#I want to finish but I just stare blankly at the screen until I am inevitably distracted or interrupted

[akamikazae]

I want to dooodle but I must write ! I have like a couple paragraphs left of this next chapter of the long fic that I haven’t updated in almost a year now ! That is just so hard to finish, someone take away my tablet and chain me to the desk until it’s done

[wantonlywindswept]

forgotten fox ficbit 2

one here

i recognize the poll results and i am ignoring the poll results =D

I realized there are things i want to happen before fox's batch gets involved (more slow building realization stuff) and that would be Cheating and skipping to the end, so thus you get poll winner #2: Stressing Out Hound ft Grizzer and Commander Vertex

---

Despite what most natborns thought--or screamed, loudly and obnoxiously--Grizzer was not some poorly-trained mutt.

She wasn't as disciplined as the massifs Hound had trained with on Kamino, but those massifs were older than he was. Grizzer had been given to him as a pup just two years before Geonosis, a squirmy bundle of scales with spines barely the length of his thumb; she and Hound had the same amount of active duty experience. 

(She was also, to Hound's bitter regret, not able to be spoiled with the organic aged bantha chew treats that Trainer Jallo had used. Trainer Jallo said that the quality of the rewards didn't matter, but she'd also never had to feed her massifs the slop that Kamino used for animal feed, which honestly was probably only the tiniest step below what they fed to the clones.)

Grizzer was highly competent at her job: she answered all of Hound's commands promptly, hunted down suspects with the same focus and determination as a clone soldier, and knew not to take orders from anyone other than the Guard's commanders or ARF troopers.

"Hound, have you finished the intake form for--oh, hey Grizzer. Down, girl."

Grizzer, who had been in the midst of going for an affectionate full-body tackle (which she only did when she really liked someone, what the fuck), skidded to an abrupt halt at Commander Vertex's feet, plopping her butt down on the ground right next to his boots and staring up at him adoringly.

Commander Vertex, who had only been with the Guard for two weeks. Commander Vertex, who had made it to the kennels maybe once in that entire time.

Commander Vertex, who reached down to pat Grizzer on the head, who instead of getting a warning mouthful of teeth, received a dopey grin and a happy wiggle from Hound's highly-trained massif. 

What the fuck.

With a final pat, Vertex left Grizzer sitting obediently by the door to make his way further into the kennels, occupied by his ever-present datapad. When he reached Hound--still kneeling dumbfounded on the floor trying to fix one of the cleaning droids--he finally seemed to realize what just happened.

"Ah," he said.

"What," said Hound, "The fuck."

Vertex just shrugged, as if getting by a highly territorial massif who tolerated a total of maybe four people was just something that normal people did, and not an act of extremely impossible betrayal.

"I worked with massifs while with Spec Ops. They always seemed to like me."

Hound didn't even know the Spec Ops Brigade had ARF troops.

And that still didn't explain why Grizzer would--

"You shouldn't be down like that," Vertex said, head tilting to one side. "You're going to aggravate your knee. Anyway, isn't Jogan supposed to be in charge of cleaning today?"

"There was a big drug smuggling bust in the Uscru district," Hound replied blankly as Vertex tugged him to his feet. "Bruiser needs the practice."

"So does Jogan," Vertex muttered.

Hound usually stood up for his men, but the commander wasn't wrong. 

Vertex frowned as Hound staggered a little before righting; his left knee was feeling tetchy about whether or not it wanted to support his weight. He held on until Hound was steady before letting go, attention dropping back to his datapad with a grimace.

"Stone needs the intake form on that Nikto you brought in last night," Vertex said, flicking his fingers across the screen. Hound heard the depressingly telltale ping! of a message hitting his comm. "If you get it to him by midmeal, it should be fine. But have Patches take a look at your knee first."

"Yessir," Hound replied automatically. 

Vertex nodded at him approvingly, which definitely wasn't pleasing or anything, and headed back out of the kennels. He paused to pat Grizzer on the head again before disappearing out the door.

In the ensuing silence, Hound stared at Grizzer.

Grizzer stared back.

"Traitor," he hissed.

His extremely poorly-trained massif's tongue lolled out in an unrepentant doggy grin.

And then Hound remembered--

His knee injury wasn't in his file. It happened on Kamino, and would have been an instant decommission if the clone medics hadn't smuggled him in for emergency surgery after training hours. He'd told the Guard CMO about it after being assigned to Coruscant, but Defib had decided to keep the injury off the books as well, just in case any natborns got nosey.

Commander Vertex shouldn't even know about it.

What the fuck.

[mistiell]

Heyyy just stumbled on your account while looking through the Spencer tag and since your requests are open, could you write a blurb or one shot about Spencer trying to get fem!reader to come to bed because she’s been up all night studying and he’s worried and just wants to take care of her? (She’s in graduate school or something like that) definitely feel free to make it fluffy or even smutty if you want

Here you go <33.

------

Spencer has always admired your work ethic.

You’re dedicated to everything you set your mind to, no matter how small the task. He finds it admirable how hard you work towards what you want, how driven you are to achieve your goals. 

The problem is, sometimes, you don’t know when to stop.

The last few weeks have been one of those times. You haven’t been sleeping, it’s obvious with the dark circles under your eyes and the way you’ve slowed down. When he’s home, he can usually coax you into bed somewhere before the early morning, but he’d been away on a case for the last week and a half. When he got home, you didn’t look well, but you insisted you were fine, and he reluctantly let you off the hook after you distracted him with a few sweet kisses. 

After dinner — throughout which he had to keep you thoroughly distracted lest you run off without finishing your food — you decided to sit down and get some studying done, which was fine with him until your alarm went off — signalling that it was time to either take a break or go to bed — and you just kept on working. 

It’s nearly midnight now, and he’s thoroughly concerned as he watches you from his place in the doorway to your shared office. He’s been standing there for the past fifteen minutes and you haven’t even noticed him, staring blankly at your computer screen with tired eyes.

“Hey.” You startle rather violently at the sound of his voice, whipping around to face him so quickly he worries you might accidentally wrench your neck, “Sorry, I didn’t mean to scare you.”

“S’okay.” Your voice is a little gravelly from disuse as you rub at your eyes, turning back to face your laptop. 

He sighs as he comes to stand behind you, sliding his arms down and around your chest as he trails a few sweet kisses from your cheek down the side of your neck. You sigh and lean back in your chair, softening like butter in the sun as you let your head fall back against his shoulder and cover the back of his hand with yours lazily.

“I know what you’re doing.” You hum, and he can just barely hear the teasing undertone in your inflection underneath the exhaustion.

“I’m not doing anything.” He smiles guiltily against your skin, and you snort at him.

“Yeah?”

“Yeah.” He nuzzles at the side of your throat before leaving an open mouthed kiss there, drawing a delightful little sigh from your lungs as you reach back to lace your hand in his hair. He peppers a few more kisses over your neck, before whispering against your collarbone, “Come to bed.”

You sigh again, this one heavy with fatigue. He can almost hear the words on the tip of your tongue before you say them, “I can’t yet. I've still got so much to do.”

“It can wait.”

“No, it ca–.” “It can wait.” He repeats, reaching forwards to close the lid of your laptop after making sure your work has been saved. He spins the chair around, standing between your legs as he cradles your face between his palms. He brushes his thumbs over the discoloured skin beneath your eyes, and it hurts him a little knowing you’ve been putting your work above yourself for so long. He frowns, looking a little sombre as he says, “You look so tired, baby.”

“I am.” You murmur, eyes closing as you slump forward to rest your forehead against his stomach, hands finding the backs of his knees just because you need to be touching him right now. He cradles the base of your skull with one hand and strokes your hair lovingly with the other, letting you stay there for a few moments before whispering, “Come to bed.”

You nod and slide your hands up to wrap your arms around his lower back, squeezing him tightly before tilting your head back to look at him, chin resting on his stomach as you tease, “You’re very persuasive, you know that?”

He laughs, grinning as he pulls you away a little more and bends at the waist to press his lips to yours. The kiss is slow and sweet, and he gets so lost in you that he doesn’t mind the fact that you taste a little of stale coffee.

You nip at his bottom lip and he hums, smiling against you, “You’re trying to,” He dips back in for a moment, “Distract me again.”

“Maybe.” You grin, hands settling on his hips as you kiss him once more, “S’it working?”

“Maybe a little.” He admits before pulling away to rise to his full height, practically towering over you from your spot in your chair as he holds his hands out to you, “Come on.”

“Fine.” You sigh dramatically, rolling your eyes playfully as you take his hands and allow him to pull you up to stand.

He leads you to the bedroom, pecking you on the cheek before you make your way to the bathroom to brush your teeth. When you emerge, he’s pulled out a pair of PJ’s — A pair of your sleep shorts and one of his old t-shirts — and placed them on the end of the bed for you. You thank him, and it isn’t long before you’re snuggled up under the covers with him, slotted right up against his side with a leg thrown over his hips.

He’s about to drift off when you whisper, “Hey, Spence?”

He hums, rubbing at your arm so you know he’s really listening.

“Thank you.” 

He leans forward a little to kiss the top of your head before smiling drowsily, “‘Course, baby. S’what I’m here for.”

You squeeze his waist briefly, and in a few minutes, your breathing evens out, and he can sleep well knowing you’re finally getting the rest you deserve.

[lou-struck]

Just Be Loud

Kōtarō Bokuto x Reader

Prompt: Being Loud

~This prompt is a part of my Comfort Milestone Event which you can find on my Welcome page

Serious… Everything is too damn serious. All day long you have had to deal with people fretting about minor inconveniences.

You really want to help people, but when they treat you like you are their own personal sounding board. You end up absorbing more than your fair share of negative emotions.

Sometimes it doesn’t feel fair, people will just give you everything that ails them and walk away as if nothing has happened. 

It’s like you are an air mattress that is way too full to be comfortable. You just need a way to let out all the unnecessary air.

This is your train of thought as you open the door to your apartment. The familiar space makes you feel a bit better, but you wish that your boyfriend, Kōtarō Bokuto was home. He always knows how to make you smile. But he is on an away trip with the MSBY Black Jackals and won't be home for a few more days.

It’s a long shot, but you just wanna see his face. Taking out your phone you decide to video call him hoping that magically his strong arms will reach through the phone screen and hold you until everything is okay again.

You stare at your own reflection blankly as you hear the hollow ringing of the dial tone.

Maybe this isn’t the best idea

He probably can’t talk right now

Just as you bring your finger to the end call button. You see his face appear on the screen. His face breaks out into the biggest smile and you have to squint so you aren’t blinded by his cheerfulness.

“Baby!” He exclaims loudly “ I’m so happy you called me. We just got done going over game footage.”

“Hey Bo,” you say already feeling the effects of his smile. “ I miss you.”

“ I miss you so much,” he says the camera shakes as he walks you through the hallway of the hotel “ I wish you could’ve come with me this time.“

“Me too,” you say imagining how happy you would be falling asleep in his arms in the comfort of a luxury hotel room.

“Okay, we are… Back in my hotel room.” He says shutting the door behind him. The smile on his face falls and he peers at you through the screen.

“ is there something on my face? “You laugh. But the sound sounds hollow and unnatural, nothing like Kotaro’s easy laugh.

“You look upset baby.” He frowns. “Do you want to talk about it?”

“Is it that obvious?” you mumble turning your head away from the screen.

“I haven't told you this yet, but I have,” he looks around and lets out an exaggerated whisper “superpowers.”

“Oh really?” you sniffle 

“Well, no.”He looks around bashfully, “I just can tell you aren't feeling 100%”

He’s hundreds of miles away and he can tell, the concern makes your heart feel tight and your eyes turn glassy. “I guess, I’m not okay,” you confess.

“I’m all ears baby,” he says you see him dip down onto his hotel’s sofa to talk. You know in this moment you have his full attention.

“I just am feeling too much right now.” You start. “ I don’t like feeling other people's emotions because they don’t want to.“

As you talk, he nods along getting input when you need it. When you finish his eyes are just as glassy as yours.

“ I wish I was home right now. “He pouts “I’d be able to give you the biggest squeeze.”

“ I wish that too.” You say.

“But for now, I have an idea,” he says chipperly. “Wanna give it a try?”

“Sure,” you shrug “What is it?”

“You gotta be loud!” he declares confidently, that always helps me when I am feelin down.

“Loud?” you repeat “Like yelling.”

“Exactly,” he says smacking his hand down on the couch cushion animatedly. “Yell, I want to hear you from my hotel.”

“Kou, that’s impossible,” you sigh shaking your head.

“Come on, just try it,” he says.

“Okay,” you say clearing your throat. 

“I’m ready,” he says 

“Ahhhh,” you scream half-heartedly.

“Okay,” your boyfriend says from over the phone, “try that again but scream, you got to be loud.”

“Kou…”

“Just do it!” He encourages, “I’ll do it with you.”

“Okay, you nod, “on three.”

Three…

Two…

One…

“AHHHHHHHHHHHHHH��� The two of you scream in synch. 

As soon as the sound leaves your throat, your chest begins to feel lighter. You scream and tell your voice feels hoarse.

By the time you stop to catch your breath, both of you are panting.

“How…was…that.” You say between breaths 

“ I think… I think I heard you from here.” He pants looking at you with flushed cheeks. “ did it work?“

“I think so,” you hum trying to find any reminder of sadness left inside of you. “Yeah, I feel good.”

“That’s awesome!” he cheers springing to his feet.

The phone in his hotel room starts to ring and the both of you go silent as he answers it.

“Hello?” he says confusedly.

“Mr. Bokuto, please keep the volume down, you are disturbing the other guests.” the voice on the line says.

“Oh sorry,” he whispers over the line shooting an embarrassed look over at you on the screen, “We’ll keep it down.”

“We?” the line says as Bokuto hangs up the phone.

Unable to contain it any longer, the two of you burst out laughing. The weight on your chest has long since dissipated.

[astriasnothere]

How i lost you in fourteen days.

Tw: mentions of self harm, suicide, death, gruesome thoughts about pets (in day thirteen)

You have been warned.

On the first day, I'll wake up at 5 am like i always do. I'll brush my teeth with a small amount of toothpaste. I shouldn't waste after all. I will take a shower while my favourite song plays in the background. I will hum along to it as i wash my hair. I'll dress in my favoutite outfit. It was only my favourite because you gave me a bracelet for my birthday. I matched the rest of the outfit to the bracelet. I'll kiss my mom's cheek goodbye as i walk out the front door. Skipping along the path of the sidewalk untill i reach school. I see you at school all by yourself. Lost in thoughts like always.

On the second day, I'll come home from school. I'll greet my cat with pets and kisses before making my way to my room. Dropping down in my bed with a sigh. I wouldn't feel like doing my homework, so i wouldn't finish it even though it would be the proper thing to do. I'll open my phone and look at our texts. I will type out a 'Hey, how are you >:3' before erasing it. I would not want to annoy you by texting you too much so I'll close the messaging app and go on social media.

On the Third day, I'll miss my alarm. I had forgot to set it the previous night. I will hurriedly wake up, changing into some proper and appropriate clothes before grabbing my backpack and hurriedly running out of the house. I will forget my math textbook at home and be humiliated by my teacher for one, being late and two, forgetting my book. I'll feel a blush of embarrassment rising up to my cheeks. Being ridiculed infront of my classmates, infront of **you**. Everything was going wrong that day, yet i wont be upset. Because i will get to see you. You will be lost in your thoughts again. I will try to make small talk and tell you about something my cat did. You'll brush me off by humming and looking uninterested as ever. I will feel a frown making its way to my face as i cut my story short. Returning to my work.

On the Fourth day, i will see you wearing long sleeves. I'll ask you why you were wearing so since it was hot out. But, you'll brush me off with an 'I'm sick'. I will try to ask you about it but you'll just ignore me. I'll go home to wonder if you were getting bored of me. Of our friendship.

On the Fifth day, i will move along with my day. I'll text you, it will be weekend and we'll be at home. 'Heyyy ^W^ how are you doing?' You'll leave me on read as I'll feel my eyes slightly burning. A single tear will roll down my face and onto the phone screen. So you were getting bored of me. I will quietly put my phone down and try to distract myself. I will talk to my dad about some math problem and happily smile when i finally understand it. I'll go to my grandma for help on my history homework and she will help me alongside telling me stories from her old days.

On the sixth day, i try to forget you. It was as if my brain was a mother, distracting my heart from the pain so i will stop throwing a tantrum. It will work, only for that day.

On the Seventh day, you will fall asleep in class. I will look at how you stared at the light above your head yet slightly to the left, wondering why you were staring at it with so much interest. I'll pout to myself, wishing you would look at me with such immersed eyes. I'll mentally slap myself for getting jealous of a light, realising how foolish and immature i was being. The teacher will call your name as you flinch awake. She will ask you a question as you look at her blankly. Clearly not knowing how to answer. She will scold you for falling asleep again and give you detention.

On the eighth day, i will contemplate dropping by your house. I will be going to my cousin's birthday party and your house would fall in the path there. I will have baked cookies. I will think of giving some of them to you with a warm smile before pausing to realise. Oh. How could i forget? You find me annoying. My smile will dissappear as i blankly look at the cookies. They don't look nearly as appetising as before. I will shake my head. Trying to shake the thoughts and feeling away. I will show up to my cousin's party. Wishing her and giving her to box of cookies. Smiling brightly and distracting myself with all the laughter and sweets.

On the ninth day, i will notice you not being at your desk. I will ask a classmate about you. They will will reply with a question, asking who you are. I will mumble a nevermind with a polite smile. Turning back to your empty desk. I will walk back home. Not skipping along like i usually do. I will notice how cracked and dull the concrete seems. There was mold in the cracks. I will stumble away upon seeing a centipede. They had always scared me. I will remember how you had made fun of me jokingly, saying how silly i seemed. I will smile as nostalgia creeps up on my pained heart. Nostalgia of when you still were amused with my presence. What had changed?

