#I'm tempted to pick a couple up even though I still have a couple of unmilled ones

[eccentricallygothic]

Pairing: Boyfriend!Simon Riley | Girlfriend!You.

Description: Simon loves to take you on picnics and hikes in the natural wilderness when he's home. 

Warning(s): Fluff, Simon is his huge self, lovey dovey lisping, age gap, minor teeny tiny allusion to smut, ddlg overtones because it's literally Simon. 

Inspo: Here. 

Note: I started this as a fluffy drabble a couple days ago but only completed it today because I need the comfort. Idk what this is exactly, but I think it made me feel better, a little.

. . .

“Shimonnnn~” you uncurl yourself from where you sit beside the clear water, rising to your feet and switching the song on the portable Bluetooth speaker to one of your choice. The melody of Sugar by Maroon 5 rings through the speaker and you move your hips to the beat. You twirl and spin, raising your arms in the air as you sway yourself closer to the mountain of muscle hard quietly working away at the chopping board, content. 

I am hurtin', baby, I am broken down— 

“I need your lovin', lovin', I need it now~” you sing along to the song, the smell of nature and the sound of the running water only adding to the comforting ambiance of the little picnic spot your boyfriend chose for the two of you before setting up camp. “When I am without you, I'm something weak— ow” you let yourself go on his broad and muscular back with not much grace but he doesn't budge although your boobs hurt from how hard his body is. 

“Shimonnn~” his cap shields his eyes from the gentle sun as he chops away at the meat he intends to mix with the vegetable he has cut up. “Mmm” you wrap your arms around his shoulders and nuzzle your face in his neck. He still doesn't respond to your cooing, comfortable with how you hang from him like a snuggly little monkey. Simon isn't a man of many words anyways. “Need yoooou~” the two of you always fuss about this on a picnic. He insists that the two of you should try out new things and utilize the little time you have to enjoy the wild. But you are young and hormonal, your body doesn't know restraint or discipline like he does. 

It's his fault for being so tempting anyways. 

“Later” you whine even though he doesn't refuse. Simon never refuses. Despite all his there's a time and place for everything talk. “Let me cook dinner first” the evening is getting cooler by the minute and the sun grows amber. 

You growl like the spoilt brat he's raised you to be and kick your feet while still holding him tight, the warmth of his back keeping your body afloat any worry or anxiety about the world outside the microcosm of love that is this place. 

Simon continues to work away as he picks up a bowl, not least bit bothered about your little tantrum. “Say,” he begins to collect the contents laid out on the chopping board into the bowl. “Doesn't that tree look optimal for a nice little timeout?” You whine loudly and quickly hide in his body as he effortly stands up, making you wrap your arms around his waist. 

“Nuuuuu!” You make no move to get off and he doesn't mind. “It doesn't!” 

“Oh, it doesn't, does it?” Simon is distracted as he prepares the pan to be loaded over the fire he built. You shake your head and whine out your denial. “Then I guess we have our reason to behave ourselves right there, don't we?” You whimper and nod timidly before shutting up.

“Now...” When Simon is done and the food is on its way he puts you down on a boulder to pull his shirt off with one hand while he catches his cap with the other. “Who wants to go swimming?”

He loves the life that flashes bright in your eyes as you squeal and clap excitedly, kicking your feet and pushing your shoes off.

“Me! Me! Me!” Simon replaces his cap back on his head to hide the smile that makes its way on his face as he puts his clothes aside to attend to yours.

. . .

[kunikukitty]

✐ Always An Artist, Never The Muse

Scaramouche/Wanderer x Fem!reader

xi. covet

The last time you held a pencil was a couple of months ago, and it was used for shading your answers in exam.

You prepared yourself mentally before going here, yet you really cannot run away for too long.

You thought that messaging Mona would atleast ease your nerves, but it's no use, you're still overwhelmed. Being inside an art studio where you're surrounded by different types and brands of mediums is surely taking a toll on your mind.

You're tempted to pick up something, whatever it is, anything could be used to create strokes and form a shape.

But you can't. The materials not being yours is one thing, but the fact that it might cause you to actually give up on art. Because yes, you still have hope, you are still wishing for that talent to magically come back to you, just not yet.

You remember the times of your frustration. A blank paper awaits in front of you to be filled with yet another masterpiece. With a flick of your wrist, you guided your pencil to leave an ink behind. You did it a few more times, but it's not turning out good.

Erase, draw, erase and draw.

The lines ain't making sense, the paper is almost ripped due to the continuous erasing. You're beginning to lose your patience, the image in your head is turning blurry. The more you try to correct the mistake, the worse they get. It is the only thing you're capable of doing, so you have to finish it. You cannot fail.

Silly you thought it was just an artblock, and you told yourself that you cannot have that now. You have to fight it. You have to create something. You did not allow yourself to rest until you manage to draw something pretty.

You tried, tried and tried again and again. Until your hand stopped moving and your creativity dried up.

You remember how your wrists, fingers, and inside your head feels like there's something so itchy internally that you cannot soothe.

"What are you doing?"

You were surprised that you almost let out a gasp. You looked over to the door to see Scaramouche looking at you with a raised eyebrow. "I suggest not to steal anything, I have all of my materials memorized."

The gasp now left your mouth. "Are you accusing me of thievery?!"

He simply shrugged, and when he put down something that's when you noticed he's holding a tray, with food in it.

"Wow, I didn't expect you're the type to give food to your guests."

"Yeah, right? Shocking. Especially to you? I'm too kind." He rolled his eyes at you. "Quick. Eat now so we can start."

"Oh wait, you mean... you'll paint me eating?"

"You just confirmed my assumption of you. You're pretty stupid." He remained indifferent while you glare at him. "I told you I'm too kind, didn't I? I'm letting you eat before making you stay still."

'Oh yes, of course of course...' you muttered irritably under your breath as you walked towards the table where he placed the tray. He managed to hear them, even heard his name being cursed—a predictable response from you, really.

Nonetheless, you're thankful. Although you aren't on good terms(but not really much on bad terms either) with each other, he still prepared something for you. He can choose not to, but he did. Not to mention, you are indeed hungry right now.

You look at the plate and it's a... jelly? Transparent too, but you can't make out what's inside. The most dominant color is light brown, and theres some orange, yellow, white— maybe it's a gelatin cake? You've only seen those in videos, where they decorate floral designs and whatnots inside the gelatin. This jelly is not as pretty, though.

You took the spoon he prepared and sliced a small piece, and the texture inside interests you. The spoon glides easily unto it yet at the middle part it gets a little hard— and inside the brown part is white. You took a closer look by bringing the spoon close to your face, the closeness made the scent of it go through your nostrils.

By the look of it, it seems like a— wait... is that...

"Is this meat??? Inside a jelly?!" You were appalled. Is this a joke? Is this a prank? Your eyes are wide open as you looked at him, stunned.

"What?" He clicked his tongue as he shook his head. "That's a traditional snezhnayan dish, kholodets. How rude of you to react that way."

Wait, what? "Oh." You calm yourself. Right, you're in a different country, their cuisine is different from your homeland. Now you feel bad from reacting like that, it's no different from his earlier statements about blind people, you think.

Not wanting to stoop down his level, you fixed your composure and sat straight. "Right, sorry." you say with seemingly matured tone, putting the spoon down.

"I even chose carefully what to serve you, especially after I heard from Caps that you're a picky eater." He said, shaking his head and clicking his tongue again repeatedly. He looked so disappointed, too.

You may dislike him, that's true, but you're a person with morals. You don't like upsetting people unless you're purposely doing so.

So took the spoon again in your hand, the little piece still in the scoop, then you brought it into your mouth.

Your eyebrows contort in disgust as you taste the unfamiliar food. Boiled meat with meaty jelly, complex seasoning and unusual flavor— you don't understand. The jelly... is it supposed to be the broth? It doesn't go well, in your opinion. Disturbing, for you.

Amidst your evaluation of the taste, your ears caught on a quiet chuckle.

You turn your head, only to see Scaramouche looking down at you as if belittling you.

"So it's true," he starts, "for foreigners, kholodets is unappetizing at first glance. I really thought you wouldn't give it a taste, but you did. How surprising."

The face you make is that of someone who just got betrayed. He doesn't even look like a snezhnayan himself! You forced to swallow the bits in your mouth, "You..!"

The remaining chance for your relation with him to be amended is completely gone now. How dare he? You regret playing nice with him. Men are truly atrocious beings. How can Capitano even tolerate this guy?

You're utterly shock. And how did the fucker react now? Giggling, like an ass. He looks too amused, in fact.

While he's in a laughing state, you took the time to drink water.

"Glad to give you fun. Didn't know you're so childish."

He shrugged, unaffected. "You won't eat anymore?"

His sarcastic smile is annoying you. You really shouldn't had agreed to this. "It was so delicious Im already full at first bite. Thank you very much."

You watch him take a round brush and sit sit on the stool with the canvas im front of him. He looked at you, "Come on." he said, pointing at the other stool.

You rolled your eyes before obeying. "Pose?"

"Arms up."

"Fuck you."

He chuckled again and you're beginning to dislike the sound of it. "Try Mona Lisa's."

You crossed your legs elegantly and straighten your back. You faced left a little, mimicked her hands in your memories, and... should you smile too?

"Is Da Vinci your fave artist?"

...Fuck.

You want to slap your mouth at this very moment. That was out of instinct, you guess. You like asking artists you meet their favorite historical artist— well, before.

No, it's alright. Knowing Da Vinci is a basic knowledge, even non-artists knows that. You shouldn't think too much.

"What if I say it's Picasso?"

You don't know how to react to his answer. Would it be obvious that you're an (ex) artist if you react as if you know?

You remember how confused Itto was when he learned that not many artists like Picasso. He's dumb though... but still!

Should you act confused too? Should you act knowledgeable?

You glanced at his artworks on the wall with your peripheral vision, who could he be inspired of? However, when you looked at him again, he's paying attention to his canvas.

Maybe he doesn't care. Good, good. Stay that way.

Wait... His hand is moving. He started now, yet he hasn't told you to smile yet, should your expression remain fierce?

Okay, now you're nervous again. Does your face look asymmetrical? Can he see the texture of your face at this distance? The corner of your eyes do not have gound, right? You want to lick your lips but you're not sure if you should move. It's not chapped, right? You only applied light make up, it's not too much, right?

"Relax." You heard him say. It felt like you were allowed to breathe again.

Right, right. Relax. This is another one of your reasons why tou dislike being a muse, you feel awkward! What are you so nervous of, anyway? This man, asshole one at that?

He doesn't deserve your kindness anyway. You may make funny faces to tick him off, you couldn't care less.

Five minutes, ten minutes, fifteen minutes. You don't know how much time passed but you guess the painting is going smoothly. It doesn't seem like he's struggling nor does he look stressed.

But what matter is... how long is this going to take?!

You, personally, it takes so much time to finish a painting. Hell— you don't think you were able to finish a piece in just one day.

