#I’ve figured out what each of their classes and races would be

[beetlegh0st]

Brainstorming on a dnd au for BBC Ghosts and I’m going crazy

[dilemmaontwolegs]

Beyond the 305 || LS2 {4}

Summary: Australia GP - need I say more?

Warnings: nsfw, fluff, implied smut, angst

WC: 2.8k

One || Two || Three || Four

There really was a new appreciation for the effort Logan put in everyday for not just his team but for you too. You never understood how exhausting it must have been for him to balance his training and race preparation, media and sponsor duties, and flying home to you every spare moment. Now that you were travelling with him full time you finally got to see just how much added pressure it had put on him.

The London apartment, no, flat, as they called it here, was spacious enough for two people and one large dog, but it was a quarter of the size of your home in Miami. It took some getting used to, walking the length of the space in a matter of seconds or catching your toe on the furniture to avoid stepping on Sooty’s tail. But you wouldn’t change it for the world when you got to curl your body around Logan’s every night and wake up to his kisses.

“What’s your plans today, sweetheart?”

The sunrise here was watery and pale compared to Miami but it still managed to catch the blonde streaks of hair on Logan’s head. He was already dressed and ready to go for his morning run and you could hear Sooty’s paws on the wooden floor as he paced by the front door with his leash between his teeth.

“Not a lot. At 3 I have to take Sooty to the V.E.T.S,” you spell out knowing the black labrador would start sulking if he heard the word. “He has to have some extra shots now if we want to take him to Shanghai.”

Everything took more preparation when you didn’t have the usual support people around. There were different certificates needed for Sooty and new regulations for each country. It wasn’t like you could just drop him off at Dalton’s for the week. The usual help was across the Atlantic and Lily would probably be happy to have Sooty except she would be able to take him to her uni classes. Your big baby needed companionship or he would whine and howl to get attention.

“I’ll come with you,” he said with a kiss before grabbing his AirPods from where they were charging beside the bed.

“I thought you had your podcast today?”

“It’s a long flight, Alex figured we could record it on the way.”

You smiled at the thought of going to Australia for the first time. You pictured warmth, beaches and sun like you were accustomed to. It was more exciting than the other destinations so far this season. Your smile faltered as you remembered you really needed to finish packing for the evening flight and you tossed the blankets back.

“You can go back to sleep, sweetheart,” he said as he pulled his shoes on. “It’s only 6.30.”

“If I don’t finish packing now I will lie awake stressing about it anyway.”

The suitcases were already on the floor of the closet, his clothes folded neatly inside. One half was William’s team uniforms, the other were his personal clothes. The second suitcase only had a garment bag with a cocktail dress for a night out before the circus began.

“I thought you said you started?” he asked as he grabbed your waist and looked over your shoulder.

“I did start,” you pointed out. “Just didn’t get much past there. Someone distracted me.”

Logan’s hands started to roam your body exactly like they had the last time you tried to pack. “You should have more self control,” he teased.

“I’ve never been good with that around you.”

Logan turned you in his arms and grinned. “And I’m goddamn glad.”

His head started to dip down and his lips were already pursed for the kiss he was more than happy to distract you with, when Sooty started to cry at the front door. A deep groan exhaled as he dropped his forehead to yours, the moment stolen from him.

“I’m coming, Soot,” he said over his shoulder before looking back at your lips. “I’ll see you in an hour, honey.”

Logan stepped away with hesitation in his eyes and your hands fell back to your sides as you sent him a flirty wink. “Run faster.”

His lips kicked up and he returned the wink. “Yes, ma’am.”

—

Logan found you sat on the floor in the closet when he returned with a sweat soaked shirt in his hand and a very happy dog at his side. The smell hit you as Sooty bounded into the room and you understood why he was so happy when you almost gagged.

“Sorry, sweets, he rolled in something at the park.”

“Something seriously dead,” you coughed, waving your hand to try to get some fresh air. “Oh my god, Soot, that is rancid!”

Logan caught his collar before he could jump onto your lap and started to guide him out of the room. “Come on, buddy, showertime for both of us.”

The water started running and you heard Logan’s soothing voice through the walls as he calmed Sooty down. Like most dogs, he loved water but hated baths. While they were busy, you finished off folding the last items you were taking and closed the suitcase with a satisfied huff, just in time to hear your name being called.

“We’ve got a runner!”

You dashed out of the room and grabbed an old towel from the linen cupboard before making chase. Logan’s towel hung precariously low on his hips and he struggled not to slip as he ran through the flat behind Sooty. Your laughter filled the room as Logan tried to herd Sooty into the towel you held open, but he was too agile and skidded out of your reach. Logan wasn’t as lucky and failed miserably as he tried to avoid the collision.

“I’m so sorry, are you okay?” he gasped as he pulled you onto his lap and felt your body for any bumps.

“I’m fine.” Your giggles grew as Sooty bounded back over and shook out his fur. “At least we don’t have to dry him now.”

Logan laughed, holding you tighter as he realised his towel had been lost and he was sitting naked beneath you. He swallowed deeply and your eyes started to follow a rivulet of water as it rolled down his chest.

“Soot, time for a nap,” he ordered, his voice dropping with the heated look in your eyes. Paws padded across the floor before his cuddly toy squeaked under his head and Logan rose to his feet, your legs wrapped around his waist as he carried you back to bed.

Pillowy kisses warmed your neck as Logan’s hands lifted your shirt up, breaking away only long enough to pull it over your head. Dropping to his knees, he dragged your leggings down and left sweet kisses on your hips before he kissed his way back up your body.

“I love you,” he whispered as his lips finally met yours and he stole your breath with his tenderness.

“I love you too, always.”

He smiled at the promise. “I’ll hold you to that, sweetheart.”

Wrapping your legs around his waist, you pulled him closer until your bodies were flush together and you felt his hard length press to your core. “Or you could just hold me.”

—

The atmosphere was jovial and Logan was relaxed going into race week. Oscar had escorted you and Logan around his hometown with Lily, showing the best spots to eat and the quieter beaches to visit with Sooty. The boys hadn’t been able to resist karting at the track Oscar had learned to race after media day ended. They had tried to get you and Lily to join but you were happy to play referee to their on-track battles.

“Logan looks more relaxed this year,” Lily commented as you both enjoyed a lemonade ice block in the shade of a tree.

“He’s got some experience now but I think that’s going to come with its own pressure. People are still expecting a lot from him, I just hope he has a car that can help him meet those expectations. He was just starting to get the hang of the last one and then the season was over.”

“It sounded like the car was going to be better this year from what Osc said.”

“I'm sure that’s what Alpine told Gasly and Ocon too,” you said with a laugh.

“Serves them right,” Lily giggled. “Alpine, not Pierre.”

“What about Estie Bestie?”

Lily wrinkled her nose at the nickname. “I only met him a couple of times but I definitely wouldn’t call him that.”

It took a lot for Lily to struggle to find something nice to say about someone, she was the sweetest, most soft spoken woman you knew. So it was enough to suggest he was someone you probably wouldn’t go out of your way to meet anytime soon.

“I do wish the guys would include Lo more. I know it hurts him to see pictures of the others getting together. Not that he says anything, he’s too polite,” you said with a sigh. “He was so happy when he was invited to play padel at Testing.”

Your eyes found his blue helmet as it raced around the track, neck and neck with Oscar’s orange one. It was amazing what he could do when given an equal piece of equipment, you would never have been able to tell that they were on opposite ends of the driver standings when watching them call a draw at the finish line.

The boys abandoned their helmets and dropped to the grass beside you and Lily laughing about something Oscar had said on the walk over. Sooty was in heaven as he rolled onto his back and welcomed the fresh hands for belly rubs.

“We should get a dog.”

Lily didn’t look impressed at Oscar’s suggestion and you distracted yourself by offering Logan some of your ice block before it completely melted.

“Just something small, like a Jack Russel,” he continued. “They can’t be that hard to look after, right?”

You barely contained your laugh as you shared an amused look with Logan that he returned, but Lily caught it.

“Just ask them,” she pointed out. “It’s like having a child, isn't it? I’m studying, you’re working and travelling, who will look after it?”

“It is a full time commitment,” you agreed. “And it takes a lot of planning to have everything prepared for travelling. I actually think a child would be easier, they only need a passport to get on a plane.”

Logan nudged your knee with his and winked. “Should we test that theory out?”

“We haven’t even set a date for the wedding so calm your loins, babe,” you said with a pat to his thigh that triggered Oscar to snort.

“Okay, no dog,” he conceded, a relief to Lily’s ears. “You guys wanna get dinner?”

You were about to take up the offer but Logan shook his head and said, “we have somewhere to be.”

“We do?”

“I didn’t ask you to pack a nice dress for it to get left in the hotel. I have something special planned,” he teased. “And no, I’m not telling you, it’s a surprise.”

Try as you might, he didn’t give you a hint of what he had organised.

“You look gorgeous, sweetheart.”

Logan was struck by your beauty and his luck as you stepped out of the room in a dress that accentuated all of your features. His mouth went dry at the thought that he had the pleasure of spending the rest of his life with you.

You stepped closer and ran your palms down the clean lines of his dress shirt that had the top two buttons undone. The baring of skin showed the necklace he wore, a gift from your first anniversary. He had far more expensive pieces of jewellery but he favoured that one the most because it came from you.

“Are you sure we have to go? You’re too handsome for your own good.”

His eyes traced the peek of your tongue and it rolled across your lips suggestively and he felt his pants tighten. He did debate cancelling it all to take you straight back to the bedroom you had left but he finally wrestled his thoughts back under control. “Unfortunately, but I might cancel dessert and have you instead.”

A town car was already waiting at the front of the hotel and as it drove along you watched the city as the sun set and the street lights brightened. Melbourne was beautiful.

“We should set a date for the wedding,” Logan suddenly said as the car pulled up at the city waterfront. “Everything is so uncertain this year but you’re the one constant in my life. If I lose everything else I’ll survive, but I will always need you.”

You laced your fingers with his as you stepped out of the car and thanked the driver. “You’ll always have me, wedding or not.”

He smiled and kissed your ringed hand, leading the way to a yacht moored at the pier. “I know, but I kind of look forward to calling you my wife.”

“Kind of? I hope you’ll have more enthusiasm with your vows.” Your words were light and your smile teasing before you released his hand to board the private boat.

The light mood lasted well into the night and your heart was as full as your stomach when the boat finished its harbour cruise. You wished that mood could last all weekend, but the universe had other plans.

yourusername

yourusername date night with my favourite human @/logansargeant 💙 thank you @/lilyzneimer for babysitting our boy, Sooty, not Oscar.

You knew that look of defeat when he emerged from James’ office, it saturated his soul and leaked out through his pale blue eyes. You could count on your hand the number of times Logan had cried in front of you and your heart ached at the thought of adding another to the tally. Without a word, laced your fingers with his and walked back to the privacy of his driver room. The door shut, the sound as muted as the mood, and you opened your arms to let him fall into your embrace as he confirmed the rumours were true. Logan’s hands clutched the back of your shirt in his fists and he buried his face in your neck. “Alex is racing.”

Your heart broke at the despondent tone and you drew soothing circles across his back. He had known it was a possibility going into the meeting but had hoped his principal wouldn’t put him in a position to give up his seat for the race. Unfortunately his prayers had gone unanswered.

“I’m so sorry, my love,” you murmured as his tears hit your shoulder. “I can’t believe they are even allowed to do this.”

“James didn’t want to ask, but he’s right, Alex has the best chance for points - his history shows that clearly,” Logan rasped through the lump in his throat. He felt humiliated, disappointed and angry all at once, but he was expected to grin and bear it for the team as a united front.

Your brows knitted together and you cradled his face in your hands so you could look him in the eyes. “He gave you the choice?”

Logan shrugged. “I mean, it didn’t feel like it, but I did say yes.”

“Yes means nothing if it’s under duress,” you stated bluntly, a familiar fire warming your stomach at the thought of his kind nature being taken for granted. “Just say the word, baby, and I’ll take him to church.”

Logan shook his head and the gaping wound that had been cleaved into his chest closed a little at your protective nature. He knew you would march right back into James’ office and argue until you were blue in the face, but he feared it would only make things worse for his future prospects in the team. This was his battle to face and he was going to play the long game, even if it took playing the fool for one race.

“I know you would, sweetheart,” he said with a sniffle, wiping his eyes and swallowing down the emotion. It would have made his father proud. “I love you.”

“I love you too,” you said with a kiss, tasting the salty tears on his lips. “Tell me what you need.”

“Just…stay with me?” Logan took a few steadying breaths and rested his forehead on yours as he screwed his eyes shut. “The cameras, I can’t deal with them alone. I can already feel them zooming in on me, wanting a reaction.”

You draped your arms around his neck and tangled your fingers in his hair with a reassuring smile. “Let’s disappoint them all then. Shall we?”

He took a deep breath and forced his lips to tip up into a hesitant smile that slowly grew more substantial the longer he looked at you. “Yes, ma’am.”

[amongemeraldclouds]

tongue tied

Lorenzo Berkshire could sweet talk his way into any situation he desired. So why couldn't he find the right words when it came to you? (fluff)

Lorenzo Berkshire x f!Reader

My official entry for @thatdammchickennugget and @finalgirllx ‘s Jinxed July challenge using the water balloon prompt for week one.