On the tenth day, My school will hold an assembly about mental health. Me and my friends sit together. I notice there being no spots left for you but, i will ignore it. You wouldn't want to sit with me anyway. I only half listen before realising you were acting as they were describing. Worry instantly fills my mind. I will wonder what happened. Did your parents divorce? Did a loved one die? Or is it just life? I will watch as your hand hovers over the anonymous flyers. Trying to decide wether to reach out for help or not. You will quickly retract your hand and walk away, not noticing my gaze. I will sigh, i was beyond worried. I wanted to help but you didn't want to talk to me. I just decide to walk the opposite way. Burying the worry deep inside my mind.

On the eleventh day, i will ignore your very existence. I will learn how to crochet to distract myself. I made a shark. It was pink.. because.. oh. I had made it pink because it was your favourite colour. It seems i didn't ignore you after all. I will feel pathetic. You wouldn't spare me a single glance yet i was like a homeless and helpess begger. Trying and trying to get some spare attention from you. How i had finally realised how much effect you have in my life.

On the Twelfth day, i will watch from afar as somebody close to you leaves. I'll feel pure rage bubbling up inside me. How could they? No, how dare they? How dare they get what **i** want. They had gotten your attention, you had pleaded with them to stay yet they left. Why wouldn't you give me that attention? I deserve it. I stood by your side the most. I was always there for you, so why will you ignore me yet, give them your undivided attention? It was unfair. I will scoff. Turning on my heel and walking away. I'll walk home. Skipping school that day. I was too furious to focus on some stupid lesson about photosynthesis anyway.

On the thirteenth day, i will lay in bed. I was supposed to go to some carnival with my friends but i said i wasn't feeling well. I will carress my pillow. Pulling in to my lap. I will pick it up and bring it to my face, screaming into it. I will wake up upset for no reason. I'll feel like breaking something. My cat will meow innocently. Looking up at me with his big beady eyes. In my maddened state though, i will not find it appealing as i usually would have. I'll instead felt a deep desire to pick up the cat and throw it against my wall. Before i could act on it though, i will come to my senses. I'll sigh loudly. Lying back down and wondering why i was having such thoughts. I had no reason to be feeling this way.

On the fourteenth day, I'll walk into class, grumpy and unamused. I will take a seat beside you as i always have and be startled when you suddenly talk to me. It will be as if all my displeasure had been washed away with the warmth in your voice. You were beautiful. Like how the sun would shine through rainclouds, filling the land with warmth and colours, you suddenly filled me with warmth. The classroom didn't feel as dull as it used to. I'll smile brightly, enjoying the sound of your voice. It sounded so gentle. So lovely.

I got a call from your mother. You had killed yourself. You were gone. I remember how my grip on my phone immediately loosened. It dropped to the floor at an angle. A thud and crack echoing throughout the room. I remember how i blankly stared at the wall. My thoughts were nonexistent. I was in a trance like state. When i did come back to reality, i immediately broke out in pained sobs. My father and mother had immediately came into my room. My mother knelt down besides me as i shook and sobbed on the floor. She asked me what happened. I screamed at her. I was angry, not at her but myself. I screamed about how i didn't notice. About how selfish i was, thinking of only how you grew tired of me. But in reality, you had grown tired of living. I was a mere part of living. You didn't hate me after all. Now, i got up from bed and brushed my teeth with an excess amount of toothpaste, then i dressed in clothes i never liked. I walked to school, gazing at the cracks in the sidewalk and the grass sprouting along the edges. Ants will scurry where concrete meets pavement, following their instinctive paths. There's so much there that i didn't notice the first time. I look at my hands. The usually bright bracelet was grey. You were my colour. You had taken the colour and warmth in my life alongside you. My happiness and desire to live was buried deep underground with your corpse. I noticed the cuts on your arms. Thats why you had been wearing long sleeves.

[raelle-writing]

IYHSTL chapter 32 snippet

Snippet below the cut! I hope you're all excited for the climax chapter, it's been a long time coming!!! I hope it lives up to everyone expectations :D

Vegas’ adrenaline was up. He’d roused the families, and now stood in the garage of the minor family home, overseeing his men arming themselves with a multitude of weapons that had been brought out of storage. He’d buckled a chest holster over his green silk shirt, and put a pistol into the holsters under each arm, as well as several spare clips tucked into the band, making sure he was more than fully prepared. He knew they’d be facing an onslaught when they arrived, but he was going to hang back and direct, and wait for Kinn’s word that his father was dealt with. 

Ice appeared, then, looking pale, striding over to arm herself as well, also wearing a chest holster. She picked up the requisite two guns as well, then also an assault rifle and clips for that, tucking it under one arm after she checked the barrel. Then she glanced up and met Vegas’ gaze and he knew, immediately, that something was wrong based on her expression. But they were surrounded by Gun’s men, all in Hawaiian print shirts, and couldn’t have a candid conversation here. It made anxiety pool in his stomach, because it had to be something big—why else would she look worried right before a fight? She was always calm and collected before missions. Sharp, emotionless, and deadly. For her to look worried…

His phone buzzed in his pockets, distracting him from that thought as it rang. He fished it out and saw his dad’s name, stomach dropping the way it always did. But then the knot loosened again because he remembered: This will be the last time.

He paced away to a private corner of the garage, Ice shadowing him and making sure no one else approached, then Vegas answered, pressing the phone to his ear. “Yes, father?”

“Status report.”

“We’re almost ready. Leaving within ten minutes.”

“Good. I have some added incentive for you.” Before Vegas could process those words, his phone buzzed once in his hand, startling him. “Look at what I just sent you.”

Vegas didn’t like the cool tone in his father’s voice and dread pooled in his stomach as he peeled the phone away from his ear, pulling up the text message from his father. His stomach dropped to his toes, going immediately numb as he took in the photo on his screen.

It was Pete, wrists tied together, squished into the backseat of a car, looking tense and scared, but relatively unharmed. Vegas forgot to breathe as he stared for a moment, brain refusing to register what he was seeing. 

Ice stepped closer, seeing his face, and looked at the screen too, sucking a breath in sharply between her teeth. That sound jarred him, and he glanced at her to find her looking pale, lips pressed into a hard line. 

Vegas swallowed, then lifted the phone back to his ear, numb. “Don’t—”

“Don’t bother finishing that sentence to beg,” replied Gun dismissively. “I’m simply hedging my bets. Bring Kinn to me, and your boyfriend will be allowed to live. Fail, and he dies. Am I clear?”

“Yes,” whispered Vegas, lips feeling numb, noticing he was trembling. Ice’s hand landed on his shoulder, squeezing, anchoring him.

“Good. Your little boyfriend will be fine. Once the head of the family is dealt with, you’ll be together.”

Vegas could barely breathe around the tightness in his chest. “Don’t hurt him.”

“That’s up to him. And you. Now, go.”

Gun hung up with a final-sounding click, and Vegas just stared blankly in front of him for a moment, phone still pressed to his ear, brain momentarily refusing to process the enormity of what had just happened. Ice’s fingers gradually tightened around his shoulder until it was painful and he looked at her, suddenly feeling his throat tight with fear and panic. Her expression was tight, too, and she nodded at him reassuringly, but it wasn’t much help now. There were no reassurances, because Gun had Pete. 

Vegas wanted to throw up, having to swallow convulsively a couple of times to keep himself from gagging. Once his stomach settled, he swallowed a few more times to keep his tears at bay, then let out a ragged breath and closed his eyes, focusing. 

Their plan was ruined. With Pete in the mix, Vegas couldn’t risk Kinn’s men coming here to kill Gun. He couldn’t risk his father’s plan going wrong. Because if Gun smelled even a hint of betrayal, he’d kill Pete without hesitating. Vegas knew that. And that again had his stomach roiling, but he had to shove it down.

It was done. He had to do what his father said. The partnership with Kinn no longer mattered.

Vegas felt a moment of crushing helplessness as he considered a future where Kinn was dead, his father was the head of the family, and Pete was his bargaining chip. It was a life of misery, but Vegas would choose it in a heartbeat if it meant that Pete would be alive and okay. Pete was his ultimate weakness. The thing he couldn’t lose.

He let it all settle, then steeled himself, opening his eyes to find Ice looking at him closely. “Speak to Chan,” he said, speaking quietly. Ice stepped closer, expression serious. “Find out where Kinn is going, and coordinate the route his team will try to take into the minor family home. Leave some guards here to cut them off.”

Ice’s expression flickered briefly, then she nodded. “And if Khun Gun asks?”

“Tell him we got insider information that his life was in danger.” Vegas spoke flatly. “We’ll come up with an explanation later.” The words hurt on the way out, the acknowledgement that this wouldn’t be over, as they’d both hoped it would be. It made Vegas want to throw up or cry again, but he shoved both reactions down. Nothing mattered except that Pete was safe. “When we arrive, you and I will cut off Kinn while the attack happens. Then we can bring him back here.”

Ice nodded. “It will be done.”

“Go.”

Ice looked at him and squeezed his shoulder one last time, comfortingly. “He’ll be okay.” Then she was gone, striding off and pulling out her phone, ducking out a side door to make the calls. Vegas leaned back against the wall for a moment, leaning his head there and letting out a steadying breath. 

He’ll be okay. He has to be.

That thought was the only thing that gave him enough strength to straighten up and stride back into the throng of men, barking orders at them. “Hurry up. We’re leaving in five minutes.”

[kira-hikaru]

Here it is! The full first chapter with an author's note and prologue (as well as some quotes). Hope you all enjoy this work from your Drowning Artist.

---

Note from the Author

I’m sitting here, blankly staring at the computer screen; I’m supposed to be working. I definitely have tasks needing to be done, but I couldn’t bring myself to do anything. I’m feeling a loss of passion, no drive for what I’m doing; especially with all of the changes happening in such rapid succession. As a kid, I never expected adulthood o be quite so dull. I’ve always longed for the extraordinary; delved into the fantastical worlds of the stories that I’ve read.

I’ve also felt a sense of longing at the conclusion of said stories. My heart would ache at the thought that I didn’t really know those characters and magical elements don’t exist in reality. Funnily enough, my passion has shifted to wanting to become a writer. A writer of these epic tales that really engage the reader and make them care for the characters as if they were their own friends.

Although I feel this desire, I’ve never found the courage to truly pursue it; until now that is. I don’t know if this will be a long adventure or a short walk. I really don’t even know what I’m going for genre-wise if I’m being honest. But, whatever it is, I hope you, dear reader,

Enjoy.

***

“Fantasy is hardly an escape from reality. It’s a way of understanding it.” – Lloyd Alexander

“The only impossible journey is the one you never begin.” – Tony Robbins

***

I, Eleanor “Nell” Monroe, have never been particularly special or have ever stood out in any way. So why, or how for that matter, any of these events ever happened is a total mystery to me; but they did. And I can’t say that I’m entirely disappointed with how everything panned out, but we’ll get into that later. Allow me to set the stage if you will.

Moving is never quite as easy as most movies make it out to be. But living in a town that has so many negative connections for you really takes its toll after a while; so I did it. I packed my things, settled everything with my prior living arrangements, and loaded up into my Jeep. I was leaving this boring “coastal” Texas city and heading to Forks, WA.

Now I know what you’re thinking. Really, I do. But don’t worry, we don’t have wolves falling for minutes old babies or anything like that. There may be some cliches that I am most definitely not proud of, but I believe at this point I’m past the point of caring.

I fell in love with someone who may not be entirely human, if human at all, and for some unexplainable reason, he fell in love with me.

***

I’d just finished a long day of unloading, and then organizing said boxes into the different rooms. Not to mention I have the organizational skills of a hurricane. After resting for a few minutes, I decided to take a walk around the new area. It was around 8pm, so I didn’t expect too many places to be open aside from the local bar or so.

To my surprise, there was a little coffee shop the was open nights only, and they were just opening for the evening. I decided to stop in, I felt in the mood for a nice Café Mocha. A small bell dinged as I opened the door to shop and a young man, maybe 24 years old, looked up.

“Pleasant evening, miss. Welcome in.” he said.

I was a bit taken aback; you don’t usually hear people talking like that anymore. “A pleasant evening to you as well, sir.” I smirked.

“I don’t recall ever seeing you before; I know most everyone in this town.” He mused.

“That might be because I’m new in town.” I replied, “Just moved in today, actually.”

“That might be it.” He smiled a dazzling smile, “Can I get you anything?”

I was definitely caught off guard. I wasn’t expecting to meet any quite so… handsome, especially not at an evening coffee shop. I realized I was sort of staring at him and fixed my face.

“Uh… Sorry, yes. I’ll have a Café Mocha, extra Mocha, please.”

“Certainly.” He replied, still smiling warmly, and off he went to make the sweet concoction.

I went to sit at a chair in the corner of the shop; it was a comfortable arm chair that looked out onto the street. Since it was after eight, the roads were fairly quiet. In the background, I heard the coffee machine hissing with steam and the shop started to fill with the sweet yet bold aroma of coffee. I wished I’d brought a book, this would be the perfect place to catch up on some reading with it being open so late.

I pulled out my phone and started going through different apps; Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, I scrolled through my email, even swiped through Tinder to see if I could find anyone (or a particular someone) locally. I swiped left on a few guys, swiped right on one or two, but no match, unsurprisingly. I was still new after all. My swiping was then interrupted.

“Miss? Your Café Mocha is ready.” He said.

I pushed myself out of the big chair and claimed a seat at the bar. Since there was no one else and I knew virtually nothing about this place, it couldn’t hurt to try and get to know someone else close to my age.

“Thank you.” I told him as I settled into the new spot and took a small sip. “It’s perfect!” I said, grinning at him.

He seemed to be staring at me like I was at him a few moments ago, but when I made eye contact, he nodded his head to me graciously.

“I’m pleased that it’s to your liking. I’m nothing if not an expert barista, if I may be allowed to brag.” He chuckled.

“With coffee this delectable, I’d definitely say you’ve earned the right to brag.” I complimented, “How long have you been doing this for…?” I searched for a name tag, but couldn’t spot one.

“Forgive me, many around here already know my name, and we don’t frequently get new faces. My name is Sebastian. May I ask yours?” he queried.

“I’m Nell, it’s nice to officially meet you, Sebastian.” I smiled.

“Nell..? Perchance, is it short for anything?” he asked.

I shifted in my seat slightly, I was really hoping he wouldn’t ask. It’s not that I didn’t like my name, but there are some negative associations with it for me.

“Forgive me, again. You don’t have to answer.” He said quickly, noticing my discomfort.

I studied his reaction for a moment, “No, it’s alright. Nell is short for Eleanor, but please, just call me Nell.”

He smiled gently again, “Nell it is. So, what brings you to our little town?”

“A fresh start!” I proclaimed with a wide smile and then took another drink. “I used to live in Texas, and don’t get me wrong, I love my home. But where I lived, there were plenty of unpleasant people who go out of their way to make you miserable for the pure hell of it. Bad enough that they try to convince others that your partner cheated on you with them, let alone when you can’t even drive down the road without someone being a straight di-“

I stopped myself; he was watching me and his vibrant green eyes lit up when I stopped talking.

“No, please continue!” he coaxed.

“Are you sure? I don’t want to bore you with the extremely dull details of my life.” I said, looking down at the cup.

This was the first time I really noticed his smile falter. His expression turned to one of… concern? Anger? Surely not.

“I refuse to believe a person such as yourself could have such a ‘dull’ backstory. I would certainly love to hear it sometime. You mentioned a partner… but also a fresh start. Did you come to Forks with someone?”

“No.” I shook my head slightly with a small smile, “It’s just me. I live a few blocks away, decided to take a walk around; get the lay of the land.”

“It’s getting fairly late though, will you be okay heading back? It’s fairly quiet around here, but you should still be careful.” He said, this time with an assuredly concerned look.

I did a mental check; normally I keep my protective gear in my bag, but because it was a short walk, I didn’t even think to bring it.

“I swear, I’m such an airhead at times.” I chuckled to myself, “But I think I can brave the walk home. I should be fine.”

“Famous last words.” He said light-heartedly, “Jokes aside, what kind of gentleman would I be if I didn’t offer the fair lady an escort home?”

“Oh, I couldn’t ask that of you! You have a shop to run, plus it’s really not that far.” I hastily said. It’s not that I didn’t want him to. In fact, I very much did want him to. But I didn’t want to inconvenience him.

“Nonsense. If it’s as close as you say, I can be back here in no time. I’d only be closed for a few minutes, and besides, it’s not exactly busy.” He said, gesturing to the empty shop chairs. “That is, unless you’re opposed? Far be it from me to coerce anyone into something they don’t want.”

“No, not opposed!” I said, my voice an octave higher than usual. I cleared my throat, “I’d be fine with an escort home from you. But I hope you don’t mind the walk.”

Sebastian smiled again, “Actually, I was going to ask if you wanted to ride in my car? We can walk if you’d like, though. Your choice.”

“Car?” I said with a confused look. I hadn’t seen one walking in, though I guess I didn’t account for behind the store parking. “Oh, well of course you have a car.”

“Ah, yes, it’s parked out back. Perks of owning the shop.” He laughed.

“Own? You own this shop?” I said, astonished.

He answered as he walked across the shop to the front doors to turn the sign to “closed” and locked up. “Yes, my… family has some wealth. I don’t like to flaunt it too much, but I adore coffee and refuse to buy anything but the best, so it comes in handy for inventory.”

“Emphasis on ‘too much’.” I grinned, “Do you always talk about your family’s wealth to the newcomers.” I teased as I hopped out of the seat and followed him through the back to his car. It was Mustang, that much I could tell, a Shelby at that.

“Ha! No, you appear to be a special case. Believe it or not, this is the most interesting conversation I’ve had with anyone in a while.” He said, unlocking the car’s doors.

“Well that’s not saying much.” I responded.

“Nonsense! I find you to be very interesting.” He stopped and looked almost like he was going to reprimand me.

“Or just new.” I said anyway, “That interest will more likely fade. I’m really not that interesting.”

He scowled slightly; I could tell that he really didn’t like me talking down on myself. We got into the car and I buckled up and gave him the address. He plugged it into his GPS and drove off. Music was softly playing from his radio speakers, I could make out the song that was playing, “Scrape” by Witchz.

I gazed out the window, almost straining to hear the music until he reached out to the radio and turned the volume up a little.

