first acting like she knew where she was going, and then halting in the middle of the tables and looking about in confusion. She then tried to cover and got in line to order, as if that had been her plan, even though Howzer had seen the whole thing and knew she had probably absentmindedly gone to the wrong place.

He fought back the urge to roll his eyes at these people. He wasn't really annoyed at them. If anything, he envied their peace. They didn't have family enslaved by the Empire. They didn't have uncertain futures. They were allowed to wander and smile and act a little silly. It's what he would want for his brothers once they were freed. No, he was annoyed because they weren't free. This peace was not theirs. But here he was, sitting in a cafe overlooking a beautiful view and waiting for a date as if he had earned it. How in the galaxy had he let Rex and the others convince him to do this?

Just when he started to entertain the idea of bailing, the girl from earlier caught his eye. She had made it up to the counter now and the worker was pointing over in his direction. Howzer subconsciously shifted, his back straightening and his hand settling on his thigh next to his blaster holster. Usually he'd pretend not to have noticed, let any potential threats think they were catching him unawares while all along he had the upper hand. But here, he decided to send a different message. I am aware, I see you staring, try to mess with me.

The girl followed the path that the worker had pointed her in, right to Howzer. She didn't look like a spy or some other kind of threat, but these days, who really knew. Especially when she seemed determined to appear pleasant and confident, despite the nervous gulp Howzer clocked from across the patio, not to mention the little display of carelessness he had seen from her earlier.

"Hi there," she said when she came within a few feet of his table.

She gave out a breathy laugh and Howzer frowned, waiting to see what she wanted from him.

"Um," she gulped again, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear. Another nervous tell. What was she hiding? "I uh... Phee told me to meet someone here. For a... a date?"

Howzer's eyes widened in realization. Kriff.

"Sorry, I didn't mean to walk right past you," the girl continued to fill in the silence. "I guess I wasn't expecting, um..."

She trialed off as she realized how the thought was sounding out loud, and then quickly tried to save face by hurrying over to the seat opposite him and pulling it out. But Howzer wasn't going to let her off the hook that easy.

"Weren't expecting... what?" he asked once she sat down. He eased his hand away from his blaster but kept his posture upright. She may not be a threat but he wasn't exactly comfortable.

She exhaled quickly with a sheepish smile. "Well, a clone."

Howzer's eyes returned to their narrowed state, sizing up this girl he found himself sitting across from. She interpreted the silence as offense and immediately started babbling.

"I mean, not that there's anything wrong with that. It's... it's just... You know, you've all just recently started coming here... I mean, I guess I shouldn't be surprised... Of course Phee would set me up with someone I don't know, I know practically every other guy here, and there's a reason I'm not with any of them... And she's been working with clones more recently... But like, I know only a few of you are sticking around for good, so I guess that's why it didn't occur to me that..."

Howzer wasn't sure when he had started zoning out. He felt bad, but also couldn't help it. He didn't have much time for this date to begin with, and certainly no time to listen to a stranger ramble without getting to any sort of point. He was a soldier; he valued conciseness. Whatever suppressed little hope he had that maybe this date wouldn't be so bad after all, maybe he finally would find a romantic connection with someone, dissipated into the saltwater breeze. 

He sat forward and the girl stopped spewing her thoughts, eagerly awaiting him to interject and contribute.

"Look, you seem like a nice girl," he lied. He honestly didn't really have an opinion about her one way or the other. He'd been hit on plenty of times back on Ryloth but had never felt anything by it, other than occasional annoyance when it interrupted his duties. "But it seems like we both have some disappoints over this arrangement. Why don't we cut our losses now, get some time back in our days, and part on good terms?"

Now it was her turn to frown.

"You... you're disappointed?"

Howzer was already scooting his chair back to stand. "It's nothing personal against you," he tried to reassure, though even he could hear how impolite it sounded. He hated that he was in such a situation. He should have never come in the first place.

He gave her a formal nod, almost like a salute, and then strode through the patio gate and down quiet, cobbled streets back toward the town square. Each step felt heavier and heavier and he did whatever he could to ignore the guilt twisting in his chest, even trying to look at his surroundings and focus on taking in the architecture and flora and beauty. It was a hollow focus, but he was determined to keep walking, believing he'd soon forget about this awkward encounter and the rude behavior he'd displayed, and things would go back to normal... as normal as they could be in a war.

But then a voice started to cut through to him from behind.

"Sir? Sir!"

He turned in confusion to see the girl jogging toward him. She pulled up a few feet from him, only slightly out of breath.

"Sorry. Um, I don't know your name. Or your rank."

"My rank doesn't matter anymore," he said, immediately regretting how defensive it sounded. He really was a mess today, wasn't he.

"Sure it does," she said with a small smile. "It was an accomplishment, something you should always be proud of."

Without realizing, the tenseness in his shoulders started to loosen. He took in a deep breath and said the first normal thing all day. "My name's Howzer. Captain Howzer."

Her smile grew just a bit more. "It's nice to meet you, Captain Howzer. And... I'm sorry if I came across rude or annoying before. I understand if you don't find me attractive, but I really don't want that to be your impression of me. I really wasn't disappointed to find out you were my date. In fact, I'm disappointed I didn't actually get to have you as a date. But, like I said... it's okay if you're not interested."

Howzer's heart was twisting again. She was a nice girl. Sweet, thoughtful. Still used too many words, but he supposed he didn't use enough sometimes. As far as attraction, he wasn't entirely sure he knew what that felt like, but those bright eyes and soft smile weren't so bad to look at.

"It's not that I'm not interested," he started to say slowly, but then realized he wasn't sure how to finish the thought.

The girl stepped closer. "You're just not ready?"

"Honestly, I don't know if I ever will be ready." He gave a sheepish shrug, though he was starting to feel better. He appreciated that she was helping him sort through these confusing feelings. Her eyes were closer, swimming with the reflection of the sky and what he believed to be genuine care. Before he knew it, he was elaborating. "I mean, do I like the idea of sitting down for coffee with someone and getting to know them? Of course. But to what end? I don't know what the future holds. I don't know if I can be a good friend, let alone... something else."

She nodded in understanding but still offered a different perspective. "To be fair, no one really knows what the future holds. And relationships come in all different forms. There's no one way to be a good friend. Or a good something else."

Howzer's eyes slipped away from hers, pulled toward the glistening sea in the backdrop behind her. He mulled over her words as he watched the waves, nothing but tiny little ripples from this distance. It reminded him of some of the paintings he saw back on Ryloth. He'd always been impressed with artists who could make small details seem real. They were only small strokes on a canvass but they captured a whole entire feeling.

He shook himself, not sure why he was thinking about such a thing right now. The girl was still watching him with a small but knowing smile. She stepped back and returned the nod he'd given her back at the cafe.

"I'm really glad to have met you, Captain. I wish you all the best."

She turned and started walking back the way she'd came. Howzer let her get a few steps before finally calling out.

"Wait. I didn't get your name."

She paused and smiled at him over her shoulder.

"Hope."

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[loganwritesprobably]

First Dates With.. (One Piece)

First dates with Crocodile, Mihawk and Robin, characters decided by the recent poll I did to see what characters people liked. I'll do a second round of those polls in the future, with a slightly bigger audience for this sort of thing and set to seven days each

Reader is gender neutral for all three shorts

Crocodile had a sense of all things expensive, and it was hardly a stretch to believe that the same thing would apply to the way he treated you. He'd courted you not so gently, with daring touches and flirtatious words, and now you were finally doing something together officially. You'd figured you knew him well enough to know what to expect by now, and it turned out that you were right. He'd taken you out to a richer area of Alabasta, far from the capital and closer to the west coast, where affluent people lived away from the general riff raff. You supposed if Crocodile wasn't so busy attempting to take over the country, he'd probably want to live here too.

The restaurant was gorgeous, and you'd expected that you'd be taken somewhere exactly like this. Grand chandeliers, golden decorations, waiters dressed in the finest fabrics even for their working uniform. It was gorgeous, there was no doubt, though perhaps a little high brow for you. After all, you were what these people considered riff raff.

He'd made a reservation, and followed the waiter without concern for fitting in or price. This was what it was to date a man like him, and it was a nice change of pace compared to men who never showed up or expected you to all the work to keep the relationship going, but doubts crept in too. You sat without a word to the waiter, and took the menu in hand - it didn't even have prices on. "If you were worried about ordering the cheapest thing available, stop. Money is no issue, you know that." Crocodile said with a smile, the soft kind that you knew he didn't show to anyone else. It made you feel special. You didn't reply, just laughed and shook your head, and read over the menu for what you wanted.

He ordered for the two of you when the waiter came back around, sensing your discomfort, and once the waiter was gone, he struck up a conversation. He started with familiar topics, like the casino, and his warlord meetings, and your tension began to ease. It didn't take long for it to feel like you and Crocodile were the only ones in the room. "He's obsessed." You remarked with a laugh, quickly moving some hair from your face. "It's disgusting." Crocodile replied with a grimace, glancing up as the waiter returned with your food. You each took your plate, and you looked down at it with a smile. It looked damn good. "Well, nothing more about him then, because this food certainly isn't."

