#I don’t THINK this is the case but god I hope my taste in boys didn’t get embedded in me via cody suitelife

[seilon]

having the sudden realization that the suite life (+ on deck) put me through a bisexual crisis way before i fully considered not being straight and i just. chose to ignore it

[bachiras-toaster]

teaching ranpo a lesson : ̗̀➛

RANPO EDOGAWA x f!reader

contents. nsfw dubcon, dom! reader, submissive!ranpo, tit sucking, bratty!ranpo, dry humping, panty fucking, ranpo tastes his own cum, pet names (reader calls ranpo “good boy” and “sweetheart”), reader jerks ranpo off, he eats reader out, praise

wc. 6.2k

a/n. okay but i wish tumblr didn’t remove my italics whenever i paste my fanfictions from another tab?? when is tumblr gonna start showing me the word count so i don’t have to write on other apps? so, just imagine the italics are there.

"Come in!" Ranpo called out when he heard a knocking on his door, and a pleasant surprise came his way when he discovered that it was you peeping your head through the entrance. "Oh, what a nice surprise!"

You shot him a cold glare before making your way into his room, slamming a pile of documents onto his messy table. You disliked Ranpo, so you didn't want to attempt making conversation, but he seemed eager to chat. Ranpo couldn't help but notice the chill in the air, but he brushed it off- as he always did, his eyes glinting with curiosity as he leaned over the table, examining the documents you'd brought.

"This is it?"

"Yep. All twenty cases that Kunikida has assigned to you." You muttered, crossing your arms as you watched him lean against his desk. "You have half an hour to solve them all before we get to close the cases."

"Half an hour, you say?" Ranpo chuckled softly, a glint of amusement in his eyes. "Very well then, let's see what we've got here." He began flipping through the papers, his mind already racing with potential theories and connections.

Watching as he eagerly dove into his responsibility, you turned to leave him to his work. However, before you could even face the door, he grabbed you by the wrist, a little dissapointed that you thought to go so soon.

"You're leaving already?" He frowned, pulling you back. "I was hoping you'd get to see my genius mind at work as I solve all of these mysteries."

"I don't have time to watch you solve these cases, Edogawa. And you know I'd much rather do anything else than stay anyway." You rolled your eyes, scoffing as you snatched your hand away. He scrunched his nose a little, irritated how you'd insist on calling him Edogawa instead of Ranpo.

"Still calling me Edogawa, huh? After we've known each other for so long." He pouted slightly, but his eyes twinkled with amusement. "Well, maybe I should try something else to catch your attention."

"Try all you want. I'm leaving." You let out a displeased snort.

"Alright, let me give this a shot." He interrupted your path towards the door, still holding your gaze. "I'll admit, you're one tough nut to crack... What exactly is it that you don't like about spending time with me?"

You arched a brow. "The master detective asking me a question?" You shrivelled your nose. "Now, I can't tell if that's rhetorical."

"It's not." He grinned, the corners of his eyes crinkling. "So, tell me, what's the matter with me?"

"God, you really are a piece of fucking work." You finally turned back to face him fully, pinching thr bridge of your nose as you prepared yourself for the rant of a lifetime- since he had been so kind as to ask you himself.

"Okay, first of all: You're a narcissist. You think the entire world revolves around you and that your ability is the best. You're lazy and irritating, you leach off of other people, and you refuse to do any work that doesn't interest you. And not only that, but you get kind people like Atsushi and Kenji to go out and run errands for you because you know they're too nice to say no."

His eyes widened at first, but his lips curved in amusement before he shrugged.

"Well, I'll admit to a little bit of narcissism. And maybe a touch of laziness. But I like to say that these kinds of things are what make me me!" He boasted, completely unaffected by your remarks.

Your eye twitched at his unfazement. "It's clear that nobody's ever taught you a lesson up until now, Edogawa. I would've thought that the boss would shape you up to be a decent person, but you're still the same, old egotist."

"Well, I'm sorry if I don't fit into your idea of a 'decent person.' But maybe there's something about me that you haven't quite figured out yet." He leaned closer, his voice lowering. "I don't need to be taught any lessons."

You saw how he attempted to take control of the situation, but you just lifted yourself up and walked over to him, backing him up slightly as you let out through gritted teeth:

"If it were up to me, I wouldn't let you walk around all high and mighty like the boss does" You had leaned so close to him that you were backing him into his bed.

"Oh really?" He challenged, his eyes glinting with mischief. "And what exactly would you do to make me stop, hmm? Torture me? The boss would have you kicked out in no time."

"You see, unlike you, I'm reliant on my strength outside of my ability." You pressed your palm against his chest and pushed him down onto his bed so you stood above him, your eyes glaring down at him. "And even if I wasn't, I wouldn't have the lip to talk back to people stronger than me."

"You're not stronger than me. You might have some physical strength, but your mind is weak. It's obvious that you've never encountered anyone like me before."

"Oh, I've encountered hundreds of narcissists like you in the past. The only issue with you is that I work with you." You flicked the button of his hoodie so it would fall off, leaving him in his button-up, tie, and vest. You pulled on his tie and leaned down so that his face was forced inches from yours. "What's a strong mind if you can't comprehend simple shit like shutting the fuck up?"

"I'm the one who decides what to shut up about." Ranpo grinned, his face inches from yours. His voice betrayed an unexpected level of arousal beneath his bravado. "And I'll never shut up, if that goes against what you want from me."

You loosened your grip around the end of his tie so your finger could hook around the top of it instead, pulling the tie off him.

"You're a brat, you know that?" You lifted your knee up to the side of his bed so that you started to straddle him- An action that caught Ranpo completely off guard because of how completely out-of-character it seemed for you to do, considering your rocky history with the cocky detective. His face flushed red as he glanced up at you, his pupils dilated and his jaw hung open just a little.

"What are you doing—?"

"It's obvious that no one's taught you how to behave before, and since everyone at the agency seems reluctant to, I guess I could fill that role." You glared down at him from the seat on his lap. "You're going to listen to me, and I'm going to turn you into a humble, hardworking, and kind detective."

"You're lying if you think that's possible," Ranpo snorted with a grin, his face flushed with excitement beneath your aggressive stare. Despite his protests, he couldn't help but be intrigued by the fact that you were actually willing to do something like this to the person you hated most.

"It is possible, Edogawa." You hummed. "And I know I can't hurt you physically, so I can torture you in some other ways." Your hands moved down to unzip the fly of his pants.

"Other ways?" Ranpo groaned, his face flushed red as he felt you unzip his pants and touch him through his underwear. "You... you're not actually planning to—?"

"Sh." You ordered. "If you want to ask me any questions, you need to say my name first. And be polite." You fished his erection out of his pants, which only grew harder by the second.

Ranpo's eyes widened, his heart racing in anticipation and fear, but he kept a fidgety smirk on his lips as he attempted to keep his composure.

"Oh, I have no questions. Just enjoying the show."

"Still quite the brat." You commented as you began to stroke the length of his cock, slowly sending shivers through his nervous system.

"Hah... well, aren't you just confident?" Ranpo teased, his breath hitching as he arched into your touch, his cock twitching eagerly. "If you wanted me this badly, you could've just asked. My door is always open."

Suddenly, your movements slowed down immensely, and your thumb swept over the tip of his cock, which caused a jolt. You glared at him with a deadpan stare, but kept stroking at a rate that was starting to get irritatingly slow. Ranpo couldn't help but growl in frustration as you teased him mercilessly, his hands clenching into fists beneath you, his breath hitching uncontrollably.

"Damn, stop it..."

"Stop what?" You asked innocently, swiping the collection of precum that emerged from his slit down to the base of his shaft, making it easier for you to stroke.

"God—" Ranpo's voice cracked as you swiped the precum, his body jerking slightly from the unexpected sensation. "You're not making this easy..."

"I wasn't planning to." You said coldly, leaning down to gather saliva in your mouth before spitting down at his cock to lubricate it more for your hands.

"Fuck..." Ranpo hissed out, his hips jerking upwards involuntarily into your hand, seeking more contact even as he tried to maintain his dominance. "Come on, let's stop playing games now. Stop teasing me..."

"Not with that attitude." You huffed, starting to speed up more at a steadier pace now.

"You... you have no idea what you're doing to me..."

"Oh, I feel like I know exactly what I'm doing... Does it feel good, Edogawa?" You asked in a babyish tone, like some sort of mockery. To that, his face contorted, a mix of humiliation and intense arousal. "Aww, what? Does little Edogawa like being the dominant one?"

"No— I mean... damn it, stop teasing me, already..." Ranpo groaned, his body trembling with the effort to maintain his composure as you teased him relentlessly.

"You're gonna have to ask a lot nicer than that if you want something. Have you no manners?" You went to grab him by the base of his chin by your left hand as your right hand slowly moved up and down his length again.

Ranpo gritted his teeth, his breath coming in quick, ragged moments through his nostrils.

"Stop teasing me... Please." He added, as if he were a a bratty toddler being asked to do something he really didn't want to do.

"That was a good start." You nodded approvingly. "Unfortunately, you can't undo bad manners with one good deed. I'm going to train politeness into your brain by fucking you until you can't take it."

"Don't be stupid. You can't train politeness" He spat back, a mix of fear and excitement coursing through him as you spoke; his hips arched up slightly, offering himself to you once more.

"Me? Stupid? But I can. Look at how you're arching for me right now." Your left hand began to travel down from his neck down to his shirt and vest so you could undo the buttons.

"Stop the attempts now... you're not getting me to submit like this." His heart raced as your hand continued to undo his clothes, revealing more skin.

"What do you mean? It's working." You hummed as you carelessly tossed his vest to the side, leaving him just in his unbuttoned shirt, which revealed his chest that panted uncontrollably.

"I'm not gonna give in so eas—ily." He gulped between his word as the pleasure hit him suddenly. His cock twitched in your hand, leaking pre-cum in anticipation.

"You will. And once we're done, I'm going to be the only member of the detective agency you'll listen to completely. You'll bend over backwards for me and you'll have the upmost respect for me." You stated as a matter of factly. "As for everyone else: You're going to treat them all with the respect and kindness they deserve and you're going to pick up your weight at the Detective Agency."

He seemed amused at your assertiveness, but his heart pounded relentlessly. "No one can control me like that. You're being dumb." He wanted desperately to pull away and give himself a moment to reassert his dominance to take control, but his body betrayed him, responding to your touch and words.

"You will." You pushed him back so his back laid completely on his bed, with you still sat comfortable on his lap. "And we'll start with tabletop manners. If you want something, you say 'please'. When you get it, you say 'thank you'."

"How do you expect me to apply that here?" Ranpo murmured, feeling both humiliated and aroused by your dominance, his body trembled slightly as fet your weight on his thighs.

"Easy. Like this:" You retracted your hand again, leaving him without touch for a moment. Once you had pulled your hand away, he felt a shaky breath leave his lips- Which was much less embarrassing than the whine he had suppressed. "You want me to continue?" You questioned coyly.

The man's jaw just ticked, and he looked back at you with the most unimpressed stare of the century. "Obviously..."

"Ah, ah, ah." You immediately tutted, shaking your head. "That's not what I just taught you. Try again."

You could see Ranpo'a eye twitch at your command, which made it all the more amusing for you when he finally let out a large sigh.

"Yes..." He whispered, hating himself for it but unable to resist. "...Please."

"Loud and clear. I didn't quite get that."

He felt like he was close to giving in, his cock throbbing in anticipation of your touch.

"Yes, I would like you to continue please." He said, his voice barely above a whisper.

"Good boy." You teased with a delicate smirk, but one that could barely be seen through your glare.

Upon hearing such a sentence, Ranpo's eyes immediately widened at your praise, and his cock throbbed even more before you even touched it again. He squirmed a bit, his body aching for you to touch him. He knew he was being pathetic, but he couldn't help it. He was hopelessly obsessed with you. His face blushed brightly when you had praised him like that, and it was like such a reward was enough for him.

"I'm no genius like you, but I can understand you love being praised." You hummed sweetly with a stone-cold expression as your hand met his cock again to stroke. "I'm no monster, so I'll praise you when you do something good. That's our deal."

Ranpo gasped softly, his eyes rolling back into his head as your touch sent shivers down his spine. He couldn't believe how much he craved this from you, even though he knew it was wrong. His mind was a mess of desire and submission.

"When you do something wrong, you apologise and say that it won't happen again." You continued reciting the rules.

Ranpo nodded slowly, his eyes still rolling back into his head. "I...I understand." He said, knowing that he was giving in to you entirely. His heart ached as he realized how much he wanted to be owned by you, his hands needing grasped onto your thighs as he yearned to touch you. However, when you felt him on your thighs, you paused again, making him whimper at the lack of sensation.

"I don't remember recall saying that you could touch me. And I also don't remember you asking."

His face turned red.

"S-sorry...I just...I can't help it...I needed to—" He sounded desperate and filthy, his need for you was becoming more and more obvious as time went on. He cleared his throat. "...I'm sorry. It won't happen again." His hands retreated.

"What did I say you should do when you want something?" You queried. Ranpo swallowed hard, his heart racing

"A-Ask...I'm supposed to ask." He trembled, his mind a jumbled mess of desire and submission. He wanted you to take control again, but he also knew that he shouldn't give in to these urges.

"Good. So ask nicely." You offered. You realised how easy it was to get him to listen when your hands were around his cock.

"P-please...can I touch you?" He asked, his voice trembling.

"Touch me where?" Your brown arched.

"Your thighs... Please." He was practically begging now, his submissive side completely exposed.

"Of course. I can even take my tights off if that would make it nicer for you. Do you want that?" Your unoccupied hand went to stroke his chin, his eyes filled with need and desire.

"Y-yes, please...I want you to take your tights off."

You leaned your palms against the bed and hovered over him for a moment so you could pull your tights off your legs. He bit his lower lip nervously, his heart racing in anticipation as he made eye contact with you above him. Having your chest so close to his causes Ranpo's eyes to widen, but he knew that this was all for a greater cause, so he didn't dare to move. Once your tights were discarded of to leave your thighs bare, you sat back on his lap.

"There. Now what do you say?"

Ranpo looked up at you, his eyes glued to your thighs, which were now bare and exposed. His breathing was ragged, and his heart was racing. He could feel himself getting harder, aching for you.

"...Thank you..."

"Well done." You felt Ranpo began to knead at the softness of your skin at the same time you stroked him.

He moaned softly into the touch, his hands moving up and down your thighs, feeling the warmth and softness of your skin beneath his fingertips.

"M-more... I need more." He panted, his voice filled with desire and submission.

"Need more what?"

"More... of this." He said between gasps, his hands moving higher up on your thighs, brushing against the sensitive skin just below your waistline. "I want to touch more of you... Please."

"Like what, Edogawa?" You seemed bored with his lack of clarification.