✿ Masterlist | 758 words

“Where are you off daydreaming to?” Mattheo approached Enzo, wrapping an arm around his shoulder as his other hand shook the water balloon.

He followed Enzo’s gaze to you as you peacefully read under a tree. “Oh, not what but who. I’ve got to give it to you, summer just started and you’ve already got a new girl in mind.”

“Shut it,” Enzo replied curtly, “it’s not like that.” It was always easy for Enzo to speak to anyone, but when it came to you, he always found himself dumbfounded.

He had meant to ask you out earlier in the year when he sat beside you in Charms class. He found you more magical than any spell he learned. You had been kind and patient, like the time he accidentally turned his hair pink with the coloravia charm and you helped him turn it back. You also had fun in class like when you used the locomotor charm to levitate your quills and make them race around class.

Each time he tried to ask you out, his tongue and stomach would be in knots. If only there was a charm for that. It wasn’t like him at all. He was supposed to be the one with the charming smile who said all the right words. And yet.

He never cared about losing. He could always change his strategy, be with different people, and get what he wanted in the end. But when it came to you, the stakes seemed higher. He couldn't afford to lose and it scared him just as much as it excited him. 

“Here’s a novel idea for you, why don’t you just approach her?”

Enzo elbowed Mattheo's side. “I’m working up to it,” he huffed. Perhaps if he played the words in his head several times, he could say them smoothly. 

“What? Did the heat fry your brain? You’ve never had to ‘work up’ to anyone,” he tilted his head to the side, studying Enzo’s face as a grin crept onto his friend’s face.

“No.” Enzo stated, reading into Mattheo’s grin. It never meant anything good. 

“I was just about to offer my help,” Mattheo said innocently despite the mischievous twinkle in his eyes.

“I didn’t say I needed—”

“Too late!” Mattheo declared as he swiftly swung his arm and hurled the water balloon at you. Splat! You yelped as something hit you below your neck and you felt water seep into your dress, the ink on your book melting into the pages until sentences were reduced to smudged lines. 

He winked at Enzo and mouthed, ‘you’re welcome’ before running away.

Enzo stood horrified as he watched Mattheo’s retreating figure. “That wanker!” He muttered under his breath, quelling the urge to run after him as he returned to your friends. He’d deal with him later, he had other priorities.

Taking a breath to calm his nerves, he rushed over to you. “Sorry about Mattheo.”

You looked over at him, shock and fury swimming in your nerves. Enzo forgot how to breathe. 

“H-hi,” he said weakly, clearing his throat. “It’s charms class from Enzo.” What? He felt his ears burn up with shame as he heard the words, wishing he were a leaf so the wind could carry him away.

You blinked, trying to process his words then broke out into a grin. You pointed at yourself, “it’s also charms class from y/n.”

He chuckled then, unknotting the tightness in his chest. “Can I help you with?” He motioned over to you, trying hard not to notice the way your wet dress hugged your figure. Just like that, the tightness in his chest returned. And it was also tight elsewhere.

“Yes, I want revenge,” you smirked. Salazar, he didn’t think it was possible to fall harder. He felt his heart hammering insistently, as if trying to escape his chest to leap over to you.

“Your book,” he said, trying to distract himself. “Maybe you would want to go a new one tomorrow and get a bookstore with me?” Who were words? How were sentences? What was he? It was all a mystery.

You laughed good-naturedly, he was adorable. “Whatever that was, yes.” You had liked him for a while and enjoyed spending time with him in class, but you always thought he was just being nice like he was with everyone.

Yet here he was, stumbling over his sentences. You had never seen him flustered like this before and wanted to put him out of his misery. “Now where can we get those water balloons?”

A/N: I had a longer plot in mind, but last week was personally tough for me so this will do for now. The plot idea I'm referring to will be featured in a future fic instead so stay tuned.

✿ Masterlist

[wanderingswampbeast]

Long Post: Why I Don’t Like The Drow

I’ve been ranting about this to a friend on discord (a lot of points I make will come from him) but I’ve finally figured out what my issue with the drow is outside of inherently evil groups being dumb.

The drow are boring. Drow lore is less of a dive into a unique culture and more of a list of fucked up things they do. Like, I cannot name a single interesting aspect of typical drow society that does not directly involve murder, sexism, or slavery, or Lolth. And even then, most of those things are written about in an incredibly bland fashion with them.

The Drow don’t really have much depth to them, and are just kind of evil for evil’s sake (or “because Lolth said so”). They do slavery, but the only real purpose of doing slavery for them is “because Lolth said so”. It isn’t for cheap labor, it’s to be more evil. They betray each other purely because that’s what evil people do. They’re misandrist, not for any real societal reason, but because Lolth hates men. There’s none of what would make slavery an interesting topic or story element, no justification for why they should be allowed to commit one of the worst injustices possible, no real economic reason for it. They just do it because Lolth says they should, and from a writing perspective it hammers home the fact that they’re evil. They aren’t evil because they enslave and murder, they enslave and murder because they’re evil, if that makes any sense.

Them being written as comically evil as they are also hurts them from a worldbuilding perspective. They’re so reliant on slaves for menial labor that the lower class of their society struggle to get jobs. Drow culture so obsessed with betrayal and dumbass house wars that even when actively under attack from the outside they sabotage each other. They’re so decadent that their buildings are held up with magic and semi regularly collapse when a spell fails. To put it bluntly, drow society feels like one that should have collapsed in a few centuries, which, funnily enough, is way longer than D&D elves live.

Their culture being so monolithic also makes writing anything about them difficult. Every drow antagonist is going to have near identical motivations, methods, and ideologies as every other drow antagonist. Every drow protagonist is going to ultimately feel very similar to Drizzt, because leaving their fucked up society to become a do-gooder is such a common backstory element that they added a whole extra god just for doing that. In fact, you can divide 90% of drow characters from any official materials into these categories:

Manservant

Ambitious male, usually a wizard (5 bucks says he has long hair and a widow’s peak)

Dommy Mommy Warcrime Woman

Drizzt Do’Urden or one of his many duplicates

Self-loathing and/or resentful Drider

And finally, their existence almost purely to be humanoid enemies you can fight at nearly any levels is just kind of lazy. This is a problem that I have with the “evil races” of a lot of fantasy but having a group that’s evil by birth just feels like an excuse to not have to write actual motivations for your antagonists. It’s the difference between “go attack this camp of soldiers because they’re part of the SkullMurder army and their general wants to use our land to build a dread fortress” vs “go attack this camp of soldiers specifically because they’re drow/goblins/orcs/the dreaded peepee-poopoo folk”. Using stuff like this just feels like an excuse to not have to write an actual antagonist since it comes pre-written in the group’s lore. This has the side effect of whenever such a group is the antagonist of the plot, the players or audience know near exactly what to expect. The orc is here to conquer, the goblin is here to steal, and the drow is here to enslave or do some dark ritual.

I’ve legitimately heard people say “well if XYZ can’t be inherently evil anymore, who will we use as bad guys?” It’s very simple: whoever the fuck we want. Write an evil queen, or a scheming wizard, or an underground slave trade network. For God’s sake, anyone can be evil, you don’t need to tie that to a specific ethnic group and write it as “they’re just like that”. Write an actual character for your antagonist.

[yoshi17here]

☕️⋆.ೃ࿔˚ 🥐⋆Cafe Date♡⋆.･🧋

YOSHI⋆˙⟡:

The aroma of freshly brewed coffee filled the small campus café as you settled into your favorite corner table, a steaming cup in hand. The chatter of students created a lively atmosphere, but you were lost in your own thoughts, flipping through your notes for the upcoming exam.

Suddenly, the door swung open, and a gust of chilly autumn air swept through, making you shiver slightly. You glanced up just in time to see a tall figure step inside, shaking off raindrops from his umbrella. It was Soobin, a fellow student from your classes, but you had never really spoken beyond a polite nod in passing. Today, though, something felt different.

He glanced around the café, his eyes landing on you. A warm smile broke across his face, and you felt your heart race unexpectedly. He approached your table, his hands tucked into the pockets of his hoodie.

“Hey, Y/N! Mind if I join you?” he asked, his voice soft and inviting.

“Of course!” you replied, trying to sound casual as you motioned to the empty seat across from you.

As he sat down, the scent of his cologne wafted over, mixing with the coffee and creating a strangely comforting atmosphere. You both exchanged small talk about your classes and the impending exam, but as the conversation flowed, you found yourself more drawn to him than the material you were supposed to be studying.

“So, how’s your study session going?” he asked, leaning in slightly, his gaze focused on you.

“Honestly? I’m a little overwhelmed,” you admitted with a nervous chuckle. “I thought I’d be ready by now, but…”

“Same here,” he said, nodding understandingly. “But I think we’ll be okay. We can help each other out if you want?”

Your heart skipped a beat at the suggestion. You had imagined studying together, but this felt like an invitation to something more. “I’d like that,” you replied, your smile widening.

The conversation shifted effortlessly, moving from academics to personal stories. You found out that Soobin loved playing the guitar, a passion he had pursued since high school, and he enjoyed exploring the city’s hidden gems. As you listened, you couldn’t help but admire the way he spoke with enthusiasm, his eyes lighting up at every word.

“Maybe you could show me some of your favorite spots sometime?” you suggested, emboldened by the warmth that filled the space between you.

He raised an eyebrow, a playful smirk tugging at his lips. “Are you asking me on a date, Y/N?”

Your cheeks flushed, and you felt a rush of heat spread across your face. “Uh, well—”

He laughed, the sound rich and genuine. “I’m just teasing. I’d love to show you around. It’s a date.”

As you both shared another laugh, the atmosphere shifted again, the playful banter giving way to a more intimate connection. You found yourself getting lost in his gaze, the world around you fading as the laughter turned softer, more sincere.

“Do you ever think about what it would be like if we weren’t just classmates?” Soobin asked, his voice suddenly serious.

You felt your heart race. “Sometimes. It’s nice to imagine… more.”

He leaned in closer, the distance between you shrinking. “Yeah, it is. I’ve thought about it a lot, actually. You’re really easy to talk to, Y/N.”

Before you could respond, he reached across the table, gently brushing his fingers against yours. The contact sent a jolt of electricity through you, and you felt a flutter in your stomach.

“Soobin, I—”

But he cut you off, his eyes searching yours. “Can I ask you something?”

“Sure,” you replied, your voice barely above a whisper.

He hesitated for a moment, as if weighing his words. “What if we made this more than just study partners? I mean, I’d really like to get to know you better… outside of class.”

Your heart soared at his words, and you nodded slowly. “I’d like that too. A lot.”

With that, he broke into a wide grin, his eyes sparkling with excitement. “Great! How about we start with that coffee date this weekend? Just you and me?”

“Sounds perfect,” you replied, unable to hide your smile.

As you both shared another laugh, the café seemed to fade away, leaving just the two of you in your little bubble of newfound connection. The semester might be busy, but for the first time, you felt like you were exactly where you were meant to be—sitting across from someone who could become so much more than a stranger.

And with that thought, you knew this was just the beginning of your story together.

YOSHI's Shelf

[agendabymooner]

it’s time to go ! max v. x ofc (hearth sister!ofc)

“sometimes giving up is the strong thing.”

summary: sylvie edson ford hearth swore not to think about what had happened back in 2012, but max verstappen has a different plan with his absent childhood friend. OR lando norris has a bad habit of sharing things that he isn’t permitted to share— like her phone number.

content warning: written and text messages applied, frenemies to lovers (ish), hurt/comfort? or angst, use of explicit language, model!student!ofc (sylvie), mentions of anxiety, consciousness, childhood friendships

note: i had to listen to a lot of ts songs. thank you all for the 82 followers!!! i’m so glad you guys are enjoying the content i make. i honestly had been making them because i keep them in my notes but never wrote full narratives of them. if they are written down, they’re normally not published— aka they’re in my wattpad draft. so… i hope you guys enjoy this xx

masterlist

Everybody swore that the two would get together eventually. Too bad it didn’t work like that.

Christmas was what Sylvie considered the best time of the year. She loved the way Christmas lifted the spirits of everyone, no matter how difficult the year had been for them. She loved being one of the children who would chase each other down the halls while parents gathered around and talked about the last season. She loved being around people that knew her well.

The thing was, however, no one knew her anymore. Not as well as they used to.

For a supermodel-on-the-rise, she sure felt conscious about the amount of eyes that watched her as she stepped foot inside the ballroom of the estate. The tulles of her red skirt should have given her more space to breathe, but she felt her body hyperventilating as she nearly dove headfirst into the mini bar.

Looking down on her newly manicured nails had been a habit of hers that night. She pretended to admire the polished nails while she waited for the bartender to mix her strawberry daiquiri, not wanting to look up and meet anyone’s eyes.

The teenagers and the ones who recently left that phase wondered how… How did she change that much?

Her physique certainly matured more than anyone could expect. Her slightly rounded cheeks were replaced by the sharp jawline that could possibly kill. Her eyes that avoided any form of communication were foxy and just as sharp as her jaw. Her nose was just as sharp, as well. If you were to ask Lando, she didn’t have to wear heels to out-height him. Her body and face were no longer recognizable. She was ready to be a fan favourite and a well-paid supermodel.