“Scrape me til I scream. Thoughts in silence. Paint me in your dreams. Use the light strokes, face me on your knees In the name of love.”

“TikTok got the better of me.” He chuckled softly.

“I can’t say I blame you; it’s a good song.” I replied, smiling. “You know, I can’t say what I was really expecting moving across the country, but I can say that I didn’t expect to meet someone so charming at my local coffee shop.”

“Well, I’m certainly glad to have made a good impression. Again, what sort of gentleman would I be?”

He smiled warmly at me quickly before looking back at the road. We were almost back to my new home and I had a longing feeling to stay in his company for just a little longer. He felt… safe.

The mustang slowed to a stop outside of my quaint house. My fingers brushed the door handle to open the door, but then I looked back at him. His eyes were intensely locked on mine and it felt as though we had shared a lifetime in that moment. Even now, I struggle to find the correct words to describe it. What felt like forever was really only a minute or two, but once I had collected my thoughts, I brought myself to ask the question I’d been dying to ask since I had met him.

“D-do you think I could have your number? Just because… well, I don’t exactly know anyone around here except you now and I figure… well… you seem like the good type you’d want to keep around.”

There a slight twinge of pain in his eyes. I had wondered from what, but it was gone as quickly had it had came.

He laughed softly, “Of course you can. It would do you good to have connection to someone in the know.” He extended his hand as a gesture for me to hand him my phone and I followed suit.

He swiftly enter his number into my contacts, complete with his full name. When he was done, I placed my hand out for my phone back. Instead of doing that though, he gently grasped my hand and pulled it toward him a little and then leaned in the rest of the distance to place a surprisingly cool kiss on the skin just above my knuckles.

A silent oh formed on my lips as I felt a fire creep across my cheeks. He locked his emerald hues onto mine again with the most enrapturing look on his face as he spoke,

“It was truly a pleasure to have had the opportunity to meet you this evening, Nell. I do hope that we have another chance to get to know each other more soon.”

He carefully handed my phone back to me and then exited the car. I was still flustered at the quick series of events that just happened that I jolted in my seat when he tapped on my window and then opened my door, his hand extended to help me out.

I laughed to myself a little as I accepted his help, “You certainly know how to make a woman feel like a lady, don’t you?”

To this, he gave me a devilish smirk and answered, “A lady should always be treated as such.”

I was at a loss for words now. He laid the flattery on thick, and I kind of really liked it. I gave him a grateful smile as my face was, I’m sure, beet red.

“Thank you for the ride home.” I said, almost in a whisper.

“Should you ever need another, or anything else for that matter, I’m just a call or text away.” he said, as he reclaimed his hand as his own started back towards his door.

I followed his lead and headed back to my house, but I didn’t notice his car leave until I had closed the door behind me.

So let me get this straight, he’s handsome, charming, and a gentleman to boot. He’s also well versed in flattery. He’s totally my type, Webut he’s almost… too perfect.

I pulled my phone back out of my pocket where I’d slipped it after he handed it back. I would be lying if I said I wasn’t immediately searching for his contact he’d input. My phone listed contacts alphabetically by first name, so straight down to the “s” section I scrolled.

Sebastian Silverchase

An attractive name for an attractive guy; it’s fitting, I suppose. Now the question of messaging him nagged in my brain. If I texted him right away, I’d come off as desperate. That is to say, not that I wasn’t desperate to get to know him more, but I didn’t want to come off as crazy or anything. Besides, he did say he would be heading back to the coffee shop I was sure. Maybe just a quick “hello” so that he could save my number and let it go from there.

I began to type but I had a nagging feeling; he was a complete stranger. I just willing accepted a ride to my house from a complete stranger. Sure, we exchanged pleasantries, and he seemed a decent enough guy, but I didn’t know this man from Adam and I straight got in his car and gave him a guide to my house from where he works. Crush or not, I’m not normally that brazen to just throw caution to the wind.

I deleted the few letters I’d typed and set my phone down on the kitchen counter, looking at my fridge. My stomach growled and I put my hand over it. “Brilliant, Nell. Get coffee, but no food.” I opened the fridge door and glanced over the barely stocked shelves. I had the basics, deli turkey from H-E-B (how I’d miss it so) and some Kraft American singles plus a loaf of bread, but I wasn’t really in the mood for a sandwich.

I closed the door and walked over to my recliner (technically, my dad’s, but he gave it to me); thankfully, the delivery guys got it here shortly after I got here. I let out a long sigh thinking of what to eat. There had to be a pizza place nearby, right? I groaned and got back up, the only way I’d find out is by checking my phone.

When I unlocked it, it was still on Sebastian’s contact. I thought about it for a second and figured if he’d really meant to do anything, he most likely would have. I tapped the text icon and typed out a message.

“Hey, it’s Nell :) random question, but could you suggest a good pizza place around here?”

I hit send and collapsed back into my chair, phone in hand searching Google while waiting for a response. There was a place called Pacific Pizza, but Google said they closed at 9, and was already 8:45. I didn’t want to be that person. I scrolled but was only met with one other option being Home Slice Take and Bake that closed at 8pm. I set my phone on my stomach and let out an exasperated sigh. Just then, my phone buzzed. It was Sebastian.

“Hello, Nell :) I’m not usually one for pizza, myself, but I’ve heard mention of Pacific Pizza being good. They’ll be closing soon though. You could always venture the hour to Port Angeles, I believe there’s a Pizza Hut, but it’s fairly late.”

Port Angeles? In all honesty, I probably could, but why waste an hour’s worth of gas just for pizza. Plus, he had a point, it was pretty late. I replied back to him.

“Ah, maybe another time then. I hope the Pizza Gods don’t smite me for this, but I don’t think risking my life for pizza is worth it, haha. Thanks though!”

I supposed sandwiches for the night would do. I pushed myself up and walked back over to the fridge when my phone buzzed again.

“Anytime. Can I ask, what’s your favorite pizza?”

I smiled and typed a quick response.

“I’m a classic kind of gal. Pepperoni with extra cheese.”

I sent the text and set my phone back down on the counter, opening the fridge door to gather the sandwich makings. I grabbed the package of turkey and a slice of cheese, also setting them on the counter to wait while I went to the pantry to grab the bread.

I came back to the ingredients and began putting it together, grabbing a couple of slices of bread from the bag and placing them on a paper towel. I would need to go to the store the next day, buy some basics, like paper plates and such.

I finished making the sandwich (and I use that term loosely, as it was just bread, cheese, and meat) and was about to take a bite as my phone buzzed again, Sebastian’s name popping up.

“Delivery :)”

I stared at my phone quizzically for a second until I heard I knock at the front door. I was admittedly startled, but I went to check the peephole. I had to stand on tiptoes to reach it, but when I looked, no one was there.

I opened the door and found a Pacific Pizza box. I brought it in, albeit cautiously, and set it down in the kitchen. I opened it up and saw a pepperoni pizza with extra cheese. I grabbed my phone and immediately started typing.

“Was this you?? How did you get it here so fast??”

There was no way it couldn’t have been him. It was way too coincidental if not. I decided to grab a slice and take a bite, and it was delicious! My phone buzzed once again.

“I hope you don’t mind. It seemed like you really wanted one. My expedited delivery times are my secrets, that may, or may not, be divulged in time.”

I narrowed my eyes reading his second sentence, but honestly, the pizza was so good that I’d completely let it go.

“Thank you! That was very kind to do, though I hope they weren’t too annoyed with you with it being so late.”

I tried to not think too much about it, but who just goes and gets food for someone they just met? This felt like a best friend conversation to me; Rayne could definitely talk some sense into this situation.

I ate another slice of pizza and my phone buzzed once again.

“Nonsense, I know them. They didn’t mind. I hope you enjoy.”

I smiled softly at the text, but then backed out of his thread and found Rayne’s, whose wasn’t much further down and sent her a message.

“Hey Rayne, I’m settled in a bit here, but when are you good for a call? I… met a guy here but I’m needing some advice.”

I went off to my room to change into some more comfortable clothes while I waited for her response, which didn’t take too long. As I pulled my sleep shirt on, I picked my phone back up and I saw her message.

“GIRL!!! NOT EVEN 24 HOURS AND YOU’RE MESSAGING ME ABOUT A GUY?! GIVE ME, LIKE, 10 MINUTES AND THEN YOU ARE SPILLING THIS TEA!!”

I chuckled at her text, I was definitely getting an earful when we talked. She’s always getting onto me about crushing too hard too soon, but I couldn’t help it. I’ve been told since I was young that I care and love too deeply for my own good. That’s why it was great when Rayne came into my life, she balanced me out and helped me somewhat find my worth.

I settled into my bed and scrolled through TikTok while I waited for her call. I mindlessly watched videos until the audio for one cut out and my phone started buzzing, then Rayne’s name popped up on the top of my screen waiting for me to answer.

“Hello?” I said, bracing for her intensity.

“ELEANOR LYNN MONROE!” she practically shouted, “Why is it that I can’t leave you alone for a second without you talking to me about a guy?? Didn’t you just leave Mi-“

I cut her off before she could even finish the name, “Hey! I don’t bring up she-who-must-not-be-named, you don’t talk about him. As far as we’re concerned, he didn’t even exist.” I wasn’t ready to discuss him, even with her. She knew I left, both him and Texas, but I hadn’t divulged all the details yet.

“Alright, alright, Ms. Bossy. Well then, tell me, what’s this new fascination’s name?” she asked, switching quickly back to the topic at hand, she knew I wouldn’t talk until I was ready.

“Sebastian.” I said, a smile uncontrollably forming on my lips as I did, “His name is Sebastian Silverchase.”

[freakylilnutjob]

First Kiss - Lister’s POV

I love this book so much and kept thinking about how Lister felt during this part, so I wrote what I think might have happened.

I changed the ending ever so slightly. But it’s short and bittersweet! Please like and reblog if you enjoy it 🧡

“You’re an alcoholic,” He says to me.

I snort at the comment because it’s actually comical, “I know, right?”

I move back so I can look at Jimmy properly. He is so beautiful with his soft features and big brown eyes. I suddenly feel hot, probably just the alcohol.

“Hey…” I start to speak but I don’t know why. I reach my hand up and run my fingers along the edge of his jumper. My body is moving in slow motion but my mind is going ninety miles an hour.

“Do you want to…” and as if I have no control over my body, I lean in and kiss him, not even finishing the question I didn’t know I was asking. I wrap my hands around his waist and pull him close to me. I swear for a second he almost kisses me back, but then he pulls away.

“Don’t, don’t do that,” he’s clearly startled, eyes wide with panic.

“Oh…” I freeze, not speaking for what feels like minutes. The sudden realization of what I’ve done sobers me, “Oh God, I’m sorry. I’m so sorry.”

I pull him into a hug. Not a romantic hug but the kind of hug you give when you’ve fucked up so bad that you don’t know what to say, so you hug them and hope they can feel your apology.

“I’m so sorry,” I say, still holding him, the look of panic on his face permanently in my mind. “I… that’s not…” what am I even saying? I take a deep breath as subtly as I can before I finally say, “I didn’t want to do it like that.” And there it is, finally out there.

Jimmy’s body is tense and his voice barely loud enough for me to hear, “Do… do what?”

“Tell you,” I say as I stare blankly at the bathroom tile. We’re both quiet for a couple of moments before I break the silence. “You don’t have to…” I can feel my voice catch, “like me back.” My words come out with a shudder, I’m not sure if I want to laugh or if I want to cry. Everything is replaying in my head at four times speed. I fucked up. “But please don’t hate me,” I say, my voice still wavering.

“I- I don’t hate you,” he stutters. I believe him but I also don’t think he particularly wants me to be near him anymore. Not right now.

I finally release him from my embrace, no longer trapping him between myself and the sinks. I immediately turn away from him so I don’t see whatever emotion he’s expressing on his face. I think if I did, I’d have a proper mental breakdown in this O2 bathroom. I already traumatized him enough, kissing him without asking. I don’t want to put him through having to see me have a breakdown about it as well.

I walk towards the door, and speak in my forced enthusiasm voice, as if I’m speaking to an interviewer, “Only one more show! Then we can rest in peace!” I walk out the door and I don’t stop until I find a door that leads outside.

I see the red exit sign and push the door open, practically running through it. Once I’m finally outside I take a deep breath, not at all subtle this time. I grab my face in my hands and let out a frustrated groan, running my hands through my hair. I reach into my back pockets, cell phone in one and a pack of cigarettes and a lighter in the other, stumbling backwards until my back hits a wall. It’s concrete, I straighten my back and then slide against it, lowering myself to the ground. My shirt catches against the concrete, snagging the fabric and riding up my back just enough that it scratches my skin. I look at my phones lock screen, meaning to check the time but not really paying attention, and then place it face down on the ground next to me.

I stare at the lighter in my hand for a moment before retrieving a cigarette and lighting it. Once it’s lit, I rest my head against the wall and close my eyes. As I take the first drag I let my fingers slowly run across my lips, thinking about what I just did. The look on Jimmy’s face when he pulled away burned into the backs of my eyelids. “Don’t, don’t do that,” on a loop in my head.

My phone buzzes a few minutes later, pulling my mind away from it’s newfound torture. I put out what little is left of the cigarette and look at my phone.

Cecily: Where are you??! You better be here in the next 30 seconds.

I stand up and put my phone, cigarettes, and lighter in my back pockets. I reach and pull on the door handle.

“You’re fucking joking,” I say with a hysterical laugh in an attempt to keep myself together. I get my phone out of my back pocket and reply to Cecily.

Lister: Went for a smoke and got locked outside… somewhere between the green room and the bathroom

The read receipts are there immediately, no dots to indicate that she’s typing.

“Shit,” I mumble to myself as I lean against the wall closest to the door but immediately stand back up as the door opens. Cecily is standing there with a shirt and toothbrush in hand.

Cecily gives me a quick look over, “Christ, you smell of alcohol and smoke.” She throws a shirt and toothbrush at me. I feel bad that she knew well enough to bring that to my rescue mission.

She lets go of the door and turns too walk back inside towards the green room. I barely catch the handle before it locks on me, again.

As soon as the door latches shut she turns around to face me, walking backwards as she speaks, “Get in that bathroom, change, and brush your teeth, before The Ark goes from a trio to a duo.” She turns again and leaves me standing in the corridor.

I don’t even attempt to reply to her. I jog to the bathroom, switching shirts and brushing my teeth as quick as possible. I look in the mirror and lightly slap myself on the cheek before jogging back to the green room.

I toss the smoke and alcohol scented shirt to the floor and make my way towards Cecily, Rowan, and Jimmy. I put on my best performance, making sure no one can detect that I am one touch or look from Jimmy away from going into crisis.

“Since we’re all here now…” Cecily starts going through the procedure for the meet and greet.

I see Rowan glance at me through my peripherals, then to Jimmy, then back to Cecily. I make sure to keep my eyes on Cecily he entire time. Jimmy definitely did’t tell Rowan what I did. If he had I’d probably be pinned against a wall, getting called a selfish ass. Thing is, he’d be right, I wouldn’t even try to deny it.

Someone’s shaking my shoulder, “Got it Lister?” Cecily is looking at me with her ‘did you seriously not hear a single thing I just said?’ look. Fuck. I didn’t even realize I had spaced out. I nod and Cecily rolls her eyes before turning around and opening the door, causing a roar of screams to erupt.

I feel Jimmy’s eyes on me. I glance to my left and sure enough, he’s looking at me. His expression kind of worrisome, but only enough for me to detect and not anyone else. I look away just as quick before I move to the doorway. The screams intensify and I continue with my performance, no one suspects a thing.

[judeswhore]

I know you're not taking requests and I understand completely but am I okay on maybe just a suggestion for when they're open..?? Mase recording you reacting to all too well? Just laughing etc? I'm so sorry if Ive upset or offended you by asking this

i only have a few reqs left now bestie so thank u for this, it’s short and not really how i wanted it to go but i wasn’t sure how to write it, i hope it’s okay for u

fuck jake gyllenhaal - mason mount

“Hey, baby, do you know where- umph.” A pillow to the face had Mason stopping mid sentence, eyebrows drawing together in confusion at the fact he’d been whacked in the face before fully entering the bedroom.

“Shut up.” You were on the bed, duvet wrapped around you as you sat back against the headboard, your gaze locked on the TV opposite. Mason frowned even more at your tone, turning his head to see what you were watching but it was just a countdown screen.

“What are you doing?”

“All Too Well short film.” You weren’t even using full sentences, your eyes not even turning to your boyfriend even as he bounced down onto the end of the bed. “Mason, you better be quiet and not move while it’s on or you will be sleeping on the sofa.”

“Jesus, woman, is it really that important?”

“Yes it is. First of all, ten minute version which is a literal masterpiece and second of all, Dylan and Sadie.” Mason just stared blankly at you, his head propped up on his hand as he turned back to the screen which was about to start playing the video.

“You gonna cry like you did listening to the album?”

“I might. Who’re you to judge? Now be quiet.” He huffed and laid his head down on one of the throw pillows, pulling his phone out from the pocket of his joggers, grin forming on his face at the first little noise you let out. He peaked back at you to see that you had your chin resting against your bent knees and his heart gave a funny thump at how adorable you were.

It wasn’t until the scene with Sadie waiting celebrating her birthday that you spoke after screaming the lyrics, Mason’s phone turned towards you so he could record your reaction.

“Y’know what, fuck Jake Gyllenhaal. What an arsehole, why the fuck would he ruin her 21st like that. God, if I could punch him.” You were glaring at the TV, tears gathering in your eyes and Mason was sure he’d never seen you this worked up before. He kept the camera on you for the rest of the film, your emotions switching from anger to sadness, your cheeks flushed pink as you wiped beneath your eyes.

You weren’t even singing, you were shouting the lyrics and Mason was trying to smother his laughter in the pillow so you couldn’t hear him, his own eyes watering with the effort. He let you sit in silence for a few moments when it finished, watching you through his camera, biting into his cheek to keep his giggles at bay.

“Jake and his punchable face, I hope he cries himself to sleep every night and uses the scarf to wipe his tears.” Mason snorted, zooming in on your face to truly capture your face.

