#I was going to give up at day 7 but! I'm glad I saw it to the end

[redtsundere-writes]

Part 28: Starting Over

King!SukunaRyomen x Servant!FemReader

Summary: You used to be just another servant among the army of humans operating under the command of the terrible king, Sukuna Ryomen. An ordinary human who only knows how to wash, clean and cook. Until one day, he notices something in you that you hadn't seen before.

Tags: MDNI. +18. Murder. Blood. Cannibalism. Sukuna Ryomen Is The Warning Itself. Nudity. Sexual Display. Vaginal. Fingering. Sometimes fluff, sometimes angst. NOT Beta read.

Word Count:  7822 words.

I M P O R T A N T

A/N: So after some consideration, I need a break from this fic because I wanna work on other fics I have kinda abandoned because of this one. Plus, I want to write an original novel! I'll be updating about it here, thanks for your support and understanding, happy holidays! :3

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You were stuck in the same dilemma you had a month ago. You paced around your room, anxiety running high, rehearsing how to apologize to the king for kissing another man and causing a scene in enemy territory. You had crossed the line this time, and it would be hard to fix it. He must be furious, even more so when he found out you didn't return to camp after the incident. You didn't regret what you did, but you would have to admit that you deliberately hurt the king sooner or later, and now you had to face the consequences. You bit your nails in a failed attempt to calm your nerves as you waited for his inevitable return.

Suddenly, you stopped as you heard the clatter of the drawbridge's chains moving. You darted to the window, looked outside, and confirmed what you feared: the king was back in the castle. But he wasn't alone. Along with him were Kenjaku and Mahito, followed by a long caravan of curses. Sukuna stepped out of his carriage with his trademark dark grace, looking up directly at your window as if he knew you were there. His sharp eyes pierced your being, and a chill ran down your spine. Heart pounding uncertainly, you slammed the window shut and hid behind the wall as if that would help.

You still didn’t have an apology that would convince you. You weren’t even sure Sukuna would allow you to apologize. Staying in your room, waiting for him to request your presence, was the safest option, though you had no idea how long that would take.

To your surprise, it only took twenty minutes of your patience when someone knocked on your door. To your relief, it was Mrs. Inoue. You hugged her without a second thought, muttering hasty apologies for leaving her alone with the king for over a week.

“I missed you too, child.” She hugged you back.

“I'm glad she's okay,” you said before letting go of her.

She gave you a kind, tender grandmotherly smile, but then her expression changed drastically to one of anger. “Oh no…” you thought scared.

“What the hell is wrong with you, silly girl?! You cried every day for the king to propose to you, and you go and blew it! You're going to kill me with your shenanigans before I see you in white! You better give me 7 grandchildren to make up for it!” She scolded you severely while spanking you.

“Sukuna told him?!” You asked, surprised, while you writhed from the pain in your buttocks.

“Of course the king told me after I went to plead for you,” Mrs. Inoue snorted. “You better apologize tonight, or I myself will tell the king to kill you for being a dumbass.” With that warning, she handed you a letter that was in her pocket.

You took the white envelope with a frown. It had a wax seal with a golden rose painted on it. It was an official letter from King Sukuna. You didn't hesitate to open it with trembling hands. Your eyes nearly popped out of their sockets when you saw what it was.

His Majesty, King Sukuna Ryomen, extends to you a most gracious invitation to attend the illustrious White Flower Ball.

For the first time in a millennium, you have been bestowed the rare honor of joining this exclusive and momentous occasion, held this evening within the grand halls of the castle. Enclosed with this letter is a gown crafted especially for you, befitting the grandeur of the event.

It is my fervent hope that you will accept this invitation and join me for an evening of unparalleled splendor—one that I assure you will remain etched in your memory forever.

With the deepest of regards,Sukuna Ryomen

“What the fuck?” Mrs. Inoue pulled your cheek for cursing.

It was just what you needed to reassure yourself that you weren’t dreaming. You weren’t one to curse just like that, but your mouth dropped it before you could say anything else. Your bottom lip was on the floor and your heart was racing in circles from excitement. You read the letter over and over to make sure your reading comprehension was still working.

“And you haven’t seen the best part yet,” Mrs. Inoue said excitedly before picking up a box that was hidden behind the door to the next room.

You took the huge box to place it on your bed. You undid the red bow with ease and opened it. There was a white silk dress next to a diamond tiara with matching earrings. Mrs. Inoue held you so you wouldn’t faint from the shock. It was so beautiful that you couldn’t utter a word. “Does this mean the king isn’t upset with me?” you thought.

“You better apologize to that good man, girl.” Mrs. Inoue waved an accusatory finger.

“Did he just call the king a ‘good man’?” you asked, confused.

“My grandson is a tyrant to everyone but you,” Mrs. Inoue said before leaving your room to let the king know that she had already fulfilled her part of the plan.

“Your grandson?” That only left you more confused.

Sukuna examined the new windows with great attention. The pattern was the same as the originals, but instead of the glass being red, they were transparent like any other. Uraume was updating him on the situation, kneeling before him and with his head down. He had both pairs of arms crossed as he imagined how the events had occurred on this strange night.

“I detailed it in the report I sent you the same night of the attack. I don't know why it didn't reach you, my king,” Uraume stuttered nervously, about to burst into tears for having failed in their main task: protecting the castle.

“Surely the messenger you sent was killed by those crows if they are as powerful as you say,” Sukuna theorized. “Do you know the reasoning behind the attack?”

“50 cursed weapons were stolen from the weapons room, my king,” Uraume answered.

“I see.” Sukuna whispered to himself as he looked at the panorama through the glass.

There was a crow flying in the sky in the distance. Crows were a common bird in the area, so the person behind the attack had surely been spying on them for some time. With that information, it would be difficult to find the perpetrators. He already had some hypotheses in mind, but he would have to wait to solve them. Sukuna pricked up his ears as he heard a sob behind him. Uraume was crying softly as he clenched his white kimono, his hands red from the effort to contain himself. He lowered his head to his hands in a sign of mercy.

“I'm sorry I failed you, my king,” Uraume apologized.

“There was nothing you could do.” Sukuna concluded.

“If I hadn't fainted, I swear…” Uraume tried to defend themselves, full of frustration.

“Enough.” The king's word echoed through the hall. “I'm at peace that you only fainted and didn't die like everyone else.”

A warm shock hit Uraume's chest. As soon as they looked up, the king was already kneeling in front of them, with a hand on their albino head to stop them from lamenting what happened.

“I know what you are capable of, and what you can do it.” Sukuna reassured them. “So raise your head, we have work to do.”

“If you didn't get my report, why did you bring all those curses?” Uraume asked as they wiped the tears with their loose sleeve.

“This ball isn't going to organize itself.”

“Dance?” Uraume asked confused.

The night seemed to fall with a desperate slowness, too much to contain your excitement. Each minute felt eternal as you turned on your axis, watching how the wide skirt of your dress fluttered gracefully. You adjusted the top of the outfit for the tenth time, unable to control your nerves. The corset, tight to the chest, enhanced your figure without sacrificing elegance.

Your favorite detail was the sleeves: they fell softly, light, like newly opened petals, adding an ethereal touch to your appearance. The sparkling tiara and delicate diamond necklace caught the light like dewdrops at dawn, completing the illusion of a radiant flower in its full splendor. You felt like a daisy awakening with the first rays of the sun, fresh and dazzling. Sukuna had outdone himself with his choice this time.

There was a knock at the door. “Miss. The ball is about to begin.”

You didn’t recognize the voice, but curiosity drove you to run to the door. As you opened it, an exquisite fragrance enveloped you, stopping you in your tracks. Instead of an unfamiliar face, the first thing you saw were two long rows of white roses and daisies adorning the hallway. The flowers covered everything. They overflowed from the decorative vases, sprouted from the helmets of the armor, and seemed to fill every corner with their fragile splendor. You had never seen so many flowers together, but surprisingly, they were not what completely captured your attention.

At the end of the hallway, the king was waiting for you. His imposing figure was wrapped in an impeccable red kimono; his hair, perfectly coiffed, further enhanced his elegance. In his arms, he carried a huge bouquet of red roses, so large that it seemed made by him and only him. Your heart raced at the sight, and a fleeting thought crossed your mind: “Am I dreaming?”

He approached you, determined and confident steps, while you remained motionless, trapped in the tangle of emotions that invaded you. You felt like a fool, unable to do anything other than observe him from a distance, trying to process what was happening. The thousands of flowers, the dress, the dance… and him, wearing his most elegant kimono.

“Flies are going to get in.” Sukuna placed a hand under your chin to shut your mouth.

“I don’t understand, my king,” you whispered, confused.

“What don’t you understand?” His hand traveled down your jaw to hold your head under your ear.

“The dance? The dress? All of this? Why? I don’t deserve any of this after what I said back in the Zen’in realm.” You tried to lower your head in sorrow, but he held your head up high so you could look him in the eyes.

“I realized it was my fault that this happened in the first place. I should have protected you on enemy land, but because of my selfish wishes, it drew even more attention to you.” His thumb caressed your cheek tenderly as he looked you straight in the eyes so you knew he was serious. “I’m going to show you now and for the rest of your life that you made the right choice by standing next to me.”

Your pulse was racing so fast that you didn’t know if it was from excitement or a heart attack. Who the hell was this before fore you, and what had he done with the cursed tyrant? This was more than dreamlike, it was crazy. You thought he would be upset and ignore you more than before you got engaged, but you were glad he didn't. Sukuna placed the large bouquet of roses in your arms, they were so heavy that you almost fell on your back.

"Thank you," you said with your face hidden among the flowers before entering your room to leave the large bouquet on your bed. Any vase would break under the weight.

"Will you do me the great honor of taking you to the ball tonight?" Sukuna offered his hand along with a bow of respect.

"It would be ah honor," you took his hand with a big smile on your face.

Sukuna took your hand and pulled it towards him so that your arm was wrapped around his lower arm. They walked through the flower-filled hallway. As they reached the end, you looked back to take one last look before heading to the Great Hall. Sukuna noticed this with curiosity and stopped.

“The flowers will be there when you come back,” he reminded you with a smile, he was glad that you liked it.

“I know, it’s just that it’s a beautiful gesture. I could spend all day admiring them,” you said without taking your eyes off them.

Sukuna gently let go of your arm. You followed him with a confused look as he knelt down in front of the flowers. The king picked out the prettiest daisies with his eyes and pulled them from the bouquets. He placed the flowers in your hair carefully, fitting them between the tiara to make sure they stayed there all night. Sukuna took a moment to scan your body with his penetrating gaze. You never failed to impress him with how good you looked in the pieces he picked out for you. The soft fabric of the dress contrasted with your skin tone, shining like a star in the sky.

“I prefer to admire you all day and all night, because not a million flowers compare to you.” Sukuna took your hand to kiss your knuckles.

“Who are you and what did you do to King Sukuna?” You asked, surprised by his touch.

“I’m all yours.” Sukuna leaned down to kiss your cheek. Your face lit up like a flame. “What’s going on?!” you thought in shock.

“It’s my pleasure to introduce King Sukuna Ryomen and his fiancée, Y/N!” The curse announced their arrival to the Great Hall at the top of their lungs.

The guests, servants, and curses welcomed them with enthusiastic applause, filling the air with vibrant energy. Your face lit up as you took in the scene. Everyone looked elegant, wrapped in fine white clothing, and let themselves be carried away by the joyful music that resonated in the hall. It was almost unreal to witness a celebration where curses and humans lived together in harmony, sharing laughter and moments as if the differences between both worlds had completely disappeared.

Kenjaku masterfully conducted an orchestra made up of curses, whose sounds intertwined in a mesmerizing melody. Meanwhile, Mahito chatted animatedly with an Uraume clearly annoyed by having worked all day. The hall was a spectacle in itself, decorated with an infinity of white flowers that adorned every corner and radiated an ethereal atmosphere. Above the dance floor, the imposing crystal chandeliers cast golden sparkles, elegantly illuminating the couples who moved to the beat of the music.

A new song began to play, and with it came the charming chaos of the servants rushing to find a partner. Mrs. Inoue pulled Mr. Wasuke towards the dance floor, despite his protests of not wanting to abandon his glass of wine. You observed the scene with a wide smile, infected by the collective joy.

From his place, Sukuna gave you a fleeting glance. Noticing how fascinated you were by the spectacle, a light smile curved his lips. Your excitement pleased him. The evening, more than an event for everyone, had been designed especially for you after all.

“May I have this dance?” Sukuna introduced himself with a bow.

“Of course, my king.” You introduced yourself as well.

Sukuna pulled you towards him with a smile on his face. Two of his hands held you tightly by the waist and one of his strong hands slowly intertwined with yours, taking his time to caress every millimeter of your skin. He took the lead immediately. You joined the others on the dance floor. You thought the king would forget his steps or have trouble with the rhythm, but he danced like he was already used to it.

“Your dancing is marvelous,” you complimented before spinning around.

“I had some help,” he looked away. “A lot of help,” he corrected.

You followed his gaze and found Mrs. Inoue, who, with a mischievous smile, gave him a thumbs up. Apparently, she had taken matters into her own hands when she noticed that the king had no idea how to behave around a lady. With her newfound enthusiasm, she had offered him a crash course in etiquette: from how to dance and flirt to the proper way to act chivalrously to impress you on this big night. And boy had she succeeded.

You gave your friend a knowing smile before turning your eyes back to the king, but he was already watching you, his gaze filled with such intense adoration that it made heat rise to your cheeks. Unable to help it, your smile widened, lighting up your face.

The song was coming to an end, and with it the crucial moment was approaching. You felt Sukuna’s hands slide firmly down your back, while the other descended to hold your knee. Your body began to lean towards the ground in an elegant movement, but you couldn’t stop the memories of the last time from flooding over you. The fall was still fresh in your memory, and nerves took over you.

Instinctively, you brought a hand to your shoulder, holding on tightly, prepared in case it happened again. However, something in the security of his grip and the intensity of his gaze gave you a spark of confidence. Maybe this time it would be different.

“I’m not going to let you go.” I whispered to you, reading the worry in your eyes. “I won’t make that mistake again.”

You knew he meant the dance step, but you wished it was more than that. You wanted it to be a lifelong promise. That he would be with you against all odds, through poverty and illness, until death took you from his side. The applause brought you back to reality. Sukuna put your feet back on the ground. You clapped as you glanced at him, wondering what he was thinking. Luckily for you, the same as you.

Mahito quickly approached you as the next song started. “Miss, may I have this piece?” You were about to answer, but the king stepped in.

“Get lost.” Sukuna growled before sending him flying away from the dance floor with a push. A few curses mocked the commander at the sudden occurrence.

“I didn't have to be so harsh, my king.” You sometimes forgot how strong he could be without even trying.

“From now on, I won't let anyone get close to you.”

“Isn't that a bit excessive?” You asked timidly.

“Not when it comes to you,” he said before pulling you towards him again to continue dancing the night away.

The night was still young and this was already the best of your life. You had never felt so happy as that night. You danced the night away to the music, chatted with some curious maids about your trip to the Zen'in kingdom, and drank a few glasses of wine. You were having a great time, but you still needed to apologize to the king, as you had promised Lady Inoue.

“My king, may I have a moment?” You asked, referring to the fact that you could talk in private.

“A lifetime if you want,” he answered confidently. “If he keeps talking like that, I’ll collapse,” you thought, feeling your knees turn to jelly.

You left the great hall and walked towards the bridges that connected the towers, seeking the relief of the cool night air. From there, you could see how the streetlights of the city glowed with a warm light, while the hills of the commune remained plunged in gloom. There was something deeply melancholic in that contrast: such a beautiful place, forced to hide in darkness when it could shine brighter than the city of curses itself.

The castle had its charm, and you couldn’t deny that you had learned to appreciate it. However, that sight reminded you of how much you missed home. Not just the physical place, but what it represented to you: a refuge, an identity, a sense of belonging that now felt distant and almost unattainable.

You hugged yourself, seeking comfort in your own arms as your eyes wandered beyond the streetlights, trying to find something in the distance that would calm the longing that was beating in your chest.

“Are you cold?” Sukuna asked.

He didn’t wait for your answer, to take off his haori to place it over your shoulders, leaving you completely exposed from the waist up. The warmth returned to you as you saw his perfectly carved body. The piece was too big for you, but it protected you from the cold wind that blew through the peak. You thanked him with a smile. Even though you loved the king, you were doing the right thing by acting in the shadows to protect your home from the chaos he was about to unleash.

“I wanted to apologize to you.” You started the conservation, but Sukuna waved his hand at you to stop.

“We can talk about it later. I want you to remember this night as one of the best in your life.”

“Still, it doesn’t seem fair to me. At least let me apologize for the letter, I…”

“Mrs. Inoue already confessed everything.”

“But she didn’t tell you the reason why I did it.” Sukuna raised an eyebrow in curiosity. “I hid from you that I wrote the letter to get revenge for what happened in the greenhouse. It was childish. I’m sorry.” You apologized with your head down.

“Then I’m to blame,” Sukuna declared.

Planning a ball was easy. Getting all the flowers from the open field, too. Manipulating an entire nation, a simple move. Even defeating King Jogo was no big deal. But facing this conversation… that was another story. 

His throat closed, stifling the words before they could form. His nails dug into the palms of his hands, a desperate attempt to hold on to where he was standing, to not give in to the impulse to flee. His entire body begged him to stop, that there was still time to turn back, to take refuge again in the facade he had built and perfected for over a thousand years.

Everything was easy, except this. Except looking into your eyes, those eyes that, with a single glance, managed to melt the cold armor he had spent so long forging.

“I hurt you on purpose because…” He blurted out in a small voice. “Just do it, damn it!” he scolded himself. “I’m terrified.”

“You? Terrified?” You blinked a couple of times, confused.

“Every time I’m with you, I feel weak, vulnerable, soft…” He confessed. “But I’ve never felt so alive in my life.”

You gasped as your king knelt in front of you. He took your hand gently, caressing your knuckles with his thumb. His face outlined by the lights of the lanterns combined with the blush of the moon. His rubies didn’t convey that roughness you were used to, but a hope you’d never seen before.

“Every time you touch me, my skin turns to glass. Every time you smile, I melt under your warmth. Every time you look at me… you make me feel human again.”

“Human?!” You opened your eyes wide upon hearing that. How could the king of curses, a giant with four arms and two pairs of eyes, be human? Mahito and Kenjaku seemed more human than him. You wanted to laugh at how absurd it sounded, but his serious face stopped you.

“You are my greatest weakness, but that only makes me strive to be stronger to protect you, my beloved daisy.” Sukuna planted a kiss on your knuckles. “I may be a king, but allow me to serve you for the rest of my life.” His lips ran over each of your fingers until they reached the back.

“I am definitely going to faint” you thought, barely supporting your weight on your heels. Your heart was burning with love for the man at your feet. A year ago you were the one on your knees cleaning his ears, bathing him or letting him step on you for his entertainment. You still couldn't believe how much things had changed.

“It may be late to start, but it's never too late to try again.” Sukuna said before taking a small box out of his pocket.

“I could promise to bring you the moon, the stars and the entire galaxy, but promising those things is too simple. I want to promise you something that no one else can get for you. On this beautiful night, I want to promise you that I will love you like I have not been loved in a thousand years of my life.” Sukuna opened the box to reveal the engagement ring he gave you in the Jogo kingdom. “I am not interested in being the king of curses when I can be your faithful husband.”

“My king…” You sobbed at the beautiful words.

“Will you marry me?”

“Yes, a thousand times yes!” You exclaimed before jumping into his arms.

He pulled you against his body, letting a big sigh escape his lips. He held your head against his shoulder as you cried from the euphoria that ran through your body. He smiled to himself as he heard you repeat “yes” in excitement. He placed the shiny ring on your finger.

“I love you, my king,” you said as he wiped away your tears.

“Please call me Sukuna,” he begged.

“I love you, Sukuna,” you repeated.

