#I truly remember him having the earring and now I'm quite confused

[ndostairlyrium]

oh dear is Anders’ earring a mandela effect? I can’t find a single reference of him wearing it

[dandylovesturtles]

alright, here it is: part 3 of the still untitled Room Fic! and boy is it long... this might be as long as parts 1 and 2 put together.

Content warnings for this part: vomit, serious discussion of food issues, internalized ableism, everyone being a little bit dumb

I am not a doctor and my meal plan for Leo is extremely lightly researched (mainly because it's hard to find information that would be helpful in Leo's situation but that isn't highly technical). in the end I went with what I like from a narrative standpoint. if someone starves as long as Leo did please get them to an actual doctor lol.

also I got tired and didn't proofread the last few sections.

just a warning that I'm going on vacation next week and will be out of the country for awhile so don't expect any more for this for quite some time. in the meantime, hope you enjoy this!

and if you're confused, start here!

-----

Leo wakes up.

The room is moving. His head is cradled in someone's lap. There's a furry hand stroking his arm, and a voice hums the notes of a lullaby he hasn't heard since he was a child.

-----

Leo wakes up.

He's lying somewhere soft and blessedly warm. There's a weight across his chest. Someone is chattering in his ear, happy and upbeat, saying something to him about Jupiter Jim on the desert planet Delta-5.

-----

Leo wakes up.

He's still somewhere soft but now it's too hot. He whines and pushes at the things on his chest. Near his ear someone tuts, and then a hand lands on his, giving it a squeeze.

"Nardo, you need to warm up. Don't-"

-----

Leo wakes up, and his eyes open.

"Leo?" comes Raph's voice. Leo blinks to clear his vision, then lets his eyes trail up, to find his big brother bending over him. "You awake for real this time?"

He isn't sure. Raph being here sure feels like a dream.

He lowers his eyes and looks around. He's not home. He doesn't recognize this place at all, actually. But the walls are beige (still unstimulating, but at least not white), the furniture is dark brown, the bed (not a cot) has a blue bedspread, the empty takeout containers on the table have a splash of red. It's not home, but it's not the room, either.

If he were going to dream, surely he'd just picture himself back home.

He blinks back up at Raph, and smiles.

"Wide awake," he says, echoing Raph from before.

Raph bursts into tears, immediately leaning down and wrapping Leo up in one of his signature hugs. For the first time in so many days (longer, longer, Leo can't remember the last time he got a Raph hug like this), Leo feels completely secure, fully enveloped in love and affection, held safe by his big brother where no one can hurt him.

The difference between this moment and the last week and a half is so stark it leaves Leo feeling dizzy. Like he hadn't even realized how scared and lonely and helpless he truly felt until all that pain was taken away. He's safe now. He's okay now. Raph is hugging him.

Leo hates crying in front of people, but even he can't be stoic for this.

"Oh Leo," says Raph softly once he realizes. "It's okay. We got'cha."

Leo sniffs, burying his face in Raph's plastron. He wishes he could hug back, but his limbs feel so heavy, like Donnie swapped them out for metal versions when he wasn't looking. So he can't hug back, but he leans in close and hopes that's enough.

They get about a minute to hug before Mikey is worming his way in between them, wriggling to push his arms past Raph's and around Leo for himself. "No fair, you got to hold him earlier!" Mikey declares, his voice thick with tears.

"You got to hug him earlier," Raph argues.

"He was asleep, it doesn't count!" Mikey hits back, and Leo laughs and shifts so Mikey can better get in the middle. Raph sighs exaggeratedly, but he gives Leo a pat and leans back to let Mikey in.

Mikey hugs even tighter than Raph, nuzzling in against Leo's shoulder. "I missed you," he says, then gives a choked sob he tries to bury.

"Missed you too," Leo promises, craning his neck so he can land a big smooch on Mikey's head. That replaces the sobs with relieved giggles that leave Leo feeling so much lighter.

After another minute, Mikey moves back and looks over at Donnie, who's been standing at the side of the bed wringing his hands. "Your turn, Donald."

Donnie makes a grumpy noise at having been perceived, but when Leo gets a look at his face he sees Donnie has tears shimmering in his eyes, too. They break free once Donnie's arms are around him, trickling onto the skin of Leo's shoulder.

"Crying over me, Don-ton?" he teases, even as his own voice is thick with emotion.

"Shut up, Nardo," Donnie snaps back, but his voice cracks at the end and he holds on even tighter.

"Alright, my turn," says April once Donnie starts to loosen his grip, and Donnie obligingly crawls off the bed, swiping at his eyes. Like he's looking for something to busy himself with, he starts throwing away the takeout containers on the table. They must be empty.

Leo tears his eyes away just as April swoops in to wrap him up in his fourth hug of the hour, giving him a kiss on his forehead as she does. "Hey, Leo. How're you feelin'?"

"Happy to see you," he says again, and she squeezes him tighter. "Kinda hot."

"That's the hypothermia talking," says Donnie. April shushes him.

"Hypothermia?" Leo asks. April pulls back so she can see his face.

"It wasn't that bad," she says quickly. "You'd started brumating, we think... Tromping around in the snow didn't help, though."

"Not to mention you used up the last of your energy portaling us out of there," Mikey chimes in. "It was really cool though!"

Leo laughs. "Thanks, little brother." Even with the containers thrown away, the smell of the takeout is thick in the room. Leo guesses they had Japanese. It can't have been that long ago. "Where are we?"

"Motel room about two hours down the road." April slides to sit next to him, keeping one arm wrapped around his shoulders. Her body heat is warm in a more pleasant way than the blankets, and he leans into it. "We wanted to go further, but we needed to get you warmed up."

"A motel...? Huh." Leo looks around again. This is his first time being in a hotel that isn't owned by Big Mama. He wonders how far it is from the Japanese place. Just, like, average delivery time. "What happened? It's... kind of a blur for me." He laughs.

They launch into the story without any more prompting. It all sounds like what Leo expected. Raph led the team. Donnie did science stuff. Mikey razzed his tazz. April used her investigative skills.

They tracked him all the way down to Colorado (that explains the snow) and broke him out. They floored it away from the EPF, got far enough they felt safe, then booked into a motel under April's name. That's where they've been since. Splinter and Draxum are out now, patrolling to make sure they weren't followed or discovered.

It's quite the story. And Leo knows he should be paying more attention than he is.

It's just, the takeout boxes. The smell coming from them is so strong, or maybe Leo is just abnormally sensitive to it. He thinks someone had steak, and someone else had fish. The fried rice had egg in it. His mouth is watering so badly he has to swallow every few seconds.

"Leo?" calls Mikey, and Leo startles, ripping his eyes from the trash can to look at Mikey's face. He's gripping the bedspread so hard his knuckles are cramping. He realizes this is not the first time Mikey said his name. Great, now they know he wasn't paying attention.

"Ah, sorry," he says quickly. "I didn't mean to zone out." He flashes them all the biggest smile he can, so they don't worry. "I was just, uh..."

He trails off, not sure of a way to say that he was completely distracted by the smell of their already eaten Japanese food without making it awkward.

"Sorry, Leo, we know you're tired," says Raph, reaching over and rubbing his head. "You can go back to sleep. We're not leaving for awhile."

Go back to sleep? Leo doubts he can, what with the hunger an empty yawning hole inside him. It had been muted while the cold and the exhaustion took over, but now that he's warmer and more rested his body is very painfully reminding him he still has another problem.

He's trying to come up with a casual way to approach the subject when his stomach does it for him, gurgling and growling loud enough that everyone hears it. Leo is very glad his blushes don't show up as easily as humans' do.

"Uh... heh heh." He scratches at his own cheek, then stops when he feels how disturbingly hollowed out it is. "Before that... are there any leftovers?"

Everyone's staring at him. Leo's too tired to puzzle out why they're all staring at him. Maybe there really aren't any leftovers? He did just watch Donnie throw everything away. Maybe there were some, but now they'd have to fish it out of the trash. Leo wants to say he'd happily eat it out of the trash, but that would be really weird and they'd stare at him even more.

(But he would eat it out of the trash. He may be too proud to say it out loud, but he can admit it to himself.)

"O-or," he says quickly, to fill the silence after his last question, "if... if it's not too much trouble, can you ask Dad and Barry to bring something with them when they come back? Even if it's just something from a gas station, or..." They're still staring, and Leo feels himself starting to ramble desperately, "Or if it's too late, I can just... I can just go back to sleep, hah, but... but can someone at least wake me up so I don't miss breakfast?"

His family stutters back to life at that. Raph gives a furious shake of his head and says, "Forget breakfast," which makes Leo's heart and stomach lurch painfully. Waiting until lunch? That feels like forever away.

But then Raph continues with, "Leo, why didn't you tell us you're hungry right now?"

Leo falters. "Uh... just... didn't want to interrupt the flow of the conversation," he says, which is true, but the way everyone is looking at him now, he's pretty sure it's the wrong answer.

"Please," says April, tone very close to exasperated, "interrupt the conversation."

"Will do," says Leo. But he's still not sure what to do, because no one has told him when food is coming.

(You want this? You beg for it.)

Before he can spin out on that thought, Mikey jumps off the bed and heads for the mini-fridge that Leo hadn't noticed until now. He yanks open the door and pulls out two takeout containers, a box and a cylindrical container.

"We weren't sure what you felt up to, so we got you steak hibachi and miso soup," Mikey says, waving each container in turn.

The thought of having to actually chew and swallow sounds exhausting, so Leo says, "Soup's fine." And then, just in case, he adds hastily, "Please."

"Okay," says Mikey, and even though he's clearly trying to sound upbeat, Leo can hear the strain in his voice. "Just give me a minute to heat it up for you!"

Leo would eat it cold. Leo would eat it frozen. But he bites that back and waits.

Mikey puts it in the microwave on top of the fridge. Every little tick down on the timer feels like it takes three eternities. The rest of his family seems to feel the tension as much as he does.

"April!" says Donnie abruptly, too loud to be natural. "You wanted to see what's on the sci-fi channel!"

"Thaaat's right!" she says, also a little too loudly. "I did. Hand me the remote."

Donnie gives her the remote. She turns on the TV just as the microwave dings.

Mikey yanks the door open as soon as it does, pulling the bowl out with no regard for how hot it is. He gives it a perfunctory blow to cool it down, then hurries over to the bed, pausing only to grab a plastic spoon off a little pile of utensils on the table.

He hands both the bowl and spoon to Leo, but Leo already knows his arms won't be able to maneuver the spoon, so he lets it fall into his lap, in favor of lifting the entire container to his lips. He hopes he doesn't look too pathetically eager as he tilts it back and takes his first sip.

It's good.

It's so good he starts crying.

It's not even the best miso soup he's ever had. In fact, it's a little too oily and nowhere near as good as the kind his dad makes, or what Mikey is capable of. But it doesn't matter. It wouldn't matter if this was the worst soup in the world, because right now it's the best thing Leo has ever tasted.

He may be crying more over this than he did over hugs from his family. Maybe he'll have it in him to feel bad for that later.

The TV is showing some old monster movie. His siblings pretend they're watching that and not watching him. He appreciates that, because it makes him feel less self-conscious as he desperately slurps down the soup, practically guzzling it, only pausing when he has to chew the greens here and there.

He eats until his stomach is full and warm. And then he keeps going. There's still soup left, and stopping feels impossible.

(Besides, no one actually promised him breakfast.)

"Hey, maybe you should slow down," says Donnie. Leo pauses, looking up at him, licking the remains of soup off his lips. The container is still about a third full.

Maybe Donnie is right. His stomach is actually starting to cramp. But... but...

He doesn't know what his face looks like right now. But something about it makes Donnie look sad.

He turns away, rubbing right between his fake eyebrows. "Okay, okay. Just... don't overdo it."

Leo sighs, grateful the soup isn't being taken away. He goes back to drinking it, feeling like the chasm inside him is finally beginning to fill.

-----

The next time Leo wakes up, it's because he has to puke. Unfortunately, he doesn't have time to communicate that before it's all over himself and the bedsheets.

"Whoa, Leo-" someone says, and then there's a flurry of activity around him. He can't keep up with who goes where and who says what. It's a lot to keep track of when he just woke up and is spewing half-digested miso soup and stomach bile.

"There we go... You're alright, Blue, you're alright," he hears once he comes back to his senses, and he blinks and looks over. His dad is standing on the bed next to him, and he leans in with a damp washcloth and wipes at Leo's face and mouth.

"Perhaps the soup was too much for your stomach," Splinter says as he finishes, tossing the washcloth into the floor. "How do you feel?"

"Mm... weird," Leo admits, leaning sleepily into his dad's shoulder. He shouldn't because he's gross, but Splinter lets him do it, stroking his cheek. "My stomach hurts..."

The loss of the food hurts; without anything in his stomach, he'll feel hungry again soon. Leo is terrified of that, of the deep empty chasm of his hunger returning, sucking him down into its depths. At the same time, the idea of eating makes him feel queasy.

He feels weird, and miserable, and scared, and he doesn't know when his dad came back, but he's so glad he's here.

"How much did you let him eat?" he hears Draxum ask. Leo finds the energy to feel offended that he's being talked about like he isn't in the room, but not enough energy to actually say anything about it.

"As much as he wanted," Mikey answers. Which, as Leo recalls, was almost all of the soup.

"And how much was that?"

"Here, look."

There's the sound of the mini-fridge being opened again. The pop of the takeout lid. Draxum hums in a way that does not sound pleased.

"Leonardo," he says, coming to stand by the bed now. "I have a very important question and I need you to answer: when was the last time you ate?"

Leo stares at him blearily. Then he raises a tired hand and indicates the mess all down his front.

"Don't get cute," says Draxum, ignoring the following grunt of warning Splinter directs his way. "You know what I'm asking you."

Of course Leo knows. But he doesn't want to answer. Not while his dad is holding him, and all his siblings are watching him expectantly. They aren't going to like what he has to tell them. He doesn't want to upset them.

But Draxum is unmoved and steely eyed. There's no way Leo is getting out of this without answering.

He sighs, shutting his eyes and leaning into Splinter so he doesn't have to be looking at the rest of them when he says it.

"Last time I ate was at Run of the Mill."

He hears a gasp, hears Mikey yell, "What!?" Feels Splinter's sharp intake of breath under his cheek, and then his dad shifts so he can hold him even closer.

"They... they didn't feed you in there at all?" asks April, like she doesn't quite believe it.

Leo nods.

"I should have leveled the whole building!" Donnie snaps, and Leo hears something get knocked to the ground.

Mikey comes closer, and puts a hand on his shoulder, drawing Leo's gaze back his way. He looks so upset, and Leo regrets looking. "Leo, why didn't you tell us? You didn't even say you were hungry!"

"Felt weird to bring it up in the middle of the happy reunion," he says. It's a weak justification, he knows. The look on Mikey's face just gets more miserable.

"Wait," Raph cuts in. "Wait, so... when Bishop said he gave you chances to cooperate for better living conditions, he meant..."

Leo swallows hard, not wanting to look at the distress on Raph's face. "Feeding me, yeah."

"What did he want out of you? What was he making you do?"

This part, at least, Leo can answer easily. "He wanted information. About the yokai and the Hidden City."

Raph sounds surprised. "He just... wanted you to answer questions?"

"Yeah." Leo nods again. "Like, how to get in, how many portals there are, what kind of defense capabilities there are, stuff about Draxum... That's what I remember."

"Why didn't you just tell them?"

Now Leo does look at Raph's face. He's staring at Leo with open horror and distress. But Leo doesn't understand the question, or the look. He did what he was supposed to, didn't he? He held out and didn't give Bishop any information. He did the right thing. So Raph has no reason to look so upset.

He smiles in a way he hopes is reassuring. "Hey, that's not what a hero would do, right?"

It's apparently not reassuring. If anything, Raph only looks more horrified.

He turns away from Leo abruptly and marches straight out of the room, slamming the door on the way out.

Leo doesn't understand that reaction. He did what he was supposed to, but Raph is mad at him, anyway. The rest of his family seems shocked, too, so at least Leo isn't alone.

"I'll talk to him," says April, the first to move. She leaves with much less noise, disappearing into the dark parking lot beyond the door.

Awkward silence envelops the room after that. Leo doesn't know what to do or say to break it. He made Raph mad, because he never does anything right, according to Raph. It's the same as always, but for some reason Leo feels even worse this time.

"...Well," says Draxum, cutting through the awkwardness when it becomes clear no one else wants to, "knowing this, we will have to be much more careful about what and how much you eat. I'll make a meal plan."

"Why you?" Leo grouses. "Let Donnie do it."

Donnie opens his mouth like he wants to agree, but Draxum cuts him off before he can.

"Me, because I have actual experience designing nutritious meal plans for children." Leo thinks of what he's heard about Draxum's lunchroom and makes a face, which Draxum ignores. "Besides, I can't trust any of the rest of you to actually tell Leo he can't have more to eat."

"I can handle myself," Leo argues.

"Clearly," says Draxum icily, indicating the mess still in Leo's lap, "you cannot."

Leo doesn't have a good response for that, and no one steps up to his defense. Back not even twenty four hours, and he already has multiple people mad at him. That has to be a new record.

"...Whatever," he says, because he doesn't know what else to say. Draxum nods like he actually gave approval.

There's another round of awkward silence. Splinter breaks it this time.

"Why doesn't someone call housekeeping to ask for some fresh sheets," he says, "while I help Blue take a bath."

"Ugh, yes, I'm calling them now," says Donnie. Leo notes for the first time that his most persnickety brother is as far from his bed as possible, having put the second bed and the table between them. "The whole room is starting to smell."

Leo cringes. "Sorry..."

"There is nothing for you to apologize for," his dad reassures him, patting his head. Leo isn't sure he'd say that, but he doesn't waste breath arguing. "Now, come with me."

It takes some maneuvering, but they get him out of bed without making a bigger mess. Mikey starts stripping the sheets, and he can hear Donnie on the phone with the staff across the room.

Leo's still not wearing any of his gear. It shouldn't matter because he's just in a room with his family, but he still walks to the bathroom as quickly as he can.

Splinter shuts the door once they're inside, then fills a little plastic cup with water. This he hands off to Leo, saying, "Drink this, and I will run you a nice warm bath."

Leo does as he says, and tries not to think too much about how Raph is mad at him.

-----

There's an old concrete barrier that stands between the motel parking lot and an open field. Raph hefts a piece of the crumbling concrete and chucks it as hard as he can, watching as it disappears into the tall grass beyond.

They starved him. They starved his little brother for over a week, because he wouldn't answer some questions. And he wouldn't answer those questions because...

That's not what a hero would do.

Raph's ninpo flares to life. Punching out another piece of the barrier is easy; he lifts the broken pieces and throws them after the first, watching them sail through the air.

"You better hope there aren't any security cameras out here," says a voice behind him, and he looks over his shoulder.

April is there, standing a few feet back, hands tucked in the pockets of her jacket. Raph's ninpo stutters out at the sight of her; he wonders if he looked scary.

"...What are they gonna do even if there are?" he asks. But he does stop his wanton destruction.

"I don't know, but just remember it's my credit card on file for damages." Her voice is teasing, though, and he knows she isn't actually mad. She comes over, turning so she can lean against part of the barrier that's still intact. "Come on, Big Red. Talk to me."

Raph doesn't turn around. He can't stand to look back at the motel, at the room where his brother is, tiny and weak and with a stomach that's been empty for days on end. He can't handle it right now. So he keeps his eyes on the field.

"Leo let those guys hurt him," he says.

"No he didn't," says April. "He can't help what they did to him."

"If he'd just answered their questions, they would have fed him."

"We can't know that." April shakes her head. "You heard what Draxum said about those guys. You saw what they were like. Maybe if Leo had answered their questions, they would have just killed him. Leo was probably thinking that, too."

"But that's not what he said," Raph points out.

"...Look." April takes a deep breath. "Leo... just went through a lot. We don't know what he was thinking while he was in there, or what he's thinking now. And you know that boy likes to say flashy things. Don't take anything he says right now too seriously."

"But what if this is the most truthful he's gonna be? What if he just hasn't thought of a good lie yet?"

"Raph-"

"No, you don't get it, April." Raph holds his head in his hands, like he can physically hold the dark thoughts at bay, but he can't, and they keep coming: horrific images of what could have happened, if they'd been too late, if the EPF had been less patient. "I told him to stop thinking of himself! Right before he disappeared, I told him he needed to be a hero! But Raph didn't mean like this!"

"Hey now, you don't know-" April tries, but Raph cuts her off.

"I just wanted him to stop doing everything himself! All the showboating, all the running in without talkin' to us... Raph just wanted him to remember that we're a team!" He lets go of his head and grips the concrete instead, so hard it cracks and crumbles under his fingers. "What if he took that to mean he should risk his life for everyone else? That he had to sacrifice himself?"

"Oookay, slow down there, big guy," says April, turning around and putting a hand on his arm. "You're taking one thing he said and blowing it way out of proportion."

"But what if I'm right?" Raph shakes his head. "How do I live with that, if I am? Knowing I almost killed him?"

"Okay, you look at me right now," she demands, in a way Raph can't refuse. He turns, and she reaches up and grabs his face by the cheeks, yanking him down until he bends to her eye level.

"You did not almost kill him. That was those EPF guys." Her voice is stern, and her grip on his face prevents him from objecting. "And even if you are right, and it's what you said to Leo that kept him from answering... well, then that's something the two of you will have to work out together."

She lets him go, putting her hands on her hips. "But what's done is done. Right now, Leo is exhausted and starved, and he's not really in a state for big emotional talks. So let's just get some space and get your head on straight. Once we get him home and everything's calmed down, the two of you can hash this out."

Raph lets out a strangled laugh, slumping down against the crumbling barrier. "Yeah, because that's so easy."

"I'm not saying it's easy." She sits down next to him, putting her hand on his arm. "But you guys love each other, so you'll do the hard things you have to do. I know you got this." She gives him a wink. "You're Raph."

Raph isn't sure he has that much faith in himself. But April isn't wrong very often, so he thinks he should probably listen to her.

-----

The water feels nice on Leo's skin, pleasantly warm and soothing. He sinks down until all but his eyes are in the water, letting it swirl around him.

He still feels a little exposed, but it's only Splinter in here, and that helps. It's like he's a little kid again, getting a bath from his dad, but he has to scrunch to cram his legs in the tub and that ruins the illusion.

"My Baby Blue always did enjoy a nice bath," says Splinter fondly, rustling up hotel soap for them to use.

He wets a washcloth and lathers it up, then cleans off the top of Leo's head and back of his neck, then down to his shoulders and the ridge of his shell. Leo would normally protest this kind of treatment, but right now he's not sure he can lift his arms above his head, so he doesn't.

Besides, it feels nice.

"Float on your front," Splinter says, adding, "Deep breath." It's what he always said when they were kids and he wanted to wash their shells. Everyone but Mikey can hold their breath for a long time, but he always says it anyway.

Leo takes a deep breath and flips onto his front, closing his eyes as his dad washes the back of his shell. It's so soothing he could almost take a nap here. The world is nicely muted under the water.

Splinter gives his shell three pats with his hand, the signal to sit back up. Leo does, rolling onto his back to rinse off. Splinter hands him the washcloth and soap, and he cleans his lower half, taking care around the bottom ridges of his shell.

"Thanks for the bath, Daddio," he says as he finishes. "I know I was starting to get pretty ripe." He pulls up the drain plug with a pop, watching the dirty water spin away.

He tries to imagine he's watching the last of that place drain away with it.

Splinter retrieves a fluffy white towel, drying off the top of Leo's head before handing it off. "I wasn't thinking of that," he says. "But I know a good bath always made you feel better when you were sick."

It was never really about the bath, but the undivided dad attention. How Splinter would wash his shell and pat his head and dry him off, just like he's doing now.

It occurs to Leo that he almost lost this forever, and its like his breath is taken away. He buries his face in the towel and tries to ride through it - he doesn't want to cry again.

Splinter must pick up on it, because suddenly he's sitting on the side of the tub, rubbing the top of Leo's shell. "It's okay, Blue. You're safe."

He's safe.

He really is safe, isn't he?

He lowers the towel and turns into his dad instead, wriggling his head into his lap. Splinter welcomes him, patting his head with one hand and the top of his shell with another. Leo's breath hitches and the tears break free.

"I know," says Splinter, and his voice is thick with emotion. Leo knows he can't look or he'll start sobbing. "I... was very scared for you, my son. I am so glad you're here, Leonardo. I love you very much."

"L-love you too," he warbles. His tears are falling fast, now, and Splinter takes the towel and dries them away every now and then.

By the time Leo sits up and rubs at his eyes, the towel is totally soaked through from being in the tub. Splinter moves away to grab him a fresh one, which Leo wraps himself up in.

"Leonardo," says Splinter hesitantly once he is out of the tub, "I know you may not want to talk about it right now. But I need to ask you this."

Leo wonders where this is going. He sits down on the toilet lid, looking at his dad. "Uh, okay."

Splinter looks him up and down before asking, "Did those men... hit you? Or touch you in any way?"

Oh. Leo shakes his head. "No. They didn't... I mean, they just put me in that room. They weren't, like... torturing me or anything."

He thought that would reassure his dad, but if anything Splinter only looks more sad.

"Not feeding you is torturing you," he says.

"Oh, well, yeah, I guess." Leo rubs the back of his head. "But I mean, they weren't... you know. Shocking me or whipping me or... putting me in that medieval stretchy thing from the movies."

"I see." His dad sighs, but nods. "Very well. I'm glad, at least, that you do not have any injuries."

Leo nods back. "Yeah, no, I'm all good." He tries to smile, but his smiles aren't really having the effect they usually do.

"Are you ready to go back?" asks Splinter, moving to the door. Leo nods again, standing up. "Are you still cold?"

Leo blinks in surprise, then realizes Splinter is referring to the towel he still has wrapped around himself. He's not really that cold anymore, but he grabs onto the convenient excuse, anyway.

"Uh, yeah." He grins sheepishly. "Actually, did you guys bring any of my clothes? I'm a little worried about the ride home."

"Ah." Splinter taps his chin. "I don't think we brought any of your things. Your brothers brought their hoodies, I believe, in case they needed to go in a store..." He reaches up and pats Leo's hand. "There is a gift shop in the motel lobby. I will send Purple and Orange in the morning - I'm sure they'd enjoy doing some shopping!"

"Thanks. I just need a sweatshirt or something. Maybe some pajama pants." He shrugs. "Gotta stay toasty, right?"

"That's right. No more turtle-cicles." Splinter reaches up and turns the doorknob, gesturing for Leo to lead the way.

Leo shuffles for the bed, keeping the towel tight around himself as he goes. He doesn't drop it until he's under the sheets again, safely tucked away.

Raph isn't back yet. The realization turns Leo's stomach. But Mikey barrels into bed next to him, cuddling up against one side, while Donnie scoots in on the other, tapping away at his phone, and Leo tries to forget about it.

He's sure that, as soon as he's better, Raph will be back to yell at him.

-----

Leo doesn't realize Draxum left until he comes back. He did doze off for a bit there, though, so it's not surprising.

Mikey was snoozing against Leo's arm, too, but when the door clicks shut he raises his head, blinking sleep out of his eyes. Donnie looks up from his phone. Splinter's asleep in the other bed, only grumbling incoherently at the noise before rolling over.

(Raph and April still haven't come back. It makes Leo's heart thud a little harder.)

"Hey Barry," says Mikey, voice still a little sleepy. He pushes himself up to sit against the pillows. "Find what you were looking for?"

"Yes." Draxum walks over to the bed, pulling a bottle out of a pharmacy bag. He twists the cap loose, then holds it out and says, "Leonardo, drink this."

Leo can't help the way his face screws up as he takes it, eyeing the label on the bottle. "Eugh. What is this?"

"Vegetable juice," Draxum informs him dryly.

"Gross." Leo does not bring the bottle any closer to his lips. "Can I have soda instead?"

"Absolutely not." Draxum's voice is stern. "No sugar or caffeine until I say otherwise."

The next several days are looking worse and worse. Leo grimaces. "Can I just drink water, then?"

"You can and should drink water. But you also need to steadily reintroduce your body to nutrients. The vegetable juice will help, until your stomach can handle more solid food at a time."

Leo groans, eyeing the bottle warily. Anything labeled "juice" should not be this color of red-orange.

"Draxum's just trying to help, Leo!" Mikey chimes in. "Besides, vegetable juice isn't that bad."

It's not the most reassuring endorsement, given that Mikey loves vegetables in a way Leo has never understood. But with his little brother cheering him on, he can't back down.

"Fine. Down the hatch," he mutters, then takes a swig. It tastes just as off-putting as he was imagining, and he shudders and smacks his lips. "Yuck."

"Sorry, Leo." Mikey pats his arm comfortingly. "As soon as Barry says it's okay, we'll get pizza!"

"Please don't remind me of pizza right now..."

"Here." Leo looks up to find Draxum is holding out a handful of crackers. "Eat these, too. Be sure you chew them thoroughly before you swallow. And keep drinking the juice."

Leo takes the crackers in his free hand, putting them in his lap on top of the sheets. There's only six, and they look boring even for crackers. but his stomach perks up with interest, reminding Leo that everything he put in it before got thrown up.

Leo thought he was going to be waiting until breakfast to eat again. The crackers ease that tension, relief he hadn't consciously realized he needed.

Still, can't let Draxum think Leo actually appreciates all his bullying, so Leo still makes a face as he holds up one of the crackers and examines it.

"And these are...?"

"Are you going to react like this to everything?" asks Draxum with a scoff. "They're whole wheat crackers. They'll settle your stomach, and you need food in you so can take these vitamins."

He pulls a bottle out of his bag and shakes it, filling the room with the sound of pills rattling around. Leo scrunches up his snout.

"You didn't get me the chewable kind? Or those fruit gummy ones?"

"Are you such a child you need your medicine in the form of candy?" Draxum rolls his eyes. "You will be just fine with the pills."

"Okay, okay!" Leo groans theatrically, leaning his head back. "I can't believe you guys are letting him take care of him. He'll be feeding me bugs and leaves next."

"Stop whining. No one wants to hear it this late."

"I actually like these crackers," says Donnie. "They're delightfully bland."

This statement is followed by a crunch.

The sound sends a shiver up Leo's shell, and he turns his head in time to see Donnie, one of Leo's crackers in his hand, a big bite taken out of it. He chews and swallows with a slight smile on his face, clearly unconcerned that he just took one of Leo's crackers.

