#I wanted to write this on Valentine's but couldn't muster up the will to write it then

[bluewolfangel01]

~Best Gift of the Day~

Disclaimer: Although Mc is being given gifts on White Day does not mean they're female, I always write Mc as gender neutral unless asked otherwise

It was White Day in the Devildom which means that Mc was bombarded with all manner of gifts, attention, and activities from their favorite demons, angels, human, and reaper

The gifts had ranged from both sweet and sour treats, a variety of different colored flowers, both plain and extravegent jewelry, and lots more

And although it had been a wonderful day filled with so much love and affection, all the activities that everyone had planned left Mc feeling extra tired as they trudged to their room for the night

After making it to their room, and doing their nightly routine, Mc flopped onto their bed, but before they went to sleep, they decided to check their phone to make sure there weren't any messages they might have missed in the chaos of the day

They unlocked their phone and found that their homescreen had been changed without their knowing

What should've been their normal wallpaper was now a collage of pictures where Diavolo was in the middle making a heart with his hands, the 7 brothers + Barbatos surrounding Diavolo and making a giant heart out of their arms, and the angels + Solomon + Mephisto + Thirteen placed at the top and bottom holding signs that said "Happy Valentine's Day! We Love You!"

Mc remained still for a moment, before they began to smile and tear up from all the joy they got by looking at the collage and after a few minutes of admiring their new homescreen, they plugged in their phone to let it charge for the night and set it down

Before finally falling asleep, Mc decided that athough they got many gifts that day, the new wallpaper was by far the best

Idea based on this image

[grandline-fics]

Hey, hey, hey. I'd love a love potion with katakuri if that inspires you and you have time for it 💕💕

DESCRIPTION: Love Potion- You were both only pretending to date. The feelings aren't real...right?

WARNINGS: none come to mind.

CHARACTERS: Katakuri

WORDS: 1,598

A/N: Thank you for this request @strawberry-000 this one got away with me and I hadn't intended it to get as long as it did. This is my second time writing Katakuri but I hope it was to your liking ♥️

*REQUESTS ARE OPEN*

DIRECTORY | PROMPT LIST | KO-FI | VALENTINES EVENT MASTERLIST

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The smell of baking filled the streets of Hakuriki Town. Intoxicating smells perfectly blending together to create the constantly sweet and indulgent atmosphere that kept all the residents in a warm and happy mood. Well maybe not all. Sadly you couldn't exactly join the others around you in their positivity and cheer when you were trying to keep yourself restrained and polite. All you wanted was to just work but instead you had to suffer the annoyance of a coworker standing a little too close and being far too persistent.

“So we both finish our shifts at the same time today.” He began while you glared down at the dough you were kneading expertly. Quickly you forced your expression into one of false calm. You were newer to this bakery and the one trying-and failing- to charm you was the Boss’ favourite. The last thing you wanted was to cause problems and make waves this early. “What do you say you and I go for a well-deserved drink?”

“Oh that'd be fun!” You said with false enthusiasm. You’d refused him so many times already by feigning tiredness or pretending to feel unwell that you needed to try something different. Today’s tactic: ignorance of his intentions. You turned to face him with as sweet a smile you could muster as you put the tray of dough into the oven. “I’ll let the others know and we can make a night out of it. I think we could all do with a work outing after how busy this week has been, don’t you?”

“It’d be kinda awkward bringing the others on a date though.” He laughed, completely sidestepping your plan with ease. “The last thing I'd want is to make them uncomfortable, y’know?” You held back the urge to punch the man in the face. He didn't want to make the rest of your coworkers uncomfortable but had no problem doing it to you if it meant you went on a date with him? Taking things up a gear you blinked at him in surprise. 

“Date?" you repeated innocently. “Oh…I thought you were only asking me out as a friend. I'm sorry but I'm not single.”

Oh you wished you could have fully savoured the bewildered and disappointed look on his face but you were too busy training your expression, appearing apologetic for the misunderstanding. You wished it hadn’t come to this; having to lie about your love life in order to get him to back off but if it meant he stopped asking you out it would be worth it. Then your eye twitched minutely to see your coworker’s confidence slip back into his features. Even that statement wouldn’t deter him from his pursuit. “You're seeing someone? Is it serious?”

“It’s still new but I’m very happy with them.” You explained while moving to grab ingredients to start work on the next batch of pastries. Your boss hadn’t spotted you and your coworker’s idle chatter but if they did, you’d be the only one to be lectured. Not giving them the chance you set about work while gnashing your teeth in frustration, feeling your coworker follow close behind you. You could feel the questions brewing on his tongue and tried to get ahead of it, in the hopes of finally killing the conversation you never wanted to be a part of in the first place. "So happy in fact I don't think he'd take kindly to hear someone else wants to date me.”

"Who is he? I think I could win a fight against him for your affections.” The bold declaration brought a sharp laugh from your lips before you could stop it. Everything already pointed to this guy thinking he was amazing at everything but you knew to look at him he was certainly not a fighter. Quickly you cleared your throat and decided you may as well commit to the lie fully. You needed to think of someone not even his ego would compete with while also being someone who he wouldn't directly have any involvement with. You couldn’t work out why it was the first name your mind conjured but it was out of your mouth before you could come up with anyone else. "It's Katakuri.”

For the rest of the day your coworker left you alone, creating as much distance between you both as possible. Your plan had worked too well. He didn’t question you at all because only someone with a death wish would falsely claim to be seeing a member of the Charlotte Family. When your shift ended you stepped out onto the street and let out a sigh of relief only to freeze at the sight of the Minister of Flour himself leaning against the wall of the building opposite your work. From the look in his eyes you saw that he knew. Was it some sort of sadism that he let you work for hours and finish your shift before ending your life? Somehow you felt enough strength return to your legs to carry you forward the last few steps until you were in front of Katakuri. “So…public execution or imprisonment?”

“Both seem like a harsh punishment.” Katakuri began as he stepped away from the wall and you couldn't help but grow still at how calm his deep, powerful voice was. You then became confused when his eyes slid from your face to look at something behind you. “All he did was ask you out but you set him straight.” Your eyes widened and you heard a panicked squeak behind you but you couldn’t bring yourself to look away from the man in front of you. “Had he touched you however, that would be a different conversation.”

You held back a gasp when Katakuri put his arm around you and pulled you into step to walk with him down the street. As light as the action was you could feel the immense power in his hand but you didn’t feel any fear. You felt reassured and protected but your mind was racing. Were you dreaming? What was happening? There was no point in asking how he knew about your lie because the Charlotte family ruled Totto Land, they were powerful enough to learn anything they wished. When you were far enough away from your work you managed to form enough thought to speak the one question you could ask. Nervously you glanced down at his hand still against your body. “Why did you play along?”

“It’s not really important is it?” Katakuri asked, you glanced up and saw that of what you could see of his face his expression was unreadable. “I could ask why you said my name but it wouldn’t really change things. The results are the same. Your coworker won’t bother you again.”

“That may be but that only works out in my benefit.” You stated with a small tilt of your head your curiosity only growing. “What could you possibly be getting out of this little charade?”

“Who knows?” Katakuri mused, watching your lips fall into a small scowl in dissatisfaction at the answer. “You work in a bakery right? Make me some doughnuts and we can say that’s my motivation to keep up your lie for as long as you need to.”

You blinked and let out a soft laugh. Katakuri had his own personal chefs and bakers that could make him anything he desired. Why he’d want your baking baffled you but if it meant he would continue to let you use him to get out of be asked out by people you had no interest in, it was a good trade. “Are you going to break up with me if they don’t taste as good as what you’re used to?”

“Only if they’re completely inedible.” Katakuri let out a small chuckle, amused that you felt so at ease around him to joke that way. He was already aware of how good a baker you were but he said nothing. The truth of the whole situation was that when he used Brûlée’s mirro-world to enjoy his merienda in peace, she kept the mirrors connected to Hakuriki activated so he could still ensure there were no dangers to the island he was in charge of. In that time one conversation caught his attention in particular because of how persistent and grating one voice sounded. He was subjected to hearing your get asked out again and again. Every time you patiently came up with something to end the conversation, your coworker pressed again and again to the point Katakuri became irritated on your behalf but that was just civilian problems. One of many minor grievances people had to deal with, hardly something that required his involvement. Then you conjured up his name as your boyfriend. He wasn’t going to lie, he had been impressed at that and to finally hear your coworker immediately shut his mouth Katakuri decided for that blessing you deserved a reward by legitimising your lie.

“This is me.” You spoke up, spotting your home come into view. “Stop by my work tomorrow and I’ll have your doughnuts ready for you.”

“I look forward to it.” Katakuri told you sincerely, watching you step out from his relaxed hold and walk towards your home to turn in for the evening. When you were inside, Katakuri couldn’t help but smirk underneath his scarf. He hadn’t fully known what to expect when he waited for you outside the bakery but now he was certainly interested in what was going to happen next.

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[lamentationsofalonelypotato]

Chapter 16: I Thought I Was In Love Before

Pairing: Soldier Boy x f!reader, Reader POV, Soldier Boy POV

Summary:  When you decided to work with Butcher and his merry band of supe hunters to take down Homelander, you neve expected to be saddled with a sullen, grumpy, jerk like Soldier Boy when the job was done. The more you're around him the more you hate him, but you can't help but wonder, is he really as big a jerk as you think? Reader is a supe with plant powers. This takes place in an AU about a month after the end of The Boys Season 3, in which Butcher has let Soldier Boy continue to work with him on his team.  (I'm real bad at summaries, please forgive me!)

Tropes: Enemies to Lovers, Slow Burn, Age Difference (Reader is in her 20s), Soft Ben/ Soldier Boy, Protective Ben/Soldier Boy

Word Count: 10.3K

Warnings: I'm going to label this 18+ because Soldier Boy (he's a warning and everyone knows it), IMPLIED SEX, Swearing, Mentions of Sex, Sexual Innuendo, Heavy Petting? Making Out, Nudity, Illusions to Sex, A little bit of self-deprecating thought. Ben/Soldier Boy might be a little bit OOC.

Note: This is told from Reader's perspective. Any references to the reader is made using you or your. There is minimal use of y/n. I tried my best to proofread, but nobody's perfect. If you don’t like, don’t read, but if you do like, you’re my favorite!

Internal monologue is in italics and is in first person.

Listen While You Read🪴: "I've Been Waiting For You" by ABBA

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Series Masterlist

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A/N: This chapter is really just a whole lot of fluff and a bit of cheeky spice, that I couldn't help but write. I figured the two of them really needed just a chapter where someone wasn't being tortured, someone almost died, someone was hurt, or them fighting lol. ENJOY!

There were more flowers in your entire apartment than in New York City on Valentine's Day, and you were sure that come morning there would be more flowers in here than what grew on the East Coast in the middle of spring.

Roses exploded from the bush in the corner splashing pinks and coral petals onto the floor, Lily of the valley dipped from outstretched stalks, honeysuckle, lavender, and lilac smiled from the pots on top of your dresser, and the gardenia on your bedside table filled the room with the sweet-smelling aroma. Even the pothos vines that trailed along your walls were brighter and greener, creeping along to secure your curtains while the Jasmine vines that crept up the wall behind your bed shed the white blooms over where Ben and you were laying.

You were sure that you had Jasmine smashed against your skin and threaded in your hair, but you weren't complaining. There was nothing to complain about, not if every time Ben took you to bed was anything like what had happened over the past four hours.

The number of men you'd slept with was in no way extensive, you could count it on one hand, which meant you weren't drawing from a wide range of experiences, not to mention that it had been probably over a year since you'd slept with someone, but Ben easily blew them out of the water.

Usually after you were with someone, you'd compare them to Newton, only because it was the longest relationship that you'd had and really the only guy you'd ever loved. When you'd finally slept with Newton, you'd thought that because you loved each other the sex was supposed to be good… but each time you were disappointed.

You could remember every awkward fumble of Newton's hands on your chest, every slobbery kiss, every time he said that he was "too tired" to return the favor, and every single time you felt unsatisfied while he turned over happy and drifted off while you tried to think of a way to muster up the courage to tell him that you wanted to try something new or at least tell him that you weren't happy.

Not being happy with Newton seemed to be a recurring theme and you didn’t know why you’d stayed with him as long as you did. Perhaps it was because you thought that it was true love, just as Ben stayed with Countess because he thought that was what love was like.

Turns out the two of you had just been waiting to find each other, and you couldn’t have been happier.

Nothing about the way Ben touched you was awkward or hesitant, it was confident, practiced, and just rough enough to give you a glimpse of how strong he really was. The way he kissed you was all consuming, as if he wanted to drink you in, swallow you whole until there was nothing left of you, as if he couldn't help himself but crash into you.

And Ben refused to let you touch him, until after he'd made you fall apart more times than you could count, whimpering, gasping, and screaming his name into the warm air of your bedroom with your hands tangled in his dark hair.

Not to mention you'd never get tired of the moans and breathy groans of your name on his lips. It made you feel powerful seeing Ben that way and hearing him say your name like that. Knowing that you were able to do that to him, to make him feel good the same way that he made you feel like you'd transcended to another plane of human existence. And you didn't think that you'd be able to stop anytime soon.

It was enough to make you regret making him wait for as long as you did. Maybe a part of you thought Ben was all talk, that there was no way that he was as good as he said he was, but you didn't expect Ben to know exactly what you needed as if he could see inside your head. And even though Ben said he wasn't gentle and didn't think that he could "make love" to you, what he just did for four hours came close.

Because he had unmade you, destroyed you, and then the shattered remains that pieced back together after he took you apart cell by cell was filled with so much love and ecstasy that you didn’t know where it all came from.

You'd never felt this way about anyone else in your entire life. Just as Ben thought he'd loved Countess, you thought that you loved Newton, but the way you felt about Ben was nothing compared to how you felt about your ex.

You weren't sure if you'd ever feel this way about anyone else ever. At the back of your mind the realization that you could potentially live as long as Ben did was hovering there and the truth was that you could see yourself spending all that time with Ben. You could see yourself spending the rest of your life with him. He was the only one you wanted and you hated how long it took you to admit it to yourself.

But there was a little twinge of something deep down that worried you Ben couldn't commit 100%, and then Ben would do something uncharacteristically soft and it would make you believe whole heartedly that he could.

And even if Ben couldn’t say that he loved you the traditional way, you knew he did. You saw it in the way he held you, saw it in the way he brought you coffee, saw it in the way he walked with you to and from work, and you saw it in the way he cared for you.

There weren't any casualties tonight, except the shower curtain and the rod. The shower had been a good idea in theory to cool off and clean up, until you grabbed the shower curtain and ripped the rod from the wall when Ben twisted his hips in a way that made you see stars.

You suppose that you had instigated it, after you laughed at Ben's inability to fit in your shower, and Ben took it as a challenge, but your plants had been spared.

And you were happy that your headboard had survived, it was antique, and you loved it, but there were a set of divots in the drywall behind the bed that made you hope that Mike wasn’t home and had witnessed what had caused them.

Though you had a sneaking suspicion that Ben had done that on purpose. It wasn't a secret to you how possessive and jealous Ben was, especially not after the way you'd seen him act around Jake. It was a trait that you'd never found attractive until you met him.

But there was something about the Ben’s jealousy and his almost primal need to claim you in every way he knew how that made you want him even more.

You hear Ben mutter your name faintly, breaking through your internal monologue.

You weren't up for moving now, your heart was thunderous against your rib cage, your limbs felt like jelly, and there was a layer of sweat coating your skin. You were laying on your back in your bed where the two of you had ended up, staring up at the ceiling in your bedroom trying to catch your breath, with the sheets and blankets tangled and thrown haphazardly off the sides at your feet.

And despite everything you thought about Ben, you never expected him to want to be close after sex, but he was laying on his side beside you, looking at you with a worried expression. His hand probes along your right wrist to catch your attention.

“Hmm?” You breathe because you can't seem to form words at the moment.

"You doing okay there Petals?" Ben looks smug, but you can hear worry slip into his voice.

It made you smile to yourself, because as rough and prickly as Ben's outer exterior was, you knew how much he cared about you even if he was unwilling to admit it aloud.

You take in a deep breath to find your voice and calm your heart. “Are you asking if you broke me with your dick? Or if you killed me with the almost Olympic level sex?”

Ben chuckles, propping himself up so he could stare down at you, his dark hair is falling forward over his forehead, and he's studying you with his green eyes.

He looks handsome. Ben always did, but here in bed with you, he looked normal, happy, and content. After the shower, his hair no longer had all the product that had been in it for the event at Vought, and after how many times you'd run your fingers through it, it was more tousled and scrunched than usual, but you loved it. He looked more like him again, not like the man that Vought had dressed up for the event. He looked like the man you'd fallen in love with.

You wondered if Ben noticed and liked that you looked more like you now, well, you as if you'd run ten miles. You were sure that your hair was a mess tangled and matted against the pillows, your cheeks flushed, and covered in sweat.

How the fuck can he look so good after doing that for four hours? Its unfair. I probably look like I've spent the past four hours trapped in a tornado while Ben looks like he's ready for a photoshoot for Vanity Fair.

"Because I never wanted to go to the Olympics, but I wouldn't mind going with you every once and a while." You cough out a laugh, still trying to catch your breath.

"Only once in a while?" Ben smirks. "Because you sounded like you'd be okay going every night not to mention it sure looks like you wouldn't mind going." He gestures to the blooms strewn around the room, before pulling one of the small, white fragrant flowers from your hair.

"Shut up."

Ben only laughs at you, flicking the flower away . "We can go whenever you want." He trails his fingertips against your cheek, brushing back some of the hair that was stuck to the flushed skin. “But you're okay? Sometimes I lose control-.”

“Some women like that.”

“No, that’s not what I meant.” He rolls his eyes at you and the hand that pushed your hair away cups your cheek. “I don’t want to hurt you.” Ben's voice is soft and serious, his brilliant green eyes searching your face and then trailing down your naked body to look for injuries that you don't have.

Sure, you were a little bit sore, but it was a good sore, something that you wouldn't mind feeling all the time. The kind of sore that was satisfying to wake up to.

“Well when we first met-“ You begin to say, remembering when Ben had you by the throat and was preparing to rip you in half when he changed his mind and threw you across the room the day Homelander went on ice.

It was an odd first meeting and given how much Ben and you argued it seemed fitting that the two of you met how all great loves should, mid-fight.

You’d always wondered why Ben didn’t just kill you when he had the chance. It would have been one less headache for him to face that day. You remember looking into his eyes and seeing the anger and rage within, feeling just a feeling a shiver of fear skate down your spine when you realized it might be the last thing you ever do. It was honestly the only time that you'd ever been afraid of him. Pushing Annie out of the way had been worth it, knowing that you saved your best friend's life made your sacrifice worth it, but Ben hadn't killed you.

Ben swallows your next words, his lips moving fervently against your mouth, rough, with just a tickle of his beard against your cheeks. Honestly, your lips were already swollen and a little bruised, not to mention you had beard burn in a few places, but you weren't complaining and like hell you were going to stop doing something that felt so good.

 “Don’t fucking bring that up again. I hate that I hurt you.” Ben winces when he admits it, but his hand gently traces the gentle curve of your throat, a frown gracing his perfect lips as if he can imagine the bruised handprint you had for weeks later.

You'd caught him looking at the mark sometimes whenever you were on mission in those weeks together, but despite how the two of you had met, you weren't afraid of Ben. Sure, he had tried to kill you, but you'd done the same thing, so you'd figured the two of you were even. Plus, Ben annoyed you more than he scared you, and you didn't believe for one second that Ben would hurt you on purpose.

Ben might have been rough, but you didn't believe that he would ever find pleasure in hurting you or that he would beat you into submission if you pissed him off.

“It’s our history Ben.” You smile raising your hand to push his hair back, brushing your thumb over his cheek in a gesture that makes his lean subconsciously into your touch. “You can’t change it."

