#GOTTA GRAB THAT COMMEMORATIVE PIN

[bilolli]

WDYM 10 YEARS ANNIVERSARY?

June 30th is the 10th anniversary of OneShot! To celebrate, we planned an entire week of activities, starting with the newly launched official merch store!

[sunjaesol]

the smile you gave me (it’s magic)

juke | meet-cute au | tw: alcohol + annoying men in bars | written for @alexjulies as we have the same headcanons about luke

What Julie Molina was about to do was horribly unfeminist and Flynn would hate her forever, but really, it was all the man’s fault - as usual.

She rejected his advances three times now in the last hour. The bartender gave her a drink on the man’s tab and she sent it back, the man brought it himself (introduced himself as Levi) and she politely declined once more. The third time he asked her to dance and then she fled to the bathroom. Julie wasn’t the biggest partygoer, occasionally joining Flynn for happy hour - like today. Her friend was late however, due to an emergency meeting at a magazine she worked at and Julie had to endure the bar alone. Grave mistake. She should’ve just waited at a McDonalds or something; even if she’d look out of place in her cocktail dress.

im there in 15!! hang in there <3 <3

Julie groaned. Great. Fifteen more minutes in a smelly bathroom stall as women outside were drunkenly crying in front of the mirrors and babbled about their own grievances regarding men. For such a universal problem, she had hoped all men would’ve taken the hint by now.

No, she didn’t want to dance. No, she didn’t want a drink. No, she wouldn’t give her number to someone that kept pushing and coming into her personal space. Levi could fuck off. It was bad enough how he had given her a suggestive once-over like he was deciding whether he wanted brunette or blonde tonight.  

The reminder angered her, pushed her out of the stall with a scowl. Was she really going to let a dumb man (nay: boy) ruin her night before it even started? Her songwriting session with Hayley Williams had gone really well and she deserved to celebrate that! She deserved to end her day on a high note! A quick look in the mirror to assure her make-up hadn’t smudged, she marched out the bathroom back into the dimly lit bar.

Her eyes scanned the room, relieved to not catch Levi close-by. Did he give up and leave? Was he cornering another girl? Whatever. As long as he wasn’t bothering her, she’d be able to breathe and maybe forget about the altercation.

If he did bother her again, she’d use her privilege as a girl and yell at the top of her lungs that he was harassing her. Surely then security would kick him out, right?

Over by the bartop was clamour, two men pulling each other into a laughing embrace as one hauled their backpack over their shoulder as the other dropped it. Changing shifts, Julie noted, halting on the man that had arrived. Well then. The theory that bars only hired attractive people seemed to be correct, the guy straight from a CW show. Mussed up brown hair, sharp features, big eyes, cute smile. A ten out of ten.  

He shrugged his red shacket off, fully black outfit beneath and began washing off discarded glasses. His muscular arms made her throat dry up; he wasn’t attractive, he was hot.

(Oh God. Was she just as bad as Levi, gawking over a stranger? But wasn’t part of his job that girls were supposed to gawk over him? More tips and all that? Julie decided she shouldn’t feel too guilty.)

Her feet moved on their own accord towards the bar, sliding into a leather high stool and wondering what she’d order as she waited for any of the bartenders (him?) to approach her.

Luck was on her side, the new bartender pressing his hands into the counter, brows raised expectantly. “What can I get you?”

Her lips tutted, debating between a margarita and a strawberry mojito. Both were appealing and at a marginally low price. “What’s better?”, she asked. “Margarita or mojito? Honestly.”

He grinned. “Honestly?”

“Yeah.” She crossed her arms atop the counter, a brush away from his hands. “I’ve bartended before. I know you have to lie a little.”

His muscle tee shifted around as he chuckled, slivers of tattoos peeking through on his chest. Her eyes averted, hoping she was a bit more subtle than she felt, and kept them trained on the stacks of whiskey in the glass rack.

His fingers drummed on the wood. “The mojito, then.” Leaning in as if imparting a secret, he added: “We’ve been buying the cheaper tequila. Gotta pay those bills.”

Satisfied at his reply, she gave him a pleased nod. “Okay. A mojito, please.”

He pushed himself off with a click of the tongue, as if he auctioned her something, and turned to grab the ingredients. As he poured the rum into a tall glass, he fell into casual conversation she was all too familiar with.

“You here alone?”

“Waiting on a friend.” Eager to distract herself from the reason why she waiting, and what caused her to wait in a fucking bathroom, she asked: “What’s the tattoo?”

The bartender paused for a beat, as if momentarily forgetting he was inked up, and then tugged his shirt out the way to showcase more skin. Had she not been so curious, she’d focus on the fact that he was defined as hell. The tattoo was a detailed sun with an ocean wave drawn inside. More uncovered: a play and pause button, ‘now or never’, a stick and poke tattoo of a lightning bolt. It was as if she herself doodled onto her skin and then left it there, but it somehow worked. It was personal. Maybe she was also a bit intrigued since he seemed especially interested by music. Granted, it was LA. Everyone was some type of artist with varying degrees of success. Still - she was curious.

“They’re cool,” she complimented, him going back to making her drink with an appreciative grin.

“Thanks.”

“Was the lightning bolt a drunk decision?”, she teased. The only instance someone got a stick and poke tattoo was when they felt chaotic or impulsive.

His grin widened, throwing crushed ice in the glass. “That obvious? Yeah, me and my boys all got one. This whole idea of-” He waved his hands around, trying to find the right words. “-bonding us together for life, I guess.”

Warmth thudded in her chest at his story, endeared by the way his voice became lighter when he talked about his friends. They must be like brothers to him.

As he placed the completed drink in front of her, she contemplated her answer. She’d rather keep talking to him than wait for Flynn in silence. “That’s nice. Having friends like that, it’s special.” Twisting her wrist, she showed her own tattoo. “I got this one when I turned eighteen.”      

They were two, small butterflies dancing on the inside of her forearm. When her mother passed away, she always knew she’d get something to commemorate her. Doodles of butterflies marked her skin in high school, finally becoming permanent when she was allowed to. Knowing everyone inevitably asked about the why, she continued talking.  

“It’s, you know, it’s about metamorphosis and beauty and transcendence and I just-” She caught herself before blabbing her sob story to a stranger. With a chuckle, she muttered: “It’s a reminder that change is good.”

When Julie looked up at him, she was struck by the wonder on his face. He didn’t look as confident as he did before, probably taken aback by her sudden spiritual spiel about butterflies - or by her, in general. The thought let a quiet thrill course through her.  

He snapped out of it, a smirk falling on his lips as his nail chimed against the glass. “It’s on me.”

“Is that a move?” Her head tilted, amused.

“You want me to lie or be honest?” The man leaned across the counter again, much closer this time. “Cool tattoo, by the way.”

She laughed, biting back a silly grin from blooming. This was his job, she reminded herself. Act all cute and get her to buy more drinks so that eventually, her tab would be enormous. It was like winning once at a game of poker and then becoming cocky.

Coy, she ripped her gaze from his and sipped on her drink. She’d let him simmer for a bit.

That was when it happened. Her unfeminist deed that would make Gloria Steinem shudder. Levi, the devil reincarnated, shot her a smug look from the other side of the bar. Swerving past people to the beat of the music, he tried approaching her again.

Julie groaned behind her glass, her good mood instantly shattered once more. Why couldn’t this idiot take a fucking hint?!

“Damn,” bartender mused, “I thought my mojito skills were good.”

The brash words tumbled out at a rapid pace, her need for a solution trumping her pride. “There’s a guy coming onto me right now and you need to help me ward him off. Please.”

He grimaced. “Yeesh. Ex-boyfriend?”

“Worse,” she bit. “A fool.”

A stressed smile pinned itself on her cheeks as Levi sidled beside her, one arm bracketing her left. Her back tensed as she shot a quick, pleading look at the bartender. He zeroed in on Levi, mouth curled downwards.    

“There you are,” Levi grinned. “Thought you left.”

Julie didn’t entertain him anymore. “I’ve told you. I’m not interested.”

He dismissed her. “I see you got yourself a drink? What is it?”

“I’m not interested,” she snapped, eyes flickering once more to the bartender. Was he really not going to help her?

It spurred him into action, his arm reaching over to create a barrier between Levi and her. “Dude, you heard her. Back off.”

Levi snarled. “Can you not? This is between me and her.”

“No, actually,” he exclaimed, blunt. “I’m her boyfriend.”

Her vigilance got her acting swiftly, shifting her expression into a believable nod and placing a hand on his outstretched arm.  

“He is?” Levi was gobsmacked, a hint of anger lacing his voice.

“Yeah,” Julie bit, silently thanking him when he played along and enveloped her hand with his. Her final strike spit his venom right back in his face. “So can you just leave us alone?”

The man rolled his eyes with a scoff, kicking one of the stools and mumbling a string of curses. “Bullshit…”

When he was out of sight again, having stormed off like a petulant child to a shadowy corner, Julie let out breath of relief. “Finally!” Shooting the bartender a bright smile, she kept babbling. “You have no idea how annoying that is. And smart idea - the boyfriend card always works!”

He squeezed her hand, worried. “You sure you’re okay? That was fucked up.”

“Yeah…” She trailed off, the soft touch reminding her of his words from before. Squeezing back, she watched as the pinch between his brows vanished. “I’m okay.”

They kept their stare for a beat, the revolving pop music and excited chatter merely background noise. Neither have let go of their hold on each other. She didn’t want to either; his hand was warm and gentle and a calloused thumb absentmindedly caressed her skin. Levi should learn from this.

Sometimes, a connection just happened.

He let go first, collecting himself into a casual stance that was far more amusing than it should be. Ducking beneath the bar and grabbing a beer, he tapped it against her glass with a cocky nod. “My name’s Luke.”

Julie matched his expression. Luke. Luke, the bartender. It fit him perfectly. “I’m Julie. Are you supposed to be drinking on the clock?”

“I work in a bar,” Luke deadpanned. “It’s expected. And I’m sure Jack can handle it.”

“Why would he have to serve alone?” she inquired teasingly, eyes glimmering with challenge. If there was one thing she loved, it was getting the upper hand in a fun game of flirting.  

He lifted his bottle with a wink. “I’m drinking with you.” A pause, his gaze matching her intensity. Damn. He was a good opponent. “Unless you want me to go?”

She shook her head, took a sip from the mojito and wiggled her brows. “Cheers to warding off annoying men, fake boyfriend.”

“I better get some good karma from this,” he joked. “Cheers!”

(Later that night, she’d realise Flynn never came by. When she asked what happened, Flynn told her she had walked in and saw Julie completely wrapped up in a conversation ‘with that cute bartender’ and left. The joyous announcement that Julie got his number made her friend screech over the phone.

Julie went back to the bar many times. Drinking and talking bled until deep in the night, once till closing time and then he walked her to her apartment. He didn’t resist when she kissed him, his lips kissing back with hunger.

It didn’t take long for the ‘fake’ to be scrapped from that label.)  

🍸🍸🍸🍸🍸🍸🍸🍸🍸🍸🍸🍸🍸🍸🍸🍸🍸🍸🍸🍸🍸🍸🍸

@blush-and-books @willexx @bluefirewrites @ourstarscollided

[twstarchives]

Cater Diamond・Voice Lines

Additional Voice Lines: Beans Camo Event Card

School Uniform - R

Unlock Card “Wanna know some tips for having a fun life at school? I got you covered!”

Groovy “You gotta be full of energy when you’re with everyone ♪”

Home Setting “I kinda like the standard outfit.”

Home Transitions “Mm! The first-years’ uniforms always look so shiny and new.”

“Riddle’s calling for me. Wanna come with me?”

“Wait, are you free? Same here! So, anyway~ Do you have any Magicammable news to spill?”

Home Transition (Login Greeting) “Were you sad that you weren’t able to see Cay? ...Ahaha! I knew it. You’re so honest, Prefect~”

Home Taps “Our schools uniforms have a nice balance to them~ They’re not extra like our dorm uniforms, but they’re not too casual either.”

“Okay, pose! ...Aw, man! It came out blurry. Can I take one more? I want to post it on Magicam.”

“Huh? You think I look cool in my uniform? Ehh~! Where’s this coming from? You’re making me smile ♪”

“Sometimes it’s hard to tell what you’re thinking all the time, Prefect. ...Me? Aren’t I super easy to read~?”

“Hey, you know... you didn’t forget that I’m your senior, did you? JK! ♪ I probably shouldn’t ever do that to Riddle.”

PE Uniform - R

Unlock Card “Glistening sweat! Surging with youth! ...I’m kinda meh about these kinds of things.”

Groovy “I’m always down for an aesthetic-looking sport! ♪ Play with me, Prefect!”

Home Setting “Alright, our PE uniform!”

Home Transitions “I’ve got things to do too, you know! Huh? ‘Like what?’ Like... looking for stuff to post on Magicam!”

“Prefect, your collar, your collar! I saw Riddle nearby, so maybe you should hurry up and fix that.”

“Coach Vargas’s classes are so exhausting, aren’t they? I get it; I felt that way when I was a first-year too.”

Home Transition (Login Greeting) “You can find a lot of different ways to wear our PE uniforms. Hmm~ The way you wear yours is nice!”

Home Taps “You don’t need to force yourself to use honorifics with me. I don’t really mind things like that. Plus it’s easier that way, right?”

“What is it? What is it? You’re worried about something? I could never turn my back on my cute little junior if they’re in need~”

“Have you gotten used to life at this school yet? It’s really interesting with all the weird people here. Kinda feels like a gold mine of things to use for Magicam ♪”

“Athletics...? I’m not bad at them, but I don’t know how anyone could get so pumped up about them.”

“Wait, is this a popular game right now? Don’t tell me I’m late on the bandwagon!?”

Lab Coat - SR

Unlock Card “Even studying can be a blast when it looks fun and photogenic!”

Groovy “Let’s take things nice and slow! You’ll burn yourself out if you’re only ever working too hard.”

Home Setting “Alright, let’s get to work!”

Home Transitions “Hehe, do you need your senior’s advice on something? Okay, okay, relax and talk it out with me ♪”

“‘What am I usually doing?’ Mm, that’s a secret. No, I’m not free all the time! Cay is very, very busy!”

“What’re you doing today? If you’re free, then let me invite you on Cay’s Tour for Collecting Stuff for Magicam ♪”

Home Transition (Login Greeting) “There’s someone better suited to help you with your work if that’s what you need. How about you go see Trey?”

Home Transition (Groovy) “So? I look a lot more serious than usual, don’t I? Ehh~! What’s with that reaction!? I’ll have to show you my actual serious side sometime.”

Home Taps “You seem to have a lot of time on your hands, Prefect. Are you all ready for class?”

“Looking aesthetic for Magicam is important. They say that having things you’re mindful of makes your everyday life a lot fuller!”

“Dedication is not a bad thing, but you need to give yourself a break sometimes too. See? Look how relaxed Grim is...”

“Prefect, you should focus only on the important things for your future~ Just like I do ♪”

“What? What? Are you homesick? I don’t think I can really relate to that~...”

Home Tap (Groovy) “Everyday has been so exciting ever since you came here. It never gets boring.”

Ceremony Robes - SR

Unlock Card “I like to try looking sharp every once in a while ♪ What do you think? Personally, I think it fits!”