"Can't you just take a picture of me?"

Not being able to move too much is annoying for most people, you're not an exception. You're an impatient person, too. And you're still on a stool, too!

One word, tiring.

"That defeats the purpose."

Your eyes narrowed and your lips curled inwards. "Everything has evolved, we're in modern world."

"Besyashchaya devushka." You didn't understand what he muttered under his breath. "Shut up and stay still, fix your expression."

There's no point in convincing him, you realize.

Five minutes, ten minutes, fifteen minutes. Being in this room is surely annoying. The emotions you've been trying to reject ever since you step foot in here is resurfacing much stronger now. Especially now that you have nothing to distract yourself and there's an artist painting in front of you.

You miss it— holding a brush, the feeling of relaxation when the process is going well, the challenge of drawing the reference...

You miss all of it. You want to paint again.

"Fix your expression."

You were taken aback of his words. He noticed the slightest change, he must be really paying attention. Artists are truly amazing, aren't they?

Scaramouche. That's his name, right?

He's rich, he can buy as many materials a he like. Based on this studio; he can sculpt, paint, draw with charcoals, color with different types of mediums.

This could've been your life too if you didn't stop drawing, you think. But no. He's much more capable and skillful.

Come to think of it, you never even hang your works on the walls of your house. You don't even have many finished artworks, and the finished ones aren't that beautiful.

You heard him click his tongue. "I told you to fix your expression, don't I? If you're eager for this to be done as soon as possible, then do as I say."

"When did you began to draw?"

"None of your business." He glared at you, "Look, if you have time to kill, waste is somewhere else. Don't start a chitchat with me, I don't have all day."

Wow. Now he's the one annoyed, when he was the one who wasted time earlier by making you eat something he know you wouldn't like? He's funny.

Five minutes, ten minutes, fifteen minutes. After a while, it was done. You checked the time and it has only been two hours and a couple of minutes that passed ever since he started.

That was fast.

"Can I see it?" When he nodded, you immediately approached the painting.

Honestly, you were expecting it to be a little messy in style with some defined parts since it was just done in two hours. But the painting is a perfect copy of you, as if he took a picture of you. The only blurred part is the background, and your entire image is refined. He caught everything in perfect precision.

Is this even humanly possible? Two hours is too short for this.

You take back what you thought earlier. This could've been your life too? You wanted to laugh at yourself. Compared to him, your level is way too low— even if it's the you from before.

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taglist. @veekoko @aeongiies @featuredtofu @kodzusmiles @magica-ren @feiherp @beriiov @hiraethhv @kleej @eutopiastar @keiiqq @bananasquash @kuniisvt @tamikahoshiko @scaraenthusiast1 @sketcheeee @xxrougefangxx @luciledreamz @icomeheretolaughnottofeel @sereniteav @lily-lmao @h3xi2g0n3 (i cant tag those in bold)

note. i searched the worst rated russian food and interviewed some russians for this okay, don't come at me (for this ill share something in my country that foreigns would find disgusting— a cup of coffee poured in rice!)

[willalove75]

Alcina's New Maid Pt. 16 Lady Dimitrescu x Reader

Summary: Karl Heisenberg comes to visit and things get interesting.

Warnings: 18+ minors DNI

Tags: Light angst, mostly fluff

Notes: Part 16! I'm so sorry this chapter is so late! I struggled writing this more that I have with any other chapter before and idk why. But I hope you all enjoy it regardless💕

Click here for the rest of the series

The next day Cassandra woke you up just as the sun was rising to start training once again. You tried to look at Alcina so she could convince her daughter to let you sleep in a little more but she just laid there with a sleepy smile on her face. Both you and Alcina knew that once Cassandra had her mind set on something there was no talking her out of it.

The two of you worked on the same things you did yesterday. She helped refine your stance and the way your body moved and shifted as you dodged her attacks.

Breakfast came and went and it was back to training. You knew that she meant well and was only trying to help you, but Cassandra was wearing you out. Training went through lunch, the two of you only taking a short break to eat when Zina brought food out to the courtyard.

Not long after that Bela and Daniela showed up and they both sparred with you for awhile. The three girls had three very distinct fighting styles. Cassandra always took the offence, advancing often and quickly. Bela was more calculated. Even though you were training for self-defense she still kept herself at a distance and made you come to her. Daniela was the definition of chaos. She played both offence and defense, advancing and pulling away so you came towards her and retreated often. Her moves were erratic and unhinged and not for a second were you able to predict what she was going to do next. You could tell she was less formally trained than the other two, but from your sparring session alone you knew she was just as lethal.

By the time the dinner bell rang you were starving and exhausted. The four of you shuffled into the dining room where Alcina was already seated.

"How was training girls?" She asked.

"She did really well, improved a lot more than I thought she would." Cassandra says.

"She's better than I thought she was going to be honestly. She almost knocked me off of my feet a couple of times." Bela says as she takes her seat.

"It was SO much fun!" Daniela exclaims.

"Draga?" Alcina asks, looking at you.

"It was good, tiring, but good."

Alcina can see the exhaustion in your face and gives you a small smile.

Dinner was delicious, as per usual. Although they could have put a leather boot on your plate and you would have devoured it without a second thought. The conversation was light, the girls and Alcina talking about how their days went. You stayed quiet for most of the meal just listening; there wasn't anything you had to add to the conversation. That coupled with exhaustion you were happy to not have to participate in doing anything other than eating.

"So after dinner I was thinking I can show you how to get out of a grapple." Cassandra says.

"After dinner?" You say, your eyes darting toward Alcina with a pleading look in them. There's no way you're gonna be able to do more tonight.

"Cassandra I think that's enough for today."

"But-"

"I appreciate your enthusiasm, bug, but I need y/n in good shape for the meeting and I can't have her falling asleep. She needs rest. You can continue the day after tomorrow once your uncle leaves."

Cassandra hangs her head in defeat.

"Fine."

Alcina chuckles at her daughter and looks back over to you with a wink. You give her a small smile as if to say "thank you."

It took everything in you to not crawl up the stairs and flop into bed once dinner was finished. Alcina suggested everyone relax in the library after dinner and as tired as you were you didn't want to miss it. As tempting as your bed was, you managed to avoid passing out on it after you showered and headed to the library.

The girls picked their books and Alcina plucked one off of the shelf after perusing her options for a few minutes. You lazily flipped through a magazine you found laying around while you lounged on the couch.

"No book tonight, draga?" Alcina asks.

"Nah," you toss the magazine onto the coffee table. "I'm too tired to focus on reading."

Alcina sits in her large arm chair and places her reading glasses on the bridge of her nose. Gods she looks hot. You're too tired to try and hide your stare and Alcina smirks.

"Come. Sit with me, draga mea." She says, beckoning you with a slight nod of her head.

As you walk up to her, Alcina wraps an arm around your waist and pulls you up into her lap. You drape your legs across her thighs and rest your back against her arm.

"Comfortable?" She asks, looking down at you.

"Mhm." You say, cuddling into her.

Due to the way you're sitting and the height difference your face is pretty much against her boob. Normally this would drive you crazy, sending pulses to your core; but tonight they're your soft pillows.

Alcina lets out a soft purr as she runs her fingers through your damp hair and the soothing noise lulls you into a deep sleep.

When you wake up you're in Alcina's bed. Your eyes adjust to the darkness of the room and you realize it's still nighttime. There's a single light in the room coming from a lit candle on Alcina's vanity where's she seated. The warm light flickers across her, illuminating her porcelain skin and raven hair, highlighting the details on her face. Even though you're too far away to see, you're sure her smile lines and crows feet are bathed beautifully in the light as it dances across her skin. What isn't in the light is cast in a dark shadow. It's mysterious and beautiful, just like her.

Your heartbeat must have given you away because Alcina sets down the papers in her hand and turns to look at you.

"You're awake." She seems surprised.

"That I am. What time is it?"

"It's late, it's the middle of the night."

Alcina stands up and makes her way over to the bed.

"Why are you awake?"

"I work most nights at this hour."

"You do?" You're a little shocked, in all the times you've shared a bed with her not once did you ever feel her leave in the middle of the night.

"Mhm." She hums and sits on the edge of the bed. "The mutation allows me the privilege of needing less sleep than a human. After a few hours of rest I continue working."

"Every night?"

"Every night, save for a few rare occasions where I treat myself to the calm of the night and relax."

"So do you just wait until I fall asleep to leave?" You say, sounding more hurt than you expected.

"No, draga mea." She brushes your hair away from your face. "Most nights I fall asleep with you in my arms and get up later. Others I will lay there and listen to your heartbeat and your breathing for a few hours before I get up and work."

"If I didn't know you so well I'd say that's the creepiest thing I've ever heard." You laugh.

Alcina chuckles and slides under the covers next to you, pulling you into her.

"Well I am certainly glad that you know me then, draga."

With a kiss to your forehead you wrap your arms around her waist and rest your head on her chest. Alcina traces lazy circles across your skin where you shirt rode up on your back and you listen to her heartbeat with a sigh.

"Tired, draga?" She asks.

"No. Just relaxed, happy." Alcina hums in response.

"Good." She says.

As the scent of her perfume envelopes you, you become more aware of your senses. The silky fabric of her nightgown beneath your fingers, her toned muscles that lay underneath her soft skin, the feeling of her chilled fingers dancing across your back. You can hear her heartbeat, strong and steady, accompanied by each breath she takes. The rhythm of your heart steadily increases as you feel her body adjust underneath yours.

Alcina slides down from laying against the headboard and you rest you head in the crook of her neck when she settles. The scent of her perfume is stronger there and it makes you feel like you're floating.

The skin on her neck is soft and tender as you nuzzle against it. The hum she releases in response is nearly a purr and you smile against her skin. As your focus shifts back to her fingers, still tracing circles across your back, you hold Alcina a little tighter.

"My sweet, perfect girl. My beautiful little pet." Alcina whispers into your hair before placing a kiss on your head.

Too entranced to realize it, you place a light, open-mouthed kiss on Alcina's neck. You only realize it when you feel her chest rumble underneath you with a purr and feel the vibration of her voice.

"Draga." She says with a soft yet stern voice.

"Sorry." You say as you remove your lips from her neck.

"No need for apologies." She lifts your chin with a finger and your eyes meet hers. Leaning down, she places a kiss on your lips. When she pulls away she doesn't pull away fully, leaving her lips to brush against yours. "If you continued I don't think I would be able to control myself, is all."

The way her warm breath caressed your face, how her lips grazed yours as she spoke made your brain fuzzy.

"Don't." You whisper.

"Don't?"

"Control yourself. Don't."

Alcina smirks and captures your lips in a passionate kiss. Your heart begins to beat harder and you bring your hand to her face to deepen it. She places her hand over yours and pulls back from the kiss. Turning her head, she places a kiss in the middle of your palm and holds it against her cheek.

You can see it in her eyes: the want, the need, but you also see hesitation and worry.