“I take it we hate Jake in this house?”

“Yeah we fucking do. Did you see the way he treated her? The scene where he dropped her hand while he was around everyone? Wanker, Mason.” You shook your head and reached for the remote, clicking replay as Mason ended his recording.

“What are you doing?”

“Watching it again. I need to experience the pain again.” He cocked his head slightly and then thumped you playfully with the pillow.

“Pretend that was me breaking your heart so you can experience it properly.” He rolled off the bed, throwing the pillow at your head as you huffed and glared at him.

“Where you going?”

“To play COD, imagine I just walked out and told you we’re over.” He flashed you a smile. “Text me when you love me again.”

[silversatoru]

Hi love! ❤️

Mkay so like.... Suguru walks in and finds out his gf has a cam acc- and just like straight up ruins her online

This has been on my mind all day but idfk how to write it

a/n: AHAH hey babe!!! this concept is 😌👌 so i hope i did you proud w this. also if ur really into the whole getting-ruined-online concept and you fuck w dabi may i recommended @katslutski ‘s smile for the camera series; it is one of my favs

getou suguru x f!reader

tags/warnings: masturbation, degradation, humiliation, dumbification, filming, facial, mild bondage, mild overstimulation

w/c: 1.4k

you rubbed your clit in rushed circles, projecting a cluster of fake high-pitched moans and arching your back for the camera. it really didn’t feel that great, but you were damn good at pretending it did — and the cash was flowing in as a result. 

you could see the notifications of donations and new patrons popping up on the side of your screen and you let a soft sigh of satisfaction leave your lips. these fuckers were so horny that they’d send you stacks of their income just to see you fondle your cunt — pigs.

between the blood rushing to your ears from your approaching orgasm and the soft music playing through you room you didn’t even notice the sound of your front door opening. you were completely unaware of your boyfriend’s presence in your home until he was standing in your bedroom doorway — a confused but amused expression across his face. 

“am i interrupting something?” he cocked an eyebrow at you. 

“suguru! i thought you were busy today, i-” you scrambled to explain yourself and grab a sheet from your bed to pull over your exposed body. 

“plans changed,” he shrugged and cut you off, entering your bedroom, “maybe you should start locking your front door when you’re doing shit like this”. 

you stared at him with horrified eyes, worried that he might break up with you for this kind of thing — he didn’t seem mad but he definitely wasn’t happy either. you quickly lunged for your laptop/camera set-up, attempting to end your livestream, but suguru moved quicker. he grasped your wrist in his strong fingers and looked at you with a mischievous twinkle in his eyes. 

“leave it on, doll,” he purred at you, releasing your wrist and pushing you back towards the bed, “go ahead and finish the show for them”. 

completely stunned, you fell back onto your elbows and gave him a hesitant look. it’s not like you were embarrassed or anything— shit, you did this like every day, but you were severely confused by his reaction.

he nodded at the computer screen with hazy eyes, “they’re waiting. why are you so shy all of the sudden? you should be used to having an audience”. 

after a final moment of hesitation you leaned back, fingers returning down to your clit to resume where you’d left off. it was a little more awkward with suguru watching, but the way he was ordering you around was kind of hot, so your stiffness quickly faded.

and you knew your body well, what worked and what didn’t, so it was only a matter of minutes before you were rocking your hips into your hand and letting exaggerated whimpers slide between your teeth. the orgasm was mediocre at best, but you had to dress it up and wrap it in a bow for your precious patrons.

at some point during your little show suguru had rid himself of his clothing and was now climbing into the messy sheets with you. 

“let me see your hands,” he stated blankly, his fingers gripped around the belt that had been looped through his pants just a few minutes ago. 

“this is live you know,” you gave him a concerned look — you were confused but not opposed, holding your hands out behind your back.

“oh, i know,” he took care in gently wrapping your wrists together as tight as the belt would go and then helped you onto you knees.

the duskiness of his eyes filled you with a splendid mix of fear and excitement, but before you could even get a good look you were being shoved into the bed.

“put your face in the pillows, doll,” he ordered lazily as you faceplanted into one of the several pillows at the head of your bed.

his strong hands were quickly gripped around your hips, the tip of his rock-hard member brushing teasingly against your entrance. you were already practically dripping, the sticky liquids from your earlier orgasm still glistening around your edges. it made his access easy, his aching cock sliding with little effort.

“let’s show all of your fans how much of a dumb cock-whore you become when i’m inside you,” he thrusted using hard, firm strokes right from the start.

and of course he was absolutely right — you lost any inkling of a coherent thought once you were stuffed full with his length. you moaned, whimpered, and squirmed underneath him like the pathetic little cam girl you were. but with suguru, none of your performance was a façade — he truly knew how to make you melt under his touch. and melted and useless was exactly how he liked you, so he had every intention of fucking you dumb in front of your audience today.

and that’s exactly what he did. it was his own foul way of punishing you; turning you into a drooling cum-slut who had completely forgotten she was being broadcasted live. if you wanted to be a whore for a living, he’d show everyone just how much of a whore you were — but only for him. 

you’re not even sure how long it’s been — all you know is that you’re orgasming for the fourth time; or was it the fifth? sixth? you’d lost count somewhere along the way.

dull waves of pleasure racked through your body and sent quivers under your skin. you whined and wriggled, murmuring incoherent babbles as you rocked your hips back and forth on his cock to milk the most out of your climax.

“that’s five times, baby,” suguru’s voice sounded miles away, “my dick feels good inside you, doesn’t it?”

you thrashed your head up and down against the pillow, mumbling the word yes over and over as your body twitched from overstimulation. glistening mixtures of fluids were squelching out as he continued thrusting into your cunt, some dripping all the way down your legs.

and he didn’t let you take any breaks — nonstop fucking you even while your pussy was throbbing with sensitivity. the overstimulation was excruciating, and you were a complete mess of trembles and whimpers.

“so pitiful,” you heard a dark laugh rumble from his throat, “there’s thousands and thousands of people watching you be my disgusting little fuck-toy right now, and you’re just gonna keep taking it, aren’t you?”

you weren’t even sure what he was saying, honestly. your brain had short circuited a while ago, and you were just absent mindedly nodding your head and mumbling agreements to everything he said. the pillowcase beneath your head was nearly soaked in saliva now too, your feeble mouth hanging open while drool continued to seep from the corners of your lips. 

“i think i want you to finish me with your mouth, doll, how does that sound?” he slowed his pace, pushing lazy thrusts into your hips while you mindlessly nodded your head again. 

“pathetic little baby; you have no idea what i’m even saying to you right now, do you?” you heard suguru laughing from behind you; but all you could manage in response was a few scattered whimpers. 

he abruptly unsheathed himself from inside you, and strangled whines escaped your throat at his sudden absence. no! more, please, please, suguru please, you murmured with an embarrassing lack of control and your boyfriend couldn’t do anything but laugh at you in your shameful state.

“turn around and open those pretty lips,” he reached down and helped you to flip over before straddling your chest and pressing his hot, sticky member against your lips. 

you opened them graciously, too braindead to even notice the bitter taste of his precum mixed with your own fluids. he mouth-fucked you with obscene force, the walls of your throat painfully expanding every time he thrusted in. you choked and sputtered, drool leaking down your lips and all over your chin. 

when suguru’s own orgasm was right on the cusp he removed himself from your mouth and sprayed his seed all over your face. from your forehead to your chest you were coated in sticky globs of semen, and you sucked down the drips that made it into your mouth like they were liquid gold. 

“lets see how many of your precious viewers come back after this — now that they saw you disintegrate into the helpless little cum slut that you are, now that they know you’re mine”. 

[thesolferino]

True Calling

⤷ dream x f!reader.

⤷ word count: 3.9k

⤷ requested: yes, by this lovely anon!

— summary: dream meets his favorite singer on an among us livestream.

“Dude, what could go wrong? Just do it.”

“What could go wrong?! Literally so many things, you ass.” 

Dream heard Sapnap sigh through the mic right into his headphones, the dim grey of his Discord background doing barely anything to illuminate his features as he stared at his open messages blankly.

“First of all, don’t.. speak to me like that, I am doing you a favour by sitting here and listening to you panic about stupid shit. Second of all, nothing big could go wrong. What, you’re a little awkward in the beginning, maybe, and that’s it.” Dream adjusted his headphones a little bit, Sapnap’s rant flowing into his ears but dissipating somewhere halfway to his brain, because, yes, things could go wrong and he can’t be proven otherwise.

“Did you forget that I’m a public figure? And that my fans are insane? I say one wrong thing and it’ll be memed and haunt me in my dreams. Did you forget that SHE’s a public figure? And that this is live? God…” he retorts back, listening to Sapnap helplessly sigh once again in response. He anxiously switches from his Discord to Twitter, then to YouTube, to Twitch and then back to Discord, frantically clicking around. In reality, he knows Sapnap is right, and it’s anxiety whispering into his ear that he’s gonna somehow fuck up, but maybe it’s simply easier to stay and argue with him into the night instead of actually responding to that message.

The stream is still going. Quackity’s voice speaks over Sapnap’s quiet breathing. “Damn, he’s still not responding. Um, let me try Tubbo, maybe?” 

Before he knows it, the opportunity to join the stream is slipping out of his fingers, and Dream isn’t sure if he’s happy about that or not. On one hand, he gets to meet one of his favorite artists whose album he’s played way too many times to count, and on the other, the chances of him embarrassing himself in front of that same artist and a hundred thousand other people are extremely high, and he’s not sure if he likes the odds of that.

“Man, I don’t know. You won’t listen to me, anyway. Don’t join if you don’t want to.” Dream hears the annoyed tinge in Sapnap’s voice, and that’s what pours the last bit of courage into his veins because the best way to do anything in life is to follow Sapnap’s advice after you’ve already irritated him to the point of defeat, and he murmurs a quick “bye” and hangs up before the other can even respond, typing a rapid “Sure, send me the VC link” back to Quackity. 

He hears a delighted exhale coming from his Twitch tab just as Quackity forwards him the link. “Okay, nevermind, we’ve got Dream! He’ll join in a second.” 

With that, he swiftly closes the Twitch tab and with an encouraging sip of water, he finally joins the Discord voice chat with the rest of the players. Your Discord image sticks out like a sore thumb to him despite being a super basic, Googleable picture of you that he’s probably seen a million times by now, and upon seeing it, reality slaps him right over the face and he realises that, oh shit, he actually joined.

“Hey everyone.” Dream speaks into the mic and a mix of excited voices greets him at the same time as he loads up the game. Your icon is missing the green halo. He stares at it, as if you’ll magically speak up if he stares long and hard enough. That, apparently, works.

Pokimane’s “Dream, hi!” seems to set something off in your brain, and you speak again.

“Oh, Dream?” the green halo appears, and Dream resists the urge to say something stupid or bite his hand or anything of the sort when you say his name. “Aren’t you the guy who listens to my music all the time?” you giggle.

Quackity laughs loudly in his usual fashion, and Dream feels his hands go cold as the Among Us loading page pops up. “Wh-huh?” 

“Yeah, you-you listen to my music a lot! Your fans always tag me under that… ‘Dream’s Spotify’ Twitter account, I remember you.” Dream swears his heart is about to jump out of his chest and start bouncing around on the floor because his ribs are way too restrictive for that type of movement, but he tries his best to play it cool and laughs lightheartedly.

“I do! I’m, like, your biggest fan.” he grins, as if you can see him, and you laugh in return.

“Yeah, man, you pay my rent. Thanks.” you say and a couple of people laugh while Dream inputs the code and his character finally pops up, immediately running around like the rest of the group. He runs around your purple character and hears you chuckle as you run around him too, but not for long, because the game starts and everyone mutes themselves. He audibly sighs, because he can afford to, considering he’s not streaming and nobody can hear the amount of courage this whole thing is taking him. 

A notification pops up on his screen - the Dream Team group chat seems to be talking. Must’ve already found some way to make fun of me, he thinks to himself as he huffs out a large breath and runs through cafeteria and weapons to do his tasks in navigation. Corpse is hot on his tail the whole time, and not to say he’s an untrustworthy guy, but Dream isn’t really looking forward to getting killed before even speaking to you properly, so he runs around, trying to find somebody to stick with so Corpse doesn’t shove a knife in his back while he’s doing a task. 

Thankfully, Karl emerges somewhere from the direction of storage right into communications where Dream was going, too. Just as Dream starts finishing download and Corpse and Karl line up behind him, his screen flashes bright red and white and the bold letters “Dead body reported” pop up. Everyone unmutes themselves and his eyes bore into your character, immediately.

“Alright, the body was in top left of the… uh, upper engine. I need everyone’s positions.” Rae immediately spoke.

“I was in electrical, I-I went through cafeteria to the upper engine with Poki, there was nobody there, we did our tasks, went down to lower engine, then Poki left with Toast, and I went to electrical and the body was reported.” Sykkuno said, and Pokimane confirmed with a hum of agreement.

“Dream?” Rae asked, and he spoke up.

“I never even went that way, I went through weapons to nav, and then to communications, and then the body was found. Corpse can vouch for me because he was following me the entire time and I kinda thought he was gonna kill me. And Karl saw me in communications, us three were all together when you… reported the body.” He rambled, trying to defend himself.

“Yeah, it’s true, he was with me the whole time.” Corpse supported.

“Karl, which way did you get to communications?” Toast asked.

“Uh, through storage.” Karl replied quickly.

“That’s funny, ‘cause I was in security, and I could swear I saw you walk past.” Toast said, and a couple of “ooh”s echo through the call.

“That makes no sense because even if I did go that way, I wouldn’t have time to get to communications and start doing my task with Dream and Corpse if I killed Ethan! And Rae, you-you saw me do my task in storage!” Karl loudly defended himself.

“...that… that’s true, yeah.” she said.

“If you ask me, Toast, you’re being real sus for lying about that.” Karl threw it back at Toast, who protested.

“Listen, I didn’t say you killed anybody, I just said I saw someone run past!” he claimed.

“Bretman and Y/N are being real quiet, though.” Corpse points out, and the green halo around your icon lights up once again.

“Oh shit, I didn’t realise I was muted. Sorry, guys.” you laughed. “Um, I was with… Quackity, in… what’s that shit on the right called?”

“O2.” Quackity quickly jumped in.

“Right, O2. I went to… top left, first, and I did my tasks there, and then to weapons and then to O2, and then the body was reported.”

“You were in top left?” Rae repeated.

“Yeah.”

“And was there anyone with you?”

“Um… no? I was alone, and then I saw Quackity in top right, and then we went to, uh, O2 together.” you said and Corpse sighed loudly.

“That means she could’ve had the time to kill Ethan and run.” Toast points out.

“Hey! I didn’t kill anyone! I don’t even know how this game works…” you whined into the mic and Quackity laughed.

“Yeah, I dunno Y/N, you were dancing real suspiciously around me…” he said, causing you to defend yourself louder.

“Why would I kill anyone?! I don’t even know how to do that, I’m a nice person!”

“I don’t think she did it, guys.” Dream pipes up, tugging at the wire of his headphones absentmindedly.

“Shut up, you simp.” Quackity fires back instantly, making everyone in the call laugh, including Dream.

“Damn right, I’m a Y/N simp. She can do no wrong. I mean, look at that innocent face! She did nothing, I’m-I’m sure.” He argued, making you cover your mouth and giggle.

“Their face is literally the same as everyone’s! We’re all astronauts!” Rae protested, but Dream kept shaking his head.

“No, hers is more innocent.” he said. “Toast, why are you so set on accusing everyone, anyway?”

“Oh, you’re so not attacking Toast right now-”

“Guys, I think we should skip.” Sykkuno pipes up to calm the conversation, and everyone agrees, even though most of them mumble “sus” under their breath as soon as they mute their mics.

Dream’s tiny green astronaut stomps his way over to the left side immediately, changing paths this time and making his way into the Upper Engine, trying to finish his tasks in time and possibly find someone to accompany him so he at least doesn’t have to argue over his alibi. He had four tasks left, two of them in Upper Engine, so after that he was free to roam around wherever his heart desired. Just as he started doing one of them, he watched your purple character step in and run circles around him, earning you a quiet laugh that he didn’t know he uttered until he heard himself do it and silently scolded himself for getting that flustered at something so simple.

The two of you did your tasks together before going down to reactor. Just as Dream started doing one of his tasks, a dead body was reported again and he unmuted himself as Toast immediately started borderline yelling into his headphones. 

“Bretman just killed Sykkuno RIGHT in front of me. I literally watched him do it. He killed Sykkuno in COLD BLOOD.” he confidently claimed and Dream, quite uninterested, grabbed his bottle of water and lightly sipped on it, wiping beads of sweat resting right above his eyebrows with his forearm, blindly looking around the darkness, trying to get his eyes to adjust looking away from the computer screen. His eyes searched for the window - it was open, just enough to let a fresh breeze inside, but it never seemed to do that, letting humid air in with open arms like a welcome guest. Florida is fucking hell, he thinks, gulping down some more water.

“No, I didn’t! I seriously did not, he’s the one who killed him and is trying to frame me now. I swear to God, Toast…” Bretman shouted into his worn mic, trying to argue back. 

“Yeah, to be honest, Bretman, you were silent the whole time when Ethan died.” Rae reasoned, earning quite a lot of “ooh”s and causing little “voted” signs to appear next to Poki, Toast and Karl’s names as Bretman tried his best to fight back.

“I didn’t know I was muted the whole time! You know I’m bad at this! Why would I... you know what, nevermind! Vote me! Vote me! You’ll see when Toast kills you all, I don’t care anymore. I literally saw-”

Dream slumps further into his chair, sure that the foam would have a dent of his body shape imprinted even when he’s long gone from it, and unlocks his phone with a quiet sigh. He opens Discord, and wishes he hadn’t, because Sapnap and George are always on the front lines and ready to make fun of him at any chance possible. He types back a stupid joke, calling them losers, but before he can press send, a Twitter notification pops up on his phone that almost makes his painfully sweaty hands lose grip of the phone. 