Hearing his name leave your lips ignited something inside him, a desire he wasn’t willing to ignore. Like a good king, he didn’t waste a second to claim what he wanted. With determination, he took your face in his hands and sealed your lips with a kiss full of passion. His movements were a perfect mix of tenderness and dominance: while his mouth delicately explored yours, his hands, firm on your hips, pulled you tightly towards his body. The need he had repressed for more than a week overflowed in that instant. Every gesture of his spoke of longing and desperation.

The lack of air forced them to separate, but they both smiled, their faces warm and small clouds of steam escaping from their ragged breaths. Sukuna lifted you into his arms with an ease that made you feel light as a feather, and rested his forehead against yours. Instinctively, you wrapped your arms around his neck, ready to seek out his lips again.

However, a thunderous round of applause interrupted them. They turned to the large windows of the great hall, and there they were, all the servants and curses, crowded together and watching the spectacle in fascination. Some cheered, others laughed, and in the middle of them, Lady Inoue sobbed uncontrollably, tears of happiness running down her cheeks.

“It’s about time,” Kenjaku complained to Uraume.

“First a ball, now a wedding. Give me a break,” Uraume shook their head.

The night was still young in the Zen’in kingdom. In the dim candlelight, the commander sat at the desk in his room. Naoya was a man of many talents, but there was one in particular that few knew about. With precise movements, he drew fine lines on the paper, outlining the figure of a naked woman, gracefully reclining on an elegant armchair.

His hands detailed each feature: the hair waving softly, the eyes that seemed to look beyond the paper, and that smile… That smile that, since the last time he saw her, had disturbed his nights with its dazzling memory. Without realizing it, Naoya had captured in the drawing every inch of her body, covered only by a sheet that left your silhouette, sensual and delicate, uncovered.

While he contemplated his work, his imagination transported him to that scene he had created. He saw himself approaching you, slowly, as if afraid of interrupting your peaceful rest on a velvet armchair next to a window that bathed the environment in the warm light of summer. With unusual tenderness, he brushed a lock of hair from your face, admiring the perfection of your shapes: the bare breasts, the hypnotic curve of your waist.

Desire began to burn inside him, palpable beneath the silk of his robe. It was then that your eyes slowly opened, still heavy from sleep, and you found him there, so close that you could feel his breathing. Before you could fully react, Naoya caught your lips in a passionate kiss, intense and full of repressed longing.

Your hands, trembling, but firm, slid over his bare chest, exploring every detail under the fine fabric. In a determined gesture, you opened his robe, revealing his arousal, and in that instant, both of you let yourselves be carried away by the inevitable attraction that consumed you.

“Commander…” You moaned on his lips before reaching his cock.

“Commander!” Another voice woke him from sleep.

Naoya screamed when he realized that his cousin, Ranta, had entered his room without permission while he was masturbating. The young man looked at him, perplexed by such a scandal. Naoya closed his leather notebook before closing his robe, completely blushing.

“Who the fuck gave you permission to enter?!” The commander scolded him.

“I knocked on the door like three times, I thought you were asleep,” Ranta defended himself, still confused. It was the first time he saw Naoya so upset and blushing. “Were you perhaps seeing something forbidden?” He mocked with a hint of morbidity.

“No!” Naoya barked.

“I don’t believe you,” Ranta braced himself.

“I don’t give a shit if you don’t…!” Naoya’s body completely froze mid-sentence under his cousin’s technique. He was in trouble.

Ranta ran to the notebook to discover what his commander was hiding. In it, he found illustrations of landscapes, animals, and some familiar ones, but he stopped at the one he was currently working on.

“Wow… She’s so sexy. Who is she? She looks familiar,” Ranta wondered as he inspected the drawing closely. “Wait… Isn’t that that girl from the ball in the red dress? The maid… What was her name?” Ranta undid his technique.

“Y/n!” Naoya answered before snatching the notebook from him.

“Y/n… Yeah right,” Ranta reminded you. “Do you like her?”

“What? No way. She’s just attractive, that’s all.” Naoya denied having any feelings for you. Rather, he denied it to himself.

“Yeah, right.” Ranta rolled his eyes, knowing that this conversation was going nowhere. “I came by order of the king.”

“The king?” he asked, perplexed.

“Yes. He told me that all of us from The Heir will accompany him to the meeting of allied sorcerers.”

The Heir was an organization made up of the most powerful sorcerers of the Zen’in family, which is led by Naoya. The commander knew that King Toji and his wife would go to the meeting of allied sorcerers that takes place every semester in the Gojo Kingdom. What he didn’t understand was why King Toji needed the Shining Group there when only the kings can enter the room.

“We’ll leave in the morning,” Ranta told him.

“Thank you for letting me know.”

“I’m going to sleep, I’ll leave you alone with your drawing.” His cousin scoffed before leaving the room.

“Fuck you,” Naoya muttered before slamming the door shut.

He blew out the candles before finally going to bed. He closed his eyes and there you were in your red dress and unfriendly face. The chances of him seeing you again were painfully slim, but it was for the best. He was a commander, he didn’t need some random maid distracting him. He hit his pillow a few times to get comfortable. He tried to close his eyes again, but there you were again, letting King Gojo kiss you while he watched through a hole in the wall, wishing to take the albino’s place for at least a second.

“Get the fuck out of my head!” Naoya screamed into his pillow in frustration.

The dance had come to an end. The servants rested in their beds, exhausted from the evening, while the curses took their positions of vigilance, silent shadows under the moonlight. In the great hall, the guests of honor still raised glasses of wine, immersed in conversations bathed in laughter and secrets.

Sukuna, with his imposing bearing and confident walk, guided you along the path of flowers that led to your room. The fragrance of the petals, mixed with the night breeze, a balm that intoxicated the senses. At his side, you felt the world blur into a whisper, and the only reality was his presence.

You could not contain the smile that curved your lips, a mixture of happiness and slight disbelief. The sweet words he had whispered to you during the night still echoed in your mind, warm and tempting, like a promise you could not ignore.

“This was the best night of my life. Thank you so much.” You stood on your tiptoes to kiss his cheek, but only reached his jaw.

“I’m glad you had fun. I understand why you like these balls so much.” Sukuna leaned down a little so you could give him a proper kiss on the cheek. “You must be tired from all that dancing. You should go to sleep.”

“I will.” Sukuna opened the door for you.

“Good night, my daisy.” He gave you one last kiss on the lips before leaving. If he stayed one more second, who knows what he was capable of doing to spend the rest of the night with you.

You took a step towards your room, but it felt wrong to enter alone. He was still in the same hallway, but you missed him already. You didn’t want him to leave. You really wanted to thank him for the unforgettable dance he planned for you, but words wouldn’t be enough. You smiled to yourself as you had a terrible idea.

“Sukuna.” The sweetness of his name coming out of your mouth made him stop suddenly. “Could you do me a favor?”

“How may I help you?” he asked as he returned to you.

“Mrs. Inoue surely already went to sleep. Would you help me untie my corset?” you asked timidly.

You took the haori off your shoulders and stepped out of the dress to be left in your corset and petticoat. Sukuna gulped as he saw your exposed skin in front of him. He had seen you naked before, why was he so nervous? This time, he understood what it meant for you to let him see you like that. Beyond love, it was trust.

His hands slowly traveled down your hips until they reached the bow of the corset on your lower back. Goosebumps rose on your skin as he felt his fingers brush the bare skin that peeked out over the petticoat. His hands trembled at the light contact. Now he understood that every touch, caress and feel counted to make you feel. He pulled one of the ribbons to undo the bow with agonizing slowness. He opened the corset little by little while his empty hands ran over your waist that he managed to expose. There was no turning back now.

The corset fell to the floor. Sukuna kissed your neck while his hands molded to your waist and breasts. You gasped as he pulled you towards his burly torso. His giant hands covered your breasts completely, kneading them like a baker in the morning. Your body involuntarily moved towards him. You stroked his pink hair as you opened the opening for him to fully explore your neck.

His thumbs hooked into your tongue to pull it down along with your underwear. He caressed your legs on the way down. He cupped your ass and gave it a couple of slaps to watch it bounce. You smiled at the tickling. You kicked the tongue away from you before clinging closer to the king with a mischievous smile. Your eyes widened as you felt the large bulge against your ass. You had imagined that since he was big, his member was too. But it was the erection that rubbed against you that was terribly large.

“You know I'm impatient,” Sukuna purred in your ear. “I can't wait until the wedding, tonight I'm going to make you the mother of my children.”

Sukuna carried you over his shoulder. He removed the bouquet of roses from the bed to lay you down on the bed, leaving you at the edge of the bed. The leftover rose petals tickled your skin. Sukuna knelt in front of you and spread your legs.

“What are you doing?” You moaned as soon as his thumb passed through the wet folds of your vagina.

“Preparing my dinner,” he answered before inserting his index finger.

A moan escaped your lips as soon as he invaded your body. It was intrusive, thick, tight. He slid his finger slowly, going deeper each time. Your flushed face was a work of art, and your moans were the best symphony he had ever heard. His cocks already wanted to escape from his pants, they will have their turn. First he had to make sure you were wet, as the erotic books dictated. Sukuna reached your breasts to caress your nipples, erect from the cold. He pinched them gently, eliciting a moan from you. You covered your face in embarrassment of him seeing you like this. He moved up to your body and removed his hands that were blocking his sight.

“Let me see you, I want to make sure you like it,” he whispered before kissing your forehead.

He intertwined your fingers with his to keep your hands on the sides of your head. With his bottom hand he played with your nipples and the other one continued to fuck your vagina with two of his fingers. The tongue on his stomach licked your entire vagina, the tip passing directly over your clit. You arched your back as you felt him play with your button. Sukuna noticed and focused on having his tongue focus on licking your clit. The tsunami of sensations was too much, almost unbearable. Sukuna attacked you from all possible sides, without leaving any place untouched. You squeezed your legs against his sides in an attempt to contain your body.

His lips traveled down your neck and down your shoulder. He took one of your breasts in his mouth and licked your nipple in circles. His predatory eyes on you made you feel small and harmless like a hare in the jaws of a tiger. He continued his journey kissing your abdomen and focusing on your stomach. He held your hips under your legs as he heard your insides moving inside you.

“What do you want to have first? Girl or boy?” Sukuna asked you.

“As long as they’re healthy, I'll be happy.” You pull his hair tenderly.

“But if you could choose.” Sukuna insisted.

“A boy to give you the heir you want so much.” 

“A girl could also be my heir. If she's as strong as her mother, I'll be more than happy.” He said before continuing to kiss your thighs.

Even though you were in a situation where you couldn't think of anything else but your carnal needs, you couldn't help but evoke a smile thinking of Sukuna with his baby in his arms. You had no idea what kind of father your future husband would be, but you were sure he would be a good one, or at least a decent one.

Sukuna snatched you from your domestic thoughts as soon as his mouth infiltrated your vagina. You arched your back as you felt him eat your core like he hadn't had a bite in years. He held your thighs tightly so you wouldn't close up to him. His tongue focused on pressing that button that made you moan louder. Your pussy tasted so good that he didn't want to stop anytime soon.

“'Kuna…” You gasped, holding onto the sheets.

Sukuna smiled against your pussy. It was the first time someone had called him an abbreviation like that. He bit one of your lips carefully to suck it slowly, causing an injection of adrenaline to run through your body.

“I won't last long if you keep going like this…” You admitted.

“You're going to last until I tell you to.” “That’s the king I know” you thought.

Sukuna pulled down his pants, letting out his monstrosity. Or rather, both of his monstrosities. Your mouth dropped in shock. There was no way those things would get inside you. The king approached your body, but you backed away in fear.

“What's wrong?” He asked, confused.

“You're crazy if you think that's going to fit in,” you stammered.

“A baby is going to come out of there, I think it can,” he told you before taking possession of your body.

You swallowed dryly when you saw him on top of you. You were about to defend yourself, but Sukuna fell on you by you, sliding one of his cocks through the wet folds. You took his arms when you felt how well he molded on you. Sukuna let out a curse from his lips, it felt much better than his hand.

“Be careful. I've been told that the first time hurts,” you whispered, embarrassed.

“Whatever my queen asks for,” he placed a kiss on your forehead to take away your worries.

He took his lower member and slowly introduced it into your intimacy, while the other rested between your lips. It was big, thick, tight. It was abysmal, but it felt so good against your walls. He went all the way in, breaking your hymen. A pang made you let out a small tear of pain. Sukuna quickly kissed your tear away.

He slowly moved his hips against you. He growled against your ear at how tight you were. You wrapped around his cock so tightly that he thought he was in heaven even though he deserved hell. He fought with every fiber of his body against his instinct not to move like an animal in heat, he had to make sure you felt good.

The pang of pain was exchanged for a feeling of pleasure and fullness that you had never experienced before. Your fingers ran down his back as you felt every inch and vein against you. Your nipples brushed against his soft pecs, while the tongue on his stomach played with your clit.

Hearing you moan again, Sukuna immediately knew he could keep going. He moved his hips harder to hit your core. You grabbed his hair to pull him against you. A moan escaped his lips at that minimal display of control. Even though he liked to say that you were all his, the truth was that he was all yours without any kind of restriction.

“You’re taking it very well,” Sukuna congratulated you before biting your neck.

“It feels good,” you moaned against his ear.

Sukuna picked up the speed with each fuck. He was getting faster and harder that at some point you thought you were going to break. He took possession of your hips and raised his back to see you from above, an image that used to terrify you, but now excited you.

“God…” You gasped.

“Don't you dare bring another man into this,” he scolded you before giving you a spank that echoed through the room.

You howled in pain, but Sukuna didn't stop. He continued to fuck you with what little he had left. The climax wasn't about to take long. It was hard to hold back with the beautiful sight before him. Your legs spread before him still wearing the heels with small flowers on the ribbons, your breasts bouncing with each rough movement and your face flushed. He bit his lower lip before continuing to fuck you as only he could. The combination of their two wet cocks was too powerful to bear. You clawed at his thighs in an attempt to calm your cravings, but it was no use as you heard your fiancé moan.

“I need to cum,” you whispered.

“Almost there, a few more minutes, my love,” he babbled in ecstasy.

This was definitely not the curse, I mean, the man you were used to. Despite his great muscles, he had a harmless look full of pleasure. He continued to pump your center with firm and fast thrusts until his cock twitched.

“Only you can do this to me, my daisy,” he growled before continuing to fuck you hard.

You arched your back as you felt he had no mercy on your small body. His tip rubbed perfectly against your G-spot making it harder not to cum. You moaned his name over and over again until the expected climax hit your intimacy. Sukuna didn't let you rest until he came in and out of you, leaving your body full of his semen.

You both sighed heavily as if he had finished training. His arms were resting on the sides of your head so as not to crush you. Sukuna kissed your forehead before pulling out of you, leaving a trail of milk at your entrance. He laid down next to you to let you breathe a little, but to his surprise, you hugged his chest tightly.

“That felt really good,” you whispered to him shyly.

“It's something I've wanted to do for a long time,” he confessed with an embarrassed smile.

“Sukuna, what a perverted man you are,” you scolded him with a playful smile.

“Blame your teacher for that. Every time I read his books, I can't help but think of you,” he told you before placing a kiss on your forehead.

Sukuna got out of bed to look for a rag to clean you with. You laid down on the bed with a smile plastered on your face as the king cleaned up his remains from you. Now he was the one cleaning you up. “Oh, the twists and turns of life” you thought amused.

“What are you thinking about?” Sukuna asked you as he saw your face.

“What names can we give our children.” You lied so he wouldn’t feel embarrassed.

“Good, which one you’ll choose?” Sukuna said before throwing the cloth aside.

“Why not choose him together?” You pouted before he tucked you in.

“Because you’ll be carrying him for nine months. I’ll agree to whatever name you choose.” Sukuna kissed your lips before laying down next to you.

He snuggled into your body. You smiled as you remembered the first time you slept together in his big bed. You were terrified that you would do something wrong while he was sleeping like a cute little kitten. You were going to remind him of that day until you noticed that he had already fallen completely asleep. You kissed his arm before walking with him, as you would do for the rest of your life.

Masterlist.

A/N: So after some consideration, I need a break from this fic because I wanna work on other fics I have kinda abandoned because of this one. Plus, I want to write an original novel! I'll be updating about it here, thanks for your support and understanding, happy holidays! :3

taglist:

Tag list: @bbnbhm @pxnellian @kbirdieee2540 @konigswifeyforlifey @kyo-kyo1 @calico-cheriies @imas1mpp @alone-the-honored-one @vlads-dracula3 @bigraga-sk @neeke-lilac02 @shaazd @airandyeah @energiepie @awkward-walking-potato @delightfully-studying @danniwerner @paradisestarfishh @missroro

(let me know if you want to be tagged in next chapters!)

[cak31ssuperi04]

1bitJanuary Day 30- Free Draw We did it! Threw the ones who didn't make it into the rest of the challenge in one image.

[kamotecue]

reconciliation between two old lovers ❆ l. williamson

pairing: leah williamson x fem!reader

summary: part two of here, in which two old lovers reconcile the relationship that they once had.

"it's been awhile, lee." you spoke, being the first one as the two of you had left the backstage, going into a seperate room. no one had made the effort to talk, until you did - the silence was already suffering, you were never good with sitting still, it made you anxious.

"it has been a while, hasn't it. you look happier." lee said, as you softly hummed at her words, which she turned to look at you, analyzing the way you'd scrunch your nose, a frown appearing on the english captain's face as she knew how that action would appear if there was something you disagreed with her on.

"what is it?" lee softly asked, her attention was fully on you, as it always has been - the moment the concert started, and when she saw you walk out of your changing room, her eyes never left yours. a sigh escaped your lips as she patiently waited, for you to explain, or to express your thoughts.

"i do love my fans, this life but i just can't help but think - 'what if i didn't tore my acl that day' would i still be playing football alongside you? did i ever get called up to play for england?" you asked, as the blonde carefully listened to your words.

"most importantly, i would've never lost you." you continued, avoiding her eyes, looking at the chairs that were previously occupied by your fans, the rest simply remained backstage, your childhood friends "bandmates" were currently answering their questions. but you knew about the curious gazes from them, they took note on their club's vice captain interactions.

"you always had me, n/n - and you still do. there hasn't been a day where you haven't crossed my mind, the soft yet gummy smiles that you give to your fans, was something you only shown to me." lee replied, her tone was as delicate as always.

"i let the press get to me, worried that they'll invade your privacy if ever they found out that we were dating especially since the two of us hadn't even came out-" you choked on your words, as leah made her move - swiftly walking towards you, as she pulled you into a hug. you instantly buried your face into her chest, feeling the comfort of the one you love. the tears continued to fall, the defender not minding her soaked shirt, it didn't matter because it was you.

"but rather than breaking up with me, you could've told me. as a couple we're supposed to work it out, your concerns are mine, just like mine are yours." as you calmed yourself, you looked up to see her with a soft smile, yet her eyes held concern.

"there's those pretty eyes" lee unconsciously said, as you flushed - the blonde defender quickly coughing as she averted her eyes. when she'd stare into your earthy brown eyes, it was easy to get lost into.

"i'm really sorry how things ended, lee. i should've talked to you" as she hummed, her arms were still wrapped around your body, pulling you a bit closer as you listened to her heartbeat.

"you should've, but we're over that. my mom knew about our relationship, i suppose it's true that mothers know best. but - would you perhaps want to go on a date?" her eyes searched yours, worried about your reaction, as you slowly nodded.

｡˚ ✧ ┊┊┊┊ ➶ ❁۪ ｡˚ ✧

official_y/nl/n: mine 💛

tagged leahwilliamsonn

liked by oliverbennett, archiereed, adelinewright, alessiarusso99, and 7, 934,392 others.

leahwilliamsonn: glad that you're mine again, @official_/nl/n. 💛

liked by official_y/nl/n, oliverbennett, adelinewright, archiereed, katie_mccabe11 and 592,872 others.

[exhaslo]

Kinktober Day 29- Grimmjow x Reader: 7 Min in Heaven

Summary: You decided to join your college classmates in a mid-term party and end up playing a game of 7 min in heaven...with you crush.

