#I WILL BE THERE TO ADMIRE IT EVERY!!! SINGLE!!! TIME!!!

[strwbrychffoncke]

"i just wanted to tell you incase you forgot... 'i love you',, 3k words ⸺ event masterlist synopsis: the ways in which you tell sylus "i love you" and ways in which he reciprocates contains: lnds sylus x mc?reader (fem in mind but she/her is used like once or twice) ,fluff! ,kitten/sweetie used as pet names ,domestic!sylus feel ,cuddling ,playful banter ,baker sylus ,incorrect evol use but its wholesome ,sylus chases u around ,twins feature ,not much to say other than soft!sylus being in love w u / both of u being lovesick for e/o + twins shenanigans at the end (i think thats it) note: (mostly edited ,will check back later) added this track last minute but immediately knew who i wanted to write it for. first fic of the event woooo~ :x

-

sylus wasn't a man of love-filled sentiments.

or at least, that's what you'd initially thought.

a man like him, the big bad leader of onychinus, someone who was above everyone else and the most sought-after criminal, wielding a steel-cold gun in one of his bloodstained hands...

someone like that didn't know love, surely.

but oh, how wrong you were.

you were the only one that knew, under all of that tough exterior, the true tenderness that lied beneath it.

and you were the sole subject to it, from the very beginning.

-

you woke unceremoniously in a bed that was not your own, surrounded in a blanket of warmth but not solely due to the comforter surrounding your plush body:

it was mainly due to the otherworldly individual beneath you, who you were using as your personal body pillow of sorts.

you stir, letting out a small groan before peeking your eyes open to catch a glimpse of the man before you.

the big, bad leader of onychinus, sleeping soundly in bed next to you, arm firmly wrapped around your waist and your head comfortably planted on his chest— your favorite makeshift pillow.

you can't help but to smile at the sight.

feeling a touch mischievous, you begin trailing your fingers, touch featherlight, up from his waist towards his chest and back down, slowly shifting to drawing mindless shapes in the expanse of exposed skin.

he doesn't react to your touches, still deep in sleep, so you change your tactic.

you drag a single index finger up, up, up past his slender waist, then his slowly rising and falling chest, his pretty neck then up towards his sharp jawline to poke at his cheek.

he grunts in his sleep, but nothing more.

you let out a huff, lifting your head up and staring at the serene expression on his face— even lost in the land of dreams, you couldn't help but to admire every feature of his visage.

a couple of minutes pass by just like this until you decide you're feeling a little bored again.

so you repeat your earlier action, dragging your finger up slowly, slowly, just about to poke his cheek again—

when your wrist is swiftly caught by a warm hand before you reach it.

"it seems my dream of a kitten mistaking me for a toy wasn't a dream after all."

sylus' crimson eyes crack open to look directly into your bright (albeit still slightly-sleepy) ones, heart full at the little playful smile you're sporting.

"she seems bored," he muses, thumb from the hand still gripping your wrist gently caressing your knuckles back and forth— a subconscious habit whenever his hands hold yours.

"should i entertain her?"

his question goes unanswered as he shifts over on his side while letting your hand go at the same time, causing you to slip from your spot on top of him to behind him, facing his back.

"—or leave her to her own devices?"

"sylus!"

your laughs are airy, quickly enveloping the spacious bedroom, and sylus finds himself smiling at the sound.

you don't leave him alone for long, quickly pressing against him and hugging his large frame from behind.

sylus releases a playful scoff. "is this a new attack of yours?"

"yeah, you can't escape, i'm going to stick to you like this forever and ever!"

"how touching," his voice is filled with amusement. "i think i can get used to this..." he trails off, smile evident in his words.

you stay that way for awhile when you decide to repeat your earlier actions in the new space, retracting a hand as you begin to draw shapes into his back this time. at the same time, sylus begins to hum whatever song is on his mind, eyes shut as he revels in your touches, neither one of you in a rush to get up from this sacred space for two.

"what are you drawing, kitten?"

your finger dances across the bare canvas of his back.

"guess," you answer simply as you continue.

he lets out a huff of a laugh. "not going to make it easy for me, are you?"

you hum in response, dragging your fingers to create imaginary lines over the muscles.

"is this... a kitten?" you can almost hear the raise of his eyebrow and see the funny yet curious expression on his face.

"oooh, i didn't think you'd get that one. how about..."

your finger traces several lines again, taking your time before you stop and wait for his answer.

"hmmm..." the way he's concentrating trying to figure it out fills you with amusement like no other.

"a... plane?"

"wrong, it was mephisto!"

"..it was close."

"are you calling mephisto a plane..?"

"..let's move on to the next one."

a hearty laugh rings out as you pretend to erase the image.

"wait until i tell him~"

"you wouldn't dare," he jokingly threats, causing you to only giggle back in response.

you decide on something much simpler this time.

your movements are slowed as you start near the center, drawing a tilted line outward and up before curving it inward and mimicking the same on the opposite side, connecting them to form a heart.

i love you.

a short, amused laugh leaves him, immediately recognizing the shape, but shaping a question instead of an answer.

"i'm not too sure, sweetie. might have to try that one again," he says, voice soft and tender, a hint of a smile within it.

say it once more.

so you do.

you repeat your action, slower, drawing another imaginary heart on his bare skin and within it, your unspoken promise of devotion towards him.

i love you.

this time, he turns around to face you, pulling you flush against him. you let out a short laugh before its devoured by his lips on yours, caught in a dance of love and devotion, giggles bubbling out of you between the breaks as you try to catch your breath while he needily chases your lips.

and the message he wishes to convey is clear as day.

i love you, too.

-

someone like him was the last person you thought you'd ever associate sweets with.

but after the time spent together, you find it hard to imagine anyone else cautiously reading the instructions, mixing the ingredients precisely, and carefully readying the icing for the fresh cupcakes that have come out of the oven and are left cooling nearby, except for him.

you tiptoe into the kitchen, watching him prepare a piping bag for the freshly-made icing he's made while he hums (when you asked him why he goes through the trouble of making it from scratch, he countered by asking "doesn't it taste better when you put in the work for something?" and despite playfully scoffing at the little smirk he offered, you couldn't help but to agree with him).

you smile at his focused expression, reading glasses perched on his nose, some remnants of ingredients spotting his clothes as he decides on which icing tip to use for these particular cupcakes (the last time he made them, they resembled simple flowers. based on the icing tip he was inspecting now, it seemed he was going to try for roses this time).

now just a step away from his back, you reach out both hands, index fingers out as you poke both sides of his lower back at the same time.

he jolts at the sensation, small gasp emitting from his lips and shock washing over him as he cranes his neck over his shoulder to catch your satisfied smile.

"another sneak attack, kitten?"

"i couldn't resist."

you step up beside him, taking a peek into the bowl filled with icing.

"red this time? i would've never guessed."

he scoffs, smiling.

"am i that predictable to you?"

"well, after spending so much time together, its only natural, right?"

"its bad if an enemy learns to read you so easily; who knows what trap will be set in the future."

"you're right," your words trail off as you step back, causing the sly crow before you to raise a brow.

"they can plan an attack when you're vulnerable, like—"

behind him again, you jump forward, wrapping your arms around his waist.

"this!"

his hearty chuckle rings through the kitchen.

even if he saw your intention from the start, he made no move to stop you. he'd surrender to you if you so much as asked.

"so? what will you do with me now that i'm caught?"

"hmmm..."

you hum in thought, noticing sylus has picked up the piping bag and was inserting the icing tip into it, getting ready to fill the bag with the red icing.

he's waiting for your answer when one of your hands reaches forward, dipping your finger into the icing bowl and quickly withdrawing your arms, swiftly turning around—

when you feel yourself being lifted into the air.

you let out a surprised squeal, giggling as you thrash around in the hold of sylus' evol, said man's attention still on the icing bag as he scoops a dallop of red into it.

"such a naughty kitten," he says, evol pulling your suspended body over to him slowly as you laugh the entire way.

"and naughty kittens deserve a punishment," as he speaks, he dips his own finger into the bowl of icing, red now gathered onto the tip before looking up at you through the rims of his glasses.

realizing what he's planning, you thrash around to no avail within the confines of his evol, trying to create distance between you two.

"nooooo! im sorry! please- aha, hahaha! sylus!"

your attempt is futile, sly smirk curling on sylus' lips as his finger moves closer and closer to your smiling face that's trying to inch further and further away, pressing his finger right onto your nose, painting it in red.

"noooooo!" you whine, sylus chuckling in amusement.

"how cute," he muses. "maybe this will teach you to behave in the kitchen."

he finally lets you down with his evol, eyeing you as you're standing upright and before him once again.

"now, go and wait till i'm finished, i'll even let you have the first taste," he bargains, turning his back to you and walking back towards the icing bowl.

despite this, a smirk plasters itself onto your face as you creep your way up behind him once again, red icing still staining your finger from moments ago stretched out, ready to paint his cheek—

"i thought i told you to behave."

despite the countless attempts to catch him by surprise attacks, he knows what you're saying through them:

i love you.

your wrist is easily caught in his grasp, stopping your attack before it can hit his cheek, a displeased groan emitting from your throat.

he brings your icing-covered finger close to his lips, lapping at the red. you watch as it momentarily stains his lips before his tongue licks them clean, humming at the flavor.

"it seems.. better this time, don't you think?" he turns, looking down at you.

you huff out a breath, trying to hide your embarrassment at his little action.

"be patient, kitten, i'll be done soon enough..." he trails off, hand unraveling from your wrist. "or do i have to restrain you?"

"i'm going, i'm going!"

with that, you scurry out of the kitchen to wait in the living room, sylus' amused chuckle surrounding the kitchen soon replaced by his soft, mindless humming once again.

i love you more.

-

a man of his caliber having a playful side seemed like a far-fetched idea.

until you experienced it for yourself.

and since the very first time, you're convinced he may be the most playful person on the entire planet.

to be fair, you kind of expected this, after all, its not like it was the first time.

but when you snatched a cupcake when his back was turned and took a bite, you didn't expect him to notice— at least, not right away.

but he did, and when he began counting, you instinctually bolted out of the kitchen, cupcake still in hand, giggles trailing behind you, determined to not be caught by him.

you dashed past the living area, two crow masks peeking up from their spot on the sofa and shifting to another figure— their boss— who was trailing behind you, watching until your figures disappeared down the long corridor of the hall.

"i give her five minutes," kieran pipes up, turning towards his brother.

"i give her three!"

"you're on!"

. . .

even as you dash down the halls, careful not to hit anything and running in scattered directions, it doesn't take long for sylus to close in on you.

you make it to a lounging area, movements slowed from the amount you've ran in the past couple of minutes, beginning to catch your breath after not sensing him around when you feel a weight on your shoulders.

"caught you."

"...!"

he's equally out of breath, taking a few moments to even his breathing, leaning against you more and more before pushing your body down onto the sofa. you fall back on the cushions with a short oof! still in the midst of catching your breath before sylus lays what feels like his entire weight right on top of you.

"sylus!"

you push against his broad chest, completely crushed by his beautiful build of a body, laughter ringing through the living space at your futile struggle against the smirking man above you.

"it seems a little kitten is stuck," he heaves a couple of breaths. "what are you going... to do about it?"

"get... off!" you laugh.

"i'm tired after all of that chasing... not to mention this is comfortable for me," he takes a couple more breaths, looking down at your slightly-sweaty face. "so i'd rather not."

"you're heavy, sylus!"

you weakly hit at his chest when he closes his eyes, pretending to fall asleep on top of you.

"sylus!"

slowly, he lifts himself up with his arms, hands planted flat on either side of your head.

"attacking me after making me chase you? how very cruel of you, sweetie."

your breaths are mostly even now, watching for sylus' next move.

he slowly begins moving his head down, and your eyes naturally flutter closed, expecting a kiss.

he takes this opportunity to plant his knees into the sofa, shifting his weight onto them as he leans down, breath fanning your lips.

"you trust me, sweetie?" he whispers against your lips.

"always," you whisper back.

he suddenly lifts his head, arms lifting at the same time before his fingers immediately begin dancing over your midriff.

your eyes shoot open in shock and betrayal, laughs immediately ripped from your throat as you thrash beneath him, trying your best to get away despite being caged into the sofa.

"s-sy-sy- ahahah! sto-o-p! s-stop! hahaha!"

his fingers continue their brutal attack on your sensitive skin, bubbling laughter infectious as sylus joins you, pleased smile adorning his face at your current state.

he relents shortly after, allowing you to catch your breath again as he looks down at you in a daze, reaching out to straighten your hair.

"kiss..." your voice is breathless, but he catches it.

"hm?"

"you still owe me... a kiss...." you breathe out, looking up at him expectantly. "from earlier."

"ah, of course."

he leans down, capturing your lips with his, hovering over your body as your arms snake around his neck, pouring your hearts into the action. you both kiss with equal fervor, chasing each others lips, never able to get your fill of the other.

i love you.

he pulls away slowly, your legs wrapping around his waist to keep him close in fear of him leaving you all of a sudden. the look in his eyes says i'm not going anywhere, his forehead touching yours as you both breathe each other in before he tucks his head into your shoulder.

"lets stay like this... just for a bit," his quiet, husky breath hits your ear and you shiver at the sensation.

"okay," you smile, hands petting through his silver locks.

i love you, most.

and you stay together, just like that, losing track of time in the world reserved for two, heartbeats syncing up as you meld against one another, both with the shared sentiment of never letting go.

(only at your insistence of taking a shower and slipping into some fresh clothes when you think he's dozed off does he relent, slowly getting up and scooping you into his arms, making his way down the hall towards his room).

-

sylus wasn't a man of love-filled sentiments.

at least, that's what you'd initially thought.

a man like him, the big bad leader of onychinus, someone who seemed to be above everyone else, the most sought-after criminal wielding a steel-cold gun in one of his bloodstained hands—

the same hands that cradled your face, caressed your hair any chance he got, tickled you when you least expected it, carried you so lovingly at your beck-and-call, hugging you close to his chest, close enough that you could feel his beating heart—

the heart of a man who loved so wholly and completely, devoting his entire being to you.

so, despite what anyone else may think, may also assume at first glance, you knew the truth:

despite the odds, sylus was someone that knew love the best.

-

epilogue:

"so... who won?" luke turns to his brother under the crow mask.

"i did, obviously," kieran is all-too confident.

"what?!? nuh-uh, she was definitely caught in less than five minutes!"

"did we watch the same thing? that was maybe six!"

"are you.... stupid?"

"rude!"

"i didn't think you'd try to lie your way to win," luke crosses his arms over his chest.

"i am not lying!"

"are too!"

the bickering continues for a couple more minutes until luke pipes up again.

"wait, what was the prize for whoever won the bet?"

"......"

kieran is the first to speak up again.

"you know what, since you won, you can be the one to tell boss the reason so many cupcakes are missing."

"WHAT???"

later, the cameras in mephisto's eyes would relay the twins chasing each other around— just amongst the footage of them scarfing down the freshly-made rose-icing cupcakes.

-

a/n: spreading the soft sylus agenda... this is inspired by a number of domestic art/tweets ive seen if i find them ill add but.. he's so soft..... i adore him

-

[solxamber]

Requests open? By Sol? No way I will let the chance pass when you open your inbox, thank you before I see it as I know I will enjoy it! ♡

[Rook, Romantic, "Love story" by Indila]

"Love Story" || Rook Hunt

𝐅𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐲 𝐕𝐚𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐞'𝐬 𝐄𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐭

𝐒𝐨𝐧𝐠: Love story by Indila

𝐖𝐨𝐫𝐝 𝐂𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭: 570

𝐓𝐚𝐠𝐬: Pining

Rook Hunt has never known hesitation before.

He has chased, he has admired, he has loved in all forms—art, beauty, fleeting moments of divinity caught in a smile or a passing glance. But you… oh, you. You have undone him.

For the first time in his life, Rook is unable to act on his feelings. He pines, he yearns, he longs. He sees you everywhere. In the way the wind stirs the leaves, in the curve of the river bending like a sigh, in the moonlight casting its soft glow over the world—everything reminds him of you. His heart is a bowstring drawn too tight, aching under the weight of his devotion.

Sometimes, he speaks to the moon as if it were you. He whispers confessions into the night, poetic declarations that will never reach your ears.

"Ah, ma merveille! If only you knew the way my heart beats only for you."

Even Vil, the ever-graceful, ever-composed, is beginning to look concerned. “Rook, if you pine any harder, you may simply evaporate.” But what is he to do? His love is too vast to be contained, too consuming to be expressed by anything as simple as words.

And so, he does what he can. Every time he sees you, he greets you with a rose, plucked with great care from the most beautiful bushes in the garden. And every time, you smile and take it, twirling it between your fingers with a quiet “Thank you, Rook.”

Rook wants this to be your love story.

He wants to offer you his life, his last breath, his every waking moment—if it means that you’ll hold him gently, whisper sweet things against his skin, kiss him like he is the most precious thing in existence. He would do anything for this love. Anything.

And yet, he does nothing.

Not because he is afraid. No, Rook Hunt does not fear rejection. But he fears a love left uncherished, a love unreciprocated. He fears that if he dares to voice his devotion, he may startle you away like a butterfly from an outstretched hand.

So he waits. And he aches.

One evening, he finds himself by the lake, staring at the reflection of the moon on the water. It is another night spent lost in thoughts of you, another night speaking to the sky, yearning for a love he cannot claim.

But then—then—he feels a presence beside him. A warmth pressing against his side. A gentle hand slipping into his own.

His breath catches. His heart stutters.

It’s you.

You sit beside him in silence, your fingers entwined with his, your head resting against his shoulder. No words are needed. The gesture alone is enough to unravel him, to make him tremble with the sheer weight of emotion swelling in his chest.

A single tear escapes, trailing down his cheek.

And then, before he can speak, before he can ask if this is real—your hand lifts, fingers brushing against his skin, wiping the tear away.

And then you kiss him.

Soft, reverent, like the promise of a thousand whispered sonnets.

Rook Hunt has loved a great many things in his lifetime, but nothing—nothing—will ever compare to this.

And as he pulls you closer, as his arms encircle you with all the tenderness he has kept bottled inside for so long, he knows.

This is the best love story.

A love for the ages.

Masterlist ; Valentine's Event

[dreamersworldduh]

Is requests still open? If yes, can you make a Hal Jordan x M!Reader where the reader is also the member of the JL (It decided by you his powers), and Hal is casually admiring him then eventually asked to go on a date with him with a touch of smut on the end.

Sorry if I may ask for too much, please. Just take your time!! And also, love your fics!! ^^

SECRET ADMIRER

• HAL JORDAN x MALE READER

SUMMARY — Hal Jordan never expected to fall this hard. What started as playful admiration of Y/N's extraordinary power and effortless grace on the battlefield quickly turned into something more. From flirtatious banter during Justice League missions to an unforgettable first date, Hal found himself drawn deeper into Y/N's orbit. Their chemistry was undeniable, their connection effortless, and soon, one night together turned into something more—something real.

WARNING! 18+ MDNI. Suggestive Langauge. Violence. Swearing.

WORDS! 9.6k

AUTHOR'S NOTE! Sorry about the delay, but I have fallen for Nathan Scott and I have been writing about him for a bit, daydreaming but don’t worry I’m checking back into reality. Anywho, enjoy your reading✨🫶🏽

The battlefield was a maelstrom of destruction, a chaotic symphony of clashing energies, monstrous war cries, and the distant rumble of collapsing structures. Hal Jordan stood at the heart of it, his emerald-clad form unwavering as he scanned the battlefield. His sharp green eyes locked onto Y/N, a mixture of admiration and intrigue flickering within them. He had witnessed countless warriors, battled cosmic titans, and stood against the wrath of gods, yet something about Y/N was... different.