You ate mostly in silence for the first few minutes, enjoying the flavours, and the quiet company that Crocodile was so good at proving. He didn't need to say anything, just his presence was enough. "Did you see the newspaper yesterday?" You asked after a minute, pausing between bites so you could speak without being rude. "I'm not sure I did." He remarked, head slightly tilted with curiosity. "New rookie bounty released, pretty high for someone so new, and coming from the East Blue." You said, setting your fork back down on your plate so that you could use your hands to speak without making any mess. "I'm sure it's nothing to worry about." "Not for you, of course, but it doesn't hurt to keep an eye on rising stars." "You seem interested in him, or optimistic at least." "Well, he's a D. They're all interesting."

Everything with Crocodile seemed to come easy. He was so unapproachable, so frightening often, a harsh and dangerous man. Not to you. He'd decided that he liked you, and so he treated you like royalty because he'd decided that you deserved that. He tried not to lose his temper when you were involved, and never as a direct result of you - he never apologised if he did lose his temper, but he made sure to check in on you, and make sure you were okay afterward.

The rest of the meal went off without a hitch, and the meal was perfect. You couldn't complain about anything that Crocodile did for you, even his displays of wealth were done with careful consideration for your interests and tastes. You opted not to get a dessert, the main course was perfectly filling, and instead decided to take your leave. Crocodile paid out of earshot, so you couldn't concern yourself with what he'd spent.

The best part of the night, however, was when Crocodile effortlessly scooped you up into his arms, holding you close and tightly. "What are you-" "Just trust me." Crocodile said softly, a smirk on his face that promised mischief, and then he turned to sand. He travelled swiftly across the Alabastan desert, with you kept safe and sound in the centre of the storm, far better transport than any camel or crab you could've commandeered. You screamed and howled with laughter, after you recovered from your initial shock. It was almost magical.

He deposited you directly outside your door, gracefully setting you down and returning to his solid shape. "Are you alright?" "It was worth trusting you." That sentiment seemed to shock, or maybe even scare, Crocodile. He took your hand in his and gently kissed your knuckles. "I'll see you again soon." He practically promised, then once again he turned to sand, carried away on the soft evening breeze, toward the casino once again.

Being invited back to Mihawk's island was an honour, really. He had been so polite, and openly given you the chance to refuse his invitation, but of course you hadn't. He'd offered you his hand to help you into his little coffin shaped boat, then climbed in after you, untying it from the dock and setting sail. Despite the small size of his boat, you had no fear of danger, because he was there to look after you and make sure that you were just fine. There was no risk when Mihawk was there to protect you. The sail was nice, with the sea breeze blowing gently over your skin, the salt in the air, and the warm beams of the sun gently beating down on you.

Kuraigana was not as nice as the open ocean, but it was exactly what you'd been expecting it to be. It was dark, gloomy and overcast - at least there was less risk of skin cancer from the sun. Probably. But, it was quaint in a way. You knew he was the only person living there, and that he had taken to cultivating the land in order to grow his own produce for times that he couldn't sail for fresh produce from other islands. He also lived in a castle which was a huge bonus in your books, even if it was dusty (you hadn't asked about the dust, because you didn't dare, but there was no way he was keeping an entire castle free of dust that would be a full time job for one guy).

When you arrived, he docked with ease, and helped you back up and out of the boat. A date, in his own home, rather than some fancy restaurant or in a park on some nice summery island. Instead, you'd be dining at the table he used every night, eating a meal that he'd prepared himself - because not only is he the world's greatest swordsman but he also cooks - and then you'd spend the rest of the evening in front of a warm fire before heading to sleep in a spare bedroom because he refused to ferry you back to your island in the dark, that was a risk he didn't want to take.

Like a true gentleman, Mihawk offered you his arm to take, and you dutifully hooked hand around the crook of his elbow to be guided up to the castle. It wasn't so bad, you'd expected the island to be colder, and yet it was a perfectly comfortable temperature. You could hear the hooting of the humandrills amongst the trees that Mihawk had already warned you about, and so the sound didn't worry you. Apparently they'd come to some sort of civil agreement to leave each other alone, which suited you just fine. The castle was cleaner than you'd expected, though sparsely decorated which you had expected, only the necessities like a rack for Yoru and candles to keep the place lit in the entryway.

You headed right to the dining room after you'd both taken off your shoes and Mihawk had taken your coat to be hung on a stand near the door, and it was a large room. A dining table sat in the middle of the room, far larger than you thought he'd need considering he lived here alone - when it struck you that it was likely none of this was Mihawk's, rather having been left behind by whoever had lived here before. You took a seat at the table, though pulled it out to be more comfortable, while Mihawk set a record to play on the other side of the room. The music was less classical than it looked like he'd enjoy, more so rock in style, and you found yourself interested in all you were learning.

Mihawk disappeared to cook, and it didn't take long, maybe a half hour for him to prepare the meal. He brought out spaghetti in a delicious red, wine-based sauce (very Mihawk) served with what you were fairly sure was sea beast meat. He also presented a side dish filled with garlic bread (not a vampire then, good to know), as well as the rest of the bottle of wine that he'd used to cook for the two of you to drink. You took your first bite and almost moaned - he wasn't just a cook, he was a brilliant cook. Better than most you'd encountered. You ate with enthusiasm and vigour, happy to sit together in silence aside from the music playing in the background - you'd replaced the record with another one at some point while he was cooking.

"So, you made that pretty fast, all things considered." You remarked when all your pasta was gone, and a slice of garlic bread was in your hand. "Most things I have pre-prepared and frozen, so that my day can end with ease whenever I return from where I've been, especially since I frequently take long trips away from home." He replied, sipping at his wine, casually reclined in his chair. "Smart. You're an amazing cook by the way." "Thank you, dear." He'd never called you that before, and it made a little buzz shoot up your spine, and your face turn warm. Dear. You liked it.

He took away the dishes once you were both done, and you followed after him, intent on helping him clean up. You refused to let him turn you away. While he washed, you dried, and in no time everything was done and returned to where it belonged. He then led you out to the living room where you curled up in matching arm chairs in front of the grand fireplace he'd mentioned, once again listening to music, and now enjoying books. A perfect night, if you said so yourself. And you did.

You'd offered to organise the date, since you were the one to suggest going on a date to begin with, but Robin had insisted that she wanted to plan it, and you couldn't find the strength to deny her. You had no idea what to expect, but you found that you didn't mind too much. She surprised you a day after the ship had docked at another island, and told you to meet her in the town centre at midday on the dot. You could do that. You spent the morning with Sanji, while he took stock of what the ship had and needed, you cleaned the surfaces and sharpened the knives, just to offer a helping hand where you were needed. Just before midday, you left the ship to locate the town centre.

There, already waiting, was Robin. "You're early." She said, standing from the bench she'd been sitting on to reach out for you. "Well I wasn't going to be late." You replied with a smile, leaning in to kiss her cheek. It may be your first date, but you and Robin had known each other for some time now, affection came easily between you two. With your hand in hers, she gently began to guide you away from the square and the fountain at its centre, into the town.. and then back out of it on the other side. You had no idea where you were headed, but you had nothing less than the utmost trust in the girl you'd chosen to call your own.

She guided you away from the town, into the trees at the edge, and through them. She did it easily, as if she'd done it a hundred times before even though you knew it was the first time that either of you had been to the island. Just one of her many talents, you supposed, and that was why you cared for her as much as you did. She was incredible. You bobbed and weaved between the trees, over rotting stumps and roots grown out of control, all while hand in hand. When you passed through the trees, finally, the light shining down on you again, you were in a large open field. You weren't sure you'd ever seen grass so green, and the flowers growing amongst the blades were beautiful, creating the perfect spot for a date. You scanned over the area, and finally your eyes fell on a blanket, and a basket.

With a warm smile, Robin gently tugged your hand to keep you moving, and you followed once again as she led you to the blanket she'd set up, where there was a basket of food and drinks provided by Sanji, and some of the local market stalls. You sat down first, still amazed by the scenery, unable to take your eyes away from the natural beauty. And then Robin stepped into your sightline and you had to wonder how anything could've distracted you from her beauty. She sat beside you, and you reached out to squeeze her thigh. "You like it then?" She asked, reaching for the basket to pull a flask full of cola kept cool inside for the two of you to drink. "It's beautiful, just like you." You replied, and she laughed airily. You weren't sure either of you had stopped smiling since you'd met up in the town centre. You took a cup from her, filled with cola, and the cold of the drink cut up the heat of the day. It wasn't an unbearable heat, but still the cool drink was welcomed.

The two of you ate, drank, and shared idle chatter, talking about the crew and the town, and what islands may be in your future. Things always came so easily with Robin, you never had to worry about what she was thinking or whether you were doing the right thing. There was no wrong thing to do. She'd been intimidating when you'd first met, but now you struggled to remember why aside from in battle, she was so gentle, and gorgeous like the perfect flower. You wanted to kiss her - so you did. You leaned in closer, waiting for her to finish her sentence before you sealed your lips together, a smile on your face all the while. She rested a hand on your upper thigh, happy to kiss lazily under the sun - you were in no hurry after all.

