#I just think they are neat and I like smushing them together leave me be in my lego box

[varpusvaras]

Sometimes I have a good-natured laugh over how I ship jayroy. It's either a) in an au where I fully and more importantly, willfully ignore most of the canon in order to be funny, or b) in an au where both of them are +25 years old and have their shit sorted out and where I might ignore some things because I disagree with the writing choices made by DC on a metatextual level and disregard them as incomprehensive horseshit

[jamsterrr]

P. SEONGHWA . . . FATAL ATTRACTION 10 ⭑.ᐟ

seonghwa. fatal love. ex lovers. “ i want you again .. “

description ; thinking it was for the best , breaking up with your boyfriend of 3 years since you both “ grew apart “ but when a mis understanding comes about. what will happen when you’re forced to spend time together, what happened to those “ we just grew apart “ feelings.

seonghwa!ateez x female!reader

words : 3.3k

contains. ‼️ ; cursing , sexual scenes , 18+ content , may contain typos , oral sex , emotional ties , foul language , PIV , no protection ( wrap it up ) , fun times! . ( let me know if i miss anything ! )

𓍢ִ໋🌷͙֒ part 9 here.

———— .. ᯓᡣ𐭩 ( part ten ) ᡣ𐭩ᯓ .. ————

ᶻ 𝗓 𐰁 .ᐟ

The day seemed to arrive faster than you thought. Before you knew it, you felt the soft taps of Seonghwa, waking you from your slumber. A nice one to where you could feel the body heat of Pop against yours, with the feeling of the cozy aura in the cottage. "Five more minutes" you complain, opening your eyes as it mixes with the red and orange aura's coming from the lamp. "Okay, just five, but we have to leave before traffic gets heavy passing by town" Seonghwa says, pressing a soft kiss to your temple before going to the bags and dresser, taking out the clothes and folding them up, placing them nice and neat into the suitcases. Attempting to not make as much sound to startle anyone in the house or wake you and Pop up before the five minutes.

Five minutes passed and you felt another set of taps on your shoulder, slightly groaning and rolling at the feeling. "Time to get up" Seonghwa spoke before stepping back as you sat up, messy hair still in the form smushed down by the pillow. You took a couple of looks around before spotting Seonghwa, now zipping up the suitcases. "Wow, you got a lot done in five minutes..." you mumble as you rub your eyes, trying to focus your eyes. "Yeah, because it's been like 20." Seonghwa chuckled and gently stood up the suitcases, placing them against the wall. "Do you want to change into some clothes before we leave?" The male asked, sitting next to you as you hummed. "No, I'm okay, just ready to go home and get this trip over with" you said, laying your head against the male's shoulder.

The male smiled and hummed. "Okay, grab Pop and his leash so we can let him out before we leave, we can stop and get some breakfast somewhere too". You nodded and stood up, feeling a slap to your ass as you yelped, jumping slightly. "Stop-!" you whisper yell, gently smacking his hand as you grab Pop's leash, only a soft chuckle escaping the male's lips before he stood up. You clipped the leash onto Pop's metal part of the collar and led Pop out as Seonghwa grabbed the suitcases, going to the door way, you all made it to the front door, quietly opening it as you went out, Seonghwa following behind.

The both of you made it to the car as you let Pop do his business in the bushed, you helped Seonghwa put the suitcases in the trunk before calling pop to get into the car as he hoped in. Seonghwa shut the door and leaned against the door of the car with you. Looking at the door you heard it open, Mingi walking out with squinted eyes, noting that he just woke up from sleep, probably hearing you both while he was asleep on the couch. "You two are leaving?" the male asked. Seonghwa nodding as you offered him a smile.

"Be safe." he said with a smile, waving to the both of you. Seonghwa opened the door for you as you waved. "Stay safe Mingi" you smile to him as he gives a slight bow, waving to Seonghwa as he returned it back. "See you, let me know when you get back to Seoul" Seonghwa says, getting into the car. Mingi shut the door and Seonghwa started the car, driving off through the dirt path that led you both to the place. Memories of you coming down this road made you a little sad. But knowing the bonds you got back and being back with Seonghwa made you smile. It was a bit emotional to think about. Everything you have been tried with this whole trip. Though you were thankful for it. A small sigh escaped your lips, your hands making their way to gently scratch the cotton material of your jogging pants. Seonghwa noticed and gently took your hand, rubbing small circles on it with your thumb. "What's wrong?" the male asked as you let out a slightly shuddering breath. "I'm just thinking, so much happened on his trip."

The car exited the dirt path, making it's way on the main street, a familiar place you'd seen, leading into town, though going past it, leaving all the memories you made and things you overcame at the cabin. "They sure did, but no matter what drama happened, you were able to overcome it, and we got together. The most important thing is that *we* and our pup, Pop, are together once again." the male spoke, his words and gentle hand caressing yours. It made you feel warm again, Seonghwa was truly one of the lights of your life. Regardless of both of your pasts with each other, this was the time to get serious. To learn how to better balance your life. "Thank you, Hwa, those words are so sweet" you replied. Reaching over, you turned on the radio, letting the quiet tunes drown out the noises from outside.

The car ride that was first awkward and felt so heavy was met with comfortable silence and the feeling of comfort.

--

Throughout the trip back to Seoul, you got out your camera and took out a couple more photos of the sights. When you and Seonghwa stopped for food at a restaurant, you took photos of him eat. Him feeding Pop. "Hey! No, his poop is going to smell so bad!" but the male didn't listen and Pop didn't mind the food being given to him. To say the least you had fun, and memories to catch back up on. As you bit into the biscuit you were eating. "I should get these pictures developed, and I should add them into a scrapbook" you said, cleaning the small crumbs off your fingertips. Seonghwa took a sip of the orange juice, humming before he nodded in agreeance with you. "Sounds awesome, I think it would be cute. You should let me decorate" the male grinned as you shook your head fast. "No way!" you laughed.

The both of you got back to the car after you let Pop have a small bathroom break. Seonghwa started the car back up and continued to drive back to Seoul.

You were finally settled back into your home; currently in your room unpacking your suitcase, placing all of your personal hygiene and makeup in their respected places. Next unpacking your clothes, separating dirty clothes and the clean ones. Placing the clean ones in the closet and dirty ones in the washing machine. Since you still had two weeks off of work, it was time for you to relax, maybe do a few hobbies you couldn't do for work.

Going into the living room and flopping down on the couch, you were joined by Pop's who continued to sniff every crevice of the house like he just had gotten there for the first time. He finally found a place and settled by your body, laying his head on your thigh. You took out your phone, making sure to text Yeosang that you made it home safely.

Though you didn't expect to see an incoming call:

Yeosang spoke through the phone. "Why didn't you tell me you were leaving?!?" you could hear the whine coming from the male's side. "I'm sorry, it slipped my mind and I just couldn't be there anymore, I would've continued to take all my anger out on Lily" you responded as he laughed. "Yeah okay, I'm just glad you two made it back safe, that's all that really matters, is Seonghwa with you?" the male asked. You physically shook your head before remembering he couldn't see you. "No, he just dropped me and Pop off, but he did say he would come back later" you spoke, he hummed. "Going to have sex?" the male asked before you gasped, throwing yourself back on the couch. "Yeo-! What kind of question is that, mind your business" you snarked, him continuing to laugh once again. "All I'm saying is enjoy the time before you have to go back to work" he laughed. "Okay, bye, I'll talk to you later!" you laugh before saying your goodbyes to the male.

You shake your head, taking in a deep sigh, but he was right. You and Seonghwa were back together, that was something you should celebrate, or really think about. Remembering all the times you sat on this very same couch with tubs of ice cream empty on your coffee table, crying over the male, you finally got him back, and this time you felt better about it.

Standing up you grabbed your phone after gently resting Pop's head on your empty spot, humming softly as you made your way to your room. Taking a look around before getting on your knees and pulling a medium brown box from under your bed, sitting beside your bed on the floor.

Gently sighing before you opened the box, pulling out a picture frame of you and Seonghwa, a photo you took on your old polaroid camera that was carefully placed under the picture frame, along with a dried rose. Taking out the box made you slightly emotional. Taking you back to a time where you thought you weren't going to be able to be strong, though things were still going a bit faster. You let the tears stream down your face. Taking a stand, you placed the picture frame on your end table, facing it diagonal to the bed. You gently shut the box and pushed it back under the bed as you sighed.

The time was now around 10:40 am. You decided to take a shower to get yourself ready for the day. Going into your bedroom connected bathroom as you started the shower. You made sure to pamper yourself: washed your hair, shaved your body, got out and brushed your teeth, did your skincare and makeup. After you fixed your hair, going with your signature hair. You went and got dressed in an outfit. It was hot, too hot to wear a jacket, so you decided on some jean shorts, a cropped tank top accompanied by some silver jewelry and your white and grey dunks that complimented the outfit.

You heard your phone that you had placed on the charger earlier ring, Seonghwa on the other side. A smile lit up your face as you answered, hearing the words. "Hey princess." ring through your ears on the other side. "Hi!" you said back excitedly, applying deodorant to your pits. "I'm on the way back over, that fine with you?" he asked as you nodded. "Mhm, sounds perfect" the male hummed with a slight smile. "I'm going to pick up some lunch, what would you like?". "Anything is fine with me" you responded, humming softly. "Okay, I'll get your favorite" the male spoke. "Okay, see you when you get here, I love you" you spoke. "I love you" he replied before he hung up. You smiled, if you were on your bed right now, you'd be laid out on your stomach, kicking your feet and giggling. Hearing those words always made your heart flutter.

You made your way to the kitchen, cleaning up Pop's bowl and refilling his eater bowl, as well as cleaning it before refreshing the water and food. Being gone for two weeks, you still needed to go grocery shopping. But that could wait for another day.

Pop jumped off the couch once he heard you calling his name to come and eat, though he didn't look too interested in the food, though he did take a couple of nibbles. You gently shook your head and sighed a little before making your way to the couch, plopping down onto the fluffy space, taking in the fresh scent of your body and the fresh scent of your house, you were relaxed. At peace if you will.

After a few moments, the sound of your apartment's keypad chimed as the password was entered, a buzz at the end. You sat up straight and stood up, grabbing the baseball bat you kept near the couch, holding it up in a swinging position. You could hear the beeps of the keypad, the sound alarming that it was right, but before you had the chance to swing, Seonghwa made his presence known, turning to look at you as he shut the door and slipped his shoes off. "What the- sorry, didn't mean to alarm you, I forgot your code" the male laughed nervously. Holding up the brown bag, "I got lunch, and brought Pop's a bone" the male spoke as you sighed in relief, setting the bat down in its original spot. "Sorry, you can never be too careful my love" you mumbled, looking at him then going over and taking the bag out of his hands and setting it down before wrapping your arms around his neck.

"Seonghwa chuckled and wrapped his hands around your waist, smiling softly as he pressed a small kiss on your nose. "Thats true, I'd rather you be safe than sorry." The male pressed a soft kiss to your lips as you returned, sharing a lingering kiss before you pulled away at a small rumble of your stomach. "Okay, I think it's time to eat now" you laughed, humming softly as you pulled away. "Sounds about right.

You and Seonghwa sat at the table, eating the food he brought. One of your favorite street tacos from a small Mexican place in the heart of Seoul. The two of you visited their quite often when you first started dating. He also picked up a couple of desserts from a small bakery on the corner, owned by a friend of you both.

You and Seonghwa talked and laughed about everything. Your eyes wandering over the males grinning face as he gave you a toothy smile, his smile wide and eyes slightly squinting. Your heart was content and your belly was full. Since the both of you didn't have any work for the next two weeks, you decided to take today as a relaxing day. Seonghwa wore a brown plaid flannel, with a white tank top underneath, light blue jeans to compliment. You kept on your shorts, but changed your shirt into something a little more comfortable, an oversized t-shirt.

--

The show you and Seonghwa put on had been long forgotten. It being a blur in the background as you were face down, ass up on your mattress. Your shorts had been discarded and your shirt was riding up your hips and back as Seonghwa's long thin fingers had been tracing against your folds for the longest time. You could swear it'd been 4 hours since he started to tease his fingers against your now soaking clit. Your bedroom door was shut and the only thing that could be heard were your soft moans, muffled by your mattress.

"H-Hwa.." you moaned out, your hands gripping fistfuls of your sheets. These are going to need to be changed. A soft hum could be heard coming from his lips as you gently looked back at him. "Please do something" you plead, slowly moving your hips against the male's fingers. He doesn't say anything, not a word before he removes his fingers and replaces them with his tongue, flattening his tongue against your walls before licking a stripe. A loud moan escaped from your mouth biting on your bottom lip as your eyes rolled back.

Seonghwa entered two digits into you as he used his tongue to eat you out, swirling his tongue against your walls. You couldn't help but let the moans escape from your lips. Seonghwa was always good at giving head, it was something you liked most when it came to the both of your sex life. Your moans were like music to the male's ears. He never got tired of hearing your moans, whimpers and whines. Seonghwa could feel your legs shaking as he continued to suck on your clit. His fingers thrusting into you at a fast pace, spreading you open when he slipped another digit into you. Your eyes widened as you gently tried to lean up. Seonghwa smacking your ass and laying back down as your hips shuddered.

"Agh-!" you screamed out, laying your face back down on the bed.

You whimpered more before gripping onto your bedsheets once again, Seonghwa pulled his mouth and fingers away before he aligned himself up with your entrance. You gasped and gently put your hands on his waist as you turned around, laying down on your back. Seonghwa smiled and gently cupped your cheeks with his free hand. "Perfect, I want to see you" the male mumbled before entering himself into you once again, his length rubbing harshly against your plush velvety walls, stretching you open causing you to whine at the stretch. You don't remember him being this big last time. Though you weren't too focused. Your arms immediately wrapped around Seonghwa's neck as he pushed deeply into you. The male's length hit your cervix, causing you to cry out as a moan escaped his lips. Suddenly it was 25 degrees hotter in the room.

Seonghwa pulled out of you, causing a slight sigh of relief to leave your lips before he pushed deeply back into you, hitting your cervix again and leaving your lips parted. You gently peeled the rest of your white t-shirt from your body, allowing the male to have access to your breast. His hand traveled up to your breast, squeezing the plush between his hands. Seonghwa's hips moved at a fast yet steady past, your hands moving to his waist as you gently dug your nails into the male's skin. There will be marks.

Yours and his moans mixed together, sounding like a sweet song to your ears. The sounds of your skin slapping together made the lewd scene even more lewd as you whimpered, letting your hand travel down to your clit as you rubbed it at a sporadic pace. "Fu-fuck..." you moaned out, grabbing onto the male's head.

Leaned down, Seonghwa took your nipple between his lips, his tongue grazing over the skin as he bit and sucked on it, causing more and more moans to escape from your lips. His thrust became a bit sloppier, so did your rubbing against your clit. You could feel the male's length throbbing and twitching inside of you. He was close and so were you. Seonghwa pulled his head up from your boob, making a popping sound as the nipple came out of his mouth. You attached your lips onto his, sharing a sloppy wet kiss. Moaning into each other's mouth, your arms clawing at his back as your lips parted. A string on spit being connected to both of your lips. "I-m so close Y/N." Seonghwa admitted. "Me too" you chimed, moaning as you connected a kiss back onto his lips. "Cum in me" You moaned out, moving your hips to meet with the males thrust.

"W-what?" the male asked, questioning your statement. You shook your head as you breathed against his face. "D-don't think, j-just do" you panted, letting out a high-pitched moan as you felt the male's hot liquid coat your pulsing walls. You gasped loudly clinging onto the male's shoulders. The male slipped out of you as you could feel the quick feeling of emptiness, and the cum leaking from your hole. Sheets you were going to have to change. Seonghwa panted as he looked at you, a smile on his face as he panted. You chuckled and placed a soft peck onto his lips. "I love you Seonghwa.". "I love you too Y/N."

Throughout these last few months, you never thought you would see yourself back with Seonghwa. The man who caught your heart, broke it and then fixed it back up. It was indeed, a fatal attraction.

a/n: and the time has come! fatal attraction has ended! it’s been such a journey and i’m so glad for everyone that has been reading and keeping up with it! with over 211,000 words and 300+ likes on chapters 1 — 9. i want to thank everyone who’s read! 🥺 and it’s over ( yayy ) author jam has put in so much work! [ 4:13 am currently ] feel forward to look through my others and i am out! <3

[sugarmaplewings-fics]

My Universe

────── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ──────

Request (from @kreampop1257​​): Hi! Could I request a fic where Bakugou and his fem!s/o go camping? it's ok if not!!

Pairing: Bakugou x reader

Warnings: None o.O? Ig y’all get a lil kissy kissy but it’s nothing crazy. Also you eat food

Author’s Note:

Sorry again for the long wait! Have some incredibly soft Bakugou (like literally almost ooc söft). Also this one ended up being gender-neutral (no pronouns) so yeah :D

Enjoy!

-Sugar

────── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ──────

────── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ──────

“Where’d you say this thing was?” Your question was directed at the back of Bakugou’s head, his spiky blond hair seemingly flatter from how much he’d been sweating the past few hours.

“It’s not much farther,” he grunted.

You knew how annoying he found complaining to be, so you’d kept quiet on that front for most of your little adventure. But your bags only seemed to be getting heavier, and the sun already hung low in the sky.

Your boyfriend had suggested that he take you camping with him as a sort of romantic getaway. Granted, that wasn’t how he’d put it, but you were inclined to think so. It wasn’t every day you got to spend so much time alone with him. But now you were hot, tired, a little sweaty, and Bakugou had hardly said a word to you on your entire hike up the mountain. Figures.

Following him for a few more minutes, he led you to a small clearing between a circle of trees and unceremoniously dropped his bag. “Here,” he announced, already crouching down to pull out the tent.

You set your own backpack on the ground, taking a look around you. The trees stretched up and up above your head, a thin canopy of leaves just allowing you to see small patches of the darkening blue sky. “This is nice,” you said, twirling to see how large the site was. There was just enough space for your tent and a small fire.

“Don’t just stand there gawking,” Bakugou said. “Help me.”

You walked over to where he’d laid out the canvas of the tent, holding it up so he could put the rods in the support system and keeping it steady as he hammered in the stakes. By the time you were finished, the sky was already streaked with pink and orange hues.

“Clear that spot for the fire,” Bakugou instructed, pointing to a patch of dirt a few feet away from your tent. “I’ll go get some wood.”

And a few minutes later, you had a fire going. You leaned against your boyfriend as you both finally sat and rested on the ground, devouring sandwiches you’d packed earlier.

“Are you having fun?” Katsuki asked you, his eyes averted to his feet as he took another bite from his sandwich.

“Yeah, actually,” you answered, watching the fire dance in front of you. “I like being out here, and the hike up wasn’t too bad.” You laced your free hand with his, turning to face him. “And I like spending time with you. Even if you can be a little bossy.”

“I’m not bossy!” Bakugou said, finally looking at you with an indignant pout.

You giggled, lightly bumping your shoulder against his. “Are too.”

“I just—want things to be perfect for you,” he grumbled, looking away again. “It’s what you deserve.”

You let go of his hand to cup his face in your palm, turning his chin so your noses could brush together. “That’s sweet of you.” You kissed him gently, and you couldn’t help but notice the way he almost seemed to melt into your lips. You went back to your sandwiches a moment later after you’d pulled away, finishing them in silence.

“S’more time!” you announced, pulling the packet of marshmallows out of your bag. You passed it to Bakugou along with a skewer and began roasting them.

The blond hovered his over a glowing ember while you immediately shoved yours into the fire, watching the puffy treat burst into flame.

“You actual fiend,” Bakugou accused disapprovingly with a quirked brow as you raised the blackened flaming marshmallow high enough to blow out.

“The pot and the kettle,” you muttered, flicking off a piece of the scorched skin. “This is the quick way to do it. Besides, now it’s all nice and melty.”

“And burnt,” he quipped, turning his own so you could see the golden brown tone his had taken on.

You shrugged, pulling out a graham cracker and a square of chocolate. “Works for me.”

You tried your best to be neat while you took a bite out of your s’more, but the marshmallow had other plans. It refused to separate from itself, pulling apart in a single gooey string and sticking to your face.

Bakugou watched you out of the corner of his eye with a smirk as he finally pulled his perfectly toasted marshmallow out of the heat of the fire. He took a bite from it plain off the skewer, still amused with watching as you got specks of chocolate and marshmallow around your mouth.

“I’m struggling,” you admitted to him, still trying to figure out the best way to smush down your dessert so it would stay together.

He chuckled at your predicament, waiting until you finished. “You’ve got something on your face.”

“I’m aware.” You pulled a wet wipe out of your bag, grateful that you’d thought to bring one. Once you were finished wiping off your sticky fingers, you moved to swipe it over your face. But Katsuki stopped you before you could, taking your wrist in his hand and sliding closer to you.

Wordlessly, his lips met your face again, pecking away the sweet fragments of your s’more from your skin. You could feel his tongue swiping out, kitten licking at a crumb of chocolate in the corner of your mouth.

“Sweet,” he mumbled lowly in that gruff voice of his, almost making you shiver and causing your cheeks to heat even more than they already were. Finally he moved in even closer, kissing you fully on the lips once more for a long moment. You relaxed into him, fingers settling under his jawline to pull him in. His tongue swiped over your bottom lip as he pushed against you, exhales from his nose mingling with yours. Katsuki finally pulled away, his lips grazing over your cheekbone as he moved to whisper in your ear. “I want to show you something.”

You nodded and he stood, offering you his hand. You took it and straightened, allowing him to lead you off into the woods.

After a few minutes of walking, you noticed the trees begin to thin out. Soon, you were standing in some sort of meadow, wild grass growing up past your ankles.

“Look up there,” Katsuki whispered.

Your eyes flicked to the dark blue canvas of sky and widened as they took in the sight above you. Thousands of stars glittered in the distance, twinkling and bright in the clear atmosphere.

“I’ve never seen so many,” you whispered in awe, entranced by the bejeweled heavens.

“There’s no light pollution up here in the mountains,” Katsuki said, letting go of your hand so he could flop down on the ground. You followed, laying at his side and looking above the treeline, the grass tickling your cheek.

You laid there together in silence for some time; fingers newly entwined, eyes tracing clusters of stars, searching for familiar constellations. You stared up for so long, your eyes began to burn. You let them drift shut, allowing your other senses to take over.

You could hear the steady breaths of Katsuki beside you, accompanying the symphony of insects orchestrating music of their own design. The grass fluttered against every inch of your exposed skin, stirring ever so slightly on every draft of cool night air. You were quick to get lost in the earthly scents surrounding you, each one deeply penetrating your lungs and seeming to spin in your mind.

“Getting tired?”

Bakugou’s rough voice shook you out of your thoughts. You opened your eyes again, focusing on the heavenly view above. “This is so cool,” you mumbled, ignoring your boyfriend’s previous question. “Thanks for bringing me here.”

He tched. “Of course, dummy.” Bakugou squeezed your hand a final time before sitting up, stretching. “Come on, let’s head back before you fall asleep. It’s been a long day.”

Once you were at your campsite again, you pulled out the bedding and your pajamas. Bakugou doused the smoldering remains of your fire before helping you spread out the sleeping bags and blankets inside the tent, your actions lit only by a single lantern. 

Settling in, Bakugou shut off the light, plunging everything around you into a thick darkness. You heard him turn over, and you realized with a hint of frustration that he was facing away from you. You knew your boyfriend wasn’t always interested in cuddling, and you respected that. He wanted his space from time to time, that was all. But did it have to be now? Tonight?

You internally grumbled to yourself, regretting not shoving your sleeping bag even closer to his. Your mind began to wander, but you quickly took notice that you weren’t as sleepy as you should be. Pouting to yourself at your horrendous luck, you turned over, frowning at the feeling of hard earth under your shoulder and hip. You’d literally spent the past several hours physically exerting yourself. The least your body could do for you was allow itself to get the sleep and rest it ached for. But your head was too noisy, the ground too hard, and it was slowly sinking in how cold the woods got at night.

You couldn’t take it anymore. Cringing at the loud shuffling sounds of your sleeping bag, you shimmied your way over to your boyfriend. To your dismay, you could tell by his breaths that he was already some level of asleep. Stealthily, you tried pressing your chest into his back. Already, warmth began to seep into your skin, and you finally sighed in contentment, draping your arm over his side.

And then his breathing changed. Man, he was too easy to wake up.

You heard him chuckle, low and breathy from his still-sleepy state. “You really can’t last long without me, huh?” he said, face invisible to you, still turned away in the dark. “What was that?” he went on. “Five seconds and you already want me again?”

You scowled at the vague outline of his hair, catching onto what he was getting at. “That was so not five seconds!” you protested. “You fell asleep! And besides, it’s cold out here.” Even though he couldn’t see you, you knew he’d be able to hear the pout in your voice.

Still chuckling to himself, he rolled over to face you. “Come ‘ere, Teddy Bear, you know I’m just messin’ with you.”

Your pout remained present on your face, but even so, you found yourself snuggling into his warm chest. It was infinitely softer than where you’d previously been laying, and the way his arms snaked around your body heated you like nothing else.

“How’s this, babe?” His hand smoothed over your back, pulling at your blankets so you could effectively be cocooned against him.

“Perfect,” you whispered, finally relaxing your face and letting your smile creep across your lips. Settling in, you gripped the soft fabric of his shirt between your fingers.

He pressed a kiss to the top of your head, inhaling the scent of your hair. “Was this a nice trip?” he asked, abandoning his initial teasing tone for a more vulnerable one.

“Yes,” you answered, and of course it was the truth. “Thanks for showing me the stars.”

“Knew you’d like them,” he snorted, playing with a strand of your hair.

“The world’s so big,” you quietly mused to yourself, lids finally growing heavy. “The sun. The earth. The moon. And all the stars. But you’re my everything, Katsuki.”

His breath suddenly caught in his throat, causing him to freeze for a moment before he looked down again at your dark form snuggled into his chest.

“My universe,” you mumbled, finally drifting off in his arms.

How could you know that he felt the same? How could he express what you did to him every time you laughed? How he wanted to be there for it all? How he wanted to hold you when you were sad and lift you up when you were happy? How could he say that you meant more to him than you’d ever know, that he’d move mountains just for you if he thought for a second that it would make you smile? How could you know that you were his universe too?

“Of course I am,” he muttered to your sleeping self, pressing a final kiss to your forehead. “Always will be.” And with that, his consciousness joined you among darkness and stars.

────── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ──────

Taglist: @aahilovetheatre​ @basicaegyo​ @hyunmin-1404​ @iiminibattlehero​ @katsugay​ @nabo39​ @pyrofanatic​​ @rainy-skys-and-bright-stars​ @sendhelpimstupid​ @sxngwoos-ash-box​ @xoxopam4​​

[lilallama]

hello! i reaaaaally really reaaalllllyyyy love your writing! I'd like to know how both clubs would react to their beloved texting them? it could be anything you want! I trust your creative mind:D i hope you're doing well~(´∩｡• ᵕ •｡∩`)

[Thank you so much, cinnamon bun ❤ that makes me really happy ^^. I'm doing very good, I hope you do too. Hobis picture didn't fit on here (TT), so I will post it by itself. 💕🍑]

Hoseok

The young boy layed on his silk sheets, on his four thousand dollar mahogany bed, while drowning in the sounds of his best friend. On his phone he kept repeatedly playing the recordings of their calls. Hearing their voice felt like heaven to him, if he could he'd make them talk forever just so he could dwell in the sound of their voice. Suddenly his euphoria was interrupted by a notification.

Y/n 💕

Have you got the homework for today?

If yes, could you please tell me, thanks.

He sat up and put on his glasses. Yes, it really was Y/n. Although they consider him a best friend, Hoseok still cannot stop his heart from racing in his chest. He quickly typed an answer and jumped up to send them a picture of his finnished work.

Seokjin

With his soft black hair pulled back my a fluffy, pink headband and him wearing an evenly fluffy but white bathrobe, he sat in his private bathroom and applied his expensive skincare products. He hummed and sang a bit [I love you, Y/n~] before being interrupted by his phone notifying him that he got a message.

Prince/ss 👑

Have you got the homework for today?

If yes, could you please tell me, thanks.