Leo only had six crackers to start. Now there's five. He doesn't know when he gets any more. No one promised him breakfast. And now he only has five crackers, and not six. And he can feel the hunger coming back.

Donnie turns his head and they lock eyes. Leo has no idea what his own expression looks like, but Donnie's turns startled and then almost frightened. He's so shocked he drops the rest of the cracker into his own lap.

Leo just barely stops himself from snatching it back.

Because that would be weird. What he's doing right now is weird. Everyone is staring at him, the room has gone silent, he's acting like Donnie just committed an unforgivable sin when all he did was take a cracker, like the two of them haven't been casually taking each other's food their entire lives.

He's being weird. He needs to stop. He needs to go back to normal right now.

Five crackers can be enough. It's enough it's enough it's-

Leo forces his brain to restart, his face and posture to relax, his fingers to unclench. He schools his mouth into an unserious grin, glancing back at Draxum. "H-hey, so... how many crackers do I need to eat? Since Thief-atello just stole one."

"I'm sorry," Donnie blurts out, an extremely rare apology. "I wasn't thinking."

Leo waves a hand. "It's cool, man," he says.

"No," Donnie insists. "I shouldn't have done that, I don't know why I did that-"

Great, first he pisses off Raph and now Donnie's freaked out. Leo's family came all the way to Colorado to save him and all he's done since then is upset them.

"Dee," says Leo, and he knocks one shoulder against Donnie's. "Seriously. It's fine."

Because it is. They take food from each other all the time. Leo's the one who made it weird, not Donnie, even if he did take one of Leo's crackers.

Donnie looks at him, uncertain. He still hasn't touched the remaining cracker in his lap. Leo wishes he would finish eating it now, so it isn't tempting him.

"...Still. I won't do it again," says Donnie finally, looking down at his lap and wringing his hands. He looks miserable, and Leo hates that he caused this.

Before he can do or say anything more, Draxum gets Leo's attention by holding out a new cracker. "Here," he says, waiting until Leo takes it, before handing a few to the still shell-shocked Donnie. "Both of you can have crackers. Now don't squabble, you'll disturb the neighbors."

Donnie puts the crackers in his lap and doesn't touch them again. The air in the room is stifling. And Leo wants to eat his own crackers, but now it feels awkward.

"I think you should steal one of his to get him back," says Mikey in an exaggerated whisper, a gallant attempt to dispel the tension. It doesn't quite work, but it breaks the silence enough for Leo to force out a chuckle and pick up a cracker.

"Everyone eat what you've been given and settle down," says Draxum, going to sit on the other bed. Splinter mumbles in his sleep again and rolls over. Everyone relaxes a little more.

Leo bites into the cracker. It tastes like all of nothing, but it has a pleasant crunch between his teeth, and he finds that he likes it.

Next to him, Donnie hesitantly finishes off his own half-finished cracker. Then he half-heartedly eats the others. Leo drinks his vegetable juice, then swallows the pill Draxum gives him.

Mikey does his best to fill the room with happy chatter, and the mood lightens, little by little.

Everything's okay. He just can't do that again.

-----

Everyone but Draxum is asleep when Raph and April come back into the room, just a little before dawn. Splinter is splayed out across the bed closest to the door, while all three of his little brothers are curled around each other in the bed by the bathroom.

Raph and April spent a long time sitting by the barrier, talking intermittently between long spells of silence. Then they moved to the tank, taking a nap together on the bench seats.

April has her travel pillow and blanket now, and she takes both and spreads out at the foot of his brothers’ bed, wisely putting her head by Donnie, who sleeps still as the dead, and not Mikey, who has already moved several times since they walked in. She yawns and then conks out almost immediately, glasses held loosely in her hand against her chest.

Raph wishes he didn’t feel quite so wide awake.

Draxum is sitting in one of the chairs by the table, phone in hand. He has a notebook open and scribbles into it with a pen. Raph comes over and takes a peek: it’s all notes about nutrition, the vitamins that are most critically needed after a long term starvation event.

Draxum’s helping Leo. That makes Raph feel better, and he sinks into the other chair, leaning his head back.

“You should try to get some sleep,” says Draxum, voice low. “We’ll be leaving in a few hours.”

“Raph’s good,” he says, staying where he is.

He feels Draxum’s eyes on him, for a moment. “I’m taking watch. Go to sleep, Raphael.”

Raph hesitates, then gets up from the chair and goes to lay down next to his dad. Splinter grumbles in his sleep, but rolls over like he knows to make room for a son crawling into his bed.

From here Raph can see Leo’s face. It’s gaunt and washed out, and even with all the sleeping he’s done there are still dark circles under his eyes. He looks so fragile, and the anger burns in his chest again, that anyone could hurt him like this.

He’s safe now, though. Mikey has an arm curled around his plastron, and Donnie flanks his other side like a guard. He’s able to rest, and eat, and get better.

Raph remembers what April said. Give Leo time to heal, then talk about what happened in there. He can do that. He can be patient.

He hadn’t thought he would be able to sleep, but lying still, with his sleeping family all around him, safe and sound, puts him under in minutes.

-----

"Morning, Leo!"

Leo blinks awake, taking in his surroundings. The walls are beige, the bed is blue, there's a TV playing the morning news on low volume, there's sunlight shining through the window.

He can smell food.

"It's breakfast time!" says Mikey. He's standing next to the bed, holding a tray. Leo wriggles until he's sitting up against the pillows, grinning as he pats his lap.

"Thanks, Mikey."

"You're welcome!" Mikey gives Leo a thousand watt smile as he sets the tray down.

Leo wishes he could feel as enthusiastic as his little brother as he gets a look at his breakfast. There's a large cup of white yogurt, and a little plate of scrambled eggs that don't even look like they have pepper on them. He's glad he has food, he just wishes it was something more exciting.

He lifts his eyes and takes a look around the room. Donnie is in one of the chairs by the table, tapping away on his phone. April is in the other chair, and she smiles and gives him a little wave when he meets her eyes. His dad is in the other bed, munching on what looks like a muffin and watching the news. He doesn't see Raph, but he hears the shower running.

Draxum is standing by the doorway, watching Leo. When their gazes meet, he sighs, rubbing the furrow on his forehead.

"Are you going to ask me what you're eating again?"

"Yes!" Leo points at the cup of yogurt. "What is this!? It's not even fruit flavored!"

"It's Greek yogurt. You can have fruit when your stomach is more settled."

"Ugh..." Leo sighs, grabbing the plastic spoon off his tray and scooping up a tiny bite of yogurt. It's not terrible, but without any fruit it's not very exciting.

"Hey, look at the bright side," says Mikey, holding out a plastic cup. "You get apple juice this morning! Since it had no sugar added, Draxum said it's okay!"

Leo musters up a smile. "Well, it's better than vegetable juice..."

"Don't get too excited," says Draxum dryly. "You'll be drinking more on the drive home."

"You're such a buzzkill, Drax," Leo huffs, taking a bite of his eggs now. They're unseasoned, but they're something. And there's the part of him that is just happy to have any food, simmering under the surface and demanding he eat faster. To keep himself from cramming the whole of the plate in his mouth at once, he turns to Mikey. "Hey, sneak me a muffin. Blueberry or chocolate chip."

Mikey grimaces. "I don't think Barry wants me to do that..."

Leo pouts, chewing his eggs slowly. "Who are you going to listen to, him or me?"

"He'll listen to me," says Draxum sternly. "If you're still hungry after that, you can have some more crackers."

Leo sighs, but part of him feels better knowing the crackers are still on the table. He crams more eggs in his mouth and chews as sulkily as possible.

There's an Old Navy ad playing on TV. Splinter sits up straighter in bed when he sees it, getting muffin crumbs everywhere. "Ah, that reminds me! Blue wanted some warm clothes to wear on the ride home." Splinter reaches out and pats Mikey on the arm. "Orange, Purple - why don't the two of you go to the gift shop and do some shopping? You can get a souvenir for yourselves as well."

"Oooh, yes!" Mikey bounces excitedly in place. "Dibs on picking out Leo's clothes!"

"Gasp!" Donnie stands up, pointing at him dramatically. "You know I'm the fashionable one in this family! Leo, tell him you want me to pick out your clothes for our return trip!"

"Mmm, I dunno..." Leo grins up at his little brother, giving him a wink. "I think Angelo's got this."

Donnie makes a noise of utter betrayal while Mikey cheers and stoops to give Leo a hug. "I won't let you down, Leon!" he promises, giving Leo a big smooch on the top of his head.

"I know you won't."

"Fine then! I'll just have to make you all jealous with my own selections." Donnie looks down. "April, do you want to join us?"

"Yeah, sure." April stands up, stretching her arms above her head. "Maybe I'll get a keychain or something."

The three of them file out of the room, Donnie and Mikey still arguing animatedly. Draxum takes one of the abandoned chairs, and Splinter goes back to watching the news.

Leo continues eating his bland breakfast, and tries not to spend too much time wondering when his next meal will be. At least he's been promised crackers.

-----

Raph comes out of the bathroom about ten minutes later, just as Leo's finishing up his breakfast with a few crackers. He nearly jumps when their eyes meet.

"Oh, hey, Leo," he says, voice a forced cheerful. "You're awake! That's great!"

"Yeah," says Leo back, trying not to sound too awkward and failing. He holds up his empty cup. "Just finished breakfast."

"O-oh, yeah. Was it... good?"

Leo grimaces. "Not really."

"Oh." Raph hovers in the doorway, practically vibrating with nervous energy. Leo wonders if he should apologize, but he still doesn't know what he's apologizing for, so he doesn't.

He'd know if Raph would just go ahead and yell at him, but Raph doesn't seem eager to start. Maybe he doesn't think Leo is healed up enough yet, or maybe he doesn't want to do it in front of Splinter. Either way, no yelling seems forthcoming.

Instead, Raph says, "Uh, where's everyone else?"

"Shopping for clothes for Blue and for souvenirs for themselves," Splinter answers.

"Oh, cool. Maybe... maybe I'll go join 'em!"

Raph pats Leo on the head as he goes by, then leaves the room like it's on fire. Leo is silent; he has no idea what to say or do.

He's out of food now, too. He's already asked Draxum for crackers once, and he's not sure if asking again will actually gain him anything. And with Mikey gone, he feels too anxious to try.

He settles back on his pillows and turns his eyes to the TV, lifting the plastic spoon in his hands. He slots the handle between his teeth and chews, relaxing at the feel of it. It's sturdier than the water bottles, so he can't flatten it down as easily, but the way he can munch on it endlessly has its own appeal.

The news drones on. His dad laughs at something the anchors say. Draxum scribbles away at a notebook. And Leo leans back on his pillows and chews on the spoon.

On the ticker at the bottom of the screen, he notices the tail end of a news item about a training accident at a military facility in Colorado Springs - one injured.

-----

The outfit Mikey has picked out is a sky blue hoodie with "PIKE'S PEAK" in big block letters and darker blue plaid sweatpants. They meet Leo's standards for softness and comfiness, if not quite his standards for style. It's fine, because he's after the former right now.

"Did I do good?" Mikey asks, bouncing on his toes.

"You did great," Leo responds, motioning him closer so he can rub his head affectionately. It lacks his usual punch, but Mikey laughs and wiggles away anyway.

"We also got," Mikey rummages around in the gift store bag, then pulls out, "matching fuzzy socks!"

The socks are in their signature colors and have snowboarders on them, and each set has a terrible pun like, "SNOW RULES!" and "COOLER THAN COOL!" Leo loves them immediately.

"I think this is the best gift you've ever gotten me," says Leo sincerely. Mikey beams and comes in for a hug that Leo gladly returns.

"Here, put 'em on!" says Mikey after he backs away, nodding at the hoodie and pants on the bed. "You don't want to be cold, right?"

"Right," says Leo, lifting the hoodie in his arms. A quick glance around the room shows that they're all looking at him now - Mikey, Donnie, and April by the bed, Splinter from the other bed, Draxum at the table, Raph hovering in the doorway. Waiting for him to put the clothes on.

He wishes they wouldn't.

It's weird. He's never felt self-conscious like this. He and his brothers have never really practiced modesty the way humans do, especially around each other. And yet the idea of standing in front of them now with no clothes, not even his mask, makes him feel strangely queasy.

He tries to tell himself it's because of how he looks now. Stick thin arms and legs, weird, unhealthy skin tone, dark circles under his eyes that a few hours of unconsciousness and one night of intermittent sleep have definitely not erased. That it's just his normal vanity.

But he can still feel it: that guard's eyes on him, any time he left the safety of his hiding spot under his cot.

He pulls the hoodie on over his head while he's still in bed. Then he crawls out of bed and pulls the pants on as fast as he can.

He looks around to see if anyone noticed, but their expressions haven't changed. Mikey gives him a thumbs up.

He relaxes. With the clothes on, the feeling of being exposed finally ebbs away. And it is warmer like this, which is a plus.

It's okay. In a day or two, he'll be over this weird self-consciousness and back to normal, and no one has to know about it.

"Well, how do I look?" he asks, grinning and turning in a circle. Mikey and April clap indulgently for him.

"Lookin' good, Leo," says April, and he gives her a wink.

"Well, even though you chose to forego my aesthetic sensibilities, I got you something, too," says Donnie, pushing his way forward. He holds out a pair of flipflops, which say "We're in" and "CO" on the toes and have cartoon giraffes on the heels. Leo can't help but grin when he sees them. "Trust me, you'll want these if we have to go into any gas station restrooms. Shudder."

Leo laughs, then reaches out an arm to pull Donnie into a hug before he can escape. To his surprise, Donnie doesn't even put up a token fight against it, hugging him back more fiercely than usual.

"Thanks, I love them," he says into Donnie's ear.

"Of course you do," says Donnie smugly, but his eyes are suspiciously shiny when he breaks the hug. Nothing feels awkward between them now, even given the cracker incident earlier, and Leo is glad.

“Okay!” says April, clapping her hands. “Checkout’s in thirty minutes - if you have anything else to do, do it now.”

“Wait,” says Leo, looking around. “Where’s my mask?” It’d be nice for hiding the dark circles.

“Oh, I think Raph grabbed it,” says April, but when she turns, Raph is gone. April presses her fingers to her forehead and sighs. “Okay, you can get it later.”

Leo’s mouth suddenly feels dry. He reaches around and grabs a bottle of vegetable juice Draxum gave him, draining the last of it.

“Checkout in twenty eight minutes,” says Donnie to cut the awkwardness. “Let’s go, people!”

Leo sits on the bed and watches his family prepare to leave, gnawing on the top of his juice bottle.

-----

“Wake up, sleepyhead,” calls a voice, and Leo blinks awake to see April standing over his cot. No, not the cot - this is the bench seat in the tank. If he’s going to be sleeping so much, he needs to stop waking up confused.

And he has been sleeping a lot. The only time they woke him up was to eat another snack of crackers with a little bit of mushed up banana, like he’s some kind of baby.

The banana did help break up the monotony, though.

Leo can’t help but hope he’s being woken up for food again.

Like she read his mind, April grins and holds out a hand to help him up. “Lunch time!” she announces.

“Oh boy,” says Leo, taking the hand and slowly getting to his feet. He’s stiff from lying in the tank for so long, and he stretches and pops his arms. “More flavorless mush.”

“Maybe we can convince Drax to give you a little salt this time,” says April with a snicker. She waits for him to slip the flipflops on, then leads him out of the tank.

It occurs to him that this is the first time he’s really been out in the sun in over a week, excluding times he’s been unconscious and the short walk from the motel room to the tank. He takes a minute to just lean his face back and feel the warmth of it on his skin. It hasn’t even been that long, and he’s used to life underground, but somehow it feels different this time, foreign and new and sweet.

When he looks back at April, she’s tearing up again. She quickly wipes at the bottoms of her eyes and pulls on a smile, linking her arm around his.

“Come on. We can grab a picnic table and sit outside.”

It's then that Leo actually takes in where they are: a big travel center, or that's what the sign on the building declare. The tank is parked at the gas pumps, and Donnie, with his hood up, is excitedly talking about it to some interested truckers who have come over. He spots Mikey over at the grassy space for dog walking, laughing while a puppy licks his face, a seemingly annoyed Draxum standing off to the side with his arms folded. He doesn't see Raph or Splinter, but April fills him in as they cross the parking lot.

"Raph and Splints are inside ordering food. They have a whole diner in there!"

"Let me guess: I'm eating soup."

"I think it's potato."

"Well, at least it's not more tomato." Leo makes a face. "If I have to drink any more vegetable juice I'm going to turn red and swell up into a ball."

"You know what pizza sauce is made out of, right?" she asks, playfully bumping into him.

"Actually, I don't," he says smoothly, bumping into her back. They fake tussle outside the door for a moment, until both of them are laughing.

Someone trying to get past clears their throat loudly, and April and Leo shoot them an apologetic look before going on inside. Leo visits the restroom and tries not to look too long at the arrays of snacks on offer. April goes to help Raph and his dad with the food.

They all end up back outside at a large picnic table. His family has a mix of foods: burgers, hot dogs, salads, chicken strips. He knows there was pizza inside, and it touches him that no one picked it.

Next to everyone else's large, full plates, his own bowl of soup feels ridiculously small and sad. But he doubts any amount of pouting will convince Draxum to let him have a burger, so he digs in. At least this has some flavor.

Lunch is nice, even if Raph is still acting weird and distant. It’s just good being in the sun and the fresh air. Leo is reluctant to leave as they finish up.

“Come with me!” says Mikey as the others go to throw their trash away and buy anything they need for the return trip. He holds out his hand, and Leo takes it and follows Mikey back toward the grassy area at the edge of the parking lot. They make sure there are no dog droppings, then lay down in the grass, looking up at the blue sky and the clouds going overhead.

“I thought it’d be nice to get a little more sun before we have to get back in the tank,” says Mikey, limbs splayed out in every direction. He’s taken off his hoodie - no one at the travel center has paid much attention to the peeks of green skin they’ve been showing off, and no one is nearby right now, anyway.

It is a little hot. But the idea of being shirtless where a stranger can see him keeps Leo fully swaddled.

He pushes that thought aside, closing his eyes and just trying to enjoy the feeling of the sun on his skin, the breeze blowing by, the grass under his fingers. He doesn’t get to touch a lot of grass in the city, but it reminds him of times they would sneak out to Central Park.

“This is really nice, Angelo,” he says. “Thanks.”

“Mmhmmm.”

They’re quiet for a few minutes, just laying there, with only the ambient sounds of the travel center keeping them company. Leo starts to feel like he might doze off again.

“…Hey Leo?”

Leo blinks his eyes open, craning his neck to see Mikey. “Yeah?”

“Are you… okay?”

Ah. Maybe he should have expected this.

“Of course I’m okay,” he says, voice nonchalant. “Why wouldn’t I be?”

“Uh, well…” Mikey hesitantly trails off, clearly trying to decide what he wants to say.

Leo takes care of it for him. “It’s over, Mikey. You guys saved me. I’m okay.” He turns his head and grins. “And once Draxum stops being the food police, everything will be back to normal.”

“Mmm…” Mikey doesn’t sound as convinced as he should. Man, Leo’s smiles are really failing him lately. “But… if something’s bothering you… You’ll tell us, right?”

Leo pats his head. “Of course I will.”

If it’s worth bringing up to them, anyway.

Mikey’s eyes rove his face for a moment, but in the end he must be satisfied, because he smiles and rolls to toss his arm over Leo’s chest. “Okay. But I’ll hold you to that.”

“Or what, I’ll get a visit from the doctor?”

“You know it!”

Leo laughs, which gets Mikey laughing. They stay there until Raph calls their names across the parking lot, and they go back to the tank.

-----

He manages to stay awake after they stop for lunch, curled up on the bench seat. He doesn’t have the energy to talk as much as normal, but he leans against Donnie and contributes where he can. He’s just happy to be back with them, hearing and seeing them all around him.

But there’s something always at the back of his mind keeping him from fully relaxing: he doesn’t know when he gets to eat next. And he knows it will be okay - he’s with his family, and they’d never let him go hungry. He knows that, but about two and a half hours after lunch, he keeps finding himself returning to the same thought.

He’s drinking on a sugar-free Gatorade they got him at the travel center; one of the only non-vegetable or fruit drinks Draxum approved. Mikey has just finished up a story from one of the many art vlogs he watches, and, in the lag of conversation, he tries to broach the subject casually.

“Sooo… what’s our plan for the rest of the drive? Are we stopping, or…?”

“We’re going to try to make it all the way back to New York,” says April. “We already have our shifts picked out, and the autopilot is helping.”

“We can stop in a few more hours for another bathroom break,” says Donnie, pulling up a holoscreen showing their route and the drive time remaining. “Unless someone needs us to stop sooner.” He glances at Leo, and the way he’s bouncing the rim of the bottle off his teeth.

“Oh, uh, I’m good,” he says quickly, lowering the bottle. "I'm just wondering, uh... what about stopping for dinner?"

His family does about as good a job being subtle about looking at each other as he's being subtle about his worry. "We were thinking we'd probably try to find something around seven," says Donnie.

Seven. It's a little after three now. Okay. He can wait that long. What's four hours? And at least he knows what to expect now.

His family hesitantly return to their conversation. And Leo does his best to pay attention. April is telling them about all the stuff she's been doing to prepare for college in the fall, how she's already chatting with people running the student paper. She's excited about it, and Leo is excited for her.

"Ew, Leo," says Donnie suddenly, tearing him out of his thoughts. "Why are you doing that?"

Leo looks over at him in confusion. He starts to ask, Doing what?, but when he opens his mouth to speak, something falls out of his teeth and into his lap.

It's the Gatorade bottle cap, chewed down flat. Leo can see the marks from where his molars snapped through the lip, and the dents where he's been gnawing at it with his incisors.

He didn't even know he was doing that.

Everyone saw him doing that.

Embarrassment flushes through him, and he scrambles to grab the lid and toss it into their communal trash sack. Maybe no one noticed how thoroughly he had chewed on it.

"Gross," says Donnie, his nose scrunched up. So at the very least he saw. "You don't know where that's been."

"Oh please, it's not that gross," says Leo, doing his best to keep his voice light and airy. "It's just a bottle cap."

"That other people have touched and that you put into your mouth."

"Don't knock it till you try it, bro."

"I'm good not trying it."

"Your loss," says Leo with a shrug. He leans back, cool and calm and collected and not a total weirdo who gnaws on plastic like it's candy. "Stop looking at me like that, I threw it away already."

Donnie stops looking at him, literally. Things feel tense again. Leo doesn’t know how he keeps managing that.

Mikey jumps up, walking to the front of the tank, where Draxum is asleep in one of the chairs. Mikey shakes him awake, smiling in the face of his annoyed grumbling.

“Hey, Barry, is it okay if Leo has a snack?”

“Why do you have to ask him?” calls Leo, folding his arms. “Besides, I’m fine!”

His protests go ignored. “What time is it?” asks Draxum, sitting up and smoothing down his robes.

“I’m fine!” insists Leo, louder.

“It’s three fifteen,” Mikey says.

“Mm… Yes, he can have a snack.” Draxum gets up, going over to their snack cooler. “Leonardo, do you want crackers or more banana?”

“I’m fine!” Leo tries one more time, but his stomach flips when it occurs to him that he may actually not get a snack if he insists, and he wants the snack.

He sighs, sinking back in his seat, and says, “Crackers.” He wants the crunch of eating them.

Draxum brings him his crackers. There’s only four. He’s not sure why he’s getting less this time. Maybe because he was caught chewing on the lid.

He doesn’t ask. He eats what he’s been given, and then decides the best thing for everyone would be if he took another nap.

-----

Raph would have driven them all the way to New York if he’d been allowed. But they insist on having him swap with Donnie, and he ends up sitting in the back on the benches with because the other front chairs are hard for him to fit in.

Leo is asleep. He’s been sleeping a lot, but that’s to be expected. His body barely has any energy, and going by the dark circles, Raph knows he didn’t get much sleep while he was…

When Leo is awake, his family are their lively selves, chatting and laughing and enjoying each other’s company. Once he goes to sleep, everyone quiets down, Donnie dims the lights in the cab, and a weird melancholy sets in.

Leo looks terrible. They haven’t talked about it, but they all know it. Raph is shocked Leo has even been able to walk on his own, but Draxum attributes that to their reinforced mutant biology. He’s swimming in a hoodie that is his size, his hands and feet are skeletal where they poke out of his clothes. Raph wonders how long it will take for him to start filling out again, to have muscle like he did before. He’s afraid to ask.

Splinter sits with Leo’s head in his lap, rubbing his shell any time he shifts in his sleep. Mikey curls up against Raph and sniffles, and Raph pulls him closer.

He has to keep reminding himself that Leo is here, and safe. He just ate a snack, and soon they’ll get another meal in him. Just give it a week or two, and they’ll have their brother back.

And then, he’ll make sure Leo knows he never has to sacrifice himself again.

-----

Home looks just like Leo remembered it, and feels totally foreign at the same time.

His family clap for him as he walks in, and he does a little bow, which is a poor decision because it leaves him feeling lightheaded after. Luckily Raph is there to catch him and carry him from the garage to the chair in the living room. Things are still weird between them, but at least Raph isn't totally avoiding him.

(Raph still hasn't yelled at him. He wishes they could just get it over with.)

They eat lunch, with Leo getting bland soup and crackers again. Draxum notes that he could have peanut butter if they could have it in the lair, which makes Raph look pointlessly guilty, so Leo changes the subject. After lunch, April gives him a big hug and tells him she'll see him soon, but she has to go back home before her mom gets too worried. Leo feels bad when he learns she's missed several days of class now, but she just laughs and pats his head.

"I'm a senior and it's May, Leo; that I show up at all is enough for them."

Everyone's tired from being on the road for over twenty four hours, so after April leaves they unanimously agree on a movie marathon/turtle pile in the living room. His brothers drag out their comfiest pillows and blankets and set up in the floor, while Splinter cuddles up with Leo in his recliner. Draxum actually stays, to everyone's surprise, and Mikey jumps at the opportunity to introduce him to the magic of Lou Jitsu and Jupiter Jim.

Leo drifts in and out the whole evening. He'll be awake for the whole first act of a movie, then blink and suddenly they're partway through a different film. Each time he wakes his dad is there, patting his hand and saying, "Hello, Blue," and his brothers are around him, quoting their favorite lines or jumping up to act along with their favorite parts. It's normal and it's familiar and it's warm and soft.

He eats more soup for dinner, and crackers and banana and a little pudding cup, as a treat. His family gets more sleepy as evening turns to night; his dad's snoring fills the room, and Draxum finally leaves to go to his apartment. His brothers settle in and fall asleep around the middle of Jupiter Jim's Last Trip to the Moon 17, curled up in a heap at the foot of the chair.

He's home.

He's really home.

It's over.

Leo buries his face in his dad's fur and lets that thought carry him to sleep.

-----

Leo's home and it's amazing.

Raph wishes that meant everything was back to normal.

He doesn't know how to be around Leo right now. Every time he looks at him, he sees the stick thin arms and the gaunt face and he hears Leo's voice saying, That's not what a hero would do, and he doesn't know what to say anymore. What if he accidentally says something that makes Leo feel like what happened to him was right? What if he accidentally makes Leo think he should do it again?

It's only been a day, he tries to tell himself. Leo's still spending most of his time sleeping, between his regular snacks and meals. Even when he's awake, he doesn't have much energy for conversation, seeming content to just sit and listen to everyone else. It's just not the right time. It'll get better once Leo is better.

He can wait until then.

It's the afternoon now, the day after they brought Leo home. Raph just finished his workout and is making his rounds to check on everyone, just to make sure that everyone is... well, just to make sure. Splinter is in the kitchen making tea, a kind with no caffeine or sugar, as per Draxum's instructions. Mikey and Leo are in the living room, a half-asleep Leo watching Mikey play video games on the projecter.

Donnie isn't there.

His heart lurches, no matter how much he tells himself it's okay. Donnie is fine, Donnie is home, Donnie hasn't gone missing, not right after they got Leo back.

(He'd tried to tell himself Leo was fine in the beginning, too.)

He checks their rooms first, but Donnie's is empty. Then it's up to the lab, where he finds the door closed.

He knocks, and a robotic voice asks for identification. He sighs, not wanting to play this game right now.

"Donnie, it's me. You better be in there..."

The door beeps and then slides up, revealing a dimly lit lab. At first, Raph thinks he must not be here, and he's about to turn to leave, but then he hears a noise from Donnie's big computer desk.

A sniffle.

His big brother senses shifting into hyperdrive, he speed-walks over. The door slides shut behind him with a mechanical whir.

Sure enough, Donnie is there, legs pulled up into his desk chair, face buried in his knees. His goggles are off and laying on the desk, and his computer monitor shows a video, frozen on...

A white room, almost empty, save the cot that is for some reason propped up in front of the toilet, and...

Donnie sniffles again, and Raph tears his eyes away from one little brother to the other.

"Donnie...? What is this?"

Donnie sniffs and sits up a little more, rubbing under his eyes where tear tracks are already drying. "It's the surveillance video from the EPF base."

Raph gathered that much. "Why... are you watching it?"

"Isn't it obvious?" Donnie looks up at him. "I wanted to see what they did to him."

"You couldn't just ask him?"

Donnie's drawn on eyebrows go down. "I don't know, do you want to ask him?"

Raph imagines trying to ask Leo questions like that and can't help but cringe. "Okay, no. Raph doesn't want to do that."

"Exactly." Donnie gestures at the screen. "I got this footage from the base. And I erased it permanently from their systems, for the record, and destroyed the hard drives to be sure. But I kept a copy for us. I thought, if Leo wasn't in a state to... well, just in case. We might need it for medical reasons."

"But we know what's wrong with him," Raph points out.

"Do we?"

"Uh, yeah." Raph nods. "Starvation... right?"

"Well, yes." Donnie drums his fingers on the table. "But... he's different, now. He's pretending he's not, and he's doing his normal Leo thing of joking and smiling, but... he is." Donnie scowls. "And I already asked Michael to confirm my suspicions, and he said so, too, so I know this isn't me overreacting!"

"Okay, okay!" Raph holds up his hands placatingly. "So you wanted to watch the footage to see what happened. What'd you find out?"

Donnie wilts, resting his chin on his knees. "I couldn't get further than the first twenty four hours."