[welele]

Buen gusto.

[daydreampending]

Lover’s Lake

When Steve invites you for a day at the lake, it doesn’t even cross your mind that it was meant to be a date. Not until you’ve invited your entire friend group, and Robin is the one having to spell it out for you.

Word Count: 3.6k

Pairing: Steve Harrington x Reader

Idiots in love | Mutual Pining | Friends to Lovers

Main Masterlist

AO3 Link

[daddydoddsjr]

If the Law and Order people wanted to impress someone on a date, what would they go for?

Pairings || Law and Order SVU characters x GN!Reader

Contents/Warnings || First date fluff, mentions of alcohol, mentions of anxiety sorta

Authors Note || sorry that asks are coming out slowly, i’ve been hyperfixating on a different fandom :’)

Rafael Barba

Flowers on the first date kinda man

Would take you somewhere expensive

Probably a quiet, fancy restaurant where the two of you could have nice conversations in a calm environment

Refuses to let you pay, not even half

If it’s going well, he’d maybe want to walk around the city afterwards so your conversations can continue

He definitely planned all of this to try to be impressive

Sonny Carisi

Instead of a restaurant, he’d want to cook for you

His cooking skills are impressive enough

But he also impresses you just by being himself— an attentive listener and a perfect gentleman

Doesn’t mean he’s not freaking out on the inside, though

You can tell

Probably would google how to impress someone on a first date tbh

Olivia Benson

Hybrid bookstore/coffee shop date

Isn’t really worried about “impressing” you, so she just acts as she normally would

Would want to pay for your coffee though

And unintentionally impresses you by the amount of books she’s read and the conversations she makes

But who wouldn’t be impressed by her in general anyways?

Amanda Rollins

Paint and sip class !!

She’s confident and isn’t very nervous

The sip part of the class definitely helps calm any nerves that arise

Thinks the paint and sip is fun for a first date

And hopes maybe it’s just a little impressive

Fin Tutuola

Wouldn’t be great at planning the date himself

Either Olivia helps or you’re the one planning the date

He’s also definitely more nervous than he says he is

Despite this, he impresses you with how funny he is

Also offers to pick you up to go wherever you decide

And pay for anything, or at least split costs if you try to decline his offer

Joe Velasco

Dinner date at his favourite restaurant

Really, really hopes you like the food as much as he does

Possibly a nightcap afterwards so you’ll have more time to talk and continue the date

He tries a little too hard to impress you by trying to show off his knowledge on any subject you bring up

But you can tell he’s anxious

But the fact that he’s trying so hard is cute

Elliot Stabler

Central park date

Walking around a bit, sitting and talking on a bench, getting drinks and food from any food carts that are around

Tries to impress you by paying for anything you want and being attentive

He’s a little awkward

And protective despite it being the first date

[wangxianficrecs]

Love Cats by so_shyy

Love Cats

by so_shhy

T, Series, 14k, Wangxian

Summary: A little modern Wangxian AU in which everything is cute and nothing remotely bad happens to anyone at all, ever. Kay's comments: As the summary said, a feel-good Wangxian AU, where everything is nice and fluffy. Really loved this and sometimes, that's just what you need. It's certainly what I need right now. Favorite part of the series is part four, which is from Lan Xichen's POV and shows, just how cute and perfect Wangxian are for each other. They are in love, your honour. Excerpt: He was trying to decide whether to suggest a better arrangement for the tables in the board game room when he sensed, rather than heard, A-Zhan walk up behind him. “Brother,” said A-Zhan, with quiet disapproval, “you’re obsessing again.” “I want everyone to have a nice time,” said Lan Xichen, turning to find A-Zhan dressed as festive as he ever got, in that he was wearing a snowy white high-necked sweater. “What’s wrong with that?” He had no problem interpreting the silence he got in return. That slight softening of A-Zhan’s lips meant you are nice and I am fond of you. The little sideways eyeroll – you expect too much of yourself and the world around you. The tiny, irritated huff of breath – if you actually wanted everyone to have a nice time you wouldn’t ask me to be here.

pov multiple, modern setting, modern no powers, meet-cute, fluff, first meetings, getting together, falling in love, first dates, wei wuxian has a fear of dogs, good sibling lan xichen, lan wangji loves rabbits, series, no angst

~*~

(Please REBLOG as a signal boost for this hard-working author if you like – or think others might like – this story.)

[frogwithgun]

I'm backkkkkk!

Mental health has been at an all time low! Yay!

But we thug it out fr 💪🏻

Anyways he's some satosugu!

------------------

Geto stares at his phone in excitement. Rare where the days when Gojo could have days off. Even rarer were the days when they could spend those days off alone together.

So he was ecstatic when Gojo decided to take him on a date.

Even more so when he realized what he was doing.

Recreating their first date.

---------------------

2006

A younger Geto and Gojo are talking to each other happily. With Gojo being still for once. And Geto who could not stop fidigiting. God he felt so, different. Usually it was Gojo who was constantly moving. But he found himself playing with his bangs over and over.

Fixing his selves. Fixing his pants. God he couldn't stop. And meanwhile Gojo was preventing himself from making any dumb jokes.

-----------------------

Present day

"You remember this theater? God those workers were so done with us." Gojo laughed and Geto nodded. A happy smile on his face. He could almost see a ghost version of the both of them. Both bright red and smiling at each other.

"Yeah. I'm pretty sure she just wanted to go home." Geto said. Gojo smiled and kissed him on the check. "She just couldn't handle being so single and seeing us so happy."

Geto rolled his eyes and Gojo gave a small lovestruck smile.

-------------------

2006

"Ok so she was definitely judging us, right?" Gojo asked. Geto nodded and moved his bangs out of the way. "Oh for sure. I mean, just because she's unhappy doesn't mean we should be." Gojo cackled and nodded. "Exactly."

Hand in hand they walked to get some popcorn. And an obscene amount of candy. Courtesy of Gojo and his sweet tooth.

Geto may have been silently judging him for not getting any sour candies.

-----------------------------

Present day

Geto sighed and crossed his arms. "Really Satoru?" The white haired man looked down at his arms full of multiple kinds of candy. "You're right." Geto smiled thinking he was going to put it away. "I should get more!" "No."

Geto swears that sometimes it's like dating a child. But he loves the man nonetheless. So he just smiles and rolls his eyes as Gojo pouts and attempts to convince him. "Still no, Satoru." He groans loudly and puts the candies back.

"Just say you want a divorce at this point." He mutters. "What was that?" "Nothing!"

------------------------

2006

As the date went on they got more comfortable. To the dismay of everyone else.

They were sat in the dark theater eyes glued to the screen and watching the movie with fascination. At least, Geto was. Gojo was to busy staring at Geto to even care about the movie.

"You're so pretty Suguru." Geto looked over at Gojo with a look of slight surprise. Then he smiled and looked away. "Noooo." Whined Gojo. "I want to see your eyes." Geto blushed and looked back at him. And Gojo happily smiled.

And everyone else in the theater didn't dare say anything. Not wanting to deal with the arrogant teen.

Besides they already tried. Gojo just ignored them.

-----------------------

Present day

The movie was almost exactly as Geto remembered it. He just couldn't remember if that plot twist had really happened the first time. Gojo on th other had didn't remember the movie at all. Still to focused on Geto to remember.

Geto sighed and looked at Gojo. Just like the first time. He thought to himself. But he didn't mind. He rather liked it. "Pay attention to the movie Satoru." He whispered. Gojo smiled and shrugged. "Nah, I think I'm good."

Some things just never change. No matter how many years pass.

--------------------

Ok! I am so sorry it took me so long to get another story out. I have really been on the brink of mental breakdowns tbh. But it's ok! We are back baby!

Hope you enjoy this while I keep on revising part three of that modern AU

As always love you guys! 💚

[bloody-bee-tea]

June of (minimal) Doom 2024 Day 16 - At least it can't get any worse

Suguru is excited. He’s so excited in fact, that he almost feels as if he’s going to throw up but then Satoru walks up to him, stupid grin on his face and everything falls into place.

It’s Satoru, after all, so there’s nothing to be really nervous about, especially not since he agreed to go on a date with Suguru.

Satoru is a lot of things, but he’s not a liar and if he didn’t want to do this then he would have said so immediately when Suguru asked him out.

So this must mean something to Satoru as well and the thought alone makes Suguru feel warm all over.

“You look good,” Satoru happily says, bouncing on the balls of his feet and leaning forward to better be able to look at Suguru and Suguru huffs out a breath.

“I better,” he says because he has put a lot of effort into his looks today. He even did a face mask and took the time to paint his nails for once.

Meanwhile Satoru looks as if he spent all of two seconds thinking about his outfit and Suguru would be mad about it, if only he didn’t know that it’s because Satoru was so excited that he couldn’t think about anything else.

He knows because Satoru kept spamming his phone with messages, detailing exactly how excited he is and what he wants to do on their date, even though Suguru was the one to ask him out and therefore plan for today.