Funnily enough, she prioritized racing first before she did her child modeling classes. How she managed to transition from one thing to another in the span of three years, nobody could answer. She was a jack of all trades, said by her mother, just like her siblings. She was one of the many sisters who had more options to pursue instead of just sticking to racing. So for her to continue with modeling and fashion… yeah, she already knew how to operate before she was even hired by an agency. At least now she didn’t have to struggle with finding work. She didn’t have to worry about getting hired by a team.

Her career now was clearly something that she couldn’t act on, though. She was always told to walk, don’t pay attention to what everyone’s talking about and get a move on.

But this party wasn’t a runway. The judging eyes didn’t want to pay attention to the details of the clothes, but rather, the figure who wore the dress herself.

“You’re a bit tense, lovie,” Tilly was a blessing in disguise, shaped in the form of a woman who carried a 20 weeks worth of a precious gift in her womb. She must’ve picked up on Sylvie’s discomfort that she decided to strut towards her sister’s direction as quickly as a pregnant woman could. “You could have stayed at home, as I said.”

“I’ve got to say hi to them at some point,” Sylvie murmured to her sister. “Especially Lando. That bloke wouldn’t let it go if I decided to avoid him, too.”

“Well, they should be around here,” Tilly quipped as she rubbed her stomach. Seeing the movement in her peripheral vision, Sylvie spontaneously reached out and got a feel of the bump. She tried to ease her mind by doing the most peaceful thing. “They’re not looking at you for the wrong reasons, Sylv. I promise.”

“If they are, then they’re going to have to face Maman and I’s wrath,” Tilly cheekily smiled. Tilly looked past Sylvie’s shoulder as she said, “Look. Here are the boys.”

Sylvie was glad that her glass was empty and already resting at the counter, otherwise she would have made a scene if she had dropped it after being attacked by a bear hug.

“Fucking Lando,” she swore beneath her breath, trying to pull him off as she turned feeling restrained. He wouldn’t let go. She would have sworn once more, preferably aloud this time, had it been for the other boys that stood excitedly with him. She couldn’t even look at them properly due to the hold that Lando had on her.

“I told you I was going to kidnap you,” Lando let out an evil laugh before waving enthusiastically at Tilly, “Thanks, Tils! I’ll return her to you later!”

“Good, you better,” Tilly called out.

Her poor feet would be dead by the end of the night and Sylvie knew that she was fucked if she didn’t do anything about it. It wasn’t like she could stop Lando from dragging her down to wherever he’s taking her to just so she could slip out of her Valentino. She couldn’t seem to stop him especially when they both passed by familiar faces. Especially one that she didn’t want to see.

Fucking Max Verstappen. She thought that God was laughing at her that night.

She couldn’t even look at him by the time that they formed some sort of circle around the lounge room.

The telly was on, but it had been playing nothing but the screen of the karaoke waiting to show its texts and tunes. None of them paid that much attention to it, especially her.

The boys seemed like they were craving for companionship of a woman as they surrounded her with curiosity and excitement. They tried to get her attention while she was still speaking to another person. She felt like she was what Fergie was talking about in Fergalicious.

She still couldn’t look him in the eyes, situating herself between Charles Leclerc— her favourite enemy in the track and George Russell— the boy that she once called “everyone’s crush”— to avoid sharing a conversation with Max. She made sure she sat next to the two, not looking at the Dutchman as she continued to catch up with Lando and the other people she was acquainted with.

Most of them knew who she was, of course. She had been friends with most of them for years, finding themselves in the same track as they trained. She competed with them, offering nothing to the boys but fun and friendly competition. She saw things differently from everyone else. No matter how much she wished to be an F1 driver, she didn’t push past her limits— not even when her father told her to.

She was dubbed “the Wild Mustang” at the age of 10 after she realized that she was able to reach the pedal and brake of her mother’s vehicle.

The boys had never seen someone do a donut in their own parking lot before. Let alone a 10-year-old girl—thank god for her Uncle Gilles for teaching her how to do that on TV. Despite their amazement and enthusiasm, Sylvie was no longer allowed to be in the vehicle on her own after she was caught doing another donut while the other kids watched and cheered. Sylvie clearly made everyone’s time because of her wildness and risky attitude. Oh, and her blunt mouth.

So for her to sit silently as she nodded to whatever it was that her acquaintances were talking about? It wasn’t her.

Ever since she left the academy, at the age of 14, she didn’t look back. She didn’t look back at her own friends, either. Lando was the only one persistent enough to barge inside her room only for him to find out that she was packing to go to university.

Extremely early advancement program, she said. She went to university and while she was there, Lando made sure that she’d call him at least once in a while. Otherwise the security would have a problem fighting with a 4 foot something boy who only wanted to see his friend.

Nobody truly saw her behaviour change besides from her family… and Lando. She seemed more reserved when she’s out and about, much to Lando’s dismay. He really hated it when he was the only one who would bring the energy into the room. As if she lacked the power. Lando was convinced that he annoyed her because of the lack of retorts she had passed to him.

He didn’t stop talking to her. He abruptly confronted her about her behaviour instead of trying to skirt his way around it. He was more than relieved that she wasn’t annoyed by his presence, yet he was curious to know what had her acting like this. She had been like that since she left the academy. Her silence could be interpreted as sourness and hatred.

Regardless, they saw each other every other six months whether it’s during the race weekend or an event hosted by a family. But she never went to any of his racing tournaments.

She had attended certain Formula One race weekends throughout the absence of her racing career. People only caught a glimpse of her whenever she went, wondering how fast she’d disappeared even when she visited each garage.

Her attitude remained the same to her family, though. That’s why Tilly and her sisters wondered how people could see Sylvie as an introvert or a bitch. She made fun of Tilly back when Toto was still a stranger to the family. She spoke to whichever Mercedes staff had brought her to the grandstand or hospitality. She was… still her.

She refused to speak to people her age— that weren’t her sisters, of course. Especially those who were familiar with the tracks and familiar with who she was. She never looked at them. She didn’t feel comfortable being in this room. Lando was just pushing her to speak as much as she could since his attention was everywhere. He was friends with everyone in the circle and that meant that she, too, had to speak.

Still, she couldn’t seem to reply to Max. She’d only have a passing comment if he asked something to her. He was clearly trying to get her attention, but her eyes were trained anywhere else but his own pair.

“I want some more Coke,” Lando complained, “you should have gotten more, Alex.”

“Eh? Why me? Why don’t you get up?” Alex Albon replied with a scoff, “You’re the one who’s drinking it.”

She took this as an opportunity to dip out for a moment as she said, “I’ll grab ‘em.”

“Thanks Mustang,” Lando’s boyish grin appeared on his face as she stood up from the carpet. Her skirt slightly wrinkled from sitting on the floor for too long, but her feet were thankful that the low heels that she wore were taken off. “You are the best.”

“Only when you need something, espèce de salaud paresseux.” you lazy bastard. Charles snorted, clearly understanding what she just called Lando as she walked down the hallway to find the little man cave that she once explored. The room was dark, the only thing that brightened was the mini fridge with cans of Coke in them.

She didn’t know why she tiptoed towards it, kneeling down to its level as her fingers touched the cold metal. She didn’t even realize she couldn’t carry that many cans. Lando, on a good day, would drink a dozen of the mini cans and Sylvie learned that you might as well get them all now before he bitches about running out of drink.

“D’you need help?”

“Oh, Jesus Christ!” She hit her head when she tried looking up to see who just spoke. But she didn’t need to look. She already knew who decided to corner her. In a dark room.

“Shit, shit, sorry schat,” Max swore as he reached out, “are you okay?”

“Yeah,” she replied with a hiss, “lost a fucking brain or two but I suppose I am.”

The last time that they spoke was at the paddock during the 2014 Silverstone race. That was when he shoulder checked her unintentionally, leaving her to bark at him in annoyance before stomping off. They didn’t even see each other’s faces.

“Here, do you need help?” He asked genuinely, gesturing with his empty hands as he offered some sort of support.

She didn’t bother hesitating, just shoving the cold cans of pop in his arms while she turned to grab more. She busied herself with the fridge before she groaned after hearing him clear his throat.

“So uh… How have you been, Sylvie?”

“Delightful,” she responded drily.

“How was your first and second term?”

“Busy.”

“How are you doing with the…modeling stuff then?” Oh he really wouldn’t leave without getting words out of her mouth.

“Great,” she muttered. He still wouldn’t catch onto the disinterest in her tone. Was he really this oblivious or did he lose a brain cell or two for the past few years?

“You look—“ he cleared his throat once more, feeling his face flush pink as he remembered the last picture that he saw of her. The holiday collection of Victoria’s Secret Pink. “You looked very beautiful at them.”

She paused, wondering what the fuck was he doing in the man cave with her. What was the reason for his intervention? Did he corner her just to compliment her latest project?

“Thank you,” she sighed before grabbing the last of the cans, kicking the fridge closed as she walked past him.

“I want to catch up with you,” he voiced out as they walked down the hallway. It remained empty, the ballroom was obviously occupied by loud music and loud guests and hosts. The lounge room, despite it being a few feet away, remained loud as well as the boys sung their hearts out. Poorly.

His voice echoed in the hallway, leaving her to pause and turn around. She remained standing there as he finally jogged towards her. They were both still cradling cans of pop as if those were their children.

“It’s just…” Max trailed off, wanting to scratch his head but couldn’t. “You stopped talking to all of us after you left. At least all of us but Lando.”

She wanted to scoff. She wanted to laugh at his face. There was no way he’d have this much audacity to assume that she’d even dare talk to him. Not after all of that fiasco.

“Some of us were wondering,” he rocked back and forth on his feet. “Especially with where you went after all of that. I was going to apologize to you.”

“Hm,” she hummed disinterestedly. She was itching to go back to the lounge room.

“For doing that,” Max spoke meekly.

She was infuriated for the first time in four years. She had never been angry about this. She downplayed her anger and acted as if she had only quit the academy when she was already on her way to become the first female F1 driver. She pretended that he didn’t exist, because God only knew what she could do at the thought of him.

Back in 2014, when she learned that he was a reserved driver, she begged her sister for something so silly. To fire Max. She didn’t really mean that. She only wanted to say his name with disdain to let it out of her system. But then she returned to her routine of being silent and keeping some shit to herself, not wanting to slag him off any further as an ounce of guilt filled her mind.

Then he said some shit like this. He wouldn’t even tell her what he did. She had never been so angry since now.

But she could only offer nothing but a cold tone. “For doing what?” She asked coolly, looking at him in the eyes as she challenged him.

Her coldness left him stammering, “F-for the uh…” then he was silent.

Watching his mouth clamp shut, she laughed humourlessly before shaking her head in disbelief. “If you’re going to apologize, you have to recognize what you’ve done first. Oh, Verstappen,” she tutted, “you are so silly.”

Walking back to the lounge room, she left him behind in the hallway. Maybe after today, she could cry herself to sleep this time. She hasn't been able to cry ever since she left. Maybe after letting that out, she’d be able to rest a little bit better.

Everyone thought that, after growing up with each other, they’d end up as something else that’ll last forever. But if anyone had seen this confrontation, they’d express how wrong they were. Because the first glimpse of her long lost lover turned into something like hate. It wasn’t the same as it was before 2012.

[fangirlingfromdownunder]

A Sweet Mishap - Chapter 21

Pairing - Jensen Ackles x Reader 

A/N: I just want to start by thanking everyone for all the love on this story so far. Let me know if you want to be added to the tag list. This chapter is a little heavier (as is the story going forward, but I'll include potential triggers for each chapter as relevant), so please read the TW below and only read on if you feel comfortable doing so.

Potential Trigger Warnings: mentions of depression, suicidal thoughts, domestic violence

A Sweet Mishap Masterlist | Main Masterlist

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The days blend together in a whirlwind of rehearsals, work, and studying. The excitement for the upcoming show is palpable, but underneath it all, a sense of exhaustion lingers. I push through each long day with determination. Then one night, I stumble home after a long day, late at night. I check my mail before going up to my apartment and find a large box with my name and address on it, on the floor infront of my mailbox. Knowing the date I can only imagine what it might be. Suddenly I’m wide awake. I rush up to my apartment and dump the box on the coffee table. Knowing it could only be one person, I send him a text.

Can I open it or should I wait until tomorrow?

I wait awhile but don’t get a response. I figure he’s either asleep or in the middle of filming. I force myself to leave the box and go for a shower. Feeling warmed up and relaxed, the package falls out of my mind as I collapse into bed and fall asleep.

As I drag myself out of bed the following morning and get dressed for my shift I remember the box. I check my phone and there’s still nothing. Knowing that it’s later in the day in Vancouver, I decide to try to call him while I finish getting ready. It goes straight to his voicemail and I start to get anxious. I doublecheck the sending address on the box and it has a Vancouver address with his name, so I know at least it hasn’t even come through his management, this was all him. This makes me a little more excited, but I can’t figure out why then he’d all of a sudden be ignoring me. I try to keep a level head and tell myself he’s just busy with work. I don’t have time to dwell on it anyway. Regardless, I can’t help but dread serving loved up couples their caffeine hits for the next few hours.

I force a smile and throw on my apron as I find my rhythm. Despite my initial anxiety, I find myself getting lost in the familiar routine, the busy atmosphere providing a temporary distraction from the unanswered questions swirling in my mind. I push through and then go to my classes as usual, while avoiding checking my phone to keep myself from spiralling further unreasonably. 