He immediately threw his fifty dollar "protection and hydration, for a longer lasting youthful look" cream away and hurried to type back. Why should his love have to do homework, when he'll have one of his butlers do it for them. Silly Y/n.

Yoongi

The newest Rap music blasting in his ears, Yoongi hugged a photo of Y/n, his gorgeous [not yet] lover, to his chest. He dispises most of the new music. It's all money, sex and parties, none of which has anything to do with him. He's an anti social virgin, who has to work two part time jobs to be able to provide for himself and his alcoholic mother. But in that moment he didn't care. The sobs escaping his mouth got interrupted by a notification, no one ever texts him.

Angel 🎶

Have you got the homework for today?

If yes, could you please tell me, thanks.

His red, watery eyes widen. They actually wrote him. They noticed little, boring him. Without thinking he typed a response and made his way to give them what they asked for.

Namjoon

The sound of a pen scraping against paper, leavibg behing dark blue, inky lines that are formed into neat writings. As student council president, Namjoon made sure to set an example to everyone. Diligent, devoted, intelligent, responsible Namjoon. Just as the last sentence was brought to an end, a notification popped up on his phone. He was going to ignore the message, but then spotted the name of the sender.

Darling ❤

Have you got the homework for today?

If yes, could you please tell me, thanks.

His pen rolled out of his hand and hit the polished floor of his room. His love just texted him. They asked for his help! Is he dreaming? He must be. Oh, how he longed for such a moment. He can finally be useful to his darling.

Jimin

The music came to a stop and so did Jimin. He pushed his pink hair out of his sweaty face, while whiping some of the sweat away with his already soaked shirt. The white fabric sticking uncomfortably to his body as he tried to catch his breath. After all there's no time for breaks, he has to impress his baby with his skills! But before he could start the music again, his phone buzzed in his backpack. He walked across the practice room with an annoyed look on his face.

Baby 🥰

Have you got the homework for today?

If yes, could you please tell me, thanks.

Jimins vision went hazy for a second and he lost balance. Now on the floor, he still stared at the message. His face flushed even more than before while thinking about their cute face, distraught at having forgotten the homework. He smiled and took a picture of him winking, making sure to take it so they could see his sweaty shirt, stuck to his back in the mirror. He'll send you it once he gets home, until then how about you talk for a bit?

Taehyung

The artistic boy kept his eyes on the canvas before him. His apron had multiple dried up colour stains, while fresh paint coated his fingertips. Some of the paint got smushed on his face as he brushed his bangs aside, while sone of the paint also got stuck in his locks as he tied them into a small bun. He stepped back, the painted face of his love smiling back at him made him break out into a lovestruck boxy grin. But then his phone buzzed and his smile immediately disappeared.

God/dess 🌹

Have you got the homework for today?

If yes, could you please tell me, thanks.

With his mouth slightly agape, his almond eyes stared at the slightly stained screen. Was he imagining things, was his god/goddess really giving him the chance to serve them. After a few seconds he snapped out of it and hurried to grab his homework.

Jeongguk

In the dark of the night, Jeongguk slouched through the streets. He just got in a fight, boxed the guy so hard that he broke his nose, arm and maybe a rib, just to leave that pathetic, shaking pile of shit whimpering on the ground. As the streetlights softly shone down on him, illuminating his face, he received a message.

Spouse 💍

Have you got the homework for today?

If yes, could you please tell me, thanks.

He stopped in his tracks. A cold wind surrounded him, messing up his hair even more. A bright smile appeared on his face, revealing his bunny like teeth. After jumping around and twirling once or twice he stopped to reply. He couldn't repress the laugh that escaped his dry throat. Now he only has to hurry home!

Jennie

She was feasting with her parents at the gisnt dinner table, but they completely disregarded her existence, only having eyes for each other. She chuckled and cleared her throat, catching her parents attention who bashfully laughed along with her. Jennies parents are exactly how she wishes her future marriage to be. They started talking when her phone notified her of a message.

Y/nie 😘

Have you got the homework for today, girl?

If yes, could you please tell me, thanks.

Before her mother could scold her on her lack of etiquette, she squealed in a high pitched note, that her Y/n just texted her. Of course, her parents knew about you as well as her feelings for you, they were the exact same when they were younger. They sighed lovingly and huddled together while their daughter excitedly texted her love.

Jisoo

Just a few minutes ago, she was busy going through all her Y/n pictures that have she took these past months [5732, not counting her digital copies]. She was just brushing her silky black hair when her phone let out that obnoxious tone. Jisoo snapped around to her phone on her bed, her 20th one this month [her phone keeps running out of storage room from all her photos, yet she refuses to delete any. So she just gets a new one once her current runs out if storage]. She looked at the screen.

My Muse

Have you got the homework for today, girl?

If yes, could you please tell me, thanks.

As soon as she read these messages, her expression brightened. He brush was thrown into a corner of her big room, making a clack sound as it hit the tiles. In a matter of seconds she typed her answer and send you the homework, as you requested.

Chaeyoung

Soft, gentle fingers stoked the strings on a wooden guitar, filling the room with a sweet melody. An angelic voice joined the guitar play, creating a fairytale like song. As it slowly came to an end, the girl to whom that angelic voice belongs, leans over to her nightstand, grabbing her phone. With longing eyes she stared at the screen while muttering please under her breath. Just then, she received a text message.

My Lovely Y/n 😊

Have you got the homework for today, girl?

If yes, could you please tell me, thanks.

She jumped up, placing the guitar on her bed while dancing around. Her eyes, filled with love and adoration, focused on the text. She took a screenshot and replied while singing out of happiness.

Lisa

After she had finished her last pirouette for the day, she scated off the ice to remove her scates. The young girl sat on the cold bench, letting her hair out of her bun, to flow over her shoulders in smooth waves. While removing her skates, she received a notification on her phone.

Sweetheart 🌸

Have you got the homework for today, girl?

If yes, could you please tell me, thanks.

Lisa smiled as she exchanged her ice skates for a pair of warm boots and placed them back to where they belong. While texting her love, she walked out with poise and flipped her hair back. Of course her love would rely on her. She is the most trustworthy person after all.

[thoseofgreatambition]

satin trim

duet masterlist

description: your love with george is quite dramatic. not in the ways of your romance books where true loves are separated by a villain. but in the little teenage ways where you’re certain no one understands your feelings, or how you’re waiting for the other to see how beautiful you are. 

 a/n: this is the ???? 3rd installment of my collab with @ickle-ronniekins! Erica is the most wonderful writer on this platform tbh and i’m blessed to be able to write with her. we’ve been talking about these overly dramatic babes so much these past few days, and i’ve been enjoying the hell out of it. i hope you do too! 

wordcount: 3K

warnings: nada

You fell onto your four poster bed in the most dramatic fashion your seventeen year old self could manage. The hand embroidered pillow case your grandmother had sent you, currently had your entire face smushed into it as you kicked your legs while you laid on your tummy. “I don’t have a date for the Yule Ball! I’ll be alone forever!” 

Sarah, your dorm mate gave you a chuckle, “Ask out Weasley.” 

Puzzled, your ribbon now halfway out of your hair you looked at her. “Which one? There’s four.” 

“George!” 

“No!” sitting up abruptly, the thin blue ribbon end covered your left eye. “Then he’ll know I like him!” 

“That’s the point, Y/N!” 

“He can’t though! Clearly he doesn’t--”

“How do you know he doesn’t?” Sarah demanded you, “How do you know?” 

There was a long pause before you spoke. “He can’t like me. George hasn’t said that he likes me.” 

Oddly, you found yourself being stared at as if you were a child again. People always seemed to look at you like you’d said something silly.

“But you like him.” 

“I don’t like him! It’s deeper than that!” you watched her eyes roll with increasing amounts of distress. “I love him!” 

“Fine, whatever, you’re in love. But you haven’t told him yet.” 

“No. Of course not.”

“Because you don’t want him to know?” 

You nodded, “I don’t want him to know.” 

“So, don’t you think he’s doing the same thing? That maybe he’s too shy?” 

For a few moments you stared at her before speaking again. “No, that can’t be it. He doesn’t like me.” you fell back onto the bed with a dramatic flourish and kicked your legs again. “My secret admirer hasn’t come forward either! This isn’t anything like those muggle romance books my grandmother sent me!” 

Sarah got off her bed and left the dorm room, “Alright, I tried talking some sense into you. See you later, Y/N.”

With another sigh, you looked towards your neat rows of ribbons on your dresser. Carefully you took out your light blue one from your hair and put it with the others. You’d picked it because you’d been so down this morning that your own love story hadn’t unfolded yet. Gently you fixed your hair with a dark blue ribbon. 

You felt much sadder, and it seemed that your love was quite misunderstood. 

_____________________

Fred allowed his head to fall rather hard onto the wooden table of the Great Hall the next morning, already exasperated with his brother George. “Just ask her mate.” 

“It’s too late. She’ll say no now. She’s probably thinking about her secret admirer--”

“Which is you George--” Fred’s statement was rewarded with a swift prod into the ribs by his twin. “She’s mad about you, idiot! Bet that’s why she’s been moping around.” 

That Saturday morning you’d walked down with your fluffiest sweater and no ribbon in your hair. You took off your book bag and sat across from Fred and George, gently you plucked a slice of toast and began to chew quietly. When Fred kept his eyes leveled on you, you frowned a bit and then swallowed your food. “What is it?”

“Why’re you sitting over here?” 

You pouted, “My dorm mates are calling me dramatic! Can you imagine?” 

George looked fixated on your hair, quite flushed and silent for once. You still couldn’t understand why people had laughed when you called him the ‘shy one’. Especially when it was true. 

Fred looked between the both of you, and let out a long sigh. “No darling, can’t imagine at all.”

“Why no bow, Y/N?” 

George had never seen you without a bow before. Without ribbons in your hair. It made his ears heat up a bit, it felt almost as intimate as if you’d come into the hall without a shirt on. He watched you pull an irritated face as you brushed the hair out of your face. 

You looked at him with a deep frown, “None of the colors felt right. I’m in too foul of a mood.” 

“And what’s got you in that foul mood?” The twins spoke at the same time, though while George’s tone conveyed concern, Fred’s seemed much more indulgent. 

Your face began to heat up, and pointedly you avoided eye contact with George. “I thought I’d be asked to the Yule Ball, but I haven’t.” 

It was hard for Fred to keep from laughing at the entire situation, or to keep from smacking both you and George upside the head. “Yeah, Georgie is having the same problem. “ 

Fred thought, that if you had any sense or your head wasn’t so far in the clouds that you would take that opportunity to ask George to go with you, even as friends, but it seemed that both you and George were too lost in love to use logic at the moment. “Oh George it’s awful isn’t it? I’m surprised. I thought that you’d have loads of people asking you to go.” 

You watched the poor boy grow more flushed, and felt a pang of sympathy. You could be quite shy too and it seemed that he still hadn’t outgrown it since you’d become friends three years before. His long fingers reached to scratch the back of his neck before he spoke. “I’ve had a couple ask me out, but it wasn’t who I was hoping for so I said no.” 

Your delicate brow knitted itself together, wondering who George had hoped for when the sound of owls flying filled the Great Hall. One swooped low over you and dropped a rather large parcel into your hands. The pout on your face finally evaporated away as you read the card. “It’s my dress!” your voice was loud and joyful, the typical shyness gone far away. “Grandmother said that she’d just finished it for me!” 

Fred, knowing that you weren’t about to notice all the food around you that could stain your dress began to move plates and saucers away from you. A glance to George showed his brother had the same thought, both of them trying to hold back any chuckles. Of course the idea of a dress distracted you. 

Quickly your nimble fingers made work of the bow and wrapping on the parcel before lifting off the top. There was a delighted gasp at the white lace and satin trim that seemed to explode from the confines of the box. “It’s so pretty!” pulling the dress further out revealed more volume in the skirt and delicate lacework around the sleeves and neckline. “Oh, isn’t it wonderful?” 

“Feeling better, Y/N?” Fred asked, clearly amused at not only your reaction, but at George’s red face. 

“Of course!” you didn’t notice the indulgent tone, or George’s open mouthed reaction. Instead you smiled at George brightly. Surely this would be how it went. He’d see how pretty you were going to look, ask you to dance and confess his love for you! It would be just like a love story. You held it up to you, “Isn’t it pretty, George?” 

He nodded slowly, with a smile on his face you saw often but could never decipher. “You look beautiful.” His smile grew as you let out a delighted noise and gathered up your parcel just to scamper towards your dorm room to properly try on your dress. 

So lost in his little world, George hadn’t noticed the curious glances from Ron. “What was all of that about? You’re smiling like a git.” 

Any trace of a timid nature had gone away once you had left, leaving George with an annoyed expression for his brother. “Careful who you’re calling a git, Ron.” 

Unfortunately for George, Fred piped up from beside him, giving his youngest brother a grin. “You’ll understand one day Ickle Ronniekins. Once you’re in love.” 

Ginny spoke loudly, from her seat a little ways away, “He’s moony over Y/N, Ron. It’s why he always looks like a git.” 

“Hey!” George attempted to launch a piece of toast at his sister, though she waved it off with her wand. “Aren’t you three supposed to be on my side?” 

All three responded at the same time. “Nope.” 

________________

You could not stop giggling as George twirled you around in the center of the dance floor. The satin trim of your dress flared up around you, pattering George around his knees. It was like always, you were in your own little bubble with him. Oblivious to the world you just focused how his fingertips atop your own made your tummy feel full of sparks and butterflies. “I think you like my dress, Georgie!” 

“If you don’t stop calling me that Y/N, it’s going to catch on.” 

“I think it’s a lovely nickname.” 

“My mum would agree.” George grinned at your delighted giggle and gently twirled you closer to him. Off towards the corner of the Great Hall. Often George wondered where he would be if he hadn’t fallen in love with you those years ago, and often the answer that came to him was the center of attention. 

This quiet moment though was lovely. George loved his pranks and his mischief just the same. He still pouted for days when you would tell him he’d gone too far on something. He still spent nights planning out the next big idea with Fred. George Weasley never felt himself lacking from the attention he desired. Except when it came to you. It made him feel greedy, how much he wanted to consume your time. 

Perhaps it was the middle child in him. The younger twin. The one often mistaken for another. He wanted something of his own. He wanted you. 

You who knew who he was from the start, even if it was because you were so sure it was because he was shy. 

He wasn’t. Though you hadn’t seemed to notice it was you who set him off kilter. Twirling and rocking back and forth like a top that had been spun all wrong. 

It was you. You’d stolen his heart and run off with it. So unaware that you’d become a thief that George doubted you could ever be convicted of it. 

The white ribbon that ran through the plait in your hair. 

How had you not figured out he was your admirer yet? George had seen your marks, they were well enough for you to be able to figure it out. 

He pulled you closer, content in this quieter corner. It was little moments like these, where your eyes sparkled, when you’d spent the entire night by his side, that George wondered if it was possible you loved him back. It was a tempting thought, especially as you eagerly walked with him through the makeshift waltz he was leading. 

You loving him. Marrying young. Living in a little cottage. Running the joke shop, and coming home after work to start dinner before you arrived back. Little children. A smattering of flowers everywhere he turned. 

Such a tempting thing. So terrible that he was certain it was impossible. 

You’d confided the year before that you were in love with someone else as he’d helped you look for your secret admirer. How you’d hoped that it would be the person you loved. 

He’d cried a bit after that one. That one hurt quite a lot. 

George felt himself shocked out of his thoughts at the featherlight touch of your fingers to his cheek. “What’s the matter, George?” 

There was sweat at your brow bone, you’d danced with George so long through the night that even the comfort charm in your shoes was about to wear off. Your heart beat so fast in your chest that it hurt. Surely this would be it then. He would finally notice you. Fall in love. A beautiful moment with lots of kisses and giggles. 

Surely, this was that moment. 

The familiar voice of your headmaster spoke over what was left of the crowd. “Alas, our festivities must end here. The sun will be rising in just a few more hours. You’ll all need your sleep, as will I. It takes me much more beauty sleep than it used to I’m afraid. Now off to bed, everyone.” 

A cacophony of groans from students came around and you found yourself groaning with them. No! No. You hadn’t had your moment yet. The little dream you’d imagined hadn’t come true yet. Damn the sun! Damn sleep! Your love story was supposed to start here. 

George seemed to notice your pouting and gave your hand a gentle squeeze. “Don’t fret Y/N. I’m sure you’ll have another chance to dress like a princess again soon.” 

Absentmindedly you nodded, noticing the stern stare Professor Sprout was sending your way. You’d gotten in a fair bit of trouble a few days prior, being out and about with the twins to help with a prank. 

A glance around showed that you were the last Hufflepuff on the floor. 

Quickly, without thinking you pressed a kiss to George’s cheek. A poorly aimed one at that, closer to his lips than to his cheek bone. 

You felt your nerves explode like fireworks, your brain thrust itself into overdrive as it attempted to figure out what in the ever loving hell you’d just done. George looked at you with wide eyes, bright red-- the poor boy. Why had you done that? You knew he was shy!

Your throat constricted even more when you heard a loud sigh from behind you. 

“Finally!” Fred said, louder than you would have wanted. “I was waiting--” 

The elder of the twins was caught off guard by you putting a kiss to his cheek as well. A much more well aimed one this time. 

“I know! Waiting to go to bed. Sorry boys! Good night-- have pleasant dreams. No causing trouble on your way out.” You fell into a nervous fit of laughter before swiftly exiting the hall, holding the hem of your dress in your hands so you could escape quickly before you burst into tears. 

Silly! Silly girl! So silly you’d ruined everything. 

George who’d found himself silent for so long finally found his voice. He frowned at his twin, who always had so much to say about his relationship with you. “So what do you say about that then?” 

Fred shrugged. “Dunno.” 

_____________________

The sun had just risen, but neither brother was asleep. George stared up at the common room ceiling with dry eyes as his twin was half asleep in the corner. 

“She looked so pretty.” George’s voice was soft and hoarse, as he tried his best to stay awake. 

“Uh-huh.” 

“She got kinda pink when we danced.”

“Uh-huh.”

“Put her head on my shoulder.” 

“Uh-huh.” 

“Laughed at all my jokes.” 

“Uh-huh.”

“Kissed my cheek.” 

“Uh-huh.”

George turned to glare at his twin, “Kissed yours too.”

Fred, who felt rather fed up about all of this gave his brother a smirk, “Clearly it’s me who she likes then.” There was a loud yell, when Fred received a very firm and very old pillow square to the nose. “You’re thinking too much about it George! She probably got nervous or something silly like that. She damn near ran out of the hall.” 

“Because she doesn’t like me!” 

With a dramatic groan, Fred rolled out of the chair he’d draped himself across and walked up the stairs to their dormitory. “That’s it. I’m done. Going to bed. Keep pouting if you’d like. Bet she’s doing the same.” 

_________________

It seemed that Fred was right. The next day when he saw you, you looked absolutely exhausted. Dark bags under your eyes, halfway dozing off underneath a tree with a romance novel in your lap. 

You were nothing, if not consistent. 

He eyed the pink ribbon holding the hair out of your face, and pointed a finger towards it. “Feeling in love then?”

With a frown you pulled a bundle of sweets from your book bag. “If you tease me I won’t be sharing with you.” 

“Won’t share with the twin you’re in love with?” 

It felt like you were going to choke on air for a moment, or that your face would burst into flames. You tried your best to kick him in the knee as he sat down in front of you, but only mustered a small shove. “I said don’t tease me Fred! I haven’t the foggiest of what you’re on about!” 

“You kissed me.” 

“Kissed George too! That doesn’t make you special.” 

Fred put a hand over his heart and pantomimed being in great sorrow. “So mean! And here I thought you wanted to move away together.” 

“I said stop teasing me!” your voice came out as a whine as you slammed your book shut. “I got nervous okay? Panicked after giving George a kiss on the cheek, so I kissed yours too so it wouldn’t seem weird.” 

“It was kind of weird.” He laughed as you tried to kick him once more. “I knew that was it.” 

“Shut up Fred.” 

“What happened to being sweet Y/N?” He frowned when he watched your lip wobble, and laid upon the grass. “Are you going to cry every time I tease you about this?” 

Your voice wavered, “I’m not crying, dummy.” 

With a sigh, Fred spoke. “That’s a yes then. I’ll lay off it. But you can tell him. It’s not a big deal.”

“I won’t tell him.” 

Fred groaned loudly before covering his eyes with an arm. “He said you looked pretty, you know.” 

Finally you managed to kick him properly in the knee. “Stop fibbing just to tease me!” 

“Hopeless! The lot of you! Hopeless and stubborn. Bloody hell.” 

Unsure of what he was on about, you peered at him. “Did I hurt you badly?” 

“No. Just think you’re being silly about all of this, is all.” 

“Everyone seems to call me silly.” 

“Can’t imagine why, darling.”

tag list: @georgeweasleyx @seppys-return-to-madness @fopdoodledane @fredd-weasley @iprobablyshipit91 @darling-details @laneygthememequeen @lupinsx @keoghans @helloallthethingsilove @bobduncanlover @dreamer821 @feffffffy @the-hufflepuff-of-221b @62442-am @wtfweasleyy @obsessedwithrandomthings @sleep-i-ness @shadowsinger11 @shadychaoticcollection @haphazardhufflepuff @afriendlyneighborhoodhufflepuff @hood-and-horan @geeksareunique @insearchofnewdreams @notstandingstill-imlyinginwait @lumos-barnes @thatfuckingliardavidtennant@slytherinqween @xinyourdreamsx @skiving-snackboxess@wildfire-whizbangs @dwarfwizard-from-panem @diary-of-an-onliner @answer-the-sirens @woakiees @black-widow-fangirl@theheirofnightandday @summerstardust @whysoseriouspadfoot@chocok22 @myhopesareanchoredinyou @siriusblackisme@illusivedaydreamer @zeeneee @writingwitchly @wolfpotter12@obsessedwithrandomthings @carolinesbookworld@shadowsinger11 @pit-and-the-pen @summer-writes @peachesandpinks @gweaslvy @alpinewinchester

[thesleepiesthufflepuff]

Tilt-a-Whirl

There were several things that Remus hated with a burning passion, namely cargo shorts and melted chocolate. However, Remus had quickly discovered that there was something else taking the number one spot.

Working at the annual summer fair was the bane of Remus’ existence. Each day, as he sat behind the control dashboard for the Tilt-a-Whirl, he fantasized about quitting. The amount of people wearing cargo shorts was absolutely sinful.

The day was droning on and on. Remus could feel himself getting sunburnt. As he shifted uncomfortably in his ugly polyester uniform, he found himself drifting happily into a daydream.

He wanted nothing more than to slip his boss a note saying I quit, you dickwad.

Suddenly, his blissful thoughts were interrupted.

“Dude, you look miserable.”

Remus looked up. There, before him, was a boy about seventeen, same as him. He was on the taller side with shoulder length black hair. There was something about him that said I’m hot, and I know it. He silently scolded himself as soon as he realized he had been raking over the stranger with his eyes.

“I am,” Remus said.

“Why? You’re working at a fair! I’d kill to work at a fair. It’d be so much better than my job. I deliver fucking pizzas,” said the guy. 

Remus could see that his friends, a skinny boy with glasses and a short, chubby one with sandy colored hair, were anxious to get on the Tilt-a-Whirl.

“This job sucks the soul out of you, although I probably wouldn’t be good at delivering pizza. I’d just eat them in the car. Also, I need to start the ride now,” Remus said.

“Right, sorry. We’ll be back later!” the boy said, smiling at him.

 Remus watched as he and his friends somehow managed to smush into a single cart. Although this was technically against the rules, Remus was too bitter to say anything. Screw this job.

Remus could hear the boys shouting at each other as the ride slowly began to move.

 “Move your fat ass over, Prongs!” the hot boy said to the guy with glasses.

 Prongs elbowed him, shouting, “No! You move your huge ego, Pads!”

What in the fresh hell are these names? Remus thought to himself.

As the carts began to move faster and faster, Remus could only hear snippets of their conversation.

The sandy haired boy looked like he was going to wet himself. “Guys, I think I might get sick.”

Pads snorted, “Wormtail, there’s a five-year-old girl in the next cart. Pull yourself together, man.”

The ride soon came to an end. Wormtail immediately dashed off of the ride, heading towards the bathrooms. Remus didn’t blame him. 

He watched as Pads and Prongs sauntered off the ride. Pads smiled at him as they left, and Remus wondered if he actually would be seeing him later.

***

Several hours passed, mid-afternoon dissolving into early evening. Remus was sipping on a large diet Coke, eavesdropping on families.

Suddenly, a shadow fell over him. Looking up, he realized that the hot guy and his friends were standing in front of him.

“Hey, Cute Guy.”

“Sirius, you are the least subtle person in the world,” Prongs said, rolling his eyes.

So, Sirius is his name, Remus thought to himself. Well, it’s better than Pads.

“Fuck off, James. Subtlety is my middle name.”

“It really isn’t, Padfoot,” said Wormtail. 

Sirius shoved him, “You are no help at all, Peter.”

As Remus watched the three of them bicker, he was reeling over the fact that Sirius called him cute.

“Uh, guys, I have to start the ride.”

“Oh, right! C’mon, you fuckers,” said Sirius as he pulled James and Peter to a cart. 

The ride went by smoothly, although he heard copious amounts of high-pitched shrieking from Peter.

As the boys were leaving the ride, Sirius left a  ripped piece of paper on the control dashboard. 

“I said I would be back,” Sirius said with a wink.

And with that, he left.

 Remus opened the folded paper, taking in the neat block letters and the telephone number underneath.

Call me! I think I can make you less miserable ;)

Remus smiled to himself. Maybe the fair wasn’t as bad as he thought.

~ This was written well over a year ago, and it was one of my very first drabbles. Here’s a new and improved version!

[norcumii]

The Rex/Obi theory

Since apparently we can pin a post, bringing this back from the old blog even though I really ought to do a better write up and just post it as meta on AO3. As always, ship and let ship, we’re all here to have fun, etc.

First off: background sources. Post Blue Shadow Virus, the Naboo gave Rex a set of guns. They are very shiny, very nice, and named Negotiator and Vigilance. Now, given that Obi-Wan has “The Negotiator” as a title, one has to wonder about “Vigilance.” Since Anakin is known as “The Hero With No Fear,” it’s probably not him.

It has also been pointed out to me (thank you, @morecivilizedage) that Obi-Wan’s flagships were the Vigilance and Negotiator. Which…yeah.

Later on, it seems the shuttle that Cody and Rex take in Rookies is named The Obex.

…I am not a fan of the name smushing habit people have for ships, but that’s…kind of blatant.

Also, I recently found out that Sideshow put out an Obi-Wan figure, based on the 2003 Clone Wars design (the modern Clone Wars, and what’s declared current canon, was the 2008 version). To my admittedly limited knowledge, Rex does not exist in the ‘03 show. If nothing else, he’s not listed as a character on the IMDB page. HOWEVER, part of this figure’s design is a wrist com hologram – of Rex. Not Cody. Not another Jedi. REX. WHO DOESN’T EVEN EXIST IN THAT SHOW, WHICH HAS SCREENSHOTS SHOWN ON THE BOX. They didn’t have to call the hologram Rex, and it’s out of continuity to the presented Obi-Wan, and would calling this hologram “Rex” instead of any other clone really sell more figures?

Gotta admit that’s Interesting.

Now, given I totally pick and choose data from non-show sources (…see the horrific novelizations of The Clone Wars – or better yet, please don’t. Character assassination abounds), we need to look at the actual show.

It starts with the movie. Cody has a minimalist presence in there, whereas Rex interacts with Obi-Wan a lot. There’s several scenes where there’s some lovely close interplay, including a bit where Obi-Wan is ordering Rex to pull back – while gripping Rex on the shoulder.

Take a moment. Consider how often you see on the show Obi-Wan touching anyone. He doesn’t tend to initiate that, and it’s rarely outside of a combat situation. But that man can’t seem to keep his hands off Rex. Watch with that in mind, and please, feel free to tell me I’m missing things.