“Am I not looking good?” Satoru pouts when Suguru says nothing else and Suguru can’t help the smile on his face.

“You always look good, you know that,” Suguru replies and reaches up to push a stray strand of hair out of Satoru’s face. “Hi.”

Suguru would be embarrassed by how breathless he sounds but Satoru’s cheeks are a beautiful red and it takes him a moment to reply, so Suguru doesn’t feel too bad about it.

At least Satoru is in the same boat as him.

“Hi,” Satoru finally gives back and then drops his head to Suguru’s shoulder. “I didn’t think it would be this different,” he confesses and Suguru hums because he knows what Satoru means.

They’ve gone out together plenty of times in the last year but now that this is officially a date things feel different.

“Good different or bad different?” Suguru has to ask even though he’s pretty sure he knows Satoru’s answer. He certainly knows his own.

“Good!” Satoru immediately rushes out. “So good.” He pulls back at that and then playfully tugs on Suguru’s bang. “It’s always good with you, you know that.”

Now it’s Suguru’s turn to blush and he shoves lightly at Satoru’s shoulder in his embarrassment.

“Shut up,” he grumbles out, which only makes Satoru laugh out loud and he’s so gorgeous it’s hard to take sometimes but at least now Suguru can stare unabashedly at him because he confessed and Satoru accepted to go on a date and so there’s no reason anymore for him to hide his feelings.

It feels really damn awesome to stare so openly at Satoru and it’s even better when Satoru goes beet-red once he notices.

“You can’t just do that,” he whines out and Suguru laughs.

“I can cause you’re here,” he says and reaches out to take Satoru’s hand in his, lacing their fingers together.

“Now, there’s this fair I want to go to but first we’re getting some ice cream so you don’t die until then,” he teasingly says because sometimes it feels as if Satoru is running on sugar alone.

He would wilt and probably die if Suguru dragged him to the fair without some snacks on the way and he has no intention of killing Satoru on their first date. He’s counting on many more after this one, after all.

“Sounds perfect,” Satoru says and squeezes Suguru’s hand, clearly content for Suguru to lead for today.

So Suguru does just that, turning slightly in the direction of the ice cream place he scouted out before and Satoru is following along quite happily.

They chat on the short walk there and even though they see each other every day there never is a lull in conversation. It’s one of Suguru’s favourite parts of being with Satoru.

Things are going great right until the turn the corner, Satoru brimming with excitement about the ice cream he’s about to get, but they both freeze on the spot when they come face to face with a veil.

“What the fuck,” Satoru whispers out and shoves his head through the veil. It takes him a second before he comes back out and just by the look on his face Suguru knows that there’s no way they are going to get their ice cream.

“Let me guess: complete destruction?”

“Well, Kusakabe is certainly trying his best,” Satoru sighs out and now that is surprising enough that Suguru has to see for himself.

Kusakabe is not known to take missions voluntarily after all.

In all honesty, it’s not quite as bad as Satoru made it sound but there is still some damage and Kusakabe is locked into a fight with a curse. Grade two, if Suguru had to guess and he draws back with a sigh.

“You want to help?” he asks and he has his answer when Satoru pouts at him.

“We have a day off, Suguru! Yaga agreed! And now you want to go and work anyway?”

“I mean,” Suguru gestures at the veil but Satoru stomps his foot.

“We’re on a date. I’m not working.”

“The ice cream shop is right in there,” Suguru says and points at the veil. “I don’t know if there’s anything else around cause I didn’t plan for this.”

That makes Satoru’s face soften and Suguru flushes at the sight.

“You’re so cute,” Satoru breathes out and reaches back for Suguru’s hand. “We’ll figure something else out. Kusakabe can deal, he didn’t seem to need any help, anyway, and you’re too pretty to go in and mess up your look,” Satoru decides and then reaches for Suguru’s pocket.

“What do you think you’re doing?” Suguru asks as he slaps away Satoru’s hand.

“I know you keep sweets on you for me, so gimme one of those and I’ll be fine until the fair.”

Suguru sighs but he does obligingly reach into his pocket to take out a sweet. Satoru clearly has him figured out, he fondly thinks, and delights in the way Satoru’s eyes light up when he sees that it’s his favourite flavour.

As if Suguru would ever carry anything else.

Once Satoru is happily sucking on his treat, they leave Kusakabe to his own devices and Suguru wonders if he should just call upon one of his curses to fly them to the fair so they can get there faster, but in all honesty, he enjoys walking with Satoru like this and climbing on a curse would mean releasing Satoru’s hand.

Suguru doesn’t really want to do that, so he doesn’t mention the option to Satoru at all.

The walk to the fair is uneventful except for the way Satoru keeps whining because he’s hungry and his sugar levels are low, but even that is something that makes Suguru smile because it’s painfully familiar.

Satoru’s eyes light up when he finally sees the fair and Suguru is so focused on him that he only realises something is wrong when Satoru’s brow furrows.

“What is it now?” Suguru asks, already dreading the answer because one foiled plan for today is enough and he really doesn’t have a backup plan if they can’t enjoy the fair.

Maybe he should have planned for more eventualities, he mournfully thinks and then finally follows Satoru’s gaze.

It doesn’t take him long to spot Utahime and Shoko, both slightly bent over a jewellery display and Suguru groans.

“What are they doing here?”

“You think they are out on a date, too?” Satoru wonders and Suguru shrugs.

“Could be, if Shoko ever grew the balls to ask her out,” he gives back and he thinks he has his answer as they watch them walk away, their hands clasped together.

Very much like Satoru and Suguru’s at the moment.

“Are we fine running into them?” Suguru asks because this was supposed to be their day and he doesn’t know how he feels should Shoko and Utahime spot them.

He trusts both of them to make fun of Satoru and Suguru.

“I know what you’re thinking,” Satoru says and lightly flicks Suguru’s forehead, effectively jolting him out of his thoughts. “But they are on a date, too. No matter what they say, we can tease them just as much.”

Suguru supposes he is right about that and so he sighs.

“Fine. Maybe we won’t even run into them,” he mutters and startles when Satoru cups his face in his hand.

“And even if we do, it won’t matter. This is still our day. And hey, at least it can’t get any worse than this,” he cheekily says and Suguru groans.

“Why the fuck would you say that,” he almost whines out and just as if on cue the gates of heaven open and a downpour starts so strong that they are soaked almost immediately.

Suguru glares at Satoru because this is hishis fault but the surprised look on Satoru’s face is so funny that Suguru doubles over with the force of his laughter.

“Hey!” Satoru indignantly gets out but Suguru shakes his head, still chuckling, his sides hurting from the laughing before.

“You did this to us!” he gives back and knocks their shoulders together. “This is entirely your fault, because you spoke this into existence.”

“I—maybe,” Satoru allows, but he can’t quite seem to tear his eyes off Suguru.

Suguru is doing his very best to not look too closely at Satoru, because his white shirt is nearly see-through thanks to the rain and Suguru has seen Satoru shirtless several times already but somehow today is different.

Different enough that the hint of abs is making him lightheaded, so Suguru fixes his gaze on the ground.

“Getting shy all of a sudden?” Satoru teases him, leaning slightly down to catch Suguru’s eyes. “Maybe you should give me your shirt, so I can cover up,” he suggests and Suguru’s hands move on auto-pilot before he remembers that he is only wearing a white shirt underneath as well.

“Satoru!”

“What?” Satoru laughs out and tucks Suguru’s bang behind his ear. “It was worth a shot.” He sounds completely unrepentant and Suguru has to admit that his heart stumbles in his chest.

Satoru looks happy and really, what more could Suguru want?

It’s only when someone bumps into Satoru in their haste to find shelter somewhere that they both remember to do the same and so they hurry until they find a somewhat dry spot to hide under. It’s kind of too late for them already but Suguru is not about to point that out, not when Satoru presses in close and drops his head to Suguru’s shoulder.

“You know for a first date this was pretty messed up,” he says and Suguru’s stomach churns with worry.

Satoru’s words and actions contradict themselves, with how he’s reaching for Suguru’s hand again and what he’s saying, and Suguru fears that he doesn’t want to do this with him anymore.

Maybe this one messed up date was all it took for Satoru to change his mind.

“I’m sorry,” Suguru whispers, probably barely audible over the rain and Satoru scoffs at that.

“Don’t be, it’s hardly your fault. The rain, at least, is mine,” he easily gives back and then turns his head just enough to be able to peer up at Suguru, fixating him with his impossible eyes.

“And besides, it only means we have to try again. Gotta get it right some time, right?” he asks with a cheeky grin and immediately Suguru relaxes.

He turns his head until he can press his lips to Satoru’s forehead and the way Satoru happily closes his eyes and leans into the contact makes his stomach do somersaults.

“You gotta stop worrying,” Satoru softly says once Suguru moved away and he can see that he still has his eyes closed. “I’m here ‘cause I want to be. Besides you telling me to get lost there’s nothing that could make me change my mind. I know you confessed first and I didn’t do much else but enthusiastically agree to a date, but I’m in love with you, too.”

It soothes something in Suguru to hear that because while he didn’t try to dwell on it he had wondered about Satoru’s lack of a response to his confession.

