#I’m so excited they’re coming back to me

[annievrse]

hold tight!

roronoa zoro x reader —ᡣ𐭩 fic summary: franky's version of the waver from skypiea has everyone excited!!! w/c: 2.2k a/n: happy holidays! this is real this happened to me two days ago on a jetski, so i had to make it zoro because its better to write fanfic about characters than daydream about the impossible irl

The entrance to the new island is a dramatic sight—towering cliffs rise on either side, their jagged peaks piercing the sky like the spines of some ancient beast. The narrow passage between them is barely wide enough for a small boat, let alone the Thousand Sunny. The dark, churning waters below them add to the sense of foreboding, and the cliffs almost close in on themselves as if daring anyone to enter. Thick vines hang from the rocks, draping down like curtains of green, and the air smells of salt and earth.

To combat the problem of the Sunny being unable to pass through the cliffs, Franky, always ready to rise to the occasion, introduces his latest invention with his trademark flair. With a wide grin, he steps forward and announces the arrival of the seated Waver, a new addition to the Sunny's ever-growing transport arsenal.

When Luffy complained about the old Waver from Skypiea being annoying and having nowhere to sit, Franky took it as a personal challenge. He wasted no time designing something to solve the problem and impress his captain.

The result is a sleek, streamlined Waver with a comfortable seat, sturdy grips, and the perfect balance of speed and stability—a far cry from the old, seatless model. It’s built for comfort and thrill, and it’s clear from the first test ride that Franky’s creation is a hit.

With his usual enthusiasm, Luffy grabs the handlebars from the Sunny's figurehead and practically flings himself onto the Waver.

“My turn!” His infectious excitement fills the air, and before anyone can stop him, he revs the engine, sending water spraying behind him like a wild stallion kicking up dust.

“Careful!” Nami scolds from where she sits on a second one. “Do you want to fall in?”

Luffy just laughs, his signature grin lighting up his face. The Waver is far easier to handle than the old seatless ones from Skypiea, and Luffy’s thrilled with how quickly he’s mastering it.

You lean against the bow, watching the scene unfold, with Robin standing quietly beside you.

“Do you think they’re safe?” You ask her, eyes flicking toward the speeding Luffy. Robin tilts her head, her expression unreadable.

“Franky seems confident,” She replies with a slight shrug.

“Hey!" Nami yells your name. "You joining us or what?”

You glance back at Robin, who gives you a soft, knowing smile. "I'll be fine, go."

You nod and turn toward the sea to find the rest of your crew.

Franky operates a third Waver with Chopper and Brook, and somehow, Sanji ends up on the second with Luffy, his fists white with how hard he's holding onto the seat.

The ladder dangles over the side of the Sunny and into the water, and you look at it with apprehension. Taking a deep breath, you climb over the edge and carefully slip your foot onto the first rope.

The sea breeze hits your face as you reach the bottom of the ladder, the water shimmering under the bright sun. Nami zips before you, her hands firmly gripping the controls and her fiery expression unmistakable.

You jump in the water and swim over to the back of the Waver, climbing aboard and shuffling to sit behind Nami.

“Come on, hurry up!” Luffy shouts over his shoulder, his voice carrying over the water. Sanji winces and squeezes his eyes shut as Luffy hits a wave. “It’s awesome!”

“Ready?” Nami asks, drawing your attention back to her. But before you can answer, you hear a familiar grunt behind you.

“Oi, wait up. I’m not getting on one with the cook," Zoro yells, deep and reluctant.

"Get on this one then," Nami rolls her eyes, not bothering to look back at the swordsman.

You turn to see him standing on the last rope of the ladder, clearly not thrilled by the idea of riding one of Franky’s new contraptions. But true to his word, he’s already swimming toward you. His eyes narrow slightly as he hauls himself out of the water and onto the Waver, clearly uncomfortable with the idea.

“Zoro,” You start, raising an eyebrow. “You really want to ride with us?”

He grunts with his usual grumpy expression in place.

“I'm not getting on with the cook," He repeats, disgust painting his features. His gaze lingers on your face, though, and then he looks away.

You laugh. “Fine, but you’re sitting behind me."

Zoro's expression darkens, and he mutters something under his breath.

"Hurry up," Nami snaps. "Luffy's almost there."

With that, he awkwardly steps behind you, leaning slightly against your back as he settles into place, his hands gripping the sides of the Waver. You can feel the nervousness radiating from him, his posture stiff as he adjusts to the unspoken closeness.

His leg muscles press against yours, and the five-inch inseam shorts he chose to wear does nothing to stop the heat rising to your face.

Nami, noticing the restlessness building between you two, grins cheekily.

“Aw, look at this,” She teases, her voice dripping with amusement. “Zoro, you’re gonna sit right there?"

Zoro stiffens behind you, his grip on the Waver's sides tightening.

“Shut it, witch,” He growls. "Where else am I gonna sit?"

She glances over her shoulder at Zoro and winks. “You two look like you’re having fun together. How’s the view from back there, Zoro? I bet you’re really enjoying yourself.”

You feel Zoro’s body go taut with irritation, but before he can snap back, Nami revs the engine, the Waver surging forward and pulling you into motion. His thighs press more firmly against yours with the movement, the sudden closeness sparking a familiar feeling in your chest.

“Hold on!” Nami calls out, laughing as she steers the Waver expertly through the waves.

The wind whips past you as Nami expertly maneuvers, the thrill of the ride and Zoro's breath in your ear quickening your heartbeat. The ocean spray hits your face, and the waves beneath you shift unpredictably, sending the Waver swerving.

Suddenly, you hit a particularly rough patch, and the Waver tilts sharply, throwing you off balance. You instinctively reach for the Navigator before you, but your hands slip off her wet shoulders.

For a split second, the surface of the Waver is disappearing under you—you’re going to fall in.

You yelp, your body leaning dangerously to one side as the Waver tilts further, the sharp spray of seawater splashing into your face. You can feel yourself losing traction, your heart racing as you flail to stay steady.

And then, in a flash, you feel a strong hand grip your waist, yanking you back toward the centre of the Waver.

The warmth of his hand on your waist is immediate and intense, his fingers digging into your sides to steady you as his other arm wraps around you to pull you upright. For a moment, it feels like everything has frozen, the world narrowing to the feeling of his hands on you, your back pressed into his chest. The movement of the Waver makes it hard to focus, but you can feel Zoro’s presence behind you—his body tensed, his breath sharp against your ear as he fights to keep both of you from falling.

“Gotcha,” Zoro growls, his voice low but steady, his hand holding you firm. "Easy."

You instinctively grip his forearm for support, your heart thudding louder. The contact feels uncomfortably intimate, but the shock of nearly falling off the Waver keeps you from dwelling on it for too long.

As the watercraft straightens out, your exhale is shaky, and your heart is still racing.

"Everyone okay?" Nami yells over the waves. You nod, though she can't see.

“I mean, it's nice to know that Zoro's got your back—literally,” She says, her tone playful but laced with that unmistakable edge of teasing. “Don’t let him get too comfortable, though, or he might not want to let go.”

Zoro doesn’t remove his hand from you despite Nami's taunts. His fingers linger at your waist, his grasp firm. You can feel the apprehension in his body—he’s not letting go until he’s sure you’re steady. You’re acutely aware of how close you are to him, the heat of his body at your back, his arms still wrapped protectively around you, his thighs pressed devastatingly hard against yours.

"Thanks," You whisper, patting his arm. Zoro retracts his hand and returns to holding onto the Waver. He mutters something unintelligible, his face flushing, but his body stays rigid behind you.

The island looms ever closer, and as you draw near the jagged cliffs that line the entrance, the air seems to thicken with anticipation, the excitement of finally reaching this new land mingling with the salty tang of the sea.

Nami expertly steers the Waver towards a narrow rock formation near the shore, already slowing to a stop. You can feel the anxiety of the ride dissipate, though the awkwardness of the previous moments between you and Zoro still hangs in the air. You prepare to jump off, the icy water enticing you.

You start to slide off the Waver, but as your foot lands on the rocky shore, a sudden surge in the water throws you off balance. Before you can react, Zoro’s hand shoots out, gripping your arm and pulling you back toward him with surprising force.

“Careful,” He says gruffly, his hand on your waist again.

You glance up at him, surprised by his reflexes.

Zoro, looking as stoic as ever, just gives a small grunt. “You were gonna fall. Don’t make a big deal out of it.”

But his hands don’t immediately leave you. He’s still steadying you, his body heat radiating through the thin fabric of your clothes. You can feel Zoro's hot breath on your neck and goosebumps rise on your skin despite the hot sun beating down on you.

Nami, already dismounted with practised ease, glances back over her shoulder, a mischievous grin playing at the corners of her mouth. “Zoro, you’re really good at catching people today, huh?”

Zoro shoots her an irritated look but doesn't say anything, his grasp on you finally loosening.

"Thanks," You say again, your voice softer than intended. Your fingers brush his, and he grunts in response, not quite meeting your eyes.

“Don’t mention it. Just don’t fall next time.”

You giggle, hand swatting his bicep. "I wasn’t planning on it."

"C'mon!" Nami laughs, ignoring you and Zoro.

You follow her up onto the rocky shore, casting one last glance at Zoro. Despite his gruff exterior, there's something about how he held you that lingers, something warm and steady.

“Luffy! Slow down!” Sanji yells, his voice tinged with genuine panic. You turn back to the ocean.

Nami chuckles at the sight, standing beside you on the rocky shore, arms crossed with a knowing smirk. “Sanji’s gonna have a heart attack if Luffy keeps this up."

You watch Luffy, grinning ear-to-ear, utterly oblivious to the disaster he's creating.

“This is awesome!” Luffy shouts, steering the Waver even harder as if trying to defy gravity. His excitement is infectious, but it's clear to everyone except him that he's about two seconds away from crashing.

“Luffy, we’re gonna sink!”

“We're fine, Sanji! Don’t be such a baby!” Your captain's voice rings back over the waves, carefree and completely unfazed.

Zoro’s eyes follow the scene for a moment longer, the corner of his mouth twitching ever so slightly. He uncrosses his arms and steps closer to you and Nami, his movements easy and relaxed.

“Luffy’s gonna be Luffy,” Zoro says, the irritation in his tone softened by something almost resembling fondness.

You look at him, noticing the shift in his expression. The awkwardness from earlier, the lingering, unspoken tension between you, is nowhere to be found. It’s like that invisible wall has crumbled without you needing to speak.

Nami, still grinning from ear to ear, turns to Zoro with a smirk.

“You're not worried?” She teases, her eyes glinting with mischief.

He snorts, rolling his eyes at her. “If I were worried every time Luffy did something stupid, I’d be dead by now.”

You chuckle softly, the sound of it carrying in the open air. "Aren't you glad you got on our Waver and not his?"

He glances at you with that typical deadpan expression, but there’s a faint glimmer of something softer in his eyes—maybe humour, maybe something else. But when his gaze drifts down your body, you feel your face heat up again.

“Tch, what do you think?” Zoro mutters, but there's a hint of a grin tugging at the corner of his mouth now.

You nudge his shoulder, an easy laugh falling from your lips.

Maybe the island ahead is full of surprises, but for now, standing next to Zoro—his presence beside you, the crew doing what they do best—you feel like everything's exactly where it’s supposed to be.

Even if Luffy's about to take out half the coastline.

[deonsx]

Hi there! :D

I was wondering if you’d do a scenario with Bachira, Rin, Reo, and Nagi having an upbeat cheerful girlfriend obsessed with Sanrio merch! (Specifically My Melody and Hello Kitty hehe)

Thank you sm!! 💕

I want cinnamoroll, good read!!! Nagi,Rin,Reo,Bachira

Rin Itoshi

Rin stood outside the bustling mall, hands tucked into his pockets as he waited. He glanced at his phone, checking the time. A familiar, excited voice suddenly cut through the noise

“Rin! Look what I got!” He turned to see his girlfriend bounding toward him, holding up a bright pink bag with Sanrio logos plastered all over it. Her face was lit up with pure joy, and he could already tell what was inside

“My Melody again?” he asked with a soft chuckle as she reached him, practically bouncing on her toes “And Hello Kitty! They had a limited-edition collaboration! I couldn’t resist!” She pulled out a pastel My Melody plush and a shiny Hello Kitty wallet “Aren’t they adorable?!”

