#I copied it from something I ordered at a cafe a few days ago--kind of proud of it.

[ophthalmotropy]

You can barely tell because I'm still, you know, posting, but the amount of time I spend here has decreased massively. Most of it was just scrolling out of restlessness and not actually wanting to post something lmao.

[ladyantiheroine]

What I Didn’t Say

Summary: Renfield tries to protect Y/N, but things get complicated.

Pairing: Renfield x fem!reader

Request by @kpopgirlbtssvt

—————————————————————————

How much longer are going to let this go on, Renfield?

The immortal assistant was seated at cafe across from Y/N, a girl he’d met at a support meeting. She was new in town, new to the group, and Renfield had been entranced by her since they met. Beautiful, intelligent, kind. Not the kind of woman that Renfield expected to be interested in him. 

And yet, she’d invited him out to coffee after their frist group meeting together. Since then, it became their ritual each week. They always ordered the same drinks, sat at the same table beneath the autumn tree by the street.

From the first day, after she told her story to the group, Renfield had considered her as a potential meal for Dracula. She’d recently broken up with a narcissistic partner (an event that brought her to the group) and she had a distant relationship with her family. She was alone in a new city. In other words, she was the right kind of vulnerable and invisible that would make it easy for her to suddenly disappear.

That was several weeks ago. Despite Dracula’s hungry moans, Renfield kept putting off killing Y/N. He wasn’t used to being this resistant. After centuries of murder, he thought eh finally gre immune to empathy or guilt or other things that may hinder such acts. But Y/N had reminded him that despite Dracula’s efforts, Renfield was still very much human deep down.

And to make matters worse, the longer Renfield spent time with Y/N, the harder and harder it was for him to imagine bringing her bloody corpse to his master…

“Robby?”

Y/N’s voice snapped Renfield from his thought. He lifted his face from his lukewarm copy. Y/N gave him a playful smile.

“I don’t know what’s in your coffee, but it can’t be that interesting,” she said.

Y/N giggled and Renfield eased into a smile.

He loved spending time with her.

But how much longer could he let this go on, until something went wrong?

~

Renfield knew there was only two ways this could end. Either Y/N would discover his true intentions, or he would have to abandon their relationship. The former was dangerous, the latter was unthinkable.

But fate made the choice for him.

After weeks, Dracula was getting hungrier. He kept leaving notes and letters around for Renfield to find, tormenting him with reminders of his blood thirst. A few of these letter made it into the hands of Y/N during her many visits to his apartment.

“What the fuck are these?!” Y/N yelled ast him. “You’re fixing to feed me to…some kind of cannibal killer?”

“He’s not a cannibal,” Renfield said. He tried to keep his voice calm, but his temple was sweating and his heart was racing. “I swear, he’s Dracula. The Dracula.”

“Oh, you really think I’m going to believe that?” Y/N snapped, tears streaming down her cheeks. “Whatever he is, you were going to feed him to me. That’s all our relationship is? I’m just a lamb to the slaughter to you?”

“Y/N, you’re not,” Renfield said, his voice desperate. “Please, if you just let me explain…”

“I never want to see you again,” Y/N said through blubbering tears. “If I see your face again, I’m calling the cops.”

With that, Renfield watched his only love slam out the door.

~

Renfiled felt like he had shattered to pieces. He imagined himself transformed into a stone statue and slowly cracking into rocky pieces on the ground. Hours passed and with each on he knew Y/N was going further away, only to ever remember him as a cruel liar.

He knew there was no point in winning her back. The best thing to do now was pack his things,c convince Dracula it was time to move locations again, and get as far from her as possible. But he didn’t want her to remember him as someone who didn’t care for her, who merely saw her as meat for the beast. 

So, he wrote her a note.

~

My dearest Y/N,

There’s a good chance you won’t even read this. Perhaps this note may just be a crumpled up note in a waste bin. But on the chance that you are reading this, I want to explain myself to you, if you’ll do me the kindness of listening.

I must begin with the deepest apologies for everything. For my dishonesty, for my endangerment of you, for watsing your time. I know saying this will not absolve me of my actions, but an apology is in order regardless. I should have never filled up your heart only to use it so carelessly.

It’s true. I did indeed to feed you to my master, as I have done with many humans over the centuries. But the longer we spent together, the more I couldn’t bare the thought of it. You’ve reminded me what it is to love, to care for, to worry over again. Such things I’d long believe I couldn’t feel anymore. For that, I owe you a thank you. A thank you for teaching me once again hat it is to be human.

I’m leaving the city with Dracula tonight. I have not told him about you. I will get him as far from you as possible, assure that he never sees you long enough to hurt you. I will allow every other human on earth to die before he can get his claws on you.

I won’t ask for forgiveness. All I ask is that you understand that I will spend eternity keeping this beast away from you. I only hope you can sleep better now.

Always yours, 

Robert Montague Renfield.

~

Y/N’s hand shook as she finished reading the note. She stumbled backwards into a chair in her apartment. It was all too impossible to believe. But it had to be true. Renfield was not the type to lie. He couldn’t if he tried.

If this was all true…

Y/N clenched the note in her fist and dropped her head down. A sob crawled up her throat and her eyes well with tears.

“Robby…” she whimpered. “I’m…”

Then, Y/N jumped when she heard a sudden knock on her door. She sniffled and wiped her eyes dry. The clock on the wall said it was pasr midnight. Who the hell could here at this ungodly hour?

Y/N stood up and approached the door. A warm nighttime breeze greeted her when she opened it up. Along with the wet, coppery scent of fresh blood.

Renfield stood before her, his face and purple sweater dripping with crimson. His face was twisted in sorrow and his eyes dripped with tears. Y/N’s eyes widened and her mouth dropped open.

“Y/N,” Renfield said, his voice shivering. “I…I’m sorry…I…”

He looked like a baby deer that had been struck by a car. Y/N’s heart squelched in her chest. Yes, Renfield was far from normal. Yes, maybe he’d been a victim of a monster that had in turned tried to make him into a monster.

But he was still Robby. Your Robby.

You took Renfield’s face in your hands. You used yout thumbs to wipe away the tears and blood trickling down his cheeks.

“It’s okay,” you told him. “It’s okay.”

With that, you pressed your lips to his. You tasted the metallic liquid on his face but you didn’t care. You kissed him and he kissed you. And as you did, a single thought passed through Renfield’s head.

I’m free. She’s made me finally, finally free.

[purplesurveys]

1595

What was the name of the main character in the last book you read? Edward, I guess lol. I just found the copy of Midnight Sun that I totally thought I lost two years ago and have been rereading it from the start even though I know what happens.

Do you own a pair of Disney pajamas? I don’t. Not anymore, at least.

What are three of your favorite toppings for salads? I only eat one kind of salad and that’s spicy tuna salad, so whatever goes in it.

What was the last place you went out to eat? Andi and I went to this quaint little cafe in Maginhawa last Tuesday where I helped review them for an upcoming law exam. I didn’t exactly have a big meal there as I had a heavy lunch earlier that day, but I did get two of their double chocolate cream cheese cookies, plus a mocha nut latte.

Do you have a lot of clutter in your home? Funny and very timely that you mention this because we actually used to, but my dad decluttered AS FUCK throughout this week. The house looked like a jungle the entire time he was clearing out stuff.

What was the last pill you took? 💊 My best friend, Biogesic, for a headache I had a few days ago.

Are you happy with your current doctor? 👩‍⚕️ I don’t have a regular doctor.

Is there a bottle of Benadryl in your medicine cabinet? No. Do you take vitamins? Nope. My carpal tunnel syndrome got extremely bad this week though and it had me worrying about whether I should start taking vitamins more frequently to help mitigate it. My left arm has felt funky the last few days and it is NOT pleasant.

Does your hair need to be washed right now? Well not for a while, because I already took a shower like half an hour ago.

What was the last thing you ate? The best cheeseburger ever, made by my dad.

Do you prefer pizza or hot dogs? 🌭 🍕 Pizza. More variety.

What is your favorite pizza topping? 🍕 Cheese, bell peppers, onions. Not a fan of meat on my pizza and I almost always give the small chunks (if any) to my dogs instead.

Is your dad a jerk? He has some opinions that can be kinda out there for me but overall those are just a once-in-a-while type of thing that doesn’t affect what I think of him. My dad is a great guy.

What color are your fingernails painted? They’re not painted and haven’t been in a while but I WILL SHARE! that Trina gave me these adorable RM-themed press-on nails for Christmas; most of the designs were scarlet. It was my first time applying them so the finish was quite clumsy, but I still really liked how they look and I appreciate the effort she put in giving the gift.

Is anyone in your family currently in the military? No. I know someone currently serving though... :(

What was the last thing you bought at the dollar store? From our dollar store equivalent, the last thing I got was a pair of training chopsticks. All the hours I spent watching Return of Superman made me want one of my own, lol. Are prices of things going up where you live? Yes. My family is fortunate to not be affected by it (unless my parents are doing a great job pretending for our sake...? I doubt they are, though, as they are comfortably spending on leisure-y stuff now), and I am extremely grateful and aware of the privilege considering the financial difficulties we faced during the pandemic. 

But inflation is for sure felt by many others - the question of whether or not families could even afford a Noche Buena dinner this Christmas is constantly covered in the news and it makes me sad.

What color was the last carpet you sat on? Grey.

What is your favorite dog breed? Aspins and beagles.

When was the last time you wore make-up? 💄 Mid-November for a work event.

What was the last thing you ordered at the last restaurant you went to? Oh I kinda answered this earlier but I got two cookies and a mocha nut latte. I got the latter just because I didn’t know what it was and I felt like trying something new, so I was really excited when I learned that it was essentially mocha with fucking CHOCNUT. Drink turned out amazing.

What was the last thing you wore that was pink? A pair of lounge shorts.

Name three people you know, if any, that currently live in another country. Hannah, Pam, Sofie.

Name three people you know who are from another country (and what countries?) I wouldn’t call the Philippines diverse. Only way you’d get to know people from other countries is if you attend an international school or work at a multinational company, pretty much.

What are your grandmas' names? Dolores, Agnes.

If applicable, who lives across the hall from you? It is not, in fact, applicable.

Have you ever heard of "fairy hair"? (It's tinsel in the hair that gets put in permanently...it's like tinsel highlights.) I’m afraid I haven’t.

Have you found any gray hairs on your head? Yes.

If applicable, how old were you when you found your first gray hair? I was 11 when my mom first spotted one on me.

Do you think you will dye your hair when it's gone gray? Maybe when they start arriving earlier than I’d like, yeah.

Do you have a sister-in-law? Kind of, yeah - my cousin’s fiancée. That cousin is practically a brother of mine at this point, so I’m counting Kat as an in-law.

Do you have a brother-in-law? Nope.

When was the last time you went swimming? 👙 ☀️ Two or three weeks ago, can’t recall well at the moment. Tomorrow I’ll be at the beach again so I imagine I’ll be doing lots of swimming too by then :)

Do you own a bikini? Yeps.

What color is your bike, if you own one? I don’t, because I don’t know how to ride them.

If you were a rockstar, what color guitar would you have? 🎸 Purple.

What are three places you've been on vacation that you've enjoyed? Sagada, Jeju, San Felipe in Zambales.

Does your home have carpeted floors? No. Not at all a common feature in houses here.

What color was the last scarf you wore? I don’t wear scarves.

What was the last spicy thing you ate? I mixed sriracha sauce and mayo in the burger I had for dinner.

Do you like sushi? 🍣 Yes, a lot!

When was the last time you had sushi? 🍱 About a month ago when my family went to a Japanese restaurant for lunch. The place is more known for their ramen but the sushi craving was bad that day so that’s what I ended up getting, lol.

Can you see a box from where you are sitting right now? Several.

Would you rather sing or dance? 🎤 💃 Right now, I feel like answering dance.

What color was the last sports bra you wore, if applicable? Black.

What is your nicest neighbor's name? I don’t know any of their names and don’t talk to them nearly enough to determine who’s the nicest.

Would you rather have a personal chef or personal house cleaner? Chef. Cleaning I can do on my own, but I’m incapable of anything in the kitchen so having someone do all my meals (and have them turn out great every time) would be fantastic.

Do you have any zits on your face right now? Yeah the right side of my face is going through It.

Do you wear glasses or contacts? Glasss, yep.

How many Britney Spears albums have you owned? I’ve never bought her albums; nothing against her, but I was always a Beyoncé girl.

What was the first concert you went to? Paramore, 2013.

Do you like cheese? 🧀 Yeah but I'm not obsessed with it enough the way some people like to make it a part of their personality. Which I’m not saying is bad or cringey, but I just don’t like cheese that way haha.

What are three of your favorite things to sprinkle cheese on top of? Pizza, spaghetti, and not sprinkle but I do like to dip samgyeopsal in a cheese dip.

What are three of your favorite bakery items? Croissants, doughnuts, chocolate chip cookies.

When was the last time you went to a bakery? 🧁 Last week to pick up a box of cookies for Bea’s birthday.

Do you prefer coffee or chai? ☕️ Coffee. I haven’t even had chai and don’t have the first clue how it tastes.

Do you know what "chai" means? Can’t speak for chai but I know that cha means tea in many parts of Asia. In Filipino we call it tsaa (as in cha-ah).

What are three other names you like that start with the same letter as your name? Rose/Rosie/Rosalie, Rhiannon, Renée.

What are three creative hobbies you enjoy? Writing, painting...and yeah that’s it.

Is there a bag or basket of yarn somewhere in your home? 🧶 Possibly. And if we do, it’s most likely my mom’s or sister’s. Do you ever wear skirts? Nope, not my style in the slightest. I used to have a denim skirt but I haven’t worn it in yeeeEEEEEEARS. Do you ever find it hard to live in a world where nobody cares? Continued from Friday evening. It can be frustrating, which is why I like to surround myself with people who do care a little more than others. Would you rather have a tattoo of a skull or a flower? Flowers. In fact that design doesn’t sound too meh to me now and I’d love to get a tattoo inspired by Namjoon’s song, Wild Flower. Have you ever had to take steroids? 💊 Nope.

What are three of the worst withdrawal effects or side effects you have experienced from a medication? 💊 I haven’t had any.

What are three things you like about church? Nothing.

What are three things you dislike about church? The way they dictate how people should lead their lives; the way that many followers are hypocrites; and the way they cover up sexual abuse issues. I hate everything about the religion but these are my three main reasons. Does your town have a horse and carriage company? There are calesas that continue to roam around Manila offering to give rides (mainly to tourists, I’m guessing), but I hate those and hope that people stop supporting them enough for them to discontinue because I feel bad for the horses.

Who are three of the biggest jerks you know? I don’t really keep jerks in my lives so suffice it to say that the biggest ones I know are probably just the occasional asshole drivers I encounter on the road.

Have you ever met a Jason that you didn't like? I don’t think so. Nobody comes to mind now, at least.

Have you ever had a friend named Sarah? Nope.

Did you go to school with a Suzy? I didn’t; not really a common name here.

What was the name of the person who bullied you the most in high school Bullying was pretty much nonexistent by the time I got to high school. In my younger years, though, I had to deal with Kaira who had a pretty nasty attitude - particularly towards me - in kindergarten and the first few years of grade school,. By Grade 4 we were civil and I even remember her sharing her recess with me; by high school we were in the same friend group. Do you know someone named Matthew? A few, but I’m not close with any of them.

...Mark? Doesn’t ring a bell.

....Luke? Yeah, I have a cousin with the name. Also had English classes with a Luke, back in college.

....John? So many. It’s extremely common here, along with Maria for girls. John is so popular that many boys have it as their first name, where it largely serves as a placeholder - John Luis, John David, John Christian, etc.

Have you ever been friends with an Ashley? Nope. Too white a name where I live, lol. ....an Emily? No.

....a Jessica? I knew one from high school. Acted as white as her name.

....a David? Yes, this is Andi’s second name. Also Patrice’s boyfriend.

Have you ever dated a Matthew? No.

Who was the last person you remember hanging up on you? Just a delivery rider who was confirming my order and had nothing else to ask me.

How's your heart? Are you wounded? 💔 She’s doing fantastic.

What was the last type of pie you ate? Pizza.

Are you happy today? Yeah, I’m great for now. I’m on vacation but we’re checking out in about an hour, so I’m just making the most out of the remaining time we have here. I imagine my happiness won’t last the the whole day though - by 11 PM I have a World Cup final-related event to attend and manage, and I’m not fucking delighted about working near midnight for a sport I couldn’t give two shits for.

What time did you wake up this morning? It was around 8 AM.

And last but not least, did you enjoy this survey? Sure!

[myherowritings]

PART 1. A VERY WELL-DESERVED TIP

SUMMARY. Todoroki Shouto was a wealthy, young CEO who inherited his father’s enterprise. You were a barista at a local cafe who wouldn’t mind some extra cash. One day, Shouto came in during an early morning shift and tipped you such a large sum of money, you were certain it had to have been an accident. To your surprise and complete pleasure: It was not.

PAIRING. ceo!todoroki shouto x barista!reader

WORD COUNT. 2.0k

GENRE. ceo/barista au, fluff, eventual smut

WARNINGS. none in this chapter

A/N. my brief work as a barista is finally paying off. i suffered at sbux all to write this fic ✌︎('ω'✌︎ ) LMAOOO i frl had so much fun writing this and i’m very excited to share the next parts ;) i hope you enjoy this fic as much as i do!! xx sof

SERIES MASTERLIST

© myherowritings — all rights reserved. reposting, modifying, copying, or translating of any kind is not allowed. do not read my writing as asmr. do not plagiarize.

You were not looking forward to your new work schedule for the next month. 

The employee who usually came in for opening shifts at four in the morning gave her two weeks notice...two weeks ago. And since you had your availability open (you knew you should’ve blocked it off and said you had morning class), your manager asked you to fill her place. 

The night before your first—of many—morning shifts, you tried tricking yourself into thinking it was a good idea. And it almost worked! Sort of. 

You told yourself waking up early when the sun rose worked with your body’s natural circadian rhythm and this experience may adjust your sleep schedule for a healthier one in the long run. Better health and wellbeing and lower risks of cardiovascular disease. Or something. You weren’t too sure exactly; you never paid much attention in biology but it sounded like something you’d find in a textbook, right?

When you arrived on your first day, the morning shift was just as hectic and chaotic as you expected. People in business suits with name brand bluetooth earphones in their ears and the latest new smartphone in their hand filled the shop and waited for their online order. It was as if they wanted the least amount of social interaction possible, which would be fine if being able to make connections with customers wasn’t the most interesting part about being a barista. 

Although the cafe you worked at was a small business who actually (tried) to pay their employees fairly and wasn’t a purely money hungry franchise like the certain green siren, it surprisingly had gained enough traction in the area to rival one of those cheap, chain stores. 

Good for the business, bad for sleepy workers who could barely function in the mornings.

But you enjoyed working here and the owners were kind, so you did your best to shove away the tiredness and put a bright and cheery smile on your face. The customers were grumpier than you were used to, but who wouldn’t be a little ill-mannered having to go to work at 5 a.m. and probably not leaving until 6 p.m. or later because of bosses who overworked them? Trying to get them their morning coffee with an amiable attitude to start off their day right was something you were more than happy to do. 

It was too bad barely any of them gave you the time of day. They just wanted to get their caffeine and leave with as little human interaction as possible. It was understandable, of course, but it wasn’t the lively cafe environment you were used to during later shifts. You sighed, hoping the atmosphere would be friendlier when it wasn’t a major rush hour. 

“Hi! I can help the next person in line,” you called for the twentieth time this hour. When they moved forward towards the cash register, you gave them a smile. “Good morning. I hope your day has been going well!”

“It’s been okay, thank you. And yours?”

Your eyes widened in surprise and you almost sputtered over thin air. Someone who actually replied back to what you said and asked about you in return? Even if the intent was a courtesy conversation that was meant to be quick and brief, the sentiment was there—the upholding of the values of common courtesy and human decency. Something too many people seemed to lack. 

“I’m good as well! A little tired but what’s to be expected a quarter ‘til 6 a.m.?” you said with a laugh. “Thank you for asking.”

The customer gave a small smile in return and you internally celebrated for finally seeing your first pleasant expression this morning. “Must be even more tiring dealing with all these people. Doesn’t seem easy. I have to commend you for it.”

He was a tall, handsome man with a pretty face, soft-looking hair, and genuinely nice? There was no way this was real; you had to be dreaming. 

You twiddled with the pen in your hands, taken aback and mildly embarrassed by the praise. “Just doing my job,” you said with a bashful look. “Thank you, though.” You cleared your throat, not wanting to hold the line up for too long, even if the customer was one you would rather keep talking to than the others. “Now, what can I get started for you today?”

“Right. Can I get a flat white in the medium size?” 

“Of course.” You typed in his order into the register before asking, “And is there anything else I can get for you? Like a pastry? Today we have some freshly baked cheese danishes that are really yummy if you’d like to try!” 

He thought for a while before shrugging. You weren’t sure if it was your eyes playing tricks on you or he actually had an amused look on his face. “Sure, I’ll take a couple dozen of those as well.” 

“A couple dozen—?” your voice faltered. The suggestion of a fresh pastry was one you made to almost every customer, though most turned it down on the spot. 

The cafe had a little weekly competition between workers to see who could sell the most pastries in the week and the one who sold most got...well, a free pastry and bragging rights. Admittedly, it wasn’t much, but nothing revved up sales like friendly rivalries. An order of a couple dozen was sure to land you in the top spot this week! Still, you had to make sure he meant it. You’d feel bad if he was just spending all his hard-earned office work money because he was trying to be courteous. (Or at least, you assumed he was some office employee.) 