Raph feels a foreboding chill run over his spine. "You couldn't... or you didn't want to?"

Donnie reaches over and presses a button. The footage shifts to a different angle, so now he can see the wall Leo was curled up against. Donnie runs the footage back at a fast speed, and Raph watches as Leo gets up a few times, disappearing into the blind spot of the camera, or going to grab water from a little slot by the door, until Donnie freezes on a new scene: the wall opening up to reveal a large window.

He leans forward, putting his hands on the desk. "Raph saw that - they were watching his cell through that."

"Yes. And he would sit in that spot," Donnie runs the footage forward a bit, to where Leo is sitting against the now white wall, "because it's in a blind spot to the window."

Raph grimaces. "He didn't want them watching him."

"But it didn't matter," says Donnie, and he reaches over and taps the button to go to a new angle... and again... and again. "They have every inch of the room covered."

Raph's heart sinks. "Does he know?"

"Leo's not dumb," says Donnie, a magnanimous statement coming from him. "He knew they had to be watching him with cameras."

"But he still tried to hide..."

"He was doing whatever he had to to feel better," concludes Donnie.

Raph sighs. "I wonder if it worked."

Donnie clicks another button, and the video player closes. He swivels his chair to face Raph, his eyes shiny again.

"I don't want to watch anymore," he admits.

Raph nods. "I wouldn't want to, either."

"No, I mean... because he was trying to hide." Donnie rubs at his eyes again. "Maybe it is a little ironic for me to be saying this, but... it feels like it would be a privacy violation."

Raph turns that over. Maybe knowing what happened to Leo could help them. But what Donnie is saying feels more important.

He puts his hand on Donnie's shoulder, the part that's bare past his battleshell, and gives it a rub. "You love him and you don't want to hurt him," he concludes.

Donnie sniffles again, and then uncurls himself, putting his legs down on the ground. He doesn't have to do more than that for Raph to catch on, and Raph scoops Donnie up into a hug that is quickly returned.

"...I keep hurting him," Donnie admits, resting his head on Raph's shoulder. "I don't know how, but it keeps happening."

"...Yeah, well, join the club," says Raph sadly. He pats at Donnie's back. "Raph can't seem to say the right thing, either."

Donnie laughs miserably. "I thought getting him back would be the hard part. And then everything would go back to normal."

"Yeah..." Raph gives him a tight squeeze. "But you know what April said?"

"What?"

"That we'll do the hard part, 'cause we love him."

"Well, April is the only other smart one in this family," says Donnie, and Raph gives him a noogie with no actual pressure.

"Everything will be okay," he says. "Raph promises."

That seems to calm Donnie down. Raph just hopes he can actually keep it.

-----

It's his first night back in his room, and for the first time since escaping, Leo can't sleep.

He doesn't know why he can't. The sheets are the same as always. The dim lights from outside his subway car filter in through the windows the same as they used to. He's wearing his favorite pajamas, which have pants and long sleeves. The temperature is warm but not too hot. Conditions are perfect.

But he can't sleep.

At first he thought maybe it's because he's alone for the first time, but he doesn't think it's that. In fact, the idea of going to one of his brothers or his dad makes him feel even more exhausted. He loves them and he loves being around them, but he's had to work hard all day to not seem too weird. He caught himself chewing his spoon at lunch and had to stop. He paced the kitchen until Draxum gave the okay for him to have a snack. Mikey poked his head in while he was changing shirts earlier and he froze up, deer in the headlights. In the end, he went to the bathroom to change, because at least there aren't windows in there.

He's being weird, and trying to not be weird is taking all his energy.

So no. He's okay being alone right now. But something is still bothering him.

It's not the bed; he slept in the motel just fine. It's not the temperature, because they're making sure the lair stays nice and warm for him. And it's not the clothes, because the clothes are covering him up. And it's not the windows because it's not even like anyone is looking through them.

Right?

It's only then that Leo realizes he keeps staring out of them.

He tears his eyes away to look at the ceiling, taking deep breaths. What is he worried about? So what if the train car is full of windows? Who would even be looking at him? It's just his family outside, and if they need to talk to him they'll come in.

Besides, the windows are see-through. If someone were looking at him, he'd be able to see them.

Just to reassure himself of that, Leo looks around at all the windows again.

Yep. Still see-through. So it's fine. It's really not a big deal! No one is going to look through the windows at him here. No one is watching him. He's safe, and if he weren't, he would know, because he can see.

...Maybe he could hide under his bed.

Leo gives his head a hard shake. No. He is not going to hide under his bed, because that would be weird, and Leonardo Hamato is not weird.

Maybe he can just... put up some curtains in his room. Just, purely for aesthetic reasons. Yeah, that would look really cool. He could get some blue ones with some kind of sick design. Add some real originality to this place.

And then he could cover the windows and no one could look in unless he wanted them to.

Not that anyone is looking in, because he's home and he's safe and he's okay and he really wants to hide under his bed-

He takes deep breaths. His eyes land on the posters on the wall of the train car.

Maybe... maybe they would look better over the windows. Just... aesthetically.

He moves the posters to the windows of the train car, pressing hard to get the old tape to stick. It covers the immediate windows around his bed, but there are still others, and they're more in the dark, so Leo can't see who might be out there.

Not that anyone would be.

But if someone were, he wouldn't be able to know.

So he grabs towels next, and t-shirts, and anything he has lying around his room, and puts them on the bed. Then he sneaks to the kitchen to find a roll of masking tape.

It's not easy, but after about an hour he's managed to cover every window in the train car with something.

Just... a preview. For how sweet the curtains are going to look. And not for any weird reasons, like being scared.

Because he's not scared. He's home, and he's safe, and no one is watching him from outside the windows.

He lays down in bed and surveys his handwork. The room is even darker now, with every window covered, completely different from the stark ever-present light in that place.

It makes him feel safe and hidden.

No one can look in, and he's shielded by the dark.

(He has no idea how he's going to explain this tomorrow.)

But when he finally shuts his eyes, he sleeps like a baby.

-----

Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 (here) | Part 4 Part A

[angelic-dew]

I. Need. Hentengu. Clone. Smut. Pleaseeeee 😭😭

It is an utter need rn- Can you do it with a fem reader pls?? <3 love your work btw

˚₊‧꒰ pleasure.☆꒱‧₊˚.! || pt. 1/2 !

✧༉‧₊˚୨ 🌿 ୧・author's note :: I dreaded doing this sm i ain't a smut writer. As much as I love these daddies, I can't stop writing for them as well- istg I was up at 2am writing this smh.

✧༉‧₊˚୨ ⚡ ୧・summary + word count :: you find yourself getting frisky with two of your beloved boyfriend until the other two walk in and are greeted by a delightful sight that they also wish to partake in! + 3134 words. smut.

✧༉‧₊˚୨ 🫧 ୧・pairing :: aizetsu, sekido, karaku, urogi x AFAB reader! {she/her pronouns}

✧༉‧₊˚୨ 🪶 ୧・trigger warnings :: smut, gang bang, anal, oral (giving), degradation, poly relationships, daddy kink, cock warming, dirty talk, marking, biting, double penetration, rough sex, face fucking and grammatical errors. Children dni, this is 18+ content.

Things weren't meant to escalate this quickly, in fact, they weren't supposed to escalate at all! It was supposed to be quality time spent with your precious boyfriends, nothing more, nothing less. Surely, they are demons, yes, but they are so close to humans and possessed many human qualities. They knew how to strategize, how to be crafty and of course, how to feel emotion. That's what got you three together anyways, their strong desire and undying love towards you. Their precious (Name).

There you were, in your private chambers as all of you sat nicely on the large futon-styled bedding. You, Aizetsu and Urogi this time were only meant to unwind and talk with each other! nothing more and nothing less had to be added, however, you and your tongue slipped up. You asked a question, "You know, when was the last time we actually had this much time to ourselves? I feel a bit bored now that I think of it." This phrase drove Urogi to the edge, you were correct, it's been absolute ages since you all have had so much time to yourselves, and it's also been quite the time since he's never been able to touch you as he's been wanting to recently.

His mind went crazy as he thought about the thought of his precious (Name) being slumped over his hardened, meaty cock like the previous time; the demon of joy remembered her expressions exactly, almost as if they were ingrained into his mind. He remembered clear as day and it was evident in his glassy, beady, glistening golden eyes that he was up to no good.

Meanwhile, Aizetsu took into consideration your words as well. However, he was much more on the innocent side. He wondered, what could you all do to pass the time? However, Urogi already had a plan set up for that and he knew for sure it was very much effective from past experience.

He shifted his uneasy yet playful gaze towards the demon of sorrow and whispered into his ear. His perfect plan which they can use to pass the time with their beloved human.

Almost instantaneously, a deep, but vibrant cherry-red blush appeared on Aizetsu's mocha cheeks, tinting them with the rosy colour almost perfectly to suit him as he stuttered subconsciously, "A-are you sure about that exactly U-urogi? I mean, I would not want to upset her after all, she might not want it! And we can't force onto our precious treasure!" hints of desperation yet restraint lacing his words.

You tilted your head to the side in utter confusion. Just what were they even going on about, you wondered until you finally spat at them, "Darlings, just what exactly are you two talking about? I don't mean to be nosy, forgive me, but I'm truly curious to know what's wrong." Innocent. That's what you were. You had no idea what was truly going on between the both of them

The two demons looked at eachother then towards you. One was a total blushing mess and one had a certain gleam in his eyes, as if he's been pining and desired this moment before. Just waiting for you to say those words to him. So he can make a deep fantasy of his come true at last! This was given example of taking advantage of the situation.

"Urogi you handle this!" the demon of sorrow said in a flushed tone as the other puffed his chest up and beamed in satisfaction.

"We want to 'play' with you my dear, wouldn't you allow us to do it dear? I'm sure it'd make Aizetsu very pleased," he coaxed, the look of playfulness making sure never to die in his eyes as he spoke; his gaze fixtures on your beautiful body, only earning for him to lick his lips happily at your physique. The poor other demon just covered his face in utter embarrassment at his clone's actions.

You inhaled then exhaled. Taking a good breath.

You thought about it, it's been nearly forever since you showed them some true lovin', who knows how much they've been wanting to feel you again. To touch you. And you couldn't lie, you were also guilty as well, you wanted for them to have their way with you just like all the previous and pleasurable instances. You three have more than enough time as of the present. Why not make up for the lost amounts? After all, what's the harm in it, just another form of quality time.

"Okay, do as you please," you said solemnly, fixing your gaze onto both demons, a sly grin appearing along your face as you do so. They were certainly in for a treat and they weren't complaining.

♡

They fully stripped you away of your pesky garments at this point, and they were so needy. Your clothing had been flung mercilessly on the floor, as for your undergarments? They suffered a worse fate; being ripped clean off of you, only your bare body being exposed for them to look upon. And they won't lie, it surely was missed sight.

Your physique and structure were just alluring making them want you more. They looked upon your breasts, already feeling a burning sensation beneath both of their large, muscular bodies; it was insatiable. Watching almost as if they were mesmerized by how your hair had fallen perfectly in front of your face, only earning a soft, faint, baby-pink blush to tint their cheeks. In pure adoration, their gaze shifted downwards to your wet, gooey cunt that was just as excited as their own massive, meaty cocks that were practically leaking of runny, sticky pre-cum from their thick tips.

The demon of sorrow wasn't exactly what one could depict as melancholy now, he wasn't living up to his name. In fact, he was in utter lust as he looked at his perfect treasure in all of her glory, he needed you so desperately. His member was incredibly hard and stiff, perfect to be in you at this given moment. Just imagining your warm, tight insides needing some loosening after so much time from not being fucked. It was mouth-watering.

Whilst the demon of pure joy felt himself entering the seventh heaven; in utter bliss even and it hasn't even gotten to the best part. Your gorgeous, angelic figure laid out before them was to die for. It was a sight meant for only them and they were surely possessive and territorial over their precious darling.

"C'mon boys, going to play with your slut or what? I thought you'd been awaiting this moment? Don't you want to do as you please? Making me scream; making me say the name of who owns me exactly? Maybe have me do whatever my masters want me to do for them?" you seductively asserted. Knowing they'd snap out of whatever trance they were in from those mere words.

Within moments they pounced on you like wild beasts patiently stalking their prey. Any and all clothing which had been on them was now discarded for they were no longer needed for what they had in store for their pretty little slut.

Aizetsu was certainly the quicker of the two, within an instant he was positioned sitting up as Urogi waited rather impatiently for him to have his fair share of fun. The demon of sorrow picked you up by your thighs with utter ease for his muscular build made it as if he was lifting a feather.

Gradually, he lowered your body onto his lap, his meaty, fat, thick length filling your poor entrance up simultaneously. It went in completely raw and fully hardened, having to force itself into your ass with pure strength just to allow the oozing tip to squeeze itself in. A simple, soft whimper or two emanated from underneath your soft lips as you felt it finally slip into your tight hole. He slowly continued to plant your tensed body onto his length but abruptly stopped and whispered quietly into your ear, "Please relax dear, I don't want it to hurt you."

Acknowledging his words you nodded and took in a few breaths and attempted to cease the tension in your muscles.

He began again, continuing to fill your tight hole up with his member, the length of the whole thing practically too big for you yet you wanted for him to continue. It stretched your warm insides to its heart's content, savoring the delicate warmth and tightness of your hole. Your face became a flushed, rosey, red mess! You timidly shifted your gaze downwards as various soft, sweet, little moans escaped from underneath your filthy lips. Even though it hurt, it was so pleasurable that it overwhelmed the pain, it just felt so good to finally have your ass stretched again. This was the same feeling as last time but better; you were tighter this time, more prone to the pain of it but there came so much delight as well.

Your cries of pleasure filled the room accompanied by Azietsu's faint whispers of encouragement to keep on going, faint words of endearment for you to take his whole length. At last, it was all in. Your insides cradled and gripped around his massive member, it was warm and felt utterly amazing. "A-ahh~ Mmm-" a pleasure-filled cry escaped from under his tongue as he felt your sensitive whole tense up and squeeze around him. God, it felt good, how he missed this.

As the sounds of pleasure filled Urogi's ears, he became even harder than before practically begging to be taken by you and finally, it was his turn to feel away at you, just like how he imagined it. After all, he remembered how his beloved (Name) is. Your tightness could go unmatched by someone else, nothing could ever compare to how warm your precious insides were. Nothing could ever replicate your soft touch. Nothing or anything could compare to how you made him feel for you. How he desired to touch you once more and finally, he was struck with the perfect opportunity.

He wasted no time, using his eagle-like wings to flap himself over towards you and his fellow clone. His length hairy yet somewhat delectable was running with pre-cum from his tip, begging for you to take him completely as the feeling of nothing similar-sized dick brought shivers along your spine. The demon of joy was a tad bit bigger than his sorrowful counterpart. His grith was to die for as you could barely wrap your hand around the full thing. This was perfect.

He grinned like a madman as he used two of those sharp taloned claws of his to your chin and lifted your face up to meet his. The blush that was scattered messily on your face only drove him further. "Be a good girl for daddy now and take me alright? You know what to do, you whore," he said hungrily and more impatient as Aizetsu stayed quiet. Only until you realized and certain wet tongue was running itself slowly along your neck. It caused you to send shivers along your body as well. It was him, himself, your precious lover with the glowing baby blue eyes marking you. It was only playful kitten licks but it began to grow into something much more rougher.

He started biting away at your soft skin. Those sharp, serrated fangs of his deeply gouging themselves into your savory flesh; it drove him wild. Biting until he hit the point where tiny beads of blood began to spill away from your now fresh wound. Licking it away as if it were nothing he starts to suck along your neck playfully, leaving behind deep, passionate yet dark trails of hickeys which are scattered along your neck, some reaching to your collarbone. Low yet pleased hums and groans spill away from your lips.

Urogi can't help but grin in satisfaction from his clone before making sure his gaze is locked on to you. You listen to his words from before and open your mouth widely, stretching it open a bit more just for good measure. You knew how big he was. And loved it.

"That's a good slut, you are just so cute when you listen to daddy you know darling," he chuckled as he now held his thick base within the palm of his hand, his palm acting like a cradle for his impatient member. Slowly, he began to thrust himself into your warm mouth inch by inch. He needed to feel this so badly. After patiently watching and yearning to touch you again, he definitely earned this bit of utter pleasure that you're giving him. Feeling such utter relief he let out a high-pitched but still deep cry of passion and delight that he unnoticeably slipped out. It just felt too good.

He loved the way you made him feel when he was in this state. It brought him such bliss as he felt your moist, wet tongue take in his entire member. It was as if he fell in love with you all over again when he felt you take in all of his meaty goodness and begin to get to work right off the bat with it. Feeling the utterly adoring sensation of your slimy tongue begin to work away with subtle, gentle strokes to his length which gradually got quicker yet still steady in pace. God, he loved you so much, this made the wait worth the while.

Your tongue wrapped itself around his thick length, the best it could, and moved along his base tirelessly and rather eagerly. As if it were hungry, greedy, wanting for him to release the gooey, sweet, creamy treat he had stored within him. As both of your hands made their way up toward his waist, gripping either side firmly. Aizetsu on the other hand was a big fan of the show, a small smile creeping along his face as he watched his clone be sucked off by the shared, beautiful lover.

Jeez, it felt so good, wonderful even but he wanted more; to spice things up and really show you how badly he's been needing you lately. I mean, there's no harm in showing you what he's really made of? It'd be even more pleasurable if he'd do it as well, he knew the feeling of your warm, wet mouth could be irreplaceable. Why not have some fun with it?

His golden eyes came into contact with yours, that same playful gaze being accompanied by some mischief well in his pupils as he placed one of those taloned claws of his on the back of your head. Gripping at your head with all his might, he had a few locks of your hair messily stored within his iron grip. He chuckled deeply before jerking your entire head onto his meaty member with one swift move, causing you to gag when the tip began to slide down your throat due to the force.

"Take it for me you slut," he spoke up, almost like a yell as Aizetsu whispered in your ear softly, "You can do it precious, you know how to make us feel delightful, just keep up with it." How sweet was he? As he now raised his hands up, which were planted on your thighs before, he began to slowly trace them along your figure gently, as if you were made of porcelain. His soft touches linger as he indulges in the utter satisfaction of his cock being snuggled deeply within your tight ass.

Urogi just grinned and forced it in again, this time it went in as planned. His clawed hand still firmly gripped the back of your head and that's when the fun began; he started to thrust and buck his hips slowly into your moist, wet mouth. The satisfaction washing over him 10 fold was unimaginable as he felt your tongue run along his length as he moved repeatedly in and out of your moist carven.

His thrusts became faster, swifter and rougher in pace. He had you gagging repeatedly, over and over, but he didn't care. The more your body forced his member out, the more he desired to have it pushed back in.

The winged demon was utterly mad, his pupils filling with pleasure as cries of pleasure began the escape unnoticeably once more from underneath his now quivering lips. "Oh fuck- that's it baby~ eat up daddy's cock like there's no tomorrow? You're already being such a good girl for me," he teased in between sharp, heavy breaths.

He leaned his head back just a tad bit as waves of contentment washed over him. Urogi's pupils glowed almost hazily as the gentle moonlight crept through the shoji.

His thrusts were becoming more sloppy but still kept its original pace. Your eager and wet tongue hungrily glided along his full length as it kept moving at speeds you felt were too much even for you, but this only made the demon of joy pulse with ecstasy as he started to feel faint twitches in his cock.

"Oi, oi! what's going on here, hm? You two trying to hog all the fun?" all three of your eyes widened. Neither of you said that, but it was a familiar voice. It was high but it had laces of entertainment stored within it, as if it'd been watching all this time.

It could've only been Karaku. Your green-eyed lover, the demon of pleasure and relaxation.

"How long have you been here?" the demon of sorrow spoke up quietly as he buried his face within the crook of your neck, your mouth still full with Urogi's full length.

He let out a small laugh and stepped closer and revealed yet the other demon behind him. The demon of anger, his gaze was cold and filled with fury and irritation. Sekido was watching the show as well, without any of your knowledge. "Long enough to be amused by this, however, you two are despicable. Can't you even see she has needs too? Her cunt is practically drenched," he bellowed, frustration looming through his words.

Playfully, the green-eyed demon added, "Oh, you're right Sekido, mind if we join you two? I bet we could all have so much fun!" It was evident in his voice he enjoyed every moment of what was being bestowed before him.

The winged demon sloppily and roughly thrust his harden, meaty member out of your mouth, a long, gooey string of saliva connecting it to your lips as a remanence of what lewd acts you two just did.

You panted, sharp, heavy breaths escaping from underneath your lips as your mind raced with lustful thoughts which could transpire for the next few hours.

© angelic-dew :: please don't translate or reclaim without permission <3

[bunnysbrainrot]

Obedience at its Finest

Relationship: Lucifer!Castiel x fem!Reader

Content: degradation, pet play (remember when he called Crowley his 'puppy'? exactly), BDSM, slapping, oral (male receiving).

Summary: Castiel had accepted Lucifer to take over his vessel, leaving you as collateral for Cas's agreement with Lucifer. No harm would come to you, at least not in the way that you think. The Devil himself decides to see how far he can push to break you, you can only hope that you'll last. Though you had been attracted to Castiel before, his whole new persona takes you by surprise.

A/N: I was really excited to write this, so I'm hoping it gets the love it needs! Chapter two is already being brainstormed. This one may get pretty intense, especially in further chapters. If that's not what you're looking for, feel free to send a request!

Everything was different. The whole world had flipped upside down and it left you and the Winchesters confused. Castiel had agreed to let Lucifer himself take over his vessel over a month ago. The one thing no one anticipated was the Devil taking you, as 'collateral', he said. You were immediately swept away with a snap of his fingers, the last thing you saw being Sam and Dean's torn expressions while Satan whisked you away.

Now you stood in a throne room, the click of Lucifer's shoes being the only sound as he strode over to you.

"Tell me, I've had you here for quite some time," he opened, "do you know why I chose you instead of a Winchester?"

It was something you had contemplated for a while, why you of all people? Your eyes met Lucifer's as he smiled deviously down at you. He clicked his tongue when you shook your head, eyes wide with nervousness. His potential is unmatched to anything you had seen before. Just a snap of his fingers - hell, a single thought, could kill you. But he had every other chance since kidnapping you to finish the job and get rid of you, why...?

"Well, A: It's a pain in the neck - having a Winchester and Dad knows who else on my ass forever? Pass."

Lucifer stood beside you, craning his neck to ogle at your face while it remained still as stone.

"Come on! You gotta warm up sometime, geez. Don't you wanna hear what 'B' is?" His tone was jovial, a constant taunting when he spoke to you. Your eyes met his - the eyes of someone who once was your friend, potentially much more if it weren't for God's 'Favorite' taking over his life. Part of you mourned silently over Castiel, though you knew he wasn't truly gone, and that he was in there somewhere. Behind the, pun intended, devilish grin on his face.

You gave him a curt nod, to which he let out a deep breath.

"Okay, now we're getting somewhere," he said encouragingly. Lucifer stepped to the side to make a path behind you, his mouth dangerously close to your ear. "You see, I can admit that I may have taken you because of a... personal affection. If you know what I mean."

His lowered voice shuddered through you. A hand wandered to your chin, cupping beneath it to lean your head back, eyes meeting Lucifer's. You let out a small gasp at the motion that made him smile with great satisfaction.

Lucifer hummed, "Interesting. You like that?"

His taunting continued as a warmth spread over your body. He continued, "Well, I thought you and our buddy Castiel here were a bit closer than just friends. Or at least, that's what you wanted it to be."

The words sank in your gut, the truth behind them was a weight you couldn't shake. You didn't get the opportunity to admit your affections to Cas before he worked with Lucifer. It was a chance you had lost hope on, now that the Devil was involved.

He leaned closer to your ear, raising goosebumps across your neck when his warm breath brushed against your skin. A shuddering exhale left your lips, a familiar tightening in your stomach began to begin.

Was there seriously any way you were actually attracted to this?

"Let me tell you a secret, okay? Since Castiel never had the balls to tell you, I'm going to do him the favor." Lucifer's lips planted a soft kiss on your neck, just under your ear.

"He likes you, too. Well, that's one way to put it, at least." Your eyes shot open wide in shock, breath hitching in your throat.

"That's not true," you retorted.

He shook his head, "It's true. Very true, actually. I mean, Cas was actually the one who begged me to spare you. He really said 'to hell' with those Winchesters, eh? Would've been more fun if that were literal."

The mix of flirtation and teasing confused you. What was his game here? First he takes over your friend's body, then he confesses his endearment for you?

Lucifer's hands travel to your waist as he brought his hips to your rear, "Say, I have a way we can kill two birds with one stone, here. You like Cas, Cas likes you, I like you. I think we could have a little fun with that."

The tight sensation in your abdomen grew ever stronger, your thighs shifting together to stifle the feeling. This didn't go unnoticed by Lucifer's keen attention, eyes raking over your tense body.

"Correct me if I'm wrong," he knew you wouldn't dare. Couldn't. So, he continued, "I think you like that idea. Dirty, dirty."

He wove around you to face you properly. Lucifer cupped your face in one hand, fingers tightening around your jaw. His voice lowered to a whisper once again, his voice gravelly.

"You see, you're a depraved little thing. Unfortunately I don't think your precious Castiel could handle it - but I can. And I have a feeling that you'd let me," Lucifer drawled on, trailing a finger down your throat to between your breasts, hovering just above the apex of your thighs. It would be an outright lie if you told him this wasn't exciting for you. Though he was in your friend's body, Lucifer's teasing, his sheer dominance, spurred you on.

Ever since keeping Lucifer company, he dictated everything that happened to you. No harm had come to you, in fact it was almost nice. You were doted on, though you didn't always accept it, prioritized with the best food and bedrest you had ever gotten. It seemed like Lucifer would go above and beyond to earn your affection and trust.

Today he had chosen a sophisticated outfit: a black button up shirt with a slim fitting black skirt to match. Your legs were adorned with delicate gray tights, black Mary Jane shoes to bring the outfit together. It was his favorite.

"Now, let's see how well you listen," purred Lucifer. "On your knees, pet."

Though logic told you to disobey, you lowered down, kneeling before him. The Devil rewarded you with a smile and a finger under your chin, angling your head upward.

"Good, good. I still think we could work on the obedience aspect of it. You're listening, sure, but I need more. As the true King of Hell, it's only fitting that you serve me as I need." He landed a firm pat on your cheek, the impact leaving you clenching your thighs.

He carded his fingers into your hair, gripping you securely to maintain your eye contact, "Let's start with that shirt. I want to see what's underneath."

Your fingers fumbled with the buttons, but Lucifer took over and tore down your stomach, buttons scattering across the floor. He growled lowly as your chest was finally exposed to him, your breasts caged in a black lace bra. He noticed how your perk nipples pushed against the padding, as if your body was telling him where you needed his touch. Pushing your shirt past your shoulders, Lucifer tugged it off and cast it to the side, his hands finding the clasp of your bra to unhook it. The air of the room made your skin crawl, the swollen buds on your breasts aching from the cold.

"Arms behind your back, sit up straight."

You obliged willingly, weaving your fingers together to present your chest to him. Lucifer ran a hand over your breasts, squeezing roughly, eliciting a moan form you.

He snarled, lazily drawing out the words, "Nice fuckin' tits." Hearing this come from your friend's mouth shocked you, though his degrading tone had you clenching your walls. Lucifer landed a sharp slap on your tit, a red splotch newly painted on your skin. Your mouth hung agape in pleasure, panting softly as he landed several slaps, paying special attention to your nipples.

It brought him pure joy to see you like this - your body writhing in ways that begged for him to touch you, shaking thighs trying not to let you fall to the floor, the bit of spit that spilled from your mouth and onto your lovely breasts. Finally, you were becoming what he wished for: a perfect slut. His new favorite toy.

"Dirty girl," said Lucifer. Two of his fingers gathered the drool from your chest, immediately thrusting into your open mouth. You gagged harshly, but the way his free hand gripped your hair made you whimper. Lucifer's smile was crazed, the joy of seeing you like this had surmounted his self-control.

You coughed desperately when his fingers left your mouth. Two hands reached under your arms and hoisted you up to your feet. It would take some time for your knees to get stable at this point; you felt like you could drop to the floor at any second. Lucifer cupped your face in both hands and roughly crashed his lips into yours, his tongue already begging for entry at your lips. Letting him in allowed Lucifer to ravage your mouth - greedy lips and hands alike moved across your neck and face until Lucifer had his lips firmly on your collarbone.

"Please... please, sir," you whispered. What you were asking for, you had no idea. All you needed now was any bit of friction to your swollen clit.

Lucifer's husky voice danced over your skin, "Such good manners. What does my precious pet need?"

'Pet' echoed in your head while you tried to calm your senses and form something coherent. Your reply came out in short bursts between panting breaths.

"I need... more... Want you... to... touch me."

All thoughts had left your mind from his touch, the only ache in your body being for him. To serve. To obey.

He paused, fingers rolling a nipple harshly between his fingers, "Nope. That's not how it works."

You cried out in a blend of pain and pleasure.

"You don't need anything. You want me to touch you. You want me to fuck you, to bury my cock so far into that little cunt until you're nice and stretched out," his voice grew louder with each passing second. The dominating voice took you over completely, bringing tears to your eyes.

Though you were crying, Lucifer smiled at you, seeming pleased at the outburst.

"Be a good doggy," he ordered, "and beg."

Your voice came out more desperate than you intended, pleading desperately to him, "Please, sir. I want more of you. I can b-be good."

This settled well with Lucfier, his only reply being a finger pointed to the floor, a silent command to get on your knees again. You followed the order quickly, knees scraping lightly across the stone.

Now with his hips at your eye level, Lucifer looked down at your blushed face. Thoughts of Castiel flicked through your head - if he would be willing to take you like this, how much you would like it, and how nervous you were to ask him to do it himself. Even still, this seemed to be the next best thing. The Devil gripped your jaw gently with one hand, quickly unbuckling his belt with the other. His busy fingers fiddled with the button and zipper of his pants and cast them to the floor. What waited for you now was an aching erection through his boxer briefs, twitching slightly as your mouth neared it.

"I have one job for you," announced Lucifer. His hand moved from your jaw and into your hair, tightening his grip to control your head.

"Use your tongue."