Rin couldn’t help but smile at her enthusiasm. “Yeah, they’re cute,” he admitted, though his tone was calm as always. She grabbed his arm, holding the plush up to his face “You don’t sound convinced! Look at her little ears, Rin!”

“Alright, alright” he said, leaning away slightly but laughing. “She’s cute. But didn’t you say you’d save money this month?” Her face scrunched up, mock offended “What’s saving money when My Melody is on the line? Priorities, Rin!”

Rin sighed dramatically, but his lips twitched into a smirk. “Priorities, huh? Does that include dragging me into the Sanrio store every time we come here?”Her grin widened “Obviously! You love it there, don’t lie”

“I wouldn’t call it love…”Before he could finish, she pulled him toward the store, her bag swinging with every step. As they walked inside, a staff member greeted them, and Rin resigned himself to his fate. His girlfriend was already darting toward the shelves, clutching a pair of My Melody socks like they were treasure

“Hey, Rin! These would look great on you!” she teased, holding up a pair of Hello Kitty slippers “I’m good,” Rin replied quickly, though the faintest blush dusted his cheeks. She laughed, slipping her arm through his as they browsed “You’re such a good sport, Rin. That’s why I like you!”

Rin smiled softly at her, his usual reserved demeanor warming in her presence. Even if he didn’t share her obsession, seeing her so happy made every trip worth it. As they left the store, her arms full of more Sanrio goodies, she beamed up at him “You’re the best, Rin. Next time, we’ll get you a matching Hello Kitty wallet!”

He shook his head with a small laugh “Sure, if it makes you happy” And honestly, he didn’t mind at all

Nagi Seishiro

The rain poured steadily outside as Nagi lay sprawled across the couch in his apartment, his usual relaxed demeanor unbothered by the gloomy weather. Beside him, his girlfriend sat cross-legged on the floor, her energy a stark contrast to his calm. The coffee table in front of her was covered in pink and white wrapping paper, ribbons, and a pile of Sanrio-themed gifts

“What are you even doing?” Nagi asked lazily, his head tilted to watch her “Wrapping presents for my Sanrio exchange group! Look, isn’t this the cutest paper?” She held up a sheet printed with My Melody and Hello Kitty in tiny, pastel hearts, Nagi blinked at it, unimpressed. “Looks the same as the last one”

“It’s not the same!” she huffed, dramatically pressing a hand to her chest like she’d been gravely insulted. “This one has glitter details!”

“Ah, glitter,” Nagi said with a faint smirk. “Totally different” She pouted, but only for a second before her grin returned. “You don’t get it, but that’s okay. I’m a Sanrio connoisseur. It’s my duty to spread the joy” He hummed noncommittally, his attention drifting back to the game paused on his phone. A few minutes later, her cheerful voice broke his focus again

“Nagi! You should come to the exchange party with me!”

“No thanks,” he replied immediately

“Oh, come on! It’ll be fun! There’ll be snacks, games… and you can see my collection in action!” She gestured to the pile of meticulously chosen gifts. “Plus, you’d look adorable with a little Hello Kitty keychain!” Nagi raised an eyebrow at her, the corners of his mouth twitching upward. “Pass”

“Fine, but if you’re staying home, you have to help me practice!” she declared, shoving a small plushie into his hands “Practice for what?”

“For the raffle! They’re giving away a My Melody toaster, and I need to win. You’re going to pretend to be my competition so I can strategize” Nagi stared blankly at the pink plush in his hand. “…You’re really serious about this”

“Dead serious” she said with a determined nod, hands on her hips. “Now, pretend you’re about to grab the last ticket!” He sighed but didn’t argue, holding the plush up like he was considering it. She immediately dove forward, snatching it back with a triumphant cheer

“See? That’s how you win!”Nagi leaned back against the couch, watching her with a mix of amusement and fondness. “If it’s that important, why don’t I just buy you the toaster?”

“No way! That’s not the point! Winning it myself makes it special!” “Hmm,” he murmured, closing his eyes “Guess I’ll leave you to your special toaster dreams, then” Despite his teasing, when she turned back to finish her wrapping, a small smile lingered on his face. She might’ve been obsessed with Sanrio, but watching her light up over something so simple? That was worth indulging every time

Bachira Meguru

The bustling sounds of the arcade surrounded Bachira as he leaned casually against a claw machine, his golden eyes sparkling with amusement. His girlfriend stood in front of the machine, her hands gripping the joystick with intense focus

“Alright, My Melody,” she muttered, her tone deadly serious. “You’re coming home with me this time” Bachira stifled a laugh, resting his chin in his hand. “You’ve already spent, what, five tries on this? Maybe it’s time to call in the pro”

She shot him a playful glare. “Excuse me, pro! I’ve almost got it. I just need the perfect angle” Bachira’s grin widened as he leaned closer “You sure? I’ve got a killer track record with these machines. Look at these hands.” He wiggled his fingers dramatically

“Okay, fine,” she said, stepping aside with an exaggerated sigh. “Show me your so-called skills” Bachira cracked his knuckles, stepped up to the machine, and studied the plushie inside—a pastel My Melody with a sparkly bow. He squinted at it like it was a tactical challenge

“Alright, My Melody,” he said, mimicking her earlier tone. “You’re coming home with me now” With a dramatic flair, he maneuvered the claw with surprising precision, his tongue sticking out slightly as he focused. The claw lowered, grabbed hold of the plush, and… dropped it

“Oops,” he said, scratching his head sheepishly. She burst out laughing “Killer track record, huh?”

“Hey, the machine’s rigged!” Bachira protested, though his wide grin betrayed his lack of seriousness “Move over,” she said, stepping back in with renewed determination “I’ll show you how it’s done”

After another intense round of joystick maneuvering, the claw latched onto the plush and finally deposited it into the prize chute. She gasped, spinning around to face him “I did it! I did it!”

Bachira clapped his hands, matching her energy. “You’re amazing! My Melody never stood a chance against you” She beamed, clutching the plushie tightly “This is going straight to the top of my collection!” Bachira tilted his head, a mischievous glint in his eye. “You’re forgetting something, though”

“What?” He pointed to himself. “You gotta name her after me “Bachira Melody” She rolled her eyes but couldn’t help laughing “Fine, Bachira Melody it is” He slung an arm around her shoulders as they walked out of the arcade, his other hand playfully poking the plushie. “Now she’s part of the family. But don’t forget—next time, I’m winning”

“Sure you are,” she teased, leaning into him with a smile. With Bachira’s cheerful and playful energy, every outing felt like a mini adventure—even if it was just rescuing a plushie from a claw machine

Reo Mikage

Reo adjusted his tie as he walked into the café, the jingling bell signaling his arrival. He scanned the room until his eyes landed on his girlfriend, sitting at a corner table. As usual, her energy was radiant—and so was her collection of Sanrio merchandise spread across the tabletop “Reo, over here!” she called, waving excitedly

Reo chuckled, making his way over “You brought your entire Sanrio shop with you?” She gasped, feigning offense. “First of all, this is only the essentials. Second, look at this!” She held up a My Melody-themed planner. “It’s got stickers, a pen, and a charm! Isn’t it adorable?”

Reo took a seat, leaning on his hand as he inspected it. “It’s cute” he admitted with a fond smile “But didn’t you just get a Hello Kitty planner last week?”

“That one’s for work. This one’s for personal stuff” she explained matter-of-factly, as if it were the most obvious thing in the world. Reo smirked “Of course. My mistake”

As their drinks arrived, she pulled out yet another item—a sparkly Hello Kitty cardholder. “Oh! Guess what I did? I signed us up for a Sanrio-themed cooking class! Look!” Reo blinked, momentarily caught off guard “Cooking class?”

“Yes! We’ll make cupcakes shaped like Hello Kitty and My Melody!” She beamed, sliding the brochure across the table. Reo picked it up, reading the details. “You know I’m not much of a baker, right?”

“That’s okay” she said with a wink. “I’ll do the decorating, and you can handle the boring stuff—like mixing” He laughed softly, shaking his head. “Why does it feel like I’m getting the short end of the deal?”

“Because you love me” she teased, poking his arm. Reo��s smile softened as he leaned back in his chair, watching her rearrange her Sanrio merch like it was a prized treasure. “You know, if I wasn’t careful, you’d probably turn our whole apartment into a Sanrio showroom”

“Not a bad idea!” she said, grinning mischievously. “We could have My Melody curtains, Hello Kitty cushions—oh, and Keroppi mugs for the kitchen!”Reo sighed, though there was no real annoyance behind it. “Just don’t turn my office into a Sanrio shrine”

“No promises” she teased, resting her chin in her hands “But really, you’re okay with the cooking class?”

Reo leaned forward, reaching out to gently ruffle her hair “If it makes you happy, I’m okay with anything. Even cupcakes shaped like Hello Kitty” She giggled, clasping her hands together “You’re the best, Reo!”

“I know” he said with a playful smirk, taking a sip of his coffee. And as she started planning out their next Sanrio-inspired adventure, Reo couldn’t help but feel a warm satisfaction. Her enthusiasm was infectious, and indulging her whims was just another way he showed how much he cared

Enjoy!

[caelivir]

mistletoes w oliver aiku! ♡

i hope everyone is having a wonderful and joy filled winter/holiday season!!

“you do realize that the party’s inside, right?”

you turn your head to look behind your shoulder, offering a weak grin at the presence of the person who joined you on the balcony. “hi oliver.” you greet, more quiet than enthusiastic.

“well don’t get too excited now.” oliver chuckles, joining you at the black railing that bars from accidental falls. he’s awfully close. his arm brushing against yours, dual-colored eyes staring at you intently. you don’t hate this, but you pray oliver can’t hear your heartbeat ringing in your ears. “what’s up?”

for a moment, you cast your gaze up, humming as you think, wondering if there’s anything worth telling him. “noth-” you begin.

and then you see it. hanging above both you and oliver are green leaves with red berries, tied together by a pretty white bow—a freaking mistletoe.

your gaze snaps down; the reaction is too sudden, too sharp, and oliver furrows his brows at your newfound panic. his gaze finds focus in where your eyes last lay, and it clicks for him.

oliver is unable to hold back his hearty laugh at your flustered expression. the situation itself is beyond embarrassing. you wonder if it’s possible to sink into the ground and never come back.

“this is not happening.” you mumble, your palm a barrier between the coherency of your words.

“ouch, babe.” oliver feigns a wince. he places hand over his heart in offense.

“i didn’t mean-”

“i’m kiddin’.” he clarifies, amused. “i know you didn’t.”

you purse your lips. “i think i’ll just head back inside.”

oliver gently grabs your wrist as you start to leave. it’s electric, humming soundly throughout your nerves. “woah, woah, woah, are you tryin’ to curse us with bad luck?”

“didn’t take you to be the superstitious type, oliver.” you raise a curious brow at him.

he smirks, winking at you. his charm nearly makes your knees give out. “i take my mistletoes very seriously.”

“somehow i don’t doubt that.”

“what? i never pass up on holiday traditions.” he shrugs, lazy grin raising the apples of his cheeks. his heterochromatic irises pour into yours.

“i don’t either.” you agree, but you point at the mistletoe above you. ���but this one i don’t do.”

“why not?” oliver’s thumb runs gentle patterns near your pulse. your breath hitches, stuck in your throat.

“i don’t want people to feel like they’re forced into it. that’s all.”

“i want to though.”

“oliver, they are literally just leaves. we don’t have to-”

“is this you saying you don’t wanna kiss me?” oliver tilts his head, baiting you. you spot the glimmer of tease in his gaze.