You cautiously asked, “Are you sure?”

Either your eyes were playing tricks on you yet again, or the look of amusement on his face grew even more than before as he said, “I’m sure. One medium flat white and, say, three dozen boxes of cheese danishes, please.” 

“C-Coming right up!” you said, quickly entering his order and celebrating your free end-of-the-week pastry in advance. “That will be $42.81. Would that be card or cash?” 

“Card.” He pulled out a sleek, black card with gold detailings on it and you never knew you could be sexually attracted to a credit card until now. 

“Perfect! Go ahead and swipe, insert, or scan your card now. In the meantime, can I get a name for your order please?” 

He scanned his card over the machine before looking back up at you. “It’s To— Ah, Shouto.” 

“Shouto?” you asked in confirmation. You assumed it wasn’t ‘Toahshouto’. That sounded too much like the abbreviation used to remember how to find sine, cosine, and tangent.

“Yeah. Shouto.” 

You smiled. “Well, Shouto, your order will be ready in a few minutes. Please wait over to your right to pick it up!”

He nodded. 

“It was nice meeting you!” you called, waving goodbye. “I hope you have a good rest of your day.”

“Thank you,” he glanced at your nametag, “Y/N.” 

Oh, how nice it felt to be treated like a human by a customer and have them actually address your name— And not to say it in a condescending way either. 

“Do individual baristas get to keep the tips here?”

You blinked, feeling your face warm up slightly. “We do, actually.” One of your favorite parts of the job, you had to admit. 

“Glad to hear.” Shouto pulled out some crisp-looking bills from his wallet and placed one in your hand that said ‘100’ to you. “Thank you for your kind service, Y/N.” 

“Wha—” Your eyes widened. You were expecting something along the line of three dollars. Maybe five at most. But a hundred? By the time you had processed what had happened he was walking away from the cash register. “Wait— Shouto...sir! I think you accidentally gave me the wrong amount.” 

He shook his head, only briefly turning back to face you. “Nope. It’s for you,” he said simply. “I’m looking forward to the cheese danishes.” 

His words left you stunned, but the next customer in line tapped their foot impatiently, signaling it was now time for you to take their order. You hoped the line died down before Shouto left the cafe so you could return the tip, but seeing as how the queue almost extended out the door, you had the sinking feeling that wouldn’t be a possibility. 

“Hello, I can take the next customer in line!” you recited cheerfully, mind still occupied by thoughts of your last encounter. 

The next few orders went along uneventfully (though you did manage to sell two more cheese danishes) and by the time Shouto got his coffee and pastry boxes, you still had a handful more customers to get through. 

“Pardon me real quick,” you said apologetically to the woman in front of you. “Please give me one moment?” 

She graced you with a nod and you thanked the stars above for an understanding patron. 

“Wait— Excuse me, sir!” You waved in Shouto’s direction before he could exit the cafe. He glanced at you curiously but walked over. In a hushed voice, you said, “I really appreciate the tip, but there’s no way I could accept this much money from you!” 

For the first time today, you say the hints of a frown on his face. “You cannot?” 

“No! $100 is a lot! You already bought $40 worth of cheese danish pastries— Are you sure you meant to give that big of a tip?”

“Of course.” He took a sip of his coffee with a satisfied hum. “You getting up at such an early hour to take people’s orders with a kind attitude isn’t easy. Plus, trying to build rapport with each of them all while keeping the interacting swift is a difficult task itself. And it’s probably worth more than your current pay, the $100 tip, and then some.” 

You blinked, stunned by his words. This man kept surprising you so many times in just one morning. 

“I find it ridiculous how certain occupations are paid an ungodly amount more than others, especially when a lot of it comes from privileges you were born into.” Shouto seemed to mumble the last bit to himself, but you were still able to understand what he said. “It’s bullshit.” Before you could respond, he recollected himself. “Eat the rich, right? All that to say, please accept the tip. You deserve it. And I promise it’s of no detriment to me, so please don’t feel bad.”

Seeing the determined look on his face, you couldn’t help but stare at him before nodding. He didn’t say anything you didn’t already believe yourself, and if someone really wanted to give you $100, you weren’t going to fight them on it. Think of all the dumplings you could buy, you told yourself.

“T-Thank you then.” You gingerly placed the folded bill back into your pants pocket. “I think that was really insightful of you and I’m very grateful.”

“Don’t worry about it.” He smiled before glancing towards the exit. “I’m running a bit late for work now, so I should be going. Have a good day, Y/N.”

“You too, Shouto. And… Thank you again!”

With a glowing expression on your face, you walked back to the cash register ready to face the day and talk to more lovely customers!

“Hey, little barista!” a gruff voice called from the line, snapping you out of your stupor. “Hurry it up already before you force me to complain to your manager.” 

You internally sighed. You understood they were in a rush, but they still had no right to be that rude. 

“Can you even hear me? Or are you too incompetent?”

Cue another internal sigh. 

Yeah, okay. Maybe you did deserve this $100 tip.

Regardless of the rude customers that may have come in, at least you had your thoughts of a cute, kind businessman who went by the name of Shouto to get you through your shift. And you could only hope you’d be able to see him again.

a/n: the end of part one folks!! oh what i’d give to have gotten a tip like this when i worked as a barista BAHAHA only in my dreams. i hope you enjoyed this little intro part and are excited for what’s to come !! :3

what to expect in the next part:

~maybe~ y/n will see shouto again and,,perhaps,,get more tips from him idk who knows 

old lady imparts some...helpful(?) advice 

we briefly get to see shouto’s pov! ;D

[mystic-writings]

lattes & sharpie markers | mitch rapp

PAIRING — mitch rapp x fem!reader

SUMMARY — you're a regular customer at the coffee shop that mitch works at. after years of pining after one another, mitch writes his number on your coffee cup

PROMPT — mitchtober week day four - alternate universe

WARNINGS — mutual pining, fluff

WORD COUNT — 1,752

NOTE — this is for the fourth day of mitchtober!

masterlist | navigation

Going to Kennedy Coffee was always the highlight of your day. No matter how good or bad your day had gone, you could always go there to relax, destress, and enjoy a latte or two. It was always quiet, the people who worked there were nice, and there was always an open seat in a comfy chair by the door waiting for you.

Ever since you moved into your dorm for college, you’d been spending time between and after classes there, sometimes so long that you would end up watching the baristas close and have to finish your studying, reading, or homework, in your dorm.

You were such a regular that, over the past four years, you’d managed to make even Stan Hurley, the co-owner of the shop, fond of you. He and the barista who almost always seemed to work the afternoon shifts, Mitch, had gotten to know you well over the years. As soon as you entered the shop, either one of them would greet you and begin making your latte.

The shop was your safe space. It had a homey feel to it, and no matter what, it would always feel like a second home to you. So, when you walked in that morning with a book in hand, you made sure that you would enjoy what could possibly be your last day in the cozy cafe.

Mitch was working the shift that morning, which you were grateful for. He was cute and kind to you, although he was a little stiff and angry sometimes. You learned that he had only gotten the job to pay off his loans and keep himself afloat during college, but it seemed that, since he graduated about three years ago, he grew to like the job.

Over the time that you knew him, the fluffy haired barista seemed to have captured your heart, from the way he practically memorized your order, made sure that, no matter how long you were there, you ate and weren’t without something to drink. Or maybe it had been the way you bonded over books and the stresses of college, how easygoing he became a few weeks after you started going there.

Even though you never spent time outside of the cafe, he was one of your close friends, but you still haven’t talked with him - or anyone else that you knew in the cafe - that you were moving out of the area tomorrow.

You sat at the table you always had, pulling out your well-worn copy of Bram Stoker’s Dracula, watching from your peripheral as Mitch worked on your latte. It didn’t take long for him to turn up, carrying a latte and a croissant, like always. He sat down with you and you tucked your book away, bringing your attention to the man in front of you.

Mitch’s eyes darted down to the book, laughing when he saw the cover. “You still have that old thing?”

“Yeah,” you smiled. “It’s my favorite. Besides, I gotta have something to keep me busy all day, now that classes are over.”

“Okay, but the book you brought with you the first time you ever stepped foot in here?” Mitch asked. “I mean, that’s gotta be at least 50 kinds of symbolic or something,”

“Maybe it is, Rapp,” you said, playfully scrunching your face at him. He laughed, and you could’ve sworn butterflies were fluttering so hard against the walls of your stomach that they would burst out at any moment.

Even though Mitch’s break was only about 20 minutes long, it was normal for him to spend at least an hour at the table with you. And when he was called back into work, he would still deliver your latte every hour on the hour, along with the occasional snack. You chatted about everything and nothing. Your books, what crappy shows were on TV last night, how boring Mitch’s home life was.

Sometime around two o’clock, Mitch took his second break, bringing more coffee for you, and two croissants for you to share. He picked at his food, cracking jokes about how somehow, despite all the work his co-worker Liam had put into them, the pastries always seemed to be a bit too dry.

You laughed along to them, shaking your head before quieting down. In the pause, you decided to break it to him. “Look, I won’t be around all day,”

“Why?” Mitch asked. “I mean, you don’t have a shift at that shitty retail job, and it’s not like school’s a factor anymore,” he leaned back in his chair, “you normally spend all day here when you have nothing else to do, anyway.”

“Yeah, I know, but-” before you could finish your sentence, your phone began to vibrate on the table. Reaching for it, you were glad that it was face down. “Hey, Linda. Yeah, I’m free today, why?”

Mitch was only hearing half of the conversation, but he grew more intrigued with every word you said. “Really? Like, today, today? Are you sure? Uh- okay, yeah. Yeah, I’ll be there in about an hour.”

You ended the call with a smile on your face, giddy from the news you’d just received. Mitch eyed you suspiciously, picking at the flakes of his pastry while you tucked your phone into your pocket.

“What was all that about?”

“I guess there isn’t any way for me to tell you other than just… coming out with it, is there?” You sighed, wrapping your fingers around the teal cup of coffee.

“That depends, are you telling me you’re dying, or are you trying to tell me I’ve got something on my face?”

You couldn’t help the chuckle that fell from your lips. “No, no, you’re fine. And I’m not dying. But things are changing.” You told the man. “Since I graduated, I can’t live in the dorms anymore, so I’ve been looking for an apartment. That was my realtor on the phone. She told me that my landlord’s old tenants moved out early, and I could pretty much move in today, if I wanted to.”

Mitch’s face brightened as a smile grew on his face. “Y/n, that’s amazing!” When you didn’t quite share his excitement, his smile faltered. “There’s a catch, isn’t there?”

“Yeah, there is,” you nodded. “I’m moving out of the area. I won’t have a lot of time between moving in, and I’m starting my job at that publishing company in a few weeks, and I don’t think I’m gonna be able to come around as much anymore, if at all.”

And just like that, the happy mood Mitch had been in decreased almost completely, replaced by the sadness that he wouldn’t be able to see you, then by the panic that he’d likely never get to tell you how he really felt about you.

“Oh.” He said. “Well, at least you’re getting to where you want to be, right? I mean, I remember when you started coming in here every day, studying your ass off to be the top of your class so you could be a writer and start publishing other people’s books, and your own.”

You laughed, nodding at the distant memories. The time you spent here was always good, and there was rarely any negativity that you would associate with the shop. And despite the fact that you knew that, at some point, you would be back, it upset you to know that it wouldn’t be the same. You’d come in, chat with Mitch for a little bit, grab a latte to go, and that would be it for a little while.

Hurley called Mitch back to the counter as the break time rush came in, needing his assistance manning the cash register. You watched the scrawny interns flow in, lining up behind the only open cash register to place impossibly long orders for their bosses in an attempt to please them. You knew that, in the beginning, you would likely be the same, just the new girl who ran coffee orders and important messages, and you wouldn’t get to do any real work for a little while, but you knew you would be okay with it.

As the end of the hour ticked closer, you packed up your book and joined the people in the line. You didn’t even have to say a word when you reached the register, laughing at the jokingly exaggerated sigh as Mitch put in the order, motioning for you to pay for everything you’ve consumed, along with the next latte that you would be taking to go.

As Mitch grabbed the cup to make your last latte, he realized something. If he didn’t make a move now, he sure as hell wouldn’t be able to make a move later. So, as he marked the contents of the cup, he turned it and, near the logo, he wrote 10 digits in black sharpie marker, a winking face next to it. He felt stupid, but he knew that this was the only way he could attempt to ask you out without messing it up for himself.

With an erratic heartbeat, he slipped the sleeve onto the cup and passed it to you from behind the counter, a smile plastering his face when your fingers brushed. He watched you walk toward the exit with no reaction, simply taking a sip from the lid as you went.

You watched Mitch from the other side of the counter as he wrote something extra on the side of your cup. You tried to contain the burning on your cheeks as you accepted the cup, taking a sip and savoring the flavor of the latte, knowing it would likely be your last from this cafe for a while. As you approached the door, you got a closer look at the black marker that stood out so boldly against the white paper cup. The 10 digits and the winky face was more than enough context, and this time, the burning on your cheeks was uncontrollable.

As your hand rested against the cool metal bar of the door handle, you gnawed slightly on your lip before turning around. “Hey, Mitch,” you called, catching both his attention and the attention of half the customers. “I’ll call you later tonight, yeah?”

Bashfully, Mitch failed to control the blush and giddy smile that bloomed on his face, only capable of nodding at you for confirmation. Satisfied, you turned and left the café, feeling like you were walking on air.

Forever taglist: @simonsbluee @reeseswritings @just-here-to-escape-from-reality @mazerunnerrose @theboldandthebootyful @miraclesoflove @queen-asteria04

Mitch Rapp taglist: open!

taglist form is in my navigation!

[sxfik]

you're the sunshine in the rain when it's pouring (won't you give yourself to me?)

read on ao3 • masterlist

summary: Kang Sol A was not afraid, she wasn’t built to be afraid. But what else could you call the pang that rippled through her heart as she noticed the two figures huddled at the cafe near the entrance of her school?

a/n: hello! this is my first solhwi fic i've written and if i'm being honest, it's kind of a mess but i have so many ideas for them, especially after these last few episodes! honestly, the two of them are the epitome of idiots to lovers so i just had to write this! the title of this fic is from best part by Daniel Ceasar ft. H. E. R.

come interact or drop a request if you want to see more solhwi content :)

Kang Sol A was not afraid.

She wasn’t afraid during her yearly doctor’s appointment, the glint of the long needle threatening to pierce through her. She wasn’t afraid when she stood up for her sisters, time and time again, until she was beaten and bruised protecting them. In the face of any adversity, she was taught to stand strong and fight, no matter how big or small the enemy. Even at the face of losing her scholarship and being expelled from Hankuk Law School, she knew she could pull herself up.

No, Kang Sol A was not afraid, she wasn’t built to be afraid. But what else could you call the pang that rippled through her heart as she noticed the two figures huddled at the cafe near the entrance of her school?

It’s been a week since Ye Seul’s trial, five days since the incident, and four days since she started avoiding Mr. Second Round Judicial Exam, Han Joon Hwi.

His presence was bearable prior to Ye Seul’s trial. Actually, more than bearable. It was a comfort, a person she knew she could let her guard down with. His teasing smiles or his love for ramen at any time of day.  As her days and her mind got busier day by day, his presence was unyielding. Every late night in the library, he was by her side, explaining the codes over and over again. Even when she got frustrated, or whiny, Joon Hwi was infinitely patient with her. With Joon Hwi by her side, everything seemed so easy. She saw the light at the end of the long tunnel she was dragged through. Still, with Kang Dan’s sudden appearance, Mr. Yang and Ye Seul’s trial, her mind was too busy to think clearly. To see clearly.

But when his gaze shifted to her and her roommate when he stood as a witness during Ye-Seul’s trial, her breath caught in her throat as she imagined, just for a moment, that he was going to say her name. That he was looking at her. That he was in love with her.

It was as if something clicked, like the puzzle pieces coming together in her mind. In an instant, she saw him in such clarity, every action, every smile and gesture passing through her mind. Cliche as it seems, it was as if she saw him for the first time all over again.

But of course, that gaze was not meant for her. Why would it be? Han Joon Hwi was meant to be with Sol B, not her. The students who were born to work with the law are perfectly suited for each other. It was obvious that he wanted to protect Sol B. Yet, in her weakest moment, her heart yearned for it to be her.

Forcing herself to breathe, she continued on after the trial as if nothing had changed between them. Because, well, they haven’t. The view had shifted but only for her.  At first, it was easier than she expected, teasing him about her roommate. Sol would be lying if she said it didn’t come with a twinge of jealousy but what could she do, but continue to be loyal to him. So on she continued, with Joon Hwi blissfully unaware that she was falling deeper for him, day by day.

Of course, nothing ever goes her way. Five nights ago, Sol was seated at her usual desk at the library, the rows of desks unoccupied. It was another late night for her, as she poured over her case files for a quiz the next day. Despite being a breeze for the other students, Sol had to study for a 110% in order to score an 80%. Sol set up camp in the library, her texts haphazardly strewed across the desk, highlighter in hand, as she buckled down for a long night of studying.

As the hours passed, her vision slowly blurred, the words on the page meshing together into a blob of black squiggles. She blinked, forcing her eyes to focus but to no avail. Sighing, she shut her eyes as she slumped back into her chair, allowing her head to loll off the edge of her chair and stretching her arms out.

“Still studying?” Joon Hwi’s familiar voice startled her, her head jerking back and almost tipping her chair backwards. “Whoa, Sol, be careful!” he lunged, catching her chair before she had the chance to stabilize herself.

“Yah, Han Joon Hwi, why would you come up suddenly like that?” Sol wrinkled her nose at him in annoyance, getting a teasing smirk in response. Sol turned towards her desk, pulling herself closer to the desk as he looked over her.

“Are you studying for Professor Jung’s quiz tomorrow?” he questioned, his head tilting in a familiar way as she sighed once more.

“Of course I am. Not all of us are law geniuses like you, Mr. Second Round Judicial Exam,” Sol huffed as she looked up at him but she softened her face as she saw the smile on his face.

Joon Hwi let out a small laugh as he stepped closer to her, clapping a hand on her shoulder in reassurance. “Well, then I’d be more than qualified to help, don’t you think, sunbae?” he quipped back.

“Hey, I can do it myse-”

“Hm, let me see,”  he cut her off, his eyebrows furrowed. Her heart stuttered as he leaned forward, over her shoulder, looking onto the texts that lay in front of her. “Oh, this one isn’t as bad as the others, you should start with this and then…” he rambled on, but every once of her concentration was on his proximity. The warmth of his hand on her shoulder bleed through her shirt, the feel of his palm burning her skin. He was close enough that she could hear the soft puffs of his breath, his warmth radiating off his body pulling her body towards him like a magnet.

It’s okay, just breathe. You know how to breathe right, Sol? She slowly instructed herself on how to breathe like she suddenly had to learn all over again. And wow, was that a bad idea. His cologne is even more intoxicating up close, and so is Joon Hwi. Every one of her senses was overloaded, her mind blank save for him.

“Yah, Kang Sol? You better be paying atten-” he turned his head towards her, and she forgot how to breathe all over again. His brown eyes widened in surprise as his face just centimeters away from hers. Sol parted her lips ever so slightly to speak but his gaze dropped her lips and her mind was blank again as she blinked at him. His features were so much softer up close, as she watched his face relax. His long eyelashes brushed against his cheek as he blinked. His eyes flitted back to her, but his familiar honey eyes darkened. Her eyes drifted over his face, and then dipped down to his soft lips. If she just moved closer, she could feel how soft his lips were...

And suddenly, reality slapped her in the face. What would Sol B think if she caught her boyfriend so close to her? Even with her roommate’s cold behavior, Sol knew just how much she suffered and how much it would break her to know how she felt about Joon Hwi. Despite every molecule in her body begging her to move closer, she couldn’t do that to Sol B.

So she moved away, stuttering out some lame excuse as she gathered her books and stumbled out of the library. But as she lay in her bedroom, staring up at the ceiling as she imagined all that could have happened between them, the warmth of the memory spread across her body.

And Kang Sol A knew that she wasn’t just afraid. She was terrified.

When she couldn’t stand and fight, she did the next best thing. She ran. She intricately planned everyday to minimize her contact with him as much as possible. Obviously, step one was to sit away from him in class, to avoid his gaze in the halls. She would leave her dorm as early as possible and hide until he was finished with his dinner to sneak in and grab herself something.

But it wasn’t until she tried to avoid him that she realized just how much space in her life was occupied by him. He used to always sit next to or across from her. Always looking over her shoulder, or leaning over  to see the textbooks clearly. Every time she turned to ask a question, or make a snarky comment, there was an empty space reminding her of her decision.

Still, even if he wasn’t physically present, he occupied a corner in her mind. His voice was in her head, echoing responses to her every thought. Her mind would fill with things she wanted to rant about, to ask, to share with him. When she closes her eyes at night and drifts into sleep, he would be there, his signature teasing smile on his face.

And he didn’t seem to be making it any easier on her. It seemed that Joon Hwi took it upon himself to magically appear whenever she least expected him to. If she went to the copy room to print a case file, he was sitting there, looking through a stack of papers or in line to print a copy himself. If she decides to have a late night study session, there he is across from her, books in hand with his legs propped up on a table.

Han Joon Hwi was the constant, unavoidable presence that she can’t seem to get rid of from her life. From her mind. From her heart.

“Unnie?” a soft voice snapped Kang Sol out of her thoughts, and Ye Seul appeared in front of her, near the entrance. How long have I stood here? Sol blinked.