He frowns with a sigh, the green of his eyes lightening in the light from your bedside table lamp.

"Why didn't you kill me that day?" You whisper. "You didn't know me-"

Ben's expression turns to something that almost looks like shame for a moment, before it hardens. "You didn't belong there."

"Where?"

"In all that shit. I could see it in your eyes. I-" His jaw tightens. "I'd never seen someone like you before."

"Like me? Is this when you go back to insulting me again?" You snort.

"No. I-" He bites back his next words. "I've met other supes before, the ones that you said act like gods, the ones like my bastard son but you were-.” Ben huffs out a frustrated breath. “I don't fucking know you were just different, and I didn't want to-" Ben looks conflicted as if he can't find what to say.

Although you usually found Ben’s awkwardness in conversations when they got too personal cute, a part of you broke for him. You wondered if he’d been like that his whole life. If Ben had lived in a world, where he couldn’t open to anyone without an internal monologue from an unseen entity telling him that he was being a “pussy.” You remembered what your grandmother said about Ben’s father, and it only made your heart break more for him.

You made a promise to yourself right then and there that even if it took decades you were going to make Ben comfortable telling you what he was really feeling and thinking. You wanted Ben to know that it didn't make him weak to express emotion that way, that you thought it didn't make him less of a man to talk to you.

Your hand slips from his cheek trailing to curve around the back of his head, bringing his face to yours so you can kiss him, pouring as much emotion as you can into it. "It's okay." You murmur against his lips with a small smile. "I understand."

"You do?" He looks surprised.

"Yes.” You nod, trailing your fingertips in his hair. “No one else has ever said that to me or cared to notice. I think I wanted to be a part of that world because of Annie, to be closer to her, but I don’t belong in it. Even after everything that happened with Elijah and Darren-”

“No, you don’t.” Ben doesn’t say it cruelly or with disdain or in a way to belittle you, instead he says it with a sigh, his hand finding your hip, trailing his thumb over the curve of your pelvis. "I want better for you than this."

"This?"

"You working for Butcher, working fifty jobs, coming back to this shitty apartment-"

You lock your arms around the back of his neck with a laugh. "We talked about this, I like our apartment."

Ben's entire body freezes where he's laying next to you, the thumb that was circling your pelvis coming to a halt. "You said our."

"Yes I did." You smile up at him, seeing the way his green eyes have brightened with the word. "The shitty apartment is half yours now."

"What a dream come true." Ben rolls his eyes. "At least at Vought it would have been quieter-"

"I think that Mike's screeching adds to the ambiance." You joke, loving the way his hair falls between your fingers and how Ben seems to lean into your touch before he can stop himself, that he reacts that way to you touching him just as you react to him touching him. But your smile turns sympathetic. "Poor Mike. I'm going to have to get him some noise canceling headphones-"

Ben's eyes darken to an emerald. "Let him listen, maybe he'll learn something. Plus, I did warn him my girl was kinda loud."

"Is that what I am?"

"Yes." Ben smirks. "Fucking finally."

You roll your eyes. "The way we started might have been rocky, but I like where we ended up."

“I do too, but I wish we had ended up here sooner.” His smile turns more into a smirk. Ben's hand grips your waist possessively, sliding you further across the bed towards him so he's leaning over you. “Told you it would be good. We could’ve been doing this since the day we met sweetheart.”

“Patience is a virtue.”  

“That I’ve never had.” Ben hesitates, something flashing through his eyes so quickly that you can't place it. “But you’re okay?” It comes out quiet, and you watch his gaze drop again to your body to check for injuries.

“No.” Ben’s eyes widen at your answer, before you smile and bring his face back down to yours, the words a breath upon your lips. “I’m better than okay, I’m with you.”

The look on his face breaks you, it's so honest, so unlike the usual hardened façade he wore that it made it difficult to breathe. It reminds you of the way your father looked at your mother whenever he'd get home from work, or when the two of them would sway back and forth in the kitchen to an ABBA song, and when he looked at her like she was his entire world and nothing else mattered.

You never thought that you'd want to see Ben look at you like that or that he would ever look at you that way, but now his green eyes are bright and happy, meeting yours and it made you feel so warm that you were sure you would just melt off the bed and into a puddle.

It was what you had imagined when you thought about falling in love with someone else, the past four hours had been exactly that too. It was the romance that you wanted, the one that you tried to use to block off Ben’s countless attempts to try and sleep with you.

And you couldn't have been happier.

"Are you okay?" Your smile turns more into a smirk. "No broken hip or anything? Because at your age I'd think that it's a hazard. Didn't think an old man could do any of that without serious injury."

Ben's gaze turns murderous, something dark shining in his eyes that makes your throat tighten. "You're gonna regret that Petals."

"Oh, am I?" You tangle your fingers in his dark locks, your smirk growing. It brought you joy to make him so angry, to annoy him as much as he annoys you.

"Yes." He growls into your mouth pinning you to the bed, his body caging you in against the tangled sheets and blankets. Ben's eyes are glinting darkly in the light and makes you lose all feeling in your legs. "You are."

A little while later, Ben traces your lips softly with his thumb as you try to catch your breath. You were honestly beginning to fade in an out of sleep, and there was a pleasant ache along your limbs that made you smile with every drag of his fingertips against your skin.

“Petals?”

“Yes Gramps?”

"Don't call me that."

"I think it's cute." You sigh. "I like how out of touch you are with everything. It's adorable."

"I'm not adorable." He huffs.

"Yes, you are Gramps."

Ben rolls his eyes, but then laughs under his breath as if he thinks it's ridiculous to try and stop you.

Good, he's learning.

“Will you say it again?” He whispers.

“Gramps?” You joke.

“No.” Ben sighs heavily and jostles your exhausted body to make you stop, but it only makes you laugh at him.

“Say what?”

“What you said before.”

“Ben, I can’t really remember where I am right now so I’m gonna need you to be a little more specific.”

“When we were at Vought.”

You press your lips together in concentration trying to understand what he means. You'd said quite a few things to him tonight, things that you'd moaned while gripping his shoulders so tight that you would have left bruises on anyone else, and you try to think of what specifically he could be talking about.

What does he mean- Oh.

“I love you.”  You say it without hesitation, without looking away from his gaze, and without regret. You didn’t hate yourself for falling in love with him and you didn’t want to deny yourself of him anymore. Not when he was holding you close with a softness that Ben had said he was anything but, not when Ben took the time to care about what you liked, and not when Ben seemed truly happy for the first time since he’d been out of Russia.

Ben leans down to kiss you, but this time it’s not rough, it’s not him in a frenzy taking what he wants, it’s gentle and turns hungry the longer his lips are against yours, his hands roaming places along your body that make you sigh and reach up grip his shoulders as an uncontrollable moan slips from your mouth.

If it was always going to be like this you were sure that you’d become insatiable, but you were never going to admit that to Ben. As if you needed to stroke his monumental ego.

Plus, you had a feeling that Ben already knew that.

“Do you believe me?” You murmur against his lips, shuffling your fingers through the hair at the nape of his neck, looking up at him with a gentle smile.

“Yes.” Ben whispers. “Because I know you wouldn’t lie about something like that.”

“I wouldn’t ever do that to you Ben. I want you to know that. And I wouldn't manipulate you into being something you're not-"

“I know.” He traces the soft angles of your face with his rough fingertips, sending goosebumps over your skin. “You’re nothing like her.”

He didn’t have to say Countess’s name for you to know who he’s talking about. The last thing you wanted was for Ben to believe that you were telling him you loved him to manipulate him to do something or become something he wasn’t.

“I hope not.”

“It’s what I like about you.” Ben continues. “You’re soft."

"Soft?" You raise an eyebrow trying to figure out if it was an insult.

He nods. "All the other supes I meet act like they have something to prove, but you-" Ben sighs. "You're different. You're kinder, even when you shouldn’t be.”

“Shouldn’t be?” You ask mildly confused.

“I-“ Ben hesitates as if what he’s about to say is difficult for him. “What you said that night at the fundraiser is true, I’m not this man. I’m not-“ His expression turns dark for a moment and you realize that Ben was about to say Jake’s name. Ben's jaw tightens and you can see how difficult it is for him to say what comes next. "But fuck Petals you make me want to be that man. I don't think anyone else ever has."

You could feel your eyes beginning to water with the emotion that swelled in your chest. You'd never heard Ben admit something like that, never heard him say that he wanted to be better for you.

“Ben, look at me.” You whisper cupping his cheeks to raise his gaze from your chin. “I don’t want Jake. I want you. I know what kind of man you are. I trust you-“

“But you shouldn't-“ Ben presses and it reminds you of the same thing he said to you before he took you to your bedroom.

“Why do you think that?”

“Because I’ve done terrible things. I’ve killed people, tortured others,-“

"I've killed people too-"

"Not for the same reasons. You killed them because they were going to hurt you."

You gently push his hair back from his face. “Ben?”

“Yeah?” He's frowning, eyebrows furrowed together, and you kiss away the frown on his perfect lips.

“I know you. I know about the things you’ve done. I’ve seen the darkest parts and I love you anyway. All the little pieces of who you are make you… you. You wouldn’t be the man I love if you didn’t have them."

“But-“

“No buts.” You squish his cheek and Ben gives you an annoyed look that only makes you snort. He was going to need to get used to your antics if he was going to survive living with you. “Everything you’ve done, the choices you made, the things that have happened to you, shaped the man I fell in love with and brought you to me. No one is perfect Ben. Everyone is flawed, it’s what makes us human. But sometimes the flaws are the best part. So please don’t hide who you are from me, because you think you have to. You’re not going to scare me away.”

“How can you say that when I’m so different than you?”

“Because you’re forgetting all the important parts I love about you.”

“Which are?”

“Well now it kinda feels like you’re fishing for compliments Gramps.” You joke and this time the ends of Ben’s mouth quirk up in a half smile. “You protect me, you take care of me, you always listen when I’m talking and you actually remember some of the things I say, you pay attention to what I like, you try to make me laugh with your disgusting sense of humor-“

“You know you like it Petals.” Ben smirks.

“And you annoy me.”

He shakes his head with a chuckle. “Doesn’t seem to be a good thing. Annoying you.”

“It is.” You giggle. “Because no one else annoys me quite like you do.”

“You’re so fucking weird.” Ben says, but it's not hostile, he says it with love, almost as if he can't believe how lucky he is.

“I love you too Ben.” You pull his face down to yours, cupping his cheeks with your hands and feeling the beard scratch and scrape against your palms.

“You’re unlike anyone I’ve ever met.” He murmurs, trailing his kisses down to your jaw.

“Pretty much everyone you’ve met is from another century so-“

Ben raises his head to glare at you. “You annoy me too.”

“And you see it as a good thing right?” You tap him on the nose.

“Fuck no.”

The bed shakes with your laughter, Ben is still leaning over you, his right hand pushed into the sheets next to your head, his body resting comfortably beside you. You could feel how warm he was, the weight of his body like a warm blanket, and you knew that you could get used to this. You wanted this life with Ben so badly it burned through your body like wildfire. It made your heart ache, just as it used to when you thought about having a romance like your parents, your grandparents, and Annie and Hughie. When you’d think about finding the person who seemed perfect for you in every way.

Funny, given that Ben seemed to be the opposite of you, but that was why the two of you fit so well together.  

“You never listen to me, you always argue, you always find something I’ve done to complain about-“ Ben continues.

“Are you going back to insulting me? Because it wasn't exactly fun for me earlier when you yelled at me."

“Give me a fucking minute.”

You wait.

His voice shifts to something a little gruffer almost confused. “You don’t ask me for anything.”

It was probably the last thing you thought he was going to say. If anything, you thought he was going to say that you’re always covered in dirt.

"What?"

“Countess she always-“ Ben frowns. “She was always asking me for shit. Jewelry, clothes, a new car. I always got what she asked because I thought that’s what you do for someone you care about, but you always fight me whenever I try to buy something for you. I don't understand you."

"You've said that before-"

"I know, but it's true. I've never fucking understood you." He smiles when he says it.

"That's okay, you have time to figure it out."

Ben hesitates, his hand tracing your arm. "I guess you do too."

The comment is paired with another rare soft smile, the kind of smile that you wanted to make him have every day for the rest of your life, and you understood why he was smiling like that. Because Ben was allowing himself to be comforted by the idea that he wouldn’t have to worry about losing you, that he wouldn't have to be alone and that you would be with him for as long as he was alive.

Something inside ripped open and you felt your eyes begin to water with the weight of his words, because Ben was saying that he wanted to be with you as long as you wanted to be with him.

"Yeah." You breathe. "I guess I do."

You contemplate for a minute what he said about Countess asking him for things. "Honestly, I do like gifts, but I like gifts that mean something." You sit up, gently pushing him off you, so you can gesture to the bookshelf standing proudly on the other side of your bedroom, the one that Ben bought you at IKEA. "Like the bookshelf."

"I bought you a diamond necklace and you liked the bookshelf more?" Ben sighs incredulous.

"Yeah." You laugh. "I've needed a bookshelf for ages, but I never was able to afford one. Do you have any idea how long I've had piles of books? Years. And-" You shrug your shoulders, gently taking Ben's hand in yours, rubbing your thumb over the hardened ridges and rough patches. You couldn't go long without touching him, you were realizing that about yourself and now that you were finally allowing yourself to touch him you weren’t sure when you would be able to stop. "I've also always thought that spending time with someone else is more special than big extravagant gifts."

"Really?"

You nod.

"Why?"

"Because I think there's something wonderful about just existing with someone, of inhabiting the same space and doing nothing at all. Of sinking into someone and just being there." You could feel your cheeks flushing. "When we watch a movie or when we sit and read together or when you walk with me to the plant shop, I like things like that. Spending time together without expectations or a sense of urgency. Taking the time out of your day to be with someone else. And it doesn't have to be sex either-"

"Are you saying that you didn't like the sex?" Ben raises an eyebrow. "Because you certainly sounded like you-"

"No! I-" Your cheeks flush. "I liked the sex."

"Thought so." Ben smirks.

"You're insufferable." You roll your eyes at him, considering what to say next. "I know that it's a little different than the girls you've met in the past, and I know that it might seem a little strange, but you didn't have to take me to Vought to impress me or win my love or something."

Ben looks confused.

"I mean, if you'd shown up on my grandmother's doorstep with a giant box of greasy Chinese food, a cheap bottle of wine, and a small bouquet of flowers I would have been equally happy."

"Really?"

"Mhmm." You continue to trace your fingers over the palm of Ben's hand, loving the way it feels in yours.  "You've got some big hands there mister."

"There isn't anything small about me Sweetheart, you know that. Got to see firsthand" Ben teases sitting up and leaning towards you with a smirk that makes you roll your eyes. He takes your free hand in his left brushing his thumb over the palm. "Yours are kinda small."

"Sorry sasquatch, we can't all have meat hooks."

"I like it." He murmurs.

"That you've got meat hooks for hands?"

"No, I like how small your hands are." He smiles crookedly at you in a way that makes your breath catch.

"Why?"

"Just take the compliment Petals."

"Well, no one has ever complimented my hands before so…"

"I'm sure that I can give a compliment to every part of your sexy body.”

"If you're about to start talking about my ass again, Ben I swear I'm going to lock you in a tree."

“Songs should be written about it. I’m just stating the obvious.”

You shake your head at him and continue to stroke your thumb over his palm while Ben does the same thing. He was being surprisingly gentle, holding your hand as if it was a fragile bird that could fly away at any moment.

“Why do you like my hands?”

Ben is quiet for a moment. “I don't know I kind of like how delicate they are, and I like how you always seem to have some dirt on them-“ Ben smooths his thumb over your palm. “I like how small they look in mine.” He mutters more to himself than to you.

“Ben?” You whisper.

He glances up, an ashamed look on his face. “Yeah?”

“I like how they look in yours too.”

“Really?”

You nod before you look back down at his hands with red cheeks. “I like how big yours are because they feel solid, strong, but also just a little bit gentle.” You could feel yourself blushing all over again. “When we first met, I didn’t think you could be, but you are.”

Ben scoffs.

“Stop.” You look up at him. “You don’t have to pretend right now, it’s just you and me.” You whisper, squeezing his hand encouragingly. "I know that you think that you have to be this tough, no feelings, jerk or playboy or toxic masculinity poster boy, but you don’t. Not around me. I love you and you opening up to me more is not going to make me stop or think less of you. You can tell me how you feel without me judging you."

The look in Ben’s eyes softens for a moment.

“I like the way you are when you’re around me.” You continue in a whisper. “You always seem softer and a bit happier.”

Ben doesn’t answer immediately, instead he continues to let you stroke along his hands. “I-um-I” He clears his throat. “I like who I am around you too.”

Your cheeks warm with his confession.

Ben clears his throat still looking down at your hand watching the gentle movement of your thumb against his skin. "Look, I-" He pauses. "I wasn't just trying to impress you."

"When?"

"At Vought."

"Then why-"

"I don't want you to worry about any of this shit anymore."

"What shit?"

"Paying rent, buying groceries that aren't name brand, walking because you can't afford a car-" Ben sighs. "Fuck, the day we went to IKEA, and you looked at the price of that couch, I hated how you looked and-"

"Ben it's okay. I budget things and it works out. I'm used to it-"

"But I'm not. It's not okay." His hand tightens in yours. "And I don't want you to worry about any of it."

"But-"

"No 'buts' Petals. "

"I don't want you to pay for everything all the time!" You shout.

"Why not?"

"Because it's your money-"

"Not anymore. You're my girl and that means you're not going to worry about any of it as long as I'm here."

"Do you think you're going to stay a long time?" You say it hesitantly, the part of you deep down that worried Ben couldn't be in an exclusive relationship rearing its ugly head all over again.

"As long as you want me here." The determination in Ben's eyes makes your heart stutter a beat, but there was just a little bit of something behind his gaze, something that looked like vulnerability, but it vanishes in the heat of his gaze.

"I'm pretty sure that I'm always going to want you here. It's too quiet without you."

“Then I’ll stay.”

Ben pushes you back against the bed, fitting his body over yours like a warm weighted blanket designed especially for you, kissing you with so much enthusiasm you're not sure that you remember how to breathe. You didn't understand how it could be like this, how you could feel this way about him especially after he annoyed you so much.

But just as he reaches down to grab your thighs to pull them up around his hips, your stomach growls loud enough to wake the dead.

Oh, holy fuck that is so embarrassing.

Ben hesitates and looks at you, your cheeks burning a bright red. "When was the last time you ate?"

"Um-" You clear your throat. "I mean I drank some of my latte earlier but-"

"Are you fucking kidding me?"

"What?"

"I should have known." Ben sighs and extracts himself from the embrace of your thighs, getting up from the bed, and muttering something under his breath that you can't understand. “You always do this.”

"Wait, where are you going?" You ask him as you sit up.

"I'm going to find my fucking phone and order a pizza." He says, running his hand through his hair almost a little angry.

“It’s okay you don’t have to do that-“

“Yes, I do. I mean, fuck Petals, why don’t you ever remember to eat?” Ben grouses.

“Because I have a lot on my mind! A few things happened today, and I was upset because you weren't in the apartment when I got home and-"

Ben leans across the bed to kiss you, securing his large hand at the back of your head. "I'm sorry that you were upset. I swear that I'm going to make it up to you."

"Ben I’m pretty sure that you’ve spent the last four hours making it up to me-“

"Not long enough." He winks in a way that makes your throat tighten. "But let me find my phone.”

"Okay." You reach for his shirt on the floor prepared to help him find it, but Ben's hand comes down to your wrist to stop you. “Let me help.”

"Don't bother getting dressed Petals. This’ll only take a minute." He says with a wide smirk. "And I'm not done with you yet."