“don’t put words in my mouth.” you huff.

“so you do want to kiss me then.”

“i didn’t say that either!”

"(y/n), you’re gonna break my heart with these mixed signals-"

"god, okay. i get it." you roll your eyes, fed up with his antics.

you fist the fabric of his shirt, pulling him by it until the space between you two is reduced to nothing, and your lips press onto his. you feel oliver's cocky smile just before he melts into you.

he's gentle with you. his calloused hand finds solace on your cheek, the other drops your wrist to place itself gently upon your waist. the stubble on his chin tickles your skin.

oliver tastes oddly sweet, milky even. your curiosity of it forces you to pull away despite the sparks dancing on your lips. you run your tongue on the lingering remnants of the delicacy. "is that hot chocolate?"

"don't know." oliver shrugs, his hands still on you like they're meant to be there. you can immediately sense that he's lying through his poorly hidden smirk.

you throw him a dubious glance. "i'm pretty sure it is."

you would be right. it is hot chocolate. it's a special recipe that oliver mastered from his grandma in sweden. he already has a mug of it ready for you on the counter. he thinks it'll go cold by the time he decides he’s satisfied with kissing you.

"but it might not be. i think i need another taste." he sighs, already leaning in.

"isn't it supposed to be the other way around?" you question teasingly, a grin pulling your cheeks upward.

"you focus on details too much." oliver mumbles, his nose brushing against yours. he locks your lips together, and this time you can taste whipped cream.

[marsmaximoff]

🎄; 25th of december ❄︎⋆˚⊹☃︎

content warning: fem!reader. pure fluff. many curses. reader is 20 and calls him “dym” as a short name, he calls her “love, darling and my love”. they’re dating. let me know if i missed something.

word count: 732 ❣️

author���s note: i wasn’t planning on posting anything for Christmas, but i got this idea and i had to write it. so, i apologize if the quality is not that good, as i usually spend days on my writings while this was all done on a matter of hours. also, english is my third language, so i’m sorry for the mistakes. constructive criticism is welcomed as always. thank you so much for the support on my last post, and merry christmas everybody! 🤍 happy hanukkah, kwanzaa, diwali or any other celebrations too 🫶🏻 and if you don’t celebrate anything, have a happy end of the year ✨ p.s.: god im in love with dmitri and almost no one is posting anything, i’ll probably post more of him. anyways, enjoy!! <3

the silk grazes my fingertips as i stretch my arm. i tentatively palm the bed looking for some warmth, for him. but the sheets and pillows are the only things left around me.

the screen of my phone clears up as i blink. 11:28 a.m. with a bit more of focus, the notifications slowly reveal themselves and my eyes travel through them searching for his name. nothing. he’d have texted me if something had requested his presence back at the office. although, he couldn’t have business to deal with on Christmas, right? not this soon, at least.

the pearly white snow greets me through the window making me stand up with a smile. how gorgeous. i make my way to the kitchen to grab something to drink while knotting my robe, and the shiny decor welcomes me effusively. i don’t realize at first, but a big and unfamiliar shadow catches my attention from the corner of my eye while i open the carton of juice.

“holy fuck. dym?”

our christmas tree, stunning as always, lays now almost drowned in presents. in fact, the stack is such, that i can’t even make out the floor for a good four-five steps. some light chuckles behind my back fill the room with the warmth i’ve been craving since i woke up. “beautiful, isn’t it?”

i turn around to dmitri sitting on the couch, staring at me with a huge grin. as if that number of gifts was the most normal sight in the world. “what the hell?” “you’ve had me waiting, darling. did you sleep good?” he asks affectionately.

“what are you, on your Santa Claus era?” i say looking at the presents again. he grants me that laugh that i adore so much as i try to give them a quick count, but after the twentieth, it starts to feel simply bonkers. they’re not even small ‘little treats’, oh no. there’s large boxes and bags everywhere.

“seriously, are you giving gifts to your whole fucking building? or is every one of your men getting one?”

“wrong. and. wrong” he says proudly, and once he’s in front of me, he just smiles. there are obvious love and joy in his eyes, which sends a cute fluttery feeling to my heart. “dmitri-“ his lips seal my words with a gentle kiss. “merry christmas, love”. a sparkle makes space on his gaze that could so easily compete with the star of the tree itself. wait. oh. oh. there’s no way.

his hands take mine and softly walk me towards the swimming pool of gifts. then, he sits close by and points at them with his head. “come on, darling. you’ve had me feeling all impatient”. he looks so excited. so cheerful. but i can’t help the slight guilt that takes over me. “dym, you’re crazy. tell me these are not only for me. you can’t- god do you even have an idea of how many there are?!” “40”. he doesn’t even take a single second to think about it. seriously, what the actual fuck? “two for every christmas i couldn’t spoil you in” this has to be a damn dream. “we’ve been friends since school!” i say grinning. “but we weren’t dating. so it doesn’t count. i wanted to make it special.” “you really didn’t have to” i refute. “i wanted to. please don’t make me wait anymore i need to see your reactions”. with a final glance, i turn around and grab the first one. “ohhh you’ll love that one!”

how can he be so cute? he wasn’t wrong, tho. it was a special edition of one of my favorite books. during the next hours, i go one by one, filling the room with gasps, yells, curses and many “oh my good”s and “thank you so much”s.

by the end of it, i’ve got clothes, books, headphones, plushies, a phone, jewelry, plane tickets, merchandising, signed stuff from famous people i love, and the cherry on top; a new car.

“you are mad. i love you so much but you’re mad” i say hugging him still shocked. “madly in love with you, you mean” he answers pulling back. “you liked them, then?” “loved them” he gives me another kiss, longer this time. “good. merry christmas, my love. i love you” he adds.

he can only hope i’ll love the ring just as much.

[mossangelll]

HII HOW R U?? I was wondering if u could make a yandere caitvi x reader(like a poly relationship). Just headcannons if u like!! I really love ur postss💗💗

Yandere!Caitvi x Reader Headcanons

i’m great, tysm for requesting! sorry it’s taken me a while to get to this ^^

i was gonna add a section on how they kidnap you (figured i’d use it for a different fic) and an nsfw section but i didn’t know if anyone wanted that so i skipped it this time

HOW THEY MEET YOU

ok so vi is the one who notices you first - at first, you’re just another person who blends into the crowd at her fights

but then she begins to see you at every single fight of hers without fail, always with a huge handmade sign that says something like “step on ME, vi” or “vi, you’re the BEST!”

she thinks it’s endearing how someone like you, so unassuming and cute, is hanging around shady dens like this just to support her

you manage to catch her at the bar after one of her fights and you two strike up an unlikely friendship

she starts to fall head over heels for you - you don’t seem to care or even notice that she’s a mess

in fact, you’re hellbent on fixing her and she can’t help but have massive heart eyes at this point even though she’d normally find something like this demeaning (she doesn’t need to be saved!)

all her life, she’s chased after the people she loved and prioritised their well-being and now someone’s finally doing the same for her

you make her feel so seen at a time in her life when she feels incredibly lost and worthless

however it’s at this point vi leaves the fighting scene and reconnects with cait - you gave her the strength to do so

vi always feels guilty about this but you’re always in the back of her mind, a hopeful what if to ponder on the lonely nights after a lover’s quarrel with cait

so it’s nothing short of serendipity when cait starts to come home later and later, talking about a new recruit who has potential that needs to be nurtured and look at that - it’s you

cait knows she needs to be faithful to vi, she would never dream of going behind her back, but she’s drawn to you in a way that simultaneously confuses her and excites her

she becomes your mentor and sees parts of herself in you and that just makes her obsession infatuation that much worse

cait blurs the line between appropriate behaviour between a subordinate and their junior; she shows up at your door randomly for a “work assignment” and pries into the private details of your love life

if she finds out you’re dating someone or interested in someone other than her, your work life becomes a living nightmare

you’ll constantly be admonished for the tiniest infractions simply because she’s wants you all to herself and doesn’t know how to express her emotions in a healthy way

vi can’t even find it in herself to be jealous when she sees the lustre in cait’s blue eyes, one that’s only reserved for her, starts to come out whenever she’s around you but she does feel left out, after all, vi found you first

the two end up having a conversation and realise that they can’t live without you in their lives - all to themselves, that is

OK TIME FOR WHAT THEY’RE LIKE IN A RELATIONSHIP

honestly i think vi is the one you can wrap around your pinkie finger - she has such a soft spot for the people she loves and she’s not afraid of making it known

you want more treats? she’ll sneak them in

you want to go outside? ok, but vi is handcuffing you to her and you can only stay out for five minutes

surprisingly she respects your boundaries and tries not to be overly affectionate with you when you don’t want to be, even if it kills her inside

don’t think you can ask to talk to family and friends though, that’s completely off-limits and you will see a sadistic side to vi she doesn’t normally let out

i imagine her punishments would be something to the effect of her saying extremely cruel and upsetting things to you to remind you of your place

she would also be into physical punishments like spanking but not anything that could really hurt you - she would have a breakdown if she hurt you to the point of serious injury and would never forgive herself

cait on the other hand is essentially the “bad cop” in this scenario, it’s not that she doesn’t love you, in fact i would say she’s probably more obsessed than vi is, it’s that she doesn’t want to risk anything bad happening to you whatsoever

she went lax on punishing zaunites and it ended up with her mother dead - she’s not taking any risks when it comes to you

it harder to tell with cait but she does try to show her affection, it’s just not as obvious as the way she acts to vi

she does like to be physically affectionate with you more than vi does but this too is very subtle

she likes to make these actions seem like a necessity when really it’s for her own satisfaction

e.g. she’ll hold you hand and profess it’s because “you might fall over” even though you can see the faint blush on her cheeks - you’re both aware it’s a terrible lie but are equally too embarrassed to mention it

like in my other work, her shows of affection come from giving you books, painting lessons and expensive clothes, etc. - she wants to nurture your talents and expose you to the finer things in life that you’ve missed out on

she lowkey has a superiority complex when it comes to this lmao but i think she does it all to mask her deep insecurities

she doesn’t want to seem weak in front of her darling

her punishments are more harsh. i feel like she would put you in isolation and leave you hungry if you refuse to abide by her or vi’s rules

i hc that this stems from her childhood; her mother would withhold affection (maybe not to this extent) whenever she misbehaved and this way of thinking carried over to adulthood

this means that caitlyn and vi do tend to argue over what they think is best for you and it lowkey gives divorced parents energy - they’re constantly trying to prove themselves right

it’s a very volatile environment to be in

imo this is kinda cait and vi’s way of flirting too 😭 in the aftermath they look back on it like ‘awww she cares so much about our darling she’s willing to fight over them - so cute!’

their relationship stays mostly the same as it was before just a lil more intense

they’d both be yandere for each other, it just manifests a lot more strongly with you

like, they know they can look after themselves but you’re so weak they need to go above and beyond to ensure their most precious darling is safe

they both plan detailed daily routines for you and you’re micromanaged down to the smallest details: how long you can sleep for, the food you eat, the exercises you do, the clothes you wear, the people you can interact with

in my mind, this takes place at the end of s2 so you live with them in cait’s mansion - they’ve both experienced a LOT of trauma which contributes to them developing a codependent relationship and having to drag someone else into their mess

it’s definitely a stifling relationship and it feels like you’re never truly alone, if for some reason they can’t be there with you there’ll always be a trusted maid or enforcer keeping tabs on you

omg wait they definitely give you a diary and say it’s private but at the end of the night they’ll read through it to see if you’re planning anything they wouldn’t agree with

cait came up with the idea and vi thinks it’s a violation of your privacy but she goes along with it anyway

would never admit it but secretly it’s her favourite time of the day (if she respects your physical boundaries, she’s gotta break some other boundaries - give her a break!)

they just want to patch up the pain they feel from all the losses they’ve had to deal with and unfortunately for you, you’re their bandages

masterlist

[suzukiblu]

Day twenty-six of “Kon meets pink kryptonite and decides to fuck Tim and his boyfriend about it” behind the cut. (( chrono || non-chrono ))

“Hey there, babe,” Bernard says, and Kon feels him flash Tim an easy grin as he rubs his fingertips up the back of his neck in little strokes. “Color?” 