Ranpo swallowed hard, his heart pounding in anticipation. His gaze flickered down to your hand, still stroking him gently.

"Your... chest." He croaked, his voice barely audible above the sound of his heavy breathing.

"My chest?" Your eyebrows raised a little, amused by his plea. "But do you deserve it?"

"I..." He cleared his throat, his body shivering slightly from the anticipation and excitement. His eyes filled with determination and submission.

"Do you think you deserve my chest?" You asked him directly now, watching as he trembled.

"Yes, I do. Please... I need you. I crave it. Please—" He begged.

"You don't need it. You want it." You corrected him.

"I... Yes, I want it. Please, give me what I want." He groaned, his body arching towards you, seeking out the connection he desired so desperately.

Your lips teased into a smile. "How about this: We do a little exercise to show appreciation to all of your coworkers. If you can say one nice thing about all of them, I'll let you hold my tits."

"A-alright..." He gulped, knowing that this would be difficult for him, as he wasn't the most expressive person when it came to compliments. But the challenge seemed fair- for the reward, anyway. "Umm... I guess Junichiro has a cool ability..."

"Ah- Stop there." You shook your head. "You need to sound more confident about your compliments. None of that 'I guess' shit."

"Y-yes, sorry." He swallowed thickly, trying to find the right words. "...Junichiro's ability is really unique and serves as a perfect defence for our team..." He let out a long, shaky sigh as he could still feel your hands wrapped around his dick. "A-And Dazai's intellect is incredible... It's almost matches mine." The final comment made your movements stop, which caused him to wince.

"No snarky comments either."

"S-sorry... I couldn't help it. I just want to hold you—"

"Not until you give all of your coworkers compliments. Say them. Now." You demanded.

"—'M sorry...! Uh..." He took a deep breath and closed his eyes, trying to think of something nice to say about each person. You listened as he continued to spew out more words of kindness, growing more whiny and helpless as he went on.

"...And Kunikida is great at handling the more technical aspects of investigations. He helps keep the whole team on track and ensures we don't miss anything. I really appreciate his contributions..." He could feel himself growing increasingly desperate as he spoke.

"Well done! Now was that so hard?" Your lips pulled into a kind smile as your palm ran down his cheek, which was flushed with a glowing pink colour.

His cheeks felt hot as he let out a shaky breath, feeling oddly relieved. "T-th-thank you... I-It's wasn't so hard..." he stammered, his heart racing as he anticipated what would happen next.

"Now. I'll hold my end of the bargain. Sit up." You pulled him over so you could read the other end of the bed. You rested your back against his pillows, allowing him to settle himself between your legs. "If you want to get a taste of my tits, you'll need to take off my shirt yourself."

His face was flushed and his hands were shaking, but he leaned over and gently pulled the hem of your shirt up over your chest, exposing your breasts to him. With a simple flick, he had unclasped your bra and discarded it carefully to the side as to not cast it too far away. His breathing was quick and shallow as he stared down at your bare chest, his hands trembling as he tentatively reached out towards your right tit, hesitating. He paused, not sure if he should go further. 

"M-May I touch?"

"You may."

With a mix of excitement and nervousness, he gently cupped your breast, his fingers trembling against your warm skin as his thumb swept over your nipple, his fingers exploring every inch of your soft skin. His eyes were locked onto the fat of your chest, and your eyes darkened at how eager he stared at your chest- the wat he fondles your breasts while licking his lips.

"M-May I taste now, please?" he asked softly, his voice barely above a whisper.

"You may."

With a small moan of delight, Ranpo finally gave in to his desires and lowered his head towards your chest. His warm breath fanned across your sensitive nipple as he took it between his lips, sucking softly at first before beginning to tease it with his tongue. The way he dragged his tongue across you made it seem like he was trying to make out with your breast- He was so desperate to have it in his mouth. The delicate touch of his tongue sent butterflies through your stomach, and the small moaning noises emanating from his throat only served to heighten the intense sexual tension in the air.

As he leaned in closer, you could feel how his cock pressed between your thighs and up against your clothed cunt. As he sucked on your tit, he was pushing his tip up aright against you- Almost involuntarily, like he didn't even realise. Feeling the warmth and wetness that spread across his tongue, Ranpo couldn't help but become more assertive. His hands roamed up your body, seeking out your breasts, pinching and rolling the nipples in time with his mouth's movements. His cock pressed against you even more as he leaned forward.

But you held your hand against Ranpo's chest to push him away, and he whimpered as he lost connection with your nipple.

"Are you getting too excited, Ranpo?" You questioned, gesturing down to his leaking cock. "It seems like you're pressing up against me way too much."

His eyes flickered up to meet yours, filled with a mix of desire and defiance. He swallowed hard, his cock twitching against your thigh as he pulled back slightly, but not entirely.

"I... I can't help it.” He said softly, in an almost apologetic tone.

"It's like you're using getting to taste me as an excuse to get yourself off down there too." You let out a deep breath. "I told you, if you want something, you need to ask."

Ranpo felt a blush spread across his cheeks and neck as you called him out, his heart racing as he stared down at his erection. His cock throbbed again, as if eager to fill the void between them.

"I... I want to be inside you, please…”

"Well, after that, I don't think you deserve it." You huffed, to which Ranpo's eyes widened in shock and disappointment; there was still an undeniable spark of determination within them.

"Please! Please, don't do this..."

"How about another exercise then?" You suggested, causing his eyes to light up at the opportunity.

"Yes, another exercise...!" Ranpo breathed out in relief, his mind already racing with potential scenarios. He could feel himself growing even harder against his will. "What would you like me to do?"

"I want you to tell me how smart Dazai is... Without complimenting yourself in the process." You offered, watching how his eye twitched.

He bit his lip, thinking for a moment. There was no way he could take the opportunity to praise someone he knew he was smarter than, but he had to find a way to prove his independence.

"Dazai is... extremely intelligent.”

"Is that it?" You scoffed

"I don't know what the stakes are! I don’t know what I'm getting in return..." He grumbled.

"Good boys don’t ask for something in return. But, if you can compliment Dazai. I'll let you dry hump me and fuck my panties. That's all you get." You offered, but that still seemed enough to satiate his neediness. He seemed to hesitate at first, frustrated at his inability to resist praising Dazai but determined to find a way out.

"He is incredibly intelligent and... cunning." He added, knowing that even with his compliment, it would still be clear who was smarter.

"You can be nicer than that." You told him with another shrivel of your nose.

Feeling the heat between you two intensify, Ranpo let out a small groan of desire. He took a deep breath and tried to ignore the intense throbbing he felt between his own legs. Contrary to popular belief, it probably would kill him to compliment someone else- but the reward was too sweet for him to care.

"Dazai is... Incredibly intelligent- An underrated source of intellect for the team. He may not show it often, but his strategic thinking is one that has saved our asses on numerous occasions.” He said it all with a grumble, not even looking you in the eye- But you were satisfied, nevertheless.

"Well said." You smirked. "Okay. Now you can take off everything you need, except for my panties."

With a mix of excitement and nervousness, Ranpo began to undress you, pulling your skirt off. He crawled further towards you, his eyes fixated on your panties as he reached out to touch them, his tongue wetting his lips as he realised his great achievement..

He steadily pressed his tip against your panties, the precum already leaving a wet patch on the cloth. He couldn't stand that the fact that he couldn't feel your pussy instead, but the panties would have to do. So, with a soft moan, Ranpo began to grind against your underwear, his cock begging for more as he felt your wetness against him, all while his other hand slid up your leg to trace soft circles around your inner thigh. He let out a low moan of pleasure as his hips moved back and forth against your panties with more force, feeling the head of his cock rub against your fabric, on the edge of what he desperately craved.

"F-Fuck..!" He almost instinctively whimpered out. Even you couldn't help but let out soft whines as Ranpo's tip just about bumped your clit through your panties- An action which only caused Ranpo more motivation. Feeling the warmth emanating from your body, Ranpo's determination only intensified. His hand gripped your thigh tighter, digging into your soft skin as he continued his relentless assault on your pant-clad sex.

"Does that feel good, huh?" You asked, panting heavily.

Heaving as he continued to pleasure himself through your panties, Ranpo nodded whilst gnawing on his bottom lip, his eyes narrowed down at the space below between you in concentration.

"I... I can't take it anymore... let me..." He pleaded, pushing against your panties with his cock. "Please-"

"Please what?" You glared at him, narrowing your eyes at his desperately blushing face, which had beads of sweat dripping down his cheeks.

He groaned in frustration, his cock poking at your panties as he panted heavily.

"Please let me have you... I need... I need... Ngh~!" Ranpo stammered swiftly. "Oh, god- Please! I'll do anything—"'

You seemed amused by his begging, all while he was still thrusting his cock against your panties.

"You ‘need me'? What do you mean by that?"

"I... I need you, okay? —Fuck! I want you!" He confessed- backtracking when he heard his own mistake, hips moving faster and harder as he pleaded for release. "I just... can't handle this anymore..."

"You want to cum, is that it?" She chuckled, brushing her finger against his chin.

"Yes, yes, please... I can't hold it much longer..." He whimpered as he continued to grind against your panties, his hips pistoning up and down in desperate need.

“God, please, let me cum… I don’t even care what I have to do this time…”

"My, my, aren't you desperate." You cackled at him, teeth sinking into your lip as you attempted to suppress your own moans at the tension. He hadn’t been bumping at your clit so much anymore, rather sloppily thrusted against your clothed hole instead, but the warmth in the action was enough to cause you to sweat.

"You cum when I say it's okay for you to cum."

Ranpo cried out, his eyes closed as he moved faster, tears threatening to fall from his lids as his hips slammed against your panties, need coiling inside him.

"Fuck, it's too much... I can't—"

"If I let you cum, will you be a good boy tomorrow at the agency?" You asked him simply, seeing how messed up and blushy his face became. "You're gonna be nice to your coworkers and you're not going to be lazy?"

Ranpo panted heavily, his eyes glossed over in lust as he nodded hurriedly.

“Yes, yes of course... just... just let me cum... please..." He pleaded.

"What did I say about speaking more clearly?" You demanded. He inhaled sharply with another thick swallow, gyrating his hips as he pleaded for you.

“I'll be a good boy tomorrow! No more laziness, I'll be so good! Please— I’ll be on my best behaviour, just for you— Fuck!”

You smirked.

"…Okay, you can cum then." You hummed, seeing how his tired eyes lit up with the permission.

With a loud, shuddering whine, Ranpo finally reaches his peak, his fingers digging into your thighs as he found release. With a shaky arch of his own back, his seed spurted between your legs, painting your panties with his essence.

"God, you're so messy." You sighed.

"I'm sorry... I can't help it... you're just too..." He gulped, his eyes roll back, revealing his submission even in his post-orgasmic state.

"Well, since I was so nice and let you cum." You grabbed a fistful of his hair and forced his head down a little so he was forced to look up into your eyes. "It's your turn to make me cum."

Ranpo couldn’t help but blush at your touch when your hand grabbed a bunch of is hairs, his body still trembling from the aftershocks of his orgasm- but finding a new source of pleasure all the same. He whimpered softly, unable to meet your gaze as he was so fixated on your panties and how his own seed coated the fabric.

"C-Can I..?"

"I expect you to." You said darkly. "Eat up. And get a taste of your own mess before you do.”

He was reluctant, but did as you commander him to, tentatively reaching out to lick at your panties, his face flushed with embarrassment and submission. As he tastes his own seed, his face contorted a little at the taste, but his body tingled with pleasure, an unavoidable moan escaping him.

As his tongue dragged across the cloth of your underwear, he latched his teeth onto the edge of your panties, pulling them down slowly. When he had torn them down completely, it revealed your swollen, wet folds to his greedy gaze. The man looked up at you guiltily, his face burning red as his cock twitches in anticipation, leaking more pre-cum as he sees your panties still clinging to your thighs.

"Don't be shy now." You said, assisting him to fully remove your panties as you kicked them off to the side to reveal your glistening cunt. "I thought you wanted to taste me."

He nodded silently, leaning forward to taste you properly. He took a large strip between your legs using his tongue, tasting your sweet nectar as he starts to lap at your folds, his mouth exploring every inch of your wetness.

"That's it..." You shuddered as you felt his tongue inside you, finally feeling your own sense of pleasure. Ranpo’s heart raced with excitement when he sensed your enjoyment and he continued his assault on your sensitive flesh, pushing his face deeper into your folds, seeking to please you even more.

"F-Fuck... God, you use your tongue so well." You chuckle softly through your gentle moans. "See what happens when you use that mouth for better things rather than pissing people off?"

He hummed in agreement, his tongue continuing to wedge itself between your folds. With a groan, he licked harder, drawing your walls upwards, seeking to reach your throbbing center.

"You're gonna eat me out until I cum, aren't you sweetheart?" You grin, hands finding his way to his hair to run your fingers through the strands before stopping to grab a handful of it again.

"Mhm..." He moaned, his fingers twitching with desire. His tongue darted out, swirling around your clit, making you shudder as he brought you closer and closer to the edge. You had treated him so well that night, and he fully intended to return the favour.

—

The next day at the agency, Ranpo kept his side of the promise. For the first time— Possibly ever, Ranpo wasn't glued to his office desk anymore shoving treats down his mouth, instead, he was walking around and offering his assistance to anybody who looked like they needed it. It amused you to see him frantically searching for work to do while you were working on your own thing at your desk, pretending not to see his efforts, but you were glad that your intimate act with him didn’t go to waste.

"Would you look at that! I've never seen Ranpo so diligent!" Dazai commented to Kunikida, who was as equally surprised by the sight of the rare happening.

During the mesmerising scene, Kenji had happened to pass by Ranpo, which made him feel like he had been granted a glorious opportunity by the gods above. His eyes lighting up, the taller, brunette stopped Kenji in his tracks- Whom of which had been two boxes of files, tapping him on his shoulder with an awkward smile.

"Hey, Kenji, do you need help carrying that?" Ranpo queried with a hopeful gaze, to which Kenji stared blankly, blinking a few times.

"...It's a little heavy." He said softly with gentle beamed smile, trying not to offend him.

"Don't worry about it!" Ranpo reassured him, holding out his arms. "Where do you need me to take it?"

Upon seeing his eagerness, Kenji's eyes sparkled exponentially and he went to drop the boxes in his grasp.

"To the boss's office!"

Ranpo immediately felt like the weight was going to crush his arms when the heavy boxes had been dropped onto them. He struggled for a moment to hold them up, but eventually found his method to keep himself standing without feeling like his arms were going to break. After the wave of accomplishment had washed over him, he frantically looked over to you to see if you had been watching him with a hopeful smile— Which you had, of course, but your head was tilted down as to not let him know that you had.