Groovy “Our special ceremony robes! Let’s take a pic together to commemorate ♪”

Home Setting “How do I look? Handsome?”

Home Transitions “Are you interested in my robes? Wanna take a pic?”

“Does this look good on me? Sometimes looking formal like this is nice, don’t you think?”

“Hey, nice work today ♪ You can chill out for a little bit now~ I’m taking some downtime myself.”

Home Transition (Login Greeting) “What? Something happened again? Things are always so busy around you, Prefect~”

Home Transition (Groovy) “Your belt’s a little out of place. Alright, there you go. These are our special ceremony robes, so make sure you keep them looking picture-perfect, ‘kay?”

Home Taps “Man, our ceremony robes seriously are so cool~ When the whole school is lined up wearing them, it feels super powerful!”

“Our robes look the best at nighttime, but trying to get the right lighting when I’m taking pictures of them is seriously the worst...”

“What? What? You wanna know more about me? Mm, what should I say~?”

“Let’s talk about all kinds of things! You look like you’re full of interesting things I could post about.”

“I know. I know you want so desperately for Cay to fawn over you. But could you calm down just a little?”

Home Tap (Groovy) “Alright, you’ve got some new problem to solve, right? Well, even if you don’t, I’ll come with you anyway. ‘Cause it sounds like fun ♪”

Dorm Uniform - SSR

Unlock Card “You have to have fun with croquet and Unbirthday parties ♪”

“Everything’s alright now, ‘cause I’m here! Just kidding ♪”

Groovy “Do you want to see Cay’s serious side? Okay, if you insist!”

Home Setting “Our dorm uniforms really do fit the best.”

Home Transitions “Don’t get me involved in any trouble... Well, there’s not really any point in me saying that. You’re so hopeless, Prefect~”

“You called for me again? Hehe, I bet you often get comments about how curious you are~”

“Trey’s desserts are so Magicammable~ And they’re super delicious! Wanna come with me to go eat some, Prefect?”

Home Transition (Login Greeting) “Let’s make a memory of today—do a peace sign! ☆ Hehe, that was a nice shot! Okay, what tags should I use?”

Home Transition (Groovy) “Do you wanna secretly try on our dorm uniforms sometime? They might actually look good on you~”

Home Taps “Have you seen Heartslabyul’s lounge yet? You really can’t find decorations with an aesthetic like that anywhere else.”

“If you want to look fire in our dorm uniforms, you gotta know the latest trends! Maybe come shopping with me next time?”

“Have you ever noticed that the playing card pins on the left sides of our chests have a different design for each person? Tiny details like that are so cool ♪”

“Aren’t you homesick or anything? Hm? Me? I’m... not. I’ve got some unreasonable older sisters...”

“It’s nice you feel so comfortable around me... but don’t tell me you’re trying to bring down Cay’s dignity?”

Home Tap (Groovy) “It would’ve been so much fun if you were in Heartslabyul with us, Prefect. Well, there’s no point in talking about things that’ll never happen ♪”

Duo Magic Cater: “Trey, you ready~?” Trey: “Got it, Cater! Count on me to back you up!”

Birthday Celebration Outfit - SSR

This card was only obtainable during Cater’s birthday event (Feb 3 - Feb 9, 2021).

Login on Birthday “You remembered my birthday? Thanks! You’re so nice for coming to celebrate. I’m super happy, so let’s post on Magicam ♪ Okay, look this way~!”

Unlock Card “Wow! This is getting a super ton of views on Magicam! ☆ Birthday parties rake in so much attention!”

“‘Happy birthday’ is such a nice phrase~ It feels like the ones celebrating and the one being celebrated can both be happy, doesn’t it?”

Groovy “Okay, grab your glasses... Cheers~! Thanks for making my birthday so much fun ♪”

Home Setting “Wearing this outfit makes it really feel like it’s someone’s birthday~”

Home Transitions “Astrology’s my best subject! But I won’t do my own birthday fortune reading... ‘Cause it’s so much more exciting not knowing your future! ♪”

“Is the toothbrush Trey gave me his way of saying to take care of my fang tooth? Well, it is one of my charm points! ☆”

“We have lots of rules in our dorm, but it’s my birthday, so it’s okay if I break some! ...Probably not... Yeah... Boohoo.”

Home Transition (Login Greeting) “It feels so exciting with everyone celebrating! I think I’ll use my Unique Magic and make some clones to show off around the school.”

Home Transition (Groovy) “Just between you and me, keeping up a smile for the entirety of the party gets kind of tiring... Just kidding!”

Home Taps “Idia gave me Magicam stickers as a present! I don’t know what anime they’re from, but I’m happy! ♪”

“Maybe Vil would follow my Magicam if I asked for that instead of a birthday present~”

“I got a skateboard from Kalim. ☆ He said he’s pretty good at skateboarding too, so next time we’ll go do it together!”

“My dorm made me a bright red, diamond-shaped quiche! It was filled with habaneros. I love super spicy foods so it was perfect ♪”

“My rosette was crooked? Thanks for fixing it~!”

Home Tap (Groovy) “I kinda wanna make some noise! How about you, Prefect? Wanna sing together? Or we could dance?”

Duo Magic Cater: “Lilia-kins, let’s take a pic for the birthday memories!” Lilia: “Cater, a happy birthday to you!”

Tutorial “Let’s have fun together, ‘kay?”

Lv Up “Yay~ I’m getting stronger!”

“‘#BetterThanEverCay’ kind of energy!”

“Let’s keep doing our best from now on!”

Max Lv Up “I always thought anything goes as long as I’m having some kind of fun, but I actually like getting serious every once in a while. Plus I want to look cool when I’m posting on Magicam.”

Episode Lv Up “You think we’re really close friends? Ehh~ You’re so funny~! Hahaha, I wasn’t saying I hate the idea; why are you making that face? It’s just, you said it so seriously—I guess I don’t know how to react.”

Magic Lv Up “Hmm, so you’re the type who would do things like this for me. Thanks!”

Limit Break “Don’t you think I’ve got wayyy too much potential? Hahaha! Well, thanks for all your help!”

Groovy “Man, aren’t I super cool now? It’s getting me all excited!”

Lesson Select “Let’s do our work together! I’m still your senior, so I should try to impress you ♪”

“You really are super dedicated to things... Do you get that a lot? ...Yup, I thought so!”

“C’mon, give yourself a break. It’s not worth putting so much effort just into your classes.”

Lesson Start “Alright, let’s get things done!”

Lesson End “It’s finally over! Time for my after-class Magicam check!”

Battle Start “Make sure to repost and share all my impressive moves!”

Battle Win “That should be enough. Bye-bye!”

Other

Profile Quote “Welcome to Heartslabyul, the dorm run by the strict ‘Queen’ ♪”

January 2020 Trailer “We’re waiting for our dutiful little freshman!”

Countdown Poster “You have to have fun with croquet and Unbirthday parties ♪”

Login Bonus “Oh, you look like you’re doing well again today~! We should get going soon. But before that, wanna grab some tea so I can get a few shots for Magicam?”

Player Birthday Wish “Happy birthday! You can’t believe I remembered...? As if I’d ever forget this special day! I got a present ready that I think will make you really happy. And there’s no doubt about that, since Cay picked it out! ♪”

Valentine’s Gift Letter (2021)

These letters were originally in English. I didn’t translate or edit them in any way. They came with official merch from Aniplex, and are not present in-game.

Helloooooo, Thanks for the present! It was totally awesome! I didn’t know you were an expert at choosing thoughtful gifts ♪ I already took a picture and put it up on Magicam, so go and give it a Like! ;)

[joeyglowy]

Bad Study Habits ft. Miya Twins

In which the Miya Twins learn not to waste your time when they are the ones that asked for help. That, and that their necks are surprisingly quite sensitive. 

(Call it a commemoration for Miya Osamu finally having his character designs introduced, even if it’s the fucking laziest but most beautiful thing I’ve seen all week)

Miya Atsumu x Reader, 1500+ words Miya Osamu x Reader, 1700+ words

(I promise, I love them, almost equally)

Miya Atsumu

“Why do I need ta know Avocado’s number? Unless he’s down to help a brother getting blue balled by his own girlfriend, tell him I’m not interested.”

“It’s Avogadro’s number and for once in your life can you not think with your dick? We’re not here to have sex; I’m here to make you pass your chemistry test so you don’t get another detention for slacking off in class!”

For the past eighteen minutes, you had been using your middle and index finger to rub circles into your temple, a vain attempt to soothe the hammering headache that jabbed your eyelids each time Atsumu opened his mouth.

When your boyfriend had come to your door, ‘begging’ you to help him with chemistry, you found it pleasantly endearing. For all the faults to which Miya Atsumu had—for which there were many—he had unfortunately perfected the art of looking just sheepish enough that it became adorable while still bristling his feathers like a proud peacock that just made you want to pull his chubby cheeks. He was the naughty puppy that still had his ravenous canines punctured in your favourite lita boots with his tail tucked between his legs. He was that one bad kid in every class who fooled around but all the female teachers doted on him anyways because he was charismatic in that childishly infuriating way that made them lower their standards when he finally put in the effort.

Miya Atsumu, put bluntly, is a godforsaken brat.

“[Name]-chan! My chem teacher’s threatenin’ me! He said if I fail one more quiz I’ll have to sit through at least three detentions just, doin’ I don’t know, symbiosis! You gotta help me; you’re my girlfriend, aren’tcha?”

Yet, you somehow fell for this idiot anyway.

Enamoured with his honey-lemon eyes, you decided not to tell him that what you were doing was in fact stoichiometry and symbiosis is actually a biology term. But with the way he had grabbed your shoulders, for an inexperienced lover like yourself, it was more than enough to trigger a visceral reaction that caused some internal organ to clog your throat. His subtle guilt-trip did not go unnoticed but with your brain short-circuiting, you couldn’t bring yourself to care. Instead, you had dumbly nodded, cursing your inability to deal with intimacy and members of the opposite sex as you allowed him to barge into your home.

Since he was always practicing, you thought it would be a chance to do something that couples do. Using your infinite knowledge collated from various fanfictions and shoujo manga online, you had constructed a seemingly infallible plan to make the most of your time with Atsumu. It involved having every excuse to stare at him without being teased for it and if anything, you would be in the rare position of the teaser, playfully pointing out his mistakes to which he’d probably pout and whine about before undoubtedly, once you were done, he’d demand a reward. Enter obligatory make out sesh. Which of course, was more than welcome in your book. You were a simple girl and he had cultivated excellently curved muscles from his years of volleyball, sue your transparency.

There was just one chink in your perfectly polished armoured plan.

Atsumu was a brat above all else. A horny one.

Tutoring him was like trying to make caramel for the first time.

At first, you think it’s going well. You’re simmering the white sugar, careful and attentive, determined to make it a success. Yet, as the browning starts to come in from the edges, a funny aroma that was not the scent of sweetness but one of something being grossly burned beyond recovery did you realise just how taxing the job was. Before you knew it, it was like having your kitchen on fire, the ignition source being the abomination that is Miya Atsumu.

As Osamu would say, “His mental age regresses by five years when he’s playing. . . but it plummets by ten when he’s, god forbid it, studyin’.”

If he wasn’t whining, he was trying to stroke your legs with his spider fingers under the kotatsu, creeping up your thigh only to be smacked away by your own hand to which he’d just go back to loudly whining. He had the attention span of a five year old and the attitude of a twelvie that equalled a near migraine for you. Least to say, you were far too annoyed to be turned on now so you had abruptly gotten up in a fit of annoyance, told him you were going to drink some water and left him in the living room.

You sighed, the water only granted a moment’s worth of reprieve as you headed back to the living room to see his honey coloured mop of hair from behind. Your eye twitched when you looked from behind to see him doodling an avant-garde penis on the page. Lovely.

He still hadn’t noticed you peering over his shoulder so you took the chance to admire the back of his head, watching how his hairline faded out from beneath his undercut, the roots of his old hair still left their stain. You wondered if his neck down ever got cold, with the constant exposure and all. The longer you stared, the more you felt your stomach lurch, toying with a lingering thought that just might get you what you wanted after all.

In a swift movement, with your lips gently planted on the supple flesh, beneath his hairline, you caressed the skin tenderly. Your lips quirked upward to hear a squeak from your boyfriend who had shuddered violently, his shoulders shaking as his penis drawing gained an unexpected gradient slope, his pen streaking in a straight line across the page. You chuckled into his neck; nipping at it playfully as your hot breath caused the hairs on his neck to stand up. Pleased with the pinkish hue that spread across the skin like paint, you pulled away as Atsumu snapped his head towards you, moon eyed.

Although you may have burnt the caramel, it looks like you’ve found some hidden strawberries to snack on instead.

You watched the way his pretty blush flourished to his cheeks while he looked visibly affronted by your sneak attack. “Wh-what do ya think yer doin’!?” he spluttered on the spot, his hand flying to his neck as if you had just bitten into it. You wanted to lick your lips at the thought before you narrowed your eyes sternly, trying not to let a wolfish grin slip through the cracks.

“I don’t know about you but personally, I despise wasting time, don’t you ‘Tsumu?”

You drummed your fingers on the kotatsu’s surface, slow and pronounced. His golden eyes zeroed onto them in anticipation. You licked your lips. All these food metaphors made you realise just how starved you are. Atsumu being someone who had always been observant, seemed to pick up on your hunger as well, his Adam’s apple bobbed up and down, as he glanced up at you from under his lashes, anxious. You turned back to the paper, almost nonchalant, as if you weren’t aware of his clenched fists and tensed thighs.

“Yet, you seem to be taking advantage of my generosity, good boyfriends shouldn’t do that ‘Tsumu. You’re a good boyfriend, aren’tcha?” you drawled lowly, as you started glancing at your nails using your other hand, viciously using his guilt-tripping tactic from before.

Atsumu looked positively famished. His brows twisted up guiltily, that sheepish, puppy look on his face once more. Still, you could see his eyes shining too bright, still thinking that it’d go his way if he played nice. He was a mischievous imp that was a little too used to getting what he wants. You decided you weren’t going to fall for it this time.

“[Name], I didn’t--”

“Oh, but you did,” you sharply interrupted him and he winced. Your heart throbbed and as much as you loved teasing him, you did want this to end with him pinning you to the couch so you smiled softly. “Why don’t we finish studying, yeah? Then you can make it up to me.”

If Atsumu wasn’t getting blue balled before, then he certainly is now. He had no idea how the situation began to drip with sexual undertone but with the unbearable heat coursing through him, he could only nod helplessly, at your mercy. For the remainder of the studying session, while it had become increasingly harder for him to stay focused with his raging hormones going haywire, he clung onto every single word that fell from your mouth like it was a lifeline as the incomprehensible scribbles on the page finally morphed into numbers and words that he could understand.

You grinned victoriously to see the eager look Atsumu would get in his eyes, awaiting your praise and what he thinks is his reward once you had both finally gotten through the content. He really is just like an overzealous, whiny puppy that wants his treat. Well now, this will most certainly result into an exciting night for you, just as you had planned.

You smirked triumphantly.

‘All according to keikaku.’

Miya Osamu

“So, do you know how to use Avogadro’s number?”

“Mm? Avocado?”