“Green,” Tim says, simple and matter-of-fact, and Kon apparently actually still had some brain left to wreck because hearing Tim’s voice again and hearing Tim’s voice say “green” just reduced it all to bubbling glop.

“Nice,” Bernard says, then adds conversationally: “Your boy was really good, just stayed cuddled up to me all cute the whole time and got real excited for playtime. He definitely missed you, though. Pined a little bit at the window and all, you know how pets get.” 

“Tim,” Kon says without making any real conscious decision to, and it comes out fucking breathy. Tim drops a kiss in behind his ear; squeezes his and Bernard’s linked hands once more before dropping his hand down to his thigh and stroking down to hook underneath it. Kon makes some kind of a noise, he thinks, but can’t hear it over his own thrumming heartbeat. “Tim, I–Rob, can I–” 

“Stay, pet,” Tim murmurs, steadier than any other voice he knows, and everything in Kon’s head that isn’t about him instantly dissolves into nothing. It’s–nothing. It’s all nothing. There’s nothing else there at all. 

“Seriously, you two are way too good at that,” Bernard says, which Kon’s pretty sure he only actually hears because Bernard is Tim-adjacent enough to count as a thing that’ll stay in his head right now. Tim kisses his pulse; squeezes the underside of his thigh. 

“Practice makes perfect,” Tim murmurs, and Kon’s whole brain evaporates and takes everything that isn’t floaty melty-soft rightness with it. They’ve never–they’ve never done this before. 

They’ve done this too many fucking times to even count. 

“Clearly, yeah,” Bernard says with a breathless laugh, and Tim’s fingertips brush in along Kon’s rim and up against where it’s stretched around Bernard’s cock. Kon feels too blissed-out to even react for the contact, but it feels good. Not quite as good as the cock inside him and arms around him, maybe, but still really, really good. 

It’s Tim, so obviously it does. 

“You did a good job,” Tim observes musingly, rubbing just one finger in along the seam right where they’re joined. Kon moans this time, though it’s so quiet he barely even hears it himself, and Bernard buries a rough huff in against his hair. “He’s a lot more relaxed.” 

“Feels like it, yeah,” Bernard says, still a little breathless as he presses a kiss in against Kon’s temple and squeezes his arms around him a little tighter. “Like I’ve got an entire friggin’ punching bag sitting on my dick, except sexy. Dunno how that works but I’m into it, not gonna lie.” 

“Not really surprised to hear that, considering,” Tim says, and then very gently slides a fingertip up into Kon’s body beside Bernard’s dick, easy as anything. Kon is definitely not the only one who hears himself moan this time. “Mm. He took that really well, didn’t he.” 

“Jesus, Tim,” Bernard says, his voice a little strangled. “Did you not just color over this idea?” 

“If I hadn’t taken a minute, I wasn’t going to be able to do it as well as my boy deserves,” Tim replies. Kon feels . . . blurry, a little, and isn’t sure what they’re talking about. But then Tim just gently works another finger up inside him and Bernard makes a tight little noise against his temple and he buries another moan in the other’s shoulder and decides he doesn’t really care anyway. It’s fine. Tim’ll tell him if there’s anything he needs to do. Or . . . know, he guesses. 

“Oh, but I’m supposed to last for this?” Bernard says, and it comes out borderline a wheeze. 

“You’ve got better stamina than me on a normal day, babe,” Tim replies, sounding amused, and Kon feels him take a moment to give Bernard an affectionate little smile that he really wishes he could actually see. 

It’s not . . . it’s not like it’s for him anyway, but . . . 

“Now he tries to win me over with flattery,” Bernard grumbles, then laughs even more breathlessly than the last time and curls his fingers against the back of Kon’s neck and around his fingers. “I’m getting Batted right now, aren’t I.” 

“You’re getting Timmed, babe,” Tim hums, leaning up over Kon’s back to press a kiss to Bernard’s mouth. Kon can feel that too, and it’s a soft and familiar and lingering thing, and they both clearly know how to expect the other to kiss; clearly’ve done it–clearly’ve done it–

Too many fucking times to even count, Kon thinks. 

His gut sort of–tightens, a little, something weirdly longing twisting up inside it, and he wants . . . he thinks he wants . . . 

He really wants kissed right now, he thinks, and buries his face in even tighter against Bernard’s shoulder. 

They’re being really nice to him. He doesn’t need to be–greedy, or whatever.

[anonyme-glace]

Christmas Gift

Spending Christmas break with my dad, which I’ve done tonnés of times before.

Except ever since I’ve gotten older, I can understand more and more why my friends call him a DILF. He’s built, trades man, thick legs and strong body, tall and, I can’t believe I notice this, hung.

Three weeks ago I was with him for the weekend and got to his house earlier than normal, he was showering. I couldn’t help myself, I peeked in, curiosity driving me, and maybe a bit of lust. Foggy shower door, his groans, and his hand down low. I knew what he was doing. I felt my stomach flutter.

His groans were so loud; his deep voice ringing out in the shower, talking to himself.

Fuck that feels so good baby….

Oh my god.

Keep going….

Oh my god he’s dirty talking.

You’re making daddy feel so good…

Oh my god.

…Carly.

Holy shit. What.

…

Hey Carly, sweetie, how’s it going?

I snap my head towards him, coming out of the memory.

It’s going good, dad, thanks for asking. I’m super excited to exchange gifts later, I’ve got the perfect thing for you.

Aw sweetie you didn’t have to get me anything.

I felt his eyes on me.

You’re gift enough.

I know Daddy.

…

I’ve been planning this for weeks. Now that I know he feels the same way about me. I’m gonna be the best little girl for him. I went out lingerie shopping with the girls a few weeks ago, they think I’m trying to impress Jack from fifth period. What the fuck am I doing.

Standing in my doorway, red lace plunge bra, matching panties, handcuffs in hand. He’s sitting on the couch, watching some stupid movie. I call out.

Turn that off, I’m coming out with my gift, close your eyes.

They’re closed sweetie.

I walk out, keeping my steps light, shivering with excitement. I stop in front of him.

Hands out daddy.

He laughs, a husky, sharp, inhale. Okay.

Quickly I place the cuffs on him. His eyes shoot open and I step back. He’s speechless, eyes trialing up and down my body, and I see his pants get a little tighter.

Do you like your gift daddy?

Fuck baby what are you doing? He breathes out and moves to get up. I push him back down and straddle him.

Mhm I heard you in the shower, daddy, you want me.

I don’t know what you heard sweetie, this is wrong, and illegal, and you need to get off of me. I trail my hands down his chest. You need to get off me, honey, you can’t be doing this. I’m your dad.

Daddy I can feel you. I lean into him and whisper, against my cunnie. Let me take care of you, this is your gift.

Not that he put much fight up in the first place, but his resolve loosens, and he leans back. I slide off his lap, knees hitting the floor.

I rub my hands all over him, my face rubbing his crotch. You gonna let me have it daddy? Yes baby, take daddy’s cock out. I reach for his pants but change paths and quickly unlock his hands from the cuffs before resuming.

Fuck daddy, it’s so big. I take it in my hands and begin to lick up and down, taking his balls in my mouth, and using my thumb to play with the tip. Yes baby just like that. Why don’t you take it in your mouth? I suck on the throbbing head, maintaining eye contact with him. I go deep as I can, choking myself on him, until he grabs my hair and takes control.

I can’t believe I raised such a slut. Where did you learn this slut?

I’m so sorry daddy, I’ve been with other boys.

Oh wow, you’re such a whore, you couldn’t even save yourself for me. Well I’ll just have to fill you up until you forget them, won’t I?

Yes please daddy, please give me your cock, I need it.

Good begging, come lay down and spread yourself for me. I do as he says, taking off my panties, laying back, and spreading my legs open for him. He slaps his heavy cock against my cunt before laying it on my stomach.

Look how deep I’m gonna go. Just about hits your belly button baby. I gasp and look down, just as he lines himself up with my pussy.

You’re gonna take it so well baby, all of it, all for me, forever and ever.

[gilbertscurls]

christmas (baby please come home) — matt sturniolo

summary: when a twist of fate reunites you and matt at a holiday gathering, old wounds resurface, forcing you to confront the love you thought you'd buried years ago.

The first snow of December blanketed the town in a pristine white sheen, softening the harshness of the biting cold. You adjusted your scarf as you pulled into the driveway of the charming, snow-dusted cabin, your heart pounding more from nerves than the chill. Beside you, Paul grinned, completely oblivious to the storm brewing within your chest.

“Ready to meet the family?” he asked, his voice warm and inviting.

You forced a smile, nodding. “Of course. I’m sure they’ll love me.”

The words were meant to reassure him, but you were the one who needed convincing. The holidays with Paul’s family should have been exciting, but an unshakable anxiety had clung to you since the moment he mentioned the gathering.

“They’re really great,” Paul continued as he unloaded your bags from the car. “You’ll love Julie. She’s the sweetest, and her boyfriend Matt is a good guy. Quiet, but cool.”

The name struck you like a thunderclap. You froze, the winter air suddenly suffocating. Matt? Surely, it couldn’t be…

“Matt?” you echoed, your voice tighter than you intended.

“Yeah,” Paul said casually. “You’ll meet him inside. I think he and Julie already got here. Come on, let’s head in. I can’t wait for you to meet everyone.”

You followed reluctantly, your feet heavy with dread. Five years had passed since you last saw Matthew Sturniolo—five years since your love story had crumbled into silence. You hadn’t heard from him, hadn’t tried to reach out, hadn’t dared to look back.

The cabin door opened to a wave of warmth and chatter, the smell of pine mingling with cinnamon and nutmeg. Paul greeted his sister, Julie, with a hug before turning to introduce you.

And there he was.

Matt stood by the fireplace, his eyes locking on yours the moment you walked in. Time hadn’t dulled the intensity of his gaze. If anything, it made it sharper, weighted with unspoken words. His hair was longer than you remembered, and he carried himself with a confidence you didn’t recognize. But it was him.

“Y/N, this is my sister, Julie,” Paul said, oblivious to the tension suddenly thickening the room. “And that’s her boyfriend, Matt.”

Julie extended a hand, her smile radiant. “So nice to meet you!”

You shook her hand automatically, murmuring a polite response. But your eyes flickered back to Matt, who hadn’t moved, hadn’t spoken.

“Y/N,” he said finally, his voice low, laced with disbelief.

Paul glanced between you two, frowning slightly. “Wait… you two know each other?”

The air crackled with the weight of the truth neither of you wanted to say. You swallowed hard, forcing a tight smile.

“We… grew up together,” you said lightly, as though the memories of your shared childhood and the heartbreak that followed weren’t threatening to choke you.

“Oh, small world!” Julie beamed. “This is going to be such a fun week!”

Matt’s jaw tightened, his eyes never leaving you. You could feel the questions in his gaze, the ghosts of your past clawing their way to the surface.

And as the snow continued to fall outside, blanketing the world in a deceptive quiet, you realized this holiday was about to be anything but peaceful.

The cabin was alive with the warmth of laughter and crackling wood, but you had never felt more cold. Dinner was a blur of introductions, family stories, and clinking glasses. Your polite smiles were automatic, but your focus wavered each time you caught Matt’s eyes across the table. He sat beside Julie, their hands intertwined. Paul sat next to you, his arm draped over the back of your chair. The perfect symmetry of their group didn’t feel perfect at all.

“So, Matt,” Paul began, breaking your thoughts, “how did you and Julie meet?”

Matt hesitated for the briefest moment, his fork pausing mid-air. “Through mutual friends,” he said, his voice even. “It just… clicked.”