“That’s good to hear,” Suguru hums out and Satoru chuckles.

“Yeah, I bet. I just—I got so excited when you asked me out that I kind of forgot to say it, too.”

It’s a very Satoru thing to do, Suguru has to admit that, and he squeezes Satoru’s hand.

“Thanks for saying it now,” Suguru says and Satoru sighs softly.

“Maybe for our next date we can just order take-out, watch a movie and cuddle on your bed. That way the weather can’t bother us and we’re not risking running into anyone else.”

“But we always do that,” Suguru complains because he wanted to do something else for their date but Satoru shrugs.

“And it has served us well so far, hasn’t it?” he wants to know and Suguru has to admit that he’s right.

And besides—if seeing only a hint of Satoru’s chest leaves him this flustered already simply because the implications of them being out together is different then cuddling on the bed is sure to feel a whole lot different, too.

“Alright,” Suguru agrees and Satoru turns into Suguru so he can sling his free arm around his middle until they are effectively hugging.

It’s getting kind of cold with their damp clothes that are now uncomfortably sticking to their bodies and the rain is still coming down hard around them and yet Suguru finds that he wouldn’t want to be anywhere else.

And since Satoru is making no move to pull away from Suguru, he guesses the same goes for him, too. And what more could Suguru really ask for.

[voparwave69]

Sometimes my favorite first date is when we get in my car, close our eyes and drive to heaven.

-Ganzee Makara

[popcorn-plots]

midnight snack

Stephen sipped at his cocktail, watching the scene before him. It wasn’t much, just a few people crowded in the top deck, swaying to the last song of the night. The inky black water was silent a few stories beneath them, cold wind rustling Stephen’s hair. There were one or two other people at the cafeteria with him, one obviously tipsy and the other nearly asleep on their feet. Sometimes, Stephen liked to speculate on their stories – who they were, what got them to this point. Right now, he was too tired.

It was either listening to the too-loud music with a martini in hand, sitting alone in the cold night air, or going back to his room where nightmares lurked at every corner. Despite the exhaustion, Stephen preferred the martini.

The music stopped and the DJ shouted something unintelligible over the speakers. The tired man near him wobbled down the stairs, drunk girl in tow. Someone cursed. Stephen finished his drink and set it down.

He thought about ordering another one, but the cafeteria was bound to be closing soon – it was 2 AM – and he didn’t feel like getting drunk. Drunk meant the nightmares couldn’t wake him up. He felt a little bad for leaving Christine alone in the room, but she had always been a deep sleeper.

There were footsteps on the stairs and a voice. “Hey, Stranger”

Stephen looked up. Tony Stark was standing above him. “Stark.”

“What are you doing up?” Stark asked.

“What are you doing up?” Stephen responded. Stark laughed and Stephen couldn’t help but grin. He had hated the man for most of his career, and for the first few days of the cruise, but he couldn’t help but admit that there had been some sort of chemistry between them (after his initial disbelief that Tony Stark, of all people, was on his cruise ship). Christine and Pepper hit it off immediately and after a few drinks and meals together, Tony and Stephen had settled on light banter instead of huge arguments. For their Scary Female Friends, they decided.

“Nightmares.” Stark finally admitted. “Mind if I sit?”

“No, not at all. Sit away.” Stark chuckled and sat down. There was a long silence that wasn’t exactly uncomfortable. “Nightmares for me, too. Even in paradise, they still haunt me.” For a moment, Stephen wished he had another martini. In a moment of inspiration, he asked Stark if he wanted one.

“No thanks. Three years sober tomorrow.” Stark explained. Stephen hummed.

Another silence fell between them and Stephen looked down at his hands. He shivered slightly, the chill having finally penetrated his nightshirt. Stark sighed. “I… there’s a lot of evidence that prove that sleeping with someone–”

“If you’re asking if you can fuck me, Stark, the answer is yes. You’re handsome, and while part of me still hates you, another part of me enjoys your company and… I’m intrigued.”

Stark laughed and held up a finger. “Firstly, call me Tony.”

“Then call me Stephen.”

“Secondly, I’d have to buy you dinner before. Sex is a third-date kind of thing. I’m a gentleman, not a monster.”  Stephen raised an eyebrow, fighting to keep the blush away from his face at the fact that Star– Tony didn’t exactly deny his sex accusation. 

“Thirdly, I was saying that studies have shown that sleep quality improves when you literally sleep with a partner. I was going to say that while we haven’t been friends for that long, we've established that we both have nightmares and maybe we could give that a shot and see what happens.”

Stephen took a second to think. “Then you'd better ask me out first, douchebag.”

Tony laughed. It was louder this time, more free and a lot more contagious. Stephen began to chuckle as well, until they were both nearly howling with laughter. Tony had to wipe tears from his eyes before he could respond. 

“Fine." Tony slid onto one knee in front of Stephen's chair, cupping his hands in the air as if he was proposing. “Stephen Strange, will you go out with me and find some weird cruise ship sandwiches so I can literally take you to bed?”

Stephen pretending to fan his face, grinning. “I would be honored.”

Tony grinned, stood up, and held out his arm to help Stephen up. Arm in arm, they made their way to the food bar.

The next morning, Stephen woke up secured in Tony’s arms, never wanting to leave. He hadn’t had a single nightmare, and he started the day refreshed and relaxed for the first time since high school. Tony admitted that he felt the same way and they found breakfast together -- without their Scary Female Friends this time.

Then they got lunch, then dinner, and exchanged numbers. Stephen finally got the fucking he had talked about a week later and thoroughly enjoyed it.

Ten years later, Tony proposed on that same cruise ship, at 2 AM, and with a cucumber sandwich (he proposed again in Italy, on the Rialto Bridge, with an actual ring). Stephen never slept alone again.

Ao3

[viejospellejos]

Uno de los mejores pasos por First Dates:

[angyalikira]

five dates with mike schmidt

pairing: gn!reader x mike schmidt

genre: fluff, light angst

warnings: none

part 3/5

°:. *₊ ° . ° .•

third date // a walk in the park

No calls, no texts, no conversations for a week. It got to a point where you have slowly been giving up on your silly little crush. You tried to distract yourself with your work and with meeting other friends of yours but nothing seemed to lift your mood. A part of yourself hated being affected by a guy you only recently met. At the same time your heart just didn’t listen to your head.

You have been avoiding going to the mall for the past week. Someday you will have to face him and you are tired of feeling so frustrated. You walk inside and plan on buying some groceries. Will Mike spot you at all? Will he come up to you to talk or will he ignore you? Does he even work today?

Your overthinking has been abruptly stopped by Mike’s appearance. He is standing in a corner keeping a look at the crowd. You spot him first and freeze for a second. Here you are, unable to decide what to do. Some part of you wants to run away to avoid confrontation but another part of you has been missing him so deeply and is begging you to approach him. While you try to decide your next move he locks eyes with you. Once again you watch his whole demeanor lighten up, his eyebrows lift, fixing his posture and a gasp escaping his lips. The next few seconds you wait to see what he does next.

But to your surprise he gets moving, his feet quickly leading him to your spot. Mike stops a few feet in front of you trying to figure out what to say. He has had this exact scenario play out in his head the last few days. What to tell you, how to explain himself and most importantly – how to properly apologize to you. He treated you so coldly when all you were was kind.

At first he thought what he did was for the better. Abby asked him if you were visiting again anytime soon – which he denied – and he had to watch Abby’s face drop. His appetite was gone, he was even more annoyed with everything and he had nothing to look forward to.

Maybe it was selfish but he wanted you in his life. To brighten it up, to feel your warmth and kindness. He wanted you in Abby’s life, as a female role model and friend to her. He wanted you for himself, as his girlfriend.

“I am so sorry for how I acted the last time. I got scared and… I didn’t feel like I was good for you. I thought that it would be the best decision to push you away but I have been so miserable this past week… I truly am sorry.” he rambled while keeping up eye contact the whole time.

It was all you needed to hear.

“Apology accepted. For now anyways, we can talk about this more when we are in a more private space. Would you want to accompany me to grab a coffee?”

You two spent around an hour catching up a bit, drinking coffee and enjoying your time together. It felt like nothing even happened between you two but you still reminded yourself that you had to talk about it later. Otherwise you might miscommunicate in the future again.

“Are you free tomorrow?” Mike asked with his puppy eyes.

"Yeah, why?"

“Would you like to go to the park tomorrow? There’s this spot I want to show you… Only if you would like to though!” he really didn’t want to upset you with his suggestion right after you guys made up.

“Let me think about it…” you teased him a little but after a few seconds you gave in.

“Yes I would love to go. Are you bringing Abby too?”

“No, she’s at a friends’ house tomorrow so I only need to bring her home later.” he smiled at you.

The plan was set and you both gave your goodbyes shortly after. Mike still needed to work after all and you didn’t want him to get fired on your account. As you arrived home, you twirled with joy and already thought about which outfit you would choose for the next day and if you should bring Mike anything. You weren’t sure what he would like, so you decided to make him a quick bracelet out of braided threads.