As I walk home alone from the theatre, through the streets filled with loved-up couples, I try to feel happy for them while I hope that maybe next year I’ll have someone to share it with. As I approach my building I see someone sitting on the ground infront of the glass doors with their head on their knees. My heart races a little as I worry it could be someone looking for a way to sneak into the complex; I’ve seen stranger things happen in the city, unfortunately. The scene also reminds me of the time I sat in that exact position when Tyler first kicked me out of the apartment. I can’t imagine someone going through those same emotions on Valentines of all days, but for my own safety and the safety of others in the building I hope it’s the latter.

As I get closer, I can tell it’s a young girl. I think about walking past, but then I think about the immense difference it would have made if someone stopped when I was in her position. I clasp my keys in my palm as I crouch down beside her. 

“Hey, are you alright?” I ask, but she just shakes her head. “I know Valentines Day can be rough. Do you at least have somewhere to go? It’s too cold to stay out here.” She shakes her head again as her whole body shakes as she lets out a small sob. “I obviously don’t know you or what happened, but I’ve sat where you’re sitting…If you want to talk about it or just be around someone and not talk about it…” She shakes her head again. “You should at least come into the lobby, out of the cold night air.” When she still refuses to move I shrug off my jacket and wrap it around her. I feel my phone vibrate in my bag, but ignore it. While she’s refusing to talk, I know from experience that she shouldn’t be alone.

I sit on the pavement beside her under the dim streetlights in silence. When I start to shiver involuntarily she offers my jacket back. “You should go inside and stay warm. Don’t stay out here because of me. I’m obviously not worth it.” 

Hearing words so similar to ones I’ve said myself breaks my heart. “Only if you’ll let me call you a ride or bring you in. You won’t believe me, but I’ve had those exact thoughts. I don’t think you should be alone tonight.” I know it must be extremely hard for her to trust a stranger but I hope I can at least get her somewhere safe and warm.

My phone vibrates again, this time with a call. I ignore it. I don’t want this girl to think anyone or anything is more important than her. 

After a while, when she realises I’m not going anywhere, she says, “There’s no one to call…I-I was stupid.”

“I’m sure you weren’t. I’m sure you are just young and optimistic and caught in terrible circumstances beyond your control. But you likely won’t believe me, because I know I wouldn’t have. I haven’t got much to offer, but I do have an apartment with a fireplace and a comfortable couch and bed, you can have whichever.”

“I don’t-”

“It’s no problem. I just want to get you off the street for the night and I don’t imagine you can afford a hotel in the city, not to make assumptions, I just know how expensive it can be out here.”

My phone starts to buzz again and she sinks back. “You should get that.”

“They can wait. It’s probably just my mom checking because she knows how hard Valentines can be for me.” I don’t want to push too hard but I know it’s only getting later and colder and neither of us are making the most of my jacket now. I stand up and swipe my keyfob over the scanner. “At least come into the lobby, I’m happy to stay down here with you or bring you a blanket. Just come out of the cold.”

She hesitantly nods and pushes herself off the cold concrete. I lead her into the lobby. “You can come up with me or I can bring you down a blanket. It’s up to you. I don’t want to make you feel uncomfortable, I just want you to be warm and safe. And know that you’re not alone.”

“She looks around the bare, unhomely lobby and quietly asks, “C-Can I come up with you?”

“Of course.” I press the button for the lift and step back. When we get in, I notice she doesn’t even have a bag with her, just a phone that appears to be flat. I lead her into my apartment and quickly turn the lights on and start the fireplace. “The bathroom’s through there,” I motion towards my room, “If you want to have a warm shower or wash your face. The bedroom’s also in there if you’d prefer, or the couch.” I do my best to make her feel comfortable as I kick off my shoes and put down my bag. I also toss the now wilted roses in the bin, after pocketing the card. 

“They from your boyfriend? Does that mean it gets better?” she asks.

“It’s complicated, but yes, it does get better. It may take a while, but this moment doesn’t define you. Your life is so much more than your worst nights.”

She hesitantly takes a seat on the couch to warm up by the fire and I pull over a stool. “Y-You said you sat were I sat…C-Can I ask what happened?”

I nod. “My boyfriend at the time cheated on me in this very apartment. I came home from work and caught him in our bed with some girl her met at a bar. Same way he met me, ironically. He was a few years older. There were plenty of red flags I ignored. But it hurt for a long time. I am just lucky to have a great friend that helped me pull through the worst of it and keep putting one foot in front of the other.”

“He cheated with you here? And you stayed?”

“Yeah, crazy, right? I had a job here and classes and a friend and dreams. All of which were more important than a guy I moved across the country with on a whim. He went back to our home state and left me the apartment…and all the bills. I thought about trying to leave, but the location was perfect and the rent was cheaper than other places. I did get a new bed though. I threw out the bedding and sold the frame; there was nothing wrong with it, just that I couldn’t get the image of her gripping the headboard while he took her from behind, out of my head.”

“I’m sorry…”

I shake my head and shrug. “He was a dick. I’m just glad I didn’t let it break me. I almost did, and those thoughts resurface now and again, but I’m stronger for it. I know that now. I only realized that recently, actually…It’s these experiences that will eventually help you realize your worth.”

“He-He still has all my stuff. He begged me to forgive him…He-He wouldn’t let me…” I look her over as she speaks and notice she’s still cold. I reach over and pull the blanket off the back of the couch and offer it to her. She wraps it around herself and cuddles it close to her chest. That’s when I notice light purple bruises on her wrists.

“Did he?” I nod at her wrists and she hides them under the blanket. But then she nods.

“You can stay here as long as you need. I have a friend that works as a security guard, I can ask him to come over and help get your stuff tomorrow…Or we can go out and get you whatever you need.”

“He only does it when he’s…I provoke him…It’s my fault.”

I shake my head, knowing those feelings all too well. “Yeah? What’d you do?”

She shakes her head back and throws off the blanket. “It was my fault. I should go back. He’ll be mad if I-”

“I can’t and won’t stop you if you want to go. But I wish you wouldn’t. Just take the night. Get some sleep and think it over.”

She hesitantly pulls the blanket back on as she starts to cry again. “I-I just…I just wanted to go out. It was my first Valentines Day in a relationship…And in the city…I j-just…I-I shouldn’t…I know…”

“Hey, Sweetie. It’s okay to want those things. And every girl deserves that. Your man should want to take you out and show you a good time; not just on Valentines, but every day. But most of all, he shouldn’t ever hurt you. You’re not his punching bag.”

“He didn’t…He just-” My phone vibrates noisily on the counter cutting her off. “C-can I use the bathroom?”

“Of course. Let me know if you want to borrow some clean clothes. I should have something that should fit.”

“I’m okay. Thanks.” She quietly gets up and goes into the bathroom. I listen for the shower to turn on before I get up and check my phone: 15 texts and 3 missed calls from Jensen. I sigh and call him back without opening the messages.

“Thank God, you’re alive at least!”

“Me? You ignored me first.”

“I was working.”

“Yeah, me too.”

“At one in the morning? I know you get on the subway around eleven thirty, you always text when you get home. I didn’t hear from you. Jared only just talked me out of calling the police for a wellness check.”

“I’m sorry. It’s just…Something came up. I can’t talk about it right now. But I’m home and I’m safe. And I’ll call you tomorrow.”

He sighs. “Well, happy Valentines for yesterday, I guess…”

“Don’t be like that. I texted you last night and called you first thing this morning. You didn’t answer. We’re both busy. I had to accept that, so do you. And I really am busy at the moment. I will call you and explain when I can.”

“Someone more important, huh? Some guy from the show?”

I instantly tear up at his implication. “You know what? Screw you, Jensen. You know what I’ve been through and you really think I’d do that to you? Screw you.” I hang up before he can make any excuses and wipe my eyes hastily to appear strong for the girl who needs me. He instantly tries to call me back but I flick my phone to silent and plug it in to charge. I grab a change of clothes and knock lightly on the bathroom door. 

“Hey, it’s just me. I have some clothes here if you want them.” I wait a few seconds, but when I don’t get a response I put my hand on the doorknob. “I’m sorry, I’m coming in. Call out if you don’t want me to.” I don’t get a response so I push the door open and for the first time I’m thankful that it doesn’t have a lock.

I notice her sitting on the floor with her back against the bathtub and her head between her knees. She shakes as she cries heavily. As I get closer, I notice one of my bottles of painkillers in her hand. I let out a relieved sigh when I see the cap is still on. I twist off the water in the shower and crouch down beside her. 

“He’s not worth it…None of them are. But you are. You can have a very bright future. Focus on your dreams, what you want. If you put in the hard work, you can make it happen. I know it’s hard to believe right now, but it’s true.” I hold out my hand and she hands over the bottle. 

“What if he-What if someone saw us? What if he knows? What if he-”

“Do you wanna go somewhere else? I can call my friend and we can go somewhere else. As I said, he’s a security guard, he can protect you.”

She nods. I stand up and go get my phone and bring it back. I flip down the toilet lid and sit on it as I call Nick. I know Stella will be asleep, but I’m just hoping he’s finishing a shift. It rings a few times before he answers.

“Y/N?”

“Hey, Nick. Can you come over?”

“Are you okay?”

“I’m okay. I was just wondering if me and a…friend could come stay with you and Stella?”

“Jensen?”

I shake my head eventhough I know he can’t see me. “Nick, could you just come, please?”

“Sure. I’m on my way. Meet me downstairs?”

“Actually, could you come up? I’ll buzz you in.”

“Okay?”

“Thank you.”

He hangs up and I go back to sit with the girl. That’s when I realize I don’t even know her name. “I’m Y/N, by the way.” I try to break the tension a little to make her feel comfortable, “I can’t believe I forgot to introduce myself.”

“Anna.”

“Nice to meet you, Anna. My friend’s gonna come here and take us back to him and his wife’s place. They live over in Manhattan. They’re both really nice. Stella is the one I was telling you about that helped me when I was going through my worst. You’ll be safe there.”

“W-will you c-come?”

“Of course. I won’t leave you.”

“I’m sorry I wasted your water and went through your stuff.”

“I’m just glad you’re okay. But I need you to tell me the truth, did you take any? I don’t mind, I’m just worried about you.”

She shakes her head. “I-I couldn’t…I couldn’t do it.”

“Well, I’m glad.”

She hangs her head again. “Todd’s gonna be so angry…”

I try my best to stifle a laugh, “Really? Todd? That’s his name?” She nods. “That’ll do it.” She looks up confused. “I’m sorry. It’s just in my experience, guy’s with T-names are the worse. The guy that cheated on me? Tyler…and also, Trent, before that.”

“Two guys?”

“What idiot falls for it twice, right? That’s why I want to help you now. Don’t make the same mistakes I did. Don’t let it become a pattern. Let him be your one and only lesson. Realize your worth now.” I hear the buzzer from the intercom near the door. I stand up and hold my hand out. “My friend’s here, let’s go back out where it’s warmer.”

She slowly takes my hand and lets me pull her up and lead her back to the couch. I only leave her for a few seconds while I buzz Nick up and then let him in. Being already on edge he scans the apartment and instantly spots Anna. 

He leans close and lowly says, “There’s some frantic guy in the lobby. I don’t think you should go anywhere. I’ll stay here.”

I nod in understanding and introduce him and Anna. I gently explain the change of plans and urge her to take my bed. She argues, claiming that she should go down and check if it’s him and calm him down. But Nick and I dissuade her. In the end, she says she doesn’t want to be alone, so I lay down in my bed with her while Nick rests on the couch watching TV.

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Taglist: @stoneyggirl2 @hobby27, @n-o-p-e-never, @deansimpalababy,

@winchesterwild78, @kr804573, @chriszgirl92, @smoothdogsgirl

@speakinvain, @deans-baby-momma, @1967winchesterimpala, @ladysparkles78

[lantanasmuttyfanfics]

you must be SOOO sick of this but can you please do evil queen x good king 🙈🙈 pretty pleaseeeeeeeeee i love themmm

Sorry for the late update. And I apologize if this is really bad I know it’s not an excuse but my boyfriend broke up with me on Thursday and I’ve just not been in the mood for writing

Anyway fuck my ex boyfriend and yeah I do apologize but I couldn’t leave you guys hanging for too long, don’t want to start falling of now

Hope you enjoyed and have a great dayy!!

———————————

The good king didn’t know why, but he had found himself in a rather strange position. One he never expected to be in.

It all started during a dragons games match last month. It was a classic Snow White vs the evil queen game, just like so many before.

So he didn’t understand why that one was so… eye opening to him. He at first tried to deny it, or even try to figure out why but at the end he came back to the same conclusion.

He had a crush on the evil queen.

It wasn’t even one of those small crushes which you get over after a week- no it was crush that had his heart racing and his mind going blank when she was around.

It was crush that had made him seek her out in a crowd, made him yearn to hear her voice and had his chest tightening when he heard her laugh.

So here he was now a month later still drooling over like a love sick puppy, his crush growing with each day and taking root deeper within.

He wanted to ask her out but he didn’t know what he was more scared of- her rejection or the judgment of every royal he knew.

He figured her rejection would be worse yet still he was coming up with a plan to even get a chance to be alone with her for long enough to ask her out.

“What’s gotten into you?” He turned to look at king charming as he slid in the chemistry labs chair.