"What's wrong?" You ask.

"It's not that I don't want to, draga. It's taking all of my self restraint to not pin you down and ravish you right this second." She sighs. "I fear that we might be moving too quickly. We only started rebuilding what we had a few weeks ago. And then you were hurt and-" Shaking her head, she takes a deep breath. "this is too important to rush iubirea mea. I hope you understand."

And you did. You understood perfectly and as disappointed as you were, you knew she was right. It was evident that your bodies were ready but your hearts and minds were still playing catch up.

"I do, Alcina. I do." You say, nuzzling back into her neck.

"Fetița mea dulce. Cât de mult te iubesc." She whispers as she runs her fingers through your hair. (My sweet girl. How I love you so.)

The two of you lay in a comfortable silence. The steady beat of her heart accompanied by the sensation of the lazy circles she's tracing along your skin relaxes you. Alcina lets out a soft sigh and you look up. Following her line of sight you notice she's staring at her vanity with the papers she was looking over scattered across it.

"Do you have to keep working?"

"Unfortunately."

"Can you stay with me until I fall asleep?"

"Of course my love." She says, nuzzling into your hair and placing a kiss on your head.

Alcina holds you in her arms until you drift back off into a deep sleep once more. When she's certain you won't wake up she gently lays you down onto the bed and kisses your forehead. She takes a moment to study your face as you sleep. She loves how peaceful you look, how you look like an angel. Her angel. After a minute she makes sure you're tucked in and continues working for a few more hours before joining you in bed once more.

Alcina was only in bed with you for about an hour before you woke up next to her. When you wake up you roll over and meet a stunning pair of golden eyes staring back at you.

"Hi." You say, your voice raspy with sleep.

"Good morning, draga."

"How long have you been awake for?"

"Quite some time."

"When did you come back to bed?"

"Approximately an hour ago."

"I'm surprised you didn't start getting ready for the day already."

"The thought did cross my mind, but laying in bed with you for another hour was much more appealing. Even if I didn't sleep."

A smile crosses your face and you curl into her, burying your face into her hair.

"Waking up next to you is one of my favorite things." You sigh.

"Mine as well, draga mea."

She places a kiss on your shoulder and wraps her arms around you, soaking in the moment before the two of you have to get up and get ready for the day.

After breakfast Alcina heads into her study to do some work before Heisenberg arrives and you hang out in one of the sitting rooms near the dining room and start to read a book Daniela recommended.

Just as the book was beginning to devour your attention the doors to the room swing open and slam against the wall. The commotion startles you and you snap your head towards the direction of the sound.

"Well, well, well, what do we have here? A rogue maiden?" You sit there speechless as you take in the man before you.

The man is tall, but not nearly as tall as Alcina. He's wearing a grease-stained shirt and pants, a long tan trench coat, circular glasses, and a hat. There's a gigantic hammer that looks like it was put together with scrap metal and gears found in a junkyard slung over his shoulder and he begins to wave it around haphazardly. You can tell that the man is unshaven and by the way he's stomping his muddy shoes across the freshly polished floors, he has little manners. There's a ruggedness to him, very much the opposite of the prim and proper aura that radiates off of Alcina.

"What's the matter? Cat got your tongue?" He says with a smirk as he walks closer. "Such a pretty little thing-" he reaches up to touch your face and you can see the grime underneath his fingernails and the dirt on his fingers.

"Heisenberg! Get your filthy man hands away from her!" Alcina shouts just before his fingers graze your skin.

He spins around and you have to duck to steer clear of the hammer.

"What?! I didn't even do anything!"

"And for the love of gods watch where you swing that thing!" She snaps.

"Nice to see you too, Godzilla. Oh I've been great, thanks for asking. Yeah the lycans have been doing well on their search for those hunters that keep entering your castle's territory. You're so very welcome for protecting your precious land!" He says sarcastically. "And I was only going to tell this pretty little girl here that she should get her ass back to work before you stick her in a barrel for your next fresh batch of-."

"That is enough." She hisses.

You give Alcina a look and her eyes shift to you and back towards Heisenberg, which doesn't go unnoticed by him. He looks at you and back at Alcina and starts laughing as he turns back towards you.

"Oh I get it now, you're more than just her little maid, aren't ya sweet cheeks? You got yourself a pretty one here Alci, I wonder how long this one is going to last."

Alcina's eyes burn into the back of his head as the anger in them grows. Her fists are clenched tightly at her sides, there's no doubt she's doing everything she can from letting her claws out and taking his head off where he stands.

He sees how Alcina is reacting to his words and you notice him inhale deeply through his nose. He looks between the two of you for a moment before his eyes fall on you once more and you see that they're full of mischief.

"Whenever you get bored of this one, hold off on turning her into your next blend and be a good sister and send her my way-"

He reaches out to touch you again and his words are swiftly cut off when Alcina grabs him by his collar and throws him clear across the room. His back slams into the wall leaving a small crater behind.

Alcina stands in front of you in a protective stance, her claws are out and her chest is heaving with anger.

"I warned you, Heisenberg, do not touch her." She growls.

"What the fuck!" He yells as he picks himself up off of the ground. "What's your fucking problem?!"

He looks up and sees how Alcina is standing in front of you, how she's protecting you. He sees the look in her eyes and it clicks. Once it does he lets out a chuckle that turns into a hysterical laugh.

"I fucking knew it. I could smell you all over her from a mile away Alci." Alcina growls at him. "Oh calm down, the fact that your temper is bigger than you are is astonishing, truly. Don't worry, I won't touch your precious little human."

In an instant his hammer is flying towards him and he catches it in his hand. Your eyes grow wide, you definitely weren't expecting that. Heisenberg walks over to one of the chairs and plops down into it, resting his hammer against the chair and Alcina relaxes enough to retract her claws.

"So does Miranda know about your little," he pauses to think of the right word. "friend, here?" Alcina tenses up as she narrows her eyes at him. "I'll take that as a resounding 'yes.' I'm surprised that bird bitch hasn't taken her as one of her test subjects, especially if she knows of your interest in her. What's your name, kid?"

You look up at Alcina and she nods her head at you and you tell him your name.

"Hah, and you already got her trained? I wonder how many trips to the dungeon that took."

"She has never set foot in there and she never will." Alcina growls before she takes a seat next to you on the couch.

"So, kid, what debts did you have that got you shipped to this hellhole?" He asks you.

Alcina cuts in before you can speak.

"She has no debts and she can leave whenever she chooses."

"HAH!" Heisenberg laughs out loud. "I'll believe that when I see it. Really kid, what's your deal? In all my years I've never heard of someone hanging around here willingly. What's the catch?"

Alcina growls and you slide your hands around one of her fists clenched in her lap. You can just barely hear her breath hitch in her chest before she looks down at you. The anger in her eyes softens and you give her a small smile.

Looking back at Heisenberg, he has the biggest shit-eating grin on his face.

"Holy shit, I never thought I'd see the day. Someone finally tamed the beast and lived to tell the tale." Alcina rolls her eyes at him. "Now I really gotta know where the hell you came from."

"I grew up here in the village." You say. "She basically rescued me. My aunt and uncle kept me as their maid and had me raise their five children. Then I met her and she brought me here." Looking up at Alcina you see her looking down at you. A smile pulls at the corner of her lips and you can see the adoration in her eyes.

"Yeah, sure." He says and earns another eye roll from Alcina. "You were gonna stick her straight into a barrel after you had your fun with her, weren't you?" Alcina snaps her heard towards him and growls again.

That's the third time he's mentioned that and you have no idea what he's talking about. The confusion on your face must be obvious because he starts laughing again and looks at Alcina.

"She doesn't know, does she?" Alcina tenses up again and gives him a death stare. "Kid, do you know what goes on in the dungeon down there?"

"Heisenberg." She hisses.

"A little." You look between the two of them. Alcina is glaring at him, if looks could kill he'd be dead where he sat. Heisenberg still has a shit-eating grin on his face as he stares back at Alcina.

"Were you ever told why maids suddenly disappear?" His eyes don't leave Alcina who growls at him as a warning.

"I know Miranda experiments on them-"

"Did she ever tell you where the blood wine comes from?"

"I-"

"You are walking into very dangerous territory, brother."

"Did my dear sister ever inform you that she sacrifices her maids and turns them into the wine-"

"ENOUGH." Alcina roars. "That is enough Heisenberg."

"What?! She deserves to know if you were planning on making her next seasons newest-"

"I SAID ENOUGH." She yells, standing up to her full height.

Your mind starts to spiral as they argue. Why didn't she ever tell you that's what she does with her maids? That there was more to their disappearances than just Mother Miranda experimenting on them? Was that her original plan with you? To buy you and turn you into wine? Did she actually care for you in the beginning or was it just to butter you up before she killed you? Everything that happened in the first few weeks of your arrival is suddenly brought into questioning.

Panic starts to wash over you and the walls begin to feel like they're closing in. You try to breathe but your lungs feel constricted. You need to get out of this room, now.

Jumping to your feet you run past Alcina and Heisenberg and out of the room. The girls are just coming down the stairs when they see you run out the front door.

"Damn you, Karl!" Alcina yells before chasing after you.

Once you get outside you bend over and rest your hands on your knees and try to breathe. Your breaths are short and fast and you can't seem to slow it down.

Alcina's footsteps rapidly approach you and you stand up only to realize your hands are trembling and tears are rolling down your cheeks. Before you know it, she's kneeling next to you and rests her hand against your back.

"Shh, draga, breathe with me, okay? Deep breath in."

You try but you can't seem to get the air to fill your lungs.

"I can't." You say.

"Yes you can. Do it with me, easy, breathe in," you manage to take a bit of a deeper breath in. "and out. Good, just like that."

Alcina walks you through a few more breathing exercises and your panic begins to fade. You grab onto her dress and bury your face into her as your tears keep falling. She wraps her arms around you and holds you tight.

"I'm so sorry, draga."

"Why didn't you tell me?" You cry into her.

"I wanted to, I was going to, I promise I was."

"Why didn't you tell me the other day?"

"I was too afraid of overwhelming you. I had told you so much and it was already so much for you to process, I didn't want to add to that. I'm sorry, I should have been the one to tell you, not him."

"Was that your plan, after you brought me here? To just kill me and use my blood for your wine?" You pull back and look into her eyes and see guilt. "That's what you were going to do, wasn't it?" Alcina closes her eyes and a tear runs down her cheek. "Tell me the truth, please Alcina."

Golden eyes meet yours and fill with tears.

"I considered it. I would be lying if I said I didn't. But I promise that was not why I brought you here."

"Then why did you bring me here?"

"Draga, I've already told you-"

"Tell me again, please. I need the whole truth."

Alcina sighs and wipes the tears from your cheeks.