"Maybe he's finally learnt that he has responsibilities at this agency." Kunikida suggested, staring as Ranpo uncomfortably waddled out of the office, the boxes threatening to break his fingers.

"I wonder what could've made him suddenly realise that though, considering he had never lifted a finger to help before." Dazai's eyes narrowed.

[swiftiethatlovesf1]

One of your boys

Heyy guyss, let me know if you get the song I used as inspiration for this (tease)reader x (needy)Lando and if you want to read more stories here's my masterlist :)

Lando’s POV

Everybody loves you, babe. You're funny, nice—so sweet it hurts. That’s all I can think about as I stand here in the VIP section, watching you from across the club. You're in the middle of the dance floor, surrounded by your friends, laughing and moving like you're in your own world. God, I wish I was the only one who could see you like this. I bet nobody could love you the way I can.

I take another sip of my drink, my eyes locked on you. I can't stop staring. Then I hear Carlos beside me, breaking through my thoughts.

“You should talk to her, mate. If you wait too long, someone else will.”

Carlos's words hit hard. He’s right. If I keep standing here, hoping for something to happen, it’ll be too late. She could slip right through my fingers.

I put my glass down, the ice clinking as I set it on the table. This is it. No more waiting. I’m done watching you from afar. Tonight, I’m going to take my shot.

The music pulses through the floor, the bass thumping in your chest as you dance with your friends. The night feels like a blur of lights and movement, but even through the haze, you can feel it—Lando's eyes on you. It’s been like this all night, that intense gaze of his burning into your back.

But before you can turn to meet it, those eyes are replaced by a pair of familiar hands on your waist, pulling you closer as you keep moving to the rhythm.

“Haven’t you had enough of watching, Lan? Decided you wanted a taste?” you tease, still swaying to the music. You don’t need to see his face to know he’s smiling, but you can feel the way his grip tightens on your waist, holding you against him.

“Everybody wants you, baby," he murmurs against your ear, his voice low. "But I bet nobody wants you as bad as I do.” With that, he spins you around to face him, his eyes locked on yours, dark and full of something more than just desire.

You raise a brow, pulling him in closer as you drag your fingers up his chest. “And how are you gonna plead your case?” you ask, your lips grazing his neck as you speak, feeling his body tense under your touch.

“Fuck, Y/N,” he breathes out, his hands tightening on your hips. “Say what you want, and I’ll keep it a secret. Or call me whenever you need me—I can be like one of your boys if you ever get desperate.”

You smile against his skin, enjoying the way he reacts to every teasing touch. But as the game between you two comes to an end, you finally pull back just enough to look into his eyes, your lips brushing his.

“And what if I want you to be my only boy, Lan?” you whisper, your breath mixing with his before closing the space between you, your lips finally crashing into his.

The moment her lips touch mine, everything else fades away. It's like the world goes silent, and the only thing I can hear is the rush of my heartbeat in my ears. She tastes just as sweet as she looks—like Malibu, sugary and smooth, with a bit of a kick that leaves me craving more. My hands slide up her back, pulling her even closer, and for a second, I feel like I could stay in this moment forever.

I kiss her back with everything I’ve got, like I’ve been waiting for this—hell, I have been waiting for this. Every stolen glance, every moment I caught myself staring at her when I shouldn’t have—it all led to this. And now that I finally have her in my arms, it feels even better than I imagined.

But just as quickly as it started, she pulls back, leaving me breathless and wanting more. I blink, trying to steady myself, still reeling from the taste of her on my lips. Then she smirks, that playful glint in her eyes that drives me crazy.

"Give me your phone," she says, holding her hand out.

I fumble for my phone, still dazed from the kiss, and hand it over without a second thought. She taps a few things on the screen before handing it back, her number saved, and next to it—my boy.

She looks up at me, eyes sparkling. "There. You're officially my boy now."

Before I can even process what’s happening, she gives me one last look, that smirk still tugging at her lips, and turns to leave. I just stand there, watching her walk away, my phone in hand, her number glowing on the screen like it’s a damn trophy.

I'm frozen in place, my mind spinning. Did that just happen? Did we just happen? My heart’s still racing, my lips still tingling, and all I can think is how I got so lucky tonight.

She’s mine now. She's got the key to my heart and I don't mind.

[hannahssimblr]

Hey babe! Hope you’re enjoying Sorrento. What a view from the hotel, right? Send pictures if you can and let me know what you think of that restaurant I recommended. I got the linguine. Changed my life.   Oh, and one small request, if you have space in your bags, could you get a bottle (or two, or three) of limoncello for me and Leon? We got ours at a small specialty place somewhere in Old Town. Ran out a couple of months ago and CRAVE it. Please, Astrid. I will love you forever. Give your sexy boyfriend a big kiss from me.  xx Elias. 

“What should I tell him?” Astrid says, lounging there on the bed. The midday sun streaks across the sheets and her body, patterns of shadow on her skin. She hands me her phone. 

“Well, we can confirm the view is nice.”

“Do you think we will go to Old Town? We probably should.”

“Yes, but I don’t want to.”

“Me neither.” She rolls over to pluck a few grapes left to wrinkle slightly in the heat. They were plated up yesterday, breakfast brought by room service. This is the only way we have been eating for two days. Food as fuel, without concern for the quality or taste. 

A knock on the door now, and a muffled voice. “Salve, posso entrare per pulire la stanza?”

“No,” we both say, picking idly at these wilted grapes. A shuffling on the carpet as the cleaner goes away.

Two days of this already. The kind of dissolute fantasy you’d have at sixteen, lonely at night, enjoying so much the idea, while knowing with all the practical knowledge you have, it will never happen to you. Knowing it is never like this. Not this much, this often, this particular way. I don’t want to re-enter my life. I want to stay in this Sorrento hotel room with the beautiful view and the room service, and the cleaner we won’t let into the room. If I could pause time here and live this weekend forever, I would. 

“Do you think we’re wasting time?” Astrid says, rolling onto her back, and I smooth my hand down the length of her glorious body. Bare and white among rumpled sheets.

“No, I don’t really care about seeing the sights, do you?”

A smile. “No.”

“Same. And fuck the limoncello. We can get some in the airport.”

“Do you think he’ll be able to tell?”

“We’ll play dumb.”

“Hm.” Her face grows dreamy. She’s elsewhere, chest rising and falling with slow breaths. I touch her just to touch her, my hand over the soft skin of her waist, her hips, the back of her thigh. She’s ticklish there, and twitches away with a gentle objection. “I am still fantasising about what you did to me this morning,” she says, that particular, sexy rasp in her voice. 

“Mm,” I say. “You can tell me if it was weird. I just wanted to see…”

She shakes her head. “I loved it. You can do anything.”

“I feel like I’m still getting my head around that. I never imagined I could ask for that”

“Well, you can.”

I only half believe she’s real. There. Gorgeous. Obliging. Mine and I hers. I feel goofy around her, even now, aware my obsession is obvious, reduced to a love-struck teenage boy babbling incoherencies at her as she lies there, so tranquil. “You’re insane. Did you know that? In a good way, obviously. Like, insane. You know, if I even suggested that to another girl I went out with…”

“I’ll go further, just in case you ever wanted to. Tell me.”

I let a slow smile spread over my face. “Well, there is one thing, maybe.”

“Show.” 

I fall over her, and though my muscles ache and my body protests, I still want her. Over and over, forgoing my body’s needs for more. “You sure?”

“Yes, let’s try it.”

I groan. “God, you’re amazing. You know that?”

“Shh,” she says. “Just put me where you want me.”

Beginning // Prev // Next

[thatoneyanderewriter]

Coincidence

pairing: yandere!nick nelson x male!reader

summary: you used to think it was purely coincidental how nick had always been there to help you. or even just talk. but you soon discover that it may not be a coincidence at all.

warnings: yandere, obsession, stalking, blood, murder, harry Greene is a warning himself, homophobia, f slur(I promise I can say it), and violence.

It began a few months ago. And at first it didn’t seem that odd. Nick Nelson being constantly there wherever you were. In fact you found it kind of nice.

You had a big crush on him anyways. You had plenty of opportunities to confess. But your friend Tao is convinced he’s straight and also, a bit odd.

“Okay, you think it’s not weird that he’s like everywhere? Tao scoffed. “This is an all-boys school, Charlie reminded him. “So? What do you think y/n? Tao asked, hoping you’d take his side.

“I’m not that bothered, I appreciate your protectiveness but we don’t even really know each other do we? You say, assuring him it was just strange coincidences that may be a blessing in disguise.

Tao rolled his eyes.”don’t say I didn’t warn you.” And then the rugby game. That obviously was a coincidence but you did know he was great at it. And Charlie your friend was in it so you should support him.

“Y/n, hey! Nick said, over by where you were. They were either done or taking a break. “Hi, You say. You were shy and when a popular guy is talking to you? Yeah you’re a bit nervous.

“It is kind of funny we always run into each other, Nick Joked. You laughed.”Tao thinks it isn’t a coincidence.” Nick laughs nervously which you found weird but brushed it off.

“Y/N! Tao whines. You come back over. “Tao’s being dramatic, again, Elle says. This was the time Higgs and Truham were kind of reunited.

“What about this time? You sigh, while smiling. You didn’t mind your friend being dramatic but sometimes he was a bit too dramatic.

“He thinks that Nick’s like obsessed with you or something, Isaac said. “Oh my god, you laugh, finding it funny.”Tao, you’re being a bit dramatic now don’t you think?”

“I don’t care, I’m just looking out for you, Tao said, crossing his arms. You always looked out for him too. “And I appreciate it so much but trust me on this one, he’s just a friend that I occasionally talk to, You assure him.

“Mhm, Charlie teased.”You definitely like him, y/n.” You smile, you didn’t deny it because at that point it was obvious. Why deny anything?

“You’re not denying it! Elle laughs.”So it’s official, you like rugby king nick nelson.” “Just be a bit quieter, I don’t want the whole world to hear, you say softly.

“Sorry, Elle apologized. “You know what? I’m happy for you, Tao said.”still think there’s something off.” Deep down you felt that too but because you really were into him you ignored those feelings.

But the way he played was really good and he was very, pretty. “You’re staring again aren’t you? Isaac chuckled. You sigh.”fine. I am. But look at him!”

“As your golden straight friend I don’t really see it, Tao said. “Well you aren’t gay! Charlie chuckled.”Y/n has good taste.” They were taking a break so Charlie was chatting with your friends for a bit before being called back over.

He was really good at rugby and you couldn’t be more happier for Charlie. He was becoming well liked though some still made fun of him for being gay. You were also gay and got made fun. That’s the bad part about Truham, homophobes.

Speaking of homophobes, you were preparing to leave the school when Harry and his “Mates” come up to you. “Hey Y/n, I’ve got some questions to ask, He says.

“Um, okay, you reply nervously. “Are you like attracted to any of the guys here? Cause you know, it’s an all boys school, He laughed.

“No, You lied. “Well how’s it like being gay? Harry asked. For someone who was asking sexuality questions it seemed like Harry himself was a homosexual. You wouldn’t be surprised if that was the case.

“Or are you just that little fag who likes every guy? Harry said. “Okay, that’s it, you scoff, walking away while he simply laughed at you. You were so annoyed at that point.

You just ignored them at that point. Your walk home wasn’t too far from the school, it was not that much of a walk. But the laughter that was usually so loud stopped.

You could still hear their conversation and at that point mostly everyone had gone home. But your curiosity caught up to you. Besides your sneaking suspicion wanted you to eavesdrop because you also heard Nick pipe in.

“Relax, mate, it was just a joke, you hear Harry say.”And how did you even hear us?” “Well it obviously wasn’t funny to him, especially when you used the f slur, Nick said,

Harry just laughed before saying nick was being sensitive. That’s when you heard someone punch. And you knew it was Nick. He had punched Harry. You thought that’s where it would end. But it didn’t. Not even close. You crept closer and saw the horrific scene.

Nick was definitely punching Harry, who couldn’t even fight back at that point, and his friends had fled in fear you could only assume. Maybe Tao had been right. For once.

You wanted to scream but didn’t. What if he heard you? You decided you had to do the one thing you were horrible at.

Running.

That’s something you and Tao had in common. You both sucked at Running. But you ran anyway. You were going to tell Tao he was right and he may or may not be cocky about it.

You remember all the times that Nick had “helped” you. But now it made sense. He had been following you and maybe was right now.

You run straight home and text your friends immediately that it was an emergency.

And in less than ten minutes, your friend group was over. “So you said this was an emergency, Elle said. “Mhm, you reply, fidgeting with your fingers.

“What is it? I was freaked out, Tao said. “Well uh, Tao was right, you finally say. Everyone’s eyes widen, then look at Tao. And like you expected, a smug look forms for a second then it turns to concern.

“Wait so, he’s obsessed with you? Tao asks. “I just saw him pretty much beat Harry to death, or almost, I ran before I could see if he was dead, You admit.

“It’s over now, y/n, Elle assured you.”I’m sure maybe what you saw was a misunderstanding. There’s no way that Tao was right.”

You nodded. Tao scoffed from Elle’s comment but still as concerned. That thought remained in your min though.

And you wondered, did Nick know you had witnessed most of it?

You hadn’t known him to be violent. No, he was nice and caring. Far from that type but you guessed you didn’t know him that well.

You shuddered.”Wait… I think we’re being watched.” “Huh? What do you mean? Elle asks, you go to your window, looking outside.

Perhaps it was paranoia kicking in but you definitely felt like someone was there. “Y/n…. I… wait, I see someone, Elle said.

“What? Charlie, Isaac and Tao say in unison, jumping up to your window. You could see the person too. “Oh my god. You need to report this, Elle said.

“I… what if they hurt me? You say. "I mean yeah I could fight them off but still!” “No, this is the right thing to do, Elle said.

You sigh. "I guess I’ll do it. Especially since that person is acting like Michael Myers with just standing there staring right at me.” "Your Mum and Dad are home, right? Elle said.

You nodded. Elle replies, grabbing your hand, "Come on. you should tell them. You give in."Okay. I guess." You go downstairs where your mum and dad were.

"mum, dad? you say. "yes? your mother responds. "i think someone is following me, you confess. suddenly, your mother and father look more worried.

"following you? your mother says. "we saw him, miss l/n, Elle pipes in. "We believe you, Your Father said. You sigh of relief. they both hug you. "We should report this, Your Mother suggested.

“We should… but right now we should stay inside, you say shakily.”I don’t really want to go outside.” You didn’t even understand why you were so scared when you could take down the stalker if you really wanted to and were fighting for your life.

“Well then, y/n, maybe stay down here so we can supervise you for now? Your mother said. You nodded.

You hadn’t told them the complete truth. That you knew who your stalker was. It made complete sense to be nick, you just knew it.