You sighed. “No, can’t you stop thinking about food for a second, it’s Avo—Osamu!” you yelped, seeing your boyfriend barely stirring from the nest he’s made with his arms as he blinks blearily at you. The sleep in his eyes quite nearly breaks open every dam with the unparalleled force that is your love and affection and ability to just gush about how adorable this man is for hours and yet, you are forced to restrain yourself. As much as you adore Miya Osamu, he is unfortunately, just as much of an idiot as his brother—yet strangely manages to get within a range of 1 to 5 per cent higher than him on every test.

Osamu lets a little smile slip. “Avosamu? I thought it was Avogadro.”

You offered him a hard glare before deflating into the kotatsu, just like he did. He perked his head up to hear your muffled groans, his lips quirking up at how cute you sound. “Osamuuuu, you need to study for the test tomorrow! It’s worth a third of your grade!” you exclaimed, erupting from the cocoon of your arms to pout at him. Osamu grimaced just a little because every move he made was with restraint as he guiltily looked away.

“I know but m’tired,” he mumbled into his arms, burying his nose into them. “From practice,” he clarified with a grumble that faded out into something roughly incoherent. You had to stop yourself from smiling at his petulant tone of voice as you sighed, shaking your head. He was a kid, just like Atsumu too apparently.

“I know but . . .” you trailed off to see him in a sleeping position. You shook your head, unable to stop your smile this time as you gently raked your fingers through his hair. A sound rumbled from his chest and you snorted, of course only Osamu would be able to do the human equivalent of purring. His face resurfaced from the blanket of his arms as he leaned into your touch, sighing contently. You found your hand devoured by the dishevelled mess that was his hair as you fondly played with his matted grey tresses. Your love for this man warmed your heart beyond words as you could feel yourself relaxing—you blinked.

Wait a minute.

The way you ripped your hand out of his hair was like a splash of cold water to the face as he startled, bewildered by your forceful action as you glowered at him. “You fox!” you hissed. He blinked innocently in return as you shook your head adamantly. “I will not be an accomplice to your illicit sleeping endeavours! Nor the reason why you fail tomorrow’s test and have to stay back to do catch up work! Atsumu and the team would never let you live it down you know!”

You clutched your beating heart with a flush on your cheeks. ‘Ahh, that was close! He’s much more convincing than I thought but I won’t be fooled!’

You offered him another glare before sighing. You’d done that too many times this session you now realised. “Look, I’ll get you some tea, okay? But after that, you have to stay awake! You’ll be in big trouble if I come back and you’re asleep,” you softly reprimanded him although he looked completely unabashed as he nodded.

“Mm’kay.”

You were only gone for five minutes but when you had returned . . . he was definitely in trouble.

You gripped the steaming cup of hot tea by the handle; careful not to brush your knuckles on the actual cup so you don’t burn yourself and spill it like a waterfall. Carefully, you placed the cup of tea out of reach so he doesn’t knock it over before you plopped onto the cushion next to him, pouting. Really, coming over, begging you to help him study, only to fall asleep in front of you, what a tease. . .

“Jeez, I was hoping for some, fun times after we finished up too~” you whined to yourself, letting your chin fall to your fist before a movement other than your own caught you from the corner of your periphery.

You narrowed your eyes. His lashes flickered like a butterfly’s wings, elegant yet silent. Then nothing. You drummed your fingers slowly on the kotatsu’s surface before aptly concluding that your, apparently, asshole boyfriend, was faking his slumber. Your Sleeping Beauty was actually a Beast in disguise so it would appear. You pursed your lips, blowing air from your nose like a puffing, huffing steam train. He wants to play like that, does he?

You swiftly rose out of your seat before standing behind him, your shadow devouring him. You just might too if Osamu doesn’t tread carefully. You eyed his fraying hairline, beneath his undercut. You wondered how sensitive it would have now become, what, with it being constantly exposed to the frigid air all the time. A smile coyly played to your lips, as you hummed kittenishly before leaning down.

Tenderly, you placed your lips to the back of his neck, giving it a quick peck.

You looked up, gauging for a reaction but received none. You smiled daringly. Perhaps your dear boyfriend needs a bit more persuasion. You pressed another kiss into his neck. And another one. Accompanied by another. Before you began peppering his neck in searing kisses, from the roots of his hair to the brim of his collared uniform. You watched in delight as the skin gradually increased in heat while you continued to reap the benefits of your ravenous exploits.

You could feel the skin beneath your lips beginning to tremble but since he still wouldn’t reveal he was awake. . . it might be time to go exploring. You hovered over his ‘sleeping’ frame as both your hands slithered under the arms pillowing his face. They coiled around his waist and you found yourself licking your lips, suddenly feeling rather hungry. You could see him beginning to squirm yet he was adamant not to budge. A wolfish laugh escaped you as you plunged your fingers under his shirt to dance on his stomach before your teeth finally met his skin.

The last thing you heard was a sharp gasp that sounded like absolute heaven before your world turned on its axis. Your back met the ground with a thud and you suddenly realised you couldn’t move. Casually taking a quick glance, you craned your neck to see two calloused fists handcuffing your wrists and pinning them above your head. You looked up to finally see a panting Osamu, glaring at you.

“Oi.”

You blinked.

Osamu was every shade of grey. Every expression, every movement, although a little rough, it was done with minimal effort and restrained. He was always in control and always composed. He was a little slow and sluggish like that, but he could become a dynamic black, cool and confident whenever you pluck just the right strings.

Which is why it was all the more endearing to see a lovely peach pink speckling on his cheeks.

“What,” he breathed out, as if he had just sprinted in a marathon, you could see his torso trembling, “do ya think yer doin’?”

You watched him placidly and couldn’t stop admiring the pretty colour on his cheeks. You wanted to capture it, burn it in your memory until your final breath. You wanted to paint it, to smear the red all over his grey. You licked your lips.

“I told you, didn’t I? That you would be in trouble if I came back to find you sleeping. So pray tell, what were you doing, ‘Samu?” you purred beneath him, a playful smirk crawling to your lips as you felt a pooling sensation bubble in the pit of your stomach.

Osamu’s eyes widened and even though he had overcast a shadow on the both of you, you could tell that his cheeks had darkened. He suddenly looked like a deer caught in headlights and he could no longer meet your gaze. With an agonisingly slow movement, he tentatively released one of your wrists to feel the back of his neck.

“D-did you . . .?” he stammered, not able to bring himself to finish the question.

Picking on what he was insinuating, using your left hand, now free, you roughly grabbed him by the collar before pulling him down. He yelped like a puppy that had lost its footing, as he lurched forward like a tidal wave, almost tumbling over, quickly stamping his free hand to the ground, stopping him from knocking his head into your as you curled your finger under his chin.

“No, I didn’t. I warned you though, right? If you try to fall asleep again when I’m teaching you. . .” you slur, tracing your finger, teasingly let it tap on his Adam’s apple as he swallowed, his eyes now wide awake and focused only on you as you grinned hungrily.

“I’ll decorate your neck with hickies until you’ve got a goddamn necklace of bruises.”

Osamu shuddered as he fell to his elbows, barely holding himself up. Feeling his voice shake, he meekly nodded, trying to hide his arousal as he shakily—but briskly—flew back to the kotatsu, promptly hiding his face from you, just like a mouse.

You bit your lip, grinning wildly at the ceiling which although, was completely uninteresting, was the only excuse you had to not let him see your dorky smile.

‘HOLY SHIT THAT WORKED. Reading all those fanfics and manga finally paid off!’

You can’t let yourself come off as too desperate though. You realised that you had been waving the stick in front of him for too long now, it was time to finally bring out the carrot.

You propped yourself, being deliberately slow as to keep him waiting before you tenderly held onto his shoulder. You could feel him tense you brushed your nose against the lobe of his ear, your wispy breaths dyeing it pink as you whispered:

“When we’re done, I promise, you can eat whatever you want.”

While he didn’t fall asleep and actually got some proper studying in afterwards, perhaps it was him being petty or a vain attempt to gain back some control, he did not offer you his dick but went straight for the fridge to get some pudding. Still, it didn’t change the fact that you were hungry and Osamu found out that night that not only were you quite convincing yourself but you also really liked turning his neck red.

Hmm. And you called him a fox.

[sheerfreesia007]

Fallin’ All In You (Pt. 57)

Title: Fallin’ All In You (Pt. 57)

Pairing: Agent Whiskey x Reader

Author: @sheerfreesia007​​

Words: 2,394

Warnings: Fluff, Flirting, Sadness, Mention of character death, funerals

Tags: @synystersilenceinblacknwhite​, @two-unbeatable-beaters​, @randomness501​, @sevvysaurus​, @paryl​, @talesfromtheguild​, @secretsihideinside​, @agingerindenial​, @mrschiltoncat

Permanent Tag List: @paintballkid711​, @fioccodineveautunnale​

Author Notes: This was originally planned to be smut but I couldn’t do it. I have heart eyes for Daddy!Jack y’all. Heart eyes and melting. Ugh. Memaw going in for the kill about grandbabies. I love Jack’s family they’re close knit and take care of their own. And once you’re in you’re in for life. Sigh. Feedback is always welcome! Thanks for reading

Gif Credit: Pinterest

         You stare at the front of the large ranch home and sigh softly; it had been only two weeks since your Dad had passed. The first week you had spent up in Boston preparing and hosting the wake and funeral for him, as well as getting everything squared away with the senior facility where he had been staying. The wake and funeral had been painful for you but there such an overwhelming turn out of people that you were glad that you had done it and not just quietly buried him in the plot he had for your mom and sister.

         Boston P.D. had shown up in force for the funeral, most of the attendees knowing your Dad because of his long service with the Department. There were even some retirees who came to show their support for you. You had been almost bursting with their love and support as you stood to make a eulogy. And after the service when Officer Murdock came up to you with a plaque with your Dad’s old badge, an inscription of the Boston P.D. motto and your Dad’s service dates made you bawl like a baby in his arms. He had cried as well as he held you and showed you the commemorative video that the Boston P.D. had created for you showing clips of retired and active officers talking about your Dad.

         It had been a lovely service and you were glad you had done it but it had drained you completely. The second week you had spent away from work was just spent lazing about the apartment in New York and attending therapy. You didn’t want your grief to turn into some more harming to yourself so you knew therapy was a must for you.

         But this weekend Jack had managed to be able to get the days off and he had whisked you away to the Daniels ranch where his family was hosting a little get together to celebrate his Grandfather’s birthday. You had agreed to go months ago when it was first being planned but now after your Dad had passed you weren’t feeling very accommodating. Jack had even offered you an out but you had told him that you’d like to go and get out of the apartment even though you didn’t feel like you were at 100%. You explained that it could be good for you to get out for a little bit and spend time with others instead of holing up in the apartment again.

         So as you sat in the Bronco staring at the front of the ranch house you fidgeted in your seat suddenly feeling unsure. Jack laid a hand over yours that sat in your lap twisting in on each other trying to calm you down. Looking over to him across the bench seat you saw his soft smile and concerned eyes.

         “I’m fine, just unsure.” You said reassuringly. Jack held your hands and tugged you across the bench seat until you were pressed up against his side. His arm wrapped around your back and held you close while his other hand came up under your chin and tilted your face up to him.

         “If at any point it gets to be too much you let me know and we’ll step back. Got it?” he assured you softly. You nodded your head smiling gratefully up at him. Jack leaned down and kissed you deeply as his hand under your chin slid over your cheek to cup it in his palm. You whimpered softly into the cab of the Bronco as Jack’s tongue swiped across your bottom lip and slid into your mouth. Your hands came up to Jack’s chest and gripped his shirt tightly in your fingers as love and desire for this man coursed through you hotly. “Fuck darlin’.” He husked out once the two of you separated for some air.

         “I know, me too.” You whispered against his mouth as you leaned up and pecked his lips a few times. When you pulled away for the final time Jack tried to follow but you shook your head smiling before you tilted your head to the house in front of the two you. “Don’t wanna give them a show now do you cowboy?” you asked softly and Jack smirked softly shaking his head.

         “C’mon darlin’.” He said lowly and then opened his door before sliding out. Turning back to you he helped you out of the cab and made sure you were steady on your feet with your cane before he turned and grabbed your bags from the back seat.

         Walking up to the front door you smiled warmly as you spotted Memaw waiting there for the two of you. She was dressed in a knee length dark blue dress and her hair was pinned up in a severe bun. Her pretty brown eyes were sparkling with unshed tears as she opened her arms to you widely.

         “Oh darlin’.” She cooed softly to you and you instantly felt safe as tears sprung to your own eyes. Moving into her arms you felt her wrap them tightly around you and hold you close. “I am so sorry for your loss darlin’.” She cooed softly to you as she petted your hair.

         “Thank you.” You mumbled softly as you sniffled and brushed your fingers under your eyes to catch the tears.

         “I’m sorry we weren’t there for you at the service.” She said softly and cupped your face in her hands. “We didn’t want to overstep or overwhelm you.”

         “Thank you, you could’ve come though it would’ve been nice but I appreciate the thought. I got the flowers for Dad’s grave they were lovely, thank you.” You answered her smiling softly and placing a hand against one of hers on your face.

         “Nonsense darlin’ of course we would send flowers.” She said with a soft scoff and shook her head as she patted your face softly. “Now come inside everyone is waiting for the two of you.” She said kindly and you nodded. “Oh don’t look at me like that Jack. They all know what she’s been through they won’t be crazy.”

         “Says the craziest of them all.” Jack groaned lowly and you laughed softly as Memaw shook a finger at him before turning and opening the front door. Jack came up to your side and placed a hand at your lower back. “Remember if it’s too much tell me.” He said softly in your ear before placing a kiss at your temple.

         Walking into the Daniels home you and Jack were greeted by loud boisterous cheers, which both shocked you at the loudness but also made your heart swell in your chest as you saw everyone with wide smiles on their faces as they all stared at you.

         “Darlin’! It’s so good to see you again!” called Jack’s mother Addison as she came waltzing over to the two of you and wrapped you in a tight warm hug. “I’m so sorry for your loss darlin’. If there’s anything that you need you just holler alright?” You smiled and nodded your head at her as she held you at arms length raking her eyes over your figure.

         “Yes thank you so much.” You responded softly. You smile at her as you realize that two of Jack’s family have now taken to calling you darlin’ like Jack does and it warms your heart, makes you feel like you’re a part of the family.

         After greeting everyone you and Jack make your way up to the bedroom that you had shared the last time you were here to put your bags away and just decompress before dinner was ready. Smiling warmly over at Jack as you lay back on the bed he grins over at you and crawls over the bed to hover over your body. His grin turns deviant and you smirk up at him.

         “They’re not going to give us much time.” You remind him and watch as he smiles and nods his head knowingly.

         “Oh I know darlin’. I only wanna hold and kiss you. I’ve missed you after being away.” He says softly and lowers himself down to lay on top of you and wrap his arms around you. You snuggle into his arms and sigh contently as he begins to press soft kisses up and down your neck.

         “Have you noticed both your mom and Memaw call me darlin’ just like you?” you ask softly as your hands come up, one to trail up and down his spine and back while the other cards through his hair scratching at his scalp. Jack groans into your neck and nips a little bite into your skin. You yip soft and jolt your body against his.

         “Yeah but that’s just their way of accepting you into the family.” He confirms as his tongue begins to trace up and down your neck. You hum softly to him and slowly shut your eyes feeling safe and warm.