With a snap of his fingers the boxers disappeared, his thick length breaking free and hovering tauntingly in front of you. Lucifer gripped the shaft of his cock and smacked it against your cheek. His expression showed his amusement at your drooling mouth and half lidded eyes.

He tapped the head of his cock on your lips, "Open."

And so you did. The thick head now rested on your outstretched tongue, tasting of the precum that had leaked from him. Lucifer positioned you by your gripped hair before thrusting into your throat, slowly at first. Inch by inch, your mouth took in his cock, until he reached the back of your throat with a displeased grunt. His thrusts became more urgent, pushing farther back into your mouth than you could handle.

Or so you thought.

Lucifer shoved your head down, the sounds of your gagging filling the room while your spit fell to the floor in messy strands. For what felt like an eternity this went on, his grunts growing louder as he used you.

He tugged you off of his length, leaving you to gasp beneath him. You coughed while tears streamed down your cheeks. Lucifer gave you another grin.

"Good doggy."

Hi again, I hope you enjoyed! If you would like a second chapter, let me know in the comments. Thank you all for your support. <3

-Bunny

[greyyson-but-no]

good looking

somehow, even when he was dead asleep, arm lolled off the edge of the bed, jess was gorgeous. the moon was shining in through the curtain that neither of you had been bothered to pull shut when you'd gotten into bed that evening. it gave him a light, a shine that cooled in skin in the summer heat, making him almost ethereal.

you couldn't sleep. the rest of the day had been so incredible, you weren't able to stop thinking about it, and as a result, you had watched him fall asleep and been unable to follow suit.

first it had been a trip to one of the many cafes in the centre of new york, breakfast on him, then a day thrifting through record shops and bookstores together, getting together a good selection of both vintage books and vinyls for the both of you. then, surprise tickets to the strokes' one-off show where you spent the evening shouting the lyrics to reptillia and hard to explain with him wrapped around you, occasional kisses pressed against your neck.

the night had ended wonderfully, as assumed.

only now, you couldn't stop thinking about it. because there he was laying, fast asleep and peaceful. not a single worry in his mind at all. earlier in the day, he'd told you this was one of the best days he'd ever had. you knew a lot about his childhood, growing up, his mum, luke, everyone. he struggled.

but he didn't struggle anymore. it was looking like his book was going to be a hit, you both shared an apartment in new york and he was able to go and see luke whenever he needed.

he stirred, grumbling. "i can feel you staring, babe."

"I'm not..." you laughed, moving a hand to thread through his hair, breathing in the hum he let out at the contact.

"liar." jess smiled sleepily, forcing his eyes open.

you pouted, brushing a thumb against his cheek. "but my pants aren't on fire?"

"you aren't wearing any." he grins, peaking a look under the thin duvet, running a hand around your waist and pulling you close, his lips resting against your neck.

humming, you snuggled into him. "and whose fault is that?"

he squeezed your waist. "guilty, what can I say? you certainly enjoyed it, there's no denying that fact, sweetheart."

"i love you."

"love you too, and. thank you."

you spun around to face him, a hand against his jaw as your eyebrows furrowed. "why are you thanking me? you planned it all, I should be thanking you."

he shook his head, looking over your face in detail. "not just for today. for everything. you saved me."

sending him a warm smile was easy. "you saved yourself, jess."

"but you standing by me made it easier." he mumbled, tucking a stray strand of your hair behind your ear. "really, I mean it. I wouldn't be where I am today if it weren't for you."

"now I know that's a lie." you laughed under your breath, not quite understanding where this whole conversation was coming from, five minutes ago he was fast asleep and now... "you started the book before you met me, you were a good way through as well."

he paused for a second, breathing in deeply. "i probably would have given up if it weren't for you, you truly saved me."

"honey." you pouted at him.

"hmm, shut up, it's 4 in the morning, of course I'm acting like this, leave me alone." he grumbled, pulling a face at you. "woke me up with your damn staring."

you shrugged, grinning at him. "what can i say? you're good looking."

he laughed lightly, sitting up a little to see you properly. "how long until we have to be up and moving?"

"luke said he'd arrive at around 10."

jess hummed, rolling onto his back and taking your hand in his, staring at the ceiling as he thought. you watched him still, as his eyebrows twitched as the look in his eyes switched between confusion and reassurance. god, he really was gorgous. "so, that means we get up at 10. you know he'll be running late."

"as always." you paused, your face lighting up. "oh! is he bringing lorelai?"

he furrowed his eyebrows. "maybe? i can't remember what the message said now. he probably will."

you smiled, letting your head rest on his chest as his arm wrapped around your shoulder, bringing the two of you as close together as possible again. even with the thin duvet cover, his skin was still warm, and sent that same warmth through to you in the summer nightly chill. "i've still got that jumped I made for her."

"sweetheart, have you ever heard of this brilliant thing called a mail service?" he joked, the corners of his lips lifting.

"wouldn't risk a jumper." you frowned, shaking your head. "especially with the stories i've heard about the stars hollow mail service from everyone."

jess smiled, remembering all his years spent there. all the people met and hated, all the people he met and loved. everyone he ever said hello to and everyone he ever said goodbye to. "you would have really liked stars hollow, i think."

you sat up a little on your elbow, finding his eyes as he looked in detail at the expression on your face. "we could always spend christmas there one year?"

"christmas is a special time there."

"sounds like it would be." you murmur. "right, we've got six hours before we have to be awake. are we going to try and go back to sleep?"

he looked over at you. "you haven't slept yet, so yes. you need the sleep. don't think I haven't noticed how tired you've been these past couple days." he leaves a swift peck on your cheek before turning you over and wrapping an arm around your waist, nose buried into your hair.

"goodnight, my love."

"g'night sweetheart." he mumbled, letting the both of you delve back to sleep. life was pretty good. jess was pretty good (looking).

[summerclementine27]

Meet Me in The Hallway 🌷 pt.2

Summary: Y/N finally admits her feelings to Mr. Styles, feeling a wave of honesty as they have a drink together to celebrate their debate team’s win. However, what Y/N doesn’t expect is that he feels the same or the escalation of events that happens when he admits to his feelings.

Warnings: smut, argument, and fluff.

Word count: 14.5k

(sorry it’s long but there is a happy ending if you stop at the line and ignore the rest)

We made it to the semi-finals, and the pressure was palpable. Every debate round brought us closer to the goal, and I could feel the weight of my team’s expectations on my shoulders. I wanted us to win, not just for the glory, but because I believed in our hard work and dedication.

Amidst the stress and excitement, my mind often wandered to Harry. There was an undeniable chemistry between us, a spark that flickered in our shared glances and lingering touches. It was thrilling and confusing all at once, adding an extra layer of intensity to an already charged atmosphere. As we prepared for the next debate, I couldn’t help but hope that our connection would somehow bring us luck, pushing us to triumph in the competition and maybe, just maybe, in our budding relationship.

I started to truly see potential for this after we won the first few rounds, when Harry hugged me tightly for the first time, rather than his usual awkward side hugs, his enthusiasm matching my own. His embrace felt warm and reassuring, a silent promise that we were in this together. The way he looked at me, with pride and something else I couldn't quite define, made my heart race. It was in those moments of victory, amidst the cheers of our teammates, that the chemistry between us became impossible to ignore. His hand would linger on my back, his eyes would lock with mine a little too long, and every shared smile felt like a secret.

The debate team gathered in the hotel conference room, the air thick with anticipation. As president, it was my job to rally the team, but today, I wanted to give Anika, our vice president, a chance to lead. She had worked tirelessly alongside me, and I knew she had the passion and skills to motivate us all.

"Alright team," I began, "today's the semi-finals, and we've fought hard to get here. But I'm not the one who's going to lead the debate or give the pep talk today. Anika, take it away."

Anika stepped forward, a mix of surprise and determination in her eyes. "Thanks, Y/N," she said. "We've all worked incredibly hard to reach this point, and I couldn't be prouder of each and every one of you. Remember, it's not just about winning. It's about representing our university with pride, about supporting each other, and about showing everyone the power of our ideas. Let's go out there and give it our all!"

The team responded with cheers and words of encouragement, their spirits visibly lifted. As they filed out of the room to prepare, Harry stayed behind, his eyes fixed on me. Once we were alone, he approached me with a curious look.

"Did you do that as the president, or as Anika's friend?" he asked, his tone both gentle and probing. "Are you feeling less confident about today?"

I shook my head, meeting his gaze steadily. "How could I feel that way when you’ve been by my side, supporting me? I believe in myself, in this team we’ve trained, and I genuinely believe Anika can do this."

Harry smiled, but there was a flicker of something deeper in his eyes. "You’ve got a way of inspiring confidence in others, Y/N," he said softly. Then, his expression softened further as he noticed a strand of hair on my face. "Hold still," he murmured, reaching out to gently tuck the stray hair behind my ear.

I laughed softly, feeling a rush of warmth. "Oh, are you fixing me up now?"

"Yeah," he replied with a playful grin. "We have each other's backs, right? Do I look okay?"

I glanced over him, my eyes lingering a bit longer than necessary. "You look more than okay, except your tie is a little loose."

Feeling an inexplicable pull to be closer to him, I stepped forward and adjusted his tie, my fingers brushing against his chest. I let my hand rest there for a moment too long, feeling the steady beat of his heart beneath my palm.

Harry's eyes darkened slightly, his voice dropping to a whisper. "Y/N," he said, his breath warm against my cheek. "You’re quite the motivator."

A shiver ran down my spine at the intensity of his gaze. "Well, Mr. Styles," I whispered back, my hand still on his chest. "If we win tonight, maybe we should do something to celebrate. How is that for motivation” I teased, knowing the influence I had on him now.

“I don’t know, Y/N. All the teams are having a party on their floor, don’t you want to join them instead of hanging out with your old professor”

“Hey you’re not that old, your maybe ten years older than we are. Plus I would rather escape the noise.” He didn’t seem convinced so I felt compelled to change his mind. “A few drinks could do us some good." I tried to add without sounding too desperate.

He chuckled softly, the sound vibrating through his chest. "Is that your professional opinion, Madam President?"

I smiled, my heart racing. "Absolutely," I said, reluctantly stepping back. "Now let's go out there and win this."

As we left the room, the playful tension between us was palpable, making me feel both exhilarated and grounded.

The room buzzed with anticipation as the semi-final debate was about to begin. The stage was set, with the opposing teams seated at their respective tables, their expressions a mix of determination and nerves. Our team, representing our university, was positioned confidently, with Anika at the helm as the lead debater. I stood to the side, trying to maintain my composure, knowing that Harry was somewhere in the audience, his presence a constant source of support and encouragement.

Anika opened the debate with a strong introduction, her voice clear and authoritative. She outlined our position on the topic, highlighting the key points we would be addressing. As she spoke, I could see the judges nodding, their interest piqued by her articulate delivery.

"Our stance on the issue of renewable energy is not only based on environmental necessity but also on economic viability," Anika stated, her eyes scanning the room. "We believe that investing in renewable resources is the only sustainable path forward."

The opposing team responded, presenting their arguments with equal fervor. They challenged our points, bringing up counterarguments that were well-researched and thought-provoking. The back-and-forth exchange was intense, each side trying to outmaneuver the other with logic and evidence.

I watched Anika closely, admiring her composure under pressure. She deftly countered their arguments, pointing out flaws and inconsistencies with a calm confidence that was impressive. The rest of our team supported her with well-timed interjections, reinforcing our position with additional data and examples.

As the debate progressed, the atmosphere grew more charged. The stakes were high, and every point made felt like a small victory or a setback. Harry’s eyes met mine briefly from across the room, and I drew strength from his steady gaze. He believed in us, and that belief was contagious.

In the final round, Anika delivered a powerful closing statement. "Our commitment to renewable energy is not just a policy choice; it's a moral imperative. We owe it to future generations to act responsibly and sustainably. The evidence is clear, and the time to act is now."

The room fell silent as the judges deliberated. The tension was palpable, each of us holding our breath, waiting for the verdict. Finally, the head judge stood up and announced the results.

"The winner of this semi-final debate, based on the strength of their arguments, clarity of presentation, and overall impact, is...Manchester University!"

A wave of relief and elation washed over me. The team erupted in cheers, hugging each other in celebration. Anika beamed, her hard work and dedication rewarded. I glanced towards Harry, who was clapping enthusiastically, his eyes shining with pride.

We gathered our things and began to exit the stage, the exhilaration of our victory still coursing through us. As the team dispersed, Harry made his way towards me, his smile warm and genuine.

"You did it, Y/N," he said, his voice filled with admiration. "You led them to victory."

I smiled back, feeling a rush of gratitude and affection. "We did it, Harry. Together."

He reached out, his hand brushing mine. "So, about that celebration tonight..."

I nodded, the excitement of the win mingling with the promise of a quieter, more intimate celebration. "I think we’ve earned it."

Harry and I agreed to meet in the hotel bar later that evening. The entire debate team was planning a celebration on our floor, but the idea of escaping the noise for a quieter moment together was far more appealing

I arrived at the bar first, feeling a mix of anticipation and nerves. I had changed into a neat black dress that hugged my figure modestly, paired with black tights and a burgundy cardigan for a touch of color. I had clipped half of my hair up, hoping it looked as polished as I felt. The bar was dimly lit, creating an intimate atmosphere, and I chose a corner stool where we could talk without interruption.

A few minutes later, Harry walked in, looking effortlessly stylish in a fitted navy blue blazer over a crisp white shirt, paired with dark jeans. His hair was slightly tousled, and he wore a charming smile as I noticed him, in the middle of trying to take off my cardigan in the heated up space.

“Here” he said as he helped tear away the fabric from my arms. He draped it over my bar stool chair as he placed a hand on my back and gave my cheek the most subtle kiss, his lips barely touching mine though I felt the heat of his cheek.

"Y/N," he greeted before I could thank him, taking the stool next to mine. "You look amazing."

"Thank you, Harry. You clean up pretty well yourself," I replied with a grin.

He laughed softly, signaling the bartender. "What are you having?"

"I think I'll start with a glass of red wine," I said.

He nodded, ordering a glass of wine for me and a whiskey for himself. As we waited for our drinks, he turned to me, his eyes reflecting the warm light of the bar.

"So, how come you’re celebrating with me and not your friends?" he asked, genuinely curious. “Not a party girl?”

“Oh, you’d be surprised,” I replied with a playful grin.

“Would I?” He raised an eyebrow, clearly intrigued.

“Well, not too surprised, I suppose,” I said, making him smile that smile that made his eyes crinkle at the corners. “I go to Uni parties often, once a week maybe, or twice if there's an occasion. Less if I'm busy or tired.”

“Hmm, I pegged you for the quiet type. Do you dance?”

“I try, but my years of ballroom dancing proved to be useless,” I admitted with a laugh.

“It often happens that way,” he joked. “It seems you had a strict upbringing—cursive, ballroom dancing. What else can you do?”

I took a sip of my wine, considering his question. “Well, let’s see. I can play the piano, though I’m a bit rusty. I also learned how to paint, mostly landscapes and still life. Oh, and I can bake a mean batch of cookies.”

Harry chuckled, clearly amused. “A woman of many talents. I’m impressed.”

“What about you, Styles?” I asked, turning the tables. “What hidden talents do you have?”

He leaned back, swirling his whiskey thoughtfully. “Well, I’m not much of a dancer, but I can play a decent game of football. I also dabble in guitar playing, though I’m no rock star. And I can make a pretty good cup of tea, if I do say so myself.”

“Guitar, huh? Maybe you can play something for me one day,” I suggested, feeling a warmth spread through me at the thought.

“Maybe I will,” he said with a soft smile. “But only if you promise to dance to it, ballroom style.”

I laughed, the tension between us easing into a comfortable camaraderie. “Deal. Just don’t laugh if I trip over my own feet.”

“I would never,” he said, his tone serious but eyes twinkling with mischief. “Besides, I’m sure you’re a wonderful dancer.”

“So, can you sing too, or just the guitar?” I asked, shy at his compliment but beaming at his words, nonetheless. I was fearful I was coming off as too excited but I couldn’t play it cool if I tried. Besides, I think he liked it.

Harry’s eyes sparkled. “Yes, I do sing. I enjoy it a lot, though I wouldn’t call it a talent. I like Karaoke” he said as though compensating for the former part of his sentence.

“Do you know about the karaoke bar near the School of Literature?” I asked

Harry nodded, a playful glint in his eye. “Yes but you’re forgetting one very important thing, Y/N.”

“And what’s that?” I asked, intrigued.

“It’s always packed with students,” he teased.

I laughed. “Hey, I’m a student too, you know.”

“You’re different,” Harry said, his voice taking on a softer, more thoughtful tone. “There’s something special about you. I’m not sure how to explain it, but it’s not the same.”

I felt a thrill at his words. “So are you.” I said as he hummed quietly.

As the night went on, the conversation between Harry and me flowed effortlessly, shifting from lighthearted banter to deeper, more personal topics.

“And your parents are divorced too?” he asked, his tone casual but curious. After sharing that his mum still lived in Holmes Chapel, Manchester, and that he visited her on weekends when he wasn’t working, he continued, “I don’t mean to pry, but you mentioned how you visit your mum in London and your dad in—”

“—In various places,” I finished for him, smiling. “Yes, they are divorced. I guess I’ve gotten double the vacations out of it.” I chuckled, leaning in a bit.

“That must be nice, where have you been?”

“My mum loves to take me to places rich in culture, like Bali or Thailand, but we usually end up spending most of our time cooped up in a resort. Not that I’m complaining; the food is incredible. But, I guess you can say my mum and I have our differences”

“Hm” Harry said, nodding. “And your dad? You take more after him I suppose”

I smiled, considering his question. “I guess you could say that. My dad’s got this adventurous spirit, always seeking out new experiences. He’s the one who took me on those trips to Morocco and Kenya. He’s the kind of person who’s always on the move, exploring different cultures and cuisines.”

Harry’s eyes lit up with interest. “Sounds like you inherited the best from both worlds”

I tilted my head, intrigued. “How do you mean?”

“Well,” Harry began, leaning in slightly, “it seems like you’ve got this adventurous side from your dad, always seeking new experiences, and a taste for the finer things from your mum. It’s like you’ve got the curiosity and zest for life from one side a sort of classy stillness in your disposition that I suppose is from your mum. It makes sense why you’re so dynamic and interesting.”

I smiled, feeling a warm glow from his words. “I guess I never really thought of it that way. But I suppose it does make sense.”

Harry’s gaze lingered on me, a playful glint in his eye. “I think it’s a great combination. It makes you someone incredibly interesting while still being elegant and poised.”

I laughed softly, touched by his thoughtful observation. “Thanks, Harry. That makes me sound like – well its quite the compliment. Changes my mind about what I inherited from my mum.”

“Is that why you didn’t stay in London for university? Because of your differences with your mum?”

“Yeah, something like that,” I replied with a laugh. “I always tried to get as far away as possible without raising too many eyebrows. I even took a gap year to study French in Paris, which my dad was actually quite enthusiastic about.”

“Wait I wouldn’t have guessed you took a gap year, you were born in 2005?”

“2004,” I corrected with a smile. “I’m a bit older than you might think.” I teased though I still worried the 10 year age gap would feel more pronounced once I mentioned something about it.

Harry’s interest was piqued. “And you can speak French now?”

“Yes, fluently,” I replied, trying to hide my pride.

“Say something in French for me,” he prompted with a teasing glint in his eye.

I hesitated, feeling a twinge of embarrassment. “Oh, Harry, I don’t think I should, My accent is not the best and-.”

“Come on,” he urged with a playful nudge.

I took a deep breath, my cheeks warming as I said, “Je t’aime beaucoup, Harry, plus que tu ne pensées.”

Harry’s eyes widened in surprise. “What did you say?”

I bit my lip, deciding to be honest. “I told you that I like you very much, Harry. More than you think.”

Harry looked at me, his gaze intense. “Do you really mean that?”

I met his eyes, my voice steady. “I wouldn’t say it if it I didn’t.”

Harry’s gaze softened, his brow furrowing slightly as he struggled to find the right words. “Y/N, I need to be honest with you,” he said, his voice earnest. “I feel the same way you do. I am in awe of you, truly. And I have found this adoration for you outside of academic contexts. You mean so much to me and you don’t even know it” he laughed. “I find myself thinking about you day and night and I want to be more.

My heart pounded in my chest, the weight of his words sinking in. “You mean more than just as my professor, don’t you?” I asked, my voice barely above a whisper, the nervousness in my tone palpable.

Harry’s eyes searched mine, a mixture of vulnerability and hope in his gaze. “Way more than just your professor,” he said, his hands reaching out to hold mine gently. “I want you. I want you in ways I don’t think you’re ready to hear coming from my mouth. But I would never forgive myself if I forced my feelings onto you.” He said nervously, sweat appearing on his forehead.

The warmth of his touch sent a shiver through me, and I held his hands tightly, trying to steady my racing heart and with it, calm him down. “I’ve been feeling the same way for a while now, and I’ve been thinking of you too. Thinking of things �� inappropriate things. and you’re my professor, I mean” I admitted, my voice trembling with a mix of excitement and anxiety. “I was always afraid of how it might complicate things between us.”

Harry’s gaze was tender as he brushed a strand of hair from my cheek. “It doesn’t have to be complicated, Y/N,” he said softly, his voice filled with warmth. “We can figure this out together.”

I felt a flutter in my chest at his touch, the electricity between us palpable. His hand lingered on my cheek, his thumb gently caressing my skin. “I’ve been so confused about how to handle this,” I admitted, my voice trembling slightly. “But hearing you say that makes me feel so much better.”

His eyes held a mix of vulnerability and determination as he leaned in closer. “I care about you, Y/N, more than just as a colleague or a student. I want to have you, I want to feel you. In every way I can. I want to savor every bit of you.” He said, slowly closing the space between us.

As his lips brushed mine, the kiss started off soft and sweet, a gentle exploration of feelings that had been building between us. But as the seconds passed, the kiss deepened, becoming more urgent and passionate. I could feel his need and longing, and it ignited a fire within me. I responded with equal fervor, losing myself in the intensity of the moment.

Suddenly, the kiss became overwhelming. I pulled away slightly, searching his eyes for some clarity. The passion that had ignited between us made me feel both exhilarated and slightly apprehensive.

“Harry,” I whispered, leaning my forehead against his. “Maybe we should find somewhere more private. Otherwise, someone might see that you’re kissing your student.”

His eyes were filled with understanding and affection as he nodded. “You’re right. But between you and me, you are so much more than my student,” he said softly, his voice filled with sincerity.

“I think I’m starting to understand that” I replied, my heart racing as I intertwined my fingers with his.

We walked hand-in-hand to the elevator, the anticipation building with each step. The elevator doors slid open, and as soon as we were inside, Harry’s lips met mine again, this time with an urgency that mirrored my own. The kiss was fierce and passionate, our bodies pressed together in a way that made the world outside disappear.

When the elevator reached our floor, we stumbled out, still wrapped up in each other. We made our way quickly to Harry’s room, our connection more intense than ever. As we reached his door, he unlocked it and pulled me inside, his hands never leaving mine.

In the privacy of his room, we continued to kiss, our passion for each other evident in every touch and embrace.

Our kisses were feverish and unrelenting, our breaths mingling as we paused briefly to catch our breath.

“I’ve thought about this,” he murmured between kisses, his lips lingering on mine.

“Yeah?” I responded, my voice breathless.

“Mhm,” he said, his hands sliding down to my waist, pulling me closer.

“What did you think about?” I asked, my fingers tangled in his hair.

“I thought about finally getting to kiss those lips,” he whispered, his breath warm against my skin. “About holding you like this, my hands on your waist, your hips, in your hair. About having you against me like this.”

“So have I,” I admitted, my heart racing.

“You have?” he asked, his lips brushing against mine, his eyes locked onto mine.

“Of course I have,” I breathed. “All those times we were alone in your office, I was wishing in my head that you would kiss me. That you would even undress me.”

“And what then?” he asked, his voice low and filled with anticipation.

I looked into his eyes, the intensity of the moment consuming me. “And then… and then you would do things to me.” His expression softened but his eyes darkened as they filled with lust.

“You really want that?” he searched my eyes to make sure

“Harry, I want more than anything to feel you, in every way possible.”

“Then I'm ready to give you everything you want. Just say the words,” he whispered, his voice thick with desire.

“Fuck me, Harry,” I said, watching a groan escape from his parted lips before they returned to mine, more urgent than ever.

“Jump,” he ordered. When I did, he lifted me effortlessly, allowing me to wrap my legs around him. My cardigan slipped to the floor as my hands found their way into his hair and around his neck.

As he lay me down on his bed, a rush of anticipation surged through me. He lifted me slightly to unzip my dress, slipping it down my body before releasing me back to the bed. I barely noticed where he discarded it before his hungry lips were on my neck again, trailing down to my breasts with sloppy kisses.

He began by kissing my cleavage, then wrapped his arms around me to strip off my bra. An eager gasp escaped his lips as he finally unveiled my breasts. With one hand on my left tit, he kissed the right one passionately, my nipple caught in his teeth. Despite the urgency, his touch remained soft as he licked and teased my sensitivity.

Finally, he looked up, his gaze softened entirely. “Y/N,” he said breathlessly, as if words were failing him.

“I,” he began, lips on the top of my stomach, just under my breasts, giving me a wet kiss.

“Am,” he continued, kissing just below the first one.

“So,” another kiss.

“In,” yet another kiss.

“Awe,” he said, finally looking up at my face, which rested on the mountain of hotel pillows that decorated his bed. “Of you, my angel.”

He finished, his fingertips grazing the inside of my black sheer leggings. Slowly, he pulled them down, lifting himself until he was almost upright to tear them away from my legs. I lifted my feet to help, and he tossed them aside, his eyes never leaving mine.

The moment hung between us, electric and tender. His hands roamed my body, exploring every inch with reverence and desire. As he leaned down, his lips met mine again, the kiss deepening with each passing second. The intensity of our connection was undeniable, and I knew that whatever happened next would be unforgettable.

I used the chance to lift myself up as well, unbuckling his belt. He removed his shirt to help me, revealing a toned and tattooed chest. By the time he was done, I was working on his pants, which he slid off the bed briefly to take off along with his shoes and socks. When I finally saw him, in nothing but briefs, I was struck by the sight of him.

For once, all his tattoos were on full display. I had briefly seen a few on his lower arms and, of course, the cross on the back of his hand, but never would I have guessed he was covered in ink. Swallows on his chest, a butterfly on his stomach, and an array of intricate designs and symbols covered his skin, telling stories I longed to hear.

When he noticed me staring, he smiled. "Do you like it?" he asked.

"I love it," I replied, my hand moving to his chest, feeling it heave under my touch. He returned to kiss me before lowering himself to the only clothed part of my body: my pussy.

"I'm going to take this off now, baby," he said, placing a finger on my clothed clit, feeling my wetness drench the thin black fabric. "And you're going to be a good girl for me, right?"

"Yes. Yes, Harry, I will be a good girl for you," I promised, my voice trembling with anticipation.

"Good. Now, you may squirm, and God knows how much I want to hear your pretty little moans. I've been dreaming of you moaning out my name, but you can't cum unless I tell you to. Understood?"

"Yes, Harry."

"Good girl," he said before placing a final kiss on the clothed fabric, another on the inside of my thigh, before pulling off my panties at once. The air shocked the area, making me gasp as he looked at me with a mixture of hunger and admiration.

He began by giving soft kisses on my clit, making me squirm just as he said it would. His hands gripped my thighs, and before I knew it, my legs were over his shoulders. I gasped and moaned at the feeling of his lips against me, my hands gripping the sheets.

“Harry, oh my god,” I gasped, my body arching towards him.

“Mmm, you taste so good, love,” he murmured, his voice sending shivers down my spine.

I felt him reach a hand up to mine, which was clenching the sheets. “Take off my rings for me, love,” he said, referring to the rings on his right ring finger and middle finger.

I did as he asked, my fingers trembling as I slid the rings off. He looked up from where his tongue was working magic on my pussy and simply said, “Atta girl,” which weirdly worked well with his accent.

His voice got thicker as his fingers returned to my wetness. “How many can you take?” he asked.

“I’m not sure,” I said, breathless. “Only two, probably.”

He laughed knowingly. “You’re going to need much more than that to prepare for my dick, angel.”

“Do whatever you want with me, Harry, I just want to feel you,” I said, knowing that if he took off his briefs at that moment, I wouldn’t be able to hold myself from sucking him off, wanting to taste every bit of him.

Returning to the moment, I realized Harry was here, actually fucking me, and before I knew it, I felt two of his fingers inside my pussy, already hitting my G-spot carefully. I moaned, my hips moving against him.

“Fuck, Harry,” I whimpered, the sensation overwhelming me.

“You like that, don’t you?” he said, his voice a low growl. “Just wait until it’s my cock inside you.”

“Yes, please, I want it,” I begged, my body trembling with need.

He smirked, his fingers continuing their relentless assault on my G-spot. “Patience, love. I want to make sure you’re ready for me.”

I moaned louder, my hips moving desperately against his hand. “I’m ready, Harry, please.”

“Not yet, baby. I need to make you come first,” he said, his thumb brushing against my clit as his fingers worked inside me. The combination was too much, and I felt my orgasm building rapidly.

“Harry, I’m so close,” I gasped, my body tensing. “please” I begged, not knowing when he would let me come.

“That’s it, love. Come for me,” he whispered, his voice filled with command and desire.

With a final, skilled movement of his fingers and thumb, my body shattered around him, my orgasm crashing through me in waves. I screamed his name, my hips bucking wildly as I rode out the pleasure.

As I came down from my high, he slowly withdrew his fingers, licking them clean with a satisfied grin. “You taste even better than I imagined,” he said, his eyes dark with lust.

I pulled him up to kiss him, tasting myself on his lips. “Now, Harry, I need you inside me,” I said, my voice desperate and needy.

“Patience, love,” he murmured against my lips. “ I was just inside you” he teased as though he was truly oblivious to how desperate I was for his lips. “I’m going to make this worth the wait, sweetheart.”

He slowly removed his boxers, making me gasp at his length which sprang up against his stomach as soon as it was released, hard and aching for me. I reveled in the idea that I got him this hard, for me, and as though he could read my thoughts he said, "Look what you do to me, angel. Are you proud of how hard you've made your professor?"

I nodded, my eyes wide with a mix of awe and desire. “So proud,” I whispered, reaching out to touch him. His cock twitched under my fingers, and he let out a low groan.