“Ah, Ye-Seul,” she smiled at her best friend. “Let’s have some coffee today? At the cafe?” she asked, her shoulders relaxing after flitting up to where Joon Hwi and Kang Sol B stood. Well, where they were standing. I guess they left. Ye Seul’s eyebrows furrowed as she followed Sol’s gaze but before she could respond, Sol A hooked an elbow through hers, dragging her toward the cafe.

But of course, nothing ever goes her way.

“Ah, Ye-Seul, can I borrow Kang Sol for a moment?” Joon Hwi asked, suddenly appearing in their path, his eyes strictly focused on her best friend. Sol squeezed her arm in alarm, everything in her body pleading for Ye-Seul to say no so she can just avoid him until her crush fades away.

“Unnie, buy me the coffee next time, hm?” Ye-Seul turned to her with an apologetic gaze. Betrayal. I’ll get you back for this. Sol A sighed as she turned her gaze to Joon Hwi.

“Yah, Sol, why are you avoiding me like this? Please, just talk to me so we can fix it,” he pleaded with her, wasting no time to get to the point. Sol A pursed her lips as she looked up at him, her mind too full for her to answer him. What could she say to him? That she likes him? That she’s found out how much she needs him in her life, but she was too late?

“Sol, please,” his voice broke slightly as the silence stretched between them but that was enough for her to sigh, her shoulders relaxing as she gave in to him.

“Okay,” she responded and that was all Joon Hwi needed to grab her wrist and walk towards the corridor between the stairwells.

“We can talk more privately,” he answered her before she even voiced the question. “Now, why are you mad at me? The last time I saw you was at the library and then you disappeared,” Joon hwi ran a hand through his hair nervously as he rambled on and for the first time, Kang Sol took him in. To say he was disheveled was an understatement. The usual calm demeanor was nowhere to be seen and his clothes were askew as his face showed the lack of sleep and exhaustion. Her heart clenched for him, but no, you can’t do this. You can’t betray Sol B.

“Don’t you think it’s best if we don’t interact with how we used to?” she asked, her eyes glued to the floor, ignoring her throat closing up at the thought of breaking their friendship.

“What?” his eyes zeroed in on her, and she could see the confusion running through his mind.

“What do you think Sol B would think if she saw us like this? We can’t be close like this with each other bec-”

“Who cares about how I am with you?” he cut her off, his jaw clenched as his eyebrows furrow in frustration.

“Ya Han Joon Hwi, how could you do this? I expected so much better from you. Don’t you understand, it’s terrible to do this to her!” she pleaded with him, her heart squeezing inside her chest. Sol clenched her jaw, willing herself to be strong for her roommate’s sake, for his sake, and for hers.

Silence stretched between them as she looked up to him. His eyes closed for a moment while he looked down to the floor. And then his eyes flitted up and into her eyes as his fist clenched, his brown eyes filling with an unreadable emotion. “Why is it so terrible?” he whispered.

“Why-” Sol started, her voice burning in anger and pain.

“Why is it so terrible that I’m in love with you?” Joon hwi’s eyes flickered up to hers, his gaze boring into her.

Kang Sol blinked. Her back straightened as her mouth opened and closed like a fish, as Joon Hwi took a step closer. “Me?” she stuttered out, her mind spinning, unable to process his words.

“You.” He stepped closer.

“But you like Kang Sol-”

“A. Kang Sol A.” Another step closer.

She closed her eyes as she shook her head, trying to clear her thoughts and to ignore his proximity. But all her attempts were futile as Joon Hwi brought his hand up, his touch feather light as he cupped her face, tilting it up to meet his gaze. Sol’s hands felt frozen as her breath lodged into her throat, her eyes meeting his. She could hear her heart thundering in her ribcage as Joon hwi spoke.

“I like you, Kang Sol. It’s always been you,” he whispered, his voice wavering as he grew closer, his lips just a centimeter away from hers. Never one with patience, she surged forward to meet his lips. Her imagination and dreams did not compare to how his lips felt against hers. It was soft and his kisses were just as unyielding as his presence. It was all consuming as her hands gripped his coat, pulling him closer. His thumb running across her cheekbones, he shifted his head pulling her in deeper as his hands cupped her face. Even though their lips just met for a few moments, it felt as though his soft lips were against hers for an eternity.

Sol’s eyes were still closed as they parted, not wishing to leave this moment and back into real life. Apprehensively, she met his eyes and a moment of silence stretched between them, as they caught their breath. A million watt smile stretched across his face, his contagious happiness brightening her up as she smiled back. But suddenly reality caught up to her.

“Wait, so you’re not with my roommate?” she questioned, confused about everything she had seen between them. Joon hwi shook his head.

“No, I was just with her because she asked for help during one of her legal research papers,” he explained, then paused. “Yah, wait. You avoided me this whole time because you thought I was in love with Kang Sol B?” a smirk spread across his face, his expression taunting. Sol bit her lip as she looked down, unwilling to admit her mistake.

“Yah, how can you be at law school and not figure out I liked you!” he asked, his voice incredulous.

“You were so ambiguous! Every time I thought you liked me as more than friends, you’d act close with Sol B!” she huffed out, pouting  and pulling away from him, embarrassed that she thought he liked her roommate. Before she could pull away, he wrapped his arms around her, drawing her into a crushing hug. Her body relaxed as she took him in, the way he felt against her intoxicating and comforting beyond description.

Kang Sol A was terrified. But having him at her side was enough to know that she could fight once more, together, as more than friends.

[kawaii-harrys]

MAYBE HE HATES ME

Word: 2k+

Synopsis : Your particularly rude neighbor takes an interest in your friend.

TW : None, just that it gets shitty

______

“KEEP YOUR CAT IN CHECK!”, was the first post-it on your door from an angry neighbor after Small Tinkle managed to scratch the neighbor’s door.

“STOP THE FIRE ALARM”, was the second post-it on your door after you had accidentally managed to set the fire alarm.

And since then, there was silence. Although, the smell of the luxurious cooked meal would waft around the hallways at times and you could hear the clattering of crockery too. You had seen him, once. Once when you had to be stuck in the elevator with him after having a shopping spree. He looked like he hated you. After all, the whole time, he did not look at your side, even once and ignored your presence altogether.

Caitlyn was a good friend of yours. To be said, she was the one who listened to you at times like this. She bothered herself with your business and you couldn’t ask for more.

You could easily admit, you were not even near as lucky as Caitlyn when it came to guys. In a room full of people, if someone like Harry had to walk in, he would easily choose Caitlyn, while you would be left behind in the shadows.

She was kind, beautiful, cheerful, and without a second nature. When it came to studies, she was super intelligent. School, music, dance, cutlery, martial arts, and love, she was good in everything. While you could find nothing good about yourself, she was a walking prodigy. You did feel self-conscious when you were next to her. People who you assumed hated you, were kind to her. You didn’t feel like you belonged by your side.

So, today, you were in the cafe you both always met, all alone. You thought it was fair for her since she was stuck with you ever since college started. You even thought the chances of her getting a guy had gone low since she was stuck with you.

When your phone rang, you jumped a bit at the sound. It was Caitlyn.

“Hello?”, you asked, wondering if everything was okay.

“Are you at the same cafe as always?”, she asked through the phone.

“Yeah, is everything okay?”, you asked.

“Is it okay if I bring over the guy I have been seeing for a few days? I want him to meet you”, she sighed at the other end.

You were in a frenzy mode, though. Your hair was all over the place and your skin was blotchy. It wasn’t like you had put in an effort for your looks like Caitlyn did. You were in a gray shirt with mud brown jeans and you wondered if the guy would leave Caitlyn because she had a friend like you.

“I--I mean, if you feel comfortable enough”, you said, knowing there was nothing you could do.

“Alright, we are nearby so we will drop-in in 5 minutes”, she said hanging up the phone. Your glasses were getting foggy due to the steam of the coffee nearer to your face.

You didn’t really feel confident in yourself. Black braided hair, purple rimmed glasses, a copy of a country-themed book by your side, and coffee that looked near beige due to the amount of sugar you used.

Would her boyfriend really like you?

It didn’t matter though. It was their thing.

When the bell at the door chimed, you looked up to see the fair-skinned, blonde, navy blue-eyed girl, that you had always adored and then, there was the guy who lived next door to you.

In a minute both of them approached you, Caitlyn with her big smile and him with just a small one. But when he looked at you, you wondered if he even recognized you.

“Hey Y/n, this is Harry. And Harry, this is Y/n, the most important person in my life”, she said, giving you a big hug.

“Y/n? Aren’t you--”, he stopped mid-sentence as Caitlyn looked at him expectantly. “You look awfully familiar”, he mentioned, looking closely at you.

“Y/n here is very shy around new people. But, she is cool when you get to know her”, Caitlyn babbled.

“Really? I am waiting to get to see her cool side”, Harry laughed along.

“Y/n, I have told you enough times to not braid your hair. You look beautiful when your hair is open, you know? ”, she said, waving a spoon in her hand as Harry called out in the order.

“I just feel comfortable when the hair is out of my face”, you mutter lowly.

“Well, whatever suits you”, she said, dropping her shoulders.

“So, may I ask why your fingers look toasted?”, Harry asked, noticing the burns you had.

“I was just cooking something”, you lied.

Ever since the last post-it note, you had been dropping variety of sweets at his doorsteps anytime you could. Sometimes cookies, sometimes pastries, sometimes jelly. You didn’t want to know who the sender was, since he might get irked off and throw them in the dustbin. You didn’t know what he did with the sweets though, but not seeing them when you returned to get you relaxed for a while.

“Y/n, are you okay?”, Caitlyn asked, noticing the change in energy.

“Yeah, I just have a bit of stress. Miss Evelyn asked me to submit the homework as soon as possible, but I haven’t even started”, you replied.

“Is Miss Evelyn the one who teaches graphics design?”, Harry asked and you looked up at him, easing for a while.

You nodded.

“She can be uptight sometimes”, he laughed. You looked at him for a while. You had been dropping off sweets, hoping to get on his good side, but, all it took was Caitlyn getting him talking to you. It really showed how you were not fit near Caitlyn.

“Caitlyn talks about it all the time. Although she is a Physics major like me, she has taken an interest in Graphics designing”, Harry laughed.

“Hmm”, you nod again.

The rest of the time, it was Harry and Caitlyn flirting with each other all along, not even noticing your presence.

“I think”, you say to grab their attention, “I will go home first. I have some work to do”, you say and grab your purse. “Sorry, y/n, did we make you feel excluded”, Harry asked, with a gentle smile and you shake your head in a ‘no’ and left. Tears pricked at the end of your eyes as you walked down the chilly road.

Small Tinkle needed you anyways. It was time for his food too.

So, you sped your feet in order to reach home sooner.

Your apartment was around the corner so it didn’t really take you much time. As you entered the empty lift, you had an urge to cry out loud. You would be shamed to accept that you were jealous of your best friend; one who was kind enough to be your friend in the first place. But as you unlocked the door, Small Tinkle jumped to your face, making you fall behind.

“Small Tinkle, what’s the matter?”, you asked as you wondered why she was acting such. You thought, she must have escaped through the window to take a patrol. “Oh, are you hungry?”, you said, scratching the cat’s back and as it purred, you smiled and walked in. It was like a miracle, the way she always knew when you felt bad or sad.

“Sorry, Small Tinkle, but you have to do with the dry food again today. I haven’t cooked any meat or fish, you know”, you speak to your cat and you see it visibly sigh, even if it wasn’t possible. “A cat’s life is difficult, isn’t it”, you say jokingly as you lay out the food and water.

You look in the fridge to see if there is anything you can eat, but unluckily, you seem to have finished the last packet of ramen last night, in the spur of the moment. You sigh, not wanting to make a run to the supermarket. Maybe you can sleep hungry today. But, the angrily rumbling stomach wants food. You could order a pizza or a takeout, but, it’s month-end after all.

“Small Tinkle, stay here until I come back in five minutes. Don’t go patrolling today, the weather looks bad”, you say looking at the particular gray clouds out the window.

You re-wear your coat, get your purse and walk down the hallway to the elevator.

The wind has picked up its speed and is even raising the dust. You walk into the supermarket and look for some cheap meals. The instant noodles have at a 20 % discount and the frozen meal some offers on them too. You rush to take a glance at them, but being clumsy for not having eaten for a while, you feel weak and sway back to fall into a hard chest.

“I am sor--”, your words don’t find a way out as you see Harry holding your arms.

“Yo, you are her friend, aren’t you?”, he asked, despite the fact that you both had met just a while ago. You nodded your head again. “Instant noodles and frozen food. Must admit, they aren’t good for your health”, he said, frowning a bit. “It’s the month-end, I can’t help it”, you mutter and he quirks his brows up. “How long have you been relying on this, may I ask?”, he asks waving the box in his hand. “Not your business”, you say, turning away from him, twiddling your hair in between your fingers.

“Means, nearly every day. Am I right? ”, he asks, and you look away trying not to look like a pauper.

“Then you can stop by my house any time you want. It’s nearby”, he says while you push in all the frozen meals in your cart.

“I am not the one to burden anyone”, you mutter under your breath. “Lately, my annoying neighbor has started leaving sweets by the door too. Well, sometimes they aren’t a treat to the tastebuds, but there is way too much that I can’t seem to finish”, he says, walking by your side. Your breathing had visibly taken up speed. “S--So, ask them not to leave them”, you suggested. “I am not the one to pass up free treats”, he says with a bright smile.

As you walk to the counter, he follows you close behind.

“Do we live close to each other?”, he asks and you gulp in your saliva. He had more ravishing raw vegetables and spices in his bag. Maybe he was going to do something good today too.

You notice his eyebrows crinkle when you both get on the same elevator. And he is more certainly shocked when you walk in the same direction. When he realizes that YOU were the annoying neighbor, he was talking about, his face falls. Small Tinkle comes to you when you open the door.

“Missed me?”, you ask her and she purrs. You cradle her to relieve some of the anxiety now that he knows.

“Wait, Y/n, YOU are my neighbor?”, he asks, shock on his face. You nodded again and walked in the door to close it on his face.

He wondered if you already knew that he was the neighbor.

And as it neared 9 PM, the downpour outside, making you crave something warm, you walked into the kitchen to get one of the frozen meals out and microwave it. Just then, there was a knock at the door. You wondered who it could be and walked to it. There stood Harry in all his glory with a casserole. “What happened?”, you asked him, puzzled. “I am really sorry for earlier and as an apology, I thought I could leave you some mushroom ravioli. I have extra, so…”, he trailed off, biting his bottom lip as you smiled.

“It’s alright.”, you said as you let him in. “I was wondering if you were vegan or not. I was even contemplating if you were allergic to mushrooms, but, I didn’t really have much time, so, I hope you understand”, he smiled at you again.

“Thank you”, you smiled at him through your glasses.

“And the next time you are starving, don’t go to frozen meals, you can ask me instead. I make extra for my roommate and sometimes he isn’t around, so…”, you wondered what his obsession was with leaving sentences open.

“I get it”, you mutter.

You wanted to ask him to eat with you, but maybe if there was a chance of a next time, then. Because today, was eventful.

[peppusae]

How to say 'I love you' without saying 'I love you' | Chae Hyungwon pt 3

part: 3 of 3

other parts: pt 1 || pt 2 || pt 3

pairing: chae hyungwon x reader

genre: fluff, and LOTS OF SMUT

word count: 7.6k words

note: so. the smut is here. can you believe i had a dream about hyungwon doing this SAME thing here, in my dream? i will RIOT

How to say 'I love you' without saying 'I love you’.

It’s an hour after you arrived, that there is a knock on your dorm room.

When you open the door, Hyungwon stands in front of your door, and you honestly have already missed him so much that you want to hug him.

“I just arrived.”

“Didn’t you want to change and get some rest first?”

“I… I didn’t want to wait a single moment after I came here, so I washed up before we headed out.” He mumbles, a sheepish smile on his face as he motions for you to step outside.

Awww!!!

“Where are we going, Hyungwonnie?” You ask, taking your wallet and bag before you follow him out to the hallway.

“This will be our first date, so we have to go somewhere nice, right?”

You can’t hide the big goofy smile on your face, and it looks like Hyungwon is really proud of himself.

“I didn’t know you were so romantic.”

“Like I said, there are a lot of things you don’t know about me.” He has to say, reaching for the back pocket of his jeans and handing you a single white rose.

A grin forms on your face while you accept the flower look at him, dumbfounded. “Where on Earth did you get the time to plan this?!”

“[Name]-ah, the flower shop near the restaurant next door doesn’t close until 10, did you think I would come to our first date empty handed?”

“I swear, I’m at a loss for words.” You have to say, watching him give a thumbs up and hurry to grab your hand. You hadn’t had a chance to imagine what Hyungwon would be like when he was dating someone, so every little thing he was doing came out as a pleasant surprise for you.

It’s nice to walk freely in the Seoul streets at this time of the night when there are only a few people around and you can wear masks. Hyungwon seems to be at ease as well, and you’re not surprised when he takes you to your favorite cafe a few blocks from the building.

“I think I found another reason to love this cafe even more,” he has to say, as you two enter one of the private booths. “I always loved this place because I can eat in peace here, but now I can come here often on dates with you.”

“You’re so cheesy, Are you really the Chae Hyungwon that hugged me just a few hours ago?”

This makes Hyungwon’s cheeks flush a little - you’re so glad he lowered his mask! - and you have an idea of why, even before he speaks next.

“Well, are you really the [First Name] [Last Name] that... kissed me a few hours ago?”

It’s adorable, the way he said it in a pouty way but hesitated a little in embarrassment. It makes you wonder if things between you and Hyungwon will continue to be like this.

You take a few minutes to decide what to order, and the food arrives in a little while.

Because Hyungwon had already eaten so well at the barbeque during the shooting, he simply had a drink. This meant that his focus was on you and just you. And for the first time, you become a little self-conscious because you’ve caught Hyungwon staring at you multiple times before, but this is the first time he watches you after you knew he had feelings for you.

“Why do you keep looking at me like I’m some kind of seafood pancake?”

Hyungwon chuckles, stirring the ice in his Iced Americano. “I have something I’m curious about.”

“Yes?”

“When did you start to like me?”

The sudden question makes you almost choke on your strawberry drink. Well, you had expected this question - And you were going to ask this from him as well, but jeez, Hyungwon really wastes no time. 

“I’m asking because you started crying when you found out I liked you.”

You suddenly want to dig a hole and crawl inside and never come out again, and for some reason, this feels so much more like old times when you two had wholesome conversations till Hyungwon’s manager calls him.

There were a few occasions when he stayed past the scheduled time, even though he had to pay a lot of his money for the late fine rule Monsta X has.

The sudden thought makes you giggle.

“What, what?”

“Nothing, nothing! And you’re right! I did like you before too, but I didn’t realize it until you were going to confess to me, and that scared me so much because of Dawon, and also because… I’m just a writer for the company, that’s all..” You look up from your plate of food and you see that Hyungwon is looking at you, eyebrows a little furrowed.

“But when I went back home to Incheon, my mom said this was all happening because I was being a whiny baby and I should just let you forget me if I was going to keep on crying and not doing anything about it.”

Hyungwon bursts out laughing, and he actually chokes on his drink. You have to get up from your seat and pat his back multiple times before he is able to drink some water.

“That wasn’t something I wanted to show you during our first date…” He mumbles, shaking his head. “So, I have your mom to thank for this, huh? Was she the one who also asked you to ki-”

“Nope, that was Minhyuk’s idea.”

Hyungwon’s eyes go wide again, ears going red once again.

“What?! How does Minhyuk know?”

“Because,” you start, “He knew we liked each other and he was trying to get us together, not get in between us like you thought and blamed me for!”

This makes Hyungwon put his face on the table, like he was really regretting his actions. You hear a whiny ‘Uggggggh I’m so stupid!’ before he lifts his head up and sighs.

“About what you said earlier,” he starts instead, “When have I ever treated you like you’re just some staff member? You should have known that I wasn’t treating you with simple polite smiles and greets like I do with the other staff. You’re the only person I go for meals with, and the only person I buy strawberries for when you do a good job with work. So don’t ever say something like you being ‘just a staff member’. I’ll get mad.”

His words sound so sincere, like he is genuinely baffled that you would remain oblivious to his feelings.

“Fine, I won’t. I promise. Now tell me when you started liking me?” You smile, eating some food while Hyungwon seems to ponder about your query for a moment.

“Do you remember that time we shared the same schedule in Inkigayo with Shinee-sunbaenim?”

This makes you gape, looking at him in utter disbelief.

“What-”

“When Minhyuk gave you the signed copy of 1 of 1, you looked so pretty when you smiled.” Hyungwon grins, hand rubbing on the nape of his neck. “You smiled so brightly, and I wished I was the one that earned such a pretty smile from you. I knew I liked you since then.”

“But Hyungwon-ah, that was… That wasn’t even long since I started working for you guys!”

This earns a big grin from Hyungwon, nodding as he speaks. “I’m good at keeping secrets.”

“Why didn’t you tell me? It’s been four years…”

“I liked you since then, and I can’t keep my eyes off from you… But because I’m a celebrity…”

This makes you mumble a little ‘Ah..’ giving a nod. You’re not sure what he is implying by saying that, but the fact that he’s here with you right now, looking at you with so much love in his eyes… It really doesn’t matter.

“I really wanted to be sure what kind of feelings I had for you. I just know that whenever you play with Jooheon or Minhyuk I get mad jealous. I guess you never noticed that I always take you for breakfast the next day after you do that, so that I can get you to look at me.”