Warning: MINORS DNI, some smut, fingerings, groping

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The moment you arrived at the party, you felt the instant regret.

You had already thought it was strange for your friend Harribel to invite you to one of these parties. The Espada gang were known as rebels on the college campus. You knew Harribel from study group, and you sadly came to know the others.

"You could have said no," Harribel muttered to you as she welcomed you inside. You could feel a cold sweat down your neck,

"How could I? This is the first time I'm uh-" You tensed up as the other Espada were chugging drinks, "I've been invited to one of these."

"I'd rather keep you away from these pests."

"Hm?"

You were confused. Wasn't Harribel the one who invited you here? Right as you were going to ask her, a familiar man approached you.

"Surprised ya came," Grimmjow grumbled.

Your cheeks flushed as you tried to respond to the crude man. Grimmjow had, like most girls, stolen your heart. The blue haired Espada had a unique charm under his rude attitude. Harribel had warned you about him, but it was hard to take in her warnings.

"C'mon, we're bout to play a game." Grimmjow grabbed your wrist, pulling you towards the center of the room.

"Haha! Go into the closet you two!" Nnoitra snickered towards two others, whom weren't Esapada.

"Huh? What game is this?" You questioned then saw the bottle, "W-Wait, I'm not sure-"

"It'll be fine," Grimmjow grumbled as he sat you down. Harribel was close by, being your guardian.

You were nervous as you watched the bottle spin. You had just arrived and were definitely not drunk enough for this. Plus, you did not know a lot of these people. You had only seen them in passing and it was awkward already with you there.

You held your breathe as the bottle landed on you. Of course. What were the odds of this happening. Watching the bottle spin again, you felt nervous. Which one of these people were you going to be stuck in an awkward situation with?

"Tch, lucky bastard," Nnoitra grumbled as the bottle landed on Grimmjow, "To the closet!"

Your heart could not stop racing as you were pulled into the closet by Grimmjow. You could hear Harribel complaining, but the door was already closed and you were right against Grimmjow's chest.

"Glad ya came," Grimmjow whispered, his hands sliding up your body, stopping against your cheeks, "Ya can push me away any time."

You nearly shuddered as you left Grimmjow's lips against yours. His soft whisper sounding almost nothing like him, but still as sexy. Closing your eyes, you melted into the kiss. His lips warm against yours as his tongue started to slide against your lips.

You were hesitant. After all, this man was your crush and he had just started kissing you without a first date. Despite your reasoning, you parted your lips and allowed Grimmjow access.

His tongue abruptly entered your mouth, exploring every inch. You gripped onto his shirt as Grimmjow pinned you against the wall. His hands gripping your waist as he stole every whimper and whine you tried to make.

Every now and then, Grimmjow would give you a moment to breathe before capturing your lips in another devouring kiss. You were starting to get light headed as he kept going. The more he kissed you, the more you felt fuzzy.

Grimmjow's hands roamed up from your waist to your chest. He slid under your shirt and started to grope your breasts, giving them a good feel. You wanted to whine, but you were starting to feel good.

"I'm gonna keep this," Grimmjow whispered as he undid your bra and stuff it into his pocket.

Men and their pockets. Lucky bastards.

Right as you were going to complain, Grimmjow kissed you again. This time, his hands were playing with your bare breasts, pinching your nipples and massaging them.

Your body started to feel fuzzy as you grew hot. Your panties were getting wet as you started to imagine how much more Grimmjow would do to you. His hands being so rough against your breasts while he ravished your mouth.

Breaking the kiss, you gasped for air before Grimmjow attacked your neck. He licked, nibbled and sucked against your neck, hunting for a sweet spot. You made a sharp gasp once he found it, causing you to get wetter.

As Grimmjow sucked against that spot, you covered your mouth, trying to keep quiet. Grimmjow took the opportunity to slide one hand down your pants. Yours eyes widen as you arched forward slightly as his fingers rubbed against your clit.

"Mhm~!" You moaned quietly.

"Yer enjoyin' this too," Grimmjow smirked as he felt your body twitch against him, "Shame we only got a minute left,"

Realizing that time was almost up, you whined. You gripped onto Grimmjow as his fingers kept rubbing and pinching your clit while the other did the same to your nipple. You could feel your pussy crave to be filled.

"Grimmjow," You pleaded.

Like music to his ears, Grimmjow withdrew his hands, licking his fingers clean. You were panting softly, feeling unfulfilled as he stopped his advances.

"Don't worry yer lil head. I invited ya to this party, I'm gonna make sure ya have a good time."

Surprised, you wanted to ask him if this was his plan, but the door opened. There was a slight look of disappointment on the others faces, since it seemed like they wanted to catch you in the act. Grimmjow just smirked and grabbed your hand.

"We talked bout it, and this shit blows. We're gonna party elsewhere."

"Where?" Harribel questioned with a hiss. You felt your cheeks burn as you glanced at Grimmjow,

"My place,"

"Ya heard her, fuck off."

Shuddering at the thought, you followed Grimmjow as the two of you left the house.

"Grimmjow...Did you rig the bottle?" You finally asked. Grimmjow glanced towards you, smirking,

"How else was I supposed to make out with ya?"

"Asking?"

"Ha!" Grimmjow burst into a fit of laughter before picking you up, "Yer fuckin' cute. Glad to know that yer mine now."

And Grimmjow made sure to make every part of your body his.

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

Hope you enjoyed!!!

Kinktober 2023 Masterlist

Kinktober 2024 Masterlist

[makeitmingi]

Meet My Chaos

Genre: Romance, Fluff, Comedy

Pairing: Jongho x Reader (y/n)

Characters: Girlfriend!Reader, Boyfriend!Jongho, Friends!Ateez

Summary: After dating you for a bit and maintaining secrecy, Jongho knew you are the one he wants to introduce to his family. While you have met his real family, there's another family that he's been slightly reluctant to let you meet.

Word count: 3.6K

[A/N: I didn't want this to be SUPER fluffy. Just comforting and because I miss Jongho. I'm glad his surgery went well and that he is resting and recuperating.]

"I don't think I've ever seen you this nervous, Jongho." San rested his head on his hand as he watched the youngest pace up and down in the living room.

"Seonghwa hyung, did you help clear Hongjoong's room yet?" Ignoring the older, Jongho went to find the oldest of the group. He had Seonghwa come early in the day to help clean up the dorm since the oldest was known to be the cleanest.

"You know, I don't understanding why we have to clean the bedrooms too." Hongjoong scoffed.

"Less talking, more mopping." Seonghwa ordered.

"I want everything to be ready and presentable." Jongho said, going to where Wooyoung and Mingi were in the kitchen, preparing some small snacks. Yeosang was plating the few take out they got.

"Ah, Yunho hyung!" Jongho yelled when Yunho spilled some rice cake sauce on the counter. He grumbled as he grabbed some kitchen towels to wipe it up quickly.

The 7 older boys watched their youngest with slight fear and amusement. Fear of his wrath and amusement of how he was acting.

"Calm down, Jongho ah. Things are going to be fine." Hongjoong comforted as he entered the kitchen.

"I just want things to be perfect."

"She already likes you enough to be dating you for so long. I don't think a few dirty dishes are going to make her like you any less. Plus, it shows that you're human." Wooyoung shrugged. Jongho shot him a flat look, threatening to throw his house slipper at him. Wooyoung yelped and ducked behind Mingi.

"Hongjoong hyung! Jongho is being a bully again!" Wooyoung complained. Jongho rolled his eyes, taking his phone out from his pocket to send a text message.

'Let me know when you're here. I'll come down and get you. - Jongho'

'Mmm... I'm 10 minutes away, I think! - (y/n)'

"She's 10 minutes away. Those that need to get changed into presentable clothes, please go change now." Jongho announced. He needed to change too.

"Do we need our suits?" San teased, earning a glare from Jongho as he went to his bedroom to change into a fresh set of clothes.

"Everyone ready?" Jongho asked as the 7 sat down in the living room.

"Yeah. Everything and everyone is ready." Yunho said. Even though they tease Jongho, they didn't want to add to his stress so they did try their best to be more of a help than a burden. Jongho's phone rang and he stepped aside to answer it.

"Hello?... Mmm, you're downstairs? Okay, I'll come down now..." Jongho spoke, not being able to help the small smile that crept onto his face at the sound of your voice.

"I'll go down and get her." Jongho informed and left the dorm. When Jongho stepped out of the lift, he saw you standing there.

You looked so pretty, dressed in a baby blue sundress with white flowers. You rocked on your heels as you waited patiently for Jongho to pick you.

"Aein (sweetheart) ah." Jongho called out to you. You lifted your head at the sound of his voice.

"Oh, Jongho." You waved with a smile. Jongho jogged over to you. When he stood in front of you, his arm slipped around your waist to pull you in and give you a greeting kiss on your temple.

"What's all this?" He laughed at the paper bags by your feet.

"I bought some desserts and drinks for your hyungs. I don't know what they really like so I went a little overboard. And I bought you the katsu sandwich you like." You said sheepishly, embarrassed by how much you bought. Jongho patted your head, you always bought him something savoury, remembering that he isn't a fan of sweets.

"You didn't need to bring anything, aein. It must have been hard carrying all this on your own in the train." He said, picking up the bags to carry.

"No, it's fine. Plus, I want to make a good impression on your hyungs." You giggled shyly.

"They'll like you just as you are, not by the gifts you bring." He smiled as you began to walk with him back to the lift lobby.

"Your words are biased." You hit his arm.

"If I like you, the hyungs will too. Don't worry. I'm honestly more concerned that they like you too much. A lot of them show their affection through skinship..." He sighed as you pressed the lift button.

"I'll stick to your side then. You can protect me." You reached up to kiss his cheek.

"Yeah, if they know what's good for them, they'll know to back off and not try anything." He rolled his eyes, making you laugh. You knew Jongho's strength was something the others were scared of. You both stepped into the lift and Jongho pressed the button of the floor.

"I hope you didn't bully them into preparing too much for our meeting today." You said.

"There's no such thing as too much when it comes to you." Jongho said, transferring the bags into one hand to free up the other. He laced fingers with you.

"Have you seriously not met her before?" Wooyoung asked Hongjoong and Seonghwa. The two oldest shook their heads.

"I've met her before." Yeosang raised his hand.

"You have?! When?! Why have you not mentioned this?" The others all made a fuss. Jongho had kept you and your relationship very well hidden from all the nosy hyungs for quite a while.

"Yeah, I have. We went out for lunch together and Jongho introduced us." Yeosang nodded his head.

"WHAT?!" Not only has Yeosang met you, he even had a meal with you.

"Probably because Yeosang is the most 'presentable' and 'mature' one." Mingi scoffed. That was when they heard the door open and Jongho's light laughter, as well as your voice, sounded throughout the dorm. The 7 sat there, like puppies waiting for their owner to release them from the wait command.

"I've never heard him laugh like that before." San mumbled. Wooyoung nodded in agreement. They peered down the hall to see if you were coming but you and Jongho seemed to linger by the door.

"Why are you so nervous? I think in this situation I should be the nervous one!" You giggled as Jongho stopped at the door way.

"Ah, they can just be... loud. And overwhelming for people meeting them for the first time." Jongho rubbed the back of his neck as he squeezed your hand that he was holding.

"I'm sure they're lovely." You said.

"Just come in already!" Seonghwa yelled, getting tired of waiting for you two. Jongho sighed while you laughed. He began walking first, leading you to the living room with you trailing behind him.

"Hyungs... this is (y/n). (y/n), meet my 7 Ateez hyungs. Of course, you've met Yeosang hyung before." Jongho introduced as all 7 stood up. You waved to Yeosang, recognising the familiar face. He smiled and waved to you.

"Hello. It's nice to finally meet all of you." You waved shyly. The 7 all melted at how cute you were.

They've never even seen a picture of you before. The only picture Jongho had of you was his KakaoTalk chat background and that was a picture of the back of your head.

"Hyungs... Say hello." Jongho said through gritted teeth when he noticed that they were just frozen there, staring at you.

"Oh, right. Sorry. Hi there. I'm glad we're finally able to meet you. I'm Hongjoong." Hongjoong was the first to reach out and shake your hand. You nodded with a smile, shaking his hand.

"Hongjoong, the captain." You giggled. Jongho had shown you photos of them before, telling you all their names.

"I'm Seonghwa, the oldest." You went through all of them as they introduced themselves to you with a handshake. When you reached Yeosang, you and him shared a friendly hug of familiarity. Jongho watched an endearing smile, he knew you secretly watched Ateez videos to learn and memorise their names.

"You're so cute!" Wooyoung pulled you into a hug. You blinked in surprise but laughed, patting his back. With a small frown, Jongho came between you, pushing Wooyoung away gently.

"Please don't do that, hyung." Jongho mumbled.

"I brought some cakes and pastries for everyone." You said, gesturing to the paper bags that Jongho was carrying for you.

"That's very nice of you, (y/n). Thank you. But really, you didn't need to bring anything." Seonghwa smiled kindly, making your cheeks heat up.

"Go put these in the fridge." He gestured for Mingi to help Jongho take the bags into the kitchen to keep the cakes. Jongho came back out with a glass of water for you.

"Here, (y/n)." He handed it to you. You bowed your head and took the glass to sip the water. Jongho never really liked calling you 'aein' or other endearments in front of others. It was just one of the things he liked to keep private and you were fine with that.

"Hyung, move." Jongho shooed San away from the armchair so you could sit down.

"Jongho!" You lightly hit his arm in shock at the way he chased his hyung away. He just shrugged, as if it was the most normal thing in the world.

"Please, it's okay. You don't have to move. I can sit wherever." You said, bowing apologetically to San.

"It's fine. Please sit." San shook his head with a kind smile, sitting between Wooyoung and Yunho on the couch. Jongho sat on the arm rest to ensure that he's near you.

After you've been dating for a while, you and Jongho agreed that it was time to meet each other's families. While you've met Jongho's parents and brother, you also wanted to meet his Ateez family. He does live with them and is with them most of the time like a real family so you should meet them too.

But Jongho, being Jongho, had always kept his personal life very private, even from Ateez. He was worried you would be "scared off" by how loud and chaotic they could be.

"So Jongho said you're a freshman in university? What do you study?" Yunho asked.

"Yeah, I'm a double biology major, specialising in Molecular Cell Biology and Microbiology." You informed.

"Oh wow. It must not be easy having to juggle a double major." Mingi said, impressed by how smart with were. You rubbed the back your neck, nodding.

"It's not easy... I only did it because I was indecisive on what I wanted to specialise in." You said shyly.

"They both sound like promising fields." Hongjoong laughed and you nodded with a giggle. Jongho watched you conversed with his hyungs, how easily you clicked and carried a conversation with them. He felt a little more relieved that you all got along.

"You're so smart. Then how did you meet Jongho?" Wooyoung asked in amazement. Jongho would have punched him but you were around so he abstained.

"Hyung..." Jongho glared warningly.

"We've actually been friends since high school. Then we reconnected at a reunion dinner." You smiled up at Jongho.

"Mhmm." Jongho hummed in confirmation as he smiled softly at you, patting your head. He held your hand, casually resting your interlocked hands on his thigh.

"Oh, I bought drinks too. Let me give them out." You remembered, going to the kitchen where the bag of drinks were. Jongho trailed behind you to help carry the bag to the living room.

"I hope I got the orders right... Iced americano for Jongho, Wooyoung and Mingi. Iced americano decaf for San, hot latte for Hongjoong, iced caramel macchiato for Yunho and Yeosang. And the none coffee drink they had was strawberry ade. That's for Seonghwa." You gave out the drinks to each of the members.

"That's right. I'm guessing Jongho told you our favourite drink orders?" Mingi blinked.

"I didn't..." Jongho shook his head.

"I remembered you've mentioned them in passing before. But I admit, I had some help with the information Atinys put on the internet." You confessed.

"Well, thank you for remembering and taking the time to research. You really didn't have to." Yunho smiled, sipping his drink.

"This is yours." You handed the iced americano to Jongho.

"Thanks. I can't believe you remembered me saying all that. Even I don't remember saying it myself." Jongho said to you softly, poking his straw into the drink.

"You never know, the information might come in handy one day. Like today." You smiled. Jongho mirrored your soft smile. He noticed the members immersed in their own conversations and quickly leaned in to give you a peck.

"I saw that!" Wooyoung pointed. Jongho pursed his lips and looked away to hide his shyness. You giggled, patting his hand.

"Don't tease them." Yeosang scolded.

"Can we eat now? I'm hungry." San suddenly asked. Hongjong facepalmed but turned to Jongho, who nodded. They all went to take the food that was prepared, leaving you and Jongho behind.

"Sorry." Jongho held your hands, more comfortable now that you two were alone.

"Nothing to be sorry about." You kissed his cheek. All the Ateez members have been very nice and welcoming to you.

"Come. Let's take some food before they finish it all." Jongho led you to the kitchen. He got two plates, instinctively kind of blocking you protectively so you could take food peacefully. The others got their food and Seonghwa rushed them out so you and Jongho could have some private time on your own.

"Want chicken?" You turned to him. Jongho nodded and you put a few pieces on his plate.

"Remember to take some for yourself too, aein." He reminded, looking at how you were taking food for him only.

"I will." You nodded and put some food on your own plate. It was cute, you taking food for yourself and Jongho while Jongho's free hand naturally came to rest of your waist.

"Wait, I'll get another plate to put the pasta so we can share." Jongho left you momentarily and came back with a new plate for you. He held it while you put some of the pasta on, enough for you to share.

"Do you want some rice?" You asked.

"I don't want carb on carb. And you know I'd rather eat more meat later." He shook his head and you laughed.

The other Ateez members watched in silent awe and shock, this side of Jongho was something they have never witnessed before. He smiled and laughed at the littlest things you did and was the one constantly initiating physical skinship with you.

"Jongho, I can carry my own plate." You insisted while laughing.

"You get the cutlery, aein. I got the plates, I promise I won't drop the food." Jongho smiled as he struggled a little to balance the 3 plates. Despite that, he still waited for you.

Obviously he didn't know the hyungs were watching and listening to him. When the two of you came back to sit in the living room, the 7 immediately acted like they were doing something else.

"Thank you for preparing all the food. It looks really good." You said.

"Hope you enjoy it. There's more than enough for you to get seconds." Seonghwa smiled.

"Yes, yes, eat more." Yunho insisted. Even as you all ate, the 7 hyungs secretly observed you and Jongho. The way Jongho removed the shells from the seafood for you and how you removed the meat off the bones for him. It was something you did for each other habitually that it was second nature.

"Sorry, may I use the washroom?" You apologised and asked. Jongho led you to the toilet. You made him go back, not wanting him to wait for you.

"Relax, she's just using the toilet." Wooyoung teased, seeing Jongho repeatedly turn to the hallway where the toilet was. Jongho huffed, pursing his lips and looking away.

"She's nice and cute." San complimented.

"She is." Jongho nodded, a light blush on his cheeks. You were beyond cute to Jongho, he could never describe it. Whenever Jongho looked at you, he saw this glow around you.

"At least we don't just know what the back of her head looks like anymore." Mingi snickered.

"You weren't even supposed to know about her." Jongho corrected.

The one time Jongho slips up was letting Yunho borrow his phone to text Mingi and Yunho seeing the KakaoTalk background. Jongho was careful, having that as his only picture of you since he assumed it was private. None of his others devices had you as the wallpaper.

But Yunho couldn't contain his shock, loudly asking Jongho who 'that girl' was and that got the attention of the other nosy hyung. Luckily it was just a photo he took of you looking out the window.

"I'm back." You came back, drying your hands with a tissue from the toilet. You and Jongho sat down and continued to eat your food.

"Yah! You made me spill the sauce." Wooyoung yelled as Mingi hit him while standing up to get more food.

"I tripped over Yunho's foot. And besides, you should have moved when you saw me get up." They bickered. Jongho sighed, pinching his nose bridge at how his hyungs acted.