         A loud knock jolts you from your little nap and you try to rise up from the bed but can’t. Looking down confused you smile warmly as you see Jack is laying half on you with his head resting on your stomach and the rest of his body splayed out between your legs. He’s nuzzling into the fabric of your shirt and you snort softly as you run your fingers through his hair.

         “Dinner’s almost ready you two.” Calls Jack’s mom from the other side of the door.

         “We’ll be right down.” You call out in answer and try to rouse Jack from his sleep. “Jack it’s dinner time sweetheart. We gotta get up.” You say warmly as you begin to shake his shoulder. Grunting Jack’s eyes dart open and he looks around the room quickly taking in his surroundings. Sighing softly he tried to nuzzle his face back into your shirt and you grin down at him. “C’mon sweetheart we gotta get up.” You say again.

         “Don’t wanna.” Jack responds sounding like a child and you laugh tenderly at him before you shoved his shoulder hard. Jack grunted and decided he was going to fight you and just let his body become dead weight on top of you making you groan out loud. “I said I don’t wanna.” He said with a pout as he slithered up your body so that he lay completely on top of you. You smirked underneath him and lifted your head to his letting your lips nip at his earlobe.

         “The sooner we get done with dinner the sooner we can come back up here and I can show you what I’ve got underneath.” You husked into his ear and felt him shiver at your words. Jack instantly jumped up from the bed.

         “Why didn’t you say so darlin’?” Jack asked grinning wickedly at you as his eyes darkened and raked over your body. Laughing you let him pull you from the bed and start leading you out of the room.

           “So have you and Jack planned the whole wedding yourselves?” asked Jack’s sister Charlotte as she sat across the table holding her one year old son Hunter in her arms.

         “Yeah we’ve been bouncing ideas off of each other as we go. I mean we don’t plan on getting married until next year so we have time to iron out all the details but we’ve got a good idea of what we both want during the ceremony and reception.” You explain as Jack rests a hand on your thigh.

         “And you want to have it all on Jack’s ranch?” asks Jack’s younger brother Mason. I now my head smiling softly at Mason.

         “It would mean more to us to have it there than at a reception hall.” You explain easily.

         “Well I like the idea. I think it’s a wonderful.” Says Jack’s mom as she smiles brilliantly at both you and Jack. Jack’s hand tightens on your thigh and you rest your head on his shoulder smiling to yourself.

         “Well now that we got that topic outta the way. What about great grandbabies?” asked Memaw at the head of the table.

         “Memaw!” Jack chastised as he shook his head at her and she shrugged her shoulders at him.

         “I’m not getting any younger Jack and your siblings already have a horde of great grandbabies.” She explained sassily as she darted her eyes over to him. You chuckled softly at her antics and watched from across the table as Hunter slapped his tiny baby hands onto the table and cooed at you. Smiling tenderly at him you watched Charlotte nod her head at you and you grinned nodding back.

         “Well then you shouldn’t feel the need to rush us to have great grandbabies.” Jack retorted next to you as you watched Hunter. He began to crawl across the table to you and you easily swept him up in your arms cuddling him close. Placing a softly kiss on his hairline where the Daniels signature dark chestnut hair lay in soft waves. Hunter cooed at you and began to babble in baby talk to you as you nodded your head exaggeratedly to encourage him to keep talking.

         “You don’t say little man.” You say warmly to him and he shrieked in laughter. “Well goodness that sounds like a busy day you had today.” You respond to the little man and smile as he claps his hands in front of himself.

         “See she looks good holding a great grandbaby.” Memaw says proudly as she points over to you as Hunter babbles again at you.

         “I mean she’s not wrong.” You say shrugging your shoulder as you look over at Jack and notice his eyes darken slightly before he huffs over towards Memaw. Jack wraps an arm around your back and moves closer to you as he ducks his head down to whisper in your ear.

         “You look damn fine with a baby in your lap darlin’. Damn fine.” He husks to you and you feel your cheeks blossom with a blush as Hunter shrieks again and pats Jack’s nose making you grin widely. Your heart flutters in your chest at the thought of having a baby with Jack and you can’t get the image of the two of you holding a baby in between you out of your head.

[avengerscompound]

Ronin

Ronin: A Hawkeye Fanfic

Buy me a ☕ Character Pairing:  Clint Barton x F!Reader

Rating:  E

Square:  @clintbartonbingo - Missing Scene

Word Count:  1954

Warnings:  smut (M|F, one-night stand, vaginal sex, oral sex)

Synopsis:  A strange keeps coming into your shop without an appointment to work on his Ronin tattoo.

Ronin

“He’s back again.”

Joey didn’t even need to say who he was talking about.  You knew right away.  He'd been in a couple of times.  Never gave a name.  Never booked a further appointment.  Yet he somehow managed to show up blind each time when you didn't have anyone booked in.

He was getting a sleeve done.  A skeletal samurai that turned into a snake at his elbow that then wrapped itself around his forearm.  It was in black and green and highly detailed.  You were only about a halfway done, if you were thinking optimistically about it.

The situation was odd but you strangely never felt worried with him.  He was quiet but non-threatening.  Always polite when he spoke and friendly enough.  You didn't mind the drop-ins.  He’d ask if you were free but clarify that he understood if you weren't.  It was fine.  Besides he had gorgeous arms.  It was fun working on them.

“Alright.  I'll get him.”  You said.

“You sure?  I gotta head out.  You gonna be okay alone with the guy?”

You shrugged.  “He seems harmless.  Just lost people.  And really, who hasn't?”

“True that,”  Joey said.  “I'll send him back and lock up.  Be careful though.”

You pulled the design from your file.  “Always am, Joey.”

The guy appeared in the doorway barely a moment later.  “You're sure this is okay?”

You gestured for him to sit.  “Yeah.  I mean if you'd book a time, it’d be better.  But business is a little quieter since… Well, you know.”

He nodded.  “Sorry.  I just travel a lot these days.  Never know when I'll be here.”

You felt he was playing with half-truths.  Maybe that was some of the reason, but it wasn't the whole reason.  It didn't matter though.  He could tell you straight up blatant lies if he wanted, as long as he sat still and paid at the end of the session.  Which he always did so there was no reason to question him.

He took off his coat and sat down in the chair.  You set up next to him and began to prep his arm, shaving it and washing it down.  He smiled and chuckled softly.  You’d never seen him crack a smile once since you first met him.

“Did I tickle you?”  You asked as you dipped the needles in the green ink.

“Yes, No.  Just thinking about how nice the prep feels and then its pain.”

“Metaphor for life.”  You said with a small shrug.

You began to do the shading on his lower bicep.  The muscles in his arm all tensed at once, the vein that ran down his forearm becoming more prominent.  He had gorgeous arms.  You wondered what he did that gave him that particular set of muscles.  They weren’t the bodybuilding kind of muscles, just swollen and worked so that each one is large but none are really meant for anything.  He was muscular in the way that people who used their arms were.  The mohawk he sported said it he wasn’t military.  Tradesperson maybe?  He had been sporting bruises and cuts each visit, so maybe he was an MMA fighter?

Slowly he relaxed as you worked, as usual not really talking.  The first time he had come in he’d asked if it was okay not to talk, so you hadn’t pushed it since.  It was fine with you.  It was much easier to focus when you weren’t making idle chit-chat.

“Did you lose anyone?”  He asked.

The question had pulled you out of a daydream you’d started having about what he could do with those arms and you startled a little.   It took a moment for the question to sink in.  When you realized what he was asking you frowned and focused a little harder on the art.  “Yeah.  Of course.  Who didn’t?”

“Right.”  He said, frowning and tensing a little.  You chewed on the inside of your cheek.  You weren’t a therapist, you were an artist.  It wasn’t your place to try and unpick whatever it was that was going through his head, but he’d never really said boo to you outside of the original tattoo design process.  Now he seemed to want to get something off his chest.

“Who did you lose?”  You asked.

“Everyone.”  He said.

“You lost everyone?”

He gave a curt nod.  “My parents died when I was a kid.  I had a guy take me on a  mentor, he’s gone.  My wife.  My kids.  Even the woman who I’d taken under my own wing.  I lost everyone.”

The way he spoke was that of a man who was trying to show no emotion.  Someone just wanted to be numb from the pain but couldn’t quite manage it.  “They said it was random.  Doesn’t always feel like it.”  You said.  “So you’re alone?”

He nodded and looked down at the artwork on his arm, not saying anything.  You went back to focusing on the tattoo, working methodically down his arm.

“What I don’t get is how can it have taken all those innocent people.  Kids even.  Yet there are still fucking monsters in the world.  You know?”  He said.

“Yeah.  I know.  Also, all those people who got taken out because they were in planes whose pilots turned to dust.  Or the people in fallout zones from power plants that overloaded because suddenly half the staff was gone.  Half of us turned to dust and then a whole bunch died right with them.”  You said.

He scowled and clenched his fists for a moment.  The rest of the time was spent in silence.  It was interesting.  Since half the world was turned to dust, a lot of the people who came in got tattoos commemorating people they’d lost.  Portraits of their wives.  The names of their kids inside hearts or teddy bears.  Symbolic things that meant something special just between them and their loved one.  You felt this samurai was like that too, but there was something darker.  He had no tattoos at all coming in.  Now he was getting this clear sign he was a different person than who he had been.

You supposed you got that.  Who was the same after what had happened?  People kept saying you had to move on.  But how could anyone really do that?

You finished up after about four hours.  It was late, well past when you normally went home for the day.  “What do you think?”  You asked as you washed it off.

He looked it over and nodded.  “Looks great.  Thank you.”

“What you wanted?”

He took a deep breath and let it out.  “Yeah.”  He said.  “Just how I pictured it.”

You covered the new parts with Vaseline and covered it in plastic.

The guy followed you to the register to pay.  “Guess I won’t see you again.”

You smiled.  “Guess not.  Unless you want some more art done.”

“Well, thank you for that.  I needed … something.”

You reached over and touched his arm.  It was familiar and you wouldn’t normally cross that line, but you had been touching him for four hours now.  “I hope you find what you’re looking for.”

There was a moment where something seemed to pass through you.  You didn’t know what it was exactly, or what made you do it, but you leaned forward and kissed his cheek.  It was like you could tell he needed it.  That he needed some affection, even if it was brief.

He turned his head and leaned into you, like he was going to kiss you, but stopped and hovered there.  You could see the cogs turning as he began to overthink what was happening.  You took the initiative and brought your lips to his.

He reacted quickly, pushing you up against the wall and kissing you hungrily.  Desperately even.  Trying to grab this brief piece of human intimacy while he could.  This safe piece of connection that meant nothing, but he needed with every piece of him.

You ran your hands along his jaw and down his neck as he ground into you against the lockers.  His tongue danced with yours, circling it and running along your lips as you kissed.  You scrambled to open his belt.  The frantic, desperate nature of his movements affected you.  It made you want this just that little bit more.  As you opened his belt he broke the kiss and pulled your shirt off.  He ran his hands up your sides and cupped your breasts, then yanked your bra down so your breasts spilled out.  He squeezed your tits together end leaned down and began to suck and bite at your nipples.  You moaned and wrapped a leg around him, drawing him closer to you, rolling your hips against him.

You pushed his pants down enough to free his cock and you wrapped your hands around it.  He groaned and pushed into your hand.  “Fuck,”  He groaned.  “Fuck, I want you.”

“Then give it to me.”  You growled.

You unfastened your jeans and he pushed them down and barely gave you a moment to step out of them before he lifted you and slammed you against the wall again.  You wrapped your legs around his waist and he ground his dick against you.  You moaned loudly, your cunt wet and ready to take him.

His cock slid up and down your folds a few times before he thrust inside of you.  You moaned throwing your head back and dug your fingers into the corded muscles of his back.  He started to thrust, each one accompanied by the roll of his hips as he kept you pinned to the wall.  He kissed you passionately, making you light-headed as he fucked you hard.  The shelves rocked above you adding to the sounds of your moans and grunts.

 Your whole body began to tremble against him as you felt your orgasm approaching.  You moaned and threw your head back.   He slipped his hand between your legs and rubbed your clit hard and with a loud moan you came.

Clint groaned and bit down into your shoulder as he continued to fuck you through it.  You pulled off his cock and pushed him back.  “Let me.” You said.

He submitted to you quickly, letting you guide him back to the tattoo chair.  You pushed him down into it and crouched between his legs.  You licked up the length of his cock and dropped your head down, taking his full length down your throat.  He groaned and arched his back, his stomach muscles pulling tight as he gripped at the arms of the chair.  “Fuck.” He groaned.  “That’s it.”

You started bobbing your head up and down, sucking and hollowing your tongue.  He moaned loudly as his cock began to twitch and leak precum.  “Fuck.  Gonna come.”

You picked up your pace and teased his balls, letting him know it was okay to let go.  He mewled and with a sudden jerk of his hips, he came in hot, salty ropes, filling your mouth.

You swallowed it all down and licked your lips.  He lay back panting as you got up and pulled your pants back on.  When he finally seemed to come down from his orgasm high he tucked himself away and got up.  “I - Thanks.  I don’t know why that just happened.  But… it’s been a while.”

You came over and rubbed his shoulder.  “I enjoyed it too.”

He looked at you and the ghost of a smile passed over his features.  “I guess I’ll be seeing you.”

“Yeah.”  You said walking him out.  You knew that probably wasn’t true, but you did hope that whatever it was he was looking for he found it.

[some-cookie-crumbz]

Light’em Up

Light’em Up - Kidge Month Day 4 Prompt Fill Fandom: Voltron: Legendary Defender Pairing: Kidge Summary: Cute, shameless fluff about Keith and Pidge taking their children to festival/ firework show and spending time with their incredibly large, close family. Also includes a little bit of Grandma!Krolia bonding. Standard Disclaimer: If you read and enjoy this, please give it a like/ reblog so I know if I should write more.

“We gotta make sure to pick the perfect spot!” The young girl said happily, head high as she led the small gaggle up the hill.

“Yeah!” The two young boys behind her agreed eagerly.

Then, after a beat of silence, the older of the other two tilted his head. “But how do we do that, Amber?” He chirped.

“Easy,” Amber scoffed, turning to walk backwards and face the others. She had that confident grin in place that always reassured her siblings that she was in control. “The perfect spot will be big, with lots of room for the blankets! And it’ll have a clear view of the sky!” She said, gesturing to the sky above with a wide sweep of one hand.

“Oh!” The two boys trailed, eyes lighting up at her explanation.

She smiled and nodded, then let out a small yelp as she stumbled over her own feet. A hand reached out and caught her arm, keeping her from completely tumbling backwards. “Amber, what did I say about watching where you’re going?” A deep voice said patiently, a second hand reaching out to pluck her up and set her on her feet proper again.

“Sorry, Daddy,” She said meekly.

A small smile turned up on the dark haired man’s lips. “It’s okay, sweetheart, just be careful. I don’t want anything bad happening to you,” He explained, pressing a quick peck to her cheek before letting her go to scramble back over to her brother’s.

“She’s a wily little thing, isn’t she?” A voice chimed behind him, clear amusement in her voice. He turned and chuckled as she struggled to get the stroller she was pushing past a few larger rocks. Once she got it past, she glanced briefly down at the little top cover on the stroller. “Is Ari still asleep?”

He leaned over only to be greeted by a pair of bright green eyes and a big three-toothed grin. “Dada!” She squealed, holding her arms out and making grabby hands at him.