“this is so boring” your message reads, from your official Twitter account. Dream blinks a few times, and looks up from his phone to observe his murky, empty room, eyes flashing from the window to the ripped chocolate bar wrapper that somehow made its way onto the floor to a cup of coffee from this afternoon. Did the humid air finally get to him? Hallucinations?

He clicks on the notification - it proves to not be a product of his imagination, after all. Three dots dance around on his screen cheerfully, but they suddenly stop. His ears tune in. Bretman is still defending his honor. Something else must’ve interrupted you. His shaky hands barely hit the right letters.

He takes a handful of screenshots amidst his euphoria, and forwards them to the group chat with no caption besides an emoji sticking its tongue out - he wants to tell them to suck his dick, or something along those lines, but your message remains a priority as he rushes back to the Twitter app to reply.

“Right” he manages to write without a typo. “They’re annoying”

Three dots immediately return to his screen like a happy memory, and he almost can’t believe you’re texting back so fast. George would probably humble him by saying it’s because you have nothing better to do, but what George doesn’t know can’t hurt him, Dream supposes, and clicks on your profile instinctively as he adjusts his headphones on one ear. By the time you finish typing your message, the group decided to vote out Bretman, who ended up not being an imposter.

The three dots disappear as quick as they came, and so does the anticipation that bubbled up in Dream’s throat as he sourly leaves to finish the rest of his tasks. The rest of the game stays as boring as it started, save for the giggles and hushed laughter that came from you at every few jokes he made - of which he made quite a lot, in a desperate attempt to make you laugh, at least a little bit. Of course, Quackity was there every step of the way to accidentally mention how Dream sounded a lot more hype and alive during this game than he does ever, but you win some, you lose some, eh?

In the next game you actually decided to set up proximity chat, so of course Dream followed you around everywhere, hot on your tail at all times - what else is he supposed to do, when the chance presented itself, really?

“Are you imposter?” His character obnoxiously ran circles around you as you did your wires task slowly and unsurely since this stream was your first time playing.

“No, but I wouldn’t tell you even if I was, dummy.” You replied, running around his own character briefly before running up to do the rest of your tasks, watching the green astronaut follow you close behind. 

“Why not?” Dream questioned, eyes following all your movements since he didn’t have anything better to do considering he finished all his tasks. 

“Do you not know how this game works?”

“Yeah, but you’d tell me, right? I wouldn’t… rat you out.” He heard a sigh coming through his headphones in response, and his grin widened just a little, watching your character walk away from him.

“I know you wouldn’t.” you replied. “I’ll tell you if I’m imposter, I guess.”

“You wouldn’t kill me, would you?” Dream spoke into his mic, reaching to fix it and realising the way his hand trembled a little, fully aware he was walking the line between flirty and obnoxious more than usual. He lowered his gaze just to see his keyboard reflect the light of the computer back to him - the sweat from his palms seemed to seep onto the keyboard. He refused to think about the mocking things his best friends would say if they found out how nervous he was just to talk to you. 

“No, of course not! I wouldn’t be able to kill you.” You chirped just as a dead body was discovered and the two of you were torn from the conversation. 

In the next one, his screen flashed an ominous black and red with the word “Impostor” and your purple character stood proudly next to his green one, and he snickered to himself, adjusting his headphones one more time (the more he did it, the more he was convinced it was one of those anxious habits of his).

Shifting in his chair, he started moving and couldn’t believe his eyes when he realised the two of you managed to lock yourselves in a room with Corpse and Sykkuno, accomplishing a double kill in barely the first two minutes of the game. The two of you vented while Dream muttered curses under his breath, breaking out in a sweat wondering if you’re going to get caught or not as you casually hummed to a random tune while faking tasks, hitting the notes in such an effortless way that it made Dream relax and get even more nervous at the same time. It didn’t take too long before the body was found, and you seemed to adapt to the game very quickly, as Dream just sat back most of the time and watched you stretch out a whole essay on why you and Dream could NOT have been imposters. 

“Why would they stick together the whole time? Couldn’t they get at least someone else to vouch for them?” Toast complained. 

“Girl, Dream wants some… alone time with Y/N, obviously.” Bretman said, despite being the one most sus of you in the first place, forcing laughter out of the whole lobby, Dream’s sticking out the most as his mood constantly swayed from finding the whole thing funny to being worried sick if you actually find him weird.

“Exactly! And we’re gonna have our alone time if we want to, thank you very much.” 

Well, Dream thinks, taking a stressed gulp of water from his bottle, at least we cleared that one up.

“I don’t think that sounded the way you wanted it to, Y/N.” Karl pipes up, making Quackity burst into another fit of loud laughter, and you immediately protested.

“It sounded exactly the way I wanted it to! Now, vote Rae or else.” 

When the meeting was over, he ran after you through cafeteria, grin splitting out on his face before he even spoke.

“You’re pretty…” his silence extended as he watched your character stare at his. “...pretty smart.”

You snorted. “Right. You’re pretty…” you extended your silence in return, mocking him. “...too.”

His heart jumps. “You forgot a word there.” he says as you stomp out to storage.

“I said what I said, Dreamy.” 

He swears this can’t be healthy for his blood pressure. In the corner of his eye, Discord notifications pop up like crazy. The boys must be watching your stream. His heart swells with both pride and dread, knowing he’s about to be called something along the lines of pretty Dreamy for the next two months.

“How do you know I’m pretty? You’ve never even seen my face.” Dream replies as heat creeps up like a spirit rising from soil, from the back of his neck, seeping into his ears and cheeks somewhat equally. His eyes dart to the window again. Of course it’s the stupid Florida weather that has him burning up, flustered. Maybe he should open another window.

“Is this an invitation to see it?” you say, a teasing tone clinging off your voice and he can practically hear you smiling. 

“No, I’m just saying! If you want to see it, though, that… that can be arranged.” he bites his lip as a physical attempt of holding back the smile that breaks out as he waits for your response, chest puffing in both nervousness and odd confidence.

“Can it? I mean, I don’t need to see it, I just know already, you have those… pretty boy vibes. But I wouldn’t…” you chuckle. “...be opposed to seeing it, for sure. Don’t count on me not to leak the pictures, though. I want the clout.”

“What do you MEAN you want the clout, you’re Y/N! You don’t need clout from a Minecraft YouTuber!” He argues back, a small wheeze escaping him mid sentence as you giggle and run around, with him following your every move.

“You keep my fucking lights on, man! Whenever your Spotify Twitter account thingy tweets that you’re listening to my stuff, the streams go up! I need your clout.” you say as you run into admin and snap Toast’s neck and run back out casually, as if nothing happened. 

“Yeah, that’s how me listening to your songs on repeat works.” he says and you let out some sort of irritated groan.

“Shut up, smartass.” Just as you say that, somebody seems to find the body and you’re pulled into a meeting, where Rae susses both of you immediately.

“No, because both of you are always together! And someone always spots you walking by the place where the bodies are found! At some point that can’t be a coincidence, right?” she accuses, practically yelling into the mic.

“Of course they’re always together, check- check fuckin’ Twitter! They’re trending on like three different spots already!” Quackity jumps in, loud as always, and the lobby gives off mixed reactions.

“What? We are?” Dream asks, and Quackity confirms with a “yeah, man! Check!” and so he complies, quickly pulling out his phone to check the trending tabs. Sure enough, among the politics and sports, “DREAM Y/N”, “PRETTY BOY” and “DREAM FACE” are crammed, sat at 7th, 14th and 18th place, respectfully. A satisfied grin breaks out on his face. At least they see it, too.

“This has to be the first time Dream has trended for something heterosexual.” Karl points out, earning loud laughter from Quackity and Bretman, less loud on your part.

“Exactly! We’re a power couple! Stay mad!” You shouted, with Dream supporting you in the background, although still shyly adjusting his headphones every few seconds, unable to comprehend that oh, this is actually happening.

Both of you get voted out during the next few minutes, but that really means nothing to Dream - they actually do him quite a favor, because the two of you get to excuse yourselves and he sees those three familiar dots dance on his screen again as he leans back into his chair with a dopey grin, playing with the strings of his sweatpants, waiting for your next and next and next message. 

He opens Discord on his computer to type one last message into the groupchat before turning it off for the night:

Dream (03:14): maybe Minecraft wasn’t my calling after all

Dream (03:14): can’t believe I just met my soulmate on Among Us

[volleychumps]

« Ghost.

~ the one in which Sakusa Kiyoomi sees you happy after he broke your heart.

format: One-shot

genre: angst

- Sakusa Kiyoomi x Reader

Warning(s): Use of alcohol, set in after-high school 

One of my older requests I’ve kept, this fic is influenced by the song ‘Ghosts’ by Jeremy Zucker. Although it’s not a song fic, very sad content is ahead. 

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

“I told you to wear your gloves.” 

“Whaaat? Why would I do that when your pockets are so warm?” 

“How convenient for you.” 

“Here, put your hands in here with me. Live a little, take your gloves off! It’s so warm~”

Sakusa swallowed. Dark eyes stared blankly through the glass out into the deluge of rain, a slightly damp travel bag seated on the plastic seat next to him, a gentle prod of his fingers making him snap out of it. Komori sends him a worried stare, noting that his cousin seemed to have changed a lot from his travel abroad. 

The slight glimmer in Sakusa’s eyes before he left was just as dimmed the day he boarded that plane. 

“Does anyone else know you’re back in Japan?” 

“Who would I tell?” Sakusa shrugged as his cousin met him with a incredulous stare. “The team is expecting my return-” 

“That’s not what I meant.” 

Sakusa stiffens, clearing his throat before sipping the warm beverage before him. He didn’t taste anything, eyes flitting over to the half-drunken matcha in his cousin’s cup. That reminds him of- 

“You didn’t tell Y/N?” 

There it is. 

Silence filled the distance between the two before Sakusa’s dark coffee hits the table with a prominent thud. 

“It’s not like she would want to see me.” 

“She could never hate you, you know. Especially after-” 

“Komori.” Sakusa’s stare hardened, fingers clasping at ceramic. Komori’s lips press back together in a thin line, opting to swirl the matcha tea in his cup before bowing his head slightly in apology. 

“I told you that you wouldn’t like it.” 

“Blegh! How do you drink it so strong?” 

“...swap with me.” 

“Don’t tell me you ordered a matcha because you knew I wouldn’t like it.” 

“Ha. Don’t get ahead of yourself.” 

“Awh, Kiyoomi-Kun!” 

“Gross.” 

The rain was less now, the two figures in the rain under the abandoned shop seeming to dissapitate with the downpour. It was him, holding a girl’s hands in his pockets as he stubbornly adjusts the hat on her head. Two half-drunken drinks that had been swapped sat next to them- 

“Let’s get going, yeah?” Komori stands, having finished his tea as Sakusa rips his gaze away from the familiar scene. 

“You seem tired from all the traveling. Didn’t you get any sleep on the plane?” 

He hasn’t slept well in a long while. 

“I did.” He finishes the americano in one go, ignoring the burn in his throat as he longs for the taste of alcohol. “Lead the way.” 

Sakusa casts one more glance through the glass window. The two figures were nowhere to be seen. 

----------------------------------------------------

His thumb grazed his phone screen over your contact. Backspace. Hello-. Backspace. Delete. Hover over delete option. Back to messages. I’m back in-.

Sakusa sighs through his nose, a futile attempt to release the tightness in his chest, before turning on his side as the sun peeks in through his window. Five hours at most, a lot better than his usual nights. 

Perhaps it was because he knew you were a mere cardrive away. 

“Why are you here?” 

“...it was on the way.” 

“So...what can I do for you?” 

Silence. 

“Unless....no way, did you miss me?” 

“No.” 

“You answered too fast, meaning you’re lying.”

“So what if I did?” 

“Come here Kiyoomi, spend the night.” 

He throws his phone. 

--------------------------------------------------------

“You hurt her, you know that?” 

“Is she...doing okay?” 

Sugawara sighs heavily, running a hand through his gray locks across from the stoic boy. Sakusa was lucky at least one of your friends was willing to give him the time of day, seated across one of your more gentle friends in the university library. 

“...she’s doing fine. She’s holding down a gig at Onigiri Miya while she finishes her degree.” Sugawara stands, guilt filling his hazel eyes before hardening slightly. “But you don’t get to ask about her.” 

“I know.”

“You walked away from her when all she did was give you everything her world had to offer.”  

Sakusa grits his teeth. “I know.” 

“Do you?” Sugawara wasn’t easily irritated, flipping a page in his textbook before meeting your ex with an even stare. “If you knew how hard it was for everyone to pick up the pieces-” 

“Thanks for meeting me.” Sakusa’s chair scraped the floor as he stood abruptly, heart pounding in his ears. He felt Suga’s stare on his back as he exited the library, stopping at the exit as his breathing picks up. 

“Am I even allowed here?” 

“It’s fine. Relax! You look like a Uni student.”

“...Y/N.” 

“Hm?”

“I-” 

“Sakusa?” 

It had been a whole year since he heard that voice, not haunting his dreams, but in reality. Dark eyes widen a fraction as his breath catches in his throat at the smile that spreads across your lips. You had gotten more beautiful than the image his mind spun back and forth, rooting him in place.

“You’re back?” 

“...Mm.” 

“That’s great! Tell the team I’m looking forward to your welcome home party tonight. It was great seeing you.” 

Sakusa’s lips parted, but no words came out. He was taken back abruptly as your shoulder brushed his as you walked past

“Don’t be a burden.” 

“K-Kiyoomi, how could you-?” 

“I don’t need to leave something annoying behind me when I leave to train.”

“Something? Kiyoomi, it’s me. It’s us-” 

“Don’t wait for me.” 

“I will! You just need to say the word, and-” 

“Are you usually this pathetic? We were never in love, Y/N. You were just convenient.” 

“You’re lying-!” 

“Good luck, Y/N. I don’t know when or if I’ll be back. Don’t look for me.”

He needed to let you go, no matter what lies stain his tongue. He needed you to be okay without him, not looking out the window everyday in hopes that promises over text and call were enough. 

And that was the day he brushed past you, a stream of even tears falling from your widened eyes as your heart shattered in your chest- 

not realizing that the sight of Sakusa’s back shielded the view of the single trickling tear down his cheek. 

But still, he kept walking. 

“Y/N.” 

Dark eyes widen when you flinch on instinct, Sakusa’s hand hovering in mid-air over your arm before your smile is back. His chest tightens as he realizes that it’s merely polite, not holding the same love it once did. 

You tilted your head, and Sakusa could feel his fingers tremble at the shine in your eyes. 

“I gotta go, Sakusa. Suga’s waiting. It was great to see you though, you look good.”

It was his turn to watch your back as unshed heat brimmed his eyes, but you don’t look back to notice. 

...Sakusa?

-------------------------------------------

“I need to go for a walk.” 

“What? Dude, this is your party.” Atsumu blinks in disbelief as Bokuto and Hinata chow down on plate after plate of onigiri. His friends bustle around the shop, but you were no where to be seen. 

“Five minutes, you imbecile. I won’t run away.”

“You better not!” Atsumu slurs, on the edge of absolutely hammered as he flashes Sakusa a wide thumbs-up. “You’ll make our guests sad!” 

Out of everyone in this party, he wanted to see you the most.

Sakusa manages to make it out the back door, planning to watch for your arrival until he sees your figure seated not far away in the grass, cradling a single drink in your hand as your eyes stare up at the clouded stars. Faded, but they were barely there as your eyes seemed to be questioning the world up above. 

It was a lie. 

Sakusa’s nails bit into his palms. 

It wasn’t just convenient for him. 

He swallows back the lump in his throat. 

You were his world. His first and last love. 

He begins to take a step-

Please let him be your last. 

“Whatcha doin’ out here?” 

He stops in place, watching from mere feet away as Osamu Miya plops down in the grass next to you. You jokingly protest as Osamu takes your drink, taking a swig from it before looking at you with something in his eyes. 

No. It wasn’t something new to Sakusa, because that’s the way he used to look at you. 

“...He came back.” Your voice was almost a whimper, and Osamu gently tugs you to lean your head on his shoulder.

“I know.” 

“I’m happy, Osamu.” 

“I didn’t say anythin’.” 

Sakusa should’ve walked away. He should’ve willed his feet to move, but he couldn’t. All his dark eyes could do was watch as you rolled your eyes playfully, tugging the drink out of Osamu’s hands before setting it down and cupping his face with one hand-

Doing that thing where your hand slipped into Osamu’s denim jacket pocket. 

“I love you. He was the past. You are my present. And...my future, hopefully?”

Osamu’s lip twitches upwards as he turns his face so he can kiss your palm that’s cupping his cheek. 

“I know, princess. You’re allowed to be sad, I’m not a monster.” Osamu pauses, thinking for a second before nodding once. “Unless you want me to be a monster, I can beat-” 

He’s cut off as you roll your eyes, smiling as you kiss him so lovingly- 

Ah. This must’ve been how you felt the day he left you in pieces. 

Sakusa wanted to scream, but a warm trickle of wetness slipped down his cheeks instead as it began to rain, the clouded stars turning darker ironically as Sakusa realizes that the shop he’s standing outside of-

the abandoned one where he kept you warm that winter night. 

It was now Onigiri Miya. 

He felt his legs almost give out as he stumbles to the side of the building, shielding him from view as your panicked laughs sound over the rain. 

“Y/N. I...I think I-”

“Kiyoomi?”

“What?” 

“I’ll love you more than you’ll ever know.” 

Sakusa couldn’t tell if the drops on his face was the rain, feeling like he was floating as his skin became numb to the cold.

In fact, he wished that this was one of his dreams, the ones where he punished himself with images of you in his arms. 

That way, he could keep on living with your ghost.

--------------------------------------------------

Brb It’s not like I’m vv sad as I write this. 