You're not sure how you ended up on the couch naked and eating pizza, but somehow that's exactly what happens. When the pizza guy had been buzzed up, Ben had answered the door only wearing a pair of his boxers, his chest still sweaty and his hair tugged in two different directions, but Ben couldn't have cared less.

Honestly, you'd had to stop him from answering the door naked. The guy had no sense of shame, but you figured that someone who had founded Herogasm and spent at least seventy five percent of his week bed-hopping, had probably lost his sense of shame years ago.

Bean and Rex were now sharing the dog bed in the corner, a surprising turn of events, but you hoped that it meant the two of them had sorted out whatever sibling problems they were having.

Ben's arm was thrown over your shoulders, pulling you further into him while you ate a slice of pizza with your head leaning against his arm.

I could get used to this.

You exhale a happy sigh and cuddle further into him. Ben wasn't a cuddler, but he was allowing you to cuddle against his arm. But he seemed to be enjoying himself, eating his own slice while taking sips of a glass of whiskey that he was sharing with you.

Sharing was a relative turn because the one time he gave you a sip, you'd sputtered it all out and almost coughed up a lung while Ben patted you on the back as hard as he dared, laughing all the while at you.

And predictably when Ben and you were done, he pulled you onto his lap, and the only thing you could think of was how wonderful you felt. Being with Ben made you feel vibrant and alive in the best way. He made you feel beautiful and made you feel as if Ben understood you more than anyone else ever had. That he saw through what everyone else called weird or unusual and loved you anyway. It was all you wanted for so long, a man who saw every part of you that others sneered at and fell head over heels.

Ben deepens the kiss, groaning into your mouth as his hands tighten on your hips hard enough to leave bruises, but you don't care. Everything about him felt right, the scruff of his beard scratching against your flushed cheeks, the smell of his shampoo (really yours) floating through the air with every breath you took of him, the soft pillow of his lips urgent as if he wanted to drink you in breath by breath and never come up for air, the rough trail of his calloused hands over your soft skin, and the hardness of his body molding around yours in the best way as you sat on top of him. You didn't feel self-conscious or uncomfortable, you couldn't, not when each time Ben touched you with a reverence as if wanted to savor you, to run his hands over every inch and discover new places that no one had ever been, and make you feel things that no one ever has or ever will.

You're so absorbed in Ben that you don't hear the jingle of keys in the lock of your front door, but you do hear the startled scream.

"What the fuck!" Annie screams as she enters the living room.

"Holy shit! Annie what the fuck are you doing here!?" You screech, diving off Ben and ripping the crocheted blanket off the back of the couch to cover yourself.

Annie had seen you naked before, what she hadn't seen was Ben naked or Ben and you having sex.

Oh, will the nightmare never end?

"I was just coming to find you! I was worried!" She shouts, her hand covering her eyes, but it was too late. You knew that she'd seen everything. And you mean EVERYTHING.

Well, it can't get any worse.

"Hey Annie did you find her and- OH HOLY FUCK!" Hughie exclaims as he enters the apartment behind Annie and immediately slaps his hand over his eyes so loud you can hear the sharp slap of his hand against his face. "I didn’t see anything!"

"Can someone shut the door before Mike comes in here and 'doesn't see anything either!'" You snap, clutching the crocheted blanket tighter against your chest. It was doing little to cover you, due to the wide spaces in between the granny squares, but it was the only thing big enough to cover all of you.

Because that's exactly what this situation needed, my neighbor coming in and getting everything on his Christmas list when he sees me naked on my couch.

"Why try to hide it baby?" Ben shrugs, leaning back against the couch not bothering to cover himself. "I want everyone to see what they can't have." He winks.

You smack him in the face with one of the couch pillows before shoving it into his lap. "You're not helping Ben." You wave a hand and a vine hanging on the back of your door shuts it with a slam.

"What?" Ben leans towards you with a salacious grin. "My girl is fucking gorgeous, should be the star of every wet dream-"

"Ben, I swear I will tie you up and-"

"But we already did that Petals." He grins. "I wouldn't mind doing it again-"

The wave of heat that travels through your body has nothing to do with embarrassment.

"Please do not finish that sentence." Annie interrupts, her hand still covering her eyes. "I'm already scarred for life."

"Join the club." Hughie mutters.

"You wouldn't have been scarred for life if you had just fucking knocked!" You shout at your friend. "Why are you here?"

"I was worried when you ran to the elevators and Ashley finally let me leave that ridiculous party! I tried to call you and you didn't answer, I went up to Ben's apartment and you weren't there, I called your grandmother and she said that she hadn't heard from you, so I figured you were here!"

"You called Di?" Ben asks.

"I was desperate!" Annie sighs. "I wanted to make sure she was okay-"

"Uh-huh well, you can see that she's fine and we were in the middle of something. Unless the two of you want to get another eyeful of my girl's perfect ass, you should clear out-"

"Ben!" You smack him on the shoulder.

"Absolutely, Annie let's go-" Hughie begins to say stepping backward with his hand over his eyes. He gropes through the air blindly trying to find her, but he comes up empty.

"Wait!" Annie removes her hand from her face, giving Ben a once over and not bothering to hide what she was doing.

"What do you have to wait for?" Hughie asks still reaching out for Annie with his eyes closed.

"Annie for fucks sake-" You groan, but Ben seemed to like all the attention.

She gives you a thumbs up. "I want details tomorrow."

It was more of a high five moment and you both knew it, but you weren't going to give her the satisfaction.

"ANNIE!" You huff face blushing an even brighter red. By now you were sure that you were as red as the strawberries that were hanging on the plant on your kitchen table.

"Bye babe!" Annie says cheerfully, pulling Hughie out the door behind her and slamming it.

"I'm going to kill her." You mutter under your breath, but Ben laughs.

"You're going to talk me up right baby?" Ben purrs wrapping his arm around your waist to pull you into him again. His lips fall to your ear, biting your earlobe before he murmurs. "Tell her all about how good I was?"

"Keep talking and I'm going to tell her that I had to fake it for four hours." You threaten.

It was an empty threat, like hell you were ever going to forget what Ben had done to you. And of course, you were going to tell Annie everything tomorrow over coffee or maybe over wine.

Definitely wine. I’m going to need to get a little bit drunk to cope with the thought that Hughie just saw me naked.

"Aww don't be like that Petals. We both know that you didn't fake anything."

“That you know.”

Ben’s gaze turns dark. “Oh really?” His grip on your waist tightens and he starts to pull the crocheted blanket away from your chest.

“Wait.” You say before you get distracted.

“What?” Ben pulls back. "What's wrong?"

"Annie called my grandmother, which means that she may have tried to call me." You look around the room for where your phone could be. It's between the couch cushions behind you and when you look at the screen you see that your grandmother had tried to call you twice, just as you suspected.

"So?"

"She called me. She must be so worried." You push the call button.

Your grandmother answers on the first ring. "Hello?"

"Hey Gran, I'm sorry I didn't pick up. I was-"

"You don't have to explain. I know that you must have been preoccupied." The way she says preoccupied makes your entire body flush bright red.

Oh, sweet baby peony, please tell me that my grandmother didn't watch Ben and me having sex.

"Please tell me that you didn't-" You begin to croak.

"I didn't mean to." She breezes, and she doesn't sound ashamed. "But then Annie called, and I was worried about where you were so I looked ahead a bit and-“

"Oh, for the love of lemon cream pie." You groan, curling up into a ball because that seems the right thing to do after you've found out that your grandmother had a front row seat to see what Ben and you over the past four hours.

The couch shakes beneath you, and you realize that Ben is laughing. You raise your head to glare at him.

"Looks like the cats out of the bag Petals." He croons.

"I will kill you." You narrow your eyes at him.

"Sweet Pea, I was alive when Ben went to yearly herogasms, there really isn't anything I haven't seen." You hear your grandmother say.

"That doesn't matter." You groan, pulling the crochet blanket over your head in shame. "This is mortifying."

"Petals it's okay." Ben rubs your back, but it's not helping. "I did some of my best work, and you really did some-“

"Please do not finish that sentence."

"Honey, I didn't see too much." Your grandmother soothes. "But I am happy you called, because I want to speak to Ben for a moment."

You hold up the phone from underneath the crocheted blanket, remaining inside your cocoon of shame.

I'm never going to be able to look her in the eyes every again. Holy fuck why me? Why me!? I’d rather Mike walk in here while Ben and I were fooling around on the couch.

"Di, what's wrong?" You hear Ben say into the phone, but you don’t come out of your cave.

"What's wrong?" Your grandmother asks calmly. "Oh, let me think for a second… You're a complete MOTHER FUCKING IDIOT!" Your grandmother shouts it so loudly that you could hear it vibrating through the room.

You peel back the crocheted blanket on your head to look up at Ben who seems just as surprised at your grandmother's insult.

"Wait a minute, what did I-"

"No! No talking!" She shouts. "I couldn't have been any clearer, could I? Maybe if I'd hit you over the head with a frying pan it would have cleaned out your ears! Or given your brain a good shake."

"What the fuck are you talking about?"

"What am I talking about?! I told you what you needed to do. I told you that you needed to come here and what did you fucking do? You broke my granddaughter's heart and went right back to Stan Fucking Edgar!"

Ben's eyes shift to yours and you swear you can see a flicker of regret spark behind his gaze. It makes you reach out and take his free hand, squeezing it to ground him here with you. You knew that Ben felt bad about leaving you like that, you heard it in his voice when he talked to you back at Vought, had seen the regret in his eyes when he told you that he ‘should have been there.’

"That's not-" Ben says half-heartedly, his gaze still on you.

"No! It's exactly what happened."

"Stop anticipating what I'm going to fucking say!" Ben snaps.

"And you stop interrupting me!" Your grandmother shouts back.

"But-"

"Benjamin, you better not fuck this up, because if you do, I will fuck you up." The threat hangs heavy in the air. "Now put my granddaughter back on the phone."

Ben huffs something under his breath and hands you back the phone, fuming. You give his hand another apologetic squeeze.

It was embarrassing enough that your grandmother had seen Ben and you having sex, but now you were mortified that she had yelled at him. You understood that they were friends, but Ben was still your boyfriend.

"Gran you shouldn't talk to him like that." You say into the phone, leaning into Ben's bare shoulder to show him that you weren’t angry with him. "He's apologized and it's okay-"

"It most certainly is not okay." Your grandmother says. "And somebody's got to talk to him like that, so it might as well be me."

"But Gran-"

"No buts sweet pea." She interrupts. "Now I know the two of you are busy today, but I would like you to come out here next week."

"Next week?"

"Yes. It's the annual town fall festival and I've got about a million things to bake, and I could really use the help." Your grandmother states. "Plus, Annie's mother is driving me up the wall about it and it would be nice to have someone here to make sure that I don't kill her."

"Oh okay." You frown and the thought of leaving Ben. The two of you had just finally worked it all out and now you were going to have to go back to Illinois. But you couldn't leave your grandmother high and dry. She needed you there and you loved your grandmother. "Well, I guess Ben can take care of Bean and Rex-

"I want to go." Ben interrupts you.

"Really?" You look at him surprised. "It's not something that you'd-"

"I want to go." He says firmly and this time it's Ben that squeezes your hand.

It made you smile, because you could see that Ben wanted to spend time with you even at something that he'd probably hate every second of.

Fuck, I love him so much.

"Okay. We'll be there." You reply to your grandmother, but you don't look away from Ben.

He's got that soft smile on his face, the one that you want to make him have every second for the rest of your life. You were sure that the same smile was mirrored on your own.

"Perfect. Now get back to doing whatever it was that you were doing, and don't forget to call me when you figure out what day you're going to start driving over."

"Drive? Wouldn't we fly?"

"Nope. For some reason you convince Ben that a road trip will be fun." She says knowingly and you realize that she's seen the future again. “Something about experiencing America in the 21st century.” You can imagine her waving her hand around as if she can’t quite understand.

"That's going to take some getting used to." You groan and wonder how much she had seen of your life. "Gran?"

"Yes, sweet pea?"

"Thank you. For everything."

"You're welcome." You could hear the smile in your grandmother's voice.

She didn’t need you to explain what you meant, she knew that you were talking about last week when she comforted you and tried her darndest to tell you that Ben and you were meant to be together. She had always been so patient with you, and you knew that she loved you just as you loved her. Going home was never a chore or something you dreaded. It was something that filled you with warmth, something that made you feel like you belonged, and the home was filled with the love your grandmother infused through the air with her thoughtful actions and kind words.

"I love you." You smile.

"I love you too sweetie. I'll see you next week."

You sit there in the silence for a moment, lowering the phone from your ear, before you look up at Ben.

"You okay Petals?" Ben drags the crocheted blanket away from your body, before he pulls you onto his lap.

"Yeah. I am." You smile, wrapping your arms around the back of his neck to secure him against you. "Can you promise me something?"

 "Anything." His hands settle comfortably on your hips, but Ben doesn’t look away from your face.

"That you won’t leave like that again." This time you reach down and pull his right hand up to your chest, directly over your heart so he can feel the gentle beat through his skin.

'Like-"

"Go all radio silent and take all your stuff and just vanish into thin air." You clarify. "I didn't like that. It scared me and I-"

Ben's other hand cups your cheek, pulling your face to his before you can finish your sentence. You can feel how sorry he is, how much he wants to make it up to you. You know deep down that Ben didn’t mean to do that to you, that he only did it because he was trying to push you away, but that didn't make it any less okay.

"I promise." He says into your mouth before nipping at your sore bottom lip and easing the pain with a sweep of his tongue against the soft flesh. "I won't leave like that again."

"Good." But instead of kissing him again, this time you press your forehead into his shoulder with a soft sigh, cuddling into him.

"Tired?" Ben's hand begins to circle at the base of your spine.

"Mhmm. You wore me out old man."

"I thought you were faking it."

"I wasn't faking all of it." You press a kiss into the shadow of his jaw, holding on to him. You wondered if Ben was okay with how clingy you were but given his hand placement you didn't think that it bothered him.

"Thought so." Ben chuckles. "Petals?"

"Hmm?" You hum into his skin, tightening your arms around his neck. He was wonderful and warm in the best way, like the perfect heating pad. Not to mention the way his muscles tensed around your body made goosebumps flicker over your arms. You could feel a wave of happiness and contentment crashing over your head, the longer you cuddled into him.

"Will you promise me something?" He mutters into the top of your head.

"Of course."

He’s quiet for a few moments. "That you won't leave either." Ben whispers it so quietly that you're not sure that you heard him correctly.

You pull back just a few inches to look him in the eye. He looks a little ashamed, and you can practically see the internal self-deprecating monologue inside his head, his face scrunching up in disgust. He opens his mouth, probably to take it back-

Your lips meet his, gentle, unyielding, pouring every emotion you have into it, your hands finding the strands of hair at the nape of his neck to hold him closer to you. You wanted Ben to understand that you would never judge him for that, that he could be vulnerable around you without consequence. And you wanted him to believe how much you loved him and how much he meant to you.

Ben moans into your mouth, pulling you tighter against his chest, your body molding against his in the best way, in the way that Ben only could. His hands were everywhere, trailing warmth in their wake, making the tiredness that you had felt minutes ago fade as you began to burn beneath his calloused palms.

He tasted good, he smelled good, and he felt so damn good that it made you feel like you were catching fire one cell at a time, burning until there was nothing left but stardust.

"I promise Ben." You whisper against his mouth before he swallows the words whole. "I promise that I'll never leave as long as you want me here."

He hesitates, hands stilling on your hips. An odd look crosses his face.

"Ben? What's wrong?" You cup his cheeks, worried about him.

"I-" He swallows, but looks frustrated with himself.

"It's okay." You whisper, brushing your lips against his, understanding exactly what it is that he's trying to say. "You don’t have to say it. I know. I love you too.”

And you did know. You knew that it was difficult for him to admit something like that, but you didn’t care. You knew that Ben loved you as much as you loved him, and that was enough for you.

You settle back down against his chest, holding him close to you.

“Come on Petals, let’s go to bed.” He murmurs into the top of your head.

“Can we just sit here for a few minutes?” You whisper into his throat, nuzzling into his warmth.

Ben’s hand gently trails along your back, holding you steadily on top of him. “Yeah. We can do that.”

And you wondered if Ben liked this as much as you did, if there was a piece of Ben that longed for the quiet moments you loved so much, and the quiet moments when it was just the two of you and no one else.

You feel him press a kiss to your hairline, and it’s enough to send you off into the sweet relief of sleep, swallowed and enveloped in Ben’s warm embrace.

A/N: Just a lovely bit of fluff and a little spice 😉. I really needed to just write a soft Ben and a reader enjoying their time together. 😊 There will be one more chapter that is a little bit of a time jump, but I think it will wrap up the series wonderfully! But don't worry, it won't be the last time I write for this reader and Ben. I have a mini-series planned and a few one-shots planned!

As always thank you so much for reading! Reblogs, Likes, and Comments are not required but are always appreciated. I love hearing what y'all think! If you'd like to be added to the taglist for this series let me know!

Taglist:

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@criminalyetminimal @52ndstreeet @bitchykittenconnoisseur @anna6307

@faephoria @possiblyafangirl @jqtaro @quietlybitchy @tinydancer40

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@livya99 @cherrygirl444 @tulipsvanilla @angrydragon90 @chi-raz

[nolita-fairytale]

pov: you're a record shop owner!reader dating carmen berzatto

a/n: i have full intentions on writing this as a oneshot but couldn't get it out in time for valentine's day so i wanted to have fun with a lil headcanon that would require less of my mental bandwidth. anyway, happy v-day carmy cuties!!

dating carmy as a record shop owner would be like:

in my head you meet at The Bear after a bad date. sydney, who you meet in the restroom takes pity on you and lets you sneak out of the back. you catch carmy on a smoke break and ask if you can bum a cigarette off of him. the two of you get to talking and you let him know you own a record store just a few blocks away. "you should stop by sometime."

of course, he doesn't. so a few weeks go by and just when you think there's no way he'll come by, a taller man, followed by sydney, is practically pushing him through the door under the guise of looking for the latest taylor swift record on vinyl.

you shoot the man a look (like there's no way in hell that a place like this carries taylor swift on vinyl but okay) and even though you don't have it, you offer to order it for him. the man, who you learn is called richie, goes to check out the rest of your shop, giving you, carmy, and sydney some time to talk.

you thank sydney again for helping you out. she does most of the talking but ends up inviting you to a movie thing in the park they're going to. you think, at least you'll make some new friends out of this, as you agree to go.

by the end of the hang, carmy finally musters up the courage to talk to you one on one, prompting you to make the first move by asking him out. and you know what they say. the rest is history.

okay so i'm thinking about the beautifuly agony of trying to make the perfect playlist for carmy when you decide that it's time and that you really, really like him. you spend a few days going back and forth over the perfect opener, closer, and what story you're trying to tell with the playlist. it can't be TOO 'i'm absolutely head over heels for you' but you want him to know that you're pretty damn infatuated.

you're pretty involved in the local live music community, so you're almost always going to a show. when carmy finally joins you for one, he's definitely hella anxious about it -- even though it's a smaller venue. but he wants to try for you!

making better memories at the bear beside your lackluster date. the first time you go back, you sit at the bar and get the colorful cast of characters that makes up the restaurant. the second time you go back, you bring your girlfriends for a girls' night and everyone is incredibly impressed by the food, the hospitality, and of course, you're very very cute exec chef boyfriend.

after your girls' night, you head over to your favorite bar, and carmy and syd meet you over there for drinks after their shift. you love the way your lives and worlds have begun to intertwine.

i'm thinking about these japanese-inspired hi-fi vinyl bars that keep popping up around the states and how if you decided to open one, carmy would be able to advise you on opening an entire bar?? OR as the bear expands its hospitality group, you outfit the bar with its vinyl collection.

the first time carmy cooks for you, you have the entire night's soundtrack picked out. you've spent all week thinking about which vinyls should underscore the night and it's filled with good food, great music, and even better sex.

i may add to this later today but wanted to get some of these thoughts out on metaphorical paper!!