“Not in your wildest dreams, Pidge,” He teased before reaching out to unclasp one and half year old. Once she was unbuckled, she held her arms out at him and patiently waited as he scooped her up and out, settling her on his hip.

Pidge let out a low groan and tilted her head back. “Well, might as well collapse and fold this stupid thing up. There’s no way she’s gonna stay in it now,” She groused, leaning down and flicking a little lever on the side. He watched in mild amusement as she collapsed it, peering over his shoulder to see the older three waiting impatiently at the top of the nearby hill. Amber was tapping her foot and staring at them expectantly, while the two boys were shifting from foot to foot as if they had to go potty, peering over the hill and then back over at the adults.

“At least the kids are excited,” He offered, leaning over to hold open the carrying case for the stroller.

“That excitement is going to keep them wired for most of the night, you know,” She warned as she dropped the stroller in, then pulled the drawstrings to close it up. Once that was done, he grabbed the shoulder strap and tossed it over his own shoulder. “Remind me again why we decided to attend this overcrowded nonsense again, Keith? Because the whole Paladins-of-Voltron thing is starting to get real old.”

Keith chuckled. “Because we promised the kids and we’re the kind of parents that mean it when we say we’ll do something?” He suggested.

“Hmm. Maybe this means we need to start letting them down a bit more. Can’t keep setting the bar too high for ourselves, after all,” She said, but he knew she was teasing. For as much as Pidge complained, he knew she could never say no to the kids when they wanted something. Well, something reasonable, at least; they had to tell Amber no a few weeks back, when she’d asked what it would take for her parents to order her a plasma gun.

They headed over to the top of the hill to join them, then gawked down with wide eyes at the huge array below. “Oh, wow,” He said with a nervous laugh.

“Seems they went all-out for Liberation Day this year, huh?” Pidge trailed, eyes sweeping from booth to booth with poorly concealed exhaustion. Liberation Day was the newest of Earth holidays, to commemorate the day Voltron bested Sendak and his forces, freeing them from the Galra’s three year takeover. Pidge and Matt were convinced that they called it Liberation Day because they were worried about licensing if they called it Independence Day because of some old movie that involved hostile alien invaders and Will Smith. Colleen insisted that it was because “liberation” was the more applicable word based on proper definitions. Sam refused to comment as to which option had more validity behind it.

He and Pidge had attended it a few years before, but this was the first time since Kaden had been born. And it was also much larger this go-around.

There were tons of booths set up with various games and other activities, including facepainting and what they could only deem to be a tattoo booth. They were right next to each other, though, so it was hard to tell which was which. He decided that would be a Mommy activity since she was the one more familiar with alien languages. He could also see various booths with fair foods - both human and alien - but he noticed the ones that he could see were primarily desserts. There were a bunch of little roller coasters and other such thrill rides set up, including a hall of mirrors, bumper boats and race car areas. Off to the left of the festivities, he could see families set up in a designated area, spreading out blankets and setting up little grills.

“This. Is. So cool!” Amber squealed excitedly, bouncing from foot to foot to keep from tearing off down the hill.

“Flashy lights,” Oliver chimed, looking back at their parents and pointing down below.

Pidge giggled as she walked over, gently ruffling his hair. “That’s right, baby. Lots of flashy lights,” She hummed.

“Can we go? I wanna play all the games! And ride the big coaster!” Amber gushed excitedly, pointing at the ride in question. It was clear across the fairgrounds, with corkscrews and loops and inverted loops that seemed near impossible. The neon sign, which shifted between the hues of the Voltron Lions, proclaimed it to be “Paladin Perils”. From where they were, they could see the carts of the things were decorated to look like the five Lions as well.

A small part of him could almost feel the unamused curiosity Black Lion would have expressed upon seeing it.

“We’ll see how you’re feeling after we get a spot and have some food,” Keith advised, gently setting a hand between her shoulders and starting to steer her towards the sitting area.

“Oh, you’re right! We need to find the perfect spot!” She gasped before tearing off down the hill. Kaden and Oliver were just a few paces behind her, but Pidge caught up and scooped Oliver up easily enough.

“Amber Rose, Kaden Ethan, get back over here, now!” Pidge shouted after them, tilting her head this way and that to avoid getting clipped by the thrashing three year old in her arms. The two paid her no mind, though, and kept going along, ducking and weaving through the throngs of other attendees to get where they wanted to be. “They are both dead when we get them!” She hissed out.

“We better hurry before they get to far ahead,” Keith said, already starting to jog after them. He ignored how the stroller bounced and hit his hip, more focused on catching up with his two older children while making sure Ari didn’t get jostled around too much. She, however, seemed to find the whole thing absolutely hilarious, judging by the squeals and giggles she was releasing.

He caught up to Kaden easily enough, catching the back of his shirt and giving a small tug to steer him towards him. “Daddy!” He whined quietly.

“No whining, young man,” Pidge harrumphed as she walked over, finagling Oliver to be pinned against her under one arm, and taking one of Kaden’s hands in her now freed one. “You know better than to run off like that! Especially in a big crowd like this!” She continued on.

With her handling the boys, Keith surged forward to try and find Amber again. The further in he went it became harder as the crowds thicken and panic coursed through him. “Amber!” He called out, carefully bouncing Ari up so that his grip on her was more supportive. He shifted and shoved a bit, lifting his other arm to press the younger girl closer to himself for security, trying to peek over and around other people.

And then, suddenly, Amber’s pouty little face was right in his own, hovering far too high off the ground. “I believe this is yours,” A familiar deep voice chimed, filled with amusement.

“No fair, Papi Koli! I’m on a super important mission!” She wailed, tossing her head back to try and look at him better.

“Regardless, kit, you shouldn’t be wandering so far away from your parents. Not when you’re still so small,” He said patiently.

“Thank you so much. Her and the boys just took off running,” Keith breathed, reaching out to take her with his free arm. Amber refused to grab on to him in return, instead settling back into her pout with her arms crossed over her chest, but thankfully enough he was able to side-step in such a way that she just slumped against his chest.

“I understand. Kits can be a bit of a handful when they get excited,” He answered before looking over at Ari, who had perked up and was staring at him with a huge grin. “Speaking of… May I? It’s been a while since I’ve seen this little one awake.”

Keith chuckled and carefully passed Ari over, perking up and waving as he saw Krolia fast approaching from behind the older Blade commander. “Hey, Mom,” He said.

“What happened? I heard you shouting and then all of a sudden Kolivan darted off,” She fretted, looking between the two men and little girls fretfully. Ari remained unperturbed, instead eagerly patting her little hands along Kolivan’s face, tracing the red marks just above his eyes.

“Three of these little butts decided to go full rogue and run off into the crowd,” Pidge grumbled as she approached. Kaden had gone dead body in her grasp and was now having to be carried under her arm just like his little brother, eyes fixed to the grass. Oliver, meanwhile, let out an unholy shriek and thrashed with renewed vigor. “I’ll give you fifty GAC if you can guess which three were involved.”

Krolia looked between Keith, then Pidge, then all three of the older children. “So you’re offering a donation, then? How kind of you,” She teased before approaching her and offering to take one of the boys.

“You’re lucky I like you,” Pidge said with a playful tone of her own as she offered Kaden over. She let out a hiss as Krolia took him and glared down at Oliver. “Headbutting Mommy in the booby is not nice behavior!”

Krolia winced a bit herself as she took proper hold of Kaden. “You three are rather excited about tonight, but you need to mind your manners still,” She chided gently, reaching up to push his bangs out of his face. Kaden looked up at her with watery, guilty eyes before sniffling and tucking his head into her shoulder. Keith could see her melting even further, one arm gently rubbing his back. “There now, it’s okay. You just need to behave and apologize properly.” She cooed.

Keith chuckled and looked down at Amber, who had uncrossed her arms and started fiddling with the strap of the stroller. It seemed the guilt was starting to catch up with her in the face of Nana Olia voicing disappointment. “‘M sorry, Daddy,” She mumbled, sounding far too shameful for a grade schooler.

“I accept your apology, sweetheart. Please remember that Mommy and I worry about losing you in these big crowds, so staying close is always best,” He explained gently. She nodded before wrapping her arms around his neck and nuzzling into him. He glanced up at Kolivan and Krolia as he rubbed her back. “Did you guys manage to get a spot?”

“Indeed. A rather nice one, I believe,” Kolivan chuckled, eyes briefly moving from the grinning baby still poking at his face.

“Colleen and Sam arrived around the same time as us, so they helped us pick. Plus Hunk, Shiro and Matt have arrived with their families, so we were just finishing getting everything set up,” She explained.

“Oh, awesome!” Pidge breathed, finally managing to coerce Oliver to calm down enough that she could carry him normally. She looked down at the sulky little toddler. “Mommy and Daddy are gonna have tons of backup to keep you little terrorists in check.”

“I don’t like you anymore!” He snapped in protest.

“You’re allowed to feel that way, buddy,” She said evenly, nodding her head at Krolia and Kolivan so that they could show them where to go. Thankfully enough it was a short walk to a large, spacious area in the center of the viewing area. Hunk had set up a little, portable barbeque grill to get started on the cooking, and Matt was setting up a small table so they’d have a place to fix plates of food. Shay was settled on one of the blankets, talking to a recently-joined Allura. The young ruler was gently bouncing Paige, their youngest  baby girl, on her hip while her other hand rested against the slight slope where their newest baby was still growing. Lance was setting up a portable pack and play for the two babies. The older three McClain kids and both of the Garrett’s were settled on a blanket with Coran, who was holding up two stuffed animals and making them battle dramatically in the air above them, giggling excitedly at whatever they were doing. Sam and Shiro were spreading out the last of the blankets, completing their large, plushy circle of room for the entirety of their group while Colleen was doting on the three Shirogane tots. “Hey, guys!” Pidge called, waving with her free arm.

Allura perked up and smiled at her. “Hello, you two. How is everything?” She greeted.

“As good as they can be with these little monsters around,” She teased, perking up as Colleen flocked over. Little Hikari was settled in one of her arms, though the little tot seemed to be barely awake, her head lifting off her shoulder before her eyes would flutter shut and she’d flop back over. Even still, Pidge could already see her mother’s arm making a move for her youngest grandson. “Here, take this little gremlin.” She said playfully.

“Gladly! Hello, little Ollie! Come to Nanny Collie!” She sang happily. Keith and Krolia set the two older kids down, allowing them to flock over to the Holt’s excitedly. With the kids handled, Keith headed over to help Lance with setting up the little pack and play for Amber and Paige. “Oh, hello, my little grandbabies! It’s so good to see all of you!” She giggled, kneeling down to the older two could flock over to her as well.

“Papi Koli is holding Ari, but I’m sure if you ask nicely, he’ll give you a turn!” Amber announced as Shiro and Sam headed over to join them.

Sam laughed as he knelt down and embraced the older two. “I’ll wait my turn. Papi Koli doesn’t get to see you all as much as I do,” He said, releasing the two and standing back up, taking a moment to reach over and gently pinch little Oliver’s cheeks.

“Hi, hi!” Akihiko and Auryon, Shiro and Matt’s twins, said excitedly as they darted over, embracing their cousins eagerly. With how excitedly the kids always greeted one another, she sometimes forgot they all saw each other two or three times a week. It warmed her heart, though, to see how close their family was.

Pidge giggled a bit as she watched them all interact, allowing herself to relax a bit at knowing there would be plenty of eyes on them, and settled in with Allura and Shay on the blanket. She then shrugged off the backpack cooler she’d been sporting off and set it to her other side, opening it up and rummaging through it for the foods she and Keith had provided. Keith walked over once the pack and play was put together and took the containers from her.

“I’ve got burgers and dogs here! Who wants what and how many?” Hunk called over his shoulder with a grin.

Food went by quickly enough, with Shiro and Keith helping with plate prep and getting all the kids settled in. Amber and Paige went into the pack and play without much fuss, rolling around and speaking baby gibberish with each other. Between all the grandparents gathered around, the kids all cleared their plates and remained somewhat restrained while the parents had their own meals. Once everyone had eaten their fill, the festivities really began.

They all took turns and shifts with the kids to assure there would always be someone watching their things. Matt, Lance, Shay and Keith ended up being the ones to take the bigger kids on all the big rides they wanted. Shiro, Coran, Hunk and Pidge were the ones who went with the younger group on some of the kiddie rides, with Coran filling in for Allura as she wasn’t really supposed to be getting on any rides while pregnant. The grandparents treated all the little ones to sugary dessert snacks afterwards, and then they all took turns taking them to play the games.

Once Pidge determined which booth was the face painting booth, the kids were all adamant that everyone had to get something painted on; parents and grandparents included.

They had just finished up getting their patterns put on when Keith noticed a few of the pyrotechnics workers heading over to the designated firing zone. “Looks like the show’s about to start,” He commented.

Pidge followed his gaze before nodding. “Okay, kids, line up and hold hands! We need to get back to our spot!” She called, turning around and addressing the whole cluster of their little congregation.

It didn’t take too terribly long to get all the children in line with adults interspersed between a few of them, with Allura at the front and Pidge herself bringing up the rear. A few onlookers giggled as they went along, the children chanting, “Left! Right! Left, right, left!” after Lance got it going. She wagered it was probably pretty entertaining, seeing a line of adults and children with their faces colored up to look like various woodland creatures marching in a line like little soldiers.

Once they returned to their spot, where Kolivan, Krolia and Coran had been waiting, staying to keep an eye on Aria and Paige, the two a little too young for their parents to be comfortable with letting them get their faces painted. While everyone else got settled in as the show prepared to start, Pidge fished out a fresh water bottle from the ice chest. She settled down on the blanket, twisting the cap off and taking a sip. “Mommy, can I have a sip?” Amber asked.

“Of course, hun,” She said, carefully handing her the bottle. After she took a sip, Kaden and Oliver wandered over, staring from Pidge to the water bottle in question with large, pleading eyes. She chuckled and motioned them both over. “Come here, you two. You’ve done a bunch of running around and having fun. Gotta make sure you stay hydrated.”

The two flocked over to her excitedly, killing the water bottle off between them. “They really did work themselves up, huh?” Keith chuckled as he walked over, carrying Ari with one arm and three more water bottles in the other. He settled in beside her and offered her one before opening another and splitting it between the three older kids. “I’m hoping things are gonna be good. I heard that Nadia and Ryan were in charge of setting the show up.”

“Yeah, they were. They were having themselves a blast getting it all figured out, from what I saw at work,” She mused, taking a huge swig from her own. She then set it aside as Amber and Kaden flocked back over to her, carefully adjusting and settling themselves in her lap. “Oh? Wanna get a good seat for the show?” She laughed.

“Mmhmm! We need to have the perfect spot!” Amber proclaimed proudly.

“Yeah!” Kaden agreed.

Oliver squirmed his way into Keith’s lap, settling in beside Ari. “Better seat!” He declared.

Keith laughed. “Well thank you, buddy,” He chuckled, leaning down to press a small kiss to the top of his head. There was a crinkling of static sound far off and he perked up. “Oh, here we go.” He breathed softly.

There was an incredibly brief speech thanking those that had contributed to the planning and commencing of the event for their time, thanking the attendants for coming in, and then a promise that the show would be stunning.