Y/N stood amidst the chaos like a beacon of untamed power, an enigma of both human resilience and Anodite supremacy. He was neither fully mortal nor fully ethereal, yet he commanded the raw, boundless energies of the universe as though they were an extension of his own will. His body shimmered with an aura of undiluted mana, a luminous cascade shifting seamlessly between hues of deep violet, iridescent indigo, and brilliant silver. The very air around him pulsed and crackled with an intensity that made the fabric of reality quiver in his presence, as if space itself bent in deference to his power.

As the enemy forces—grotesque, otherworldly invaders from the farthest reaches of space—swarmed forward in a frenzied wave, their monstrous forms blotting out the light, Y/N barely flinched. His fingers twitched, a faint glow igniting at his fingertips before flaring into a blinding, celestial blaze. Without a single wasted motion, he raised a hand, and the energy obeyed like an extension of his soul.

A tidal wave of unfiltered mana erupted from his palm, cascading forward with an elegance that bordered on divine. It surged across the battlefield, a radiant force of destruction and beauty, sweeping through the advancing horde like a cleansing fire. The invaders were obliterated on contact, their forms dissolving into nothingness, leaving only the lingering echoes of their existence in the wind. For a fleeting moment, silence fell over the battlefield, the only illumination coming from the ethereal afterglow of Y/N's unleashed might.

Hal exhaled, leaning against a floating construct of his own creation—a luminous green platform, solid yet weightless under his touch. His arms crossed over his chest, his expression unreadable as he studied Y/N. Unlike most warriors, who fought with grit, rage, or desperation, Y/N wielded his power with an effortless grace. Every movement was precise, deliberate, as if he were composing an intricate symphony rather than engaging in a battle for survival.

It was mesmerizing.

"You make this look easy," Hal finally remarked, his smirk barely concealing the awe in his voice. The glow of his power ring flickered against the radiant light of Y/N's swirling mana, two forces of unimaginable power coexisting in perfect contrast—one forged by will, the other by sheer, unrelenting magic.

Y/N turned slightly, his eyes gleaming like distant stars, depths of wisdom and unspoken power lurking beneath their gaze. The energy coursing around him swirled and coiled like a living entity, responding to his presence, attuned to his every thought. There was something both intimidating and fascinating about the way he carried himself—unshaken, assured, as if he had long since come to terms with the enormity of his existence.

"It helps when you're part Anodite," he quipped, his voice laced with quiet amusement. There was a knowing smirk on his lips, one that spoke of experience beyond years, of a power so deeply ingrained in his being that it was as natural as breathing.

Hal chuckled, shaking his head in disbelief. "Remind me not to get on your bad side."

But even as he spoke, his gaze lingered on Y/N, unable to pull away. It wasn't just the power, the elegance, or even the sheer destructive force Y/N wielded with such ease. It was something deeper—an essence, an unknowable brilliance that set him apart from anything Hal had ever encountered.

Y/N wasn't just strong.

He was something else entirely. A force that defied classification, a being that could tilt the scales of any battle with the flick of his wrist. And for the first time in a long, long while, Hal Jordan—Green Lantern of Sector 2814, a man who had faced the unimaginable—found himself in awe.

The battle was far from over, but as the next wave of enemies charged forward, Hal wasn't just thinking about victory anymore.

He was thinking about the sheer, terrifying, and extraordinary force that fought beside him.

Y/N moved like a celestial force given form, his presence exuding a raw, mesmerizing energy that bent reality itself. Each flick of his wrist sent dazzling arcs of mana cascading through the battlefield, tearing through the monstrous invaders with unrelenting precision. Their grotesque forms barely had time to register their destruction before they disintegrated into motes of nothingness, consumed by the sheer potency of his attacks.

Hal had encountered countless warriors, beings of immense power that could shake the cosmos with a thought—but Y/N? He was something else entirely. There was a seamless, almost artistic grace to the way he fought, as if the battlefield was his canvas and magic his brush. His every movement was controlled, deliberate, and yet carried an air of effortless mastery that Hal couldn't tear his eyes away from. And if he was being completely honest with himself, the way those pulses of glowing mana outlined Y/N's well-toned physique certainly didn't go unnoticed.

His admiring gaze was rudely interrupted by the sudden crackle of static in his earpiece, followed by a low, gravelly voice that carried every ounce of irritation one would expect.

"Jordan. Get your eyes off Y/N's ass and focus on taking down the creature."

Hal blinked, momentarily startled before a slow, amused smirk curled across his lips. He barely turned his head, still watching as Y/N dodged a hulking beast's attack with an effortless backflip, mana swirling around him in hypnotic waves. The smirk only grew.

"C'mon, Bats," Hal drawled lazily, leaning further into his construct as if he were watching an entertaining performance rather than an all-out war. "You're monitoring from the Watchtower. Don't tell me you're not at least a little impressed."

"That's not the point," Batman snapped, his tone carrying that signature mix of exasperation and barely restrained irritation. "The creature is still standing. Quit gawking and do your job."

Hal hummed noncommittally, but his attention was already drawn back to Y/N, who was currently dismantling another wave of enemies with almost casual ease. His luminous mana pulsed in rhythmic bursts, glowing embers of violet and silver lingering in the air like celestial dust. It was hypnotic—the way his body twisted and turned, dodging incoming attacks with liquid fluidity before retaliating with breathtaking precision.

With a knowing smirk, Hal finally responded, "Nah, Bats. He's got it under control."

On the other end, there was an audible sharp exhale, followed by what Hal could only assume was Batman pinching the bridge of his nose in sheer frustration.

Unbothered, Hal simply crossed his arms, tilting his head slightly as he continued his very important task of 'monitoring' Y/N. The way he fought—every movement sharp, yet fluid, exuding confidence in every strike—was damn near hypnotic.

"Man," Hal murmured to himself, ignoring the chaos still unfolding around him, "it's like watching a damn fireworks show. A really attractive one."

"I swear to god, Jordan—"

Hal, still grinning, cut the comm line before Batman could finish his impending threat. With the Dark Knight suitably ignored, Hal returned his full attention to the spectacle before him. After all, why interfere when perfection was at work?

The battlefield lay in eerie silence, the aftermath of battle lingering like the final notes of a war song. The once-roaring chaos had settled into an almost reverent stillness, the only remnants of the monstrous foe now nothing more than drifting embers of dissolved energy. The air remained thick with the scent of scorched earth, metallic ozone, and the residual charge of magic that had been unleashed moments prior. Wisps of violet and silver mana still crackled in the air like spectral fireflies, drawn toward Y/N's fingertips before dissipating into the void.

Y/N exhaled slowly, lowering his hand as the last flickers of power receded beneath his skin. His breathing was controlled, steady—though there was no denying the sheer force he had just wielded. His presence alone radiated energy, a quiet yet commanding force of nature.

From above, Hal Jordan let out a low, appreciative whistle, cutting through the tension like a blade. He remained casually perched against one of his glowing emerald constructs, arms crossed, his ever-present smirk tugging at the corners of his lips. "Well," he drawled, "if that wasn't the most graceful ass-kicking I've ever seen, I don't know what is."

Y/N turned slightly, the corner of his mouth twitching upward in mild amusement. "You could've helped, you know."

Hal pushed off his construct, activating his ring once more as he floated down beside Y/N, his green aura casting a soft glow against the residual shimmer of mana in the air. "Oh, trust me, I was helping." He grinned, gesturing toward himself with mock grandeur. "Moral support, expert-level commentary, and, most importantly, making sure you looked damn good while doing all the work. Arguably the most important job out here."

Y/N rolled his eyes, but there was no real annoyance in the motion. "Right. Sure, Jordan."

Hal chuckled, but there was something else in the way he looked at Y/N now—a lingering glint in his eye, something just beneath the surface that he wasn't quite ready to name.

With the battle won and the city below now secured, the two of them lifted effortlessly into the sky, breaking through the upper atmosphere with practiced ease. The world fell away behind them, fading into the vast stretch of space. Up here, beyond the chaos and destruction, the universe stretched infinitely before them, stars glimmering like scattered diamonds against the endless black. It was quiet, the kind of quiet that only existed in the void—heavy, yet peaceful.

Hal flew alongside Y/N, hands resting behind his head in a seemingly relaxed pose, though his gaze kept flicking toward him every so often. The glow of Y/N's mana still pulsed faintly around him, a subtle luminescence that made his features stand out against the cold backdrop of space. Hal felt something tighten in his chest—not in fear, not in unease, but something else. Something unfamiliar. He had seen power before. He had seen warriors, legends, gods. And yet, there was something about Y/N—his presence, his confidence, the way he carried himself like he belonged among the stars themselves—that made Hal pause.

He wasn't sure what it was. And frankly, he wasn't sure he wanted to analyze it too deeply just yet.

Instead, he opted for what he did best—charming, casual, and just a little reckless.

"So," Hal began, tilting his head slightly as he turned toward Y/N, "I was thinking... We've saved the world, kicked some serious ass, and probably made Bats roll his eyes so hard he's given himself a migraine." He paused, purely for dramatic effect, watching the faint curiosity spark in Y/N's expression before continuing, "Seems to me like we deserve a reward."

Y/N arched an eyebrow, smirking slightly. "And what exactly do you have in mind?"

Hal's grin widened, though there was something genuine behind it—something just a little less playful, a little less deflective. He shrugged, floating just a little closer. "Dinner. You, me, somewhere nice—preferably a place where we're not getting shot at, blasted, or dealing with some intergalactic nightmare." He raised an eyebrow. "What do you say?"

Y/N regarded him for a moment, as if considering, weighing the offer like one would a well-placed bet. Then, with a soft chuckle, he nodded. "Alright, Jordan. You're on."

Hal couldn't stop the surge of satisfaction that spread through him at those words. He wasn't entirely sure what this was—just a bit of fun, or maybe something more—but whatever it was, he was more than willing to find out.

As the Watchtower loomed in the distance, the stars reflecting in their eyes, Hal found himself looking forward to whatever came next.

As Y/N and Hal Jordan descended onto the Watchtower's pristine metallic flooring, the soft hum of their energy dissipated into the hushed stillness of the station. The docking bay, illuminated by the ambient glow of reinforced LED panels, stretched before them in sleek, futuristic elegance. Beyond the Watchtower's expansive windows, Earth hung suspended in the void—a breathtaking sphere of blue and white, small yet vibrant against the backdrop of infinite darkness. It was the kind of sight that could make anyone pause, that could remind even the most seasoned heroes of the beauty of the world they fought to protect.

But Hal Jordan was preoccupied with something far more intriguing.

"Well," Hal declared, rolling his shoulders with a lazy grin, "I'd say that was a hell of a team-up. We saved the day, looked damn good doing it, and—most importantly—I managed to score a date. All in all, not bad for a day's work."

Y/N chuckled, shaking his head as he ran a hand through his slightly tousled hair, a few errant strands still wild from the intensity of battle. "I don't know if I'd call it a 'team-up,' considering you spent most of the fight standing around and watching."

Hal gasped in mock offense, placing a hand over his chest as if wounded. "Hey now, I was tactically observing. You were putting on a whole damn light show out there—I didn't wanna interrupt the magic."

Y/N smirked but didn't press the argument. Instead, he stretched slightly, rolling out his shoulders before exhaling. "Right. Well, I'm gonna go wash up. See you later, Jordan."

With that, he turned on his heel and strode toward the locker rooms, the faint glow of residual mana still crackling in the air around him like distant static. Hal, however, remained standing where he was, hands on his hips, watching Y/N disappear down the corridor. A slow, smug smile crept onto his face.

Yeah. Today had been a very good day.

Without wasting another second, Hal pivoted and made his way toward the common area. He knew exactly who he needed to find.

As expected, Barry Allen was there, comfortably leaned back at one of the sleek, high-tech lounge tables, flipping through a stack of mission reports at super-speed. His fingers blurred as he rapidly scanned through the data, his mind processing information at an incomprehensible rate. Hal, of course, had absolutely zero interest in mission reports.

Clapping his hands together, he announced his arrival with the energy of someone who had just won the lottery.

"Barry, my guy," Hal drawled, dragging out the words as he strolled up with the confidence of a man who had just conquered Mount Olympus itself. "Guess who just landed himself a date with the most ridiculously powerful, unfairly attractive half-human, half-Anodite badass?"

Barry didn't even look up. "Please tell me it's not you."

"It is me."

Barry groaned audibly, finally setting the reports down before giving Hal a long, suffering stare. "Why do you sound so proud? You annoyed that poor guy into dating you, didn't you?"

Hal scoffed, placing a hand on his chest. "Absolutely not. It was pure charisma. Natural charm. Irresistible good looks."

Barry blinked once. "So, annoyance got you the date. Got it."

Before Hal could retaliate with a rebuttal, a much deeper, far more unimpressed voice cut through the air like a blade.

"Jordan."

Hal tensed slightly. He knew that voice. He also knew exactly how much trouble he was probably about to be in.

Turning slowly, he found Batman standing in the corner, arms crossed, the dark folds of his cape making him look as immovable as a statue. His glare was sharp, unwavering—silent, yet speaking volumes.

Hal coughed, attempting to school his expression into something casual. "Uh, hey there, Bats. You hear the good news?"

Batman's glare did not waver. "Yes. And I also heard you spent more time admiring Y/N than actually contributing to the fight."

Barry, who had previously been exasperated, suddenly perked up with an eager grin. "Oh, this I gotta hear."

Hal held up both hands in defense, his ring pulsing faintly as he gestured wildly. "Okay, first off—not true. I was supervising. Second, Y/N had everything under control. And third—" He smirked. "Can you blame me? The guy is a walking celestial light show with the body of a damn Greek statue."

Batman exhaled through his nose in what could only be described as the long-suffering sigh of a man trying very, very hard not to commit murder. "You're impossible."

Hal's grin widened. "And yet, completely lovable."

Batman turned sharply on his heel and walked away, his cape billowing in a dramatic flourish. He didn't say another word, but the tense way he carried himself screamed frustration.

Barry, meanwhile, had officially lost it. His laughter echoed through the room, full of unrestrained amusement. "Oh, man. I cannot wait to see how this date turns out."

Hal plopped down in the seat across from him, still grinning like he had just won a bet. "Trust me, Barry—neither can I."

The entrance of Celesté, one of Coast City's most renowned fine dining establishments, gleamed under the warm glow of golden chandeliers. The faint clink of crystal glasses and the soft murmur of refined conversation drifted through the air, punctuated by the lilting notes of a grand piano nestled in the corner. Everything about the place exuded elegance—from the impeccably dressed waitstaff to the delicate flicker of candlelight reflecting off polished silverware.

And standing at the entrance, adjusting the cuffs of his sleek black tuxedo, was Hal—a man who, under normal circumstances, would rather be in his flight suit or his Green Lantern uniform. Dressing up wasn't exactly his thing, but tonight? Tonight was different.

Tonight, he had a date with Y/N, and there was no way in hell he was half-assing it.

Despite his usual easy confidence, Hal found himself rolling his shoulders as if shaking off an invisible tension. It wasn't nerves, not really—he didn't do nerves—but there was an anticipation buzzing beneath his skin, a restless kind of excitement that had nothing to do with the mission reports he had totally ignored earlier that day.

He checked his watch, lips twitching into a smirk. Any second now.

And then—like the universe had been waiting for the perfect moment—Y/N stepped through the restaurant doors.

And Hal's breath? Yeah, it hitched.

The shift in the atmosphere was almost palpable. Y/N carried himself with an effortless confidence that commanded attention, but it was the way the tailored suit hugged his frame that made the whole thing downright unfair. The smooth, high-end fabric moved with him, accentuating sharp lines and quiet power, each stride filled with the kind of grace that couldn't be taught.

His hair was styled—refined enough to suit the occasion, but still holding just enough of that untamed edge to remind Hal exactly who he was dealing with. And that? That was dangerous.

For a moment, Hal just stared.

Holy. Hell.

Y/N's gaze swept across the restaurant before locking onto Hal, and just like that, Hal snapped out of it, forcing his signature cocky smirk back into place as if his brain hadn't short-circuited seconds earlier. He squared his shoulders, exuding every bit of the cool, effortless charm he was known for.

Showtime.

"Well, well," Hal drawled as Y/N came to a stop in front of him, his tone smooth, but his eyes shamelessly lingering for just a second longer than necessary. "I was already looking forward to tonight, but man—you just made my entire week."

Y/N let out a low chuckle, his lips curving into something amused, and Hal felt a flicker of satisfaction at the sound. "That so?"

Hal gestured with an exaggerated sweep of his hand. "I mean, look at you. That suit? Criminally good. You clean up ridiculously well, and frankly, I think it's kinda unfair to the rest of us."

Y/N arched an eyebrow, the hint of a smirk tugging at his lips. "Coming from the guy who looks like he just walked off the cover of GQ?"

Hal's grin widened, preening just a little as he straightened his tie. "What can I say? I had to step up my game for you."

For a fleeting second, something flickered in Y/N's eyes—something warm, something genuine. It wasn't just amusement anymore; it was appreciation, maybe even something fond.

And that? That was a win.

Y/N exhaled softly, his voice smooth as he said, "Well, you did a good job."

Hal's grin turned just a little smug as he extended an arm in an exaggerated gentlemanly fashion. "Shall we?"

Y/N rolled his eyes, but there was no real annoyance behind it. Instead, he took the offered arm, the warmth of his touch settling against Hal's suit sleeve, and together, they stepped further into the restaurant.

The golden candlelight flickered around them, the hushed ambiance of the room embracing them in an atmosphere of something undeniably electric.

And in that moment, as Hal walked beside the most ridiculously powerful, unfairly attractive, and completely intriguing person he had ever met—he knew one thing for certain.

This? This was already shaping up to be one hell of a night.

The soft hum of conversation wove through the elegant restaurant like a well-rehearsed symphony, mingling with the delicate clinking of silverware against fine china. The warm glow of flickering candlelight bathed the room in an intimate ambiance, its golden hues casting elongated shadows along the crisp white tablecloths. The air was rich with the tantalizing aroma of expertly crafted dishes, each plate an artful display of culinary mastery.

At the center of it all, seated at a secluded table near the window, were Hal Jordan and Y/N.

For once, they weren't warriors, they weren't heroes locked in battle—they were simply two people, enjoying the company of the other. No cosmic threats loomed over them, no urgent mission awaited. Just this moment, unburdened and uninterrupted.

Hal leaned back in his chair, his broad shoulders easing into the plush seat as he lazily swirled the deep red wine in his glass. The crimson liquid caught the candlelight, casting rippling reflections onto the table's surface. Gone was his usual cocky bravado—the one he wielded like a second skin in the field. Instead, he had settled into something more relaxed, the version of himself that only surfaced when there was no need to impress—not that he needed to.

After all, Y/N had already agreed to this date.

Across from him, Y/N looked effortlessly composed, his well-tailored suit somehow still pristine despite the long evening. Yet, there was something warm in the way he chuckled at Hal's last remark, amusement flickering in his eyes.

"So let me get this straight," Y/N said, setting his fork down with a smirk. "You crashed a fighter jet on purpose just to prove a point?"

Hal grinned, holding up a finger. "Technically, I landed it in a way that looked like a crash. Huge difference."