You never noticed that that happened as a pattern, so your mouth is hung agape while Hyungwon bursts out laughing.

“That’s why I know you like me. You’ve been giving me happier smiles after I started to sing for you.”

“Because you sound so dumb!” You two burst out laughing together in unison.

“That really made me think you liked me too, so I got the confidence to ask you out.”

“But I’m just surprised you like me, out of everyone…”

“You’re not going to start saying something like you not being pretty enough for me, like the girls in dramas do, right?”

He completely read your mind!

“It’s true, though, you have to admit I look mediocre compared to you.”

“Shut up. I just told you I fell in love with you because you looked so pretty when you smiled.” He says, which in turn makes you clench your hands at the butterflies forming in your stomach; It’s the first time he said he loves you, not just that he likes you!!!

“I don’t believe in liking someone just by looks, even if I just said that. My heart just grew to like you more and more everyday after I got the chance to easily hang out with you often. It’s not just the looks, you should know this well, [Name]-ah. You’ve seen my face for years but you didn’t feel a thing for me until recently, right?”

“Heheee,” you find yourself nodding, which makes Hyungwon smile back at you.

You can’t help but to look at Hyungwon so fondly. You two barely made it, if anything, and you can’t stop smiling at how happy and how normal it feels, to look at Hyungwon and have your heart racing.

“Yah. Stop staring, you don’t even look at me that much when I’m shooting something.”

“True, I’m always looking at Joo because he’s so cute!”

“Hey!!!”

 ---

 Hyungwon is an absolute gentleman.

The first time you learned this was when he dropped you at your door after your first date, a gentle hand at the small of your back until you reached the company; after which he maintained a little distance.

Because he has different schedules every day, you don’t get to go out to eat with Hyungwon as often as you would like. You still find him hanging by the lounge having lunch with random members occasionally.

The lunch thing becomes a little too frequent as the days pass by, and Hyungwon lets you know that he told the rest of the members beside Minhyuk, and they had decided to help him out, getting out with him with lunch as the excuse.

Today it’s Kihyun and Minhyuk seated in front of you while Hyungwon seats by your side.

“Until how long do you two plan to hide from the company that you’re dating?” Kihyun wants to know, out of nowhere, dipping some fish into the soy sauce.

Both you and Hyungwon hiss, eyes widening that the topic of you two dating is even brought up.

“Heh, you think no one will notice where Hyungwonnie always disappears as soon as his schedule is over every night?” Minhyuk adds more fuel to the fire. “Or not even notice Hyungwonnie entering [Name]-ah’s room every ni-”

“Shut up, you’re gonna give everyone the wrong idea if you say stuff like that!” You hiss, shaking your head. Hyungwon doesn’t say anything, looking very embarrassed and avoiding eye contact with you. His action makes you feel flustered, recalling all the nights he stopped by your room before he went to sleep, just to laze on your bed and kiss you till he’s too sleepy to continue - or gets a call from a manager.

Both of your reactions make the matter only worse, making Kihyun’s eyes go really wide, turning to Minhyuk who has a knowing smirk on his face. That little idiot. He knows nothing and always acts like a snake.

But then again, he adds that spice to variety shows that you, as a writer, always get pleasantly surprised at. So you can’t say you hate it.

“You two are adults and all, but-”

“Ah, please stop!” Hyungwon begs, tapping his chopsticks on the table and creating a little ruckus to interrupt whatever Kihyun was trying to say.

“Kihyunie may be stupid but he has a point this time, kids.” Minhyuk says.

“Who are you calling stupid?!”

“Who are you calling kid?!”

 ---

 It’s a couple nights since then, and Hyungwon finished his practice ‘early’, so he pops into your room at 01:39 am.

It’s actually quite an ungodly hour of the night; you would have been sleeping at this hour if you hadn’t started dating Hyungwon. But even if he pops by for only five minutes, it is worth every second and the amount of coffee you’d have to drink the next morning while you doze off.

“Finished everything?” You ask, smiling up at Hyungwon who is wearing a sky blue sweater, and gray sweats. His hair is still a little damp in some places, like he had used his hair-dryer in a crazed frenzy.

The male nods, closing the door behind him and tightly locking the door. You hurry towards him, and you’re able to see the way he breaks into a smile right before he embraces you.

“I was drained out last night, that’s why I couldn’t drop by to see you.” Hyungwon lets you know, his nimble fingers carding through the locks of your hair softly.

“You must be so tired.” You give a little pout, patting his hair. The male glances at you, smiling at the cute action and giving a little nod.

“I have a really early schedule tomorrow morning, but I’ll have the rest of the day off. Can I come to you then?”

You nod, standing on your tippy-toes, and then pulling on the collar of Hyungwon’s shirt - he’s that tall, yes - and pressing your lips to his.

It’s so gentle; from the way he kisses you, the way his lips graze on your bottom lip, the way he softly licks your bottom lip and has both his arms around your waist. You can feel the heat from his body and every warm breath of his, and you end up sighing into the kiss which makes Hyungwon move a little for air and look at you.

It’s a little embarrassing so your cheeks are flushed but Hyungwon breaks into a grin, pulling you for a hug this time.

“I’ll meet you for lunch tomorrow.”

You give him a wave, watching him pull down his hoodie as best as he can and running across the hallway to his room.

The next day, there is a downpour. You get a text from Kihyun that the boys are in the recording studio for their schedule and you’re thankful that he didn’t have to go somewhere far away and would be unable to come back in time for lunch.

Since you and Shownu share a similar diet plan, you’re having lunch with the male when Hyungwon finishes up his schedule and finally sits down beside you. He looks like he had a long day, as he does not talk much while he eats black bean noodles in a jiffy.

“Good luck!” Shownu gives you a suspicious thumbs up, which makes you very confused while Hyungwon hurries to lead you back to your room. You still had some pages of work left to write up, so you find yourself sitting by the headboard of your bed while the male reads some manhwa from his phone.

This is actually quite a common occurrence recently; doing your own thing but with each other’s company. You like the way you would snuggle beside Hyungwon and kiss his cheek while he’s reading some documents, and he would give in and pull you to his lap so he can kiss you better.

And the other days are like today, where Hyungwon is the one who comes up to you, peeking at your laptop, playing with your hair, and trying to distract you with soft kisses.

If anything, it is working, and you can’t ignore the way he mumbles your name and looks at you like a little child waiting for playtime.

“You’re a grown-up, yet, you act like a kid.” You comment, putting away your laptop for the day and opening your arms. Hyungwon smiles, watching you lie on the bed, facing him.

“I have some good news, [Name]-ah.”

“What is it?”

“One of the songs I wrote is going to be on the upcoming album!” He says, hugging you tightly. Your eyes go wide in surprise, and thinking about all the times he had been complaining about how much revisions he had to do feels worthwhile. You grin, giving him a kiss on his forehead.

“I can’t wait for it, Hyungwon-ah.”

“I just recorded it earlier today.” He lets you know, “I can’t wait for you to hear it.”

“I’m so proud of you.” You let him know, genuinely. You smile at him fondly, and it looks like he could see your sincerity in your eyes, before he pulls you to him and pecks your lips.

Minutes change to hours, and it’s already evening when you two wake up from a nap you didn’t even realize you two had drifted off to. Hyungwon stirs in his sleep, one eye opening when you pull his arm off from you and get up to drink some water. When he realizes he was still in your room, he sits up, pointing at the water bottle now in your hand. You bring the bottle to him, watching him take a couple of sips.

It is while he hands you the bottle that the rough fabric of your sweater rubs against your nipple, and you drop the bottle to the floor at the sensitive feeling.

“What? What’s wrong?” Hyungwon looks at you, alarmed, when he sees you bending down to pick the bottle up in a hurry. “Are you okay?”

You give a nod, taking a step back.

“Why are you acting weird out of nowhere?”

How do I tell him that this is a totally normal thing for girls when we don’t wear a bra? You look at him panickedly, taking a step back when he gets off from the bed and comes towards you. The action makes you flinch again, and you can’t help letting out a little ‘ow’.

“Yah. What’s going on? Are you hurt?” He asks, grabbing your wrists before you can flee with the excuse of getting snacks or something. By now, your face is all sweaty and completely red from embarrassment, and you can’t help but pray that Hyungwon does not notice.

“I’m fine!” You say, and your words and actions are probably not matching because Hyungwon furrows his eyebrows at you, while you feel your eyes getting a little teary from the embarrassment.

“You… Why are you crying?”

God damn it, Hyungwon sure is persistent.

“I told you, nothing is wrong-”

“Yah. You obviously do not look fine. We already had such a big misunderstanding because we couldn’t say what we wanted to, so I don’t want something like that to happen again. We barely made it to this point now, so if you don’t tell me why you’re crying right now, I’m going to get very angry.”

You appreciate that he is thinking about your benefit, but you can tell there is no way he would let go of your wrist unless you tell him the truth.

And that is why you smack your face to his chest, and just take a deep sigh while Hyungwon wraps his free hand around your waist, almost out of habit.

“It’s just a random girl thing and this does not mean I’m horny or anything, okay?! But my… nipples… are hard so it’s ...sensitive.”

There is no response, and you wonder if Hyungwon even heard what you said. Your face feels like it’s on fire as you continue to talk, if only to break the silence.

“It’s just something that happens to girls when we’re not wearing a bra, that’s all… That’s why I kept saying I’m fine…”

Still, silence.

You’re very embarrassed, especially because Hyungwon had instinctively pulled you closer to him, so your chest was already pressed against his. When you move a step away and look up at Hyungwon, you’re absolutely startled to see that his face is completely flushed red, eyes unblinking and just looking at you while you take another step away - and yet, he does not let go of your wrist.

“Yah, what are you saying!” He finally reacts, letting go of your wrist and looking away from you. “Y-You didn’t have to tell me all that!”

“You made me say it though????”

Hyungwon moves another step away, eyes on the floor, mumbling something inaudible under his breath.

“Yah, just ignore what I said, let me just go and change, then it’ll be f-” Your sentence is interrupted when Hyungwon grabs your wrist once again, shaking his head.

“What-”

“I-I’ve wanted you for ages, and now that I finally have you, you… you should stop saying things that make it impossible for me to h-hold in what I feel for you,” he mumbles so quietly that you barely hear him, “Because it’s really, really hard for me.”

Despite how startled you are at his confession, the look in his eyes is so vulnerable, his ears and cheeks still so bright red while he lets go of your wrist, this time in favor of intertwining your fingers with his.

“If you…” His voice trails down, taking a step back and pulling you along, up till he is seated on the bed. He does not look away from you for a single second, then pats his lap, looking at your every action. You feel flustered but do as he instructed, seating yourself on top of his lap and watching as he leans against the headboard before he wraps his long slender arms around your back.

Hyungwon’s lips meet with yours, and this is the first time since the very first kiss, where all the gentleness is gone and he is kissing you like he might go crazy if he didn’t. You gasp when he lightly bites on your bottom lip, using the opportunity to slide his tongue in your mouth.

Your heart is racing like crazy, and it does not help that he has his hands under the fabric of your sweater, warm fingers gripping your hips and back as he kisses you deeper. Your lips are trembling when he pecks your lips softly once before he moves away and looks at you, wordlessly. You wonder if you should say something, but as soon as he glances at you, he pulls one hand up to clutch your cheek, face moving towards your neck and pressing his warm lips on your collarbone.

The new action makes your eyes wide, pressing your lips tight together as he kisses your neck, peppering soft pecks on both sides of your neck, his tongue and lips working together and softly sucking at the skin enough to leave a bruise.

This earns a gasp on your side, and Hyungwon looks back up at you, and you’re even more startled when you see that his eyes have darkened a little, watching you with hooded eyes that feel almost too sinful to look at.

“Hyungwon-ah…”

“I won’t stop unless you ask me to.” He says, and you don’t have time to respond - to even say you don’t want him to stop - before his lips meet with your neck once again, another peck on your collarbone until Hyungwon runs out of your exposed skin.

“Take it off.” He orders, pulling at the hem of your sweater. Your thoughts are traveling a mile a minute up till then, going blank when he says that and looks at you, light tugs of your sweater continuously reminding you of his request. You look at Hyungwon with wide eyes, the embarrassment from before replaced by the one due to his order. You lower your hands from around his neck, hesitating a little in embarrassment.

“Do you want to stop here?” He asks when you pause, a little smile forming on his face when you shake your head in response. “Then, are you embarrassed?”

When you nod your head, Hyungwon pulls his hands away from the bare skin of your back, before he begins unbuttoning his own shirt.

With every button that comes undone you become more impatient, watching him discard the shirt, looking at you with longing in his eyes while you slowly run a hand over his bare skin. You feel a little relieved that his skin is just as warm as your felt, and you lean in a little to kiss his lips.

Hyungwon holds your arms while you have your clutches on his cheeks, kisses becoming more and more desperate until he moves you away and takes a deep breath.

You reach for the hem of your sweater again, this time pulling it over your head and throwing it away. You can’t get yourself to meet eyes with him just yet, still feeling embarrassed about showing your bare body to Hyungwon for the very first time. When there is no reaction from his side, you finally glance back up at his face, and find him looking at your newly exposed skin with lustful eyes. He reaches a hand out to grab one of your breasts, giving it a squeeze that makes you gasp. Hyungwon tilts his head up to kiss you once more, both hands grabbing your mounds and thumb rubbing against your nipples. You bite your bottom lip as he presses a soft kiss on one of your breasts, and when he licks your nipple, you let out the first moan.

This makes Hyungwon jolt up his head in surprise, watching your face as your chest heaves up and down. You think there’s a smirk on his face when he kisses the other nipple, softly sucking in such sinfulness that makes you tilt your head back, clutching a chunk of his hair in failed attempts to hide your moans. You can feel your core getting wetter with every little action of his lips over your sensitive buds.

“Hyungwon-ah, please…” Your voice trails off and he finally lifts his head up, looking at you with hazy eyes, and when he leans in to kiss your lips again do you notice Hyungwon’s hard on pressing from where you are seated on his lap. You mumble his name again impatiently, watching as he softly wraps both arms around your back once again, kissing your lips as he leans forward, making you slowly fall back down onto the bed with a little ‘oh!’.

It’s a different kind of feeling when Hyungwon gets on top of you, hands pulling down your sweatpants to expose your bare legs and panties that are getting wetter with every one of his ministrations. You’ve started to get used to Hyungwon staring at you in general, but this is the first time he looks at you with his lips parted slightly, eyes dark from lust as he kisses your thigh, another hand raking his nails on your skin and not even letting you catch your breath.

“Hyungwon-ah.” You mumble, watching him lift his figure from over you in favor of unbuttoning his trousers, and god damn. You thought you might end right then and there; watching the way his eyes never leave yours while he throws the clothing and presses the visible bulge in his boxers against you.

It’s so, so close, and your moan comes out as a whine as he bucks his hips against you once again. A faint smile forms on his face, affectionately kissing your cheek while he presses his chest against yours.

“[Name]-ah.”

You hum, eyes still closed at how painfully agonizing it feels as he grinds against you. You can barely hold yourself, and it seems like Hyungwon felt the same way, lifting the side of your panties and sliding a finger inside your wet cunt.

Your eyes fly wide open at that, a loud gasp leaving from your mouth. Hyungwon’s face is so close to you, his warm hot breath on your face as he watches your every action. While one hand holds his weight over you, the other pulls your panties down enough so he can easily rub his long, nimble fingers over your clit.

When you let out a moan and close your eyes, Hyungwon softly calls your name once again. You open your eyes, chest rising up and down like crazy now that he has inserted another finger and is rubbing on your clit so maddeningly slowly.

“Hyungwon-ah, please.”

“[Name]-ah.” He presses a kiss on your neck, two fingers knuckle-deep inside you while his thumb roughly rubs on your nub. Your legs have started shaking a bit, especially now that he bends his fingers inside your cunt, as if trying to find something - and he does, such a sweet spot that has your moans increasing in frequency and has Hyungwon watching eyes full of lust and confidence that he is the only one who can see you melt under his touches.

You actually have tears in your eyes when he removes his fingers, coated heavily with your warm fluids. Hyungwon uses his thumb to part your lips, putting his fingers in your mouth and watching you suck all of the juices clean. The bulge in his boxers become more prominent, and you can tell he is holding himself as best as he can before he settles between your legs.

You don’t have a moment to even sigh, before he wraps his arms around your thighs, opening up your pussy up for him to stick his wet tongue inside.

“Oh, Hyungwon-ah.” You moan out his name, once again making him lift his head up and look at you in utter bafflement and thirst. 

“You will drive me crazy before I can.” He lets you know, sighing before he licks your clit, tongue rolling circles around the sensitive little spot and making you moan nastily once again. Hyungwon moves his tongue inside your warmth, licking off all your juices and holding your thighs tight apart when you make the slightest hint of closing your legs.

As if his tongue isn’t sinful enough, he lets go of one of your thighs to scissor his fingers inside your heat. You feel a foreign ache in your abdomen, one that knots harder and harder each time Hyungwon sucks on your clit, rubbing his tongue over and over until you’re moaning his name so loud that he has to warn you to be quiet or he would stop.

So you try your best to do as he said, grabbing two handfuls of Hyungwon’s hair and mumbling his name, arching your back in pleasure at how warm his tongue is.

It’s when Hyungwon starts to curl his fingers deep inside you with a simultaneous harsh suck on your clit that you come undone, all over his face, electricity surging through your veins like crazy. Despite your embarrassment, he licks you off clean, sitting up and using the back of his palm to wipe off your juices that had dribbled down his chin.

The entire scene is so scandalous and so seductive that you sigh, sitting up to meet eyes with Hyungwon before pulling him close to kiss him.

“Hyungwon-ah.”

“Okay.” He nods, and you’re not sure how he exactly read your mind, but you’re relieved when he gets off from the bed, pulling down his boxer pants. His erection is hard, and pulsing, and when he makes his way to the bed, you stop him, getting off from the bed yourself and dropping on your knees in front of his length.

Your sudden action, paired with the way you wrap your fingers around his length makes Hyungwon gasp, eyes widened when you look up at him. The tip of his length is already oozing from desire, and you lick off the juices, the sweet sound of his first moan of the night almost driving you insane. You need to hear that again.

And again.

And again, you run your tongue on his length, and you can already tell that he is impatient, in the way he has grabbed a chunk of your hair and guides your mouth to his tip.

You grab the end of his length, palming it gently as you take him inside your mouth, the sound of your saliva rubbing over his length earning a guttural groan from Hyungwon. You take him in as much as you can,  bobbing your head back and forth and sighing at the way the base of his cock reaches your throat. This earns yet another groan from Hyungwon, his grip on your hair tighter as he bucks his hips in motion with your sinful mouth taking his length in. 

“[Name]-ah.” He mumbles in a moan when you rub your tongue on his tip, much like the way he had been ravishing your clit just minutes ago. The thought makes you moan while you take his length in again, eyes going up to see Hyungwon’s face redder than you had ever seen it before, his entire body trembling as he clutches your hair tight and fucks your mouth like he was going insane.

And that’s exactly the way he felt, and you could tell in the way you can feel his cock throb in your hands, each time his length goes deep inside you while you rub the base.

“[Name]-ah, you’re so-” His words halt when you take his entire length inside slowly, and it takes all of his willpower to not tremble and buck inside you, a loud moan escaping through his beautiful lips and you can’t help keep your eyes locked with his. And he tries his best to watch you, but with every time your tongue rubs at the bottom of his cock each time you take him in, his eyes shut tight, a mixture of groans and moans filling the entire room until he lets go; coming undone all over your mouth.

“[Name]-ah.” He sighs, catching his breath as he watches the way you open your mouth to take in the liquid the oozes out of his tip, licking everything off his tip and rubbing your tongue over your lips to lick off the remains. Hyungwon watches you in what feels like a daze, eyes filled with lust while he gives you a hand and pulls you up.

You think he was about to say something before you press your lips to his, bodies in contact and tasting each other’s fluid in each other’s mouth. The thought itself is enough to drive you crazy, and the way his hands slowly grabs your ass and you feel his length rubbing dangerously close to your wetness makes you moan into his neck.

It felt like Hyungwon thought the same, his kisses so desperate as he leads you towards the bed, making you sit down and lean back as he kisses you till you’re laying on the bed again,

“You’re still not asking me to stop.”

“I don’t want you to stop, Hyungwon-ah.” You say, spreading your legs enough just to feel his tip rubbing on you once again.

Hyungwon looks at you, lips parted a little before he sinks a finger inside you, as if to check just how wet you were. Satisfied with the warm wetness pooled in your core, he gets off from you and reaches for his earlier discarded trouser pocket. You are absolutely baffled when he pulls out a wallet and takes a square-shaped packet before he makes his way on top of you again.

“You had planned this long ago, didn’t you?” You can’t help but ask, and Hyungwon shakes his head, chuckling and kissing your cheek.

“No, I really didn’t expect this to happen today, but since we’re guys, we get a big stock of these and we’re always asked to carry one wherever we go.” He laughs, pecking your lips. “I only did this starting from when we were going out, because I wanted you so bad and I didn’t know for how long I could keep my cool.”

You smile, hands on his cheeks and pulling him into a kiss. “You don’t need to anymore. I want you too, Hyungwon-ah.”

Hyungwon sighs into the kiss, and when you rub your tongue on his lips, he pulls himself up from you and you whine at the loss of contact. You watch as he grins at your action, trying his best to take the condom out and sheath his hard, throbbing cock before he looks at you once again.