So back to the Blue Shadow Virus. When Anakin is freaking out to Obi-Wan because his wife and student are liable to be the first to die, he wants to know how Obi-Wan can not be on edge. “I’m just better at hiding it.” Take the parallels – Padme and Ahsoka are Anakin’s family. Now, Obi-Wan is prolly also having a HUGE internal freakout because they are in THE hanger that started Duel of the Fates in Episode I, but if he’s hiding the same sort of emotional breakdown, who is that about?

Parallels are important. Take The Deserter. That is THE  shipping episode. Watch how Obi-Wan reacts throughout: he’s grumpy at first, because Grievous is up to the usual shit. Then he coms in to find out what Rex’s status is – and upon hearing Rex has been shot, his immediate reaction is worry, concern – I’d almost say he’s distraught. His orders to Jesse to hustle up and help them take down Grievous is more snarled, harsher, and from that point on Obi-Wan has an edge to him that wasn’t there before. This particular battle has become personal to him, and when Grievous gets away, there is genuine ANGER that a Jedi should not be expressing. What the hells else has Grievous done this   episode or the last to merit that sudden change?

As for the literal parallels, Cut is Rex’s counterpart. They are contrasted again   and again throughout the episode, and that culminates with Rex bidding Cut and his family farewell – so that Rex can go back to HIS family. So. If Rex is Cut, then the kids are obviously the other troopers under Rex’s command, and who does that leave as Suu’s counterpart?

Who is it that Rex talks to immediately? G’on, guess.

Also, Obi-Wan cannot stop gushing to Cody about Rex. I imagine poor Cody has to put up with this a LOT.

In fact, we can show that he does! The episodes with the Zygerrian slavers  – Kidnapped, Slaves of the Republic, and Escape from Kadavo – are just chock full of this. The main crew takes out two BARC speeders. Anakin has Ahsoka riding shotgun in the sidecar, while Obi-Wan has Rex. The intriguing bit is that Cody is left for cleanup and directing the rest of the clones, even though technically Rex is ordinarily in charge of a larger battle group (depending on what bit of canon you’re looking at). There’s that exchange in the slave mines OP mentioned (2 slightly different versions and commentary are linked). There’s also the sequence where Rex gets permission from Obi-Wan to take the shot and be a bad ass on the villain (“I’m no Jedi” indeed). That interplay is subtle, and implies the two work together and closely enough that a glance and a nod are enough to convey what’s  going on. Sure, the 501 and 212 work together often, but Obi-Wan has his own second-in-command.

Interestingly, Cody does not show up after the first episode in this arc. Given that they have the voice actor on hand, and the Wolf Pack is called in at the end for the rescue, tossing Cody and some 212 into the mix would have been easy. So that dynamic has implications.

Not factual enough yet? Screenshots of character positioning being more like a romance moment than in a war flick not good enough?

Let’s go to the Citadel arc. There’s more of the circumstantial evidence, where Rex can be interpreted as having Obi-Wan’s back more than one might think is usual.

But then there’s this gifset. As the mixed 212 and 501 soldiers are thawing from carbonite, watch Obi-Wan in the background. He nopes out of Anakin and Ahsoka’s tiff, and goes over to chat with Rex and Cody. When Obi-Wan gets over there, he raises his arm to do the shoulder grip thing (like I mentioned above, in the movie!). It might not be clear from the gifs, but there is not enough time for Obi-Wan to do that twice before he goes to the one arm behind the back kind of “at ease” posture. When he steps away from the troopers to be the Actual Adult in the room to Anakin and Ahsoka, Rex stands a bit straighter, in proper military posture, and dusts off his armor. It might not be a universal gesture of “aw yeah, I’m awesome,” but it sure seems pretty satisfied. Poor Cody meanwhile is watching the move, which  helps capture the viewer’s eye (and leaves me wondering if he’s going “what the hell is up with you?” or “do not make me hose you down”).

I would honestly love to know someone else’s interpretation of that with un-shipping goggles on. ‘Cause I admit, I don’t see it.

That, folks, is why I ship it like mad. There’s more circumstantial evidence throughout the show, like how Obi-Wan and Rex interact (like a married couple, or in fact often like Anakin and Padme are presented at their best). There’s Rex being extra fancy and staring at Obi-Wan WAY more than Anakin in The Voyage of Temptation, otherwise known as “Satine and Obi-Wan in a Shuttle and Anakin Being Oblivious.” There’s the simple implication of the chemistry between the characters, though that is obviously open to interpretation.

This is animation. It takes time and effort and money to animate a simple shoulder grip, or a specialized gesture such as buffing one’s nails. Voice acting is an art where you have to convey so much emotion with what can be small adjustments to words. Scripts have to go through so much oversight and tweaking to convey a particular story, within the wide scope, and themes and plot threads have to be carefully considered. This isn’t chance, this isn’t one   writer/animator/storyboarder going off into the weeds because they had a Neat Idea.

I really do think it’s canon.

-----------

Random other bits I’ve gathered while re-watching the show:

During the movie, when Rex is told that General Kenobi’s been captured, he just freezes. He goes from digging around off screen for what I suspect is a new ammo cartridge, stills, then yells at the soldier that they have to hold  out, now keep. fighting. It’s less rallying the troops as a bit of emotional pushback.

During Voyage of Temptation, when Anakin is sassing Obi-Wan in the elevator about Satine the possible old flame, Rex is right there in the elevator with both of them (along with poor Cody). Rex isn’t on Anakin’s flank, but Obi-Wan’s (little odd, but I don’t recall offhand how they filed in). And Anakin is “sensing some anxiety” from Obi-Wan about Satine. I love how there’s now another reason for that.

In an…‘interesting’ coincidence, it seems that when Rex got shot in The Deserter, that’s the exact same place Obi-Wan gets shot in Deception. Nothing conclusive there, but it’s intriguing.

from The Zillo Beast Strikes Back – The first time we see Rex, Anakin is giving him orders to “Stay with General Kenobi” – there’s the implication that he’s already with the General.

They’re continuing to leave breadcrumbs in Rebels.

[cagestark]

Winterspider prompt if you're game! There's a meme about a poor college student being robbed; the robber, upon learning just h o w poor, stopping and giving the (empty) wallet back and being sincerely concerned. "You... you live like this?" What if the winter soldier/bucky barnes breaks into struggling college student Peter parker's apt and all his pre-serum steve instincts are triggered by the state of the place and how /tiny/ Peter is (abo/soulmates/soulmarks/werewolf au for spice up to you)

Chapter One | Chapter Two | Chapter Three | Chapter Four | Chapter Five

This prompt came into my house and stole my money. This is CHAPTER ONE. Because I was so inspired that I’m officially making this my first multichap fic. I hope this will appease you for now…And I hope you can forgive me for making it winterironspider (I’m a sucker for starker/winteriron so it all just clicked together nicely). Please come back into my inbox and let me know what you think so far.

Warnings in this chapter: graphic descriptions of being poor. Bucky says fuck A LOT. Peter is 24 but Bucky keeps calling him “kid” because he’s so small. Sickness. 4.1k

-

Bucky can pick a lock in ten seconds flat.

It’s a science: tension wrench goes into the keyhole, the slightest torque is applied, then his favorite pick—the Bogota with three rakes, as of late—goes in and he scrubs the hell out of it until the plug turns. Easy as fucking pie.

The hard part (and he’s not counting the guilt, the horror he would feel if Tony ever discovered how Bucky makes the money he uses to buy his lover trinkets) is scoping out the right apartments. He sticks to NYU residence halls, early mornings and late at nights because the security is usually lax enough to let him through without even checking his ID—if they ask? Oh fuck, I left my wallet in my Uber. Maybe he hasn’t left yet, one sec—and then he’s out of there.

Today, it’s the Lafayette Hall between China Town and TriBeCa, reserved for graduate students seeking their Master’s Degrees in science fields.

It should be empty. On campus is an expo featuring innovators from Sphere Fluidics, Fasmatech, AcouSort, and NanoTemper Technologies which—according to the flier Bucky read online—are huge names in the science industry, all displaying their scientific discoveries from the last business year and scouting for fresh blood.

Any science major worth a shit will be there, he imagines. But it’s mandatory for NYU grad students. Score.  

Content that the apartments will more than likely be empty, Bucky chooses the first hit at random after taking the elevator up: apartment 2B. It’s furthest away from the security camera at the other end of the hall—not that Bucky has ever left behind a reason for those cameras to be checked. It’s the principle of the thing, really. He keeps his back turned, hair in his face, both hands gloved (thank God it’s always cold and dreary in NYC, so his gloved hands don’t draw any attention) while he scrubs the lock. It takes him no longer than it might for anyone with a legitimate key, and then the door is open and he is in.

Bucky can see decently in the dark, the light from the hallway disappearing as the door is carefully closed behind him. Holding his breath, he stills himself, calls upon his enhanced senses, and listens: but there are no sounds coming from the apartment. Empty.

Then he actually takes in the place, and he realizes that that word fits in multiple ways.

The apartment is vacant, he thinks at first. There is the basic furniture all the NYU apartments come with: a refrigerator, a couch, a coffee table. But there is no television, no end tables. There are no curtains on the window across the room—and wow, what a lovely view of the brick building across the alley. The entire place smells musty and unused. Maybe it really is empty—

But no. Little signs of life appear. There are shoes by the door, ones that saw better days many, many days ago. On the wall, a photograph is tacked there, unframed, of two boys on either side of a pretty, dark skinned girl. A plastic grocery sack is dangling off of the drawer handle of one kitchen cabinet, sagging with contents that he can’t make out through the opaque plastic.

Someone does live here, they’re just terrible at decorating.

With careful, silent steps, Bucky moves deeper into the apartment. He doesn’t bother looking for a wallet—that will be with the owner—but usually there is money somewhere else. If he’s really lucky, he’ll find whatever he’s looking for.

Today, he wants blank CD’s. Last night, Tony showed him a movie where the teenage love interest burned—(“why’s it called that, Tony? You don’t burn the thing, do you?”)—a CD with love songs. It was real romantic shit; something Bucky never got to do. Something that he longs to do with this amazing man in his life. He can imagine the look on Tony’s face when he listens to a compilation of all the awesome music he’s introduced Bucky to, and it makes his heart race.

The Best Buy downtown sells a pack of five CD’s for $6.99 plus tax which brings the total to $7.61. That’s all that he needs. He could probably take that and more from any one of these apartments and the occupants would never notice. He isn’t hurting anyone. He doesn’t want to hurt anyone.

Then—jackpot. On the counter is a line of change: neat stacks of quarters and dimes, taller piles of nickels and pennies. Palming it, he cups one hand under the counter and slides the coins home into his hand. A quick count tells him that it’s just $2.30. It’s probably change for the vending machines downstairs, maybe fare for the bus. Nothing that will break this grad student’s bank.

For a moment he contemplates leaving the apartment. He’s almost got a third of what he needs for the CD’s. But breaking into another apartment just escalates the risks he takes, unnecessarily so when the rest of the money could very well be in the bedroom or even in the pocket of some jeans resting on the bathroom floor. No. He’ll press on.

Walking silently, he brings up the floorplan of the apartments in his mind (NYU had all that shit online; didn’t they know how unsafe it was? This world made information so available). The bedroom is on the left, past the kitchen. In the dim light through the window, he can see the door, open, a dark gaping mouth that he slips through soundlessly. It is even darker here, and he stands still waiting for his eyes to adjust further. It’d be no good to go fumbling around in the dark, knocking into furniture.

It only took moments, but as soon as he could make out dim shapes, he heard it. A little whimper. The rustling of sheets. Everything in him went still except for the blood in his veins, propelled by his furiously pounding heart. Someone is here. Bucky broke into an occupied apartment. He is standing in the doorway to a bedroom and there is someone sleeping in the bed.

He gets a glimpse before he can slink back into the living room, and what he sees stops him in his tracks. It is a boy—or a very small man, perhaps, considering these apartments are for graduate students only. The boy is wearing just a pair of boxers, some dark color—red or navy or even black, perhaps, since colors are distorted in this low light—but there is no hiding or distorting how thin he is. The shadows between his ribs are little valleys to the pale, jutting mountains of bone, rising with his fast, shallow breaths. The collarbones protrude, limbs fine-boned and so skinny that Bucky could probably wrap his fingers around an entire ankle or bicep. His face is smushed against one pillow so features are indistinguishable, but the mop of messy curls on top is unmistakable.

There is no bed. There is no bedframe, no mattress, no box spring. A pile of threadbare blankets and sheets are entwined into a makeshift nest, like the kid is some little bird.

After taking in the sights, he takes in the smell. It’s strong—damp and musty, like the windows have never been opened. The pungent scent of sweat. The overly sweet scent of cough syrup, though the two bottles on the nightstand are upended and empty.

Mostly, the acrid smell of sickness. A bucket is beside the bed, and the smell of vomit gets stronger the closer he comes—why is Bucky walking forward? He should be walking away, far, far away.

The boy whimpers again, rolling onto his back more. Sweat coats his skin, and the rapid rise and fall of his chest is even more pronounced in this position, tummy a hollow little thing. This boy is sick, very sick from the smell and the heat that Bucky can feel when he places his hand above the boy’s head, hovering over the skin.

“Ben!” The boy shrieks. Bucky jerks away and nearly topples the trash bin of vomit. His heart is pounding, thinking I’m so sorry Tony, so sorry that I’m going to get caught and get arrested and that you’re the only person in the world I’ll have to call, and if you don’t want to bail me out I’ll understand, I really will—but the boy sleeps on, lips moving. He is dreaming the feverish dreams of the sick.

Carefully, Bucky stands. He backs from the room. On his way out, he takes in more details even if he doesn’t want to: a name-badge for the building and NYU campus (which he takes, which he should have seen on his way in and known that it would be wherever the student was—complacent, he’s gotten too fucking complacent), the silver duct tape on the bottom of the kid’s shoes which holds them together. The past-due notices on the refrigerator. The paper plate resting in the sink, plastic cutlery that has been washed and re-used countless times. The kid is poor. So fucking poor.

And he can’t help that it reminds him of another sickly poor boy from nearly a hundred years ago. He remembers it like it was yesterday, fuzzy memories that Princess Shuri helped turn clear: a thin pale Captain America, the chest-deep coughs that would rattle his whole frame when he was sick, sitting by his best friend’s side through the night just to mop his brow and make sure he didn’t choke on his own sick. His stomach aches, twisting inside out with phantom hunger pains. Stepping into that apartment made him feel like he’d entered a time machine back to the Great Fucking Depression.

Another thought comes: what if the kid needs a fucking ambulance? What if he’s in there, brain frying from his fever? What if he throws up and aspirates? That will be on Bucky. There’s no way that he can walk away from this—not if it could add an(other) life, like a notch, to his murderous bedpost.

Palms sweating, he looks down at the badge he left with. Peter B. Parker. It’s a cute name—Bucky’s always had sort of a thing for alliteration. The picture of the kid is shy with the closed-lip smile and the rampant curls falling onto his forehead. He was skinny to begin with, but not malnourished like he is now. The badge will let him come in through the back doors. Because apparently he is planning on coming back.

Bucky pulls out his cellphone, mostly unused, and makes a call. While he talks, he takes the stairs down so that he doesn’t lose the call in the elevator.

Tony picks up on the second ring. “Hey Bucky, everything alright?”

“Why wouldn’t it be?” In the background he can hear the sound of a door closing, and Tony’s voice grows more familiar, softer and more comfortable. He must have been around company but left.

“You only ever call if you’re about to break the law,” Tony says fondly.

Is he really so predictable? Well, in this case, he’s already broken the law, though that’s hardly a point that he wants to make. “No. it’s—nothing like that. I was just wondering about the credit card you gave me.”

“Oh? Thinking about blowing the dust off it?”

“Yeah,” Bucky mutters. He hates it—hates being like the other million people in Tony’s life who just take his money. The fear that this man who has helped Bucky salvage himself, salvage the will to live life, to carve out a life he wants to live…the fear that he’ll think Bucky is just with him for the money is unconquerable. Tony gave him the leather wallet and the credit card years ago, and Bucky has never once used it. “Just a bit. Twenty dollars. Thirty at the most, Tony, and I swear I’ll pay you back—”

“Hey, hey, no need for the freaking out. Mi dinero es su dinero, polar bear. Buy whatever you need.” He pauses. “Are you in any trouble? I don’t know if you need me to emphasize this, but there’s probably no trouble you can imagine that I can’t get a person out of.”

“I’m not in trouble,” he says, hoping Tony doesn’t notice the unconscious inflection on the word I’m. “But I’ll remember that. I promise.”

“Okay. Great. That’s all I need to hear. Thai, tonight?”

Bucky can’t help but smile. He pushes open the back door to the building and steps out into the street, angling his face away from the security camera at the alley entrance on instinct. The wind is blistery, whipping his hair around his face. “I’ll be there.”

Tony hums. “I can hardly wait.”

They exchange declarations of love and say goodbye. Bucky feels a little choked up, how he always feels after hearing Tony say that he loves him. His eyes sting—but that’s just the wind. Honest. Down the street is a pharmacy and Bucky ducks in, head down. There’s an entire aisle for cold medicines, and he takes far too long examining all the bottles. Thank God there are ones that seem to treat everything: headaches, fever, nausea, cough. Everything except for the kid’s destitution.

He sees the chicken noodle soup and he grabs some of that as well.

Checking out is awkward; Bucky slides the card upside down at first. Then he’s unsure: credit or debit? He clicks credit since it’s first, but then he has to sign and he has a new dilemma. Should he forge Tony’s signature or put down his own? The card has his name on it, but it’s Tony’s money. In the end, he writes his own name. Forging feels too…familiar.

With less than twenty dollars spent, he trudges back down the block to the apartment building, and it isn’t until he’s swiping the key to get into the back door that he realizes he has no fucking idea what he’s going to do. Knock on the kid’s door? Hey, I broke in earlier and saw you were sick and out of medicine, here’s some. I’ll put the change I stole back on the counter. Sorry to fucking bother you?

Bucky Barnes, former assassin for Hydra, absolute dumbass.

Absolute persistent dumbass. Because he knocks on the door. He really fucking does. And when no one answers, he knocks again and again until he hears movement on the other side of the door (a chest-rattling cough that makes him shudder) then the door is cracked open and a bloodshot, honey-brown eye is staring out at him.

“Hi,” Peter croaks. His voice is wrecked, and it immediately does things to Bucky. Things that are wrong, especially considering that his voice isn’t croaky because of a cock nudging too persistently at the back of his throat, but because he is fucking sick. “Can I help you?”

“I’m here to help you,” Bucky says. Peter’s eyebrows furrow. It’s cute. He’s wearing a shirt that is far too large for him, and pajama pants so long they slip down past the backs of his heels. “I’m—visiting one of your neighbors down the hall. You’re keeping everyone up with your cough, kid. I brought you some medicine.”

Peter opens the door wider, so that Bucky is seeing all of him instead of just a two-inch section. He rests against the doorframe because he’s swaying, struggling to keep on his feet, and he is so tiny, so, so tiny. The smell of him is foul, but Bucky would never mention it. “Gosh,” Peter says, and Bucky is horrified to see tears, real fucking tears fill his eyes. “I didn’t know I was keepin’ everybody up.”

“Whoa, whoa,” Bucky says. People say that, sometimes, to horses that are likely to buck off their rider or men who pull out guns in gas stations. Bucky figures that he should probably use either of those situations as reference for what to do now, because how to comfort a crying kid was not in the Winter Soldier’s repertoire. “Don’t shoot.” Fuck. Try again. “I mean—it’s not your fault. You’re sick. Obviously.”

Fat tears roll down Peter’s cheeks. It impedes his breathing even more, until Bucky is afraid that he’s going to choke on his own phlegm. When he speaks, he tries to keep his voice even and clear through his hitching breaths. The shirt slips off his shoulder, bones protruding. “I-I-I know. It hit m-me a-all of the sudden. But now it won’t go away.”

“Have you tried going to the doctor?”

Peter’s smile is downright tragic. He looks like he wants to reach out and pat Bucky on the cheek, call him a sweet summer child, ask him what pipe he smoked to have such a dream. “I d-don’t have insurance. I’m still trying to p-pay off my debt from last year when I had my tonsils removed.”

“And they—what—they won’t treat you? Just because you needed treating once before? They’re fucking doctors!”

“I know,” Peter whines, rubbing a wrist at his leaking nose. The door opens even wider. “Would you like to come in?��

Bucky sees the irony. He really does. A half hour ago, he was in this apartment robbing the kid. Now he’s standing at the kitchen counter watching Peter make ramen noodles (“my aunt always said that when someone is in your house, you should treat them like they live there”). He nearly burns his hand on the pan, and that’s when Bucky moves to take over, stirring when appropriate, adding a packet of flavoring. Peter pulls one bowl down from the cabinet—the cabinet that is unbearably empty from the quick glimpse Bucky gets of it.

“I only have one bowl, I’m sorry,” Peter says, face red, eyes downcast. His hands shake while he ladles the soup and noodles in. He gives Bucky one of the plastic spoons—it’s clean, he knows—but the whole thing is so fucking sad. When Peter glances over the counter, muttering something about some missing rent money, that’s it. That’s it for Bucky.

I’m taking him home with me, he thinks, nudging his spoon against the noodles in his bowl.

“I’m Peter, by the way,” the kid introduces himself. Then his face goes white, shaking intensifies. “Excuse me.”

Bucky hears him vomiting even through the walls between them. There isn’t much to come up, but the retching lasts forever it seems, the boy dissolving back into tears. Instinct says to go to him, but Bucky doesn’t want to be anymore of a fucking creep than he already is. When the vomiting turns to coughing and then to gasping, Bucky decides fuck it. He is a fucking creep. But he’s not going to let the kid pass out and crack open his head.

Peter is in the bathroom, bowed over the toilet, curls matting to his forehead with his fever. Bucky goes through drawers until he finds a washcloth and wets it from the sink, the water stinking of iron, to at least dab at the back of the kid’s neck. He shivers, but sighs into it, his wheezing breaths slowing.

When at last he leans back, his cheeks are red and wet. “Thanks,” he croaks. Bucky just mops at his forehead, avoiding the comical look of relief and pleasure on his face.

“You need a doctor.”

“Can’t afford it,” Peter mutters, reaching out to flush the toilet. Bucky practically carries him back to the kitchen-living room combo, setting him down on the threadbare couch.

“I’ll pay,” Bucky says. Then he winces—because it isn’t really his money. It’s Tony’s money. How can he just promise Tony’s money to this kid? But he can pay Tony back. No matter how long it takes or how hard he has to work. He’s got decades and decades left to live. He’ll spend them all trying to repay Tony’s kindness and love as it is. What is this one extra debt?

“What?” Peter asks, his eyes glassy with fever. “You can’t.”

“Why not?”

“A trip to the doctor costs hundreds of dollars, not to mention if I’m really sick, I’ll need medicine which will cost even more. I’m not taking that kind of money from you.”

“I’m rich,” he half-lies.

Peter looks him up and down, the worn boots, the soft but unremarkable jeans, the gloves that he’s still wearing even though they are indoors. While he doesn’t look destitute, the idea comes across loud and clear: Bucky sure doesn’t fucking look rich.

He sighs. “Fine. It’s my boyfriend. He’s rich.”

“You want me to take your boyfriend’s money? I’m—what? I don’t know you. I don’t even know your name.”

“My name is Bucky,” says Bucky. “And my boyfriend is Tony Stark.”

Peter’s mouth clicks shut. His eyes clear a little, the name cutting through the sickness. “Tony Stark.”

“Yeah.”

“The billionaire.”

Bucky can feel himself smile against his will. “Genius, billionaire, philanthropist, superhero. Yeah, he’s the one.”

Peter reaches out and puts his burning hand against Bucky’s forehead. “Maybe you’re the one who is sick,” he teases weakly.

“I’m serious,” Bucky says. He pulls out his phone and Googles it—hopes the kid doesn’t see the tab of Lafayette Hall dorm room floor plans that was previously open. Then he brings up the tabloids. He and Tony aren’t in the news as often as they were years ago when they first started leaving the Tower together to do couple-things, but the articles last forever. There’s a nice one detailing all about Tony’s promiscuous love life, how everyone thought the bisexual ways of his youth were just a phase. Until Bucky.

The pictures are clear. Peter’s eyes nearly pop out of his head. “You’re dating Tony Stark. Oh my god. I’m—I’m his biggest fan. Oh my god. I think I’m going to pass out. I’ve—” the kid goes red as a beet, “I’ve had a crush on him since I was like, like this tall.”

Judging by the height of his hand when he holds it up, Peter’s been harboring his crush on Tony since ever. And yeah, Bucky gets it. His lips can’t help but quirk upwards—Peter is so fucking cute, even with he way his cheeks are hollow, eyes sunken. He lights up when he talks about Tony. Bucky is the same way. Tony inspires that in people.

“I’ll pay for you to go to the doctor. See? I can afford it.”

Peter gnaws at his lower lip. “But why? I don’t get it. Because I’m keeping everyone on the floor up? That doesn’t—this is weird.”

“Because you remind me of someone I used to know. My best friend, from when I was a kid. He’s—he’s not around now. But you two would have gotten along well, I think. And he would’ve kicked me in the ass if he knew I just walked away when I knew you need help.” He can see the indecision on the kid’s face, the wavering teeter-totter of what he wants to say (yes yes yes) versus what he thinks he should say (no, but thank you). Bucky has an ace up his sleeve: “Why don’t you come back to the Tower with me? Meet Tony. He’ll tell you all this himself.”

“I couldn’t!” Peter nearly shrieks. He coughs, and Bucky waits patiently for him to finish.

“You could. You totally could. You will. I’ll call a car—”

“Oh my god,” Peter whispers under his breath, his whole tiny body going lax and weak like a woman from Victorian times, likely to swoon at any moment. Where are Bucky’s smelling salts? “Oh my god,” he says, soft and to himself. “I’m going to meet Tony Stark.”

Bucky can’t help it. He grins, pats awkwardly at the kid’s shoulder—and Jesus, he’s a tiny little thing, still burning up under Bucky’s grip. “He’s going to be thrilled to meet you.”

-

Peter insists on showering and changing his clothes. Bucky steps out into the hallway to call Tony back and warn him—and ask him to send Happy or one of the self-driving cars. Anything to avoid taking a cab or the subway.

“Twice in one day,” Tony says when he picks up the phone, forgoing a greeting. “Aren’t I a lucky man?”

“I’m the lucky man, ‘s far as I can tell,” Bucky says lowly. If he closes his eyes, he can imagine Tony’s expression, the ridiculous fond face he makes when he looks at Bucky. “I had a favor to ask of you, though. A big one.”

“Anything for you, frosted flake.”

“Send a car to the address that I text you? And—order Thai for three?”

[let-me-write-shit]

Somebody To You: 10

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Word Count: 3,852

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CHAPTER TEN:

“Harry. Wake up.”

The whispers and gentle shaking stirred Harry awake and his eyes fluttered open to see Nancy and Rory hovering over him from his spot on the couch. By the time Harry and Zoey were done talking last night, Rory and Nancy had already gone to bed. He was too tired to drive home so he crashed on the couch, figuring he could just go to his house in the morning to grab a change of clothes before he and Zoey left for the beach. At least that way he could get a shower in. His house wasn’t too far. 

He yawned, stretching before sitting up, “Morning,” he mumbled.

Rory smiled down at him and he noticed that she was fully dressed and ready for the day. Nancy looked like she had just woken up, too. 

“How’s she doing?” Nancy asked, referring to their other roommate.

He shrugged, rubbing his eyes and yawning once more, “She’s getting there.”

“What’s wrong, anyway? She’s not mad at us, right? Why won’t she talk to us about it, but she’ll talk to you?”

Harry frowned, not prepared to be having this conversation after just being woken up, “No, she’s not mad at you. She just wasn’t ready to talk to anyone about it. I don’t even think she wanted to talk to me about it, either, but I’ve been through a similar situation. She’ll open up eventually, just give her time. I promise she’ll be fine.”

Aurora nodded understandably and Nancy spoke up again, “Well Rory has an interview with a magazine today, but I’m free if you two wanted to hang out.”

Harry winced, scratching his head, “I kind of told Zoey that I’d take her to the beach today, just the two of us. I’m sorry.”

“Oh, it’s okay. No worries,” Nancy shook her head, “I’m sure I can find other plans.”