Y/N shook his head, his smirk deepening. "And your superiors just... let that slide?"

"Nah, they were too impressed I actually pulled it off." Hal leaned forward slightly, voice dropping into a smooth, conspiratorial tone. "Besides, I've always been good at getting out of trouble."

Y/N hummed, lifting his glass to his lips before taking a slow sip. "More like good at getting into trouble."

Hal laughed, tipping his glass toward him in a mock toast. "Fair enough." He set it down, resting his elbow on the table as his gaze softened with curiosity. "Alright, enough about me. I know what you're like in the field—calm, collected, freakishly powerful—but outside of the whole 'saving the world' thing, what's your deal? What do you do when you're not making Batman twitch with stress?"

Y/N smirked, clearly enjoying the question. "You mean when I'm not dealing with you flirting in the middle of a fight?"

Hal placed a hand over his heart, gasping dramatically. "Hey, I multi-task."

Y/N chuckled, leaning back slightly as he considered the question. "Honestly? I like the quiet. I spend so much time surrounded by chaos that when I finally get the chance, I just want to be somewhere peaceful. Reading, stargazing, finding those little moments where I don't have to be 'on' all the time."

Hal studied him, intrigued. "Huh. So you're the 'find peace in the little things' type?"

Y/N nodded slightly, twirling his glass absently between his fingers. "Something like that." He tilted his head, his expression thoughtful. "What about you? When you're not flying around with that power ring, what does Hal Jordan do to unwind?"

Hal smirked. "Besides annoying Batman?"

"Besides annoying Batman."

"Well," Hal tapped his fingers against the table, as if contemplating, before shrugging. "I like fast cars, good drinks, and making bad decisions in Vegas—sometimes all at the same time."

Y/N chuckled. "Somehow, that doesn't surprise me."

Hal grinned but then, after a pause, his smirk faded just slightly. He hesitated for a fraction of a second before finally adding, "But when I actually want to relax?" His fingers traced the rim of his wine glass before he admitted, "Flying."

Y/N lifted a curious brow.

"Not with the ring," Hal clarified. "Just flying. When I was a kid, my dad used to take me up in his jet, and ever since then, being in the air just... calms me down." He exhaled, a rare glimpse of sincerity slipping through. "It's the one place where it's just me, the sky, and nothing else. No responsibilities, no pressure, just freedom."

Y/N watched him carefully, his expression softening ever so slightly. "That actually makes a lot of sense."

Hal arched a brow, amusement flickering in his eyes. "Oh yeah?"

Y/N offered a small smile. "Yeah. You spend so much of your time fighting for everyone else. Guess it's only fair you have something that's just yours."

For a second, Hal blinked.

He was used to the banter, to the playful teasing, to keeping everything light—but this? This was understanding.

And it threw him off guard.

For a brief moment, neither of them spoke. But the silence wasn't awkward—it was comfortable, filled with unspoken words neither of them felt the need to voice. The candle between them flickered gently, its golden glow dancing along their features as a soft piano melody drifted in the background.

Then, because Hal Jordan had never been one to let a moment linger too long, he leaned back and grinned.

"Well, damn," he mused, flashing a charming smirk. "I was just trying to impress you with my whole 'deep, brooding pilot' side, but you actually went and got all insightful on me."

Y/N chuckled, shaking his head. "Don't worry, Jordan. You're still just as ridiculous as ever."

Hal smirked, lifting his glass. "And yet, here you are. On a date with me."

Y/N rolled his eyes, but his lips twitched into something fond as he clinked his glass against Hal's.

"Guess I must like ridiculous."

And just like that, Hal felt that same victorious spark again—but this time, it wasn't about the chase, or the flirtation, or the thrill of the moment.

This time, it was real.

And for once?

He wasn't in any rush to figure it out.

The city had settled into a quiet, comfortable rhythm, its usual chaos giving way to something far more tranquil. The distant hum of traffic blended seamlessly with the muffled sounds of laughter from late-night diners and the occasional honk of a car horn. A cool breeze drifted lazily through the streets, carrying the faint scent of rain-soaked pavement—a reminder of the earlier downpour that had long since dried beneath the glow of neon lights and streetlamps.

Beneath that glow, Hal Jordan and Y/N walked side by side, their pace unhurried, their footsteps in sync as they navigated the quiet streets.

Hal had long since abandoned the last remnants of his formal composure—his tie loosened, tuxedo jacket slung over his shoulder, and hands tucked casually into his pockets. The evening had gone better than even he had expected. Dinner had been incredible, conversation never dulled, and there was an undeniable energy lingering between them, something that had been simmering beneath the surface all night.

And Hal? He was in no hurry to let the night end just yet.

"You cannot tell me," Hal said, nudging Y/N's shoulder with a smirk, "that a guy like you doesn't have a list of crazy fan encounters."

Y/N shot him a questioning glance, amused.

Hal gestured broadly. "I mean, c'mon—you're a walking celestial light show. Someone's definitely tried to propose to you mid-battle before."

Y/N let out a soft chuckle, shaking his head. "Surprisingly, no. Though I did have someone try to start a cult around me once. That was... an experience."

Hal stumbled slightly, stopping in his tracks as he turned to gawk at Y/N. "A cult? Oh, now you have to tell me that story."

Y/N smirked, ever the enigma. "Maybe another time."

Hal groaned dramatically. "You're killing me here."

Their laughter softened, gradually fading into something quieter, something unspoken. The warm glow of the streetlights bathed them in golden hues as they reached the entrance of Y/N's apartment building. The polished glass doors reflected the city behind them, the moment suspended in time, as if the universe itself wasn't quite ready to let them go their separate ways.

They slowed to a stop, the space between them small, but charged.

Y/N slipped his hands into his pockets, glancing toward the doors before looking back at Hal. "Well... guess this is my stop."

Hal nodded, rocking back on his heels slightly. "Yeah... damn, and here I was, hoping this street just kept going forever."

Y/N's lips curved into a smirk. "Smooth, Jordan."

Hal flashed his most roguish grin. "I try." But there was something softer in his eyes now, something far more genuine than his usual bravado.

For a beat, Y/N just watched him, as if studying something about him he hadn't quite figured out yet. Then, without warning, he leaned in and placed a quick, teasing kiss against Hal's cheek.

"There," Y/N murmured as he pulled back, his voice laced with amusement. "Consider that your reward for not being too obnoxious tonight."

Hal froze for half a second, his brain short-circuiting before he blinked and turned to look at Y/N, a mixture of amusement and disbelief crossing his face. "Oh, that's dirty. You're really just gonna do that and walk away?"

Y/N tilted his head, pretending to think it over. And then—before Hal could process it—Y/N closed the distance again.

This time, it wasn't just a tease.

This time, it was a kiss—real, deliberate, and slow enough to make time itself hesitate.

It wasn't rushed, wasn't hesitant. It was confident. Certain. Like Y/N had decided something, and this was how he wanted Hal to know.

Hal barely had time to react before instinct took over—his fingers twitching with the urge to grab Y/N's waist, to pull him in, to deepen it. The city, the streetlights, the night itself—all of it faded into the background noise as Hal let himself get lost in it, in the feel of Y/N's lips against his, in the quiet intensity that had been simmering between them all night.

And then, too soon, Y/N pulled back, a smug little smirk tugging at his lips as he watched Hal try to process what just happened.

Hal blinked. Once. Twice.

Then, slowly, his lips stretched into a grin—one that was equal parts impressed and thoroughly wrecked.

"Okay..." Hal exhaled, dragging a hand through his hair as if to ground himself. "Yeah. Way better than the cheek kiss."

Y/N chuckled, his voice smooth. "Glad you approve."

Hal licked his lips absently, still feeling the ghost of the kiss there. "So, uh... where does that leave us?"

Y/N's smirk deepened just slightly as he reached for the door handle, pausing just long enough to glance at Hal with something undeniable in his gaze.

"It leaves us with you coming upstairs with me."

Hal blinked, then arched a brow, his grin widening. "Oh."

Y/N simply shrugged, but there was something teasing in his expression, something that said he knew exactly what he was doing. "Unless you'd rather go home and spend the rest of the night thinking about that kiss instead."

Hal let out a breath of laughter, shaking his head. "Nope. Absolutely not."

With that, Y/N pushed the door open, stepping inside with effortless ease, tilting his head slightly in a silent invitation.

And without hesitation, Hal followed.

The moment Y/N and Hal stepped inside the apartment, the door had barely clicked shut before Hal was on him. With a swift motion, he pressed Y/N back against the nearest wall, his body a solid, warm presence against him. The tension that had been simmering all night—through lingering glances, teasing words, and unspoken promises—snapped like a live wire, igniting something urgent, electric, inevitable.

Hal's hands found Y/N's waist, fingers pressing just firm enough to pull him in, as if closing the last inch of space between them was the only thing that mattered. Their lips crashed together in a kiss that was hungry, heated, laced with both impatience and purpose.

Y/N smirked against Hal's lips before flipping their positions in a blur of motion, suddenly pressing Hal back against the wall instead. The shift was seamless, a silent challenge exchanged between them.

"Eager, are we?" Y/N murmured, his breath warm against Hal's mouth, teasing, yet laced with something undeniably predatory.

Hal chuckled, the sound low and rough, his smirk never faltering. "You invited me up." His hands skimmed along Y/N's waist, palming the sharp lines of his hips before giving a light, suggestive squeeze. "What'd you think was gonna happen?"

Instead of answering, Y/N claimed his mouth again—but this time, the kiss was slower, deeper, dripping with something intoxicatingly deliberate. His fingers worked on the last bit of Hal's already loosened tie, pulling it free with practiced ease before his hands slid downward, working at the buttons of Hal's dress shirt.

Hal responded in kind, his own hands already tugging at Y/N's suit jacket, sliding it off broad shoulders and letting it pool onto the floor. Their movements were urgent, desperate, a battle of dominance wrapped in heated friction, neither wanting to slow down.

Somehow, in between kisses, between touches, Y/N guided Hal backward down the dimly lit hallway, their lips barely separating, their hands mapping every inch of exposed skin as they impatiently shed layers between them.

Hal let out a quiet groan when Y/N's hands slipped under his tuxedo jacket, pushing it off in one smooth motion before immediately tearing at the buttons of his shirt. The fabric slid down Hal's toned arms, exposing warm, sun-kissed skin, the sculpted planes of his chest now illuminated by the faint glow of the city skyline bleeding through the windows.

Y/N paused for just a second, his eyes trailing appreciatively over Hal's frame—not out of surprise, but undeniable appreciation.

Hal, noticing the moment, smirked, his breath still uneven. "You're staring," he teased, voice slightly breathless, though unmistakably cocky.

Y/N's lips curled into a smirk of his own, his fingers tracing slow, feather-light paths down Hal's abdomen before giving a firm push, guiding him backward until the mattress caught him. "You like the attention."

Hal grinned, reclining back on his elbows as Y/N climbed over him, the heat between them suffocatingly thick. "Can't blame you for looking." He reached for Y/N's own shirt, making quick, impatient work of the remaining buttons before pushing the fabric down broad shoulders. "But let's even the playing field."

With one final tug, Y/N's shirt joined the growing pile of discarded clothing on the floor, leaving them both bare from the waist up. The temperature between them spiked, skin meeting skin as their bodies pressed flush together in another kiss—this one slower, richer, deeper, filled with a quiet hunger that neither of them intended to leave unsatisfied.

Hal's fingers skimmed downward, his hands settling on Y/N's belt, pulling it free in one fluid motion. Y/N responded in kind, unbuckling Hal's belt and sliding it off with expert ease, the leather making a quiet whispered snap as it was discarded.

Their hands continued their exploration, neither wanting to waste a second, their movements fevered and searching—stripping away the last barriers between them one piece at a time until there was nothing left but bare skin, heat, and the raw pull of gravity between them.

Hal let his gaze sweep over Y/N, his smirk briefly faltering as something darker, more primal flickered in his emerald eyes. He had always known Y/N was powerful—he had fought beside him, seen him in battle, unmatched and untouchable—but this was something else entirely.

Y/N, catching Hal's gaze, arched a single brow, his smirk sharpening. "Not surprised."

Hal chuckled, dragging his hands down Y/N's sides, his thumbs grazing along the sharp cut of his hips. "Oh, you were thinking about it, huh?"

Y/N hummed, leaning in just enough that their lips barely brushed, a tease, a challenge. "I had my suspicions."

Hal's grin turned wicked, his fingers flexing deliberately against Y/N's waist. "Glad to know I didn't disappoint."

Y/N's fingers ghosted over Hal's chest, tracing the defined lines before pressing him back onto the mattress, their bodies following in one seamless motion. His voice was silky smooth, teasing, but dripping with something far more dangerous as he murmured,

"Let's see if you live up to the attitude."

Hal let out a low, pleased chuckle, his gaze dark with undisguised anticipation. He propped himself up just enough to meet Y/N's lips again, his hands already sliding over bare skin, tugging him closer, claiming him with the same reckless confidence that had always defined him.

"Oh, trust me," Hal murmured against Y/N's mouth, his breath hot, his grin devilish.

"I always deliver."

Soon the sheets beneath them were already a tangled mess, twisted and bunched where their bodies had moved, their warmth sinking into the fabric. Y/N was above him, his hands braced against the firm expanse of Hal's chest, fingers splayed over taut muscle as he moved with a rhythm that was deliberate, intoxicating, and entirely unhurried.

Hal lay beneath him, his head tilted back slightly, breath escaping in uneven gasps and quiet groans, but his eyes remained locked onto Y/N—half-lidded, dark with something insatiable. He was drinking in everything—the way Y/N moved, the way his lips parted slightly with every breath, the way his body responded with effortless control and quiet dominance.

Hal's grip on Y/N's waist tightened, fingers pressing into warm skin just enough to leave faint impressions, as if silently staking his claim.

"Damn," Hal groaned, his voice rough, uneven, as he let his hands roam over Y/N's back, tracing the ridges of muscle before gripping just a little firmer. He wasn't leading—he didn't need to. He was content to follow, to watch, to feel. "You really know how to take control, don't you?"

A slow, wicked smirk played on Y/N's lips as he continued his steady, calculated movements, his rhythm precise—teasing, yet never cruel. His fingers dragged deliberately down Hal's chest, nails grazing over heated skin before settling against his sides.

"You did say you liked a little chaos," Y/N murmured, his voice laced with amusement, but beneath it was something darker, something hungry.

Hal let out a gravelly chuckle, though it quickly dissolved into a sharp inhale when Y/N shifted just right, the change in motion sending a ripple of pleasure through him. His fingers flexed against Y/N's hips, guiding, encouraging, but never fully taking over. No—he wanted to feel every moment of this, wanted to watch Y/N unravel him piece by piece.

The room was filled with the sound of ragged breaths, low murmurs, and the faint rustling of fabric against skin, their movements measured yet deliberate, indulgent. The push and pull between them—this quiet battle for control and surrender—was a dance neither of them was in any hurry to finish.

Y/N's breath hitched slightly as he leaned down, pressing his forehead against Hal's, their lips brushing without fully meeting, teasing that last sliver of restraint still lingering between them.

"You're taking this way too well," Y/N muttered, his words a quiet taunt, though his voice was breathless, heated.

Hal smirked, his hands sliding up Y/N's spine, fingers dragging, tracing before gripping his shoulders. "Oh, don't worry," he murmured, his tone rough, teasing, edged with something smug yet undeniably wrecked. His lips barely grazed the corner of Y/N's mouth, his breath hot against his skin. "I can handle you."

Y/N let out a low hum, a sound of satisfaction, before pulling back just enough to meet Hal's gaze head-on. The moment stretched between them, their bodies flush and burning, the weight of their unspoken challenge settling in the air like the final note of a song waiting to be played.

And then—with slow, deliberate ease—Y/N continued.

The pace never faltered, never rushed, but the heat between them only intensified, growing thicker, heavier, their bodies moving in sync, breath mingling in the dimly lit room.

Then Hal decided to take control, the shift was seamless, as if it had always been inevitable. With a firm grip on Y/N's waist, he moved with fluid, effortless strength, flipping their positions in one smooth motion. The rumpled sheets cradled Y/N's back as he landed beneath Hal, the fabric warm, tangled, an echo of the heat lingering between them.

The air between them pulsed, thick with something raw, electric, unrestrained. Hal hovered over him, muscles taut, his body a solid weight above Y/N's, their breaths mingling, overlapping, heavy with anticipation. His emerald gaze burned, taking in everything—the way Y/N's lips were already parted, the way his chest rose and fell, the undeniable invitation in his eyes.

Hal leaned down, capturing Y/N's mouth in a kiss that was deep, consuming, and utterly unrelenting. There was nothing hesitant about it—only heat and hunger, only the undeniable pull of gravity between them. His hands mapped their way down Y/N's sides, fingers tracing every sharp line and soft curve, lingering just long enough to draw a shiver from beneath him.

And then, with practiced ease, he slid his hands lower, gripping firmly at Y/N's thighs before hooking his legs around his waist in one swift, commanding motion. Their bodies collided again, flush against each other, the friction igniting something deeper, something dangerously intoxicating.

The pace shifted—no longer teasing, no longer experimental. Deliberate. Controlled. Every movement was measured, but filled with Hal's signature confidence, that undeniable cocky charm that made it clear he knew exactly what he was doing.

And judging by the way Y/N arched beneath him, the way his breath hitched at every slow, precise motion, Hal knew he was right.

A smirk ghosted against Y/N's jawline before Hal let his lips drift lower, grazing the sensitive skin just below his ear. His breath was hot, teasing, his voice laced with something smug, something darkly amused.

"Thought you liked being in charge?" Hal murmured, his words dragging across Y/N's skin like a slow burn.

Y/N's hands had already found purchase on Hal's back, nails pressing just enough to leave faint scratches, little reminders of the push and pull between them.

His voice was breathless, but still laced with defiance, that ever-present challenging spark in his gaze.

"I do," he murmured, legs tightening around Hal's waist, pulling him even closer. His smirk was dangerous, eyes dark with amusement and something far more primal. "But I don't mind letting you try and keep up."

Hal let out a deep, gravelly chuckle, his grip tightening just slightly, enough to make a point. He pressed in deeper, the movement slow, precise, devastating.

"Oh, sweetheart," he drawled, his tone dripping with amusement, arrogance, and something darker, "I don't try—I deliver."

Y/N barely had time to fire back before Hal's pace changed again, the rhythm stronger, more focused, deliberate in every push and pull between them. A sharp gasp escaped Y/N, and Hal drank it in, memorized it, let it fuel the fire already burning deep within him.

Their bodies moved in perfect sync, the world outside this moment irrelevant, insignificant. The only thing that mattered was this, the way Y/N responded, the way Hal could pull him apart and put him back together with nothing but touch, movement, tension.

Y/N's fingers tangled in Hal's short, tousled hair, fisting the strands, pulling him down into another kiss—this one hot, urgent, filled with something dangerously addictive. Hal groaned into it, his hands roaming, gripping, claiming, as if trying to etch this moment into existence, refusing to let a single second slip away.

This wasn't just taking control—this was staking a claim, ensuring that every movement, every moment, every lingering breath was something Y/N would feel long after the night was over.

And judging by the way Y/N clung to him, his body tense, trembling, lost in the sensation, Hal knew he was doing exactly what he promised.

The faint hum of the world outside—the distant murmur of traffic, the occasional honk of a car horn—faded into nothingness, swallowed by the symphony they created together.