"If you're going to argue, do it in the room. We have a guest." Seonghwa stepped in to mediate the fight. You couldn't help but giggle, they all easily bickered over small things like siblings but just like siblings, they never took things to heart.

"I told you, I never forget I'm the youngest. They just forget that they're older." Jongho leaned over to tell you.

When everyone was done eating, none of them let you help with the dishes when you offered but you did insist on wiping the table that they used to eat on.

"Aein, let me do it." Jongho bent down beside you.

"It's wiping a table, I can do it. It's the least I can do since you all don't let me do anything else to help." You chuckled.

"You're the guest. You shouldn't be doing anything." He reasoned. However, San was talking to Mingi and walking backwards, not noticing you crouched by the table. He tripped over you.

"Be careful!" Fortunately, Jongho had fast instincts and strength, lifting you up and practically hauling you onto his lap. He saved you from being squished by San while the male just landed onto the ground where you previous were. He winced in pain from the impact of his butt hitting the ground.

"HYUNG!" Jongho roared.

"Jongho, I'm fine. It's okay. It was an accident." You put a hand on his shoulder to calm him down. You knew he was upset. Jongho's arms remained secured around your waist.

"I'm sorry! I'm so sorry, (y/n). Are you alright?" San scrambled to you.

"Yes, I'm okay. What about you? You took quite a fall." You asked, worried about the impact of his fall on his tail bone.

"I'm fine. Don't worry. I'm sorry" He smiled, a sign that he didn't hurt himself too badly. The others came out of the kitchen, having heard the commotion and Jongho's yell.

"What happened?"

"It's fine. There was just a small accident." You assured, turning to Jongho, who just pursed his lips into a thin line, frowning at you. Jongho was very protective of you and always worrying about you. He never verbally expressed himself much but you knew.

"No more cleaning, come here." Jongho mumbled, holding your hand to lead you away. You hummed and follow him, not wanting to argue with him.

"Go ahead and start eating the dessert." He said to his hyungs before leading you into his bedroom and closed the door.

"Jongho, are you okay?" You asked worriedly.

"That scared me, aein." He sighed, walking over and letting his head fall onto your shoulder. Now that the two of you were alone, Jongho was more relaxed about being close with you.

"Sorry." You apologised, rubbing his back while iis arms hung by his side. You felt bad for causing this to happen.

"Don't apologise, pabo. You didn't even do anything wrong." He mumbled. With another sigh, he finally lifted up his head to look at you. Seeing you stare into his eyes, blinking innocently made him chuckle. He reached up to hold your cheek with his hand and gave you a sweet peck.

"Honestly, aein, I'm really happy you're here and finally got to meet my hyungs." He confessed, ears turning red. His arms loosely coiled around your waist.

"Me too. They're very nice and funny." You giggled.

"I'm glad that you're having a nice time with them then." He said, sitting down with you on his bed.

"Sure, they like to tease me and I don't always partake in their shenanigans or express myself as much as they do but they accept me for who I am. Just like you." He held your hands in his.

"You're amazing, Jongho. For being you. There's no comparison when you're your real, true self. That's who I fell in love with and continue to love." You said. Jongho didn't have much self confidence but there was so much to love about him.

"You meeting my Ateez family today after meeting my family. It's like all my worlds are becoming one."

"Thank you for letting me meet them. They're all great people, I can see why you adore them so much." You hugged him. Jongho hugged you tightly.

"They are good people. They make me a better person. Even if they can be quite chaotic from time to time." He chuckled.

"But that's what makes you guys a family right? They are your chaos." You pointed out.

"Yeah... They are." Jongho smiled softly.

And he wouldn't have it any other way.

~

Masterlist

[birdy-bat-writes]

Coffee for Mrs. Seresin?

Jake "Hangman" Seresin x Fem!Reader

Content warnings: Pining, fluff, and uh.... caffeine? Mild swears, Maybe some banter. I have no clue what qualifies as a warning anymore, I'm so sorry, y'all:') Also, sorry for the spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors.

A/n: Should I be doing math right now? Should I actually be sleeping right now? Yes and yes, BUT no one can blame me. I was reading an adorable Jake Seresin Fanfic by @roosterbruiser (everyone go read Millie's work, it's gold) and I got an idea and I had to write it somewhere so here:D

You were pretty used to people assuming you and Jake were an item. When an attractive guy and an attractive girl have been friends since college and spend as much time together as you both do, you suppose it's a fair conclusion for people to draw, but an incorrect one, nonetheless. And you really wish people would stop asking because every time you had to explain to someone how you were "just friends," it ate you a little more inside.

The fact of the matter was this: you were in love with your best friend. And it sucked.

You stepped out of your car and strode along the stone walkway amidst the grass up to Rooster's door and rang the bell. It was a cute little townhouse with a blue exterior and you often poked fun at him for how much it resembled a little wooden birdhouse with its colorful walls and white wood-rimmed windows. You suppose it's fitting since Rooster lives there and yes, he hates that gag. It also serves as your group's prime hang-out spot, which is why you're here now.

The door opened to reveal Natasha, wrapped up in an oversized sweatshirt with her hair thrown up in a claw clip. "Yes, you brought chips!"

"Yeah, you didn't really specify which flavor so I just got them all." You said, walking in. "Guests should start coming in an hour, right?"

"Mmm-hmm." The 7 of you were throwing a casual party to celebrate Jake's promotion to Lieutenant-Commander. You saw Nat lift her eyes and smirk. "And there he is, the man of the hour." You turned around to see Jake at the end of the staircase.

"Well, hello, Mr. Man-of-the-hour," you teased, setting down the numerous bags of chips you were holding.

"Glad you're finally here, N/N. I was starting to think you were going to leave me here to fend for myself against Rooster's ABBA medley." Jake wrapped an arm around your shoulder and pulled you into his side. It was always like this. Him giving you butterflies you had to ignore because there was inevitably some other girl.

"Oh please, I would never leave you to fend for yourself against Rooster. I would join him and together, we'd overpower you and make you listen to ABBA forever." You grinned up at him and he narrowed his eyes, lips quirking up at the corners.

"Betrayal never comes from an enemy, I see," he shook his head at you. "I will leave you, lovely ladies, to yourselves. If you need me, I'll be in the kitchen." You watched Jake walk away and disappear around the corner. When you turned back, Natasha was still wearing that smug smile she always did when she saw you two. You knew it was coming.

"Nix, I'm telling you, if you say it, I'm salting your coffee." She knew you were messing with her but one of these days, you might just do it.

"All I'm saying is, shoot your shot! Come on, just once before you go settle for this rando."

"Mark is not a rando. We know him from accounting!"

"Exactly, Y/N, we know him from accounting. You don't even like the guy, heck you hardly know him."

"Exactly. That's why we're going to get to know each other at this party. I need to get over this crush, now. I can't keep pining for a guy who has no interest in me," you saw Natasha's mouth open as if to say something and you quickly jumped in, "And don't say he's interested. He's been with other girls multiple times and never once looked at me like that."

"True, I won't argue there. He's never looked at any of those girls the way he was just looking at you either." She took her hair out of her claw clip and it fell onto her shoulders in soft waves. "And ever since we all got back from that mission 3 months ago, he hasn't been with anyone. I really think he's got a thing for you but you're right. You should give this Mark guy a shot if you think he'd be good for you."

You smiled softly. You met Jake's friends when you were in San Diego a few years back. About a year ago, you were permanently stationed here and luckily for you, Jake was too. He settled here about 4 months before you. All his friends became your friends, and you've truly never known a better group of people. And they'd never known someone who could wrangle Hangman, so you were quite quickly welcomed to the group.

You and Pheonix tossed your sweatshirts upstairs and fixed up the last bits of your outfits just in time for guests to start arriving. You even managed to slip in a game of cards with Fanboy, Bob, and Payback before you joined a crowd in the living room. You barely felt the tap on your shoulder. If it wasn't followed by your name, you surely would have missed it. You turned on your heel to see Mark from accounting, facing you with a hand in his pocket.

"Mark, hi!"

"Hey. How are you?" His voice was almost monotone. His eyes roamed the room rather than meeting yours. He had just gotten here and he already sounded like he wanted to be somewhere else. You could have sworn he sounded more lively when you met.

"I'm good. I thought you weren't coming till later."

"I got off work early."

"Ah, well that's great." This guy really wasn't giving you much to work with. "Can I get you something to drink? There are drinks and food in the kitchen." That actually went somewhere. You headed to the kitchen where the conversation just barely picked up.

In the distance, Jake noticed your prolonged absence. As silly as it was, Jake liked knowing you were near him. You didn't have to be attached at the hip but he liked knowing he could saunter over to you and escape into your laugh when you came up in his mind. Which was a lot.

He scanned the room for you and stopped when he caught your frame in the kitchen...with some guy? Who the hell was that?

"Damn, if looks could kill...," Rooster muttered. "Do you not like that dude or something?"

"I don't even know who he is," Jake said through gritted teeth. "What's his name?"

"No clue. Pheonix?"

As if on cue, Natasha spoke up. "That, my friends, is Mark from accounting." Both the boys looked at her with questioning eyes.

"Okay, but who is he?" Something in Jake's voice was different now. Both of them looked at him.

"Careful there, Bagman, you almost sound jealous. He's some guy Y/N knows and I think she likes him." Phoenix was searching Jake's face for any sign that she was right about his feelings for you, and he never noticed because his eyes were trained on you like a hawk.

"I'm not jealous, Pheonix."

"You kinda sound jealous, Hangman," Rooster added, earning a glare from Jake.

"Okay, when we first met and you told me about her, you sounded so lovesick, I thought she was your wife. Cut to, you introduce us all and it turns out you're not married, or dating, but friends? I'm sorry, I do not believe that you two don't have feelings for each other." Natasha's remark sparked something in Jake. She watched the corners of his mouth twitch into a smirk so small, she almost missed it.

"I'll be right back." Jake stated, already pacing away. Rooster and Pheonix watched Jake make his way into the kitchen.

"She likes him too right?" Rooster asked.

"Oh, absolutely," Pheonix responded.

"You know, Fanboy has a betting pool on them."

"What? Get me on this, I have a feeling we'll make some money tonight."

Jake entered the kitchen to see you sitting alone at the table. "Got room for one more?"

"I don't see why not. Shouldn't you be mingling with everyone out there?"

"Well, the person I want to mingle with is in here." You smiled at him. There it was again, that smile that always left him utterly defenseless. "Who's the guy?"

You don't know why you felt your cheeks heat up when Jake asked about him. "His name's Mark. I met him when I was sorting reports last week."

"Okay. So, why do you sound so upset?"

"Because he said he was going to get us drinks 5 minutes ago and I just saw him leave with Commander Reeves' daughter." Honestly, you weren't upset because he left. You were upset because you were glad he did. He was boring you out of your mind and you two absolutely did not click, but it was still disheartening to know that this is what it was going to be like. No guy was going to measure up to the one you wished you were with. The one who was at this table with you now.

Jake was seething. What kind of idiot comes to a party and leaves you for some other girl? "You wanna get out of here?"

"What?"

"Let's leave. I'm bored."

"It's your party, you dork, you can't just leave!" You were giggling at a feeling somewhere in between confusion and disbelief.

"Yeah, it is my party so I say, you and I get out of here." He took you by the hand and walked you out through the back door to his car. And you let him. The chilly air swept you both up.

The drive was pretty calm. You didn't know where Jake was going but you didn't care either. This reminded you of when you two were younger. The long quiet rides in the car with no one but each other for company. He'd put on some cheesy 80's power ballad and you'd both laugh at it until you'd give in and belt it out at the top of your lungs.

"If you don't mind my asking, what did you see in him?"

"I don't really even remember. I think I just wanted to try and get myself out there. I haven't been on a date in literally years."

Jake hesitated before he asked. "So... what made you want to start now?" You felt the words catch in your throat.

"I'm not sure." you lied. You. I'm in love with you and I can't take it.

You felt the car slow down. You were so lost in your thoughts that you didn't even see where Jake parked. A cute little coffee shop and patisserie. Jake got out of his car and rounded the front to open the door for you. He already had you head over heels for him and he didn't even know it. Did he have to be such a gentleman? You weren't sure that you could fall even harder for this man but you really didn't want to find out.

"Why don't you get us a table and I'll get us something to drink. Don't worry, I remember what you like." You nodded and found a two-seat table by the french windows overlooking the city. On the left, in the distance, the last light of sunset was hitting the water and the top of the sky had started to go dark. Little stars twinkled above you. You wondered what it would be like to always be like this? Evenings with you and Jake, running off alone together from places and people you didn't really want to see. Taking comfort in each other's presence because it felt like home. Just then, Jake sat down in front of you. It almost hurt knowing he was right in front of you and you couldn't have him.

"Screw stupid Mark from accounting. He was not worth your time."

"Thanks. It's fine really, I'll find someone else. Someone less boring." When you met Jake's eyes, he looked as if he had something to say. Something he was holding back. "What is it?"

"Don't find someone else."

Did he just- Did you hear him right?

"What? Why?"

"Because-"

"I have a coffee and a latte for Mr. and Mrs. Seresin?" The barista called. You actually felt your heart skip a beat. Your eyebrows scrunched together and you looked to Jake for answers.

"Well, I think that's us." He blurted like it answered all your questions, a smile heard in his voice.

"Mr. and Mrs. Seresin?" You queried, rising out of your seat in tandem with him. "Why'd you tell her we were 'Mr. and Mrs. Seresin?!'"

"Because you looked so down and I thought I'd get a reaction from you! And it's not all my fault, Pheonix gave me the idea." Jake stated, matter-of-factly. How could he say that so casually?! "And you're still looking red so I guess it worked."

You both grabbed your coffees and sat down once again. It was dark out now. Once your laughs and giggles over your reaction were out, you remembered where your last conversation left off.

"Jake, why'd you tell me not to find someone?" You didn't force the question too hard into the conversation. You asked softly, not knowing how or if he would answer. He sighed before he spoke like he was preparing himself.

"Because...because I can't ask you out if you're dating someone else." The emotions hit you like a bombshell.

"You want to ask me out?" You weren't sure this was real. You were really about to pinch yourself before he stopped you in your tracks.

"I've been meaning to for months. Y/N, we've been friends forever, and I didn't want to ruin what we have. I know I should have told you before because I've liked you for as long as- Why are you smiling?"

"Because, you big dummy, I like you too." You couldn't hold it back. You were beaming. You felt butterflies and fireworks all at once just because the man of your dreams just made it all a reality. Jake held your eyes in his and smiled ear-to-ear. You swore you saw his ears go red but if you asked him, you doubt he’d admit it. "I'm really happy right now but I have no clue what to do next."

"I've got it from here," Jake reaches out and takes your hand in both of his. It feels like electricity is coursing through your veins. "Y/N L/N, would you do me the honor of going on a date with me?"

It took everything in you not to squeal in this coffee shop. "Yes, I will do you that honor, Bagman." You responded. He chuckled at you.

"Every now and again, I feel like introducing you to Pheonix was a mistake."

"Speaking of which, I really want to tell her about this but she'll get all smug because she was right."

"You're right. As far as people we don't have to tell yet go, Fanboy and Rooster have been betting on us. We can just keep it from them for now too."

"Deal." A laugh bubbled out of you as you thought about how the squad would react. And then a knock sounded directly next to you on the french window.

"Aww, cute," Rooster noted, his voice muffled by the glass, but still clear enough for you to hear his teasing tone.

"Left your own party so soon?" There stood Pheonix. Along with the rest of the squad leaning against Bradley's bronco.

"Shit." you commented.

"So much for keeping it secret."

———————————————————————

Tag list:

@glorified-red

[woozisguitar]

Hii congratulations on the achievement 👏 🎉 can I request a joshua x reader headcannon where they're friends but have feelings for eachother and accidentally kiss . Thankyou ❤️

thank you <333 also this is so cutesy omg hope u like it requests for 200 celebration post: open

friend! joshua who met you on the first day of your freshman year and decided to stick by your side because "it's better to be confused together than alone."

friend! joshua who ended up being your closest friend for years, sticking by your side through thick and thin, a safety net you could fall back on.

friend! joshua who got you soup when you were sick, coffee before any important exams, drove you to your favorite burger joint after a bad breakup and let you ruin his shirt with your tears, always saying the same thing: "that's what friends are for."

friend! joshua who you started to have feelings for but decided to push them down for the sake of your friendship.

friend! joshua who, unbeknownst to you, felt the same way since freshman year, holding onto the same reason that your friendship mattered more and he could never lose you.

friend! joshua who invited you to his friend’s party to celebrate finishing another year. he didn’t expect you to dress up for it, his eyes widening when he saw you walk in wearing his favorite blue dress. you scanned the crowd till your eyes met his and you gave him your brightest smile. when you got closer, joshua was so glad for the loud thumping bass, otherwise he was sure you'd hear his heart pounding in his chest.

friend! joshua who pulled you next to him when mingyu suggested playing a round of suck and blow. his friends thought they were doing him a favor, little did they know you were a pro at this game. friend! joshua who made it through every round with you and now there was just you, him, and another girl.

friend! joshua who freaked out when the card slipped between the two of you, taking a few seconds to realize that your lips were pressed to his.

friend! joshua who was disappointed when you pulled back and laughed it off, opting to play other games. he tried not to think about this accidental kiss, but it was hard not to when this was all he had been dreaming of for the past years. he tried to follow you around but noticed how you came up with an excuse to avoid him.

friend! joshua who suggested taking you home after he saw you throw back a few too many shots. he knew you outdid yourself and would regret this tomorrow, but right now your safety was his peak priority.

friend! joshua who ignored your drunk protests and insisted you drink water and sober up. he led you to his car, making sure you were secured properly before driving in the direction of your house. friend! joshua who made sure you were sober enough to know what happened and where you were. it would kill him if this was his only shot with you and you didn’t remember a thing.

friend! joshua who freaked out when you asked him to kiss you again, insisting you're too drunk to remember a thing. "shua, i promise i'm sober enough for this, but if you don’t kiss me right now, i might actually die."

friend! joshua who slowly cupped your cheek, giving you enough time to back out, until you grabbed him by the collar of his shirt and firmly pressed your lips against his.

friend! joshua who knew the second he kissed you, he was going to be addicted for life. the taste of your lip gloss was going to haunt him in his dreams till the end of time. he freaked out when you pulled back, unsure of what this would mean for the two of you. you gave him a sweet kiss on his cheek and told him to pick you up at 7 tomorrow evening.

friend! joshua who made a mental note to get mingyu lunch as a thank you after dropping you off. but first, he had a date to plan and a heart to win.

[zorrasucia]

you cannot say they had mirror sex in the bathroom and not give us the entire thing 😭 thank you for part 4 it was amazing as always!

Thank you! I'm so glad you liked it!!! <3

It's a little fluffier than usual but here you go:

Teach Me Tonight - Deleted Scene

[Part 1] [Part 2] [Part 3] Deleted Scene: [Part 4] [Part 5] [Part 6] [Part 7] [Deleted Scene] [Part 8]

Reader x Carmy Berzatto (The Bear FX)

Rating: Explicit (1k)

Tags: Smut, Set sometime after the opening of The Bear, Porn with a little plot, Fluff, Domesticity, Virgin!Carmy, Mirror Sex, P in V sex, Fingering, Both Carmy and Reader have a bit of a praise kink

It was a quiet night with Carmy at your place. You had dinner and watched a movie. Well, half a movie, you had both fallen asleep on the couch, wiped out after a long day. You woke up to some indie song playing over the credits. Carmy was breathing peacefully, his head on your chest and your arms around him. It was a crime to wake him up but you were both going to regret it if you actually spent the night intertwined like you were. 

You squeezed him.

"Carm..." you kissed the name into his temple. 

"Mmm?" 

"Let's go to bed, baby."

He shook his head and buried himself deeper into your embrace, his curls tickling your neck. 

"Well, I'm going to bed. Last time we fell asleep here I was sore for days. And not the kind of sore I like," you joked.