You open up your arms, and watch as the male comes to you, pressing a kiss onto your lips before he rubs his tip on you once again. You let out another impatient whine, looking at Hyungwon who has his eyes on you as he very slowly inserts his member into your wetness.

You both gasp at the foreign feeling, and Hyungwon intertwines your fingers, resting your hands on the bed as he presses his entire body on yours and leans in to kiss you again.

“Are you okay?” He asks, and his voice is so gentle that the little tears forming in your eyes from his length - god is he big, you didn’t realize until he got inside you - streams down from the corners of your eyes.

“I love you.”

The worry in Hyungwon’s eyes goes away when you tell him that. It’s the first time you had told him that, in response to what he said on your first date and told you he was in love with you.

Such a beautiful smile forms on his face, eyes so full of affection that he loosens one hand free to press it on your cheek, pecking your lips again.

“Hyungwon-ah.” You call softly, and he nods, making him prop one arm on the bed while the other pins your wrist down. Lifting his weight up, he removes his length from inside you, only to buck into your hips and have his tip reaching all the way to the hilt so fast that it has you moaning instantly.

“I love you too. So much.” He says, eyes never leaving you, even for a second as he plunges his length in and out of you. He groans in content at the way your warmth feels, even through the sheath of the condom he has on.

You wrap your free hand around his neck, pulling him even closer. Hyungwon sighs at the contact, a hand reaching to clutch on your breast, and you let out a little cry at the way his squeezes match each of his thrusts. You unconsciously find yourself clenching your walls, the new tightness making a throaty groan escape from Hyungwon’s lips. When you open your eyes, you see Hyungwon biting his bottom lip as bucks his hips and pushes his length inside you, head tilted a little to the back in pleasure while you continue to clench around his member.

You two’s moans fill the room, the sound of sweaty skin slapping together making you wetter and Hyungwon to push inside you with hooded eyes, so you sink your nails into his back; earning another groan from Hyungwon.

“On all fours.” Comes his second order of the night, and you’re whining a little when he pulls his length out of you. You sit up, turning around, hands and knees on the bed. The excitement you feel at not seeing what Hyungwon is up to is insane, and when he presses on your back and pushes his length inside you again, you can’t help but mewl a little.

“Hyungwon-ah!” You cry out, feeling embarrassed when he holds your hips with one hand and uses the other to rub at your clit. The pleasure you feel at being so, so filled up like this makes you unable to control your moans, and you can feel Hyungwon lean in a little, pressing his body closer to you as he thrusts his cock in and out of you. The way he flicks roughly against your sensitive nub has your moans increasing in frequency, his length mercilessly pushing through your folds so much that you press your face to the bed to tone down your voice.

“[Name]-ah.”

You can barely hum in response, legs feeling like it might give out any second. When you don’t respond properly, Hyungwon takes out the fingers inside you, and you lift your head up, whining a little.

“I want to see you.” He whispers into your ear, removing himself from you again, one hand resting on your ass. “Come on top of me.”

The tone of his voice is a little impatient but also stern, and it makes more heat pool at your wetness. You didn’t even realize you liked this kind of thing until today, and you nod, hurrying to get on top of the male who is breathing heavily and waiting for you. His erection is hard and you wrap your arms around it, guiding it inside you while Hyungwon has his eyes shut tight. You take a moment to sigh at how good it feels, and Hyungwon begins to thrust in and out of you again.

Your eyes shut tight, leaning on the bed for support. When you open your eyes, Hyungwon is watching the way your breasts go up and down with every thrust of his. Suddenly, you feel embarrassed, so you lean in to kiss his lips, closing your eyes and sighing when he wraps his arms around your body. He feels so warm, and he tightens his grip on you, his thrusts increasing in pressure and frequency.

You sigh out loud on his neck, kissing and sucking on his warm skin, and Hyungwon lets out a little groan when you clench on his length once again.

“I won’t last long if you keep doing that.” He mumbles into your ear. You give a deaf eat to what he said, because you liked feeling so filled up while he continues to fuck you and hold you so tightly. Despite what he said, you’re the one that doesn’t last long, the knots in your abdomen coming undone as you come while Hyungwon continues to pump his length inside you desperately. His thrusts become slower and sloppier, and from the loud groan he lets out while he sinks his nails into your ass, you can tell that he has reached his high as well. You lift your ass up and down to help him ride out his orgasm, until he wraps his arms around your waist and pulls you to the side, still connected.

There is silence save for the two of you gasping and catching your breath. His grip on your body is still tight and you can feel his warm breath on your head as he rubs one hand over your bare back. The electricity you felt a little while ago dies down, and you finally lift your head up to face Hyungwon, who is watching you and smiles when you meet eyes.

“Wait a bit.” He says, kissing your cheek and then getting up. You feel a little hollow when he gets off from you, tying up and discarding the used condom into the wastebasket. When he climbs onto the bed, Hyungwon notices the way your juices have oozed out of your wetness, and you put your hands over your face in embarrassment as he continues to just stare at your womanhood without a word.

“Yah, stop staring!”

Hyungwon doesn’t say anything, but instead leans down, tongue licking off all of your wetness and making you gasp in surprise. You blink at him in surprise when he finishes off, then comes back to hold you in his arms. The way he holds you tightly and runs his fingers through your hair softly makes you think back to everything that just happened out of nowhere, something you had barely even thought of even though you two have been dating a while.

"I'm gonna have a hard time covering this up tomorrow, huh?" He says, rubbing a hand on the spot on his neck you sucked earlier, which has now turned into a little bruise. He then leans in and notices the hickeys he left on your neck and chest, and gives a content grin.

The way he’s smiling at you with nothing but love and affection makes you wrap your arms around his neck, pressing your face to his warm, bare chest.

“This is the first time I’ll ask, so please. Stay with me for tonight.”

You wonder if he will get upset at you for saying this, but Hyungwon only chuckles, grip on your body getting a little tighter and pressing a kiss to your forehead.

“Mmhmm. I won’t leave you.”

“If you say things like that I’m not gonna be able to let you go even tomorrow.” You say, the two of you laughing together.

Even when words are not being exchanged, the warmth you two shared as you cuddled together under the duvet of your bed makes your heart feel safe and cozy. You almost drift off into sleep once again, but you can hear Hyungwon mumbling a little as he begins to doze off.

“I love you, [Name]-ah. I’ve always loved you.” He mumbles, and you smile, thinking back to how much you two cried in mutual pining.

Really, there really is no way to express that you love someone without saying it first.

And as Hyungwon continues to mumble as he falls asleep, he looks so beautiful and you fondly smile, feeling so glad you finally got the courage to tell him how you felt.

“I love you too, Hyungwon-ah.”

 - end

[madpanda75]

“Taking Chances Part 10: The Perfect Gift”

Part 10 is here! Not gonna lie, this chapter is short and not my best work but a necessary bridge to get to the climax of our story! Fair warning, it ends on a cliffhanger. Enjoy! ❤️ 

It was the Tuesday after the dramatic Carisi lunch. You typically had Mondays off from the gallery and after fucking Rafael senseless in front of the fireplace, it didn’t take much convincing on your part to get him to play hooky. The majority of your day was spent in bed— making love, browsing through Netflix, and eating Chinese takeout. It was a much needed escape from your chaotic lives and you still had a few more hours before reality set in. 

The brilliant warm rays of the early morning sun peeked through your curtains. You languorously stretched your limbs, reveling in the sensation of your bare legs against the soft cotton sheets. With a long, drawn out yawn, you reached over to the nightstand for your cup of coffee and aimlessly flipped through a copy of the New Yorker. However your attention was otherwise preoccupied with a freshly showered Rafael walking around your bedroom with a towel hanging low around his hips. You nearly spilled your hot drink into your lap while counting the water droplets on Rafael’s bare chest, watching one droplet slide down his stomach towards his happy trail.

He let the towel drop to the floor and began to get dressed for work, arching his brow when he caught you perched on the edge of the bed staring at him with your jaw hanging wide open. 

You blushed and cleared your throat. “Are you sure I can’t make you breakfast?”

“Thanks for the offer but I should try to get to the office early,” he said, holding up two ties for you to choose from.

You picked the silk violet tie. The purple hue brought out your boyfriend’s brilliant green eyes. “Ok, but promise me that you’ll eat something other than the stale pretzels at the precinct.”

“I promise.” Rafael gave you a quick peck on the lips and wrapped his tie around his neck when he realized that he was missing a key element to his wardrobe. “Where’s my shirt? I swore it was right here a min—” His search for the missing shirt came to a screeching halt when he noticed you were wearing it.

“Sorry babe.” A nervous giggle escaped your lips. “Who knew Armani made such comfortable clothes and besides I love how it smells.”

Rafael furrowed his eyebrows in confusion. “How it smells?”

“Uh huh.” Your cheeks turned bright pink and you nervously fidgeted with the hem of his shirt. “It smells like you.”

An warm, fuzzy feeling coursed through Rafael’s veins at your confession. He cupped your face and tenderly kissed you before pulling away. “If you love the shirt so much, then it’s yours.”

“Really?” You glanced down at his undershirt and the tie draped around his neck. “But what are you gonna wear?”

“I have a spare shirt in my office that I keep in case of emergency coffee stains.”

You beamed brightly and wrapped your arms around his neck. “Best boyfriend ever,” you murmured against his lips before kissing him.

He deepened the kiss, parting your lips with his tongue as his hands inched further down your back towards your ass. You moaned in response, feeling him squeeze your cheeks.

“Mi amor,” he said between kisses. “I have to go.”

 “No. Five more minutes. Please,” you whined, pressing your body against his.

Rafael groaned, all the blood from his brain rushing towards his cock. You were playing a dangerous game. “If we keep this up in five more minutes I’m going to be between your legs, fucking you so hard that you’ll forget your own name.”

You nuzzled against his neck as your hand began to palm his growing erection. “Well they do say that testosterone is higher in the morning. Care to put that theory to the test?” 

“Y/N,” he said in a warning tone.

With a sigh of defeat, you stopped. “Alright, can’t blame a girl for trying.” You planted one last chaste kiss on the tip of his nose and gently pushed him towards the door. “Go on. Get outta here.”

 “I’ll see you later tonight.” He grabbed his jacket and left the bedroom only to return 30 seconds later. “I forgot something.”

“What did you—” Rafael cut you off with a passionate kiss causing you both to fall back on the bed.  Your heart fluttered. You were so lost in the moment that you forgot how to breathe. You could taste him on your tongue. All too soon the kiss ended and you were left dazed with thoroughly soaked panties.

“I love you,” he purred and playfully nipped on your lower lip before leaving with a smug smile firmly planted on his face.

“Love you too,” you mumbled and held up the shirt to your nose, inhaling deeply. 

*****

A few hours later you were sitting in the small studio at the back of the gallery, dotting leaves onto a canvas. You skipped to the next song on your playlist and stepped back to analyze your work. The painting was of a large, vibrant tree in the center of a grey, bleak city. The tree was designed to look like Rafael. Its leaves matched the color of his eyes. Of course it wasn’t typical for trees to have seafoam green leaves but that was the beauty of art. You even tried to sketch his face in the trunk, its bark resembling his crooked smile and strong aquiline nose. 

Underneath the tree stood the shadowy figure of a woman meant to be you. The tree’s branches were outstretched, gently caressing you, comforting you. In the palms of your hands, you cradled your heart, offering it to the tree as the only possession you had to give. In your opinion, it was the perfect depiction of your relationship. Rafael was your protector. With him, you felt loved, safe, hopeful for the future. He symbolized a new chapter in your life.

Your “Rafael-inspired” piece was meant to be a surprise, since the elusive search for the perfect art for his home was still ongoing. Lucky for him, inspiration struck one rainy Saturday several weeks ago. Well, lazy for you. Rafael was busy typing away on his laptop. Snuggling against him with the rain pattering against the window, a flood of emotions washed over you. The next day you woke up before dawn, grabbed your brushes and paint and snuck over to the studio.

From above the sound of your music playing through your headphones, you heard the door open and turned your head to see your coworker, Phoebe, walk in.

“Bonjour, ma petite aubergine!” she said in a tone that was way too chipper for 8:30 in the morning. 

You snorted a laugh and turned off your music. “Good morning, my little eggplant?” you repeated the phrase.

“I love eggplant,” she replied with a shrug and went to stand behind you, surveying your work. “Hmmm… I like it.”

You made a face. “You sure? It’s not too cheesy?”

She hemmed and hawed for a moment before answering. “A little, but that’s ok. It's the good kind of cheesy.”

A sigh below past your lips. “You sure?”

“Absolutely,” she tried to reassure you. “And anyways, love makes people cheesy.” You blushed and went back to your painting while she milled around the room looking at your other pieces. “Ya’ know, there’s a new artist night at this gallery my friend works for. You should reach out to them. See if they’ll let you show your art. There are enough pieces here to choose from.” You opened your mouth to speak but she cut you off. “And before you say anything, I don’t wanna hear any excuses.” She gently took you by the shoulders and made you stand to face her. “You are incredibly talented and you should share that talent with the world while making a few bucks in the process.”

“Maybe you’re right,” you conceded, glancing back at your unfinished canvas.

Phoebe’s eyes widened. “I am? I mean, of course I am! Damn, this is the first time I’ve ever heard you consider doing a show. That Rafael guy must be a good influence on you.”

“Yeah, he’s the best.” You smiled, thinking back to earlier that morning. 

“Speaking of which,”—she grabbed a spare chair and sat down, getting comfortable—“how did the whole ‘meet the parents’ scenario play out?”

You threw your head back and groaned. “Ugh, why did you have to remind me?”

“Uh-oh. Sounds like we’re gonna need coffee.” She stood up and grabbed her purse. “I’m gonna get a cappuccino from the cafe around the corner. Can I get you something?”

“An Americano and a cinnamon roll.”

“Be back in a flash. I wanna hear all about it. Family drama sustains me, especially when it’s not mine,” she teased before leaving.

You rolled your eyes and began to tidy up. While you stood at the sink, cleaning your brushes, watching the colors swirl and dissolve down the drain, you wondered if Rafael would like his surprise. You hoped he would. It took you hours to get just the right shade of green. 

This gift was a big deal. Apart from your parents, you had never created a piece for anyone else. Your art was private. It was personal. Giving it away was like giving away a part of you. But you and Rafael were beyond that. This past weekend only confirmed what you had known from the moment he stepped into the gallery— that you were his, completely.

The sound of the door opening snapped you out of reverie. “That was fast, Phoebe,” you said over the running water. “I guess the cute barista wasn’t working today cause normally you spend a solid twenty minutes flirting before actually ordering your drink. I’m almost finished here. Give me a sec and then I can tell you about the worst Sunday lunch in the history of the Carisi family and that includes the time my Aunt Anita stabbed my Uncle Tony with a fork. ”

“Awww c’mon, babe. It wasn’t that bad,” said a voice that you recognized all too well. 

Stunned, your hands froze, the brushes clanging against the sink. “This can’t be happening. Please, God don’t let it be him,” you thought, slowly turning around only to find your ex-fiancé standing right in the middle of your studio. 

“Theo,” you stammered. “What are you doing here?”

He ignored your question and took a step towards you with a sinister smile that made the hairs on the back of your neck stand up. 

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[monstersandmaw]

Male werewolf x female reader (nsfw)

Edit which I’m including in all my works after plagiarism and theft has taken place: I do not give my consent for my works to be used, copied, published, or posted anywhere. They are copyrighted and belong to me.

This is a patreon tier reward, and I hope you enjoy my take on their big, dad-bodded werewolf OC, Lowe. It's been up on Patreon on early release and is now up on Tumblr for you to enjoy.

Content: playful banter, fluff, the briefest flicker of angst, some dominant tendencies in Lowe (it's not D/s though, for anyone who's not into that), and a reader who gives as good as she gets. Wordcount: 2792

___

As you yanked the door to the campus cafe open with about twice as much force as it needed, you caught a glimpse of Lowe working behind the counter. Of course, there was a massive queue at this time of day; at the midpoint of the afternoon when people were thinking about either finishing up early or knuckling down for a caffeine-fuelled all-nighter.

Engrossed as he’d looked in his work before, he glanced up as if he’d sensed your presence, his warm eyes flicked briefly in your direction as the door opened, and he offered you a quick, fond, twitch of the lips before turning back to the masterpiece of latte art in his hands. Even at that distance, you felt your body relaxing a little more around him. In the time since he’d made some playfully snarky comment about your Pokémon shirt a few months ago - which had, in fact, led to a joint outing on campus playing Pokémon Go together - you and he had fallen into an easy friendship.

You tried not to snarl softly to yourself as the woman at the front of the queue, old enough to be a post-grad perhaps, leaned on the counter and flirted openly with him, but at the end of the day, what claim did you have to him anyway? Lowe was your friend, and as much as you’d like to think you might be the tall, long-haired guy’s type (he was certainly yours, with that ‘powerful-yet-soft-around-the-edges’ dad bod he had going on, and that self-assured confidence that tipped just pleasantly shy of being arrogance), you couldn’t really be sure. After all, you’d seen him getting pretty close with a guy friend of his, so for all you knew, he wasn’t even interested in women, but you’d never really discussed that. The most personal things had got so far was Bloodborne bosses and beloved DnD characters, which was also fine.

The queue slowly dwindled in front of you, and when you stepped up to the counter, Lowe turned from the machine on the far counter and plonked a large cup down before your lips had even opened to begin your order. His grin was positively wolfish, all teeth and glinting eyes.

You pouted and snapped, “And what if I wanted a chai latte with soy milk today?”

He raised one thick eyebrow as he popped the takeaway lid onto the cup with a distractingly big hand, and said flatly, “You hate soy milk. Drink up, grumpy-guts. You’ll feel better…”

You huffed, took the cup off the counter, slapped the cash down just hard enough to make him chuckle and twitch another smile - damn the bastard looked pleased with himself and double-damn, if he didn’t look extra-specially good wearing that expression - and he announced to his colleague that he was going on break.

He joined you outside, tugging out one of the heavy, metal chairs for you without a word before taking a seat on the other side of the table.

Lowe closed his eyes, tipping his head back a little to feel the chilly late-spring breeze on his face. He looked good as he relaxed like that, with his long, thick, nut-brown hair tied back off his face with a few fluffy bits escaping at the front, and his big arms folded across his chest and resting on the slight paunch he had at the waist. Something about the thick, almost russet-brown scruff on his jaw made you want to touch it. Instead, you sipped your drink and sighed.

“Good?” he asked without moving or opening his eyes.

“You know it is, you cocky little shit,” you laughed. Banter with him was always so easy, and you gave as good as you got. “Thanks, by the way. Wouldn’t want you to think I’m a complete brat…”

He snorted and cracked an eye to look at you. The sun caught in his golden-brown iris and glinted softly like polished amber, and it honestly stole your breath for a moment. “How’s the course going?” he asked instead of teasing you any more. “You were pretty stressed about that assignment last time we talked.”

You rolled your eyes and puffed the air out of your chest, swiftly following it with some inarticulate grunt of despair. “It would be going a lot better if my roommate wasn’t also being such an inconsiderate asshole,” you snarled. “Seriously, I don’t think I can take the smell of weed or the late nights any more.”

He frowned. “Can’t you talk to someone about it?”

“Have done. Not sure I’ll have a roommate for much longer though… Missing classes and being constantly stoned must equal tanking grades, right?”

Lowe nodded but didn’t say anything for a while, watching as a gnoll and her girlfriend strolled past, hand in hand. The gnoll nuzzled her nose against the human’s ear and elicited a squawk that made her giggle in return. Eventually he said, “You free this weekend?”

Cocking your head to one side, you shrugged. “Hand-in is on Friday afternoon, so… yeah? I mean, I had just planned to sleep all day… why?”

He looked uncharacteristically apprehensive and chewed on the inside of his cheek before answering. “I was going to head up into the woods for the weekend. Camping. Wondered if you wanted to come too?”

“Camping?”

“Yeah…” he said, looking like he was regretting mentioning it now. “But if you don’t want to, it’s fine. I mean… you’ve earned your rest, and camping under the stars isn’t for everyone. Don’t feel like you have -”

“Shut up for a second, will you?” you laughed, and he drew up short and blinked, staring at you before laughing fondly. “I’ve actually never been camping. I’d love to go, as long as you don’t make me go for a ten mile hike as well…”

“Would I treat you like that?” he crooned and you rolled your eyes again and muttered something which you didn’t think he’d catch. Somehow, however, he did, and he barked a loud laugh, startling a cervitaur walking past with his grocery shopping in each hand. As Lowe turned to look at the cervitaur he’d surprised, you watched his eyes flare gold, almost unnaturally so. Perhaps it was just a trick of the sunlight at this angle. When he looked back at you, you missed what he said, staring at his eyes, which were now back to their normal, warm brown.

He murmured your name, sounding a little concerned. “I’m sorry,” he said. “I didn’t mean it. You’re not a brat… not really…”

“Shut up,” you retorted, your tone carrying no venom. “And you know full well know I can be.”

That Thursday afternoon, your roommate moved out, finally expelled for drug use and selling to other students, and you fumigated the room as best you could, relieved at last. The second after you’d finished deep-cleaning everything, you texted Lowe and said, ‘So… I’m down a roommate now.’

‘You need me to help hide the body?’ he sent back immediately and you burst out laughing.

‘I love you, but no. It was expulsion rather than murder. I was kind of hoping you might want to move in instead?’ you sent, your heart in your mouth. He’d mentioned he was looking for a place closer to campus, and this could be perfect for him. If he was willing to have you as his roommate, of course.

‘Definitely interested. Can I think about it and let you know this weekend?’