[harrywavycurly]

I’d love to see Eddie telling Wayne that Reader is finally his girlfriend❤️❤️

Hiii babes!! Well since you’d love to see it I’d simply love to give it to you! I hope you enjoy💖

*this is when they go to Wayne’s for dinner mentioned in part 18*

-find all things One Night Stand Eddie here✨

“Wayne!” “Hey sweetheart you seem in a go-” “guess who get herself a full on boyfriend!” “Jesus…you don’t have to shout it at him…” “if she wants to shout that you’re her boyfriend then let her…you should be damn glad she’s happy about it.” “Yeah Edward you should be damn glad I’m happy about the fact you’re my boyfriend.” “This is a glimpse into my future isn’t it? You two just ganging up on me?” “Well don’t say stupid shit and we won’t have to…” “I agree with Wayne..just stop saying stupid shit…oh Grandpa Wayne…Dotty was wondering if chicken nuggets could be on the menu for dinner?” “I had a feeling she’d want that..go look in the kitchen.” “You’re already spoiling her and she’s not even-” “oh my god you made Mac and cheese too? This is why I love you…you’re just the best.” “Love you too now tell me…how’d he finally ask you to be his girlfriend?” “Oh you’re gonna love this..” “oh god…don’t tell him…please don’t tell him it was in-” “it was in a text message.” “You’re shitting me…in a damn text? Son I raised you better than that.” “I asked her in person when I picked her up! I just wanted to…make sure it was gonna be a yes before I embarrassed myself…” “did you do something different to the Mac?” “Now I know you’re not over there eatin out the pot when it’s not dinner time yet….” “It smelled too good I had to taste it…sorry.” “I added some garlic powder and onion powder.” “Someone’s feeling fancy…” “oh hush it boy…you better learn the recipe because we both know there’s about to be nothing left in that pot by the end of the night.” “He’s right Eddie…you should learn this recipe…Dotty loves it.” “Well in that case…write it down for me will ya old man?” “I’ll show you old man when I shove my foot up your-” “Okaaayy! I think it’s time to eat! Wayne…plates and napkins…Eddie you’re on utensils…Dotty and I will be in the living room.”

[rosesradio]

“Why do you look at me like that?”

Annabeth’s heart was working overtime. Breathing became a conscious effort.

In. Out. In. Out. Stop.

Pause, for only a moment.

Annabeth was sure Jason had taken notice, though she had assumed—hoped—he would remain silent. She avoided him most of the time, something that had become increasingly harder to do with each passing day on the Argo II. When she did spend time around him or (gods forbid) speak with him, she avoided his eyes entirely.

Only the bare minimum. If she could manage the bare minimum…she would survive.

Because that was what it was all about, wasn’t it? Survival.

Annabeth tended to save her panic, each skipped heartbeat clinking inside her like change in a jar.

Then she spent it all in one place.

She would walk quickly back to her room, shutting the door unintentionally loudly before sliding against the door. Barricading it with her own body, as if scared of an intruder. Her heart would pound in her chest so much she could taste it, tears slipping down her cheeks.

Annabeth Chase, architect of Olympus, savior of the Battle of Manhattan alongside Percy Jackson. Out for the count due to a little…

Family resemblance.

“Annabeth?” Jason asked, waving a hand a little in front of her face. “I get that we’re not friends. I respect that. I just thought…I don’t know…if you had a problem with me, you’d tell me. I want to know if there’s anything I can do on my end.”

Annabeth blinked as she fixed her gaze on him.

Same short blonde hair. Same blue eyes. Same height. Similar voices.

Was Annabeth so selfish to believe that the gods crafted this boy, this chain of events, to mock her? There seemed to be no end to their…creativity.

Annabeth found herself looking at Jason’s lips a lot. If not for her every other behavior, she was sure the son of Jupiter would think she had a crush on him.

That was not the case. It was easier to focus on his scar than his eyes, easier to remind herself that this was Jason, not…

She didn’t want to tell him. Didn’t want to tell anyone. It had nothing to do with the quest. She was being a stupid, impulsive, emotional little girl.

“You look,” Annabeth started shakily, the words slipping from her lips in spite of her best efforts to pull them back. “Like Luke. And there’s nothing you can do to stop looking like him…”

Her lip trembled. Her eyes stung. She was dancing upon a dangerous tightrope.

She was going to spiral again, and picking herself back up was a Herculean task.

“Oh,” Jason said finally, the word hanging in the air like a noose. And then: “I’m sorry. I…I don’t know everything that happened, but Thalia told me…I mean…I’m sorry, Annabeth…”

Annabeth blinked, finally allowing a few of the tears to slip down her cheeks, wiping them away as soon as they came.

She wasn’t crying so much as surrendering.

Her childish instincts still grasped at the back of her mind sometimes. She almost wanted Luke to be here to comfort her.

Whenever she managed to meet Jason’s eyes, then flit her gaze down to his lips, she thought of Luke.

Annabeth wanted to kiss Jason sometimes, because he looked like Luke. She wanted to kiss him because he looked like him but wasn’t.

“It’s okay,” Annabeth shrugged, sniffling in spite of herself. “Not even Percy knows everything that happened, so…”

Her heart constricted within the confines of her chest at her own confession. That was stupid. It would only lead to dug up secrets and further pain.

Still. It was the truth.

“If there really is nothing I can do,” Jason started softly. “Then I don’t want to bother you…or bring up bad memories…”

He stood and started out of Annabeth’s room. The daughter of Athena grabbed his wrist.

His skin was warm. He had a pulse point.

That was something he didn’t share with Luke.

“Wait,” Annabeth breathed. “Stay with me. I know you’re not him. Tell me…tell me about the memories you’ve gotten back, please…”

Jason wasn’t him in the way that he nodded and stayed. He wasn’t him in the way he told Annabeth the truth—no lies, no manipulation.

Annabeth studied his features in the light as he spoke. His scar was different, of course, but…so was his facial structure. Luke’s face was more narrow, his nose smaller. Jason had a more Roman nose. His smile was softer, more even than Luke’s crooked smirk.

Her heart rate began to decrease with each of Jason’s stories. He had a very sad upbringing, though he managed to make it sound better than it was. He and Annabeth were very similar in that way.

At one point, he told a story that actually made Annabeth laugh. Jason stared at her for a moment in surprise, though that just made the daughter of Athena laugh harder.

For a shining moment, Jason wasn’t Luke. For a shining moment, the memory of Luke didn’t weigh down on her like the weight of the sky.

[the-cookie-of-doom]

Chay takes his first sip of beer under Macau’s careful guidance when the last guest walks in, and the horrible taste of it combined with the sheer shock of the third cousin means most of it ends up sprayed down his shirt, and all eyes are on him as he coughs and desperately gasps for breath, and Chay wants to die. 

Because Macau’s cousin? Is Wik. Wik. 

“Why didn’t you tell me?” He manages to wheeze, while Macau laughs and thumps on his back. 

“What, you’re a fan?” 

Chay can’t very well say yes, seeing as Wik is right there, ten feet away, watching him with mounting annoyance as if he already knows the answer. Of course he does. And of course he wouldn’t want Chay anywhere near him, his family, on what is supposed to be a private vacation. God, what was Macau thinking, bringing him here?

“Who are you,” Wik asks. His voice is dry enough that Chay feels parched. He can breathe again, and he clutches his beer to his chest like a shield, and not like the thing that almost killed him a second ago. Or maybe that was Wik. Either way, Chay is in danger. 

“Our virgin sacrifice,” Macau says, because apparently once wasn’t enough. “This is Porchay, he’s my friend, don’t be an asshole. Chay, this is my loser cousin, Kim. Who, yeah, is also kind of famous, I guess. Don’t make it weird.”

“Hello,” Porchay says weakly. “I, uh… I really like your music.”

“Thanks.”

Chay feels a strong urge to apologize—and offer to leave right then and there, even if it means calling Porsche to drive the three hours to get him—but he doesn’t get the chance. Wik—Kim—is gone just as fast as he'd appeared, taking his guitar case with him. Strangely it isn’t any easier to breathe in his absence. 

“You’re an asshole,” Chay informs Macau. “You planned that, didn’t you?” His best friend’s shit-eating grin informs him that yes, he had. 

“Dude, your face! I thought you were going to die!”

“I wanted to! That’s so messed up! He’s going to think I’m, like, stalking him, or something.” 

“Nah, probably not. Seriously though, don’t be too weird, or he might kill you.”

Nevermind that, Chay might kill himself. How is he supposed to get through the next two weeks? 

***

Out of respect, Chay does his very best to avoid Kim and stay out of his way. He doesn’t know if the older boy notices, because of the aforementioned avoidance, but he hopes so. He wants Kim to know he’s trying. That he isn’t here to creep on him, that he isn’t one of those psycho fans. Yeah, Chay has a little bit of a shrine at home, but all of the pictures on his wall are from professional photoshoots. No paparazzi photos or creepshots from other fans. Nothing from his personal time. Chay isn’t like that. He doesn’t want to intrude. He just wishes he could explain himself. 

The opportunity comes the next morning. Chay is awake before anyone else; he kicks around in bed for a while, then goes to Macau’s room across the hall, but he’s still fast asleep. Chay isn’t comfortable enough to go explore, but eventually his stomach drives him in search of the kitchen. It’s massive, borderline industrial, and fully stocked to feed an army. It’s ridiculous. 

Chay is cracking eggs into a pan when he hears another set of footsteps, seconds before he’s greeted by Kim’s handsome, scowling face. He must have just rolled out of bed; he’s wearing soft-looking lounge clothes, barefoot, and his hair is just messy enough that it could be intentional, if not for the softness around his eyes. Softness that disappears as soon as they land on Chay. 

“... Good morning,” Chay greets, with an awkward smile. He turns back to the stove, trying to communicate I’m not watching, just ignore me. It must work, because rather than turn back the way he came, Kim joins him in the kitchen. 

“Hi,” is all he says, and Chay is content with that. 

There’s a fancy-looking espresso machine at its own coffee station. Kim takes up his post in front of it, grinding down coffee beans and pressing them into the filter. He takes down two small glasses and sets them beneath. Soon, the rich scent of fresh coffee fills the kitchen, the espresso machine's pop and hiss accompanying the sound of frying eggs. 

“Do you want me to make you something?” Chay offers, not turning around. 

“No.” 

Kim doesn’t say anything else. Neither does Chay. He chews on his bottom lip until his breakfast is finished, and he plates his eggs on a pile of sticky rice. 

This might be my only chance. 

“I hope I’m not making you uncomfortable. By being here, I mean,” Chay starts. “I swear I had no idea when Macau invited me. He said he was just coming here with his cousins. I-I wouldn’t have agreed. If I knew. I promise.” 

Kim turns to face him fully, leaning back against the counter. Chay fidgets beneath the weight of his gaze. “Really?” he asks. He doesn’t sound like he believes Chay one way or the other. 

“Yeah, yes, I wouldn’t want to intrude. I’m obviously,” he waves his hand between them, “You know, but like. You’re with your family. That’s not my business… Or anyone else’s,” he adds, trying to reassure Kim he isn’t going to tell anyone about anything that happens on this trip, without saying that outloud and reminding him it was ever a risk in the first place. 

“Hmm.” 

Please believe me. Even if they never see each other again—Chay will leave right now if Kim tells him to, he’ll figure it out—he needs Kim to believe this. That Chay isn’t another vulture trying to take more of him than Kim is willing to give, as if it’s something he’s owed just because he’s a fan. 

“Porchay, right?” Chay nods. “How do you know my cousin?” 

“We go to school together.” 

Kim looks at him doubtfully. Chay’s face goes hot, and reminds himself what Porsche told him before he left; just because they’re rich doesn’t mean they’re better than you, don’t forget that. 

“I’m, uh, I’m there on scholarship.”

“Really? That’s not an easy scholarship to get.” No kidding. Chay took a summer prep course for the entrance exam and that alone was almost too much. The exam itself nearly made him pass out. “What was your score?”

“Uh… One hundred percent.”

“Bullshit.” 

Chay flushes, equal parts embarrassed and something slightly less than angry. “They made me take it twice. The proctors thought I cheated the first time.” He didn’t. He’d spent the entire summer studying, because Porsche told him this is what he needed to do for his future. To make their parents proud. Chay never knew their parents; he just wanted Porsche to be happy, and to repay him for being such a good brother. 

“And you got the same score?”

“... Ninety-eight percent, the second time.” He was terrified, and that meant he made mistakes he wouldn’t have otherwise. 

“Still nearly perfect.” Kim regards him carefully, his head tilted, and Chay is too incensed to properly appreciate the flex of Kim’s bare arms across his chest. “Interesting.” 

Chay thinks that maybe, from anyone else, interesting might have meant impressive. 

Kim turns his back on him again, then, leaving Chay to eat his now-cold breakfast while he finishes his coffee. Neither say anything else. It’s painful in a way silence always is for him—to Chay, silence means loneliness, means sitting at home and waiting for his brother to walk through the door, bloody and beaten, or it means hiding from debt collectors—but Chay refuses to break it again. 

He also refuses to look at Kim, which is why he startles when a porcelain cup is set down in front of him with a delicate clink, a cappuccino with delicate-looking latte art and a dusting of cocoa powder. He looks up and Kim’s back is already to him again as he finishes making his own coffee. He cleans the espresso machine, puts away his tools, and leaves without another word, no doubt in search of a better refuge to enjoy his morning coffee, without Chay breathing down his neck. Even though Chay already wasn’t doing that. 

Whatever, it’s not like it matters. 

Chay picks up his latte. He’s a little bit mad at how good it is, blooming rich and smooth on his tongue, and not overly sweet. 

Like Kim, he thinks, glowering into the milk foam. 

[coyotefang1987]

Flower Symbolism in Trigun

Okay so I've been going insane in the last few hours since the new episode of Stampede and I needed to share my very incoherent thoughts.

So here we go: (please excuse my grammar, I'm typing this up in an absolute craze)

Please note, there are major spoilers here

[Plant in context to Trigun will be capitalized btw]

I want to start off by pointing out the whole idea with calling the creatures that Vash and Knives are as 'Plants' and 'seeds' in the first place--that in itself is so much. Not to mention Noman's Land is a desert plant with little to no flora at all.

The idea and symbolism of life and rebirth presented with the idea of plants. Like how flora are usually the first type of lifeform to come back post mass extinction events. How plants are primary producers in the food chain, how life couldn't be sustained without plants giving up oxygen, food, and converting the sunlight into energy/sugar. Despite being giant moth flower humanoid creatures, the Plants in Trigun are doing essentially the same thing. Except they aren't renewable and they might also be sentient.

In addition to that, in media, seeds are usually a representation of hope. And in this case, a seed pod carrying the hope of humanity. I've been likening it to dandelion seeds. I don't think our group of guys were the only space-fairing fleet that was sent out from Earth.