“Good girl,” he murmured, his voice thick with lust. He leaned down to kiss me, his lips capturing mine in a heated embrace. I could feel the tension between us, the anticipation building with every touch.

I kept stroking him as we kissed, trying to distract myself from how much I wanted to put my mouth on his dick. Once I felt his precum drip over his entire length, I used it as a lubricant to stroke him harder, my grip tightening. He groaned into my mouth, his hips bucking slightly in response.

“Fuck, Y/N,” he breathed, his voice strained with pleasure. “You’re driving me crazy.”

I smiled against his lips, feeling a surge of confidence. “Is that so?” I teased with an unknown confidence, my strokes becoming more deliberate, teasing the sensitive head before sliding down to the base.

“Yes,” he gasped, his hands gripping my hips as if to steady himself. “You have no idea.”

I moved my mouth to his neck, kissing and nibbling on his skin as I continued to work him with my hand. His breath hitched, and I felt a shiver run through his body.

“Harry,” I whispered, my lips brushing against his ear. “I want to taste you.”

He let out a deep groan, his eyes darkening with desire. “You don’t have to—”

“I want to,” I interrupted, my voice firm yet sultry. “Please, let me.”

He looked at me, his gaze intense and filled with lust. “Okay, angel,” he murmured, his hand gently caressing my cheek. “Anything you want.

I slid down his body, my lips trailing kisses along his chest and stomach. When I reached his hips, I looked up at him as he sat down for me, my eyes locking with his as I slowly placed kisses on his sensitive head before I finally took him into my mouth. His cock twitched against my tongue, and he let out a shaky breath.

“Fuck, Y/N,” he groaned, his hand tangling in my hair. “You’re perfect.”

I moaned around him, the vibrations eliciting another deep groan from him. I took him deeper, my tongue swirling around his length as I bobbed my head. His grip on my hair tightened, guiding me as I pleasured him.

I glanced up at him, seeing the raw need in his eyes. His chest heaved with each breath, and his lips were slightly parted, his expression was one of pure ecstasy. I increased my pace, my hand working in tandem with my mouth as I used the other to grasp his balls, bringing him closer to the edge.

“Y/N,” he gasped, his voice trembling. “I’m so close.”

I pulled back slightly, my hand continuing to stroke him. “I want you to come for me, Harry,” I whispered, my voice filled with desire. “Please, I want to taste you.”

His eyes darkened even more, and with a final, shuddering breath, he willed himself to tear my hand away.

“Fuck,” he panted, his hand gently caressing my cheek as I looked up at him with teary eyes. “As much as I love what you’re doing, and the thought of coming in that beautiful dirty mouth that I never thought could do such obscene things, I don’t want to come until I am inside of you, my angel.”

He gently threw me back until my head hit the pillows again. “What a gorgeous sight, baby.” He moaned as he loomed over me, hands on my hips already.

His touch was both gentle and demanding, and I felt myself climbing higher and higher, the pleasure overwhelming. "Harry, please," I begged, my voice a breathless whisper. "I need you."

He looked up, his eyes filled with lust and affection. "I need you too, love," he said softly. "But remember, you have to be patient for me, my girl." He murmured as he reached a hand towards his nightstand, opening a drawer quickly to grab something.

I nodded, biting my lip to stifle my moans as he continued to tease me with his fingers. The anticipation was maddening, and I felt like I was on the edge of a precipice, waiting to fall.

When I moved my head to see what he was doing, I realized he was grabbing a condom, bringing it to his mouth as he used his teeth to unpackage the elastic. The sight sent a new wave of desire through me, my anticipation heightening with every second. He rolled the condom on with practiced ease, his eyes never leaving mine.

Finally, he moved back up my body, his cock pressing against my entrance. "Are you ready, angel?" he asked, his voice thick with desire.

"Yes, Harry," I whispered, my hands gripping his shoulders. "Please."

He entered me slowly, stretching me in a way that felt both painful and exquisite. I gasped, my nails digging into his skin as he filled me completely. "You feel so good," he groaned, his forehead resting against mine. "So tight and perfect."

"Move, Harry," I urged, my body aching for more. "Please."

He began to thrust, each movement deliberate and powerful, driving me closer and closer to another orgasm.

His movements grew more urgent, his breathing ragged as he drove us both closer to the edge. "You’re incredible," he murmured, his lips brushing against my ear.

Every thrust sent waves of pleasure through my body, making me arch against him. "Harry," I moaned, my voice trembling with need.

"That's it, baby," he panted, his lips trailing down to my neck, kissing and nibbling at the sensitive skin. "You’re doing so fucking well. Taking my cock so well my angel." He soothed me.

I could feel the coil tightening in my lower abdomen, the pressure building with each powerful thrust. "Harry, I'm so close," I whimpered, my hands moving to grip his back, my fingers digging into his muscles.

"Come for me, angel," he whispered, his voice low and commanding. "I want to feel you come around me."

His words sent me over the edge. My body tensed, my toes curling as my orgasm ripped through me, my walls clenching around him.

"That's it, Y/N," he groaned, his pace quickening as he chased his own release. "You're so perfect."

I could feel his thrusts becoming more erratic, his breathing harsher. "Harry," I whispered, my hands moving to cradle his face. "Come for me."

With a final, deep thrust, he buried himself inside me, his body shuddering as he found his release. "Fuck, Y/N," he moaned, his forehead resting against mine as he rode out his orgasm.

We stayed like that for a moment, our bodies intertwined, our breathing slowly returning to normal. He pulled out gently, discarding the condom before collapsing next to me on the bed.

“You're incredible,” he said again, his hand reaching out to brush a strand of hair from my face.

I smiled, feeling a warmth spread through me at his words. “So are you, Harry. I can’t believe I was able to take you. You’re the biggest I’ve ever had.”

Harry's eyes widened slightly, a playful grin tugging at the corners of his mouth. “Is that so? Glad to hear I’m making an impression,” he said, his tone both teasing and affectionate.

I chuckled, feeling a mix of satisfaction and shyness. “Definitely making an impression,” I confirmed, my fingers lightly tracing patterns on his chest. “It was more than I expected, but in the best way.”

Harry raised an eyebrow, a mischievous glint in his eye. “I know, I was overwhelmed too, your body is fucking incredible, you know that? Must be all that yoga.” He joked.

I laughed softly, playfully swatting his shoulder. “Oh, so you’re saying I should thank my yoga instructor for this?”

He nodded with a smirk. “Absolutely. And I have to say, your pussy is as phenomenal as your body. It’s been a pleasure getting to know it up close.”

I rolled my eyes but couldn’t hide my smile. “Glad I could meet your high standards. You’re not too shabby yourself, Mr. Styles.” I said, surprised to earn a faint huff from his pretty pink lips.

The mention of his name clearly had an impact on him as it made his eyes darken with a mix of desire and amusement. He pulled me closer, his voice a low, heated whisper. “Oh, you’re playing with fire now, using my full name like that. It seems you’ve got a knack for turning me on.”

I grinned, feeling a playful thrill at his reaction. “Just giving you a taste of your own medicine, Mr. Styles.”

Harry’s hand slid down to rest on my lower back, his touch igniting a fire between us. “Well, I must say, you’ve got quite the talent for it. You’re making it very hard for me to keep my composure.”

I leaned in, my lips brushing against his ear as I whispered, “You’ve got me all worked up, Harry. It’s only fair you return the favor.”

He grinned, his fingers lightly tracing my arm. “Well, I’m glad you think so. I’d hate to disappoint after all the anticipation.”

I leaned in closer, teasing him. “So, was I everything you hoped for? Or do you have any complaints?”

Harry chuckled, his lips brushing against my ear. “No complaints at all. Everything was perfect. In fact, I think I need to get to know that body of yours even better. Maybe a few more yoga sessions are in order.”

I playfully raised an eyebrow. “Is that an invitation for more intimate… workouts?”

“Definitely,” he said, his voice full of promise. “And trust me, I’m looking forward to every single session.”

We both laughed, the light-hearted banter easing any lingering tension. Harry’s hand continued to caress my back, his touch tender and affectionate. I snuggled closer, feeling the steady beat of his heart against my cheek.

“So, any other compliments I should know about?” I asked, looking up at him with a teasing smile.

Harry grinned, his eyes sparkling with mischief. “Oh, just that you’re absolutely incredible. And I’m one lucky guy to have you here with me.”

I felt a rush of warmth at his words, and I leaned in to kiss him softly. “Well, I’m pretty lucky, too. I’m glad we finally got this chance.”

Harry’s gaze softened, and he brushed a strand of hair from my face. “Me too, angel. Let’s stay like this for a while. No rush, no pressure. Just us.”

“Yes,” I agreed, my fingers tracing the lines of his tattoos. “Let’s. Maybe I’ll finally get to know the stories behind all these tattoos.”

Harry’s eyes lit up with a mix of amusement and intrigue. “Oh, you’re in for quite the storytelling session,” he said, his tone teasing. “But we don’t have enough time tonight. I already kept you up and you need your beauty sleep.” He joked, as if the final tournament weren’t tomorrow, or I guess, today seeing as it was almost two in the morning.”

We lay there, entwined, our breaths slowly evening out as the intensity of the moment faded. His hands gently caressed my back, his touch light and soothing. I could feel his warmth radiating against me, a comforting presence that made me feel safe and cherished.

After a few moments of peaceful silence, he shifted slightly, reaching for a nearby box of tissues. He carefully cleaned me up, his movements tender and considerate. “I hope that was okay,” he murmured again, his eyes searching mine with a hint of concern. I worried that maybe regret was setting in.

“It was more than okay,” I replied, my voice soft and filled with affection. “It was amazing.”

He smiled, his eyes lighting up with a mix of relief and happiness. “I’m glad,” he said, his hand brushing along my arm in a soothing gesture. And so was I, realizing that he wasn’t feeling guilty after all.

He kissed my forehead gently, his lips lingering in a tender touch. “You’re something else, Y/N,” he said, his voice filled with sincerity. “I never expected to do this.”

I snuggled closer to him, my head resting on his chest. “Neither did I,” I confessed. “But I’m really glad we did.

He wrapped his arms around me, holding me close as if afraid to let go. “Me too,” he whispered. “I want to make sure you’re okay.” He said again, clearly anxious about my feelings.

“I am,” I reassured him, my fingers tracing small patterns on his chest. “Just enjoying being here with you.”

He sighed contentedly, his hand gently stroking my hair. “Now get some sleep, angel” He finally said.

“Okay,” I murmured, my eyes already growing heavy. “But just one more kiss before we fall asleep?”

He grinned, his eyes twinkling with affection. “I think I can manage that.”

He leaned in, pressing a soft, lingering kiss to my lips. It was a sweet promise of the connection we shared, a reminder of the intimacy that had brought us together. As we settled into a comfortable embrace, the quiet hum of the city outside became a soothing lullaby.

With his arms securely around me, I closed my eyes, feeling a profound sense of contentment. In Harry’s embrace, I felt like I had found a piece of home, a place where I belonged.

—————— ——————————————————————

I didn’t feel myself falling asleep; it washed over me so naturally, like a gentle tide pulling me into a serene, dreamless rest. Normally, I had to fantasize about Harry until I was too exhausted to stay awake, but tonight was different. I was enveloped in a cocoon of comfort and warmth, his arms around me making me feel safe and cherished. It was as if nothing else mattered.

When I awoke, it was to an empty bed. The space beside me was cold, and a pang of worry shot through me. I usually never got up for anything in the middle of the night, but the absence of his warmth made me uneasy. I slipped out from under the covers, searching for my underwear and bra, but they were nowhere to be found. I ended up pulling on one of Harry’s shirts, the fabric hanging loosely on me, and padded across the cold floor, shivering slightly as I walked toward the balcony.

As I approached the sliding glass doors, I heard Harry’s voice, raised in frustration. “Yes, I know that, Horan,” he spat into the phone. “Don’t you think I’m aware of the code of conduct? Maybe I haven’t been a professor here as long as you have, but I know the rules.”

I paused, hidden behind the door, trying to piece together the conversation. Harry’s tone was defensive, his words filled with exasperation. “I didn’t call you to gloat. You know I didn’t.” he said but I couldn’t piece together what professor Niall Horan was saying on the other end of the line. Until:

“I guess I just called you to talk about it. I am freaking out mate.” He said, making me shudder at what he might think of me now, at how things will be.

“Yes, Niall of coursed I asked her. Before and after.” He said like he was hurrying to defend himself in between Niall’s questions. “No I didn’t tell her that. There was no reason to, but she knew. She knew she could leave and that we could stop but trust me it takes two and she was definitely as complicit as I was.” He said before being silent for a long time.

Finally: “I was not trying to be a dickhead, okay? I didn’t think about the power dynamics but either way, she gets good marks, she wouldn’t have been scared to tell me no. Either way what’s done is done. I already slept with her. What is there to do now? I can’t undo what I did.”

My heart sank as I listened, the realization of the situation hitting me with a sharp sting. I turned to walk away, feeling ashamed, scared, and hurt. The cold floor beneath my feet seemed to echo my anxiety until my knee cracked loudly, causing me to wince. Harry’s voice abruptly cut off as he heard the sound, and he quickly hung up the phone.

“Y/N?” he called, his voice tinged with concern as he turned toward me. I stayed silent, not meeting his gaze. “Did you hear that?”

I nodded, feeling a surge of emotion. “Yes, I heard.”

Without saying a word, I began to remove his shirt, searching desperately for my bra. Harry stepped forward, his expression a mixture of frustration and regret. “I didn’t mean for you to find out like this. I just... I didn’t know how to explain.”

“Was this just a one-night stand?” I asked, my voice trembling. “Did you only want me for tonight, and now you’re done?”

“No, it’s not like that,” Harry said quickly. “If it were, I wouldn’t have let you sleep here. I care about you, Y/N.”

“Oh, really?” I snapped, my voice dripping with sarcasm. “How noble of you, Harry. Thanks for letting me sleep here after sleeping with me.” I said because it was not even up for discussion, of course I was going to sleep with him, it was the least we could do. Not just as a favor to me – as to avoid stumbling back to my room, half-dressed at 2AM, but as a way to spend time together, to hold each other as a non-verbal agreement that we were content and happy and there for each other.

His face fell, but he tried to maintain his composure. “That’s not what I meant. It’s just... I didn’t plan this. It’s more complicated than that.”

“Complicated?” I echoed, feeling tears well up. “Is that what this was all about? The dynamics, my beauty, or maybe because I’m smart? Were you just tempted?”

Harry stepped closer, his voice softer. “No, it’s not just lust. I’ve developed real feelings for you. It’s not just about physical attraction.”

“But then why were you talking to Niall like that?” I asked, my voice breaking. “What, now that the novelty is gone, you’re going to leave too?”

“Do you think you’re just a hookup to me?” Harry asked, his eyes widening in hurt.

“I don’t know,” I replied, my voice filled with anguish. “But if you’re planning on ignoring me and leaving me completely, what does that make me? How do I go back to class now? How do we continue our friendship or even our professional relationship if I’m just a source of guilt for you?”

I knew I was unreasonable. That he was probably feeling the weight of his job and the complexities of managing a relationship with a student, but the fear of the unknown possibilities, one of them being him getting fired or penalized in some way, worried me. And I was more worried that under the pressure of a job he is so passionate about, he would be willing to let me go. And that would make me feel like a one night stand, because everything would fade away after a tipsy night together.

Harry’s face was a mixture of pain and resolve. “You’re not just a source of guilt. I genuinely care about you, Y/N. I just need to figure out how to make things right.”

I shook my head, feeling overwhelmed. “So I am a source of guilt? Among other things but still, you’re guilty?” I said searching for an expression amidst his anxious disposition. “I need more than just words, Harry. I need to know where we stand. I need to understand if this is something real or if I’m just a temporary distraction.”

His expression softened, and he reached out to touch my arm gently. “I want to make this work. I truly do. But I understand if you need time to process everything.”

I took a deep breath, trying to steady myself. “I just need clarity. Right now, all I have is confusion and hurt.”

Harry nodded, his eyes filled with a mix of regret and hope. “I’ll do whatever it takes to prove that I’m committed to this, to us. Just give me a chance.”

We stood there, the weight of the situation hanging heavy between us. The cold air from the balcony seemed to mirror the chill in my heart, but there was a flicker of warmth, a hope that maybe, despite everything, we could find a way through this tangled mess of emotions and uncertainty.

“Look, it’s late,” I said, trying to keep my voice steady despite the whirlwind of emotions. “And we’re both tired. Let’s just get some sleep.”

I went to grab my clothes, feeling the weight of the night’s events pressing heavily on me. As I began slipping on my dress, Harry’s eyes followed me, his expression shifting from confusion to concern when he saw that I wasn’t just putting on my underwear but was dressing fully.

“Are you leaving?” he asked, his voice tinged with worry.

“It’s best if I sleep in my room,” I replied, trying to sound as composed as possible. “I need some space to clear my head.”

Harry’s face fell, a mix of guilt and distress evident in his features. “Y/N, I’m really sorry. I didn’t mean for any of this to happen. I never wanted to hurt you.”

I could see the pent-up emotion in his eyes, the frustration and regret that mirrored my own feelings. “I know, Harry. But I need some time to think. This isn’t something we can just gloss over.”

He reached out, his hand hovering in the air before he dropped it, clearly conflicted. “Please, don’t go. I want to work this out.”

I took a deep breath, trying to steady myself. “Look, I’ll leave you my spare key card. You can come to my room tomorrow morning before we meet for practice.”

Harry nodded, his eyes reflecting a mix of relief and apprehension. “I will. I promise. I’ll be there.”

I walked to the small table where I had left the key card and handed it to him. “Goodnight, Harry.”

As I turned to leave, he reached out and gently touched my arm. “Please, don’t think that this changes how I feel about you.”

I gave him a small, weary smile, feeling the ache of the night’s events. “I know. We’ll talk more in the morning.”

I made my way back to my room, my mind racing with thoughts and questions about the future. When I finally lay down in my bed, the silence was almost deafening. The warmth and safety I had felt earlier were now replaced with a deep sense of uncertainty. Despite the exhaustion tugging at my eyelids, sleep was elusive, my mind replaying the night’s events over and over.

I woke up feeling the heavy weight of last night’s unresolved tension pressing down on me. The room was quiet, save for the soft hum of the heater. I forced myself out of bed, the events of the previous night replaying in my mind. I needed to start my day, even if it felt impossible.

I stepped into the shower, the hot water cascading over me, trying to wash away the lingering anxiety and uncertainty. I let the steam envelop me, hoping it would clear my thoughts. As I dried off and began to style my hair, I focused on the routine as a distraction, meticulously curling and arranging each strand, applying makeup with steady hands despite the tumultuous emotions beneath.

I ordered a breakfast bowl from room service, hoping that the normalcy of breakfast might ease the sting. I even thought of Harry and how he liked his breakfast: eggs and black coffee. I ordered those for him, too, placing them beside my own meal, hoping he’d show up and we could discuss what had happened.

But as the minutes ticked by and my breakfast grew colder, Harry’s absence became more pronounced. The food was untouched, the coffee growing cold, and my heart sank further with each passing minute.

Finally, Anika’s text came through: “Everyone’s downstairs waiting for you. Even Harry.”

My stomach twisted at the mention of Harry. The realization that he hadn’t shown up was a fresh wound, deepened by the thought of him making me look bad and embarrass me by not being there. I’d spent the morning waiting for him, hoping for a resolution that never came.

I took a deep breath, grabbed my stuff, and headed downstairs. As I walked through the hotel lobby, I could feel the stares and whispers, my unease growing with every step. The team was gathered in a cluster, and Harry was among them, engaged in conversation with a group of people. He looked composed and detached, a stark contrast to the turmoil I felt inside.

Anika immediately noticed me and came over, her eyes sharp with concern. “Hey, the debate topic was announced. We don’t have much time. You look rough, Y/N. What happened?”

I gave her a tired smile, knowing she could always read me better than anyone. “Something happened with Harry last night,” I admitted quietly, my voice heavy. “But we can’t talk about it now. Let’s discuss it after the tournament.”

Anika nodded, her face reflecting a mix of sympathy and curiosity. “Okay, we’ll talk later. Let’s get through this.”

As we joined the team for practice, I couldn’t help but notice Harry’s avoidance. He seemed distant, his demeanor colder than usual. Every interaction felt strained, as though he was trying to keep a deliberate distance. It was clear that something had changed, and the tension between us was palpable.

Despite my efforts to focus on practice, the weight of the morning’s events and Harry’s apparent coldness overshadowed everything. The anticipation of the debate and the upcoming celebration party felt hollow, a stark contrast to the excitement I had felt just a day before.

Throughout the practice, Harry’s demeanor remained defensive, his interactions clipped and formal. It was clear that the connection we had shared was now a chasm filled with unspoken words and unresolved emotions.

Anika found me sitting alone in a corner, trying to steady my nerves. She approached with a concerned look, her eyes searching mine for reassurance.

“Hey, Y/N,” she started, her voice gentle but firm. “I know things have been a bit...off lately. Are you sure you’re up for leading the debate today? You look pretty shaken.”

I looked up, meeting her gaze with determination. “I’m fine, Anika. I can do this. I know it’s been rough, but I’m ready to lead. I’ve got this.”

Anika nodded, her face softening with a supportive smile. “Alright, if you’re sure. Just remember, you’ve got this. We all believe in you.” She said as we made our way to the hall.

The tournament hall was abuzz with energy as teams prepared for their debates. The atmosphere was charged with intensity, and my nerves were a tangle of excitement and dread.

Midway through my opening statements, I glanced up and saw Harry sitting in the audience. My heart skipped a beat, and I momentarily froze, struggling to gather my thoughts. The sight of him, a reminder of the unresolved tension between us, was almost too much to handle. I could feel the weight of his gaze, adding pressure to an already challenging situation.

I managed to pull myself together, but the distraction happened again and again throughout the debate. Each time I saw Harry, my focus wavered, and I could sense the team’s score slipping as a result. I cast a desperate glance at Anika, who nodded in understanding.

“Anika, I need you to step up,” I whispered urgently. “I’m losing it up here. Can you take over?”

Without hesitation, Anika took the lead, and I felt a wave of relief wash over me. As she spoke with confidence and clarity, I found myself more relaxed and able to contribute effectively as a supporting member. The pressure of being in the spotlight was lifted, and I made stronger arguments, though the unease still lingered in the back of my mind.

Finally, as the debate concluded, the results were announced. Our team had won. The relief and triumph were palpable, but I couldn’t shake the anxiety that my earlier performance had almost cost us the victory.

Harry approached, a look of mixed concern and congratulations on his face. “Congratulations, Y/N. You did great, despite...”

I cut him off, grabbing my things and heading towards Anika. “Thanks, Harry. I need to go.”

Anika and I headed to her room, the quiet and familiarity offering a respite from the day’s chaos. We got ready for the party as I tried to tell her everything, sparing her the details of me and one of her own professors.

As we sat on the edge of the bed, I recounted everything that had happened. “I thought I was falling in love with him, Anika. It’s so embarrassing. I don’t even know how to process it.”

Anika listened patiently, offering a comforting presence. “You’ve been through a lot. It’s okay to feel how you’re feeling. We’ll figure it out.”

Just then, my phone buzzed with a series of texts from Harry. I glanced at the screen, my heart sinking as I read his messages:

Hey, Y/N. Can we talk?

I just left your bedroom.

Is there any more to do?

I know there’s a party, but I’m hoping you’ll come around.

Just let me know ill be at your door.

Please. I really hope you’ll come around.

Please just let me know, I’m on the floor.

Maybe we’ll work it out.

I just gotta get better at this.

But still, we need to talk about this, or else we never will. It will become something we don’t do, ever.

Cause once you go without it nothing else will do.

Meet me in the hallway, Y/N.

I stared at my phone, struggling to make sense of Harry's messages. The words seemed to jumble together, each text blurring into the next. The thought of him sitting outside my door, slumped against the wall with his phone in hand, sent a pang of confusion and empathy through me. How desperate must he have felt to use my key card to get in and to send these pleading texts?

Yet, Harry's messages seemed to be an emotional puzzle I couldn’t quite piece together. The need to resolve things was overwhelming. If I didn’t confront him now, he might be right—perhaps this was our last chance to address what had happened between us. Ignoring it would mean losing whatever we had built, potentially ending our connection for good.

I knew that if we didn’t talk, our relationship—whether personal or professional—might never recover. The thought of walking away without understanding where we stood left me unsettled. I realized I needed to face him, to hear him out and try to make sense of everything. Only then could I decide whether we had a future or if it was truly over.

Determined, I took a deep breath and made my way towards the hallway, resolving to find out what Harry truly wanted to say.

I stepped out of the elevator and into the dimly lit hallway, the soft chime of the doors closing behind me fading into the background. The hallway stretched out before me, a quiet, almost eerie space illuminated by the occasional flickering light. My heart raced as I saw him—Harry—sitting at the end of the corridor, his back resting against my door. His posture was slumped, his legs sprawled out in front of him. The exhaustion etched on his face was unmistakable, and his eyes were fixed on his hands, which rested in his lap.

He looked weary, almost broken, and I couldn’t help but feel a pang of sympathy as I approached him. The way he sat there, isolated in the dim hallway, spoke volumes about how troubled he must have been. The soft, muted light from the hallway accentuated the dark circles under his eyes and the tense lines on his face. His disheveled hair and rumpled clothes suggested he had been there for a while, lost in his thoughts and waiting for a chance to make things right.

I dropped down beside him, my knees brushing against the cold floor. Without saying a word, I reached out and gently took his hand in mine. The contact seemed to stir him from his reverie. He looked up, his eyes meeting mine with a mixture of relief and apprehension.

“Harry,” I said softly, my voice breaking the silence. “Get up.”

He blinked, the surprise in his eyes giving way to a tender vulnerability. “Y/N?” he asked, his voice hoarse. “Are you okay?”

I nodded, my gaze steady despite the hurt I felt.

His face fell, and he looked down at the floor, his expression one of deep regret. I reached out and helped him to his feet, his hand still clasped in mine. As he stood, I unlocked the door, the soft click of the lock echoing in the quiet hallway.

“Can I come in?” he asked, his voice barely above a whisper.

“Of course you can, Harry,” I replied, trying to keep my tone as warm as I could manage. “It’s what I want.”

We stepped into the room, and I closed the door behind us, the soft click signaling our transition into a more private space. He stood there, looking around the room as if seeing a hotel room for the first time, his emotions palpable. I gestured for him to sit on the edge of the bed while I took a seat next to him, our hands still intertwined.

“Are you okay?” He finally spoke.

“I’m fine,” I replied, though my voice wavered slightly. “But I’m disappointed you didn’t show up this morning.”

His face fell, and he looked down at the ground, clearly pained. “I didn’t mean to let you down. I got caught up with Niall last night...” he tried to defend until finally he relented, I could tell by the change in his expression which was more honest now.

I looked at him, the ache of disappointment still fresh. “I was waiting for you, Harry. I wanted to see you. You said you’d come by before practice, and when you didn’t, it felt like... like you didn’t care.”

He shook his head, his eyes filled with remorse. “No, Y/N, that’s not it at all. I was just... overwhelmed. Niall was really laying into me, and I didn’t know how to handle it. I know that’s no excuse, but it’s the truth.”

I nodded slowly, processing his words. “What did Niall say?”

“He... he was furious. He didn’t hold back. He told me I was breaking all sorts of rules, that I should’ve known better. And he’s right. I know it was wrong. I didn’t call him to brag or to make excuses. I just needed someone to talk to, and it turned into this whole argument.”

He slowly began again, “He called me. It was an hour earlier in Manchester and he had just gotten home. I wasn’t going to tell him at first but then he made a joke about how I’m holding up while on this trip with you, pining for you and –” he spoke as if afraid of his own feelings for me. “that’s when I told him.”

I frowned, feeling the sting of his earlier words. “So, you were talking about me?”

“Yes,” he admitted, his voice barely above a whisper. “He was right about one thing—this has to stay a secret. At least until next year, when I’m no longer your professor.”

The gravity of his confession hung between us. I took a deep breath, trying to steady my emotions. “Is that what I am to you, Harry? A secret?”

“No, it’s not that simple,” he said urgently, his voice cracking. “You’re not just a secret or a one-night stand. I—” He paused, searching for the right words. “I was afraid. Afraid that I’d ruin everything, that I’d lose you. I thought if I could just get through this, we could find a way to make it work.”

I looked down at my hands, my mind racing. “But what if that’s not enough? What if I’m just a fleeting distraction? You were saying with Niall...”

Harry’s face contorted with frustration and sadness. “No, Y/N, that’s not how I see you. But you have to understand that it actually is complicated. My job is on the line, and your reputation. I know it’s a 10 year age gap but everyone will still know you as the girl who slept with her older professor. But you’re not a secret. We would have to take it slow the next term, obviously. And for us too, I mean I will take you on a proper date, believe me I’ve wanted to do that before sleeping with you, but we can’t exactly be the most public. Maybe next year we could be more public if you were ready to not take any more classes with me, and for the scrutiny we would face, because I would be. I am willing to deal with anything, I would work through any conflict with the university for you.”

“Wait, you have really thought about this haven’t you? Logistics and all?” I asked.

“Of course I have, I told you, you are not a one night stand. You have been the only thing making me this happy Y/N. All year, you have been the source of my joy, even if all I get is a glance one day and a stroke on my arm another day. I will have you in anyway you would let me, just please stay in my life.” He looked at me as I was trying to believe him.

Finally, he cupped my cheek and said, “If it wasn’t clear already, I have been falling madly in love with you. I love you Y/N, with all my heart.”

The intensity of his confession, combined with the raw honesty of his words, made my heart ache. I reached up and gently cupped his face, my thumbs brushing away the stray tears that had begun to trail down his cheeks. “I love you too, Harry,” I said, my voice trembling with emotion.

He looked at me, his eyes filled with a mix of hope and desperation. The gravity of our feelings pulled us closer together, and as we leaned in, our breaths mingling, the world seemed to fall away, leaving just the two of us in this fragile, sacred space.

Our lips finally met in a kiss that was both tender and passionate. The initial touch was soft, exploratory, as if we were both savoring the long-awaited contact. His lips moved gently against mine, his kiss full of the longing and regret he had expressed. I responded in kind, my fingers threading through his hair, pulling him closer.