He blinked once then twice, mentally hitting himself for getting lost in thought about her again. “Nothing why-.”

His eyes widened as he saw the evil queen waltz into the room, her head held high and her platinum hair falling behind her.

He stared at what felt like eternity, his heart pounding and his palms sweating. But as he saw who was standing beside the evil queen he felt a simmer of jealousy arise.

The big bad wolf had his large hand resting around the evil queens shoulders as he recounted some story while she gazed about the room.

“Always has to make a show doesn’t she.” The good king kicked his friend in the leg. Suddenly he spotted an empty desk right beside his, a perfect spot to send king charming.

“Can you do me a favor?”

“Umm yeah.”

“Great. Go sit over there.” The good king quickly pointed to the empty desk his eyes pleading with his friend.

“What? Why!” The good king took a glance at the evil queen who had started to make her way further into the class.

“Just… please.”

“…. You owe me.”

The good king let out a sigh of relief as king charming sat on the empty desk. Just then the evil queen and the big bad wolf appeared before him both their eyes glaring.

She glanced around, seeing the only empty spot next either to the good king or king charming. Both horrible choices she thought.

Wolf didn’t seem to think the same as his eyes landed on king charming and a certain red hood sitting in front of him.

“Have fun Queenie.” He left without an other word and the evil queen held back groan. The good king froze as her lilac eyes pierced through him.

As she slid in the chair next to him, the good king found himself unconsciously moving in to her addictive perfume. It smelled like a happily ever after to him.

“I’m the good king.” He extend his hand to her, sweat breaking on his forehead as she gave him a steely gaze.

“I know.” He nearly melted at the sound of her velvety voice, the way her eyes caught in the light and hair in the wind.

“And I uhh- umm obviously know who you are.”

“I see my reputation exceeds me.”

She gave him a sly, feline smile her nails tapping on the desk. She would never admit it but was the good king always this… hot?

She couldn’t place it but something about him just did it for her. Maybe it was the way his arms flexed against his shirt or the veins that popped in his hands or-.

She shook her head. She was not having those sort of thought about the good king of all people. Even if she wanted to have a relationship with him she couldn’t.

The good king internally was panicking. He’d never been this close to her, he was so close he could see the deeper shades of purple in her eyes.

She really was captivating.

“It’s not very princely of you if you make me do all the work you know.” He snapped out of daze as he saw her starting on the potion they were meant to make.

—

After class had ended the good king had come to two different conclusions. Both sounding completely absurd but he was love sick.

One- he was going to ask the evil queen out that night.

Two- he might have a chance because she didn’t try to hex him.

Smoothing his shirt, the good king grabbed the enchanted black roses of his bed before taking a final look in the mirror and heading out.

He didn’t know where to find her, but he figured he’d try with the dark forest first. He figured that was a likely place she’d be.

Soon enough he found her sitting under a tree, her hand waving in the air with wisps of purple flames dancing around.

She sensed his presence before he could utter a word. “Hello princey.” He softly smiled at the nickname, he didn’t like it but it did fit.

“How did you know it was me?” He noted how she hadn’t even turned to look at him. The evil queen smirked at his question as she suddenly stood.

“You have a very distinct cologne. It’s… nice.”

The good king flushed, his eyes widened at her compliment but he straightened as he saw her gaze moving to the flowers.

“I know we really only met today. But- I umm I wanted to be upfront with you.”

The evil queen found her heart starting to race as he came closer, his hand engulfing her own as he put the roses in her hand.

“If you would give me the honor… would you like to go out with me.”

The minutes ticked by and the silence grew, the good king suddenly felt as if this was a very bad idea. Who was he kidding why would she ever want to go out someone like him?

He was- before he could finish the thought he felt soft, plush lips meet his in a surprisingly soft kiss. He melted into it, his hands finding her waist.

Once they pulled apart, the evil queen gave him a smile that he couldn’t decipher, one that made him feel like all sorts of things.

“I guess I can…” her lips were back on his in seconds, the roses forgotten on the forest floor. Who knew that this new chapter had in store?

——————————

After writing this it made me realize how much I miss writing wolf x red fics so someone pleeeeaaaasssee request a wolf x red fic 💕

Anyway because now I’m mad I’m going to tell you how my boyfriend broke up with me… OVER TEXT yeah idk what I saw in him

Hope you enjoyed and have a great dayy!!

[fluentmoviequoter]

The Price of Christmas Connections

Day 8 of 12 Days of Ficmas

Pairing: Dalton Lambert x reader

Summary: You knock on Dalton's door and offer him some Christmas cookies, and when he offers to pay, you gladly accept.

Warnings: so much fluff; I think I forgot how to write for Dalton.

Word Count: 0.9k+ words (sorry it's short, I liked the idea but couldn't figure out how to make it longer then got too busy to try)

A/N: Like I said in the warnings, I need to watch The Red Door again bc I feel like I'm not writing Dalton as well as I used to, but I have finals this week so this is the best I can do for now. I may revisit this next week and rewrite it if anyone is interested, but for now enjoy some fluff (which Dalton very much deserves after the semester he's had)!

The best part of JPU, in your opinion, is that your last class of the week is across from the art building. Better, is that you get to see the guy you wish you knew. You know his name because his friend yells it whenever she is around. But that is all you know about Dalton. Though you want to know more.

Dalton watches for you when he leaves Professor Armagan’s class, wondering what it would be like if he dared to introduce himself. You’ve waved at Dalton a few times, and he’s awkwardly returned it or pretended not to see you. Every time Dalton walks back to his dorm, feeling disappointed, ashamed, and prepared to get yelled at by Chris.

When December begins, you can’t help but imagine how different the holiday season would be if you could talk to Dalton, get to know him… fall in love with him. The last idea hits you out of nowhere, but you mean it. The rest of the students at JPU seem disinterested in the time of year, with no sign of the Christmas spirit anywhere to be seen. Deciding that something needs to be done, you pull on an invisible Santa hat and set out to bring the spirit of Christmas to JPU until everyone goes home for Christmas.

You pile all of the homemade decorated cookies (and some undecorated, in case someone doesn’t like icing) onto a Christmas platter you picked up from the nearby grocery store. After dressing up with a Mrs. Claus dress pulled over your warmest leggings and a long-sleeve thermal shirt, you leave your apartment and walk to the nearest dorm building. Nearly everyone on the first floor accepts at least one cookie. By the time you reach the third floor, you’re preparing to return to your apartment to refill the platter. As you knock on a door, you count the cookies and decide to offer the last three to whoever is in the dorm. The door opens, and you smile, hoping to spread a little light. You see Dalton on the other side of the door, and your smile grows.

“Hi,” you greet. “I’m handing out Christmas cookies, could I interest you in one? Or three?”

Dalton’s jaw drops nearly imperceptibly as he looks between you and the platter.

“I’ve been watching you, I wanted to meet,” he blurts out. His eyes widen as he rushes to correct, “I mean- not like stalker-watching you, I just know when you have class and I wait until I see you when you leave. No, that’s not better, um-”

You laugh, shifting the platter so you can lay a hand on his arm. “It’s okay. I’ve been wanting to meet you too,” you admit.

Dalton nods, unmoving because you’re at his dorm and touching him. His mind races, forming plenty of things to say, but nothing comes out.

“So, do you want a cookie?” you repeat.

“Oh, yes, please. You- you can come in, if you want, since you said you wanted to meet me.” Dalton cringes as he finishes, whispering an apology.

“Sure,” you agree, entering his dorm.

You set the cookies on a clear corner of his desk, walking to the edge of his bed to inspect the art on his wall. Each piece tells a different story and you feel like you know Dalton more after each picture.

“Are you selling the cookies, or? I mean, I’ll pay for them if you are,” Dalton says, watching you look at his pictures.

He notices your eyes light up as you turn to him and say, “No, I’m not selling them, just handing them out. I’ll accept payment anyway, though.”

Dalton’s brows furrow as his arms drop. You realize you confused him with the conflicting information, so you decide to show him instead. Grabbing his sweatshirt, you pull him to you, kissing him as payment for the cookies, for allowing you to come in and get to know each other, and most importantly, and the opportunity to fall in love with him.

When you pull away from him, breaking the kiss, his eyes remain closed as he mumbles, “That works.”

“I’m glad we finally met,” you tell him.

“Me too.”

“There’s still cookies over there.”

Dalton rolls his eyes and smiles before leaning in to kiss you again.

✯✯✯✯✯

After turning in your last test, marking the official beginning of Christmas break, you run to the art building and wait for Dalton to finish his final presentation for Professor Armagan’s class. When the door opens, you perk up, standing on your toes to watch for Dalton.

“Dalton!” you yell, waving at him when he appears.

He smiles, rushing down the stairs and pulling you into his arms as he asks how your final went. 

“Cookie girl!” several people yell, hooting and pointing at you. “Be my Mrs. Claus!” one of them requests.

“My cookie girl,” Dalton says shyly, looking into your eyes as his arms tighten around you.

“Your cookie girl,” you agree, boldly kissing him in front of all the students.

The previously interested guys boo playfully as they continue walking, and you hear Dalton’s friend yell his name in surprise. You pull back, turning into Dalton’s shoulder before facing her.

“This is Chris,” Dalton introduces you. “Chris, this is my cookie girl.”

You roll your eyes at Dalton as you shake Chris’s hand.

“Oh my gosh, my roommate saved me one of your cookies; they were so good!” she gushes.

“Best priced cookies I’ve ever gotten,” Dalton says as he wraps his arms around your waist and pulls you against him.

Because of a few cookies, you went from staring longingly across campus to see each other to running into his arms. They’re the best-priced cookies you’ve ever had, too.

[miela]

Shattered Memories • Chapter III: A Sense of Reunion II • {Peter Parker x Stark!Reader}

Chapter Genre: Angst (???) Chapter Warnings: Mentions of Substance Abuse Masterlist

↪ divider by firefly-graphics

VIDEO LOG #20 / 10 JUNE 2026

Hey (Y/N),

 It’s me, Peter.

It’s been almost two years since you have forgotten about me. And to be honest, these two years have been absolutely hell without you. I got a redo on life as most people wish for but be careful what you wish for I guess. I have a new life and it’s okay. I have friends from school but they’ll never compare to you, Celina, Ned, and MJ. I have two jobs and they pay okay. It helps with rent. I’m still out there being Spiderman, I haven’t heard anything about you though which I guess is understandable. I hope you’re doing okay.

I miss you….I miss you so much. In times like these, I know I could always turn to you, lay my head on your shoulder, and cry…you would rub my back, kiss the top of my head, and tell me that everything is going to be okay...because we had each other. I feel like I took those moments for granted even though I know I didn’t. I just really miss you. 

I hope one day…I could be in your arms again. I love you so much.

[END RECORDING]

I know who you are. 

It rang and echoed in Peter's head after you said it. His heart didn’t know what it wanted to do; stop and explode or race and explode. He looked at you with an expression he could only imagine was a mix of shock and anticipation. How long did you know? Is that why you came to find him? Because you remembered him? There were so many things he wanted to say, ask and do.

But before he could even react, your words knocked his cathedral of hope down to the ground just as quickly as it was built up.

"But I don't remember you."

And there it was. The catch. His heart dropped.

Of course, it wouldn’t have been that easy for him. Even though five years went by and that was more than plenty of time for you to figure it out with what little information you had, Strange’s spell was thorough and very effective. Peter wasn’t sure if he wanted to scream or cry or to crawl in a dark hole and whither away. He didn’t even know how to respond. How was he supposed to explain everything to you? How was he supposed to explain his reasoning for not following through with his promise five years ago?

He just looked at you dumbfounded.

You pressed your lips together and nodded slowly at his response of silence. “When going through the Avenger files, I saw your file. Funny how I recognized everyone else but I didn’t recognize you. Even funnier that we were partners in justice and crime fighting and I didn’t even remember your face. So I did a month-long deep dive.”

Peter never took his eyes off of you and you never took your eyes off of him. He could tell you were getting serious although your expression was still pretty relaxed. On the other hand, he could feel his jaw clench from his nerves making the hairs on the back of his neck stand up.

“I asked around. I asked Sam, Bucky, Dr. Cho, Ned, MJ, Celina…anyone who has a connection to you and none of them know who you are. Well, MJ and Ned said you come into the coffee shop a lot, but they don’t know you. See, memories can be erased from people, but not from algorithms. We went to the same high school, both were in the academic decathlon with MJ, and we had almost all the same classes together. We were both Avengers, we were a duo team because we have the same powers, I remember every single mission, Hell, I remember fighting you,” you continued with emotion in your voice that Peter could only guess was frustration. “But I don’t remember…you.”

Peter decided he wanted to scream. He wanted to scream and then tell you everything, but he had his reasons for not telling you.

“For five years I’ve been dreaming of this guy. I call him the Faceless Boy. I have dreamt of him every single night since that day five years ago. The dreams are more than dreams, more than that dream-walking shit Celina talks about. These dreams are memories with someone who is so foreign to me.” You walked over by him slowly and stopped when you were about three feet away and you looked up into his eyes. “When I snuck through your window today, I expected a different response from you after webbing me to the wall.”

Peter gulped slightly.