I don't know how much of this symbolism is intentional and how much of it is completely accidental, but boy howdy is it there and am I going to eat it up.

Geraniums!

First off, the most obvious one is geraniums. The flower is very much thrown into our faces. What does it mean?

Okay so there's like 400 types of geraniums out there, they're not like a specific species- and when people say 'geraniums' it usually also includes pelargoniums which are a different genus. But you're not here for me to monologue about flower classification-

Well, operating under the assumption they're using the most common type of red geranium, which, funnily enough is not a geranium but rather a pelargonium. Pelargonium x hortorum. Commonly known as zonal geraniums or garden geraniums. I don’t know if I even need to expand on the idea that Vash and his story (and the Plants in general) are represented by geraniums. If the red coat wasn’t already a giveaway, I think the newest episode definitely makes it very clear. Well, first off I think it's interesting that they’re not ‘true geraniums’ (different genus, same family). Like how Vash and Knives look human but aren’t ‘true humans’.  

(Did you know geraniums can reproduce asexually via their roots by just…sprouting a new plant? It’s called clonality. Anyways yeah, I’m too lazy to expand on it but there it is. You can probably see the connection I'm trying to draw here)

Furthermore, let’s look a little bit into what geraniums represent. So according to the vast knowledge of the interwebs (I will put the links I used at the bottom.) geraniums are “attributed the powers of love, peace, healing, elegance and spirituality. They mostly have desirable symbolizing meanings, including fertility, health, joy, protection, frustrations passing away, and true friendship.” Red geraniums in particular are attributed to protection and ward against evil., spiritual beings and saints. “The geranium flower was a symbol of prosperity in Egypt, longevity in Japan, and immortality in China”. *Stares at Vash and Knives*. Gods…immortality…saints. Alright Nightow, I see you.

Look, I’m not done here. DURING THE VICTORIAN ERA geranium took on a slightly more negative meaning. Envy, deceit, folly, foolishness and stupidity. Although they were also seen “as ‘horticultural bourgeoisie’ and a sign of ‘crudeness and thoughtlessness of taste’. Geranium became a symbol of industrial mass culture.” This was probably unintentional (and if it is intentional, holy fuck.) but the idea that Earth in Trigun was destroyed by the folly of humans because if mass industrialization? Hello???? OKAY.

There’s just so much history with geraniums. I’m STILL not done. Let’s talk a little about geraniums and Christianity, yeah? You know, the thing that Trigun is chock full of symbolism of.

So first off, tradition. (I am not Christian, nor do I know much about Christianity, I just did some research on the topic so feel free to correct me.) I do believe there is a tradition to buy and gift red geranium on Good Friday? (I can’t find a very credible source about this, just some blog posts so idk) And the red is to represent the blood that Jesus sacrificed for the people. How he was beaten and bloodied because of his love for the people. How…he was given a purple cloak that turned dark with blood while he was mocked. 

Sound familiar?

Do we want to talk about Vash’s red coat turning black in the latest episode? Or maybe how traditionally dying Plants are red and healthy ones are blue? But Vash keeps himself covered in red?

Now, here’s an interesting fact. Did you know, wild geraniums look very different from the ones people like to commonly grow in their gardens? This is the spotted cranesbill (Geranium maculatum), the most common wild geranium. Look, maybe I’m stretching it here, but cultivated Plants vs independent Plants, anybody?

Anywho, not the point I was trying to make. Did you know another common wild geranium is called the Saint Robert’s Geranium? Robert’s? While no one really knows who the ‘Saint Robert’ the flower is named after, it has a very fun symbolism. Check this. The seed pod of this flower supposedly looks like the beak of a stork, which had people believe that they could help a couple who wish for children with fertility when used as an amulet and placed under the bed. cough Ep 11 pregnancy scene cough. Apparently, medicinally they’re also used to staunch blood flow from wounds. Despite that, in certain regions, it was seen as an ill-omen plant associated with death because snakes would often hide in its leaves. Snakes? Like…in Adam and Eve? Like as in temptation? As in Knives and Vash?

Okay last bit on geraniums. Just a little on the colors. In episode 11 of Stampede we see the giant plant root monster thing blooming flowers. I have assumed that they are black geraniums, aka Geranium Phaeum 

aka mourning widows. Of course, I could be wildly wrong but the meaning of this is fun so hear me out. While there doesn’t seem to be a direct meaning for black geraniums, we can clearly draw some conclusions on the common name for this flower. Like seriously, mourning widow? They’re also known as dusky cranesbill and black widow. Obviously associated with death (and grief?) and apparently maybe marriage??? Doesn’t help that geraniums can be considered a traditional bridal flower too. I think they’re also associated with melancholy. Anyways, on the other hand, blue blooms usually symbolize calm and peace while purple blooms symbolize royalty, accomplishments and admiration. 

So in context to the blooms we see at the end of ep 11, grieving for the loss of someone (Rem, his memories), rising to his Plant roots (haha get it?) and being ‘at peace’. 

HEY LET'S TALK ABOUT DOGWOOD

So I remember reading somewhere that he’s named after a singer or band or something but– His name is so close to dogwood that I could not pass it up.

Dogwood is a blooming tree that seems to have a representation in Christianity. There’s a legend about the tree and Easter. So apparently, the cross that Jesus was crucified on was made from Dogwood, because of such it was cursed and blessed. Cursed to be small so it can’t be used to make another cross but blessed to bloom beautiful flowers at Easter time.

The flowers of the Dogwood trees always bloom with four petals, like a cross, the center like a crown of thorns. Each tip of the petal is indented like it's been pierced with a nail and discolored like it was stained with blood. So goes the story. 

I think it's interesting that Wolfwood’s name is so likened to this flower/plant and I don’t believe this is unintentional. LIke it’s right there. Cursed by the Eye of Michael to grow too fast, blessed to be strong and hard to kill. Is/bears the cross that brings Vash to Knives in the end. 

Lilies (and other Flowers)

So, I personally think the plants look a lot like lilies. And lilies are commonly attributed to the virgin Mary. They typically represent purity, innocence and rebirth. They are often gifted at mourning flowers as well and are one of the most popular flowers at funerals.

Either that or the blue-eyed Mary flower, which has less meaning attributed to it other than its name.

Anyways, that's all my thoughts for today. Thank you for reading all the way down here if you make it hehe

If people find more flower symbolism or have thoughts please let me know, I want to hear them!!!<3

Geranium history and meaning: https://www.pansymaiden.com/flowers/meaning/geranium/

Geranium and Christianity: http://www.whispersofhismovement.com/2012/04/05/geraniums/

Mourning Widows: https://gardenersapprentice.com/gardeningtips/mourning-widow/

Dogwood story: https://www.plantmegreen.com/blogs/news/easter-and-the-legend-of-the-dogwood-tree#:~:text=According%20to%20the%20story%2C%20it,cursed%20and%20blessed%20the%20tree.

Lily meaning: https://www.townandcountrymag.com/style/home-decor/a39982524/lily-flower-meaning/

[flying-nightwing]

Love for a Bat (in the Modern Age)

Hi 😳😳😳 It's been a while, how's everybody doing? So um, yeah. Sorry about that long absence. Life, y'know. Anyway, I hope you enjoy this little warm up piece even though it came out approximately 4 days too late for Valentine's day. But hey, another one to add to the Nightshade!batsis collection ;)

Pairing: batsis!reader x batfam

Word count: 2734

Warnings: semi bad language

Summary: The bat boys have noble intentions in love, but severely lack the capacity to prioritize their own well being when faced with the choice between a date and saving the city. Luckily for them, this year they have you to help out.

Dick’s frantic entrance in the cave was anything but subtle. He climbed down the stairs so fast it sounded like he was literally tumbling down and kept muttering shit shit shit over and over again under his breath. Or not so much, as someone up on the second floor could probably hear him as clear as day. 

“I am in so much trouble”

In any other circumstances, you would have worried about how frantic and desperate he sounded. Yet, you suppressed a self satisfied grin and spun your chair around to face him. Dick was either becoming more predictable with age, or just just knew him that well. Either way, he would soon find out his emergency wasn’t one. You just wanted to enjoy making your big brother squirm for a little bit longer. 

“What’s up Dickie?” You asked with your most suspicious, best fake innocent voice, but it went right over his head. Poor thing must truly be distressed for him to miss so many clues. 

“I meant to call and make a reservation for tonight” He groaned, hiding his face behind his hands. “But then B called me on a case, then there was this whole Poison Ivy thing that took me out for like a week, and things kept on piling and now they’re full and Babs texted me earlier to confirm we were still on and I said yes but I have no idea how I’m gonna pull this oh my god I messed up so bad–”

“Hey, deep breaths” You cut him off as you stood up and went to him. “It was that dessert place, yes?”

The Sugarcloud Lounge had opened a little less than a year prior and had quickly become a must try in Gotham. You had dropped by one time your patrol had stretched until the morning light was well settled and was lucky enough to get your hand on a fresh out of the oven cupcake, and you could confirm, it tasted like it was a gift from the gods hand delivered to you specifically. They regularly hosted dessert tasting events, but their Valentine's Day Dessert Madness was probably the most anticipated of them all, their first time slot on the 14th having been completely booked in less than a day. The other time slots throughout the day had taken more time to book, but it would be foolish to hope there was anything left on the day of. 

Luckily for him, Dick liked to babble, informing you of that plan of his months ago, before the bookings even opened.

“Yeah” He sighed, his shoulders slumping. “She’s so excited to try out all those desserts. Especially the strawberry cream tartelette parfaite. That’s French for perfect tartlet, (y/n). I don’t think I have the strength to tell her I didn’t get a reservation”

“Oh, that’s terrible” You replied, patting his shoulder. “If only you had some sort of, I don’t know, awesome sister that knows you all too well and managed to get a reservation for two under your name as soon as the bookings opened.”

“Well, that’s–” He went still for a second as your words registered in his brain. Then, his face peeked out from his hands, his eyes as wide as saucers. “What are you saying?”

“I’m saying your booking is at 8” You grinned, then let it drop completely. “Don’t be late”

Shock was still written all over his face as he fully understood the situation. You had pretty much just saved his ass and his whole Valentine’s day evening. Color returned to his skin and his eyes were bright again as a blinding smile slowly stretched on his lips. “Oh my god”

“Not quite, I’ll give you one more try–”

You barely saw him move as he swooped you in a bone crushing hug, lifting you off your feet. “Thank you thank you thank you thank you thank you thank you, holy shit, you’re the beeeeeeeest”

You couldn't help but laugh as he gently put you down on your feet. He was vibrating with newfound excitement, and it was adorable to watch. “You’re very welcome”

“I’m gonna make this up to you, I swear” 

“Make this up to me by not being late” You joked as you began pushing him toward the exit of the Batcave.”Now go get ready, shoo”

“Okay okay” He chuckled as he began jogging backward. “You’re the best, I love you!”

“Love you too, have fun!” You waved at him before he turned around to climb back up the stairs. 

You watched him retreat with a fond smile on your face, knowing your brother and one one your closest friend would have a great time where they would be able to prioritize their happiness for once without having the weight of the world on their shoulder. Besides, both Dick and Babs needed a little time off to breathe anyway. And if this pause was also surrounded by delicious godsent desserts, then it was all the better. 

“How long have you been standing there like a creep?”

Jason made a disinterested sound and stepped out of the shadows, walking until he was standing shoulder to shoulder with you, staring in the direction of where Dick disappeared. “Long enough. That was almost impressive, Cupid. Now he’s gonna take your side in every debate for months, no matter what stupid point you bring. Thanks”

You smirked. “Well, someone’s feeling the spirit of Valentine’s day tonight”

“It’s a stupid holiday to force people to think they need to buy gifts to prove they love their significant others” He scoffed, crossing his arms against his chest. “The only spirit I’m feeling is capitalism, and I’m not having fun”

You rolled your eyes at how dramatic he was being, then searched your jacket pocket until your fingers wrapped around a small flash drive. You held it up toward him. “This flash drive holds 25 of the best movies ever made by your standard. All director’s cut, original format and original language. Roy’s waiting for you at your place with a fifty for pizza” 

He didn’t answer for a few seconds.

“... If you want to, of course” You slowly began to pull back the drive towards you. “Valentine’s day being a shrine to capitalism and all–”

Quicker than lighting, he snatched the drive from your hands. You could have teased him at that moment, but you didn’t; it wasn’t your goal today. You’d get him another time, god knows there will be plenty of opportunities to do so in the near future. You watched him as he stared at the small red USB key, then up at you.

“Did you organize that?”

You shrugged. “Roy already had a mind to come. I paid for his plane ticket and pitched the movie idea to him. He told me which movie to compile, that’s all him”

He blinked one, then looked down. “That’s thoughtful” He mumbled, then spoke more clearly. “Thanks, Tiny Wing. It means a lot”

“Don’t mention it” You bumped his shoulder with yours. “Now go have fun. Say hi to Roy for me”

If you didn’t know better, you would have sworn it was a smile that formed on his lips. Either way, the way his face had lightened up in the last minutes was unmistakable. “Will do” He said as he nodded, then exited the cave the same way Dick had. 

You took a few steps back and leaned on the desk, and predictably, Bruce came in next with Alfred in tow. However, you raised an eyebrow at how Bruce was dressed. He was in full batsuit minus the cowl, his cape flowing behind him as he chatted with Alfred about the new firewall he installed on the computers. 

“Ah, (y/n), I was wondering if–”

“What’s that on you?” You cut him off, wagging a finger to his outfit. 

Bruce looked down at himself, slightly confused, as he patted the suit for anything amiss. He took the time to double check, then returned his eyes on you with question marks written all over them. “Uh, the batsuit?”

“Yeah” You replied. “Why do you have it on?”

He looked to Alfred, who gave him no clue whatsoever as to what you were on about. “... Patrol?”

You gave him a deadpan stare. It was obvious he would have tried something like that, and that’s why you had been in the cave for hours now to be sure to intercept him before he went out, but seeing it unfold in front of your eyes sure was something else. Unbelievable. “Bruce, you have a date with Selina in just a bit more than an hour”

“I know” He frowned. “I’m just doing a quick sweep around the city, just to make sure everything is alright, I have enough time”

“You most certainly do not” You shook your head. “Now get that off and go get ready”

He was taken aback for a second, then his frown returned a bit deeper. “The city always come first, (y/n), you know that”

“Nuh-uh. Not tonight” You stood your ground, resisting the urge to mimic Alfred’s subtle amused smirk. “Selina comes first tonight. Now go get changed, your nice suit she likes has been dry cleaned and ironed. Worry about not messing up your hair, nothing else”

“But–”

“NO BUTS” You shut him off. “Damian and I will take care of patrol tonight, I’ll be on watch and do it by your rules while you go on your date with Selina. That is non-negotiable dad, so don’t even try it”

He recoiled at the finger you practically jammed in his face, then looked to Alfred once again for help. “Where did she learn to be this threatening?”