General works: @takemetovalhalla @kasandrafaye @savemesteeb @dreebbles   @yams046 @let-me-have-my-own-name @deadontheinsidebut @lifeisntjustblackandwhite @curiouslilbeast @aprettyfruit @wisepandaslimeland @h0ngh0ngh0ng @lmkjimin @orangegiraffe7 @dai-tsukki-desu @kac-chowsballs @spikertrash @yamaguwuchi @lord-suneater-explosion @nekomawhore @holaaaf@babyybokutoakaashi @lexysclubhouse @disneyloving-muggle

[beauvibaby]

emergency contact — m.tkachuk

a/n: a random fic that I finally finished!!

word count: 2.4K

You groaned, the buzzing from your phone was stirring you from your sleep, it was nearly three am. No one would call you this early for no reason, so you suddenly came to your senses, scrambling to answer it. “Hello, hello.” You rushed, hardly getting to it in time. “Is this Y/F/N?” The lady’s voice came across delicately which only caused your heart rate to pick up. “Yes.” You sat up in the bed, flipping your lamp on as she began speaking across the line. “My name is Diane, I’m calling from St. Alexius Hospital, your brother, Matthew has been brought in from a car accident, you were listed as his emergency contact.” She explained, you flew out of the bed, “is he ok?” You were rushing around, pulling on whatever clean clothes you could find first. “He’ll be fine, I’m not at liberty to discuss the details over the phone.” She spoke calmly, you nodded, before realizing she couldn’t see you. “I’ll be there as soon as I can.” You quickly hung up, yanking your jeans on in a rush, you forced any nervous thoughts to the back of your mind. He would be fine, that’s what you kept repeating to yourself, he was the only family you had left, he had to be fine.

Your feet carried you into the hospital emergency room before your mind could catch up, you reached the counter and blankly stared for a moment, you read her name tag, Diane. “I’m Y/F/N, I’m here to see-” “Ah, yes, for Matthew?” She cut you off, flipping through the papers on her desk. “Room 113.” She pointed you down the hall, and you were off, speed walking down the hall, your shoes sounding loud against the linoleum floor in the early morning. 109, 110, 111, 112, you froze outside of his room, clearly it couldn’t have been that bad if he was alone. You heard a groan from inside the room and you came to your senses, you pushed the curtain aside, “Matthew.” You whispered, and then looked up, the stranger in the bed looking at you with raised eyebrows. “You’re not my brother.” You gasped, and then realized you were standing in his room still, “I’m so sorry, uh, feel better.” You saw the cast on his arm and a bruise forming just under his eyes. “I’m not complaining.” He mumbled with a lazy smile, it captivated you, the way his blue eyes lit up as you smiled back at him. “But no I’m not, my name is Matthew though.” He muttered, coughing lightly, reaching for the water, it was just out of his reach so you walked over and handed it to him. “Here you go.” You whispered, his fingers brushing against yours as he took the cup, “I have to go, I-I’m here to see my brother.” You gave him a smile, going to rush out of the room but as you turned, Diane came running in, out of breath.

“There was a mix up, I’m so sorry.” She rushed, Matthew looking between you and her, eyebrows raised in amusement. “Is my brother even here?!” You snapped, relieved but angry at the same time. She shook her head and you scrambled to pull your phone out of your pocket, dialing your brother’s number. You bounced on your feet as it rang and rang, “Y/N? Why are you calling so late?” He grumbled into the phone, “Matthew!” You cried in relief, “you’re ok?” You asked, “of course I’m ok, why wouldn’t I be?” He sounded confused, “nothing, uh, it’s a long story, I’ll call you later.” You hung up, arms crossed as you glared at Diane. “Miss Y/L/N, I am so sorry.” She apologized again, you could only nod weakly. “I’m so sorry, uh, Matthew.” You turned to the guy in the bed, he had to be right around your age. “I really hope you feel better.” And with that, you rushed out the door, over run by the emotions you just went through.

That was almost a week ago.

Five days if we’re being specific.

“Mom is going to kill me if she finds out I let you drive.” You tuned into the conversation a girl was having with what you could only assume is her brother from the way she spoke to him. You kept your eyes focused down on the cup of coffee and laptop before you, but your ears perked up. “That’s why she isn’t going to find out, right Taryn?” He quipped back at her, you couldn’t fully place it but his voice had an oddly familiar tone. Not one that you knew well, but as if you had heard it before. You continued typing away on your laptop, forcing yourself to stop eavesdropping on their conversation, a message came up on your screen and you became so engrossed in it that you didn’t even notice as Matthew walked past your table with a small gasp, dragging his sister along.

“That’s her!” He whispered to his sister, who only looked at him confused, “that’s the girl from the hospital.” He groaned, running a hand through his curly hair. Only making it look messier. Taryn glanced at you, and at him, then back and forth once more. “You couldn’t pull her.” She teased him, earning a light flick to the arm from him. “I totally could!” He defended, panicking when your head popped up, you glanced around but didn’t notice him. “Well aren’t you going to go say something?” Taryn nudged him, taking his coffee from his not broken arm, and setting it down beside hers on the table. “What am I going to say? ‘Oh hey, not sure if you remember me but you barged into my hospital room last week because you thought I was your brother’? That’s not going to work.” He rambled, too caught up in his own words to notice his sister walking towards you until it was too late. She simply sat across from you, making your body jump back.

“Uh, hello?” You spoke hesitantly, sliding your laptop closer to you, eyeing the random girl skeptically. “Hi, my name is Taryn, I think you met my brother, Matthew over there, in the hospital last week?” She smiled politely at you, pointing to the corner of the cafe were you turned and saw Matthew looking over with wide eyes and pink cheeks, he offered a small wave, wincing when he used the arm in a cast. You giggled under your breath, waving back, “I did.” You confirmed, “I’m Y/N.” You added, turning back to Taryn, “well you see, he hasn’t really shut up about you since then, he thinks you’re really pretty, so I figured I’d come try and help him have a chance to talk to you.” She explained with a grin, occasionally glancing at her brother, who you could only assume had turned more red. “I’d love to talk to him.” You assured her, slowly closing your laptop, holding back a large smile when she grinned, rushing off, you heard them bickering before Matthew approached, awkwardly sitting where his sister just was. “Hi.” He hadn’t struck you as one to be shy when you first met him, “hi.” You repeated, leaning back in your seat. “How’s the arm?” You teased, glancing down to his cast. “It’s getting there.” He shrugged, looking up and meeting your eyes. “I’m really glad they called you.” He added, ah, there’s the confidence you were looking for. You rested your elbows on the table, holding your chin lightly in your hand, “are you?” You cocked your head to the side, smiling as he blushed.

“I am.” He confirmed, placing his phone up on the table, “so why don’t you give me your number, and I’ll take you out to dinner.” He spoke softly, a small hint of nervousness to his voice. “You know, as payment for emotional trauma at the very least.” He joked, earning a genuine laugh from you. “I think that sounds fair.” You picked up his phone, adding yourself to his contacts. “Good thing I’m the only Y/N you know.” You handed him his phone, smiling as his fingers brushed yours, it sounded cliche, and you hated to even think it, but even the simple touch sent your heart into a frenzy. “Mhm, good thing.” He agreed, staying seated, “you know, if we kept talking this could almost be like a first date.” He raised an eyebrow, you noticed the small smirk on his lips. “I think I can spare some time.” You smiled sweetly at him, diving into conversation. You both covered a lot of things, from work, which caught you off guard for sure when you heard what he does, to family, all the way down to embarrassing childhood stories.

“Alright, I’ve waited as long as I can wait, Matty, we need to go.” Taryn interrupted, looking down at her brother from where he was still sitting, you checked the time on your phone and you were embarrassed to see it had been nearly two hours. “Oh my god, Taryn, I’m so sorry.” You apologized, Matthew smiling at the interaction as his sister brushed it off. “It’s fine.” She turned back to him, who was lost in his happiness, “so, Matty.” You teased, gathering your things, “I’ll be waiting to hear from you.” You stood up, pushing your purse onto your shoulder, he followed, standing in front of you, he ducked down to press a kiss to your cheek. “You’ll definitely be hearing from me.” He smirked, walking off with his sister while you blushed furiously, he glanced back and you shot him a wink, you two were made for each other.

“So, tomorrow?”

You giggled at your phone as you walked to your car, already getting a message from him. You bit your lip as you smiled, typing a quick response to leave him on his toes while you drive home.

“I’m sorry, who is this?”

You put your phone on silent to avoid getting distracted while you drove, but you could tell it vibrated a couple of times on the seat. It felt like forever until you got home, but once you did, you and Matthew texted the rest of the day, setting up plans for you both to meet at a restaurant not too far from your house the next day.

You were a little nervous, just because first dates were always nerve wracking, but otherwise you were calm, you knew you’d have a good time. You smoothed out your pants, looking down at the printed material, you adjusted your tucked in lace camisole, tugging your cardigan on over top, a chic yet comfortable outfit, paired with some heeled boots. Your hair falling down your back in loose curls, you gave yourself one last adjustment before you made your way out the door, hoping you wouldn’t be too early, you wouldn’t want to ruin his manly pride.

You were excitedly surprised when you arrived and Matthew was already standing outside the restaurant waiting for you. “Hi, Matthew.” You called as you climbed out of your car, his head snapped up, a grin covering his face as a couple of his curls bouncing in front of his eyes. “Hey. You look great.” He met you in front of your car, his jacket hanging off on one side because of his cast. “Clean up nice yourself.” You replied with ease, “how’s your arm?” You added, lightly touching it where he had scribbled on it. A chuckle falling from your lips at the stick figure he’d left on it. “Better now.” He smirked, earning a snort in return, your hand shooting to your mouth. “Oh my god.” He broke into laughter, using his good arm to move your hand from your face, “that was equally cute and funny.”

“I’m glad you thought so.” You breathed out, giggling as he led you inside.

***

“Oh, Matty. She’s lovely, I’m so happy for you.” Chantal grinned, looking at the ring he had picked out for you. You’d been together for just over a year, you both fell quick and hard, you moving to Calgary with him halfway through the season. “Thanks mom.” He sighed in relief, it was the last few weeks of the off season, and it was a no brainer for you both to come back to St. Louis for the summer to see your families.

What you didn’t know, is that he ended up holding onto that ring for almost a year before asking you to marry him, two years to the day when you ran into his hospital room.

***

“Matty, what are you doing?” You asked breathlessly as you walked into the living room after your shower, in frumpy pajamas and a wet messy bun. You looked at the candles that were scattered around, and him in a pregame suit, despite there being no game tonight. “You can’t cry when I haven’t even said anything yet.” He whispered as you approached him in shock, he pulled the velvet box from his jacket pocket. “Matthew.” You gasped, cupping his bearded jaw, he wiped under your eyes lightly, “Y/N.” He murmured, lightly kissing your forehead before getting down on one knee.

“As much as I hate how that mix up in the hospital scared you that night, I’m so grateful for it, you were right in front of me that whole time in St. Louis, but I wouldn’t have met you if it wasn’t for that.” He explained, popping the box open, you started nodding instantly, “ask me.” You begged. “Will you marry me?” He cut straight to it, grinning when you dropped down on your knees in front of him. You nodded furiously, holding his face in your hands, “yes. Oh my god, yes.” You pulled him in for a kiss, squealing in delight when he yanked you closer, “Mrs. Tkachuk sounds nice, doesn't it?”

***

You leaned in the doorway to your son's room, smiling as Matthew theatrically recalled your meeting story, your son, who was only four, looking up at his dad like he just told him how the earth spins. You giggled, making your presence known, you joined them on the floor, draping your legs over your husband’s lap, your son climbing onto yours, hugging you tightly as you played with his curly hair. “Is daddy telling your favorite story again?” You asked him, smiling when he nodded enthusiastically, “I really like that story too.” You told him, feeling Matthew squeeze your hip as your son giggled.

taglist: @boqvistsbabe @tortito @2manytabsopen @heybarzy @barzysreputation @yzas-stuff @iwantahockeyhimbo @leafs-forever

[miss-smutty]

Brothers - Chapter 11

Unforgiven

Summary- You're hit with the bombshell of Chris coming home after a month away and after he left you questioning everything, completely heartbroken. How were you meant to confront him after so long?

Word count- 2K

Pairing- Chris Hems x reader

Warnings- Swearing, a smidgen of violence

18+ only!

Posted: 3rd August 2021

Taglist:- @everything-is-awesomesauce @nicolemt23 @innerpaperexpertcloud @pandaxnienke @chickensarentcheap @jjpogueprincess @longlostinanotherworld @mostly-marvel-musings @darklydeliciousdesires

Brothers Masterlist <<<

You haven't felt like this about anyone for a very long time and Chris has just made your fear of rejection all too real. You couldn't help the way you felt about him though, still feel about him. You love him and he'd told you he loved you, you'd felt it when he'd said it, you'd seen the look in his eye. So why were you even questioning it? 

In the morning you finally felt the courage to check your phone - Liam had stayed with you all night until you'd calmed down enough to go to bed when the sun had rised and you were no longer taunted by your demons in the dark.

There's multiple text messages and missed calls filling up the screen of your phone. 

I'm sorry I had to leave like that, are you ok? Xx

Read the first one. Your eyes scanned over the rest, mostly saying the same thing.

Y/N please answer. Let me explain myself. I didn't have time to speak to Liam about it all right then and I didn't want to leave on a bombshell.

His excuses made you feel sick to your stomach. You could understand why he did it but there were much better ways for him to go about it that wouldn't have left you feeling heartbroken.

You sighed heavily, putting your phone back onto your bedside table a little bit too forcibly and sinking back into your feather pillows. If you gave in to your impulses you would've text him back straight away but knowing deep down that would be the wrong thing to do, you restrained yourself. It took willpower but you just about managed, he'd made you feel like shit there was no way you were going to forgive him so easily.

*********

As the weeks passed by it became more and more difficult to ignore Chris, he wasn't giving up without a fight which admittedly made you feel a little bit better. You'd ignored him for so long it had become a habit and the fact he wasn't giving in told you he definitely did care about you but he'd made a major mistake and you were going to make him pay.

"Have you spoke to Chris yet?" Liam asked you over lunch. 

"Nope." A sly smile played on your lips, you were kind of enjoying making Chris sweat but you'd never admit it.

"Maybe you should, he's been blowing my phone up trying to get in contact with you. You do know he's coming home this week?"

"What? You stopped with your fork in front of your lips, eyes wide. "No I did not know that, has it been a month already?"

"Uh-huh, and its gonna be massively fucking awkward for me if you two are still arguing." 

"We're not arguing..." You brush your hair behind your ear, sitting up straight in your chair. " We're not even speaking." 

The thought of Chris coming home fills you with dread and excitement all at the same time. You're so excited to see his face and yet dreading the thought of having to deal with your problems.

"When will he be home?" You ask, trying to be casual.

"I don't know, he just said this week. I haven't exactly been speaking to him myself, I'm still pissed off with him."

"And you didn't think to ask what day?.and why are you pissed off? He didn't do anything to you." Your voice was a little too high, it always was when you panicked. Chris could come home at any minute and you weren't mentally prepared for it.

"No, but don't you think him hurting you effects me? You've had a face like a slapped ass for a month for a start and if you want to know so badly why don't you call him?" Liam raised his eyebrows at you, unamused at the whole messenger thing he had going on.

"Pfft, I can't." You push your bowl of food away, suddenly not very hungry anymore. "It's been so long I wouldn't even know what to say." 

"Your drama is honestly making me go grey." Liam runs his hand through his hair, looking at you with raised eyebrows.

"I think you'd look pretty good as a silver fox." You tease.

"I would but still, please sort it out." He gives you the glare. "Anyway, I'm going to have a little get together tonight. You up for it?" 

"A get together or a party?" 

"Well you know how it usually goes, it starts off as a get together but usually turns in to a party." 

"Exactly, well I'm off out with the girls so we'll be there later." 

You finished up your meals, Liam refusing for you to pay as usual, he was such a gentleman, you really wish his brother was a little bit more like him in that way. 

*********

You help Liam greet his guests, smiling and mingling as you go. The ratio of women to men doesn't suprise you one bit, Liam was newly single after all but you roll your eyes anyway after leading yet another group of girls through to the living room.

You watched Liam greeting the girls with the most genuine smile on his face than you'd seen in a while, he was happy, finally and it brought you great pleasure.

Your heart stops beating when you hear Chris's distinctive Australian accent carry above the noise in the room, you can feel his eyes burning into your back as you turn around to find him. Your tummy fluttering when your eyes meet, unable to hide how much you've actually missed him from your face. He smiles sheepishly at you making your tummy somersault, excusing himself politely from the group of girls that had circled around him and making his way over to you, when Liam steps in his way, blocking his path.

"I don't want to make a scene here but you've got some serious explaining to do." Liam says sternly.

"I know... I... I wasn't honest with you before I left." 

"That's putting it lightly. Y/N told me everything." You watched the exchange between the brothers, your nerves going into overdrive. You could hear Liam's friend talking to you but you weren't focusing on him, his words just a distant noise, your attention solely on the brothers. Brothers who looked like they were about to fight. Because of you.

"What are you, her bodyguard? If there's anyone I need to answer to it's Y/N, are you gunna let me past?" You watched as Chris' jaw tensed, the muscles in his neck becoming more prominent and you knew things were getting heated.

"If you're gunna treat her like shit Chris then yeah I am, the manly thing to do was come clean. It was a pussy move and you know it." People were starting to watch and your cheeks were burning but you were routed to the spot. Unable to move all you could do was stare blankly.

"Are you calling me a pussy?"

"Yeah, I'm calling you a fucking pussy." Liam shoved Chris square in his chest, he barely moved but his jaw clenched together, the tendons in his neck straining with rage.

Why, why, why were you stood watching this and not doing something about it? Your two favourite people in the whole world were about to fight each other and you're stood watching like it's a fucking soap opera.

You could see Chris thinking, debating about what he should do. Should he give his brother a free pass - he did deserve it, or should he fight back - he'd already called him a pussy he didn't want people actually believing it. 

He decided to let it go, moving past him to get to you when Liam shoved him again, this time he wasn't expecting it and almost fell over, recovered himself and then went for Liam. Your mouth hung open, your legs started moving before you registered what was happening.

"Stop! Please stop!" You screamed, Liam's friends coming to the rescue and holding them both back. Tears in your eyes at the thought of them fighting each other

You looked up at Liam's friend holding Chris back. "It's ok, I've got him." You took Chris by the hand, leading him away from Liam, weaving through the crowd that had gathered, pissed off that they'd caused such a scene in public but you needed to get them away from each other so they could both calm down.