That wasn’t a complete rebuttal, you figured. ‘Of course.’

‘Cheers. I’ll pick you up at ten on Saturday.’

True to his word, Lowe didn’t take you on a ten mile route march. He drove you up to the start of a wide, easy looking trail that was apparently only three miles up to the campsite, along a winding, inviting, grassy path. Despite looking maybe a little towards the less fit end of the scale, Lowe was four strides ahead of you in a matter of seconds. Realising this, he slowed, and you nudged him with your elbow.

“Thanks,” you said and he gave you one of his soft, secret smiles that you didn’t see very often.

He wasn’t particularly talkative as you made your way up the path, but the silence between you was easy, relaxing even.

“You’re such a cliche, you know that?” you laughed a little while later as you paused on a rock for a drink and to adjust the laces of your shoe.

Lowe scowled. “How?”

You stared pointedly at the penknife in his hand and the stick he’d picked up and had idly begun to whittle into a howling wolf in his big, strong hands, almost as if he’d not even realised he was doing it. Again, he surprised you by just shrugging a shoulder and turning back to it while you enjoyed the scene. He seemed a bit distracted somehow. When you moved on, he stashed it in his pocket.

Lowe carried literally everything, stowing your water bottle for the way up in the side pocket of his backpack, and even a two-person tent, food supplies for that evening and breakfast, and more water than you probably drank over the course of three days, and yet he still managed to arrive at the campsite as if he’d just strolled the length of one city block.

He impressed you again by lighting a fire and cooking a veritable feast for you both on a little makeshift grill, and he looked more than pleased with himself when you complimented him. “Don’t let it go to your big fat head,” you snickered and he growled playfully at you.

Quite literally growled.

The moment he’d done it, he went still, eyes wide, and even looked a little sick. “Shit,” he hissed.

“What?”

“I…” then his huge shoulders slumped despondently and he let out a long breath. “I guess now’s as good a time as any to tell you. I mean, I’ve been meaning to tell you for… well, since we kind of became friends, really. But it never seemed… convenient…”

“Convenient to tell me what?”

He shuffled a bit and poked at the embers of the fire. Your stomach felt uneasy, and it had nothing to do with the inordinate amount of amazing food you’d just finished. “I…” he began, and then whispered, “Fuck it.” He looked you in the eye and said, “I’m not human. I’m a werewolf.”

You blinked. It didn’t totally surprise you, if you were honest. “Well, that… certainly makes one or two things add up…”

“You’re not mad?”

“Why would I be mad?”

He turned his golden eyes away from you and poked a bit more at the smoldering, grey wood, making it crumble to fragile ashes. He did look a bit easier now though. “I figured… maybe you wouldn’t… that if you knew that I’m not human, you might not want me as your roommate anymore… It was stupid though, I know.”

“Lowe,” you said, more gently this time, reaching for his bare forearm where he’d cuffed his tartan sleeve up to his elbow. His skin was warm and his muscles tensed, hard as the earth beneath you as he waited for whatever you were going to say next. “You’ve become probably my best friend… There’s no one I’d rather be roommates with than you. Besides, who else is going to tolerate your Soulsborne marathons and hipster lumberjack wardrobe?”

A long, low growl emanated from him but it dissolved into laughter when he saw your expression and he shook his head. “I can’t believe I was so chicken about you knowing…”

“I can’t believe you looked like you pissed yourself a minute ago!”

His eyes flashed openly gold now and he huffed, “I did not…”

“You totally did. Anyway, I’m glad you told me. But you know that means I’m going to want to know all the details.”

“I think I’ll save that for another day,” he said as he reached for the s’mores beside him.

‘Another’ day turned out to be a week after you’d helped him move all his boxes into your room. He was lying on his back on his bed, his arms folded up behind his head, one knee bent, the other leg stretched out, foot dangling off the end of the mattress. You glanced across the room at him from where you had your laptop on your knees and your headphones on, working on the last tweaks of the next assignment due. He looked tense, even though he wasn’t really doing anything in particular.

Removing your headphones, you murmured, “Lowe? Everything alright?”

“Mmm,” he half growled. A moment later he heaved out a huge sigh and said, “No. Full moon’s tomorrow night. I always get kind of… cranky around now.”

“Anything I can do to help?”

Whatever you’d thought he’d say, you hadn’t expected the long, low moan that escaped him. It was not an innocent noise. Breathing through his mouth in soft, quiet pants, he didn’t look at you, but you sensed that his eyes were glowing.

“Lowe?”

“No,” he said. “Not unless you want to take whatever this is between us somewhere else…”

You bit your lip. “You mean…?”

“It would probably take the edge off if we slept together, yes,” he said bluntly. “But if you don’t want that, then I’m hardly going to push…”

“I like it when you’re pushy,” you countered, setting your laptop aside and staring him in the eye.

His pupils blew wide and he raised his nose. “Fuck,” he cursed. “Oh… fuck, you’re beautiful.”

With a smile, you crossed the room to him as he sat up, watching your every move with unwavering, lupine focus. “Let me help you out, big guy,” you crooned playfully and he twitched his lip in a possessive snarl, eyes golden and locked on the curve of your neck.

“Last chance,” he said. “I don’t want you regretting crossing this line with me.”

“You’ve got super-human senses, Lowe,” you said, playing with the hem of your shirt. His gaze darted instantly to the movement, transfixed by the glimpse of skin beneath your top. “You must know how I feel about you by now…”

“Yes, but lusting after someone and doing something about it is different when they’re your friend… I don’t want you to feel like I’m putting pressure on you…”

In answer, you reached out and trailed your fingertips up his neck, scratching him a little bit and making him growl again, and as you finished with a single finger drawing a line up his throat and under his chin, he shivered, as if barely holding himself back. “Why don’t you put just the right amount pressure on me… here?” you said, licking your lips as you climbed into his lap, straddling his thick thighs and running your palms over the softness of his stomach.

His jaw was soft, mouth open as he panted openly, and beneath you as you ground your hips to emphasise your question, you felt his hard cock.

A heartbeat later, he’d clamped his hands under your thighs and stood up. Lowe dropped you onto the bed with the perfect mix of recklessness and carefulness and lunged for you. He peppered and mouthed kisses down your neck, tugging at your skin with his canines, biting at your earlobe, his short beard burning and scratching your skin deliciously, and all the while he ground his cock against your thigh through his jeans.

It clearly wasn’t nearly enough, and it wasn’t long before you were both naked on his bed, and he had his mouth on you, his hands spreading your legs wide as he used the strength in his arms that his softer body belied. “Don’t come yet,” he rasped between strokes of his tongue. “Not til I say…”

“Oh,” you gasped, fighting the rising wave of heat that swept up your body, tingling under your skin, at that command. You tried, you really did, but in a mere few strokes of his tongue, you came with a cry against the heat of his mouth, bucking while he held you down and pulled you against his mouth to press his tongue tight against your throbbing clit.

When he pulled back, looking extremely smug about himself and his talents, you saw that his canines had lengthened and his features had become a little less… human.

“Fuck, you’re beautiful,” he said, clearly still enjoying the taste of you on his lips.

“Will you hurry up and fuck me?” you pouted, and he snarled.

“Such a brat,” he laughed, but he didn’t waste any time either.

—

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[come-on-shitty-boys]

//caution: contents are hot and dangerous. kuroo tetsurou//

Request: Could I request a Vampire!Kuroo x Reader?

Warnings: one (1) swear.  Mentions of blood, but no actual blood-spillage.

Word Count: 2.6K (i’m so sorry. i got carried away ;-;)

Notes: Leave it to my dumbass to turn a vamp au into a coffee shop au smh

(Vampire!Kuroo x Human!reader)

It seemed like something straight out of a coffee shop fanfiction AU.  The dorky barista who now knew your coffee order by heart, always asking about your day as he brewed your latte.  He would write you little notes on your cup, usually some lame science joke that would bring you back up to the counter, asking him to explain it to you.  You would watch his face fill with a smile, eyes shining as you take interest in what he’s saying, the setting sun casting long shadows throughout the quiet cafe. 

Wednesday evenings had become Kuroo’s favorite shifts as it was the one time a week when you would indulge him with your presence.  Once 6:30 would hit, every jingle of the bell above the door would cause his heart to thump a little harder, in hopes to see your bright smile.  Your school bag always sat heavily on your shoulders, tired eyes from a long day at university, but the happiness that spread over your face when you saw him leaning his long form over the counter, that lazy smile plastered on his lips, it made the whole atmosphere feel ten times lighter.

Today was no different.  You pushed open the door, clutching your wallet, looking over the menu as if you were going to try something new, just like you always did.  Standing in line behind the other customers, Kuroo couldn’t help but try to rush through taking orders and making beverages, just wanting to get you to the front of the line, just wanting to see you smile up at him.  

“Vanilla latte with soy milk and an extra half shot of espresso,” Kuroo said, already punching the drink order he knew better than the periodic table into the cash register as you stepped up to the counter.

“$4.26,” you answer, handing him your card to swipe, but rather he pushed it back towards you, that staple lazy smile dancing across his face.

“It’s on the house today.  Consider it a thank you for being such a loyal customer.”

“I can pay, really.  It’s no problem.”  You try to hand him your debit card once more, but he just shakes his head, laughing lightly as he pushes it back once again.

“No, seriously.  Don’t worry about it,” he says, scribbling your name and a little joke onto your cup.  “So, how was class?  It was psych and- hang on, don’t tell me,” he pauses, tapping the pen against his chin in thought.  “French!”

You tilt your head in confusion, but yet a small laugh still escapes you.  “How’d you know?”

“Easy.  You always sit at the table by the window and copy notes from your psychology book and your French book.”

“Very observant of you, but I’m just going to work on French today.  I have a test tomorrow,” you explain, watching him attempt to make a cool design on the top of your drink, but inevitably failing and just creating a blob in the foam.

“I’m going to figure out how to do latte art one of these days, just you wait.”  He smiles teasingly as he places the lid on your cup, handing it to you.  A small pink tinge dusts over his cheeks as his fingers brush over yours in the exchange.  “Careful, it’s- it’s still hot,” Kuroo mutters, moving his eyes down towards the counter, letting his bangs fall into his face in a desperate attempt to hide the heat that had risen to his cheeks.

But, if you did notice, you didn’t say anything, instead you examine the cup, just like always.  This week, under your name was a circle, a few ‘Fe’s scattered around the perimeter.  It appeared to be standing on some stilts, but you could’ve stared at it for hours and still not know what the hell you were looking at.  “Kuroo, these are just getting harder, you know?”  There’s a small hint of laughter in your words, the playfulness evident in every syllable.

“It’s a ferrous wheel!  Get it?”  The look on your face was all the answer he needed.  No. “Okay, so, Fe is the atomic symbol for iron, right?  But, like, why?”  Any ounce of embarrassment or awkwardness that had once clouded the barista’s brain had since flown out the window.  You had him talking chemistry, the one area in which he was completely comfortable.  His thoughts were now so jumbled with the thoughts of atoms that your hypnotizing scent escaped him, even if for only a moment.

You watched him blabber on about science, explaining the joke, taking a million and seven detours to explain something else that was barely related, but you couldn’t just stop him.  He looked so excited, hands flying in every direction as he spoke, practically buzzing as he broke down the history of iron and why it was displayed on the table the way it was.  The dorky barista who had stolen your heart with science jokes and his lazy smile only stopped talking long enough to make orders as they came in, but he would jump back in immediately the minute he was done.  This was always your favorite part about coming here, seeing him get so passionate about this field that he loved so dearly.  

“I’ve probably bored you, haven’t I?”  He interrupts your thoughts with an awkward laugh, rubbing the back of his neck.  “I just took up some of your precious study time, I’m sorry,” Kuroo apologizes.

“No, don’t worry about it.  I don’t mind, really.”

“Hey!  I could help you, I mean, only if you want, of course.  It’s gotten pretty slow, so I’m sure no one would notice if I stepped away for a little while.”

You smile warmly at him and nod.  “I’d like that, Kuroo.  Thank you.”

It all seemed so innocent.  The awkward barista nestled into a booth with his favorite customer as she tried to teach him the correct pronunciations of the words on the page.  The orange glow had settled into a much deeper purple as the hours ticked by, quiet laughter being exchanged as the foreign words stumbled clumsily off his tongue.  His arm had settled on the back of the booth seat, letting it hang around your shoulders, but at the same time, not overstepping any boundaries.  But, the way that your body was slowly inching closer to his led him to believe that most of the lines had been erased.  To anyone with an outside view, it was a beautiful image of a newly blossoming romance.

But, Kuroo’s head was fogging at the close proximity.  It was one thing when he had a counter separating you from him, but now, with your head leaning on his shoulder and his arm that had just naturally sank down to rest against your form, it was hard to shake.  You smelled so good.  Your body absolutely dripped that delectable scent that made his skin prickle.  Every time that you entered the shop, he could feel his fangs trying to push through, trying to just get some sort of taste of your blood.  With that counter between the two of you, it was easy for him to shake the desire, but now?  Your neck was so exposed.  It would be so easy.  He found himself absently tracing patterns up your shoulder towards your collarbone, fingers seeking out that soft spot that would feel so nice to simply sink his fangs into.  

“I should probably be getting home.”

His eyes snapped away from the soft curve of your neck to look at the time on your phone.  It was nearly nine, nearly time for him to close.  Kuroo let out a small sigh, pulling his arm away.  “You know, it’s really not smart for you to walk home by yourself at this hour,” he says, sliding out of his seat.

You just shrugged, putting your books back into your bag.  “I’ll be okay.”

“If you want, I could walk you home.  I just have to do some cleaning, but it shouldn’t take too long.”

“I’d like that, Kuroo.  Thank you.”  There’s a smile behind your words as you sit back in your seat.  

It should’ve been as sweet and simple as that.  But, you weren’t living in a fanfiction, were you?  Everything would have been too easy and too beautiful if this was just your typical coffee shop love story.  You should’ve gathered that something wasn’t quite right about the situation from his shift in demeanor.  That lazy smile that always seemed to be evident on his features melted away, settling into a thoughtful expression.  He wasn’t talking as much, preferring to simply hum and nod in agreement with what you were saying.  If he was forced to talk?  Well, his answers were short, nothing like the extensive rambling that you had become used to from the barista.  

It’s not like he wanted to be passive with you, it’s just that the soft poking on the inside of his lip told him that he better keep his mouth shut.  Kuroo was usually so good about keeping his fangs hidden, but for some reason, you ruined his resolve and before the two of you even left the shop, those two sharp teeth had emerged and he just couldn’t seem to will them away.  Especially when you were holding onto his hand, pushing your body up against his side.  You were so tantalizingly close and so naive to what dangers this situation really held.

It wasn’t safe for young ladies to walk home by themselves at this hour, but it wasn’t exactly safe for them to be escorted by one of his kind either.  God, to drain you right then and there- The thought of your mouth falling open in the mixture of shock and discomfort, hands pawing defenselessly at his chest as that sweet red liquid dripped from your neck, the mental image of you being so vulnerable had his amber eyes shifting a few shades darker.  

You were still smiling, so caught up in whatever you were telling him that you didn’t even notice how heavy the mood had become.  You were so caught up in this little fantasy that everything was perfectly normal and that you were just getting to spend a little extra quality time with the man that had caught your eye all those months ago.  But, he couldn’t help himself, really.  This wasn’t how he expected his first long evening with you to go, but it had been awhile since he had had anything to fill his stomach and there was just something about the way your blood smelled that made his resolve collapse and his mouth water.  

Imagine your surprise when the usually sweet barista pushed your back against a wall, standing over you, eyes glazed over in hunger, hooded by desire.  Kuroo’s fingers gripped your chin, tilting it so that your eyes would meet his.  And he smiled.

Except it wasn’t that cool grin that made him seem so laid-back, this one had an air of menace to it,  those white fangs catching the rays of the moonlight.  The little squeak that had left you as your back had hit that hard surface only made a low chuckle rise in his chest.

“What’s the problem, kitten?”  The pet name dripped teasingly from his tongue, the tone only making you sink further into yourself, but his breath fanned so nicely over your skin, that part of you didn’t even care that he was potentially going to kill you.  He tilted your head to the side, exposing your neck to him.  The sharp points of his fangs graced teasingly over the skin as if trying to decide the best place to finally make their mark.  “I bet you never thought that I could be dangerous.  You were always so sweet and innocent, never once thinking that I should be the one that you needed to be afraid of.”

There’s a soft whimper and a shake in your bottom lip.  Kuroo can feel your slight shake and it almost makes him pull away from you, apologizing for saying such things, but this- this was an opportunity that he couldn’t just pass up.  After this night, there would be no guarantees that you would come to see him again and then he would never have the opportunity to just get that little taste that he so desperately craved.  But, even so, the grip on your chin softened and the malice in his smile seemed to disappear.

“If you’re going to kill me, please- please just do it already,” you whimper, the tremble in your voice echoing through his ears as you closed your eyes tightly.

That was all it took for him to fully pull away from you, that fear that had crept up within you brought him back to his senses.  The ominous creature that had loomed over you only moments before, fangs threatening to pierce your skin, had been replaced by the boy from the coffee shop who got overly excited about chemistry and talked feverishly with his hands.  He could feel his fangs shrinking away and Kuroo leaned away from you, sadness being the only emotion on his features.

This wasn’t what he wanted.  He never wanted to scare you, to make you shake beneath his touch, but that’s exactly what he had done.  To be frank, he hated it.  He hated that after months of getting to know you and building a meaningful friendship with you, he let it all waste away as he was driven by an urge of hunger.  Kuroo hadn’t offered to walk you home just so he could get a little late night snack.  He had genuinely been concerned for your safety and yet, here he was, being more of a danger to you than anyone else.

His mouth stuttered absently for anything that could be an explanation or even an apology, but there was nothing.  But when your eyes opened cautiously, surprised that you were still alive, Kuroo could see the soft glisten of tears on your cheeks.  Someone could’ve hit him over the head with a brick and it still wouldn’t have hurt anywhere near as much as the knowledge that those tears had fallen because of him, because he had made you fear for your life and for your well-being.

So, when you flung yourself into his chest, clutching at the fabric of his t-shirt, letting your quiet sniffles dampen the material?  Kuroo was shocked to say the least, but nonetheless, he wrapped his arms tenderly around your form, mumbling soft words of remorse against your scalp, planting sweet kisses on your temple.  

“Please,” you whisper, your words getting caught in your throat in a choked sob.  You tighten your grip, pulling him closer to you as if you were trying to completely disappear from the world.  “I don’t care what you are, just please- please don't do that to me again, Kuroo.  I like you a lot, but I-” You looked up at him, fresh tears shimmering down your cheeks.  “But, you scared me and I-”

He shushed you, petting your hair softly before running his thumb over your face, ridding your skin of any remaining tears.  “I know, and I’m sorry, Y/N.  I guess I just like you too much to pose any real danger to you, huh?”

[sometimesiwritebadly]

Rossi’s New Book (Spencer Reid x Reader)

Summary: Reader owns a bookstore and is hosting a book reading for a new book by David Rossi, and sees someone cute browsing her store during the reading.

Warnings: It’s just a fluffly little meet cute. 

Word Count: 1.7k

Masterlist 

For those of you using Interactive Fics or something similar, I use Y/N and Y/L/N once or twice so make sure you have the replacements saved

~~~

After years of hard work, your small bookstore had become a bit of a hit in the DC area. A year ago you would have had 4 or 5 sales a day, but those days are long behind you. Your little bookstore had been featured in multiple articles and news stories, which raved about the unique selection, small coffee shop, and the bookstore cat, Molly, (who had wandered into the shop one day and never left). Today was going to be another busy one - not that you mind - due to a local author hosting a reading for his newest book. David Rossi is definitely one of the biggest names you’ve ever hosted in your store, and even though the reading wouldn’t start for a while, there was already a small crowd waiting in anticipation. 

Your recent growth in popularity meant that you didn’t need to worry much about the reading. You had a small team of 5 working in your store, plus a team Rossi’s editor had brought to help keep the crowd under control. This meant you could happily drink your coffee and enjoy the reading while everyone else worked diligently. As the time grew nearer and the crowd began to find seats, you noticed one person who didn’t seem too interested in the reading; instead, the tall man was browsing the store’s non-fiction section. Even though you weren’t technically on duty right now, you couldn’t help but be intrigued. The man looked confused, maybe a little nervous? He seemed like he was searching for something specific, and hey, no one knows the store better than you. He glanced up towards you, and you would’ve been embarrassed, but his eyes widened and he looked back towards the shelves quickly. Oh yeah, you’re definitely going over there. Really, it’s your job as the owner to help the very, very cute man find whatever he’s looking for. At least, that’s what you tell yourself as you make your way over, trying to build as much confidence as possible.

“Hi, can I help you find anything?” You spoke quickly, probably a little too quickly. Probably shouldn’t have had that third cup of coffee. 

“O-oh, um, no that’s ok, I can try and find it myself.” He answered, while messing with his hands nervously.

“You sure? I own the place, I know it like the back of my hand. I can help you find your book before the reading starts…” You ended the sentence hopefully. You weren’t sure why you wanted to talk to him so badly, but ultimately your business came first. You didn’t want to badger a potential customer so much to the point he never returned.

“Oh, I’m not here for the reading. Well, I am but, I’ve already read the book. Three times. I was just looking for this new biography on Mary McLeod Bethune? It came out about a month ago but I haven’t had the time to pick it up yet, I was hoping you might have it in stock still?” You vaguely remembered ordering a small shipment of the book he was describing, and as far as you were aware, you’d only sold a few. 

“Oh sure, that’ll actually be just over here,” You began walking as you spoke, bringing him to the other side of the shelf, “We’ve grown so much, we had to make a separate section for biographies.” Your eyes immediately found multiple copies of the book in the middle of the shelf, and you reached out to grab it. The man did the same, causing your hands to hit each other instead of the book. You looked up at him as he looked away from you, a blush evident on his face, before he reached out and grabbed the book. As he studied the back cover for a second - damn, he reads fast - you remembered what he had mentioned earlier. “Did you say that you’d already read the new Rossi book? Three times? Didn’t it just come out yesterday?” You had only just finished the book, but that was because you had the advantage of early access; you received the shipment a week ago. 

“Oh, um, Rossi is actually one of my coworkers. He gave me a copy last week. Me and a few of my other coworkers are here to support him.” His eyes drifted over your shoulder, and when you turned you saw a small group by your cafe area, drinking coffee and talking to David Rossi, who you recognized from the back cover of his many books. When you turned back, his eyes were on you, the book he had been interested in tucked under his arms.

“So you’re an FBI agent then?” 

“Y-yeah.” He hesitantly held a hand out towards you, “Dr. Spencer Reid.”

“Y/N Y/L/N.” You answered, taking his hand. Both of your hands lingered for a moment after shaking, and the man, Spencer, opened his mouth to speak as he let go. Before the words escaped him, however, Rossi’s editor spoke loudly, making both of you turn and gaining the attention of the crowd, as she began introducing Rossi. “You better get over there,” you whispered to Spencer, “Kind of hard to be supportive if you’re wasting time with me.” He gave you a smile as he nodded, and made his way towards his group of friends. If you hadn’t walked in the other direction, towards some of your employees standing near the back of the crowd, you would’ve noticed Spencer’s coworkers lightly teasing him for the encounter.