Alfred, without missing a beat and without giving away any reaction, replied “I believe she learned it from you, Master Bruce”

Betrayal fell over Bruce’s face. “Alright, I see how it is. I am being kicked out of my own cave by my daughter. Fine, I’ll go”

You waited until he stomped out of the cave and shut the door close behind before letting out a sigh of relief. All things considered, forcing him not to go on patrol went pretty well. “Thanks for the assist, Alfred”

“It was merely an observation” His amused air returned. “You did most of the heavy lifting on this one, Master (y/n). I must congratulate you, your determination to make him uphold his commitment to Miss Selena was remarkable”

You brushed your hand dismissively. “You said it yourself, I just used his own medicine against him. Stubbornness runs in this family, what can I say”

“It does indeed”

“Now there’s only one left” You said as you glanced at the door. Usually, Tim arrived a little bit later, but you were surprised when you heard the door open so quickly after Bruce’s departure. “Ah, there he is”

Tim lazily jogged down the stairs in sweatpants, munching on a cookie and scrolling down his phone. He barely looked up to acknowledge you and Alfred before he popped in the chair beside you. He kept watching his phone until he felt your glance on him, after which he slowly looked up. He took in the usually busy cave at this time of the evening, only to find out it was empty. Well, beside Alfred, and you, who kept staring at him.

“Where’s everybody?” He finally asked.

“Preparing their Valentine’s day evening” You replied coolly. 

He scoffed. “Valentine’s day isn’t until next week, are they having an early all family dinner or what?”

You kept looking at him and shook your head. “Tim. It's today”

“No way, I literally checked my calendar this morning…” He trailed off as his eyes went wide. His thoughts were comically loud as he realized more time had passed than he had even realized, until panic took over his every features and made him shoot up on his feet “Fuck. FUCK. I didn't get Bernard anything”

“I know Timmy. That's why I rented the Gotham Aquarium for the night” You said as you held an arm forward to block his path, so he wouldn't run away from you. “You'll have a private tour and a dive with the rays. A car will pick Bernard up and drop him at the aquarium at 7 on the dot, so I suggest you get there first to greet him”

Oh yeah, that sent his brain into overdrive alright. “What”

“I know, I'm amazing” You grinned. 

“But. How?” He blinked rapidly. “You came up with that? For me? But why? And where did you even find the time to organize all this?”

You put a hand on his shoulder. “Tim. You're working so much that you black out and literally lose chunks of time. It's the least I can do to help you out and most importantly, give you some time off with Bernard. Things have been much quieter on my end lately, so it was no burden at all”

“It's literally the best date ever” Finally, a smile appeared on his face. “Thank you so much, I don't know how I'll ever repay you”

“Well, for a starter, I could meet him” You half joked. You hadn't met Bernard yet even after hearing so much about him; there was just never a right occasion for it. Still, you were curious about the boy who stole your favourite brother's heart. “For the rest, don't worry about it. Just have fun”

“Yeah definitely, for all of that” He gestured vaguely as he was already halfway out of the cave. “You’re the best, hands down, thank you!”

And then he ran off, already shrugging his hoodie off. You shook your head with a small smile and returned your attention on the city monitors to flag the more active sectors for the night and brief Damian as soon as he would be ready to go. You still had about half an hour until sunset and the boys were all taken care of, allowing you to take care of the last minute preparations for your run in peace of mind. 

“I must say, it is very kind of you, the way you helped out Master Timothy and Master Bruce” Alfred began quietly. You glanced at him over your shoulder and smiled. “I suppose you accorded the same favour to Master Richard and Master Jason?” 

“Yep” You nodded and returned your eyes to the screen. 

“Giving them all the night off was quite generous” He hummed. “Handling Gotham alone with Master Damian for the entire night won’t be an easy task, however”

“I know” You replied softly. “But I don’t really mind, not in these circumstances. All of them… They work hard enough and never take time for themselves or time with their partner. I just thought I could do that for them. It didn’t require much effort on my part, and if it can make them happy… They deserve it, and it’s all that matters right now”

You would so dangle it against them later to get what you want, but for now, you were just content with making sure they had an evening they could enjoy without worrying about patrol and crime. An evening for them. This life was a hard one, it took away a lot from all of you, mostly in the form of sucking out all happiness from interpersonal relations. You knew that as much as them, so it was only the right thing to do. You didn’t have a partner to go back to, or close friends to celebrate with who also wouldn’t be on a date tonight, so it was only fair to be the one to stay behind and take watch. And you were good with that, even if it meant you would take on more than you should.

“You know you deserve happiness too, right?”

Your smile faltered just a little bit. You didn’t want to think about how you were still single this year, or how you just couldn’t seem to keep relationships long enough to last until Valentine’s day. Maybe you went all out for your family to make yourself feel a little bit better through others’ happiness, or maybe you did it to distract yourself. But there was no point in envy or in delusion, not now, not ever. 

“Maybe one day, Alfred. Maybe one day”

[galebrainrot2024]

Gale Seeking Godhood Part V/5 PATH 1

Oh boy. Well. I wanted to release all three paths simultaneously but that may take some time so I'll release the paths as they are completed. This will be the only part for Path 1.

Paths 2 & 3 may be 1-2 parts depending on my brain.

Summary: Continuation of Gale seeking the crown post elder brain, final chapter for Path 1.

Editing to say that I do tweak and edit as I read and re-read these pieces and this makes my heart ache every time I reach the end. Anyway, I'm not crying. Just some dust.

Path 1

You approach Shadowheart with a warm smile and embrace her - “Gods, it’s been to long,” you breathe out as she hugs you. She smells nice - fresh and you can’t help but to inhale the rosewater and lavender from her skin when you embrace. 

“Did you just sniff me?” 

“Sorry,” you blush, caught. “I guess I’m not used to everyone being so… clean? It’s nice, for the record,” You rub the back of your neck and feel redness simmer beneath your cheeks. 

Her melodic laugh echos in your ears as she says, “I suppose I should take the compliment. Although, sometimes I miss the smell of fresh mud on my skin,” she muses. 

“Don’t tell me you miss sleeping in the dirt too?” You raise your eyebrows and smile. 

She takes your hands in hers, “You know, I actually have found a spot that I frequent when I’m feeling nostalgic.” Giving your hand a gentle squeeze she says, “I’ve missed you. Now tell me, what have you been up to!” 

You feel the looming dread fill your belly and Shadowheart recognizes the look, graciously stepping in, “You don’t have to share, if you don’t want. I can’t imagine it has been easy… I can’t say I’m entirely surprised, although I had my hopes. Do you think…” her unfinished question lingers in the air between the two of you. 

Do you think he will come? 

You aren’t sure. You had tried not to think about it leading up to the party, anxiety twisting your stomach into knots when you received the invitation - from Wither’s, of all people - or unpeople? 

Shadowheart reads the look in your eyes and wraps an arm around your shoulder and pulls you against her as she leads you towards the rest of your companions. The air is full of merriment, music, and laughter - sounds that your soul has been desperately aching for. “I’ll let you wallow more later - for now, it’s time to celebrate, everyone has been expecting you.” And as she ushers you towards your companions you are filled with the sounds of their ‘whoops’ and ‘there they are!’ and fond slaps on the back, hugs, and the like. Astarion hands you a glass of something strong. 

“Here, you’ll need it - in case, well, you know.” He gives you a wink and brushes his shoulders off giving a little bow. “I am surprised - I thought out of any one of us I’d be the one most likely to go off the rails not - ugh - Gale.” Your cheeks burn and Astarion gestures as if to say ‘be serious’, “Oh come now. What use is being a 200 year old Vampire Spawn if I can’t have a bit of fun at others’ expense?”

You glower at him and his eyes twinkle playfully as he pulls you into a hug. “Oh! I have missed you, you know. Maybe you’ll let me have a nibble later? I do miss that taste.. like a strong, bittersweet brandy..” You see his mouth begin to water and you shimmy from his grasp. 

“We’ll see,” You smirk and he pouts as if hurt and goes to mingle elsewhere. 

“Hey you!” Karlach comes bounding over and gestures wildly, “I can’t believe the bastard did it! I’m here!” 

“It wouldn’t be a party without our liveliest companion!” Minsc bellows and shakes you by your shoulders from behind. “Good to see you, my friend.” 

Everyone’s attention shifts as soon as you hear a familiar and warm voice. 

He’s here. 

***

You feel trapped in the amber of the moment when you see him descend into the party. The familiar, tell-tale marking of the orb is no longer etched into his skin and his eyes dart around nervously as he brushes at his clothes. Tara moseys beside him. 

You step behind Minsc a bit as if to hide and try to distract yourself with the countless treats spread before you although you are anything but hungry. The moment you look up you see his eyes locked on you. You forget yourself as the rush of feeling seizes you, each emotion convoluted and overwhelming.

Two months. It was two months since you told him you never wanted to see him again. Now, as he stood not fifty feet looking ashamed and remorseful, you feel your heart wrench. He cautiously makes his way over to you, his hands mussing nervously in his hair.

“Hi.“ Gale says breathlessly. “Can I - Can we talk?” He shifts uncomfortably on his feet and gazes at you expectantly. 

“Lead the way,” you gesture and you feel your companions' watchful gaze as you and Gale begin to walk towards the water. 

***

As you sit on the embankment the sounds of the water lapping against the shore fills the cool night air. It smells like fresh grass and rain, the stars littering the sky with their wonder. 

“Thank you,” Gale begins, breaking the charged silence. “For taking the time to speak with me, I mean. I wasn’t sure if… well, I wouldn’t blame you if you wanted nothing to do with me at all. I don’t deserve your kindness, nor your ear, and I am grateful for it all the same.” 

You sit silently and watch him. You feel a heaviness that stirs in your belly, the unconditional love you once felt melded into something else, it made your heart sick. As his brown eyes meet yours you can see the infinite possibilities of what could have been. You do not owe him this, not your time nor energy, but you give it generously. A part of you still longs for him. Gale reaches his hand out as if to brush your hair and recoils his hand, looking towards the water. 

“What happened?” You ask timidly. “That’s why you came, is it not?” 

“Well…” he pauses to look at you, “I needed to see you. I - I know that it’s selfish, especially after what you said.” He sighs and brushes his bottom lip with his thumb. You feel your heart pang, the nervous habit one you find endearing. “Where to begin?” He asks this sincerely and you see his the wheels of his mind churn as he struggles to find the words. 

“I suppose it came down to this: when you left, Tara took her leave shortly after.” He inhales and his voice trembles, “The loneliness… I could hardly bear it. I poured all my time, energy into deciphering the last words of the Netherese text in my isolation. At least that would give me purpose, I thought. I didn’t eat, I didn’t sleep. Godhood was… it was everything. Time seemed to hardly pass at all. Once I cracked the cipher to ascend I - ” he stops and rubs his temples with one hand. 

You and he sit in a stilled quiet for a moment before he is able to continue. The sounds of the party filter through the air to you as you wait with bated breath. 

“I met Mystra in the Astral Plane. I knew I could still surrender the crown to her, to rid the world of this wickedness. To at last be cured of the orb. I was so close…” The way Gale says this is almost regretful, as if a part of him still wishes he became a God. “I became the inheritor of Karsus’ power at last. When Mystra asked my intentions I was fully prepared to take the Weave from her. And then,“ He looks at you, his eyes pleading and he covers one of your hands with his. You shudder, surprised by how his touch still ignites you. “And then I thought of you. Of Tara. My mother. Of all I’d given up in pursuit of my own blind ambition, of everyone I had hurt in the process. I realized I was no better than Mystra, treating those around me like amusements to be eventually discarded. Oh… I was so ashamed. I still am.” Gale brings your hand to his lips and brushes the back of it. You feel heat spread through you, although it is tainted by sadness. “Mystra granted me renewed life - to become her chosen once more, to remove the blight in my chest. My life my own again at last.” 

He turns fully to face you, on his knees, taking both of your hands. “I’m so sorry, for everything. For what I put you through… I doubt I’ll ever forgive myself for it and know it is selfish to ask for yours. I am not deserving of it and I will not claim otherwise. Although it may be beyond a shadow of a hope - is there - would you ever consider us again?” His eyes flash with terror and anticipation. “I know I am hardly worthy of your love..” His last words hang in the air and you consider them thoughtfully. 

When you break the silence, you feel your hands become cold and sweaty within his, your heart thrumming wildly before you speak. “You were already worthy of it, Gale. You were worthy until you decided to put your ambition over the ones you claimed to love.” Your voice is somber and you avert your gaze as his eyes seem to sear into you. You feel Gale’s hands stiffen and you see his expression fall. You look at him then, the bittersweetness of your voice wrapping Gale in a cocoon. “Gods, I wish it were different. Sometimes… I like to imagine that it is, in a different space, in another time, where we end up happily, spending our mornings lazily and exploring one another… where you chose me.” You see the tears form in his eyes, unaware of the ones that begin to roll down your cheeks until you taste their saltiness on your lips. “But that life is not meant for us here. Not now. Not after everything.” 

“I see,” his voice quakes and you brush your fingers against Gale’s cheeks and turn his face to look at you. 

“I will always love you, even if we are not together. Sometimes, though, when something is lost, despite our best intentions… that chapter must close indefinitely.” 

Gale closes his eyes and brings your hands to his lips again, knowing this will be the last time he will taste your skin and experience the feeling of your bodies intimate in this way. You feel him try to drink every part of you in, committing this moment to memory. You sigh, relishing in the moment although your heart feels shattered and ruined beyond mending. His final words float through the chambers of your mind as you gaze into his eyes, “If I cannot spend eternity with you.. I’ll settle for this evening.” 

You allow the silence to settle over you then, enjoying Gale’s company for one last time. 

[mysteriouslysaltypoetry]

I Get Cold Easy

Chapter 3

Raph x reader story A/N: Chapter 3 is hereeeee, i actually really liked this one! It's all very soft and sweet. Mikey is my lovely boy and the best dumb of head but big of heart! Hope y'all enjoy! I made a small playlist to go along with this one! Its what i was listening to to help me get the mood of it

Chapter 1/ 2

Raph lost track of the trio a while ago, their bodies disappearing amongst the other people dancing, at least Mikey was there in case anything happened but still, he liked knowing where his people were for his own sake. Vern and Jones were also off god knows where, some girls came to talk to them a few minutes ago and took them to get drinks, they didn’t seem bad but they were definitely a bit too much for his tastes, at least the other too looked entertained enough.

Soon though, he spotted the others coming back after another quick look around, only when he saw them he figured something was obviously off, if the look on (Y/N) wasn’t enough of a sign then April and his brother’s concerned faces were two flashing red warning signs. And it wasn’t only him that noticed it either, Leo straightened his back right as he spotted them, his own eyes scanning their features for anything that could tell him what had happened.