Chris walked into your room and you closed the door behind him, resting your head against it for a minute.

"What the fuck was that?" You question, turning around to face him.

"Don't ask me, what exactly did you say to Liam while I was gone?" 

"Are you really trying to blame me? I told him the truth Chris, like you should've done." He hung his head in shame. His elbows resting on his knees and his head in his hands.

"Yeah I know but let me explain."

"I haven't got time for it now." You start shuffling through your wardrobe. "I need to get ready." You say with your back to him.

"Ready for what?"

"I'm going out with the girls." You turn around slowly, looking at him, taking him all in. You've missed him so much, why does he have to be so damn attractive.

Then he gives you that sexy smile and your knees almost cave but you remind yourself of the things he said, willing yourself to stay angry with him.

"Do you have to go? I've only just got back." You start going through your wardrobe, if you had your back to him you could distract yourself from the heavy sexual tension between you. The need to run up to him and wrap you legs around him, telling him all was forgiven while you kissed every inch of his damn fine body. 

"Yeah I'm going. You don't get to treat me like that and then just come back and act like nothings happened." 

"Y/N can you please stop being so stupid, this is ridiculous." He said sitting down on the end of your bed with his head in his hands.

"I'm being stupid? Are you for real?" You take off your clothes until you're left in just your underwear, turning around to look at him with your hands on your hips.

"Ok sorry that was the wrong thing to say, I've been trying to speak to you every day for a month. Did you not miss me?" He looks up, his eyes widening when he sees you in your underwear.

"You're always saying the wrong thing aren't you?" Now can you leave, I need to get ready and I want to do it in peace." You point to the door, your hand falling limply by your side when you watch Chris licking his lips, his eyes focusing everywhere but your face.

"Do you have to go? I think I can find a way of making you forgive me." 

"You can't just fuck your way outta this one Chris, I'm not a toy for you to do as you please with." 

"You're so hot when you're angry... I'm really trying not to fuck you senseless right now." He bites on his fist watching your anger falter.

"We're just friends aren't we?" You say rather bitterly

"We're not just friends and you fucking know it, friends don't do this shit -" he says as he moves in front of you, his hands wrapping around you and resting on your plump cheeks. "I told you I loved you and I fucking meant it. Can we please forget what I said? I didn't think about it until after I'd said it and I tried to call you straight away to apologize."

"Do what?" You reply trying to keep your calm as his hands electrify your body.

He cups your ass and lifts you into his arms, you instinctively wrap your legs around his hard torso. He lays you back onto the bed and kisses you deep, his tongue desperately finding yours as he thrusts his bulge into your tingling pussy. Your body betrays you as you let out a low moan, you feel him groan from deep inside as his prehistoric nature takes over.

"That." he says breathlessly.

"I'm still going out tonight but I'll be back later." You say between him kissing down your neck, savouring every last inch of your taste. "You can think about how you can make it up to me while I'm gone and before that you better go grovel to Liam, I think he's even more pissed off than me."

"Oh baby, you're not even going to know your own name by the time I'm finished with you never mind anything else." 

"This doesn't mean you're forgiven, this means I'm giving you a chance." 

[ackerfics]

slow dance with you — mikasa ackerman

— goth!mikasa ackerman x soft!female reader (modern au)

— warnings: slight mention of alcohol, pure rotten fluff

— summary:  after gaining some courage from the drinks she had in the party and from the advice she got from her friends, mikasa is ready to become your girlfriend.

— word count: 3.9k

— author’s notes: i would like to thank the anon who gave me some ideas for goth!mikasa, you are so amazing !! thank you for the small headcanons. and since we’re on the topic of writing abt goth!mikasa, i couldn’t help but pair her up with a classic soft girl who likes to wear pink at every time of the day. this dynamic is based on marceline and princess bubblegum so i hope you enjoy !!

p.s. the reader will have dyed hair here, if this is not your cup of tea, just let this fly by your dash.

listen to this while reading.

“She dyed her hair pink,” came a dazed yet mesmerized tone.

“You’re staring at her again.”

Mikasa jumped on her seat at Eren’s nonchalant observation. She whipped her head to her best friend, his attention directed on his laptop, hands flying across the keyboard as he typed out the next few words in his essay. Noticing the incredulous look the black-haired girl was shooting him, Eren rose an eyebrow before rolling his eyes. Mikasa huffed, crossing her eyes with a subtle hue of red on her cheeks, complimenting her dark lipstick. “I am not staring,” she mumbled. “Shut up, Eren.” She looked away from her subject of interest but continued shooting small glances.

Eren sighed, running his hand through his hair. He was always one of the witnesses of his best friend slash sister being meek around her crush. At first, he was teasing her because not going to lie, Mikasa’s crush is a pretty person but as their years in college made them juniors, Eren will be the reckless idiot that he is (courtesy of Armin) and set Mikasa up. But he liked to live his life out first — Mikasa will probably curse him with that spellbook she bought from the antique bookshop they encountered in their little exploration back when they were first-years. “Mikasa, why don’t you take the chance and confess to her? It’s not going to be the end of the world.”

“If she rejects me? What then?”

“Then that’s the next problem that you will have to face.” The brown-haired boy turned back to his essay. He stared at his laptop screen blankly before spewing out curses. “Now, I forgot what to write next! Damn it.” He picked up his iced coffee and drank from the metal straw as his life depended on it.

Mikasa rolled her eyes at her best friend’s first statement. “Gee, thanks for the advice. It was very much appreciated.”

“Glad to be of help.”

There was a thud on their table that made the two look up from their respective activities. Eren had a scowl on his face because for the nth time this day, he was interrupted from finishing his essay (for fuck’s sake, he doesn’t want to fail Ackerman’s class). Mikasa blinked from scrolling through her crush’s Twitter account (the last post she wrote was about how Levi Ackerman, Mikasa’s relative and everyone’s Anthropology professor) and fixed her attention on their blonde friend, Armin. He looked too bright after a round of morning classes, something that Eren doesn’t comprehend. The blue-eyed young man has always been the rational and genius third of their little group. There wasn’t a time where Armin’s advice got a situation to erupt in flames. It was either the situation became an inferno instead (Eren) or nobody had the guts to do it (Mikasa).

“Hey, guys!” Armin greeted, arranging his side of the table, meticulously placing each component of his lunch in front of him. “How were your morning classes?”

“Shit,” Eren spat out.

“Of course, it is.”

“They were alright,” Mikasa shrugged.

“Figured.” Armin glanced at his friend’s sides of the table, nodding at Mikasa’s balanced lunch while blankly staring at Eren’s laptop. The device should’ve been a good tray of lunch. “I thought you were eating lunch, Eren? That’s what you said in your text.”

“Can’t,” the brown-haired boy huffed. He gestured at his iced coffee without taking his eyes off the laptop. “I guess, this counts as my lunch.”

“When’s that essay due?”

“In about,” Eren looked at the time on his laptop, “three hours. Ackerman is my first period later. That fucking terror professor has no mercy when it comes to this. Can he just piss off for once? Mikasa, do you even tell him to get laid? Because I think that would solve his attitude. I swear to God, he’s getting more pissed every damn day.”

“Wow, I guess getting my short, grumpy, middle-aged uncle to start his sex life will be a nice conversation starter,” Mikasa drawled, half-lidded, bored eyes reading every tweet her crush has posted for the entire week. Mikasa couldn’t help but smile at one post about a new movie her crush just watched, saying that it was now a new favorite. She was tempted to give a heart on every single post but that would it weird because they never followed each other despite the small interactions they shared in between classes. With a sigh, she looked up, only to be met with Eren’s unamused stare. Raising an eyebrow, she asked, “What? Do you think that would work, Eren? Levi is probably a virgin his whole life and will continue his record until he’s all shriveled up.” Eren blanched at the image. “Just finish your homework and stop complaining.”

“I’m trying!”

“You’re not trying hard enough, that’s for sure. If you just started that essay the day he assigned it to your class, you would have finished it way before the deadline.”

Eren pointed at Mikasa with narrowed eyes. “Don’t even go there, Mikasa. I have a life aside from being a sleep-deprived college student.”

“I mean, she’s got a point, Eren.” Armin immediately rose his hands in defense when Eren shifted his glare from the black-haired young woman to him. “You always tend to procrastinate in the most impeccable timing that we sometimes have to remind you of your backlogs. And now, here you are, doing things last minute when you could’ve prevented the rush by doing it immediately.”

“Thanks for slapping the reality to my face, you two,” Eren dryly replied, going back to his essay for the final time. “And by the way, Armin, give Mikasa some solid advice that she will finally follow because she’s making googly eyes at Miss Pretty two tables from us a couple of minutes before you arrived. You know, the love of her life?”

Armin roamed his eyes in the lunch hall and sure enough, there was Mikasa’s goddess sitting with her group of friends. There was that brown-haired girl that was dubbed as the Potato Girl for eating mashed potatoes during Ackerman’s class (the professor told the class his rules of no eating or going out of the room while he’s discussing the moment the girl took a spoonful of her snack). A young man with a buzz cut snorting at what the brown-haired girl said. Armin remembered sharing a class with him. He never got the chance to introduce himself because the young man was sleeping throughout the lecture. There was usually a fourth person in the little group but it seems like he was running late or already in his class. That person was Eren’s sworn frenemy, the reason for that relationship was unknown to this day.

The three people at the table all stood up, the brown-haired girl and the taller young man leading the way. Armin instantly had an idea.

“Hey, [Name]!”

Mikasa nearly had whiplash from turning her head to Armin. “Armin?!” she hissed under her breath, face becoming hotter when you looked at their table, a bright smile lighting up your face. You called your friends, telling them to go on ahead without you, to which they nodded before walking towards the trio’s table. Her brain wasn’t processing the moment you lifted a hand to wave at whoever you were smiling at. Mikasa wished it was her. “Fuck,” she whispered, registering how cute you look. You donned a salmon pink plaid sundress and a white cardigan, matching with the bubblegum pink locks you let down. Her heart was hammering a thousand miles per second and there was no hope of stopping it.

“Hi, Armin,” you replied, stopping a few feet from Mikasa, who looked away from you to fix her wide-eyed stare on her empty plate.

“I was just going to ask if you already have a partner in our Molecular Biology lab?” The blue-eyed young man then turned to Mikasa and Eren. “I’m in the same class as her this year.”

“As if calling her here wasn’t that obvious,” Eren murmured, still typing out his essay.

“I don’t need your dry remarks right now, Eren, don’t want to ruin the atmosphere. So, [Name], you have a partner?”

You shook your head. “I think not. It would be great if we could be partners though. I need a break from the people I’ve been partnered with throughout college.”

He gave you a sympathetic smile. It was true, though. Most of the grouping during your first years of college were all set up by the teachers so the students really had no say on the matter at hand. Even Armin was exposed to a variety of students, most of them being too slacking to participate or too overbearing with their suggestions that they have no plans of doing. He nodded with a smile, “I’ll be sending an email to Professor Zoe about this and we’re done.” He glanced behind you, noticing that your two friends weren’t there anymore. “I’m sorry for holding you up. I’m pretty sure you have a class after lunch. See you around?”

You waved him off. “It’s fine, I told them to go ahead since Sasha has a class scheduled right after lunch and Connie had to nap in his dorm. And I don’t have any class the whole afternoon, except for an online session so yeah, see you around, Armin.” You acknowledge Eren with a nod, to which he responded with a cool expression (as if his mind wasn’t a mess from the cramming), and gave a soft smile to Mikasa, “Bye, Mikasa.” And you were off to your dorm, leaving behind two amused men and an awestruck Mikasa.

The black-haired young woman was hyperventilating the moment you disappeared from the lunch hall, hands clenched on top of her black shorts. She regretted wearing a thin, long-sleeved striped sweater under her black shirt because it was so fucking hot after that encounter. Her entire body was vibrating with too many emotions all at once, short-circuiting until she became a heap of flustered mess in front of her best friends. “Oh, my God,” she muttered like a prayer. She definitely needed one after seeing you all pretty in pink. It was too much for her soul because you two are a perfect match this time. Her grommet belt and choker were not helping because she couldn’t fucking breathe.

“Mikasa, breathe,” Armin reminded beside her. “Yeah, that’s it.”

Once she regained her composure, Mikasa realized she probably looked like a gaping fish. “Oh, my God! I’m so sure that this time, she thinks I’m weird. My name is the only one she mentioned aside from Armin which is saying something because she’s classmates with him. But why did she say goodbye to me? Oh, my God, she’s giving me so many butterflies right now.”

“Your gay is showing,” Eren pointed out calmly.

“Eren, not the time,” Armin murmured, hovering his hands over Mikasa’s back.

“Just wanted to alleviate the tense atmosphere. No need to get so worked up.”

“But, Mikasa, your feelings for her are showing.”

Eren clapped his hands, pointing a finger at Armin. “That, my friend, is a genius observation.”

Ignoring the green-eyed man, Armin continued, “I think it’s time you confess to her. Three years is a pretty long time pining for a person. In the end, her knowing your feelings will be inevitable. That is if you have no plans in letting her know.”

“Of course, I want her to know,” Mikasa murmured, fiddling with the sleeves of her striped long-sleeves.

“I heard that there’s a party this Saturday in Reiner’s frat,” Eren told them, meeting both of his friends’ eyes over the top of his laptop screen. “We’re in the same football team with Jean. The horseface is a friend of your girl,” he nodded at Mikasa, who erupted in a sputter of her crush not being her girl, “okay, not your girl — yet. As I was saying, [Name] is good friends with Jean and if Jean is there, Miss Pretty in Pink will be, too. That’s your chance to ask her out, Mikasa.” He met the blinking gray eyes of his best friend. “The question is, are you up for that?”

-

“You were staring at her so hard at lunch again.”

You looked up from your book to acknowledge Sasha entering your dorm room after a whole afternoon of packed lectures. The brown-haired young woman was so tired that she immediately plopped on top of her bed on the other side of the room. At first, you didn’t register what she said because you were preoccupied with your book. You chose to indulge the night in a good book because it has been a long time since you’ve done that. With furrowed eyebrows, you asked, “Can you repeat what you said, Sasha?”

Sasha tilted her head to look at you with one eye uncovered by her duvet. Her hair fluttered after puffing out a breath of disbelief. “Oh, don’t pretend that you have no idea, Miss Pretty in Pink.”

“That’s because I didn’t catch what you said,” you replied, gesturing at your novel. “And what’s with that Miss Pretty in Pink nickname? Did some of the students around campus started that?”

“Sort of,” Sasha hummed. She sat up from her bed and took out her phone from her backpack lying on the floor. You watched the whole time she stretched her arm without changing her position on her bed. With her phone in hand, she opened her Twitter account. “Actually, a friend of mine tweeted it, wait, I’m just going to scroll through my Likes tab to find her tweet. Oh, here it is.” Sasha showed you her screen, patiently waiting for you to take the device from her hand to get a closer look. Her hopeful smile turned into a small pout when you made no moves in doing so. “Take my phone and see for yourself.”

You sighed, following her pleas. “It’s probably just someone from the volleyball team. You know how some of them never stopped following me around campus. Can’t they take the hint that they’re not my type?”

“This person is much better than those himbo simps following you around. She’s an amazing person behind that shy exterior of hers.”

You only hummed, blankly staring at your roommate’s phone before your eyes widened in realization. Your eyes skimmed over and over again at the handle, mkackerman, beside the display picture of a short-haired girl in pigtails. It was the girl that managed to capture your attention during your first year at Eldia University. The girl with an air of mystique that the stars are jealous of. You always admired her from afar, appreciating her style each day. But your admiration was getting replaced with something more at the five words she tweeted. 

You’re so pretty in pink.

Roses bloomed in your cheeks, complimenting your pink hair the longer you gawked at her short post. 

“What?” you breathed out after a full minute of silence.

“Mm-hmm,” Sasha hummed with a smug smile. “And who dyed her hair pink impulsively last weekend?” She intentionally looked at you with sharp eyes, her smile turning into a smirk full of mischief. In actuality, Sasha knew of Mikasa’s crush on you since they were acquainted with each other. It was an embarrassing first meeting between the two, with Sasha latching on a random person’s arm in the station and it turned out to be Mikasa. The two became great friends after that, well, after Mikasa lowered her guard down, leaving her pocket knife safely tucked underneath her checkered skirt. It was Sasha who managed to make Mikasa confess of her undying love for you, the former squealing her heart out in the library. (They were kicked out after that.) 

“I don’t know,” you denied. “There could be a couple of people in the campus who thought that spontaneously dyeing their hair pink is an awesome idea.” You threw your hands in the air, giving back Sasha her phone right after.

“Trust me. Mikasa doesn’t have any interest in any other girl other than a special someone I know.”

You chose to ignore her, turning back on the discarded book on top of your covers. The words flew around your mind, aggravating you until you placed the novel on your lap. A defeated sigh came out of your lips. “Okay, let’s go out for some dinner.” You stretched, switching your pajama bottoms for a pair of loose jeans, and leaving your button-down pajama top on. The people in public will never know your top is a part of a pajama set. As you ducked down to roll the bottom of your jeans, you hear Sasha’s bed shuffling. Sitting up, you regarded her with an inquisitive raise of an eyebrow. “Spill it.”

“Oh, alright. Jean told me to bring you to a party.”

You stood up, patting your lap of imaginary dust, placing your things and book inside your tote bag. “Tell him no. I have a written exam coming up and I don’t want to fail one of my majors. He can manage without one person in our friendship group.”

Sasha huffed, mimicking your actions. “This will be the last time!”

“You said that the previous party you pulled me to.” You narrowed your eyes at her. “I couldn’t get up for a whole day because of that party. Don’t forget your wallet.”

“Yes, ma’am.” Sasha threw her wallet in her small bag, throwing the strap over her shoulder. “I promise that this will be the last time, I’ll even call Connie for the witness of my pact!” She placed a heartfelt palm over her chest, lifting her chin a little in the air. “I solemnly swear I am … keeping my promise.”

“You hesitated.”