[whoredyceps]

"OH LOVER BOY!" || 28 Days of Love: A Valentine's Challenge + Series

day eighteen: a forgotten date

ᰔ pairing: din djarin x reader

ᰔ summary: the bounty hunter is good on his word— on his own terms. you try to stop holding out hope, but that's easier said than done.

ᰔ author's note: din babe please don't go be a space cowboy i need you too bad 😮‍💨 anyways this took a bit longer to write because SOMEONE (read: pedro) is out here doing his job and keeping us well fed. oof. big weekend for us.

ᰔ content warning: 18+ /// MDNI!!!! slight slight smut mention, alcohol consumption, drunk!reader, hurt/little comfort. no beta— we die like men

The cantina was alive and well, patrons from all walks of life gathered to enjoy the festivities of the night. A jaunty little tune filled the air as a band played in the corner.

You glanced over your shoulder at the sound of the door 'woosh'-ing open. Your shoulders sunk when you realized it was another unassuming patron. Before you focused on them for too long, you turned back to your drink.

'This is so stupid,' you thought to yourself. 'He's not going to come. What is Chaos was I thinking?'

As each patron entered, you felt your hope sink deeper and deeper into your stomach. It wasn't much help that you had ordered a second drink, then a third.

You waited for hours. Hours before you finally pulled yourself away from the table. As your feet landed on the floor, the scene before you swayed, your head light and void of your usual clear judgement.

"You alright there?" An Octolan asked as you took tentative steps towards the door. All you mustered was a nod before you managed to find the exit.

No one seemed phased by your miscalculated steps, a frequent sight to be seen around the cantina. You ignored each glance and kept your head somewhat low— All you needed was the ability to not run into debris in front of you.

Easier said than done. You closed your eyes for only a moment, the loud noise of a bang nearby disoriented you. One slight sway and you went tumbling over a cargo box.

You laid in the mud, a soft groan from your lips. Heartbroken, drunk, and covered in mud. Just how you wanted today to go. From the moment your eyes opened, you held this childlike hope in your heart that he would come. You knew better than to hold it so close, but there it sat, a kindled fire in your chest.

In the back of your mind, what logic you had held on to prattled on and on about what would happen. The Mandalorian was a bounty hunter, and a very busy one at that. Just because he promised to come back didn't mean he meant it. There was no price, no credits you offered that guaranteed that he would come back.

"Need some help?"

You hadn't realized you had closed your eyes until you felt a looming presence over you. With a deep sigh, you shook your head. Truth be told, you had no desire to move. With the ache in your chest, it felt fitting to lie in the mud, drunk and with a wounded heart.

"You've got mud in your hair. We both know how you feel about that."

That voice.

Your eyes popped open, only to be met with the Mandalorian stood over you. A rush of emotions, relief and anger swelled in you as your vision focused on him. He was here, as you had hoped. Yet he had to arrive while you were six drinks deep and covered in slop.

"You came. I, what are you..."

Fuck. You even sounded drunk. Before you were able to get another word out, strong hands grabbed your sides and lifted you off the ground. You held onto his arms, his armored plates cool to the touch.

"I told you I'd come back. I always keep my promises to you," Din said. He kept a hand on your side as you stood up, the other swiped some of the mud off of your clothes.

"Couldn't have come before I decided to wallow?" You muttered under your breath. The anger that had boiled inside of you was left at the wayside, down to a simmer that settled under your skin.

The Mandalorian was right. He did keep his promises to you, even if they weren't in the ways you wanted. The hardest pill to swallow was the fact that he did his best, but you wanted more. It was selfish, but you wanted all of him. It took everything in you to not hit his chest and beg him to stay. Beg him to choose you and settle into a quiet life.

That wasn't him. If it was, he would have chosen you the first time. Maybe even the second, but he chose to leave. He chose to take those bounties and promise to return. What good was a promise?

"Let's get you home." You didn't protest as he led you back to your abode. His stayed at your side, an anchor as you pushed through your drunken haze.

Once inside, you abandoned the bounty hunter to use the restroom. You left without a word; he had been in your home enough to settle without you. As you cleaned yourself up, you looked in the mirror. Of course there were tears in your eyes. Just what you needed right now.

After a while, there was a slight knock at the door. You changed the last of your clothes before you opened it slightly.

"What, Mando?" You held onto the door, slight hope that you were still able to hold yourself up right. It was sobering, the Mandalorian's presence in front of you.

"You were taking a while. Got worried you were hurt."

You rolled your eyes, a bitter laugh bubbled out of you.

"Like you're the one who should be talking about taking a while," you huffed. "I'm fine."

There was a beat of silence between the two of you. The bounty hunter finally spoke up.

"It was the Crest. I was tailed by—"

You stopped him, a hand held up.

"It's always something. You're getting tailed, or the Child is sleeping— you always give me an excuse, Mando," you argued. "I don't want an excuse. I want a reason. A real reason."

The bounty hunter gave a slight nod of the helmet. You were right, he owed you that much. Din took in a deep breath before he spoke.

"I put off coming in hopes that I wouldn't see you again."

If you hadn't known better, you would have left it at that. Your heart would be shattered and you'd be chasing him out, calling him every bad name in the book.

Instead, you waited. Your expression urged him to continue before you said something he didn't want to hear.

"Every time I see you, it gets harder to leave. I, I get this idea in my head that I don't have to walk out of the door," he explained. "I can take off this cursed beskar, and not look back. When I'm with you, it's hard to look forward and keep towards my goal."

You took a step closer to him, a hand on his bicep once you were close enough.

"I want you to stay, Mando. Take off the beskar, please. Stay," you practically begged. "I can take care of you. I have enough credits for us to be okay. It's not a lavish life, but I can take care of you."

"It's not the credits, or being taken care of," he sighed. "What it is— it's beyond the simplicity of what we could have."

You thought you had felt enough heartbreak for the night, but there wasn't a limit when it came to the bounty hunter. That logical part of you knew you had been right. Whether the Mandalorian wanted to stay here or not was never the issue.

What you loved about him was also his catalyst. The bounty hunter lived and died by his honor, what he had promised his people so long ago. As badly as you wanted him to change, wanted him to find a new path, it wasn't going to happen. His dedication was fierce, even as it clawed at him and dragged him into the depths of Chaos.

"Will you at least stay the night? Please," you asked. "Just tonight."

There was no point, dragging it all out. It was a fight you had before, and you were sure it was a fight you'd have again. Maybe it was the alcohol, but something in you had subdued for the time being. The fact that the bounty hunter had even shown up at all was enough right now.

The Mandalorian tipped his helmet. You took his hand and led him to your bedroom. As promised a long time ago, you covered your eyes with a silk slip you kept just for his visits and turned all the lights off.

Without another word, you found yourself lost in his touch. You didn't know his name or his face, but you had come to recognize his voice, the way he said your name. His hands were familiar on your body, his cock buried deep inside you as if it had always belonged there. Everything about him had become a sort of home to you, this comfort you chased time and time again.

When you woke the next morning, the bed was empty. You didn't bother to call for the bounty hunter, or grab for the note he left by the bed. You already knew what it said. Another day, another time, a promise that he'll show up on time.

Maybe one day you'd stop believing the lie.

[crystalofmoon19]

I Love You Too Much - Striker x Singer! Reader

Summary: You finally decided to confess your feelings to Striker and you were going to surprise him with a song that you composed for him.

Warnings: None! It's just pure love for Striker.

Word count: 1900

Song used: I Love You Too Much - The Book Of Life

(Note: This fic was going to be uploaded on Valentine's Day, but due to personal problems I’m uploading it now.)

Striker was in his lair sharpening his knife for his next mission, if he ever had one, he gave an annoyed snort, leaving his knife aside. He was really already tired of losing so many fights in vain, he wanted to get revenge on Blitz and Stolas for everything they had put him through, but in addition to thinking about them he also thought about you.

While he was losing his battles, he had also met you, the most beautiful woman he had ever seen. You two met when Striker had to crash a party to kill one of his targets, you on the other hand were singing on the improvised stage that you and your friends had made.

Your voice was so beautiful and melodious that Striker couldn't help but be attracted to you.

Striker decided to talk to you once he finished targeting him and when he talked to you he realized that you were just as beautiful on the inside as you were on the outside. You valued life with a lot of love and compassion, very contrary to him who was just a dirty murderer who killed royalty, but still the two of you got along well and stayed in touch to this day.

Clearly Striker hasn't told you anything about his mercenary life, but ever since he met you he's had a big dilemma, whether to carry out his revenge against Blitz or...

“Leaving my life as a murderer to be with her.” .- Striker said out loud to himself.

It had taken him years to perfect his life as an assassin, but it was a life he didn't like living, having the stress all the time was killing him and being with you was so rewarding. He could be himself with you and you wouldn't judge him.

Striker continued with his train of thought until he heard a loud noise.

“Striker now has a letter from-!” Striker's mariachis sang in unison, who came out of his hiding place.

“GET OUT OF HERE!” Striker shouted angrily.

“No, no, sir, we have a letter for you!” .- One of the mariachis spoke, the elderly one with the big mustache.

"A letter?" .- Striker asked for the first and only time interested in his mariachis.

“That's right, sir, this letter is for you!” .- Said the female imp who with the others raised the letter for Striker to pick it up.

“It's Miss Y/N's, she told us to give it to you!”

“She is very pretty!”

Striker gave a sinister look at the imp who said that and got scared. This time his gaze went to the letter and he began to read it.

“Dear Striker…

Hi Striker, I know you're busy but I'd really like to see you soon. I've missed you a lot lately. Is it okay if we meet at the stream near my town during the sunset? I'll bring the food for a picnic and you could bring the wine.

I hope to see you again, Striker.”

- Y/N ♡

After finishing reading your letter, Striker couldn't help but smile and wag his tail with happiness. It had been a long time since he felt this happy and only you could make him happy.

And without thinking twice Striker started looking for the wine that he had saved for a while. He was so excited to see you again.

“Sir, are you okay?” .- Said one of the mariachis.

“I think it's the first time I've seen it like this.” .- Said another.

"Yes, me too."

“What did the letter say?”

“YOU GET OUT OF HERE!”

___________________________________________

You prepared the food basket, put the tablecloth, the candles and checked that everything was ready. There was only one more thing missing, your guitar. You really wanted to confess your feelings for Striker, and what better way to do it than with a song?

You mustered up the courage to write a letter to Striker and made an appointment to meet him at the stream that was near your town. You really wanted him to come.

“Miss Y/N, we're here!” .- One of Striker's mariachis spoke from the ground and you just laughed as you lifted them up with your hands.

“You're right on time, guys. Did you deliver my letter to Striker like I asked?”

“Yes, Miss Y/N!”

“We have never seen him so happy!”

“Well done, guys. Now as I promised, I will leave you some of my food if you help me with my song.”

“Yes, Y/N!”

"Thank you so much, guys."

With that the little mariachis got into the basket. You smiled leaving your house and headed to the place where you met Striker; you just hoped he could come.

You were still a little nervous about all of this. You loved Striker, but he had been busy with his work and you weren't sure if he would give you time to come over today; he was always very reserved with his work. You didn't know if confessing was a good idea or not, maybe Striker didn't see you the same way, but you still decided to risk confessing your feelings to him.

That's how you arrived at the aforementioned place, you took the blanket out of the basket and spread it, then you placed some candles; you wouldn't put the food out until Striker arrived, otherwise the food would get cold.

With everything ready, you just had to wait, so you just looked into the distance and sat on the floor while you tuned the chords of your guitar. You watched as Wrath's infernal sun slowly descended into the sunset, a short time later you heard Bombproof's gallop and quickly got up happy to see Striker; for his part, he left Bombproof near the tree, got off his horse, took out the wine, and greeted you with a gesture with his hat.

“Hello, darlin’.”

“Striker, I'm so happy to see you!” .- You hugged Striker without thinking twice, and he, although a little surprised, returned the hug.

“It seems like someone is very happy to see me.”

"You have no idea." .- You said, blushing on your cheeks and looking away from Striker.

"Are you hungry? If you want, we can start eating.”

“Sounds good to me, darlin’. “I brought your favorite wine.”

“Aw, Striker, thank you very much. “I just brought your favorite food.”

“You didn't have to do it, songbird.”

“I wanted to do it for you.”

“You are so sweet, sugarcube.”

A blush returned to your cheeks as you took the food out of the basket. With this you and Striker didn't stop talking to catch up on how they were while enjoying the food you prepared.

When the two of you finished eating, you settled down to drink the wine that Striker brought, he poured it into the glasses you brought and you gave a toast to this. With this you saw in the distance how the infernal sun of Wrath set in the evening.

“That's why I wanted you to come at this time, Striker. I wanted you to see the sunset of Wrath, our home.”

“Well, you're right, darlin'. The Wrath sunset is one of the best and from here you have a stunning view.”

“This feeling you have right now is the same feeling I feel when I'm with you, Striker.” .- You got closer to Striker and took his hands to look him in the eyes while he just looked at you a little surprised.

“What are you trying to say, darlin’?” .- Striker asked you while you raised your hand to your chest, taking a big breath. It was now or never.

“I think it would be best if I sing you a song about the feelings I have felt from my heart, Striker… Mi amor.”

Your words in Spanish caught Striker's interest as you picked up your guitar to start singing.

“I love you too much.”

“To leave without you loving me back.”

“I love you too much.”

“Heaven’s my witness and this is a fact.”

“I know I belong.”

“When I sing this song.”

“There’s love above love and it’s ours.”

“‘Cause I love you too much.”

Striker opened his eyes wide, he couldn't believe you were confessing in a love song, his rattle tail kept waving happily and he was smiling genuinely at your singing, he wanted to keep listening to your song, he was adoring you even more.

“I live for your touch.”

“I whisper your name, night after night.”

“I love you too much.”

“There’s only one feeling and I know it's right.”

“I know I belong.”

“When I sing this song.”

“There’s love above love and it’s ours.”

“‘Cause I love you too much.”

You gave a signal to the mariachis, they came out of the basket and joined you in your serenade playing their instruments.

“Heaven knows your name and I've been praying.”

“To have you come here by my side.”

“Without you a part of me is missing.”

“Just make you my home, I will fight.”

You continued the song playing the chords of your guitar, you felt like your heart was going to burst out of your chest at any moment, but on the other hand Striker was so surprised and at the same time he was loving you at every moment. He didn't even care that the mariachis were here anymore, he only had his eyes and ears for you.

“I know I belong.”

“When I sing this song.”

“There’s love above love and it’s ours.”

“‘Cause I love you too much.”

You kept a moment of silence where you took a big breath to sing the highest note.

“I Love…

“You too much!”

“I love you too much.”

“Heaven’s my witness and this is a fact.”

“You live in my soul.”

“Your heart is my goal.”

“There’s love above love and it’s mine cause I love you.”

“There’s love above love and it’s yours ‘cause I love you.”

“There’s love above love and it’s ours.”

“If you love me.”

“As much.”

When you finished singing, you put your guitar aside, and gave him a smile as your cheeks blushed; he seemed as nervous or more nervous than you, so you decided to talk.

“Striker, you have always been very important to me, and I hope that with this song that I composed for you, my feelings have…” Before you could say anything else, Striker interrupted you, giving you a big hug, one of the biggest hugs. strong ones you have received; since he even picked you up and spun you around.

"I love you too, sweetheart!" .- Striker said that he began to give you kisses on your cheeks.

"Ay, mi amor!" .- You laughed at his kisses that tickled you.

When Striker put you down, you got closer to him and he also got closer to you, in a quick movement Striker's tail caught your hips and he leaned you over, holding onto your figure. You screamed but you saw that he took off his hat that would cover them from the kiss.

You returned the kiss immediately and kissed him with as much passion as he was giving you and you even stroked his hair and your tail met his.

Now Striker no longer had any doubts about it, he preferred to be by your side than any other revenge he might have, he would leave everything for you.

♡

[charlessmithhasmyheart]

RDR Winter Gift Exchange 2025

A/N: So excited to once again participate in this fun event put together by @rdrevents and to post this gift for @krystal-callahan.

I haven't had much of a chance to write for Dutch before, so I this was a great opportunity to do so - so thank you for that chance!

I hope you enjoy it! 🤗

This should have been a simple robbery. A small heist with a small reward, but a reward nonetheless.

Dutch knew deep down in his bones that it should have been a quick in and out, no alarms raised, nobody hurt and none the wiser. Which is exactly why he couldn't understand why he was now sprawled on the ground with a pistol aimed at his face and Hosea shooting daggers from his own spot in the dirt. He didn't need to look at his face to know it was shrouded in a deep scowl. 

He didn't understand what had gone wrong - where he had miscalculated. 

The previous night at the bar he had spent a few hours (and consumed a few drinks) watching and waiting for the right target, and eventually he had appeared. Drunk, mouthy, and all too willing to share information, the poor sap had apun him a tale - and what a tale it had been. His wife had left, he worked a unfulfilling job and his children had all grown and moved on better prospects; leaving him behind to wither away in Valentine. All in all, the perfect target.

Dutch had downed the last of his whiskey (the beef in the local saloon never sat quite right with him) leaving the empty glass on the table and took the stool next to him, patting him on the back before subtly drilling him. Where abouts in Valentine did he live? Where did he work? What sort of things occupied his day?  Anything that could help him determine the best time to sneak into his supposed empty home and make off with a few valuables. 

When he returned to camp later that evening, leaving the man in semi-better spirits, and shared his plan with Hosea, he had seemed intrigued. A simple homestead robbery? Why not? After some discussion and a night's sleep underneath their belt, they hitched up their horses and returned to the small livestock town, lying in wait until the perfect moment to strike. 

Hosea, the patron of the arts that he was, concocted a scheme. He would distract with his own colorful tale of sorrow - a missing horse and desperate need of assistance, while Dutch would slip in the back and collect what he could. 

None of that seemed to matter now. Not when he was mere seconds away from a swift and immediate death. Hosea;s outcome not much brighter. 

Dutch felt a bead of sweat trickle down his temple and he fought the urge to swipe it away. Swallowing hard, he found himself at a loss for words - something highly foreign to him. He stole a glance at Hosea and nearly withered at his gaze. Somehow he understood that his problem had become his to fix. And why not? It was his fault they were in this mess, so it only made sense that he should get them out of it. 

Mustering up a boost of courage, he intended to do just that.

"Listen, good sir," He stammered, holding up one hand cautiously as he propped himself up with the other. Anything to keep the man's temper at manageable levels. "We were only trying to -" "I know what you were 'trying' to do." The man spat, furrowing his brows even more. "You were trying to rob me blind." 

"Now that is a grievous overstatement. We merely -" 

"I don't care what kind of statement you think it is. I ain't about to let some uppity traveler steal from me. I should just shoot you right now and be done with it." 

"You wouldn't want to do that, my friend." He said quickly so as not to be interrupted a third time. 

"And why not?" 

A few more beads of sweat began to gather just above his eyebrows. "Well, you wouldn't want the law involved." 

He hesitated for just a fraction of a second, and that was all that Dutch needed. The man's hand lowered ever so slightly; the gun no longer pointed right between his eyes.  "Why the hell not?" 

"It would be a hassle," Dutch started, slowly moving to crouch. Balancing his weight on his feet instead of remaining in the dirt. He kept his hands raised out in front of him. "And an unwelcome presence in your otherwise quiet, peaceful home. No one wants that." 

"I-I suppose not." The man stammered, his anger slowly, but surely, evaporating and replaced with something akin to uncertainty. 

"Exactly." Dutch cooed, putting his silver tongue to work. "We can resolve this...little misunderstanding ourselves, right?" He didn't even wait for the man to respond. "Now, my partner and I will just take our leave and you won't ever have to worry about us trespassing again. Does that seem fair?"