Julie leaned into him, smiling. “He was so shy, but I thought that was cute. He’s not as quiet as he seems, though—he has the driest sense of humor once you get to know him.”

You swallowed hard, forcing a bite of your mashed potatoes past the lump in your throat. That used to be your discovery, your secret treasure. You could still remember the way Matt used to make you laugh when no one else could, his wit sharp but never cruel.

“And what about you, Y/N/N?” Julie asked, her question dripping with unintentional irony. “How’d you and Paul meet?”

You blinked, startled by the use of the nickname you hadn’t heard in years. Matt’s head tilted slightly at the sound of it, and your stomach twisted.

“Uh, at a bookstore,” you said, managing a smile. “He asked me for a recommendation, and we just… started talking.”

Paul grinned, nudging your shoulder. “She’s underselling it. I walked into that store looking for a novel, and I walked out with a date.”

Everyone laughed, except for Matt, whose expression hardened almost imperceptibly. You pretended not to notice, but the tension followed you even as dinner wound down.

The forecast had warned of heavy snow, and by morning, the world outside was a swirling whiteout. Paul and Julie were busy in the kitchen, preparing lunch, while the others scattered around the cabin. You found yourself in the living room, staring out the window, lost in thought.

“Still hate the snow?”

The voice behind you was low, familiar, and entirely unwelcome. You turned to find Matt standing a few feet away, his arms crossed.

“Some things don’t change,” you replied, your tone colder than you intended.

He nodded, his gaze dropping to the floor. “You haven’t changed much, either.”

“Neither have you,” you said, sharper now.

A bitter laugh escaped him. “I think we both know that’s not true.”

You looked away, the unspoken weight of your shared past pressing on your chest. “Why are you talking to me, Matt? We’re not kids anymore. We don’t owe each other anything.”

“I’m not trying to stir things up,” he said, his voice softening. “I just—being here, seeing you—it’s… strange.”

“Strange?” you repeated, your voice trembling. “You think strange covers it? After everything—” You stopped yourself, taking a deep breath. “You have a girlfriend. I have Paul. Let’s not make this harder than it has to be.”

His jaw tightened, but he nodded. “You’re right. I’ll leave you alone.”

And just like that, he walked away, leaving you to the silence and the storm raging outside.

By the fourth night, the cabin’s family festivities had culminated in a bonfire behind the house. The fire’s warm glow illuminated the whole group as you huddled under blankets, sipping hot cocoa and sharing stories. But you felt like an outsider looking in.

You sat beside Paul, who was animatedly recounting a funny story about his childhood, while Julie leaned against Matt, her laughter filling the air. It was all so picture-perfect, so maddeningly normal.

“I need some air,” you murmured to Paul, excusing yourself before anyone could ask questions.

You wandered a little away from the fire, the cold biting through your jacket. You weren’t surprised when Matt followed you, his footsteps crunching in the snow.

“Y/N—”

“Stop,” you said, turning to face him. Your eyes glistened, reflecting the firelight. “Why are you doing this? Why are you making it so hard to forget?”

“I’m not trying to,” he said, his voice hoarse. “I just—I can’t pretend you’re not here. I can’t pretend like seeing you doesn’t hurt.”

Your breath hitched, your resolve crumbling. “Do you think it’s easy for me? Seeing you with her, pretending like we didn’t spend half our lives planning a future together?”

“Then why did you leave?” he asked, the words spilling out before he could stop them. “Why didn’t you fight for us?”

Your eyes filled with tears, but you held his gaze. “Because you didn’t ask me to stay.”

The weight of your words hit him like a freight train. For years, he had carried the blame, the bitterness of their breakup. But now, the truth was laid bare between you, raw and unforgiving.

“Y/N…”

“I can’t do this,” you whispered, shaking your head. “Not here. Not now.”

You turned away, walking back to the bonfire, leaving him standing alone in the dark.

The week passed in a blur, tension simmering just beneath the surface. By the time the last day arrived, you were eager to leave. You packed your bags with shaky hands, avoiding Matt as much as possible.

But fate had other plans. You found him outside, leaning against your car, his expression unreadable.

“You’re really leaving without saying anything?” he asked, his voice quieter than before.

You hesitated, glancing around the snow-covered driveway before stepping closer. “What do you want me to say, Matt?”

“I don’t know,” he admitted, shoving his hands into his jacket pockets. “I just… I think we should talk.”

Your stomach tightened, but you nodded, leaning against the hood of the car beside him.

“I’ve been thinking,” you started, your voice steady despite the storm in your chest. “About Paul. About Julie. About us.”

“Me too,” he said, looking straight ahead, avoiding your eyes. “It’s not fair to them, is it? The way we’ve been acting this week.”

“No,” you agreed softly. “It’s not.”

Silence settled between you, the kind that spoke louder than any words. Finally, you turned to face him, your breath forming small clouds in the cold air.

“Julie’s good for you,” you said, forcing the words out even though they felt like glass. “I can see it. She makes you laugh. She looks at you the way I used to.”

He flinched at that, his jaw tightening. “Paul’s good for you, too. He seems like the kind of guy who knows how to take care of someone. He’s… steady.”

“He is,” you admitted, your voice trembling slightly. “But he’s not you, Matt. And maybe that’s a good thing.”

He turned to you then, his eyes filled with something between regret and longing. “I feel the same about Julie. She’s amazing, and she deserves someone who can give her everything. But I don’t know if I’ll ever be able to do that—not completely—not with you still in my head.”

Your breath hitched, and for a moment, you just stared at each other, the weight of your words sinking in.

“So what do we do?” you asked, your voice barely above a whisper.

Matt sighed, running a hand through his hair. “We try to be better. For them. For ourselves. We made choices, and it’s not fair to drag everyone else into our mess.”

You nodded slowly, tears welling in your eyes. “Maybe we don’t get a second chance. Maybe this is just… how it has to end.”

“Maybe,” he said, though his voice was thick with doubt. “But if there’s anything I’ve learned this week, it’s that I still want you to be happy, even if it’s not with me.”

Your tears spilled over, but you smiled through them, a bittersweet expression that mirrored his. “I want that for you, too.”

You stood there for a moment longer, the snow falling gently around you, before you stepped forward, wrapping your arms around him in a brief, fierce hug.

“Goodbye, Matt,” you whispered.

“Goodbye, Y/N/N,” he replied, his voice breaking.

As you got into your car and drove away, leaving the cabin behind, you felt a strange sense of peace. You weren’t meant to be, not now. But maybe that was okay. Some endings weren’t about closure—they were about choosing to move forward, even when the past still lingered.

tag list: @stuwniolo, @sturnobsessedwh0re, @matts-myloverboy, @imjusthereforthesturniolosmut, @lizzymacdonald06, @asherrisrandom, @sturniolowhore69, @faith5drpepper, @emely9274, @psychologyloverfr, @lovetaylorrussellgrr, @conspiracy-ash, @helpimateenagerinlove, @ghostlythinggoingaround, @sturmatt, @chris-hallelujah, @goingtojohnkramershouseee, @wurlibydominicfike, @straw8berry, @shadowthesim

[littlespacereader]

Merry Christmas!!💚❤️🎅🎄🎁

Happy Holidays everyone! Thank you to everyone who voted on the Christmas fic idea. I really hope you enjoy this fic! I wrote a lot more than I was expecting but I couldn’t stop myself, I truly fell in love with writing this story! Thank you for an amazing year! I hope you, your friends, family and loved ones have a great holiday season! - Clara💞

Blues Clues Christmas💙🐾

Caregiver! Steve Burns & GN Little! Reader (SFW!)

Tags- Christmas fluff, hand holding, being picked up, forehead kisses, searching for clues, dog licks, and typical blues clues fluff!

My eyes start to flutter open to a frosty Christmas Eve morning. Wait… ITS CHRISTMAS EVE!!! I jump up and look outside and it’s still snowing!!!

I turn and shake Steve to wake up, “Steve!! Steve!! It’s Christmas Eve!!”

I hear him chuckling before he stretches, starting to wake up. “Someone’s excited for Christmas.”

“I am! I can’t wait to-.” I’m interrupted by Blue, jumping into the bed and licking my face. “Blue! Good morning! Merry Christmas Eve!”

Blue smiles to me and barks, just as excited for the day ahead. I hold her in my arms, turning as we look to a disheveled Steve sits up in bed.

“You two are wide awake,” he chuckles, “Come on you rascals. Let’s get some Christmas Eve breakfast.”

Blue jumps from my arms and heads towards the kitchen. But before Steve and I go, he leads me to the bathroom first, “Come on little one, let’s get you changed and ready for the big day.”

With a quick pit stop to the bathroom, brushing our teeth, getting changed into our outfits, we set off to the kitchen hand in hand.

“Bonjour Y/N!” Mr. Salt comes to the edge of the countertop.

“Good morning Steve!” Mrs. Pepper joins him.

“Good morning!” I say to put, taking a seat at the table next to Blue.

Steve grabs a cup of tea for himself and a sippy cup of fruit juice for me. Then we settle in and have a small breakfast together with Blue and the spice family.

“So what’s the plan today Steve?” I ask, eager to get our Christmas Eve started.

“Well,” he put his tea cup down, “I was thinking we could stop by and give out invitations to Christmas, maybe some cooking…”

“Leave the cooking to us.” Mrs. Pepper winked.

“But what about tonight? The night before Christmas?” I ask again.

But this time it’s Blue’s turn. She barks and spins around before putting a blue paw print on the table.

Steve and I gasp. “BLUE’S CLUES!!!”

“That’s a great idea Blue!” Steve smiles, “We’ll play Blues Clues to see what we should do tonight after dinner.”

“So we need to keep our eyes out for three clues!” I cheer from across the table.

“Yes! And I have a very important job for you Y/N.” He reaches into his pocket and takes out his handy dandy notebook. “I want you to be in charge of my notebook today.”

I’m speechless taking the notebook carefully. I stare at it in disbelief, “Y-You want me to hold onto it?”

“Sure! I could use your help today finding all of Blue’s clues. Are you up to the task my little sidekick?” He winks.

“Yes!! Yes!! A million times yes!!” I almost jump from my seat.

“Then let’s starts our adventure!” Steve finishes his tea and I finish my juice before we set out to the living room.

“Alright. Now on top of finding Blue’s clues, we also have to give out our Christmas invitations. We have three stops.”

He holds out the cards, “One is for Magenta, one is for Josh, and one is for Joe. We’ll need to make sure we stop at everyone’s house so they know they’re invited tomorrow. I’ll have you be in change of holding onto the cards.”

He hands me them and I look at the cards in awe, “You want me to be in charge of the cards too?”

“Of course! I know you can do it! But if you’re feeling overwhelmed or like it’s too much responsibility, you let me know okay?” He reassures.

“I will but, I’ve got it.” I smile back to him.

“I knew I could trust you! Now, let’s head out.” He goes to open the door but I stop him smiling, “Steve wait.”

“What’s wrong little one?”

“We need our coats, hats and gloves.”

With a small gasp he nods, “You’re so right. How could I be so silly? You’re so smart!” He praises. “Let’s get our winter gear.”

“First we’ll put on our coat…” he puts on his green stripped coat that matches his usual shirt. He turns and grabs my coat, helping me put each arm in the sleeves, then zipping it right up.

“Great. Next we’ll put on our hats…” he grabs his green hat and puts it on, then does the same for me. “Comfy?” He asks getting a nod from me.

“Finally we’ll put on our mittens.” A green pair for him of course, then a pair for me. “Let me see their hands.” He waves his hands up like crazy, I giggle and follow suit.

“Alright! Looks like we’re all set. But first, do we need anything else before we leave? A snack, a quick trip to the bathroom?”

I pause, thinking it over. “Bathroom?” I say shy.

“Good idea. Let’s make a quick stop before we go.” He takes my mitten hand in his mitten hand, heading back to our bed room. After taking care of business, we’re right back to it!