“But maybe tonight we can all do something?” Harry suggested, “I leave tomorrow morning.”

They both agreed but Harry saw the confusion in Rory’s eyes and he felt bad. He hardly saw her during this visit and he doubted he’d be back before the end of the tour. Hopefully, he can make it up to her somehow. 

Nancy made herself and Harry some coffee while Rory left for her meeting and they chatted as Zoey slept. Nancy was interesting to talk to because she never ran out of things to say and her tangents always made him laugh. 

Binx had jumped up onto Harry’s lap and kept bumping his head into Harry’s arm as he tried to pet him when they heard a door crack open from down the hall. Binx leaped off of his lap to trot along Zoey’s side. Her bun was loose and messy with strands of hair falling out of the back, and she padded into view wearing a pair of black biker shorts and an oversized yellow graphic t-shirt.

“Morning,” she smiled, plopping down next to Nancy and resting her head on her friend's shoulder.

Nancy grinned, happy to see Zoey more lively, “Good morning, lovely,” she sang, looping her arm in her friends, “Sleep well?”

“I actually did, thanks. It’s been a while,” Zoey intertwined her fingers with Nancy’s. “How about you, H? Was the couch alright?”

“Better than a tour bus bunk,” Harry’s puffy eyes creased as he smiled, taking another sip of coffee before he noticed the time on his phone. 9:30 AM, “I need to run home for a shower and a change of clothes, but I’ll be back before noon, okay?”

The girls nodded and Harry quickly finished his coffee before heading out. Once the door closed behind him, Nancy warily started a conversation to test the waters and get a feel on what Zoey’s mood was like. She wasn’t afraid of Zoey being in a bad mood, but she knew something had caused her friend to be sad the last week or so and she didn’t want to put too much pressure on her and make her shut herself out again. But from the conversation, it was clear that Zoey was doing better. Whatever Harry had managed to say or do last night seemed to help, thankful that Zoey had someone to talk to, at least. 

“How do you feel about a game night since it’s Harry’s last night here?” Nancy inquired.

Zoey nodded, pursing her lips, “Yeah, sounds fun.”

“Should I text Brett? You up for him to come?”

“Yeah, that’s fine. Why not?” 

She hadn’t seen Brett outside of work in nearly a week and had to admit that she sort of missed him. He was always so much fun and seeing him and Nancy joke around together always had her crying with laughter. Eventually, Nancy wandered to her room to make a few phone calls and Zoey took a cup of coffee to the balcony. She hadn’t realized how long she was out there until Nancy slid the door open and stepped out dressed in a basic light brown t-shirt with the sleeves rolled, a black jean skirt, white tennis shoes, a pair of sunglasses, and her hair in neat, tight curls. 

“You look cute,” Zoey noted.

Nancy smiled, “Thank you. I’m going out to meet with a few friends, but my car is being a piece of shit. I called to have it taken to the shop, but now I don’t have a car. Can I borrow yours? I would uber, but it’s a little far.”

“That sucks! Yeah, my keys are by the door.”

“Thank you so much!” Nancy beamed, hugging her friend before bouncing her way back inside.

Zoey squinted at the cars below, wondering what was going on in their lives or where they were headed. She made up fake scenarios in her mind of a husband and a wife singing along to some music, a family on their way to Disneyland with their excited kids in the backseat, or a group of friends heading into town when she heard the sliding glass doors open again. Except for this time, it was Harry who stepped out, holding two chunks of something wrapped in wax paper. 

“You’re not dressed,” he noticed.

“Oh, shit. Sorry. Lost track of time!” Zoey abruptly stood up, pushing past him and heading to her room. 

Binx followed her in, shutting the door behind her and pulling out her swimsuit and pulling on a short, red wrap dress with white flowers on them, sliding into her white flip flops. She quickly brushed out her knotty hair and threw it up into another bun, wrapping a floral mustard color headband around her head and grabbing a pair of sunglasses on her makeup table before meeting Harry in the living room.

“That was fast,” He said, standing up from the couch.

She finally took in what he was wearing and her eyebrows furrowed, “And you don’t think people will notice it’s you with a clip in your hair, wearing short yellow swim trunks and an unbuttoned blue Hawaiian shirt?” she pointed out, “You couldn’t have picked a more Harry Styles-Esque outfit!”

Harry laughed, grabbing his beach towel, “It’ll be fine. I picked up a couple of sandwiches for us to eat while we’re there. Let’s go.”

Zoey rolled her eyes, grabbing her beach towel, suntan lotion, and a book and tossing it into her beach bag. Harry shoved his towel in as well as the sandwiches, grabbing a couple of waters from the fridge before heading to the door. But just as she was about to reach for her keys, she stopped, realizing they weren’t there.

“Shit,” she muttered.

“What’s wrong?”

“Nancy has my car,” she turned to look at Harry, “should we just get an uber?”

Harry shook his head, “No, we can’t risk waiting for an uber in case we have to leave quickly. I can take us, but I can’t promise you’ll like it.”

Zoey stared up at him, “Why wouldn’t I like it?”

“You’ll see,” he smirked, opening the door and heading towards the elevator.

Zoey cautiously followed him to the car park and froze when they stopped in front of a small motorcycle. He unfastened the helmet from the back and handed it to her.

“You’re kidding.” 

“I’ll drive carefully, I promise.”

“Where do we even put the beach bag?”

“On the back. I have a sack holder,” Harry took the bag from her and strapped it in tightly to the back of his motorcycle before rounding to the side.

“Harry, maybe we should just stay here.”

“Come on, whatever happened to you wanting to be more adventurous?” He raised an eyebrow, smirking. After a moment of pause, she groaned and walked beside him, pulling on the white helmet. Her bun got smushed underneath as Harry tightened the strap under her chin, crinkling his eyebrows as he tried to get a better look and tapping the top of the helmet when he finished, throwing a leg over the side. “Come on, then,” he looked back, patting the small seat behind him.

Zoey frowned behind the screen of the helmet, the heat already beginning to get trapped inside. The sound of her breathing echoed. She grabbed onto Harry’s shoulder, carefully flung a leg over the bike, and straddled the seat, feeling very exposed.

“Just hold onto my waist and follow the turns. Don’t fight against it, okay?”

Zoey took a breath and wrapped her arms around Harry’s stomach, resting the side of her helmet onto his back and locking her clammy hands together. Her heart skipped a beat and began to race when he started the bike up and the roar of the engine came to life. It was loud. 

Slowly, he backed up out of the parking space and lightly jolted as he began to go forward towards the exit of the parking garage. She could see the cars passing by them on the main road as Harry waited for an opportunity to leave and squeezed her eyes tightly shut when he found it, too afraid to look. She felt the bike lightly swaying as they continued down the road and felt Harry’s stomach muscles tense and ease up each time they turned or veered. 

As Zoey got more comfortable on the back of the motorcycle, she began to open her eyes, watching the pavement pass below them and eventually getting the courage to look up at the cars surrounding them, noticing a couple of people glancing over at them from the passenger and back seat of their cars before turning their attention back to whatever it was they were doing. 

“You better hope no one notices it’s you and takes a picture. Might not look good.” Zoey called.

Harry laughed, mocking the made-up headlines, “Mystery girl on the back of Harry’s bike. Who is she?”

“Just an absolute mess of a human being,” Zoey joked back, making him laugh more.

They continued on, finding an indoor parking garage a block from the beach. Harry unhooked the beach bag and flung it over his shoulder, strapped his helmet back in, and led the way out and towards the beach. It wasn’t too busy there when she compared it to the East Coast beaches, surprisingly. There were definitely a couple of crowds on the sand, but most people who came to Santa Monica either went to the pier or walked up and down the strip, so they were able to keep a good distance from other groups of people. It probably helped that it was a Wednesday, too.

The wind whipped at her dress as they laid out their towels, using the bag as a weight in between the two. Harry plopped down on his towel and kicked off his shoes, letting the breeze cool him down from the beaming sun while he watched Zoey rummaging through the bag for her suntan lotion. Once she found it, she lifted off her red dress and tossed it over the bag, exposing her simple baby blue low back one-piece swimsuit and started spraying her exposed skin with SPF, making sure to pay extra attention to her more sensitive, burn-prone areas like her shoulders and chest. 

“Jeez, do you use a whole bottle per day?” Harry squinted, lifting his sunglasses.

“And it still won’t help,” Zoey stuck out her tongue, “I burn like crazy.”

“You look pretty tan to me,” he noted.

“Yeah, once the burn goes away,” she tossed him the bottle.

Harry unbuttoned his shirt, throwing it on top of her dress, and haphazardly sprayed himself down before standing up, “Want to go in the water?”

“Race ya,” she kicked sand back as she darted for the water.

Harry laughed, shouting after her, as he barrelled towards the ocean. Zoey’s shoulders hiked up as the water reached her thighs, cold waves knocking against her. He quickly caught up, lightly splashing water on her arms and dove underneath a wave. When he resurfaced he wiped his eyes and shook his hair free from the salty water searching around for Zoey who snuck up behind him and pushed him right back under. They had gone far enough out that the water reached their chest and the waves were now just ripples that they were able to float on.

“You know, when I was a kid my sister and I would go to the beach and pretend that the waves were dolphins,” Zoey said, kicking her feet in the water, “We’d name each one and pretend that we were mermaids and that the dolphin waves were our friends.”

Harry chuckled, spinning around in the water, “I feel like that’s a right of passage when you’re a kid. Pretending you’re a mermaid or merman. What kid doesn’t do that?”

They laughed, splashing, and joking around more before they decided they were hungry and wanted to eat their sandwiches. The two made their way back to their setup, grabbing their food and eating.

“I’m honestly surprised no one’s noticed you yet.”

Harry swallowed his bite and nodded, “I told you. In large crowds sometimes I can get away with it. For a little while, at least. Then things start to get crazy the longer I’m out. I bet a few people noticed, but they’re too shy to say anything.”

“What do we do if it starts getting crazy?”

“Leave. I can’t imagine us being swarmed or anything, but if it ever gets too crazy, don’t wait up for me. I’ll catch up to you somehow.”

Zoey nodded understandingly before saying, “Nancy mentioned having a game night tonight if you want. I think she was going to ask Brett to come, too.”

Harry eyed her, “Yeah? That’d be fun. What’s going on with him, anyway? Last night you said he was ' a whole different story’. What does that even mean?”

Zoey narrowed her eyes at him, retorting, “What’s going on with you and Rory? It’s been almost two weeks and you still haven’t made up your mind?”

“Alright, alright!” Harry threw his hands up, calling a truce.

She laughed, “No, but seriously, what is going on? I mean I know you and Rory still have a thing...whatever you want to call it. But you’re touring. Do you see anyone while you’re on the road?”

“Are you asking me if I have one night stands?” Harry raised his eyebrows, amused.

Zoey rolled her eyes, “I mean, not exactly the phrase I was looking for. But sure.”

“No, I haven’t slept with anyone other than Rory while I was on tour. I don’t even have the time to, honestly. I’m too busy.”

“Oh, you don’t have ten minutes to spare to fuck, but you have time to fly across the country four times just to hang out?” She smirked.

Harry laughed, throwing his wrapper at her, “I’m tired of you.”

When they finished eating, Harry laid on his back and let the warm sun dry him off, resting his eyes. He wasn’t sure how much had passed when he was awoken by children laughing in delight a few yards away and he sat up slightly, holding himself up with his elbows. Harry took in the scene as a few teenagers passed a football at each other in the distance, children to his right played in the sand, attempting to build sandcastles, and Zoey laid on her towel to his left, on her stomach, kicking her legs as she turned a page in her book, so deeply focused that she hadn’t noticed him wake up. He grinned as she bit her lip, something he did when he was deep in thought, too.

He had to do it. He couldn’t help himself. “AH!” he screamed, jabbing at her sides. Zoey shrieked, pushing herself away and instinctively throwing her book at him. He groaned, rubbing his nose where her book collided, wincing.

“I’m not even going to apologize for that,” she huffed, collecting her book, “You deserved it.”

“You’re too easy to scare,” he smiled, sitting upright. “Are you ready to go?” The sun was starting to cast a golden light onto the beach which could only mean it was close to dinner time. Nancy would be expecting them back soon for game night.

“Yeah, I can feel myself starting to burn.”

Harry snorted and they shook the sand off of their towels, throwing it back into the bag and pulling their clothes back on before making their way back towards the parking garage when they were stopped by a few girls who recognized him. Harry was kind and talked to them, asking how their day was and what they were up to.

“Is this your girlfriend?” one of them boldly asked.

Harry let out a huff of a laugh as Zoey chuckled, “Absolutely not. I’m basically a therapist.”

“She’s just a friend,” Harry informed the girl, changing the subject, “Did you want a photo?”

“Yes, please!” The girls giggled, pulling out their phones.

“I can take it if you’d like?” Zoey offered, “I’m pretty good at getting people’s good sides.”

The girls laughed, handing her each of their phones and they all got together, smiling. Zoey took a few pictures on each of the phones to be on the safe side and Harry gave them all friendly hugs before him and Zoey continued up to the parking garage.

“I think it just hit me who you are,” Zoey admitted, walking in stride beside him.

Harry laughed, “Took you long enough.”

When they reached his bike he again helped her with the helmet and they climbed on, Zoey wrapping her arms around Harry’s stomach as he drove back to her condo, his loose shirt flapping in the wind. The ride back felt different. She was more comfortable on the bike now, of course. But it was something else. Maybe the sudden realization of where she was and who she was with had something to do with it. She could feel the warmth of Harry’s back on her chest and could feel the vibrations of the bike’s engine on his stomach. She could even smell him, sweet yet salty from the ocean air. She wasn’t expecting this wave of temptation, and quickly shook it out of her head. Harry was out of bounds. Besides, even if he wasn’t seeing her roommate, she knew too much about him, now, to go there. She chuckled at the thought and continued watching the palm trees that passed.

 Nancy and Rory were home by the time they had gotten back and Harry helped the girls make dinner while Zoey took a quick shower, rinsing all of the sand from her hair. When she finished, she put her wet hair in two french braids, threw on a plain white tee and striped black shorts, and joined the rest of them to see what she could help with. As she was plating all of the food, Brett had arrived, earning hugs from the girls and a friendly handshake back slap from Harry. 

“Hey, Zoey, how’s it going?” Brett winked from across the kitchen.

She smirked, lightly brushing his arm as she passed him carrying the plates towards the dining table. She knew he was staring at her ass. She could feel his eyes burn holes onto them as she set the plates down, and she had to admit, she loved it. Having someone want you can sometimes be a good feeling. Not always, but sometimes. And in this circumstance, particularly when she felt a bit cheeky, it was nice.

The group quickly ate and chatted before pulling out the games which ranged from standard card games to Pictionary and eventually playing charades. They decided to play girls against guys first, which the girls annihilated before eventually having Zoey on the guys’ team since Rory and Nancy had the advantage of knowing each other for the longest period of time. However, Zoey and Harry seemed to be on a roll, shouting out the right guesses in seconds. Brett got a few answers in there, too, but groaned when he couldn’t get it quick enough.

“Jesus Christ, what are you two? Mind readers? Are you cheating?” Nancy exclaimed as Harry jumped up and celebrated their victory with Zoey. 

He laughed, “Don’t be a sore loser.”

After a while, they decided to settle down and watch a movie. They sat on the couch with Nancy on one end next to Brett, Zoey sat in between him and Harry who sat in the corner next to Rory at the other end. Zoey noticed as the movie progressed that Harry and Rory had gotten closer and closer to each other until Rory’s head was resting on his chest and they were completely ignoring the movie and whispering to each other instead. 

Eventually, the two of them stood up and when everyone looked their way, Aurora announced, “We’re just going to go out for a bit.”

Zoey shot Harry a smug look which he winked at before they were out of view. And then she pictured Harry clasping the helmet on Rory’s perfect, long brown hair and taking her back to his place on the back of his motorcycle with her arms around his stomach and she felt overwhelmed and tired. She had surely got way too much sun today and maybe one too many glasses of wine at dinner.

“Hey, I’m going to head to bed,” Zoey turned to Brett and Nancy, pushing herself up from the couch, “Night, guys.”

She slinked off towards her room, closing her blinds and climbing under the covers. It seemed like ages before she finally got to sleep. Until she was awoken by the sudden rush of air that hit her skin as her sheets were lifted behind her.

“Hey. You awake?” a hushed Aussie accent whispered in her ear.

She turned to see Brett slip into her bed and smirked, wrapping her arm around his neck, “I can be.”

He pulled her body closer to hers and pushed his wet lips hard against hers so hard that she felt the pressure on her teeth. Still need to work on that kissing.

KEEP READING

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taglist:

@thurhomish​

[crazybagelbitch]

Part 3 😭😭😭 idk what I want, more tears cleart

He doesn’t remember at exactly what point Maddie’s wailing turned into quiet whimpering and the three of them ended up smushed together in his bed.

But the three of them are there, him in the middle with Hen and Maddie on either side, arms wrapped tightly around him as if they’re afraid to let go.

And they probably are.

No one has said a word in half an hour other than Maddie whispering his name as she sniffles and he knows that they’re waiting on him to break the silence, but he can’t think of what to say. He knows no explanation or reasoning is going to be good enough for them, and on some level he gets that because he knows that if it had been either Hen or Maddie who wanted to hurt themselves, no reason they could give him would ever feel enough.

But in his mind, everything that he had planned to do had made perfect sense and honestly still does, no matter how much he leans into Hen’s hand on hi back or the way Maddie’s head is resting down on his shoulder.

“Howie...” Hen whispers and it feels like another knife to the gut because he can’t remember the last time Hen has called him by his actual name, “Howie, Chim, I-I need you to... can you talk to me, please? I know there’s probably no one neat answer or reason and I’m so mad that you were going to leave me but... I need to understand if I’m going to help.”

He can feel Maddie’s head nodding against his shoulder and guilt induced tears are once again welling up in his eyes.

“We love you...” Hen continues, and he’s not looking at her but he can feel her gaze fixed up at his face as he looks at the ceiling.

“We do,” Maddie whispers, and his heart clenches at her admission that she feels the same because he never thought he’d get to hear it out loud, and in an ideal world the first time they exchange the sentiment would be or feel nothing like this... not so sad or devastated or hopeless...

“And I-I love you both, too,” he finally pushes himself to say, because he means it, God does he mean it, and saying it is probably the least that he owes the both of them.

“Then w-why were you gonna leave me? Told Buck to tell m-me you loved me without ever giving me the chance to s-say it back...” Maddie squeaks out, and the tears are falling down his cheeks before he can stop them and he feels one hand from Maddie and one hand from Hen on either side of his face.

“Dunno,” is all that comes out, before he shakes their hands off and corrects himself because he does know, and lying to them right now just feels cruel, “I-I mean I do, I think... just dunno how to explain it.”

“Can you try?” Maddie asks, bringing her hand back to his cheek because she is as stubborn as always, even in this godawful situation.

“It doesn’t have to be perfect, we just need you to try,” Hen encourages, voice remarkably calm but he knows her well enough to know that it’s not how she feels on the inside at all and that she’s just feigning calm because she knows someone has to, and it’s not going to be him or Maddie.

“Just... t-tired of failing all the time.”

“Failing at what?” Hen prompts, trying to forcibly tilt his head to look at her, but he just closes his eyes.

“E-everything.”

“Well I’m sorry if your mind has convinced you that you’re failing at everything, but you’re not,” Hen says bluntly, “but we’ll get you some help so you don’t have to feel that way anymore.”

“Don’t want--”

“Too bad.”

“Howie?” Maddie sniffles, “c-can you give me an example? More specific-- something you think that y-you’re--”

“Befriended D-Doug. Could’ve killed you.”

“Howie,” Maddie whimpers, starting to full on cry again and there he goes failing again, making Maddie even more upset than she already was, “no, that’s n-not your fault, it’s not...”

He just shakes his head, feeling Maddie’s tears beginning to soak his shirt all over again as she lays her head down to sob against his chest.

“It’s okay,” Hen hums, one hand on him and one hand on Maddie’s back, “it’s okay, Maddie, he’s going to be okay. We’ll make sure of it. I got you, I got you both.”

[bazypitchandsimonsnow]

Missed Moments with You

Rating: M

Genre: Fluff/Angst

Word Count: 14353

Summary: Almost six months after Baz drunkenly stumbled back into Simon's life, they're still together and happy. Well, mostly. It'd be great if they had more time together, but work keeps getting in the way. Can their relationship survive their real lives?

Read on AO3

Sequel to “Back to Haunt Me”

AN: HAHAHAHAHA I DID IT BITCHES!!!! I FINALLY FINISHED A FIC AFTER MONTHS OF ILLNESS AND WRITER'S BLOCK!!!! Seriously, I could not do ANYTHING for so long. But I was finally able to do this! Big thanks to @carryonmylovelies for all her help and encouragement. She is the best.

Sadly, I couldn't get this to fit into any of my requests. I will try to get to those, I promise. My brain is just not functioning at full capacity and really hasn't for awhile. Hope you enjoy this one tho :)

Disclaimer: I am not a teacher or a psychiatrist. Most of my knowledge comes from being a student and a therapy/psychiatry patient, plus a little research online. This is not meant to be a super duper accurate representation of either. Dramatic License was taken.

———————————————

Simon

Even though it’s soft, I still hear the door close. It’s not like I have super ears. I’ve just been sleeping lightly, trying to stay up until Baz comes back. I hear him quietly take off his ugly shoes, walk towards the room, and open the door. I stay still as he flops down next to me and gets under the blanket. He lazily throws an arm over my side, long nose pressed against my neck. I love when he does this, wraps himself around me. Baz makes me feel so happy.

“Hey,” I say, barely a whisper. “How was the hospital?”

Baz’s groan reverberates down my skin. “Nearly punched a patient’s father in the face.”

“Sounds like the usual.”

“Mhm. Just another day and night at University College Hospital.” He tosses his leg over mine. Sometimes I swear he wants to bloody climb me. “You should be asleep, Snow, it’s late.”

“You’re up.”

“Because I’m a medical resident and my hours are completely insane. You’re allowed the luxury of a mostly normal sleep schedule, take advantage of it.”

I grab his hand over my stomach, weaving our fingers together. “I like waiting for you.”

“Mm.” He nuzzles closer and holds me tighter, then presses a soft kiss behind my ear. I’m in heaven. “Sap.”

“Always.” I kiss the back of his hand. “We should both sleep now, love.”

“Yeah,” he mumbles. “Night, love.”

I close my eyes, finally sinking into sleep as my wonderful, exhausted boyfriend holds me tight.

———————————————

I’m woken up by my alarm blaring shitty hair metal at top volume. Baz lets out a loud groan into my shoulder.

“Why do you play that rubbish?” he growls. “Why not some nice classical?”

“Because this rubbish wakes me up.” I reluctantly extract myself from Baz’s lovely arms. I hear him roll onto his stomach and spread out in a starfish on my bed. He loves cuddling with me, but he also likes to stretch out his long limbs. I grab my glasses, returning my ability to see properly, then turn around to look at him, and my mouth drops open.

“Baz!” I shout. “You climbed into my bed in your fucking scrubs again!?”

Baz lifts his head slightly and pulls at his light blue scrubs, eyebrows pulled together. “Hm, looks like I did.”

“They’re filthy!”

“No.” He flops back down, face smushed into my pillow. “I washed them yesterday. There’s just a bit of dried blood on my trouser leg. No sick or spinal fluid this time.”

I shake my head, but it’s with a smile. “I can’t believe my neat freak former roommate has developed such low standards of cleanliness.”

Baz makes an annoyed grunting sound before sinking further into my bed. I chuckle and press a kiss to his hairline. He’s already asleep again.

I grab my bathrobe and go into the kitchen, a smile on my face. It’s been five months since Basilton Pitch drunkenly wandered his way back into my life. I never imagined we would see each other again, let alone start dating. But it’s been pretty great. Baz is so much more than I thought he was. I already knew he was brilliant, but he’s also hilarious and kind and utterly amazing. I’m happier with him, and I think Baz is happier with me too.

The only problem is exactly what Baz warned me about when we started dating; he’s insanely busy. The hospital has him on a weird, inconsistent schedule. He’ll sometimes work for over twelve hours then collapse for an entire day afterwards. If that wasn’t hard enough, when this started, I didn’t factor in my own job. Very dumb, considering what I do. When I’m not teaching, I’m usually grading or writing lesson plans, so it’s not like I have a lot of free time either. We once went two and a half weeks without seeing each other. It was awful, but both of us understood. Still missed him though. I miss him a lot. In nearly six months, we’ve been on three proper dates. It’s not that I like fancy dinners and shit, I just like being with Baz. I wish we could be together more.

I stop to give Cherry her morning pet and wet food. She purrs under my hand. Then I make myself instant coffee, the ambrosia of primary teachers, and toaster waffles. I leave some for Baz to heat up later. He has pretty refined tastes, but no one can resist toaster waffles. He’ll probably be up to eat them around noon, when we’ll Skype chat while I have lunch at school. It’s my favourite part of the day. I want it to happen more often.

The phone ringing breaks me out of my lovesick melancholy. Penny’s grinning face stares back at me. I quickly pick it up. “Hey, Pen.”

“Hey Si,” she says, voice crackling slightly. “How’s it going?”

“It’s going alright. Just making myself some shit coffee and toaster waffles.”

“I’m a bit horrified your breakfast habits haven’t changed since uni.”

I scoff very self righteously. “Neither have yours. Last time I visited, you were stuffing your face with pop tarts.”

“You have no proof of that.” I can feel Penny’s glare from across the bloody Atlantic.

“No,” I chuckle. “I guess I don’t. Oh, I did almost get video proof of Baz wolfing down two Big Macs. He finished just after I got my phone out, it was amazing.”

“Ha! Get a video of it when it happens next time, then show me that and I’ll owe you a pint.”

“I’ll try next time we go out.” I slump a little in my chair.  “If we go out...”

Penny sighs in a particular way. It’s the one she uses when she knows I’m down and wants to bring me back up. “Baz still working those long shifts, huh?”

“Yeah, so he’s tired a lot. And our schedules have trouble syncing up. It really sucks and it’s not like either of us have a choice in it, especially him. But still it...it’s like- I just-”

“Part of you doesn’t give a shit about work, you just want to be together more.”

I sink further on the chair, so much so I fear I’m going to melt into the vinyl. “Kinda, yeah. Does that...does that make me a bad boyfriend and person?”

“No, no, absolutely not, Simon. It makes you a normal person who desires their partner.”

“Okay, yeah, sure, but Baz warned me about his job. He told me that he would have insane hours and it would make having a relationship really hard. I told him it was okay, that we would make it work, so I can’t get mad now, right?”

“You’re allowed to be upset that you don’t get to see your boyfriend as much as you wish you could.”

“I guess, yeah.” I shove half a toaster waffle in my mouth. It marginally helps. “I don’t know what to do, Pen. I can’t ask Baz to cut his hours, it’ll mess up his degree and piss off the doctors cause they’ll say he’s ‘not being dedicated’, which is a load of bollocks but it’ll happen. And it’s not like I can change when I work. There doesn’t seem to be a solution.”

Penny sighs. “I don’t know what to tell you, Si. There’s no easy way to deal with this. I think you just have to talk things out.” I groan heavily. “Yeah, I know, you hate talking. But can you think of anything else?”

“No,” I grumble. “Save for just shagging him senseless so we can both let off some nervous stress.”

“Sex doesn’t fix everything.”

“Well, no, but it would be nice to try it period.”

“You two still haven’t slept together?!” she says far too loudly. I hope Micah isn’t home. God, that would be embarrassing. “It’s been months!”

“I know,” I groan, “but we’ve both been busy and tired, especially Baz. Mostly we’ve just been snogging, which is awesome. Baz is a great kisser.”

“Too much information, Si.”

“Sorry, sorry. I like kissing, I’d just like to do...other stuff too.”

“Which is perfectly understandable, and the only way it’s going to ever happen is if you figure out where to go in your relationship. And that’s only going to happen by  talking about it and working something out that both of you can live with.”

I eat another toaster waffle. Again, helps a little, not enough. “That’s hard.”