Carmy let out a resigned huff and kissed the inside of your arm. He helped you to get up, dragging his feet to the bathroom while you got changed. You joined him as he brushed his teeth, your elbows touching, sharing tired looks. Carmy leaned against the counter, waiting while you washed your face. There was a tenderness about him. You couldn't resist kissing him, slow and sweet, the minty taste of toothpaste tickling your tongue. 

You opened your eyes and saw in the mirror a glimpse of Carmy's bare torso, the muscles of his back beautiful in the dimly lit bathroom, and your hands caressing all over. It did something to you. And so you kissed him again, a little harder this time, keeping your eyes wide open to see the way he moved when he was caught up in wanting you...

"What're you looking at?" he asked when you parted for breath and he found your gaze fixed on the mirror. 

You blushed. "Well, believe it or not, I find you very attractive."

"Oh?" he tilted his head, sleep still clouding his thoughts a little. 

"You look very nice when you kiss me, is all," you explained and he huffed in disbelief. "You do! I promise!" 

You grabbed his waist and turned around with him, your back now to the mirror. You got close, an inch away from his lips, and instructed him: "Don't close your eyes," and you kissed him with all your might. 

You could picture it: his tattooed hands grabbing at the satin of your sleep shirt, his toned forearms pulling you towards his body... 

If his sharp inhale was any indication, he enjoyed the sight just as much as you did. 

"Fuck," he said against your mouth after a moment. "Can I just-?" his fingers touched the thin straps on your shoulders. You nodded, feeling the slippery fabric pool at your feet a second later. 

He held you, hands roaming your back, marveling at the reflection, the way you shivered with his touch. He kissed you with newfound fervor, biting and grabbing greedily. It made you feel wanted - but also a little left out. 

You swayed in his embrace so that you were both able to see. 

He turned you around, your back to his chest, holding you close by the waist. Your fingers carded his hair leisurely, admiring the picture of you two together. You saw his hands roam over your body, kneading your breasts, pinching your nipples, closing on your neck. His breath tickled your cheek and his eyes were dark with lust, transfixed on the mirror.

"Fuck," you exhaled. Your hands joined his, encouraging him to squeeze a little harder. "Yes."

Something animalistic took over Carmy and he turned you around and cornered you, a little rough, your cheek to the wall, and started kissing your neck, your shoulders, your back while he got rid of your shorts. He kept stealing glances at the mirror every now and then. His hand snaked between your body and the wall, and cupped your pussy. In the reflection, your face was flushed, full of want, mouth open, a perfect match for Carmy's. You thrusted into his hand, involuntarily grinding your ass into his clothed cock, making him groan and get even closer to you. He nipped at your earlobe while two of his fingers went inside you, hooking up to hit your G-spot. 

"Shit," you sighed, feeling your knees buckle. "We're going to need a condom, huh?"

Carmy chuckled into the nape of your neck, the rough facade fading away. You escaped his attentions for a few moments to get one from the bedroom. You returned to find him completely naked, the head of his cock covered in precum.

In the mirror, you could see the strain on his arms as he rolled the rubber on his cock, then grabbed your thighs and pinned you against the wall. 

"Carmy..." you mumbled into his neck, his hard on teasing at your entrance. You arched your back; the sight reflected was straight out of porn. 

"Look at you," he praised.

"Shit, look at you," you said back, swaying your hips so that he could watch himself moan, face a little sweaty and jaw slack.

He thrust forward, slow and deliberate, drawing a low groan from you. 

"Fuuuuuck, yes, fuck," you blurted out when his cock went inside you.

He hummed appreciatively: he loved when he could hear how much you were enjoying yourself.

He moved, almost all the way out, and then a snap of his hips made you roll your eyes and exhale sharply. He did it again: snap, bottoming out, snap - just this side of painful, almost loving in its forcefulness. 

"Please, please," you keened. 

"Mmm?" Carmy looked so blissed out he could barely speak and you couldn't blame him in the slightest. Your eyes locked in the mirror with his blue ones, and you held tighter to his broad shoulders, anticipating. 

"Harder," you pleaded.

And he was all too happy to oblige. You turned into a pliant mess: legs shaking, boobs bouncing, pussy squeezing the fuck out of his cock. He went faster, the sight of himself buried deep inside you egging him on. 

"Just like that," nonsense spilled out of your mouth, his hair grazing your cheek. Your ankles locked behind him and his hips kept rutting into yours. "You look so good inside me," you praised.

"Yeah?" he exhaled, his eyes were glazed and half lidded. You kissed the side of his face with your mouth open, tasting salt. 

"So fucking good," you insisted, you were close and, judging by Carmy's jagged breath, he was too. Your eyes wandered over his body, his tattooed arms, veiny hands, muscular shoulders, and taut legs. All enclosed by your embrace, all yours. "Mine, you're mine." 

It slipped - soft, a confession in your half lit bathroom. 

"Yours. Completely," he replied immediately. He wasn't even watching anymore, eyes shut, engulfed in you. His nose was buried in the crook of your neck, every breath he took a full bodied experience. "Take it," he punctuated with a hard thrust. "Take me."

You shivered in his embrace, losing control of your limbs. He kept on, holding on just enough for your release. 

His knees gave out and you found yourselves lying on the cold tiles of the bathroom floor. 

"That was fire," he said, heaving. 

"Some of your best work, Carm," you managed to quip, feeling boneless and giddy. "Three stars."

You raised a hand for a high five that he returned; it ended with your fingers intertwined in his and both of you laughing breathily. 

You remained there for a while, looking at the ceiling, groggily trying to come up with reasons for not installing a mirror above the bed you shared.

He brought your hand to his lips, kissing your knuckles tenderly. “Baby,” he tugged at your wrist. “C’mon. If we fall asleep on the floor, I’ll never hear the end of it.”

You hummed in agreement, not quite coming up with some clever remark about how now you were sore just the way you liked. Instead, you let him lift you up and carry you the couple of steps that separated you from the bed, inhaling the smoke and lust of his skin. 

"Hey," you called softly, "I love you."

He settled behind you on the mattress, one arm over your waist.

"Love you too," he breathed into the nape of your neck.

~

@th3h0nkz

[two-white-butterflies]

invisible string | m33 | part three

Description: You face a career-ending injury, that forces you to give up your childhood dream. 7 years later, you return to the paddocks as a guest - and as the Team Principal of Prema Racing. What happens when feelings are too difficult to hide?

Pairing: max verstappen/racer!reader

part one | part two | part four

itsmee_yn: thank you max, still mad though. :)

238 comments 145,238 likes

maxverstappen1: How can i make u happy? asking for a friend - itsmee_yn: ur friend can slide into my dms for starters - - maxverstappen1: What if he's already there? - - - itsmee_yn: then he should message me 😉 - olaolaola: HOW IS THIS MAX'S FIRST LONG COMMENT 😭

lewishamilton: They should study you in a lab. - itsmee_yn: you just got unblocked, do you really wanna push it? - - lewishamilton: 💚

watchmedogie: THIS IS SOMETHING I DIDN'T SEE COMING - emmawrites: I saw this coming 8 years away 😭

maxverstappen1: Black and White 🖤🕊

928 comments 1,293,129 likes

nicorosberg: Please fix this, I thought my friend died.

danielricciardo: Why did you kill her?

itsmee_yn: "Y/N stand here, I'll take a picture of you."

landonorris: Not Max killing Y/N 😭

kimimatiasraikkonen: 🤣

F1SUPERFAN: I think they're dating ??

maxverstappen1: 💚 #Y/NArmy #2016WDC

128 comments 1,239,192 likes

itsmee_yn: is that ur friend?? she looks hot, can u introduce me? - maxverstappen1: Sorry but she's already taken. - - itsmee_yn: just because there's a goalkeeper doesn't mean that you can't score

maxandynuniverse: ARE THEY DATING? - marianacore28: i don't think so, they're always flirty with each other even back in the day

landonorris: side eye 💀

mercedesandredbull: This is softlaunch coded 😅

THE QUESTIONS FROM THE GRID CAME POURING IN.

maxverstappen1: nightmare fuel 🥹

128 comments 342,384 likes

itsmee_yn: WHERE DID YOU FIND THIS PHOTO?

itsmee_yn: Oh this is so sick 😭

lewishamilton: My sleep paralysis demon at 3am - itsmee_yn: This is so sick...

itsmee_yn: idk which one is max ? #OrangeArmy

48 comments 563,293 likes

maxverstappen1: Candid picture of me and my future gf

ellabandsz2: DID YA'LL SEE MAX'S COMMENT

oriana23: Y/N L/N respect button ->

maxsuperfan: Y/N is too ugly for Max yuck

comments have been restricted.

maxverstappen1: Glad to have Y/N L/N here in the Redbull Garage.

293 comments 1,203,281 likes

itsmee_yn: ❤️

lewishamilton: Tell her to go inside the Mercedes Garage.

nicorosberg: Nostalgic.

itsmee_yn: drove around the tracks for a few laps. still getting used to being a passenger. i feel bad for having them drive with a speed limit...one day ❤️

928 comments 1,292,103 likes

ynlewisnicouniverse: Praying for your return in F1 ma'am

maxverstappen1: ❤️

lewishamilton: You are a legend ✨

echelonuniverse9: We miss you 😔

maxverstappen1: This girl only uses the umbrella on herself 🥱

392 comments 1,271,102 likes

itsmee_yn: OMG I'M SORRY 😭 I DIDN'T REALIZE - maxverstappen1: I only accept apologies in kisses

danielricciardo: Y/N is so mean - itsmee_yn: shut up

maxandynshipper: Are you dating?

taglist: @laura-naruto-fan1998 @milaeth @msliz @lifesuckslife @ellamae021 @1-800-simpingcowbaby @trashcanrat @ccallistata @shouq @fdl305 @iloveyou3000morgan @georgeparisole @allenajade-ite @eternalharry @messwithtess21 @benbarneslut @withyoutilltheendofthismess @omgsuperstarg @stillbreathinq @mishaandthebrits @lemonsinpanic @styles-sunflower @cassiesworldsworld @1655-1485 @hachrinnen @luanasrta @fdl305 @reidsworld @sarahedwards16 @peargasleeeee @imsorare @sinofwriting @cassiesworldsworld @bibissparkles @larastark3107

[l1vchuu]

resentment. part one

a new recruit joins the team. you, thinking nothing of it, don't realize how much her presence impacted your own body image, causing you to relapse into an eating disorder you had recovered from a long time ago. how would your roommate, Simon "Ghost" Riley, who had distanced himself from you, react?

!! Warnings: slow burn, mainly focused on fem!reader, eating disorders, angst, strong language, blood, fainting, vomiting, etc.

Today was a normal day at the base, with sergeants walking around, people working in their offices, filing reports, papers, and such. You had just finished with your own reports from the last mission, stretching your arms as you yawn. You were just about to get up when you get a call from Price:

"Everyone in my office in 15 mins, hope you hadn't forgotten."

Oh, yeah. A new recruit was about to join the force, you heard at least. You got up, quickly cleaning out the mess on your desk as you headed towards Captain's office. Knocking on the door, you opened the door and got in, seeing most of the force already there. You smiled at them, waving at them as you took your place next to Soap.

"Alright, fellas. As you possibly heard, a new recruit is going to join us for the next few months. She is an IT specialist, graduated from a high-tech university, and all that."

Captain Price said as he motions to the girl to step forward. She follows as she steps forward, a slight gentle smile glazing her lips.

"This is Sg. Amelia Sanders, and will be working with us until December. Any questions?"

The room is silent, everybody looking at the new recruit. Price nods as he sits at his desk.

"You are dismissed."

As he says that, everyone got up and exited the office. You looked at Amelia for a little longer, finally glad for another girl on the team, before you stood up to follow the others.

It was lunchtime, and you were sitting at the table in the base's cafeteria. You were having a conversation with Soap and Gas, enjoying your meal. Soap continues to talk about his previous mission.

"Then, he came up behind me and tackled me to the ground! But, with my amazing and fast reflexes, I managed to pin him to the ground, which gave me a chance to stab him with my knife. And that, ladies and gentlemen, is what you call a mission!"

Soap pats himself on the back, proud of himself. Gas only manages to shoot a glare, trying to humble him.

"Damn, you really will be talking about this for the next year, won't you?"

Soap rolled his eyes as he picked up a spoon to his mouth, eating his meal. You chuckled as you looked around, realizing that you haven't seen your roommate in a while.

"Has anyone seen Ghost?"

You asked, fiddling with your food. Both of them shrugged their shoulders.

"I think he was going to give the newbie a tour of the base, but I'm not sure."

You nodded as you continued on with your meal, focusing on the afternoon ahead of you. Later that week as you were training in the gym, lifting the barbell off the floor. As you were doing your set, you saw in the corner of your eye your roommate. You gently placed the weights down, turning your head in his direction. You wanted to come up to him, but then you saw that he was talking to Amelia. She filled the atmosphere with her laugh, a squeaky, melodic laugh. He probably told her one of his dad jokes, you thought to yourself as you turned your head, pushing all the thoughts off your head.

You turned your head slightly, looking at them both, and you shook your head again. You gently placed the barbell and weights in their own places, and you exited the gym.

I might go on a run instead.

And there you were, lapping around the base, your ponytail swinging in the air. It was 7 pm and the light summer breeze blew through your body as you jogged, drying the built sweat on your forehead. The night birds sang their melody as the leaves on the trees danced to it, rustling through your ears as you run through the forest track. The same track you used in your training a long time ago. Sure, being a mercenary at a young age helped with your development, building a character, maintaining discipline, and all. But sometimes you wondered what it would be like if you weren't working here.

I'm overthinking again.

You picked up your pace, maybe that could help. But this time your mind focused on something else. Amelia.

It's been a week since she joined the team. You only talked to her twice, about paperwork and all the office shit. She was nice to you, and her voice was gentle every time she asked you questions, she nodded her head, paying immense attention to your every word. She was quick with everything, understanding the whole job with just a few explanations. You admired her, even though she was younger. Or so you thought you did.

You were sprinting at this point, your feet barely catching up with your thoughts as you run. After realizing this, you immediately slowed down, stopping in order to catch your breath. Your head was spinning, you were running for a while, hence the sunset painted on the sky. You sat down on the grass, your head in your hands. This was not normal behavior for you.

What is happening?

At the base, there were many female soldiers, lieutenants, and such. You never even paid this close attention to them, but this time, it was different. What was it about this girl that got you thinking like this? Was it her silky, perfectly combed, soft hair? Was it her toned, slightly muscular, yet slim figure? Was it her gentle voice? What was it?

As much as you hated to admit it, this exact moment reminded you of something you thought you left a long, long time ago. Something that consumed your mind to the point of barely losing yourself. You shook your head, trying to get rid of the thoughts, but you couldn't. Instead, you felt chills down your face. You felt your body shake slightly as it came up your throat. You immediately bent to the side as you threw up, your hands on the grass, holding up your balance.

After calming down, you were able to stand up. You stood up, your legs shaking slightly as you wobble around. A few steps later your walk became more stable, helping you get as far as your room.

It was 10 pm and you have already gotten out of the shower and were laying on your bed. You were facing the ceiling, your fingers playing with your freshly washed hair. The sun had set a few hours ago, and the window of the room faced the open road, the warm yellow light from the street lights inviting themself into the room, glazing over your face.

Ghost hasn't gotten back.

This past week you weren’t the only one who had changed. There was something in Simon’s behavior that has changed, as well. He is late every night, even though you were the late one, usually. He stopped sitting next to you at lunch, not showing up at all. You began to worry. 

What did I do? 

You thought that every night. Every, single, second of the night where the only way you could fall asleep is if you cried your guts out.

I mean, you couldn’t help it. He was your closest friend, the first person you got introduced to when you joined. Even though your personalities were so different, that was what drew you guys together, even moving into the same room as roommates. You were the first person to hug him, you were the first person who saw his face. You were special. You were his best friend.

You teared up again, it is a routine now. You curled up into a ball and cried, letting your tears puddle around you as if you were swimming in the middle of the ocean, where every sob was a wave, pulling you further into itself. 

You were deep asleep when Ghost returned, but it didn’t even matter, because the moment he entered he plopped himself on his bed, not even thinking about you. 

He doesn’t know what happened, he is so blind.

You had a nightmare that night. Even though you used to have nightmares rarely since you were tired every night. But tonight is different, again. 

You were on the beach on a winter day, it was empty, and you were sitting on the sand, wearing nothing but a long white dress. The cold wind was blowing in your face, your hair dancing in the air. You were facing the ocean, watching the waves as they battle each other. The smell of dried seaweed and salt filling up your nose and flowing through your body. The freezing water hugged your feet every time a wave went by. You were calm, it was peaceful until you saw a tsunami going toward you. Your eyes widened as you stood up immediately and ran away from it. But there was nowhere to run, the beach is endless. You ran as the big wave was approaching you with every step. The only thing in your sight was infinite sand- no buildings, no land, only sand. But you weren’t fast enough, the big wave swallowed you. You couldn’t run or swim, you were already caught. As your lungs filled with water, your body slowly started to freeze from the cold water. It already consumed you, it is over.

You rose instantly, barely choking on your breath as you looked around. The cold sweat, the swollen eyes, the messy hair, everything seemed way too familiar. Your chest heaved with every breath you took, you were just dreaming, and it was only 5 am. You looked around again. 

“Simon?” 

The tears built up in your eyes again, he wasn’t there. Why wasn’t he there? Where the fuck is he? You stood up and went to the bathroom, maybe washing your eyes might help. 

As you turned on the faucet, you caught a glance of yourself in the mirror. You couldn’t recognize the person looking back at you. You splashed your face a couple of times, bringing yourself back to Earth. You manage to brush your teeth and get ready for another day at base. You didn’t want to work, but you didn't want to call in sick either, you didn’t want people to know that you were not doing okay. You didn’t want to be another burden. 

You put on your uniform, which consisted of your normal tan shirt, cargos, and boots. Placing your hair in a bun, you felt your heartbeat fasten. You obviously didn’t look normal, what are you going to say if someone asks you about your appearance? You thought of an excuse for a  few minutes, and eventually, you have planned to just say that you ‘stayed all night watching movies’ or whatever. That excuse was quite believable since everybody knew how much you love film, especially when you have spent sleepless nights watching movies with Simon.

You sighed as you left your room, giving one last check at the clock, it was 5:45 am. The corridors were empty since it was really early. You thought about giving a knock on Soap’s door, but you immediately pushed that thought away. You continued down the hall leading into your workplace.  

As you sat down in your chair, turned on your computer, and waited for it to load, the sky was getting brighter by every five minutes. At first, it was dark blue, then it became a brighter shade and then the sun began to rise, giving the sky a yellowish-pink color. You looked outside the window, trying to enjoy the moment of peace and silence until a familiar voice rang through the hall. A quiet, melodic voice was heard, followed by gentle and soft footsteps. You felt your heart sink to the floor, fighting the urge to cover your ears with your hands, muting all the sounds. But you couldn’t, you knew you couldn’t do that here. So you just sat there, frozen in your place, hoping her voice would just go away. 

Go away. 

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

thanks for reading! if you enjoyed it and want part 2, don't hesitate to give this a like or a reblog. if you have any suggestions, you are more than welcome to give them, I'm all ears :) I really wanted to write something more deep and angsty, so please don't wonder why there is no smut, there won't be any.

[koolades-world]

Congrats on 2k!

Could you maybe do prompt number seven with Belphie, but instead he's the one wearing MC's shirt rather than MC being the one wearing his? (I know people always assume MC's smaller than all of them, but just let me have this 😞🙏 /hj)

I mean, I don't really know what the prompt could indicate, so I thought I should clarify

thank you! yes of course i can!

since i got two asmo ones for this prompt too, i almost spun one to be asmo wearing mcs shirt, but then i saw this request! you read my mind haha

i'm glad this prompt is well liked because it's gotta be one of my favorites

not sure what my upcoming posting schedule will be either because i just downloaded wuthering waves and my man's (jiyan) banner is about to go away since i didn't start on launch. he goes away in three days. i must have him.

enjoy <3

prompt 7 w/ Belphie

Another day was finally over. It’d been fun, but that didn’t mean it wasn’t long. You had a day out with friends from breakfast, to a movie, then to someone else’s house where you spent the rest of your day hanging out. You hadn’t spent much time with them recently, and you felt as if was much needed catch up time. But, you couldn’t deny how tired you were now that the adrenaline had died down.