A moment passed before he finally responded. "Alright," He lowered his weapon to his side. "Just make yourself scarce. I don't wanna see you again." 

"Wouldn't dream of it." And Dutch meant it.

---

It was moments later that the two outlaws found themselves (and their horses) ambling along at a slow pace back to camp, their proverbial tails tucked between their legs and their spirits well, and truly dampened. Dutch shifted uncomfortably in his saddle, feeling Hosea's frustration looming like a dark rain cloud. He searched for something to say. Anything to break through the barrier that had risen between them. But nothing came to mind. 

"Well," the silver-haired outlaw said after what felt like decades. "That certainly wasn't our finest moment. I can't even consider it a good moment. What on earth went wrong, Dutch?" 

Dutch flinched inwardly at the sharp bite as Hosea said his name. The scathing rebuke was well-earned, he knew, but it still made him feel like a little kid again. A feeling he truly despised.  

"Hosea, I do not quite know what to say." He started, fighting the shame that began to bubble up inside him. Something almost foreign to him in this stage of his life.

"A first for you." He shot back, his gaze focused on the trail before them and his posture rigid. 

"I made a mistake, Hosea." Dutch said, bristling. "It happens." 

"Yes, mistakes happen. But not for something as simple as this. Not to you." Hosea, sighed and finally turned to look at him. There were still traces of anger in his old eyes, but it was partnered with concern. A concern for someone that had been with him from what seemed like the beginning of time itself. Dutch recognized that look well. He carried that same feeling within him too. 

"What happened back there Dutch?" Hosea asked quietly. "I'm just trying to understand." 

"I don't know," Dutch said after a moment, and it felt like the truth. One moment he had been rifling through a chest of belongings, elated at the prospects, and then in the next he was flung out the front door with a force he hadn't been expecting; landing sprawled on the ground and heavily surprised. 

He looked down at the reins squeezed tightly in his hands and let out a sigh of his own. "I suppose I just got caught up in the excitement of it all. It's been some time since we pulled a heist together and I guess I let it get the better of me." 

They rode on in silence for a bit, the dull trod of their horse hooves and their occasion snorts the only sound. Hosea looked ahead once more while Dutch ruminated on his admission. Somehow Hosea managed to drag out even his deepest kept secrets. A talent he cursed on many occasions. 

"Still trying to impress me after all these years, huh?" Hosea said finally, when the silence seemed to stretch on. There was a hint of humor in his tone, and Dutch knew they had crossed the path to forgiveness. 

"I suppose so," He chuckled, shooting Hosea a wry smile. "I am nothing if not a showman. Though I can't say where I picked up the habit."

A knowing look passed between them and even Hosea couldn't help but smile. 

"Oh, I'm sure you've learned a few things here and there." 

"And I'm sure I will learn a great deal more in time." 

"Perhaps," Hosea said simply. "But, for now, maybe leave the petty dealing to our younger, less boisterous proteges? At least for the time being?" 

At this, Dutch couldn't help but laugh out loud, tossing his head back. "I think I can manage that." 

"I'm impressed, Dutch. I was afraid I would have to resort to shallow tricks to keep you in camp." 

"Not this time, old timer. Not this time." 

"Good." Hosea said, nodding his head approvingly. "Now, I don't know about you, but I'm parched. Care for a drink back at camp?"  "Certainly, old friend." 

Hosea tapped his heels against his horse, urging Silver Dollar into a lazy trot. Dutch did the same with The Count, keeping in stride with him as they made their way back to camp. He breathed in a breath of fresh air and exhaled the temporary bad blood between them, glad that things had returned to normal. 

[miizuzu]

Here is the second part of my fanfic featuring all of them. Haven't proofread. I've tried making it more spicy but it is my first time writing so.... Sorry :P MDNI

You are laying in bed and can feel the sun seeping in through your window and onto your skin, you stretch out your arms and slowly open your eyes. You were met with another pair of gentle blue-pink eyes, watching your every little move. “Good morning princess, did you have a good dream?” Rafayel asked with a soft gentle voice. “Mmhmm” you mumbled back. 

Then it finally hits you, your eyes wide open, you shoot up from your sleeping position and let out a high pitch scream. “Kyaaaaaaaaaaa!!!!???!” 

“Wahhh????? What is it? Is it a wanderer??” Rafayel was startled and jumped up like a cat about to attack, almost pulling his dagger out.

You looked down, grabbed your blanket and tried to cover yourself while pointing at him. Confused, you questioned him “What are YOU doing here?!?!”

You felt movement to your left, you looked down and saw Xavier, halfway hanging from your bed, woken up by your scream, trying to rub the sleepiness out of his eyes. 

“What's going on…?” He asked innocently. 

Zayne also rushed through your doorway while wearing an apron, also confused about the scream he heard, but sighs and relaxed after seeing there was not an emergency. 

The 3 confused lads are all looking at the equally confused you for an answer. All you mustered out was “Why are all of you in my room???!!!?”

It seems you were drunk enough from last night that you couldn't really remember how it led to this. You tried your best to recall what happened. You remember the Valentine's party at the pub with Tara and Xavier, and Rafayel and Zayne joined in. You remember taking shots but then your memory starts to get fuzzy. You vaguely remember them arguing and you falling asleep. But it felt like you were forgetting something very important, and you simply can't figure out what it is.

“It would seem like our princess had no recognition of what happened last night.” Zayne calmly concluded. “What happened…Did I say something?” You asked, like a deer in headlights. 

“It would be easier to just show you.” Rafayel says with a smirk on his face as he leans in close and closer to you. You tried to back away from him and was saved by Xavier pulling Rafayel back. He starts pouting. “Fine! I’ve already asked once, might as well just ask again.” Rafayel grabs your hand, his face becomes serious as he cups your hand with both of his. “Y/N, you like me right?” You could feel his hands trembling. Your face is now flush red, eyes widen and you want to avoid eye contact. “Y/N! Please… answer me?” he begs. 

You slightly nod your head, and are now in shock as your memories come pouring back into your brain. You remembered the same question being asked the night before, and the passionate kisses you shared with the 3 men. You could even feel your shoulder blades getting red as you tried to sink yourself into your blanket to cover up your embarrassment. Rafayel, still holding onto you, pulls you close to him and kisses the back of your hand and hugs you over the covers. He wouldn't budge even with Xavier trying to pull him away. 

“Breakfast is ready, Y/N, come here and eat.” Zayne calls out from the kitchen. Rafayel finally lets go of his embrace, Xavier offers you his hand to help you off of the bed. You take his hand and he pulls you into him and gives you a tight embrace, whispering in your ear “Good morning, my dearest.” with the most gentle and innocent look on his face. You could not stop yourself from blushing. Meanwhile, Zayne beckons you all to the dining table. Slowly, everyone walked out of your room one by one. 

Arriving at the dining table, you stare at what Zayne has prepared. Your eyes begin to shine with excitement. “How were you able to make all these with what I have here?” You asked Zayne, while being amazed at his cooking abilities, “You had a lot of food in your freezer, I'm sure you would be able to make something simple like this if you tried.” Zayne replies as he softly pats your head, and gives you a light peck on your cheeks. Your hand quickly travels up to your cheeks. 

You sat down trying to distract yourself by eating the food Zayne had prepared, the 3 men also sat down with you, Zayne sitting beside you while Rafayel sat across from you with Xavier beside him. Everyone was slowly eating their breakfast when Zayne suddenly mentions “So, how are we going to deal with the issue we have at hand?” he calmly asked everyone while he gracefully digested his food. Everyone else was shocked by the topic and flinched and stopped eating. You just stay there with your head down, trying to avoid eye contact with everyone. “You guys could just give up and let me and Y/N enjoy our new couple's life.” Rafayel says half jokingly knowing full well the other 2 will not back down. “Like hell I would let that happen.” Said Xavier with a serious voice. “Agreed.” Zayne says while nodding his head. 

You sat there thinking to yourself, ‘Are they really ok with this? How is this even going to work?’ You didn't realize the 3 of them had been staring at you wanting to ask you about your opinion. Zayne then snaps you back to reality. “Y/N, we need to know how you think about all this. Care to share some of your thoughts?” You finally tilt your head up, glancing at Zayne, Xavier then Rafayel. 

You really have no idea what you should do or what is the right thing to do in this situation. You do not want to hurt any of them but you really cannot decide on just any one of them. You loved all of them equally and the thought of you not being around them is too painful. All you could do is let out a bitter smile and say, “I really don't know what we should do. I do not want to lose any of you. I guess this is just how selfish I really am.” 

Once again the 3 men were heart broken by seeing how torn you feel. Zayne thought of an idea. “Everyone, let's make a chat group on our phone. It is not often we all see each other like this, then again I would rather just spend my days off with just Y/N without the 2 of you meddling in our business. We can use the group chat to keep everyone in check while some of us get busy. How does that sound?” Xavier answers, “That's actually not a bad idea, at least we can keep everyone updated about Y/N. Not that I would let anything happen to her while she is with me.” “Fine with me, I will post our lovey dovey photos of Y/N and I when we go out for dates.” Rafayel butts in.

The 3 men exchanged their phone information and Zayne took your phone and created a chat group, adding the 3 of them in it. “Let's all also agree on one important thing, no one is to pressure Y/N into deciding what she wants to do. If any of us break that rule, they are no longer a part of this. And we will make sure of that.” Xavier and Rafayel both agreed as they formed a pact. “You are, however, allowed to try and woo her to your heart's content. That being said, the final decision will always come from Y/N.” The 3 of them then shake hands to pledge that they will play by the rules. 

“Are you all really alright with this..? It just feels really unfair to you guys and that I am leading you guys on for my own benefit…” you speak as your eyes start getting teary. “This is what I want,” Xavier answers quietly, “I've waited too long for us to revert back to anything less.” Xavier stares into your eyes sincerely with a hint of sadness. “I'm sorry for putting you through all this. Rafayel and Zayne also felt the same way.

It was Zayne's way of trying to protect you. And you noticed it. He is usually so strict but when you are involved, he would always put your feelings first over what he feels. You turned to him and gave him a hug. The others just watched as you lovingly hugged him. “Can I get a hug too?” Xavier looks at you with his sad puppy eyes. After you let Zayne go, you walk around the table and give Xavier a hug from behind while he is still sitting at the chair. He smiles while you see his ears turning pink. 

“Hey, don't forget about me too!” Rafayel complains. You slowly let go of Xavier and walked next to Rafayel and gave him a hug as he turned to face you to accept your embrace. Knowing that you've accepted their feelings, Rafayel is getting more daring. As you have your arms around him, his head close to your chest, he has one arm around your waist and his free hand is placed on your thigh, slowly traveling upwards while he tries to bury his face in your bosom. 

Flustered, you noticed you are still wearing your dress from last night. You escape from his grasp. “Hey! Would you look outside? It's a great day and we should go out and enjoy it instead of staying here. I would like to change out of this dress too…” looking at the well dressed men, you suggested “Maybe you guys should change too?” You were clearly blushing. 

Zayne stands up and suggests, “Why don’t we all go get changed and meet back here before lunch?” “That’s a great idea!” you shouted. “I can finally get out of this dress!” Zayne tried to hold back his soft chuckle, smiled and said “That’s too bad, you look absolutely breathtaking in that outfit.” shocked from his remark, your eyes widen and your face feels hotter by the second. You are not used to Zayne telling you how he feels, you always had to guess his feelings and now he is showing you everything like an opened book. It’s a nice change but it will take some time getting used to it. 

“I want to shower too, why don't we shower together?” Rafayel playfully suggests. Xavier and Zayne both had their eyes on him and had an annoyed look on their face. “If you want to shower, you can come to my place.” Xavier puts his arm around Rafayels’ neck and tug him along. “We will see you later.” Xavier brushes his free hand on your cheeks with a warm smile. “Hey! Let go of me!” Rafayel tries to struggle but to no avail. 

“What is your pass code for the door?” Zayne asked before heading out. “Why? I could just open the door for you?” You had a confused look on your face. Zayne reaches for your face and holds your chin with his index and thumb and pulls your ear close to his lips, “I would very much like to let myself in.” He gives you another light peck on your cheeks again. His voice was so flirtatious you could hardly resist. You swallowed down the moan that almost escaped from your lips. Once again your face has become a pretty hue of red. 

“Wait, I want to know too!” Rafayel forced Xavier to stop. “As do I.” Xavier also chimes in. “You live upstairs, you don’t need to know.” Rafayel complains, still trying to wiggle his way out of Xavier’s grip. Xavier is looking at you with puppy eyes. “Fineeeeeeee! I’ll put it in the group chat. Now get going or else we will miss lunch!” You playfully pushed all of them out and shut the door behind you. “I’ll be back before you know it babe!” Rafayel shouted from behind the door while getting dragged upstairs by Xavier. 

Arriving at Xavier’s apartment, Xavier lets Rafayel inside. Rafayel looks around with his arms crossed in front of him, still jealous of the distance between the 2 of you just being separated by just the ceiling, he couldn’t help himself but to pout. “Didn’t you say you wanted to shower? You can go first.” Xavier said to Rafayel with a cold voice. Rafayel glares at Xavier but does not answer, he pulls out his phone as if he was waiting for a message. Xavier paused and thought for a second. “On second thought, I will go in first.” he then rushed into his room, grabbed a change of clothes and charged into the bathroom. “Wow, you're such a great host.” Rafayel exaggerates. 

Rafayel wanders around the apartment, he sees plushies laying on the couch, he knew it was a reward from the claw machine. He takes it and squeezes it, pretending the plushie was Y/N’s face and pinches its cheeks. “Stop torturing Bunbun. It’s your turn for the shower.” Rafayel had an annoyed face and as he turned to look at Xavier, a set of spare clothes were thrown in his face. “You are really getting on my nerves.” Rafayel taunts Xavier as he walks into the bathroom. 

Xavier with a towel still drooping on his head, sits down on the couch and dries his hair. His hand traveled down to his lips, reminiscing the touch he and you shared, he chuckles to himself as he remembers you saying that it was your first kiss. Buzz Buzz, he twitched by his phone vibrating, which brought him back to reality. He checks his phone and realizes it was from you, sending the group your passcode for your home. He beams and shoots up from the couch, wanting to head downstairs to you but remembered Rafayel was still in the showers. ‘What is taking him so long.’ Xavier wonders to himself, frustrated. Just then, an idea strikes him. He went searching in his room, once he found the item he was looking for, he came out and checked on Rafayel. 

“Are you done yet? Even Y/N has finished with her shower.” Xavier asked as his patience was running low. “Yeah, yeah. Stop rushing me.” Rafayel steps out of the bathroom finally. Wearing one of Xavier's hoodies and sweatpants, his hair has been completely dried. “Do you have a bag of sorts so I can take my clothes?” Rafayel asks while holding his garments. “No.” Xavier answers coldly, “Let's just go already.” He couldn't stand being away from you for another second. “Fine, fine. You're no fun to hang around too. I would very much rather be in the company of Y/N.” Rafayel walks out while still holding on to his clothes. Xavier follows and locks the door.

Xavier dashed downstairs and stood in front of the door. His hand hovering over the number lock, his shaking hands enter the passcode and with a beep, the door is unlocked. He slowly walks in to find you sitting on the couch wearing a sweater and a pair of jeans shorts. You were texting and smiling, almost didn't notice Xavier had entered your apartment, you only noticed after the complaints from Rafayel that they are both back in your home. 

You look at the 2 of them, and can't help but giggle at Rafayel wearing Xavier’s clothes. It's not his usual style but it does look good on him. You then imagined Xaiver in Rafayel’s normal clothes and you can't help but blush a little. Xavier walks over and sits beside you on your couch. He grabs your hand and puts a key in your palm. “For my apartment.” He said as he smiled. 

Rafayel felt annoyed and left out so he stomps over to your other said and drops himself next to you. “Hey Y/N, do you mind if I just leave my clothes here? It's a hassle to bring with me.” He puts his arm around your shoulder, the slightest touch would make you jump, but he starts to lightly tug you towards him. Once your back reaches his chest, he cages you in with his free arm holding you waist. You are not used to being touched intimately and your ears begin to burn. Rafayel sees your innocent reactions and it makes him blush even though it was him who started it, still he would not let you go. 

Xavier glares at Rafayel and tries to get him to unhand you, feeling jealous. His hands are traveling up your legs and up your thighs going up to your waist, trying to pull you back towards himself. “Are you 2 trying to rip me in half?” You whined, trying to get them both to let go. But you are the shiny new toy and they can't get enough of you. You liked that they both want your affection but you just don't know how to handle them.

‘When will Zayne be back?’ you thought to yourself hoping he would come to your rescue. You hear the familiar Beep, right on cue, and your door opens with Zayne's return. He walks in and sees the 2 men all over you, your eyes pleading for him to get you out of the situation. He made a coughing sound, trying to get Xavier and Rafayels’ attention, they were so focused on their little fight that they didn't notice Zayne at all. You could see a vein popping up on Zayne's temple while his face remained calm, as he activated his Evol and placed his 2 hands on each of their shoulders, sending shivers down their spine as they finally let go of you. You could help but giggle at the situation.

You took this opportunity to slip out of the hands of Rafayl and Xavier. “What should we have for lunch?” You asked with an excited look on your face. The 3 men can’t help but feel defeated by your innocent manner. You guys decided to go buy items for a picnic at the park, everyone traveled in Zayne’s car, went to the supermarket and bought some premade sandwiches and a picnic blanket. 

Once you arrived at the park, you found a shaded spot under a big tree and ran towards it, Zayne and Xavier took the items out of the car and watched Rafayel chase after you. Everyone was actually having a great time, even though the 3 men would throw jabs at each other, it would make you laugh, you can’t wait for another day where all 4 of you can hang out together.

Random bypassers would watch your unique group, full of attractive men and the one female, all having a good time. Little did they know your complicated relationships. All the ladies walking by would get jealous of you for having the 3 of them around you. Even small animals would gather around, mostly next to Xavier, birds landing on his shoulders and squirrels trying to climb his legs. A few of them tried to steal food from Rafayel while none of them would go near Zayne. Zayne is not showing any emotions on his face but you could tell he was a bit hurt from that, you decide to sit closer to him and lean on his shoulders, with that little gesture, his heart melted.

Time flies when you are having fun, the sun was about to set before you all realized. You suggested they grab dinner before going home, they all agreed since they don't want the date with you to end. Rafayel got a call from Thomas to discuss an upcoming exhibition; he was unwilling but left shortly after dinner. Zayne has early surgery appointments planned and left after dropping you and Xaiver back home. 

Xavier held your hand as the 2 of you walked up the stairs instead of taking the elevator, both wanted to prolong the date. When you finally arrived at your apartment suite, Xavier grabbed both of your hands and squeezed them in his hands. “I had a great time today, thank you for our first date.” You looked into his eyes longingly, as if you didn't want the day to end. Seeing how vulnerable you look, he couldn't help but lean in for a kiss on your lips. He moved one of his hands up to your cheeks, slowly rubbing circles as he kissed you with more passion. It was getting hard to breathe, as he smothers you with his kiss. You let out a moan and Xavier twitched, and he backs off from your lips. 

“You should head inside, I will see you tomorrow.” Xavier says with his signature soft smile. “I don't want to sleep yet…” you whined, not wanting to let go of his hand. Xavier leans in again, putting his hand on your door as he backs you into it. “I don't want to leave you either… but I'm trying very hard to control myself right now. I’m not sure how much longer I can hold.” He looks at you with lustful eyes. It sent shivers down your spine, not a bad way but you also feel you are not ready to go to the next level. “Alright, good night Xavier, see you tomorrow.” You tiptoed towards him and gave him one last kiss before disappearing into your suite.