“And necessary if you want to keep this relationship.” There’s a short pause and I try to speak before Penny interrupts me. “You definitely do want to keep it, right?”

My leg jerks so hard I nearly knock my coffee over. “Of course I do! Baz is kind and amazing and funny and brilliant and I fucking lo-”

We both go silent. I put a hand over my mouth. Holy shit, I can’t believe I almost said that. I haven’t even thought about it before, until now. (Typical, I don’t figure it out until I’m right in the middle of shit.) I mean, I’ve thought about it in a sort of abstract, future way. But not right now, not after only five months together when we spent seven years apart and an equal amount of time hating each other. Could I really be in love already?

“Shit, really?” Penny whispers. “You love him?”

I bite my nails, something I haven’t done since second year of uni. “Uh, I guess, maybe. I don’t know. It’s way too soon and I’m not exactly that experienced in love. I don’t think I can say for sure of anything...”

“Okay. What can you say for sure then?”

“Well,” I stop chewing on my nails, “I know I care about Baz. I enjoy being around him. And I really, really,  really  like him.”

“Is that okay with you?”

“Yeah, I can deal with that.”

“Good, stick with that, don’t jump too far. Figure out where you two stand before you start talking about love.”

“Yeah,” I sigh, “you’re right.”

“Of course I am.”

I scoff and roll my eyes, similar to Baz. I’m picking a lot up from him, “I know, I know.” My eyes catch the clock. “Oh shit, I’ve got to go right now. If I’m late my kids are going to destroy the classroom.”

Penny snorts. “The trials of a parent of thirty two children.”

“Exactly. Talk to you later, Pen, love you.”

“Love you too, Si, bye!”

The phone clicks off, leaving me hopelessly alone with my thoughts. So, I want to be around Baz more. That’s reasonable, he’s my boyfriend. But neither of us can be around more because of our beloved jobs. I’m going to have to find some solution. But not right now because I’m going to be very, very late. I rush out the door with only the thoughts of the tube schedule on my mind.

———————————————

“Lishie, no,” I say, taking the marker from her hand, “that’s a shared class writing utensil, you can’t chew on it.”

Lishie pouts at me, blinking her big brown eyes. “But Mr. Snow,” she whines.

“None of that, please. If you must chew on something, please use your own pencil.” I lean down to look at her drawing of a castle. “This is your favourite place, huh?”

“Yeah.” She points at her lovely pink palace. “This is my Lishie only place. It keeps my brother out and shoots lasers at bad guys.”

I nod with a big smile. “Both are very important. Nice work.” I turn to Zahir. His drawing is of a beautiful shoreline with a fiery sunset. “And what place is this?”

“It’s the view from my grandparent’s house,” he chirps.

“It looks lovely, Zahir, good job.”

I stand up and check the other kids. They’re all doing wonderfully. I help where needed, handing them markers and giving colour suggestions. Luckily the kiddos are being good today. I don’t think I can handle their particular brand of tornado like insanity right now.

“Mr. Snow, look what I did!” I lean down to Harrison’s level. His picture is of himself with his two Mums holding hands under an abundance of trees.

“It’s amazing, Harry,” I say. “Where are you three in this picture?”

“We’re at the camping ground where my Mums met. They got married at the lake last year. We go there every summer break.”

“Aw, that’s very sweet.”

“Are you married, Mr. Snow?” Rosanne calls out. I hate mean nicknames. They’re a dumb bullying tactic. At the same time though, “Nosey Rosie” is occasionally apt. Not that I’d ever say that out loud, of course.

“No, I’m not married, Rose,” I say calmly.

“Do you have a girlfriend?”

The kids start muttering and giggling. I sigh, shaking my head. “No, I don’t have a girlfriend either. But my love life is none of your business, munchkins.”

“A boyfriend?” Liza shouts. “My mum said you probably have a boyfriend.”

I sigh and rub my temple. Well, while her mother is correct, the beautiful and single Ms.Thorn has also made many advances on me. I suppose me being gay rationalises my kind rejections of her. I believe she needs to get over herself.

“No, I don’t have a boyfriend.” I hate lying to the kids, but I’m not going to talk about my relationship with them. “Again, my love life is personal.”

Thandi gasps, and leans over to Riya beside her. Her tone suggests a whisper, but her volume shows she absolutely means to be heard. “What if Mr. Snow has a  secret girlfriend or boyfriend?”

They all start chattering away with big grins on their faces. I sigh heavily. There is nothing ten year olds love more than gossiping, especially about their teachers. I’ve caught my munchkins talking about if the football coach and year 11 science teacher are together. (They aren’t. Both Coach Markova and Mr. Saadia have been married for over twenty years. Their husbands are wonderful friends.) I don’t want to become the next rumour on the playground.

“Okay, hush up all of you,” I say loudly. They all quiet down. “It’s not appropriate to discuss my personal life, so you’re going to stop right now, understand?”

“Yes, Mr. Snow,” they reply all at once in a shamed, slightly annoyed tone. It’s one I’m extremely familiar with.

“Good. Now go back to your drawings, or we’ll start the maths worksheets early.”

They all gasp, then go back to drawing. I hear whispers about normal things, like Power Rangers and Disney movies. I sigh and return to my desk, leaning back in the chair. Honestly, even if I did want to answer the kids, I wouldn’t be sure what to say. I do have a boyfriend officially, but I barely see him. Twice a week at best. It’s not his fault, he tries his best. I fuck up more than him honestly. I just wish we could be...more boyfriends? That doesn’t make sense.

My pocket buzzes and I pull out my phone. I’m not supposed to use it during class hours, but the kids are working right now, it’s fine. The text is from Baz. My pulse speeds up like it does every time. But when I open it, my heart drops instead.

Baz [13:40] Hey love. So sorry but I can’t come over tonight. Need to pick up an extra shift. I promise I’ll make it up to you ❤️

I sigh heavily, trying to suppress the disappointment and hurt. It’s not his fault, he’s doing his best. We’ll figure something out. Right?

Simon [13:41] it’s alright love we’ll find another time

Baz [13:41] ❤️

———————————————

“No, no, hold the rock like this.” Baz adjusts my grip. I love his fingers, long and elegant. If he wasn’t a doctor, I think he would make an incredible pianist.

“How does the way I hold the rock change anything?” I ask.

“It helps you get the right angle to skip it.”

I frown in confusion. “I thought the rock’s shape helped with that.”

“Both help. So,” he guides my arm back, “let’s try.”

Baz’s callused fingers caress my bare skin. I let out a shaky breath. God, I shouldn’t get this hot and bothered from Baz just touching me. I’m not some horndog, I can wait for sex. The pent up tension is just...getting to me a bit.

“Now flick it, Snow,” Baz says.

I fling the stone forward. It flies over the pond, sending ripples across the aquamarine water. The stone nearly reaches the other side before finally dropping. I’m grinning ear to ear. When I turn around, Baz is too.

“Wonderful job, love.” He presses a kiss to my temple. “I knew you could do it.”

God, I’m going to melt into a puddle. I peck his lips softly. “Thanks for showing me, love.”

He kisses me back, a bit firmer. I would snog the life out of him right now if we weren’t in the middle of Regent’s Park, apparently a popular relaxation spot for UCLH. We’re surrounded by nurses chatting, residents resting, and doctors smoking cigarettes. (Baz says doctors truly have the least regard for their own health.) We sadly pull apart and take a seat on a bench. I put my head on his strong shoulder, and he throws his arm around me.

“How were psych rounds today?” I ask.

“Awful,” he groans. “Mr. Teversham still refuses to take his medication, and Mx. Joseph is fighting therapy at every turn.”

“Hm, well, you expected this. Any ideas?”

“Mx. Joseph needs to be in therapy without  knowing they're in therapy. Mr. Teversham needs to be sedated so he can’t yell at me anymore.”

I snort. “Not sure that’s legal.”

“It’s not, but one can dream. Both probably need adjustments in their medications but that would affect serotonin levels too much at this delicate stage of treatment.”

“Mm, that sucks. Anything you could do for now?”

“More group therapy and coping techniques, I suppose. Little else we can do.”

I nod thoughtfully. Honestly, I have no idea what he’s talking about, but I try to be interested. It’s important to him so I do my best. 

He slowly strokes my hair. I lean closer to him. “How’s your work going, love?”

“It’s alright. Kids aren’t being too destructive. Oh, I’ve been working on something else though.”

Baz smiles, pulling me closer. “What’s that?”

“A new scone recipe.”

He lets out a joyous laugh, throwing his head back so far some of his gelled hair gets dislodged. I like the way a few raven strands fall in his face. “You seriously haven’t run out of new ones to try?”

I shrug. “Not yet. Maybe one day.”

“And then you’ll start making your own.”

“Probably.” I throw both arms around his torso, squeezing him tight. “I’ll give them to you to try.”

He chuckles softly. “Well, maybe. I have to stay in good shape to keep up with the other residents, and I can’t mess up what little sleep I have.”

I deflate slightly. Right, he’s gotta watch his health more than me. I should remember that. Bloody hell, I’m a terrible boyfriend. “R-Right. Well, I’ll make something else for you I guess...”

He makes a humming noise, but I can’t tell what it means. I’m horrible at non-verbal cues and unfortunately Baz is still no exception. I want to ask him about being around, about us being together, but the words get all tangled in my throat. I don’t know how to ask him without sounding like a selfish arse. 

(Maybe I am a selfish arse. Maybe I don’t deserve this, deserve him.)

(No no, Simon, stop it, stop with the self deprecation.)

(Even though he is better than me...)

I’m about to open my mouth when two clashing beeps ring out. Baz and I scramble to our phones.

“Fuck,” I groan. “Emergency staff meeting in twenty minutes. I’m gonna need to get a cab.”

“Me too,” Baz sighs. “Dr. Dehnavi wants to talk to me about a new inpatient. I suppose I should be flattered, but I’m more annoyed.”

“We’re both suffering it seems.”

“Apparently.” Baz leans over and pecks my lips. I lean forward, just slightly, asking for more that I can’t have right now. “I’ll text you later, love.”

“Yeah, me too.” We dash off in different directions. The questions I have still hang in my throat, but I put them down for now. Next time. Maybe...

———————————————

Thursday April 21

Baz [06:06] Hi, love. I’m finally done my night shift. We still on for the cafe this afternoon?

Simon [07:01] hey sorry I didn’t get this until now. unfortunately i’ve got some last minute extra tutoring to do with Sasha sorry 

Baz [07:02] It’s alright. You free Friday night?

Simon [07:02] nah got grading ☹️ gotta go to class ttyl!

Baz [07:02] Alright, talk to you later.

———————————————

Sunday April 30

Simon [17:37] hey baz can I come over tonight?

Baz [17:58] Unfortunately not. I’m on call for OBGYN all night. Lots of sitting with tiny sick babies in the NICU...

Simon [18:05] fuck that doesn’t sound fun at all ☹️

Baz [18:06] Absolutely is not. I’ll text you later okay?

Simon [18:06] Okay ❤️

———————————————

Wednesday May 8

Baz [22:24] I miss you

Simon [22:24] I miss you too

———————————————

My phone rings at lunch. Baz’s slightly smiling face looks right back at me. I took the photo one night when we were watching telly. He’s got his hair all piled up in a bun, wearing an LSE sweatshirt. He looks gorgeous, as always. I’m so entranced by the picture that I answer it just before the last ring.

“Hey,” I say. “What’s up?”

“Not much,” Baz replies, sounding extremely tired. (He’s been sounding like that more and more lately.) “How’s your day been?”

“Not too bad. Joey fired a spitball at me, but I took the straw away pretty quickly.“

“Dear Lord, you teach monsters.”

I chuckle, shaking my head. “Nope, just children, love. They’re naturally nightmares.”

“Don’t have to tell me, Snow, I have four younger siblings.” He sighs, and I can imagine him tilting his head back, hair falling down behind him. It’s a nice image. “Are you free next Friday?”

“Hm, let me check.” I look at my Google calendar, which is filled to the brim with multicoloured event tabs, everything from field trips to when lesson plans need to be done. (I consider the second one more a guideline than a rule.) Friday is surprisingly blank. A grin breaks out across my face. “Yeah, Friday is good. Got something in mind?”

“Well, I finally have a Friday off. So I was thinking we could dress up and go somewhere nice. Somewhere with fine food, candles, a generally romantic atmosphere. Does that sound good to you?”

I can’t help biting my bottom lip like some stupid teenager. I haven’t seen my boyfriend in person in nearly three weeks, sue me. Sure there’s been some texting and calls and Facetimes, but none of that compares to the real thing. I’ve missed how Baz’s long fingers feel between mine, or the way he cups my cheek perfectly when he kisses me. I just want to be with him. And finally we have a chance.

“That sounds very good. And uh...” I take a pause to muscle up courage to say what I really,  really  want to say. “Do you want to go to my place afterwards? And sleep over? But y’know...not sleep?” Baz snorts. My cheeks are probably bright red. I groan and rub my forehead. “Sorry, that sounded dumb. I’m an adult, I should be able to talk about sex openly.”

Baz sighs in his strangely affectionate way. “Well, we both know you’re not the best with words, Snow.”

I chuckle and shrug. “Okay, true. But the message still got across right? What I’m asking? But please don’t feel pressured, I just wanted to ask if we could try...”

“Yes, it definitely did. And I would love to try. I think six months is a long enough wait. And I’m really sorry about that.”

“Don’t blame yourself, love, we’ve both been pretty physically absent. Life has just been nuts for us.”

“Agreed. So it’ll be nice to...unwind a bit.”

My face is absolutely bright red now. A lot of inappropriate thoughts are racing through my head right now. I have to shove them down so my brain doesn’t start dribbling out my ears before I have to go back to teaching.

“I-I would like that a lot too.” And of course the first lunch bell decides to ring just then. I groan loudly. “Fuck, lunch is over. Kids will be back soon. Text you later to set up details?”

“Sounds good. Bye, darling.

“Bye, darling.”

I listen until Baz hangs up, then press my phone to my chest with a sigh. I feel so unbelievably giddy. It’s ridiculous, really, to be this excited about a dinner and (possible) sex. But for some reason, my chest is so full it's about to explode. I want to run around the room, shouting to the heavens that I’m going on a lovely, romantic date with Basilton Grimm-Pitch.

Fuck, maybe I really am love. That’s a terrifying, wonderful thought.

———————————————

“Does my hair look alright?” I tousle it to the left, then to the right, then to the left again. Penny sighs and shakes her head on my screen.

“It looks fine either way. But if you don’t decide soon, you’re going to be late!”

I groan and tighten my tie, trying to see myself in my tiny image in the corner. “I know, I know, I just want this to be perfect.”

“Nothing can be perfect, Si.”

“Yeah, but I can try.” I sigh, buttoning my grey suit jacket. This is the one nice suit I own, and I took great precautions to keep it from getting wrinkled on my way to work. “So much hasn’t gone right or easily in our relationship. I want one thing to not go down the drain.”

Penny nods thoughtfully. “Understandable. Just also be realistic.”

“Yes, I will.” I check my watch (a graduation gift from Penny that goes really well with my suit) and inhale sharply. “Shit, I really do have to go. Bye, Pen!”

She waves with a big, toothy smile. “Bye, Si, good luck!”

“Thank you!”

We press the red button at the same time. I tuck my phone into my jacket, then do a last cursory look at myself. No wrinkles? Check. Dashingly messy hair? Check. “Supplies” for later waiting in my bedside table at home? Absolutely check. Awesome. I’m so bloody excited I could seriously start flying right now.

“M-Mr. Snow?”

My head head whips around at the small, familiar voice. It’s Jeremy, with his wavy brown hair and little freckles. He’s sniffling, wiping his nose and blood shot eyes. I immediately rush forward and get on my knees in front of him.

“Jeremy? What’s wrong? Are you okay?”

He makes a big sniff, more tears falling down his cheeks. “M-My dad was supposed to pick me up outside, but he never came! And Ms. Reinhart tried to call my mum and she’s not answering and I don’t know what to do!”

He breaks out into another sob. He wraps his little arms around my neck, crying into my shoulder. I pat his back, trying to comfort as best I can. Poor kid. I’m unfortunately aware of what Jeremy’s parents are like. This isn’t out of character for them. His dad’s probably off with his college age mistress and his mum is partying late with her friends. From what I know, Jeremy was an accidental teen pregnancy, and now his parents hate each other and resent Jeremy for “ruining” their young lives. (Baz would say something about emotional stunting and projecting and shit.) This is the first time they’ve truly abandoned him though. Poor, poor kid.

“Is there anyone you trust who could come get you?” I ask quietly.

“My aunt,” he sniffles. “But she’s super far away.”

“Okay, where does she live?”

“L-Luton, I think.”

Fuck, he’s not exaggerating. Luton is an hour away on a good day, and it’s the middle of London rush hour. His parents may be able get here before her, but she’s probably much more stable than both of them put together.

“Alright. Do you know her number?”

Jeremy nods and moves off my shoulder. He pulls out a cheap flip phone. One of his parents probably gave it to him for emergencies. That’s one good decision on their part. He then hands it to me. The contact is listed as “Auntie Caroline.” I stand up and press dial, Jeremy still clinging to my leg. It only rings twice before it’s picked up.

“Jeremy?” a seemingly female voice says, sounding utterly frantic. “Are you okay, love?”

“Hi,” I say, “I’m Simon Snow, Jeremy’s teacher. Don’t worry, he’s here with me, he’s safe.”

She lets out a very deep sigh. “Oh thank god. Is there something wrong?”

“Unfortunately, yes. His father was supposed to pick him up but hasn’t shown, and his mother isn’t answering her calls.”

“Those bastards,” she growls. “My brother and his good for nothing wife have already put him through hell, but this just takes the bloody cake!”

“Believe me, I agree with you. Considering our shared opinion, I was hoping you could come pick him up? I know it’s a lot to ask this late and you’re all the way in Luton but-”

“Don't have to ask me twice. I’ll be there as soon as I can. But it’s going to take me an hour, maybe two.”

I think about Baz, about everything we have planned, about every missed connection these past few weeks. But then I look down at Jeremy, who has the most tragic expression I’ve ever laid my eyes upon. I sigh heavily, then put the phone back to my ear.

“Don’t worry, I’ll stay with him at school until you come. Let me give you the address.”

I rattle off the school’s address, my room number, and the best route to get here. She listens raptly, obviously scribbling it all down.

“Alright, got it. Thank you, Mr. Snow, this means so much to me.”

“No problem, see you soon.”

The line clicks off. I get back down in front of Jeremy. “Your aunt is going to be here soon, Jer. Until then, we’re gonna stay here and sit tight. Okay?”

Jeremy nods, wiping away more snot. “O-Okay.”

“Awesome. How about you go sit in the reading corner and I’ll join you in just a sec.”

“Okay.” He throws himself at me, hugging me tight. “Thank you, Mr. Snow.”

I smile and pat his head. “You’re very welcome, Jeremy. Now go read and get your mind off all this.”

He pulls away and runs over to the reading nook, throwing himself into the neon pink bean bag chair. He grabs a Harry Potter book. Good pick, it’s something he’s familiar with. Though I hate to think how much he relates to the way Harry grew up.

I go to my desk on the other side of the room and take my phone out. Baz’s beautiful contact picture stares back at me, and my heart twists painfully. I hate this situation. I hate that I’m doing this again after nearly three bloody weeks of no physical contact. I can only hope he can understand. And forgive me. The other end rings three times. 

“Hey.” Baz’s honey sweet voice is both comforting and painful right now.

“Hey,” I sigh.

“Oh no, that’s not a good ‘hey,’ is it?”

“No, unfortunately, it’s not.” I run a hand through my hair. “Remember Jeremy? One of my kids?”

“Yes, the one with the arsehole parents.”

“Yeah, that’s him. And tonight his parents have really taken the cake. Dad was supposed to be here but is probably off shagging his barely legal mistress, and mum is probably out clubbing and not picking up either.”

“Bloody hell, what a nightmare.”

“Exactly.” I slump into my chair, tugging my tie loose. “His aunt’s coming to pick him up, but...she lives in Luton...”

It’s Baz’s turn to sigh deeply. “And you’re going to have to stay with him until she gets there.”

God, I'm such an arsehole, and a predictable one at that. “I’m so, so sorry, Baz. I really wanted to go out tonight, and I know you don’t get many days off. This is such an out of the blue thing and I can’t just leave him. I promise I’ll make it up to you.”

“It’s alright, Snow, I understand. I’ll hold you to that promise, okay?”

“Please do. I’ll text you later, yeah?”

“That’s good. Bye, love.” The tinge of sadness in Baz’s voice fucking kills me.

“Bye, darling.”

He hangs up, and I hang my head with a quiet groan. I’m such a dickhead. I could’ve left Jeremy with Ms. Reinhart and went on my date, but I know she has a sick mother at home that she takes care of. Then I would have ruined the date by feeling all guilty and shit. I hate that this is probably the best choice.

“Mr. Snow?” I turn to Jeremy. He’s looking at me with a furrowed brow and pout. “Are you okay?”

I shove all my guilt and worry deep down, and put a big smile on my face. “Yeah, I’m good, Jer. Now how about you read some Harry Potter to me? I’d love to hear it.”

A grin breaks out on his face. “Okay.”

I leave my jacket and tie on my desk and stride over to him. I sit in the beanbag next to him. (Of course I didn’t get these things just for the kids.) Jeremy opens the book to his page.

“Chapter 12,” he starts with gusto

And I sit there listening to him for God knows how long. I laugh, make comments, correct his pronunciation when needed. I'm still a teacher after all. Then when the chapter is done, we watch silly animal videos on my laptop. I make sure Jeremy is happy. He deserves that after all of this. He needs to feel safe. I just wish it wasn’t at the sacrifice of Baz getting stood up,  again. God, am I ever going to get to see my boyfriend again? Is the universe ever going to let us have a moment together? I can’t really blame the universe though, I guess. This was my choice. I’m awful. Baz doesn’t deserve this. I don’t deserve him, honestly.

Soon enough, a middle aged woman with long pink and purple hair sticks her head through the door at the other side of the room. “Hello?”

Jeremy grins and drops the book immediately. “Auntie Caroline!”

Caroline grins and catches Jeremy right in her arms, holding him up high. I walk to them but keep a good distance. “Hey munchkin, good to see you. You okay?”

“Yeah, yeah, Mr. Snow stayed with me. We watched kittens!”

“That sounds awesome.” Caroline turns to me. “Thank you so much, Mr. Snow. Is there any way I can repay you?”

I wave my hand. “Don’t worry, no payment is needed. Just glad Jeremy has somewhere to go.

Her face falls slightly. She puts Jeremy down, touching his head. “Can you go get all your stuff, dear?”

“Okay!” Jeremy races off to the cubby area at ten year old speed. It’s a unique phenomenon. Caroline looks at me with a very serious expression.

“Here’s the thing,” she says in a hushed tone, “I’ve been trying to build a custody case for months, but I haven’t been able to get concrete proof of abuse and neglect. This changes things. If my lawyer needs you to, could you please testify at the custody hearing? I know it’s a lot to ask. You’ve already done so much, so if you can’t, I understand-”

“Say no more.” I take a sticky note from my desk and write out my mobile number. “Here. Tell your lawyer they’re free to call me. I’ll do anything to help Jeremy get somewhere safe.”

She sighs and takes the note. “Thank you, Mr. Snow.”

“Please, call me Simon. Only my students have to use my last name so I can pretend I have their respect.”

She chuckles. “Okay, Simon. It’s no wonder Jeremy says you’re his favourite teacher.”

Well, I don’t need an ego stroke (at least that’s what I tell myself), but...it’s nice. I nod with a humble smile. “Good to know.”

Jeremy runs up, wearing his bright red power rangers backpack. “Ready.”

“Awesome. Say goodbye to Mr. Snow.”

Jeremy gives me a big, full arm wave. “Bye bye, Mr. Snow.”

I tousle his hair, making him giggle. “Bye, Jeremy. See you Monday.”

“See you!” He grabs Caroline’s hand and literally skips away with her. Honestly, I’ve never seen him this happy outside of class. He usually hangs his head and slumps off after hanging around in the cubby area for as long as possible. I know the patter well. It's what I used to do before I went to Watford, when I was stuck in shitty group homes. I hope Caroline gets custody. Jeremy deserves to be happy.

Slowly but surely, I collect all my stuff, from my snot covered jacket to my book bag. I look at my phone, and see a few texts from Baz.

Baz [16:56] Hey, just wanted to reassure you that I’m not upset, I understand. I’ll get another day off eventually.

Baz [18:30] I’ve got some takeout, it’s lovely. I’ll save some for you the next time you come over ❤️

Baz [19:18] I’m going to bed soon. Hope Jeremy gets to his aunt’s safe. Good night, love.

I sigh, my heart feeling like a lead balloon. I absolutely need to make this up to him. I’ll figure something out when my brain isn’t so exhausted. For now, I can at least text him back.

Simon [19:23] Sleep well, love. I’ll talk to you in the morning ❤️

Baz doesn’t reply. He’s probably asleep. Probably...

I walk home with my shoulders slumped and feeling like an utter, utter twat.

———————————————

“I’m a dick,” I groan.

“You’re not a dick,” Penny says. “You did the right thing and kept a student safe. That makes you an incredible teacher.”

“And a crap boyfriend.” I throw my cookie dough on the counter a little too hard. It makes an awful splat noise.

“Well, maybe, but Baz has bailed because of his work as well. And he said he understood.”

I grumble as I roll out little balls between my hands. Baking always helps me calm down. Well, usually. Right now I’m close to crushing each one. “Yeah, I guess, but I still feel super bad.”

“Well, take him out on his next day off.”

“Yeah,” I chuckle darkly, “that’ll probably be in about two or three months.”

Penny sighs, sounding just as defeated as I feel. “That fucking sucks. I can’t believe his schedule is really that insane.”

“He works himself to the bone, because he’s a great doctor and he’s going to be a great psychiatrist. It just means we don’t get a lot of time together, but it’s fine.”

“No, it’s not fine. Both of you need to carve out more time for each other. You’re not the only one who is having issues, Si.”

“Yeah, but like, he can’t help but work more. Being a doctor is more demanding than being a teacher. He doesn’t have control of his hours.”

“Neither do you!” She’s practically yelling. “Being a good teacher means going above and beyond for your students. Therefore, you  have to put in extra hours if you want your students to have a great education.”

I make a semi agreement noise. My non-verbal way of saying she may have a point but I don’t like it. “Okay, maybe. But Baz doesn’t deserve to be neglected because of it.”

“Of course he doesn’t, Si, which is why you have to make time for him. And he has to do the same for you if you want this relationship to work.”

“I know you’re right, Pen, I just don’t know how.”

There’s a small pause, and I can imagine Pen stroking her chin like the old scholar she is in spirit. It’s comforting to think of. Penny thinking was a staple of the best parts of my childhood.

“What time is it where you are?” she asks.

I look down at my watch. “Uh, about 11?”

“Good. Finish what you’re baking, bring it to the hospital, surprise Baz with home baked treats. Then see if you can get Baz to go to lunch with you. If not, at least give him something to eat during his insane shift. Try to talk to him or ask him to talk about all this later. Sound doable?”

I’m grinning so wide it threatens to dislodge my earbuds. “Yeah, definitely sounds doable. Thanks, Pen.”

“No problem. Si. Now can I run this new lesson plan by you?”

“Absolutely, go ahead.”

Penny starts rattling off her curriculum points while I throw the cookies in the oven. And for the first time today, I feel good. I feel hopeful. It’s nice. I’ve missed it.

———————————————

UCLH is a towering, intimidating giant of white metal and panes of glass. It’s hard to not feel freaked out looking at it. Anytime I went to the hospital as a kid it was because of a fight at the group home or injuries from particularly awful foster parents. There was never a good reason to be here. Until now, that is.

From what I remember, Baz said he would be on psychiatry today. Problem is, I have no idea where the fuck that is. I can barely navigate my tiny school. This is an entirely different, far more sterile beast. I walk to the front desk where a man with big round glasses and very cool arm tattoos is sitting.

“Hi,” I say cheerily as possible.

“Hello,” he replies with a perfect, pearly white smile and a thick American accent. “How can I help you today?”