"I brought you here because you deserved better. Because they didn't appreciate you there. Because you are so much more than just a caretaker and a housekeeper. You are so beautiful and thought so low of yourself and I couldn't accept that. At least if you were with me, you would be appreciated the correct way. And I know I've failed at that more than once and I still haven't been able to forgive myself. But you deserved so much better and you were even more wonderful than I ever could have imagined, draga. I never expected to fall in love with you, I just hoped that you would live out your days here and be happy. I never thought you would find your happiness in me. And the only reason I ever considered doing that to you was in case I was wrong about you and you ended up being just another rude, ungrateful girl. But after those first few days, especially when my daughters were bothering you in the library, I knew that wasn't who you were. You were so kind to them, you treated them so well even though they made your job more difficult. I knew I was right about you, but I didn't realize just how incredible you were, draga. I am so sorry."

Alcina wraps her arms around you and holds you close to her. You wrap your arms around her neck and bury your face into her.

"How much more is there that I don't know?"

"Not much, but there are some things."

"Can you tell me?"

"I will my love, I promise. Can we get through this meeting with Miranda first? After that I'll tell you everything you want to know."

"Okay. Deal."

You pull away a little and look into her eyes. After you wipe the tear stains from her cheeks she rests her hand on your face and brings you into a deep kiss.

"Te iubesc, draga mea."

"I love you too, Alcina."

You and Alcina sit there for a minute as you soak in being with each other. The anxiety completely fades into the comfort she's brought you and you can feel like you can breathe normally again.

When the two of you part she stands up and dusts off her dress.

"Did you not want him to know about us?" You ask her.

"I was hoping you would never have to meet him because he is the most insufferable creature I've ever come to know. But he loathes Miranda and that alone makes him trustworthy. But since he was able to figure it out, I'm not concerned."

A loud crash comes from inside the castle and Alcina growls as she brings her fingers to the bridge of her nose.

"I don't even want to know what they are getting up to in here." She grumbles. "Come, draga. We should get back inside."

As soon as the door closes behind the two of you, you see something shiny fly through the air in your direction. Alcina quickly steps in front of you and she lets out a loud hiss and the room goes silent. When you walk out from behind Alcina, you see a large steak knife lodged deep into her leg. You freeze in horror for a moment before watching Alcina yank it out and turn her head towards you.

"I'm fine draga, there's no need to worry."

Blood pours from her leg for a few seconds before it stops and in that moment you remember her regeneration abilities and let out a breath.

"What did I tell you, especially you, girls, about throwing sharp objects in my castle?!" She yells. "If this were to hit one of my staff, or her," she says, gesturing to you. "you would wish the Black God itself would come and punish you because the wrath I would unleash-"

"Yeah, yeah, yeah, we get it." Karl says, interrupting her. "Big scary claws, our parts would have to grow us back, we've heard it all before bigfoot, don't get your panties in a twist."

"That almost hit her!"

"I wasn't aiming for her!"

"Then what were you-" She turns around and sees a picture of her taped to the door with knife marks in it.

With a growl Alcina chucks the knife at Karl and it stops right before the tip pierces his chest. He looks down at it in shock for a second before it clatters to the ground.

"Sorry mother." The girls say in unison.

"Can we please get to business now that you've effectively ruined one of my good dresses?" She says.

"Yeah, sure." He says with a shrug.

The six of you head into a larger sitting room and Alcina goes to change. She comes back in a long black dress and pulls you into her lap after she sits on the couch next to you.

"No more trouble in paradise?" Karl says with a smirk.

You roll your eyes at him and Alcina looks down at you with pride before kissing you on the cheek.

"Before we begin, draga, I would like to formally introduce you to Karl Heisenberg, my idiot younger brother and another one of the four lords of the village."

He tips his hat at you and leans back in his chair, crossing one leg so his ankle is resting on top of his knee. He lights up a cigar and blows the smoke up into the air.

"Bela, my book please." Alcina says.

Bela walks over and hands her mother a leather-bound book and a pen. Alcina places them in your lap and kisses you on the head.

"Draga, will you please take notes? It'll be good practice for the meeting, although I fear she won't actually have you take notes-"

"Why the hell is she going to be taking notes at the meeting?" He asks.

"Mother Miranda insisted on it."

"Oh fuck, she knows about her, knows about her?"

"Yes."

"Alcina-"

"I know."

"Fuckin' bird bitch. Do you know what she wants with her?"

"No." She says with a sigh before pulling your head into her chest and kissing the top of it.

"How the hell did Miranda find out?"

Alcina tells him what happened when Mother Miranda arrived and what transpired when you met. When she's finished, Karl smokes his cigar with a pensive look on his face.

"Well, that sucks."

"I will say the same thing to you that I said to Donna. If Mother Miranda does anything, I will stop at nothing to protect her." Her grip around you tightens and you rest your head on her chest to try and calm her.

"And what did Donna say?"

"That her allegiance is with me."

"And Sal?"

"He doesn't know about her. And I don't trust him. He will do anything to be in Mother Miranda's good graces, even if it means going against us."

"No fuckin' shit. At least we don't have to worry about him all that much. He's pretty useless as it is."

Alcina shrugs and runs her fingers through your hair.

"So how do we go about killing the bitch?" He asks with a grin.

"We don't. Karl you know she's too powerful. There is nothing we can do, not yet."

"Well if she wants her we could-"

"I will not be using her as a decoy or pawn in whatever moronic plan you have in that grease-filled head of yours."

"But-"

"No." She says with a growl.

"Fine, fuckin' bitch." He mumbles. "Lets get this over with."

You begin to take notes as Alcina and Karl talk about the hunters his lycans have encountered. He says that they found thirteen of them and his group of seven lycans were able to kill about ten of them. Three of the hunters managed to get away and four of his lycans were killed in the fight. The lycans that were left were beat up enough to not be able to follow where the three went so they retreated back to the factory.

"Then yesterday, they came across another six hunters. All wearing the same symbol as the last group." He pulls out a pendant from his pocket and hands it to Alcina who examines it. "Luckily I sent nine lycans out so none of the hunters managed to get away and all of my lycans came back this time."

"Any prisoners?" She asks.

"Nope."

"Ugh." She groans, rolling her eyes. "How many times do we have to have this conversation-"

"Chill out sasquatch, they tried. One guy was left and my lycans tried to drag him back as prisoner but the guy put a bullet in his head before they were able to get any useful information out of him."

"Well, that's new."

"Yeah, they were pretty surprised."

"So in a week there have been nearly twenty hunters? And three escaped?"

"Yup."

"I don't like this."

"And they were armed to hell too. Massive guns, tons of ammo, they aren't fuckin' around."

"Military grade?"

"You know it."

"I really don't like this. Have you expanded coverage near Donna and Salvatore?"

"Yup, found a few rogue hunters that didn't seem affiliated with these guys and only two that were by each property. But they weren't as close as they are to you."

"How close were they able to get?"

"About four miles out."

"The closest anyone has come in decades has been two miles."

"And I'll do my best to keep it that way. But from the looks of it, they're scouting. No hints of an invasion yet but I think they're planning."

"Do we know where their base is?"

"Haven't located it. Next time my guys find a group of them they're gonna stalk them back to the base."

"Good."

"So what do you wanna do, sis?"

"I need more patrols throughout the entire territory. If they're calculated they may try and strike from multiple angles. Also more guarding Donna and Salvatore's homes as well."

"I can't stretch them too thin, you know how much ground there is to cover for the castles territory alone?"

"I am aware-"

"Oh mom, can we go with Uncle Karl and patrol?!" Cassandra asks.

"Oh yeah! We haven't hunted hunters in so long!" Daniela says.

"Absolutely not."

"But-"

"No. It is too dangerous. You three are not going anywhere near this until we know what we're up against. My word is final."

"I could use the extra-"

Alcina growls at him and he shuts his mouth.

"Once this meeting is over with, and if things here return to normal, I will go out one night and cover some ground and see what I can find."

"Sounds good to me."

"Our priority should be finding their base and taking at least one prisoner alive to question them."

"Glad we can agree on something."

"Anything else?"

"Yeah, I'm fuckin' starving! When's lunch?"

Alcina rolls her eyes and looks down at you as you finish up your notes.

"May I?" She asks.

You hand her the notebook and she flips through the notes you've taken. When she gets to the last page she nods with approval.

"How are they?"

"Very impressive, draga. I think you're more than prepared for the meeting, in terms of note taking at least."

"I don't think she'll be takin' many notes there, sis." Karl says.

It throws you off a little when you realize his tone isn't antagonizing like it's been since he walked in. You can feel Alcina deflate a little under you at his words and she holds you tight.

"Hey," you say, looking up at her. Her golden irises meet yours and you stare into them while you cup her face. "everything is going to be fine. Whatever happens, we'll figure it out, okay?"

Alcina nods and rests her forehead against yours as she closes her eyes. Her hand cups your cheek and she brushes her thumb against your skin.

Karl watches as Alcina melts into you. Sure, he's met his sisters other paramours, not that any of them had lasted very long - but right away he could tell this was different. Never in his long life has he seen Alcina act like this with someone. She's always been possessive of her partners but when she ran out after you, well that was new. Now this, watching as you, a tiny human, comforts her, he can barely believe it and it's happening right in front of him.

The lunch bell rings and you and Alcina are pulled from your moment. She sits up straight and adjusts herself, you notice a slight blush forming under her makeup. That and the way Karl is staring at the two of you, this must be new territory for the both of them.

You hop off of her lap and follow the girls into the dining room while Alcina and Karl follow behind.

Everyone takes their seat and Karl goes to put his feet up on the table. Alcina growls at him and he stops halfway through the motion.

"It's truly amazing that you've lived as long as you have without learning any manners." She murmurs.

"Sorry not all of us grew up as stuck-up nobility with etiquette classes and maids to wipe our asses for us. Fuckin' bitch."

"Must you use that language in my house?"

"Can't you mind your own fuckin' business?!"

"Child."

"Bitch."

The girls begin giggling and Alcina glances over at them and only gives them a little bit of a look. Karl diverts his attention to you and he has a mischievous smile on his face.

"So, kid, what in the hell made you attracted to bigfoot over there anyway? You got a size kink or something?"

"KARL." Alcina yells as the girls bust into laughter.

"Come on, I gotta know. I mean, it's gotta be her size, right? There's no way anyone can be attracted to her personality, unless 'massive fucking bitch' is the kind of trait you look for in women." You look between Alcina - who's fuming - and Karl who has that shit-eating grin back on his face.

"Don't dignify him with an answer, draga."

"Oh thank the Black God, I thought you were dyin' Alci. Actin' all sweet back there. But there's the controlling bitch I hate. Glad to see you're back to normal. Do you always let her control you like that?" He asks you.

You know he's just trying to get a rise out of Alcina so you just shrug your shoulders at him and continue eating.

"You really got this one whipped. I should make you a fuckin' collar that says 'Property of the Big Bitch.'"

"But what will your little lycans wear then?" You say.

Alcina looks at you surprised, but pleased. Karl's mouth hangs open for a moment before he laughs out loud.