You were eager to get home and rest. But, the lounging clothing you’d laid out on your bed was missing. Well, half missing. The pants were exactly where’d you left them, but your shirt was nowhere to be seen. So the hunt for it began. Usually, you’d let it go but it was your last lounge shirt and considering you were currently waiting in the line to do your laundry, you didn’t have a choice.

You started in Mammon’s room. He wasn’t there, so you searched all the usual places he would hide things he snatched from you. While you were searching, he walked in on you rifling through his closet. Once you told him, he vehimently denied, but did suggest you text the group chat asking if anyone else had seen it. You thought it was a pretty good idea, but wanted to check a few more places first, in case it was in plain sight.

Next, you made your way to Levi’s room. It probably wasn’t in there, but if you wanted to ask him, you’d have to go in person. He was too busy playing his games to answer any text messages. After giving the secret knock and password, he opened the door for you. He was happy to see you and asked if you were up to play something with him tonight. However, once you informed him of your situation, he told you he hadn’t seen it, which you kind figured. Both of you knew he hadn’t left his room today. With that, you told him you would love to do something with him later, but you had to continue your search.

You decided to check one more place before you sent out the text. You knew Beel would be in his room because you’d arrived home at around the same time as you and he’d told you he’d be there after his shower. You made sure to knock, and after he opened the door, you asked if he’d seen your shirt. Unfortunately, he says he hadn’t and asked if he could help in any way. You thanked him for his kind offer, and just asked him to keep an eye out for it. With that information, you left and went back to your room.

Since it was your last resort, you sent a message to the group chat, simply asking if anyone had seen it. Everyone reponsed pretty quickly, save for Levi and Belphie. You’d already talked with Levi, and you knew he hadn’t seen it. Belphie, however, you hadn’t seen. He must’ve been asleep somewhere. Not in his own bed, at least. Since you didn’t have anything to wear, you decided to get something small to eat while you mulled over what to do. You could always borrow something from one of the brothers, but you were a little afraid you’d start a war if the other brothers found out you picked someone else. But, you weren’t about to wear any of your any day clothes to bed.

As you grabbed a bag of chips from the pantry and settled in a seat at the kitchen island to think about your next move, Belphie walked in. He had his cow pillow as usual and a blanket that had been a gift from his twin draped around his shoulders. “Mc. You’re back.” He sat next to you and set his head on your shoulder.

“Hey, Belphie. How was your day?” He looked very comfortable, and the way he dragged himself to your side basically answered the question.

“I had a great nap outside today. Beel went out for a hike and carried me on his back. We spent some time at the top of nice hill in some shade. It was great,” he sleepily recalled.

“Glad to hear you had a good day. My day wasn’t nearly as relaxed, but I still enjoyed it.” You unclipped the bag of chips and began munching.

“I was just about to ask how that went.” He looked intrigued at what you were eating, so you turned the bag around so he could see the label.

“Yeah, it was super fun. I won’t like though, I’m tired and I’m not even sure I can stay awake for dinner.” Belphie reached around you to grab a chip. When he did so though, you got a better glimpse at what he was wearing. He had on some slouchy, comfy looking pajama pants, and an awfully familiar shirt. Just the one you’d been searching for. “Belphie, is that my shirt?” You struggled to contain your giggles. You couldn’t believe he’d just had it all along.

“It’s very soft. And I missed you. So I just borrowed it,” he stated matter-of-factly.

“You’re adorable, you know that?” You gave him a quick kiss on the top of his head, much to his delight.

“So, if I borrow your things more often, I get more kisses?” He gazed up at you mischievously.

“As long as you promise to return them. I do need that back today though. Any other time I wouldn’t care, but that’s my last shirt.” With your statement, he shrugged the blanket off his shoulders and moved to remove the shirt. Slightly alarmed, you placed your hands on his shoulders to stop him. “Not right here!” He chuckled at your exclamation.

“Well, you didn’t specify.” He was such a little shit and he knew it. But, he also knew he could get away with it.

“If you’re so eager to take it off, let’s go to my room or something.” It was your turn to laugh.

“What are we waiting for them?” With the most energy you’d seen out of him in the past week, he grabbed your hand and effectively dragged you after him. You had a soft spot for him, and you both knew that. You loved this cheeky, mischievous demon with all your heart. He loved you back to. He always looked at you with a caring, soft gaze that was reserved for you and you alone. How lucky were the both of you.

[buckybarnesandmarvel]

𝐒𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐔𝐧𝐞𝐱𝐩𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐝

pairings: chris evans x vet!reader

warnings: a whole bunch of fluff

summary: an ordinary day at the shelter turns into something... unexpected

a/n: trust chris to get me out of writers block. also holy fuck that outfit has a fucking chokehold on me ithinkiforgothowtobreathelohmygod

***********************************************************************

You weren't told about this. Well... you were told someone was coming in for a collaborative video linked to the dogs... but you definitely weren't expecting this.

Chris-fucking-Evans.

You watched as he walked in, his broad figure hugged by a too-tight shirt, a small chain peeking through the collar, his hair messy under his cap and his blue eyes sparkling through his glasses. A large grin adored his face as he clapped his hands excitedly. You couldn't help discretely looking him up and down and your thoughts took over, momentarily distracting you. You took a deep breath and walked into your treatment room.

You were the resident vet at the shelter, looking after all the dogs that were brought in. You loved your job, being able to hang out with the dogs all day, it was both fun and rewarding. You knew them all at this point and made it your habit to see all of them first thing in the morning and last thing at night.

You had actually adopted your pup, Buzz, from the shelter, a beautiful baby chocolate lab. To be fair, you would've gladly adopted them all if your landlord hadn't forbade you and you had enough money and space. Now you just brought him into work, letting him run around and socialise as you did your thing.

You were doing a checkup on a dalmatian that had been brought in the week before when the camera crew came in, Chris-fucking-Evans tailing along behind them with a large smile. You momentarily paused, your eyes widening slightly before you put on a smile and made more room. You introduced yourself and the dog, Coco and they asked you a couple questions then let you work, filming you doing the checkup. Chris stood to the side watching intently as you worked with the dalmatian, wearing the scrubs and gloves you had leant him. You were glad Coco was calm throughout the checkup, not getting spooked by the amount of people in the room.

You smiled as you deemed everything fine with her and stepped aside as Chris came forward to give her a treat. Your heart almost burst when you saw how soft he was with her, raising his voice a couple octaves higher as he pet her gently. Once your piece was over, the crew left as you got ready to take Coco back to her room. You clipped on the leash as you looked for anything you had maybe left, when you saw Chris standing by your equipment, a smile still on his face.

"Hi?"

"Uh hey! Hey. I'm Chris." He looked at you and stepped forward, extending his hand for a handshake. You took his hand in yours as you smiled shyly.

"Yeah, I know. It's really nice to meet you sir."

Chris gave out a breathy laugh as his cheeks became dusted with a slight pink.

"Please no need for that, just call me Chris."

"Okay... Chris. Was there anything you needed?"

"Nah, I just wanted to say that's it's great y'know... what you do for the dogs here."

Your cheeks heated at the compliment as you smiled wider.

"Thank you! But honestly, it's not much. I love what I do."

"Still, it's exceptional.... hey... i was wondering if you're free after this?"

You froze slightly as your eyes widened a fraction. Your jaw almost dropped as you took in the man in front of you. He couldn't possibly want to go out with you..? You mentally shook the thought off and heat rose to your cheeks as you realise you kept him waiting.

"Y-yep! I'm free."

"Great! What time do you get off?"

"7."

"I'll be waiting..."

He winked and walked out of the room, leaving you slightly flustered and confused, but it a good way. And you couldn't help thinking that was something... unexpected.

*********************************************************************** first time writing in a long time, guys. don't judge lol x

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tagging: @xioriae @chrisevansdaughter @newgirlintheneighborhood @boredum7865 @hulkstacos @dhoruwolfie @scorpiolystoned @smoothdogsgirl @bubblessunshinehoney @youralphawolf72 @littlebluestone @friskyfisher @hallecarey1 @nana1000night

[joels-shitty-puns]

The Key To Your Heart - Track 7

Pairing: Pedro Pascal x Musician!Reader

Series Summary: After writing your feelings for Pedro into a song, it gains a lot more popularity than expected. Ultimately it brings both criticism and support, with new possibilities around the corner.

Series Warnings: 18+ only (MDNI). Fat shaming, name calling, kissing, angst. Mentions of food, weight loss, weight gain, dieting, weighing, potential eating disorder, food guilt. Potential for puns/dad jokes (name of my blog, and the fic) should give that away. This is my first fic which should be its own warning, lol. Also some cursing. Mentions of masturbation (f) maybe more smut later idk. Sadness, reader is pretty depressed. Poor body image. Rude people. Bullying-ish and just lack of support? Anxiety. Age gap! Reader is in her mid 20's, Pedro is current age (48).

Other stuff: Reader is plus sized. AFAB. Inexperienced. Also has a dog, but you can pretend it is another creature probably. Further, in case it isn't clear, italics almost always are the reader's inner thoughts!

Word Count: 6.6K!!!

Series List: Here!

Miss last chapter? Here!

Hi guys! I'm so sorry this took a little extra longer than usual. I've had a lot of ideas for this chapter for a long time and I struggled with putting it all on paper. I'm also on vacation 🤪 but I really wanted to get this one out there, especially before Halloween. Also I'm sorry if the spacing and stuff is crap, I did this from my phone/iPad while falling asleep at 3:30 AM. Hope you enjoy! Thanks for reading!

__________

You awoke with a start, your alarms blaring through the bedroom. Giving the snooze button a smack, you reach across your mattress, touching the sheets to find the other side of your bed empty.

It was still warm, but missing the actual body that you fell asleep cuddled next to. Blinking your eyes a few times, you called out into the bedroom. "Baby?"

You climbed out of bed, making your way down the hall to the living room, where you finally saw him on the couch. Sound asleep, eyes gently closed, a soft snore passed from his mouth. At the sound of your footsteps, he opened his eyes, giving a big stretch and wagging his tail.

"Good morning Skippy, my little sunshine! I missed your cuddles this morning. Why'd you move to the couch?"

He looked at you and yawned, his eyes closing once again. You giggled and headed for the shower to get ready for another day. Some of us have to actually work and get stuff done in this house!

_____

The day at work was busy, leaving little time to chat with Pedro. You couldn't help but smirk to yourself as your coworkers buzzed about your new album freshly released the day before. They still hadn't figured it out, but you decided you would continue to let it be your little secret a bit longer. They didn't need to know. Just you and Pedro could share this for now.

On your lunch break, you finally opened your phone to find a few text messages from him. "Good morning! I had fun video chatting with you last night. I'm so glad we listened to your album together, and it was nice to finally get to see you." His message made your heart skip.

Second text from Pedro: "Hey, I hope work is going well for you. I was thinking, maybe if you'd like, we could chat again later? If you don't want to video chat anymore, no pressure, but I enjoyed it and thought maybe if you wanted to, we could."

You replied. "Hey P! It's been a crazy day :) but a good one. Especially waking up happy after enjoying a lovely evening. I would really love to video chat with you again too."

Pedro breathed a sigh of relief at your answer. He couldn't help but feel nervous to ask you, despite having just video chatted last night, and he also didn't want to make you feel pressured; especially with someone as private as you are. But with your response, he smiled as he felt his stomach fill with butterflies at the thought of seeing you again.

_____

Later on, after work, the two of you were texting and deciding on the time to video chat again. However, before you called, Pedro texted you again. "Hey, I had a question for you, but I didn't want to ask it over the phone or video call and make you feel pressured. But, there's this Hollywood Halloween party coming up in a few days. I know you still want to keep your identity, but I thought if you'd like to, each guest is allowed to bring a date, and I thought you could mingle a little with some other musicians and actors. I can just tell people you're one of my friends from a set if you don't want to give your real name. You don't need to tell them anything you don't want out to the public. Plus I would love to spend some time together in person too, if you want to. I know it's a lot, so if you would rather not go, I understand. But I'd love to meet you."

The idea of going to a party filled with other celebrities, AND Pedro, had you filled with mixed emotions. Nervous. Excited. Terrified. Love-sick. Hesitant.

After a bit of thinking,you decided, and the answer seemed obvious from the start. The party sounded terrifying, and was completely unknown territory. But you also knew that if you didn't go, you'd surely kick yourself and regret this chance forever.

Finally you replied. "Okay! I'll go. I'd love to spend time with you, too, Pedro. Thank you for inviting me."

He replied again: "Really?! So, will boo be my date? 👻"

You: "That was a little too.. (candy) corny. I may have to ghost you. 🎃"

Pedro didn't miss a beat. "Okay, you're driving me batty. 🦇 Want to call and talk about our costumes?"

Oh shit, I forgot about costumes.

The two of you chatted, easily falling into the comfortable conversations you always do. Fitting together like two peas in a pod. Even though neither of you were dressed up fancy anymore, it didn't feel like you had to be someone else, or dress up. Things were comfortable. Easy.

Pedro suggested a matching costume, which made you want to scream and pace through your living room. Unfortunately, due to your camera situation, pacing and screaming would surely cause some alarm. After dancing around things like pirates, ketchup/mustard, and movie characters, you finally had an idea and suggested Cinderella and her prince.

"It just feels kinda fitting you know? Nobody knows who I am, but I go out for once, I meet this prince, and he lets me have this fun night. But then at the end of the night, everything goes back to normal, and I'm unknown again."

Until he eventually can't stay away and they both fall in love and live happily ever after… but that's neither here nor there. Totally not my intention.. pffft…

"That sounds like a wonderful idea. Should I send a carriage?" He joked with a wink, but you could tell he was a little bit serious. You couldn't help but feel like he would have reserved a carriage ride in a heartbeat had you said yes.

"Absolutely not. Way too big of a scene," you laughed. "In fact, I actually have work that day. Would it be possible for me to just meet you there after I get off work? I can just take an Uber across town. My work isn't too far from the party and I'm sure parking will be a mess."

Pedro agreed, although he felt bad you'd be taking a ride-share service alone and continued to offer a ride if you needed. He also felt a bit disappointed he wouldn't get to have any time alone with you beforehand, but he wasn't about to tell you that detail.

Either way, the two of you agreed on your plans, and as the days led up to the party, you grew more and more eager. You also felt more and more dread in the pit of your stomach.

But this will be good. It has to be. Right?

_____

The night of the party came quickly.

You got off work, took a quick shower, changed into your costume, did your hair, and added a little bit of makeup. The costume felt silly, but you kept telling yourself it was Halloween and everyone would be in costumes. Plus, you have a handsome prince waiting for you inside. As your mind and heart raced, the Uber driver pulled up to the curb, dropped you off, and you were met with a line to the entrance.

The line to the party was lengthy, filled mostly with eager fans, paparazzi, and journalists hoping to gain entry. Occasionally you'd see a celebrity pass by, but they were quickly ushered in once they were recognized.

You, however, were unknown by all. So you stood in line, surrounded by others who hoped desperately to meet their favorite celebrity. Not unlike yourself.

Having finally made it, you sent a quick text to Pedro. "Hey! I'm here :) sorry I'm late."

Your stomach twisted in knots. Sure, you were excited to meet Pedro. Especially with as much as the two of you have been talking over the past couple months now-

Geez, has it really been months?

But despite your connection, you still had that nagging self-conscious worry that he might not like you. Maybe he's just been talking with you to be nice, and the second you're together in person he won't give you the time of day. Maybe he will find you boring in real life. Maybe he will think you're ugly. Or weird. Or fat. Or -

"Next!" The bouncer at the door yelled after sending yet another hopeful fan away. Your stomach dropped and your mouth was dry.

"Hi, I-"

"NAME?" He barked, clearly done with this whole event.

"Well, actu-"

"Speak up princess, I can't hear ya when ya mumblin," the man said with a thick New York accent.

You cleared your throat. "Actually my name isn't on the list, I'm a guest of Pedro Pascal."

The man, towering over you, let out a bellowing laugh. "YEAH, I'm sure ya are, toots. You and every other woman in this joint."

"But I-"

"And trust me, I've turned away much prettier broads than the likes a' you at this doorway," he said while looking you up and down with an amused look as if he had just told the punchline at a comedy club.

Your heart sank. You always said things like that to yourself on the inside, but it wasn't often that people were that blunt to your face.

The man sneered while smacking his gum and arrogantly moving it to the other side of his mouth with his tongue. That gum. You wanted to punch him if you had to hear him smack it one more time.

"Back a' the line, kid. Y'ain't gettin' in here tonight, but I appreciate the self-confidence," he said, laughing at his own joke.

Disheartened, you didn't even care about meeting Pedro anymore. Your mood was dampened, your ego was hurt, and all you wanted to do was go home, get out of this stupid costume, and cry on your couch. With a short nod, you bit your lip to choke down the tears, turned, and headed towards the exit.

"Hey!!! There you are- wait where are you going?"

You'd recognize that voice anywhere. Pedro.

You turned around, swallowing down your emotions and putting on a fake smile, despite the wave of hurt and anxiety pooling in your stomach and chest. "Hey, Pedro! You found me."

Pedro smiled at the guard and snuck past, telling him "hey, she's with me." Fans in line squealed, which he greeted with a kind wave and charming smile. At last, he reached you and gestured for the two of you to head inside to the party. You gave a nod and a small, half-hearted smile.

You didn't want him to know how upset you were. Not only did you feel pathetic and slightly agree with the bouncer, but you also didn't want to ruin Pedro's night.

As the two of you entered the crowded party, you looked around at the decorations. Filled with purple and green lighting, the Halloween music blared and monsters danced the night away. A bowl of green punch sat on a table to the side, surrounded by bowls of candy and platters of snacks. An open bar was on the back wall, providing both normal booze, and Halloween themed drinks topped with gummy worms or syrup made to look like blood. To the right of the bar was a door to the large rooftop balcony which held tall, dark-green potted hedges, perfectly trimmed and shaped underneath rows of charming fairy lights. Beyond the shrubbery, the deck had several nice patio tables and chairs, a few people catching their breath outside or chatting, and a gorgeous view of the city below with the sparkling sky above.

Back inside and off to the right of the patio door, away from the dance floor, was a door which you assumed was the restroom, based on the long line of women.

"I'd like you to meet some people, if you feel up to it," Pedro yelled to be heard over the booming music from the dj.

"Okay!" You yelled back.

He led you over to a couple of people off to the side of the dance floor, one you recognized as his friend Sarah Paulson, who was dressed in a shimmery witch costume.

Pedro introduced the two of you. Sarah was very sweet, and while you talked music and acting, Pedro touched your shoulder and spoke into your ear to avoid yelling. "I'm going to grab a drink, can I get you anything?"

"I'll just take a soda, thanks!" Although some alcohol might help your nerves, you wanted to maintain a clear head and maybe not do or say something to Pedro that you might regret.

"You got it," he replied, turning on his heel towards the bar.

Once he had left, Sarah gave you a look.

"What?" you laughed.

"You know, he talks about you all the time. I know you already love some other guy based on that hit song of yours, but I gotta say I think he might be smitten with you."

"Oh please, no he isn't. We're just friends!" You smiled at the idea, but inside, you kept hearing the bouncer's words on repeat. There's no way Pedro could have feelings for you. Even if you wanted him to have those feelings more than anything, it couldn't be.

"Whatever you say," she said with a smirk.

A pause before she added "just… don't hurt him. I know you love someone else, but he's a good guy," she pleaded, letting her protective side show.

On his way back from the bar, Pedro ran into Oscar, whom he tagged up with and headed back to your small group. "This is my friend Oscar," said Pedro, introducing you to Oscar as his friend.

Friend. Remember that. Friend. That's all. All you'll ever be.