“Okay! Are you all set? Ready for our Christmas Adventure?” He smiles.

“Yes! Let’s find out what Blue wants to do tonight after dinner!” I squeeze his hand.

“Great! Let’s go!”

~~~

We step outside to our frosty front yard. It snowed a few days ago and everything still looked so beautiful, like a winter wonderland.

We leave our little yellow house and start walking down the street, saying hi to those who pass us. I stick close to Steve, holding his hand as we approach our first stop, Magenta’s house.

“Would you like to ring the bell or would you like me too?” He ask, looking over to me.

“Can you?”

“Of course I can.” He leans forward ringing the bell. We wait maybe a minute before Magenta runs to the door and right over to us.

“Magenta!! So good to see you!” I giggle as she jumps up and licks Steve and I.

We follow after her into the house and find Blue sitting at a coloring table with Magenta. “Oh hi Blue!”

Blue smiles and barks back, but then I see it.

“STEVE! A clue! A clue!!!”

“I know Magenta really flew!”

“No!” I giggle shaking my head to Steve, “A clue!” I point to the blue paw print on the piece of paper.

He gasps. “A clue!! Great job Y/N!! You found our first clue! But…what is it?”

“It’s paper Steve.” I giggle some more. He’s so silly sometimes.

“Ah! You’re so right, it is paper. You know what this means, we need our Handy Dandy…”

“Notebook!” I hold it out for him.

“Notebook! That’s right. Thank you sweet one.”

He takes the notebook, pushing the crayon through the top and flipping to a new page.

“So our first clue is paper. We start by drawing a straight line at the top, then a line down, then another line at the bottom and one up to connect at the top. There, paper!”

He stops and thinks looking over to me, “But what could Blue want to do after dinner tonight with paper?”

“Maybe she wants to draw some more?” I offer.

“Maybe…but we better find more clues to make sure.” We nod together.

“Here,” he hands me the notebook again, “for safe keeping.”

I turn and put the notebook back in my pocket. But then I remember our second mission!

“Magenta!” I grab the invitation from my backpack and hand it to her, “You’re invited over for Christmas tomorrow!”

Magenta lights up running around and barking. She runs over to me and licks me as a thank you. “Oh! You’re welcome! I can’t wait to see you tomorrow!” I smile back.

“Alright! You two have fun! We have more invitations to send out!” Steve holds his hand out to me which I gladly take. Together we wave goodbye to Magenta and Blue before leaving.

Then we’re back to it, making our way down the street to the next house. “Uncle Josh!!”

“Yeah! Next is Uncle Josh! I’m sure he’ll very excited to come over.”

We walk up the steps to the blue house which belongs to Josh. “Would you like to do the honors this time?” Steve asks and I quickly nod, reaching forward and ringing the bell.

Soon Josh arrives at the door, his face lighting up to see is. “Y/N! Steve! What a wonderful surprise!”

“Uncle Josh!” I run forward and give him the biggest hug.

“Y/N! It’s so good to see you!!” He wraps his arms around me, hugging me just as tightly. With a kiss to my forehead, we break apart.

I stick close to him, resting against his side. He notices this and wraps an arm around me. “So what brings you two here?”

“We’re looking for Blue’s Clues!” Steve replied.

Josh gasp, “Special Christmas Eve Blue’s Clues! This must really be important!”

“Have you see any around?” I ask.

“Not that I know of but-.” He looks around, “maybe another set of eyes could help!”

He takes my hand in his, leading me into his living room with Steve following behind.

“Actually I could use the two of yours help.” Papers laid all over his living room.

“You see, there was a mistake at the print shop and now all of my stories are messed up. Can you help me tell which is the real story.”

“Yeah!” I bounce beside him.

Josh smiles, squeezing my hand, “Great! Okay here’s the first one. Is it Little Bo-Peep lost her sheep or her cows?”

Steve and I think for a moment. Then it hits me, “It’s her sheep!”

“Ohhhhh.” Josh and Steve say in unison. “You’re right! It is her sheep!”

Josh smiles back, “Good job Y/N!” He puts the paper in a pile. “Okay here’s the next one, Little blue or red ridding hood?”

Again, we all stop and take a moment to think. “Red or blue…red or blue…” Steve says to himself.

“Red!” I chime in.

The two again, look in awe of me. “You’re right! It’s Little Red Riding Hood. Amazing Job!” Josh praises some more, putting the paper in the pile.

“Alright! Last one, Old MacDonald had a mansion or a farm?” Josh reads the papers.

Again, we all take our time to think it over.

“I’ve got this one!” Steve chimes in, “But…just to be sure, what do you think Y/N?”

“I think it’s a farm!”

“I think so too!” Steve cheers on.

“Great job you guy!! You helped me put my stories back together!”

I cheer us on but then pause as my eyes hit upon Josh’s pile of stories. He must’ve seen it at the same time as me because Josh and I turn and look at each other at the same time.

“A clue!!” We say in unison.

“A clue?! Where?” Steve leans over.

“On the stack of stories.” Josh points out.

“So our next clue is a story…” I think.

“You know what this means, we need our Handy…Dandy….” Steve smirks.

“Notebook!!” I hold it up.

“Wow!! Steve let you hold his notebook! He must really trust you Y/N! What a big honor!” Josh praises me making me blush.

“Thank you.” I smile, handing the notebook to Steve.

He takes the crayon out and flips to the next page. “So our next clue is…stories. We’ll make a square with some squiggly lines in the center for writings. Then we’ll repeat this on the other side so we have two pages. There! A story!”

Steve lifts his head and looks to Josh and I. “But what could Blue want to do tonight after dinner with paper and a story?”

The three of us sit and think for a minute. “Oh!” Josh suddenly says “Maybe she wants to make her own stories!”

“Ohhhhhh.” Steve and I say in unison.

“But we better find the last clue, just to be sure.” I remind them as Steve hands me his notebook back.

“Definitely!” Josh smiles.

Mail time! Mail time! MAAAAAAIIIIILLLLLL TTTTIIIIIIMMMMEEEEE!

Steve and I gasp! “The mail is here!!”

Before we run out the door I stop, grabbing my backpack and pulling out Josh’s invitation. “Here Josh! It’s your invitation to Christmas tomorrow at our house.”

“Really?! I’d love to go! I’ll see you then Y/N.” With one last hug from Josh, I’m sent off with Steve back home for the mail!

We put our stuff down by the front door as Steve starts to sing, “Here’s the mail, it never fails, it makes want to wag my tail, when it comes I wanna wail, mmmmaaaaiiilll!!!”

I giggle, joining Steve on the mmmaaaiiilll part.

We take out seats on the thinking chair. Steve in the center of the chair while I sit on the arm. Mailbox comes in through the window with a Christmas hat on.

“Mail’s here! Mail’s here!!” He happily cheers.

“I thought the post office is closed on holidays?” I ask Mailbox.

“It is! That’s very smart of you Y/N. The post office is closed on major holidays, but this arrived this morning for the two of you.” He opens up and inside of a red and green letter.

“We just got a letter, we just got a letter, we just got a letter, wonder who it’s from.” Steve smiles, opening the letter. He pauses and gasps, looking at me. “It’s from Santa.”

My eyes widen and I gasp as well, “SANTA?!”

“Yes! It says:

Dear Steve, Blue and Y/N,

You’ve all been very good this year. I look for to visiting your house tonight. Make sure not to stay up too late and please leave out some milk and cookies if you can.

Sincerely yours,

Santa Claus❤️”

I beam with excitement. “Santa’s coming tonight!!!!”

“Yes he is! We need to figure out what Blue wants to do tonight so we get to bed at a good hour and don’t accidentally see Santa Claus.”

Just as Steve says that Blue runs by. “Follow that dog!” I giggle, grabbing my backpack by the door and running after her.

“Wait up Y/N!” Steve calls after me.

Blue stops in front of a picture of Joe’s present shop. She barks a cute little song before she…goes into the picture?!?! I stare in disbelief.

“Where’s Blue?” Steve asks catching up.

“She…she’s in the picture.”

“Ohhhh she skidooed into the photo.”

“Skidoo?”

“Yeah! We can do it too! All you have to do is rock your leg and arms with me. Ready?” I nod following his lead.

“Blue skidooed we can too!” Suddenly we shrink and go into the picture frame!! Where once we were in our house, now we’re in the picture, or more specifically, outside Uncle Joe’s present shop.

“Wow!!” I smile to Steve, “That was awesome!”

“Isn’t it?” He smiles back. We turn and look to the present shop. “It’s my brother Joe’s present shop!”

“He’s the last invitation we need to hand out!”

“You’re right! Let’s head in and see what he’s up to.”

Inside the present shop was busy! Presents being wrapped and sent in all sorts of directions. Joe usually helps Santa out with the wrapping this time of year and it seems like this year was no different!

There, in the center of it all is Joe, making sure everything is in working order.

“Uncle Joe!!” I run into the shop and right over to him.

He immediately lights up seeing me, opening his arms and holding me in a tight hug. “Y/N!! Sweetheart!! It’s so good to see you!!”

He lifts me into his arms, holding me on his hip. “What brings you here today?”

“Well we’re on the hunt for Blue’s Clues.” Steve says as he joins us.

“Special Christmas Eve Blue’s Clues huh? What have you got so far?”

“We’ve got paper and stories.”

“Paper and stories…” Joe starts to think, “Now I wouldn’t want to say anything until you have the third clue, but…have you thought about maybe Blue want to make her own stories?”

“That’s what Uncle Josh said!”

“Really? So he copying me now?” Joe smirks.

“You’re copying him silly!” I giggle.

“Am I now? Am I?” He spins me around making me giggle more.

“How are the presents coming by?” Steve asks.

“Everything is going according to schedule. Santa should be ready to head out as soon as tonight!”

Suddenly my eyes catches something, I look closer and it’s….

“A clue!! A clue!!”

“A clue?!” Josh and Steve say in unison. “Where?”

“There!” I point to the square box cutter. “It’s a clue!!”

The two gasp, “You’re right Y/N! It’s one of Blue’s clues!! Good eye.” Joe praises

“The final clue is a square!” Steve examines the clue.

“Notebook!” I hold it out to Steve.

“Our handy dandy notebook! Thank you Y/N.”

“You’re holding Steve’s notebook? That’s such a big honor. Steve must really trust you.” He praises.

I beam with happiness, “Yeah! It’s a big honor.”

“So, the shape of a square. We’ll make one line at the top and equal size lines going down the sides and one at the bottom. There, a square.” Steve explains, showing the two of us the drawing.

“It’s our last clue!!” I cheer.

“Our last clue?! You know that that means, it’s time for our thinking chair!!” Steve cheers.

Joe sets be back down but before Steve and I go I stop and grab my backpack. “Uncle Joe! I almost forgot!”

I hand him the invitation, “You’re in over for Christmas tomorrow!��

“I am!” He looks at the invitation, “I’d be honored. I’ll see you tomorrow kiddo.”

I take Steve’s hand and wave goodbye to Joe. Once out of his present shop we skidoo back to our house. Then it’s off to the thinking chair!

Steve and I sit in our thinking chair. I hand him the notebook and we start to go over our clues. “So now that we’re in our thinking chair, let’s think. What does Blue want to do tonight after dinner? What was the first clue?”

“Paper!”

“That’s right! We saw the clue at Magenta’s house. But…what was the second clue?”

“Stories!”

“Yes! We saw the stack of stories at Josh’s house.”

“And the final clue is a square at Uncle Joe’s present shop.”

“So, what does Blue want to do tonight after dinner with paper, stories and a square?”

We sit and think…and think…

“What if…” Steve starts out saying, “she wants to write Christmas cards and put them in a box?”

“But then what would be the clue about stories?”

“Right…you’re so right….” Steve goes back to thinking.

There’s a moment of silence as the two of us think. Blue runs over and joins us as we think and think.

“I’ve got it!!” I suddenly say. Steve and Blue look to me. “She want to read a storybook after dinner! That would explain the paper as pages, the stories in the book and the square shape is the book itself!”

Steve lights up with the realization. We look to Blue who barks and spins around with conformation.

“You did it Y/N! You figure out Blue’s Clues!” He wraps his arms around me and picks me up, bringing me into a tight hug. “You are so incredibly smart! I am so proud of you Little one.”

I giggle and hold him close. “Couldn’t have done it without you Steve.”

“Aw! You’re sweet but I think the smartie here is you.” He smiles back, holding me in his arms.

“Steve! Y/N! Dinner is ready!” Mrs. Pepper calls from the kitchen.

“Oh! It’s dinner time! Come on, let’s go.” Steve carries me into the kitchen where everyone is seated at the big table for Christmas Eve dinner. Everyone is there, side table, slippery soap, the whole spice family, even mailbox.

We all have a nice tasty dinner together. Laughing and having fun with friends and family around.

Then like Blue ask, we all gather in the living room together. First we set out some milk and cookies for Santa along with some carrots for the reindeer.

Steve and I cuddle close together on the couch, Blue in my lap and a Christmas book in his hand. With his arm wrapped around me he begins to read, “‘Twas the night before Christmas…”

Somewhere in the story I fall asleep against Steve. With a kiss to my forehead, he picks me up and brings me into the bedroom.