The kiss deepened, growing more intense as we both gave in to the emotions we had been holding back. His hands slid up to cup my face, his touch firm yet gentle, as if he were afraid to break the spell. I felt a surge of warmth and love as he pulled me even closer, his body pressed against mine.

We broke apart slowly, our foreheads resting against each other, breaths mingling in the quiet aftermath. The kiss had been a release, a way to bridge the gap that had grown between us. As we looked into each other's eyes, the words were no longer necessary. We both knew what this meant and where we stood.

“I’m so sorry,” he repeated softly, his eyes searching mine for any sign of lingering doubt. “I never wanted to hurt you.”

I smiled, the last traces of tension melting away. “It’s okay,” I whispered. “You love me?” I asked, though it sounded more like a statement I was repeating to reassure myself.

“Yes, Y/N, I love you. So fucking much that it aches.”

“You love me.” I said again more confidently. “God and I love you too, to bits and pieces.”

In that fragile, intense moment, our world seemed to shrink to just the space we occupied together. With a trembling breath, he closed the distance between us, his lips finding mine in a kiss that was both desperate and tender.

His kiss was full of longing, each press of his lips a silent plea for forgiveness and a promise of something more. It was as if he was pouring all his heartache and love into that one contact, his kisses alternately soft and urgent. I could feel the heat of his breath against my skin, the fervor in his touch as he cradled my face, his fingers splayed against the sides of my neck. It was a kiss that spoke of regret and hope, of an intense, almost overwhelming desire to make things right.

My hands moved instinctively, sliding from his neck and through his hair down to his collar. My fingers fumbled for a moment with the buttons of his shirt, the need to be closer to him driving me forward. I could feel his heartbeat quicken beneath my touch, his breath hitching as I managed to open the shirt, exposing his chest.

He pulled back slightly, his brow furrowed in concern. “Are you sure?” he asked, his voice thick with emotion. “We don’t have to—”

I cut him off, my voice steady despite the whirlwind of feelings inside me. “I want nothing more, Harry, than to love you.”

His eyes locked onto mine, the vulnerability in them giving way to a deep, earnest emotion. The sincerity in his gaze was a balm to the tumult inside me. As I removed his shirt completely, the urgency and tenderness of our connection grew even more palpable.

With a mixture of hesitance and yearning, we drew closer again. Our lips met with a renewed intensity, the kiss deepening as we both gave in to the moment. His hands roamed over my back, pulling me closer, his touch both reverent and possessive.

As I sat beside him on the bed, the charged atmosphere between us crackled with intensity. His hands were careful and deliberate as he began to slip my cashmere sweater off. Each movement was slow, deliberate, as if he was savoring every moment of this unwrapping.

When the sweater was finally off, his gaze fell on the collared shirt I wore underneath. A smirk played at his lips as he looked at me with a teasing glint in his eyes. “God, woman, how many layers are you hiding under there?” His voice was husky with a mix of desire and amusement.

I met his gaze with a playful smile, my fingers already reaching for the buttons of my shirt. “This is the last one,” I teased, unfastening the buttons one by one.

As the shirt came off, revealing my bare chest, his eyes widened in appreciation. “No bra?” he said, his voice low and tinged with surprise. “You’re killing me.”

A soft laugh escaped my lips, filled with both nervousness and anticipation. “I figured you’d appreciate the surprise,” I said, my voice barely more than a whisper.

Without breaking eye contact, he lowered his lips to my skin, his kisses trailing a path of fire down my chest. Each touch of his lips was electric, causing shivers to cascade down my spine. His mouth was warm and firm, brushing against my sensitive skin as he explored every inch with tender reverence.

Unable to hold back any longer, I guided him gently until he was lying back on the bed. His head rested on the pillows, and I straddled him, feeling the heat of his body against mine. I leaned down to kiss him, our lips meeting in a fervent, hungry embrace. The kiss was deep and full of longing, our breaths mingling as our tongues danced together.

I broke the kiss just enough to press a heated mark on his lower neck, my lips lingering with a firm, deliberate pressure. He groaned softly, a sound that fueled the fire within me. My kisses continued their descent down his chest, my lips tracing the lines of his tattoos with reverent care.

“These tattoos,” I murmured between kisses, my breath warm against his skin, “You’re so fucking hot.” I said slowly and breathlessly.

He responded with a deep, appreciative chuckle, his hands gripping my hips as I explored him. “They’re nothing compared to you,” he said, his voice a mix of admiration and need.

With a mix of anticipation and eagerness, I began to slip his pants down. As I worked, he lifted his hips to assist, his eyes never leaving mine, filled with a desperate need that mirrored my own.

Once his pants were discarded, I paused for a moment, my hand resting on the waistband of his briefs. I could feel the heat radiating from him, and his breathing grew shallow with anticipation. His cock was already straining against the fabric, a hint of its length visible.

“You’re taking care of me so well,” he murmured, his voice rough with desire. “I don’t know what I did to deserve this.”

I looked up at him, my eyes softening with affection and desire. “Anything for the man I love,” I whispered, my voice filled with sincerity.

Slowly, I palmed him through the fabric of his briefs, feeling the heat and firmness of his growing arousal. I leaned down, placing tender kisses along his V-line and lower stomach, my lips brushing over the sensitive skin of his thighs. Each kiss was deliberate, making him whimper and writhe with barely-contained need.

Finally, I tugged his briefs down, revealing him fully. As the fabric slipped away, his cock sprang out, partially erect and throbbing with need. The sight of him, vulnerable and exposed, only heightened my own anticipation. The head was already glistening with pre-cum, and I could see the veins running along the length of his shaft, pulsing with every beat of his heart.

His body tensed, and he let out a desperate groan as I looked at him with a mixture of admiration and desire. The sight of him, so eagerly waiting, made my own need intensify.

He moaned softly as I began to lick up and down his shaft, placing little kisses everywhere and using one hand to stroke the bottom as I teased his head.

“Such a fucking tease” he remarked breathlessly though I knew he was enjoying what I was doing with my tongue, intending to savor him more than I did last night.

I continued to lick at his slit before he moaned “Y/N please, I need you.”

“Need me to what, Harry?” I asked innocently.

“I need your mouth, please – ”

Before he could continue I took him in my mouth at once, bobbing my head until I could feel him in the back of my throught, my eyes tearing up slightly as my hair fell down to drape my face. He somehow managed to pull himself up, despite rolling his head back in pleasure only a few seconds prior, and grabs my hair, willing it into a tight ponytail with one hand, using the opportunity to reach his long arm to place his other hand on my boob, grabbing it harshly as I continued to pleasure him, his dick pulsating in my mouth.

Finally I stopped to stand on my knees, the excitement of the moment coursing through me. I quickly removed my skirt, tossing it aside with a playful flick. As I positioned myself over him, I looked down into Harry's eyes with a mix of anticipation and affection. He was already sprawled out on the bed, his breathing heavy and eager.

With a teasing smile, I placed my hands on his shoulders and gently pushed him back until he was lying against the bed. He looked up at me with a mix of desire and admiration, his eyes locked on mine as if trying to memorize every detail.

I positioned myself over him, my knees bracketing his hips, and took a moment to enjoy the way he was watching me. His cock was already hard and waiting, twitching slightly with every move I made. I rubbed my clit against the tip of his cock, eliciting soft moans from both of us as the sensation made me shiver with pleasure.

Harry’s voice was rough, filled with need. “Are you sure about this?” he asked, his eyes searching mine for confirmation.

I leaned forward, brushing a stray lock of hair from his face. “I want nothing more than to be with you, Harry. This is what I want.”

I was poised over him, my heart racing with anticipation. Harry’s eyes locked onto mine, a mix of desperation and adoration. “Do you have a condom?” he asked, his voice rough.

I bit my lip, shaking my head. “Shit, no. But I’m on birth control.”

His expression softened with relief, though the hunger in his gaze remained. “I’m okay with going raw,” he said, his voice filled with raw intensity. “I want to feel you fully. I want to feel myself inside you, filling you up.” He said, making me smile wide.

“Anything for you, Mr. Styles.” I teased making him moan before lowering myself onto him in one smooth motion.

I gasped as he filled me, the sensation of being stretched and full making me moan softly. I began to move, my hips rolling in slow, deliberate circles as I found a rhythm that felt right. His hands gripped my hips, guiding me as I rode him, our bodies moving together in perfect harmony.

The heat between us was electric, every thrust sending waves of pleasure through both of us. Harry’s hands roamed over my body, his fingers exploring my curves as he whispered praise and affection.

Harry’s moans grew louder with each thrust, his hands gripping my hips tightly as he guided me. “You feel so amazing,” he groaned, his eyes never leaving mine. “God, I can’t get enough of you.”

I bit my lip, focusing on the pleasure building within me. “You feel so incredible inside me, Harry,” I whispered, my breath coming in ragged gasps.

As the intensity of our movements built, I began to tire, my energy waning. Harry sensed it and took over, his hips bucking up to meet mine with an urgent, powerful rhythm. The sensation was overwhelming, my body trembling with every thrust.

He gripped my hips more firmly than before, his voice husky with desire. “I loved having you ride me, but now it’s time to fuck my princess like she deserves.”

With a swift, practiced motion, Harry flipped us over, his body pressing mine into the mattress. He took control, thrusting into me with a relentless pace that left me breathless and desperate. “You’re mine, angel,” he murmured, his voice a heated whisper in my ear. “I want to make you feel everything.”

As his rhythm became more intense, I felt a familiar pressure building inside me. I could no longer hold back, and I came with a shuddering cry, my body clenching around him. The feeling of my orgasm triggered Harry’s release, his breath coming in ragged gasps as he moaned deeply.

“Fuck, Y/N, my angel,” he groaned, his voice filled with both pleasure and awe. He collapsed onto me, his body pressing into mine as he emptied himself inside me. The sensation of him coming within me was almost too much to bear, and I clung to him, my own body still trembling from the aftershocks of my orgasm.

We lay there, entwined and panting, the world outside forgotten. Harry pulled out slowly, his movements gentle and careful as he retrieved a wet towel from the bathroom. He returned and cleaned me up with tender care, his touch soft and reassuring.

“Let me take care of you, sweetheart,” he murmured as he gently wiped away the traces of our passion. “You were amazing.”

I smiled, my heart full as I watched him clean me with such tenderness. “Thank you, baby. I feel so good, euphoric.”

“Good. I want to make you feel like that always, my love” he said, and before I could reply “Lets clean up, yeah?”

We made our way to the shower, the warm water cascading down over us as we stepped under the stream. Harry pulled me close, his hands gently tracing along my back as he started to lather soap into a sponge.

“Here, let me help you,” he said, his voice tender as he began washing my body. He took his time, his touch soft and careful, as if he were savoring every moment.

“Harry, you’re making me feel like royalty,” I laughed, tilting my head back to let the water run over my face.

He chuckled, his eyes twinkling with mischief. “Well, if I’m going to pamper you, I might as well do it right.”

He moved his hands in slow, deliberate circles, starting from my shoulders and working his way down. His fingers caressed my arms, then slid down to my waist, paying special attention to every curve. He was gentle, making sure the soap was thoroughly rinsed off.

“You’re so meticulous,” I teased, laughing as his hands moved lower. “I didn’t realize I was getting a full-service treatment.”

Harry smirked, his gaze lingering on me with affectionate amusement. “I aim to please. Plus, I want to make sure you’re clean and comfortable before we get out of here.”

As he continued to wash me, his hands occasionally brushing against my skin in a way that made me shiver pleasantly. He took extra care around my neck and shoulders, where he knew I liked it best. Each touch was tender and loving, and I found myself smiling as I relaxed under his care.

“Is this what you do every time you’re in the shower?” I asked playfully, raising an eyebrow.

“Only for the people I love,” he replied, his voice warm. “And right now, you’re the lucky one.”

After he finished washing me, he turned to grab the towel and started drying me off, his movements gentle as he patted my skin dry. The soft fabric of the towel felt comforting against my body, and Harry’s careful attention made me feel cherished.

Once we were both dry, Harry pulled on his boxers and I slipped into a pair of cute pajamas—a matching set of black pants and a black tank top with lace on the neckline. Harry’s eyes lit up with admiration as he saw me.

“Well, don’t you look gorgeous, angel” he said, his voice full of affection. “I think I’m in love with these pajamas. They’re almost as cute as you.”

I leaned in for a kiss, feeling content and happy in his embrace. “And you look pretty good in just boxers, you know.”

He chuckled, giving me a quick peck on the lips. “Well, I’ll take that as a compliment.”

We settled onto the bed, still wrapped in each other’s arms, enjoying the peaceful intimacy of the moment. It felt perfect—like everything was exactly where it should be.

“Do you want to talk to Anika now?” he asked, his voice soft and full of care.

I shook my head with a smile. “No, I’ll catch up with her tomorrow. Right now, I just want to be here with you.”

Harry nodded, his smile warm as he held me close. “I’m glad. I love you, Y/N.”

“I love you too, Harry,” I whispered, snuggling into his side. “Always.”

----------------------------------

hope you enjoyed reading this :)

[tonowarii]

can i request a tsu'tey x dreamwalker!reader where he just indulge them in their rambles about earth?? reader is just talking about the most random things like cats and he's just there sitting next to her, listening. could be fem or gn reader, up to u!

(im a sucker for tsu'tey lmao)

and you shall receive!! ❤️ i'm sorry this took too long omg

tsu'tey te rongloa ateyitan x gn! dreamwalker! reader

Tsu'tey would rather feed himself to a thanator than to admit that one of his most awaited (and favorite) past times is where he's sat beside you, hearing you ramble on about anything and everything about your home town, which was earth. A planet away.

Now, his eyes carefully watched you as you made all these gestures from your hands as every expression you made enchanced your story.

Then something sparked in your head as you pointed a finger.

"Now, I don't know if this is a coincidence but have you noticed that we- or the na'vi look like cats!" You turned to Tsu'tey.

Tsu'tey's brows furrowed. What in Eywa was a "cat" and why does it look like them?

"What is a cat?" Tsu'tey asked, hoping that it further indulged you in your rambling.

You gasp out loud like what he said was something blasphemous. It had him confused.

"Okay, cats! Where do I start?" You think for a moment before you used your hands to show him an approximate size of cats back on earth. "They're this small... Wait is this correct... That reminds me I haven't seen a cat in a long time.." You battled with yourself as Tsu'tey chuckled.

Knowing someone was listening to you, you went back on explaining. "They're this small, at least I think so," You think again. "And they have ears like us." You said, pointing at his ears. "They have noses like us too." Then pointing at his nose.

"And don't forget about the tails, they have that too." You say, motioning to Tsu'tey's tail who was curled next to yours as you sat beside each other.

Tsu'tey nods, following your words.

"But they can be quite mean sometimes... And annoying, but we, humans, love them nonetheless." You added.

"Ah, can they.. Speak?" Tsu'tey asked.

"No, not really they just.. Meow." You answered.

Tsu'tey chuckled at the sound you made. Truly this 'cat' sounds something he'd like to see up close due to your impressive storytelling.

"Then why do you find them annoying?" He continued to ask more questions, getting to hear your voice being filled with wonder as you reminisced truly had an effect on him.

There was indeed no one like you.

"As far as I can remember, they tend to whine at me begging for more food when I just fed them!" You laugh. "I had a cat once and gods," You sighed.

"He always knocks things off of my table back in my house."

Tsu'tey seems amused. "Like- he would just look at me and let's say there was a pen on the table, he'd look at me-" You say, looking at Tsu'tey to demonstrate how he'd look.

"And he's using his little paw and his audacity to flick it off the table!"

Even though Tsu'tey couldn't understand parts of your sentence he truly felt that it annoyed you, but your smile said otherwise.

"Am I... like cat?" Tsu'tey asked.

Your eyes widened and you laughed. "I mean, yes.. Well yea actually now that I think about it-"

"You find me annoying?" He tilts his head, smirk now forming his mouth.

You quickly shake your head. "No! No! You are far from annoying." You defensively state.

"But you are like a cat." You smile up at him.

"How so?"

You laugh as you think of the reasons, holding a finger up for each one.

"One, you like to climb, don't you? Second, you have this habit of staring at people like you're judging them-"

"I do not do that-"

"Yes you do. Third, you like to be clingy when no one's around and when you're faced with other people you're suddenly this big intimidating creature." You laugh as Tsu'tey scrunches his face.

"I do not like this anymore."

You laugh further, leaning onto him as his arm suddenly wrapped around your shoulder, pulling you close to him.

"See, you are a cat, Tsu'tey, ma yawne."

He shakes his head with a small smile on his face.

"Oh! And fourth, you purr." You giggle, nuzzling yourself on his chest, indeed hearing a faint purring from him as you lay close.

Tsu'tey shakes his head, rubbing your arm as you thought about another topic you could talk his ear off of.

[misspelledwordswizard]

Alright, I'm feeling some Sky fluff so how about The Chain ends up on Skyloft and Sky takes the reader for a ride on Crimson as a cute little date?

Oh, that was so sweet to write! I hope you like it <3

A date in the skies

The blond man’s blue eyes shone as he recognized the place they had arrived at after passing through that portal. The blue sky surrounded the surroundings, the wind howled along with the sound of several birds flying nearby, all of this mixing with the natural cacophony of the people who lived there, on that large island in the sky.

The others, however, seemed a little more than confused about their current location. Of course, most quickly associated it with the heroes of the skies, but it was still shocking and intriguing, it was all very new to the others, including me, who had been following them for several months now.

Sky promptly informed and explained to everyone that they were in Skyloft, his home, and made sure to give them a quick tour of it, mainly to prevent them from ending up lost. The sun was shining high in the sky indicating the beginning of the afternoon when he finally finished explaining everything about the island to his brothers, releasing them to explore it at will as long as they returned to the designated meeting point, the knight academy, at the end of the afternoon.

I considered the idea of going exploring as well, I’m naturally quite curious about the place where my beloved was born and raised, but I want much more to spend this time alone with him and enjoy this beautiful day. Knowing Link, he must have planned the whole day for the two of us, maybe he’ll show me the places of his childhood, or we’ll just spend some quiet time together, either way it’ll be great.

I stood next to him as everyone dispersed, some obviously more excited than others, but all curious about the floating island we’d ended up on. As soon as the others were out of sight, we looked at each other, already knowing what the other was thinking, and we smiled at the coincidence.

— Okay, Mr. Romantic, what are your plans for today?

— Oh, I’m so excited for this, I’ve been waiting for the chance to show you Skyloft, and Crimson, and spend some time alone, I could take you flying after a romantic picnic. – He replied, visibly excited about the idea, making me smile at the lovely thought.

— That sounds great, love. I couldn’t think of anything better, but just being able to spend this day with you makes me happy. Especially when it’s been so long since we’ve had our alone time. – I said, remembering all the company, as much as they were very dear to me, sometimes eight brothers-in-law could be a bit much.

With the plans set, we went together first so I could meet my boyfriend’s Loftwing, a large red bird, with a huge beak, who looked at me curiously. He seemed to accept me well, though. He happily let me stroke his soft neck feathers, rubbing his head against me affectionately, and Sky seemed very pleased with that.

After this friendly encounter, we agreed that it would be time to eat something, we had been walking for a while and this would be the perfect moment for that romantic picnic previously planned. We bought some food and walked towards the waterfall that flowed into the island’s lake. It was truly a spectacular sight to behold, the water fell beautifully and sparkled reflecting the sun’s rays, giving the place na almost magical air.

I was totally enchanted by the Remlits on the way there, they were totally adorable, had soft fur and kept following us around so we could play with them. But I have to admit that I almost had a heart attack when I saw Link throw one of them off the edge of the floating island. I mean, I trust my boyfriend, of course I do, but who in their right mind wouldn’t be scared by that? And of course, to my surprise, the little feline came flying back with his ears, which was partly relieving, partly adorable, and partly comical.

We turned our attention back to the meal we were waiting for, choosing a spot near the lake, on the bright green grass, sorting out what we had brought and laying it out on a charming red picnic blanket. We took our time to eat, our conversation flowed as always, it was always a mutual understanding, a comfortable and fun topic to discuss. I love hearing the sound of his voice, how excited he seemed to be talking about his era and his adventures, and now, seeing how beautiful and wonderful this place was, I could understand.

We must have spent a good few hours there, much more engrossed in each other than in the activity itself, and every moment was wonderful, I must say. Sharing a very different pumpkin treat was na experience, it seemed that pumpkins were popular around here, and certainly everything they made with them was delicious.

— Are you ready to go, feather? – Link asked, using his sweet nickname he gave me.

— Sure, dear. I’m excited to do this, even though I must admit I’m a little apprehensive.

— Don’t worry, you’ll be more than safe with me, my love. With that, we finished putting our things away and walked towards the statue of Hylia. The large statue that was visible from all over Skyloft. Arriving there, I was even more impressed by its size, but that didn’t draw as much attention as the red bird that flew over the place, just waiting for the hero’s command.

Link asked me to wait on the edge, and then jumped without any hesitation, something that would have scared me if I hadn’t known it beforehand, but I couldn’t help but be at least a little surprised. Soon the sound of his whistle was heard, and then my boyfriend resurfaced, riding his Loftwing, close to where I was, holding out his hand so I could climb up too. Even though it was a bit difficult, that’s what I did, and then I held on tightly to the blond, making him laugh. My grip tightened when I felt the large bird move, flapping its wings and rising into the sky. I hid my face in the crook of Sky’s neck and only saw what was around us again when I felt the flight stabilize.

The view from up there was incredible, it was possible to see the whole of Skyloft from there. I could see, even though with some difficulty, some of the boys walking towards the knight academy. Only then did I notice that it was late afternoon, the sun was setting on the horizon, bathing everything and everyone with its golden rays that made the situation even more beautiful. It was breathtaking, without a doubt. I managed to get used to the feeling of flying, so it became something fun and magical, and being able to be so close to Link was na added bonus, it was the perfect way to end the day.×

— This is beautiful. – That was all I could think when my mind was too busy processing all of that. – I love you, Link.

— I love you too, feather. – He said smiling, looking divine illuminated by the sunset light, making me think how lucky I was.

[rinalouu]

-> Summary: Ron realizes he may have just found someone who truly sees him for who he is. -> Warnings: they/them pronouns are used - generally meant to be gn, mentions of favoritism in families. -> Word Count: 600(ish) -> Abbreviations: (Y/n) - Your name | (N/n) - Nickname [I do not own harry potter, nor support the supposed author. This universe is merely a safe place for me.] Find related content here. (my Harry Potter master-post)

I can just imagine how he must feel, being the youngest of 5 brothers, knowing your mother desperately wanted a girl instead of you. On top of that, the never-ending ideals and expectations he needed to live up to. Having 5 older brothers created more pressure, and less of a space for him to be himself. - Then you came and changed everything. He didn't quite understand it, but you always found a way to see things no one else saw. You made him feel like he was worth something. It wasn't a struggle to be seen by you, and in your eyes, it was just him. Oh how he loved your eyes... But that's a story for another day. - "Happy birthday Ron!" The 5th year plopped a poorly wrapped present in the unsuspecting boys lap, causing him to look at them warily. "What-? (N/n), you didn't have to do that.." He mumbled, his ears turning read as he messed with the wrappings on the present. "Like I wouldn't get my best friend something? Rubbish that is, now open it before I do!" (Y/n) eagerly smiled, making themself comfortable in the open spot next to him. "Well.. alright.." He would sigh, glancing down at the lumpy present. It felt wrong to open it, he knew how much effort they must have put into wrapping it. The wrapping was a neutral color, with a tan ribbon holding it altogether. Carefully undoing the ribbon, his breath hitched as he got a peek at what was inside. Unable to stop himself, he tore the wrapping quickly, before gaping at what was inside. "You don't like it do you?" (Y/n) pouted, a skeptical eye on him as they tried to read his reaction, but worry filled them as tears begin falling down his cheeks. "Ah- Ron, don't cry! I didn't think it was that bad, here I'll-" (Y/n) went to grab it from him, but Ron quickly yanked it from their grasp. "Did you make this?" Ron quietly demanded, feeling the fabric within his fingers. It was a sweater, a knit one at that. It wasn't perfect, but it was just his size. But that wasn't what mattered. "I thought you would like it.. Honest. I didn't want you to cry." His friend would frantically begin to apologize before stiffening as Ron finally met their gaze. "It's orange." He gave (Y/n) a soft smile, adoration in his eyes. This only confused the poor thing even more. "Well ya? You hate burgundy." They stated, as if it was written on his forehead. More tears fell down his face, before he put the sweater down to envelop (Y/n) in a hug. "Ron?" They mumbled into his shoulder, his actions only concerning them further. "You're right. I hate burgundy." He laughed, holding them for a few more moments. The love he had felt festering all these years began blossoming even more. (Y/n) knew his favorite color, something his own mother struggled to remember.

Author's note: I told y'all I'm back! I missed you pookies! <3 Anyway, I hope you liked it. Let me know what you think! Please let me know of any suggestions or feedback! Please do remember this is meant to be a safe space, and I am still grasping my creative writing skills.

[oxymorayuri]

𝐶𝘩𝑎𝑝𝑡𝑒𝑟 𝟖

𝑂𝑏𝑣𝑖𝑜𝑢𝑠 𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑒𝑟𝑒𝑠𝑡 »

𝑇𝑟𝑎𝑓𝑎𝑙𝑔𝑎𝑟 𝐷. 𝑊𝑎𝑡𝑒𝑟

𝐿𝑎𝑤 ✘ ♀ 𝑅𝑒𝑎𝑑𝑒𝑟

𝐀𝐑𝐓𝐈𝐒𝐓: @attyattlaw

Story: The princess of Tanata

(Long Fic)

➽ Click on this link to see all chapters.

Spoiler: none

Warnings: none

slowburn with plot

Wordcount: 2444

Text in italics emphasizes the reader’s thoughts

Bold and italic text emphasizes Law's thoughts *~*

Tagging: @slytherinambitious - @sassyyassi - @norasincubi

You look at the strawhat in complete horror as he stuffs his mouth with food without stopping. You look around with wide eyes and notice that it doesn't seem unusual how much the boy is greedily eating.

At first you were surprised at his rubber arms and how his stomach was getting bigger but now you're so frozen that you can't get any more shocked.

The servants really had a hard time clearing the empty plates and putting filled ones on the table. After a while the round ball leaned back with a groan.

“That was super delicious!” he said a little out of breath. His crew laughed at the carefree boy. You look at the faces of the Strawhat Pirates. They look so happy and relaxed.. As if a stone had fallen from their hearts and somehow.. one fell from your heart too.

How strange. You don't even know these people...

You remember, being a little confused about your feelings.

"Luffy, don't be so brazen and thank the princess!" Nami shouts at the boy and smacks him on the head. The bump on his head grew as he rubbed his head. He laughed a little boyishly and agreed with Nami's words.

"Weeehw. That was a good meal princess!" The round boy laughs at you and stretches his arms out towards you. He grabs you by your shoulders and the next moment you feel your feet leave the ground. Shocked, you look at the butler, who stares after you in bewilderment as you are pulled in Luffy's direction.

"Woaahh ahh!!!" what's going on now?! You ask yourself as you cling to Luffy's arms.

"Princess!!!" the butler tried a little helplessly to catch you, but in vain. In a flash you found yourself in front of the strawhat, which grinned boyishly in your face.

"My name is Monkey D. Luffy, thank you for saving our necks, please tell me your name."

Despite his very youthful appearance, he is quite outgoing and somehow that makes him truly charming. A sisterly instinct clicks in you when you look at the young man.

With your hands clutching your gown, you curtsy softly and smile at the young one.

"My name is y/n, the princess and priestess of Tanata." You smile at him proudly.

"Tell me y/n…" - "Ahem… princess…" the butler whispers, coughing into his fist.

"Where are we by the way?" he asks you as he caresses his tummy happily.

"You're on the island of Tanata." you answer him in a simple voice. "I see… ohoooo! is that chocolate pudding?" you giggle at Luffy, who is gleefully spooning the pudding into himself.

Oh my... how easily he get´s distracted from the more important things... funny. So he's the captain of the Strawhat Pirates...

A servant walks into the room and heads towards the butler to whisper some words in his ear.

"My princess, your troop for the ship retrieval seems to be ready. You should perhaps get ready now." - "Ship retrieval?" Law, who had been quiet until just now, suddenly becomes very attentive at the butler's words and pushes himself away from the wall he was leaning against.

"Yes, my grandfather gave me the task of salvaging your ship," you reply to Law's surprise. Law looks at you with determination in his intense eyes.

"I'm coming with you."

A little dazed, you meet his gaze.

"I think that should be fine, after all you are the captain of the ship…"

"Well then, what are we waiting for?" you study him from behind as he walks past you. For some reason, he looks like he's a bit in a rush.

You hurried after him.

"Yes, yes… wait a moment! I have to get changed… I can't go into the forest in a gown like this." Law turns around on one heel and at the very last chance you manage to stop yourself before crashing into his chest.

He eyes you up and down.

" All right." All right? "...AAAAll right.. you can come with me and wait in my room if you like." you offer, as you both start walking.

"Say Law, is there a reason why you want to get to the ship so badly?" Curious, you lean towards him and he just looks at you from the corner of his eye. Turning his gaze forwards again, he thinks for a second before speaking.

"It's my ship, of course I want to be there when it's salvaged."

His lips open slightly as he glances to the side again where he sees you pouting but this time your face is facing forwards as well. He quickly turns his gaze away from you and closes his mouth.

The silence between the two of you is almost unbearable as you walk through the garden. Occasionally you steal a few glances at each other.

When your eyes met accidentally, the tension went straight from zero to one hundred. You look nervously to your left and hide your flushed cheeks.

Somehow it feels strange.

You're curious by nature, but somehow you feel a bit embarrassed when your interest in Law becomes obvious. His deep throat clearing makes you look back up at him.

"Sorry, I didn't mean to sound harsh. Actually, I just wanted to get some books from my study." He explains in his deep voice.

"Books, sooo do you like to read?" you ask him, getting a bit excited. You realise how close you've come to him and step back a little shyly as Law leans back because of your sudden closeness. You mumble an embarrassed 'sorry' to him. Law, on the other hand, looks at you with great interest. Even if you can't see it, he can't help but have a small grin because of you.

"You could say that. I need to do some research and I may need my books." You're glad he's keeping the conversation going.

An educated one. Hmmm…

You look up at him with a brave face.

"And what are you researching?"

Law's lips curl into a playful grin as he shows his white teeth.