"Nice to meet you Oscar!" You gave him a cherry smile.

"Nice to finally meet the woman of the hour! Pedro here just won't shut up about you," he said with a smirk, looking at Pedro mischievously. Pedro blushed and looked into his drink cup, taking a sip while trying to hide himself.

"Yep! It's always 'she said this, she said that, can you believe she can do that? She's so smart, funny, sweet…' yada yada yada," he said, smirking again and taking a side glance at Pedro, who choked on his soda. "Shut. Up. Oscar." He quietly threatened through clenched teeth. But despite his quiet tone and a loud party, you heard him.

I mean, I say kind things about my friends that way sometimes. It's nice he's so appreciative of his friends. Because that's what I am. A friend.

Sarah chimes in. "That's what I was telling her! But she claims they're just friends," she air-quotes around the words 'just friends.'

Pedro's heart sank. He knew deep down that's all you were to him, but hearing it second-hand from you still hurt. Just friends… he thought.

"Yeah right," Oscar rolled his eyes, talking to Sarah as if the two of you weren't standing literally right next to them.

"Believe what you want Oscar, but it's true," Pedro answered with a shrug.

Now it was your turn to feel heartbroken. Just friends… you thought.

You cleared your throat, "anyway, I'm going to go get another soda. Can I get anyone anything?" They all answered no, and you headed for the bar.

Deep in your thoughts, you walked over to the bar when a woman slammed into you. She spilled her red, bloody Halloween cocktail drink all down the front of your costume. "Watch where you're going, fat bitch," said the woman, appropriately dressed in a devil costume, her skin-tight red dress barely covering her ass and breasts.

You sighed. At this point you decided to skip the refill and head toward the bathroom to clean up your now wet front. You looked back to see the devil herself headed right towards Pedro's direction. Typical, you thought with an eye roll. She wants him and is mad I was talking to him.

You turned away from that scene and reached the line to the bathroom. It was lengthy, but luckily it was moving fast. Once inside, you finally could let your emotions out a little bit. You wanted to put on a brave face for Pedro and not ruin his evening, but ever since the bouncer made his comments, you couldn't get them out of your head. And now with that woman spilling her drink on you, you had another reason to be upset. You felt undeserving to be here to begin with, and their comments really solidified the imposter syndrome.

Despite wanting so desperately to see Pedro in the flesh, you hadn't even been able to really make eye contact all evening. Your nerves about meeting him were still there, but now you were just upset about the whole night. Even though you wanted to look at him, really see him, you felt like you didn't deserve it; and your nerves warned you not to look or else he'd figure you out.

If he realizes I like him, it's game over. It'll be like that guy I liked before. He'll eventually say it's weird. Weird for me to have a crush on him, weird for me to touch him, weird for the two of us to talk about relationships or sex. It's 'weird' with you.

You really started to hate that word; weird.

Perhaps you were destined to be a single hermit forever. Or maybe just become a nun.

Cleaned up and having let enough tears out for a couple more hours, at least until you could go home and really cry, you walked out of the bathroom. Heading back toward Pedro, you saw a tall, thin, beautiful woman wearing a tight black dress with a slit down the thigh and skeleton makeup on her face.

The woman was standing close to Pedro when you saw her touch his bicep. Slowly running her hand down his forearm, she batted her eyelashes and twirled her hair with her other hand. She said something to him you couldn't hear, but the two of them began to smile, Pedro's eyes growing wide with his grin. He said something to her and they both laughed, him throwing his upper half forward in a classic Pedro laugh.

That's it. I can't do it. I can't be here and see this.

Turning on your heel, you made for the patio door. The crisp air hit your face, urging the tears to fall immediately.

_____

Pedro laughed as the woman, Tricia, held up both hands in defense. "I SWEAR, Pedro. That's what she did. She touched my arm like that, twirled her hair, batted her eyelashes, and said "hey baby. Come here often?"

Pedro laughed, "oh man, that's so cheesy."

"I know!" Tricia laughed, holding her stomach.

Pedro raised an eyebrow. "Okay, you agree it's cheesy, yet I feel like every time I've seen you two together tonight, you're the one that can't keep your hands off of her," he stated with a sassy smirk.

"Alright, you caught me," Tricia replied with a laugh, right as her girlfriend Sam walked up in a matching skeleton costume. Sam handed Tricia a cup of purple liquid and asked what they were laughing about.

"I asked how you two got together," Pedro replied with a chuckle.

"Oh, gosh, I can only imagine how she's spun the story this time!" Sam replied with an eye roll and a quick kiss to Tricia's lips. Seeing the two love-birds kiss made Pedro long to experience that with you.

Where did she go? There's no way she's still getting a drink.

He excused himself and headed towards the bar, but you weren't there. Then he walked towards the bathroom to check the line. Nope.

Finally he looked to the left and saw you, leaning against the balcony which overlooked the city.

He pulled the sliding door open, slipping outside into the cool October night. The patio was mostly empty, apart from a few stragglers on the far side of the rooftop, sitting at the patio furniture underneath a heat lamp. Most of the guests had gone inside when the temperature began to dip. He walked towards you, saying your name to gain your attention, but you didn't turn. Too deep in your thoughts.

"Are you okay? What are you doing out here all alone?" He touched your shoulder gently.

Startled, you tried to quietly sniffle and wipe your wet eyes without him noticing, careful to avoid smudging your mascara.

You turned to face him, planting another fake smile on your face. "Yeah I'm fine, just needed some air, that's all. You?"

"I can tell you're not okay. What's wrong?" He frowned, stepping closer to you and eyeing the red stain on your dress. Confusion laced across his face.

You stepped back a half-step away from his touch. "It's nothing, it just seems it isn't my night I guess… but you look like you're having fun. Get back in there and dance with Sarah and Oscar," you said with a gentle smile. "I think I might head out. Skipper is probably wondering where I am, anyway."

"I'm sorry you're not having a good time. Let me at least give you a ride home," he pleaded with his brown eyes. This was the first time all night you had actually made eye contact with him, finally seeing just how handsome he really was in person.

Yeah. There's no way he'd go for me. That's for sure.

"No, no please, you stay, I'll just get an Uber. It's fine! Thank you for inviting me tonight though, Pedro. That was really sweet of you."

"I'm not letting you take an Uber home when I'm right here."

"No, dont. I don't want you to miss the party…" you added.

"I've partied enough tonight. Come on, I'm taking you home. No arguments," he pressed, puppy dog eyes unwavering in his demand.

Seriously this man could get away with murder the way he looks with those eyes.

"Okay. Fine, if you really don't mind," you finally agreed, not that it was even an option.

He gave a quick explanation to his friends with a brief wave before the two of you headed out the front door. You scowled at the guard as you walked past.

Thanks for ruining my night, asshole.

After receiving his car from the valet, Pedro pulled open the passenger door for you, gesturing for you to climb inside.

Nobody has ever opened the car door for me before, other than my dad.

What a gentleman...

Just because you were upset didn't mean you weren't zapped with a feeling of adrenaline and love at his chivalrous action. Whoever ends up with him is a lucky person.

You climbed in the passenger seat and he went around the car, entering the driver's side.

Not only did you feel like you ruined the party, but you worry you may have ruined your shot altogether. Why would Pedro want you after you didn't even talk to him your first night out together?

_____

*Pedro's POV*

As he climbed into his seat, buckling up and starting the ignition, he couldn't help but wonder where the night went wrong.

Did I say something to offend her?

He began to replay all the conversations you'd had tonight, trying to figure out when your sadness began and what could have caused it.

The party conversations? The texts? The phone calls?

Nothing came to mind, which worried him even more that he could be so ignorant to have said something hurtful without realizing.

Pedro looked over at you in his passenger seat. You were curled toward the side, arms scrunched toward your body and looking out the window. Silent. Just the occasional sound of a sniffle, or a road direction for him to take toward your house.

He wanted so badly to reach over and touch you. Hold your hand and rub his thumb over your fingers to comfort you in any way possible while driving. Then, he'd pull you into his arms the second you two got out of the car.

But he knew he couldn't. You weren't his to hold.

Was her crush at the party too? Could he have hurt her somehow?

He felt anger flare into his system at whatever could have made you cry. You deserved the world and he wished he could spend every day trying to prove it to you.

_____

*Back to your perspective*

About 20 minutes later, you quietly said "this is me."

Pedro put the car in park, and told you to wait. Confused, you sat, but he ran around the car and opened the door for you.

What. The. Hell. Is he real?

You stood from the car, fluffing down your ruined princess dress. "Thank you Pedro. You really didn't have to give me a ride, I feel bad you went out of your way. I'm sorry if I ruined your night."

"Hey, whoa, don't apologize. There's no way you ruined my night, and don't worry about the ride. I feel better knowing you made it home safely from me than some taxi service," Pedro placed his hand on his heart.

"Well, thank you either way. It was nice getting to finally meet you in person…"

"It was nice meeting you too," he shifted his weight, awkwardly wondering how to proceed.

"You should go. Get back to your party before you miss anything else! I'm sure Oscar and Sarah miss you," you prompted.

"Oh, I'm not going back. I'll just call it a night and head home. It's not as fun without my date, anyway." He smirked, and you couldn't help but wonder if he was flirting with you. Probably just being nice.

"You aren't going back??"

"Nah, I'm good. But…" he rubbed the back of his neck with his palm.

"What?" You felt nervous.

"Can I ask why you're so upset? You don't have to talk about it if you don't want to. It's just… if I did something or said something to upset you… I'm so sorry," he said, and you could actually feel the genuine sadness in his voice.

"Oh, Pedro. No. You did nothing wrong. It's just," you sighed. "Do you want to come in?"

You worried about asking and seeming too forward, but now that it's out there it can't be taken back.

Friends go over to other friend's houses. It's totally fine and normal.

"I, uh, sure," Pedro stumbled over his words. "I'd love to. If you don't mind." He seemed nervous and a little surprised at your invitation.

You unlocked your door and the two of you entered. Instantly, you were greeted by your boy, who was all too happy to have a new friend. His tail wagged, smacking against nearby surfaces.

Pedro's face lit up instantly, and he crouched down to Skip's level. Letting Skipper get a good sniff, you heard Pedro gently coo to your dog. "Hi buddy!! I'm Pedro. I've heard so much about you." He scratched behind his ears.

Your heart swelled. Here they were, two of your favorite boys, bonding like old friends.

Pedro stood up again, giving a final scratch to Skipper's head before turning to you. "So, do you want to talk about it? What happened tonight?"

You ushered him to the kitchen table, asking him if he would like a drink. "Sure, thanks. Just water, please."

You poured two glasses of water and sat at the table near him, finally delving into the events of the evening. You told him about the bouncer and the woman with her drink. "I also saw that one girl talking to you and being really touchy and flirty and I felt like I was intruding."

I was also really fucking jealous…

"Wait, what girl?"

He repeated the evening's events through his mind. He wasn't flirting or being touchy? Who were you - Oh. Tricia, when she was describing Sam. Were you jealous of her? He allowed his mind to wonder, slightly hopeful that you might want more.

"I guess I just… I don't really feel like I fit in here. I don't look like I fit in here. I don't act like I fit in here. I honestly don't even know why you're as nice to me as you are. I wonder why you want to be my friend. Not that I'm not happy about it, because I am, but-"

He cut off your ramblings. "Whoa, whoa, hey. Sweetheart. You belong here. People just don't know you yet. That bouncer was totally out of line and a complete asshole. That woman, who spilled her drink on you, was rude, offensive, and nasty; and I don't tolerate that kind of behavior. Especially towards those I care about. The second she came over, I could tell she was a snake. I didn't give her the time of day. And lastly, the girl you saw being touchy was my friend Tricia. She was describing how her girlfriend picked her up in a bar," he laughed.

"Oh," you listened to his words, still not making eye contact, looking at your hands on the table.

"And as for you," he prompted, "I'm nice to you because you deserve it. You're sweet and funny, and I'm so thankful to have met you. I talk to you because I like talking to you. I enjoy spending time with you, whether it's on the phone, or, even better, when I get to see your face. Although I have to say I hate to see it crying." He brushed away a tear from your cheek, and you gave a small laugh, wiping the rest of your face.

"Thanks Pedro. I'm sorry if I brought down your night. I just really wanted tonight to be special, and it felt like my carriage turned back into a pumpkin before I even started." You gave another defeated laugh.

"You didn't ruin my night. If anything I'm just disappointed you didn't say anything, so I could help cheer you up or we could go do something else." He paused, brushing your hair from your eyes. "By the way, I never did get to tell you how beautiful you look in that dress, princesa."

Your cheeks heated under his gaze. "T-thanks Pedro. You look pretty handsome there, yourself," you answered nervously. It was the first time you had truly looked at him all night, and he was more beautiful than you ever could have imagined. Even pictures didn't do him justice. Dressed in a white suit with golden epaulets and golden buttons on the jacket, he was the most charming prince you'd ever seen.

Pedro rubbed his neck. "Thank you." He smiled. "But, hey, just because the night didn't go your way doesn't mean we can't turn it around."

You smirked. "That's true. Do you wanna watch a movie or something? Because if so, I think I might change out of this costume real quick," you began to stand.

"Whoa, not so fast princesa," he grabbed your arm.

You turned and gave him a confused look.

"Not before I share a dance with you in that dress. I've been waiting all night," he held out his hand.

"Really?" The grin on your face lit up, and you pulled him towards your music room where you stored your records.

"Wow. This is amazing. You have so many records and instruments in here! Is this where you write your music, too?"

"Yep! Here's where the magic happens," you answered with a laugh, pulling out an old record filled with slow love songs of the 50's and 60's. You placed the needle on the record, hearing a soft crackle as it began to play.

Pedro pulled you into his chest, grabbing your right hand with his left and gently placing his right hand on your waist. You slid your left hand up to his shoulder and smiled up at him as the two of you gently swayed to the music.

One song turned into two. Then three, and finally four; the two of you holding each other, silent except for the soft music turning from your record player on the desk. At some point you took the risk and decided to rest your face on his chest while the two of you swayed. His head rested on top of yours, both of you breathing softly, eyes closed, with you listening to the rhythmic drumming of his heart in his chest.

The record crackled with the end of the first side and the two of you looked at each other. You didn't miss the quick glance he stole from your eyes down to your lips, and you began to slowly lean closer.

Is this it?! Am I finally going to have my first kiss?!

You continued leaning closer, both his and your eyes gently closing. You could feel his breath fanning across your nose when-

Clunk clunk clunk. Pant pant. Whine.

You and Pedro opened your eyes, confusion painting your expressions as you turned your faces away from each other towards the sound. Still held in each other's arms, you peeled your eyes away from each other to see Skipper looking at you both with a big doggy grin on his face. His tail smacked the table with a thump thump, and he let out soft little whines and coos for attention.

The two of you laughed, the moment over, as you both kneeled down to give pets while Skip wedged between the two of you. Although you were disappointed the kiss was interrupted, you can't be mad at such a cute face. Still scratching your dog, you looked across to Pedro on the other side of Skipper. The two of you shared a soft look and smile, filled with so many unsaid words and feelings.

"So, uh.. how about that movie?" Pedro asked, still smiling.

______

You changed out of your princess costume into a comfier movie watching outfit and he changed out of his prince costume. He had some clothes in his car, which he changed into, looking handsome as ever. He wore a navy blue sweater with jeans, both fitting him perfectly. The two of you settled on your couch and turned on a movie. Although you sat next to each other, you kept a friendly distance, neither of you wanting to push the other too far.

As the movie rolled on, you had a hard time focusing on the plot with him so close. He looked so cozy and soft, you just wanted to climb in his lap. You wanted him to hold your hand. You wanted to finish that kiss. He smelled nice, he looked nice, and you wanted him more than anything else in this world.

Without realizing it, you gravitated closer. Your body inched toward him, and without him realizing it, he inched closer as well. It wasn't long until your leg was brushed against his. Just the slight touch of his leg on yours was enough to send an electric feeling pulsing through your body. The tension was as tight as an electrical cable, slowly fraying until it eventually snaps into sparks.

Pedro's fingers twitched at his side, his jaw clenching and unclenching. Your eyes kept sneakily darting over to him, his doing the same at opposite times. Your hearts were racing, breathing quick and shallow. The movie finally ended, neither of you able to tell someone the storyline if asked.

You nervously turned towards Pedro, rubbing the back of your neck. "So that was some movie…"

"Yeah, that ending… it was-" his eyes darted to your lips. "Something." He looked into your eyes, hand settling on your thigh as the two of you once again began to lean in closer. You had just shut your eyes, noses brushing together, when he pulled away.

What the heeeeeeeellllll??? Whyyyy!?

You couldn't help but let out a whimper as you opened your eyes after the second failed kiss of the evening.

Pedro sat with his elbows on his lap, holding his face in his hands. "I'm so sorry…"

"What? Pedro? Why are you sorry? What's wrong? Did I - did I do something wrong?"

Do I smell bad? Does he not like me? Was this some sick joke?

"I don't know what I'm doing. I'm sorry. I let my feelings get in the way, and I shouldn't have done that. You're in love with someone else. I can't steal your first kiss. You deserve to have it with the man you really love."

"Pedro-" you tried to pry his hand from his face.

"No. I'm sorry if I ruined things. I should probably leave-" he began to stand up, but you grabbed his forearm and pulled him back down.

"Stop. Pedro," you begged.

He sat back down, looking into your eyes guiltily.

You continued. "Please don't apologize. I wanted you to kiss me…"

"But that guy in your song. You deserve to be with him. I've been letting my feelings take over and stealing all your time away on the phone and text, video chat, and now in person. I almost stole your first kiss from you twice tonight and-" he rambled on, once again throwing his hands over his face before you interrupted him again.

"Pedro.." you pulled his hand away from his face, leaving yours to hold his cheek instead, but he still avoided your eyes. Taking a deep breath, you figured it was time to take the plunge.

"It's you, Pedro."

His eyes glanced up to yours. "What?"

"It's you. It's always been you. You're the one I like."

"Wait, so you mean-"

"Yes. The songs, the interviews, our chats… I've been talking about you this whole time. I really, really, like you."

Pedro gave a gentle smile, leaning his face into your hand. "I like you too, baby," he whispered.

His hand moved from his cheek to yours and the two of you leaned in. Closing your eyes, you brushed your noses together before you whispered "please kiss me.

You could feel a soft smile as he pressed his lips to yours, first gentle and soft, then stronger and more desperate. Although the kiss was still very tame, you could both feel all the emotions you've been harboring for each other for so long.

Breathless, the two of you pulled back, falling into a gentle laughter. "You don't know how long I've been waiting for that kiss," you spoke softly, wanting to keep the words as quiet as possible, heard only within the tiny bubble you currently shared.

"Me too," he smiled, pressing another kiss to your lips.

"I think you were worth the wait," you pecked his lips.

"I think you were too," he rested his head on your forehead with his hand on your neck, lightly stroking over your hair.

"I like you." You giggled.

"I like you too." He grinned. "But, you know, if I remember correctly, 'like' wasn't the word you used in your song…" he teased.

Your stomach flipped. "I don't want to scare you off too soon, P."

"You won't, sweetheart. You couldn't if you tried. I feel the same way." He kissed your forehead.

You looked at him, and feeling slightly nervous, yet calmed by his deep brown eyes, you told him those important words that have been spilling from your chest in silence.

"I love you Pedro."

"I love you too," he grabbed your face, once again pressing a kiss to your lips, this one much deeper than the others, before pulling you into his arms. The two of you were finally together. Finally you had love. All the things you wanted were coming true.

Turns out you got your happily ever after tonight after all.

__________

To be continued...

That's all for now! I hope you liked this chapter. I've received a lot of kind messages and DMs saying how much you guys relate to the reader and I just want to say thank you. It really means a lot to me that people are finding something to relate to. I'm essentially just using this fic as my diary, because she is pretty much just me. So to see others feeling the same way, it makes my heart so full! I send hugs to all of you.

Next Chapter! Here!

Taglist: (Want in? Let me know!) If I forget to add anyone, I'm sorry!