"She speaks! I thought she was a fuckin' mute."

"I'm not but I wish you were." You quip.

The girls break out into hysterics again and Alcina hides her chuckle behind her wine glass. Karl laughs again and nods his head in approval before devouring everything on his plate.

The rest of lunch went well. Aside from Alcina getting so mad at Karl she threw a chair across the room and threatened him with her claws a few times. You and Karl got into a rhythm of throwing digs at each other and he and the girls told stories of all of the trouble they've gotten into over the years.

When lunch was over you and the girls said your goodbyes to Karl and you helped clear the table. The girls flew away to go play with the new weapons he gave them and Cassandra managed to convince him to make you a dagger.

Alcina escorted Karl to the front door, not trusting him to wander off to find the girls and throw more sharp objects around the castle.

"So, she really did tame the beast, huh?" He says with only a hit of antagonization.

Alcina rolls her eyes at him and he laughs.

"She seems like a good kid."

"She's wonderful."

"Nervous about the meeting with Miranda?"

Alcina sighs.

"Nervous doesn't begin to cover it."

"Donna said she has your back, right?"

"Yes."

"Well, then I got the kids back."

Alcina stops and stares down at him. They've hated each others guts since the moment Karl was given the cadou and really only got along for Miranda's sake and because both of them hate her more than they hate each other. But over the last couple of decades their mutual hatred for Miranda caused them to have more of a older/younger sibling relationship and the hate between the two of them faded. Not all the way, but more than either of them ever would have thought possible.

"Thank you." Alcina says.

"This doesn't mean we're fucking buddies or anything. But I know if anything happens to that kid, you're gonna be a fucking mess. And we need you to keep your shit together because we need you to take down Miranda." He looks up at her and she nods at him. "Plus, I like her and I know Miranda wants her for something and whatever it is, it ain't gonna be good."

"Thank you, Karl."

"Yeah, yeah. You owe me for this."

"Invoice me." She says as she walks away.

Alcina finds you in the sitting room again, now decorated with the crater in the wall from Karl's body, as you continue your book.

"There you are." She says with a smile.

"Here I am!"

Alcina plucks the book from your hand and puts it down on the table next to you. Before you can protest she lifts you into her arms and pulls you in for a tight hug. You wrap your arms around her neck and she sits down on the couch.

"You okay?" You ask.

"Yes, I just needed you close."

You nuzzle into her neck and she hums in response.

"So he was interesting." You say.

"He certainly is something. He didn't lay a finger on you, did he?"

"No, each time he went to touch my face you stopped him. I think he was doing it just to piss you off, honestly."

"I don't doubt that for a moment. He's such a child."

"Does he control metal or something?"

"Yes, he controls the magnetic fields therefore able to control all metals."

"That explains a lot."

"You mean why knives were being throws across my foyer? Yes. It certainly does."

"That scared me. I forgot you have that healing power for a minute and watching you pull that knife out of your leg almost made my heart stop."

"It's nothing to fret over, draga. It'll take much more than your average kitchen knife to do any real damage to me."

"Good." You say as you nuzzle into her again.

"I'm sorry for not being completely honest with you. I know we agreed to rebuild our relationship on trust and honestly, but I was so worried that all of that new information would be too much for you to handle all at once. I know I'm on thin ice, I hope I didn't lose your trust again."

"I do wish you told me, but I understand why you didn't. And I think you're right, I think it would have been too much for me to process all at once. I wish I learned it from you and not him, but that's not your fault. I still trust you Alcina. You aren't on as thin of ice as you think you are."

"I deserve to be."

"You've done so much to regain my trust." You say as you sit up and look her in the eyes. "You've been listening to me, taking things slow, being honest. You've apologized more times than I can count. You don't deserve to be on thin ice. I forgive you, Alcina."

"I don't deserve your forgiveness."

She looks away from you and you bring your hands to her face and guide her back to look into your eyes.

"Hey, stop that. Yes you do."

"I don't understand how you can forgive me after I've committed such atrocities."

"Because I love you. And because I understand why you did what you did. I think you definitely went about it the wrong way, but I get it. Even after everything you did, after learning about the other sides of you, I still love you. And if none of that deterred me from loving you, I don't think anything will. You have to forgive yourself, Alcina."

"I don't know if I can." She says, looking down.

You bring your hand under her chin and bring her gaze back up to yours.

"Yes you can. You just have to allow yourself to do it. At least try, for me?"

"I'll try for you, iubirea mea."

Her lips meet yours and she pulls you in for a soft kiss. She kisses you a few more times and with each kiss her smile grows wider until she's peppering your face with chaste kisses. You start laughing as she turns to pin you down onto the couch and continues to leave lipstick marks all over your face and neck. By the time she releases you from her grasp you're covered in her crimson lipstick and the both of you are sporting wide smiles.

"Oh dear, it looks like I may have made a bit of a mess out of your face." She says with a laugh.

"I can only imagine, there's isn't an inch of my skin that isn't covered in your lipstick is there?"

She takes your chin between her thumb and forefinger and examines your face before placing another big kiss on your jaw.

"Now there isn't." She laughs. "Come draga, lets get you cleaned up."

[lifeofpriya]

Koala Boyfriend - Jack Draper

[gif credit goes to @pyotrkochetkov]

summary: you need to go to work, but your koala of a boyfriend had different plans in mind...

You wake up to the soft, rhythmic sound of rain tapping against the window of your cozy apartment. The early morning light filters through the blinds, casting a serene glow over the disarray of clothes and books that decorate the floor from the previous night's storm. You're a creature of habit, and the first thing you do is to check your phone for the time. It's 6:30 AM, and a gentle reminder from your calendar tells you that you have an important meeting at work in a couple of hours. You stretch out your limbs, feeling the warmth of the bed that's about to be abandoned for the cold embrace of reality.

Jack, your partner of six months, lies beside you, one arm thrown over your waist, his chest rising and falling steadily with each breath. He's still asleep, lost in the realm of dreams, his handsome face relaxed and peaceful. His messy, chocolate-brown hair sticks to his forehead, and you can't help but reach out and brush it aside. The faint scent of sweat and the earthiness of his skin are comforting. You smile to yourself, feeling a warmth spread through you that has nothing to do with the sun's rays.

Jack's tennis season was done for the calendar year, but your work never seemed to take a break. You slowly slide out of bed, careful not to wake him, and tiptoe to the bathroom to start your morning routine. The shower is your sanctuary, the hot water a balm that washes away the stress of impending deadlines and presentations. You let the steam envelop you, the droplets cascading down your body as you scrub away the remnants of sleep.

When you emerge, Jack is still asleep, but his arm has moved to hug a pillow, as if he's missing your presence already. You can't resist planting a soft kiss on his cheek before you start getting ready for the day. You pick out an outfit from your wardrobe, something professional but comfortable.

As you're grabbing your necklace from your bedside table, Jack stirs, his handsome face contorting into a sleepy smile as he opens his eyes. "You're leaving?" he mumbles, his voice thick with sleep.

You nod, tucking a strand of hair behind your ear. "I have a big meeting today, remember?"

Jack's eyes widen with realization before a playful pout forms on his lips. "Come on, stay home with me. We could spend the day watching movies, ordering takeout, and… other things," he suggests, his voice dropping to a whisper, a glint of mischief in his eyes.

You laugh, tucking in your shirt, "As tempting as that sounds, I can't. I need to make a good impression at the office."

Jack props himself up on his elbow, his eyes still half-lidded. "But it's raining. Who's going to notice?"

You can't help the laugh that bubbles out of you, the sound echoing in the quiet room. "My boss will definitely notice if I'm not there to present."

Jack's smile widens, his eyes sparkling with mischief. "Well, they'll just have to deal with it, won't they?" He reaches out and tugs at your hand, pulling you closer to the warmth of the bed. The sheets are a tangled mess around his toned body, a testament to the restlessness of his dreams. "Come on, just one more day off."

You look down at him, his dark hair sticking up in every direction, and feel your resolve wavering. The rain outside has picked up, turning the city into a blur of wet concrete and shimmering car lights. The thought of spending the day with him, cuddled up and watching movies, is incredibly tempting. But you know you can't.

"Jack, you know I wish I could, but I have to go," you say, gently removing your hand from his grasp. He pouts, but you can see the understanding in his eyes. He's always been supportive of your career, even though his own is a whirlwind of travel and training.

You slip into your shoes and grab your bag, the scent of rain wafting in from the open window. As you turn to leave, Jack's hand shoots out and grabs your wrist, pulling you back for a kiss that's as fiery as a tennis serve. His grip is firm but gentle, his thumb brushing over the pulse point on your wrist, sending a jolt through your body. You melt into him for a moment, the warmth of his mouth chasing away the chill of the early morning.

When you break away, your cheeks are flushed, and your heart is racing. "See you tonight?" he asks hopefully, his eyes searching yours.

"Count on it," you reply, feeling the weight of the day's responsibilities tug at you. You lean down and press a final kiss to his forehead before making your escape.

As you got to the living room, you couldn't help but feel a twinge of guilt for leaving Jack behind. His plea was tempting; the allure of a lazy rainy day spent wrapped in his arms was strong. But the reality of adult life called, and you had to answer. But, one lazy day with Jack, who was rarely home, wouldn't hurt, would it?

You turned around, going into the kitchen as you grabbed your phone and dialed work to inform them you'd be taking a sick day. It was risky, but the look in Jack's eyes had convinced you that today was worth the gamble. The rain outside seemed to be applauding your decision, growing louder, more insistent, as if it had conspired with Jack to keep you both home.

Jack's face lit up when you told him the news, his smile brightening the room more than any sunrise could. "You're staying?"

You nodded, feeling a thrill of excitement and a touch of naughtiness for playing hooky. "Just for today," you said, trying to sound firm, but the hope in his voice was too sweet to resist.

Jack was up like a shot, pulling you back into the bedroom, his energy contagious. "You won't regret it," he promised, his eyes sparkling with excitement. "We'll have the best day ever."

You couldn't help but laugh, the sound of it mingling with the patter of rain on the windows. The warmth of his smile and the comfort of his arms around your waist made the decision feel less like a rebellion and more like a well-deserved break.

"First, we need to get you in more appropriate attire if we're going to have a lazy day in," Jack says, his eyes scanning your professional outfit with a hint of amusement.

You laugh, feeling a bit self-conscious. "Okay, fine," you agree, allowing him to tug you back towards the bed.

He pulls out a pair of his old, worn-out sweatpants and a too-large T-shirt from his drawer. "These should do the trick," he says with a wink.

You roll your eyes but smile as you take them, feeling a thrill of excitement. You've always loved the way Jack's oversized clothes swamp you, making you feel like you're wearing a warm, cozy blanket. You slip out of your work clothes and into his, feeling the soft fabric against your skin.

"Perfect," Jack says, his eyes lingering on you, appreciating the way you look in his clothes. He pulls you closer for another kiss, one that's slower and more lingering this time, as if he's trying to savor the moment.