"You're quite a curious princess."

You promptly cover your smile with your hand in shame.

"I know… hehe sorry." Of course you don't want to be intrusive...

...just friendly…?

When you arrive in your room, your personal maid is already waiting for you. Law walks over to the fireplace, leans his sword against the side of the sofa and makes himself comfortable on it.

You ask your servant to bring you some suitable clothes for the rescue.

"Preferably pants, please!" you call after her as she's almost through the door. She nods at you and you decide to sit down and join Law. Your gaze sweeps over his sword.

"So you're a swordsman?"

"Yup. This is my Katana Kikoku." Law reaches for his sword and elegantly pulls it out from its sheath. The blade gleams at you and in the reflection you find your own eyes.

"Beautiful." you gaze absently at the blade.

The 'clack' of the handle as it hits the sheath brings you back from your thoughts and you look at Law.

"It's a really good katana." - "It suits you." you say without even thinking about it.

Woopsie. I only wanted to think that...

You smirk at him, hoping he won't pay much attention to your sentence. Law raises an eyebrow, he heard you and from the look on your face, he has a feeling what you meant. But he doesn't say anything. Luckily for you.

The door opens and the maid comes into the room with a carefully folded pile of clothes in her arms. She places it on a drawer as you get up from your seat.

"Do you need any help princess?" - "No thanks Zoe, I can handle it. After all, it's not such a complicated costume as this one." You say jokingly as you reach into the sides of your gown to carry the fabric across the floor. She just giggles and leaves the room as quietly as she came.

Law looks after you, arms casually stretched out on the back of the sofa, as you disappear behind a beautiful room divider.

"Actually, it's a good thing you're coming along. I think we'll find a quick solution and then you can see where we're taking your ship." you say a little louder as you throw your clothes over the paravent.

He hums deep in agreement before he begins to speak. "Other than that, I think I will be a great help." He says in a nonchalant voice.

Curious, you poke out your head and look over at Law, who glances sideways at you. You raise an eyebrow questioningly and slightly nod your head. Law understands your silent question and continues.

"You know, I ate the Ope Ope no Mi Devil Fruit and the abilities I have as a result, are… let's say… especially for me - practical." You hold your breath for a moment and his cheeky smile makes you smile too.

"Ohooo… how exciting. I'll save you some words and let you surprise me." You quickly disappear behind the screen again before continuing. "I'd love to see you in action." Even if you sound cool, your blush would give you away.

Give away what? jeez…

You hear Law laugh for the first time. It's not a boisterous or hearty laughter. It's more of a mischievous, challenging sort of laugh.

Oh, how you wish to peek out and see Law's face.

"Princess-ya I must confess that we should be the ones who are curious and surprised. I have a lot of questions and would be pleased to get answers…" He looks at you intently as you come out with your changed clothes. Smiling, you think twice about what to say next.

"You know Law, I don't think we are that different." You take a seat right next to him so that he can feel your movement on the sofa.

"You.. you are meeting something hidden and I am meeting the world, wich is unknown to me…" You open your palm and reveal a small symbol, tattooed on your hand. Your gaze still fixed on Law's face as he studies the symbol.

"Of course I can tell you so many things that the world out there doesn't know, but the same goes for me… You live in a world that I only know "actually" exists… you know?"

"Then let's enlighten each other." He looks at you with a confident stare. His eyes literally flicker with curiosity.

Maybe you don't have to be awkward about being so interested. After all, you can see the same obvious interest in his eyes.

"Sounds good." You say in a more professional voice so you can play down your fluttering heart.

You stand up and smooth out your clothes. You're grateful that you have the luxury of wearing gorgeous clothes, but wearing pants is simply more comfortable, than constantly dragging long dresses behind you…

You swing a light cloak around your shoulders and close the brooch that prevents the cloak from falling down.

"Well then, let's go!"

Law releases his crossed legs with a swing and raises up, the strings of his pullover waving slightly. You think briefly about how good he looked in Tanata's traditional clothes, but without regretting it for a second, you admit that his modern attire has more personality. The fact that he has his Jolly Roger printed shows that he is a proud captain.

With the whole troop and Law right by your side, you set off into the forest. The forest is so dense that you quickly lose your sense of direction, but the people of Tanata know every tree and every river.

Law notices some old symbols carved into the trees. They are hard to recognise, but once you have seen one, you notice them everywhere.

"The symbols.. what does they mean?" Law asks. His eyes look around the area as he discovers the few signs.

"Most of them are for orientation…" you carefully step closer to Law so that you can whisper to him without getting overheard. "… but a few harbour secrets." You carefully point to a stone with a symbol on it, that Law recognises immediately.

You smile knowingly as he remembers and reveal the tattoo in your hand again.

"They're the same symbols." Humming, you nod at him.

"Right, I could imagine telling you what it's all about… iiif you tell me something about your world in return!" you ask him energetically and offer him an exchange of information. Law's familiar smile reappears as he looks ahead.

"That depends on which information you want." His gaze falls to the side, down to you. You don't hesitate because you have questions about a certain topic since day one.

"I want to know everything about your medicine." - Law huffs a little.

"That's quite a broad topic, it'll take a while." He waits calmly for your reaction and is clearly not disappointed.

"Yeah, I've got time!" - Law holds his chin with a smile.

"Since the topic is so broad, I'd like to be sure that the information you have to offer is fair to mine." - A grunting laugh escapes you.

"Yeah.. well, I'm pretty sure it's something you're interested in." Confident, you put a hand on your hip and give him a knowing look.

"I know from the servants that you've borrowed some books of Tanata's geography and history." - "Ahh… so we're being watched." - "We're a friendly people… Not stupid ones. So yes, you are being watched." The two of you share a kind of thrilling moment. You feel like a spy who already knows his counterpart's next move.

Grandpa would be proud of you, but you wouldn't admit that you're not watching the crew for safety. It's just that you're curious, obviously.

"This symbol hides some answers to your questions…" both your eyes rest on the symbol in your hand.

"I would also be willing to grant you access to our royal library. Of course in relation to a further exchange of information, which goes without saying… doesn't it?" you wink at him.

He licks his teeth with a soft laugh.

"Sounds tempting princess-ya."

If u liked the chapter let me know in the comments :3

If you would like to be tagged, say so in the comments or message me <3

See you next time, kiss kiss ♡

➽ Next chapter

[laxmiree]

[CN] MLQC's Lucien Touching Date English Translation

⚠️ SPOILER ALERT!! ⚠️

This post contains a detailed spoiler for a date that has not been released in EN yet! Feel free to notify me if there are any mistakes in the translation~

I tenderly kiss his lips, the sensation of his warmth and trembles reminiscent of fluttering butterfly wings.

So clear and yet so real, distant yet within arm's reach.

Translation under the cut!

The sun shines warmly on me, but the worries in my heart do not dissipate. I sigh and roll myself further into the blanket.

[T/N: I really recommend following along the voice acting for complete experience!!!🥹 the whole thing just sounds so incredibly tender. Here's the CN Video link]

I bury my face in the blanket and take a deep breath.

Suddenly, a pair of hands stopped my movements. Lucien's scent mixed with moist warmth invades my nostrils. Along with it, there's a trace of laughter.

Lucien: Has this 'kid' who's wrapped herself up encountered something troubling?

Seeing him gently tuck my disheveled hair behind my ear as he spoke, I let out a soft sigh, gazing into those deep dark eyes.

MC: Do you still remember the visual design course I took before?

MC: The teacher wants to organize an art exhibition with the theme "Touching Beauty".

MC: The artwork I'm preparing is a photo and video series titled "Fledglings Caring for Their Parents".

I open my phone and hand over the backup to Lucien. He takes it and examines it carefully.

MC: In order to capture this moment with the nesting birds, I had the camera set up for almost half a month before finally getting the shot.

Lucien: Hmm... it's evident that our 'photographer' has put a lot of thought and effort into this.

Lucien: From the photo's results, I think it's quite good. Is there any problem with it?

I pat my face to refresh myself, noticing him soothingly stroking my hair, and can't help but sigh again.

MC: Sigh, I was really looking forward to it.

MC: But when I looked at the finished product, I realized I couldn't find that initial "touching feeling" I had in mind!

Lucien tilts his head, supporting his chin, and looks at me with half-dried hair strands hanging in front of his forehead, his eyes shining brightly.

Lucien: Well, why don't you go ahead and tell me, what does "touching" mean to you?

MC: I think... it should be emotions that can be felt by most people from things like family love, life, and nature, and so on.

MC: Then, I had a sudden inspiration and came up with this picture.

MC: The act of young birds feeding their parents not only reflects the continuation of life but also represents family love. It's truly touching people's hearts~

MC: But I didn't expect that when the final film came out, I couldn't seem to feel anything…

I lean dejectedly against Lucien's shoulder, and he naturally pulls me into his embrace, taking my hand and giving it a gentle squeeze.

Lucien: What you're saying indeed falls within that category.

Lucien: But MC, have you ever considered that…

Lucien: Perhaps, the purpose of the teacher assigning this topic isn't to have you search for what most people feel, but rather to encourage you to express your own perception.

MC: My own perception?

I feel momentarily confused, and I rub my tired and sore eyes. Just as I'm about to continue thinking, a pair of hands cover my forehead, gently massaging my temples.

Lucien: (gently) We can leave this question for tomorrow to contemplate.

He bends down and gently kisses my forehead, his kiss tender and affectionate, then hugs me as we lie down.

Lucien: It's getting late now. It's time for us to sleep.

—-------------------------------------------------------

A gentle breeze brushes by, lifting the curtains quietly, and sunlight filters through the gaps, creating patches of light on the floor.

I contemplate the next steps of the filming plan absentmindedly, twirling the pen in my hand repeatedly, yet no new ideas are emerging.

When I'm at a loss, Lucien sits down beside me with a visual portfolio in hand.

Lucien: I just received a phone call. The cultural park that the research institute collaborates with in the neighboring city needs me to handle some matters today.

Lucien: Perhaps Miss Producer would like to accompany me?

MC: Of course, I'd be willing to. But, wouldn't it delay your work?

Lucien: It's just some simple matters to take care of. We can spend the rest of the time strolling around the park.

...Unable to come up with a plan for the moment, I think it might be a good idea to go on a trip to relax and unwind. With that in mind, I agree right away.

Just as we are about to set off, my phone suddenly rings. I cast a helpless glance at Lucien and step aside to answer Kiki's call.

—-------------------------------------------------------

After dealing with the unexpected work situation, I was shocked when I suddenly realized that half an hour had passed.

It seems like he heard the sound of me finishing work, and Lucien sets down the book in his hand to look at me.

I rub my temples and smile apologetically.

MC: I didn't expect it to take this long. Is it still possible to leave now?

He glances at his watch, pursing his lips with a hint of seriousness.

Lucien: It's indeed a bit late.

MC: I'm sorry... I…

I'm contemplating how to make amends when he suddenly smiles and takes my hand.

Lucien: But don't worry, we can take a special shortcut.

MC: Hmm? What…

Before I can finish my sentence, he leans in and embraces me, his pleasant grass scent instantly enveloping me.

MC: Pfft, what kind of special shortcut involves a hug?

Lucien: Not only does it require a hug, but it needs to be a tighter one. Though a bit puzzled, I still gently squeeze him, allowing myself to be fully enveloped in his embrace

Feeling my movement, he chuckles softly. The next moment, a refreshing breeze brushes against our skin, and the air carries a hint of moisture.

Lucien: We've arrived.

Lucien's clear voice rings in my ears, and I freeze for a moment before lifting my head.

The architecture before my eyes displays soft and elegant colors. Not far away, there's a well-designed bridge over flowing water, and further beyond are houses that are both elegant and innovative.

I look at Lucien and see him smiling leisurely, and only then do I realize what's going on.

MC: Professor Lucien, you didn't plan this from the beginning, did you?

Lucien: [chuckles] I'm just more adept at achieving the results I want in various ways.

Lucien: However, to better achieve our goals, sometimes it's necessary to make use of certain privileges.

With a playful glint in his eyes, he intertwines his fingers with mine and leads the way towards the pond.

Lucien: You have no business to attend to, so let's take our time and enjoy the scenery along the way. Even if something unexpected happens, it won't disrupt our planned outing.

The koi fish are joyfully swaying their tails, creating layer upon layer of ripples on the water's surface. The emerald green lotus leaves have become their best refuge from the sunlight.

As I lean in closer to the pond to get a better look, a slightly anxious call interrupts my actions.

Staff Member: Professor Lucien!

I turn towards the source of the voice and see a person wearing a white work uniform, panting heavily.

After Lucien responds to the staff member, he stands up and gives me a helpless look. I smile and wave him off, signaling for him to go attend to his work first.

While enjoying the scenery before me, suddenly, my attention is drawn to a snack stand selling cotton candy.

The colorful cotton candies are plump and neatly lined up at the stand. I can almost smell the sweet aroma that belongs to candies.

I pick two from the assortment of cotton candies and as I turn around, I see Lucien walking over as well.

MC: Did you manage to resolve your work so quickly?

Lucien: Mm, there was a slight deviation in one of the research results. I went to check the situation and found the issue.

Lucien: The time ahead belongs to just the two of us.

Lucien says as he turns his gaze to the cotton candy in my hand.

I hesitate between the two flavors for a moment and then with a smile, I hand him the cotton candy shaped like a rabbit.

MC: I'll try the fox this time, and I'll leave the rabbit to you~

The sweetness of the cotton candy melts in our mouths, and Lucien's eyes raised slightly at the taste, his eyes lit up.

Could it be that his cotton candy is really delicious? I can't help but glance over, and I see him subtly curving his lips as if he's aware of my curiosity.

Lucien: Do you want to exchange and try each other's flavors?

I nod and hand over the cotton candy I have in my hand.

But I see him take a bite of the cotton candy in his hand and then lean in closer.

The next second, the warm lips sweetened by the candy engulfed me. Flavor that uniquely belongs to him invades me and my senses.

After finally reclaiming my own breath, I feign wickedness and take a fierce bite of the cotton candy in my hand, saying.

MC: ...Looks like Professor Lucien's candy isn't as sweet as mine!

His eyes slightly curve, and a soft arc forms at the corner of his lips.

Lucien: (whispers very, VERY tenderly) Is that so? I feel that mine has gotten sweeter.

—--------------------------------------------------------

Sweetness intertwines between us, and amidst laughter, my mood surprisingly has become much more lightened.

I follow Lucien's footsteps as we stroll through this autumn scenery, and unknowingly, we've walked deep into the park, where we discover a uniquely designed building.

The building takes on a tiered structure, with a semi-transparent outer layer, blending technology and simplicity in just the right measure.

I can't help but hold Lucien's hand with some curiosity as we walk towards the exhibition hall. The moment we step inside, it feels like I've stumbled into another world.

Glistening streams of light glide across the ink-black walls, and the entire space seems endless. Mysterious and splendid array of colors fills my field of vision.

Glass display cases are scattered throughout the hall, showcasing butterflies of various sizes and colors, with many of them fluttering their wings gracefully.

The beauty before my eyes is truly breathtaking. I find myself widening my eyes and slightly parting my lips, yet I'm at a loss for where to begin with my praise.

Butterflies of various colors freely soar within the exhibition hall, some perched on the walls, others entwined together, creating a remarkably vivid spectacle.

Suddenly, a butterfly flies past me, its wings displaying a beautiful black and gold pattern, casting a radiant trail. I instinctively reach out to touch it, but my hand passes right through.

I raise an eyebrow in surprise and see Lucien slightly tilting his head, watching as the butterfly flutters and passes through his upturned palm.

Lucien: It should be a holographic projection, combined with some systems that allow interaction with real-time images.

MC: So lifelike... I was genuinely fooled just now.

I walk towards the depths of the exhibition hall with great interest. In the first few display cases, images of butterflies cycling through each stage of their life cycle are being showcased using holographic technology.

As I walk into the area dedicated to showcasing different butterfly species, the colors become even more vibrant.

I carefully observe each one, but when I reach the display case in the center, I suddenly can't look away.

Shades of light blue to deep purple on the wing surface are adorned with clusters of white, and when the light falls upon the wings, they shimmer with splendid radiance.

MC: This butterfly is so beautiful... Is it a Morpho Helena?

Lucien: Yes, this butterfly is known as one of the most beautiful in the world. It also has another name - the "Goddess of Light" butterfly.

Lucien speaks, and a hint of amazement flashes in his narrow eyes. Upon hearing his words, I lower my head and carefully examine the butterflies in the cabinet.

MC: It can actually emit light?

Lucien: Its wings have densely packed scales, and inside them, there are pigment particles. So when exposed to light, it refracts the light and produces a shimmer.

MC: No wonder it's called the Goddess of Light... It's like a jewel embedded in the sky.

He raises an eyebrow and gently taps the glass display case with his finger.

Lucien: The specimen of Morpho Helena is very rare. It was mentioned in the project proposal that this specimen will only be on display here for a few days.

Lucien: It seems like we arrived just in time.

Lucien lowers his eyes, and the soft light makes his gaze appear even more profound. I lower my head, gazing at the dazzling shimmer of the butterfly wings, and my heart feels touched.

MC: I'm glad I came here with you; otherwise, I would have missed out on such a unique butterfly.

Lucien: When I saw it mentioned in the project proposal, I guessed that you might like it here.

Lucien turns his head slightly to look at me, and his dark eyes dimming for a moment, making me realize something.

The sudden invitation this morning, the planned itinerary, could it be…

I look up at him, and he's standing amidst the specimens. The shimmering lights blended the colors of the butterflies flowing around Lucien.

MC: Lucien, thank you for bringing me here.

Lucien: Although I'd love to frankly accept your gratitude…. it seems like I've been given even more beauty instead.

Lucien: Because you're here.

He says as he's looking at me, his eyes reflecting my entire presence. Just then, a fluttering butterfly brushes past his cheek, lingering nostalgically for a moment.

My heartbeat slowly accelerates in my chest, as subtle emotions seem to swirl and intertwine in my heart.

I raise the camera and instinctively press the shutter button.

Lucien: MC?

His voice brings me back to reality, and I slightly pause, raising the camera in my hand to gesture toward him.

MC: Ah... I think I've found my "touching beauty".

Lucien watches my actions with a knowing smile, and he gently squeezes my hand, his tone soft.

Lucien: Anything is like a butterfly which, when pursued, is always beyond our grasp.

Lucien: But, if you will sit down quietly, may alight upon you.

Lucien: Something you deliberately chase after is like a butterfly. When you chase it, you can never catch it. But if you sit quietly, it will land on you.

MC: (smiles softly) …I think I might know why my previous work didn't satisfy me.

He gazes at me, the shimmering lights filtering through his hair and falling on his eyelashes. As he shivers slightly, a fleeting glimmer passes through his dark irises.

Lucien: Hmm?

MC: I've always approached my work with a strong sense of purpose, which naturally couldn't touch me from deep inside.

Lucien looks at me and slightly curls his lips.

Lucien: Mm... it seems like you've already let go of the purpose that was troubling you.

Lucien: Perhaps, your butterfly is about to appear.

As soon as Lucien's voice falls, a holographic butterfly lands on my shoulder.

I turn my head in surprise, wanting to observe its appearance closely.

The butterfly seems to sense my gaze, and its wings quiver gently before it slowly takes off again, leaving behind a trail of light.

It flies forward, occasionally turning back to circle around us, as if confirming something.

MC: Is it guiding us?

Lucien: I think taking action might solve this question more effectively than asking.

He takes my hand and follows the butterfly towards the back of the exhibition hall. The moment we step out of the hall, the scenery in front of us changes once again.

Before our eyes is a field of flowers. Tender green branches are bent under the weight of vibrant blooms, and the wind sways the flower branches, causing petals to lift into the air and scatter before finally carpeting the ground.

MC: So beautiful—! It was leading us here all along.

Lucien: Perhaps it's inviting us to touch a real butterfly.

We walk towards the center of the flower field, and that's when we notice numerous different types of butterflies fluttering about, forming clusters of their own.

I'm a bit worried about disturbing them, so I stop in my tracks halfway.

However, Lucien seems to notice my worry and leads me forward.

Lucien: Don't worry, our arrival won't disrupt the tranquility of this little world.

Just as he said, the gracefully dancing butterflies haven't stopped their activities and continue tirelessly sipping nectar from the flowers.

I reach out my hand to touch them, feeling their beauty. Some of the flowers are exceptionally pretty, and I'm curious about their species, thinking of planting some on my balcony.

When I turn to ask Lucien, I see him standing amidst the flowers, quietly admiring the surroundings.

Lucien, enveloped in bright and vibrant colors, appears even more serene. The sunlight shining on him adds a touch of softness.

Suddenly, a butterfly with a shimmering blue glow flaps its wings and lands on Lucien's chest.

He lowers his head and gazes at it, his dark eyes flickering with light and shadow.

I want to touch the perched butterfly, but the startled butterfly instantly flies away, dispersing the beautiful scenery in an instant

I sigh softly, feeling a sense of regret as I try to withdraw my hand before it's suddenly held firmly.

Lucien: (whispers) Do you only have eyes for the butterflies?

He seems dissatisfied with my distraction and gently pulls my hand. Without any defense, I tumble into his embrace.

With our movements, the flying and parched butterflies around us feel disturbed and take off one by one.

Tiny fragments of light pass through their glistening wings and fall onto Lucien's face.

At that moment, it's as if I can hear the sound of their wings fluttering.

MC: Of course I have eyes for you too.

Lucien: Then I've also become a part of the scenery in your eyes.

His gentle gaze conveys his emotions to me, radiance sweeping across his pupils. His eyelashes quivering lightly, casting fragmented shadows.

I can't help but reach out my hand, gently touching his face.

MC: Not just in my eyes, but also a part of the whole scenery.

MC: We both unexpectedly barged into it.

Upon hearing my words, he can't help but chuckle softly. The warm sunlight falls upon his cheeks, making this whole person appear even warmer.

Lucien: Perhaps it's these unexpected surprises that make this world more romantic.

He looks deeply into my eyes, emotions as thick as ink welling up in the depths of his gaze, yet he gently occupies me in this way.

I raise my hand to hug him, and a hint of sweetness twirls around my heart, forming the simplest of sentences.

MC: Well then, since I've barged in, I will just stay and won’t leave~

Lucien: (in an incredibly gentle whisper) You've probably lost the chance to leave a long time ago.

Butterflies transform into the definition of beauty and envelop us tightly. He reaches out, caressing the tips of my ears. His movements touch deep into my heart.

I tenderly kiss his lips, the sensation of his warmth and trembles reminiscent of fluttering butterfly wings.

So clear and yet so real, distant yet within arm's reach.

I instinctively close my eyes, quietly reciting the answer within my heart.

What touches me are not the tangible presences, but the emotions themselves, whether complex or simple.

And also the butterfly on my shoulder, it barged into my life, accompanying and dancing forward with me.

[japanifornication]

oh man oh man. im always fond of phoenix w a praise kink and just. overwhelmed by love. miles fucking into him while whispering sweet nothings until he’s shaking from his orgasm after orgasm. make this slut cry from being loved and fucked! that one fic you wrote, “late night” was RIGHT up my alley and i swear i go back to it often

rubbing at the bags he can feel setting in beneath his eyes, phoenix has never been more tired in his life. not when he stayed up all night studying to get through law school. not the time he didn't sleep for three days a week before the bar and had to be forced to rest by mia. not when she was murdered, not even when he spent a night in city jail accused of that very murder.

the clop of two pairs of sandals patter into the distance as he watches maya, holding onto pearl's hand like a lifeline, head for their train under the flickering lights of the station. as they board, any remaining energy phoenix had escapes him and he sags back against the wall he's been leaning against, arms crossing over his chest as a sigh slips out of him.

it's hard to watch them go when they've only just got maya back, but with morgan headed to prison, they have a lot of things to sort out back in kurain, like packing up belongings and figuring out where they'll stay when they're there for training.

"it's getting quite late, wright."

he'd almost been falling asleep where he stood and the voice startles him, making him stand up straight and snap to attention. for a few minutes, he'd almost forgotten edgeworth was there. it's easy to forget, when it's quiet—he was dead for an entire year, after all.

"yeah. sorry to keep you waiting. you didn't have to do this, you know." phoenix says it automatically, like it's an obligation, even though he's not quite sure he is sorry after what the prosecutor did.

"i'm aware," is all edgeworth says, tucking a strand of hair behind his ear and then just briefly gripping at his elbow.

it's almost funny. when phoenix first met the man again on the other side of the courtroom last year, he looked like hell barely warmed over. edgeworth was the one with dark circles around the eyes, a permanent scowl affixed to his face. now, he looks oddly tranquil, if just a bit fatigued, and phoenix is the one who feels like garbage. things can change a lot in a year.

he clears his throat. "well. i won't keep you here any longer. let's get back to the car." he lets edgeworth lead the way back to his car—new since phoenix last saw it during state v. skye—and climbs back into the passenger seat, rattling off his address. it's a wonder he can even remember it in his current state.

it only gets darker as they head back through the city and by the time they make it to phoenix's apartment it's well into the night, not a hint of sun left in the sky. the car idles in the parking lot. neither make a move to leave or encourage the other to do so.

"so are you back living here?" phoenix finally gathers the strength to say. he means is he back residing within l.a. but the way it comes out almost sounds like he's asking if edgeworth is really, truly back from the dead and not just a spirit. "in l.a. i mean, not here obviously," he clarifies, as though there were any confusion whether or not edgeworth lived with phoenix. haha, very funny.

there's a slight squeak of leather as the man's hand shifts on the steering wheel, uncomfortable but not angry. "ah, i've only been back for a few days. i'm in a hotel, currently, but yes, i intend to find a new apartment."

"gotcha," phoenix says with an absent nod, chewing the inside of his mouth. "hey, um. i'm sorry about what i said, about… about you staying dead."

"wright, don't," edgeworth scoffs. "it's too late to take back words we've regretted, if anyone knows that it's me. don't waste your breath."

an exasperated laugh bursts out of the defense attorney. "okay great, because i'm not actually sorry."

edgeworth huffs at that with a slight shake of his head.

"but… do you want to come in for a beer or something? because this has been the longest day of my life and i'm sure even underneath that perfectly logical, stoic exterior, you can agree it's been exhausting." phoenix raises an eyebrow.

"a beer? tch." edgeworth's lip curls in distaste at the idea.

"what, not a beer drinker? i don't keep much in the way of wine or anything but i might have some whiskey," he offers instead.

edgeworth tilts his head, considering the offer with a slow blink. "i'm not sure you can afford my tastes, wright, but i'm intrigued." he unbuckles his seatbelt, indicating he's taken phoenix up on it.

"great." phoenix climbs out of the car and leads the way into his apartment building. he lives on the second floor, and they take the stairs up. it's faster, and he's not going to ask the man to take an elevator. it might have been a year, but he hasn't forgotten everything.

"sorry about the mess," he apologizes as he unlocks his front door. the last few days have been so long—he's been sleeping in his office and almost forgot about how much of a disaster his apartment is. he haphazardly tries to clean up before edgeworth can take in too much of the surroundings, scooping up dishes to bring to the kitchen and stuffing trash in the bin and kicking dirty laundry out of the way.

edgeworth is busy removing his shoes at the door and he manages to get the place looking a little less gross by the time he's done, then stops to take off his own shoes and jacket. he heads into the kitchen to see what he's got as far as alcohol, searching through his cabinets until he finds the bottle of whiskey he promised.

"how do you take it?" he asks.

"neat," comes the reply, edgeworth having followed him into the kitchen. he waits as phoenix pours them each a glass, then takes the bottle himself to inspect it. his eyebrows go up. "perhaps you've come into some fortune in my absence."

staring down into his rocks glass, phoenix tries to give a smile. it comes off weak. "if only. i inherited mia's liquor collection. went through most of it between you choosing death and now, if i'm honest."

adjusting his glass on the counter, edgeworth frowns down into his own drink. "ah. i see. ms. fey had good tastes, then?"

"i think she was gifted a lot of it, i'm honestly not sure." he lifts his glass to his lips, taking a deep swig. it burns on the way down. "sometimes i wonder… if i even knew her that well. if i'm doing any of this right. if she'd be proud of me. after a case like today, i'm not so sure."

"you saved her sister," edgeworth points out, palming his own glass and drinking from it absently. "i imagine that would mean a fair amount to her."

"yeah, i guess so. but i almost pinned a murder on an innocent woman. just feel like i should have figured out it was engarde a lot sooner, you know?" phoenix stands up straight, the tension awkward, and downs the rest of his glass in one go so he can pour himself another.

"i can see your point, though i believe you’re being a bit harsh on yourself. anyone under those circumstances would have struggled. i certainly fared no better, and i wasn’t the one whose loved ones were being held hostage for the majority of that case.” the words are mumbled thoughtfully over the rim of his glass before he takes another drink.

“why are you being so nice to me?”

his question obviously catches edgeworth by surprise, and the man finishes his whiskey before answering. “after hearing you be so honest about what you thought of my absence… i suppose it feels like obligation.”

the thought of any more drinks is immediately abandoned, because in the next moment, phoenix is grabbing edgeworth by that stupid cravat and pulling him close and smashing his mouth against his.

there’s a noise of protest, an initial objection, from edgeworth that seems to be more out of shock than anything, and then edgeworth’s arms are around his waist, crushing him close; he’s kissing phoenix back and he tastes like the whiskey they’ve been drinking and mint—toothpaste? breathmints? something else?—and phoenix sighs almost angrily against his mouth, furious he could have had this so much sooner if not for everything that had happened.

except that then edgeworth stops kissing him, to ask “wright, should i be doing this? surely you’re not drunk after a drink and a half.”

“i’m sober. kiss me, you son of a bitch.”

“it’s a bit rude to speak so poorly of the dead, you know,” he huffs in jest.

“good thing you’re not really dead.” phoenix’s hands fist in his hair as he tugs him back in for another kiss, and it’s all tongue and teeth and desperation, wanton for more.

before either of them knows what has happened, they’re standing in phoenix’s bedroom next to his bed. neither of them is particularly good at kissing and it doesn’t matter, because they’re kissing like it’s the last thing they’ll ever do and it’s driving phoenix insane.

unfortunately, edgeworth seems reluctant to do anything more than that. phoenix keeps trying to move things along—attempting to kiss down his throat, to bite him, to grab at his ass or unbutton his waistcoat—and edgeworth keeps grabbing at his wrists, moving them back to more appropriate places, kissing him like he wants to savor it rather than do anything else.