The rustle of sheets. The rhythmic sound of their bodies moving in perfect sync. The deep, ragged breaths, punctuated by gasps and murmured curses—it was a melody that belonged only to them, a song of tension, release, and something far more consuming.

And Hal couldn't take his eyes off Y/N.

The way his body arched beneath him, the sheen of sweat glistening on his skin, catching the faint light and making him look almost ethereal. The way his lips parted, breath hitching, spilling out ragged, intoxicating moans, each one a spark igniting something primal, all-consuming inside Hal.

Y/N was breathtaking.

Absolutely wrecked—but still so in control, the contrast devastatingly beautiful. His usual sharp wit, that calculated confidence, was softened now, undone by sensation, by Hal.

Hal's grip tightened on Y/N's hips, fingers digging into warm skin, grounding himself as he watched the way pleasure carved itself into every inch of Y/N's expression. His chest rose and fell in uneven waves, his head tilting slightly back, exposing the smooth column of his throat—an invitation, deliberate or not.

And god, the sounds spilling from his lips—low, breathy, sultry—made something deep in Hal's chest tighten, something raw and possessive clawing its way to the surface.

He wanted to draw out every sound, to push Y/N to that edge over and over, just to hear that perfect melody again.

"You look so damn good like this," Hal murmured, his voice thick, rough, filled with something deeper than admiration, heavier than lust. His lips found Y/N's jaw, trailing slow, open-mouthed kisses along his throat, his collarbone, savoring the way he shivered beneath him.

"Could watch you like this forever," Hal admitted, his words gravelly, reverent, pressing harder, lingering longer, lips moving with purpose, with claim.

Y/N let out a breathless chuckle, though it was fractured, unsteady, as if he were barely holding onto control. His fingers dug into Hal's back, nails dragging faint red lines down heated skin.

"Cocky," Y/N muttered, his voice husky, teasing, but it wavered at the edges, betraying just how lost he was in the moment.

Hal's smirk curved against Y/N's skin, mischievous, knowing, before he rolled his hips just right—a deliberate, calculated movement that sent a sharp gasp tearing from Y/N's lips, his fingers tightening against Hal's skin.

"Damn right," Hal breathed, voice rich with amusement and something darker. He leaned back just enough to drink in the sight of him, eyes dark with hunger.

His smirk widened. "And judging by the way you're falling apart under me? I'd say I've earned it."

Y/N let out a shaky, uneven exhale, his head tilting back against the pillow, exposing himself to Hal completely, his body arching instinctively to meet every movement.

Hal memorized everything—the way Y/N reacted, the raw emotion flickering behind those darkened eyes, the sounds that sent shivers racing down his spine.

It wasn't just about this, about the way their bodies moved together in perfect sync—it was about him.

Y/N.

Every moment with him was intoxicating, a force Hal wasn't sure he could ever step away from, even if he wanted to.

And as he leaned down, capturing Y/N's lips again, pouring every bit of that realization into the kiss, Hal knew one thing for certain.

He would never get enough.

The early morning light filtered through the sheer curtains, casting a soft, golden glow over the room. It painted gentle patterns across the rumpled sheets, illuminating the faint traces of last night—the scattered clothes on the floor, the lingering warmth between tangled limbs, the quiet, unspoken intimacy woven into the stillness.

Outside, the city was beginning to stir—the distant hum of traffic, the occasional chirp of birds, the subtle rhythm of a world waking up. But inside the apartment, everything was quiet, wrapped in the kind of warmth and serenity that Hal Jordan had never been one to chase.

Yet, here he was.

Hal inhaled deeply, stretching slightly before his mind caught up to where he was—and, more importantly, who he was with.

A smirk curled at the corners of his lips as memories of last night flooded back—every touch, every sound, every moment that had left him wrecked in the best way possible.

Yeah... he had definitely outdone himself this time.

But what really had him feeling like he was on cloud nine wasn't just the mind-blowing night they had—it was this. The quiet aftermath.

The feeling of Y/N's warm, relaxed body pressed against him, his back flush against Hal's chest, his slow, even breaths ghosting over the pillow.

Hal let his arm tighten slightly around Y/N's waist, pulling him closer, reveling in the way their bodies fit so naturally together. Y/N's skin was still warm, his bare back smooth against Hal's chest, his scent lingering from last night—a mix of something intoxicating and uniquely him.

God, this was nice.

Hal let out a deep, satisfied sigh, nuzzling into Y/N's shoulder, content in a way he rarely let himself be.

He had never been one for cuddling after sex—it always felt too intimate, too much. But with Y/N?

Yeah. He liked this.

Maybe even more than he was ready to admit.

He was just settling into the moment, relaxing fully, when it happened.

Y/N shifted.

A small, unconscious movement, the kind that happened in the hazy depths of sleep. But the effect?

Immediate.

Because Y/N had pressed back against him, his bare ass fitting perfectly against Hal's lower half, sending a jolt of awareness straight through him.

Hal stilled.

For a moment, he tried to process the situation, tried to tell himself he was a grown man with self-control, for god's sake.

Then Y/N shifted again, pressing even closer, his breathing still slow, steady, completely unaware of what he was doing to him.

Hal's grip on Y/N's hip tightened instinctively, his fingers flexing as heat pooled low in his stomach. His breath hitched, and he closed his eyes for a second, silently cursing the universe.

Oh, come on.

Hal tilted his head back against the pillow, exhaling sharply through his nose, trying—desperately—to ignore the fact that his dick had very different plans.

This is fine, he told himself. I can ignore it. I can be normal about this.

Y/N let out a soft sigh in his sleep, his body molding even further into Hal's, and Hal immediately knew—

Nope. Nope. Not fine. Not even a little bit.

His jaw clenched, his fingers digging slightly into Y/N's hip as he fought every instinct telling him to wake Y/N up in a very, very interesting way.

His options were limited.

He could either:

A) Wake Y/N up.

B) Suffer in silence while Y/N continued to sleep peacefully, blissfully unaware that Hal was fighting for his damn life.

He sighed dramatically, resting his forehead against Y/N's shoulder, his voice a low, tortured groan.

"You're killing me here," he muttered, knowing full well that Y/N was still lost in sleep, completely unaware of his struggle.

Hal wasn't sure how long he could last like this, but one thing was certain—

Mornings with Y/N were going to be very, very dangerous for his self-control.

Y/N slowly stirred from his sleep, stretching slightly against the warmth surrounding him. His mind was still groggy, lost somewhere between dreams and reality, but the steady rise and fall of a firm chest against his back made him remember exactly where he was—and who he was with.

A small, satisfied smirk tugged at Y/N's lips as last night's memories resurfaced. Oh yeah. That happened.

Still feigning sleep, he remained still for a moment, listening to the quiet sounds of Hal breathing behind him—slow, controlled, forced. It was subtle, but Y/N could feel the tension in Hal's body, the way his muscles were coiled, how his hand was resting just a little too stiffly on Y/N's hip. And then... there it was. The unmistakable hardness pressing against the small of Y/N's back.

Well, well, Y/N thought, suppressing a grin. Good morning, indeed.

Deciding to have a little fun, he shifted slightly, pressing back against Hal just enough to gauge his reaction.

The result was instant. Hal inhaled sharply through his nose, his grip tightening ever so slightly on Y/N's waist as if trying to will himself to stay still.

Y/N fought back a chuckle, but he wasn't done yet. He stretched again, slower this time, deliberately rolling his hips ever so slightly, pressing himself further into Hal's very obvious problem.

Hal let out a soft hngh sound—barely audible, but Y/N heard it. He grinned to himself.

"You awake, Jordan?" Y/N asked, voice thick with sleep, as if he hadn't just set Hal up for absolute torture.

Hal let out a slow, controlled exhale. "Mmhmm," he replied through gritted teeth.

Y/N hummed, shifting again—just a fraction, just enough to make Hal's fingers twitch against his skin. "You sure? You seem a little... tense."

Hal groaned softly, pressing his forehead against the back of Y/N's shoulder. "You're killing me, you know that?"

Y/N smirked, finally turning his head just enough to glance back at him. "Oh? Something wrong?"

Hal's fingers dug into Y/N's waist, his jaw clenched. "You know what's wrong."

Y/N turned fully now, shifting onto his back so he could face Hal properly. And damn—the look on Hal's face was priceless. His usual cocky confidence was hanging by a thread, his lips parted slightly, eyes dark with barely restrained frustration.

Y/N reached up, running a slow finger down Hal's chest, watching with amusement as his muscles tensed under his touch. "I seem fine," Y/N said, his voice dripping with playful innocence. "You, on the other hand..." His gaze flickered downward with an exaggerated slowness noticing Hal's dick hard and firm before meeting Hal's eyes again. "That looks like a problem."

Hal exhaled sharply through his nose, his hand moving up to cradle Y/N's jaw, thumb brushing over his cheek in a way that was far too affectionate for how frustrated he clearly was.

"You love testing my patience, don't you?" Hal murmured, voice low, rough.

Y/N grinned up at him. "Well, you're fun to mess with."

Hal's lips twitched into a smirk. "That—" he suddenly rolled his hips just enough to turn the tables on Y/N, making him gasp this time—"was a mistake."

Y/N's breath hitched slightly before he narrowed his eyes playfully. "Oh? Gonna do something about it, flyboy?"

Hal's grin widened. "Oh, you have no idea."

And just like that, the morning took a very interesting turn.

[niftykin]

" Each kiss breaks a wall "

RUGGIE BUCCHI - Twisted wonderland

Sypnosis: He will always know when you feel insecure, and he will always made sure that each one of his kisses break every brick you have placed in every one of your walls, once his lips caress your skin as a symbol of his everlasting love for you, he will make you feel worshipped. Soft Dom! Ruggie

Request: could I request a similar prompt (love-making, maybe reader feeling insecure?) w a dom!ruggie and established relationship? i know the prompt was from a writing event so feel free to ignore this request or change it!! have a nice day mwah mwah ❤️🍒

A/N: I have decided to get full on writing again after a writer's block that lasted a lot. I was ill, I'm pretty much okay now and I'm truly on this now, very nice, request are open

Warning: Smut, MDNI, all characters portrayed are up to 18, AFAB reader, romantic, fluff and a lot of smut, actually just cunnilingus, I say that people made sculptures after people with body like yours I don't really specify it tho, reader is insecure by a part of her body and is also not specified which.

He has seen you, he knows you, more than anything in this world— He pays attention.

He watches, he has seen how you look at yourself in the mirror, the slight distaste that runs on your pupils, how you refuse to look at certain spots of your skin, how you ignore them. He has realized how you flinch when he touches that patches of skin, he knows why that is but he doesn't really get why. People made sculptures over people like you, how could you feel disgusted over something so gorgeous— So natural.

Ruggie admires you.

His gaze makes you feel vulnerable under his knowing eyes, every blink adds a layer of tension in the whole deal. He doesn't look at you with disgust, ¿How could he? He worships your body and your body is the very extent of your soul— just as beautiful as it is. You're his soulmate, he feels at ease with you, his mind tranquil, his gaze soft, his pupils dilated like a doped man, you fit. You for in his arms, you fit in his very soul.

You're his Oasis. The water in his desert, the gold in his ambition, the one who brings light in his eyes. He loves you, ¿how could you ever think otherwise? He doesn't get it, he tried to, multiple times, but ¿why do you feel like that?.

If you don't feel welcomed in your own skin, he will let you have his. You live in his insides without knowing, every emotion, every thought, every flavor, every sensation. Everything is you.

You're his muse— he is no soldier, nor poet, nor a prince, nor an artist. But he loves just as deeply. You're not portrayed in his battles, or his poems, or his rules, or his paintings but on every single action he takes every single day, in every moment of his life, to be better. For you.

He will close your eyes when you don't want to see and he will cover you when you don't want to be seen.

So every time he catches a glimpse of you looking with distaste a part of your skin his hands cradle from behind you, his touch reverent, almost feather-like as his fingertips run over your cheeks and stop to cover your eyes. The reflection— your reflection is no longer visible for you, but for him. His lips travel over your skin softly, his words like a soothing balm to your very soul: "You're beautiful", like a bandage in a wound.

The bandage won't heal the wound, but it will help to stop burning.

The kisses won't make your insecurities fade away, but they will show you that not everyone hates that part of your body. That you are beautiful. That you are oh so very loved.

Then, he will lead you to the bed, lay you on you back as he watches you with pure devotion glimmering in his eyes, the malice he shows when he laughs at Leona or anybody else is completely gone in this— your chambers. His lips curving themselves in a soft smile as he looks down at you, his head tilted and his tail swinging calmly "I love you" he would say while he looked at you right on the eyes.

He would kiss you after, a soft kiss in the lips that only lasted a second, it burnt but it didn't hurt.

You laughed. He did too.

Then, he leaned for another, and then another, each one being slightly longer than the last, his fingertips moving over the patches of skin you hate without distaste but adoration.

His lips over yours as his hand travelled down your thighs, caressing them softly. "Do you want this?" He asked, his tone calm, peaceful, respectful— once you nodded he started kissing your cheek, travelling down your jaw, neck and collarbone, his hands undressing you with a calmness you would have never expected of a Hyena beastman like him.

He kissed the middle of your ribs, travelling his lips further down as one of his hands played with one of your breasts until he reached your lower abdomen and he took a breath. "¿Can I?" Ruggie asked to you, his eyes doe and clouded with desire and affection for you and the moment you gave him the green light his head dissapeared between your thighs, his ears twitching in satisfaction in you sight as his tongue sucked and licked all of your wetness. It was heavenly, it felt heavenly.

You were his Oasis, and he made sure to drink you like it. His hands grabbed your hips to keep you in place as he continued his restless assault to your core, his legs moved slightly in the bed, trying to put him closer to your crotch as his face kept placed in it, he hummed around your clit, his breath ragged as he sucked on your sensitive bud before he released it and gave you a few licks, your juices dripping from his chin to the sheets, but he couldn't care less about it. You tasted too good to stop and think about those little details.

His hand travelled to your thigh, making you rest it agaisnt his shoulder as his hand quickly went to your chest, massaging it as he let out another him of appreciation. He was drinking you like a dehydrated man.

His other hand, on the contrary, went to your heat, his middle finger teasing your entrance as his lips sucked at your clit ruthlessly before he started pulling the tip of his finger inside and move it at a painfully slow velocity before he started to pull more and more deeply on you until he was knuckle-deep inside. His movements were like waves mixed with the sucking and licking at your clit, the pleasure became almost unbearable and before you could know, your back was arched, your head thrown back and your head dizzy for the amount of pleasure. His finger drove you off of that high and when you were recovering, he pulled his finger outside of you with a lascive "Pop" before he put it in his mouth and sucked it suggestively, moaning at the taste.

"¿are you ready for another round, my love? I don't think I can show you how badly I desire you in just one ¿you know?"

AAA I forgot to write smut, I apologize for any mistakes in the grammar, english is not my first language, my request are open and I write for almost every fandom! Just ask!

[blushsturns]

perv!matt x innocent!reader ♡

˖ continuation of this!

˖ masterlist is here!

˖ title: scored

˖ w/c: 2562

matt picked you up at your house exactly at 7pm. when you opened the door, he almost damn near fainted at the sight of you; white and pink floral dress that hugged your curves and showed the perfect amount of cleavage, those pretty heels that made your legs look so incredibly sexy and long, your hair curled loosely and draped over your shoulders and a gorgeous heart pendant necklace set firmly against your neck. he couldn’t stop staring at you, his eyes taking in every single little detail about your appearance. you felt your cheeks flush violently and warming up just from the way his eyes were glued to your body as if he was taking mental screenshots in his brain to remember forever. he would, too considering he already saved all of your instagram photos and screenshot any snapchats you’d send him to his camera roll to look at for later.

he was absolutely in awe of you and couldn’t take his eyes off you. matt cleaned up real nice too, a pair of his nicest jeans and a fitted white tee. he looked comfortable, handsome, and really fucking sexy. “sorry, i’m gonna be blunt when i say this, but god damn do you look fucking amazing.” he spoke breathlessly, his own cheeks turning a bright shade of pink just by the sudden confidence he had to announce that outloud to you. not that it wasn’t completely obvious, given he stood there googly eyed and his mouth practically watering just by staring at you.

“thanks, handsome. you clean up nicely yourself.” you ran your pink polished index finger down his shirt, his eyes watching your every move the entire time causing his body to tense up just from the feeling of your finger running down his chest. “now are you gonna take me out, or what?” you flashed him a small smirk, loving the way even the smallest touch could drive him absolutely insane.

he gulped nervously, nodding his head and trying to regain his confidence back, but god dammit was he completely and utterly whipped for you. “of course. i have only been waiting for this day since, well forever.” he let out a soft chuckle at his own words before offering you his arm. you gladly accepted it, linking your arm with his and closing the front door behind you with your free hand.

when he lead you over to his car, he opened up the passenger side door for you. “after you, pretty girl.” he flashed you a small smile, allowing you to get into the car. when you got into his car, you noticed one of his jackets sitting in the backseat of his car. you smiled to yourself as you turned your head back to stare straight ahead, remembering the conversation you had with him about how he could keep you warm. his jacket was definitely one of the options.

the drive to dinner downtown wasn’t awkward at all. you talked to matt about how busy the coffee shop has been and how you wished you didn’t have to work so many hours, but you loved working there and getting to know all of your favorite regular’s favorite drinks. matt talked about how nick and chris kept teasing him for hours about the date you two were going on and how they both were surprised matt finally got the courage to ask you out. you thought this was funny and quite ironic because even though you didn’t tell him this, you weren’t sure how he managed the courage to do it either.

while he was driving, you noticed that he would stare at you any chance he could get. it was almost like he couldn’t take his eyes off you, even when he was driving. his eyes gazed over to your exposed thighs, your dress had rose up only slightly while you were sitting, but from the angle he was sitting he could discreetly admire how smooth your skin looked. he so desperately wanted to reach over and touch you, but he couldn’t. he had to keep it cool and collected, but all he could think about sometimes was the fact that he has in fact been between those same set of thighs, devouring you like he was a starved man.

you’d catch him staring and he’d immediately pull his gaze away from you and back to the road ahead, his cheeks turning a crimson red at the fact that he got caught staring. he couldn’t help it; you were so god damn beautiful.

after a couple more minutes, you were finally in the heart of your beloved city. you loved it here. if you could move out into the city, you would. it’s the sense of community, the feeling of belonging that drew you into the city aesthetic vibes. matt pulled up to the restaurant and go out of the car, moving around to the passenger side to open the door for you and offered you his hand. you flashed him a sweet smile and gladly took his hand as he helped you out of the car.

before he handed his keys over to the valet, he opened up the door to the backseat and pulled out his jacket. “may i?” he asked you with his eyebrow raised upward as he awaited your reply.

you nodded your head with a widening smile, your heart feeling like it was literally swooning. what was wrong with you and were you actually developing feelings for matt, one of your absolute best friends who just so happens to be fantasized with you? you allowed him to help you put the jacket on your body, immediately using your hands to cling it to your chest and taking in the warmth and intoxicating scent of his expensive smelling cologne.

when you both stepped foot into the restaurant, your stomach immediately growled when the aroma of italian food wafted throughout your nostrils. “i’m starved.” you practically whined quietly to matt as you followed him and the waiter over to your table over to the back of the restaurant with the most beautiful view of the city around you. you’ve been to this restaurant before, but something about tonight made this time feel special.

matt was an absolute gentleman the entire night. he let you rant about work, your studies for nursing school and how exhausting it’s becoming, and how your friends have been kind of awful lately. you admitted you’d much rather hang out with nick, matt, and chris anyway. they were way better company than anyone else and you always felt so safe and comfortable with them.

the food was absolutely amazing and you had a couple glasses of wine. matt declined on the wine, saying he had precious cargo in the car that he had to make sure gets home safe and sound. you could tell how protective he was of you, his eyes never steering away from yours the entire night. he was interested to hear everything you had to say and allowed you to speak about whatever you wanted. you’ve never encountered that with any other man before.

you asked matt about him and how things have been going with him. he told you about how stressful it’s been to come up with ideas creating content to put out every week. you laughed at the jokes he told you about chris and nick fighting last night and how chris was pretty upset about it and didn’t wanna sleep alone so he ended up sleeping in matt’s room. you thought it was so sweet and warned your heart how much matt loved his brothers, even if they got on his nerves most of the time.

when the check came, matt immediately grabbed it so you couldn’t see the exact total. “i’m the one who asked you out on this date, let me at least pay for the bill.”

you rolled your eyes playfully, but secretly finding that type of thing absolutely attractive and really fucking sweet. “fine, but i’m treating you to ice cream. got it?” you felt a little tipsy from the wine, but it was more of a warm feeling in the pit of your stomach. or maybe that was just feelings.

he was fine with that, allowing you to use his arm again to hold onto as you both walked a block over to the ice cream shoppe. it wasn’t too far, and you were able to walk on the way back with your ice cream in hand.

when you both arrived, he didn’t even have to ask you what flavor you wanted; he already knew.