As you pull away, you can't help but feel a little giddy. The thought of a day off with Jack is a rare treat, especially when it's unplanned and spontaneous. "Alright, what's on the agenda for our lazy rainy day?" you ask, your voice filled with excitement.

Jack's eyes light up with mischief. "First things first," he says, taking your hand and leading you back to the bed. "We need to set the scene."

You watch as he opens the curtains wider, revealing the rain-drenched street outside. The droplets race down the window, creating a hypnotic dance of water and light. He dims the lights, leaving only the soft glow of the bedside lamp.

"How does a day of movies, hot chocolate, and snuggles sound?" Jack asks, his voice full of excitement.

You grin, feeling a flutter of happiness in your chest. "It sounds perfect."

Jack nods, already reaching for his laptop on the bedside table. "Let's start with something light," he suggests, scrolling through a list of movies.

You snuggle into the bed, his sweatpants feeling like a second skin and his T-shirt like a warm embrace. The rain outside creates a soothing backdrop as he finds a rom-com you both love. You watch as the opening credits roll, his hand finding yours under the covers. His thumb traces circles on your palm, the simple touch sending a comforting warmth through you.

As the movie plays, Jack surprises you by jumping out of bed, saying, "Back in a jiffy." He returns with a steaming mug of hot chocolate, topped how you like it, for you, and a cup of steaming tea for him. You sip it, the sweet warmth spreading through your body, the perfect complement to the coziness of the moment.

The plot of the film unfolds, but you're more focused on the comfort of Jack's hand in yours, the way his thumb absently traces your knuckles as he watches the screen. You both laugh at the same parts, sharing smiles that are only for each other. The sound of the rain outside becomes a lullaby, soothing your nerves about the meeting you're missing.

Jack surprises you with a bowl of popcorn, the smell of butter and salt filling the room. "I know it's early, but who doesn't love breakfast popcorn?" he says with a wink.

You laugh, taking a handful, feeling the warmth and crunch of it in your mouth. The rain outside has turned into a soothing melody, syncing with the laughter and sweet nothings you share during the movie. The apartment feels like a cocoon, shielding you from the responsibilities of the world.

As the plot thickens, so does your sense of contentment. Jack's eyes never stray from the screen, but his fingers tighten around yours, as if afraid you might vanish into the real world outside. You feel a pang of something, a mix of happiness and melancholy, knowing that moments like these are rare.

The rain outside seems to be playing a symphony for the two of you, the drops dancing on the window like notes on a page. It's a rhythm that matches the beat of your heart, the comfort of the blankets, the steady warmth of Jack's body next to yours. You let yourself sink into the story unfolding before you, allowing the laughter to fill the space between the raindrops.

As the movie progresses, Jack shifts closer, his arm sliding around your shoulders. The weight of it is both comforting and grounding. You lean into him, feeling his chest expand and contract with each breath he takes. His chin rests on your head, his breath warm against your ear. You're aware of every movement he makes, every sound he makes. It's a silent communication, a dance that needs no words.

The rain outside is now a crescendo, matching the intensity of the movie's climax. The couple on screen is fighting, but in your cozy bubble, you feel more at peace than you have in a long time.

Jack's hand finds its way under the blanket to your waist, his touch light but firm. He pulls you closer, and you tilt your head to look up at him, his eyes sparkling with affection and something else, something more profound. The rain outside seems to pause for a moment as your eyes lock, the only sound in the room the muffled thunder of the storm.

You're about to say something when he leans in and kisses you again, his lips warm and demanding. The taste of mint from his toothpaste mingles with the sweetness of your hot chocolate. It's a kiss that speaks volumes about his feelings for you, and you find yourself melting into it, forgetting about the work you're supposed to be doing.

When you finally pull back, Jack's eyes softened. "I've missed you," he murmurs, his voice low and intimate. "It feels like forever since we had a day like this."

You nod, feeling the same way. With your free hand, you stroke his cheek, feeling the stubble that's grown overnight. "Me too," you say, your voice barely above a whisper.

Jack breaks the kiss with a content sigh, his eyes never leaving yours. "Let's make today count, then," he says, his voice filled with a determination that makes your heart swell.

You nod, feeling a rush of love for this man who understands the value of seizing moments like this. You spend the rest of the morning lounging in bed, sharing stories, and whispering secrets that only the rain outside could hear. The laughter and the smell of popcorn linger in the air as the movies continue to play, the plot lines becoming a backdrop to your own unfolding tale of love and companionship.

As the rain starts to ease up, Jack suggests making lunch. You follow him to the kitchen, where he opens the fridge and pantry with the confidence of a Michelin-starred chef. "What do you fancy?" he asks, his eyes scanning the shelves.

You shrug, still lost in the warm cocoon of the blanket. "Surprise me."

Jack's eyes light up with excitement, and he sets to work, pulling out ingredients from the fridge. The kitchen becomes a symphony of chopping, sizzling, and the occasional clatter of a pan. You watch him, his concentration and skill in the kitchen surprisingly mesmerizing. The aroma of garlic and onions fills the air.

"What are we having?" you ask, curiosity piquing your senses.

"How about a Jack Draper classic?" Jack suggests, a twinkle in his eye. "Pesto pasta with a side of garlic bread."

You nod eagerly, watching as he deftly chops tomatoes and crushes garlic with the ease of someone who's done this a hundred times before. The kitchen is a flurry of activity, but it's a dance you've seen him perform often. The smell of fresh basil fills the air, blending with the garlic and tomatoes to create a symphony of scents that make your mouth water.

As Jack cooks, you stand by the kitchen island, feeling the warmth spread through your body. The rain has turned into a gentle pitter-patter, a rhythmic background to the sizzling of the stove and the clinking of pans. You can't remember the last time you felt this relaxed, this content.

Jack glances up from the stove, catching your gaze. "You okay?"

You nod, smiling softly. "Just thinking how lucky I am."

Jack's grin widens, his eyes sparkling with affection. "You're not the only one," he murmurs, reaching out to squeeze your hand.

The kitchen becomes a dance floor of culinary creation, with Jack twirling around, tossing ingredients with the flair of a maestro. The pasta boils, the pesto bubbles, and the garlic bread toasts to perfection. You can't help but be drawn into his whirlwind, setting the table with two plates, forks, and glasses filled with water that reflect the soft light from the pendant above.

"Let's eat," he says, plating the steaming pasta with a flourish. The green sauce clings to the noodles like a lover's embrace, and the scent is heavenly.

You take a seat at the small, wooden table, the rain now a soothing serenade outside the window. The warmth from the food fills the air, mingling with the lingering scent of the rain-kissed earth. Jack places the garlic bread between you, the crust golden and crispy, beckoning for you to take a bite.

As you dig into the pasta, the rich flavors of basil and pine nuts dance on your tongue. You watch him, his eyes never leaving yours, as he twirls the pasta around his fork with a grace that defies his usual athletic demeanor. The conversation flows easily, sharing stories of your childhoods, dreams of future vacations, and the small moments that make up the fabric of your lives together.

The rain outside has turned into a gentle pitter-patter, the rhythm of it matching the rhythm of your conversation. You laugh at his tales of mischief on the tennis court, the way his eyes light up when he describes the thrill of the match. You tell him about the quiet moments at work, the satisfaction of a job well done, and the occasional office drama that somehow never seems to end.

As you share your stories, the pasta and garlic bread disappear from the plates, leaving behind a trail of crumbs and a pool of pesto. You both reach for the last piece of bread, your hands colliding playfully. The air in the room crackles with an unspoken tension that has nothing to do with the storm outside.

Jack's eyes hold yours for a moment, a silent challenge that makes your heart race. You laugh, the sound bubbling out like the rain on the windowsill. He grins, dimples forming in his cheek, and pulls his hand away, leaving the bread for you.

The afternoon stretches out before you, filled with the promise of more movies, more laughter, and the warmth of Jack's arms. You help him clear the dishes, the clatter of plates and silverware punctuating the quiet whispers of the rain. The kitchen is a warm, cozy sanctuary, a stark contrast to the cold, damp world outside.

Jack suggests a board game, something you both haven't done since your early days of dating. You agree, feeling a sense of nostalgia and excitement. He pulls out a dusty box from the bookshelf, the letters on the cover faded but still legible: "Scrabble."

You set up the board on the coffee table, the wooden pieces clacking against the polished surface. The rain has slowed to a gentle patter, and the light from the living room lamp casts a warm, golden halo around you both. You sit cross-legged on the rug, Jack's sweatpants still hugging your waist, his oversized shirt falling over your knees.

Jack opens the box, revealing the familiar array of lettered tiles. "Remember the time we played this for hours and didn't even keep score?" he says, his eyes crinkling with amusement.

You laugh, nodding. "I think we were more interested in making up words than actually playing."

Jack grins. "Well, let's see if we can beat our record of 'fluffnuggets' being a word."

You laugh, the sound echoing through the apartment. "You're on," you say, grabbing seven random tiles and placing them on the board. The letters stare back at you, a jumble of consonants and vowels that seem to hold the key to the next phase of your day.

Jack mirrors your move, his eyes twinkling with mischief. You both know the score isn't what matters, but the shared joy of creating something absurd together is a bond you cherish.

As you place your letters, crafting a ridiculous word that's definitely not in the dictionary, Jack's laughter fills the room, deep and resonant. It's a sound that wraps around you like a blanket, warming you from the inside out. You feel a sense of belonging, a feeling that's been a rarity in the chaotic dance of your life.

The rain outside seems to be playing along, tapping out a cheerful tune as you both delve into the game. The competition is friendly, the stakes high in the quest for the most ludicrous vocabulary. Each word is met with groans, giggles, and accusations of cheating, the perfect recipe for a lazy afternoon spent together.

Jack leans over the board, his focus intense, and you can't help but admire the determination in his eyes. He's always been like that, pushing boundaries in every aspect of his life. His dedication to tennis is legendary, and you often find yourself in awe of his drive and passion. But it's moments like these, when you see him so relaxed and playful, that you fall for him all over again.

As the game goes on, you find yourself getting more and more competitive. You know it's just a game, but the thrill of outwitting him, even if it's with nonsense words, brings a smile to your face. His laughter is infectious, and soon you're both lost in a world of laughter and inside jokes, the rain outside a distant memory.

Jack reaches across the table and steals a kiss, the warmth of his lips making you forget about the coldness of the day outside. "Your turn," he says, his voice low and playful.

You blush, trying to keep your thoughts on the game, but it's hard when all you want is to lose yourself in him. You place your tiles, forming the word "snogalicious."

Jack laughs out loud. "That's not even a word!"

You stick out your tongue playfully. "Well, it should be."

Jack chuckles, his eyes lighting up with playfulness. "Okay, okay," he says, scribbling something on a notepad next to the board. "I'll give you points for creativity."