“Guys? What’s with the looks?” Donnie asks when they reach the table, (Y/N) grabs her purse and holds it against her chest with a defeated sigh.

“I just lost my need for a party,” she points to someone in the back and April is quick to pull her into a comforting side hug, kissing her cheek gently.

“You see that guy over there? The one in blue with the pink girl basically draped on top of him? Yeaaah that’s (Y/N)’s now EX boyfriend…”

The three of the turtles hiss in unison ‘Yikes…’ Raph winces at the sight, the fact that a girl like (Y/N) could have something like this happen to her will never not baffle him, that loser just fumbled what seems like a MASSIVE bag, but hey, it sure is not gonna be him who tells him that.

“Oh, I’m so sorry to hear that (Y/N), if there is anything we can do?” Leo offers, always the gentleman he thinks with an internal roll of his eyes.

“Thanks, but right now I just want to get out of here and forget this ever happened…” she says rubbing her arms in what Raph can only guess is an attempt at feeling better. Thankfully (or not) his younger brother always seems to have something to say in awkward situations.

“Well then let’s dip! Who cares about this place anyway? It’s super crowded.” He says with a smile, hand on her shoulder.

“Oh! I couldn’t ask that of you guys… you stay and enjoy the rest of the night. I’ll just go home and drown myself in some cake and romcoms.” She tries and chuckles, but it comes out a bit wetter that what was probably intended.

“Are you kidding? I’m going where you go, not leaving you to fend off for yourself after that!” April says immediately, holding her even closer than before.

“Yeah, and it’s not like we would want to stay here when such people are around anyway, not to mention its dangerous for you two to walk alone at night” Adds his brother. Raph nods and gets up, walking over to her.

“Also, yer with us now, shorty. We don’t wanna see you sad, much less sad AND alone.” He says, placing his hand on top of her hands, gently taking her purse and nodding to the entrance. The others nod and they all quickly make their way out, April quickly sending a text to Casey to explain what happened.

“Alright!” Mikey claps his hands, surprising everyone “This night took a wild turn but I know JUST the thing to help you feel better, angelcakes” he pulls (Y/N) to his side and dramatically sticks his hand out as if to make his point more convincing.

“I don’t know, I’m not really up for anything that requires me to use any of my mental capacities Mikey…” she sighs and let’s herself sag against his brother.

“That’s the best part! You shall not have to move a muscle on that big brain of yours!” he chuckles “This is our super secret way of relaxing and getting out of the blues” he adds, and oh, now Raph knows where this is going and so do the other three, it was like their tradition at this point and sure enough, it worked wonders.

“What do you say toooo… some pizza, good music, and city gazing?” Mikey asks in a soft tone, giving her some space to think properly. The others smile encouragingly.

“That… sounds great actually.” She chuckles, looking around them “I could really go for a bite, or five.” She says, making everyone laugh with her.

And so it was decided, they went to their favourite place for pizza (and honestly? It was the best no matter what Casey said about it.) and made their way to April and (Y/N) building. The night breeze got colder and colder as they approached.

“Allllrighty ladies, please be sure to hold onto a designated turtle as well as your belongings, we’re going to the magical place we call: The Roof~” Mikey sing songs, and soon enough Donnie offers April his hand and quickly makes his way up the roof along with Leo.

(Y/N) turns to Raph, holding out her hand with a small smile “The nice fella did say for me to hold onto my belongings, unless of course you would prefer to carry it up there.” She said, her tone already a bit more cheerful then when they were in the club. He laughs and shakes his head, handing her the purse.

“Nah hop in, I’ll make sure the ride up there is smooth and quick.” He says taking her into one of his arms and following his brothers.

They all get to the top and start to settle in, pizza boxes open on the floor, and a comfy silence surrounding them. Taking out his phone and his portable speaker Mikey puts on one his playlists, the air around them is cozy and peaceful. A few minutes later and everyone is talking amongst themselves, Leo is sitting next to Donnie who has April draped across his lap, happily chewing on her slice, Raph himself is sitting crisscross on the floor, with (Y/N) resting her head on his legs and is resting her own on top of Mikey.

“Thanks guys, this means a lot, and it’s infinitely better than what I was planning on doing.” She says, nuzzling closer into his leg, it had been a while Raph thought, since they had had a new friend join their group and since anyone had been as close to them without it being asking questions about their mutation or how it was being vigilantes/ ninjas. ‘This is nice’ runs through his mind as his hand settles on her shoulder, only to notice how absolutely frigid it was.

“Dude… yer freezing! How the hells didn’t ya turn blue yet?” he asks with wide eyes, to which she only shrugs.

“Oh don’t worry about that, I’m always extremely cold. I got used to by now.” She tries and waves him off, shoving some more pizza on her mouth. The red clad turtle shakes his and starts taking off his jacket, dropping it on top of her.

“There, put it on. I ain’t taking no damn popsicle to the hospital today, nor am I taking care of a sick one.” he says while reaching for another slice.

(Y/N) sighs but does as he says nonetheless, safe to say the thing is absolutely gigantic on her but it does the job and she settles back on his leg right after. And that’s how they spend the night, talking and laughing, listening to some good music and looking out at the city, watching the people ad cars pass by.

[vinbee631]

Prodigal Sons and Daughters Alike

Hey!! Welcome to the masterpost for my contribution to the @tss-storytime Big Bang! This is one of the biggest projects I've ever completed, and the biggest one I've ever posted, so I really hope you enjoy it!

With that being said, chapter links under the cut! I'll be posting a chapter a day on AO3, so I'll be adding those links as I go!

The art inspired by this fic, made by the lovely @nandysparadox

AO3 Link

1 - I’m Never Gonna Not Dance Again - Prologue ~ Welcome to Sanders Academy! And welcome, the creativitwins

2 - I Can Show You the World (I Can Show You this Classroom) ~ Who would have thought school could actually be- not awful?

3 - What Is This Feeling? (So Sudden and New?) ~ Making friends is surprisingly easy and also Roman please calm down it's only the first day

4 - On the First Day of Mock School (My Roommates Gave to Me…) ~ Waking up is hard, at least they have each other now!

5 - Opening Up, Letting the Day In, Pour You a Cup and Say “Hello, How Ya Been?” ~ Now that they've all met each other, things get complicated (in a good way, they're just middle schoolers)

6 - You’ve Got a Friend in Me (But Maybe Not Him) ~ Remus makes new friends! Patton, not quite, but he's working on it!

7 - Ever Since I Was a Kid, I’ve Been a Brooding Basket Case  ~ One stereotypical melodramatic teenager coming right up! (Now featuring a little more trauma than is strictly necessary for a thirteen-year-old prodigy!)

8 - Forgive Me If I Boast… On the Subject I Love Most (Getting to Know You)  ~ Remus' persistence is highly admirable, but Virgil is not entertained.

9 - Why Do You Look at Me When You Hate Me? ~ Virgil is confused, and possibly has more unresolved trauma. Remus does not do art, but for once is okay with this fact

10 - Intermission: How Would You Like a Friendly Competition? (Let’s Take On the Song)  ~ The twins are very competitive, but also very close. Remus gets a well-deserved break.

11 - I Feel Badly About You Feeling Badly About Me, Feeling Badly About You   ~ Remus talks it out, and gets some sound advice.

12 - Looking for Something Worth It (The Algorithm is Perfect)  ~ Conversation One: Virgil and Logan are now study buddies

13 - The Bar Isn’t the Best Place to Find Advice, Thank God We’re In the Hallway ~ Conversation Two: Janus is snarky, and apparently, so is his roommate

14 - You Know Time Crawls On When You’re Waiting for the Song to Start  ~ Conversation Three: Roman has good taste in music, but bad taste in movies

15 - I Don’t Need No Love (All I Need Is a Sugar Rush) ~ Conversation Four/Existential Crisis: Baking Edition, feat. Patton

16 - Fear or Love, Baby? Don’t Say The Answer (Actions Speak Louder)  ~ Conversation Five: Remus' biggest mistake

17 - Being Back Here Makes Me Hot in the Face ~ Conversation Six: Good God these boys need therapy.

18 - It’s the Story of One Who Turned from Hating (The Man Who Only Learned to Love) - Epilogue  ~ There is no official conversation seven, but things work out anyway. At least, Virgil thinks so.

aand, that's all folks!

[vincess-princess]

as we were falling

ch. 9

a/n: you though this was dead, didn't you? well IT ISN'T to surprise of everyone, me included. i just needed something to write that required no thinking whatsoever, and this one is perfect for that. hopefully it will help me get back into writing :) word count: 1426 warnings: none

“Oh god, no. No no no no,” Tommy moaned upon entering the cafeteria.

“Oh yes!” Nikki’s eyes gleamed with excitement.

Nutrient paste lay on plates in all its wobbly, vomit-colored glory.

“Are we gonna eat it for the rest of our lives or what?” Tommy complained.

“God, I hope so.” Nikki rubbed his hands in anticipation. “I mean,” he switched to a more serious voice, “it’s nutritious, cheap and easy to produce, so it’s just logical to feed it to the slaves. Sorry, bud.”

“You come across a rope, grab it for me. I’ll go hang myself in the kitchen,” Tommy said grimly. “Though they’ll probably grind me into this paste after that…”

“Ew.” Nikki’s excitement decreased, but not by much. “Though you know, only social norms make cannibalism taboo, and who cares about them?”

“Definitely not you.” They sat down at the tables. Tommy poked the paste squeamishly and watched it wobble. Even two days of hunger didn’t manage to make it more appealing. “You want my portion?”

“Man.” Nikki suddenly frowned. “You gotta eat. You’re already all skin and bone. Unless you plan a hunger strike, in which case don’t even bother, because they’ll feed you anyway, just against your will. Remember what that asshole guard said on the ship?”

Tommy nodded. The threat was hard to forget.

“You gotta get over yourself,” Nikki said softer. “Start small. A couple spoons. C’mon.”

“You sound like my mom trying to feed me broccoli.” Tommy stared into his plate. Nikki, of course, was right, which was rare and thus special.

“What’s broccoli?”

“Nevermind.” Tommy sighed, scooped up half a spoon of nutrient paste and put it in his mouth.

Yeah, it still tasted the way it looked: vomit plus snot plus an aftertaste of spoiled fish. He swallowed it without chewing, but the taste still lingered on the tongue.

“Good boy.” Nikki patted him on the shoulder. “Now just one more.”

Tommy’s mom could say those words, theoretically, but definitely not in that tone. He sent Nikki a confused look, but he already diverted all his attention to his nutrient paste.

***

The next day they had their skills assessed. It was the other primary factor of the price range given to a slave, and the price range at the first auction determined the quality of life the slave was going to have later in life – at least with the first owner. Which is why Tommy was just a little bit nervous. He had neither valuable skills nor intelligence to boast.

Nikki had little more to offer, but he remained carefree as always. “I’m a real catch. I can shoot and brew moonshine.”

“I thought you’d have to be a bit… better at survival on a planet like yours.”

“Well, they would hardly need the knowledge of local plants and animals, would they?” Nikki shrugged. “And yeah, I mean, I can also do some cooking and doctoring, but just a little bit. That’s it.”

It still sounded better than Tommy’s meager skillset, which included drumming, waiting on tables, rolling joints and breaking into cars. Who would need a slave like this? Without education he could only perform either simple menial work or sex work. Neither were appealing.

“Hey, at least they won’t send you off to the edgeworld to serve the troops,” Nikki tried to console him – unsuccessfully, because Tommy had no idea how he’d fare without Nikki at this point. Besides, soldiers were never kind to slaves.

It was another row of similar white doors, different by only numbers on them. The evaluation took longer than a medical exam, which is why the slaves were called up with longer intervals and Nikki was gone long enough for Tommy’s anxiety to flare up. What were they even doing there for so long? Cracking their skulls open and then sewing them back shut?

His number was called when he almost ran out of ideas. Tommy rose from his mattress, his gut twisting: he was about to find out how the evaluation was done – and what would his life be after an auction. Of course, the price couldn’t determine the future master’s temper – even the highest-cost slaves could end up with an abuser – but it sure determined whether they would eat normal food or nutrient paste and sleep in bed or on the floor.

The long corridor with a row of white doors was painfully similar to the medical exam cabinets. The architects sure didn’t spend too much effort on interior design. Of course, the vast majority of citizens never saw the interior, and nobody sought to impress slaves.

The farthest door opened, and a captive walked out of it. He walked funny, his forehead glistened with sweat. Tommy followed him with his eyes as the guard that brought him here pushed him into the room, grabbed the captive’s arm and led him down the corridor.

The room was almost empty save for a strange chair, a bit like a dentist’s, in the center of it, with a steel hoop at the top that presumably was fixed on a head. Tommy didn’t like the look of it at all. Then he noticed handcuffs on the armrests of the chair – unlocked, for now. Tommy imagined them closing on his wrists, and a chill ran down his spine.

A small table stood next to the chair with a small glass on it. From afar it looked like it was empty, but then Tommy saw there was transparent liquid inside of it. He really doubted it was water.

“Number 971-TP5?” someone said from behind Tommy’s back. He turned around and saw a darkened window in the wall on the right. Oh great, they’ll also watch him.

“Yes,” he said slowly, fighting the urge to step back and close the door from the outside. The guards sure wouldn’t appreciate that, and Tommy didn’t fancy getting another stripe at all.

“Drink the liquid on the table next to the chair,” came an order, in the same tone as the robotic voice in the torture chamber and the doctor at the medical exam. They all seemed to have one tone exactly for all the captives.

Tommy carefully picked up the glass and smelled the liquid – and felt nothing. Then he stuck his tongue in it. It was cold and viscous. He exhaled and drank it all in one gulp. It left a bitter aftertaste in the back of his throat.

“Sit on the chair. Hands on armrests. Head inside the hoop.”

Tommy did as he was told. When the cuffs closed around his wrists and the hoop tightened around his head, he heaved a sigh. So predictable.

The chair began to buzz quietly. Tommy tensed up. He waited for some more instructions, but none came.

The buzzing grew, and soon the whole chair was vibrating intensely, and Tommy’s ears rang so loudly he couldn’t hear his own thoughts. Shockwaves rolled through his body, and the hoop on his head grew so tight it sent spikes of pain through his brain, and Tommy might have screamed in pain - he didn’t know for sure, the ringing in his ears was too loud. His brain was frying inside his skull, his heart raced, his vision was dark, his limbs went numb.

Then it all ended. Slowly, the pain subsided and the colors returned. Tommy found himself drenched in sweat, breathing heavily, throat parched, hands trembling. He was relieved to discover the wetness in his pants was also sweat. Was it what it was like to be electrocuted?

“Could have warned, at least!” he shouted in the direction of the window. His voice came out hoarse and cracking. The window kept silent.