“Uh, I’m looking for the psychiatry wing? Specifically for Dr. Grimm-Pitch.”

“Okay. Are you a patient...?

“No, no, I’m his boyfriend. Got some stuff to drop off for him if he’s not too busy.” I hold up the Christmas tupperware filled with raspberry and white chocolate chip cookies. They’re Baz’s favourite.

The man’s eyebrows shoot up. “Oh, you’re Basil’s boyfriend?”

“Yeah, last time I checked,” I chuckle.

“Wow. Nice to finally meet you. I’m Shepard, from Omaha, Nebraska.” 

He holds out his hand, and I of course shake it. “Nice to meet you, Shepard from Omaha, Nebraska. I’m Simon, from uh, Lancashire, I guess.”

“Good too meet you too, man.” He leans his cheek on his hand. “Y’know, Basil has mentioned you exist a couple times, but won’t say anything else no matter how much I beg him.”

I shrug with a smile. “He’s a private person.”

“Yeah, but if I were dating you, I’d be bragging about it.”

Well, now my face must look utterly ridiculous. I’m twenty five years old and blushing from one compliment. “T-Thanks, wow. You’re pretty forward.”

He throws his head back laughing. “Nah, just blunt, man. And way too nosy, at least according to your boyfriend. Says I have some sort of anxiety fueled need to overshare and figure out everything about people."

"That...sounds odd."

Shepard shrugs. "Pretty sure it's made up. Besides, I already have two therapists. Don't need a third one." He laughs, and I laugh along with him. Thought part of me is truly concerned about him. Hope he's okay, he seems nice. "Anyway, I hope Basil is less intense outside of work than here.”

“Most of the time, yeah. He’s got his softer side, just has trouble showing it.”

“Believe it when I see it. Also,” he hands me a pamphlet, “psychiatry is on the fifth floor. Take the south elevator up and turn to the right. Basil should be at the front desk. Said he had patient files to sort all day.”

“Awesome, thanks.” I take out a cookie and hold it out to him. “Here, you can have this, unless you’re allergic to berries, gluten, or dairy.”

“Nope. I will happily take that.” He plucks it from my hand. “Thanks, man. Tell Basil I say hi, and I still have his pen.”

“Will do, thanks!”

He waves me off with half the cookie already in his mouth. Interesting guy. I may have to come back to talk to him more.

I follow Shepard’s instructions as best I can. Though I get lost trying to find the elevators,  twice. The halls twist and turn and loop back in on themselves. Seriously, who designed this hospital, Willy Wonka? Eventually I finally make it to the elevators and suffer in the sanitizer smelling tube for five floors. The psychiatry floor itself isn’t too bad, just kind of bland. Lots of blank grey walls and inoffensive paintings of scenic nature. And it’s pretty straight forward compared to the first floor. I just have to walk down the hall, turn at the “front desk” sign, and there will be-

I freeze in place. There’s Baz, with some redheaded guy leaning on his desk.

“Come on, Basil, you can’t be serious,” he says in a smooth, beautiful voice. “I’d totally shag Dr. Mayer over Dr. Dehnavi. Mayer has such polished charm.”

“Hm, I prefer a more ruggish look,” Baz replies with a half smile. “And Dehnavi gets that wonderful five o’clock shadow after a day of rounds.”

“True, very true. Not so hot when he’s yelling about oral board prep.”

Baz lets out a laugh, shaking his head. Wisps of black hair fall in his face. He looks at the redhead with a sly smile. “Well, I haven’t gotten to that point yet. But I do get an earful about SSRI dosage levels.”

“Oh lord, you’re giving me baby doctor flashbacks, stop. I’m scared Dr. D is going to be on the other side to yell our asses into submission.” 

They laugh together, and redhead moves closer to Baz, their hands nearly touching. My heart drops to the ground and burrows into the centre of the fucking Earth.

Baz looks at ease, content, and most of all, this guy seems to understand what the hell he’s talking about. Definitely more than I ever have. And he’s super bloody attractive. And he’s there, like I haven’t been. Fuck. Deep down, I thought this was going to happen, but it’s still ripping me apart. Baz has found someone better. I’m just the stupid poor orphaned kid he had a crush on in school. Now he’s gotten those old feelings out of his system and he’s found someone, another doctor no less, who can easily be a better boyfriend. Bloody hell, I’m about to cry. I need to go, right now.

I quietly and quickly get away. Going back through the hospital is a blur. And not just because my eyes are filled with tears and fogging up my glasses. My brain is a jumbled, heartbroken mess that can’t focus on anything. I think Shepard waves at me as I walk past but I can’t bring myself to respond right now. I don’t stop moving until I throw myself into my car, tossing the cookies on the front seat.

Finally, I have to stop. And worse I have to think. So, Baz has found a new guy. Some pretty red haired doctor who makes him laugh with doctor humour and probably doesn’t bail. He’s probably going to break up with me today. I should just break up with him, save him the hassle...

I’m gripping the steering wheel so hard my knuckles are white. My cheeks are raw from wiping tears away. I think about losing Baz, losing a chance to make things better, and it's the worst pain I've ever felt. A small part of me thought that maybe Baz was it. That he was the person I could actually, possibly spend the rest of my life with. Maybe it was a stupid thought. I was so stupid.

My head falls forward, forehead pressed against the wheel. And I just cry.

———————————————

I’ve called in sick for a week. I’ve never called in for that long, not once in my teaching career. But I can’t get off my couch, let alone leave my flat. I’ve been laying here for days, surrounded by takeaway wrappers, watching old Dr. Who episodes, cuddling Cherry nonstop. Penny is probably worried about me but I haven’t really been using my phone. I’ve tried to call Baz a few times, but always hang up before it starts dialing. I know I should just rip off the band-aid already. But I’m a coward, I guess. I’ll just lay here, waiting for Baz to call me and finally dump me. Every time I think about it, I still cry a little.

The phone rings and my heart gets so tight I can hardly breathe. Fuck, this is it. I slowly lift it up. But it’s not Baz’s photo I see, or Penny’s. Rather, it’s Agatha’s, grinning with her soft California tan. I press talk right away.

“Hello?” I say

“Oh thank god,” Agatha sighs, “you’re alive. We were all sure you’d been in a horrible accident or something!”

“Um, no, I’m fine, just a little under the weather.”

“Then why haven’t you been answering your fucking texts, you arse?!”

I move the phone away from my ear slightly to avoid hearing loss. “I told you, I’ve been sick. Haven’t felt like responding...”

“Okay, that excuse could work on Baz or even Penny, but I’m not buying it. Cut the crap, Simon, what’s wrong?”

I sigh, running a hand over my face. Well, she’s here, and I’m too tired to make up another lie. “Baz is breaking up with me.”

“What?!” I move the phone again. Agatha is going to make me go partially deaf in one phone call. “That dickhead! I- Wait, what do you mean is?”

“Well, uh...he hasn’t dumped me yet...”

Agatha takes a pause. I can imagine her expression right now. Probably a lot of confusion mixed with disbelief. “Okay, please explain this to me, because I’m so lost.”

I sit up, scratching the back of my neck. “Well, um, Baz and I have been having issues meeting up for the past month. Things kept happening. Baz had this wonderful date planned after three weeks of not seeing each other. But then a kid from my class needed someone to stay with him because his stupid parents wouldn’t show up and we had to wait for someone else. So I cancelled and Baz said he understood but I still felt awful. Then the next day I was going to bring him cookies to say sorry, but when I got there, I saw him chatting with this redhead doctor. And I realised Baz had found someone better. Hoped it wouldn't happen but yeah, he’s going to break up with me. Just waiting for him to call or come over. I’d do it myself but I’m too much of a wimp.”

There’s a long drawn out silence. The only sounds are the California waves on Aggie’s end and Cherry meowing for attention on mine. More than ever, I wish I was a mind reader. I want to know what’s going through her head. It’s probably less muddled than mine.

“Simon,” she says slowly, “I need you to know that I’m only saying this because I love you very, very much. This all comes from a place of caring.”

“Uh...okay?” Now I really need to know what’s in her head. But I think I’m about to find out.

Agatha takes a few deep breaths, and then, well...explodes. “You absolute, goddamn fucking numpty! You’re seriously throwing away objectively the best relationship you’ve ever had because you saw him chit chatting with some redheaded twat!? For Christ’s sake, Simon, this is beyond idiotic and self destructive!”

“Hey I-”

“Shush, Simon!” I shut my mouth. “I get you have some serious self esteem issues, Si, but what happened to acknowledging and dealing with them? You are not a warm body for Baz until he finds someone ‘better.’ He’s been pining after you since bloody Watford and being with you is his dream come true. I know because he’s told me so!”

My cheeks flush a little. “R-Really?”

“Yes, really! He adores you, Si, he thinks you hung the bloody moon. In no world would he just up and dump you!”

“I-I mean, yeah, but like, I’ve been an awful boyfriend lately. I wouldn’t blame him if he did...”

“You really think Basilton Pitch, king of overthinking and future psychiatrist, would dump you without first trying to talk?”

“Um, well, I can see your point.”

“Good. I promise you, Simon, he doesn’t want to break up with you. But if you don’t talk to him soon, it may be too late. So get your arse in gear and get your guy. Or I’ll come from all the way across a continent and an ocean just to smack you upside the head.”

I chuckle softly. Huh, this is the first time that’s happened in awhile. Feels good to laugh. “Okay, will do. Thank you, Ags.”

“You’re very welcome, Si. Please send me an update later so I know you’re okay? And Penny too so she doesn’t blow a gasket.”

“I promise. Talk to you later?”

“Talk to you later, Simon. Bye.”

“Bye.”

The second my phone is off, I jump up. I’m invigorated with new energy, both happy and terrified. I may have just ruined the best thing that’s ever happened to me because I’m insecure as fuck. I’ve got to fix it. Before it’s too late.

I pick up all the takeaway containers at lightning speed. They don’t all fit into my trash though (God that’s sad), so I have to get a new trash bag. At least I don’t have a depression nest anymore. That’s a good start. Next step, I run to the shower. I smell fucking ripe. No way I can apologize while smelling like the bottom of a McDonald’s dumpster. Thank every god that I still have some hot water left. I scrub quickly and furiously until I stop feeling so gross.

I jump out and go to my room. Unfortunately, I haven’t done my laundry in a week either. The only things I have are a baggy pair of jeans and one of Baz’s shirts. It’s soft cream with flower buds on it. For all his dark brooding, Baz has a thing for florals. It smells like him, cedar and bergamot with a hint of hospital antiseptic. I put it on.

I’m halfway through the buttons when I hear my door open and close. What the fuck? Who’s here? Who has a key?

“Snow?” Baz’s voice calls out. “Simon, are you here?”

Oh. Oh shit. I dash out of my room, shirt still half open. I even slide on my laminate floor like a cartoon character. Baz is standing in my entryway. And he looks like a total mess. His hair is disheveled, there are huge dark circles under his eyes, and he’s got close to an actual honest to god beard. We just stare at each other way too long. Until I can find my words again.

“Baz,” I stutter. “Hi. W-What are you-”

“Oh thank god.” He runs forward and throws his arms around me in the tightest hug I’ve ever felt. “You’re alive. I thought you were dead or in a coma or-” He pulls back. His eyebrows are all scrunched up. “Is that my shirt?”

My face starts to heat up. “Um, uh, yeah. Didn’t have anything else. I was going to see you. What are you doing here? Are you okay?”

He scoffs, but it’s with a smile. “No, not really, I’ve been worried sick all week. You weren’t answering my texts or Bunce’s. I was scared shitless. I came here because it was my last resort.” He pushes back my hair, rubbing his thumbs along my temple. It’s downright tender. “I’m just so glad you’re okay.” His hands move to my shoulders. “Where did you go?”

“I, uh-” I hang my head. “I-I did something dumb. And I got super sad and I didn’t know what to do. So I was just here a lot...”

His eyes grow wide. “You were here at your apartment? All week?”

“Um, yeah...”

He steps back and blinks. His face is just blank, and honestly it’s more freaky than him panicking. “You’ve been home alone all week, and didn’t tell me?” I nod slowly. That blank face suddenly morphs into unbridled anger. “What the fuck, Snow?! You couldn’t take two seconds to text me back to let me know you’re bloody alive?!”

“I-I didn’t know you texted.”

“Check your phone!”

I scramble over to my couch and scoop up my phone. I haven’t looked at my notifications out of fear. Oh...oh fuck. 53 missed text messages, and 42 are from Baz. My stomach feels like it’s full of rocks. I really am the worst.

“Oh god,” I say, voice very strained. “I’m so sorry, Baz, I was just so caught up in my shit, I wasn’t checking my phone-”

“Obviously.” He rubs the bridge of his nose. “Why did you come to my work?”

My eyes go very wide and my body becomes very stiff. “Wait, you saw me there?”

“No, but Shepard came to talk to me the next day. He asked if my boyfriend was alright because he ran out looking upset. I was surprised he knew who my boyfriend was, and even more so that you were there. So why were you at UCLH and talk to me?”

“Uh, I wanted to talk to you and say sorry for standing you up. B-But when I came, you were um, talking to this guy...” I curl in myself, rubbing my arm. “And I freaked out because I thought after I fucked up the date you’d found someone better and...were going to dump me.”

I look up, and Baz’s jaw is wide open. He drags his hands down his face. “Oh my god, Simon,” he groans, “after all the time we’ve spent together, I can’t believe you still think that low of me.”

“N-No! I don’t!”

“You thought I would dump you after six months together because of a cancelled date? Which you cancelled to help a neglected child?! I’m not a monster, Snow, I’d never do that.”

“Y-Yeah, I know, Baz. It’s just...” I rub the back of my neck. “When I saw you with him, it made all this shit come up and I totally panicked-”

“I understand that, Simon. But it was one conversation with another guy! Why did you ghost me instead of just talking?”

He sounds less angry, more desperate than anything. But it makes me feel even worse. “Because...because I got scared and anxious and I hated seeing it so much...yeah.”

Baz’s mouth is a thin line. “That’s not a real answer, Snow. Why on Earth did you think the worst of me instead of trying to talk?”

“It’s not about you!” I shout desperately. All the words are so muddled up, I can’t get them out. It’s not Baz’s fault, my brain is just being so unhelpful right now. I wasn’t ready for this talk, fuck.

“What does that mean? You stopped talking to me because you thought I was bloody cheating on you! How is this not about me in some capacity?!”

“I didn’t think you were cheating! I just- I thought- I just got so freaked out because I didn’t want to lose you-”

“You weren’t going to lose me!”

“But I thought I was and that scared me so much because I- well, I-”

“Because what, Snow?!”

“Because I love you, you massive arsehole!”

The room goes absolutely, perfectly silent. Baz’s lips have fallen wide open. I inhale sharply. Oh God, did I really just say that out loud? I clap a hand over my mouth and look down, trying to get my breathing under control. I can’t believe I just did that. I’m such an idiot. Baz is going to dump me for sure. Adores me or not, I’ve probably scared him off. My hand falls down.

“I’m so sorry, Baz,” I say softly. “I-I didn’t mean to say that. It just came out-”

“Did you mean it?” I lift my eyes up slightly. I expect Baz to look horrified, angry, maybe even disgusted. But instead he looks...kind of awestruck? His eyes are wider than I’ve ever seen them before. I think about lying, but I don’t think he’s upset. And I have a feeling that if I lie he will be. I think I need to stop hiding my feelings from Baz.

“Yeah. I did.”

His lips fall open even more. And I swear, he’s smiling a little. My heart is beating faster. “Seriously? You...you love me?  In love with me?”

I take a deep breath, trying to calm down my racing mind. I nod and take a small step forward. Not crowding Baz, but getting closer. “Yeah. I'm in love with you, Baz. I-I know it’s too soon, but I can’t help-”

Baz cuts me off with the most intense, head spinning, world shaking kiss of my life. He presses the small of my back with one hand and grabs my curls with the other. I literally stumble backwards from it. Baz takes the chance to press me against my hallway wall. Like he’s shielding from the world with his own body. He’s kissing me so hard, so passionately, and I can’t help but melt. 

Is this Baz’s way of saying he loves me too? I don’t know. Honestly, I don’t care. This is heavenly to the Nth degree. I’m good at turning off my brain when needed. So that’s exactly what I do.

I push back against Baz with equal force. He groans so deeply it makes me shudder. I grip his face tight, pushing my fingers through his tangled but still soft hair. He drags his tongue along my bottom teeth, slowly and carefully. I nearly melt into a puddle. We’ve never kissed like this before. Even our most intense snogging sections don’t come close. It’s like Baz is trying to touch and grab every part of me but can’t decide which. I don’t mind. He can have it. I’d give him all that I am and more. I’d tie our hearts together, chamber by chamber.

Baz runs his hands down my thigh. I can feel the heat through my trackies. He hooks under one of my knees, pulling it up. I think I get the message. (I hope). I jump, fully prepared to fall flat on my arse, but Baz catches me easily. I wrap my legs around his waist while he holds me up above him. Christ, he’s strong. It’s so hot. And I love this angle, because I can snog the life out of him more easily. This is amazing. But I still want more.

I pull off his mouth (sadly), just enough so I can speak. “Bed?”

Baz just nods and kisses me again. He pulls us off the wall. He barely stumbles as he walks us through my flat. I scramble to unbutton his shirt. I know Baz is really into this because he’s making no fuss about me possibly ruining his clothes. Soon enough, we stumble into my bedroom. Baz quickly kicks the door shut, cutting off the rest of the world, and I don’t mind one bit.

———————————————

Baz and I roll apart solely because we need to breathe. Our chests are heaving. My blankets and sheets are completely tangled around us. I’m more sweaty than the one time I tried to go to a cross fit class. However, this was a way better workout. I’m glad I kept all those supplies in my nightstand.

So, now I know what sex with Baz is like. It’s sweaty, vigorous, a little awkward, and so,  so  incredible. Pretty sure my brains have been thoroughly fucked out. It takes me a few panting moments for me to muster up a singular word.

“Wow,” I say. My voice is really hoarse, but I absolutely don’t mind.

Baz lets out a small laugh. His voice sounds rough too. It’s really hot. “Still very eloquent.”

“Fuck off.” I lightly push his sweaty shoulder. But when I start to pull back, Baz grabs my wrist and tugs me towards him. Before I know it, Baz is kissing me again. It’s soft, slow but so unbelievably hot. I completely melt into his arms. He’s so warm and strong and I could spend an eternity wrapped up in him. No more work or life, just Baz and I in this bed forever. My god that would be a dream come true.

He pulls off to kiss across my cheeks, then down my neck. He already knows the exact spots that drive me insane. (Well, Baz has always been a quick study.) My eyes flutter closed. I’m falling into that haze again, where my head gets foggy and I can only think in “yes” and “please” and  “more.” Part of me wants to sink back into that bliss, but the aching of my out of shape muscles is unfortunately more insistent.

“Baz,” I whisper, “as much as I would like a fourth round, I’d also like to be able to walk tomorrow.”

Baz groans, but relents and rolls onto his back. We settle for just staring at each other. I don’t mind. Baz is always gorgeous but he is a different kind of beautiful right now. His face is all flushed, pupils blown wide, black hair plastered to his damp forehead. And I thought I couldn’t get more attracted to him.

“You alright?” he asks.

“Yeah, absolutely.” I cup his face, running a thumb on his cheekbone. “You?”

“I’m bloody fantastic.” He spreads his fingers out on my side, tracing the most delicate patterns that make me shudder. “Can’t believe I was so scared of this.”

My heart beats faster as my eyebrows scrunch up. “Scared? Of what?  Me? I’m sorry-”

“Don’t apologize, Snow. I wasn’t scared of you, not at all.” He sighs and pulls me a little bit closer. “I just built up sex with you so much in my head that it became overwhelming. I was terrified of fucking it up after wanting it for so long.”

“Yeah, I’ve been thinking about it from the start too. Six months of sexual tension really mess with your head.”

He chuckles. I like the way his breath hits my skin. “Simon, love, I first fantasised about sleeping with you when we were 15.”

I was already flushed, but now I’m on fire. It’s a miracle I’m not a pile of ash right now. I flap my mouth open and closed like a fish for too long. Baz just smiles at me like I’m beautiful or something, not a total deer in the headlights.

“R-Really?” I finally get out. “That long?!”

“Mhm. I told you, Snow, I figured out I wanted you in fifth year. Puberty was a bloody nightmare with you right across the room.” We laugh quietly together. But I genuinely feel bad for Baz. I hold the back of his head, running my fingers through his soft hair.

“I’m sorry you went through that, love. Must’ve been awful.”

Baz sighs, putting his hand on mine. “Thank you. At least things worked out in the end." He pecks the tips of my fingers. "I’m glad we finally did this. Real life was far better than any fantasy.”

I kiss the corner of his smile. He giggles, so small and adorable, something I never would’ve thought Baz was capable of until six months ago. I’m so happy. And my heart sinks, thinking about how this was almost over because I was so insecure.

“I’m sorry,” I blurt out, and Baz’s face becomes much more serious. “I-I’m sorry that I vanished without telling you. That was immature and dumb. And I’m sorry for scaring you. I promise I won’t ever do that again.”

Baz nods slowly, mouth twisting from side to side. He brings our hands between us, holding me tight. “I accept your apology. Just, what happened, love? I’m still not sure what you meant.”

Well, I knew this was coming. Doesn’t make it any easier. I clutch him hard, like I’m scared he’ll go. But if the last hour or two means anything, I don’t think he will. Still, I hold him tight.

“That’s a long story,” I sigh.

Baz presses his lips to the back of my hand. It’s firm and comforting. “You can tell me. It’s okay.”

I carefully roll onto my back. Baz goes onto his side, propping his head up with his free arm. We keep our hands together. I really can’t let go of him right now.

“I meant it when I said it wasn’t about you,” I say. “It’s really not. I don’t think you’re a terrible person who would dump or cheat on me. It’s more that...that I was scared and felt worthless. Part of me has always felt worthless, unlovable. Sometimes my brain is like ‘your own parents didn’t want you, why would anyone else?’”

“Simon-”

“You don’t need to tell me it’s not true, Baz, I know. Most of me does, anyway. But sometimes that mean voice gets louder, and it’s been louder lately. Not because of you, not really. It’s because I think you’re incredible and brilliant and that mean voice kept telling me ‘why the hell is he with you? He’s way too good for you. He’ll find someone better.’ And after weeks of missed dates and the whole dinner fiasco, it got worse. Then when I saw you with the other doctor I guess the anxiety just took over. And I just sort of shut down.”

Baz moves closer. “I’m sorry, that’s horrible.”

“Thanks.” I sigh and run a hand through my tangled hair, like I’m trying to pull the stress out of myself. “I’m sorry I didn’t tell you this. I didn’t want to dump all my shit on you. It’s a lot to deal with and I should deal with it on my own, not pull you in.”

“Simon,” Baz says firmly, holding himself above me, “you can absolutely pull me into your shit. I want to know everything you’re worried and scared about, so I can be there to help if you want. You never have to hide anything because I love every single part of you, no matter how insecure or sad.”

I stare at him for too long. My heartbeat is roaring in my ears. Slowly, a smile stretches out across my face. “You love me?”

Baz’s face pulls together in confusion, and for a moment I’m scared he’s going to take it back, because I’m not worth it. But then I push that fear down because Baz cares about me. He’s shown that again and again. I'm not unworthy of his love.

“Did I not say it?” he says, genuinely surprised and concerned.

“I mean, maybe, but things were a bit...chaotic before.” My eyes flick over to our rumpled clothing strewn across my room. It honestly looks like a tornado somehow hit both a Primark and a Topshop. Baz laughs with a nod.

“Okay, good point. Let me correct that then.” He delicately holds my chin, making sure our eyes meet. Black hair surrounds his face like a dark halo. His deep sea eyes sparkle with his gorgeous smile. Everything about him is absolutely stunning. “I love you, Simon Snow. I’ve been in love with you since we were kids, because you are the most kind, most caring, most wonderful man I’ve ever known. You are not a holding place or my second choice. Got that?”

I nod very vigorously. I can’t speak right now, my throat is too filled up with all my emotions for words. I wipe my snot and tears with the back of my hand. Extremely unsexy. God I’m a mess. But Baz still looks at me like I’m the most gorgeous thing in the world, because he loves me, imperfections and all. 

“Don’t cry, love,” Baz chuckles, “it’s okay.”

“Just overwhelmed,” I say, still sniffling, “and happy. I love you too.”

Baz kisses my forehead.  “I know, and I’m very happy as well.” He tucks his head into the crook of my neck. “Not to get all psychiatrist, but these issues of hidden insecurities and fear we both have are going to reoccur if we don’t communicate more.”

I nod, rubbing the arm he has across my chest. “Yeah, I agree.”

“Good.” He rolls slightly, chin placed on my shoulder. “In the name of communication then, I think not seeing each other for weeks on end isn’t good for us. We need to try to meet in person more.”

“Yeah, definitely. I think not seeing you for a while made my anxiety get worse. Thought you would dump me because it was too hard for us to meet up.”

“Honestly,” Baz sighs, “I felt something similar. Not as badly as you, I think, but still not fun. The self deprecating part of me wondered when you would finally get sick of my insane schedule and break up with me. I’m not exactly the easiest person to date. Or the easiest person, period.”

I laugh quietly and tug him closer. "Me neither, love."

Baz smiles all the way to his ears. He kisses me firmly, making my head spin, before pulling me away just as quickly. Our noses stay pressed together. “Suppose we match then, love.”

I throw my arms around his neck. I’m grinning, I can’t stop grinning. “And you like that?”

“I love it.”

“Me too.” I press against his back, reveling in his warm, smooth skin. “I promise to make more time for you. I want this to work. ”

Baz kisses a mole on my cheek. “So do I. I’m in this for the long haul, Simon.”

“Good, because I’m not letting you go.”

“I would love nothing more.”

I grab Baz’s head and smash our mouths together again. Baz instantly returns it, holding me tight. His body is a warm blanket on top of me, protecting me from anything bad in the world. Yeah, I could spend the rest of my life with Baz. I want that so much. Our snogging gets more intense. And each of us can definitely feel our mutual arousal pressed against our thighs.

Baz pulls off my mouth, but only a little. “What happened to needing to walk tomorrow?”

I shrug with a sly smile. “Eh, who needs walking? You can just carry me everywhere.”

He grins once before kissing me hard. I’m truly a lucky guy. And it’s incredible that Baz thinks the same. I’m living a charmed life.

———————————————

Three months later

“Y’know,” I pant, “you could help.”

Baz looks up from his phone, one eyebrow propped up. “Who carried all your KitchenAid hardware to our new place?”

“Okay, yeah, but that was  down the hall, not up four flights of stairs.” I drop another box of books and breathe heavily.

“That mixer was very heavy.”

“Baz.”

He lets out a very dramatic groan, making a show of hanging his head over the back of Penny’s settee. “Fine. I’ll help.”

I don’t miss the joking glint in his eyes. Arsehole. He just likes making a show of it. He kisses my cheek on the way out. I slap his arse, making him yelp, but his smirk tells me he’s not upset at all.

“Are you two flirting?” Penny calls out from the hall. “I told you, my flat is a flirt free zone!”

“No flirting, Bunce,” Baz says. “Just some light groping on Snow’s part.”

Penny groans so loud I’m pretty sure the whole floor can hear her. She walks in with a box filled with figurines. She glares at me viciously. I throw my hands up in surrender.

“I slapped his arse, didn’t grab it.”

“That’s not much better, Si.” She places the box on the ground and puts her hands on her hips. “Focus more on moving and less on your boyfriend’s arse.”

“Aw, don’t be mad, Pen, I’m sorry.” I wrap her up in a tight hug, and she holds me just as close. She’s been doing that a lot lately. I don’t mind. “Y’know, that offer to fly to Chicago and kick Micah’s arse is still on the table.”

That finally makes her laugh. She shakes her head against my chest. “No, it’s alright. I’m mad but not really vengeful. He tried to break up with me, I just wasn’t listening to him.”

“Still not an excuse to start dating someone else.”

“Yeah, I guess," she sniffles. "Thanks for subletting your flat to me."

I kiss the top of her head. "You're very welcome, Pen. Anything for you."

She holds me tighter. I let her hang on to me. It’s the least I can do.