“You talked to me like you knew who I was. A long-time friend that you haven’t seen in a while and one you weren’t expecting to see for an even longer while. And then when we shook hands…?” You chewed on your lip nervously, almost like you were afraid to say the next bit. “For five years, I’ve had this hole in my chest, as if something was carved out of my life when it wasn’t supposed to be. I’ve tried to fill it with anything and everything and I failed every single time. So tell me why when we shook hands I never felt it so whole before. A simple handshake from a boy from Queens filled my emptiness like he was the missing puzzle piece.”

Peter’s heart raced as you spoke and looked at him with a desperation for answers, but he couldn’t speak. He didn’t know how to respond as you searched his dark eyes for answers. He didn’t want to lie to you but…he also didn’t want to tell you the truth. The truth is what is keeping you safe and what is keeping you sane. 

“I know you feel it right now,” you said. “The pull.”

The pheromonal connection.

Peter could feel it, He didn’t stop feeling it since he sensed you in his apartment, especially after the handshake. His senses were in a frenzy, he could only imagine how yours were, especially when you couldn’t even remember who he was to you. He pressed his lips together. 

“So tell me, Peter Parker,” you started again. “What happened?”

Peter looked deeply into your eyes and slowly brought his hand up to your cheek and gently caressed it before laying his hand on it. You leaned your face into his touch and closed your eyes. His senses instantly focused on you. Your breath hitched as you opened your eyes again to look up at his dark ones.

He wanted to tell you everything so badly. He wanted to tell you how he knew you like the back of his hand. He wanted to tell you that he knew your favorite things and that you couldn’t cook to save your life, and that you loved to dance and you did ballet since you were a child. He wanted to tell you how in high school you would viscerally defend him every time Flash Thompson opened his mouth and called Peter “Penis Parker” and how when you found out Flash’s real name you started using it just to piss him off and shut him up. He wanted to tell you about how MJ didn’t like him at first because she was afraid that the same situation that happened with him and Liz would happen to you. He wanted to tell you how you and Ned would constantly bicker over who was the coolest character in Star Wars and that everyone thought your favorite anime was Chainsaw Man but he knew it was actually Sailor Moon (and that you constantly argued that Usagi would floor Goku anytime any day and any era). He wanted to tell you everything about yourself and your memories until his jaw hurt from talking too much.

But everything in him told him not to.

“(Y/N)...” he began. “I-”

Before he could finish his sentence your eyes blinked rapidly and your brows furrowed before you winced and hissed. You held your head as you let out a noise of pain and Peter instantly pulled back. 

“(Y/N)? (Y/N)! Are you okay? What’s happening?!” Peter panicked.

After a moment you looked up at him catching your breath softly. “Yeah….yeah. I’m fine. Like I said before. Stark Stress.”

Peter called total bullshit on that. 

“What were we talking about?” You asked softly to no one in particular.

Peter looked at you wide eyes filled with confusion and concern. 

“Uh…” he searched his scatterbrain for something to say. “The…uh…Avenger Files? You were going to tell me why you were going through the Avenger files, yeah…mhm…”

You looked at him with a knowing expression. “Parker, I remember everything I said. It was a rhetorical question.”

“Oh…!” Peter squeaked. 

You rubbed your temples and smiled up at him. “You won’t tell me anything. That’s fine I won't force you. Whatever you did, you did it for good reason.” You leaned back on the table. “I’ll figure it out anyway. Just promise you’ll be honest with me when I ask about something.”

Peter nodded. “Y-yeah! Yeah, sure, yeah I’ll be …uh….I’ll be honest.”

“Great!” you clapped your hands together. “Now down to business. I didn’t just drag you here to interrogate you.” You turned to the table to avoid his gaze.

You were deflecting the situation. Peter knows because you tend to do that when you have felt like you came off too strong in a situation and your way of reacting was to pretend like it was nothing big in hopes that the other person would follow suit. At this moment, Peter was glad you did, because he would’ve done it if you didn’t. Especially when those Stark Stress Migraines seemed more like Parker Stress ones. Both times you guys made contact you had a strong reaction. It scared him and he wanted to know why. He wished he could have asked Strange about this, but Strange didn’t remember him and probably wouldn’t even remember the spell. 

He guessed that was his big sign to keep his distance from you. 

Later, he was taken back home in time for him to go out patrolling once more. He swung across the veins of New York City as he thought about the events that happened.

Today was a really strange day.

After your whole interrogation, you told him about your plans for the NAI and the scholarship that Tony had left for him. 

 “My dad had an actual internship and scholarship set aside for you but obviously it was meant for MIT. I changed it up a bit for your sake. So your last five years will be compensated and paid off tuition-wise and the rest of your time in school will be paid in full. You will also have an internship opportunity whenever you’re ready for it. It will be a summer internship so you can have full focus on it without any distractions, or you could do it during winter break. Whatever works for you.” You pointed at the holographic screens respectively. 

Peter looked at the holograms in shock. Tony was planning on doing all of this for him. He shouldn’t be surprised but he was…and was touched by it. And you modifying it to fit his needs made it all the more… meaningful. He did remember Tony offering him a grant when he first came to visit him but he thought he wasn’t serious about it and was using it for code to add to the stark internship.  

He almost didn’t take it, but you insisted. 

 “Parker, this was something my dad set in place years ago. Consider it a token of gratitude. He would want this for you.” you explained. “But I won't force it on you if you really don’t want it.”

Peter sighed when he stopped on a building to think. He hated keeping the truth from you, and he hated that you were suffering all this time because of your migraines. He remembered your big reaction to both times that he touched you. 

It was hurting you. 

He wondered if it would be the same for Ned, Celina, and MJ. Would they have a splitting headache if he got close to any of them too? The whole point of this stupid spell was to protect the ones he cared about, not cause them pain. 

He really, really hated magic.

He sighed and sat down at the edge of the building. He thought about what you went through in the past years without him. He had hoped that you would have been living your best life without worry, but instead, you were dreaming about him without knowing who he was, and he had to sit there and not tell you that it was him that you were dreaming about. 

It was best to just stay away from you all. Like it was intended five years ago.

He needed a distraction. He remembered one of his friends from school mentioning a party at his Fraternity House this weekend that Peter initially said no to going to. But after today he could use it. He took out his phone and called him.

“Parker,” Harry Osborn, chimed. “What’s up, my guy?”

“Hey Harry,” Peter greeted. “I changed my mind, I do wanna go to that party tomorrow.”

To say you were a mess was an understatement. 

You didn’t seem it though. You were working with Nika on the list of foundations and non-profit organizations that would be attending the charity gala that you were hosting in a month. You’re first act of Philanthropy would be donating at least one billion dollars each year to different organizations and you wanted it to be a well-rounded event but you were distracted by the recent ones that happened.

Nika could tell.

“(Y/N),” she said, folding her hands in her lap. “Are you okay? Did that Avenger boy do something to you?”

“Huh? What? No,” You replied a little defensively. “He’s harmless.”

“Then why do you seem so upset?” She asked with concern in her tone. “You were fine earlier.”

You sighed and rubbed your temples with your fingers gently as you closed your eyes. “Migraine,” you responded, only giving part of the problem. 

She sighed knowing that you weren’t telling her everything. “I’m going to talk to you as a friend.”

You looked at the redhead expectantly.

“You haven’t had much of a life since…well…since I first met you four years ago.”

You met Nika Eyrewolfe, back in the recovery center. She was in for substance abuse herself. Since then you guys have been great friends and been a good support for each other. When you found out that she had no place to call home or anything to her name, you got her a job at Stark Industries before she was promoted to your assistant. She’s done nothing but a great job at it. She has been with you most days since you became CEO. So to say the girl knew your life and schedule like her life depended on it was an understatement.

“You’ve worked yourself so much that your headaches are getting worse and worse,” she continued. “The only person you hang out with is Morgan, who’s ten years old. You haven’t made time for Celina, Ned, and MJ in forever. But you had time to get Avenger Boy.”

“He has a name,” You retorted. “Peter. Peter Parker.”

“That’s nice,” Nika replied sarcastically. “And who is Peter Parker to you exactly?”

That’s the problem. I don’t know, you thought.

All you know is that he was the cutest guy you have ever seen in your entire life. His brown curls were soft and silky on his head. His eyes looked tired but they were soft and kind. He had boyish features that only added to his softness. And his smile. God, that smile. It lit up his whole face. His black tee shirt hugged his muscles nicely, and his dark denim jeans hugged his thighs and legs in just the right way. You had to catch yourself from staring at him too long before it got really weird.

You stayed silent and leaned your head on the back of your chair.

“Exactly,” Nika stated. “Nothing. So, you should make time for your friends. I’ll clear your calendar this weekend.”

The thing was that Peter wasn’t “nothing” to you, he was definitely a big something. You were at least eighty percent sure he was the faceless boy from your dreams. And when he touched you…? You couldn’t ignore that no matter how much you tried. The way his hand was so heartbreakingly gentle on your skin as all your worries faded away for a small moment before the splitting headache came again. It’s not like you could tell Nika any of this.

But she was right about one thing. It had been a while since you hung out with your friends. You kept in touch with them in the group chat, but it wasn’t the same as seeing them. 

“Okay,” you gave her a small smile. “Thank you, Nika. What would I be without you?”

“I dunno, probably insane.”

You snorted in response.

Maybe it would be good for you to step away from everything for a little bit. Especially with how crazy your day was. You especially wanted to pretend this day never happened, crawl into the void, and scream until your voice was gone. You deserved to relax for a moment and maybe next time you make the impulsive decision to climb into the window of someone you think you know but you don’t…

You won’t.

~

tags: @riordanness @chrisevans-realwife @peterdarlingg

[aughby]

Love in Every Letter

Belle’s elementary classroom was buzzing with excitement that morning. She had planned a special activity to inspire her students: each child would write a letter to a Japanese athlete, thanking them for their efforts in the Olympics. She smiled as she watched them, fingers gripping pencils, concentrating hard to put their feelings into words. Belle herself had felt inspired to write one too, after witnessing how much heart the athletes poured into their performances. Sitting at her desk, she thought about the volleyball team and how tirelessly they played. She decided to write a note of encouragement, hoping it might lift the spirits of a player who might need it.

Meanwhile, in Italy, Yuki Ishikawa was struggling. The team’s Olympic journey had ended sooner than he’d hoped, and the weight of his disappointment hung heavily on him. He barely noticed as his teammates gathered around during a training break, each holding colorful letters sent by fans. He was about to look away when his teammate Akihiro nudged him.

“Hey, Yuki! This one’s for you,” Akihiro said, grinning as he handed him an envelope. “No kid’s drawing, though. It’s all words—must be from an adult.”

Yuki opened it, feeling curious. Inside was a neatly handwritten letter that began with, “Dear Athlete…”

Belle’s words were simple but filled with heart, talking about how inspiring his journey had been, and how proud everyone was of his dedication, regardless of the outcome. She encouraged him to keep going, to remember the joy of playing, and to hold his head high. She thanked him for showing children all over Japan the beauty of resilience.

The letter left Yuki speechless. It felt different, genuine, and it resonated in a way no other fan letter had before. He couldn’t help but read it over and over that evening. Inspired, he decided to write back, penning a short but heartfelt thank-you letter. He left it unsigned, wondering if the mystery might make it more intriguing for his kind writer.

Belle’s curiosity piqued when she received the letter a week later. There was no name, just a simple message: “Thank you for your letter. It meant more than you know.” She felt a warm glow as she read it and decided to keep the conversation going, intrigued by her unknown pen pal. Over the weeks that followed, they exchanged letters, sharing more personal stories—Belle about her love for teaching and Yuki about the ups and downs of being a professional athlete. He was careful to avoid giving away too much about himself, but Belle could feel the sincerity in every letter.

As the letters continued, Belle found herself growing fond of her anonymous correspondent. His words became the highlight of her week, and she wondered more and more about who this person could be. Yuki, too, felt an unexpected spark every time he received her letters. In a way, her words had become a source of strength and comfort for him.

Then one evening, after another long practice, Yuki found himself staring at her latest letter, feeling a surge of courage. He wanted to meet her, to let her know how much her words had helped him through a difficult time. Without overthinking, he booked a flight to Japan, deciding he’d visit her school in person.

Two days later, Belle was in the middle of her class when she heard a gentle knock on her door. Glancing up, she saw a tall, athletic figure standing outside. She blinked in surprise as her eyes adjusted—wasn’t that Yuki Ishikawa, the volleyball player? Her mind raced as she walked to the door, wondering what on earth he was doing at her school.

“Belle-sensei?” he asked, his voice warm but slightly hesitant.

Belle managed a nod, still too stunned to speak.

Yuki smiled, holding out an envelope. “I’m here to thank you for your letters.”

Realization dawned on her, and she clapped a hand over her mouth, her eyes wide with shock. “You…you’re the one I’ve been writing to?”

He chuckled, a hint of nervousness in his gaze. “Yes. You have no idea how much your words meant to me.” His voice softened. “They came at just the right time, and I don’t know if I could have gotten through that period without them.”

Belle felt her heart racing. She’d written that first letter with a stranger in mind, not imagining in her wildest dreams that it would reach someone as well-known as Yuki Ishikawa.

“Oh… I… I didn’t know my words would reach you,” she stammered, a blush creeping up her cheeks. “I’m just…really honored.”

Her students, curious about the visitor, began whispering excitedly. One of them finally asked, “Sensei, who’s that?”