“hi, can i have one chocolate ice cream and one..” he looked over at you, a widening, proud smile on his face. “and a superman ice cream, please.”

he paid for the ice cream and opened the door for you as you both walked out and into the cool, crisp air of the city around you. the walk was quiet, but comfortable. you both took your time, walking in sync as you licked your ice cream cone. you kept noticing out of the corner of your eye that matt couldn’t stop staring. he watched as your tongue flicked against the cool sensation of the ice cream before parting your lips to take more of the ice cream into your mouth and swallowing it. you let out a soft moan at the delectable taste, licking over your lips that were now stained blue. your tongue probably was, too.

his eyes widened as he heard you, gulping nervously and clearing his throat to try and appear nonchalant, even though the look on your face, the way your tongue worked as you ate your ice cream and the sounds that were falling from your mouth caused a sudden rush straight to his cock.

you knew it was affecting him too and you liked being a tease. any little thing that you did got to him, especially when it came to things like this. “sorry, it’s just really good. thank you for remembering my favorite ice cream flavor.” you licked over you lips once again, a soft giggle leaving your lips. “hey, is my tongue blue?” you flashed him your tongue, that was coated with blue substance from the ice cream colors melting together.

he continued to stare at you while walking alongside you, nodding his head and letting out a soft chuckle at the sight of your tongue. “it is, but it’s cute, like you.”

your cheeks turned a bright shade of pink at his words, flashing him a small smile. “well thanks, you’re not so bad yourself.”

when you both arrived to the car and matt got his keys back from the valet, you had finished your ice cream. the sudden realization that the night was already almost over and quite honestly, you didn’t want the night to end.

he opened up the passenger door for you, allowing you to get in. he had been such a gentlemen all night and it was the sweetest fucking thing you’ve ever witnessed.

the drive back home was peaceful and comfortable. matt made a couple small jokes along the way home, making you giggle at how ridiculously funny he was, even though his jokes were tame.

when he pulled up into his driveway, he parked the car and immediately turned over to look at you. “did you have a good time?”

you nodded your head, flashing him a small smile, using both of your hands to keep his jacket clung tightly against your body. “i really did. thanks for taking me out, matt. i had a really good time.”

he grinned widely, nodding his head at your words. “i did too. now come on, let me walk you over to your house.”

matt opened the car door for you and offered his hand once again, which you gladly accepted and allowed him to help you out of the car. you walked a couple steps over to your house next door to his and once you both made it to your doorstep, you exhaled a deep breath, turning to look at him so you both were now face to face. “genuinely, thank you, matt. i had an amazing time.”

“you deserve it all, pretty girl. i’m glad i could take you out.”

“oh, here, let me give you your jacket-“

you were about to start taking his jacket off when matt stopped you, placing his hand on top of yours, his voice becoming more firm, his ocean blue eyes staring directly into yours. “no, don’t. seriously. i want you to keep it. it looks better on you, anyway.”

your cheeks were insanely warm, his comment causing butterflies to erupt in the pit of your stomach. you bit down onto your bottom lip, pulling your gaze away for a moment before averting your eyes back over to him. he stared at you with so much adoration filling his gaze. you could feel your heart beat begin to rapidly quicken. “well, then can i give you something so you don’t have to go home empty handed?”

his eyebrow raised up in a curious manner as he stared at you, nodding his head slowly. “you don’t have to do that, but now i’m curious. sure, what is it?”

you flashed him a widening smirk, nodding your head and pursed your lips together. you suddenly had the courage to do something that was on your mind all night. if he’s letting you keep his jacket, why not give him something he always loved to take from your bedroom drawer? slowly you began to move your hands underneath your dress, your fingers moving against the hem of your panties and began to slowly slide them down your legs. matt watched you in complete and utter shock, watching your every move with his eyes widening and his mouth agape as you bent down to pull the lacy panties down completely and off your body. you stood back up with the panties in your hand and immediately grabbed one of matt’s hands to place the pair of panties into his palm securely and enclosed his hand around them. your smirk only widened as he stared down at the pink panties in his hand as he held onto them, a shaky breath exhaling from his chest and out past his lips.

“will you keep these? for me?” you leaned in closer to him to reach his ear, your hot and heavy breath lingering against his ear.

all he could do was nod his head slowly, gulping nervously as your body pressed up against his for a brief moment. you moved your head to place your lips against his stubble cheek and kissing it gently before pulling away from him and flashing him a teasing smirk. you lifted your hand up into a wave, your eyes staying locked onto his.

“goodnight, lover boy. thank you for an amazing night.”

without waiting for a reply from matt, the front door closed. all matt could do was stand there in complete and utter shock due to the fact that not only has he finally scored his first date with you, but he had a pair of your lacy pink panties that you were wearing underneath your dress the entire night.

he was absolutely, totally infatuated with you.

𝜗𝜚 taglist:

@sturnshood @strangelife122 @jessie-essie @rina3476 @chrissturnioloslvt @sturnslutz @sturns-mermaid @matthewsturnsgf @christmastreecake @rinahasspots @222wall876 @chris-hallelujah @izzylovesmatt @strniloslvts @oopsiedaisydeer @sophand4n4 @xclusivedesires @mattsplaything @katiebug3851 @poppingmypussy4chris @mattsbunnyxx @pair-of-pantaloons @chrissweetheart @slutformatt17 @sturnl0ve @pasteldreams @h3arts4harry @marrykisskilled @wh0remikasas @sturnzslut @camzeecorner @alesturniolos @emely9274 @2muchofaslvt @y3sterdaysproblem @sturnslux3 @bowsandsturniolos @moustacherryismyhusband @rafesapprentice @ivysturnss @headzgonewest @strawberryghost3 @il0vey0um0st @violetstxrniolo777 @bigbeefybitch @raesturns @courta13 @sofieeeeex @tylerthecreatorsglazr

click here to be added to the taglist!

𝜗𝜚 a/n:

thank you everyone for reading!! i love writing this pair so much. i have so many more ideas for this au so if you want more of them just keep spreading the love. it makes my day, i swear. i love you guys!

-nessa ღ

[writingbluerose]

kingdom dance | silver x reader

summary : Invited by Malleus and Lilia, you and the guys from Diasomnia went to a festival where humans and faes came together. Needless to say, you have lots of fun.

warnings : the reader is Yuu and she's a girl!

a / n : GUUUYSSS!! I swear my favorite twst character changes every single week. I can't be the only one who started liking Silver EVEN MORE after book 7. Like I am SMITTEN. Also this, in case you didn't get it until now, is inspired by Rapunzel. God I'm gonna have so much fun writing this.

Look at that! The lanterns are look like stars from this distance! Don't you think so?

...yeah, they're really beautiful

It was the start of summer, the Night Raven Collage was busier as ever, the final exams getting closer and closer by the day. Only a group of students were walking calmly on a forest path sheltered from the sun. That group was made of 4 students from the Diasomnia dorm and one student walking a bit behind, the student and prefect of Ramshackle dorm.

You were invited personally by Malleus and Lilia to a festival that was annually held in a little village that wasn't too far away from Lilia's cottage and Malleus' castle. At first, you were quite surprised, after all, wasn't this a festival where only faes were invited? Being the only human there was a bit awkward. Lilia was fast to reassure you, this festival was for both humans and faes, more humans even! So it was all going to be fine.

Grim was the one to get left behind in the care of the Heartslyabul dorm, Riddle was more than happy to take care of him, it was a great opportunity to help Grim with his grades and tutor him while you were gone. And that's how you found yourself on this path, calmly walking not too far behind the group admiring the scenery. Malleus, Lilia and Sebek were happily chatting while Silver was in front of you looking at them, missing how he was turning his head in your direction, checking if you were alright and weren't getting lost, a flustered and soft look in his every time he was doing so. After some time, Silver again turned his head in your direction, slowing his pace so he could be next to you. “You're awfully quiet, are you ok? Do you feel unwell?” You turned your head in his direction seeming shocked by his question. “No,no! Of course not. I was simply admiring the road, I didn't get to go on such beautiful and green roads very often. It's really beautiful” Silver smiled at you, his eyes trailing to the bag you had on your shoulder. “Isn't your bag too heavy? I can help carry it if you'd like” “Oh no no! It's alright! I can manage don't worry, I may not do this often but I went to more expeditions than you think!” You giggled happily. The silver haired boy realized that this is maybe one of the first times you seemed truly relaxed, your smile was genuine and despite the dark circles under your eyes ( that he knew where they came from ) there was no sign of fatigue, enjoying the company of the others.

For the rest of the road to the cottage, the chatting that came from the other three slowly stopped, all of them listening to the happy chatting of you and Silver behind them. Of course all three of them knew the feelings you held for each other. Lilia had found out Silver's feelings when the boy went and tried to discover for the first time why he was getting so nervous and warm at the sight of you, while Malleus and Sebek have supported you on your feelings for Silver, offering a shoulder when you needed to speak about them. Sebek didn't do it so willingly at first, but he warmed up slowly with Lilia's help. The truth was that the three planned this trip to help the confession come faster, and it seemed that it was working as you and Silver were getting more and more comfortable, speaking without any concerns or nervousness.

In a moment, Lilia came to a halt forcing the other to stop as well, he turned his head to an opening in the forest next to the road then turned his head to you, a wide grin on his face. “Say, dear prefect, could you come with me?” You blinked, surprised by the question. “Well, yeah! I mean sure” “Great!” In a second, Lila took your hand and guided you in the direction of the opening. “You guys wait here. We'll be back in a jiffy!” Waving to the other boys, Lilia wasted no time pulling you after him. While going deeper, the forest seemed to get darker, the sun disappearing and the only thing that was assuring you that Lilia was still there was his grip on your hand. After a while, you spotted lots of little red lights, peaking at you through the bushes. Lilia brought you closer to them, releasing your hand and crouching next to the red flowers. “Pretty aren't they? They're called Tomb Blooms. They grow only in places where fairies are buried. I used to pick them up a lot...give them to Meleanor...” You looked at the flowers, they were indeed so pretty, they looked like they were aflame in the middle. Next to you, Lilia reached out and plucked out a flower giving it to you. “Silver was always excited to give me these flowers when he was little, he loves them. Give it to him, I'm sure he'll love it” Giving you a wink, Lilia took ahold of your hand again and guided you out of the forest. Will Silver really love this...?

When the three spotted you getting out of the opening, you all resumed your walk to the cottage. You held out the flower hidden in your clothes, thinking about how to give it to Silver who was still walking next to you, looking ahead at the trees. You took a deep breath and tugged Silver's sleeve. The boy looked at you, tilting his head in a questioning manner. “...hey Silver. You're probably wondering what me and Lilia did when we left. I... uhm...here! — you said, revealing the flower you hand hidden in your jacket — it's for you!” He looked at you with wide eyes then looked at the flower. Was this...? “A tomb bloom? It's been so long since I've seen these flowers... Y/N, thank you!” Silver slimed at you and goodness you hope he didn't see the blush on your face. Putting the flower carefully in one of his backpack pockets, Silver took your hand in his. “Do you mind? It's alright if you don't want to though— ” “No I want to!” You tighten the hold on his hand, pink blush creeping on both of your cheeks. You held hands for the rest of the road, not knowing the smiles and silent laughs shared between the three in front of you.

It was past afternoon when you finally made it to the cottage, it was a nice looking one set just right in the middle of a forest opening, where the sun gracefully shined on it. “My, it's been a while since I've been here. It's your first time no child if man? I'm sure you'll love staying here” Malleus gave you a soft smile clearly excited about your stay. “Come in everyone!” Lilia opened the door to the cottage but right before you entered, he came outside with a rather complicated look on his face, you could tell he was trying to be sad but also held his laugh. “Ah, Y/N there might be a problem here you see” A problem so bad you're trying not to laugh...? “I may have overlooked the fact that you were coming here with us and you don't have a room to sleep in” You blinked and then smiled. “Oh! That's alright then! You have a couch don't you? I'll sleep there!” “Never in my life have I heard a statement that sad” Sebek approached you gripping your shoulders and shaking you. “You're our guest human! We can't possibly let you sleep on a simple couch! If that's the case you'll share a room with someone!” You looked at Sebek with a knowing look, when he looked back his expression looked like he had just been punched. “Don't look at me! I'd rather be stabbed!” “Geez you're such a good friend Sebek, thank you” You looked down putting a hand on your chin, who would share a room with- “I can help!” Looking up, it was Silver who spoke. “My bed is big enough for two people. You can sleep with me if you'd like and feel comfortable enough” Looking to his side, Silver refused to look you in the eyes, he doesn't believe he actually had the courage to say such a thing. You looked at him and smiled. “That'd be nice, thanks Silver” He looked back at you with a flustered face. “... you're welcome” “Kehee, now that that's decided, let's go settle in everyone!”

When Silver opened the door to his room you couldn't believe your eyes. This room was so pretty! It was simple, sure, but it had such a calm air to it, like you could fall asleep the moment you drop in the bed. “I hope you like it, I mean, I know it's simple but it'll fit both of us” “Silver are you kidding? — you stepped in front of him with a wide smile — this room looks just like the one I dreamed of having when I was a kid! I really love it!” Silver smiled as he closed the door settling his bags next to his wardrobe. “I'm glad. Come on, let me help you open those” For a while, you and Silver settled your clothes and decided which part of the wardrobe and drawers you'd take for each other. After finishing you were both looking at the bed. It was certainly perfect for two people to sleep in but there was one tiny problem. “I'll take the floor!” You looked at Silver with determination, you didn't fail to notice the surprise on his face. “What? No Y/N I can't let you do that, you're our guest, if that's the case then I'll take the floor” His expression was as serious as ever. Sighing, you looked back at the bed and then at Silver, your cheeks getting a red tint to them. “Won't you feel... uncomfortable?” Looking down at the floor you couldn't possibly meet his face, you knew he knew what you were suggesting. Looking at you with a red face Silver spoke again. “Of course not, I'd be honored if you'd accept sleeping with me. It means you'll trust me enough to do so” You looked at him again, gosh he's so pretty, you thought. “Alright then, I trust you Silver, so if that's alright with you, we'll sleep together” Silver smiled at you once again, relieved that you put your trust in him.

It was long past the time the sun disappeared making way for the moon. Lilia wanted to make dinner for all of you, but remember in the warnings, you and Sebek both jumped at his words, parring the idea and proposing that you should take the reign instead. Sebek knew how to make food and you loved cooking so you'd insisted on making dinner instead. Happy about the idea of you and Sebek spending time together to strengthen your friendship, Lilia gave you the pass of making the food in his place. Was it chaotic? A bit. Sure it was hard to get Sebek to listen to your advice and about the ingredients he had to use but after the first attempt of the food exploding in Sebek's face he decided it was twice as easy to just listen. “Trust me, I do some occasional shifts at the Monstro Lounge, I know what I'm doing” and after some quite long two hours you finally finished. Luckily, the others loved the food, and Malleus did propose you should come to Diasomnia to make food more often, it was that good, he says. After eating dinner, Lilia decided for all to go to rest, tomorrow was festival day, so you needed to rest so that in the morning you'll have enough energy to wake up and prepare.

A solid ten minutes passed since everyone went to their rooms and you and Silver still didn't find the courage to sit in the same bed. “Ok, let's get this over with” You grabbed Silver's hand pulling him to settle in bed with you. “Ah, uhm, are you sure about this Y/N?” “I am!” Still looking at him you started looking at his eyes, they had such a beautiful color to them, it sometimes reminded you of the aurora borealis back home. “Your eyes...they remind me of the sky back home” Silver looked at you then at your lips, he slowly leaned in, just enough but still not quite there as you did the same. You could feel each other's breath as you leaned in closer, your lips almost touching, but as quickly as it started Silver pulled away. “We should get some sleep” He turned his face away from you and pulled the covers on you both. “Yeah, we should” You didn't turn away instead you slowly got closer to him, enough to feel his warmth. Silver turned his face to look at you, fast asleep. His hand held your waist and pulled you closer, your head hitting his chest. That's how you both fell asleep that night.

The next morning, you woke up before Silver, and well, the position you both were in had you beyond flustered. Silver was on his right side with you facing him, your head was on his chest, your hand was hugging him close to you, one of his own hands mirroring your actions and your legs intertwined with his. You just wanted to get closer to him! But not this close! You looked up at his face your eyes trailing to the door, you could hear the others wake up so you gently poked Silver's cheek to wake him up. You would've gotten out of this position but god his grip was like iron. Soon enough Silver shifted in his position and opened his eyes, smiling at him you greeted him happily. “Morning sleepyhead” “Y/N- oh I'm sorry” Releasing his grip on you he sat up straight looking out the window in his room. “Is it morning already? We best get up before father decides to make breakfast on his own” You laughed and got up quickly after him getting ready for the first festival day.

After once again taking control of the breakfast, everyone changed in more relaxing clothes and made their way on to the festival to be there at least by the afternoon. When you arrived at the festival you couldn't believe your eyes, you always remembered the story that Malleus told you that he heard from Lilia first, the humans and faes always hating on each other being at war and even now one being afraid of the other, but now? So many faes and humans, talking and laughing with each other having fun and dancing around. “I've been to this festival only once myself and goodness I forgot how beautiful it was” In awe, Silver who was next to you couldn't stop admiring the view, judging by his reaction he probably came to this festival when he was just a little child so of course he wouldn't remember much but one person passing would say you and Silver look like twins with the matching surprised expression on your face. “Come on kids! Let's have fun!” Lilia was the first one to enter the small town followed suit by Malleus and then Sebek, who was eager to be at his liege side. “Come on Y/N, let's relax and have fun” Taking your hand, Silver took you into the busy streets of the festival, coming next to you and allowing you to take him wherever you want.

The next few hours were amazing! You took Silver almost everywhere, looking and taking photos of things you found most amazing. Lilia was off buying whatever traditional food he could find then sharing with everyone, Malleus loved to talk and play with the children that weren't at all afraid of his appearance and Sebek followed close by, he himself was looking for ancient souvenirs and books he could take home. You and Silver on the other hand were busy painting on the pavement, yes, on the pavement. What you both enjoyed the most was that many others came and helped, after an hour or so, a beautiful white rose with black thorns around it and a dark green background was beautifully arranged on the center of the roads.