“After all the fuss you made about me helping,” Baz shouts, “now you’re just standing there, Snow? Really?”

I sigh and look up over Penny’s head. Baz is balancing two large boxes because he likes to show off how strong he is. But he’s being helpful, and his strength is hot, so I don’t mind.

“I am comforting my friend,” I say, tone very high and mighty and mocking.

“Yes, but avoiding work must be a plus.”

“Oh, absolutely. And teasing you.”

Penny laughs and pulls back from me, looking at Baz as he puts down the boxes. “As a psychiatrist, you think it says something that even though you’re together now, you two still bicker like in school?”

Baz tilts his head side to side, stroking his chin like a great scholar. “Probably could say something about regressing to old patterns of behaviour from when we were children. But now after time together, working out our issues, and forming better patterns of behaviour, the bickering is now a show of affection rather than true antagonism. Therefore it has transformed into a healthy relationship feature from a bad one. A rare but possible event.”

Penny blinks at him. I’m trying to hide my blush. Don’t really want Penny to know how hot I find Baz being all smart and shit. Still have no idea what he’s talking about, but now I definitely want to rip his clothes off. Penny would kill me though. Murder would not be sexy.

“God,” she chuckles, “you really are a psychiatrist.”

“Yeah he is!” Shepard stumbles in, a box wobbling precariously on his arms. “Either that or he’s a weirdo who enjoys being in a hospital all the time for some reason.” The box tips over. I run up and catch it just in time. “Oh, whoops, sorry.”

“You break it, you suffer Bunce’s wrath, Shep,” Baz says.

“Damn right you do.” Penny walks past him, leveling a look over her glasses. Shepard gulps and watches her as she goes downstairs. And he follows her to help, looking totally out of it.

A pair of familiar arms wrap around my waist. Baz rests his chin on my shoulder. “In my humble psychiatrist opinion, I think our dear American might have a little crush on Bunce.”

I chuckle, cupping his cheek. “I wouldn’t blame him. Pen is pretty awesome.”

“Oh," he says with a teasing lilt, "should I be worried that she’s living down the hall from us now?”

I scoff and roll my eyes like he does at stupid people on telly. “Should  I be worried about you working with Dr. Lamb?”

Baz makes a very unattractive dry heaving sound. “Never. That backstabbing twat can go eat a bag of rusty screws. Only reason I give him the time of day is because he’s got my supervisor wrapped around his stupid finger.”

“And if you piss him off you’ll lose important psychiatry rounds, yes, yes, I know. He’s still gonna try to flirt with you.”

“Yeah, because he’s a twat. But I only want you.” He kisses a mole on my neck, his favourite one. “I love you, Simon.”

I kiss his temple. “I love you too.”

“I love you  so much I’m willing to give up my lovely condo to move into your weird exposed brick hipster building.”

I scoff and turn to him, arms around his slender neck. “Wasn’t it  your idea to move into a bigger place here because it’s closer to both of our workplaces?”

He smiles, kissing the tip of my nose. Bastard. I hated his teasing in school, but he’s right, now it’s out of love. Crazy, stupid, wonderful love. “Since when do you listen to me?”

“You have a good idea every once in a while.”

“How about this one?” He kisses me firmly. When he pulls back a little, my heart is beating rapidly.

“Yeah, I like that one.”

“Good.” We kiss again, soft and slow. Never before have I felt so safe and content kissing someone. Baz can hold me close and make all my worries go away. Part of me still can’t believe I get to have this. A person who adores me completely, including every single weird, flawed, stupid part too. But I have to stop thinking like that. I’m allowed to be happy. I’m allowed to be with someone so incredible. And someone so incredible can absolutely love me back. The work we've both put in to being together shows our mutual care again and again. We deserve to be happy together. It's amazing.

“Oh for fuck’s sake!” Baz and I pull apart to look at Penny’s glaring face. “We leave you two alone for five minutes and you’re already defiling my apartment?”

“This is still technically Snow’s flat, you know,” Baz says smoothly.

“And you don’t want to know how we’ve already defiled it.” I give the biggest shit eating grin I can.

Penny waves her hands in front of herself. “Nope, nope, I’d rather live in blissful ignorance. Also, Simon," Penny hands me an envelope, "postman came. This is for you. Thought I'd grab it before they accidentally delivered it to me."

I rip it open with ease. Inside is a paper with familiar terrible handwriting. I grin ear to ear. Baz looks over my shoulder. "What is it?"

"It's from Jeremy." I scan down the letter. Luckily I'm adept at deciphering kid writing. "He says he misses me but likes his aunt's place a lot. They garden a lot and he's playing football on a community team.:

"All sound great," Penny says, having moved to the shoulder not occupied by Baz.

"Yeah, definitely. Oh, and he's got a new kitten. And guess what he named him?"

"What?" Penny and Baz say at the same time. It's pretty hilarious but I keep myself from laughing to avoid any glares.

"Snow." I hold up a Polaroid picture of a grinning Jeremy holding a small, fluffy white cat. Both of them can't help but make awing noises.

"Adorable," Baz says. "You did a good job with that kid, Snow."

I kiss his cheek. "Thanks, love."

"I want a cat," Penny sighs. Her nose scrunches up. "Am I going to turn into a crazy cat lady?"

"Hey," I say, "you were the one who told me that was a sexist stereotype. So no, you're going to be a very sane, wonderful, brilliant cat lady." I lean closer, whispering in her ear. "And maybe, once you feel better, you can try talking to a certain American. I think he's got a thing for you."

Penny sticks her tongue out, but before she can respond, Shepard comes stumbling in with a box of china. He places it very carefully. I can see him not so subtly watching Penny out of the corner of his eye. I don't think he wants to piss her off again. “Okay, I think that’s all of it. Wow, a lot of books. Reminds me of my Mom's office back in Omaha.”

"So I remind you of your mum?" Penny asks, arms crossed over her chest. Shepard's eyes go wide. I snort into Baz's shoulder

"No! No, definitely not, I just mean...you're both super smart."

Penny scoffs. "Good answer, American. Now let's get all my books unpacked."

I groan loudly. “Come on, Pen, not today. Why don’t we go to mine and Baz’s flat and we’ll make you dinner?”

“You mean I’ll be making dinner.” Baz raises his eyebrow at me. “You can’t cook, Simon.”

“I’ve been learning!”

He sighs over dramatically. “Very well. You can chop the onions.”

“I’ll take it.” I put my arm on Penny’s shoulders. She leans into me like always. “Come on, let’s eat.”

“Can I come?” Shepard asks, beaming wide. Who could say no to that face?

“Of course! You deserve a reward for all your hard work.”

“Awesome!” He dashes up beside Pen, looking all cute. And I can see Penny smiling, just a little. I’m glad to see her happy.

I put Jeremy's letter in my pocket. It's going right on the fridge the second we get to mine and Baz’s new place. Baz takes my hand in his, weaving our fingers together. He smiles, looking at me from the corner of his eye. I feel like I could fly on the power of love alone right now.

God, I truly have an amazing life.

———————————————

Awwww stupidly in love, just how I like it. Tbh I started writing this before Wayward So came out, and after I decided I wanted to deal with their communication issues like in the book but resolve them. I'm not throwing shade, just stating an opinion, plz don't kill me lol. But I do hope you all liked it! I never planned on writing a sequel but sometimes shit works out like that. I do have another idea for a short one shot but don't hold me to that, life is pretty nuts rn and I don't have a lot of free time, hence why this took me so long. Anyway, have a good day/night y'all!

[wall-eye]

Inn Between Atla: Tessa Avatar Edition Au Shenans List, as i have this on my mind but not the mental energy nor skill to write a full regular fic out how id like

-yall know what a atla au is, i HOPE yall know what Inn Between is by now

-smush em together bang ding dang done

-the gang can each bend whichever element you want, but for This. This Universe Tessa Goblinshead is the Avatar

- but the catch? Gang has no idea

- everybody sees her individually bend a different element. And they dont mention it to each other!! Maybe something like "Wow, i didn't realize how strong of a bender Tessa is" "Yea, me neither"

-but they all think she bends different elements that is key

-Sterling thinks she's a waterbender, bending drinks to patrons on a busy busy night (maybe to the orcs after that battle), probably says "Tessa! I hadn't realized you were a waterbender! And such a powerful one too!" (He speaks in Sophisticated Exaclamation Marks) and Tessa'd say "Ah, yes. I had a very kind teacher, she taught me everything I know. *chuckle* Including *innkeeper-y pun or noncanonical alcoholic drink mention/joke*

-A normal answer! People who wish to expand their skills typically get a teacher, nothing surprising to rich kid Sterling there. He nods and grabs the tables drinks to bring to the group, who are too engrossed in Fina's story to notice simple waterbending across the crowded tavern

-Meltyre thinks shes an earthbender. He's the last one at their table, everyone else going to bed, and sees Tessa start to clean up. If hes up, he's probably got his mind a-racing and can't get it to settle so he offers to sweep (the floor especiallydirty from the slightly sandy-silty are they found themselves in). Tessa handed him a rag and said "oh, we have no need for a broom here" She then bends the dirt into a neat pile and out of the door. Tessa would brush her hands on her apron and say "There we go! Not a speck left. You can scrub some tables down with that there." And leave him to it

- Velune found out Tessa could firebend in a similar fashion to Meltyre with earth. They were up late one night, infront of the fireplace im sure the inn has. Tessa had made her rounds in the dining area, cleaning and such, and brought a small kettle over to Velune. She boosted the flames a little in the fireplace and heated tea for the both of them. For some reason, Velune wasn't surprised at the discovery (something about the inn being a warm, homely place) and they simply talked until both were ready to sleep. (It was probably a tiring day, return from an adventure that's gone wrong in a few too many ways and a quick move to someplace dangerous to be a safehaven)

-Fina found she was an Airbender when she bought a wind instrument and brought it to the inn. The gang had split up on a simple supplies/shopping run and she got back earlier than the rest (but no need to worry, nothing bad is gonna happen to the rest. Fina is just quick). She bought the strange instrument and quickly realized while at the inn she had no idea how to play it.

-She decided to ask Tessa, the seemingly Neverending pot of knowledge. Tessa told her its name and that it was of the airbenders, and only they can play such an instrument. And then she demonstrated. Fina, amazed, asked questions and did some witty remark on the ever knowing Tessa.

-Remember what i said earlier about no one knowing Tessa was the avatar, i take that back.

-Betty knows. She's seen the drink-bending, the easy earthbending cleanup, the drinks warmed by her firebending, even heard her end a fight by amplifying her voice with airbending and every other applicable use of bending for running an inn. She was a regular at the inn before meeting the gang

- she just doesn't tell anyone. It's Tessa's business and if they haven't picked it up then Betty isn't the one who's gonna tell them. She lowkey wants to see how long it'll take

-So how do they find out? Good question!

- Either they describe Tessa bending in a way that can't be applicable to all the elements (that's kinda boring tho soooooo)

-in scenario two, maybe they have to find the avatar. For a mission, for a favor, for their own curiosity, whichever works best in your mind

-they sit around their table wondering how the hell theyre going to find the avatar, who hasn't really done much to get the publics attention on themselves. So the gang has very few leads as any leads they get are just wildly incorrect gossip.

-mayhaps its the like. 2nd day of looking (Betty was weirdly against going out to look, despite the very clear leads) and they decided to find another way to find the avatar

-This is the moment Tessa walks up "Did I here you were looking for me?" "Unless you happen to be the Avatar, Miss Tessa, then im afraid you've misheard."

-"actually-" everyone Snaps to look at her "-I am. I thought you all were aware of that?"

-*various sounds of no and overlaping sentences boiling down to i thought you were [x]bender* "How did we not realize?" Betty"I Knew" * sounds of WHAT!?!"

-"Low insight checks, all of you." "???" "The inn doesn't move by just magic, dears. Now, what is it you needed me for?"

-the inn! Is connected to the spirit world! Because why not! Functionally the same as canon but spirit world. The spirit is the inn itself and its concept of home. (Ask the Innkeeper anyone?)

-the gang finishes their mission, their favor received, their curiosity sated, ect. and while they already had avatar-levels of respect for Tessa, they hold the Inn itself in a new light.

[thestorytellerofkpop]

Talk Nerdy to Me

Title: Talk Nerdy to Me

Word Count: 4k+

Rating: T+

Genre: Realistic fiction, slice of life, college AU

Warnings: Fluff~

Pairings: Junmyeon (Suho) x Female Reader

Summary: Junmyeon, the Vice President of the Geek Culture Appreciation Club and biggest history nerd on campus, falls for the cute little freshmen wearing a limited edition Star Wars shirt. He knew it was love at first sight when he saw Han and Leia on your torso. Oh yeah, and you were pretty cute as well. 

A/N: For @cuddlejeongin, thank you for being patient with me!

Expo day was always Junmyeon’s favorite part of the freshman orientation at his college. All the clubs lined out in the quad, showing off their skills and trying to get new members to join them. Junmyeon loved the colors, the music, the laughs and noises when all intertwined together created an organized catastrophe and an euphoria of sensations that gave Junmyeon chills.

He was actually at his own club’s table, Geek Culture Appreciation to be exact. Right in between the digital arts and LARP-ing clubs. He smoothed down the blue tablecloth for the nth time that morning, making sure the pamphlets were neat and the visual aids straight.

“Junmyeon, you never fail to amaze me.” the president of the club, Baekhyun, patted him on the back. “And you brought cookies?” Baekhyun smiled, reaching out to take one when Junmyeon smacked his hand away, Baekhyun whining in protest.

“They’re not for you.” Junmyeon shot his president a glare, wiping away the crumbs that fell from the plate.

“Geez, Baekhyun making you vice president really has let your more aggressive side come out.” Xiumin snickered when he came up to the table.

“Keep in mind this is only our second year of having this club, little junior Junmyeonie was my only contender.”

“Don’t baby me, we’re both juniors and I’m older than you, you brat.” Junmyeon squished Baekhyun’s cheeks, who just swatted his hands away with a cheeky grin. Junmyeon couldn’t help but smile back. Annoying as Baekhyun may be, he was just too cute for his own good. 

Soon enough the freshman class flowed out of the gym and into the quad, timidly strolling the isles and looking amongst the booths. Some of the returning students explored as well, Junmyeon waved at a scowling Sehun (his fellow friend, majoring in History with a focus in European history, just like Junmyeon was) and even Amber ran up to him in greetings, giving him a hug and taking a pamphlet and one of the cookies with a wink and the promise to join this year.

“Seriously we need more girls.” Baekhyun sighed, tapping his fingers against the table in thought.

“I know, HR told us if we didn’t get more females we’d be in deep shit. Something about diversity.” Xiumin sighed. “Which is silly in my opinion since we’re basically 20 members strong and one of the largest growing clubs at this school. They can’t just shut us down because we have a 1:5 female ratio. Junmyeon what do you think?” Xiumin turned towards his friend, who was staring intently at a girl exploring the World’s Showcase club.

“Woah, Baek, check it out.” Xiumin nudged his friend and pointed at the girl, to which Baekhyun just gasped.

“Is that?”

“A limited edition Millennium Falcon shirt with Han and Leia that was released in 1979 to promote the early access premiere of ‘The Empire Strikes Back’ in Hollywood that was given to those only at the first screening?” Junmyeon spewed out his words like an encyclopedia, staring in awe not only at the shirt, but the girl wearing it as well.

“Damn Myeon, no wonder you’re VP.” Xiumin patted his friend on the back.

“We have to have her in this club, she’ll be a great addition!” Baekhyun smiled, preparing to approach her when Junmyeon’s hand stopped him.

“W-Wait. Maybe we shouldn’t.” his cheeks felt hot, and he knew for sure Baekhyun could feel his hand shaking.

“Why not? Junmyeon you look like you’re going to be sick.” Xiumin placed a hand on his forehead, pouting in concern.

“Junmyeon?” Baekhyun gasped, a sly smile playing on his lips. “Could this be our little Myeonnie’s first college crush?”

Junmyeon swore his face got ten times more red, looking at the ground in embarrassment. He fiddled with his hands and began to stammer out excuses, but his friends awes and squeals drowned out his words. Soon he found himself smushed between two bodies, two pairs of arms hugging and squeezing his abdomen tightly.

“Now I have to get her over here.” Baekhyun snickered and before Junmyeon could stop him, he scurried over to the World’s Showcase table, smiling and introducing himself to the girl. Junmyeon could see her smile and follow Baekhyun to the table, to which Junmyeon’s cheeks flushed deeper.

“Guys, this is Y/N. She said she’s interested in finding out more about our club.”

“Hey, I’m Xiumin, and this blushing nerd over there is Junmyeon, our vice president.” Xiumin shook Y/N’s hand, nudging Junmyeon to do the same.

“It’s nice to meet you.” Y/N smiled at Junmyeon, holding out her hand to him. Junmyeon deadpanned. Her smile was out-of-this-world and for this first time in his life, Junmyeon felt his brain short circuit. It took Baekhyun’s hand on his shoulder and Xiumin’s shaky laugh to remind him where he was and what he was supposed to be doing. He took her hand and smiled back, albeit nervously and he couldn’t help but notice the giggle fall past her lips.

Baekhyun and Xiumin started explaining the basis of the club; what they did, how often they met, but Junmyeon couldn’t seem to muster up any words to add. He was too busy sneaking glances at the girl in front of him, nibbling on the chocolate chip cookie she grabbed, happy as can be. His cheeks still held their pink tint as he drunk in her features. Her smile and the way the corners of her lips turned up, how her eyes crinkled when she laughed, and how she shuffled her feet when shifting her weight.

“So I guess we’ll be seeing you at our first meeting?” Baekhyun asked after he handed her all the club forms.

“Oh most definitely! I can’t wait! I hope to see all of you there.” Y/N said. Junmyeon locked eyes with her and for the briefest of seconds, he could’ve sworn he saw her eyes sparkle. He watched her leave with bated breath, nibbling on his bottom lip in thought.

“The least you can do is stop blatantly staring at her ass, dude.” Baekhyun snickered, throwing an arm over his friend’s shoulders. Junmyeon shook his head, a sigh leaving his lips.

“You’re so whipped.” Xiumin chuckled.

Yes. Yes he was.

~*~

Monday couldn’t have come fast enough. Junmyeon had woken up bright and early, anticipation and excitement raced in his veins as he made his way to the showers. Junmyeon always loved the first day of school. Ever since he was a little boy. He loved the smell of fresh paper, the way ink would splatter on his fingers from writing too fast (because he only used gel pens and refused to settle for ballpoint), and how new erasers felt in his palms.

He rushed back into his dorm, freshly showered and ready to face the day, grabbing a water and a protein bar from his tiny mini fridge and throwing a pillow at his sleeping roommate who groaned in annoyance.

“Chanyeol you’ll be late if you don’t get up.” he called, already halfway out the door.

“’S the first day Myeon, give me five more minutes.” Chanyeol mumbled, but Junmyeon was already gone and didn’t hear the annoyed words from his friend.

He was the first in the classroom on the third floor of the Roosevelt building, claiming his favorite spot, in the middle slightly off to the left. He brought out his laptop and a notebook, the feeling of taking handwritten notes always felt better than typing notes out. But when he wanted to do extra research later he would make a note in his Word Document on the topic. Students soon began to trickle in, and Junmyeon smiled when his blonde friend plopped in the seat to his right, Starbucks latte and all.

“Sehun.”

“Junmyeon.”

“Do you-”

“Still too early Myeon, I’m just now waking up.” Sehun sighed. He took a sip of his latte and removed the bulky black sunglasses from his face, setting up his own laptop. Junmyeon pursed his lips and Sehun just sent him a sly wink and Junmyeon couldn’t help but smile.

Five minutes before the class was ready to begin, Sehun nudged him out of his focused stupor.

“Who’s the cutie just walking in?” Sehun pointed her out and Junmyeon had to pinch his leg to make sure he wasn’t dreaming. It was Y/N. The cute girl from the expo. Junmyeon shook his head and tried to hide his blush.

“Never seen her before in my life.” Junmyeon shoved his head back into his computer, pretending to look busy.

“She looks like your type, a little young to be in a 300 class though, don’t you think?” Sehun pondered, following her around the hall with his eyes. He snickered and leaned in close to Junmyeon’s ear.

“She’s coming down here.” and Sehun laughed at Junmyeon’s expression; an utter look of horror. She had chosen the seat next to him, him of all people in this goddamn classroom.

“Hey, Junmyeon right?” she smiled at him and Junmyeon could only nod.

“He’s usually not like this, normally I can’t get him to shut up in these types of classes.” Sehun chuckled and leaned forward to meet the girl’s gaze. “Well, Junmyeonie, aren’t you going to introduce me to her?”

“Y/N this is Sehun, my excruciatingly diva-like best friend.” Junmyeon smiled when he managed to pull a laugh past Y/N’s lips and he couldn’t find himself to be bothered when Sehun clicked his tongue at him, playfully flipping his hair back.

“I know I’m the world’s biggest diva, but that doesn’t mean you have to say it aloud.” Sehun rolled his eyes, turning back towards Y/N with a smile. “So, you look a little young to be in this advanced class. What’s a baby like you doing down here with us old folk?”

“Well, um, I took a lot of dual enrolment history courses in high school, and the college took all my credits, so they moved me up to the junior level.” Y/N explained and Junmyeon was fascinated.

“What area of history is your favorite to study?” he asked.

“Oh, well hit me with the hard questions.” Y/N chuckled, pulling out a notebook and an array of colored pens. “I’ve taken a lot, but my favorite is European history, between 1860-1950. But Ancient and Colonial History around the world is also fascinating to study as well.”

“What a small world, the area Junmyeon focuses in is European history of the 19th and 20th centuries. I’m much more into the Cold War era, Soviet Union History myself what with my Russian minor and all, but you’ll definitely be seeing a lot of Junmyeon then.” Sehun snickered and Junmyeon felt his face heat up.

The professor suddenly walked in and Junmyeon’s attention went straight to her. European dictators of the 19th and 20th century. That was their focus for this semester effective immediately. That’s what Junmyeon liked about this professor, she never delayed her teachings on the first day when most professors would go over the syllabus and classroom introductions for the entire hour and fifteen minutes. He found it quite pointless really, when you can just read the stupid thing yourself and talk to those you found appealing, but he supposed there were some people who needed it.

Francisco Franco would be their first dictator to study, but the professor expected basic outline notes on all the dictators they would be studying before they dived into the finer details. He felt a nudge on his left side and looked at Y/N quizzically. She passed him a sticky note, which he opened and read the sentence she wrote over and over again.

I wouldn’t mind seeing a lot of you, y’know.

Junmyeon looked back over at Y/N to see if she was just waiting for him to look over only to laugh in his face, but, she was just scribbling away at her notes. Her eyes focused on the paper in front of her; she didn’t even spare Junmyeon a second glance.

Junmyeon noticed the Ravenclaw stickers on her binder and suddenly a domestic scene clouded his mind. No longer was he thinking about God, Gold and Glory or of Francisco Franco. Rather, a warm fireplace in a small cozy living room. Rain pelting the windows in sheets, and Y/N sitting in his lap, wrapped up in a soft fluffy blanket with a mug of something sweet in her hands. Junmyeon smiled when she pushed his glasses back up his nose for him, loving the way she giggled and snuggled into his body even more. It was warm, warm, warm, and Junmyeon couldn’t help but place a kiss upon her cheek. He pulled the book he was holding up closer to his face, (Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix to be exact) and continued reading the passage aloud.

He was brought out of his stupor when Sehun nudged his shoulder, leaning in close to him to whisper into his ear.

“You were daydreaming. You never daydream, especially in these classes, are you alright?”

Junmyeon shot a quick glance to the girl on his other side. She was deep into the lecture, taking notes so rapidly Junmyeon wondered how her hand hadn’t cramped up yet. Her focused look, the way her hair fell into her face. Oh. He was royally fucked.

“I’ve never been better.”

~*~

Junmyeon drew six columns in his notebook, the lines as straight as he could them before organizing each column by color. Hitler in green, Stalin in red, Lenin in purple, Mussolini in orange, Franco in blue, and Kai-shek in pink. He flipped through one of the textbooks laid on his bed to the section on Hitler’s rise to power, ready for an extensive note-taking session, when his thoughts strayed away from Nazi Germany (arguably one of the moments in history Junmyeon found most fascinating).

Chanyeol looked up in alarm when Junmyeon threw his notebook to the floor, highlighters and colored pens scattering through his bed-sheets. He watched him remove his glasses and sigh, running a hand through his disheveled hair.

“European dictators of the 19th and 20th centuries finally getting to you buddy? It’s only been two days.” Chanyeol chuckled, peering over the edge of his phone to watch Junmyeon go pick up his notebook.

“Nice ass by the way.” Chanyeol snickered when he bent down and Junmyeon had half-the-mind to smack his friend silly.

“Not in the mood today, Chanyeol,” Junmyeon plopped back down onto his bed, shoving his glasses back up his nose. “I already can’t focus, I don’t need your extra side comments distracting me either.”

“Woah, touchy are we?” Chanyeol sat up, staring Junmyeon down until he looked at him.

“Seriously though, what’s bothering you? You only ruffle your hair like that when you’re nervous. You’re giving off a very good impression of Park Jimin right now.” Chanyeol threw his phone across his bed with a little plop and watched as Junmyeon, yet again, pushed his round wire-rimmed glasses up the bridge of his nose.

“It’s about a girl.” he started.

“Oh you mean Y/N, the one you couldn’t stop staring at during the orientation expo?”

“How did you-”

“Baekhyun tells me everything sweetie. It’ll take a lot to get one past this man.” Chanyeol smiled, throwing Junmyeon the cheesiest finger-guns he’s seen since 2nd grade.

“Anyways…she’s in this history class with me and Sehun. Like she’s wicked smart for a freshman, she took so many history courses in high school and got enough credits to jump into our level. She’s just really intelligent and cute and she was wearing this limited edition Star-Wars shirt that was made in-

“Oh my god,” Chanyeol cut off Junmyeon’s rambling, a smirk playing on his lips. “You have a crush on her don’t you?”

Junmyeon felt his cheeks flare up and scowled at the way Chanyeol giggled and told him how adorable he was.

“I can’t stop thinking about her, that’s why I cant concentrate.” he admitted and was soon met with a plethora of kissy noises and awes from his friend across the room.

“I can hear the bells.” his friend sang and Junmyeon cocked his head in confusion. Chanyeol dead-panned.

“It’s from Hairspray dude, you need to get out more.” Chanyeol shook his head. “Anyways, what are you going to do about this predicament?”

“I don’t know dude. I really want to get to know her first. But I’m not ballsy enough to just go up to her and say ‘Hey, you’re cute. Go on a date with me?’.”

“Damn right you’re not.” Chanyeol laughed and Junmyeon shot him a glare.

“Doesn’t mean I need you to say it back.”

“Anyways,” Chanyeol spoke over his friend, giving him a pointed stare. “You need to get her attention first before you can make any moves on her.”

Junmyeon looked up in exasperation at his friend, who was oh-so grinning cheekily behind his large framed glasses. He noticed how Chanyeol’s eyes looked bigger behind the frames, almost sparkling behind the glass while his own glasses did nothing to enunciate his face. Damn Chanyeol for being able to make even the clunkiest of objects look attractive on him.

“Yeah? And how exactly am I supposed to do that?”

“Y’know, be all like, ‘Oh my god I’m on fire! I need to stop’-” Chanyeol slid from the bed, Junmyeon watching in horror when his friend’s tone turned suggestive and sultry.

“Drop,” Chanyeol spread himself out on the floor, his legs widening as he arched his back. “And roll.” Chanyeol rolled himself onto his stomach, resting his head on top of his hands. He sent Junmyeon a wink and proceeded to roll away in laughter when his blushing roommate threw his pen at him.

“You’re out of your mind if you think I’m going to do something like that in a public place.” Junmyeon groaned, covering his ruby cheeks with his hands.

“Take a joke Myeon, maybe just start by saying hi?” Chanyeol chuckled before hoisting himself back onto his bed.

Hi? Yeah, Junmyeon could do that for sure.