The brown-haired girl giggled sheepishly, scratching the back of her neck. “It’s kind of hard not to continue the quote from Harry Potter. You can’t blame me for that!”

“I’ll think about it, okay?”

“You better because Mikasa will be there.”

You blinked at her statement. “What does this have to do with her?”

Your roommate looped her arm with yours, pulling you in the direction of the elevators. “Because,” it sounded like she was talking to a child, “you were staring at her earlier during lunch period. I understand that because Mikasa looks so good every second of the day but there was something different about the way you’re staring at her.” She tapped her finger on her chin. “Let me see, there’s some pizzaz there.”

“The pizzaz you’re talking about is me admiring her make-up — nothing more.”

“Whatever you say,” came Sasha’s sing-song voice. “I will be the first one who will say ‘I told you so’ to your face when you two start dating.”

-

The night of the party was not as bizarre as you thought.

Sure, there were people having shots in the living room but there weren’t any extreme scenarios lying around unlike some of the parties Connie and Jean went to. It was mostly catching up with old friends or making connections with strangers by ranting about the education system of your university. All in all, it was a fun night, yet here you are, holding your cup of beer with two hands as you craned your neck to get a glimpse of Sasha. Your roommate disappeared as you turned to get a shot, leaving a confused you behind. To think you specifically asked Sasha to be by your side throughout the night. You cursed in your head, you being reliant on the presence of others surfacing. Your stress made you tip your head back, downing your drink in a go.

Without anything to do, you leaned back on the wall. Mind hazy, eyes glassy, you searched the living room for a spunky brown-haired girl that you were supposed to be buddies with. Instead of Sasha, you met gazes with a girl with stars for her eyes. She was equally mesmerized as she was staring straight at you. Everything became silent as your heartbeat resonated with hers. She was beautiful in her all-black outfit — a leather pencil skirt over fishnet stockings, cropped tank top, and combat boots. The two of you are contrasting with one another; her lipstick so dark whilst yours shone a pretty coral, her hair framing her face in a midnight pixie cut whilst yours were in pink waves cascading down, her entire appearance blending in the background whilst you were a beacon with your coordinating soft outfit. 

God damn it, Sasha was right.

You are definitely falling in love with Mikasa Ackerman.

Mikasa who you saw reading tarot cards of her blonde friend. Mikasa who you bumped into during the opening ceremony two years ago. Mikasa who you discovered to have an affinity for electric guitars when you stumbled in one of the auditoriums, her department’s band having an audition. Mikasa who never meets your gaze because you make her nervous at how effortless you carry yourself. 

But tonight, she never looked away from you, her eyes having an adoring yet determined shine.

She stopped in front of you, mere inches separating you two. You looked up at her, her combat boots making her taller than she already is. You saw her eyes flick to your lips, your breath hitching at the thought of having her dark lipstick on any part of your body. With a careful tilt of her head, Mikasa ducked her head a little to fully meet your eyes face to face. “I saw you’re alone,” her voice is still soft-spoken as if she was afraid that she was scaring you. It might be because of the liquid and verbal courage she got from drinking and listening to her best friends because Mikasa had no plans of letting you go tonight. “I thought you needed company.”

A breath came out of your lips, your proximity making Mikasa feel it. “Uhm, if it’s you, I don’t see why not?”

A large smile brightened Mikasa’s face before it dimmed as she lowered her gaze to your lips once more. “I’ve been waiting three years for this.”

Maybe your mind was too hazy with alcohol or it could be because you accepted your feelings for the black-haired girl, so you whispered, lips brushing against hers in the most addicting way possible, “Just kiss me, Mikasa.”

Her lips softly moved against yours in a slow dance, the inches separating you disappearing as Mikasa wrapped an arm around your waist. You lift a hand to cup her jaw, tilting your head to deepen the kiss and to brush your tongue with hers. You felt her shiver, biting your lower lip to make you open up more, with your whimpers tingling her hearing. Mikasa pulled away, trailing firm kisses on the skin where your shoulder meets your neck. Seeing the black kiss mark on your skin, she smiled and placed fluttering kisses on your neck up to your cheek. Opening your eyes, the silver grays in front of you have never been so beautiful. You returned the favor of placing kiss marks. You stood on your tiptoes, feeling Mikasa’s hand steadying you, and left a coral pink mark on the corner of her mouth. 

Mikasa dipped her head, placing her lips close to your ear.

“I want to slow dance with you,” she sung to your ear. “I know all the other boys are tough and smooth and I got the blues. I want to slow dance with you.” Mikasa hid a small smile at your flustered expression. “So can I be your vampire queen, Bonnie?”

The moment you said yes, there was a shout in the crowds. “Hell yeah, your plan worked, Eren, Armin!”

You and Mikasa stared at each other with wide eyes before laughing. 

“Let’s go ditch this party.”

“Thought you’d never ask, Bonnie.”

[live-the-fangirl-life]

Just Bone Already

I Dig You Part 5

Aelin Galathynius x Rowan Whitethorn AU

While waiting for the Faunal Specialist to arrive, Aelin and Rowan each get advice on what to do about their obvious, shared infatuations.

Part 4 | Part 6 | Fic Masterlist

Warnings: Human Remains (Non Graphic), Language

2451 words

*******

“So that’s the Dr. Whitethorn you’ve been texting me about.” Elide grinned at Aelin through the computer screen. “Got yourself a little crush?”

The moment the door clicked shut behind Rowan after he left to meet the Local Faunal Specialist, Elide turned on Aelin, wiggling her eyebrows and smirking.

“Ugh!” Aelin groaned and ran a hand over her face as she leaned forward to rest her elbows on the table. “Yes, that’s Rowan.”

“Rowan.” Aelin could hear how amused Elide sounded. “Are you managing to get any actual work done or are you too busy crushing over Mr. Tattoo?”

Aelin snorted. “Mr. Tattoo?” She really did love how the ink looked on him; it brought out the muscles in his arms. And, oh, the way it snaked up his neck—

“Yeah, oh don’t tell me, Ae—” Elide started laughing, “you’re daydreaming about his tattoo now, aren’t you?”

Groaning again, Aelin looked pleadingly at her friend. “What am I going to do, El?”

“Him, hopefully.”

“I’m serious.” Aelin shot her an unimpressed look.

Elide snorted. “Me too.”

Ignoring the woman on the other side of her screen, Aelin went on, “Gods, there's this thing,” she started gesturing with her hands “between us. It's like I can feel it.” Aelin looked away dreamily and bit her lip.

“We had a moment this morning.” She half-heartedly glared at Elide and cringed. “Until we were interrupted by the Spice Girls.”

“Oh Gods,” Elide grinned, “that’s still my ringtone?”

“It’s not funny.” Aelin deadpanned, but a small smile poked through.

“Oh, it definitely is babe. So, c’mon! What’s stopping you?” Elide winked at Aelin, “Don’t you wanna see a bone from someone who isn’t dead?” Elide began cackling at her own joke and Aelin couldn't help but join her.

Running a hand through her blonde hair, she told Elide what she’d been telling herself ever since she met Rowan Whitethorn. She’d repeated it enough times that it was beginning to become a sort of mantra for her. A very unwelcome one.

“He’s my colleague, El.” She gave her friend a pointed look. “We’re working together. I don’t want to make things awkward, or…” she struggled to find the word, “unprofessional.” She finished, lamely.

Elide just stared at her blankly.

So Aelin began rambling.

“Shit. Every time I see him I feel like I’m a teenager with a crush. He came in this morning soaking wet—soaking wet—and took off everything besides his undershirt. You saw him after he had dried off a bit, but it was wow. I'd thought that’s what would kill me. ‘Aelin Galathynius, death by Hot Archaeologist’.”

Her words came out faster. “It's like every time I look at him, everything else disappears." She leaned farther forward to emphasize her point, "And he stayed to listen to me explain different parts of bones to him, voluntarily, multiple times. I can't tell you how many times I have been standing next to that man and all I could think about was how much I wanted to jump him right there. And, fuck, you should’ve heard what he said earlier.” Taking a breath Aelin replayed their conversation in her head and remembered the smoldering look in his eyes as he held her gaze.

Aelin kept talking, looking Elide in the eyes. “And I’ve lost count on how many times I have had to tell myself that we’re colleagues.” Just saying out loud again made her want to cringe. “You know that thing when you say a word over and over it loses all meaning? Thats it. Colleague, Colleague, Coll—” she cut herself off and snorted. “At one point I called him my ‘workplace associate’.”

She let her head fall into her hands.

“What am I going to do Elide?” She looked desperately at her friend who’s eyebrows had risen higher with every sentence out of Aelin’s mouth. “I don’t know how I’m going to survive the rest of the season.”

“Wow Ae,” Elide said slowly, letting out a low whistle. “You’ve got it bad. I don’t think I’ve ever seen you like this.” Her look had gone from amused to sympathetic. “You really like him.”

Aelin just looked over at the door Rowan had left through as if she could see him through the wall.

“Okay, babe,” Elide drew Aelin’s attention back toward the screen.

“First thing: why are you so stuck on this whole ‘we work together so nothing can happen’ thing?” Raising her brow at Aelin, she said, “That’s literally the plot of half the books and tv shows out there. It’s the whole ‘workplace romance’, or whatever. And what about the time a few years ago you hooked up with that site coordinator, what was his name? Cole? Kale? His name sounded like a vegetable.”

“Ugh, gross, we don’t speak of that.” She shook her head, making Elide chuckle. “I know, I know, but this feels different.” Aelin leaned back trying to figure out how to say she meant. “It's like, there's this tangible thing connecting us and it feels too important to ruin by doing something wrong.”

Despite only working with Rowan for a short time, it pained Aelin to think about not being around him. And it scared her a little as she realized how true that was.

“Look, Aelin,” She glanced back at Elide. “from what you’re telling me, and the way I saw him interact with you earlier, I don’t think you need to worry about making things weird. It’d only be weird if he didn’t feel the same, and he seems totally into you.”

Aelin looked hopefully at her smiling friend.

“Aelin, speaking as your friend—and with all the love and support in my heart—” Elide paused, making sure Aelin was listening to her.

“Just bone already.”

******

After several minutes of listening to Aelin and Elide catch up, Rowan had received an email from the Local Faunal Specialist telling him that the rain had cleared enough that he was on his way. Rowan had responded by saying he would come to greet him and show him the way back to Aelin's workstation.

Leaving the women to talk, Rowan waved as he left, meeting Aelin's eyes for a long moment. He walked to the site entrance and thanked the gods it had stopped raining. They could probably move the tarps before they left tonight so the pit had all night to dry out.

He almost tripped over a discarded shovel, too lost in thought about what happened this morning with Aelin. It hadn't been much, not even a minute really, but he could tell something had shifted between them. He felt it. And he saw it reflected in her eyes.

Dragging a hand through his hair, he tried to clear his head.

He was leaning against one of the entrance posts when Fenrys walked up to him.

“What's up with you?” Fenrys nodded toward him, “you look like you’re thinking really hard.”

He sighed. He didn't know if he wanted to talk about Aelin with Fenrys, but he felt like he had to tell someone.

Before he could talk though, Fenrys commented with a raised eyebrow, “That was one long sigh.” Fenrys’ face changed and a large grin formed. “Does it have anything to do with a certain blonde, Bioarchaeologist?

Rowan’s head snapped up and saw Fenrys’ expression grow even more amused.

“What?” Rowan asked, “What are you talking about?”

Fenrys just scoffed and looked unimpressed.

“It’s painfully obvious that you two have the hots for each other.” Crossing his arms, Fenrys laughed, “even poor Luca knew something was up, after he went with you to deliver that bone to her.”

Rowan opened his mouth, he hadn't realized other people had caught on to his infatuation with her. Or apparently hers with him, too. He supposed it shouldn't surprise him at this point that she seemed to feel the same way. But, shit, was it really that obvious?

“We even have a bet going,” Fenrys went on with a feline grin, “as to when one of you will grow a pair and do something about it.”

Incredulously, Rowan asked “You,” he pointed at Fenrys, and then gestured towards the site common space, “and Luca, have a bet about Aelin and I’s supposed romance?”

“Not supposed.” Fenrys waved a finger at him. “And not just us, a few other students who have had to watch you two make moony eyes at each other are in on it.”

Shaking his head Rowan huffed a small laugh.

“You remember you technically work for me, right?” Fenrys just kept grinning. “I could throw you off the dig If you piss me off.”

“Please, if that was an actual threat I wouldn't have been here on Day Two.”

Rowan laughed in agreement.

Fenrys’ face turned a bit more serious.

“Rowan,” his tone made Rowan look at him and see the sincerity in his eyes. “You’re into Dr. Galathynius.” Rowan thought that ‘into’ was too light a phrase for what he felt.

Fenrys went on, “It's pretty clear, obviously,” he smiled before turning serious again, “that she likes you too. Don't let her slip through your fingers. Don’t waste time. Go for it.”

And as Rowan heard a car slowly approach, watching the Local Faunal Specialist get out and start walking towards them, work bag in hand, he decided to take Fenrys’ advice.

Rowan liked Aelin. A lot.

And he’d be damned if he didn't tell her.

*****

Aelin had said goodbye to Elide after a few more words of encouragement and promised to call back when the Local Specialist arrived. Apparently, Elide needed to answer an email to a stressed student before they started spiraling.

Now Aelin was pacing. And totally overthinking.

She decided Elide was right.

Well, maybe not about boning Rowan just yet.

Eventually. Soon. Really Soon.

But she had to talk to him before they could jump each other’s bones.

She and Elide had, also, come up with every skeletal-related euphemism they could think of. Apparently, the way to an Archaeologists’ heart was to ask if she could ‘survey his features’.

She tried to hype herself up. She was Aelin fucking Galathynius.

She would march over to Rowan, head high, grab him by the shirt, and kiss him.

Or should she say something to him first?

Maybe have an actual conversation to make sure they’re on the same page? She supposed however he reacted to her kissing him would tell her what she needed to know. But wait, she should do that when they were alone, not out in the middle of the dig site, or wherever he had wandered off to. She may have decided to give in to her ‘archaeological love affair’ as Elide so wonderfully called it, but she wouldn't be so unprofessional as to make a move in front of all the students. Not yet anyway.

She could do this. She would do this.

Aelin took a deep breath, stopped pacing, and smiled.

She liked Dr. Rowan Whitethorn, really liked him. And she was going to tell him.

Taking a single step towards the door, she halted as it opened from the outside. Her heart stuttered in her chest as she watched Rowan step into the space, giving her a wide smile.

Yeah, she was making the right decision.

She opened her mouth to say—she didn’t know what exactly—when two more people entered the space behind him, freezing the words in her throat.

“Hey, Dr. Galathynius!” Fenrys grinned, eyes flicking briefly to Rowan, and gave her a nod. “heard you got your hands on another bone.”

Blinking rapidly, Aelin reigned in her surprise and disapointment at the appearance of the guests and said to him, “Yes, I did.” She glanced over at the tall, dark-haired man and guessed he was the Specialist here to see it. Smirking back at Fenrys she remarked, “And it has a simple enough name that even you could pronounce it, Mr. Moonbeam.”

Rowan grinned, catching her eye as Fenrys laughed loudly and she stepped forward toward the group.

Rowan cleared his throat and gestured towards the third man.

“Aelin, this is Lorcan Salvaterre, Faunal Expert for this region.” The man, Lorcan, just gave her a curt nod. “Lorcan, this is Dr. Aelin Galathynius, lead Bioarchaeologist on site.”

*******

“Hang on a minute, I’ll call Elide back.” Aelin turned toward her laptop to set up a new video call. With her back turned, Fenrys gave Rowan a nudge and nodded his head toward Aelin. Glaring, Rowan didn’t respond. He didn't want to make it a scene.

Aelin had shown Lorcan the scapula and told him about their conclusion regarding its species. He seemed skeptical to believe the word of someone who hadn't even seen the bone in person, so she told him that she’d get Elide to explain it to him.

“Elide?” Lorcan questioned, holding the bone up to take a closer look.

“The Zooarchaeologist I asked to look at the scapula,” she clarified, “Dr. Elide—”

“Lochan.”

Aelin whipped around to face Lorcan with a surprised look on her face. He just raised an eyebrow at her expression.

“You know Elide? She questioned, still looking surprised. Rowan and Fenrys sat back, content to watch the two.

Lorcan scowled, focusing back on the bone in his hand, but Aelin could have sworn she saw his face redden. It was gone in a blink.

“I may not have my doctorate,” he began, still scowling down at the bone, “but I do keep up with the field. I saw her give a lecture last year. She was good.”

That seemed to be high praise coming from him.

“Hello, again!”

All four of them turned to see Elide pop up on Aelin’s computer.

As Aelin gave introductions, she could see Lorcan's focus remaining on Elide. She’d have to ask her friend about that later. Elide then went into explaining how she determined the species of the bone, and she and Lorcan were still discussing Faunal remains several minutes later, seemingly unaware of Aelin, Rowan, and Fenrys.

Rowan zoned out the two Faunal experts discussing the taxonomic identification of different related species, and looked over at Aelin. He didn't miss Fenrys’ smirk as the Junior Archaeologist settled himself into a chair in the corner.

Walking over to her, Rowan was struck with the happiness and determination in her eyes. She gave him a soft smile and tucked a piece of hair behind her ear.

She almost looked like she wanted to say something, but he jumped in first.

“Can I talk to you?” He tried not to seem too hopeful, but the look she gave him quieted any of his doubts. “Outside?”

“Lead the way.”

***

Part 4 | Part 6

*******

If you'd like to be tagged, send me a message or leave a reply!

Taglist

@astra-ad-mare

@allthebooksunderthemoon

@becarefuloflove

@bisexual-genderfluid-fan

@charlizeed

@emily-gsh

@enormousbooklover

@fromthelibraryofemilyj

@hakunamatatazz

@in-love-with-caramel-macchiato

@jorjy-jo

@mayhemories

@morganofthewildfire

@rowaelinismyotp

@rowansfirebringer

@stardelia

@story-scribbler

@superspiritfestival

@surielandiareendgame

@swankii-art-teacher

@westofmoon