~~~

After the reading was over, you helped your overwhelmed staff get everyone checked out and out of the store, as you could tell they were all tired and ready to get home. Hopefully once the place was mostly empty, you could get them all back in the comfort of their homes and run the store on your own until closing time. During all the craziness, your mind had allowed you to forget about the cute FBI agent who had distracted you during the reading. You finished checking out the last customer in your line, and noticed that the other cashiers only had a few people each to check out. You figured now would be the best time to thank Agent Rossi for choosing your store to host his event, but just as the thought came to you, your name was being called from across the store.

“Ms. Y/L/N?” Agent Rossi was now walking over to you, so you quickly began walking towards him, meeting him in the middle with a hand to shake.

“Agent Rossi, you did great up there! The book is amazing, we’ll have to restock pretty soon, I’m sure of it,” you let go of his hand, smiling widely. “Thank you so much for choosing my little shop for this reading.”

“Oh of course, I couldn’t think of a better place. Don’t be surprised when you get a call from my editor when I release my next book.” Your smile somehow managed to get wider, excited at the prospect of having a recurring author visit your bookshop. “Oh, and don’t be surprised when you receive a call from the young doctor either.” He said this with a wink, and you felt a blush rise on your face pretty quickly.

“I-I haven't given him my number, sir.”

“Oh, I wouldn’t worry about that. If he doesn’t get the guts to ask you tonight, We have a pretty great technical analyst at the FBI that’ll find it for him, trust me. She’s very...driven.” Even though you should probably be a little concerned at the idea of an FBI agent researching you, you giggled, looking towards Spencer over Rossi’s shoulder, who was still holding the book you had helped him find, not having checked out yet.

“Well, I guess I’ll look forward to his call.” You and Rossi said your goodbyes, and you headed back towards your cashiers. They no longer had a line, and besides the remaining FBI agents, the store was empty. You sent them both home, and sat behind the counter yourself, and grabbed the book you were currently reading from its hiding spot under the counter to entertain yourself as you waited for Spencer to approach you.

After about 5 minutes of reading, you heard footsteps coming towards you, and looked up to see Spencer, still with a light blush on his face. “All set?” You asked, placing your bookmark in your book before placing it back under the counter.

“Uh, yeah, just the one book for today.” He handed you the book, and you quickly scanned it before telling him his total. He handed you a credit card, and you felt a little disappointed that he hadn’t mentioned wanting your number yet. As you handed back to him his card and receipt, an idea occurred to you. 

“Did you want a loyalty card? Buy 4 books and get the 5th half off.” You said, grabbing one of the cards from its stack behind the counter. 

“Sure! That sounds great.” Before his sentence was over, you gave the card a quick stamp, and flipped it over before you grabbed a pen that had been sitting in front of you. Spencer leaned towards you, clearly confused as to what you were writing. With a final pen stroke, you handed the card to him with a smile.

“Maybe we can talk about that book sometime, I’d love to learn more about Mary McLeod Betune.” Despite the slight blush on your face as you said the words, your confidence levels were higher than ever, as Spencer looked at you with a really big smile. 

“I’ll, uh, I’ll give you a call.” He answered simply, before turning back towards his friends. As they all made their exit from the store, He looked at you one last time and gave you a shy wave before walking out of the door. From the window outside, you saw Rossi give you one last wink, and if saying “I told you so” to you before heading out of your sight. You stared at the door for a few seconds after they had left, only being stirred out of your trance when Molly jumped onto your lap, purring lightly and getting her fur all over your black shirt. With a small laugh, you picked her up and held her as you closed up the shop, the cute doctor never leaving your thoughts.

[imaginewithmgk]

Hello! I was wondering if I could put in a request for an MGK fic? I’m obsessed with the song sex by EDEN and I would love a friends to loves fic where the reader and Colson have a friends with benefit relationship and they both start catching feelings. Little angst but a fluffy ending?

NOT ALL THE BENEFITS

summary: colson and y/n have been friends for a very long time but colson has had enough of hiding his feelings

word count: 1,657 words

warnings: fluff, smut-ish, swearing

Y/N’s P.O.V.

I walk downstairs into the kitchen to make myself some breakfast. I scan the cupboards, then the fridge, and then the cupboard again but I can’t pick anything that I really want. I decide to pop some bread in the toaster to see if that springs any ideas into my crowded mind. I cross my arms and place them on the counter, leaning on them so I can watch the toaster intently. I’ve been trying to master the art of not getting scared when it spits my toast out. Don’t judge me. I shiver due to the cold surface on my bare skin. It might not help that I’m only wearing underwear and an old t-shirt as well. 

“You look cold,” A deep, tired voice says from behind me. I blush as I feel arms wrap around my waist and lips place delicate kisses on my neck and shoulders. I stand up properly and rub my cold hands over their warm arms. 

“Colson stop,” I giggle. I feel him shake his head and place it in the crook of my neck. “What are you doing?” I exclaim. 

"I'm cold! You're cold too so I'm trying to generate body heat to keep us warm," I feel him smirk against my skin. "You also look incredibly sexy so I couldn't help myself,"

"If you're cold you can go get dressed and leave me alone so I can make my breakfast!" I laugh, turning around and gently shoving him away. I notice he is only wearing boxers so I take that to my advantage and scan his body quickly. I study his tattoos and the six-pack that is beginning to show. 

"Fine. I know you don't want me to get dressed though," He winks, wiggling his butt as he walks out of the kitchen and into his room. I laugh at him and quickly forget about my toast. 

My mind drifts to how Colson and I aren't in a relationship and the fact that I wish we were. I have the next best thing though, him as my best friend. I obviously have feelings for him but I would never tell him because I don't want to ruin the beautiful friendship we have. A few years ago we took our friendship to the next level and sort of became “friends with benefits”, I guess you could call it that. Just not all the benefits. We jokingly mess around with each other, kiss each other’s body parts like neck, shoulders, etc. We’ve done pretty much everything imaginable except for actual sex, and for some reason, we’ve never kissed. I think we’re both too scared to see where it would go. I don’t really know, whenever it comes to Colson my mind turns into scrambled eggs. 

I follow him into his bedroom and see him standing in front of his wardrobe with his favourite pair of black jeans on, the ripped ones with the XX logo on the knee, looking through his tops. 

"Y/N," He whines. "I don't know what top to wear,"

"Chill, I'll help you," I chuckle and walk over so I'm standing behind him. I copy his actions from earlier and wrap my arms around his waist, but instead of placing my chin on his shoulder I just rest my head against his back. He's too damn tall. 

"What are you doing?" He asks. I hum and watch him flip through shirts. I sneakily trail my hand down from his belly button to the top of his jeans and keep my other hand on his hip, rubbing circles into the material of his pants. I feel him shiver but he ignores me and continues looking through shirts. I feel him tense up as I place my hand on the front of his jeans. I feel him harden in my hand, and I know he’s trying to hide a moan. I squeeze his package making him moan out loud. I chuckle and move away from him, causing him to let out a long breath.

"Fuck baby. Don't ever do that again," He says which makes me laugh even more. 

"I won't," I say in between laughs. I point to a top and he puts it on quickly, grumbling to himself. 

"Piss off!"

"Awe don't be like that," I pout.

"Bitch," He mumbles. I walk over to him and give him a hug, snuggling into his chest. 

"You know I love you right?" I ask and look up to meet his eyes. 

"Of course. I love you too," He replies, looking into my eyes and placing a gentle kiss on my forehead. I smile. 

"What do you want to do today?" I ask, moving away from him. He shrugs. 

"I have a recording session at 3 and it's already 1 so I'm not sure I'll have much time to do anything,"

"Oh yeah," I nod. "Do you want to go grab some food and see what happens from there?" I ask. 

"Yeah let's do that,"

I make my way to my room and get changed into some simple black jeans and one of Colson's tops. I put on some mascara, fill in my eyebrows, brush my teeth and then put on some lip gloss and I'm ready to go. I grab my keys and phone and watch Colson lock the front door before he grabs my hand and intertwines our fingers. We make our way to our favourite cafe that’s only a few blocks away, chatting about random things the whole way. 

We get a table outside and pick up the menus. 

"What are you going to get?" I ask him. 

"Probably a BLT, you?"

"Avocado toast I reckon," 

"You get that every time!" He chuckles. 

"I know but it's soooo good," I exclaim. Shortly after the waitress takes our orders and we go back to chatting. 

"I low key wanted to go to the park but I think I'd rather just stay at home and cuddle with my girl. I got some difficult songs to record later on." Colson says playing with one of his rings. 

"Your girl huh?" I tease. He's never called me that before. 

"Shut up," He blushes. 

"Are you blushing? Oh my god!" I grab his hand. He starts laughing and covering his face while rubbing his thumb on the back of my hand. The waitress comes over to our table and gives us our food. 

"You guys make a really cute couple by the way!" She smiles. 

"Oh n-" I go to correct her. 

"Thank you so much," Colson interrupts me. I furrow my eyebrows at him as she smiles at us once again and walks away. 

"What was that?" I ask him. 

"I didn't want to make her feel awkward," He shrugs. I hum in response and begin eating my food. We finish quite quickly and make our way home. 

"So what do you wanna do?" I ask him as we walk through the front door. I close it behind me and watch him grab a blunt off the lounge room table and light it. 

"You wanna just cuddle and watch Netflix or something?"

"Sounds good to me," I follow him into his room and take off my jeans so I can be comfortable. I put on a pair of his shorts and hop into his bed, wrapping myself in his blanket. He lies down next to me and turns on his TV, changing it to Netflix. He randomly chooses a movie but keeps it at a low volume so we can chat. 

"Y/N?" 

"Yeah?" I reply. 

"I'm so happy we're best friends. You mean the world to me,"

"Awe I feel the same way,"

"Like, you're actually my whole world. I don't know where I'd be without you," He whispers. 

"Same," I giggle, then move onto my side to look at him.

"I love you bitch,"

"I love you too whore," 

Colson’s P.O.V.

We lay in silence for a while but I can’t help but think about her and whether or not I should tell her about my feelings. Y/N is my best friend but I’ve found myself falling for her more and more each day, to the point where I think I’m in love with her. I don’t want to ruin our friendship because it truly is one of a kind, I’m just not sure how long I can last without being with her. 

“What’s up?” She asks. “Whatchu been thinking?”

“What do you mean?” I look over at her.

“You’ve been staring at the roof so long I swear it’s come alive,” She jokes. 

“Can I tell you something?” I meet her eyes. 

“Of course,” She whispers, clearly nervous. 

“I don’t want to lie anymore, I don’t want to hide this anymore Y/N. You’ve taken my heart. I know you said, well we both said, that the intimate things we do mean nothing but they do mean something. They mean something to me. I know I should’ve kept my mouth shut but I can’t keep living like this. Remember that fight we had last week? When you said that you thought I was heartless, that we were just messing around, and you would never call it love, it fucking broke my heart but I caught feelings! You know I have a fear of feeling but I don’t know how to forget you. I can’t forget you,”

“Colson I-”

“I know Y/N. I know you don’t feel the same way but I had to tell you!”

“Would you just shut up for a second?” She raises her voice. “I love you,” 

“What?”

“Not in a friendly way. In a romantic way. I’ve had feelings for you from the second I met you and being with you all the time made me love you more and more every day. I love you Colson Baker,”

“I love you too Y/N L/N,”

-

tagged: @xxkellsvixen19xx @xwhitewalkerx @onlybadthingz @lovemythsworld @onecentricsoul @wintersbleeding @PumpkinQueenest19 @jindongdongie @deanwinchesterswife121 @itjustkindahappenedreally @2dead2function @s-j-g-x @Feeding-into-darkness @mayaslifeinabox @machine-gun-colson

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[shyvioletcat]

Okay this one can be used earlier in the story (soon maybe?): “I’ve been waiting to get to know you from the moment I first saw you.” - more Rowaelin fireman au please ❤️

Think of this as the fluffy epilogue. *Excessive amounts of notes at the end*

Masterlist

~~~~~

Rowan woke up to an empty bed, and for a moment he thought last night might have been a dream. Then he realised whose bed he was in and saw a note neatly folded on Aelin’s pillow.

I’ve gone for a run. I expect you to be gone by the time I get back. I’ve got a hot date to get ready for.

Rowan smiled and got out of bed, the smile was from knowing he was her hot date.

On the kitchen bench there was a pen and Rowan used the blank side of Aelin’s note to write his own. Then he gathered the lights he’d brought over the night before and locked Aelin’s door behind him as he left.

~~~~~

Even though it was Sunday morning Aelin had woken up fairly early. Rowan had looked so peaceful as he slept beside her so she’d snuck out of the bedroom, grabbing her running clothes as she did. Before she left she’d dropped a note on her pillow, taken on last lingering look at the beautiful man in her bed, and left.

Before Aelin set off she called Lysandra, then started at her warm up pace. It almost rung out before Lysandra answered and she clearly wasn’t happy about it.

“You better be dying,” Lysandra said hoarsely.

“I’m not dying. But you just might when I tell you what happened last night,” Aelin said and then told Lysandra exactly what had happened between her and Rowan.

Lysandra was squealing by the end. “Finally!”

Aelin just laughed, “So what do I wear?”

Lysandra went through various outfits, Aelin giving a few one word answers as she picked up her pace. It took a while but they finally agreed on what would be the perfect outfit for her lunch date.

“Good luck,” Lysandra sang into the phone as she hung up.

Aelin had decided that she’d gone far enough and started home. She was only slightly out of breath by the time she unlocked her door. The bag of lights were gone from the coffee table so Aelin assumed that Rowan was gone, but she checked her bed anyway to be sure. On her way to the shower she saw a slip of paper on the kitchen counter.

Kingsflame Cafe 1130. I’ll see you there.

Aelin grinned. She thought they’d go from here, together. But she approved of this idea. Aelin did like to make a good entrance.

~~~~~

Rowan was nervous, even though he had absolutely no reason to be. After that kiss last night there was no doubt left whether or not their feelings were mutual. Aelin had been the one to ask him to stay but Rowan had been the one to start the kiss. 

He’d told Aelin to meet him here because he wanted to get her flowers from the florist two doors down. If they had arrived together the whole buying process would have been awkward. Instead he’d arrived at the cafe 10 minutes early, went to the florist and picked out a small bouquet of flowers that he thought would look nice on her coffee table and come back to the cafe to get a table.

Then he waited, 5 minutes, 10. He got nervous when it approach 15 but then the door opened and there she was. Aelin breezed in, confident and beautiful, wearing a blue floral dress that wrapped around her and to float about her knees as she moved. Her hair was swept away from her face but was mostly left out as it tumbled over her shoulders. Aelin looked around for him and when she spotted him her blush pink painted lips spread into a smile.

Rowan stood without thinking and Aelin walked right up to him placed a hand on his chest and kissed him, so softly it was barely a whisper of a kiss. Rowan’s hand had gone to Aelin’s waist and she smiled at him as she pulled away.

“Again?” Rowan asked, his hand squeezing her waist.

Aelin only took a step back. “Make this a good date and you’ll get the rest.”

Rowan’s hand tightened on her waist, Aelin only smiled innocently up at him. He let go and picked up the flowers from the table.

“For you.”

Aelin looked genuinely surprised as she took the small bouquet from him, a delighted surprise.

“Thank you,” she said and sat down.

Rowan sat as well and watched as Aelin moved aside the salt and pepper to make room for the flowers. They looked over the menus and the waiter came over and took their order, then they were left to themselves to wait for their food.

“So,” Rowan said.

“So,” Aelin copied, leaning her elbows on the table.

“How was your run this morning?” Rowan asked, leaning forward as well.

“Refreshing, I love the smell of the air after rain,” Aelin said.

“Petrichor.”

“What?” Aelin said tilting her head a little.

“That’s was its called, the smell after rain,” Rowan explained.

“Is that right?” Aelin said.

Rowan chuckled, “Yes.”

“I never picked you as a man for fancy words,” Aelin said.

“What did you pick me as then?” Rowan asked.

“Very boring. Probably would only ever read biographies, but the ones about to dullest men imaginable, the blandest beige food palette, no sense of humour at all,” Aelin listed off.

Rowan lent back in his chair. “When did you decide all this?”

Aelin sighed. “I’m not sure exactly. Maybe it was when you refused to smile at me all those times we passed on the stairs.”

“Well maybe it you hadn’t thrown obnoxiously loud parties every other weekend when you first moved in I would have been more willing to smile,” Rowan countered.

“It was summer holidays and a lot of my friends are teachers, it’s what we do,” Aelin said in her defence. “What about me? What did you pick me as?”

“You?” Well,” Rowan leaned forward and took Aelin’s hand, “I’ve been waiting to get to know you from the moment I first saw you.”

It wasn’t a lie. The day she moved in he’d come home and there she was carrying a box and struggling to open her door, he had helped her and she had given him a dazzling in smile in thanks.

Aelin’s flushed, an adorable blush on her cheeks. “Why didn’t make your move earlier then?”

“You opened that depraved mouth of yours and I changed my mind.”

Aelin tipped her head back and laughed, her golden hair falling down her back. “What?”

“I accidentally parked you in just after you moved in,” Rowan said. “You went off.”

Aelin’s brows furrowed for a moment and then she smiled as she obviously remembered.

“You don’t accidentally park someone in,” Aelin said.

“I just had to run upstairs and someone else was in my spot, one of your friends I recall,” Rowan said. “Your main excuse for ranting at me was that your pizza was getting cold.”

“I was on my way to pick it up and was running late,” Aelin said with a shrug as if that excused her behaviour of yelling at him.

Rowan let out an disbelieving laugh “You are…”

“I’m what?” Aelin leaned forward again and tightened her grip on his hand.

“I’m just glad I broke down your door so that I could get to know you better,” Rowan said softly.

Aelin bit her bottom lip and she smiled at him.

“I think,” Rowan said as he lent over the table, Aelin instinctively lent in too.

“Yes?” She whispered.

“I think I see something I like.”

Rowan closed the distance between them and he could feel Aelin’s smile on his lips as he kissed her. Then there was someone clearing their throat beside them and Rowan reluctantly pulled away. The waiter stood there with there food and quickly put it down and walked away.

Rowan saw the blush on Aelin’s cheeks, and knew his own were flushed as well. But he didn’t care. Finally he let go of her hand and picked up his cutlery.

“Alright Fireman Whitethorn, do your worst. Get to know me better.”

While they ate Rowan asked Aelin any and every question that came to his mind, and she did the same for him. They laughed and smiled at each other, caught in the thrill of getting to know someone new. A while after they had finished eating Aelin and beckoned him closer and given him a long lingering kiss. Rowan go the message and paid the bill. Aelin was waiting at the door, her small bouquet in one hand but she link her other hand with his while they started their walk back to their apartment building.

Rowan couldn’t wait that long to kiss her again though, and stopped suddenly. When Aelin turned to ask him what he was doing he didn’t give her a chance to ask before his lips were on hers. Someone muttered an ‘excuse me’ and it was then Rowan realised they’d stopped right in the middle of the footpath.

Rowan scowled. “I swear if we get interrupted on more time...”

Aelin just laughed as she led them on. “Come on. I’ve got and fancy new lock on my apartment door thanks to some bubbling idiot.”

Rowan smiled as she tugged on his hand. Breaking down Aelin’s door was to best mistake he would ever make in his entire life.

~~~~~

Well. That’s it. I did it. I finished a fic. Wow, what a ride.

I want to thank everyone who liked, reblogged and commented on any of the chapters. Especially the comments. I seriously would have given up so long ago if it wasn’t for your reactions and support. It’s been fun. I just want to say I’m sorry that I couldn’t reply to each and every comment, life is busy. But I want you to know that I read every single one of them.

Thank you to everyone who sent in prompts to keep this fic going. It literally wouldn’t wouldn’t have happened without you.