To say that it was incredible, though, was an understatement. The blasts told little stories, the explosions somehow taking the shape of various alien creatures. Some of them were moments in time for other alien species - which Pidge had fun whispering to the kids - while others told stories of the Paladins of Voltron. The smell of sulfur and smoke was a touch overwhelming, but it was still stunning. The final blast was one that formed a large, flickering Voltron standing with sword at the ready to best any new opponents on the horizon. The kids all squealed and cheered, but Pidge noticed Amber gawking in wide-eyed silence, lips turned up in a huge grin.

They stayed until the last ember completely faded from the sky, leaving a smoky haze covering the sky above them. They all packed up, even the kids that were big enough to pitching in to help get things settled. Ari, Paige and Kari were out like lights by the time everything was said and done. “Oh, poor sleepy babies,” Pidge cooed softly as she buckled their little girl in. She then perked up when she saw Amber, standing in the center of where their little area had been set up, still staring up at the sky. “You okay there, Ber-Ber?” She asked.

“Yeah. I’m just… I wanna watch the stars for a little bit,” She said quietly.

She exchanged a glance with Keith. Krolia looked over at the two young parents, then looking back down at her oldest grandchild. “I’ll stay with her so she can watch for a little while longer, if you want,” She offered.

“Are you sure? I mean, you and Kolivan are probably ready for bed after you travelled all the way out here,” Keith said worriedly.

She chuckled and waved a hand at him. “I’ve done more with less sleep. Staying up a little longer won’t do me any harm,” She reassured before heading over to Amber. She waved at the others as they headed out to get their cars loaded back up. She waited until they disappeared over the hill before settling in the grass, crossing her legs in front of her. “Here, my tiny comet. It’ll be more comfy than standing.” She said, picking her up and settling her on her lap.

Amber beamed up at her before leaning back and relaxing against her. “Nana Olia, you’ve travelled all of space, right?” She asked, her voice barely above a whisper.

“Not all of it,” She giggled, “but a lot of it.”

“That must have been a lot of fun,”

“There was a lot of interesting things to learn, but to be honest? I’m happy that I’m done with all that travel,”

“Really? But why?” She tilted her head up to look at her better, clearly surprised.

“Because now I can come by and see your Daddy, and see all of you. If I was still travelling, I wouldn’t be able to spend as much time with you all as I like,” She hummed, smiling down at her. She looked back up at the sky. “The stars are nice, though. Here, let me show you where to find the constellations.” She said, indicating the black expanse with tiny, flickering lights above them.

[cats-obsessions]

Merry Christmas (Part 1)

Porter Gage/Female Sole Survivor

Summary: Overboss, Cathleen Winter, throws a Christmas Eve party and things get a little out of hand, prompting her to prepare a special surprise for Gage on their first Christmas working together.

Warnings: Part 1 contains mild violence. Feel free to skip to Part 2 if that bothers you! :)

* * *

It was Christmas Eve, and Nuka World overboss Cathleen Winter was throwing a party to commemorate both the holiday and the taking of all five parks. It had been three months since the new boss had come to town, and everything was beginning to look better for the gangs; they had new land and increased income as Cat adjusted their tactics to more business like pursuits- mimicking those she used in past work for pre-war mobs.

Life was good.

Strands of Christmas lights hung from nearly every surface in the Fizztop Grille per the boss’ request, a large Charlie Brown Christmas tree that Gage helped her get was propped up in the corner. Bowls of punch, bottles of booze, and a variety of snacks laid out on the counters for the taking as a pitiful holiday buffet. Some bosses and several of each gang’s most trusted people scattered around the room, mostly keeping to their own factions. Others that helped or advised also enjoyed the party, including Shank and Maddox- a gang favorite.

Cat sighed as she scanned the crowd for Gage. She wouldn’t be surprised if he left already. He wasn’t a fan of people. Well, most people, anyways. The two of them had become exceedingly close over the months Cat had been there. She often felt like he was the only person in the Commonwealth that understood her.

Shank’s voice snapped Cat out of her thoughts “Hey Boss, you’re looking nice tonight.”

The petite woman was wearing a form fitting black dress with a slit up the side- one of her nicest dresses from her collection of preserved pre-war fashion.

“Oh, thanks” she said half heartedly. “Are you enjoying the party?”

“I’m enjoying the view.” He responded, his words more noticeably slurred, stepping closer toward her.

Cat could feel the hairs on her neck stand on end, warning her to be cautious. She had a reputation as one not to be messed with, but she tried to remain cordial with others until they had misstepped far enough to warrant punishment.

She decided to test him. “The Park is nice at this time.”

“Yea? I could show you something nice.” He leaned toward her closer.

“Not interested. Beat it, jackass.” She said coldly, stiffening every muscle in her body, suddenly overwhelmed with the feeling of disgust and anger, unable to shake off the unavoidable sensation of fear that came with unwanted propositions.

“Oh come one, pretty girl.” Shank swayed slightly as he haphazardly stumbled forward, his grubby hand landing on her ass.

Instantly, Cat pushed the drunk man away from her forcefully. Like a blur, the next thing she saw was Gage’s fist connecting with Shank’s face. The force of the blow threw Shank to the ground, but he didn’t give up so easily. He lunged himself at Gage and the two exchanged blows in an aggressive competition for dominance. As Gage was landing more punches than he was receiving, Cat stood back and watched. She was no stranger to gangs, even if raiders functioned differently than mobsters, this wasn’t something she should interrupt without due cause, so she feined calmness.

It wasn’t until Shank was on the ground with bloodied mouth that he pulled out a large knife from his boot.

“I’ll fucking kill you for that.” He spat, blood dripping down his mouth.

At that, Cat decided to step in. She was quick to kick him back and plant the heel of her boot on his wrist, pinning his wrist to the ground, causing him to drop the knife from pain.

Shank cried in pain. “Let me go, bitch!”

Gage caught on and dove to restrain the smaller man’s other arm in the same way before he could grab Cat.

She retrieved the knife,quickly plunging it into Shank’s hand and pinning him to the floor. He screamed in pain.

“You made three big mistakes tonight. Your biggest mistake was that you thought you could take advantage of me. Then, you fucking touched me!” She reached out to Gage, taking the knife he always kept on his boot and stabbing it into Shank’s other hand. The man cried out again. “Maybe I would’ve taken a few fingers for that and let you live, but no- you threatened Gage.”

“I’m sorry! I’m sorry! Please-“ He sputtered as blood began to pool on the ground.

“I bet you are. Good news, I’m feeling generous.” She pulled the knives from his wounds.

“Porter, that’s enough” she signaled to Gage to step back, which he did.

Cat grabbed Shank by his collar and heaved him to his feet with Gage’s knife to his throat as a silent threat to cooperate. She pushed him backward to the outdoor elevator and pressed the call button, beginning its slow ascent to the grille.

“Consider your treatment merciful.”

Cat stepped back before kicking Shank off the ledge, his body falling through the air before impacting the half raised elevator with a heavy thud.

She smirked to herself, turning to face the group of quiet onlookers. Mason was smiling wildly, while Mags and William looked content- which was as good as she could expect from them. Nisha was irritated as always, probably angry there wasn’t more blood, but Cat could care less.

“Parties over. You can get the fuck out of my place now.” She said forcefully.

When everyone was slow to move, Gage piped up “You heard the Boss, get out!”

Everyone was quick to leave after that while Cat stood and watched, Gage’s bloodied knife still in her hand. She knew Shank wasn’t dead; the fall hadn’t been enough for that and wounds like his could heal, but it was enough of a show to assert her dominance in the park- a constant battle with the bloodthirsty raiders.

Mason was sure to pass her on his way out. “Very nicely handled, Boss.” He muttered. “Though, you gotta give Shank some credit- at least he wasn’t too chicken to try and get what he wants… unlike Gage.”

“What is that supposed to mean!?” Cat hissed. Gage didn’t want her position, if that’s what Mason was implying. She was sure of that.

“We all see the way he looks at ya. I can practically smell the pheromones.” Mason chuckled before sauntering off with the rest of his gang. Cat only rolled her eyes in response.

Once the doors were shut, Gage’s eyes locked on her.

“You okay, Boss?”

“I’m fine, Porter. You?” She said quietly.

“I’m good.”

They both washed up quietly, removing the blood from their hands, and Cat cleaning Gage’s knife. She noticed the abrasions on his knuckles.

“Sit down” she said, motioning for the couch as she pulled out a medical kit from under the kitchen counter.

The two sat on the couch as Cat glanced over Gage’s injuries.

“I’m fine, really. It’s just a lousy fist fight.”

“You got hurt because of me. I want to make sure you’re okay.”

Gage smirked at her response. “It’s in my job description.”

“Regardless- thank you... It means a lot to me.” She said softly.

Cat reached up to the cut and bruise on Gage’s face. She placed her hand gently on his cheek and ran her thumb gently over the cut. She couldn’t help but notice the freckles that’s speckled his face or the crimson color spreading across his cheeks.

She knew that if Mason was right, her only hope for discovering Gage’s true feelings was to make a move herself. 

* * *

Part 2 here

[cinnbar-bun]

A Grand Night in the Jewel Resort Casino (Chat Noir (GBF) x Reader)

Summary: The Phantom Thief once again strikes on the extravagant Jewel Resort Casino, causing the captain of the Grandcypher to, once again, investigate. Unfortunately for her, the thief has other plans in mind. 

A/n: A story based on the Miraculous Ladybug AU post I made! I was very inspired right now and decided to type this up. The pronouns in this story are female, but if I get enough requests, I’ll make one for a male reader. Once again, comments and feedback are always appreciated, so please, keep them coming!

Note: For this story, Lyria is around 17 and you are older than 21! (I headcanon that Chat Noir is like around 21-23, so he’ll be in that age range.)

“Hey, (Y/n)! That Phantom guy is really grinding my gears! He better be here, or else I’m going to beat him up myself!” 

“Hush, Vyrn! I can’t have you screaming in my ear all night!” You hissed back to your Kwami. Your eyes glazed over the surrounding area and tried to find your nemesis. You pressed your mask up closer to your face, knowing very well that he knew exactly how you looked. 

The Jewel Resort staff was nothing short of hospitable, with the amount of drinks, tokens, and appetizers you were offered. You kinda wished you could visit without being on another escapade, it was a pretty resort after all. 

Lyria shakily hung to your side, her hair tied up in a bun as she quivered at the people around her. 

“D-do you see him anywhere?” She squeaked. You stopped walking and squeezed her hand gently, a confident smile on your face. 

“Don’t worry, Lyria! We’ll find him, okay? I promise, I won’t let him hurt a hair on your pretty little head.” She nodded and smiled back, calming down as she followed suit. 

You maneuvered expertly through the crowds of drunk, broke, and angered customers at the resort, heading straight for the bar. You sat down on a chair and Lyria did the same as well. You noticed her touch her earring and nod slightly, and you curiously leaned it. 

“Bahamut says he senses another kwami nearby...do you think that’s him?” She asked. 

“Only one way to find out. Give it a minute, he reveals himself eventually.” You boredly tapped the wooden bar. The bartender walked over to you, a glass of champagne in his hands as he placed it in front of you. 

“The gentleman over there wished to give this to you. Cheers, young lady!” He pointed to a man with brown hair, who glanced at you with a smirk and waved flirtatiously. You winked back and blew him a kiss before facing the bartender and grabbing the glass of champagne. 

You brought the glass close to your lips and glanced from the corner of your eyes to see if the man was looking at you. Sure enough, he was, the devious grin still on his face. 

“(Y/n)! Are you sure you should be drinking that?” Lyria worriedly whispered. You waggled a finger under the bar, informing her to patiently wait, before you over- dramatically yelped and jumped from your seat. You let the glass shatter to the floor as you feigned sadness, groaning about how ‘clumsy you were’. A bunny waitress hurriedly ran over with a towel, dabbing the stains on your red dress. 

“Oh my gosh! Are you alright?” she worriedly asked. 

“I’m fine dear, sorry for making this mess! Here, gimme that, I’ll clean it up for you.” You flashed her a smile and she handed you the towel, a red hue painting her cheeks. She scurried off and you sat back down, Lyria looking dumbstruck and what just happened. 

“Wow...I want to be as good as you someday, (Y/n).” She murmured in awe. 

“Oh, Lyria, you’ll do wonderful. I think you’re really great now, just imagining how powerful you’ll be in the future makes me feel so proud of you.” You cooed motherly, ruffling her light blue hair. She blushed before mumbling how embarrassing you were. 

A cough diverted your attention from your comrade and you turned in surprise. The man with brown hair was standing in front of you, a handkerchief in hand. 

“I see you dropped the drink I bought you. My apologies for giving it to you out the blue. I thought you might need this.” He offered the handkerchief with an apologetic smile, and you acted bashful. 

“Oh my, how thoughtful of you! A shame the drink had to go to waste.” You placed your fingers on top of his, and you noticed his cheeks turn pink. 

Perfect, you thought.

“N-nonsense! I can’t let a lady be wronged, especially if it was by my doing.” His confident attitude seemed to be fading, instead turning into a self-conscious wreck. 

“No sir, it was my fault. Although, I do need your help. I think a waitress accidentally undid the ribbon on the back of my dress. Do you mind?” You turned around to show him your bare back, the black sash across your dress indeed undone. 

“A-ah, s-sure thing..” He turned red and slowly let his hands travel to your waist. Lyria’s jaw was slack, curious to see what you would do next. She didn’t notice your hands slowly creeping backwards towards the man’s waist, where you quickly gripped them, flipped him and slammed him across the bar. 

Lyria shrieked in fear as you pinned him against the table, alerting guests around the area. 

“Give it up, Phantom Thief!” You yelled angrily, and the man’s shocked face turned into that mischievous smirk once again. 

“Ah, my darling Ladybug came by! So nice of you to grace me with your presence. Unfortunately, this game is not in your favor. Only way to stop me is to catch me~.” He teased, before a cloud of smoke covered you. You instantly retracted and coughed, closing your eyes and gasping for air. The guests around you screamed and you heard the shuffling and toppling over of tables, glasses, and chairs. 

“(Y/n)! I got you!” Lyria tugged you away from the commotion and checked to see if you were okay. 

“T-thanks...” You panted out gratefully, and Lyria nodded, a newfound determination in her eyes. 

“Is he always like this?” She asked. 

“This is pretty tame compared to the other times. Doesn’t mean it’s any easier, though. Come on, let’s get going before he causes more trouble.” You dusted off your dress and blindly ran towards the back of the casino. 

“I feel him close by!” Lyria shouted, pointing at a door at the end of the long corridor. 

“Got it. Stay alert, he doesn’t fight fair.” You readied a dagger in your hands and started to slow down. 

“W-wha? Why are you-” You grimaced at Lyria and placed your hand atop your mouth. 

No sound, you mouthed. She nervously gulped and shakily got out her weapon, a blade that looked similar to a white feather. She jumped when she felt you place a hand on her shoulder, the same reassuring smile you always gave her on your face. She was relieved to have you as a sort-of mentor. 

You crept towards the door slowly, pressing an ear on the surface to make out any noise on the other side. It sounded safe, no ticking time bombs, no bullets being placed into a revolver, and certainly no cackling. 

Turning the knob slowly, you were shocked to find a bunch of roses arranged into a large heart. In the middle of it was a pink card with a heart shaped sticker attached to it. You quickly sniffed it and smelt the familiar scent of his perfume. 

“Roses? Are they poisonous?” 