You tried to sleep that night but you were too giddy from excitement, which meant that you were a little bit more tired than usual in the morning. Mike suggested going at 10 am, not too early but still a nice late morning stroll. You dressed yourself, put the bracelet in your bag and headed out. Mike was the first to be there and he greeted you with a shy smile.

“Good morning, I hope you slept well?” he started the conversation.

“I did.” you lied. I mean you can’t really tell him how big your crush is yet, right?

As you started your stroll together he had his hands in his pockets. You kinda wished you could hold his hand already, but it was way too early for that. A person can dream though.

“I want to apologize again for the last time. I have the habit of pushing new people away that are too good for me. For a long time it’s only been me and Abby – I couldn’t trust anyone else to stay in my life. So having you suddenly come in and… and making me happy to meet someone new again scared me. I thought the best decision for both of us would be to end this before it goes any further. I just.. I just know I’m by far not a perfect human being and might hurt you accidentally. I didn’t want that for you.” he admitted. You let him speak his thoughts before you thought of an answer. Some time goes by before you start to speak again.

“You know, I was kinda crushed when I came home that day. It went so well and in the end I thought I somehow messed this all up and it was my fault that you hated me… I’m glad to hear that wasn’t the case. But Mike, I want you to know that no one is perfect and you’ve been incredibly kind and forthcoming to me so far. And I can see by the way you care for Abby that you are a good brother. You should give yourself more credit.” you smiled at him and lightly hit his shoulder. He chuckled and just smiled back.

“So where’s this spot you wanted to show me?” you curiously asked.

“Not much further.” he answered mysteriously.

The two of you walked a bit more until he took an unexpected turn. You followed him and you were greeted with the prettiest view of the city. You gasped at the sight of it.

“Oh my god… this is stunning! I can’t believe I didn’t know of this place all my life” you were still staring at the view.

Mike however was only looking at you and your reaction. A smile appeared on his face again and he started to blush. He wished he could feel this happy all the time. He didn’t reply and just scooted closer to you.

In your admiration you only realized a bit later that your shoulders are touching. But once you did, it felt like electricity going through your veins. You felt like a teenager, experiencing their first love all over again. The awkward but cute phase of not knowing if you should hold their hands or not and the small touches whenever they can.

You both spent some time sitting at the spot and talking to each other. You got to know his hobbies, likes and dislikes, his favorite songs and artists, his favorite dishes and a good look into his backstory. None of you could hold eye contact for too long, both of you feel a bit nervous and shy throughout the day. After a few hours you guys got up and started to walk back.

In your mind you could only think about how you could initiate the hand holding. You couldn’t come up with a casual plan but you didn’t even have to. A runner was crossing you two and he slightly shoved you, causing you to bump into Mike. You took this chance and grab his biceps to balance yourself. Or that’s what you tell yourself.

“Geez that scared me.” you said annoyed as you looked back at the runner. Mike however was unable to reply because he was too affected by you right now. You seeking his protection (in some sort of way) made his heart race. He’s trying to act all cool about it but he failed. You kind of noticed that it’s affecting him and kept your hand there. And that’s how you both walked back until you stood in front of your house.

“Well it seems like we’re here… I really enjoyed today Mike. Thank you for showing me that hidden spot.” you turned to him and gave him a genuine smile.

“I mean I’m not the first person to discover it and I am sure a bunch of people know it too… but I’m glad you liked today. It was nice spending time with you again… I hope this isn’t weird but could I maybe have your number? It might be easier to plan our meetups that way.” he sheepishly asked and scratched the back of his neck.

“Oh yeah sure!” so you gave him his number.

“You better call me. Goodbye Mike, till next time.” you teased him and went inside.

“I’ll for sure call you! Bye!” he gave you a big wave and his signature smile.

Mike went home that day happier than he had been in months. He even told Abby about his outing, leading her to ask when you were coming over again. That gave him an idea for the next date.

[kjack89]

Clothes Make the Man

For my 10 year anniversary/4k giveaway, for @ionlyrunfromshame, who requested "modern au, established relationship, soft, fluffy", and well...you'll just have to wait and see.

“You’re here early,” Courfeyrac said in lieu of a greeting, standing back to let Enjolras into his apartment. 

Enjolras managed a weak smile. “I brought coffee,” he said, handing one of the coffees he was holding to Courfeyrac. “And I have a somewhat time-sensitive favor to ask.”

Courfeyrac arched an eyebrow and gestured for Enjolras to sit down. “Well color me intrigued,” he said lightly, plopping down in the armchair as Enjolras perched on the couch. “So what can I do for you?”

Enjolras hesitated for only a moment before sighing and saying, almost as if he couldn’t believe the words he was about to say, “You know how you’ve always wanted to treat me like a life-size Ken doll and dress me up to suit your whims?”

“Barbie.”

Enjolras blinked. “Pardon?”

“I’ve always wanted to dress you up like a Barbie doll,” Courfeyrac said sweetly. “You’re too pretty to be Ken.” His smile sharpened into a smirk, and he leered at Enjolras as he added, “And besides, I know what you’re packing down there and it sure as shit ain’t plastic.”

Enjolras scowled. “If I could go back in time and undo one thing from my past, do you know what it would be?”

Courfeyrac considered it for a moment. “Getting frosted tips in the year of our lord 2006?” he suggested blithely.

“No, sleeping with you,” Enjolras said through gritted teeth.

Courfeyrac just smirked. “Liar.”

Enjolras flushed slightly. “Well, maybe if I could go back in time and undo two things,” he mumbled.

“Mmhmm,” Courfeyrac hummed, in a particularly self-satisfied way., and he leaned back against the chair to give Enjolras a measured look. “So you want me to dress you up, make it tight, you’re my dolly?”

“Under very narrow parameters only,” Enjolras said. “Specifically, I need your help buying one outfit.”

Courfeyrac’s eyes narrowed, and he took a sip of coffee. “Just one? What’s the occasion?”

Enjolras’s flush darkened. “I have a date.”

Courfeyrac gaped at him. “With a human male?” he managed.

Enjolras’s scowl returned in full force. “As opposed to who, your mom?”

“That’s a bit juvenile for you, don’t you think?” Courfeyrac asked with a snicker.

“Fuck off,” Enjolras said, without any real heat. “Are you going to help me or not?”

“Well when you ask so nicely…”

He trailed off and Enjolras rolled his eyes. “Courf,” he said impatiently. “Answer the question.”

For a moment, it looked like Courfeyrac was actually going to, but then he hesitated. “Only if you answer this first: did you tell Grantaire?”

Enjolras just stared at him, confused. “Why would I tell Grantaire?”

Courfeyrac fiddled with the lid of his coffee cup for a moment before setting it down decisively on the end table and standing. “I’m afraid Courfeyrac’s modiste is closed for business, but I would be happy to refer you elsewhere.”

It took a moment for Enjolras to follow suit, scrambling to stand as he frowned at Courfeyrac, his confusion deepening. “You mean you’re not going to help me?” he asked, a little indignantly.

“Not so much, no,” Courfeyrac said cheerfully.

“Why the fuck not?” Enjolras demanded.

Courfeyrac shrugged. “My reasons are many, and complex, and you should ask Jehan.”

If Enjolras looked confused before, now he looked downright baffled. “For your reasons?”

“No,” Courfeyrac said patiently. “To help you.” 

Enjolras’s confusion disappeared, but it was quickly replaced by hesitation. “Don’t you think Jehan’s taste in clothes is a little, uh…”

He trailed off, clearly searching for the nicest way to put whatever he was thinking, but Courfeyrac didn’t wait for him to find it. “Quite the contrary,” he said instead, his grin sharp. “I think he’s just what you need.”

— — — — —

Jehan drummed his fingers against the arm of his chair, staring at Enjolras, who had the good sense to look uncomfortable. Not that Jehan was usually intimidating, but he could pull it off when he wanted to.

And at the moment, he very much wanted to.

“So you want my help,” he said, finally breaking the silence, and Enjolras jerked a nod.

“Yes.”

“Picking out an outfit.”

Again Enjolras nodded. “That is correct.”

It was hardly the most bizarre request Jehan had ever received, but the combination of the request and requester that was giving him pause. He was half-wondering if he was on some kind of Les Amis version of Punk’d. “Why do you need a new outfit?”

Enjolras sighed before telling him reluctantly, “I have a date.”

Now Jehan was certain that he was being Punk’d. “You know, I don’t think you’ve ever asked for my help before,” he said with a note of something like warning, which he figured would at least do the job of letting Enjolras know he was on to him. 

But Enjolras just made a face. “I’m not exactly known to be the asking for help type.”

That was a true statement if ever there was one. Still, Jehan couldn’t quite resist. “The words ‘toxic masculinity’ are flashing in my mind right now,” he said sweetly.

Enjolras scowled. “Because I’m definitely known for being a paragon of masculinity.”

Jehan’s smile widened. “And now I’m seeing that Garfield meme, only instead of propaganda, it says, ‘You are not immune to toxic masculinity’.”