Xavier licks his lips and lightly touches it, he heads towards his apartment suite and decides he needs to take care of business before going to bed.

Your place feels so empty and quiet without the 3 of them. You hardly feel sleepy, you decide to get changed and ready for bed. Once your preparations are done,  the phone rings. It was Rafayel calling. You picked up the call, “Hello? Did you get home? Sorry I had to leave so soon, Thomas won't stop nagging at me for how important the next exhibit is.” Rafayel keeps talking, not really giving you time to answer, but you were fine with it. Somehow his voice calms you. “Yes, I'm home a while ago, just got ready for bed. When is your next exhibit?” You head over to your bed and lay down. “It's in a few days, a few hours drive away. Enough talk about that, what are you doing now?” “Just laying in bed, not really sleepy yet, was deciding on what I wanted to do before you called.” You replied honestly. 

“I already miss you, Y/N. Being able to be around you the last 2 days has been like a dream to me. I'm glad I finally get to kiss you after all this time. My house feels so empty right now.” You could feel him getting flustered on the other end, you're also starting to blush. He is being very honest with you and it doesn't happen often. “I miss you too…Rafayel” you gasped to yourself, how are you this needy? You felt embarrassed telling him the truth. “I miss you more, princess… I wish I could hold and touch you.” His voice sounds deeper than normal. You shiver at his words. 

You remember he left his shirt at your place. You went and pulled it out of the laundry basket and took it back to bed with you. “What are you doing? I heard shuffling on your end.” He asks while he breathes softly. “Nothing! I-Im just trying to get my plushies.” You made up something nervously. “Why do you sound so nervous then? It's not like you took my shirt and are sniffing at it.” Bingo, how did he know? Did he place hidden cameras at your house? “I’m just kidding. There's no way you would miss me so much as to need to sniff my shirt.” Little did he know that is exactly what you just did. Your face feels like it's burning, the heat is traveling down your whole body, you can't keep your body still and let out a soft moan. “Wait… you actually did? That's hot…Y/N…” he has figured it out, but you couldn't resist his smell. His breathing is more abnormal, it has become quicker. “Princess, please, say something…anything…” he pleaded. You clutched onto his shirt and whispered “Rafayel…” and with just that you heard a low grunt and he finished. You knew what he was doing. He was touching himself while picturing you clinging to his shirt and wanting him. And for some reason you didn't mind and enjoyed listening to him. 

“I would much prefer you being beside me and helping me instead, but I guess this will do.” He sighs. You felt embarrassed from his words, you have never felt this way just by someone's words. You could feel your panties getting wet. You just layed there clutching his shirt with your legs brought up close to your chest. You put your hand between your legs and felt the dampness seeping through your pajama shorts. 

You were about to stick your hand inside your shorts but were interrupted by Rafayels' voice. “What are you up to?” “Nothing! I'm going to sleep now! Good night!” You hung up before he got a chance to say good night. Rafayel was stunned but chuckled and went to clean himself up and head to bed.

Just when you thought the day was over, you got a text on your phone. Zayne messaged you to tell you that he had arrived back home ‘I’ve arrived home.’ you texted him back, ‘Welcome home!’ he replies with ‘You should sleep. It's getting late.’ you giggle to yourself knowing he has reverted back to doctor mode. ‘Already in bed Doc.’ ‘Good, now sleep.’ His replies were short but demanding. 

‘I already miss you, Dr. Zayne. Good night.’ Zayne twitched as he read your last text. His fingers pinching the bridge of his nose while he blush. Looks like he has to take care of the bulge in his pants before he can sleep.

It’s morning and your alarm is ringing, you turn over to place your hand over the clock to stop the alarm before rolling back to your original spot. “It’s nice to know I'm not the only one that has trouble getting out of bed.” Shocked, you sat up with your eyes wide open. Xavier has made his way into your apartment, sitting on the edge of your bed, chuckling. “You scared me!” you nervously say as you cover half your face with your blanket. “I’m sorry,” Xavier said with sad puppy eyes, “I just wanted to see you sooner… Forgive me?” You were surprised he got up and all dressed before you. Normally it would be the other way around and you would go upstairs to knock on his door to get him to get ready. 

“It’s fine i guess, but don’t sneak in here all the time, my heart can’t handle it…” you let out a playful sigh. Xavier leans over and pets your head and brings himself closer to give you a morning kiss on the cheeks. “Would you like me to make you some breakfast?” Xavier excitedly asks. Not wanting him to set your kitchen on fire, you nicely declined. “Maybe we could pick something up on the way to work. Tara left all her things here from the weekend, do you mind helping me pack things while I get ready?” he was a little bummed when you turned down his breakfast idea but started beaming again as soon as you asked him to help with another task. 

Xavier headed over to the suitcase and started packing. You hopped off your bed and playfully went behind him, wrapped your arms around his waist and gave him a hug from behind. “Good morning Xavier.” You said before grabbing your uniform and headed to the bathroom. Xaviers’ ears turned a light pink, and he playfully shook his head, smiling to himself. “I better prepare myself for any other sudden attacks.”

As you walk out of the bathroom, Xavier extended his arms to the wall to cage you in. You looked at him confused. He leans in close, brushing his lips past your cheeks and whispers in your ear, “Don’t be so naughty.” Your face instantly turned red, you moved your hands up to your cheeks to try to hide as you looked up to Xaviers’ eyes. Xavier slowly backs up, a smirk on his face. “Pay back for the hug earlier.” You playfully pound his chest and he releases you from the wall. “Let’s get going, or we might not have time to grab food.”

On your way to work, Xavier is walking on your left as he pulls the suitcase along. You wanted him to hold your hand, it was as if he knew what you were thinking, as he grabbed your hand and intertwined his fingers with yours. There was a smirk on both your faces, you 2 were in bliss. 

Arriving at the headquarters, you wanted to let go of his hand, since you were not sure how to announce your current relationship, with Xavier being one of your 3 interests. He simply did not want to let go of your hand and held on tighter. Just as you thought about what you should do, a pair of hands grabs your shoulders. 

“I see that things worked out well for you 2.” Tara said with a smirk on her face. “I have you to thank.” Xavier answers Tara promptly. “I expect a reward of some sort, maybe a month's worth of boba tea?” Tara suggested jokingly. “No problem.” Xavier promised. “Here's your stuff.” He hands the suitcase to Tara. “So have you decided if you want to go public with your relationship?” “Yes.” “No.” Xavier looks at you with sad eyes. “It's kind of complicated right now… I will be sure to let everyone know when I think the time is right, but for now, could we please keep this a secret?” You bagged Xavier and Tara. Xavier sighs and pets your head. “I guess if that's what you really wish.” Tara can't help but feel giddy at the 2 of you. “That will cost you another month of boba tea.” “Y/N will cover that.” Says Xavier as he pouts. “That's fine, by the time she finishes the first month's worth she will be sick of boba tea!” You giggled at Xavier.

There was a group of new trainee hunters joining the field today. As seniors you and Xavier took care of the bigger wanderers while the new hunters took care of a lower rank wanderer. One of the trainees panicked as the wanderer charged at her, she shot her Evol randomly and managed to scrap your inner thigh. “Argh!” You muffled in pain. You tried to stand but were not able to, due to the electric Evol temporarily paralyzing you. Xavier saw and dashed to your rescue. Scooping you off your feet and instructed the hunters are he would be taking you to the hospital. 

He ran, as he had you tight in his grip, you could hear his heart pounding faster than normal. Once you arrived at the hospital, Zayne just happened to pass by and saw that you were injured, he glared at Xavier. “Wait, Zayne, it is not his fault. I got caught in friendly fire from the new trainees.” you tried to defend Xavier since you saw the look on Zayne's face about to release his anger towards Xavier. Zayne squeezed his eyebrows and grabbed you out of Xavier's embrace. “I’ll take care of her from here.” Zayne coldly tells Xavier, you could tell he was still angry at him, even though it was not really within his control. 

Zayne brought you to his office and put you down on the couch. You were wearing your skirt and he could see blood trailing down your inner thigh. “Let me see.” He demands. You felt embarrassed and clutched your legs together. “Y/N.” You twitched as he called your name and slowly released your legs, Zayne’s hands were on your knees gently separating your legs. You blushed as you turned your head away and placed both your hands between your legs, holding down your skirt. “Y/N, please move your hands so I can see clearly.” his stern voice was making you feel more embarrassed by the second. 

You slowly moved your hands and placed them on your two sides, clutching tightly on the seats of the couch so hard your knuckles turned white. He placed the foot of your injured leg on his thigh and lifted your leg up at an angle while pulling your skirt down so he could see your cut. “It's not deep, and it managed to miss your major artery.” He sighs a breath of relief. He goes and grabs the first aid kit, he thoroughly cleans up the wound and bandages it up. 

Zayne finally noticed how nervous you were, trying to hold your breath, pink cheeks and eyes tightly squeezed shut. At first he thought you were worried about the pain, but then he realized it was for a very different reason. He slowly ran his finger around your wound. He could hear your irregular breaths and soft puffs which you tried desperately to hold back. He has a wicked smirk on his face and you were too preoccupied to look. 

He can't help but want to tease you, he puts his hand on the bottom of your knees and pulls you so your back is now on the seat. He then bent in and his head was slowly going between your legs. You panicked and tried to push his head away from your sensitive area only to have him grab both your wrists with his free hand and pin them down. He was hovering around your bandaged area, lightly rubbing the tip of his nose to it. 

He placed a light kiss on your bandage, “Ah…” both of you were not expecting that sound. You managed to break free from Zayne's gasp and you covered your mouth with both hands, one on top of the other. Your eyes were as wide as Zayne's. His eyes are now staring into yours'. “You always manage to rattle me up, how am I supposed to continue treating your wound after hearing such a cute sound?” You have never seen his current expression before, he wants more, he needs more. 

You were so shocked by your own voice that tears started forming, and rolling down your widened eyes. Zayne jolted from seeing your tears and panicked. It wasn't his intention to make you cry. “I’m sorry baby, I… went overboard. Please forgive me.” His eyes looked like he would cry if you rejected him. You shook your head, “No… That is not the reason…” you tried to explain. “I don't want you to see me as an easy girl. I don't understand why I made those sounds… please forgive me…” 

Zayne pulled you up and into his embrace, “Oh my silly girl, there is no need for apologies. I loved the sounds you make, it's proof that you feel the same way I do. Here.” He grabs your hand and places it on the bulge between his legs. “This is how you make me feel.” This was the very first time you've touched one. Your face quickly turned red, so hot you could almost fry an egg on it. You tried to pull away but the little movement caused Zayne to let out a lustful moan. He grabs your chin with his other hand and pulls you in for a passionate kiss. Suddenly there was a knock on the door and it shocked both of you and made him quickly let go. 

“Dr. Zayne, your patient is here to see you.” You both suddenly remembered that you came in without an appointment. “I will be there in a minute.” Zayne notified the nurse. He turns back to you, “I guess this is all we have time for.” You could see a smirk on his face. “I'll see you next time.” He gives you another kiss and sends you off.

You were limping out slowly and once you got to the lobby, you saw Xavier sitting and waiting patiently. He noticed you right away and rushed over to you. “Was everything ok? How come you looked like you were crying? Did he give you a hard time?” Xavier's brows stiffen. “No. It's just because of the pain. Zayne helped me bandage it up already.” Xavier was not too satisfied with the answer but decided he shouldn't question you anymore. 

He turned around and kneeled down, offering you his back. “Climb on, I'll take you home.” You got embarrassed “I can walk by myself you know.” You pout as you try to reject Xavier. “Then I guess I will just have to carry you back like how I got you here.” You thought that would be even more embarrassing so you took the offer for the piggy back ride. You blushed and pouted as you climbed on his back. He placed his hands on your thighs and you gasped. “Did I hurt you?” Xavier asked as he worried that he accidentally touched your wound. You shook your head, “No, I was just caught off guard by your hands.” “Sorry, let's get going then.” Says Xavier, you could clearly see his ears turning pink. You wrapped your arms around him to secure yourself and also for how cute his reaction was. 

He took his time walking home. He liked how your arms are around him, if he could carry you forever, he would gladly accept. “Oh yeah, how were the trainees after the accident?” You felt bad having to leave them behind even though the area was cleared of wanderers. “They were all fine and returned safely to the headquarters. The one that injured you felt so bad she came to the hospital but you were still being treated.” “I hope this didn't traumatize them to stop being a hunter.” You said jokingly. “She almost quit, for a totally different reason though.” Xavier whispers quietly to himself, you managed to miss what he said. 

Once you arrived at the apartment, Xavier brought you back to his place instead of yours. “Why didn't you bring me home?” You asked confused. “I wanted to look after you. And it would be easier here since I know where everything is kept. Are you hungry? I can make you something to eat.” You got worried and said “No, I'm not hungry.” Your stomach starts growling. You quickly covered your belly and turned red as it betrayed you. “Okay… maybe a little bit hungry…” Xavier can't help but let out a playful laugh. “Don't worry, I was just going to put together a turkey sandwich for you. I should manage.” You still can't help but worry. 

Sitting on the couch in Xavier's living room, you can't help but notice how clean and tidy it is. You grabbed bunbun which was on the couch and gave it a squeeze. It smells like Xavier, he must like to hug it when he naps. You can't help but sniff it some more. His scent calms you, almost feeling like you were about to fall asleep as well. But by the time Xavier returned with the sandwich, you had fallen asleep with bunbun tightly locked in your embrace. Xavier's brows narrowed looking at bunbun, he was jealous of his plushies. “I'll deal with you later.” As he glared at bunbun. 

He carried you to his bedroom carefully while trying to not wake you up. He gently placed you down and covered you with the blanket. His hand hovering over your face traveling from top of bottom. He was getting horny just from the idea of you being in his bed. He kneels at the end of his bed and unbuckles his pants, lowering it and the boxer enough to have his cock set free. He started stroking himself, he moaned quietly as he stroked himself, not wanting to wake you up. His eyes were locked onto you and his breath became quicker. He wanted to touch you so badly, but fought his inner demons since he didn't want you to feel uncomfortable. 

His hand was moving faster and moans became quicker and louder. You could hear him breathing and you slowly opened your eyes only to see him masturbating to you. You instantly became flustered and wanted to look away. Xavier shows no signs of stopping, if anything, he's going faster and louder. “Princess… Please look at me. Ha… I won't touch you… just keep your pretty eyes…mm on me.” He pleads as he pants and moans. You kept your eyes on him as he played with himself. You were mesmerized by him, the way he looked and the way he sounded. You slowly pulled down the blanket and started crawling towards him, wanting to take a closer look. 

Xavier was getting to his limits, he stared into your eyes with pleading eyes. “Can you… haa… kiss me…?” You reach your arms to his head, fingers running through his soft hair and pull him in for a kiss. He licks your lips wanting access to your mouth, and you allow him by parting your lips slightly. He sticks his tongue into your mouth and swishes it around against yours. You lightly sucked on his tongue and he let out a loud muffled moan, “princess… I'm gonna…MMM…cum, I'm cumming.” His hot cum shots out, landing on your uniform and some actually landed on the bottom of your chin. 

This was your first time feeling the warm sticky liquid, yet you weren't disgusted by it. You wiped your chin with your hand, looking at the creamy white liquid with fascinating eyes. You didn't even mind your uniform being dirtied. Xavier felt embarrassed as he finished with his high. He quickly grabs a box of kleenex to try and clean you up. “I'm sorry princess, I couldn't help myself…, take off your uniform, I'll go get it washed.” He moved around his room so fast and got you a set of his clothes while his cock was still hanging out. 

You told him to turn around as you changed into his clothes, and once you told him you were done, he turned around and saw your tiny figure wearing his clothes, his cock was getting hard again. He quickly grabs your uniform and runs into the bathroom, saying he needs to shower while he puts your clothes in the wash. He ran a cold shower trying to calm his head, and his cock. 

You sat in his bed, dazed, trying to collect yourself from everything that happened today. You got found out by Tara; you got injured; you saw Zayne and touched his dick; you saw Xavier masturbating to you and cums on you. You licked your hand that had Xavier's cum, it tastes salty, you feel yourself getting wet from remembering his face as he came all over you. You felt hot on your thigh when Zayne kissed you. 

Xavier steps out of the bathroom and finds you still sitting on his bed, dazed. He moved toward you and sat down behind you, wrapping his arms around your waist, his head buried between your neck and shoulder. You finally snapped out of your daydream and noticed him. “I’m sorry Y/N, did that make you uncomfortable?” You shook your head, you lifted your hand up to his head and rubbed his cheeks. “Why do you feel so cold?” you ask. Concerned. “Was just trying to calm down, but it didn’t really help.” You turned around to face him, you got on your knees and embraced his head into your chest. “Yup, definitely did not help at all.” as signs and wraps his arms around your torso. 

“You smell nice…” You were running your fingers through Xavier’s hair while taking in his scent. “Y/N… Are you feeling alright? You’re acting like you're drunk.” You were somewhat drunk from his affection towards you. And you loved how he makes you feel so warm and comfortable. “I don’t know what is going on, all I know is I want to keep touching you.” Xavier lightly pushes you away. “I don’t know if I will be able to control myself if you keep saying things like that. I don't want to hurt you, I won’t be able to let go of you. This is your only chance to run.” 

Xavier is trying hard to hold himself back from touching you all over, he isn't sure if you are ready for him to do what he really wants to do. His hands are trembling, the one thing he fears most is to hurt or scare you away. He can no longer bear the thought of you not being with him. Once again you placed your palm on his cheek, he shifted his weight into it and grabbed your hand with his shaky hands. “You would never hurt me.” You told him confidently. 

In one swift movement he already had you flopped down on his bed, he was on his knees, his face hovering just about yours. “Don't say I haven't warned you.” He leans in to give you a bunch of tingling kisses, from your cheeks to your lips, traveling down the side of your neck. He stops at the crook of your neck and playful sinks his teeth onto your tender skin. You let out a moan as he sucked on your delicate skin, leaving behind a hickey. His right hand travels under the hoodie he lent you, slowly moving up your torso. “It tickles, Xavier…” you told him as you giggled. He sat up, tugging at the hoodie and asked, “Can I take this off?” His signature puppy eyes are at it again. You weren't about to stop him even if he didn't look at you with those eyes. You just smiled and nodded at him, next thing you know, the hoodie has been flung across the room. 

Xavier was saddled on top of you, looking down at your now exposed skin, his breathing becoming quicker, you could see the bulge in his pants twitching as he ran his hands over your bra covered chest. “I’m removing this as well…” he says as one of his hands travels behind your back to remove the hooks. You moved your arm over yourself, “I don't want to be the only one that's bare…” you told him nervously. Xavier took your hint and took off his shirt and threw it off the bed. You finally moved your arms to the side and let him remove your bra. “You are so beautiful. I've dreamed of undressing you many many times and it is now a reality. Do you think I can take some pictures?” He jokingly suggested. “Don't push your luck.” You told him as pout and moved your arms in to cover yourself. “Okay, okay. No pictures…… this time.” he laughs. 

You lightly pound on his chest, he grabs your wrist and kisses it. With His free hand, he placed his fingers on your lips, slowly moving down your chin, neck, then to the middle of your collar bone. He then moves his hand to cup one of your breasts and lean in to suck on your hardened nipple of the other. You ran your hands in his soft hair again as you let out soft moans from the sensation of your nipples. “You feel so smooth and soft. I can't get enough of you.” He says as he switches his attention to your other nipple to give it some love. 

His lips started traveling down, you couldn't help but twitch lightly, feeling ticklish and impressed. He was getting closer and closer to your most sensitive spot. He tugs at the sweatpants, wanting to wait for your approval to remove them. You slightly arched up giving him the access he needs to have both the sweatpants and your panties removed. You squeezed your knees together while his hands traveled down your thighs, brushing over your bandaged wound. He stood up at the edge of his bed and removed his own sweatpants and boxer. 