Taking a break, full of paint and sweating and laughing at your adventures at the festival, both of you joined Lilia to see if he had any snacks on him for you to regain your energy. At the messy sight of you Lilia let out a laugh. “Well it seems like you two had fun” “We had! We painted the whole center of the village!” You started laughing again, Silver following after, you were so exhausted that you'd feel like every little thing would make you laugh. “Kehee, I'm glad you had fun. Now go sit somewhere and rest, I'll bring some food to you” Following his orders, you and Silver took a seat on a close bench, taking in the sights once again.

You and Silver were still on the bench talking and laughing still. After a while, the others joined in excited and itching to tell something. “Guys you seem excited! Something cool happening right now?” The three looked at each other and then at you and Silver, Lilia being the first one to talk. “There's a festival dance starting soon! I hope you guys are ready because it's gonna be a blast” “A dance?! You're not for real!” Jumping off the bench you made your way to the center of the village already hearing a lively song. “Well she's excited! — Lilia turned his head and looked at Silver — This is an amazing opportunity you know? Dance with her Silver! We'll back you up!” “... dance with her...” Silver looked down, his face already red from the start. He got up and made his way to the center, people already gathering up to dance, you seeming to be the heart of it, dancing in the middle of the crowd, giggling and dancing to your heart's content. Silver soon saw Lilia, Malleus and even Sebek joining the dance.

Stopping for a second to watch the other people dancing around you, you saw Silver on the side unsure on what to do or when to join in. Quickly making your way to him you held out your hand and gave him a wide grin. “Silver! Would you like to dance with me?” He looked at your hand and then took it with a small smile on his face. “I'd love to”

And dance you did. You took Silver by the hand and dragged him to the center of the group, you could hear cheers from all around you once you were back and guiding the dance again. Everyone around you retired from the dance and formed a circle buf enough for the pair to move around freely. From the crowd, Lilia was filming with his phone, happy to see his son having fun with the one who loved while Malleus and Sebek were behind him smiling like two little kids watching them. The two continued dancing and it lasted almost until the sunset and when they finished the look in their eyes revealed only love and adoration for one another.

When the night came it was time for one last tradition of this festival and that was the release of the floating lanterns on the river. Some people took a boat to take on the river and release them there and some people, including you and Silver, stayed on the ground to release them. In fact, Silver was the one who took you to a more secluded area, with not many people in sight. At the time, it was true that no one was around and the place was perfect since it had a wide opening to the river. You and Silver were laying on the grass, your lanterns next to you ready for release. “Thank you for the dance Silver. I really had fun” “It was my pleasure Y/N, I enjoyed dancing with you. I hope we'll be able to do it again sometime” Do it again? That sounded amazing. You'd do anything to dance with him again, to see him laughing and smiling at you just like today. You looked up at the sky admiring the stars. Should you tell him? How would he react? Would he hate you- “Y/N” Silver's voice snapped you out for your thoughts. “Yeah? Sorry I got distracted” He let out a tiny laugh as your face turned an almost invisible red. “That's ok. We have to release the lanterns, come on” He offered you his hand and you took it, getting up and walking closer to the river, Silver helped you light up the lamp and stepped closer to you. Raising your hands the lantern slowly started flying up to the sky becoming smaller and smaller. You looked up at the sky at the lanterns that were just little yellow lights. “Silver look at that! The lanterns look like stars from this distance! Don't you think so?” Turing his gaze on you, Silver looked at your face that was previously illuminated by the lantern's light now only having the soft light of the moon. Your eyes were sparkling while watching the sky, Silver smiled softly at your expression “...yeah, they're really beautiful” and without thinking he took your face in his hands and kissed you. Your lips were so soft on his, not at all like in his dreams, you were real now and kissing you hasn't felt better than it does now.

Breaking the kiss, Silver didn't have time to say anything as you went in again, your hands going to his shoulders and his on your waist. This one was longer, none of you wanted to let go, it was hard to, your lips moving just right, like they were made so that you two only kiss each other and no one else. Unfortunately, the lack of oxygen made you part, breathing heavily, a mix between shock and relief in both your eyes. “Y/N! I love you. I- I've been waiting for so long to tell you, it's just that-I, I couldn't- I didn't know how to tell you and if you refused me I couldn't-” “Silver! I love you two! I thought that if I told you you would hate me! Because you've always seen me as a friend, you'd tell me that!” “I was only telling you that because I thought you saw me the same, I never wanted to ruin our friendship over such a thing” It was a minute of silence then you both started laughing. “Silver I love you” You couldn't help it but say it again, hugging him tight in reassurance. “I- I love you too. More than you'll ever know” And he hugged you back, so tight that you almost couldn't breath, but you didn't mind, it was perfect, this was perfect and you couldn't find it any other way.

After coming back home Lilia made sure to show his nice friends from the Pop Music club how nice you and Silver danced. Let's say your relationship with Silver didn't stay hidden for too long.

[em1989ts]

𝐩𝐞𝐚𝐜𝐞

five hargreeves x reader

word count: 1.3k

masterlist - based on this request

summary: you and five finally get to live the life you've been fighting for, but he has a hard time adjusting

content: hurt/comfort, death in a nightmare, angst, fluff

author's note: thanks again for the request!! i listened to peace on repeat the entire time i was writing this cause it's just so five, it also happens to be one of my fav taylor songs! my inbox is always open so if you got a request please send it in :) enjoy !!

not proofread!

“Would it be enough if I could never give you peace?”

~~~

You never thought there’d be the day where you and Five would live together. 

You’ve always pictured getting your own place, maybe even a cat, and living that beloved domestic life, but you didn't think it would actually happen.

It seemed like every single time you thought you were safe, another problem quickly made itself known. 

But it’s been a few months since the universe was reset, so you finally started to let your guard down. 

There seemed to be no apocalypse or assassins following the two of you around in your new lives.

That weight had left your shoulders, yet you could tell it still weighed Five down. 

You were both living normal lives now, blending in with the world around you.

Each of the Hargreeves siblings had gone down their own path in life for the second time, and it was time for Five to have the comfortable, normal life you’d always hoped he would have.

Five worked with the CIA, while you worked at a café a couple blocks away from your apartment.

He initially wanted you to stay home, knowing he could provide more than enough for the both of you, but he knew you wanted to live your own life too. 

Now that you had all the time in the world, he watched as you gradually grew into your best self. 

You explored hobbies, gaining exciting interests you never knew you had, which he admired so dearly. 

All he ever wanted was to see you so happy. 

But the constant fear of allowing himself to be happy and settled only for that to be ripped away from him never left his mind. 

After the universe was reset and the two of you lost your powers, Five grew extremely anxious. 

Sure, the two of you had learned combative skills and you were both excellent at defending yourselves, but what if? 

That question burned through his mind. 

What if the Handler came back? 

What if the apocalypse came back? 

What if someone hurt you? 

What if he couldn’t protect you?

“Ouch-” 

Five looked down at his hand, turning slightly pink after he burned it against his mug. 

“You okay?” you asked from your seat at the island in your kitchen, looking up from your book.

You had noticed he was particularly stressed today, but you could tell he didn’t feel like talking about it. 

He had checked the lock on the door at least four times now. Even the balcony doors were locked with the curtains drawn, blocking the moonlight from entering the mostly dark apartment.

You knew it was hard for him to adjust to a normal life. He had been so focused on surviving for so many years he forgot what it was like to live. 

You had tried to help him, and sometimes it worked. He would dance with you while your Frank Sinatra records played in your cozy living room. He would try out new recipes with you. 

You loved it most when you could just enjoy each other's company, without a care in the world how much time had passed, because it was never a waste. 

The two of you would spend hours together, wrapped up in each other arms or simply leaning on each other. Sometimes you would talk, sometimes you would just enjoy the intimate silence. 

You didn’t like the silence now though, as you watched his furrowed brows and shaking hands. 

You knew it was hard for him to bring up how he felt. His family always shoved his feelings so far down their list of problems he never felt like they would be important to you. 

As much as you reassured him he could always talk to you about anything, he still didn’t want to be a burden. 

“I’m fine,” he picked up his mug with one hand and walked around the island over to you. He held your head and pressed a kiss to your hair. 

“I’m heading to bed,” he said quietly, “Love you.”

You smiled, “Love you, I’ll be there in a minute.” 

As he walked into your shared bedroom, you couldn’t help but worry about the man you cared so much about, and you wish you knew how to help him. 

~~~

It was happening again. 

He was running. 

There was so much smoke. 

So many flames. 

So many bodies. 

He frantically looked around, until his eyes landed on the one body he couldn’t handle seeing in such a state. 

He was too late. If only he ran faster, if only he couldn’t stopped this, if only he could’ve saved you. 

His knees hit the gravel.

He screamed but he couldn’t hear himself. 

He hear your voice calling for him

 Your mouth was undefinable, but he could tell it wasn’t moving. 

The smoke filled his lungs. He couldn’t breathe

“Five!” 

~~~

He sat straight up. The cold air hit his sweat covered chest as the sheets flew forward. 

He was still screaming as he tried to pry his eyes open with his hands, scratching the vision out of his head. 

You were still saying his name and you reached for his eyes, grabbing them tightly and bringing them away from his face. 

His eyes were bloodshot and he was shaking intensely, but once his sight focused on you he caged you in with his arms and started bawling. 

You had never witnessed one of his nightmares get so bad. 

Of course, he’d had several ever since you’d moved in together but he’s never been this disturbed by one.

You could feel his tears in your hair and you could slightly make out his muffled chanting. 

“I can’t, I can’t, I can’t.”

Your heart was breaking just seeing him like this, you couldn’t bear him so distressed.

You tried to calm him down as he held you, with soothing whispers and coos to calm his breathing and heart rate. 

Once he seemed less frantic, you peeled his arms off you and sat in front of him, holding his hands. 

“What happened?” You asked him softly, brushing his hair off his forehead. 

He looked as though we were going to cry all over again but he looked down and said, “I lost you.” 

“It wasn’t real, Five,” you reassured him, “I’m right here, I’m okay.”

You held his face in your palms, looking into his green eyes. 

It pained you to see him so worried.

He held his hand over yours, “I just want you to be safe.”

“I am,” you smiled sadly at him. 

“We don’t have to worry about the apocalypse anymore,” you reassured him, “There’s no more commission. There’s nothing coming after us, we’re safe.” 

He signed, taking your hands off his cheeks and holding them in his lap, tracing the lines along your palms. 

“I want more than anything for you to feel safe, Five. I don’t want to see you so scared to live a normal life, one that we’ve been fighting for so long for.” 

A tear ran down his cheek, which you wiped away with your thumb. 

“I’m sorry,” he said, “I just- I want you to be happy. I don’t mean to bother-”

“Please don’t,” you cut him off. 

You grabbed the comforter and pulled it over the two of you, tucking you both in. 

As you faced him, you said, “You don’t need to apologize.” 

Pulling him in, you felt his face bury into your chest as your fingers combed through his dark hair. His breathing slow, his body warm against you, his heart rate slowing. 

“As long as I get to live this life with you, Five, I’m happy.” 

~~~

[mostly-marvel-musings]

First time Noah goes to reader's bed in the middle of the night because he had a nightmare after her and Tony got together, so Tony's there to help comfort him too. Tony admiring how well she can calm down Noah and comfort him, while also doing his best to comfort him and even asking if he wants to sleep there in their room that night. Cuddle pile ensues.

Easing Noah’s nightmares - Christmas With You

A/N: I think I like this little family too much. My fluff loving heart is full 🥹🤍 Leave a heart, comment or reblog if you’ve enjoyed reading :)

Pairing: Tony Stark x Single Mom! Reader

Warning: DAD MATERIAL TONY? PERFECT BOYFRIEND TONY?

Christmas With You Masterlist

.

“Tony!”

“Wha—? Love you.” He mumbled, half asleep as he draped his arm around your middle, snuggling closer to you, deeming the conversation to be over.

“Stop snoring.” You rolled your eyes, smiling to yourself as his face pressed up against your hair. You two had gone to bed hours before, though Tony’s snores kept waking you up.

“I don’t snore. You snore.” He murmured, throwing his leg over both of yours, locking you in before pressing his entire front against your back, making you chuckle at his childish behaviour.

“I will record you one of these days for proof, Mr. Stark.” Your voice was quiet yet playful as you got comfortable, thrumming your fingers against his arm.

“For your information, I only lightly snore when I’m tired, and that’s thanks to you, you really wore me out.” His voice caused you to blush, hitting him lightly as he chuckled before kissing the back your ear softly.

As you settled into his comfortable embrace, you couldn’t help but think how life had turned out this past year; meeting Tony Stark - someone who’d changed your life for the better, made you believe in love, take chances and build a life of your dreams. Happiness was just one of the few emotions you felt when you were together, which was constant now that you were living with him.

You were grateful that Noah had been eased into this relationship so flawlessly too. He was just as comfortable with Tony now as he was with you, even demanded bedtime stories from him on several occasions. It was a whole other conversation watching Tony with your son, he was just so good with him. Patient and thoughtful, he gave you all sorts of feels every time they interacted, ones that ended up with you dreaming about expanding your family.

It wasn’t until a few hours later that you had stirred awake to find Noah tugging at your blanket as he stood near you, clutching Snuggles.

“I had a bad dream, Mama.” He whispered, on the verge of tears as you sat up, making Tony’s arm slide down, waking the man in the process too.

“It’s okay, baby. It was not real. Come here.” You opened your arms for him, but he hesitated, looking down at his pyjamas that were ruined.

“I—I wet the bed.”

His voice was so soft, almost reluctant as he watching Tony rub sleep from his eyes, asking if he was alright.

“It’s alright, Noah. We’ll get you cleaned, come on.” You picked him up and rubbed his back, knowing it calmed him down as you slowly walked out of your bedroom and into his.

Tony followed wordlessly, changing Noah’s bedsheets while you cleaned him and got him into a fresh pair of pjs. It wasn’t too frequent for Noah to have nightmares but when he did, they usually got bad, and he ended up wetting himself. Your heart swelled when Tony did his routine ‘checks’ to make sure there was no monster under Noah’s bed, reassuring him that him and Dum-E would get rid of them for him if they ever came back.

“Do you want to sleep in our bed, kid?” He offered, caressing his head which was laid on your chest as you hugged him close. You met Tony’s eyes as if to make sure you heard him right.

Noah nodded silently, holding his arms out for Tony to pick him up, a gesture that touched your heart. He usually clung to you but the fact that he trusted Tony enough to let him comfort him after a bad dream really took you by surprise. You watched Tony hold your son, his arms strong and solacing as Noah laid his head against his shoulder.

Once the three of you settled in your shared bed, you brought the blankets up to Noah’s chest to make sure he warm and secure. Tony lay on his side watching you comfort your son with a fond smile on his face. He always knew what a wonderful mother you were, he was in awe of you already, but moments like these made him want more. Noah was already a son to him, he’d wormed his way into his heart and he couldn’t wait to expand his family with you.

“Eyes closed, my little jelly bean. Sweet dreams. I love you.” You whispered, pressing a soft kiss against his forehead.

“I love you too, Mama.” He closed his eyes, keeping one arm around Snuggles while holding yours tight with the other.

“Good night, Noah.” Tony whispered, caressing the hair that fell on Noah’s forehead gently.

“Night, Dada.”

Your heart skipped a beat. Noah’s voice was as quiet as the night but you both heard him. Not stopping the tears that gathered in your eyes, you looked up at Tony who was blinking back his own tears. Reaching out, you interlaced your fingers with Tony’s, squeezing them before he kissed the back of your hand and then Noah’s forehead.

The moment would forever be etched in memory as you two watched your son drift off to sleep, your hearts full of love and minds with the beautiful possibilities of what was to follow.

[ask-codeearasure]

Error with HPD stuck out to me, but NPD CROSS? DAMN SON. I'm using this as an excuse to not do my fuckin homework, don't mind me.

I've pulled up the DSM-5-TR and another source that rewords the diagnostic criteria for disorders in the DSM-5 just for my brain's sake. Not every symptom listed in the DSM-5 or the DSM-5-TR is clear enough for me to understand.

I got different headcanons for what personality disorders Error has (Cluster A disaster with BPD traits), but HPD Error intrigues me. I might send an ask about it in the morning if someone hasn't already, as I don't have the spoons right now to focus on two characters at the same time. I'll get back to you on it.

But no, NPD Cross stood out the most to me, and it immediately made sense and made me like him more. Here's the nine diagnostic criteria for Narcissistic Personality Disorder. In order to get a diagnosis, a patient needs to have at least five out of nine symptoms.

Think about what traits we've seen throughout XTale and Underverse. What I recognize off the top of my head is Cross has shown behaviors linked to 1, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9. That is six symptoms so far. I could be failing to recognize more though, as I haven't read the XTale comic or viewed much Underverse-related content Jakei has since deleted, like UVS Studio whatchamacallit.

Now here's something about narcissism people don't tend to understand. It's about little to no self-esteem, and that leaves the patient to overcompensate their behavior and personal expectations and goals for themself in order to feel better about themselves in their eyes. If the people around them admire them, or otherwise acknowledge them in a manner they desire, everything is right in the world. It's whenever this doesn't happen, or fear that it'll come crumbling down that will cause them to spiral, split, and have what's called "narc crashes" and/or rage attacks (rage attacks can happen a lot in Cluster B disorders and sometimes exist outside of them too, just making that clear).

But I don't think Cross has just NPD. Not every destructive behavior or pattern of thinking of his matches up with that, and it reminds me a lot of, yet again, Borderline Personality Disorder.

I have also seen Cross suffer from severe emotional instability, impulsiveness, suffer from rage attacks, identity disturbance, paranoia, unstable relationships, and fuckin HATES HIMSELF. Just like with NPD, one needs to have at least 5 criteria in order to be diagnosed with BPD.

Cross's behavior has massive similarity to every single symptom listed, and what adds to his case is NPD and BPD do overlap too, which could lead to some symptoms being exaggerated depending on the trigger and which ones remain a constant.

I fucking hate Choosing Therapy as a source but this graph visualizes my point well enough. Cross is fucked up.

Having comorbid NPD and BPD would make him what's called a Covert Narcissist.

I wanna hear what you think. I got like 2.75 personality disorders myself so of course this interested me.

-- Sarco

(@zuzuelectricbugaloo @howlsofbloodhounds you might find this interesting too)

ASPD INK WOOOO CLUSTER B REPRESENT!! Nobody can take away Cluster B character headcanons away from me, Cluster B characters I love you

HELL YAAAAAAAA

We love Cluster B in this house

Allow me to actually give you a tiny list of cluster Bs and the characters I associate with them

ASPD: Ink, Nightmare (I’ve been also considering Killer, not yet made a decision tho xhxhxh)

BPD: Nightmare

HPD: Error

NPD: Cross

[yan-lorkai]

heyy I saw that your requests are open and I want to request how would the (yandere?) housewardens react to a darling/yuu that over time surpasses them? even tho theyre magicless and good at keeping it under wraps until perhaps when their grades are posted on the board..? like they appear to be chill and hang around friends but behind that they work hard and somewhat manage to be like the smartest in NRC🤭 I hope this you havent done this one yet and hope you have a nice dayy💕🩵 tyy

.⁠｡⁠*⁠♡ﾟ Riddle is annoyed but satisfied in a way. Nobody ever put effort into their study and other skills so seeing you work yourself that hard, makes him a little proud. Though he thinks to himself how he is the example, he should be the one on the first spot always, you could take the second spot on the podium. So he starts to overwork himself to surpass you and put an incredible distance between both of you.