“Well, something more to discuss with my therapist, I guess,” Enjolras said, with just a touch of impatience. “But in case you missed what I said earlier, this is somewhat time-sensitive, so if you’re willing to help me, I kind of need an answer sooner rather than later.”

Jehan arched an eyebrow. “Never thought you’d find a date more important than dismantling the patriarchy.”

Enjolras just shrugged, looking almost a little embarrassed. “Honestly, neither did I,” he muttered, in a fond but rueful sort of way.

Something about this whole situation wasn’t quite adding up, and while under normal circumstances, Jehan probably would’ve agreed almost immediately to Enjolras’s request for help, he felt like there was a piece of the puzzle he was missing. He narrowed his eyes. “Why exactly do you want my help?” he asked, and Enjolras just raised both eyebrows before looking pointedly down at himself.

“I feel like this really speaks for itself,” he said, deadpan, but Jehan wasn’t deterred.

“No, I mean, why my help specifically.”

Enjolras flushed. “You’re…fashionable,” he said, the pause between his words speaking volumes.

“Uh-huh,” Jehan said skeptically, and Enjolras’s flush deepened.

“You’re more fashionable than I am,” he said defensively, crossing his arms in front of his chest.

Jehan gave him an almost pitying look. “So are most fourth graders.” Enjolras scowled but didn’t refute it, and Jehan decided it was time to rescue him. “So who else did you ask before you asked me?”

Enjolras’s flush had darkened to a somewhat mottled shade of fuschia. “No one,” he mumbled, though he didn’t even wait for Jehan to tell him he didn’t believe him before adding, “Just Bahorel. And Joly. And Courfeyrac.” 

Jehan really should’ve guessed as much. “And all of them said no?”

“Bahorel said he’s busy,” Enjolras huffed, clearly put out, “but he oh-so magnanimously offered to pay one thousand dollars to whomever does if they take video. Joly is out of town. And Courfeyrac told me to ask you.”

And there it was – the missing piece of the puzzle. Jehan nodded slowly, knowing that if Courfeyrac had suggested Enjolras ask him, there was a good reason for it. “I see,” he said slowly, cocking his head slightly before asking, “And you didn’t ask Grantaire for his help?”

Enjolras’s scowl came back even darker than before. “Why does everybody keep asking me if I asked Grantaire?” he said, not waiting for an answer before telling Jehan, “No, I didn’t ask him to help me pick out an outfit.”

And there was Courfeyrac’s reason. “So Courfeyrac told you to ask me,” Jehan said, trying and likely failing to tamp down his smile. “Well, I think he made a good call, and I will be more than happy to help you.”

Enjolras blinked, clearly confused by this sudden change of tenor in the conversation. “Really?” he said, somewhat skeptically.

“Of course,” Jehan assured him. “Anything for our fearless leader.”

Enjolras’s eyes narrowed. “Why do I not believe you?”

“Probably because you’re paranoid,” Jehan said cheerfully. He stood, brushing a non-existent crumb off of his shirt. “Now if memory serves, you said this is time sensitive, so we might as well get going.”

For one moment, it looked like Enjolras might argue, but then he made the wise choice to just shrug before also standing. “Alright. Let’s go.”

— — — — —

Roughly thirty minutes later, he looked very much like he regretted that decision. “Where are you taking me?” he asked, clutching the handle in Jehan’s car with both hands.

Jehan glanced over at him, amused. “You sound like you’re being kidnapped, not driven to a store.”

“At this point I’m beginning to feel like I’m being kidnapped,” Enjolras muttered.

“Who would have thought the man who has stared down the police in full riot gear would be scared of shopping,” Jehan said with a grin.

Enjolras glowered at him. “I’m not scared of it,” he snapped. “I just hate it and avoid it whenever possible. And you’re not answering my question about where you’re taking me, which is not helping me feel better.”

Jehan rolled his eyes. “I’m taking you to the thrift store,” he informed him.

Enjolras stared at him. “To the – why?”

“Because I wanted to get the Macklemore song stuck in your head all day,” Jehan said dryly. “Because I thought you would appreciate a more sustainable approach to shopping.”

For a moment, Enjolras did in fact look mollified, but then his expression shifted. “As long as it’s not run by the Salvation Army or Goodwill—”

“Locally owned and operated, don’t worry,” Jehan interrupted, having already seen this argument coming from a mile away. “Haven’t you ever shopped at a thrift store?”

Enjolras shook his head. “I honestly couldn’t tell you the last time I set foot in a clothing store,” he admitted, “what with sweatshops and non-union labor and God only knows what else.” He gestured again at his own clothing. “I mean, why do you think I basically wear seven variations of the same outfit each week?”

“I will perfectly honest with you, I don’t normally give that much thought to what you wear,” Jehan muttered, though at Enjolras’s somewhat affronted look, he quickly added, “Up until today, at least.” Thankfully, he was saved by the appearance of the thrift store, and he had never been more relieved to announce, “And here we are.”

He parked and together they walked up to the store, Enjolras eyeing it with increasing trepidation. “I feel like I’m walking to my execution.”

Jehan was deeply tempted to roll his eyes but settled for opening the door for Enjolras. “Be intrepid,” he encouraged. “I have faith in you.”

Enjolras gave him a withering look but didn’t say anything, just staring balefully at the racks of clothing stretched in front of them. “Alright,” he said resignedly, “so where do we start?”

“At the very beginning, a very good place to start,” Jehan quipped.

Enjolras scowled at him. “Getting Macklemore stuck in my head wasn’t enough for you? You had to resort to Rodgers and Hammerstein?” 

Jehan just winked. “It got you to relax, right?”

For a moment it looked like Enjolras might deny it, but then he shook his head. “I hate that it worked,” he said sourly. “But seriously, where, uh, where should we start?”

“Why don’t you tell me a little bit about what you were thinking for tonight?” Jehan suggested, eyeing the clothes thoughtfully. “I mean, are you looking for a suit, or just shirt and tie, or…”

“Um,” Enjolras managed, and Jehan arched an eyebrow at him. 

“Eloquent.”

Again Enjolras scowled. “How about a button down and pants of some sort?” he said through clenched teeth.

Jehan nodded approvingly. “See, and you were worried,” he teased, grabbing Enjolras’s arm and all but dragging him in the direction of the racks that seemed to boast the most amount of button-down shirts. “If we had time, I’d get your measurements so that we could do this properly, but we’ll have to resort to trial and error.” He nodded towards the far end of the rack. “Why don’t you start at that end, and see if there’s anything that catches your eye.”

Enjolras obediently shuffled to the end, starting to sort through the hangers. Jehan did the same on his end, though he didn’t pay much attention to what he was sorting through since he would know what he was looking for when he saw it. Instead, he decided now was as good a time as any to press for information. “So you didn’t ask Grantaire for help.”

“Is there a question in there?” Enjolras asked, not looking away from the clothes he was rummaging through.

Jehan just shrugged. “I mean, if you wanted someone who’s at least somewhat fashionable, I would have included him in your desperate pleas.”

“It’s not really something I wanted to admit to him,” Enjolras muttered, the tips of his ears burning red. “Admitting it to Courfeyrac and knowing that he will hold it over my head for the rest of my God-given life was bad enough. Grantaire would never let me live it down.”

Jehan nodded slowly. “I thought there might have been another reason.”

He said it casually, but Enjolras glanced at him, frowning. “Like what?”

“Because then you’d have to talk with Grantaire about your date.”

To his surprise, Enjolras just rolled his eyes. “Please,” he scoffed. “As if Grantaire, of all people, would care enough to talk about it.”

Jehan frowned. “He cares a lot more than you give him credit for.”

“I know that, I just meant—”

“What are you doing with that?” Jehan interrupted, and Enjolras jerked his hand back from the rack, startled.

“You told me to grab anything that caught my eye,” he said defensively.

Jehan had, but he also hadn’t thought Enjolras would actually do so. “Yes, but that’s so…”

He trailed off, trying to find the correct words, and Enjolras frowned down at the shirt in his hand. “I thought I’d look good in blue.”

Despite himself, Jehan grinned. “Who told you that?”

Enjolras flushed. “No one.”

“The same no one you’ll be seeing tonight?” Jehan guessed.

Judging by the way Enjolras’s flush darkened, he had guessed correctly. “He said blue brings out my eyes,” he mumbled.

Jehan hummed noncommittally. “Sounds like a man trying to get laid,” he said with a smirk. “Or like someone who’s watched a few too many episodes of Queer Eye.”

“Or both,” Enjolras muttered. He frowned, looking down at the shirt again. “So no blue?”

Jehan hesitated. “Maybe just not that shade of blue,” he hedged. “Besides, that shirt looks like it’s way too small for you.”

“Really?” Enjolras asked doubtfully, holding it up to himself.

“Yeah, you’re probably looking for more of a large, or an extra large,” Jehan told him.

Enjolras brow furrowed. “But I normally wear a small or medium.”

“Vintage clothes run small,” Jehan assured him.

For one long moment, Enjolras just stared at him, and Jehan held his breath. Then he shrugged and put the shirt back on the rack. “Ok,” he said, and Jehan exhaled. “So what do you suggest?”