Lastly big thanks to Alex @tangledraysofsunshine. You’ve had my back during this. You’re the best.

OH AND HERE’S THE BIG ANNOUNCEMENT! The slowburn might be over but I am 100% not closing the door on this AU. I’m still open to prompts for it, basically forever. The future drabbles wont be written chronologically but I’ll try to put them in some kind of order on the masterlist. I’ve already got a Christmas special lined up.

I just want to say thank you again. I love you all.

Tags: @tangledraysofsunshine // @nalgenewhore // @highqueenofelfhame // @galyxsy // @fucking-winchester-trash // @literary-licorice // @http-itsrebecca // @highladyofthesith // @aelinfire-bringer // @soup-that-is-too-hawt // @sleep-and-books // @3am-reading // @average-girl-at-best // @but-she-was-aelin-galathynius // @rowaelinforeverworld // @alifletcher2012 // @westofmoon // @tswaney17 // @mydarlingfireheart // @rowansfirebringer // @chocolate-eating-bitch-queen // @vanilla28 // @fireheart-of-your-dreams // @enquires-state-building // @im-not-rare-im-rarr // @your-high-lady // @mariamuses // @ttakeitbacknoww // @vi0let-femmes // @kindofawalkingpoem // @sleeping-and-books // @armixers-unite // @velarian-trash // @queenofxhearts // @princess-galathynius // @heroesofterrasen // @ladyofstoriesandmusic // @unassumingsodalovesherbooks // @empire-of-wildfire // @brittneym15 // @camerooonchiu // @worldoffae // @mybbyfeyre // @crackedship // @lowhangingtreebranches // @over300books // @yourwhisperingshadows //  @thesirenwashere // @pilesofriles // @chemicha // @keshavomit // @sarahbringsoutmygay13 // @wifeofchrishemsworth // @impossiblescissorspeachpaper // @cat5313 // @judelovescardan // @illyrian-velaris // @flowerspringsea // @whitethorn15 // @whiskeybusiness1776 // @notaddictedtoanything // @thereaderandfangirl // @mynewdreamwasyou // @tintinnabulary // @the-regal-warrior // @searchingforbellarke // @queen-of-wings-and-fire // @court-of-fuck-me-daddy // @officialasianbitch //

[peace-coast-island]

Diary of a Junebug

A visit to Coral Beach

What a fun time at the beach! Coral Beach is such a lovely place - from the clear blue waters and colorful mosaics scattered throughout the boardwalk, it's one of those places ideal for vacationing based on appearance alone. No photoshopping necessary when it comes to taking pictures here!

I'm surprised that I haven't visited the beach sooner since it's about an hour away from the camp. In fact, there's still so many places nearby that I haven't been to yet. The trip was kinda a spur of the moment kind of thing Pancetti, Audie, Snooty, Lyman, and I planned at the last minute. By chance I ran into an old friend who's vacationing there too and now she's coming back with us.

So we spent a couple days at Coral Beach exploring the sights and enjoying the resort and then tomorrow we're heading back to the camp. Of course, I also spent the time catching up with Desi, who's been enjoying the seaside scenery.

Desi Rivera's an aspiring singer-songwriter who hopes to make it big one day. Right now though, she's jumping off the ladder and starting from scratch. It's a risky move, but I think it's a necessary one. Given her talent and ambition, I know that Desi will come out stronger than ever.

I met Desi at summer camp years ago. Even though we only spent one summer together, we kept in touch for a while after that. The summer camp thing was something our parents made us do and to be honest it wasn't really our thing so they didn't push us when we told them that there wasn't going to be a next summer. The experience wasn't terrible - I did make a friend after all - but summer camp and I just didn't click at all. Now that I think about it, it's kinda interesting that as an adult I'm running a camp right now - though this and summer camp are totally different.

Since Desi lived in the town nearby we often ran into each other. As we got older contact became sporadic but we occasionally said hi to each other when our paths crossed. Then as adults we regained contact on social media and have been keeping up with each other since then. Desi often posts covers and original songs, which is how she got her online following. She could've easily made it big if it weren't for certain people.

Desi's journey as a singer-songwriter is sure to become an interesting one. Ever since she could talk, Desi knew she wanted to be a singer. She always had a nice voice, one that became more refined as she got older. Talented songwriter too, with an honest and poetic way with words. And it's a damn shame that her talent has been consistently overshadowed and sidelined for white mediocrity.

Yup, I said it - mediocrity. No disrespect to Meghan Tyler and Too Cool - I mean I can see their commercial appeal, but for the most part, their music is bland and forgettable. Music tastes aside, it is pretty impressive that Desi was in the same circles as people like Meghan and Joe of the Shayne Brothers.

Desi first met the two at a camp for aspiring musicians, the well known Camp Music. She was one of many talented nobodies who wanted a glimpse at stardom. Meghan Tyler is the daughter of pop star Ann Tyler, and it was her who ran the camp, the typical queen bee. I happened to cross paths with Meghan and her friends online (unrelated reasons) and they always gave me a vibe of a high school clique. I interacted with her indirectly a couple times but then actively avoided her when her friends stirred up drama. It's one thing to vagueblog about an ex-friend who screwed you over, it's another to ruin someone's reputation by claiming that they faked their trauma just because you had a petty falling out with them.

Then there's Joe Shayne, best known as the lead singer for the Shayne Brothers. He was amazed by Desi's voice and took an interest in her. The two started off kinda rough with Joe pushing his boundaries and Desi rightfully calling him out on his entitled behavior. The whole thing was kinda like a Cinderella story with Joe trying to figure out who was the singer he overheard while passing by while Desi tried too hard to impress him after realizing who he was. By the end of the summer, they began dating, becoming regulars at Camp Music for the next several years.

Despite what the others were saying, Desi and Joe were going strong for eight years. Desi was associated with the Shayne Brothers, which was a blessing and a curse. As much as she liked Joe and his brothers, she didn't want to be known solely because of her connection to them. They were going to get engaged until last year when Desi broke things off. According to her, things had been kinda rough for a while but they tried - probably a bit too hard, in her words - to stay together. They're still friends but Desi thinks in a year or two they'll drift away, which I think is what she wants.

On one hand it's kinda sad since they've been together for so long. And from what I've heard about Joe, being with Desi helped him a lot as before he met her he was on his way to becoming a short tempered almost has-been. Basically, she made him shape up and consider his future seriously. But aside from their love of music, Desi and Joe were from completely different worlds. In the years since they got together, they've grown into two different people. The two have spoken openly about their breakup and it seems like it's for the best. Sometimes things just don't work out in the end and that's okay.

As for Meghan, Desi always had a complicated relationship with her. Being the fish out of water, Desi tried to impress Meghan, even if it meant dumbing down herself to please Meghan's ego. There was always some sort of competition between them with Desi constantly feeling like she has to prove herself. While Meghan did help Desi out with her connections and fame, Desi never felt she earned her recognition, another reason why she wanted to start from the ground up.

For years Desi was part of Meghan's band, Too Cool. While Desi occasionally had some solos that charted, she and the other members were always overshadowed by Meghan. She considers the whole experience a mixed bag, one that started out exciting but in the end the bad outweighed the good.

A few months ago, not too long after leaving Too Cool, Desi did an insightful interview for a magazine where she spoke honestly about her ups and downs with the band as well as her breakup with Joe. I always felt that she deserved better than Too Cool, especially after reading the interview. From being constantly referred to as "the Mexican one" even though she stated multiple times she's Cuban, to being told to sing slightly off key in order to make Meghan sound better - no wonder she wanted out. It's an eye opening read on the ugly side of the music industry, particularly on how WOC artists are treated.

Following her departure, another member and longtime friend of Meghan, Maria Silva, also left the band for similar reasons. She too had also spoken out about the racism she experienced, having been constantly referred to as "the Chinese one" despite being Filipino. I don't know Maria too well but she comes across as genuine and I wish her well on her solo endeavors.

Right now Desi's taking a break on music, though not entirely. She's been writing songs and making demos but it'll be a while before she releases something. For now Desi wants to celebrate her freedom, starting with a long, well deserved vacation. Then once she's had enough rest and relaxation, she plans to jump back into the music scene with a bang, this time on her own terms with her calling all the shots.

Desi's been teasing me and the campers with what she has in store. In light of the racism she experienced with Too Cool, Desi wants to embrace her Cuban culture more than ever, starting with the music. Mainstream pop radio hits aren't her thing anymore, so she's going for a new sound inspired by her Cuban roots along with her usual pop rock style she's got going on since she began writing songs. She's also considering the idea of doing an album in Spanish, though that'll depend on a lot of factors.

It's nice to see her so excited and passionate about her music - that's one of the things I love about her! Like I said, Desi's got talent and ambition, and I know that she'll successfully make a name for herself without Meghan or Joe's shadows. I mean, the demos I've heard already sound a million times better than pretty much everything Too Cool has done - imagine how the final product will be! Once the album comes out, I'll be one of the first in line to buy and download a copy.

We met up with Desi by chance at the hotel, her room being upstairs. She's been traveling around, crossing off places where she always wanted to visit. So far she's crossed off four places from her list. After Coral Beach she was debating on Hero's Tunnel and Swan Park since they're right next to each other. Since the camp's along the way, I invited her over and hopefully during her time there, she can make up her mind on where to visit first. I know she'll enjoy the camp, especially Saltwater Shores since she's a beach gal.

Coral Beach is such a beautiful place. One of the first things we did when we got there was to pose in front of the fountain and toss a bell in for a wish. Then we checked into the Coral Beach Hotel, where we got a lovely view of the ocean and fountain.

The architecture of the hotel is so pretty, it reminds me of an old village on a tropical island. Along the boardwalk are charming little shops and cafes where we got to enjoy shaved ice and fine handmade souvenirs. I got a set of cute floral teacups, a dot grid notebook with a pretty mosaic cover, a gorgeous seashell necklace, and a painted ukulele.

We went swimming and snorkeling in the ocean, where we got to see the pretty coral the place is known for. Nature can be so fascinating sometimes - the coral really does look like fancy lace! I also collected a bunch of pretty seashells like pearl oysters, which are pretty rare, as well as pink oyster shells and obsidian shells, something I've never seen before. Desi suggested that we go parasailing - her new favorite activity as of recently - so that's what we did and it was a lot of fun! We also went surfing, watched a performance at the theater, shared cocktails during happy hour, and explored the gardens.

Today we went to a mosaic workshop and made some cool decor. Then we went to a ceramics shop where we watched how bowls were made, which was pretty cool. After that we had a late lunch at Sash, where we had poke and butter mochi. Next door was a bookstore where we browsed for a while and then we spent a couple hours at the beach before heading to the hotel for dinner.

Since we aren't leaving until tomorrow afternoon, we had some time to kill so we spent it at the pool, lounging around. Desi says she's looking forward to seeing the camp and meeting up with Daisy Jane. It's so good seeing Desi relaxed and having a great time, especially after what she had to put up with during her time with Too Cool.

It's getting late now and I still have a little bit of packing left to do. The ocean's so pretty at this time of night, the way the light of the stars reflect on the water like sparkles. I can't wait to come back in the near future.

[lazyangeltreemoney]

The Sweetest Baker in Brooklyn 2/???

Description: Bucky Barnes is one of the most feared mobsters in all of NYC, however he finds himself falling for the sweetest Baker in Brooklyn who has her own secrets and troubled past.

Word Count: 2226

Pairing(s): Mob! Bucky x Parent!Reader

Warnings: violence, organised crime, alcoholism, abuse, angst and fluff

A/N: so this is the second instalment and warning there’s some tooth rotting fluff hope y’all enjoy

The next day Bucky couldn’t help himself go to the Y/N’s cafe. He’d been debating with himself all morning if it was a good idea but he just couldn’t help himself. He wanted to see her smile again, he wanted to hear her humm along to the songs on the radio. So he found himself on his own walking into the cafe surprised to see Benny sitting on one of the tables colouring while Y/N wiped some tables, humming and dancing along to the song of the radio.

“Mommy the nice man is back.” Benny exclaimed

Y/N turned around and smiled at Bucky, she wanted to scold herself for how happy seeing him made her.

“I take it you’re here to take up my offer.” Y/N smiled at him.

“Wouldn’t miss it for the world, Doll.” Bucky smiled back and took a seat down next to Benny.

He noticed how Benny colouring reminded him even more of Steve. Sure it was mostly random squiggles but it was oddly pleasing to look at.

“So, what are you doing here ya little tike?” Bucky asked

“I’ve been suspended.” Benny answered sadly.

Y/N appeared with Bucky’s coffee and a juice box for Benny. Y/N instantly seemed disheartened at the look on Benny’s face.

“Benny sweetheart, why don’t you go and grab a blueberry muffin for Bucky here to say thankyou for yesterday.” Y/N spoke softly to him.

Benny eagerly jumped up and ran over to the counter.

“I take it something pretty bad happened yesterday?” Bucky asked.

“Some kid was picking on Benny’s friend and he tried to stand up for them, he doesn’t realise how small he actually is most of the time,” Y/N sighed sitting down next to Bucky, “It’s not the first time this has happened. It’s not his fault that the school doesn’t want to get involved until it feels like it.” She grimace hanging her head.

Bucky sympathised with her and was wondering about asking Steve to take a DNA test. Steve, similar to Benny, was never able to run away from a fight. He could sympathise with Y/N, being a mother was never an easy task. Bucky pulled out a business card from his jacket pocket and slid it across the table to Y/N. Y/N took it cautiously and read the inscription.

“James Buchanan Barnes.” She noticed how there was no job description, only a telephone no.

“Bucky comes from my middle name, only my friends get to call me it.” Bucky explained trimputhanlty.

Y/N looked like she was about to argue with him on it.

“I have some connections, next time something like this happens, give me a call.” He insisted.

Y/N simply nodded and put the card in her apron pocket. Just as she did Benny arrived with Bucky’s muffin. The three of them sat together happily, Benny drawing and Bucky tucking into his muffin. Y/N went about the cafe either cleaning or going into the kitchen in the back to check on her muffins. It was a slow day at the cafe which Y/N was mostly grateful for. She knew it was wrong but she enjoyed having Bucky and Benny all to herself. Whenever she went into the kitchen she would pop her head out to check on Benny to see him chatting Bucky’s ear off and Bucky simply smiling back at him. For a second Y/N could imagine her life like this, her life if she had met Bucky earlier in life, before her father and before Brock… but timing was a bitch. On top of that Y/N wasn’t stupid, she had grown up around men like Brock all her life, it didn’t take much to match up the dots and figure that Bucky and Brock were probably in the same line of work. Most people these days seem to have some attachment to the mob around here. With that life came danger, danger she swore she would keep Benny away from.

The day went on and before she knew it it was time to close up the shop. Bucky had stayed in the cafe all day talking to Benny and admiring Y/N. The sun was setting and it’s warm colours perfectly filled the room. The orange hues and comfy pillow made the small cafe feel more like home to Bucky than any of the grand houses he’d ever had.

Y/N was finishing sweeping the floors when ‘Oh La La’ came onto the radio, she turned it up a little louder as she sung along to the lyrics. Benny began to dance around and quickly jumped up onto the seat. Y/N turned around and picked up her son and started dancing around the room with him. Swinging him around in her arms as he giggled along. When she finally put him down he tried to copy Y/N’s feet as she held his hands. Bucky couldn’t help but laugh at the pair. Benny looked up at him and before he knew it he had dragged him to join them. Y/N held Benny on one of her hips and held Bucky’s hand with her free hand. The trio were all so lost in the moment, Bucky hadn’t felt this kind of happiness and love in so long. Y/N hadn’t felt this calm and loved in so long. They all danced along until the song ended and they were all panting and applauding each other jokily. Benny jumped down from Y/N’s side and went back to his colouring. Leaving just Y/N and Bucky staring at each other, smiling from ear to ear like a pair of love sick fools.

The next song came on, it was a much slower one, it was ‘long, long, long’ by the Beatles. Bucky couldn’t help himself but held out his hand and Y/N couldn’t help but take it. Bucky pulled her in close and swayed her around slowly along the room. A soft smile on both of their faces, to both of them it felt like home. Y/N swore in all of her life she had never felt so safe in someone's arms. Sadly the song seemed to finish too soon and though neither wanted to, they parted.

Benny applauded the pairs dance and Bucky pretended to bow while Y/N curtsied. Y/N went to go and tidy away Benny’s crayons. As she did Bucky noticed her wrist as her sleeve pulled up a little. It was redder than usual, Bucky looked closer and saw how it looked like it marked out a hand. Bucky’s boil instantly began to boil, if someone had laid a finger on Y/N they were going to have hell to pay but he couldn’t jump to conclusions.

When Y/N finally cleaned up and they all left the cafe Bucky instantly grabbed out his phone to call Steve.

“Ah finally, I thought the next time I’d hear from you would be in your will.” Steve joked down the phone.

“Look I know I’ve been kinda off the grid but I need a favor, I need you to look into this lady, she works at Y/N’s Cafe, well I need to look into her husband.” Bucky sighed pinching the bridge of his nose.

“Got a last name?” Steve asked.

Like a ton of bricks it dawned on him he had never asked Y/N her last name.

“Never caught it.” Bucky admitted hanging his head in shame.

“I’ll see what Nat can bring up.” Steve answered and hung up.

Bucky silently prayed that he was wrong. That his eyes were playing tricks on him and he was looking for a reason to step in and be your knight in shining armour. Even if he had the chance to, he would never want to put Y/N through that. So instead he just sighed and drove away from the cafe, swearing to himself that if Nat found nothing he would never visit the cafe again. As he drove away he was blissfully unaware of a figure watching him and taking pictures.

Y/N pulled into her drive with Benny in the back seat. She pulled in to see the lights in the house were on and she braced herself. Putting on her best smile she went to get Benny out of the back seat.

“So sweetie remember that if Daddy asks you were at school all day, okay?” Y/N asked holding his hand.

Benny just nodded, but neither of them could have prepared on what they would walk into.

Bucky was in his apartment and he hated it. Something about the tall ceilings, endless ornaments and cold colours made his skin crawl. It was nothing like how Y/N’s cafe had been to him only a few hours ago. Instead he was alone with only the contents of his glass to keep him company. He was pacing around his living room with his records playing loudly to drown out his thoughts of worry and dread about what could be happening to Benny and Y/N. It wasn’t until the phone rang that Bucky was torn from his thoughts. Bucky got up from his seat and answered the call.

“Hello, who is this?” Bucky asked.

“It’s me punk and if I were you I'd get down here within the next 5 minutes.” Steve ordered down the line.

He sounded pissed, he didn’t even give Bucky a chance to reply before he hung up. Steve had been Bucky’s best friend since childhood but the tone in his voice made it sound as if he was ready to put a bullet between his eyes. Bucky gulped and grabbed his jacket before leaving for Steve’s mansion just outside of the city.

Steve was NYC’s kingpin, he owned it. Steve made the law and god help the poor soul who broke it. Bucky had always been his right hand man, together they had taken over NYC like a plague in less than a year. There wasn’t a single policeman, lawyer or counsel man who wasn’t on their payroll. Hell not even the mayor had as much power as Steve did.

Bucky walked up to Steve’s office and Sam was outside along with Clint and neither of them looked happy. Bucky was about to walk in when Clint stopped him. Bucky paused looking at the pair confused until Clint held out a briefcase. Bucky couldn’t believe it, it was the case Steve would use to get people to hand over his weapons in meetings. Did his best friend not trust him now? What the hell was going on?

“Sorry man, bosses orders.” Sam explained.

Reluctantly Bucky handed over his gun and walked into Steve’s office. He was greeted with the sight of Steve and Nat both giving him dark looks. The worst of it was Nat’s stare, the way she was psychoanalysing his every step. Bucky sat down in the seat opposite the pair and waited for someone to tell him what the hell was going on.

After letting him sweat for a few seconds Natalia pulled out a large brown envelope. She pulled out some photographs and then what looked like a copy of the certificate. Bucky studied the images, they looked a little old, some of them had been taken from newspapers with the head line, ‘Infamous Bachelor Brock Rumlow finally Hitched’. Bucky held up the photo closer, it couldn’t be. But it was, clear as day it was Y/N in a white gown next to Brock. Bucky inspected the rest of the pictures, they were of Y/N but with an older gentleman. Bucky looked closer and finally placed the man… Alexander PIerce. Finally he was the certificate, the union of Y/N Pierce and Brock Rumlow. Bucky felt sick as he read the names over and over. Pierce, the name of the man who tried to take everything from him. Bucky was young and naive, Pierce promised Bucky the world and instead took his arm and tortured him for months to try and send a message to Steve. His prosthetic arm felt a lot heavier as he slumped back into his seat.

“Wanna tell me why you’re seeing Rumlow’s wife, Pierce's Daughter… if it’s revenge you’re looking for here Buck you could've just told me.” Steve began.

“It’s not like that-“ Bucky began trying to explain himself

“Sam tells me you’ve been seeing her everyday for the past month or so, the kid to,” Natalia pulled out another photo showing the three of them outside the school, “honestly not your usual strategy Barnes.”

“Fuck, I didn’t know OKAY.” Bucky exclaimed.

He could hardly breathe, this all too much. He sure as hell wasn’t going after Y/N in that way but was Y/N going after him? No surely not, if that was the case Benny wouldn’t be involved. On top of that, why would Y/N’s bakery be in Steve’s territory? His mind was going 100 miles an hour when suddenly his phone rang. All three of them looked puzzled, who the hell would be calling him this time of night?Cautiously he pulled the phone out of his pocket

“Hello?”

“Hewwo Mister Bucky Sir, I think my Mom needs your help.”