@pedrotonin @starcrossed02 @lightupsketchersperson @cartoon-garbage04 @tyferbebe @maryfanson @gwendibley84 @faithfullyyours2000 @brilliantopposite187 @hc-geralt-23 @jenniferpendragon @winchestergypsy90 @red-red-rogue @theendwhereibegin @lottieellz101 @oliversaurus @kyga01 @milly-louise @titabel @taz-97 @stefanibear003 @marantha @fandomoniumflurry @ilovemybrown-eyedbabygirl

[david-talks-sw]

Thoughts on Tales of the Empire?

Worth noting that I do my best to look at these as short films, the same as the ones I see when I go to film festivals. So re: any "lore-breaking" elements (Grievous' design, Thrawn stuff, etc)... I don't see them as retcons, so much as just format-driven reinterpretations.

That said, the first of the Morgan episodes is okay, the rest is lackluster... which is telling, frankly.

Even with three Tales of the Empire episodes on top of what we've seen in Ahsoka and The Mandalorian, they still haven't been able to give this character more depth than "she suffered loss and now she's mean." Morgan Elsbeth is the Jiren of Star Wars, as far as I'm concerned.

The Barriss episodes were fine. I'm glad to see she finds the light in the end and goes back to being a healer (win for EU fans) and I'm glad she eventually mended bridges with Ahsoka. She's probably not dead, if you ask me.

But even here... this is someone who bombed the temple, killed innocent people, made a woman inject nanobots into her husband then choked her to death to cover her tracks AND framed her friend.

A lot of people cling to her speech in the Senate to characterize her as this Cassandra-type figure, but don't forget this moment...

I mean come on guys, she's literally smiling sadistically, here.

My point being: she's no snowflake.

Aside from the already-panned fact that taking one of the few muslim-coded characters and making them a bomber is extreeemely poor form: you made a choice in writing, now stick to it. You wanted to have Barriss be someone who feels the red blades of a known assassin "suits her"? Do it.

I have no idea where they saw the above and thought that the "I don't wanna fight you, old friend" BS in her first episode, or the "we're supposed to be better than this" rhetoric from the second episode, would track.

I can fill in the gaps, and gladly will.

My headcanon is that Luminara visited her whenever she could... and this softened Barriss' hardened heart, over time. Then one day she's sent to Kashyyk, and "don't worry Barriss, I'll be back for our daily chat"... and she doesn't. Barriss goes to sleep concerned, wakes up during Order 66.

But, as usual, that's me getting creative with it because the creatives wouldn't do so in the first place. Also, I'm pretty sure "Barriss becomes an inquisitor" is a turnout most folks expected, so no real mind-blowing beats coming from these episodes.

All in all, a 7/10 in my book (a high score despite all my bitching because my qualms are with the writing; the sound design and visuals are amazing and I think a 7 reflects that).

[nadas-dirthalen]

I Saw Solas's Origin in an Achievement Icon and It Opened My Eyes on 15 Years of Lore

— PART EIGHT: if you haven't read previous parts, do it now! —

[ 1 ] [ 2 ] [ 3 ] [ 4 ] [ 5 ] [ 6 ] [ 7 ] [ 9 ] [ 10 ]

Welcome, friends and travellers! I wanted to get some thoughts recorded before Veilguard's release so I could see if I am right about an absolute BOATLOAD of theories I have.

In short: I saw the achievement list when it was released. I have seen the backstory hints for Solas included in said list. AND MY MIND WAS BLOWN.

You have been warned: THIS COLLECTION OF THEORIES INCLUDES SPOILERS FOR EVERY DRAGON AGE GAME AND ALL PROMOTIONAL MATERIAL UP TO AND INCLUDING OCTOBER 18, 2024.

Come sit down with me. Make a nice cup of tea (and hide it from Solas). We've got a lot of unpacking to do.

(no, this photo isn't the spoiler, I just like it.)

The Story of Solas: Him Solas Evanuris, Da'durgen'lin (1/3)

— The Ballad That Played Right Before Our Eyes —

I meant to write this as soon as I got my day started today (perks of being on the border of a sinus infection right before Veilguard). But I thought of something last night, and I had to do some of the Temple of Solasan and Trespasser all over again to confirm it.

I'm glad I did. I'm horrified at what I found.

Let's begin.

Seriously, as ever, go read the other parts before this one. If you need to only read a few, then read 1, 3, 4, 5, and 7 (linked above). All of those matter for context here, you've been forewarned!

This post will exist in three parts. First up, we've got:

The World at the Time of Solas's Manifestation

Da'durgen'lin: Not the First, but Perhaps Mythal's Last

Solasan: The Icy Terror the World Forgot

The Dread Wolf: Inspiring Hope in Friends, and Fear in Enemies

The World at the Time of Solas's Manifestation

I will be as brief as possible here. Remember when I said the other parts were important for context? It's because we're largely skipping the context we've already covered today.

In the briefest of terms:

Titans, unsundered.

Maker's second children, made. Evanuris, jealous. Evanuris, slaying Titans.

Evanuris, already doing all of their lyrium/Titan-atrocities. We'll get to how I know that.

Conditions are perfect for the blight to begin. All Titans, thus far (that we know of), have been wounded consistently. All are ramping up to "fight back." (We'll get to that.)

But the Evanuris are continuing, heedless of what their arrogance will bring.

Enter: Solas Evanuris.

Da'durgen'lin: Not the First, but Perhaps Mythal's Last

More brevity here, but now with added screencaps from when I just played Trespasser this morning (in fact, I just finished the Shattered Library, and am going to go back to Trespasser after this).

We already knew Mythal was mining Titans for people. What I've refreshed my memory on are three things:

We don't know where in the Deep Roads this is (that I know of)

This is not the only place we see lyrium coffins

This is where we see the codex about needing to forget this place: the one I mentioned began the blight yesterday.

Before I go on, I wish to revisit one more codex from this portion of the Deep Roads: Mythal's Lullaby.

Ir sa tel'nal Mythal las ma theneras Ir san'a emma Him solas evanuris Da'durgen'lin Banal malas elgara Bellanaris, bellanaris.

Isatunoll Mythal gives you dreams Lyrium within Becomes Solas evanuris Blight you give to the Titan Forever, forever.

I've discovered new significance in it that I have not been able to fit into these posts as yet: this lullaby is almost perfectly in the Hallelujah cadence. It follows Hallelujah's meter, but the lines are split up as a distraction.

It can be arranged as:

Ir sa tel'nal, Mythal las ma (8) Theneras ir san'a emma (8) Him Solas Evanuris, da'durgen'lin (11) Banal malas elgara (hallelujah, hallelujah) Bellanaris, bellanaris. (hallelujah, hallelujah)

With the use of "you" in the song and the fact that it is called Mythal's lullaby, I am going to posit that she is singing this to Solas. Why?

Cole tells us in Trespasser. "He did not want a body. But she asked him to come. He left a scar when he burned her off his face."

I believe that this is Mythal asking Solas to take physical shape. But... why? Why coax a spirit if he did not want to come into the physical world, outside of his Titan? If she coerced him into a body, only for the horrors of the Blight to follow, why would he look up to her as the lone voice of reason among the Evanuris?

I'm choosing to read Mythal in a good light here. Know that, as I continue to theorize, the worst case scenario is also possible.

Solasan: the Icy Terror the Elvhen Tried to Forget

Last night, after writing part 7, I could not get this codex out of my mind. The moment of the blight's beginning. I am astonished that I have not seen it theorized before (not to say it does not exist, just that it has not been flung far and wide across the fandom—at least not where I can find it).

Let's go back to it.

In the light of the veilfire, the runes seem to shift, coiling and uncoiling like snakes. A thunderous voice shatters the stillness, shouting: "Hail Mythal, adjudicator and savior! She has struck down the pillars of the earth and rendered their demesne unto the People! Praise her name forever!" For a moment, the scent of blood fills the air, and there is a vivid image of green vines growing and enveloping a sphere of fire. The vision grows dark. An aeon seems to pass. Then the runes crackle, as if filled with an angry energy. A new vision appears: elves collapsing caverns, sealing the Deep Roads with stone and magic. Terror, heart-pounding, ice-cold, as the last of the spells is cast. A voice whispers: "What the Evanuris in their greed could unleash would end us all. Let this place be forgotten. Let no one wake its anger. The People must rise before their false gods destroy them all."

I could not help but think again on how Mythal's lullaby directly says, "Blight you give to the Titan." I asked myself, late at night, in despair: could Solas's manifestation TRULY have been the beginning of the blight on Thedas?

Well, we know where to find out, don't we? The Temple of Solasan. I'm not the kind of person to grab 114 shards in a video game (sorry, Bioware), but I did find a mod that let me in over the summer, and I pulled up an old save.

Jogging my memory made me cry.

The top chamber in the temple is where one finds the inscription on Solas. We'll get there, and we'll also get to the outside of the temple, don't worry. For now, I want to focus on the lower level. (Pardon my Inquisition screenshots and their messiness; I told y'all I wasn't going online in any real capacity today, and I meant it. You're getting all homemade footage here.)

There are three rooms down here. One for plants (left), one for fire (right), and one for ice (center).

Huh. Doesn't that sound like...

For a moment, the scent of blood fills the air, and there is a vivid image of green vines growing and enveloping a sphere of fire. The vision grows dark. An aeon seems to pass. Then the runes crackle, as if filled with an angry energy. A new vision appears: elves collapsing caverns, sealing the Deep Roads with stone and magic. Terror, heart-pounding, ice-cold, as the last of the spells is cast.

My heart sank. My stomach twisted into knots. I explored the fire and plant wings again, and found little that I hadn't already explored or looted—only corpses possessed by demons.

But the ice room...

Something flashed within. Something that made my blood run cold (fittingly, I think).

I ventured in. And then I began to cry, for I knew.

Without enemies, not in combat, the floor periodically flashes when you run over certain spots in the room. The whole floor, just for a second, is covered in these.

I'm not one of the fancy fly-cam people, so I spent a lot of time running around until I could hit the Tactical Mode button at the exact right second.

I don't know what this exact sigil means. But I swear that it has blight or bad-bad-not-good-magic implications, and... well, it's red. Red, in a blue room full of ice.

Even with no corpses around this time, no enemies left to fight: I knew, deep in my bones, that this place is what that codex was referring to. Let this place be forgotten.

Let the Titans be forgotten, because of what horrors we have seen.

It makes me read the codices of this temple in a new and horrifying light.

Faintly carved into the stone is a figurebound in chains. Two other figures haveturned their gaze from the central image.The script below the image is ancient,though Solas is able to provide a partialtranslation: Pride in our accomplishments and in our hearts. That same pride became (a word meaning corrupted or altered) within him, he sought to claim (indecipherable), cast from favor and so was bound. Hidden from mortal eyes, death lies within.

"That same pride became (a word meaning corrupted or altered) within him." Now, we have new context on what corrupted or altered might imply.

The same with, "cast from favor and so was bound." The Titan—the Stone—rejected Solas. But why? Was it because of what he was seeking, or because of what Mythal was coercing/asking him to seek? And when he was "bound" — it was by her, right?

But we know what came next. We know that Terror—a Forgotten One, a Titan—fought back, just like Cole says.

"They made bodies from the earth. And the earth was afraid. It fought back. But they made it forget."

The Earth—the Titan—was afraid. It was Terror. It fought back, lighting a room entirely in horrific red circles that gave me a jump-scare (and no doubt doing other terrible blight things). It chased the elves from the Deep Roads, even as they sealed them.

They begged the other elvhen to forget this place. "Hidden from mortal eyes, death lies within."

The blight.

This was terrifying (pun almost intended) for the fleeing elvhen. So much so that they left a parting message by the door to the temple.

An inscription taken at the temple doors in the Forbidden Oasis, followed by a translation. The writing is shaky and uneven, as though the writer labored to complete the task: Emma solas him var din'an. Tel garas solasan. Melana en athim las enaste. Arrogance became our end. Come not to a prideful place. Now let humility grant favor.

Let's re-examine that elven language.

Emma solas him var din'an. Within [Solas or arrogance] becomes our end.

Remember "that same pride became (corrupted or altered) within him?" Does him mean Solas, or does him mean the Forgotten One from whence Solas came?

Regardless, I am beginning to understand the legend, the horror: one last person from one of Mythal's lyrium coffins, and Terror begins to consume Solasan. Elves, fleeing desperately, hands shaking as they carve warnings into the doorway.

The markings are crude and simplistic, but their meaning can be understood: "They did not ask questions and so I was away. I keep my head low and work like the rest. The circle will not hunt this far. At first I regretted the choice, but they all feel the dread at the door. I do not stand out. Only a brother or sister would know these words. If you found your way here as I have, then you are not alone. If you would have allies when this contract ends, then find me." For a moment, the pounding of footsteps can be heard, as if someone is running. Then it fades.

I saw this on my way back to Solasan—I had not seen it before, clearly. I looked, and I wept. I'll admit that.

Because I saw, "the dread at the door," and I knew. The dread locked inside Solasan. The Terror, barred within and forgotten.

And from that Dread? Only one pulled from a lyrium coffin. Mythal's last da'durgen'lin, rushed out of Solasan. I hope that she asked him to take a body to help him escape Terror. I hope that she asked him to take a body to somehow calm Terror, if the Stone truly rejected Solas.

I hope she did not mean for Solas's creation to cause Terror.

Regardless of the motive behind Solas's true and horrific origin, the effect is the same: a parallel to the Inquisitor, Solas's rise to fame and power began when he survived something he should not have.

Dread.

The Dread Wolf: Inspiring Hope in Friends, and Fear in Enemies

If you're like me, you've wondered why these seem to be everywhere. Outside of Dalish camps, sure (even though Fen'Harel is their villain, they still entrust that he'll protect them, uh huh)... but also in the temples and holy places of other Evanuris, not just Mythal. Also out in the middle of the wild.

Now we know. We know because we know the meaning of the Dread Wolf. Wolves, in ancient elvhenan, were warriors, generals, second-in-commands. We can intuit this based on their continued use in Dalish culture with its Arcane Warriors/Knight Enchanters. Solas was one such "wolf" — but he had a quality that no other did.

He had been marked, somehow, by his survival of Dread. I don't know enough today to confirm whether that means Solas is blighted, immune to the blight, or something else entirely, and I only have 1.5 more days until Veilguard launches (and maybe proves all of this wrong). I can only guess at this connection.

Whatever it was, that became his resonance in the culture of Arlathan.

"I was Solas first. Fen'Harel came later... an insult I took as a badge of pride. The Dread Wolf inspired hope in my friends and fear in my enemies... Not unlike "Inquisitor," I suppose."

The insult, presumably, was that he was the one "wolf" for whom it had all gone wrong. Rejected by the Stone; product of a turned Titan fighting back with new blight. But to inspire hope in his friends, and fear in his enemies? We must consider what those friends and enemies would want, and what they would consider hopeful/fear-inducing.

Solas's friends, we know from the agents we see in his rebellion, also want an end to the Blight. His enemies, the other Evanuris, want the blight to cover Thedas.

Therefore: to inspire hope in his friends and fear in his enemies, the Dread Wolf would have to possess some innate anti-blight quality. Therefore, I posit that Solas's title, the Dread Wolf, is meant to refer to how the blight did not kill him when it was unleashed by Terror.

This quality—and the threat that the blight would soon pose to all of Ancient Elvhenan and the entire ancient world—would give way to... well, we all know.

Rebellion.

Stay tuned.

----

Also: I am essentially FULLY OFFLINE to try and avoid game spoilers! As these reviews have just gone live yesterday (10/28), I am not reading my notifications/replies, and am appearing here only to continue posting my theories. I have heard that the embargo has been broken at least once already and I refuse to risk it, so I will respond to messages and notifications once I have played Veilguard for a bit.

(Mutuals, if you need me, you may DM me, as long as you do not mention the reviews in any capacity.)

[shikariiin]

×Cough-cough×, this is going to be a lot of text, but it's vital that I get answers to these questions(even if it's in a short format, I really need to know that urgently and just now, I'm not kidding). I beg you to answer, your art makes me live, the main AU is absolutely beautiful, please that's all I need 🙏🙏🙏🙏

Questions about the system and the war: Who and where did Spencer work during the war? Do his epaulettes indicate any rank? If so, what opportunities did their ranks give engines? Does he now know that Alice has had a sex change, does he wish her and the baby back? After all, legally Edward still belongs to the duke or his old road if Alice illegally escaped…or how does that work? What would happen if Edward was once again owned by Spencer and the duke?

Questions about Spencer and Alice: Was the decision to have a child a mutual decision, or did Spencer insist on it? Or did they both not want to, but were forced by military department? Did Spencer beat Alice during her pregnancy? Was there any reason for Alice(last straw) to finally decide to run away? What made Spencer so evil/aggressive and why did he beat Alice at all, why? What motivated him? So because person can't just beat up another person just because him feel like it 🤔 Also, did/still does Spencer drink alcohol? Why? How did the duke himself feel about Alice's escape? Did he not even try to look for the steam train he paid money for? Was punishment or double work awaiting Spencer afterwards? After all these accidents, did Spencer ever go to Sodor and did he see Thomas? What is his relationship with the duke? And does the duke have a wife as well?

Questions about Thomas and Topham: Did Charles Hat have any problems with acquiring Edward and the authorities(since rowdy Eddie could do all sorts of illegal shit)? What kind of person was Thomas brought up to be? How would Spencer raise Thomas if he got him? And does Spencer still need a Thomas if he was glad to have an heir?

This many questions is very cheeky of me, however I can't handle the desire and necessity to know more about your main AU 😭😭😭😭💕💕💕 (And yes, how does James know Russian???? That's so cute! I'm from Russia, and I know russian, but why did he learn that language? o^O)

OH WOW THE DEDICATION AHAHA, Sure I'll answer them all numerically 🩵

1. They're not necessarily soldiers, but also tools of war, Spencer was the engine that pulls high ranking officers, used for his speed, while Alice is both a transport engine that doubles as a medic. What role they're given also has it benefits, Spencer was given a special treatment while Alice is treated like everyone else.

2. He doesn't know Alice had a sex change, he does wish deep down under that layer of Arrogance his baby and wife would be back, but mostly Alice running away from him made him the laughing stock of the gresleys, it fueled his desperation more.

3. Since Alice illegally escaped, they still own her, but that's a story for another day, that has it whole arc I'm planning to make 😄, if Edward is owned again by the duke, then he'll have to leave the railway and become a private engine.

4. Spencer insists, a-lot of forcing too from her old railway, yes Spencer beats and emotionally manipulated her, he wasn't even present in Thomas's birth.

5. The last straw for her is when Spencer agreed for them to be bought by the Duke without her consent.

6. Spencer picked her because she was the most beautiful, but quickly saw her as a nuisance, she was shy and quiet, he didn't like how she wouldn't listen to him sometimes, what started as Spencer dragging her into things became a manipulative and abusive cycle, and it became a customary thing for Spencer, he thinks that's the only way he should treat Alice.

7. The Duke in this era felt angered, he deemed the engine was rebellious (this was in the era where women doesn't really have rights yet) there were a search warrant for her for months to no avail, and he chose to leave with Spencer, there's not extra work for him, but to be able to withstand his current work, the Duke upgraded his class through an experiment.

8. He did come to sodor, I do have an arc awaiting for that :3, his relationship with the current duke is like in the show, neutral, and yes the duke has a wife.

9. Sir Charles treated him with specialty, always excusing his antics like a father excusing his child for hitting someone, "they're just kids" mentality, He never had to face the Authorities because Edward never gets caught.

10. They raised Thomas as someone responsible and Diligent, although he is cheeky, if Spencer raised him he would laze around and be snobby, He doesn't need an heir, but he would want Thomas to be back just to save his family reputation.

11. James learned many languages because Indonesia at the time was a network of spice trading, alot of foreigners and people with different backgrounds (although there were an era of colonizations), I do feel like he would learn different languages just so he can know more about them. :D

Awwww thank you so much for the Questions! I'm happy someone liked my AU🩵🥰