You can see him clearly, his cock looks like it is twitching painfully, leaking with pre-cum. You haven't really seen any personally, but you thought he was on the big side. Compared to the ones you occasionally see in movies. You wondered if it would hurt. Xavier noticed your worried face and smiled, he grabbed your legs and pulled you closer to the edge of the bed. “Gasp! Xavier!?” You weren't expecting the sudden gesture and got scared. “Don't worry, I won't be putting it in. I just thought you wouldn't like to be the only one completely bare. For now, let me help you feel good.” He kneels down and holds the bottom of your thighs up. His eyes locked onto your clit, he moves in to kiss it, sending shivers down your spine. “Y/N, could you hold your legs for me? I want to be able to feel you with my hands.” You put your arms under your knees and hug them towards you tightly. “Such a good girl, and already so wet. This is all for me?” You were too nervous and embarrassed to say anything other than letting out moans. 

He places his hands close to your folds and slightly pulls them apart with his thumbs. “Such a pretty color.” He leaned in and gave it another kiss. He starts licking your cunt all the way up your clit. “So, so sweet…” his hot breath hits you as he kisses and licks you. “Xavier… my body feels funny…” you whine and moan as he eats your pussy out. “Are you about to have your orgasm? That's fine, let it all out. I'll accept every last drop.” He has one hand holding you open while he starts jerking himself off with his other, wanting to cum the same time you do. As he strokes himself faster, his breath becomes heavier, making you more sensitive as his tongue moves in and out of your cunt. 

As Xavier's tongue swishes, you could feel that you are at your peak. Your back arches and head thrown back calling out to him, “Xav-Xacier!!” You were cumming, and as promised Xavier sucking up every last drop as he also cums while he muffled his moans. 

That was your first ever orgasm and you thought it felt amazing. All he did was just use his tongue and it was enough to make you come undone. Xavier carries you back up towards bed and places your head on his pillow, he cleans up after himself and lays down next to you. “I’m getting sleepy, but I don't mind if you want to go again. Just let me nap for 5 mins like this.” He pulls you into his embrace while you 2 are still fully naked. You also felt a drain of energy and thought a nap wouldn't be so bad afterall and fell asleep safely in his arms. 

[miscretis]

Discord Mod!Ronin x Discord Kitten!Reader (G.n) [PART 3/FINALE OF A CRACK FIC TAKEN SERIOUSLY]

WRITERS NOTE

Part 3/3 is finally out now! It's been a good few days since I started this series and it has been really fun to write! I'm appreciative of the support given towards this series and I hope that y'all will continue to support me, my artworks, and my writing! Yes you read that right, this is the finale. This is really rushed because I wanted to start on a new AU, a new project. It's going to be another Ronin x Reader but I promise it's a good one! Now, sit back and enjoy the finale of Discord mod!Ronin x Discord Kitten!Reader (g.n)

CW:

-Mentions of murder

- bad and rushed writing

-cringe.

Months flew past and you were slowly wrapping up the novel for a nice and bittersweet ending. You checked your calendar and realised that today was Valentine’s day! What's so exciting about it anyways? It's not like anyone is going to ask you out…

Until…

@goreboy is calling you!

What is he calling me for?

Curiosity was starting to engulf you so you decided to pick up the discord call. pick up the discord call. As you picked up the call, the wine red hair man appeared on the screen before you, a cheeky grin on his face.

“What’s up my darling daredevil? The devil has come to wish you a Happy Valentine’s day,” Ronin snickered.

You rolled your eyes, “Very funny Ronin, very funny.”

He chuckles, “What? Aren’t you thankful that your boyfriend is here for you?

“More than thankful.” Your tone dripped with sarcasm.

“The kitten’s feisty as ever, I like that. But, my patience is running out, writer darlin’.”

Wait..he knows who I am? How?!?! I have been concealing my identity just fine for months!

However, panicking wouldn’t help you in any situation, so you took deep breaths before replying, “ I’m not scared of you, Ronin. You’re just taking this intense role play way too seriously!”

What I said only fueled his amusement, his voice distorted into a maniacal laughter, “Oh darling. When was it ever roleplay? You’ve been playing my game for the longest time, and you still haven’t realised!”

You were surprised. No, in shock. Wait no, do you even know how you feel at this point? You’ve been fooled, utterly bamboozled. You’re like a mouse in a mouse trap, stuck in a sticky situation. The Devil’s Butcher is right in front of you on your screen. It only took you 5 months to notice.

You were utterly speechless.

“What? Cat got your tongue?”

”I know your name, Ronin. I could easily expose you.”

“So what is it?”

You ponder for a while, you only said that out of spite.

“Oh come on, don’t tell me you don’t know your boyfriend’s full government name despite dating me for a few months already! I’ve been whispering it to you.”

You quickly toggled off the calling screen and went to search through Ronin’s DMs, you realised the way he typed his words before calling you was weird…

Soon, it clicked.

“You’re Ronin Beaufort.”

Ronin’s eyes glimmered in pure excitement. You could tell that exhilaration was pumped through his veins, “Hah! You impress me, darling. It’s Ronin Beaufort, the Devil’s Butcher, yours truly. Meet me in Purgatory.”

14th February 2024, 8.50pm. You arrived at Purgatory, the very alley where the Devil’s Butcher gets his hands stained red. Adrenaline pumps through your veins, your heart rate quickens and your hands clammy. You couldn’t believe you’re meeting up with a serial killer, your boyfriend.

He is a serial killer but he is also my boyfriend. Will he kill me or not?

At this point, it doesn't anymore. By agreeing to come along, you've already sealed your fate. As you walked along the alleyway, you saw graffiti all over the wall. It gave it more of an eerie vibe since murder literally takes place here.

Suddenly, you heard a blood curdling scream. You turned around to check your surroundings. Something's definitely up but you couldn't muster the courage to check it out. So, you stay at your current position, waiting for Ronin to come.

Time passes by and he still has yet to come. So, you decided that it was just a prank. Ronin is the type to pull these kinds of pranks anyways.

“Oh writer darling, getting impatient already? Don't worry, I'm right here!” Ronin creeps up from your back and whispers into your ears. You turned out and gasped out in surprise.

Oh god, it's not a prank. It's the Devil’s Butcher in the flash!

But as the wise man says, panicking doesn't solve anything.

Ronin chuckles, “So we meet!”

“Always the devil, Ronin Beaufort.”

“Aren't you a pleasure?” Ronin walks in closer, “Gotta say, meeting you in person got me feeling some typa’ way. And I wonder how you feel about….well…”

Ronin lets out a maniacal laugh, it stirs up some type of feeling in your chest, your cheeks flare up a pretty red.

“Do you like me now?”

“Yes.”

“Oh just speak the truth! Anything but the truth!”

He whispers into your ears, “Write me a love note, darling.”

“I know your name. I could expose you.”

“Coulda, woulda, shoulda. You could end me. You should end me. But would you end me?”

“...”

“I don't think so! Where's the boys in blue? Why's it just us in my favourite gruesome alley? Why's that after knowing who I am, you still wanna see me?”

“So why did you even invite me to the server?”

“I did it for you. You were starving for inspiration, so I gave you insatiability.”

“...”

“You wanted inspiration, so I became your muse. You wanted love, so I gave you love. Isn't that everything you ever wanted?”

“...”

“Why didn't you call the cops? There were so many opportunities that you missed out on!”

“...”

“If I may…I would say you're a little too in love…”

"..."

“So, what would'ja do now? Taste the feeling of metallic death by my crowbar? Or ya gonna kiss me? Or are you gonna kill me? I got a knife right here! ” He lets out a dark chuckle as he closes up the gap between the both of you, pinning you to the wall.

You clenched your teeth, dang it. Ronin really stirred your heart up. If you kill him, you'll be guilty of a crime. If you kiss in, you'll give in.

But fuck it…who cares if you give in or commit a crime anyways? You've gone so far

You pulled him close and grabbed the knife, Ronin dropped his crowbar out of surprise. You've thrown the knife away and leaned him into a heartwarming kiss!

Euphoria spread through both of your bodies and released the unsolved tension between the two of you. You have danced with the devil and now he has now fully corrupted you, having you completely wrapped around his finger. You're now his, he's now yours.

The end.

[thee-morrigan]

Happy Valentine’s Day 💕

Your writing has always been a treat to read, but getting to follow Holland and Nate in ‘attachment theory’ has been one of my highlights of the previous year. Thank you for sharing your beautiful stories with us.

If you feel like answering (no pressure): What is something unconventional that your OC thinks is romantic? Does their LI agree?

Wishing you a lovely day filled with lots of love!

Ahhh happy Valentine’s Day to you too!! 💖🥰 This is such a lovely message, and knowing that attachment theory has been a highlight for you makes my heart so full. Thank you for reading and for being here, sweet friend!!💕

And ooooh, I love this question! Something unconventional that Holland finds romantic? Honestly, I think she has a real soft spot for being known in all the little ways—like, not just the big sweeping gestures, but when someone quietly remembers something about her, even if she never made a big deal of it. Someone handing her her coffee exactly the way she likes it without asking, or keeping track of what songs she hums when she’s distracted. Stuff like that absolutely wrecks her (though god forbid she admit it out loud lol).

As for whether Nate agrees—oh, absolutely. If anything, that’s his whole approach to love: a constant, quiet noticing. (And also like, let's be real: that man can probably find romance in anything.) It’s a language they both speak fluently, even when Holland’s still pretending not to understand it. 😌

And as my valentine to you, lovely anon, I also wrote a quick AT-verse ficlet of Holland and Nate's first v-day together, below the cut~

(no spoilers, set after the events of the main story)

sugar on the rim

February, Next Year The restaurant was crowded and warm, the low murmur of voices and clinking of silverware on plates mingling with the soft strains of violin music filtering out from the bar area and through the dining room. The lights had been dimmed, and there were candles on each table, the glow from them flickering in time with the music that seemed to grow quieter by the minute. It was, in every way, exactly the sort of place that Holland would have hated under any other circumstances.

It was a place to be seen. Somewhere you'd go with someone you wanted — or were obliged — to impress. A place for important business deals or milestone celebrations. Not the kind of restaurant anyone went to just for the hell of it, or simply because the food was good. (Even though the food had been excellent.)

And it was also, very pointedly, a place to go with a date. Which was why they were there, of course. It was Valentine's Day, after all.

Which, ordinarily, was the sort of thing that would have made Holland want to bolt, if not for the fact that Nate looked so damned pleased about the entire affair. He'd been so eager, when he'd suggested this, to make sure she knew he understood that she was, as he’d put it, "not the biggest fan of the whole production.” That he'd be just as happy to stay at home with her. But there'd been a look in his eyes that had given him away, a sort of wistful hopefulness that had made her chest ache, just a little.

She could never have denied him anything, anyway.

And so far, things hadn't been nearly as bad as she'd anticipated they'd be. In fact, it had ended up being...nice, even. She hadn't expected to have such a good time, but she had. The company had been excellent, as always, and Nate had seemed so delighted to be there, and even the little touches — the music, the candles, the wine — had somehow managed not to seem too overdone. Too much, for a night that she hadn't wanted to make anything out of in the first place.

It had all been...well, kind of perfect, really. Almost annoyingly so, if she could have summoned the slightest bit of irritation or impatience or cynicism about the whole thing.

Instead, Holland found that she couldn't even muster the desire to be cynical about the whole saccharine affair. Because she wasn't, not really. Not about this.

Not about him.

She watched the candlelight dance in his eyes, flickering as he studied her, a smile curving up the corner of his mouth.

"You're quiet," he observed. He was smiling, but his voice held a note of hesitation, something like worry or apprehension coloring the edges of his words.

He was right. She had been quiet. Maybe too quiet. She'd gotten a little lost in her thoughts, and now he was looking at her, that crease in his forehead, a little uncertainty in his eyes, like there was something on the tip of his tongue that he was a little afraid to ask.

So she offered him a reassuring smile, trying to brush away the concern in his expression, wanting to see that easy, comfortable smile of his again. "Just thinking," she said.

"Oh?" That crease in his forehead hadn't disappeared, his gaze still intent, still searching her face, a question in his eyes. "About what?"

She could have lied, she supposed. Could have said something glib or snarky, a joke or quip to try and lighten the mood. Something that would have given him an out, an opportunity to brush off the worry that she could see in his face. Something that would have let them both skirt around the question that she knew was really on his mind.

But she didn't. Instead, she took a deep breath, and looked at him, and said: "How happy I am."

She watched the candlelight flicker in his eyes, watched his smile grow slowly. Watched him relax, the tension leaving his body as his shoulders dropped and his expression softened and warmed.

"Yeah?" He sounded pleased.

A blush warmed her face. A tiny smile lifted the corner of her mouth. "Yeah," she said, letting that tiny smile spread into a full one. "Are you happy?"

"Always."

"That's a lie." But she was smiling when she said it. "And not even a good one."

He laughed, the sound rich and warm and intimate. The way the sound made her feel...

(It made her want to bury her face in her hands. It was ridiculous, how much he made her want.)

"I'm happy when I'm with you," he amended.

"Better," she said softly. "Still a little schmaltzy for my taste, but..."

He arched a brow, still smiling. "Too much?" There was a hint of concern there, an apology lingering in the subtext, ready to be said out loud if needed, the barest tinge of uncertainty and hesitation and something very, very Nate — the sense of worry over having maybe gone a step too far.

(Sweet. Nervous. And oh so achingly, profoundly endearing. Like he always was.)

And she thought: No such thing as too much, with you.

She didn't say that. Instead, she gave a small, amused shrug. "It's fine."

Nate's grin widened. "Just fine, hm?"

She lifted a shoulder again. "Eh." But her eyes were soft, her mouth quirking into another smile. "Maybe a little more than 'fine.'"

He laughed again.

(She thought she could live in the sound of his laugh.)

Nate leaned back in his chair, his expression fond, gaze warm and soft, the tension in his shoulders eased now. He seemed...contented. At ease. Happy.

"Thank you," he said.

"For?"

"For coming with me tonight. And for..." He waved a hand, gesturing vaguely. "Being here. Doing this. I know it's not your favorite holiday."

"It's fine," she said again. And then, softer, with another small shrug: "I like making you happy."

He gave her a look that was so tender and affectionate it made her chest tighten. "I am," he said quietly. "I really, really am."

[minecraft-fanfiction-house]

Relationship Status: Widower {VALENTINES DAY SPECIAL} Seby's diary! Writing in their prayer book ;^; lol

Deer Ominous Prayer,

My pale monochromatic skin blush'd, and it would blush’d more of my name and reputation if anyone saw who it was. But they all assumed it was blood of embarrassment, from another measly crow, but they were no such birds. 

Ah, I suppose. I didn’t entirely mind the lack of sight from the left, Because I couldn't fully see if there was a water bucket on the table, I had to move my head. I truly never used my brain as much when it comes to raids. It was all under the evoker's control, even my cold watery blue eyes. Ugh. I know I haven't said this. Anywhere. But I hated blue, it's fine, but If there to blush pale blue everywhere, Id hat it.

When that snake of a villager bit me,       (!I don't even know their name!)

It felt that we were equal. 

That part of me was able to be digested into someone, is such a silly cannibal love story.

I hated the screams that came to the back of my head. Knowing what I probably saw

What do I even say to that villager 'Take me, I'm all yours'

Oh, I'm lost! I can’t figure a hitch of what I should say to that Villager!

They ate my eye, do I start with that?

Oh, I’m A Trout in a pipe Useless!!

What do I  even muster up

What's plain and simple? Bows, tie, lace. Well lace are simple to find tether in a fabric bin. So a gift, I was thinking of a gift.

Oh, heed my Ominous prayer. I feel salty and embarrassed. I hadn't realized how walked away and greeted him. How daring would it be if I kept my stature?

From Seby, Assylum

.

.

.

A folded-up letter dropped with the smell of dry rain and the looks of muddled writing in an already messy cursive hand-writing, ‘hi my dear, i know things are looking dull out their there but I'll love you in a jiffy.’ the flipped the 4 crossed paper once, they always wrote on each paper every time the fold it 'not to waste a paper' they always told their comrades, wanting every thought they had messaged to their lover. 'Someones bound to love you once my shifts over, I promise another wedding in the desert where I used to remove tnt traps.'

how old, how wrinkly, how unattractive...

They removed the bow off of the plushie's hand, and onto theirs as tight as a bell, hung around a ravager's neck in the morning. They sigh. Grazing the lace on its jacket. They took off their glove and removed a second pair of more see-through laced gloves, it was stained from muddy rainwater. They rubbed the palm of the glover, tucking a single glove in the inside pocket of the plushie.

'pictures of family' were embroidered on the inside, for who could ever remind a person that this doll is for them to have others gaze at, and hide precious materials.

"The clouds were fluffier today, I wish I could eat them." Seby had a smokey accent, and they smelled like rain from every item they had seemed stained.

---

unedited rambling

Seby, is a soft name. With an insignia of their favorite flower of the day. This time it was Assylum flowers. Seby placed it in their book.

A folded-up letter dropped with messy cursive writing, ‘hi my dea, i know things are looking dull out their there but im ill love you in a jiffy.’

{Their was an incident where when fishing trout theyyyyyy, flushed it down the toilet. It was when they were younger, a kid or such and such.}

[cheesus-doodles]

Bonten Mikey + Taiyaki

Valentine’s Day Shorts

Masterlist | Valentine's Shorts List

i got so much more that i want to write i'm so swamped ;-; warning for slight angst for this one, its a little scene from my Going Home AU

"I don't want it," Mikey repeated as firmly as his hoarse throat would allow, abyss eyes fixed on the same empty beige wall of the infirmary.

The Bonten second-in-command was persistent, his pleading voice cutting through the still air. "Mikey, please, you haven't had anything to eat all day-"

The usually mouthwatering smell of taiyaki only brought on a sudden flood of memories, and with it, a familiar pain in his chest and a curl in his gut that Mikey could have sworn had long been numbed with time. For fuck's sake, he was the boss of the most heinous crime syndicate in all of Japan, overseeing an ever increasing number unspeakable evils with each passing day.

And yet, being offered his favourite treat today, of all days; it was as good as a slap to his face, a mockery of you slipping through his fingers again. Enough to make him feel. You had, after all, always been the one to make taiyaki for him on Valentine’s Day before your disappearance twelve years ago, and had promised to do so after your sudden and miraculous return to him twelve years later. But he couldn’t stop it from happening again, couldn’t stop you from vanishing from his arms once more.

"Fuck off,” was all Mikey could muster the strength to mumble, shifting slightly in a bid to seek an ever elusive comfort. Without you, his world was meaningless. Why couldn’t he be just left alone to stew in his misery?

Sanzu, however, wasn’t that easily dissuaded, the pink-haired man on his knees for the umpteenth time this week, piercing green eyes turned down at the cold blue tiles that lined the infirmary floor. And the prone position wouldn’t have worked on the Bonten boss, like it had failed to do so many times before, if not for those magic words. "I used her recipe," the other mumbled into the ground; softly, tauntingly.

The room fell silent as time came to a crawl, the sound of every breath heavy in the tense tranquility as Mikey contemplated those words. He knew the delinquent-turned-yakuza dared not to interrupt lest he be sent away, and so he allowed his pestilent right hand man to continue to stew without the bliss of drugs to tide him over. One tormenting minute after another, before he finally made up his mind, the sheets under him shuffling slightly as he turned.

“Fine.” A single word, and Sanzu rocketed up from his knees, wasting no time in pressing the fish-shaped cake into his beloved king’s outstretched hand. Yet for all the hope shining in those green eyes, eagerly waiting as the the tail of the taiyaki was nibbled at, the taste that flooded his mouth was a far cry from the ideal in his mind.