.⁠｡⁠*⁠♡ﾟ Leona doesn't care. You're smart. So what? Reputation and being the model student isn't something he cares about. He didn't even want to be here in the first place, yet he just can't go home and is trapped here. Though he resigned himself to merely hearing you yap happily about the topics you studied and how proud you are of yourself. You're like an annoying cat to him, one he sighs and pat its head.

.⁠｡⁠*⁠♡ﾟAzul is enraged that he lost a target. He was crafting such a wonderful contract, with some twisted lines and hidden meanings, but now there you go studying so hard that you surpassed him. He could congratulate you on that, but he won't. Better than this, he'll send the tweels to teach you a little lesson and with that, he'll make you sign the deal. You can't be better than him, never!

.⁠｡⁠*⁠♡ﾟKalim is happy and proud. He beams like the sun as he congratule you - it's not that hard to surpass him, actually. It's hard to surpass Jamil, though. Either way, Kalim throws a party at every accomplish you have, praising you on every single little thing.

.⁠｡⁠*⁠♡ﾟVil is satisfied. He, like Riddle, likes when people work and polish themselves to be better, yet he takes matters into his own hands if you start to overwork yourself, skipping meals and not sleeping enough. You surpassed himself by your own merit, and he is proud of you for it, so don't go drop your grades now. He is holding you to high expectations.

.⁠｡⁠*⁠♡ﾟIdia admires you. In a way, you're almost next to his level - really, he tries to put his effort on this, but everything is so easy that he just can't pay attention to any of this. He is smart but doesn't care about his grades or anything. He just wants the comfort of his room and games, and also you.

.⁠｡⁠*⁠♡ﾟ Malleus is impressed by your grades and applauds you on it. Though you couldn't never surpass him, he is far older and powerful for anyone, even you, to surpass him. But he is happy to pretend, happy that you are happy, overall just overjoyed that you're spending time with him to tell him about the things you read, and how you're going to put even more effort on your studies and club.

[mscryinglighting]

hello, would you do an alex turner x musician reader? she's just as famous with a solid fanbase, and they get a lot of media attention and even called a power couple of some sort. yet behind closed doors they're like any ordinary couple that love each other the most and doesn't care about what other people say about them? basically lots of fluff. i hope this makes sense! <3

Between The Chords

Alex Turner x musician!reader

Word count: 1.1K

a/n: Thank you sm for this request!

⋅•⋅⊰∙∘☽༓☾∘∙⊱⋅•⋅⋅•⋅⊰∙∘☽༓☾∘∙⊱⋅•⋅⋅•⋅⊰∙∘☽༓☾∘∙⊱⋅•⋅⋅•⋅⊰∙∘☽༓☾∘∙⊱⋅•⋅

The paparazzi's camera flashes momentarily blind you as you exit the airport, arm in arm with Alex, you try to speed walk through attempting to reach the car in one piece, all while the shutterbugs yell things like:

“Do you think you’ll be up for a BRIT this year?

And

“Y/n, any thoughts on the criticism of your new single?”

“These paps seem tame enough, non invasive especially for LA’s standards.” You thought, though their relentless camera flashes were starting to turn your mild headache into a full on migraine. You were fairly new to the scene, your debut album having blown up a little over a year ago, Alex on the other hand was slightly more well versed in the music industry, maybe that was what drew you to him -his experience- he’s become sort of a lighthouse keeping you afloat among the madness.

After what felt like an eternity you finally reach the car. Alex, ever the gentleman, holds the car door open for you, once you’re in he climbs in next to you, his fingers naturally finding yours, intertwining them as the car eases forward.

“God, I have such a headache,” you groan, burying your face against his neck.

“Oh, me poor baby,” Alex teases, smirking. “Need some Aspirin?”

“Shuddup.” You grin despite yourself. It’s like his superpower—making you smile through anything.

⋅•⋅⊰∙∘☽༓☾∘∙⊱⋅•⋅⋅•⋅⊰∙∘☽༓☾∘∙⊱⋅•⋅⋅•⋅⊰∙∘☽༓☾∘∙⊱⋅•⋅⋅•⋅⊰∙∘☽༓☾∘∙⊱⋅•⋅

The hum of the engine and the faint rhythm of raindrops against the windshield make the drive almost peaceful. Alex’s thumb absentmindedly strokes the back of your hand, his warmth lulling you into a half-daze. Before you know it, the car slows to a stop outside your place.

“You alive, love?” Alex murmurs, squeezing your hand.

Barely. You just want to crawl into bed—but with him, of course.

Inside, the familiarity of home washes over you. Despite four months of touring, you both fall into your usual routine like no time has passed. Instead of unpacking like a responsible adult, you strip down and slip into a pair of Alex’s boxers and his hoodie—your real post-tour uniform—before heading downstairs.

Alex is already in the kitchen, and you watch him from the couch, your favorite spot for early morning and late-night admiration.

“Whatcha makin’?” you call, arms draped over the back of the couch. The open layout of your home—a design choice you hadn’t realized you’d love so much—means you get a perfect view of him moving around the kitchen, a bonus you fully take advantage of every time he makes breakfast shirtless.

Alex returns from the kitchen, a steaming mug in hand. “Doctor’s orders,” he jokes, handing it over with a lopsided grin. “Drink up before your headache gets worse.”

You take a sip, the warmth spreading through you. “When did you get your medical degree?”

“Oh, love, I’ve been a specialist in you for ages,” he quips, nudging you playfully.

“Stop it.” You blush bashfully, hiding your face in his chest.

He chuckles, pressing a quick kiss to the top of your head before reaching behind the couch to pull out his guitar. “Mind if I play some tunes?”

“Now?” You raise a brow, amused. “You just survived an eight-hour flight, and you still have energy for this?”

“Yes, now while I still have my gorgeous muse beside me.” He starts to strum out a tune on his guitar, his fingers moving with practiced ease until he reaches the F Major, the one chord that always seems to trip him up.

You’re playing it wrong,” you say, watching him fumble with the chord.

“I am Alex Turner, y’know.” He says smugly while still trying to perfect the chord.

“Then act like it,” you tease, playfully nudging his shoulder. You set your mug down before briskly taking the guitar to show him how it's done. 

“Look,” you say, shifting closer, “put your index here, and your middle on this string—like this.” You guide his fingers into place, your hands lingering over his.

He looks up at you, his eyes glinting under the warm glow of the lamp. “What would I do without my genius of a girlfriend?”

Alex strums the chord again, this time getting it right transitioning into a melody. It’s slow, almost hypnotic, and then he starts singing—low and soft, just for you.

You rest your head against his shoulder, letting his voice wrap around you like a warm blanket.

“You falling asleep on me already?” Alex murmurs, his lips brushing against your hair.

“M’not,” you mumble, but your body betrays you, melting further into him.

He chuckles. “That’s what they all say before they start drooling on me hoodie.”

You swat at him weakly. “I do not drool.”

“Right. Just like I don’t mess up F Major.”

You groan, hiding your face against his chest. “I regret helping you.”

“No, you don’t.” His voice is warm, teasing. “And you love me.”

You huff, but your sleepy smile gives you away. “Yeah, yeah.”

Fame could be loud. But moments like this? This was what really mattered.

Speaking of fame, the airport paparazzi pictures have already been posted to social media, both your fandoms were going absolutely berserk over the images. Since Alex was a grandpa about social media you had to read out all the comments to him. Well maybe only the nice ones.

“Wanna hear what the internet has to say about us?”

He hums, strumming idly on his guitar. “Oh, go on then. What’s the verdict?”

You clear your throat and read dramatically, “‘Rock’s Most Stylish Couple Spotted in L.A.: Y/N Stuns in Casual Chic While Turner Keeps It Classic.'"You glance down at yourself—his hoodie and boxers, your hair still slightly messy from the flight. “Casual chic, huh?”

Alex looks over, eyes flicking lazily across your outfit. “Yeah, proper high fashion, that.”

You snort, scrolling down. “Oh, this one’s good—‘Alex Turner and Y/N Y/L/N prove once again they’re the definition of couple goals.’” 

Alex smirks but doesn’t look up from his guitar. “Ah, well, hate to break it to ‘em, but we’re actually a disaster behind closed doors.”

You roll your eyes, scrolling further until a tweet makes you burst into laughter. ‘Alex and Y/N are real-life couple goals. If they ever break up, love isn’t real.’

You turn to Alex, raising a brow. “No pressure or anything.”

Alex finally stops strumming and squints at your phone. “They’re putting that much faith in us?”

“Oh, absolutely,” you tease. “Apparently, we’re single-handedly holding the concept of love together.”

Alex sets his guitar aside and tugs you closer, pressing a lazy kiss to your temple. “Well then, guess we’ve got no choice, love.”

You grin, leaning into him. “Guess not.”

⋅•⋅⊰∙∘☽༓☾∘∙⊱⋅•⋅⋅•⋅⊰∙∘☽༓☾∘∙⊱⋅•⋅⋅•⋅⊰∙∘☽༓☾∘∙⊱⋅•⋅⋅•⋅⊰∙∘☽༓☾∘∙⊱⋅•⋅

a/n: Hope I did this amazing request justice! I had so much fun writing this, and I truly appreciate all the love and support. Also, part 2 of ‘The AM Effect’ is in the works—I can’t wait to share it with you all soon!

[redbo-and-simbo]

...

..Mm.

(Where am I? It's so cold..)

(shifting)

Huh?

(An IV drip? I'm..in the infirmary. How did I get here after...)

Holy crap, you're finally awake.

(chuckle)

I was worried, man.

...Forty-seven? How..long have I been out?

Uh..longer than I'm sure you wanted to be.

(sigh)

Right. Right..

I'm..sorry.

What? Oh- No, it's fine. I should be apologizing for snooping around-

No, not- not that, I-

(weak, shaky breath)

I keep getting further from my goal. I keep..getting sidetracked...carried away.

I'm a disappointment to the Creator. I know it. That's why he sent you, right? To be some- some crutch?

No, Red-

It's humiliating. Being like this. This isn't what he wants, right? Prophet, how many clones does it take to bury this- this sorry excuse of an Evbo? I can't do my one purpose. I can't stay focused. I'm doing everything I can.

Red-

I do everything I can to keep up this tedium, because one day it's going to be so...so worth it. I want him to see how hard I've worked to become the perfect Evbo, all for him. It's all been for him.

I've never- I've never felt like I did when my autonomy fell away to his will. I want that back. I want- I want him to choose me again. I don't care how many Evbos I have to go through, I just want it back.

But I keep screwing up! All the time! I keep slipping up and things keep going outside of my plans!

Red, hey-

I'm a failure- Just- Just a collection of flaws I just want to erase and replace so I can be someone else!

I'm sick of it!

...

(shaky breath)

It's alright. You don't need to push yourself so hard, okay? You're doing fine.

You work so hard. ..If the Creator could see you himself, he'd probably admire your dedication. I know I do. But you need to slow. Down.

You're not on a time limit. You don't need to spend every single second of your life living efficiently just to achieve your goal here. You're pushing yourself past your limits, sure, but you're doing it every single day. You're constantly functioning on bare minimum rest and self care, and it's affecting your work too.

..I'm sorry.

No, hey..don't be sorry. It's okay. I just don't want you to work yourself to death, and neither does the Creator. You've been out for a while because of your health, things are getting behind.

Then-

(shifting)

Then I need to-!

No, you don't need to do anything but stay here. Okay? Taking care of yourself is part of your work. You need to rest and recover after your crash.

...

(weak scoff)

(shifting back onto pillows)

Theeere you go. Things are still up and running. You don't need to worry. You set so many assignments that they trickle over into other shifts, there's a backlog, you don't need to do anything right now.

There's so much I need to do..

I know. But the first thing on the list is to recuperate. And hey, I've taken care of a lot for you.

(weight shifts down onto the medical bed)

I don't know how to assign things or do repairs, but..Seawatt needed to charge, so I helped plug him in. I made sure Widget was fed and had water so neither of you had to worry about it. And uh..your hoodie was..stained, so..I put it in the wash. Sheets too.

I don't understand..

Why?

Huh?

Why go through all that trouble when you didn't have to? You could've gotten someone else to take care of any of that. You know you don't need to lift a finger around this place.

(sigh)

Well, for one, it made the most sense. Even if Seawatt was in sleep mode for a while, he was still low battery. I wasn't going to make him do anything. And everything else, y'know..I'm around your room and workshop the most, only second to you. But- Besides that, I just-

I care about you, Red.

I knew it wasn't going to be easy to make up for lost time, and I knew it would stress you out having all these extra tasks to take care of. I wanted to make the workload easier on you.

...

(sniffle)

...You really are a gift from the Creator..

Aw, Red..

(shifting)

Hey..you don't need to cry. I'm happy to hurk-!

(Tight hugger-)

(soft chuckle)

(fingers move to comb through hair)

...You'll be alright, Evbo.

[aphoticarachne]

SLOW DANCING IN THE DARK — luke castellan

tags: gut wretching angst, established relationship, betrayal, demigod!reader, um just luke in general

Pain and fury simmered beneath your skin, scorching like molten lava seeping through every vein, threatening to consume you whole.

You stood frozen, suffocated by the weight of betrayal as Luke bared his soul—his plans, his allegiance, the truth he had concealed from you all this time. A sickening wave of nausea clawed up your throat, lodging itself there, just as you were trapped here. With him.

"Baby, I know it's—"

"Don’t." Your voice, though barely above a whisper, carried the force of a blade. Sharp. Unforgiving. Tears brimmed at your lashes, threatening to spill, but you refused to let them fall. Instead, you stepped back, slow and deliberate, as if distance alone could sever the invisible thread still tethering you to him.

Luke's breath hitched, and in the moon’s pallid glow, you watched his expression contort. Shock, pain, then something colder. His crystalline eyes—ones that once held warmth—hardened into ice. Were you truly trying to flee from him? The very thought was an affront. A wound deeper than any blade.

"You can't do this to me," he murmured, his voice laced with desperation. "You—You promised. You said we'd be together. Forever."

He surged forward, hands reaching for yours, as if holding onto you would keep you from slipping away. Backbiter tumbled from his grip, landing on the damp forest floor with a soft thud, forgotten in his urgency to hold onto you.

But you recoiled as if burned. Fury, searing and absolute, surged through your veins. "You did this to us!" you spat, wrenching yourself from his grasp as though his very touch had become repulsive.

The moon’s silver light cascaded over him, accentuating the sharp angles of his face, the scar that traced his features—a mark you once traced with reverence, with devotion, you used to kiss it with the tenderness of a lover. But now, that face twisted into something grotesque, something unfamiliar, monstrous. No, you hadn’t misjudged him. You hadn’t failed to see him clearly before. He was never your Luke to begin with.

Luke's hands clenched at his sides, his jaw tight. He saw it now—the way your gaze shifted, as if he were a stranger, an enemy where a lover once stood. It cut deeper than any blade.

And now, everything was crumbling.

He had thought—no, he had believed—that your love for him would transcend all else. That it would overpower your devotion to Olympus, your blind fealty to the Gods who had forsaken you time and time again. He had stood by you, fought for you, chosen you when no one else had. And yet, when the moment of truth arrived, you chose them.

How foolish he was to have thought of that in the first place.

Your nails dug into your palms, crescent-shaped indentations forming in your flesh as you struggled to steady your voice. When you finally spoke, it was quiet—too quiet. But beneath it lay a warning, a threat woven into every syllable.

"Leave." Your stare burned into him, unwavering. "Leave before I do something we’ll both regret."

His entire world collapsed in a single breath.

You turned then, jaw clenched, biting the inside of your cheek to keep your resolve from shattering. You would not look back. Not this time.

Luke regarded you with an unreadable expression, though you knew him well enough to recognize the battle waging behind his eyes. He had always understood your defiance, your unwavering resolve. It was something he had admired, something he had loved. And now, it was the very thing that forced him to walk away.

Resignation settled over him like a heavy cloak, sorrow threading itself into the fine lines of his face. A single tear traced the jagged path of his scar, glistening under the silver glow of the moon. He inhaled deeply, his gaze roaming over you with quiet desperation, as if he could commit every detail of your existence to memory—the sharp curve of your jaw, the fire in your gaze, the tremble in your breath.

Then, as though time itself had fractured, Luke grasped your face and pulled you into a searing kiss, one that brimmed with longing, regret, and something far too raw to name. His lips moved against yours with an urgency that bordered on despair, pouring everything he couldn’t say into the space between you. This was an ending, a goodbye that neither of you could fully accept.

Your breaths intertwined, heat colliding, as if the universe itself had conspired to make you stay entangled just a moment longer. When he finally withdrew, you felt the ache of absence immediately, the ghost of him still lingering against your lips.

"I love you," he murmured, his voice a hushed vow, weighted with finality. His head shook slightly, resolve hardening his features. "This isn’t over, baby."

You stood paralyzed, a tempest of emotions surging through your chest as he stooped to retrieve Backbiter from the damp earth. With one fluid motion, he slashed the space before him, rending the air itself. A shimmering void opened in his wake, pulsing with dark energy.

He cast you one last, burning glance. And then—he was gone.

Just like that, your lover had abandoned you. Left you standing alone in the stillness of the forest. Left you to wrestle with the unbearable truth.

He was going to raise an army. He was going to lead a war.

And he was doing it for a Titan clawing his way out of Tartarus.

Wonderful.

Deena speaks .ᐟ

Surprise ! I'm a Luke Castellan fangirl

too. Been one since 2020.

What do you expect? I like my men fucked up.

Anyway, the next chapter of "What is this Feeling?" Is gonna be published tomorrow !

[hughesybear]

Max Sasson just did an interview with Brandon Astle (Abbotsford Canucks commentator)! Highlights include:

Saving the menus from the plane rides

His reaction to the trades and his friendships with the players

Speaking on Quinn's leadership and talking to him after the loss in Edmonton

Full transcript below the cut:

Astle: Well Max, your first game back in Abbotsford after a lengthy run with the big club back in Vancouver, what was it like to be back around the guys and another home game for you here?

Sasson: Yeah, it was super fun seeing everyone this morning. Some of my best friends are on this team, and a lot of them I talked to regularly when I was up, so they were all great. It was unfortunate that we lost on the first night back, but I’m just looking to come back and hone in my game and get better at stuff they told me to work on here, and hopefully get called back up at some point and help the team win.

Astle: We don’t have to talk about the loss about Calgary, it is what it is, I’m more curious about you and your experience in Vancouver. Take us through the whirlwind two and a half months being in the big leagues, that must have been so cool.

Sasson: Oh, yeah, it was a dream come true. The excitement never really ever - every single game, it felt like it was still - the lights were bright, and I had to pinch myself especially playing against some of the best players in the world. Crosby and Ovechkin, I was literally seven years old watching them play. That was the real moment in my second game I think, when Sid was going back for a puck and Letang was yelling “Sid, you got time, you got time,” and I’m like “Wow. This is insane.” These are two guys that I was literally a little kid just admiring them and crying ‘cause the Red Wings lost to them in the Stanley Cup. But it was an awesome experience, so yeah. Hopefully get back.

Astle: Would you say that was your “welcome to the NHL” moment or is there another one that stands out?