Belle gave them a warm smile, introducing him. “This is Yuki Ishikawa, a volleyball player who represented Japan in the Olympics!”

The kids gasped and crowded around, bombarding him with questions. Yuki knelt down, laughing as he answered each one, his natural charm winning them over. Belle watched with a smile, touched by how warmly he interacted with her students.

Once the kids returned to their seats, Yuki turned back to Belle. “I know this might be sudden, but…would you like to go out for coffee? I’d love to hear more about what inspired you to write that letter.”

Belle smiled, feeling a spark of excitement. “I’d love that.”

They spent the afternoon at a cozy café, talking for hours. They found themselves sharing stories, laughing at little anecdotes, and realizing how much they had in common. Yuki was drawn to Belle’s genuine kindness and her passion for teaching, while Belle admired Yuki’s dedication and resilience.

At the end of their coffee date, Yuki hesitated, gathering his courage. “I’ll be here in Japan for a few more days… If you’re free, maybe we could meet up again?”

Belle’s smile grew. “I’d like that.”

Over the next few days, they explored the city, visited parks, and even attended a volleyball game together. Their connection deepened with each passing moment, and by the time Yuki’s departure day arrived, it was clear they shared something special.

As they stood at the airport, Yuki took her hand, his gaze tender. “Belle, meeting you has been the best part of coming back to Japan. You’ve given me so much strength…and something to look forward to.”

Belle squeezed his hand, her heart swelling with emotion. “You’ve brought a lot of joy into my life too, Yuki. I didn’t expect a letter to lead to…all of this.” She smiled softly. “Let’s keep in touch, okay?”

Yuki leaned in, pressing a gentle kiss to her forehead. “Definitely. And maybe next time, it’ll be you visiting me in Italy.”

As Yuki boarded his flight, Belle watched him go with a heart full of warmth. She knew that this was just the beginning, a story that had started with one simple letter—a letter that had changed both of their lives in ways they never could have expected.

[yunaloona]

“Why can’t we just love each other?” Pt.3

Human!bully!Aonung x Reader (Highschool AU)

Warnings: None!

Part 1 Part 2 Part 4

Ever since the sleep over you’ve been feeling more awkward around Aonung. Little thing that he does or the way he looks at you, his eyes seems to linger makes your body hot and your heart race. What will you do about this new feeling?

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

It’s been a while since the sleep over, ever since your feelings have grown for him. The conversations through that night being something and nothing, the way he comforted you when he heard about your sleeping troubles, the way he looked at you like you were the most beautiful thing in the world. When he carried you to the bed when you fell asleep.

Thinking about it just made your heart race and mind fuzzy.

~~~

Today was the day you tell Tsireya and Kiri about your crush on Aonung. You didn’t know how they react, Tsireya being his sister and Kiri being not that fond of him.

Arriving at school you walk up to your friend group and take a deep breath.

“Hey guys..” you were greeted with hi and good morning from the two, but they could tell something was up.

“What’s wrong Y/N you seem a little off today” Kiri nodded her head at Tsireya’s words.

“Well.. I have something to tell you guys, I think I like Aonung, and I don’t know, I’ve just haven’t gotten my mind off of him and my heart beats faster when he’s around and my palms get all sweat-“

You were cut off

“Oh girl we already knew that!!”

Kiri was laughing “Yeah Y/N you can’t be more obvious, don’t think we didn’t see you leave with him at the sleep over”

You hid your face in embarrassment

“Really??? You knew????”

“Yeah girl, we were just waiting for you to realize and tell us”

The three of you talked and joked about your little crush and came up with ways to tell him, you got information from Tsireya and out what he likes and where he spends his time, and Kiri offered to ask Roxto what he thinks of you.

Basically you were overwhelmed with support and suggestions, and glad to have such amazing friends.

~~~

Aonung’s POV

He was down bad. But he was in denial.. big big denial.

He didn’t think that he could ever have such strong feelings for someone, but you and getting to know you, having someone stand up to him and be so confident and sweet at the same time. You made he day just seeing your face.

“What? What do I think of Y/N?” He asked confused looking at his best friend.

“Yeah dude, do you think she’s cute? Do you like her?” Roxto asked trying to make it seem like a normal convo and not him actually being set up by Kiri.

Aonung was nervous, he didn’t want to admit his true feelings, nor did he want anyone to know that he likes someone. It was embarrassing and it would give people a reason to kick him off his high horse.. is what he thought.

“Why would I like Y/N? She’s rude and always finds a way to get under my skin.”

Roxto look taken aback by this answer.

“Woah dude is that how you feel for real?”

Aonung was hesitant, then sighed giving in

“Well, truth is, she’s amazing and kind but won’t let people walk all over her, Y/N is such an amazing person.. I can’t take my mind off of her.”

Roxto was extra shocked about this answer, not being used to him sharing this much. But before he could reply he looked over Aonung’s shoulder and saw Y/N speed walking away looking upset. Knowing she at least heard some of the conversation, he pointed “Dude…”

Aonung looked behind him seeing you in the distance looking distraught, walking away from them.