The cuffs opened and the hoop loosened. On shaking legs Tommy rose from the chair.

Then the window lit up, and white letters appeared on it. They were blurry in his eyes so Tommy had to come closer to read them.

971-TP5

IQ: 106

Primary skills:

Drumming: 76% proficiency Lockpicking: 65% proficiency Dancing: 48% proficiency Singing: 43% proficiency Cooking: 39% proficiency Writing: 21% proficiency Drawing: 14% proficiency

Preferable occupations: entertainer, house worker, sex worker

Starting price: 3429 EDs.

Nothing unexpected, Tommy sighed, though he never thought his lockpicking was so high. The price grew a bit since his medical exam too, but only a bit: his skills didn’t add much to it. Overall, he was in the moderate-high price range, mostly due to his age and health. He could only hope his appearance would attract a wealthy buyer, then.

“971-TP5, out. Invite the next number.”

[thatonekotlcgirlie]

love your broken foster

Shit.

I did it agin Keefe,

Fell for a guy who betrayed me.

Of course, the fall wasn’t accidental, Cornelio pushed me off a cliff and you weren’t there to catch me. I hung off the cliff as I waited in suspense of his home coming, predictably, he never came back to me. Sound familiar? 

Should’ve learnt from you not to do it but I was trying to losen up a bit, that’s what Biana tells me to do. She says, “ losen up a little Sophie, you only live once!” Bullshit. Then again I could die any day knowing me so maybe she’s right, that’s why I asked him out. I didn’t really care when he left me, his hair wasn’t blonde, his eyes weren’t ice blue, his parents weren’t bustards, he hadn’t got a good sense of humour. His name wasn’t Keefe. He left me the old fashioned way, he ran away with a note signed “love, whatever that fuckers name was“ a bit out dated if you ask me, but I’ve never had good taste in things. No matter what I do my life always ends up in a shit storm.

Did y’all get the cliff hanger joke🙉🙈🙊🐵🤠🤠

Oh, and before I forget, it’s the 451st day since you packed your bags and left me with a note wich overflows with lies coated in denial.

Love your overly descriptive Foster

Day 452,

“Hate is a very strong word”

In case you couldn’t tell I’m quoting Edaline Rewen there, yet here I am disobeying my mother as I tell you this. 

I hate you.

I hate you so much that I love you.

Ok maybe I don’t hate you I just hate myself for letting you leave. Every time you leave my heart feels more heavy, heavy with the need of you skin against mine. Please come back.

Love your pessimistic foster.

Day 453,

Keefe,

All I ask is one more second with you just a quick hug. I want to see our future written in the stars agin. I want to kiss in the rain and spend hours laughing our heads off. I want you to paint pictures of us and capture very second together while it lasts. But it’s too late for it, All of it. Even if you come back (god I hope you do) things will never be the same. We’ll both be broken shells of the lively kids we used to be. You didn’t deserve that Keefe, you were just a kid. You didn’t do anything wrong, you had good morals and a great personality but they destroyed it. Your parents I hate their guts and I hate everything they did to you. I would trade my whole life plus my soul just to feel that gentle breeze go through me again whilst your fingers intertwined with mine.

Love your sympathetic Foster.

Day 454,

Keefe, Are you there?

those are the four words I have been repeating for what seems like an eternity, wishing with every fibre of my body that you’re okay and that you’ll come home to me. But you won’t . I’ll have to find you, I know it. That is if you’re even alive, i’m beginning to think you’re dead. Please don’t be dead. I’ll kill you if you’re dead keefe, what if you’re just a bed of atoms in the shape of the boy I once loved ? What the hell am I supposed to do? I didn’t even say goodbye.

Love your grieving Foster.

Day 455

Dear Keefe,

Tired. Tired. Tired. 

Remember telling me that? Remember me screaming your name at the top of my lungs trying to wake you up trying to bring you back, the real you, not the mind numbingly eccedentesiast guy you turned into, not the Keefe who lost himself after years of being lead into the dark , my keefe the keefe who understands all the misleading shit I say, the keefe who heals invisible wounds and saves live with a few meaningless words wich you say so perfectly that they begin to actually make sense. Please give him back, please return him. Broken or not I want him back. I need him back I will sit there with a needle and thread and sew all the broken seems back together agin if I could just have you back.

Love your impatient foster

456

Yesterday I invited Biana over to hang out for a couple of hours. I went to use the bathroom and when I came back she was clutching my letter Journal, she was on page 2 I ran to her and snatched it off her I  don’t know why, I guess it’s because a part of me is still hoping you’ll come back and I won’t ever have to show anyone any of them because I won’t have any reasons to be sad. Or maybe it’s because if you ever did come back and I wanted to show you these it could be just between us, either way she read at least two of them and I totally freaked out. The only thing she said was, “ the cover is ice blue”. It was a statement that I didn’t know how to react to so I told her to leave and I still haven’t tried to reach out of her.

Love your unforgetting foster (yes I know that’s not a word)

Day 457

Dear Keefe,

Hey, I miss you. Respond if you’re alive.o

Love, foster.

Day 458

Dear Keefe,

oh my gosh. 

Teirgan, Fitz and I have been working together trying to find you telepathically. Whilst Dex and mr. 🍽️ are trying to do all the techy information stuff to find out where you actually are but I don’t know much about it. Anyways, I was looking for a signal by repeating your name over and over agin and somehow I found one, it was faint and subtle, but I heard it deep in the back of my mind, the voice was strained, desperate almost I focused all my attention on it. It was saying one word and one word only, “ foster?”. 

Love, your hopeful foster.

Guys, that was the last one for now but thank you all so much, I hope you liked them!!🫶🏻I might do more letters set before day 451 but y’all can tell me if you want that or not. There is a continuing fan fiction I wrote which is about Sophie finding Keefe and it’s Basically what I wanted to happen in stellarlune so sorry if it’s a little cringey but when I was waiting for book 9 I decided to write it because I was bored. Also I’m still yet to add it to Ao3 but I will soon. I’ll go into more detail about my head canons in the actual fic but thank y’all so much for reading all of this💗💗💗

[nitannichionne]

If He Was Your Fan (A Henry Cavill Fanfic) Chapter 71, Version 2: Found Wanting

You thought it wasn’t so bad. Everyone complimented you on it, or looked at you smiling and complimenting you on your gloves. You even brushed up on your glove etiquette. You felt like you’d passed, until you read this:

HENRY’S OLD NEW LOVE

First, a quote from a previous interview:

While Cavill's tastes lean towards younger ladies now, he admits that he dated a 32-year-old woman when he was 19—and he still isn't quite sure what to do with his heart (or, uh, his bald eagle). He told Playboy, "It's tough for anyone to be in a relationship with someone like me. It's a tough lifestyle. If I want someone who's a professional, they've got their own s*** going on. So unless I meet someone who's very, very young who hasn't yet started trying a career like that, you can then go, 'Okay, I'm going to travel with you and do some stuff, maybe I'll write or whatever; I'll entertain myself or build my own kind of travelling career.' I'm looking for someone who's my own age and will have a career. If they haven't, then maybe I should be worried. It's easier said than done."

We hope he finally finds her.

Now, he is dating a slightly older American woman of color who writes. She is of middle middle class, living somewhere in Brixton (it’s on the upswing these days, but Brixton?). And instead of checking what is fashionable, goes out on a limb with this attire. Some say it’s old, some say it’s classic, others say it’s basic, but honestly, we honestly are not sure.

He seems perfectly happy, but we’ve seen that before, too.

Thumbs up or Thumbs down?

Is this a case of potential hypergamy (marrying up) or hypogamy (marrying down)?

Love to hear your comments!

And did they comment.

You try to steer your eyes from the comments. Some described you as a witch who put a spell on him in a play for his money. Some said you were playing into his mama’s boy complex, some said it’s because he’s been “going young so long he’s going the other way now,” and so on. Only a few said that you are both grown and it’s no one’s business. That was me years ago. As far as the dress goes, everything worn is from the past, they make a few changes-sometimes none-and it’s new.

“Don’t worry about it,” Chiru says in video call with Sophie to you. “The press is trying to find a way to spin it and make it interesting, and God knows there are a lot of jealous female fans.”

“Mmm-hmm,” Sophie nods. “Bound to happen.”

“I wanted to go shopping today,” you confide. “Henry starts his press junket in a couple of days, but—”

“But, what?”

“He’s not talking about it as much as he did before,” you tell them. “He talked about how the experiences in a junket for single production could be a book in itself-it’s something he didn’t think he could describe…you know, the people, the places, the food?”

“He was either hyping it up for you to experience, or rubbing it in.” Sophie says slowly.

“I’m going with option one, which has me wondering why the change?”

You can barely talk. “Yeah.”

“Oh, sweetheart,” Sophie’s expression is one of sadness. “Girls day?”

“I don’t know—”

“Ah, come on,” Chiru encourages. “mani-pedis on me?”

“Tea on me?” Sophie adds.

“And how about a nice ride?” you add with a sigh, beginning to smile.

“Yes!” Chiru and Sophie grin back at you on the screen.

“Okay, I’m in,” you shrug simply. What they describe doing is away from the public for the most part, and you’ll be home before most get off work. You know at some point you will have to do whatever whenever despite whoever, but not right now. Besides, I had something to share with them…

You decide to meet at dawn at Trent Park around dawn, and you are ready to see Luc. It always seems too long, or maybe it is that when you see him, you feel free. He loves you, misses you, accepts you in a way that you wish others would. It’s like he knows.

You are relieved that Finn opened the store early so you could pick up your brand new winter jacket. You did not want to ride with anything else. You shop early, thanks to him, and you get a discount because of your work with Luc, buy a few resale things. You set it aside and slip on the new jacket, sighing, and then make your way to Luc.

“Good morning, John,” you say.

He turns and brightens when he sees it’s you. “Hey! Long time no—”

“I know, it’s been a couple of weeks,” you say apologetically. “How is he—” You are interrupted by a very demanding whinney and snort. “Oh.”

John nods and rolls his eyes. He hands you carrots. “There ya go.”

“Thanks.” You got to the stall and see him. He stamps his hoof, and you cringe. “Luc?”

He snorts and turns away slightly.

“Hey, baby,” you coo to him, raising your hands in submission. “I just got back, honest. Family stuff. Been so busy. I’m sorry, okay?” You offer the carrot, and he takes it. You nuzzle him, and you feel tears come to your eyes.  You have truly missed him, especially now. “You know, I think I might start coming up here and sit in the café more. It seems so quiet here—”

“Hey, girl!”

“Well, usually,” I joke in a whisper. “Hey, Chiru. Where’s—”

“Whoo! Got here.” Sophie exhales, looking like she’s been running.

“Yeah, I got here, early.” You smile broadly.

“I could have picked you up, you know,” Chiru frowns. “You’re on the way. When are you going to get a car?”

You roll your eyes. “It’s a big undertaking, Chiru. The note, the repairs, the insurance, the fuel…it’s easier to…” You slip Luc his last carrot. “feed a horse.”

“You might have a point,” Sophie smiles and shrugs. “At least the horse loves you back. Hi, Luc.”

“Don’t interrupt the man,” Chiru jokes. “he’s eating.”

Luc glances up and keeps chewing.

You look out over the fields, and breathe in fresh air.

You all saddle up and ride out in the crisp morning air. You’re feeling free at the moment, not a care in the world. “Follow me!” You kick into a gallop. You hear Sophie squeal and Chiru laugh behind you, and you smile. You can trust them, you can.

You deviate from the path.

“Hey!” Chiru calls ahead.

“Oh, my God, we’re going?” Sophie says excitedly. “I’ve always wanted to go!”

“Where?” Chiru’s voice tinges with worry. “Where?!”

“Oh, my God,” Sophie’s eyes are wide with awe. “Camelot.”

“Camelot?” Chiru repeats. “The Camelot?”

“According to maps and legend, yes,” you nod. “Come on, we’ve got to clean up.”

Sophie looks around. “Dear God, yes.”

“Please, Chiru?” you beg, feeling tears come to your eyes.

She looks about. “I’m in, mera mitra.”

“Tie the horses here,” you tell them. You take a sack out and give them gloves and sticks. “Let’s clean the castle!”

At first, you are all in awe. You swear you can hear voices and music, but your imagination always seems to run wild in this place. It is so quiet, and then you start to talk, and then laugh. You feel like you’re being watched, but you feel like you’re being watched over than anything. You pick up all the trash, but leave all tributes and trinkets behind. Then you do the island itself, the place where Camelot may have stood and you always get a little lightheaded when you cross. You’d never tell the others that; they’d think you’re crazy.

“Thank you,” you whisper and hug them when you’re done. When you step back you see tears in their eyes.

“So, what, we’re the new round table?” Chiru asks with a mischievous grin.

“More like a troublesome trio,” Sophie says sarcastically, but giggles. “That would make you Arthur!”

“HA!” you laugh out loud. “As if!”

“Are we coming back?” Sophie asks.

“I don’t see why not,” you shrug. Chiru and Sophie cross the moat and you follow, looking back and around. You whisper, “Thanks for having us,” and as you leave, you feel a breeze at your back and leaves rustling…leaves that are no longer on trees…

By the time you return, you have elevensies at the café, and decide to get swabbed for your DNA reading for the Christmas party and then go shopping together for your dresses, Christmas and New Year’s.

You are trying to have fun, remain calm, but you’re freaking out. Chiru and Sophia sense your tension and try to make it fun, but you just need…something…

You are at Harrod’s shopping, and for some reason, Chiru and Sophia don’t want to leave. It’s so public, and some people have started to recognize you. You don’t want to bow your head like you’re ashamed; you’ve done nothing wrong. You tilt your chin up and try not to notice, and you hate that reaction because you might seem aloof or stuck up, when you’re just treading the crowd and trying to keep focused on your tasks.

“Hey!”

You recognize the voice and see Stella. You run to her like one swims to a life jacket and hug her tightly. “Stella.”

“Hey, I thought I’d join you guys for tea,” Stella smiles.

“I thought you were too busy—”

“I thought I was, too, but—” She nods toward Chiru and Sophia. “They called and asked me to take an afternoon.”

You turn to look at them thankfully. Ah, true friends. What a luxury! You smile with tears in your eyes. “I’ve a lot to do.”

“We’ll get it done, and we’ll have tea,” Stella nods with grin as she locks elbows with you. “It’s time we all become friends.”

You all group hug, and you shakily exhale.

“Don’t worry, okay?” Chiru says softly.

“We’ve got you,” Sophia smiles and gives a squeeze.

“The Formidable Four,” Chiru raises her chin. “Femme Four Fatale?”

“What?” Stella quirks an eyebrow.

“We’ll explain over tea,” Sophia grins. “Oh, this is going to be a fun season!”

“Unforgettable, at least!” you laugh.