It couldn't even wash out the lingering smell of bleach from his nose. The sweet fragance that he remembered coating his tongue as he bit into your handmade taiyakis was missing.

Throwing the rest back at the mob of pink hair peaking over the edge of his bed, Mikey agonizingly turned back to face the wall, the moment of effort having taken every ounce of energy he had left. "It doesn't taste like hers."

He should have known better then to expect any different, the bitter thought like a stab through his chest as he heard the slowly fading footsteps of Sanzu exiting the infirmary; it would never be the same as yours.

[chachued]

URGENT [ P.P ]

It was almost Valentine’s day and Peter still couldn’t open up about his feelings towards you. One day, a text popped up from Peter about an urgent say.

PAIRINGS: tasm!peter parker x fem!reader

W/C: 0.4k

CONTENTS: just loads of fluff, nervous peter, short

A/N: this is my first post and im not very sure how to use tumblr or how to aesthetically and efficiently make a fic, so im rlly sorry if it's not up to expectations! im currently writing this at 3am, pls bare with my grammar and spelling :"> (im open to concrit btw!)

Scared. It’s one of the words that describe Peter in this situation. He wanted to tell you today, but he couldn’t even muster up the courage to open your contact.

Meanwhile, you were walking back home from school when your phone buzzed inside your pocket.

PETER PARKER

where are u???? i need to tell u something

You

why? wassup??

You

did u finally kill someone, parker??? IS THIS A BURY A BODY MOMENT?? OHHH IVE BEEN LONGING FOR THIS MOMENT

PETER PARKER

what! no!! that's worrying!

You

aw okay, but what is it then????

PETER PARKER

i want to tell u something, so go to my place, yeah?

You

why not over text?

PETER PARKER

it's urgent!! come quick!

You

fine fine! ill be there in a few!

PETER PARKER

thank u :D

You arrived at his house. When you knocked on his door, you could hear shuffling inside, trying to hurry to the entrance. After some time, he let you inside with an awkward smile and a hand behind his neck.

"Why are you acting so weird?"

"What? Weird? No, I wouldn't. Why would I? I mean, wait, am I acting weird? If I am, I truly apologise — Truly!"

"Peter," You cut him off, desperate to know why he called you over and why he's so nervous. So nervous to the point his palms were clammy and beads of sweat formed on his forehead, but you didn't know that. At this point, you thought he did kill someone.

"Sorry! Sorry... I just– Actually, forget it, here." he said as he handed you a poorly wrapped gift.

You eyed the gift carefully, slightly shaking it to see what he gave you. "Aunt May wasn't home and I don't really know how to use wrapping paper."

"Yeah, no, I appreciate it!" you said, subtly reassuring him that you're not judging his poor skill.

"You do–? Yes, of course, no problem."

"So, why did you invite me here?"

"I just wanted to ask if you'd go out?" he asked you, but his sentence didn't make much sense causing you to furrow your eyebrows. "With me, I mean!"

His stomach did flips at the thought of a date with you, something he's been waiting for since you've met. His heart was beating so loud, but the only thing he could do is wish you couldn't hear it.

"Like a date?"

"Yes!" His eyes lit up when you said the word. His energetic expression quickly died down when he realised you didn't answer his question. "Only if you want to."

"You know, I've been waiting for this as much as I've been waiting to bury someone that you've accidentally killed."

"I'm so glad you– Wait, what?" His goofy smile faded away.

"Kidding, but yes, I'll go out with you."

[fairyofthestar]

VALENTINE 13: d-1

[narration ahead !]

it was difficult for someone like taehyun to process his emotions in such a way, but he was smart and he soon came to a conclusion.

he had feelings for you.

it took a long video call with hyuka and days of pondering before he accepted the fact that the abnormal beating of his heart whenever he was around you wasn't because of a medical condition he didn't know he had. it was simply his heart being happy in your presence.

it was weird for him; he had never thought of a person this much. he thought about you from the moment he woke up, to the minute he laid his head on his pillow. he wondered if you were having a good day, if you were sleeping the same time as he did, if you were flaunting that contagious and stunning smile that he couldn't get enough of.

everyday, he looked forward to seeing you or just merely getting a glimpse of you while roaming around, doing his school president duties. he had been feeling a bit disappointed during the past few days though. because of the preparation for the valentine's dance tomorrow, he was ten times more busy and had to miss eating lunch with you and the rest of the group.

taehyun would constantly grumble to soobin about how that was the only time he could be with you for a long time without anyone suspecting anything, and soobin would laugh in amusement. it wasn't always that he could see taehyun like this.

it was a shock for the whole student body (except soobin) when they found out that taehyun was attending the dance today. everyone knew he would skip social events like this, but things were different this time. he was actually excited for the dance this year, especially with you in his life now.

taehyun being taehyun, he had a plan that he hoped would be successful. he planned on confessing to you tomorrow.

his heart fluttered everytime he would think about it, him feeling nervous as the day slowly ends. this was the first time he would ever do something like this and if he was being honest, he didn't know what exactly he was going to say. he thought of writing down what he was going to say, but that wouldn't be natural or romantic. he also didn't want to just give you a letter, he wanted you to hear it from himself.

ah, whatever. taehyun rarely approached things with his guts, but this could be an exception. maybe spontaneity would be a good thing for once.

"are you excited for tomorrow?" soobin nudged him, shaking him out of his thoughts.

taehyun inhaled deeply. "surprisingly, yeah. it's the first time i'm actually going to experience what i planned," he chuckled, and so did soobin.

"who knew y/n was the only person who could get you to attend the dance," soobin teased, nudging taehyun even more. taehyun rolled his eyes, biting back a smile.

"it's not just because of y/n,"

"you literally can't lie to save your life," taehyun only raised his hands in defeat, walking away from soobin to check on the other people putting up decorations if they needed any help.

soobin let out another chuckle, shaking his head. if only taehyun knew that you felt the same way and was probably ten times more nervous than he was because tomorrow, you will finally take the risk and tell taehyun about your feelings for him before someone else tries to capture his heart.

masterlist / previous / next

A/N: an early update !! the next chapter would be the last chapter of the au (cries)

SYNOPSIS — with her long-term crush on taehyun, y/n finally musters up the courage to try and make the school president fall for her and be his date for the valentine's dance. the only problem was that taehyun was never fond of the whole concept of valentine's day nor the annual valentine's dance. will y/n succeed or will this be another year of watching taehyun from afar?

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[multifandomwritings]

Hi could I please request the valentines prompt wings - Birdy for Din Djarin please! Thank you so much (I love your writings so so much) 💕

Ah of course, and thank you so much, I'm glad! :)

Valentine's song prompts | Wings (Din Djarin)

Fandoms/characters: Star Wars/The Mandalorian (Din Djarin, reader)

Song: 43. Wings - Birdy

Genre: Romance/angst/fluff

Format: Oneshot

Word count: 1687

Summary: After a close call in a dangerous situation, Din blames himself and begins to push you away as he realizes his feelings are deeper than he thought.

Warnings: angst, mentions of a minor injury. Sorry for any mistakes, also!

Notes: Love this song so much, and I adore it for him! I really hope you like this :) And I'm sorry if this isn't to your taste, it's kinda simple/basic and bittersweet but I hope it's okay! And don't mind me keeping the situation at hand very vague... :^) (One left after this btw. Sorry for how slow I've been!)

The silence was heavy. You sat in Din's ship, still planted in place, waiting for him to say something.

Din's life was rarely easy and safe. You knew that. But you liked him. You expected nothing from him, however, contented to only remain in his company. To see the things that he saw and be allowed the adventure of it all. But with adventure came risk and danger, a fact that hit Din hard at the sight of you getting hurt.

"It really isn't that bad," You said, unable to stand the silence any longer. It was barely more than a scrape. It stung, but you took care of it (or rather, DIn did, as soon as you were both safe again) and it wasn't the first time. You couldn't see his expression, but you could sense the tension, and you didn't understand why it bothered him so much.

"Did I do something wrong?" You asked, the confidence behind your voice dwindling, "I'm usually more careful, I-"

"No," He replied, "It's my fault. I shouldn't be involving you in these things."

"I want to be involved in things," You quickly replied, "And it's not your fault."

When he didn't reply, your heart sunk. Despite him having said so little, you knew something was wrong. More so than him just being upset you'd been hurt. But you couldn't seem to muster up the courage to press, mostly for fear of what you'd hear if you did. You just wanted to forget the whole thing and keep on as usual. But a nagging feeling inside you warned you that that wasn't going to be the case.

***

"Where are we going?" You asked, the first words spoken in hours. Din turned toward you, ignoring your question and answering instead with another.

"How is it?" He asked, gesturing his head toward your injury.

"It's fine," You shrugged, "It's really not that bad."

"Good."

He wasn't sure why he was so worked up. You'd been scraped up before. Granted, it was never such a close call, but you'd still managed your way out with nothing seriously wrong. He should be relieved. He was relieved, but the sinking feeling of guilt ate at him.

He had gotten used to you. Your conversation, your presence. You were comfort and familiarity, you were special. And for that, he had needlessly and thoughtlessly dragged you through every manner or situation. You never had a single complaint, which only made him feel worse.

The thought of you hurt, threatened, or in any kind of peril made his stomach lurch. But there was something else that bothered him, a loose thread that he had begun to unravel as he sat in the silence, pondering over the events of the day. He had long admired you, and long cared for you, but the instincts he had when he saw you hurt were something new and unfamiliar. A blind panic, followed by his mind going blank and his heart racing for hours. When he saw you were okay, that it was only a scrape, he wanted to pull you into himself and keep you there, hidden away and safe.

"Where are we going?" You repeated nervously.

He turned, examining your nervous expression, the tension in your shoulders. He let out a sigh before replying.

"I don't know," He admitted plainly, "I was thinking about taking you home."

"What?" You asked, your throat tensing up uncomfortably, "I didn't ask-"

"You didn't have to. I shouldn't have been bringing you along like this anyway."

"Din," You said, finally getting him to turn to you completely. He waited, his heart racing and mind spinning in confusion. He wanted you to plead with him, give him a reason to change his mind. He shouldn't, he knew, but there was a hidden part of him that wanted to be selfish. He wanted you to want to be with him, despite everything, to crave his company as he had begun to crave yours.

"I don't want to go," You said, trying to hide the croak in your voice, "I like being here, with you."

"But-"

"Have I done something wrong?" You continued, certain you must have. Your heart pounded at the thought of it. You'd tried so hard to do everything right. To be thoughtful and helpful and to keep your own feelings in check, drawing boundaries between you. Surely one simple thing wouldn't put him off you so easily? "I'm sorry if I have, but please tell me. If you really want me to go, then I will, but-"

"No, that's not it. You haven't done anything wrong," He said, his heart twisting up at the sound of hurt in your voice, "I don't want you to go," He admitted reluctantly, eyeing you in such a way that you would have understood right away if you could see him, "I just can't always be there to keep you safe. I don't want you hurt."

"I know you don't," You said sympathetically, "I don't want you hurt either. I worry about you too, more than you know. But I'd never tell you what to do, or try to change you. That's why-" You began, stopping yourself quickly.

"Why what?"

You kicked yourself for even saying anything. It would only make things worse. But then again, you thought, maybe being honest was for the best. At least then everything would be out in the open.

"Why I haven't ever told you I have feelings for you," You admitted, barely able to put one word in front of the next, "I don't want you to feel pressured or anything. I just want to be here. I've stayed, despite the risks. It's worth it," You said, which was only half true. He was worth it, more like. "I don't want to overstay my welcome. I don't want to stay if you're uncomfortable. But if it's just because of my safety..."

Din examined you seriously, glad you couldn't see the shock on his face. He had never once suspected your feelings towards him were anything but friendly. You said it with such a casual tone that he wasn't even sure he'd understood you right. The racing of his heart continued now even harder as he processed. The thought of you, contented to perpetually be in his company as nothing more than a companion and friend, made his mind spin. Even he couldn't exactly say the same, his feelings having slowly grown to the point where he had a hard time remaining friendly with you. To think that someone like you could feel that way toward him was almost overwhelming.

You sat in silence, waiting with as much patience and understanding as you could. His expressionless helmet, his stiff, reserved body language gave you nothing. For all you knew he was uncomfortable, scrambling for a way to let you down as kindly as he could. You expected nothing, and yet, a small part of you wished he'd give you some glimmer of hope and relief.

"I'm sorry. I shouldn't have said anything," You finally said, your voice hushed and full of badly concealed emotion. You wished you could just fold into yourself and disappear. That was the last conversation you'd expected to have been having with him that day, especially just because of such a minor injury.

"No, I'm glad you told me," He said, before he could even think. He'd been in all kinds of nerve-wracking situations in his life and none had him quite so flustered as you staring at him expectantly like that. Not much genuinely scared him, but the prospect of being honest had his stomach twisted into knots. The thought of opening himself up to you, making himself available to someone in such a way was, at best, unnerving. But he loved the thought of it, the thought of you, with him in ways he didn't even know he wanted. He knew he was torturing you, seeing your feigned attempt at patience. The part of himself he thought better of wanted to just turn around and take you back to your home, but he wasn't even sure he'd be able to manage it at that point.

"I want you to stay," He finally said. You perked up visibly, which only tugged at his heart strings further. He didn't deserve someone like you, who had such selfless feelings for him. "I...Care for you, as well."

He watched your reaction carefully, unable to tell what you were thinking. Your head tilted forward slightly as you stared, as if trying to figure him out. He smiled a little to himself at the thought of it.

"Are you sure?" You asked, "I don't want you to feel pressured."

"I don't. And I'm sure," He said, trying to ignore how nervous he really was, "That's why I reacted the way I did to that," He said, tilting his head toward your injury, "I don't want to see you hurt. Especially not because of me."

You tried to hide your giddiness and relief, not wanting to react too soon. But you couldn't help the involuntary smile which slowly spread across your face. The heavy tension felt relieved slightly, now twisting into a different kind of awkwardness.

"You know, it is worth it, though." You replied, earning a raised eyebrow and smile that would unfortunately remain unseen. Still, you could sense his change in mood. You couldn't help but wonder if he cared for you the same way, though. Once more mustering up your courage, you continued, feeling ridiculous for even pressing. "When you say you care for me though, do you mean...?"

He tilted his head forward, waiting on you to elaborate, as if he didn't know exactly what you meant. When you only stared, giving him an expectant look, he just nodded.

His heart could have burst with how a simple nod could elicit such an expression from you. You quickly lessened the distance between you, wrapping your arms around his neck, resting your forehead against his helmet. Just earlier you'd wished none of it would have happened, and now you were glad it had, thinking of how you might otherwise have gone on unaware of each other's feelings.

[dazaiswindow]

more than you know

characters: isaac x mc

word count: 1.1k

genre: fluff | no tw

a/n: i wrote this for Valentine's day! it's my first time writing Isaac and i tried a different writing style than the one i'm used to, (it's kind of like a mix between Isaac's pov & 3rd person's pov?) and i kinda like how this turned out!

tagging @rinringo23 as a fellow isaac stan! 🍎

Valentine's day is known as the day where people would celebrate and express their affections for their loved ones, especially with their significant other, and knowing this, Isaac also wanted to celebrate it with his darling lover, although even if it's just any other day, he would still express his undying love and affections for her, undoubtedly

He knew he's not a man who's good with his words, so he'd rather show it with his actions instead, he had planned to take her on a date tonight to the field near the mansion where they would stargaze together, it has become quite a frequent date for them ever since they got together, just quietly enjoying each other's presence under the starry night sky, he simply loved each of that moment he shared with her

It was the middle of the day when Isaac spotted her cleaning one of the windows in the hallway and after pausing for a moment to muster up his courage —because yes, she still gave him butterflies and nervousness even after being together for quite some time now— he walked up to her, trying to contain the blush he could feel spreading slowly across his cheeks

"Us going stargazing together tonight? Oh, yes! I would love that Isaac, it has been quite some time since we last go stargazing!" Was her reply when he asked her if she wanted to go with him, the excitement were clear in her eyes and her saccharine smile as she gazed at him made his heart swell with love for her

Isaac was always so utterly enraptured with her, how she reacted so enthusiastically to even the most simple things he said or done, —even he himself felt that going stargazing as a date was not a very extraordinary one, considering it's Valentine's day and he knew most men in town would bring their lady to a fancy restaurant and have an extravagant night— but it was just how he was like and he knew they both loved it that way, and it made him feel so very loved and appreciated for who he is; it filled him with such an overwhelming affection for her which he could never describe with words, so instead, he just kisses her forehead tenderly before sauntering off with a face as red as the fruit he claimed he so despises

When the sun finally set and the sky turning into dark hues of blue, the two of them left the mansion to go to the field overlooking the 19th century paris, Isaac carrying one of his invention, the reflecting telescope, while she's carrying a basket filled with a blanket and enough foods for the both of them

Once everything was set and ready, they both plopped down on the thick blanket, a pleasant silence fell between them for a short moment before Isaac starts fiddling with his hair and steal a couple glances at her. No matter how many times she said she loved spending time with him like this, just gazing at the stars, he couldn't help but feel a little bit anxious that she would eventually grow bored of it, and he stole a couple more glances at her, trying to think of something to say but he couldn't find something good enough so he just kept his mouth shut, after a while she finally noticed his glances and turned to look at him questioningly

"Is something wrong, Isaac?" She was always gentle when she speaks to him and the underlying concern etched in her voice almost made him feel guilty, fiddling with a lock of his hair further under the weight of her earnest eyes, he looked away flusteredly, "I... I just thought that you might be getting bored..." His voice came out a little more squeaked than he would like but then he suddenly heard her soft giggles, looking up to look at her again only to find her staring right at him with the most tender expression he'd ever seen, his breath hitched, this time failing to look away

"I would never get bored of spending times with you, Isaac," She started, the look she gave him only softening further, "In fact, no amount of time would be enough for me to spend with you." Isaac felt his heart leapt at those words, he cleared his throat to appear somewhat calm in front of her when really, he could feel his cheeks heating up and his heart began to pound out of beat, "You're an odd one..." He mumbled rather curtly, but they both know it's what he does when he's flustered, so she just smiles at that, looking back up at the starry sky

But once again, Isaac found himself stealing glances at her form illuminated by the stars, this time for a completely different reason than the last time, it was rather because she looked so dazzlingly beautiful —even more so than she already was— he could see the stars reflected in her eyes, making it seem to sparkle, and oh how he thought he would much prefer watching them through her eyes, so much so that the stars overhead were all but forgotten

"Isaac, you said we came here to watch the stars, am I right?" Suddenly, she lowers her eyes again so that she was looking into his cherry blossom ones, and he frowned a little, "Yes, isn't that what we were doing now?" He asked her back, tilting his head to one side, but her answer wasn't what he expected at all, "How is it stargazing if you keep staring at me?" There was a teasing lilt to her voice and he felt his heart skip a beat at the mischievous tone. He was never fond of getting teased by the other residents in the mansion but it was different when she was the one who did it, he didn't mind it one bit

Seeing her playful grin as she gazed at him, Isaac couldn't help but wanting to steal it off her face, so he closed the distance between them and pressed a quick kiss in the corner of her lips. When he pulled away, the smile was gone from her face, replaced by a flush slowly creeping up on her cheeks and Isaac grins to himself, he wasn't intending on it, but after seeing her flustered reaction, he found he couldn't resist teasing her further to get her back, there was just something about her reaction that made him feel a little more daring and mischievous than usual. With a small smile adorned on his lips, he looked directly into her eyes

"But I am indeed stargazing, meae deliciae," He reached up towards her, fingers tenderly brushing some strands of hair back behind her ear, "They are here in your eyes."

P.s. meae deliciae is a latin word for ‘my darling’ because i headcanon that isaac would sometimes call his mc latin terms of endearment. He wrote a whole book in latin, he had to have called her at least a number of latin terms of endearment and you can't convince me otherwise aha

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