Timing was on his side, as Jehan spotted the absolute perfect shirt right as Enjolras asked. He tried, and failed, to stop his grin. “You know, prints are really in right now,” he said casually, edging towards the shirt in question.

“Prints?” Enjolras repeated skeptically. “What, like a check? “

“I was thinking more of a polka-dot,” Jehan said, picking the shirt in question up and holding it out to Enjolras. “What do you think of this?”

Enjolras stared doubtfully at it. “I think it’s, um, yellow.”

“I’d describe it more as goldenrod,” Jehan said brightly.

Enjolras wrinkled his nose. “And are the polka dots purple?”

Jehan glanced at the shirt. “I think they’re magenta.”

Despite his clear misgivings, Enjolras took the shirt from Jehan, looking at it without anything remotely approaching enthusiasm. “And you think this will look good on me?”

“I think the only way to truly tell is for you to try it on,” Jehan told him. “But we should find you a pair of pants to accompany them.”

Enjolras looked even less enthused by that prospect. “Can’t I just wear my jeans?”

“You could, but you were the one who said button down and pants,” Jehan reminded him, before really deciding to twist the knife. “And I hate to break it to you, because I know how deeply your love for them runs, but skinny pants are out.”

Enjolras now looked something closer to despondent. “So what are my options, then?”

Jehan tapped his chin thoughtfully. “Well, there’s always khaki cargo shorts.”

Enjolras looked horrified by the prospect. “It’s a little cold for shorts, don’t you think?”

But Jehan was not so easily deterred. “How about cargo pants, then?”

Enjolras made a face. “I don’t think I’ve worn cargo pants since junior high.”

“Fashion is cyclical,” Jehan assured him. “Everything once in fashion comes in again.” Enjolras didn’t look even remotely convinced but Jehan resolutely steered him towards the pants. “C’mon, let’s see if we can find something.”

A few minutes later and they were following the same routine as with the shirt, though with a noted lack of enthusiasm from either party. Jehan cleared his throat. “So…tell me about your date.”

For the first time, Enjolras actually looked something like excited. “He wants it to be a surprise, so he won’t tell me where we’re going,” he told him. “Because clearly he doesn’t care that some of us like to be able to adequately prepare for these things.”

Despite his words, Enjolras’s tone was fond, and Jehan almost felt bad for what he was about to do to him.

Emphasis on the word almost.

“So what made you decide that now was the time?” Jehan asked, and when Enjolras threw him a sharp look, he amended, “For dating, I mean. I just know you’ve never been particularly interested in it, so it seems to have come a little out of left field.”

Enjolras’s expression turned contemplative. “I don’t know,” he admitted, but a small, half-smile lifted the corner of his mouth as he thought about it. “I didn’t go looking for it, obviously, but sometimes something just – you know, clicks. And once you realize it…” He shrugged, still smiling. “I mean, yeah, the world is ending and everything’s falling to shit, so no time like the present, right?”

“Sure,” Jehan agreed, trying to curb his own skepticism since the world had been falling apart since Reagan. “And you like him?”

Enjolras’s smile softened and he nodded. “I do. I really, really do.” He gave Jehan a measured look. “And while I normally loathe prying, I do appreciate you asking.”

Jehan jerked a nod. “Right,” he said, his tone turning brisk. “Well. These looks they’re about your size.”

He grabbed a pair of cargo pants from the rack, which looked like they were straight out of 2001. Enjolras eyed them warily, showing somehow even less enthusiasm than he had for the shirt. “Those are green.”

“I’d call them olive.”

Enjolras stared flatly at him. “You want me to wear green pants with a yellow shirt?”

As a poet, Jehan knew how to finesse a phrase, but this was a whole new level of diplomacy and tact, and for not the first time that day, Jehan wished Combeferre had a better sense of style than he did. He would be perfect to handle this. “Generally speaking, it’s good to keep things in the same section of the color spectrum,” Jehan said carefully. “That way you don’t have to worry about opposite ends of the spectrum clashing.”

This time, Enjolras didn’t bother hesitating, just shrugged in a slightly defeated way before grabbing the pants from Jehan. “Well, I trust you.”

“Great,” Jehan said cheerfully. “So go try it on, and then I want to see.”

Enjolras heaved a sigh before slumping in the direction of the fitting room. Jehan watched him go, holding his breath as if waiting for Enjolras to change his mind, to turn back around and tell him that this was a stupid idea, and these clothes were absolutely horrendous.

But he didn’t, and when the door closed after Enjolras, Jehan let out a relieved breath. He allowed himself a small, triumphant grin, and pulled out his phone to text Courfeyrac. Probably too soon to make this call but I’m gonna pull a George W. Bush and say…Mission Accomplished.

Only a moment later and his phone dinged with a text from Courfeyrac. Hero, Courfeyrac said, followed almost immediately by, Do you think you can get a pic?

Jehan’s grin sharpened. I’ll sure as shit try.

— — — — —

That night, Jehan and Courfeyrac sat together at the bar the Musain, enjoying a well-earned drink. “I still think you should’ve tried to get him to buy the plaid pants,” Courfeyrac said, clinking his beer bottle against Jehan’s.

Jehan laughed. “I think even Enjolras knew those were hideous,” he said. “Besides, the puke yellow shirt and green cargo pant combo is enough to scare off any self-respecting gay.”

Courfeyrac nodded before pausing, something contemplative in his expression. “Of course, that means we’re banking awfully hard on someone both being into Enjolras and having self-respect.”

Jehan snorted into his beer. “That is true,” he said with a chuckle, taking a swig of beer before his smile faded slightly. “I do almost feel a little bad.”

Courfeyrac glanced at him. “For the guy?” he asked. “For making him see that outfit with his own two eyes? Because I know it’s an image I’m not going to get out of my head anytime soon.”

The thought of the picture Jehan had managed to surreptitiously snap of Enjolras in his date night outfit was enough to bring his smile back, even as he told Courfeyrac, “For ruining Enjolras’s date with the world’s ugliest outfit. Obviously I know we all want him and Grantaire to end up together, but he seems to actually like this guy. And we should probably try to support him in that.”

“And not try to sabotage things?” Courfeyrac asked wryly.

“Yeah.”

Courfeyrac sighed. “Well now I feel bad,” he said, though he didn’t particularly sound it. “On the other hand, if it means Enjolras ends things with this guy before Grantaire finds out…”

Jehan shook his head. “The ends justify the means?”

“Something like that,” Courfeyrac said.

Jehan shrugged. “For what it’s worth, I asked Grantaire if he wanted to grab a drink with us tonight but he said he had plans,” he said bracingly. “So maybe he’s moving on, too.”

Courfeyrac didn’t look even remotely convinced. “Yeah, maybe.”

Jehan’s phone buzzed on the bar and he glanced down at it, brightening. “Oh, speak of the devil…Hey Grantaire.”

“What the fuck?” he squawked, borderline hysterical in Jehan’s ear, and Jehan’s smile froze.

“Grantaire, what—”

Grantaire made a sound that Jehan pretty sure was a sob, and Jehan’s heart plummeted to his knees. “Jehan, I cannot – this is – oh my God—”

“Grantaire, are you ok?” Jehan asked worriedly, trying desperately to flag down the bartender. “I don’t understand—”

“Enjolras’s outfit,” Grantaire wailed, and for the first time, Jehan realized that what he had interpreted as sobs were in facts gales of hysterical laughter. “I didn’t think it was possible to make a man this gorgeous look this ugly but holy fucking shit—”

Jehan’s forehead wrinkled in confusion. “But how did you…” He trailed off as realization hit him like a ton of bricks, as did Enjolras’s perpetual confusion about why he would ask or tell Grantaire anything about his date.

His date, assumedly, with Grantaire.

“Oh my God, I didn’t even think—”

Courfeyrac looked like he was about to yank the phone out his hand and ask him what was going on, but Jehan waved him away as Grantaire hiccuped, “This is the best thing to ever happen to me,” while in the background, he could just hear Enjolras growl, “Prouvaire, the next time I see you, I swear to fucking God—”

“Leave him alone, it’s hilarious,” Grantaire said with a chortle.

“To you!”

“Grantaire, I had no idea,” Jehan told him, a little weakly, feeling his face flush. “I thought Enjolras was going on a date with some rando, so…”

“So you decided to sabotage it,” Grantaire said, and Jehan could hear the grin in his voice. “I appreciate it, I really do, though we’ll have to revisit at some point the fact than none of you thought I might actually have scored a date with him.” Jehan winced, but Grantaire added, a little softer, “Besides, I was a bit nervous, and now I am emphatically not. In fact, for the first time, I’m beginning to believe this might just work.”

“Then it was almost worth the ass-kicking Enjolras is going to try to give me later,” Jehan said solemnly.

Grantaire just laughed. “Don’t worry, I won’t let him,” he assured him.

“Enjoy your night,” Jehan said, hanging up.

Courfeyrac waved his arms. “So what the actual fuck?” he demanded. “What the fuck is going on?”

Jehan couldn’t help himself – he laughed. “So remember what you said about the end justifying the means?” he asked. “Well, funny story about that…”