Sasson: That one was the one that sticks out for me. I mean, playing against Ovi, when he has this whole - you’re not really watching him during the warmup, but you kind of are, since he kind of holds that much stature, so seeing him just up close and personal, that was pretty cool. But yeah, Crosby, Malkin, Letang, these guys, that was my “welcome to the NHL” moment for sure.

Astle: And getting your first NHL goal a future Hall of Famer is pretty cool too, in Andrei Vasilevsky-

Sasson: No, no, no, it was Boston.

Astle: Oh, was it Boston? Oh, sorry!

Sasson: Yeah, I was like “wait, is Swayman a Hall of Famer?”

Astle: Could be, could be! But the one thing I just wish was that game was a little closer so that you could have that big celebration, what were you guys down, five-one or something?

Sasson: I know! Five-nothing, yeah.

Astle: And you had to have a subdued celebration, but was that tough not to jump out of your skin? Like, you just scored your first goal in the NHL!

Sasson: Yeah, it was tough. Obviously I was super fired up on the inside, and honestly the guys were really fired up. I had some guys come up to me like “hey, you can smile. It’s your first NHL goal, at the end of the day you’re not going to remember the win or loss, it’s the fact that you scored in the NHL.” I’ve never been a guy, though, that’s gonna - I’m always just trying to think about winning. But obviously it was awesome, right? And it was assisted by Millsy, who’s a good friend of mine, and he picked up the puck right away. It was pretty cool.

Astle: I imagine, playing in your hometown - you told me you grew up not too far away from Little Caesar’s Arena [the Red Wings’ arena], you mentioned you were heartbroken when the Penguins beat the Red Wings in Game 7, that must have been a surreal feeling seeing how many people were coming to watch your first game in Detroit.

Sasson: Yeah, it was almost overwhelming. Obviously that was a moment I’ll never forget, playing in Detroit and seeing - there were so many people there in warmups when I was just skating around, and taking it all in. Even just playing against the Red Wings, the team that I grew up idolizing, that was really cool. I think the person that had the most fun was probably my dad [laughs]. He said it was the best day of his life. So yeah, that was awesome.

Astle: What’s the best perk about being in the NHL? You hear about a lot of things, what was something that really lived up to the hype, could be travel, accommodations, per diem, the meals on the road with the guys, or just anything at all, what really stood out?

Sasson: What stood out probably was the plane, the plane rides. Just going right to the plane, hopping right on, we have great flight attendants up there. I saved a bunch of the menus that they have because I couldn’t believe that I was living this life of, you know, eating steak on the plane and stuff. So that was probably the coolest thing for me. And I asked some of the guys, I was like “do you just get used to this?” And they were like, “Yeah.” I was like “I can’t imagine,” cause I would stare [?] every single time I got on that plane. You just had pretty much whatever you wanted to eat or drink, that was really cool.

Astle: And if you don’t mind, Max, just take the fans through what it’s like to get the bad news that you’re coming back to Abbotsford, if you don’t mind sharing, a bit of a loaded question. Where were you, who tells you, what do they tell you to work on, how does that call or text go down?

Sasson: So yeah, I talked to - Patrik called me, the GM, I think when we were about to play Nashville, and he let me know I might be coming back, and then the next day he told me I was flying back. Obviously, it sucks, right? It’s tough to hear, but there was a lot of positives they gave me, and Yogi Svejkovský, the assistant coach up there, had a great PowerPoint with a bunch of video from pretty much almost all of my games. He had probably fifteen positive clips and fifteen negative clips, and probably ten clips of other guys that I could maybe see myself in their role at some point. It sucks, but at the end of the day I’m where my feet are, and I want to get better every day and help this team win, and help myself get back to the next level.

Astle: And another tough part of the business, Max, is the trades. Six players getting shipped out of the Vancouver organization, and I’m sure a couple of them you grew a close bond with, these last two and a half months. What goes through a player’s head when you see stuff like that, and did you find out just like everybody else, through online and on phones and on Twitter, stuff like that?

Sasson: Yeah, I honestly just - before the game, I had some texts saying J.T. got traded and they said there were prospects involved and other players involved, and obviously I got to the rink and I saw Bränny wasn’t playing for us tonight. He’s a great guy, and worked hard, and played really good hockey for Vancouver and played really good hockey for Abbotsford, so it’s tough to see him go. And after the game, I hear that Vincent Desharnais and Danton Heinen, two of honestly my closest buddies on Vancouver - I wish all of them nothing but the best, but that’s the business we’re in. Every team is trying to get better, and it makes sense. Pittsburgh's thinking they got better, and Vancouver's probably thinking they got better. So it’s the business we’re in, and it’s tough. And this is honestly my first real time where I’m like “wow, that sucks, these are good guys.” So, we’re human, but yeah. You gotta move on, and I’m sure the guys coming are gonna be hopefully good people as well.

Astle: What about Quinn Hughes? Talk about a guy that’s honestly probably the best player in the league right now, who you got to see on a day-to-day basis, what’s he like in practice, off the ice, what separates him from the rest?

Sasson: His confidence is unmatched, I think. Just with the puck, you know, not - I wouldn’t say cockiness, but confidence, and knowing “you can’t contain me.” Like “I am gonna do what I want.” And it shows, right? From my first training camp here, I said that he is an X-factor, and just from then he’s been taking off. And off the ice he’s a good leader, helped me - we had a tough loss against Edmonton, [he] came over on the plane and talked to me and hyped me up, and let me know what he sees and how I can help the team. And then obviously on the ice, yeah, he’s in my opinion the best defenceman in the world, and top probably three or five player in the league right now. He controls the game, and I always joke he wakes up with two points ‘cause it seems like every single game, no matter what happens, he does his thing, which is what Tocc’s always saying, “Huggy does his thing,” because it’s true. So he’s incredible.

Astle: And what do you make of your old Abbotsford roommate, Marc Gatcomb - you got your first NHL goal, and now he got one this week, what went through your mind when you saw that one come across the wire?

Sasson: Oh, yeah, I know! I figured it was only a matter of time. I guess he’s been playing really well, I haven’t been able to watch too much of it, but I’ve seen some clips. I always knew he had NHL ability with his skating, and he does things that not many people can do, where he can fly, he can hit, and coaches love that. So it was great to see, I’ve talked to him many times about - he was asking me for advice when he first got called up, and I couldn’t be happier for him. And now it’s pretty cool, ‘cause now me, [Aiden] McDonough, and Gats, we were roommates, we all have NHL goals, so it’s pretty special.

Astle: And Aiden’s having a pretty good year in the AHL as well, hopefully he can get back to the NHL.

Sasson: Yeah, he works super hard, and he’s an even better guy, so I wouldn’t be surprised.

Astle: Well Max, this has been great catching up, great to see your success in the NHL. Hopefully you can come down here, do your best, and you’re back up with the big club in no time! Thanks for your time, buddy.

Sasson: Thanks for your time, yeah.

[fic--writer]

The archmage must get married

Rolan x fem!Tav, Lia, Cal.

1780 words. Humor, romance, SFW

Rolan and Tav are secretly in love with each other, but neither of them dares to make the first move. However, the circumstances are changing.

"Rolan! You have to get married!" — Lia blurted this out right at breakfast.

Rolan froze with his glass in hand, then sharply turned to his sister, staring intently at her tired, yet extremely serious face.

"I have to... what?" — he asked, not believing his ears.

"Get married! You're an archmage now. You have status, and you're in the public eye. Damn journalists found out you're single and wrote that ridiculous article, and..."

Rolan frowned and took a sip of wine.

"What article?" — he asked cautiously.

A laugh came from the other side of the table. His brother, Cal, quoted from memory:

"'The new Archmage has been named the sexiest bachelor of Baldur's Gate.'"

Rolan choked.

"Zurgan!" — he gasped, coughing. "Maybe you both could finally start reading something more respectable than tabloid trash? Just think about it! You live in a tower with one of the rarest libraries, have access to any books, and instead…"

Lia interrupted his tirade, gesturing irritably with her hands: "It's not about that! The problem is your new admirers, who are becoming more and more persistent every day! Hundreds of letters, all smelling of perfume, and often cheap ones at that... I have to manually sift through the important correspondence, and yesterday I spent an entire hour explaining to one pushy woman that you don’t see visitors without an appointment!”

She shook her head and, crossing her arms over her chest, stared at him intently:

“Rolan, you're a grown man. You have a huge tower, a position, work... It’s really time for you to settle down."

Rolan sighed in resignation:

"Fine, I'll think about it, but only if it makes you shut up."

"Think about it? As if we don’t all know who 'exactly' will be your sweet little wife," - Cal chimed in, and he and Lia both started giggling.

"What?!"

"Oh, come on," - Cal smirked. - "You're too obvious. Even if you think you're hiding it well."

"What. Do. You. Mean?" - Rolan narrowed his eyes, his voice dropping dangerously low, and why did these troglodytes always manage to get under his skin...

"What do I mean?" — Cal chuckled, making faces and mimicking his brother. — "Tav, shall I pour you some wine? Tav, want to read together? Tav, will you have dinner with us? Tav..."

"Hush you!" — Rolan barked, feeling the heat rush to his face. — "She’s my friend, not my damn girlfriend!"

Cal just smirked and shook his head.

Of course, Rolan felt a whole spectrum of emotions toward Tav. How could he not? She saved his red hide from certain death, she saved his family, she helped him become an archmage, and even saved this damned world.

And she was damned beautiful. But did he have the right to want more? To demand her — all of her, without reservation?

"Well, it's your call, but decide soon before your fans start storming the tower or slipping love potions into your food."

Lia cast a glance at his plate.

"By the way... where did that pastry come from?"

Rolan froze. Then, slowly, he lowered his gaze to the dessert in his hands. The next second, he violently shoved it aside, desperately spitting out the remains.

Tav stepped into the Archmage's tower and found Lia, deeply focused as she sorted through some papers. Over the past few months, Rolan’s sister had essentially become his personal secretary, keeping order in the endless stream of work.

Tav’s attention was drawn to a tall stack of letters, many of them pink.

She frowned, grabbed one of the letters, and flipped it over in her hands. On the envelope, oh gods, there were... little hearts?! And in the recipient field, none other than Archmage Rolan was listed.

"What... is this?" — Tav asked, concern evident in her voice as she shook the letter in her hand.

"Oh, these?" Lia replied, not looking up. "Love letters. From women... and not just them. They all dream of being the companion of a man of status..."

"Oh? Ooo... Oh." — Tav could barely manage to squeeze out, her mind racing.

Almost with disgust, she shoved the letter back into the pile, her eyes darting nervously.

"Tav? Are you okay?"

"Me? Uh... yeah... no..." — she swallowed nervously. — "I think I’m a little... sick."

Lia narrowed her eyes suspiciously. Tav looked the same as always, no signs of illness. Shrugging, Lia sighed and returned to her work.

Tav, not saying another word, stretched out her hand. One quick incantation — and from her finger erupted a narrow pillar of flame, instantly turning the letters into a handful of ashes.

Lia swore, jumping back:

"What the hell are you doing!?"

"Oh, that was totally an accident! I don’t know..." — Tav desperately tried to put on an innocent face.

Lia raised an eyebrow, her gaze sharp with suspicion.

"Really? You don’t know? One of the most powerful sorceresses in the city ‘accidentally’ casts a spell?" — She wasn’t buying this nonsense.

“When I’m sick, I… I’m not myself!” — Tav blurted out, taking a step back.

Lia opened her mouth to respond, but just then, the door slammed open, and a stranger burst into the room.

A young woman, dressed in tight clothing that emphasized her very noticeable curves, smiled as she entered:

"Hi! I want to become the Archmage’s apprentice... I want to learn magic from him."

Tav slowly shifted her gaze to Lia.

Lia slowly shifted her gaze to Tav.

Tav narrowed her eyes, giving the young woman a thorough once-over. Before Lia had a chance to respond, Tav stepped forward and calmly said:

"Really? Then show me the simplest spells you already know. Please."

"Show you? Oh. Well, I need to get in the right mindset..." — The stranger blinked in confusion, shifting nervously from one foot to the other.

There’s no magic in her at all, Tav realized, and continued:

"You know what?" — she suggested with a tight smile. — "It would be best if you wrote a letter to the Archmage."

"Really?" — The girl brightened, her eyes sparkling with hope.

"Really," Tav confirmed, barely holding back a sly smirk. — "He will definitely respond."

Satisfied, the girl nodded, apologized, and quickly hurried off.

Lia watched the girl leave, then slowly turned to Tav, her mouth slightly open, clearly about to ask a million questions.

But as soon as their eyes met, all the words got stuck in her throat. Tav's gaze clearly said: "Not a word more."

Lia sighed heavily and returned to her papers. Another day in the Archmage's tower was shaping up to be exceptionally long.

When Rolan entered the reception room, the first thing that caught his eye was the blackened scorch mark on the table.

"Zurgan! This is a red oak table! Who the hell did this?!" — He froze, then his tail flicked irritably.

"It was Tav," — Lia said flatly, not even bothering to look up from her papers.

Tav, standing off to the side, nervously cleared her throat.

Rolan blinked, finally noticing her:

"Oh, Tav? Hey... How are you? I mean... why my table?" — He ran a hand over his face, exhaling heavily. — "Alright, never mind."

The Archmage's anger noticeably subsided, and taking advantage of the moment, Lia lazily added:

"Oh, and she just kicked one of your potential apprentices out the door..."

Rolan slowly turned his head toward Tav.

Tav greeted him with a flawless, innocent smile.

Lia smirked and flipped the page of her papers.

Tav’s cheeks instantly turned crimson, and she hissed at Lia:

"Can you be quiet for just one second?!"

But it was too late.

Rolan crossed his arms over his chest, staring at her intently.

"You did what?"

Tav straightened up, trying to look confident.

"The cat at the fish stall has more magic flowing through it than that girl," — she countered. — "I just made your job easier."

"But you didn’t even let me take a look, you didn’t even tell me! Why?!"

Tav opened her mouth... and immediately realized she had no coherent explanation. She began stammering, stumbling over her words, cursing herself for not being able to just fall straight into hell right now.

Rolan, not waiting for an answer, let out a heavy sigh, grabbed her by the wrist, and decisively dragged her toward his office.

The door slammed shut behind them, leaving Lia alone.

She smirked, gave a satisfied hum, and walked off.

“Finally”.

"What the hell is going on, Tav?!" — Rolan stormed into the office, his voice echoing through the room. — "First you scorch my table, then you make decisions for me! Has a worm eaten your brain?"

Tav, without taking her eyes off his face, replied, trying not to let her irritation show:

"I told you, there’s no magic in that girl. She just came to show off in front of you. You wouldn’t have taught her anyway, so why waste time?"

"Really?" — His voice turned mockingly amused. — "Then why didn’t you even let me take a look? Why didn’t you let me make the decision myself? Do you think I can’t do anything right?!"

"Do you really have to talk to me like that? Did I step on your tail or something?" — Tav took a defensive stance.

Rolan froze, staring at her face… and suddenly his smirk became almost devilish:

“Wait, what? Are you jealous?”

Tav quickly turned away, pretending that something interesting was happening outside the window, but her flushed cheeks gave it all away.

“Oh, I always knew there had to be some special reason for you to save me and my family so many times…” — he continued, stepping closer — “But I never could have imagined…”

Tav had no time to answer. Driven by something inexplicable, the Archmage scooped her up in his arms, sat her down on the table almost effortlessly, and placed himself between her legs.

Tav gasped, but made no protest. On the contrary, she grabbed his collar and pulled him closer...

Cal, as usual, entered the Archmage’s office without knocking:

"Rolan, what do you want for dinner? Oh! Sorry... uh... I didn't see anything, go ahead."

He took a few steps back and slammed the door shut with a resounding thud. A moment of silence, as if he wanted to forget what he had just seen, and Cal was already on his way to his sister:

"Lia! You won’t believe it! I think we can start preparations for the wedding!"

Lia simply raised an eyebrow:

"Relax, I started a month ago."

[emilylawsons]

@xenobean Your wish is my command…

(This will have a few spoilery things from S1 and S2 but none from S3.)

So let’s start with the setting and surface theme: journalism and news media. Anyone who works in that field faces questions of integrity every single day. Good journalists seek the truth. They ask questions. But sometimes the truth—or one person’s integrity—threatens to expose someone else’s lack thereof. We see it all the time in what the characters face each episode. Noelene gets fired for a day because she accidentally pulls a fabricated quote that her own bosses didn’t bother to check her on. Helen is constantly searching for stories that shed light on issues no one else will talk about, and in season 2 Dale is combative to that because he’s looking to save face and maintain his station which her convictions threaten. One of Helen’s most crucial moments comes because she has to choose between her integrity and her job.

Their professional world alone is meant to be built on truth and exposing the truth.

Then we get our characters.

Helen tries to hide her mental illness, at least from the public. And herself. She panics when her past stint in a mental institution is threatened to come to light. She runs away and tries to hide her episodes but isn’t quite so successful—but she’ll still attempt to lie. (“I accidentally took too many pills,” “I think I was really dehydrated.”) And we see how her running from her mental illness rather than facing it head on or seeking help does more harm than good. And she constantly has reminders of the stigma of mental illness shoved in her face. She has people around her—namely men—screaming at her and not taking her seriously, and it just fuels her reactive anger. Which makes her impossible to deal with to most people. Except Dale, who becomes the only safe person she knows. But even he can’t always understand, especially when her struggles threaten his image.

Dale, meanwhile, has run from his bisexuality since he was a teenager. Didn’t even have the language for it. He was shamed, wrongfully punished, made to feel like a pervert. As a result, he’s kept his true feelings to himself. He’s leaned into what everyone else wants from him. Helen is probably the first person to know the whole truth and still love him as deeply as she does, but the way in which she finds out is at the cost of an indiscretion to their relationship. She feels betrayed not because he has that attraction to men, but because he kissed someone else—he entertained being with someone else while they were together—and still doesn’t quite trust that he won’t leave her. So how he is supposed to feel anything other than ashamed? How is he supposed to respond other than to hide in his career and the one place he seems to be successful, accepted, and admired? No one can know he has these feelings or these thoughts. No one can know the real him. Because they would be appalled—or that’s what he’s had reinforced in his mind.

Both of them, in their shame, fall apart despite the fact that they’re the only two people who literally only see each other and love each other regardless.

Then we’re introduced to Kay Walters, who’s spent her entire life having to live up to her parents’ public image. Who fell to addiction because of the pressure. Because she never felt good enough in the eyes of the two people in this world who should have loved her unconditionally, without question. And when she comes back and Geoff and Evelyn find out what state she’s in, they’re forced to face their own failure. Their own neglect of what’s important. Because they, themselves, are so full of shame at the idea of looking even just a little less than perfect. And when they face the fact that she needs help, there’s shame on their part because their daughter is in rehab—which is just as shameful to her. It takes that come to Jesus moment to get them to reexamine themselves.

And without giving anything away about the final season, we watch the fallout from this shame and how Helen and Dale specifically must confront it. And throughout the entire series, it’s the people who refuse to be ashamed of themselves that seem to be the happiest—Gerry and Carla, for instance. Or Tim. Or Linus. And I’d love to dig more into how we see this play out for Helen and Dale these last six episodes, but I’ll leave it there since everyone is still watching.

So, yeah. That’s the point. And I adore this show for everything it is. ❤️

Anyway the thesis of The Newsreader is that embracing the truth and everything real that you are is always going to be better than hiding in shame in this essay I will—