You stick out your tongue in mock protest, but the joy in your heart is undeniable. This is what you live for, these simple, uncomplicated moments that remind you why you're together.

The game of Scrabble turns into an epic battle of wits and creativity, with words that make you both laugh and groan in turn. The rain outside has become a serenade, a gentle backdrop to the symphony of your shared laughter and the occasional sigh of frustration when a perfect word eludes one of you.

As the afternoon wears on, the light in the room shifts from the soft glow of the rain-kissed window to the warm embrace of the setting sun. The rain has slowed to a whisper, leaving the city with a fresh, clean scent that seeps through the closed windows.

Jack stretches out on the sofa, his hand reaching for yours. "What's next on our lazy day agenda?"

You glance at the clock, the hands seemingly frozen in time. "We could take a nap," you suggest, feeling the weight of the day's comfort dragging at your eyelids.

Jack's eyes widen with excitement. "Best idea yet," he says, tugging you towards the bed with the strength of a man halfway through a five-set match. The bed is still unmade, the sheets tangled from your earlier embrace, but it's the most inviting thing you've seen all day.

You let him pull you down, the softness of the mattress enveloping you as he wraps an arm around your waist. His hand finds its way to your hair, gently playing with the strands, sending shivers down your spine. His breath is warm against your neck, his heartbeat a comforting rhythm against your back.

You close your eyes, letting the warmth of the bed and the sound of the rain outside lull you into a state of relaxation. The stress of work, the tension of the meeting, it all feels a world away. In this moment, there's only you and Jack, a sanctuary from the world outside.

[randoimago]

hi there! may i request mondo, hajime, kazuicihi, and kaito reacting to having their crush ask them for help texting someone they like to ask them out, and when they go to show them a picture of the aforementioned person, they turn the phone to them and it's on the camera app? hopefully that makes sense!!

Asked to Help Their Crush Ask Someone Else Out

Fandom: Danganronpa

Character(s): Hajime, Mondo, Kazuichi, Kaito

Type of Request: Headcanons, Slight angst

Note(s): I had to read it a couple times but I get what you mean! Here you go!!

Hajime

At hearing you ask him, he can't help the sadness that he feels. He tries to keep giving you a smile even though it's very difficulty but he wants you to be happy so he'll try his best.

He holds his hand out for your phone, half wanting to just throw it across the room. You do so and he looks down and just stares at his reflection.

It takes him a few seconds before he realizes what happened. He can't help a bit of a laugh as he gives you your phone back.

Hajime does tell you the truth about his own feelings and how he did feel sad at the thought of losing you, but he's glad that things worked out.

Kaito

He feels heartbroken, but he tries to keep smiling and gives a big, if fake, laugh as he "happily" agrees to help you out.

You show him your phone and he just stares at the camera and his face. "You know it's on camera mode, right?" You just give him a smile. It takes him a long moment before he says, "Oh!" as realization hits.

But he doesn't give you your phone back just yet. He instead goes to your messages and begins sending a text. A grin crosses his face as his own phone chimes.

Kaito still doesn't give you your phone back, so you can't see what he sent. Instead, he picks up his phone and reads, "Oh Kaito, you're so cool and handsome and I would be honored to go out with you. There's no way I'd ever ask someone else-" You cut him off by throwing a pillow at him or something.

Kazuichi

Can't help but blurt out, "What? Why?!" when you ask for his help. Sure, it can sound like he doesn't get why you'd ask for his help, but he really means "why would you ask someone else?"

Kazuichi gets really pouty and tells you no, but he also cares for you a lot so he'll ends up giving in, a bit tempted to sabotage the message.

You hand him your phone and he's still conflicted with what to do before he notices you have the camera facing him. He gives you an odd look at that, not really getting it.

You will have to tell him the joke you just pulled, otherwise he stays confused for a long while. Kazuichi gets so red from blushing and stutters about liking you too and that was a mean joke you pulled.

Mondo

He can't help but feel a tad angry at you asking him for this. Why don't you just do it yourself? Hell, why would you even text the person something like that when it should be to their face?

He's not trying to be mad at you, but it's how he feels. He can't help but feel a bit betrayed, even though you really owe him nothing. And he feels hurt.

Mondo will be midrant about it or about to leave and that's when you show him your phone. He starts telling you, "I'm not fucking help-" before he realizes the camera is on and he just sees his angry expression reflected.

Is a tad dumbstruck as his brain has to process what happened before he scoffs and nudges your phone away. Mondo rolls his eyes and calls you an idiot, but you better believe that you're idiot now.

[crimswnred]

I've just gotten back home from work so I'm a little late to the party, however...

LITG SEASON 8: TEMPTING FATE — VOLUME 2: thoughts, concerns and prayers

first of all yesss more hair booooo paywall, fusebox get it together??? (at least they are pretty but again that's the bare minimum)

anyway, here's my girl with her new hair

why do all of the girls' nightwear look like I'm on a strip club and they're asking me if I want something to drink

it's so over for you Theo

honestly she's too good for him anyway

okay kiss challenge!!!! let me snog everyone

I don't want any more of that "peck" crap we want FULL ON SNOGS, TONGUE AND CHAOS

Jin: "Nap, then results?" Hamish would be so proud of him

okay, so you rate me EIGHT just so I feel like I have to pay to have one extra kiss, your game is a dirty as ever Fusebox

date time!!!! going with Jin ❤️

LMAO Jack is kinda funny

so sad to see a baddie doing too much to keep a man in love island 💔 Luna I'm so sorry you didn't deserve it your only crime was being coupled up with the one guy I want

oh. so about the terrace scene...

first of all, super sweet gem scene. it seemed like a super important one for it to be a gem scene though. so idk I'm a bit lost.

Jin is a walking red flag 😭 this boy is soooo gonna flip on me when the next hot girl shows up!! but let's enjoy the ride

and Luna... girl... was it ever that serious?

the award for worst outfit design goes to 👇

and the one for BEST outfit design goes to 👇

like wow wowza mmmhmm yeah! this man is hot hot HOT 🔥🔥🔥

I had to kiss him HE IS SO FINEEEEEEEEEEE

oh, Jack is kinda sweet... if he looked more like Lewie/Alex he would be favourite boy of the season for sureeee

keep the compliments coming, darling

I had to kiss him too. you know, to be polite.

but it was just a peck, tho

okay, NOW JIN!!!

having a spicy conversation with the guy I want to fuck and his currently girl isn't how I planned to spend my afternoon but here we go

"You're adventurous. You're fun to be around. And you'd make every sight even more beautiful", "Okay. Where's the punch line?", "There isn't one :)" OKAY GAG ME WITH THE WRITING

FUNNY BOY WHO'S A HISYORY NERD? OH OKAY!!!! BIG T??? NO IT'S BIG J!!!!!! JIMOTHY!!!

lmao Sophie mixing the boys up she's so me

Claudia is a real one let me tell you that

she's nice, she doesn't force herself upon us, she's polite, she give us all the tea, and she even help us to graft on the boys behind their girls' backs. like, THAT'S MY GIRL

and if Theo doesn't step up she will DEFINITELY be mine

TIME TO PICK MY BOY LET'S GOOOOOOOO

so sad to see Luna go, I really like her :/

lmao???????????

I TAKE BACK EVERY GOOD THING I SAID ABOUT JACK WTFFFF 😭😭😭😭

he was so out of pocket ?? what's your deal man, are you jealous I picked Jin instead of you? we kissed ONCE. be sooooooooo for real rn

okay Sophie you can join your boy in this bullshit he still cheated on you with me when you weren't looking (and he probably would do it again)

no. I won't forgive you?? you were basically calling me a whore back then and now you are SORRY? don't say something you'll regret later that's not cute.

and he's supposed to be serious?

anyway, stressful night over. time to go to bed with my babygirl Jin

BITS BITS BITS BITS

29 gems to go all the way? what is this?

they could've make the scene a little longer but they have gotten way better ever since the writers dropped the word crescendo

MR TYLER WHO ARE YOU?

still not 100% sure if I'm going with Jin or Oakley but I'm leaning towards Jin, I'm not gonna lie 😁 I did some stuff that will fuck me over on movie night if fusebox finally learnt how to code (which they prolly didn't so I guess I'm safe)

I really enjoyed this episode except for the part when Jack and Sophie went full on villain mode but if the narrative made sense all of the time it wouldn't be LITG, right?

anyway, let's see what this Tyler guy is about... see you all next week 🫶

[acaplaya-musings]

Geoff Castellucci Carol Of The Bells - thoughts/commentary

Excuse me while I go pick my jaw up from the floor because like MY GOD????

So yeah Peter Hollens' cover has been definitely dethroned in my mind! Geoff has done it again! This feels like the spiritual successor to his God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen cover and I love it so much!

Okay so the thing is that this dropped to Patreon late in the morning last Sunday for me (the day after Zat You Santa Claus appeared on VP's Patreon), when I was about to go out shopping with my mum, so I barely had just enough time to watch it (there was no way I could wait when I saw what the song was!), and thus didn't start typing stuff up until I returned home from shopping (yes, my premiere post was actually typed up after I had already watched the video, but it was still true of my thoughts before I had hit play). And then after I got home, I had other new videos to watch, a Christmas tree to decorate, a dog to walk, etc, and basically it's now nighttime, roughly 10 hours later, that I'm able to watch it for a second time. So I'm gonna do what I did with VoicePlay's Christmas upload, and rewatch it on my laptop while pausing to type up notes on my phone, so I don't forget to mention anything. (And I won't be doing Voiceplay-adjacent visuals for this one, so I'll have thoughts on the video itself here as well).

Review/commentary below the cut!

Love the beginning with the audible crackling from the fireplace! Really helps start to set the mood/vibe right off the bat and draw you in!

One of the Patrons drew attention to the fact that all of the "Geoffs" walk into shot in this one, and actually yeah that's a new thing for Geoff! And I gotta wonder if that was an additional editing challenge for him. It works phenomenally well though - like I didn't even think about it at first really!

Ooh that first piano note with like the background reverb(?) and the strings and stuff, now that sure sets a tone!

Obligatory appreciation for the hair - the grey streak is becoming one of multiple grey "highlights" and I love it. Okay moving on, just had to get that off my chest as per usual!

Oh wow that backing percussion! Almost sounds like a bit of war drums in there? (Seriously, this is basically God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen part 2 and it's THE BEST)

Dang it's close to like a full minute before we get the first proper vocal line (as in proper lyrics rather than humming or stuff) but it doesn't matter because he has me ENTRANCED.

In Geoff's most recent monthly webchat on his Patron, he had told us that there was like a couple or a few good subharmonics in his upcoming song cover, and OH HE WASN'T KIDDING!

"Merry Christmaaaaaaaa..." and that is where my jaw dropped, and basically stayed dropped for most of the rest of the video. SIR!

Okay so like it's a little hard to be sure, due to the heavy reverb effects on the sub (which I personally think was a great addition - makes it more epic!) but like uhhh did he hold that subharmonic for 14 seconds? Like I know he held a B0 sub for 15 seconds in Valhalla Calling, but like still, dude!