~*~

Turns out Junmyeon couldn’t do that. When Y/N arrived in class the next day he could barely open his mouth to stutter out a ‘hi’, instead opting to allow his pink blush to brush his cheekbones and his eyes to sneak glances at her in between note taking and during club meetings. Junmyeon didn’t think he could ever find the opportunity (or courage mind you) to utter a sentence around Y/N and would just have to suffer the next three years of college in agony. That is until Y/N approached him first.

“Good discourse tonight guys! And gals,” Baekhyun sent a cheeky wink to all the females in the club before continuing his closing. “Next weeks discussion; Marvel vs DC, so make sure to pick your sides and prepare your arguments for next week! Have a good night guys!”

Everyone dispersed, a couple of the students raiding the leftovers of the snack table when Junmyeon approached Baekhyun.

“We need to meet to make the next few months schedules.” he said pointedly, allowing his eyes to glance over at Y/N who was talking to Amber animatedly.

“Sure Myeonnie, maybe we could meet on-” Baekhyun’s words trailed off and he smirked as he looked over Junmyeon’s shoulder.

“Hey guys!” Junmyeon turned around and saw Y/N standing there, a smile etched on her face.

“Oh, lovely Y/N, the only defender tonight in saying Quicksilver and Scarlett Witch are the best twins in literature and/or comic fiction. What can we help you with this evening?” Baekhyun asked.

“Well, normally Amber would walk me back to my dorm, since it’s on the outskirts of campus near that sketch gas station, but tonight she’s chasing after Loona,” Y/N chuckled and her cheeks flushed. Junmyeon saw her eyes shift over to him and he suddenly became bashful.

“And I was wondering if one of you would mind accompanying me back? It’s just so late, and you never know what kind of people could be lurking about and-”

“No, my dear, it’s perfectly understandable. Which dorm is it?” Baekhyun asked.

“University Hall.”

“Ha! As a matter of fact, Junmyeon dorms there too, don’t you Myeonnie?” Baekhyun nudged his side and Junmyeon looked up at Y/N, eyes wide and mouth slightly parted. Him and Baekhyun always stayed late to clean up the club room and he never even guessed that Y/N was in the same dorm building as him. The thought that Y/N was living so close to him all this time had his stomach churning in nervousness, but excitement.

“Y-Yeah, I do. I don’t mind walking you back if that’s okay with you?” Junmyeon cringed at his slight stutter and he could practically feel Baekhyun shaking in silent laughter next to him.

“I would like that. Just let me go get my bag,” she smiled, rushing across the room to grab her things.

“This is your chance Myeon! Go get her man!” Baekhyun whispered hastily, shoving Junmyeon towards the door despite his friend’s protests.

“Ready?” Y/N asked Junmyeon, fidgeting with the straps of her bookbag. 

“Yeah, lets go,” Junmyeon held the door open and smiled when Y/N blushed, thanking him as she stepped into the nighttime air.

They walked for the first couple minutes in silence, Junmyeon internalizing the silence in his mind as awkwardness and that Y/N really didn’t want anything to do with him until-

“So…” Y/N started, but stopped her sentence just as quickly, bringing her gaze down to the ground.

“Hmm?” Junmyeon asked.

“I’m sorry if I’m making this awkward, I just don’t know what to say.” Y/N chuckled nervously.

“What? No! You’re fine Y/N, more than fine actually.” Junmyeon spoke before he thought and instantly broke out in a blush once he realized what he said. Y/N giggled.

“I, uh, I really liked the shirt you wore at the expo! I-I should have told you sooner, but I guess we just never had the time to talk about it.” Junmyeon chuckled nervously, rubbing his hand over the nape of his neck. 

“Oh? You’re a Star Wars fan too?” Y/N’s interest was peeked and Junmyeon suddenly felt more comfortable.

“Hell yeah, it’s far superior to Star Trek.”

“I know right?! Some people don’t understand when I only like the one instead of both but c’mon, anyone with half a mind would know Star Wars is obviously the better space sci-fi franchise.”

And that’s was the entire topic of conversation until Junmyeon dropped you off in front of your dorm, laughing while he shushed you as to not wake the other people (probably) sleeping around you both.

“I really had fun tonight,” Y/N said after her giggles had died down.

“I did too, surprisingly you’re easier to talk to than my anxiety made it out to be.” Junmyeon admitted, making Y/N chuckle softly.

“Junmyeon,” Y/N started, stepping a bit closer to him. “I was wondering…o-only if you want to of course! To, um, maybe possibly go on a date with me? W-We can even make it a study date since we do have that essay on Hitler due in a few weeks and-”

Y/N stopped when she felt the pair of lips on her cheek. Junmyeon chuckled when he pulled away only to see that her cheeks were as red as his.

“I’d love to. You have my number from the club papers right? Just let me know what times work for you.”

“O-Okay, goodnight Junmyeon.”

“Goodnight Y/N,” Junmyeon turned on his heel once Y/N was safely in her dorm, quickly walking to his dorm and slamming the door shut behind him. He let out a yell of victory, doing a dance in the doorway when he heard a cough. Chanyeol was watching him with a shit eating grin on his face, game controller in hand.

“Didja finally get her Junmyeon?” Chanyeol teased as Junmyeon plopped onto his bed.

“I got her alright Chanyeol. Her and Hitler.”

[jafndaegur]

Never Far Away - Chapter Ten

Strange Things

Prologue | One | Two | Three | Four | Five | Six | Seven | Eight | Nine | x 

*✭˚･ﾟ✧*･ﾟ*✭˚･ﾟ✧*･ﾟ* *✭˚･ﾟ✧*･ﾟ*✭˚･ﾟ✧*･ﾟ* *✭˚･ﾟ✧*･ﾟ*✭˚･ﾟ✧*

Rubbing his face and trying to dispel any visible stress from his features, Sesshomaru paced back and forth as the damned kitsune sitting unabashedly in front of him continued his mischievous grin. Stopping for a moment, the Goblin turned on his heel and gave a sharp look to the fox. Said fox blinked and gave an innocent look before pointing to himself as to ask, ‘oh, someone’s in trouble? Wait, who me?’

“Let this one surmise what you had been thinking, kit,” the former daiyoukai sighed, massaging his temples. “You told another cursed creature like myself—a creature with uncanny resemblance to my idiotic half-brother—that he could live here under rent?”

“Oh no, not at all, Sessh,” Shippou laughed, leaning forward on his knees and winking. “I told him he is going to live here. He already paid the first month’s rent.”

The atmosphere when frigid as the Goblin glared at the fox. There were several nerves in the white-haired male that seemed visible as he tried rigidly maintained his failing composure. There was very little restraint left. His heir was driving him up a wall he could not escape and he was furious. Clenching his fists and trying to make his smile as aggressive as he could, he crossed his arms over his chest, making his stance dominant.

“He paid rent for what? A house that this Sesshomaru lives in?” he demanded.

The kitsune giggled. “Of course. You’ve got a roommate now!”

Lunging forward, the Goblin set his hands to strangle the youkai. With a squeal, Shippou hopped out of the way and rolled onto the floor, his five tails waving ecstatically as he looked onto the previous dog demon. He gave an appeasing glance before forming illusions of himself to surround the furious magic user. Snarling with a smirk, Sesshomaru enjoyed a good challenge set before him. It was just like hunting.

“Now now, Sesshomaru, think rationally,” the fox gulped, noticing the predatory look from the other; he shifted nervously. Not sure if he should pounce or flee.

“Hah! Just like you rationally leased my house out?” Sesshomaru jumped from his spot on the couch and tackled the real kitsune, laughing because even despite his disadvantage of no longer being a youkai, he could still force the other demon to submit.

“Ahhh, uncle uncle!” The fox cried out, his breath hitching when the Goblin kneed one of his tails.

A victorious glint in his eyes but a taut drawn mouth, Sesshomaru stood and patted his button-down shirt to smooth out the wrinkles before dusting off his pinstripe trousers. Giving a groan of defeat, Shippou rested his forearm over his eyes. Leaning down, the white-haired male flicked the young ginger’s forehead.

“Do not sell what is not yours, kit,” he warned, that hunter’s look back in his eyes.

“Oy, just a fat fucking second,” came an uncouth voice, entering the room. “What do you mean don’t sell what ain’t yours?”

Turning around and facing the white-haired Shinigami, the Goblin rolled his eyes and walked passed him—ignoring the question.

“Hey bastard just wait a fucking minute, dammit!” the male rushed to catch up with him, throwing his baseball cap on his head so that the white locks of his hair turned black and the golden hues of his eyes darkened to brown. “I live here now so it’d be great if you’d explain why you’re here.”

“This Sesshomaru will only speak once on the matter.” Threatening smoke of violet and lilac began to swirl along the Goblin’s body while his eyes blared a beautiful gold. In his hands materialized Bakusaiga, and he held it pointed at the chest of the other. With a surprised look, the capped man stopped with a disgusted curl of his lip. “Do not intrude in the house of a Goblin. So I recommend you get out, Shinigami.”

“I paid my dues, and I can’t just get a damned refund,” growled the Shinigami. “I live here now and you’re just going to have to deal with it.”

Lilac flames burst along the edge of Bakusaiga and he pressed it closer to the offender. The sound of ice crackled and the tip of the sword was met with a layer of frosted air. Almost like a fight among deities. The two glowered at each other.

“What did you say your name was, fool?” Sesshomaru growled, eyeing the intruder.

“Ain’t got one. And even if I did, wouldn’t tell a bastard like you anyway.”

“Well then, Shinigami with no name, excuse yourself when you see fit. Make sure the fox locks up behind you. This one wishes not to see your face ever again near my property.”

“You’re fucking kidding me.”

“This Sesshomaru does not kid.”

That said, the sword disappeared and the Goblin turned away, walking through the front doors. Outraged, the Shinigami chased after him, yanking open the door with fury before realizing that his new landlord had disappeared into thin air. Pulling off his hat with a grunted exhale, he turned around to see Shippou standing sheepishly, his tails twitching. He walked back over the fox with an irritated intake of breath.

“You better start explaining now, brat,” he placed his hands in his pockets, leaning back nonchalantly, “just what the the hell is going on.”

~

Kagome sat in the booth at Wacdonalds, a tired expression and grimace on her face. Eri, Yuka and Ayume continued to prattle on about the newest gossip of their school. Her ears did not particularly take in anything they were saying. Her hand propped her chin and her gaze wandered out the window, watching people walk back and forth in front of the fast food restaurant. Was it too much to hope that something exciting would happen so she wouldn’t have to deal with them today? Her nerves, since she had seen Sesshomaru, had been particularly short. She wanted more explanation as to why he was here. Also as to why he was missing all of his markings. He had told her he was no longer an Inu daiyoukai, but surely that had to be impossible. Someone couldn’t just stop being what they were. It was a paradox about identity. But sure enough she could trace some youki from him, just not the same youki as before.

It was all very bizarre.

“Were you listening Kags?” Eri asked, a worried look on her face.

Snapping back to reality with her friends, she gave a sheepish look. “Ah, yes, sorry. Who’s together with who now?”

Ayume gave a slightly annoyed sigh. “Jeez, Kagome, it’s like you’ve been your own little world for the past few days now.”

“You just haven’t been your normal self,” Yuka nodded, resting her cheek on the palm of her hand. “Are you okay?”

Reaching across the table, Eri took the miko’s free hand and gently squeezed it. “We’re your friends, Kagome. If something’s wrong, we want you to tell us.”

A small smile pressed her lips, and the young woman couldn’t help but give her friend’s hand a reassuring squeeze in return. “I’m fine guys, I guess I’ve just been feeling under the weather is all. They say the flu is going around in the class under us.”

“The flu?” Ayume tilted her head back before looking a bit shocked. “Oh that’s right! I hope you’re not sick Kagome! Especially when you were so frail in middle school.”

She bit her lip as she tried not to remember all the fake illnesses Jii-jii had come up with as excuses for her not to attend school. Looking back on those times, it seemed rather humourous. But every now and then, some sort of stomach bug or cold would go around the school, and all of her friends would be stern in making sure she took all necessary precautions to not become sick. In all truth, marching around the feudal era with Inuyasha, killing demons—sifting through blood and guts for jewel shards—had given her a rather iron constitution. But no one else knew that.

“I’m sure it’ll be okay,” she reaffirmed. “I think it’s just the tail end of it.”

Her friends exchanged worried glances before they all nodded simultaneously. They gathered up their empty paper cups and hamburger wrappers, the stacked their cardboard fries holders and the trays before making a neat pile of their trash. They smiled generously.

“Let’s call it a day Kagome,” Yuka nodded, gathering the trays in her arms before sliding out of the booth first.

Ayume gathered up the rest before sidling out of the booth as well. “You go on home and get some rest. That way when we go out next, you’ll be your normal energetic self.”

“Guys,” Kagome’s voice felt heavy with gratitude.

“Come on, let’s head out,” Eri gave a pleasant smile, as she finished scooting down the seat.

With a relieved nod of her head, Kagome slid off her side of the booth. However as she stood up, strapping on her purse, a man bumped into her. He tripped over her from behind, stumbling forward with a surprised grunt as he dropped something onto her shoulder. She cringed as the rancid smell of smoke met her nose. The man turned around and cursed at her before stomping away out of the restaurant.

“Could’ve at least apologized, jerk!” Ayume called after the man.

Yuka raised her fist and shook it. “Yeah! Can’t you see the sweet girl trying to leave.”

The smell of smoke still hadn’t left the miko’s nose so she figured the guy must have been a heavy smoker. However, Eri made a surprised gasp, made a motion to the shoulder which the man had dropped something on. She had forgotten.

“Kagome, it’s cigarette!”

Realizing that was the source of the smell, her first instinct was to get it off. With a quick turn of her head, she blew as hard as she could, and the small roll of paper fell to the floor. No longer smoldering, just out completely. Kagome stepped on the ashy thing and smushed it between the toes of her shoe and the floor. Her brow dipped angrily.

“Gah! I hope it didn’t ruin my sweater,” she complained, dipping her shoulder to look at the blackened spot on the blue cable-knit.“What a guy, couldn’t even apologize for doing something so stupid!”

Her friends had gone surprisingly quiet and they looked past her. With a sigh, she figured the man had come back to hear her badmouthing him. Well if that was the case she was going to give him a piece of her mind. Besides, they were in the nonsmoking part of the district anyways, he shouldn’t have been doing something stupid—and it was his fault for bumping into her.

She spun around to meet the very irritated eyes of not the man who had bumped her, but Sesshomaru.

He held between his fingers and placed against his lips, a white porcelain teacup with bluebells decorating the rim. His eyelashes fluttered a tad as he double took his settings. With a sigh, his gold eyes landed on Kagome and his ever-austere expression did not change. She laughed sheepishly, guessing what happened given she blew the stupid cigarette off of herself.

“This one could attest to people not apologizing for their idiotic actions,” he stated lowly, taking a sip from the cup.

With a groan, she slouched back a bit, resting her fingers on her temples. “Look, it was an accident this time.”

“So idiotic and careless.”

“Sesshomaru, that’s not even fair. It was a genuine mistake.”

Her friends began to whisper behind them.

Arching his brow in annoyance, he gave a warning glance to the miko. “Whether or not it was a mistake, woman, you still inconvenienced me greatly. Bringing this one to an establishment such as this.” His eyes observed the bright red paint and the yellow decals, his nose sniffed the fatty smells of meat and grease. “Distasteful, idiotic, and careless.”

“Distasteful?” Yuka piped up, stepping around Kagome. “Now you listen here mister!”

Kagome’s blood froze.

The Goblin took another miniscule drink from his tip cup, turned on his heel, and walked away. Swaying neatly behind him was the tail to his long brown coat, while his newly shined shoes seemed contrast against the stale white tiles. The other girls watched him go, completely stupefied that he would just ignore them. On the front door, the bells rang as he stepped out. Kagome could see the lilac swirls of smoke from before and she decided to do the most sane thing she could think of. Chase after him.

With a quick goodbye and apology to her friends, she ran after him. Her hands hit the glass of the door just before it closed and she swung it open. His head was seen over a small crowd of people as he continued walking along, back to what seemed like a small outdoors cafe. 

“Sesshomaru!” She yelled, rushing to him.

He spun around, and for the first time in a long, long time, there was a genuine expression on his face. He was surprised. Slightly thrown off by that, she slowed down to where he had stopped on the small street. She blinked, unsure of what to do before she had a good chance to really see what was happening. Around her, there were crowds of people just like she had seen outside the window of Wacdonalds. However, the people here were definitely not Japanese. They were pale, with varying brown or blonde hair. What’s more was that they were most definitely not speaking Japanese either; it sounded like English to her.

“How...how did you follow this Sesshomaru?” he finally asked, his voice taut.

“I just...ran after you and pushed the door,” she stated in confusion, showing him with her arms outstretched and gave a small pushing motion. “Hey, where exactly are we, Sesshomaru?”

With a small sigh, the white-haired male set his cup down on a brick wall with long stalks of ivy and roses growing along the clay. It was a strange sight. Ivy and roses together in one place, because in Tokyo currently, it was too cold for roses to be in bloom.

“Quebec.”

[knifekris]

PLEAS tell us about your au....... and i hope you'll feel better soon!! stay careful and dont get sick please 😔

im already sick anon im sorry 😔 HOWEVER…

[ QUICK DISCLAIMER this tyzias uses they/he pronouns which is slightly different from the standard they/them i use but its butch lesbian indulgence hours and im God. anyways. ]

[ALSO UNDER THE CUT BC THIS IS LONG]

lemme tell you about zizi “tyzias” strider

alright so the premise for this au is basically “dave still had bro as a guardian but tyzias’ baby meteor crashed on top of dirks and smushed him” so alpha dave goes “well fuck i guess i have a troll baby now”

when i was talking to my roommate about this they put the mental image in my head of like, alpha dave with one of those baby carriers with grub tyzias just on his chest while he was fighting the clowns on the white house and while that may not be canon its Really Fucking Funny to me and i hope i get around to drawing it

um um anyways dave wasnt about to assign an alien baby a gender so he kind of left some of his shit for them and some shit hed think rose would leave for a girl or w/e but for the most part just stuff he Thought Would Be Cool– basically what dirk got originally but w some more variety and probably less anime shit because i actually like tyzias . anyways. they still get lil cal bc i feel like thats probably narratively important and for the most part tyzias is just like “yeah thats my puppet lil cal he’s pretty neat i guess. anyways”. obviously theyre going to treasure anything and everything dave left for them bc theyre sappy like that and literally dont have anything else.

it took a couple years for tyzias to realize how different they are from their human friends and they have this really deep insecurity stemming from when they realized theyre not a human like their ‘dad’/’bro’ but a troll like the condesce and they dont know SHIT or FUCK about troll culture or physiology except for whats out there for them to find which isnt a lot. so they get this weird irrational fear that if theyre not careful theyre gonna end up violent and bloodthirsty like )(IC who is a person who hurt not only dave but also rose and is actively making theirs n roxys lives hell and its a lot of “im so different from everyone i know and its in an arguably bad way”. especially wrt molting and blood color n stuff they dont have any explanations for anything except “im different from my friends and its weird and i dont want them to know because then they might think im weird or even BAD for being a troll”

they work REALLY hard on not letting this insecurity get in the way of who they want to be for their friends– which is to say they want to be someone dependable and  a person to lean on and to look to for support. **!!blood player hours alert!!** tyzias feels responsible for the people around them (jane roxy jake) and wants to do what they can to ensure that they all stay safe and happy because other than a long-dead alpha dave these are the people that they have and thats really important to them.

i know theres no class or aspect doubling within the kids but i reaaaalllyyy wanna make them a seer of blood but might settle for mage. seer would help out wrt the game over bullshit because you have to think about where dirk was during the fight and why he wasnt IN it and why he didnt go with john and roxy to the new timeline and stuff. these are all things that make me wanna reread homestuck so i can get a cohesive thing going on. anyways.

dirks version of masculinity affected a LOT of stuff in homestuck and so did lil hal and with both of those things gone u gotta think about like. for example jake and how hes all gung-ho about being a Dude and Manly and the way he goes about exploring his gender kind of cluelessly. and i dont want to make tyzias more ‘woke’ than they necessarily WOULD be in their scenario but i like to think theyd get a decent grasp on what it meant to be a butch lesbian– or at least enough to find comfort and joy and happiness in it while learning more about it and themselves as they grow. the internet exists on earth b. im allowed.

anyways jake and tyzias are best friends and its the most wonderful dynamic thats come out of this thing (there are a lot of good dynamics. i have a lot of very specific self indulgent things going on in this au.)

[ tyzias noogying jake and saying “hey you fuckin’ nerd” while he yells “JEEPERS, ZIZI” ]

tyzias and jake get to talk about things like masculinity and what even is a gender in a post-apocalyptic wasteland/on a deserted island and i think esp with tyzias’ aversion to showing what they look like or sending pics jake would go about assuming that tyzias is his Dude Friend until one day they have a conversation where tyzias goes “no bro im a lesbian” and jake has this moment of like. “… :D well thats neat buddy”

anyways tyzias encourages jake to go out and explore the island in SAFE and HEALTHY ways and they voice call while hes out and about so they can sort-of hang out as best as you can across spacetime and its fun. they like talking about stories (usually movies and shows) together bc its their common interest. 

zizi is really into storytelling and writing which is kind of a mirror of dirk/dave being really into drawing while holding onto zizi’s interest in literature and history n stuff.

as for roxy i think itd be really neat if tyzias’ “what is gender in a post-apocalyptic wasteland” thing inspired them to think about themselves and what their gender is vs. janes and maybe (or definitely) they come out as nonbinary and jane gets to be confused by zizi and roxys “weird pronoun preferences”

shit there is SO MUCH to think about with this. fuck. send me more specific questions so i dont just get caught up in my brain with all this. theres so much.

[naruto--imagines]

Naruto x Reader [Kiss Me! Why?]

[A/N] I do not own any of the characters present in this story, nor do I own the GIF that is featured. I do hold ownership over the story itself, please do not re-post it anywhere. Thanks! <3

Sitting next to Naruto in class had always been interesting. You sat on the right side of the blonde goof ball and had grown to enjoy your time in his presence. He always got the class laughing and at least once or twice has managed to flabbergast the teacher. But aside from his out bursts you saw what a diligent student he can be.

Your seating arrangement gave you a clear shot of his notes (when he took them). They were always neat and in order, even if the pages in between were taken up by drawings. And Naruto always wrote down concepts that he didn’t understand or questions that he had. Behind that wall of well-timed jokes, under the breath comments and plain interruptions was a kid trying to be a good student.

The first time the two of you hung out together was a week before the assigned math test.

“I’m begging ya, I need to pass this test or I’ll be benched in the next game.” Naruto whined, kneeling in front of you grabbing your leg, tears brimming in the corners of his eyes. The energetic boy ambushed you during lunch and was making a scene in the hallway.

“Okay, Okay, I’ll tutor you.” You said waving Naruto off your leg.

“Great!” He exclaimed jumping up. He grabbed your hands and started shaking them while singing his praises to you. “You have NO idea how much this means to me, I am in your debt. Oh, but I have practice all week long, so let’s meet up on Saturday. I’ll get your number later and text you my address.” He told you before running off.

That Saturday you found yourself standing on his door step with your school bag in hand. You had knocked on the apartment door and stood there listening. From the other side of the door you hear someone running back and forth and the muffled noise of objects being slammed around before the door in front of you was thrown open.

“Hey! You showed up!” Naruto yelled ushering you in. You stepped into the entryway and toed off your shoes before following Naruto to the living room.

The two of you sat there and worked for almost an hour before Naruto dropped his head on the table practically giving up. You sat in thought wondering how you could explain algebra to Naruto in a way that he could understand. Then it hit you. Ramen. You began drawing up some more equations for him, replacing the current values with money and packets of ramen. Unsurprisingly, he picked up the gist of the math now that he had something he loved to relate it to (Naruto ended up passing the test with a 72).

After that it became a regular for the two of you to hang out on the weekends. Sometimes studying other times doing typically teenage things. Often the two of you watched some action movie that Naruto was excited for and ate ramen.

“That’s so unrealistic.” You cried pointing at the screen. The main hero turned down a street corner with his love interest not far behind. He pulled her into a loving embrace and the two began making out, slightly covered by the shadows. The next shot had the group of men chasing the hero running right past the couple.

“There is no way that would work. The bad guys would totally have seen them if this wasn’t a movie.” You complained leaning back into your seat on the couch.

“Well I don’t know, it seems like a pretty good tactic to me.” Naruto said as he scratched at his chin. “Most people I know avoid looking at people who are making out. Unless you’re pervy sensei.”

“How could someone not notice that the guy they are chasing is the same one the is making out in the alley?” You asked orienting your body to face the blond.

“Well, I think,” Naruto started crossing his arms over his chest and leaning forward a slight pout on his face. “They might not be looking for someone kissing, they'd be looking for someone running. So, their brain would probably filter out what they aren't looking for. Right?” He finished turning to look at you. You started into blue eyes as you took in what he said. Shocked at the information he repeated back to you.

“Are you just playing dumb in school, or what?” You asked deadpanning at him.

“Huh!? What's that supposed to mean?” Naruto yelled as you laughed at the boy. The two of you turned back to the movie and finished watching it.

It was a few weeks after that, that Naruto proved his theory true.

---

You were in town buying some groceries for your mother. You make sure everything is checked from the list she gave you before you check out. Once you have paid for the food items you grab the bag and leave the store starting on your way back home.

It is a beautiful day out and everyone else in the town has made the decision to show up and enjoy the sunshine. Kids are running around screaming, parents are talking, the whole street is filled with life and snuggly packed.

It is just as you turn a corner and are standing near an alley that you hear shouting. It's coming from where you initially came from and makes you stop. All too soon, a blond rounds the corner and meets eyes with you. Naruto calls your name and drags you into the alley. He pushes you against the wall before saying,

“Kiss me,” in a panicked frenzy.

“What? Why?” you ask as you place your hands on his shoulder, attempting to create some space in between yourselves.

“Sorry, but I'll explain later.” He says before tiling his head to press his lips up against yours.

You're in a slight state of shock for a moment until you hear voices coming from outside the alley.

“He went this way!”

“Let’s get ‘im”

And a few other statements before you realize what Naruto is doing. You then wrap your arms around his neck, attempting to conceal your faces a bit better from the thugs. Naruto’s arms move to around your waist and he pulls you closer to him, an action that you're not sure if it's to protect you or to increase the intimacy between you two.

As the sound of footsteps approach you cling tighter to Naruto and in a brief moment, he leans down and lifts your legs up and smushes you further into the wall making it so there is no longer any space between you two. The things are right at the entrance to the alley when you make the decision to turn your head and press your lips further to Naruto’s, attempting to shield his face even more.

“Tch, he's not here.” One guy said before he and the others walked away. Once their footsteps had faded you pull away from the blond that's in front of you and look into his face.

“See! I told you that it would work in real life!” Naruto exclaimed with vibrant grin on his face. his reaction to the situation causes a laugh to bubble out from you. You throw you head back and place one of your hands over your eyes laughing at the situation that you have found yourself in. When you stop laughing you look down at Naruto, who still has you in in his grasp, and find that he is smiling back at you. He takes a step back from the wall and sets you down on your feet before moving away from you slightly.

“I guess you were right. “You say brushing some of the dust from your clothes. When you face the boy again you notice a slight blush on his cheeks. Naruto averts his gaze from you and brings a hand up to lightly scratch his face.

“Ne, there's something I wanted to ask you.” He started shyly still avoiding your eyes.

“What is it?” You ask staring at him.

“W-well, s-since we've already kissed, and I really like all of the time that we've spent together, I-I was wondering if you maybe might want to go out sometime.” He finishes asking turning away from you and scratching at the back of his head.

“Heh, oh Naruto, I would love to go out with you.” You reply with a smile on your face.

“R-really?!” He asks turning back to face you.

“Yes, really you goof.” You tell him with a smile.

“Alright! Dattebayo!” he yells jumping into the air in excitement.

“Okay, okay, calm down.” You say laughing as you mean over the grab your dropped bag of groceries. “I have to get these home, but you're welcomed to join me if you like.” You say smiling at him and holding out your hand. Naruto eagerly grabs it and the two of you make your way back to your house hand in hand.