~~~

It’s Christmas morning!!! I jump awake and shake Steve to wake up. “It’s Christmas morning!! Santa came!!”

Steve laughs and yawns waking up. “Good morning Little one, merry Christmas.”

“Merry Christmas Steve.” I smile back.

Blue jumps up into the bed and licks the two of us. I giggle, “And merry Christmas to you too Blue!”

We get out of bed and go right to the tree. True to Santa’s letter, we have plenty of presents under the tree!! I gasp, grabbing Steve’s when pulling him along to the tree.

The morning is spent unwrapping and exchanging gifts with everyone in the house. Then company comes over right after. First Magenta runs in and plays with Blue.

Then Josh and Joe come over. “Where’s my favorite Little?” Joe calls from the door. I come run over and reunite with my uncles. “Y/N! Thank you for inviting us!” Josh adds, the two smiling.

The rest of Christmas Day is peacefully and fun. Spent with loved ones and family alike.

“Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night.” Steve wraps his arm around me, kissing my forehead. Blue jumps up and kisses the two of us, ending the best Christmas ever!

[littlxpxtal]

Homemade Dynamite

TYRANTS || STORY MASTERLIST

PAIRING: rafe cameron x fem!reader

WARNINGS: MDNI 18+ Content, swearing, sexual content, drug and alcohol use, violence

WORD COUNT: 2.7k

I'll give you my best side, tell you all my best lines

Seeing me rolling, showing someone else love

Dancing with our shoes off

Know I think you're awesome, right?

March

”Here, take this” Sabrina hands me a purple gummie.

”How much are they?” I take it out of her palm and inspect, giving it a quick whiff.

”Like 10mg. You can take two if you want.”

”What if we both take one and a half?’ I ask, reaching for the bag she pulled it out of.

”God I love your brain.” She smiles widely and pops her pink gummie into her mouth. I take a bite it of a green one and pass her the other half.

“How are you feeling about tonight?” She asks, brushing her hair infront of the mirror.

”Well, I need to get out of the house. So I’m feeling pretty good. I just hope Noah isn’t there.” I murmur the last part and she glances over her shoulder at me with a sympathetic look.

”And if he is, we don’t have to stay. Or we can get topper to kick him out.”

I sigh and finish zipping my boots up.

“I’ll be fine. As long as he leaves me alone, there shouldn’t be any problems.”

”And what are you going to do if Rafe is there?” I freeze in place and try to act as nonchalant as possible.

“I don’t know. Say hello I guess” I let out a fake chuckle and start to walk around the room looking for my purse.

“You’re not going to escape to a bathroom with him?”she jokes. I roll my eyes and walk over to the mirror with her, pulling out my lip liner.

“You’re hilarious you know that right?” She smiles brightly back at me and places the brush down.

“Alright, I think im ready.” She declares. I finish applying my lipgloss and turn to her.

”Let’s rage.”

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

“These boots are NOT made for walking in the sand.” I complain to Sab as we walk through the sand to reach the party.

”I swear I thought it was going to be more in the house, since it still kind of chilly, Sorry girl”

As we approach the bonfire and makeshift bar, we run into many familiar faces, including Noah.

I ignore his group of friends, leaving Sab to chat with some girls from our grade to get a drink.

”Is it possible for a gal to get a sugar free vodka red bull” I say, leaning over the bar. Topper, who was bartending for the time being, smiled at me when he heard my voice.

“Y/N!” He yells. “I feel like I haven’t seen you out in a while. “ he reaches over the bar and gives me a makeshift hug. I giggle into his shoulder as he pats my back.

”One sugar free red bull coming up.” He says with a big smile.

“Looks like the pogues have officially set up camp.” I hear Kelce’s voice grumble behind me. I turn and give him a glare. His face goes from annoyed to shocked.

”YN, didn’t know you would be making an appearance.” He gives me a side hug and goes behind the bar with Topper.

“If pogues are here, Y/N is here.” I hear Noah’s voice grovel beside me. I ignore him as Topper hands me my drink. He flashes a look between us, and gives me a look of worry. I shake my head and turn on my heels, walking away without even looking at him.

I walk out to see where the pogues are, and see a small fire a few yards away, closer to the water.

“Hey” I call out. I watch their heads snap around in defense mode, everyone’s stiff until they realize its just me. JJ is the first one to run over.

“No fucking way, the kook princess makes an appearance.” I scoff and accept his embrace.

“Hey loser” I mumble into his shoulder. The rest of the boys join our group hug as the girls giggle from behind.

”WHAT?” Pope shouts out. “We lost the coolest member of our group. Sue us for being excited”

I chuckle at this declaration and give the girls individual hugs.

“I’m still not over being called a kook princess.” I say as I release Sarah.

“At least they’re calling you that and not me. I’m sick of that nickname” She says, placing a soft kiss on my cheek.

“I missed you guys” I say to the group, and they all lift their cups to the sky.

”To Y/N” John B says.

”TO Y/N” they all shout.I giggle into my cup and take a sip.

“So what trouble are we getting into tonight?” I ask, sitting down on a log next to Kie and Cleo.

”Remember when I said we had a plan for those losers that were at the scene of the crime?” Cleo asks me. I shake my head yes and they all snicker around me.

”Well we may or may not have messed with one of their kegs… you see its a simple prank really, but I brought backup use in case.” JJ says, flashing a gun in his waistband. My face holds still and I can hear the fire crackle.

“JJ, you wouldn’t actually use that would you?” I whisper, barely enough that the group can hear me.

“Just for backup, like I said.” He says, with an unreadable face. I shift uncomfortably and look back to Cleo.

”The prank on the keg is funny. I'm excited to see how that goes.” She gives me a smile and clinks her red solo cup against mine.

”Me too girl”

After catching up with the boys, I notice my drink is empty, and the edible is hitting. Hard.

“I need to find Sab and get another drink” I mumble to the group before using Kie’s shoulder as a crutch to stand.

“JJ would you ..” I hear Kie say to JJ. He shoots up and walks over to grab my arm.

”Let’s get you some water little lady.

”’m not little Jay” I grumble. Feeling the weight of the sand i'm standing on, the vibrations through my fingertips and the disgusting taste in my mouth. We make it up to the bar, and a new group of guys, probably sophomores at Kook academy working the bar this time.

“Can we get some water? And a few beers?” He asks. The boys glare at him, but they seem to recognize me enough to still get the water, neither of them addressing JJ, and passing the cup directly to me. He leaves the rest of the beers on the bar, and JJ reaches over dramatically to grab them.

“Thanks” I mumble turning to face JJ.

“Let’s go back to the water eh?” He starts to grab my arm and turn me before I halt and push against his chest.

”Said I wanted to find Sab.” I state, looking him hard in the eyes.

”Alright lets find Sabrina. Where would she be?” He asks, still holding onto my arm.

“With Top” I grumble, trying to take a step and falling into JJ.

”Alright, and where would Topper be?” He asks, holding me upright and looking around nervously. I felt bad. This situation probably looked bad. I was a mess, at the height of the edible, al I wanted was to find my best friend and giggle, but im no fucking help as to where she would be.

“Wait, what if I call her?” I say, pulling out my phone from my jeans.

“Good idea, lets go over here”

he pulls me to a corner of the party that isn’t heavily populated, the phone rings a few times before she finally answers.

”Sab where are you?” I ask frantically.

“Inside…. but we’re with rafe.” She whispers the last part and I grit my teeth.

”Where?” She tells me the room and how to get there, and I drag J by his arm through the crowd of people to reach the room.

“Give me that” I say, ripping one of the cups of beer out of his hands, chugging it as fast as I possibly could before tossing the cup. He stands there, shocked, and in his time of weakness I grab the other, chugging it fast as well. I continue to drag him up the stairs. We were a few feet away from the door before a hiccup escapes my lips and I turn to face JJ. He stops dead in his tracks so he doesn’t run into me.

“Sab is in there, but we gotta be careful, I’m not sure what we’re walking into” that was my best way of telling him rafe was behind the door and was going to absolutely hate seeing us together.

“Is it okay if im going in here with you?” He asks, scratching the back of his head.

”You really give a fuck? You brought a gun anyways” he shrugs his shoulders and follows behind me closely.

”Before we go in, can you promise me you wont use that, unless its extremely necessary. Like life or death?” I beg, holding onto his arm.

”Life or death only.” He promises. I look him dead in the eyes for a moment before turning the doorknob.

When we enter the room,it's filled with smoke, and a bunch of random people that probably knew the owner of this house better than me. What was his name again?

I look around, trying to find Sabrina in the cloud of smoke. I spot her across the room, on Topper’s lap, right next to him is Rafe, leaning over the glass table, snorting a line.

”Right right” Jj says, sighing and giving me a look before I drag him over to the other side of the room.

“Y/N!” Sabrina shrieks before jumping off of Toppers lap to give me a hug.

”Hi mama I was missing you” I exclaim, hugging her back tightly.

“Hi JJ” she says, and he responds back with a head nod.

My eyes trail off to the left of Sabrina to see tha rafe is completely avoiding eye contact with me, rubbing the tip of his nose and lifting his hips up to pull out his phone. I roll my eyes and look back at Sab, leaning into her ear

”It’s hitting.” I say,smiling big and giggling

”Dude me too im fucking fried” she says back into my ear, giggling back

“Why don’t we go play in the water” i say, grabbing onto her wrist. Her eyes widen.

“That’s the best idea I’ve heard all fucking night” she shouts, turning to topper.

”We’re going down to the beach. You comin?” She holds out her other hand to him, he exchanges a look with rafe, then topper looks at me, JJ, then back at sabrina

”Yea I’ll come.” He softly states. He taps rafes shoulder and nudges his head at us. I don’t look long enough to see Rafes reaction, I just turn to JJ, as he leads the way back to where we were outside with the pogues.

Once we reach them, I finally turn around to see Sabrina and Topper following right behind, with a fucked up out rafe trailing behind. I could always tell when he was coked out, not because of his pupils, but he stood a certain way. His legs when he walked were a lot more straight, like he was focusing on each step he made. He ran his hands through his hair a lot, which is exactly what he was doing right now.

I was disgusted with both myself and him for knowing what he was like when he was doing coke. I always wondered if he was embarrassed too.

we reach back to the edge of the sand, and I lean over to take my boots off.

”Wait you were serious?” Sab asks, Lookin to topper, her head leaning against his bicep.

”Dead serious” I state. Pulling off my socks before running towards the water.

The cold water against my toes runs a chill up my leg and I squeal out.

“FUCK ITS COLD” I shout back at the group watching me, all the pogues, plus Topper and Rafe.