“just fuck me already,” phoenix finally groans, drinking in the way edgeworth laughs in response. when was the last time he even heard him laugh? not just a condescending chuckle from the other side of the courtroom, but actually laugh like he does now? when they were nine?

his back hits the bed as edgeworth shoves him away roughly. “fine. i’ll give you what it is you’re so desperate for.” he watches as the prosecutor tugs open his nightstand to survey the contents, and apparently finds what he expected to, retrieving the box of condoms from within and setting it atop the surface. “but i’m not doing this without some sort of safe word in place. it’s clear you’re not in a state to be taken at your word.”

“stoplight system,” phoenix replies, without hesitation.

that earns him a raised eyebrow, and for a moment it seems like he might be rejected, but eventually, edgeworth shrugs a shoulder and nods. “i’m familiar. that’s acceptable, can i trust you to actually use it?”

“funny of you to be asking me about trust right now.”

“wright.” there’s an obvious warning tone in his voice. “yeah. yes, i will use it correctly. green means go, red means stop, don’t stop unless i actually say that.”

there’s a hunger underlining edgeworth’s voice when he next speaks that makes all of phoenix’s skin prickle with desire. “alright. get on with it, then. tell me what you want.”

“god, thank you,” phoenix breathes. he sits up and grabs edgeworth by his belt, yanking him forward so he can undo it. “just want you to hold me down, make me take it.”

edgeworth blows out a long breath, but phoenix doesn’t look up, single-minded in his task now as he moves to unbutton the man’s slacks. the zip comes undone with relative ease, but the prosecutor’s shirt is long and held down by stays, partially blocking access to what he wants. it’s dark, and he’s a little drunk, and undoing the smaller buttons here is a bit harder, so he fumbles around with them as he talks. “you know. give it to me hard, don’t hold back, no matter what i say.”

edgeworth sheds his jacket and waistcoat and works his cravat free, discarding them on the side of phoenix’s bed before loosening the buttons of his shirt sleeves to roll them up. like this, phoenix can see the light hair that peppers his arms, usually hidden by clothes or distance across the courtroom or the fact that he thought the man was dead for a year. “is that how you normally prefer it?”

opting not to answer that, phoenix finishes unbuttoning the bottom of edgeworth’s shirt, giving him access to his boxer-briefs beneath. his fingers hook into the waistband and stretch it away from his skin, freeing the arousal steadily growing within and shoving them down as far as he can with the stays still hooked around his thighs.

he leans forward, gently cupping edgeworth's cock in one hand as he trails his lips down the side of it. the skin is so soft under his touch, but he doesn't get even a second to enjoy it; immediately, there's a hand in his hair, forcing his head back and away. he grimaces, baring his incisors but flooding with heat at the simple movement.

"someone's a bit overeager," edgeworth admonishes.

"yeah, well, when you've spent a year fantasizing about something you're positive you'll never get…" he steals a glance up at edgeworth's face, his chest starting to heave even though they haven't even started yet.

the man clenches his jaw, like the reminder hurts, but he feigns it away with a roll of his eyes. it doesn't fool phoenix, but he doesn't call it out. again, phoenix is pushed back to the bed like it's effortless, and edgeworth moves back to the nightstand to retrieve a condom from the box.

phoenix takes the opportunity to undo his own belt and slacks, shimmying them down along with his boxers around his hips. his thighs and hair are already slick with moisture, his dick swollen and begging to be touched.

he doesn't want to bother with the effort of fully undressing, so instead he rolls over while edgeworth applies the condom, ending up bent over the edge of his bed, ready and waiting.

he hears edgeworth spit into his hand, stroke it along his length then feels that hand on him for a brief, thrilling second, but he's already sopping wet, so it's unnecessary.

phoenix scrambles up the bed a little further but before he can really get anywhere, there’s a strong hand on his hip as the body behind him thrusts forward against him. with that one, swift movement, edgeworth is inside him, and he cries out, writhing against the sheets and trying not to just melt into uselessness.

a hand comes down against his shoulder, holding him down just like he'd asked for, but edgeworth leans in close and the other snakes over his mouth, preventing him from further cries as each snap of his hips makes phoenix want to scream. "is this what you wanted?" the man breathes hot and low in his ear.

he can only nod desperately, tears catching in his lashes as that cock rams into his g-spot and makes him quiver.

edgeworth doesn't stop. each thrust comes unbelievably hard, a loud slap of skin echoing through the room, but there's a pause between each one, and phoenix is grateful for that because otherwise he doesn't know how he would breathe. beads of sweat are already forming on the back of his neck, rolling down under the collar of his shirt. he quiets down, just panting against edgeworth’s palm, tasting the salt of his flesh, pushing back into each stroke and closing his eyes to bask in the feeling of him, to know it’s edgeworth pinning him down and spearing him open.

he's slick and needy and hasn't been so close to satisfied in what feels like forever.

he rocks his hips forward instinctively, trying to get friction on his own dick against the bed, but failing. edgeworth huffs out a condescending laugh in his ear. "not enough still? what are you, wright, a dog? must you hump something just to get off?"

phoenix whines at the suggestion but nods again against edgeworth's hand.

"yes?" he sounds mildly surprised, but not put-off. "alright." he straightens for a minute, pulling phoenix up so he can slide a folded pillow between the man's legs—phoenix's head is spinning and he lets himself be maneuvered bonelessly—before pushing him back down into the position they'd been in.

"are you sure this is how you want it, though, wright?" he asks in his ear again as they return to that pace of steady slams. "I'm happy to fuck you as hard as you'd like, but i had something a little different in mind." he slows down further, the thrusts turning into a sensual grind, no longer ramming into him with each one.

a sob leaks out of phoenix and he ruts against the pillow, mumbling against edgeworth's hand. his mouth is freed so he can speak. "please," he gasps. "tell me you're here to stay. that you won't leave again."

an anguished sound chokes out of the prosecutor. "i am not going anywhere, phoenix," he says after a moment of hesitation. there’s an edge to his voice, hurt but on the verge of something almost tender, and phoenix easily needs more.

"just need to feel it. need you to show me you're not going anywhere," phoenix begs. “just prove it to me, fuck me like you mean it.”

"oh, darling, i'm not leaving you." the term of endearment seems to slip out of edgeworth like it’s an accident, but he doesn’t take it back, and it feels like it stabs right through phoenix’s back and pins him to the mattress as much as the man himself is doing physically. edgeworth's hands reposition themselves to the bed on each side of his shoulders for more leverage and his cock grinds deeper into phoenix, forcing a strangled moan out of him. "i'm here to stay, and i'll prove it to you just like this whenever you'd like. that's it, open up for me, i want to hear you."

phoenix doesn't try to hold back his sounds anymore, more moans and whimpers and sobs escaping him in escalating volume as edgeworth fucks him and as he humps against the pillow. edgeworth has picked up the pace again, strokes coming faster, and phoenix's brain is dissolving into a puddle.

"harder, please," he whines.

"i'll give you harder, darling, but i want you to come first. you're doing so well," edgeworth murmurs, leaning down to kiss the top of his ear. "i know you can do it. it feels good, doesn't it? to grind on your pillow? be a good boy and come for me, phoenix."

a harsher sob is ripped from his chest. his hips roll against it more desperately even as edgeworth doesn't stop pounding into him. "i'm so close," he whispers shakily.

"i know," edgeworth reassures, lowering himself to further press into phoenix, more grinding into him again which just forces him more into the pillow. "does this help? if i drive you into it?"

"yes, yes, oh, miles…"

"come for me, phoenix, then i'll give you that hard, unrelenting fuck you want, to prove i'm not going anywhere. come on. come for me."

and phoenix does, rocking forward against the pillow one last time and causing his orgasm to explode through him. he clenches around miles and his cock twitches with each pulse and miles is still rolling his hips, forcing him into the pillow, and he can't come down, and he's fully crying.

"good boy," he hears from edgeworth, and the praise is music he never imagined he'd hear. "are you ready for more?"

he hasn't even stopped coming yet, he's not ready for more, but god does he want it anyway. "no," he offers unhelpfully.

"no? color, wright."

"green," phoenix spits, a string of saliva connecting his mouth to the bed where he was accidentally drooling against his comforter.

"good, so let me ask again. are you ready for more?"

having no intention of changing his answer, phoenix repeats himself. "no. it's too much."

he can almost hear the smirk in edgeworth's voice, and is glad they're both on the same page. "and you think i have any intention of stopping simply because it’s too much? how quaint. you can handle more."

another hard slam of his hips has phoenix shaking, pressing his face back into the softness of his comforter to muffle a yelp, but as quickly as it was given, it’s taken away as edgeworth pulls out.

“roll over, wright. i want to see the moment you break,” he’s commanded, and phoenix doesn’t make any rush of moving to do so. edgeworth grabs his shoulder and pulls, rolling him over anyway. hands grab his slacks and yank, and phoenix kicks to at least help get them off, along with his boxers.

arms hook under his knees and in an instant edgeworth is back inside him, making phoenix’s back arch against the mattress. the pillow is still under him, but now it's providing support, and edgeworth is still hitting all the right spots, and he blearily opens his eyes to find the man looking down at him.

the way edgeworth looks at him is almost reverent, quicksilver eyes soft but dilated with pleasure, hair disheveled and hanging in his face, sweat beading on his forehead. it's different from how phoenix imagined it might be, when he thought he was dead. then, he hadn't known this edgeworth so desperately trying to redeem himself. he'd only known the angry, spiteful one, full of loathing for everyone and everything, especially himself and especially phoenix. he'd thought his eyes would be hardened, creased between the eyebrows, a permanent scowl fixed upon his face. he can see a slight divot between his eyebrows, but it looks more in concentration, and there's no scowl.

"miles," he breathes, just a whisper on his breath. he's struggling to even catch it with the force he's being fucked with, knocking the air out of his lungs, but he gulps down another breath and tries again. "m-miles. take off the condom."

a dry laugh huffs out of edgeworth and he hesitates. "are you delusional?"

"i promise it's safe. please…" he's crying again and he hates that he's crying again but he can't stop the tears from leaking down his cheeks. "please. i need you to prove you're not going anywhere. need you to fill me up and make me yours."

again, edgeworth blows out an affected breath, this time much more obviously struggling with the decision. "you're sure?"

"yes, i'm giving you the green light, please, god," he pleads.

"fuck, phoenix." in an instant, he pulls out again, looking down as he uses one hand to attempt to take off the condom. it takes a minute to get it off, but eventually he does, and it gets tossed in the trash beneath the nightstand before the man drives back into phoenix's hot cunt, filling him now with no barrier between them.

there's no way to prevent the flood of tears now, no longer just a trickle but practically a waterfall. he pushes edgeworth's arms away from under his knees to adjust, instead hooking his legs around the man's waist like he can draw him in deeper if he tries hard enough, like he can just pull edgeworth into his body and keep him there forever.

for edgeworth's part, at least, he grips a hand under phoenix's thigh and with a slight grunt helps shift them up onto the bed properly, and then they're chest-to-chest and the prosecutor is kissing down his jawline, tongue delving out to lick up the salt of his tears and god, phoenix is so overwhelmed.

"how long have you been dreaming about this, wright?" that deep, sultry voice mumbles right against his ear.

phoenix answers honestly, and he's not just crying from the overwhelming amount of pleasure anymore. now he's ugly crying, and it's embarrassing, and his hands find the front of edgeworth's shirt and twist in it, holding on to it like a lifeline. "a long time but—but i thought you were dead," he chokes out. he can feel alarm crackle through edgeworth like ice underfoot, but it's too late, they've already plunged through. "i th-thought you were fucking dead, that i'd missed my chance—"

his words are muffled by a kiss, one that's just as desperate and hungry as phoenix feels. he half-sobs, half-moans into it, clumsily attempting to reciprocate as best he can.

"i know. i'm so sorry, phoenix," edgeworth hisses against his mouth when they part for air. his movements have slowed, this thrusts languid but striking deep, and phoenix just encourages him, heels pressing against his ass with each inward stroke. "shh, you're alright. i'm not going anywhere." the words sound like a promise.

another pathetic mewl bleeds out of phoenix, energy sapped from him at the apology. his legs fall from around edgeworth's hips, coming to rest on the bed, because he can't hold them up anymore, and it just spreads him wider, lets the man fuck him deeper. he sniffles and presses his face into edgeworth's shoulder to hide his tear-strewn face.

"there you go, darling. relax. i'll give you what you need. you're being so good for me." edgeworth's breathing is labored and phoenix can feel sweat through the man's shirt.

his hands let go of the front to wrap around his back, crush him closer. it's too slow, too intimate, it's not what he asked for or wanted, but somehow it is what he needed.

the rhythm of edgeworth's thrusts start to falter and suddenly there's a hand on phoenix's jaw, turning his face towards his. "look at me."

phoenix does. the expression on edgeworth's face is so hard to read, but it seems almost close to adoration, or maybe obsession, and a shiver runs down phoenix's spine.

"i'm here, phoenix. because of you."

those six words are phoenix's undoing. his hands claw for purchase against edgeworth's back, fingertips catching in the folds of his shirt as his whole body tenses, pleasure slamming into him like a fucking freight train and forcing an orgasm out of him unlike any other. he feels edgeworth jolt against him and knows the man is coming too, leaving that tangible evidence that he's here, he's alive, he's alive he's alive he's alive, i'm alive.

for the first time since prosecutor miles edgeworth chose death, phoenix wright feels alive.

spent and exhausted, phoenix can't even complain when edgeworth collapses atop him. instead, he hugs him close, albeit weakly, eyes falling shut and just cradling the man against him, reluctant to let him pull out or leave just yet.

when they finally do part god knows how long later, no words are exchanged. edgeworth painstakingly withdraws from inside phoenix with a grimace, then helps him clean up in silence. he doesn't say anything as he removes the rest of his clothing, leaving phoenix to extract the implications from that action himself and disrobe as well, tossing the rest of his clothes to the floor.

they climb back into bed and phoenix finds himself hesitating to get closer until edgeworth draws him in himself, an arm sliding around him possessively.

before phoenix can drift off, he clears his throat and asks hoarsely, "should we… talk about what just happened?"

edgeworth dismisses it with a half-hearted shrug. "if you'd like. in the morning, perhaps?"

fear grips phoenix immediately and he swallows, looking up at the man. "will you still be here? in the morning?"

a long, tired sigh hisses out of edgeworth's chest. "i may have nightmares still, and may not be in bed when you awake. but yes. i will be here, in the morning."

"you promise?"

edgeworth searches his face for understanding. he doesn't seem the type to promise things, and perhaps that's why the response is delayed, but after a long moment, he nods slowly. "i promise."

phoenix buries his face against his chest, and in a few minutes, he's asleep.

[clanwarrior-tumbly]

Could you do follower shamura with a centipede reader that is the loyalty enforcer sorry for asking again I think tumblr has been eating my asks

When Shamura was first brought to the cult and immediately put in the stocks, Lamb asked if you could try assisting the spider in understanding their situation.

Their eyes seethed red like most dissenters, but tbh they were more confused than angry.

Being a Loyalty Enforcer was a tough job (aside from the top hat making your antennae slightly uncomfortable) with all the followers you had to talk to. Though you were more than happy to help Shamura. They just needed some enlightenment!

Right away, they confuse you for one of their guardians since they noticed your many arms (with extra sleeves for each one) and dozens of legs mostly hidden underneath the folds of your robe.

"Vephar...where are we...?"

"My apologies, but I'm not Vephar. They're praying over there. I'm [y/n]..the Loyalty Enforcer." You calmly introduce yourself. "I see your mind is troubled, so I'm here to help ease you into the cult."

"....has the Red Crown found a new bearer?"

It took you a second to realize they mistook the symbol on your hat for the actual crown, but you gently correct them on that, too. You have lots of patience while answering their questions.

Although of course, the inevitable question of Narinder came up...

"Where's my brother? I've missed him a lot. Has he been practicing everything I taught him?"

"He's...um..not here right now. At the moment, he's on a crusade with Lamb in our old domain."

Immediately, Shamura's mood shifts.

"....oh, that Lamb. Cursed Lamb, wretched Lamb. Why did he follow them into my cradle?! What if he doesn't come back? What if I don't see him for another thousand...?!" They're quick to panic, writhing around in the restraints, calling out to their brother.

Their screams and hisses start scaring the other followers, but you try to calm them down. You reassure them he'll come back, yet they're still quite distraught and ask if he's been treated cruelly.

That's a surprise to you, considering he was the one who sliced through their brain and yet...they're more concerned about him.

But you tell Shamura stories about how Narinder was thriving in the cult: how he attended the rituals/ceremonies with respect, how he cleaned up the bodies and icky stuff, and how he--despite never saying it--truly did miss his siblings, especially them.

Indeed, they wept that night, realizing their dear little brother was alright.

Once Shamura was more at ease, Lamb allowed you to release them and let them get acquainted with the cult.

You were their guide for the most part, showing them around and demonstrating how you kept everybody's loyalty in check.

They're impressed, although sometimes they forget your role (and still call you Vephar at times). But ofc you gently remind them of who you are again.

If anybody dares make fun of Shamura's memory loss, you'll give them an earful and/or send them straight to the pillory (if they're still spouting hate, you'll just get Lamb to deal with it).

In time, they rekindle their bond with Narinder and their other siblings, so you went back to your usual Loyalty Enforcer duties.

Ofc the ex-bishop of war still remembers how kind you've been to them and promises they'll never forget that.

[fakesimp]

Celebrating New Years with You

Warning !

Slight NSFW ; Fluff ; Comfort ; Mention of Sex at the end ; Kisses ; Celebration of New Years ; Male ! Character ; Established Relationship ;

A/n : Happy New years everyone !! From today and on, I will use this font..

I hope everyone can read without any trouble now (⁠●⁠´⁠⌓⁠`⁠●⁠)

And, yes I'm still alive, writer block at it's finest.

➶◜◝➴

You cuddled up next to each other on the couch, waiting for the long waited new year. You don't know how long has it been, you remember when was the day you both decided to declare your feelings to each other. And started dating, you both have went up and downs together. Even fighting, also have been into that day where your relationship is almost cut off from a fight. But, as a responsible adult both of you are, you both talked about it and make up again.

It was truly an interesting experience, and both of you know what to do and not to do to avoid making the same problem again. And here you are, cuddling next to each other. Basking into each other's warmth, looking at the tv in front of you. Waiting for the countdown, you know everyone at in the world are also waiting.

Either they are actually waiting or not, it doesn't matter. One thing for sure is that, you are kind of not ready for the new year. Afraid of what's going to come, to both you, and him. Your Beloved. Also the people around you.

You know, even the closest person you have in your life. Will eventually leave, and you already accepted that fact. But if you weren't, he is there. To comfort you, reassure you, everything would be okay. Even if it's a harsh reality that you have to accept, you know you can't hold onto them forever. Sometimes letting go, are a good thing. People will get something new, in exchange of losing what they have. You lose your closest people around you, but you know that there would be new people that'll enter your life.

One thing, that you are sure about. That is, him. The Love of your life, he's there, even at your darkest moment. Happiest moment. He, is there with you. Going through all of them together with you, you are more than happy to have him in your life. To be in a relationship with him

You look over at him, who was enjoying his time watching the TV, then down to his phone, scrolling through the social media. He felt your eyes are on him, then both of you made eye contact for a good minute. He then smiled at you, as he slightly tilting his head in confusion.

"Hm? What? What is it?" He asked you, not looking away from you. Your eyes widen slightly and break eye contact first with him, you peek over to him and his smile is getting wider. More leaning towards a teasy one too, you pout. Making the male raise a brow at you, smirking. "What's wrong babe? Something on my face, hm?" He asked softly as he scoot closer to you, closing the gap even more than before. "Hmm?? Babe??" He called you out, he then leaned closer to your ear. Only to blow it. Making you slightly jump at his action, you immediately turn your face to him. Planning to scold him, but—

It only resulted, you getting surprised by how close his face is to you, making you slightly taken aback. Leaning a bit away from the man in front of you, only ending up with you laid on the couch him crawling on top of you. Giving you a sly look, "Is this how we're gonna start the new year?" He asked teasingly making you went red all the way across the cheeks. To your ears. "I-, O-of course not! You idiot.." you stuttered, and slightly whispered at the end. Making him stare at you a bit confused, but he then laid down happily on you.

"It's within a minute darling, isn't there anything you want to say before this year ended, hm?" He asked as he mindlessly tracing his finger on your arm. You, that was playing with his hair locks. Stopped for a moment, earning a unsatisfied groan from him. "Hmm.."

You pondered for quite awhile, ... Times moved rather quick, and it's already 5 seconds away from new years

5

You look down at him, he was staring at your arm, staring at his finger that's trailing on your arm. You gently put a finger under his chin, making him look over at you.

4

Both of you stared at each other, with admiration, Love. You smiled at him and he did the same, you gently pull his face closer to yours, gently kissing him from his forehead

3

Cheeks, nose

2

Then his lips, "Love you."

1

Then on that same exact moment the TV blasted a big announcement, saying it's a new year already. You starting to hear fireworks outside, both of your attentions were on the TV and the window. After awhile, both of you look at each other. He looked at you, and slowly replied "Love you too.." he replied with a whisper

He then leaned closer to you, he kisses you, you can tell he's smiling. He then pulled away from the kiss, "Happy New Years baby.." he said and then pull you up. Letting you sit on his lap. His sudden movement made you yelp, but eventually you got over it and silently sitting on his lap. Facing the male, he look up to you. With a smile in his face,

"Well, since it's new years..

Maybe we can go to the bedroom for celebration? Hehe.."

©fakesimp · 2023

A/n : Happy new years everyone!

Let's see what we got this year.. <⁠(⁠￣⁠︶⁠￣⁠)⁠>

I also wonder if I, can reach 1k followers this year.. (⁠＠⁠_⁠＠⁠;⁠)

[karasbroken]

I feel like I ought to make some effort to show I have actually started my next Idiom fic. I'm just struggling with what exactly I want to do, what little slice of space life thing might be interesting to write about. Any ideas?

I have a working title: "Another One Bites The Dust" and a slight outline. Aeryn being weird about saving John's life rather than doing the logical thing. Aeryn being confused about John never wanting to kiss her again. Both of them being confused about why they keep ending up kissing.... I don't know, it's going to end with John being sexually frustrated but I haven't quite figured out why they don't end up in bed and what Aeryn is even feeling. Somewhere in the middle they're going to be in the module burning off fuel. The rest is still a mystery, but here's a bit of gruesome dreaming.

The timer counted down too quickly. Her hands were steady but unused to this kind of precise work. It took patience; rushing would not help. She had to find and seal every gap before she restored the system, or it could all blow out again, ruining their chances. Her chances. Sun’s eyes were watering. Despite her helmet’s protection, she blinked involuntarily at the sparking as the welder kept finding more broken conduits, fine as blood vessels. She’d kept working. There was no sense in the both of them dying. “Time has lapsed… Time has lapsed… Time has lapsed…”

At last it was done, and with her heart thundering in her ears, Aeryn pressed the sequence to restore atmosphere. Frigid air from the backup reserves flooded the chamber in gusts as she retrieved the restorative, and injected it into his neck. Nothing, not even a jerk of chemically abused limbs. She checked that the injector hadn’t malfunctioned. It was empty, but he didn’t move. Ice flooded her senses. It hadn’t worked. Why hadn’t it worked? It didn’t matter.

Aeryn scrambled to lay his lifeless body on the ground. Why hadn’t she told him to lie down for the kill shot rather than take the other chair? Precious microts wasted as she hauled him flat, head tilted back, fingers clamping his nose to create a seal, necessary to force the air down the proper passageway. His instructions, half-listened to, but caught in the web of attention that never left her now, guiding her through the primitive procedure. It was time to breathe deep and press her mouth on his.

When she started his mouth was hot. Damp and feverish, slightly sour from the meal they'd shared before this ill-fated training run. It felt awkward, intimate, to empty her lungs, his chest barely moving, resistant. Now her hands, one over the other, shoving down over his heart. “Dun, dun, dun,” her mind echoed, human prattle, in a distinct rhythm. “Another bites the dust.” There hadn’t been time to make Crichton explain the ridiculous idiom, only to fix the nonsense in her memory. Fifteen presses, then inhale and breathe again.

It felt wrong, different from when she had practiced, rushed and nervous, her breath mingling with his, bubbling past her lips when he laughed at her expression, at her awkwardness. Then she had wondered if this was truly a human medical procedure, or just a desperate final flirtation of a man who expected to die. His mouth had been softer then, the seal easier to make. Air had passed back and forth between them, visceral, invasive. Now there was nothing. Just her own air puffing out as she sat up to compress his chest again. “Dun, dun, dun...”

Over and over she forced her breath into him. She was doing it wrong. Aeryn remembered what it felt like, when John had shown her. His air inflating her, making her want to cough. His lips hadn’t been what she expected, after so many monens of unwilling curiosity. Firm, locked on hers, dry and cool, clamped on like a kind of parasite.

Aeryn tried again to force his chest up, blowing so hard she was light-headed. The inside of his mouth had lost heat now, it was merely Sebacean warm, not human. As neutral as any of the hundred mouths she’d explored across a lifetime. No, it hadn't been so many. She'd frelled more than she'd kissed. Sun didn't care for it much. There were better things to do with a mouth, hers or theirs.

She had to press hard, he'd said, deep, to push blood and oxygen through his vascular system. “Dun, dun, dun… dust, dust, dust.” There was dust in the air each time she pushed down, pressed more vigorously. No, it was frost from her own breath, hitting the cold of the transport to freeze and fall onto his chest. She fell his ribs flex beneath her hands, and the crackle of dislocating ribs.

Time to breathe for him. Aeryn pried John’s lips farther apart. He was stiff and cold now. Her breath went nowhere, leaking out of his mouth, seals failing under the pressure of her desperation. The hands again, fist over chest, “Another bites and another one bites and another and another…” Eight. Nine. Ten. She was his heartbeat, and she was failing, weak, uncertain, soft.

Aeryn drove into his sternum, straddling him as she had done those monens that felt like a lifetime ago, and bringing her full strength to bear. She couldn't be weak. He had to wake up. He wasn't waking up. She was alone and there was silence except for the sounds of splintering bone.

[a-dirty-secret]

Johnny's Girl - Part 17

tw: dub/non-con, hematolagnia, dacryphilia, blood, violence, stalking, rough sex

You drove straight through the next day, losing yourself in the road. You didn't allow any emotions to come to the surface, not yet. You needed to be far enough away that you were safe, and far enough away that you wouldn't go back.

You take a deep breath, examining the city you ended up in. It wasn't too big, but there should be a motel around somewhere. The sun was going down, and you were exhausted. You drive around for a while and let out a sigh of relief when you finally manage to find a motel.

You pay the guy at the desk and head to your room, making sure to lock the door behind you. You stare into the room blankly. You should feel happy or relieved, but you just feel... Hollow.

What were you going to do now? You didn't have any friends, and you'd live on the street before subjecting yourself to the misery of your parents. Your old coworkers probably didn't even know you were missing, they probably just assumed you quit without notice and didn't give it a second thought. The truth was that nobody had really cared about you since your grandma passed away, not until Johnny.

You chest tightens and your stomach twists, tears welling up in your eyes at the thought of his name. You hadn't allowed yourself to think about him during your drive in fear that you would turn around, or that your emotions would overwhelm you and you'd have to stop driving. Oh Johnny, what would he do when he found out you were gone?

You crawl into bed and get into the fetal position, sobs shaking your body. You'd tried so hard not to imagine this part when you thought of escaping that you underestimated how much it would hurt. You just wanted Johnny to be here, to feel his strong arms pulling you against him. You wanted to feel his warm breath at the back of your neck, his soft lips on yours.

This man, who murdered, assaulted and literally consumed countless victims, had a soft spot for you. You played his voice in your mind, remembering the sweet words that were for your ears only. If this wasn't love, why did it hurt so bad? How would you ever truly know the difference?

You sit up and get your bag, grabbing Johnny's shirt and squeezing it tightly to your chest as you lay back down. The smell of his cologne and a hint of tobacco fills your nose, calming you enough to allow you to finally slip into a restless sleep.

*** Johnny pulled up to the house and parked the truck, getting out eagerly. His mom refused to let him use the phone while he was gone, saying he'd already betrayed her by not taking care of you, the least he could do is respect her wishes in her own house. It irritated him, but he listened.

He basically ran into the house. He'd been gone for a week and a half and he missed you like crazy, he didn't have the patience to wait another second. He walked into the kitchen to find Sissy doing dishes, a chore that you'd taken over since being out of the basement.

"Hey, Sissy. Where's Y/N?"

Sissy turned and looked at him, a confused look on her face. "Whaddya mean, sugar? Didn't your mama tell you?" Her voice was filled with concern and a hint of caution.

"Tell me what? Where is she?"

"Johnny... She escaped 'bout a week ago. I called and told your mama myself."

"No. You're lyin'. Where is she?" His voice was low and restrained. He didn't believe it, he couldn't.

"I'm not lyin' sugar. I'm sorry."

"No. No no no." He left Sissy in the kitchen and bolted upstairs, slamming open the door to his bedroom. His eyes were immediately drawn to a piece of paper sitting on his pillow. He picked it up, tears spilling from his eyes as he read the only thing you left him with.

I'm sorry.

The pain radiating through his body is so intense it brings him to his knees. How could you be gone? How could he come to terms with never seeing you again? No, he'd find you. He had to.

He got up and went back out to his truck, heading down the driveway and towards your house. He parked in your driveway, regretting his decision not to slash your tires. You'd been gone for a week, how was he supposed to find you?

Inside he was immediately greeted with your scent, as well as memories of your first time together. The first time you kissed, the first time you fucked. He took a deep breath and slowly made his way to the bedroom. He wasn't sure what he expected. Part of him hoped he'd find you here, but he knew you were smarter than that.

He sat on your bed, too heartbroken to be embarrassed by the tears that were once again streaming down his face. A week without you felt like hell, how was he supposed to live like this? How could he sleep without you in his arms? How could he get through every day without knowing if you were safe?

Johnny kicked off his boots and buried himself in your covers. You were the only person to ever make him feel accepted and loved. To make him feel human. He was nothing without you. Nobody.

When the sun went down and rose the next morning Johnny was still there, and he wasn't any closer to figuring out how he was supposed to function without you.