“Oh I really messed this up.” Aonung looked worried looking at your disappearing figure, knowing he had to make things right.

~~~

Your POV

You were walking out of class, when you noticed Roxto and Aonung talking in the hall, You we’re going to say hi when you overheard thier conversations

“What do i think about Y/N?”

“Yeah dude, do you think she’s cute? Do you like her?”

“Why would I like Y/N? She’s rude and always finds a way to get under my skin.”

….

Your heart sank, all you could do was walk away, you felt numb and didn’t know what to do. Everything around you seemed to disappear and you just wanted to get away.

How could he say that? We’re you that bad to him? You thought it was just childish banter.. did the sleep over mean nothing? Does he really not like me? All these thoughts were running through your mind as you went to the next period, luckily it was your last. Honestly you didn’t think you could get through the rest of the school day.

That night you just put your phone on do not disturb and cried, you feel asleep listening to music that made you feel better, not knowing how you were going to face anyone tomorrow.

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

[writers-ex]

last december

idol!yeji x uni student!reader

word count: 1.7k

warnings: breaking up from hectic schedules, gossip, yeji’s attempts to woo you, groping and making out bc you can’t be mad at her forever, happy ending

a/n: inspired by this ask, lmk 🦙anon what your thoughts are on my first angst to fluff yeji ff

“i don’t know what else i can do!” tears fall from your eyes as you speak to the other person on the phone. “we weren’t ready.” holding the phone tighter your breathe starts to shake. “it’s over yeji…goodbye.” hanging up you feel your body go limp as tears fall down your face. not noticing your phone fall to the floor you start sniveling silently, feeling the world go blurry as you cry for the rest of the night over a relationship that was too overwhelming to even think about.

you and yeji started dating ever since you met her at a concert and fansign the following week. you caught her eye which lead to her leaving her number in your album. you started talking and before you knew it you had begun your secret romance with the idol of your dreams that wonderful winter. 

it was nice since she could only meet up when you finished with your classes in uni and with so many lax professors you could text and video call secretly your girlfriend. lately, however finals began and being in so many AP classes along with clubs you missed many of her calls but it was the same with her the month before. yeji had begun training for her next comeback and wasn’t allowed to use her phone until she perfected her dance and helped the members being the leader of the group. you both had horrible timing and no matter how many compromises you both did for each other it never worked out. and so once again the anniversary of your one year together ended as cold as the month you met.

( ｡>﹏<｡)  

the seasons began to change and summer rolled around but despite being busy with coursework and group projects along with club activities your mind always went to your ex-cat-eyed lover. hearing news about their upcoming comeback that usually rolled around the end of the year and the occasional v-live notifications yeji never seemed to leave your mind and you often wondered if it was the same for her. 

“hey did you hear about the rumor going on with yeji?” your ears perk up as you wait in line in the cafeteria.

“they say she hasn’t been doing well, for their last comeback she seemed more down and tired than usual.” 

“yeah like something is off with her…” the two strangers make their way toward the checkout lane leaving you alone with your conflicted thoughts. the rest of the day your mind is wandering back to the conversation you overheard. checking dispatch you read some articles about yeji’s recent behavior and comeback, confirming their words. 

as nightfall approaches, you leave late the library after finishing a project when you see someone sitting on the stairs. walking closer you recognize the jacket immediately, letting out a gasp the figure turns you mimicking your shocked expression. “yeji?”

“…h-hey there…” hearing some footsteps and scattered conversation coming from behind you, grabbing her hand you drag yeji to an abandoned park area nearby to talk. checking to make sure there was no one around you cross your arms and look at your old lover.

“what on earth are you doing here?! what if someone-“ 

“i can explain!! I-If you’ll let me…” staying quiet you take a deep breath and nod indicating for her to speak. “so I don’t know if you’ve seen but lately…I’ve been out of my mind and well it’s because or rather it is because of-“

“don’t say it.” cutting her off your eyebrows furrow in the center of your forehead and shoulders slump. “yeji we can’t. I was too hurt by this, by us.” gesturing between the two of you your heart starts racing as the memories, and feelings of hurt flood back into your mind. taking your hand yeji’s sorrowful eyes meet yours.

“believe me… if I could take it all back…I would.” with your gaze on your connected hands, she gives you a light squeeze. “I’ve done a lot of thinking and I know how we can make it work. love I promise I’ll make it up to you.“ letting out a sarcastic laugh you shake your head and let go of yeji’s hand, knowing that your eyes would betray how you feel you turn your back to her and tighten the backpack strap across your chest.

“yeah right… anyways yeji you know where to find me.” walking away from her you wave your hand behind your back toward her. “good luck.”

( ｡>﹏<｡)  

week one: she found your number from a caffeinated and tired student you had done a project with and began texting you good morning and good night every day

week two: yeji asked her manager to go to your club room and leave a note at your club’s bulletin board reminding you to drink water along with a cheesy note

week three: buying you your favorite drink and meal for lunch to eat, she would invite you to have lunch with her under the bleachers

week four: somehow she managed to deliver flowers to your door in the morning surprising your hungover roommate 

week five: she would randomly call you at odd hours of the day just to hear your voice

week six: yeji would text you to see her vlive as she baked cookies with the fans messing up and getting dirty only to come by your dorm once she was done to eat them with you 

week seven: finding secret spots she would sneak after practice to take you out on a ‘friend date’ to hear about your day 

week eight: you had a bad week in class and yeji would come rushing in to hold your hand as you vented to her 

week nine: she asked and tested jokes on the members trying to find a good one to share with you in a voice message right before she started practice 

by week ten your heart was racing whenever you saw her name appear on your phone. never before had yeji been this attentive to you especially during comeback season when it was the busiest time of the year for her and the group. 

‘hi love <3 I just wanted to let u know that I’ll be busy this week for promos, we can’t see each other :(( I’ll be here if u need me though….’

‘it’s ok yeji x enjoy your comeback I can’t wait to see you soon :3’

“hey did you hear the latest rumor about yeji?” turning off your phone you see the familiar two that had gossiped about yeji a while back

“yeah she’s doing much better now than at the end of their last comeback season!”

“it’s like she became a whole new person, I’m so hyped for this comeback!” watching the two chatter bugs walk away you feel a smile grow on your face as you realize why yeji’s mood has improved. heading back to your dorm you search through your closet to find an outfit to wear for the showcase coming up and decide to clear your schedule to get something nice to surprise her.

on the day of the showcase, you join all the other fans entering the studio early to get seats filled. watching the teasers from the comeback play on the screen and old songs to hype everyone up you sing along when someone taps your shoulder.

“um hi are you ‘that girl that’s on yeji’s lock screen’? i’m itzy’s manager can you come with me for a second, please? it’s about yeji…” 

“o-of course!!” following the tall masked figure you follow them backstage as they point at yeji’s dressing room.

“she’s in there.” thanking them you slowly open the door and find yeji on the couch with her head in between her knees trying to calm down.

“hey jiji.” groaning she looks up and sees you.

“wow I haven’t heard that nickname in forever. love what are you doing here?” taking a seat next to the confused yeji who is experiencing the blood come back down to her body.

“well, I’m here to support a very persistent little kitten with her comeback. jiji why are you so nervous? you’ll be fine, you’ve got this.” taking your hand yeji lets out a heavy sigh caressing your palm.

“I know but this time it’s different.” looking up to your face she pouts. “if I can’t do well in this comeback then that means I won’t be able to balance work and dating. I can’t prove to you that I’ll be there for you even when times get busy…” 

cupping your face yeji’s breathing starts to quiver. “I-I still need you.” rubbing your cheek her lips pursed. “tell me you have been feeling the same too?!” 

leaning closer you feel you a desire grow in your body unlike what you’ve ever felt. a small nod makes yeji’s lips turn right side up as she leans in to kiss you softly. getting lost in the feeling you pull away and shake your head dazed. 

“n-no we shouldn’t…” whining yeji pecks your lips again making your resolve melt faster than ice cream on a hot summer day. 

“please? for luck?” batting her eyelashes you roll your eyes while yeji smirks knowing damn well you can’t resist those eyes. coming closer you connect your lips and feel the kiss get deeper and deeper. with her fingers tangled in your hair, you let out a soft moan as she pulled you onto her lap feeling your legs wrap around her waist. pulling you closer to her you grind against her lap making yeji take her hands out of your hair to cup your ass and squeeze it making another low moan escape your lips. your hands find their way inside her shirt making yeji bite your lip softly-

“YEJI!!! YOU’RE ON IN FIVE!” groaning yeji pulls away to answer.

“OK!!!!” startled at almost getting caught you try to get off her but she makes you stay in her lap as the voice behind the door fades away. 

“and where do you think you’re going?”

“j-jiji you have to go-“ placing a finger on your lips yeji’s smile grows. 

“I’ll be back and we’ll continue this conversation in my bed later little one.”

[nophunleague]

stare decisis: chapter five - amica

amica: latin for friend

masterlist

wc: 1142

rafael barba x original female character

Quinn holds a hand over her mouth as the squad watches the vile poor excuses for audition tapes recorded by Brubeck that had been turned over by his attorney. 

“This is horrendous,” Carisi says as Barba stops the most recent tape in their viewing session. “But it’s all legal, every movie he’s shot since Forbes died was in a state with a low age of consent plus a mistake of age defense,” the steam is virtually blowing out of everyone’s ears, frustrated with the unbelievably smart pedophile.

Barba and Quinn have both removed their blazers, Quinn was surprised to learn that he’s a suspenders man. Quinn chose a button down and pencil skirt combo for the day, the first two or three buttons of the top remaining unbuttoned so it didn’t choke her. 

“He’s methodical,” Barba flips through the DVD booklet, every DVD is labeled with the actress’s name, date of birth, and the state it was filmed in. That is until he reaches the last one, his finger rests on it as the gears in his mind turn quickly. Quinn, who had been sitting next to him, cranes her neck to be able to read the writing on the DVD.

“Winnipeg,” they say simultaneously, glancing at each other then to Liv. 

“Did he ever make a movie in Winnipeg?” she asks the squad, Carisi responds that no, he never did. Amaro and Rollins are suddenly racing out to hitch a plane ride to Canada which leaves a confused Carisi. 

“Winnipeg isn’t in our jurisdiction?” he asks, and as Rafael is winding up to make a comment on the young detective’s lack of legal knowledge Quinn swoops in.

“Barba, save him the torment, he would have to take a class on international law for him to even know the statute we’re talking about,” Quinn stands and pats Sonny on the back, she explains, “traveling to another country for the sole purpose of having intercourse with a minor is a federal crime.”

Once Liv and Sonny have left the office Rafael and Quinn return to their respective offices, working on finding everything they can about this movie that was supposed to be filmed in Canada. She’s just finished typing a subpoena for the Writers’ Guild requesting the script for the Winnipeg movie. She leaves her desk and ventures to Rafael’s office. His head is down, well until she throws the document down on his desk. 

“Can I help you?” he huffs. 

“My subpoena for the Writers’ Guild. Proof read it before I file it? I’ll do yours,” she offers. Of all the things she’s faced in life, a typo in a court document is one of the most harrowing things to experience. He looks to the document, then to her, then to the document again.

“You’ve already finished your subpoena?” she nods.

“And I called a friend that I have at DOJ, she’ll be here in an hour. Figured we could loop them in, since it’ll be their charges,” again, eyes to the file, to her, then to the file. 

“You’ve done all of that in,” he checks the rather large watch on his wrist, “an hour?” She moves forward, placing her hands on the edge of his desk, leaning on it. 

“Asked and answered counselor. And I would have gotten more done if you had already finished your subpoena,” she kisses her teeth and pushes herself back off of the desk. “I’ll see you in an hour, it’s my friend, so in my office,” he watches her walk away and calls after her.

“That wasn’t asked and answered, it was two separate, distinct questions!”

***

“Hi there, I was paged here by some big shot ADA.” a woman’s authoritative voice permeates through the closed doors of both Quinn and Rafael’s office’s. Rafael doesn't recognize the voice, but Quinn does. She's instantly sticking her head outside of her door. 

“Sahar al-Kazmi, look what the cat dragged in,” she crosses her arms over her chest as she leans against the doorframe. They’re both beaming as soon as they make eye contact but they stay unmoving. 

“That would make you the cat would it not?” Quinn shrugs.

“I’ve been called worse,” she looks up as if she were exploring the filing cabinets of her mind. “Like bitch.”

The pair laugh then finally hug, it’s been seven or so years since they worked together. Rafael finally peaks out of his office.

“Is this your pain in the ass co-counsel,” Sahar stares him down as she asks. Quinn wouldn’t believe it save for the fact that she saw it, Rafael actually shrunk back into his clothing. 

“Agent Sahar al-Kazmi, this is ADA Rafael Barba. Barba this is Sahar, she’s with the FBI,” they shake hands, share polite greetings. “Let’s move this to my office.” Quinn sits at her desk, Rafael leans against it next to her both watching Sahar as she inventories the contents of the office, Quinn’s eyes follow her closely.

“So you guys used to work together?” Rafael breaks the momentary silence, Sahar’s head snaps toward him. 

“We did, about 7 years ago. It was a different world then,” she looks to Quinn who has started pulling files out to show her. 

“So, we’ve got this teeny-bopper movie producer who is methodical in making sure he can exploit underage girls legally. But - and our squad is working on digging up more on this - he traveled to Winnipeg a few years ago to audition an underage girl for a new movie. But the movie was never made,” Quinn explains, showing Sahar corresponding documents as she goes.

“So you guys are thinking sexual tourism,” Sahar concludes, looking to Quinn then to Barba who nods. Sahar teeters her head back and forth in thought then speaks again, “I think you guys have a compelling case, let me take all of this and we’ll pick him up as soon as we can,” Barba is immediately shaking his head.

“You unfortunately don’t know our squad, they want to be the ones to collar this guy,” he explains with his hands, probably already being able to hear Olivia’s disdain in his head. 

“I don’t know, this really isn’t your guys' jurisdiction,” Sahar starts to say before Quinn begs Sahar.

“Please Sahar, let them get him. I’ll call you as soon as we have him in custody,” Rafael watches as Quinn’s typically hardened exterior fractures just a little bit so that she can beg her friend. Sahar groans but agrees, the lawyers both thank her graciously and Rafael rushes off to call Liv with an update, leaving Quinn and Sahar alone.

Sahar takes the time to again inventory the office, it’s largely devoid of Quinn’s personal touch. 

“Nothing from the Sandpit?” she asks. 

“Like you said, it was a different world back then. It was another life that I don’t like reliving.”

[awmancreeper]

⋆｡˚⋆꒰ঌMY DRESS-UP, DREAMER ໒꒱⋆ ˚｡⋆ 2 - Poor Pochita

--౨ৎ✩°｡⋆ Soobin, a quiet doll painter finds it too good to be true when a charismatic girl asks Soobin to help fulfill her dream of being a cosplayer. Along the way, they’ve realized they have much more in common than they thought and maybe something more.

Masterlist / prev / next

!!written parts!!!

Laughing at your silly friends, you made your way back to class after leaving to use the bathroom. Your mind ran with random thoughts as you walked back in only to find you weren’t alone.

There stood that guy Soobin at his desk packing up his laptop and stationary. He’d seem to be in his own little world not noticing you had walked in.

Frankly, he’s always in his own world, only today learning of his existence you figure he was a private guy. Still, you’d wondered how he got past your radar, especially with a face like his.

Soobin had finished putting his things away and grabbed some loose papers off his desk soon making his way to the door only to feel a pair of eyes in him. Slightly turning his head he finds you staring blankly at him.

He froze

You both stood staring at each other for a hot minute before Soobin broke the silence “Am I in your way?”

“No I’m just-…. How come I’ve never seen you before?” You questioned making your way over to him. “I mean surely I’d remember someone like you” you told him as Soobin shrank into his body.

“I-I don’t know” was all he said while you scavenged through your mind trying to find some recollection of this man.

He was tall, good-looking, and overall quiet; there has to be something that explains why you couldn’t remember him when

“Yeonjun!” You yelled startling Soobin “You’re friends with Yeonjun and that Huening guy” You bounced around excitedly as your chest hung onto dear life to stay within your shirt.

Soobin nodded anxiously

Sensing you might’ve caused discomfort to Soobin as he could no longer look into your eyes; you’ve decided to reassure him.

“I’m not always like that”

“I mean like, yelling at guys” you said trying to hold in a laugh

To be frank, Soobin had absolutely no idea what you were talking about but he soon remembered when you nearly castrated a male classmate earlier for making fun of your keychain.

“I just don’t find it cool to make fun of other people’s interests you know?”

For some reason, those words blew Soobin’s mind and I guess the nerves in his hands as well because the papers he once held now decorated the floor.

Quickly realizing what happened, he dropped to the floor quickly picking up the scattered papers.

“Do you volunteer at a center or something?” You asked joining him on the floor helping him pick up the papers. “N-no just some work I have to do” Soobin said not trying to look at you as he already caught a glimpse of your panties.

“Really?… but your name isn’t Mark”

Soobin hand stopped as he reached for the last paper “I uh… he needs help understanding the curriculum”

You took the last paper from the floor and handled to Soobin “Doing his work for him won’t help him understand” you told him softly

He blinked “But he’d said I’d be a good friend if I did”

“A little friendly advice Soobin,” you crouched to get in his line a view as his eyes now followed you up. “That’s not a friend,

He’s just using you” Soobin’s eyes widen looking up at you as you stood over him

“Don’t let people walk all over you just because they’re your ‘friend’, you don’t need anymore when you already have those two cool guys… and me” you said smiling at him

It’s light the room lit up with your smile causing Soobin’s heart to race

“Take care of yourselves” Feeling a small hand pat his head, you walk off with a paper.

Unable to muster up a whole sentence, he stuttered out “Paper”

“Don’t worry, I’ll give this back to him” you said looking over your shoulder and sending Soobin a wink

His breath hitched watching you walk away with such confidence. How would Yeonjun refer to how Soobin’s feeling- hate to watch you go but LOVES to watch you leave?

Taglist: @suzirumas @txtbrainrot @skzeyeu @hrtzsoob (ask or comment to be added)

[soisaidfine]

yo what’s up, just saw bruce springsteen backin’ kamala harris for real. how you feel about that compared to ethel cain’s stance?

Bruce Springsteen: "Everybody sees things different, and I respect your choice as a fellow citizen, but like you, I've only got one vote, and it's one of the most precious possessions that I have.

Kamala Harris and Tim Waltz are committed to a vision of this country that respects and includes everyone regardless of class, religion, race, your political point of view or sexual identity, and they want to grow our economy in a way that benefits all, not just the few like me on top. That's the vision of America I’ve been consistently writing about for 55 years now.”

Hi. This isn't a new stance for Bruce Springsteen, who has supported Barack Obama, a close friend of his for years.

Compared to Hayden's (Ethel Cain) stance, at the same age, Bruce Springsteen also wasn’t supporting any candidate. Back then, he said he wanted to do something for the people in ways other than getting a candidate elected. He didn’t know the political game well and chose not to get involved at the time. (Bruce Springsteen in the 80s: "I want to try and just work more directly with people, try to find some way that my band can tie into the communities that we come into. I guess that’s a political action, a way to just bypass that whole electoral thing— human politics. I think that people on their own can do a lot. I guess that’s what I’m tryin’ to figure out now.")

Later, when Ronald Reagan attempted to co-opt Springsteen’s song, "Born in the USA," which was misunderstood as a patriotic anthem, Bruce was forced to consider the issue of political candidates. From that point on, he supported Democratic candidates.

He later formed a special relationship with Barack Obama, a huge fan of his music, and they eventually became friends, even co-writing a book together. (It’s no coincidence that Barack Obama later supported Ethel Cain—it was a genuine passion for her music, which reminded him of Bruce Springsteen’s universe, with a fresh perspective and the same critical sense of America.)

Thus, Hayden / Ethel Cain is not yet at the age when Springsteen became politically engaged.

Then there’s the international context with the war in the Middle East. Springsteen, a pacifist who has written against wars, hasn’t spoken out on this particular subject, likely due to his age and the health issues he faced last year. His guitarist briefly spoke to say that it was a very complicated issue.

Moreover, Trump probably doesn’t have a very different stance on this issue, so the Middle East isn’t a highly differentiating factor in the election. Springsteen maintains his traditional Democratic position, focusing on other differences.

As a trans woman, Hayden would naturally seem closer to the Democrats’ position here, but she also has the choice not to base everything on the trans issue that personally affects her. Her criticism of the Democrats is rooted in international politics.

Bruce is from the North (New Jersey), and he shares a closer affinity with the Democratic mentality than Hayden, who is from the South, which tends to be more Republican or anti-federal. I believe Hayden’s Southern family and local mythology don’t necessarily align with Democratic thinking, even beyond the issue of Middle East policy. Hayden’s rhetoric often puts billionaires and politicians on both sides in the same boat, reflecting a very Southern mentality of distrust toward the elite. But she is still young for all these political issues, and I don't know if she has had the opportunity to thoroughly explore these topics, beyond her outrage against the current war. Once again, at her age, Bruce Springsteen also did not have any electoral engagement or very specific political thoughts.

There are many differences that are easy to understand. Both Bruce and Hayden are sincere and true to themselves, each speaking from their own age, history, the America they know—whether it’s the North or the South—and according to the issues they find most pressing at the moment.

Politics is a topic that is both very simplistic (due to the simplifications of electoral choices, for or against this or that) and very complicated (because of the multitude of issues addressed and the interconnections that make it difficult to fully agree with one side against another).

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