“Could’ve told you that!” Sarah exclaims, leaning down to touch the water with her hands. I walk further down into the water, getting my jeans wet. I couldn’t help myself from venturing down enough to my calves. I needed the feeling to wake me up. Before, I could feel myself getting hazy, but this was waking me up.

“Alright y/n, I think that’s enough” Kie calls out,walking into the water. I could tell she was shocked by the cold at the way her body tensed.

”You guys are so boring” I mumble before turning back to the open water one last time. I took in a deep breath, and turned back, walking back into the sand.

“Let’s go back to the fire” Sarah says, holding onto my shoulder. We get back to the fire and I noticed that topper and rafe still stayed with us,

I look across and see rafe, his face hard and cold.

I furrow my brows and take my phone out to see that I had a missed text from him

The fuck are you dragging JJ around like that for?

and now you’re about to drown in that fuck ass ice cold water.

I roll my eyes and text him back

not like you would’ve saved me anyways

I look back up to see him, his face still the same. Before I could read the rest of his demeanor, I hear topper raise his voice. Rafe and I break eye contact to look over to see Topper smack the red solo cup out of JJ’s hand.

“Oh no” Cleo hissed, backing up.

“Fuck did you say to me you dirty fucking Pogue?” Topper seethed. JJ had a sly smirk on his face, and I watched his hands raise. Fuck.

He shoves Topper, and all hell breaks loose. Multiple punches are thrown between the two, JJ trying to knock Topper off his feet. Rafe starts running towards them and I scream out

”DON’T” he whips his head back and looks at me with a pleading face.

“Don’t” I whispered. My pleas were ignored when John B started punching Topper, which made the fight unfair. It was only right that Rafe joined. I knew the rules of the jungle far too well. It would be all downhill from here. The boys keep shouting profanities at each other, as we stand in a circle watching and pleading them to stop. The closer we get, the deeper into the water they go. Before I know it, John b slips and falls, his head dunking under water. I scream out and run to the edge. My head felt light and my vision blurred. I couldn’t tell what was happening, it was so dark, the waves were crashing, and I was fucked up.

Before he could keep his head above water for more than a few breaths, a figure dunked his head under again, holding it down with force.

”WHAT THE FUCK STOP IT HE CANT BREATHE” I screamed, a pair of arms holding me back. I didnt know who it was, but they dragged me back for enough that my feet were no longer touching the water, just wet sand.

“STOP IT. STOP IT.” I heard Sarah screaming. I think at this point I was on the verge of blacking out. The rest of the next few events came in a blur.

“Somebody do something” I half whispered and half screamed.

I watch another male figure stand behind the man with a dark object in his hands. There’s a click, and he points it at the man who was still holding John B underwater. It had to be JJ. I feel tears streaming down my face and I can barely breathe.

“Yo HES GOT A GUN”someone from the crowd hollers out. a cry escapes my lips as I lunge forward, still being held back by a stranger.

“JJ! Kiara screams out. I recognize her voice, but don’t see where it came from. My legs wobble and I struggle to keep myself up. I was terrified John B was going to die and someone was going to get shot.

“Yeah YOU KNOW WHAT THAT IS” I hear JJ shout.

“JJ PLEASE” I cry out, my voice hoarse.

“What’s that princess?” He calls back. I’m taken aback and try to run after him again, slightly getting out of the strong grip against me, before I see Sarah running over to them.

”SARAH NO” Kie and I shout in unison.

I held my breath, waiting to see what would happen. Every breath felt like an eternity. I couldn’t imagine how John B felt, his arms were still flailing. God I hope that’s not rafe.

The person that JJ was holding a gun to raised his arms in defeat, and John B lifted his head up gasping for air. The pair of arms finally let me go as we all ran after to make sure he was okay. Before we could reach him though, JJ turns around and raises the gun in the air.

“OKAY EVERYONE LISTEN UP. GET THE HELL. OFF MY SIDE OF THE ISLAND.”

The last thing I remember are gun shots going off.

Previous Chapter | Next Chapter

Tags: @ltristessedureratoujours @davinashifts333 @tomholland792

[carnalhaus]

descent into the long bright dark

i’ve been thinking about this short story “long bright dark” a lot as i’ve been writing it, and i wanted to make a visual example of what my creative process tends to look like when i write and come up with stories. i tend to be inspired by off-chance one-off lines and objects, and i file them away for later. they themselves don’t always form the actual narrative, but they remain an overarching force behind the ideas and dialogue in the piece. like the things that poke me from the back of my head while i scrawl the whole thing. i’ve been trying to be more open about how i conceptualize things when i write. i’m very autistic and things tend to come to me very abstractly, so i have a bit of trouble answering when people ask me what my inspirations are, or how i come up with things.

if you’re not already familiar, “long bright dark” is a short story draft about praline meeting two of sledge’s tentative friends one night in indiana, 2001. they’re jude, a biker who doesn’t move his face much, and lucky, another fight club attendee with a piano key smile. the short story itself is really just one part of the whole story with them, but i don’t know if i’ll ever write out the rest. it has a lot to do with how praline forms uncertain bonds with others, and how people try to make sense of her.

while coming up with this one, i found the word “girl” appearing in the back of my mind a lot, like big and bold. silly girl. crazy girl. something very affectionate and juvenile, either flirtatious jabs or infantilizing endearment, you can’t really tell which. couple that with terms like honey and bunny, words that don’t actually appear much in the actual dialogue, if at all, but you know some people might be thinking it. i thought a lot about heroin but not explicitly, moreso the afterthought where you think it might just be a trace, pass it off for exhaustion. i thought about it because of the feeling of slipping away, and what “slipping away” means in multiple parts of this narrative. slipping from consciousness, and things slipping from your hands, being too out of your mind to wrench them back (literally and figuratively).

there’s a lot of ideas about “seeing them all lined up.” the horror of seeing so many people in one person’s face. trying to assign a role to them, particularly when it comes to women. on the contrary, being open and exposed in front of male strangers with your belly open for a knife, and having to wholly trust they won’t do it. i had a lot of feelings about quickness and vulgarity and rapid attachments that leave rug burn. i kept getting this nagging immersive feeling of being so excited my heart felt like it was about to burst, and my eyes getting hot from excited tears. there was also the ever present stomach churning nausea of the situation feeling so precarious it’s about to teeter off the edge.

[s-darling-art]

DANA AND JASON

[weirdglassthing]

Frost gently headbutting Gricko for his attention or "grooming" Gricko's hair with his tounge. Take your pick

Grimmorning content and everybody cheered

[kaidanalenkosprmanager]

"Did I ever tell you about my Omega casino run in with the Blue Suns, Eclipse, and the Blood Pack Vorcha mafia? Five thousand credits and a bottle of whiskey?"

Ft. Staff Cmdr. Kaidan Alenko, Operations Chief Ashley Williams, Zaeed Massani, & Seven. Dominik Shepard. Phoebus. MIRA'S MORE CANON ME1.5 "Are you Phoebus?" AKA: Pt. 1 of some of what happens between ME1 and ME2 with the Vorcha mafia storyline. :) Mass Effect: Legendary Edition (2021)

[eventheodds]

The gamut of emotions she is experiencing are similar to when she first set out on her field assignment with Roberto. It feels like ages since that day, running into Vash when he’d been hanging upside down, courtesy of bandits, but memorable enough that she can clearly picture every moment from that day with the utmost clarity.

There are…others, as well, that come to mind, but Meryl does her best to focus on the positives.

She barely registers Knives’s warning about bringing a flashlight and with as many spare batteries as she can carry—and the very obvious threat of not wandering off where humans have seldom gone; if they’ve even gone there before.

Her experience being underground, even inside a giant worm, still counts and is not something she wants to repeat. Under any circumstance.

The reality of what they’re about to do makes her halt in her tracks as she composes herself, nearly forgetting the company she is with, and those memories make her snap to when she remembers that long tendril whip made of sharp blades that could have easily turned her into ribbons. 

“O-of course! I’ll keep it to myself!”

Not that she has anyone to talk to. The Bernardelli news agency has been feeling a little hostile towards her lately and Meryl is being careful where she treads. There’s been things going on that don’t quite add up—not like they are supposed to, and she’s being careful where she digs.

At the mention of Nicholas’s moniker, Meryl stops in her tracks like she’s been hit with a compulsion to remain frozen in place. 

They had said their goodbyes when it was decided that Home would be where they would part ways. 

“I…I don’t know where he is, actually. So, there’s really no point.”

Meryl grits her teeth at the slight tremble in her voice—not because she misses the Undertaker—well…that’s not entirely true but she refuses to admit it—but it is more so of the fact that she doesn’t have anyone she can really talk to. Vash can’t be found; Roberto is dead; Nicholas is…well, she doesn’t know where he is and she’s not about to start looking.

However, that doesn’t mean she’s about to let go of him entirely.

“I’ll need about a day to figure out how I’m gonna pack what I need,” she says, relieved that he’s not demanding they depart right away. It would make sense for him to find someone to look after the farm while he’s gone. “Well, I better get started…”

She gives one last look towards Knives, like she’s waiting for him to change his mind; when it’s clear he is not going to, Meryl books it and the first place she goes to is the nearest saloon. Out of breath, she reaches the counter, she procures a piece of paper from her notebook and a pen that can barely write but this may be its last note it will ever write before the ink completely dries out.

Despite the urgency, Meryl is careful to write clearly, and to not give too much information away. If there is one person who should know about her whereabouts, it has to be Nicholas.

To Nicholas,

Travelling far on the other side, with sharp company. Safe and doing okay. Can’t call you, no signal down here. Haven’t stopped looking. Hope you haven’t, either.

-Meryl Stryfe

She signals for the barkeep and hands him the note and gives a description of what Nicholas looks like. If he’s not changed since, she’ll expect he’s still carrying around that giant cross and looking as disheveled as ever.

Before she knows it, she’s meeting Knives back at the designated spot, a pack ready of what she considers essential to bring, and feels more nervous than excited at this point. 

“Just promise me there won’t be any need to get swallowed up by a giant worm. I’ve already done that and am not a fan. Not a fan at all.”

"Home won't be much use. I said no one's seen them in a century, didn't I?" And the fleet had, of course, been rather busy trying to save themselves. None of the surviving ships would have had anywhere near the time to grab coordinates for the other falling ships when they barely managed to save themselves. And then they'd had to rebuild and survival was more important than looking for lost ships where none had survived.

"If you want coordinates you're gonna need a bug." That is how Knives knew where they were, after all. He considers, contemplates who would care for the farm if he left it behind. Someone in town, if given instructions... Another moment of thought, before Knives sighs. "We'll leave after I arrange someone to care for the farm." He's put a lot of work into this place, he isn't going to leave it to die without some sort of supervision. "I suggest getting yourself a working flashlight and as many batteries as you can shove into your pack." A mental apology to Zazie, who was definitely going to complain at him, later.

"You will not discuss our travel methods with anyone else." It's not a request, an edge of danger curling around the words in a way that's been absent in their conversations so far. "I won't have your kind invading down there."

If he's honest she's probably going to want to pack for a fairly long trip. The lack of a road beneath the sands means no truck, and Knives is already making a mental map of the tunnels he knows and where each of them may pass towns they can resupply at. The trouble, he figures, is going to be once they pass the invisible boundary of human settlement into the true wilds where no humans have set up camp. There won't be any towns to resupply out there, and they can only carry so much at once...

He glances down at his hands, frowning. How much can he create, if he regulates properly? Would it be worth it when they could find a way to carry more supplies? Perhaps Zazie–but no, he doesn't want to make Zazie play pack bug either. Knives drags a dirty hand through his hair, scowling as he watches the reporter stumble around like a newborn tomas just finding its legs. She looks ridiculous–maybe that's what Vash sees.

"This isn't going to be a short trip so you better say your farewells to Punisher before you go."

[coconut530]

BITTERSWEET REUNIONS