“No, he does this all the time. He’s just a drama queen.” You sighed and opened the card. 

‘My dearest Ladybug, 

It makes my heart beat at the thought of you being here! You’re so dedicated to the cause, I just knew you couldn’t resist the opportunity to capture me! As we all know though, a ladybug is no match for a cat, but perhaps you can change that? Here’s your first clue; I’m at where we first met. Can you believe it has been a year since you’ve been stopping my heists? To commemorate this wonderful occasion, I gave you a hundred of the skydom’s finest roses. Shame that none are as pretty as you. 

See you soon, 

Chat Noir.’ 

Lyria noticed you grumbling about how stupid he was, but saw the faint blush on your cheeks. 

“W-well at least he was kind enough to give you a hint! Uh, so, where did this meeting take place?” 

“A hotel room? That’s where your first meeting took place?” Lyria screamed, her face turning red. 

“No! Well yes, but not exactly. He was pretending to be room service and clean my pillows. They had a disgusting perfume smell on them. Little did I know, it was him who put it there.” You recalled that day perfectly, and if it was any constellation, you would’ve found it funny-if it weren’t for the fact almost every other day he was trying to grab your attention. 

“Is he supposed to be here or something? Did you maybe get the wrong room?” Lyria questioned, finding nothing out of the ordinary in the hotel room. 

“Lyria, he’s a bit of a tease. He most likely left a clue here. Keep your eyes peeled and check around the room.” You ordered, shifting through some of the drawers. 

Lyria decided to check the bed, thinking that if the Phantom Thief was as sentimental as he seemed to be, the next clue would be on the pillow. While you were focused on a pile of books on the nearby shelf, she swung the blanket away from the mattress and examined it. Sure enough, there was another card, the same pink envelope with a heart sticker on it, as well as the strong perfume. 

‘My little ladybug, you remembered! I hope this means you treasure my existence as much as I do yours? Perhaps you’ve, in fact, grown to love this game of cat and mouse? I propose another game to you, my dear. Under the big, red book on the shelf there is box. Crack the code and you’ll find the next clue! I have faith in you, darling!

-Chat Noir’

“Ah-ha! I found something!” You victoriously cried out. You jogged up to Lyria and showed her a wooden box about the size of a pencil case. 

“That’s what he said in the note! We gotta figure out how to open it so we can get the next clue.” Lyria explained, and you hummed in agreement as you placed the box on the bed and sat on your knees to figure out the combination. 

“Is that all he said?” You rose your eyebrows, finding it suspicious that nothing else was mentioned. 

“Um...it was mostly him calling you ‘dear’ and telling you ‘good luck’.” 

“Damn it,” you hissed bitterly, “he’s toying with me again.” 

“Why does he compliment you so much? First the roses, now this. I think he likes you.” Lyria shrugged, hoping you wouldn’t yell at her for pointing out the truth. 

“No he does not! He just likes acting like a phony! That’s it he is! Might as well be called the Phony Thief.” You harshly replied. Lyria noticed how red your cheeks were, along with how quickly you tried to deny her observations. 

“(Y/n)...do you like him too?” She bit her lip, sad you had to go through this turmoil. 

“No I don’t. He’s just another bad guy on the run. It’s my job to put him behind bars.” You responded, not even bothering to glance at her as you fiddled with the lock. 

“Doesn’t sound like that...” she murmured under her breath. You angrily huffed and tried numerous codes randomly, not even thinking through a proper answer to his riddle. 

“Damn him! I hate him! I hate him! I hate him! Why can’t he just be forward for once? Why must he put up these stupid codes and waste my time?” You screamed rhetorically, chucking the box to the other side of the room. You placed your head in your hands and mumbled incoherently. 

Lyria was shocked to see you in this state. All this time she had known you, she had thought of you as someone so strong, so brave. Almost nothing made you crack, you were always there with a smile on your face and a determined outlook on life. To see her mentor, her partner, and most of all, her best friend, reacting so poorly made her heart break. She huddled over you and hugged you tightly, trying her hardest to help you relax. 

“(Y/n), please don’t cry. Come on, we’ll solve this together, right? We always do.” She whispered reassuringly. 

“He’s just gonna keep escaping me, like always. He’s the only one who I can never catch, no matter how hard I try. I just...I just...” you threw yourself into Lyria’s shoulder and began crying. 

“W-well, now you have me! Two heads are better than one!” She tried to smile. 

“You don’t understand...”

“What’s there to understand?” 

“I-it’s complicated...it’s an adult thing...” you pathetically smiled. 

“(Y/n), I’m an adult now. I’m grown up, anything you go through, we go through together.” 

“I-I...I’m sorry for acting like this it’s just...” You couldn’t finish and instead buried your head further into her shoulder. 

“There, there. Cheer up, okay? It’s my turn to help you now.” She stared into your eyes, a newfound determination in her actions, which made your heart swell with pride. 

“Oh, Lyria...you’ve grown so much.” You gripped her hands affectionately and sniffled as you blinked away the rest of your tears. “I’m so proud of you. You’ll be a fantastic hero.” 

Lyria couldn’t help but smile at your kind words, and she picked you up gleefully. 

“So, what did the box say? What could the combination be?” She asked. You frowned a bit and picked up the box, as well as a little note on the side of it. 

“I+L+O+V+E+Y+O+U”

Lyria gasped. So that’s what got you riled up. She stared at the note and racked her brain for any conclusion. 

You did the same as well, the previous anger subsiding as you focused on the case with Lyria. 

“I got it!” You exclaimed, quickly shuffling around for a writing utensil. 

“W-what is it?” She asked, struggling to put together what you were doing. 

“I can’t believe it slipped my mind!” 

“What? What slipped your mind?”

“The letters represent numbers from their place in the alphabet! I was so blinded by the message that I didn’t even think about it!” You smiled at yourself for coming to this (embarrassingly easy-to you at least) conclusion. 

“So...that’s uh...” Lyria mumbled the alphabet while counting on her fingers,  “9...12.. 15...”

“Plus 22, plus 5, plus 25, plus 15 again, plus 21...that should equal...” You scribbled the equation on a nearby book (on the encyclopedia of bugs, no less), “124!” You yelled, pointing at the small lock, and Lyria hurriedly jumped to the box, inserting the number on it. 

She squealed happily and flung open the small box, taking a look at its content. 

“It’s...a necklace?” She cocked her head in confusion and gently took out the necklace, a large red diamond encrusted with smaller black diamonds. It was pretty, she marveled, but she already knew who it was for. 

“Here, for you.” She smiled softly, delicately handing you the necklace as you covered your mouth in awe. She giggled at your reaction and found another note in there from the Phantom Thief. 

“‘Perhaps I wasn’t clear enough with my intentions this past year? Shame, I thought you were more clever than that. You always were good at discovering my disguises, but you don’t seem too good at reading my feelings. How you wound my heart! If anything, you should be a thief for stealing my heart like that. To make up for your crimes, I’ll steal yours as well. Please enjoy this necklace, made with nothing but the most splendid rubies I could find. I hope to see you, my ladybug, in the gardens.’“ Lyria read the note. 

You felt your breath hitch and you looked dumbfounded at Lyria. 

“Well? What are you waiting for? Shouldn’t you be going?” She teased, handing you the letter. You took it and began to walk away, but hesitated. 

“Should I do this?” You asked. 

“Why shouldn’t you? It’s going to be a romantic getaway! You might even finally put his shenanigans to rest!” She clasped her hands together and bounded slightly to your side. 

“What if he was lying?” You anxiously responded. 

“Then we kick his butt! Come on, just go talk to him!” She shoved you out of the room and wished you good luck. Maybe it was time you admitted the truth, 

You loved Chat Noir. 

You felt excited, relieved even, that you got yourself to admit that, and you took a deep breath to calm your anxiety. 

I’m going to meet you, Phantom Thief. 

You had no clue what could happen. A million scenarios ran through your mind, what if he rejected you? What if he actually did love you? Thoughts of your own bitter humiliation or a wondrous future together flowed endlessly, and with each step you felt as if you were going to burst.

As you walked down numerous hallways and rooms, you finally made it towards the Casino gardens. You had never really taken the time to enjoy it, but seeing it now, especially under the shining light of the stars and moon, it looked absolutely beautiful.

“Ah, you came.” A voice broke you out of your daydreams and you instinctively pressed a dagger to his throat. “Easy now, I know you hate me, but please, hear me out for a moment?” He gave you a wry grin and held his hands up in mock surrender. 

“Geez, you almost gave me a heart attack.” You rolled your eyes and he chuckled. 

“I see you have the necklace I gave you. Do you like it?” He seemed genuinely worried that you did not want it, but he masked it was a smirk. 

“I-I love it. A lot. It matches my outfit!” You laughed nervously. 

“Good, good. Would you like to try it on?” He stretched out his hand towards you and nudged it towards the necklace. You nodded sheepishly and turned around. He hummed carelessly as his gloved hands placed the cool metal around your neck. “There. Beautiful, as always.” 

You faced him again, and you stared into his cerulean blue eyes. They reminded you of the very sky you traveled in, and it made you feel even more hopelessly in love. 

“Do you know why I always targeted places where you’d be close to?” He asked rhetorically. 

“Now I do...all that time, I just thought you were messing with me..” 

“While I do like playing a few games, I’m certainly not patient when it comes to stealing what I want.” 

“And what is that you want from me?” 

“Like I said before, your heart. As the saying goes, keep your friends close, and your enemies closer.” He fiddled with his cane as he cockily smirked at you. 

“How do I know you aren’t lying to me?” You questioned. He seemed to falter, and he froze. 

“I guess it is something that cannot be helped. No matter how many gifts I give you, or words I write for you, there always will be doubt of my true intentions, correct?” 

“No...I really want to give you a chance. But, I don’t know if I should take this risk.” You shook your head sorrowfully. He lifted up your chin with his thumb and index finger, a shy smile on his face instead of his usual grin. 

“Don’t we always take risks? I made the risk to give you my heart, you, a hero amongst the sky. I am but a thief, one who has been chasing after a treasure that is just within my grasp.” 

“Noir...” You whispered his name, and he brought his hands to grip yours. 

“Don’t think of me as a thief in this moment, please?” He begged, his voice cracking as he continued. “I want you to see me as a man. One who adores you from the bottom of his heart. My ladybug, you are my greatest treasure.” 

“I can’t believe I’m saying this...Noir, I...I want to give you my heart. I want to see where this relationship can take us.” You blushed red at your response, embarrassed that you were actually confessing. 

“I’m glad you feel the same as me.” He sincerely spoke. 

“About that though,” You cut him off, and his eyes widened in fear, “I... I don’t want you to steal anymore. I just can’t condone that.” 

To your surprise, he pulled off his hat and bent down on one knee. 

“I might not need to be a thief anymore. I just pulled off my greatest heist yet. Perhaps, if I’m even worthy of it, I can join your side? I’m sure my friend, Nyx, would love that, won’t you dear?” He talked to a part of his hat, and it wiggled in response. 

“Your kwami is named Nyx?” You curiously asked. 

“Mhm. She’s a bit of a troublemaker herself, she usually helps me with my disguises.”

“Interesting. I’m sure that’d be useful.” You laughed. Chat Noir pulled you close to him and hugged you tightly. 

“Thank you, my ladybug. The night is still young, so how about I show you a good time?” He snickered quietly. 

“As long as there’s no stealing.” You cheekily responded. 

“No promises. I might steal a few kisses from those pretty lips of yours.” He grinned, and began walking away to the inside of the casino. 

“H-hey, wait for me!” Half-dazed, you stumbled as you ran after him. 

One thing’s for sure, your life with Chat Noir was always filled with excitement and mystery. Perhaps that’s why you fell for him, the thrill of adventure always present around him. 

[thebirdyboiler]

Gravesbeaks Week Day 3 Drabble!

Today’s prompt is protective/jealous! Like yesterday, I wanna give an art shout out to this piece. It was good inspiration, and I need more Mark climbing all over Falcon in my life! I’m humbled by the positive reception to my drabble yesterday and I hope I don’t disappoint with what I’ve got for today! Drabble under the cut! 

Irritatingly loud pop music seemed to blast in every direction. Strobe lights flashed all around and made it difficult for Graves to get his bearings. The smell of alcohol was thick in the air, like a damp fog. The falcon had never been to a club before, and this experience only made him determined never to set foot in one again! "Gnngh..." He grumbled, reaching for the shoulder of his employer and boyfriend. The parrot was in the middle of a selfie with a pair of hens Graves had never seen before in his life. The young women exchanged their peep handles for tagging purposes and went about their clubbing with large smiles on their faces. 

Beaks turned to regard his bodyguard. "Heey, Gravesy! Sheesh, if you wanted in on some selfie action, you shoulda told me! All I got was your hand!" He wrapped an arm around the other affectionately. Any other time it'd be nice but between being on the job and the awful onslaught of noise and lights all around... Falcon frowned to himself and removed the arm.

"Actually, I was hoping we could leave... I'm beginning to get a headache-"

"Whaaat? Cut this party early and just leave?!" Mark scoffed and leaned against the taller man. Waving a hand in the air dismissively, he grinned up at Graves. "That'd be bad for my image! I'd go from cool guy Mark Beaks to lame nerd Mark who reads books at home! C'mon, maybe you just need a drink or two, you know? To take the edge off! This is supposed to be fun, and you're making it very not fun." His fingers danced their way along Falcon's beak, giving him a little poke to emphasis his words. 

Ignoring the urge to nip his boyfriend's fingers, Falcon grimaced. "I don't want a drink. This place probably serves the cheap scotch! Can't we just go home-"

"Ah-bap-bap! Let's stick a pin in it, big guy!" Miming the gesture of literally sticking a pin in the air, Mark gestured to the newest group of fans waiting eagerly for a selfie. "I gotta have some face time with my people! We'll talk about this later, 'kay?" And just like that, the parrot was snapping pictures with the crowd. 

Sighing lowly, Falcon made his way to the bar and slid onto one of the cleaner stools. His hand massaged a temple, by now the throbbing in his brain seemed to be timed exactly with the bass drops of the music. Eventually it got to the point that Graves had to use both hands, continuing to rub when something touched his shoulder. 

Reacting fast, Graves raised an arm in a judo chop that was about to strike whoever had touched him! There was a startled yelp, and a duck narrowly avoided getting struck upside the face. "Whoa dude!"

Falcon's eyes performed a reconnaissance of the young man who'd touched him. A rainbow tank top, a pair of black shorts, and a skinnier physique. Hm. Probably just a harmless clubber. No threat at all. "Sorry about that. Reflexes." Arm by his side once more, he turned to fully face the timid duck. "Do you need this chair?”

"N-no, no, sorry dude." Taking a deep breath, the duck relaxed when it was clear Graves wasn't going to beat him up. "I just noticed you sitting here all by yourself. And a guy in a suit in a club...kinda stands out." The comment made the falcon a bit self conscious, rubbing the back of his neck. "Hey, it's cool! I kinda like it. It's very...handsome."

"Oh." Such a compliment from someone who wasn’t Mark felt...awkward. Graves was hardly a stranger to being hit on, but he was in a committed relationship now! 

"I'm Duncan. If you're not waiting for anybody...maybe I can keep you company? Buy you a drink?" Duncan smiled shyly, brushing his feathered bangs out of his eyes. 

"I'm actually here with someone, they're rather busy and we'll be leaving soon anyway." The duck seemed friendly enough, but Falcon would rather nip this right in the bud. Nothing wrong with a stern but gentle refusal.

"Maybe we could exchange numbers or something-?"

"HISSSSSSS!" Before Duncan could hand over his digits, a weight suddenly launched onto Graves from behind and began to hiss like an irritated snake! The bodyguard nearly flipped the offender off of his back before he caught Mark's bright yellow eyes. His pupils were narrowed into small dots, and his arms wrapped tightly around Graves' neck. His legs, the same but around his waist. 

"Oh my gosh! Mark Beaks?!" Duncan gasped, immediately starstruck.

Graves became quickly embarrassed by this turn of events. "Mr. Beaks, please control yourself." This seemed to be the wrong thing to say, as the parrot's grip only tightened. Not that it was painful for the muscular bird, but it was certainly alarming. Mark was always so mellow and worried about his image. And now here he was, gripping onto Graves as if he might fade away! 

"Mr. Beaks, can I have a selfie? My friends won't believe I actually met you-!" 

When offered the phone, Mark merely slapped it out of Duncan's hands. The phone fell down onto the floor with a clatter. Duncan stared, mouth agape as if he only just realized that the CEO was upset with him. 

"Get lost, loser!" Mark screeched with a seething glare. By now the crowd around them was beginning to take notice of the parrot's histrionics. Falcon spared only a small glance at the duck that had started all of this before he darted for the exit. Camera flashes followed them out, likely getting little else but a shot of their backs as they left.

As shameful as their exit had been, Falcon was relieved to have peace at last. No loud music, and the streetlamps above were amazingly consistent. It had taken several blocks for the parrot to relax. He had settled into holding the other as if he were giving a piggy back ride. Mark's grip slacked and he could feel the parrot's beak was pressed against his neck. Graves decided to take the scenic route back to Beaks' mansion, it was longer but they likely needed the time in order to talk. Though he refused to say a thing, just waiting for the parrot to say something. 

"Gravesy, you love me, right?" Finally he spoke, though it wasn't exactly what Graves had been expecting to hear. His voice was muffled and a bit strained. 

"What?" Graves glanced over a shoulder, but couldn't find the parrot's eyes as they were buried in the falcon's feathers. "Of course I do. If I didn't, I would have thrown you off by now."

"But...but you were talking to that guy. He was totally hitting on you and you didn't even punch him!" Despite how upset the parrot sounded, the falcon couldn't hold back a soft chuckle. "Don't laugh, it's not funny!" He returned to gripping Graves' jacket as if it were a lifeline. 

"Mark, I can decide for myself when punching is necessary. The duck was being friendly. If he made me uncomfortable or crossed a line, I would have 'punched him in the face', as you so crudely put it." The assurance didn't seem to lighten the parrot's mood at all. Frowning to himself, Graves aimed their path for a nearby bench. Once close, he grabbed hold of Mark's arms and slowly pried him off. Eventually he had the other by the nape of his cardigan, and the falcon set him down upon the wooden bench gently.

"Hmph!" Turning his face away like a petulant child, Mark continued to pout even as Falcon joined him on the bench. 

This must be serious...he hadn't even seen the other reach for his phone since they'd left the club! With a deep frown set upon his beak, Graves reached for the parrot's hand and gave it a squeeze. "Mark...talk to me. Don't you trust me?" Was this what this was? A trust thing? 

The question earned Falcon a peek from Mark. "I trust you, Gravesy, but I don't trust that guy! Or...anyone, really! Don't you know how irresistible you are?" Was the younger man being serious or just trying to stroke Falcon's ego to make him drop it? Either way, it made the older man smirk. 

"I can handle guys like him. I may be irresistible, but I can handle myself!" Two could play this game of stroking the egos. Reaching out, Graves pulled the parrot into his lap easily. Aside from a soft gasp, Mark remained quiet. Graves cupped the smaller bird's chin and tilted his face up so they were eye to eye. "Don't you know I'm all your's?"

Finally, he seemed to be getting somewhere. Mark's eyes widened before he surged forward and wrapped his arms around Graves' neck firmly. Their beaks pressed together in a passionate kiss as Mark's fingers began to roam and caress Falcon's feathers. In return, he moved to support the parrot's back, deepening the kiss, Mark’s elated trilling vibrated against the falcon’s chest. The sensation was familiar and welcome.

When their beaks parted, the two were starry-eyed. Mark recovered first, a large grin stretching across his beak. "Okay Graves, you're off the hook~! Make up selfie!" He pressed their cheeks together as he took a commemorative picture to show to all of his followers. Falcon rolled his eyes at the display, inwardly relieved.

"Perfect. Now, how about we head on home, hm?" Those seemed to be the magic words, as Beaks pocketed his phone with a firm nod. He dislodged himself from Falcon's lap and reached his hand out for Graves to grab. With a bit of effort, the parrot helped his boyfriend up off of the bench. Walking hand in hand, Mark leaned into Graves as he mentally calculated ways to track down Duncan's social media profile and ruin him.

[siggyvennett]

Bring on the Bullshit [August 7, 2019]

COMPLETE

Siggy focuses intently on the pins in front of her, lining up her throw as she draws the ball back, trying to get it just righttttt.....only for the ball to err slightly from its intended path, knocking over only one more pin, causing Siggy to let out a small groan. "Shit," she mutters out, letting Emerson and Ray step up for their turns, moving to sit down next to Mari as she takes a drink from her milkshake, looking down at her phone, where...the most useless DM she had ever received sat, causing her to furrow her brow. "Why did I do This and what did I expect?" She inquires while Ray was occupied with his roll, moving to show Mari the DM to the Guy from earlier with the bee emoji and a question mark, where all he had responded with was another bee emoji.

Emerson draws Ray into a kiss for luck, before drawing back to surprise him with a wet willie for extra luck, giving him a quick wink and light slap on the ass. "Knock 'em dead, jij sexy kleine shit," he says as he steps back to let his husband roll the ball, keeping an eye on him even as he turns his attention towards the girls. "Something up?" He asks, before seeing his own phone buzz on the table, leaving it alone for the moment, guessing it wasn't important.

Siggy jumps a bit as she sees Emerson come over, placing her phone face down as she looks at him. “Nothing, no worries, oh look! Ray just got a strike!” She announces, watching Emerson’s attention shift as he makes his way back over to Ray, doing some sort of...congratulatory something Them Thing that was their odd mix of flirting combined with shit giving, until she hears Emerson’s phone buzz again, a curiousity moving through her as she moves to grab it. “He needs to password protect his phone...” Siggy offers, before taking in the text from Octavio and the...notifications from Bee Guy, of all people. “What the...” She begins, before casting a glance over towards how happy Emerson and Ray looked, how at ease they seemed to be and just...enjoying the moment, causing Siggy to look down at the text from Octavio:

and then towards Mar. "Should we take care of this bullshit so they don't have to?" She whispers, not wanting them to hear.

Mari peeks over as she relaxes back into her seat, glancing at the weird, awkward ass DM, flashing Siggy a Look. "Tell him to show his di..." She trails off as Emerson swiftly moves in, plastering on a sweet smile as Siggy diverts him away about to move up to take her turn after Emerson until her attention is drawn to Emerson's notifications. "Tell him to fuck off, and delete it." She seriously nods back.

Siggy nods her head, moving to open up the message to reply to it, swiftly typing out a message:

before deleting it, moving to set the phone back on the table before she sees Emerson and Ray walking over. "Nice job, but...still going to get your ass kicked," she informs, trying to act Casual.

Ray disentangles himself from Emerson as he playfully pushes him, flopping back into his seat as he moves to snag a couple of cheese fries. "Take another look at the scoreboard and come back to us, eh." He snaps back, moving his head up towards the board before he feels the vibration in the back of his pocket, moving to slide it out and taking in the various messages and...the one from Emerson, staring at it for a few beats before catching sight of his phone still on the table, moving a soft smile onto his lips as he claps his hand onto Emerson's ass, "Go show em' how it's done, eh. If you want that prize..." He trails off, giving Emerson a teasing wink as he moves back into his seat, as he watches Emerson move up to take a ball. "It's a group chat, shitasses....d for effort."

"And I'll show you how it's done, too, can't stop Teaching, can I?" Emerson lowly and teasingly replies back, planting another good luck kiss on Ray's lips before giving him a light shoulder check, moving to take his turn.

Ray's words catch Siggy by surprise, moving to tentatively reach for the phone while Emerson was busy concentrating,  pulling it up, before seeing...It Was, in fact, a group chat. "Shit..." She says, putting the phone back where it had been, before looking at her brother. "I just...didn't want you having to deal with that bullshit, especially not when you jut got back, and you both seem so...happy," Siggy says, a small, warm smile forming on her lips as she says the last words, before looking at her brother. "What are you going to do about it? For what it's worth...I think you should just...let what happened happen, forget about him, and...have Emerson not worry about it, even though I kind of fucked that up on your end," Siggy offers, hoping that was Something even though it wasn't Perfect.

"Shit. Fuck." Mari mutters back, not having caught that with everything Else simataneously seeming to happen, hearing Siggy's words mirror her own, maybe even a bit Too Much. "Agreed. He had his chance to make things Right, why give him another one on His Terms, he's just probably looking to fuck shit up on your end. Selfish fuck..."

Ray slowly leans his head, from side to side as he cracks his neck a bit, feeling the snap release of pressure as he does so, the girls voices carrying over, a grin of the same ilk spreading along his lips as he hears the slamming of a chorus of pins. "Well, first things first, We're gonna smoke your asses. Devour these fries, maybe get a drink...Who knows, night's still young." He offers, before moving his gaze towards the girls, "Thanks though, for what it's worth, eh." He sincerely offers to the girls, moving an arm across Siggy's shoulders, squishing the pair along the side of him, before he lets out a chuckle at Emerson's goofy ass victory dance. "I'm learning so much..."

A smile moves across Siggy's lips as she hears her brother's words, moving her own arm across his shoulder, squeezing him in tight, before turning to look at Emerson in the middle of some silly dance. "We gotta get him in this squish pile too, andddddd....get a selfie to commemorate our impending victory, and just...this night together," Siggy replies with a smile, trying to wave Emerson over to join them.

Emerson finishes the signature move on his victory dance, before seeing the signal to come over, moving to squish in close to Mari. "You know, might as well just surrender now, buy us our victory dessert, quit while you're ahead after That beautiful strike," Emerson lightly replies to the girls, a grin forming on his lips.

Mari lets out a huff of breath as she feels the double ended squish happening, "...ughm..hateeeeee itttttt...." She groans out, even as her lips curve into a smile and a sputtering laugh moves out of her as Emerson piles in. "We die like mennnnnnnnnnn..."

"Exactlyyyy, we're still going to wipe the floor with your asses," Siggy replies, a smile twitching on her lips, happy to have a night of carefree fun with the most important people to her, her family.

COMPLETE

[flints-silver]

nobody else 

faith and buffy get matching tattoos :) (also on ao3 with my other fuffy drabbles)

*

They stumble into the shop at half past twelve, covered in weird dust and specks of blood, and a little bit wasted. The brunette slaps her hands down on the glass counter top and says, “’Kay sonny, we’d like to get some sick ass tats.” She reaches into her back pocket and pulls out a wad of bills and slaps those down on the counter as well.

“Faaaiith….,” the blonde (who’s stumbling a little bit more than her counterpart) whines as she drags her feet forward. “C’mon. You won. I’ll admit it, you’re...almost as badass as me.” She pauses as the brunette rolls her eyes and taps her foot, is that it? written all over her face. She’s trying to force back a smile though. “Okay,” the blonde starts again, hoping to be more convincing this time. “As bad ass as me. And if you let this go, I’ll--” she leans forward and whispers something into the dark haired girl’s ear (Faith, presumably) something that has the hot brunette smiling like a maniac.

“Shit. Really, B?”

“B” pulls back and smiles brightly, gazing up earnestly into the brunette’s face. “Yup. All night.” The thin teen boy who’s apprenticing swallows the extra saliva he suddenly finds is filling his mouth.

“Hmm…,” the brunette purses her lips as if thinking. “Nope!”

“What?! Faith!!” the blonde’s eyes widen in shock as she whines even louder.

“Sorry, sucker, but that’s what happens when you make a bet with me—ya gotta stick to it. I guess we both learned a little something about who can down the most shots of Jack D and who can’t. And you think you’re the badass….”

The blonde turns suddenly to Johnny (the horny kid behind the counter). “You’re not still open, are you?” She looks at him with pleading green eyes. “It’s almost one.”

“Well--” he hesitates. “We are...but we couldn’t do anything big right now. We close in an hour.”

“No worries,” the dark haired girl cuts in, “these are gonna be small tats. Matching.” She winks at her girlfriend.

The blonde huffs and stomps her foot. “Yes, that slay was cool! Yes, we did a good job! Yes, it was “wicked” when you ripped his giant purple head off!” The staff members glance at each other like what the fuck?, then shrug and go back to the more interesting show at hand. “Yes, a commemoration of...some sort is probably a good idea! But a whole tattoo isn’t necessary!”

“Hey, I just suggested it. You’re the one who made it official by offering it up for bet. And now you gotta pay up. And don’t forget…,” she grins animalistically at the blonde. “I get to pick whatever I want. For both of us.”

Fear flashes through the blonde’s eyes. “You’re probably gonna make us get a batman tattoo, or a tacky pin up, or...oh no, the demon’s decapitated head! I can’t have a permanent demon appendage on my body, Faith!”

“Chill, B, I’m not gonna do that to you. It’ll be something nice, I promise. And just be glad I’m not making you get my initials on your clit or something. That was my first idea.” She grins again and winks as Buffy’s mouth drops open in disbelief.

Johnny clears his throat. “Okay, so would you ladies like to be tattooed together, at the same time? We have two available artists right now.”

“Good idea,” the brunette says as she grabs the blonde by her elbow and starts hustling her forward. “That way I can keep an eye on this one, make sure she doesn’t do a disappearing act on me. Lead the way.”

The two girls sit down in their designated black leather recliners. The buzzing of the electric gun can be heard through the shop as one of the artists starts preparing, and Buffy starts to look a little green.

“Hey, B….,” Faith says, sounding sober and concerned for the first time that night. “If you really don’t want to, we can leave right now. Okay? I’m serious. I was just playing with ya.”

Buffy takes a deep breath. “I know. I’m just nervous. Needles and Buffy equals nothing of the good. But...I want to do it. I want something matching with you. Something that will last. I want something of you on me, forever,” she whispers as her cheeks color. “Just...make sure it’s good, okay?”

“It will be, B,” Faith whispers back as she kisses the blonde’s knuckles.

“Whadaya think, B?” Faith asks as they’re exiting the shop and admiring their new body art at the same time.

“I love it, Faith. It’s perfect.”

“It sure is,” Faith agrees. “The chosen two.” She looks down at where the words are tattooed in matching, sleek cursive on both of their left ankles. “Because nobody else coulda done what we did, B. Nobody else can be us. We’re...just the two of us. Together. You know?” She thought that would come out a tad more romantic, but whatever, she’s never been great at this stuff.

“I know, Faith.” Buffy puts a hand to Faith’s cheek and smiles softly and gazes into her partners eyes, her own eyes glowing with emotion. “Nobody else.”