And I of course gotta give some love to Tenor!Geoff as well. Geoff is getting so good at using his upper register!

"All seem to say... Throw cares awaaaayyyy..." Case in point! Gosh that was so dang gorgeous!

I honestly wish I had more to say about this cover, because it is phenomenal, but basically I sat through most of that rewatch with a massive grin on my face. That was freaking stunning, and honestly a video I'd be dang tempted to watch year-round, because seriously, wow.

In about half an hour from now, VoicePlay's Zat You Santa Claus? cover will be dropping, and then half an hour after that will be my thoughts/commentary for it! (I swear I had to edit the bottom of both this post and the other one because I predicted Geoff's video to be premiering at some point after VoicePlay's, not before). I'm gonna be doing a couple of posts summarising all the videos we've gotten from both Geoff and VoicePlay this year, because why not, and I'll have them posted at some point before Christmas! Now onto Christmas With VoicePlay!

[daysofyellowroses]

heaven only knows (chapter one)

david von erich x f!reader | 3k | warnings: none, starting off pretty tame

she's back! (kind of) so..hi! very aware that i have let this blog grow dormant but it was never my intention, things just got a little overwhelming in life and this space wasn't my top priority. but lately i have tried writing some things and nothing was really working, until i was reading over requests i received and noticed a lot of them were based around david and i have been having such an iron claw resurgence lately so i decided to combine the david requests into one big story and break it up into manageable parts which has been very enjoyable i must say! hopefully this beginning is a fun and pleasant read, i haven't written for a while so i feel a little rusty but i'm getting back into it slowly. as much as possible i have tried to avoid any details of the reader, the only thing i had in mind was her being around 20/21 but that's just in my mind. anyway, unnecessarily long monologue over, hopefully you enjoy this!

🌼

“How do you feel?”

“Like I wanna puke.”

“Again?”

“Yes ma'am.”

You laughed softly as you took in the worried look on Mike's face, gently squeezing his arm.

“Don't worry,” You smiled, giving him as reassuring a look as you could muster. “We got this. You got this.”

Mike nodded, still looking a little green around the gills. “Thanks, appreciate it.”

You gave his arm a quick squeeze before letting it go, walking away to pick up your bass from the couch it was leaning against.

Taking a deep breath, you tried to ease your own nerves. It was just like any other gig, you told yourself. Like any other gig, just with an industry scout possibly being in the audience. Absolutely nothing to worry about, no way.

As tempted as you were to seek out a bottle of whiskey to drown your nerves, instead you focused on the instrument you were holding. The last thing anyone needed was you being too hammered to play or even get onto the stage, especially tonight.

The feeling of the strings beneath your fingertips soothed you, it was second nature by now but you still liked to focus, to feel each movement. Sometimes you let your mind drift off while your fingers caressed the strings, playing a song that was well settled in your memory, but in this moment you wanted to be perfect, to walk onto the stage knowing you wouldn't miss a beat.

You glanced up as you heard Mike and Travis talking, resting your arm on your bass. It didn't seem possible that you'd only known them for a couple of months, it felt as though they'd been in your life forever, figures in the background who didn't take centre stage until you all needed each other.

It was pure chance that you happened to meet your fellow band members, or maybe fate. You didn't necessarily believe that everything that was meant to be would be, but you wouldn't ever outright deny the possibility. Had it been fate that led you to them? Or was it just coincidence? After all, it was just a flyer pinned up on a notice board in the supermarket, you could have discovered it any time. Then again, you had only gone to the supermarket because your mum couldn't, on account of her recently broken leg. And, of course, you wouldn't normally read the notices, only that on that particular visit to the supermarket you had to place a notice yourself (kittens free to a good home, the ‘mischievous little devils’ being omitted from the ad), and the flyer with music notes and lightning bolts crudely drawn on it caught your eye. A local band was holding auditions for a bassist and you figured it wouldn't hurt to go and try out.

Now, a couple of months later, here you were in a fancy house that you felt a little too out of place in, about to go and play to a crowd of people you barely knew (and for the most part didn't even have that) including possibly someone who could vastly change your life. It was quite daunting, a little overwhelming and incredibly exciting. You weren't going it alone, you had the boys with you, and you were all in the same boat.

Setting your bass down carefully, you walked over to the unlit fireplace and looked into the mirror above it. As nervous as you felt, you were relieved that you didn't look on the verge of a panic attack, a relatively calm and composed image looking back at you.

You looked at the guys through the mirror, smiling at Mike as he caught your eye.

“Shall we?”

Your heart was in your throat a little as you walked onto the makeshift stage in the ridiculously huge back garden, lit with endless strings of lights, the sea of faces on the lawn blurring together in the shadows. You watched Mike approach the front of the stage, his confidence kicking in as it always did once he got in front of the crowd. You let him get on with the introductions, looking down at your bass and taking a deep breath. Telling yourself on repeat to just enjoy the moment, appreciate being able to do what you loved with people you cared about. Come the next morning you'd be back at work, pouring coffee and serving pie, dreaming of a life better led, so any chance to do that should be taken.

By the time you finished the last song, your adrenaline was pumping and you couldn't keep the smile from your face, wanting to do it all over again. The band had been in fire, the crowd had been electric, and you knew if the talent scout was among them then they'd be seeking you out before the night was over.

After you left the stage and put your instruments away, you and the guys could finally join the party and relax. Once you had a cup in your hand and the pressure dropped from your shoulders the world felt right again, like you could breathe.

While you didn't have a deep and intimate knowledge of most of the partygoers, you didn't need to. People flocked to the band, wanted to be in with you guys before you were even somebody. You didn't let it get to your head, the minimal and vapid attention. A couple of drinks, some chatting, brushing off intense and sloppy flirtations, it was like most Saturday nights.

You found Mike in the bustling kitchen when you went to refresh your drink, leaning against a counter and watching him pop the cap off another beer.

“Having fun?”

“Hell yeah,” Mike grinned, turning to you. His eyes were glassy and bright, his smile infectious. “Are you?”

“Of course,” You smiled, glancing around before spotting a half-empty bottle of whiskey on the kitchen island and stepping over to it. “In spite of..well you know.”

“Yeah,” Mike nodded, clearing his throat. “But there's always next time, right?”

“Absolutely,” You responded, pouring some whiskey into your cup before reaching for a lukewarm bottle of cola. “And maybe next time you'll finally bring those brothers of yours I've heard so much about.”

You grinned as Mike flushed slightly pink.

“Maybe, yeah,” He nodded, rubbing his neck as you laughed softly. “They're just busy a lot, you know?”

“Mm, I know,” You nodded, setting your cup down and leaning on the counter. “I'm just surprised they can't make time for their own brother, not very supportive.”

“They are supportive,” Mike insisted, his glassy eyes going wide. “It's just..a scheduling thing, otherwise they'd be here, honestly they-”

“Mike,” You held your hand up with a smile and an arched brow. “Relax. You know I'm just teasing you. But I am curious..if I talked about my sisters the way you talked about your brothers then you'd want to meet them too.”

“You have sisters?” Mike asked, looking deeply stumped and making you laugh. “I didn't know that.”

“Because it's irrelevant,” You smiled, standing up straight and picking up your cup. “Most people don't really talk about their siblings. But most people aren't you.”

You walked around to him, giving his arm a gentle squeeze. “And that's a shame.”

The following morning, you groaned into your pillow as all too bright sunshine began to sneak behind your eyes. Now that you were somewhat awake, a thumping headache made its presence felt, and your stomach twisted itself into a tight knot. You really hadn't intended to drink so much, but you'd been having a good time and when drinking games were suggested they just seemed like harmless fun to round off the night.

Your headache wasn't eased by the sound of your alarm blaring, your arm slowly stretching out from under the covers and giving the clock on your nightstand a smack. There was no point even attempting to call in sick to work, there was barely enough staff when everyone was in full health, never mind on a Saturday morning when half the staff would be praying for a quick death rather than suffering through hangover hell and irritating customers.

Eventually, you dragged yourself from your bed, feeling very much like death warmed up. After a shower and changing into your loathed light blue uniform dress, you made your way downstairs. Choosing to ignore your mother's shouting from the kitchen (it could have been aimed at you, your dad, a sibling, a pet, a neighbour a block over, you never knew) and instead grabbed your jacket. Glancing down as a softness brushed over your leg, you smiled as you spotted Burt (former kitten, now not quite full grown cat) purring contently by your ankle.

“Don't you dare make me late,” You sighed, bending down to scratch behind Burt's ears. “Go find your mama before my mama has a conniption that you're still around.”

You took your keys from the hook by the door and slipped out of the house, the fresh air and sunlight making you long for the dark cosiness of your bed. The hangover was your own doing, but that didn't mean you couldn't be annoyed about it, especially when you only had hazy memories of a good time that weren't enough to justify feeling so shitty. The walk to the bus stop seemed to take a lifetime, your headache pounding with every footstep. It would be a miracle if you got on to the bus instead of laying down in front of it, which was sounding more tempting than having to face work.

As fate would have it, you were stuck with your hangover, which had completely settled in your bones. When you arrived at the diner you took a deep breath as you saw how busy it already was, the long white vinyl counter already full, most of the booths occupied. You quickly headed to the back, wanting to be on the clock before someone asked for a top up or another slice of pie. Even with a jacket still on and no apron it didn't stop some of the customers, and you weren't willing to work for free, especially not today.

Once your things were stuffed in your locker, you grabbed an apron from the kitchen and tied it around your waist. You looked over to the crew of chefs, all of them having at least five different conversations at once, while shouting for the servers to pick up orders or flirting with them relentlessly. You knew at least one of them would have a little pick-me-up available if you wanted, keeping it in mind for later as you clocked in and headed out to the front.

The shift seemed to drag by ten times slower than usual, despite how busy you were. It was halfway through when things finally started to calm, it was still busy but far more manageable. You were on counter duty, which was a small relief to your feet after rushing around all morning. When you had a moment, you let your mind wander to the previous night, particularly the performance. While it had been frustrating that the scout wasn't there, it was still one of your better gigs, and you knew that you would've been snapped up in a heartbeat if the scout had been there. Everyone was on top form, it had all come together perfectly to-

“Excuse me, miss?”

You popped your daydream bubble, looking for the source of the interruption/customer and finding two men standing at the counter who looked a little familiar but you couldn't but your finger on how or if you knew them.

“Hi, how can I help?” an automatic smile was back on your face, your hand reaching into your apron pocket for your order pad. Judging by the size of the men they wouldn't be content with just a coffee. You didn't think people could be so muscular in real life, not that it mattered, of course.

“Could we get three cheeseburgers and three large sodas to take out, please,” The brunette asked with a charming smile, spurring your brain into action to think where, if anywhere, you knew him from.

“Of course, coming right up,” You nodded, scribbling the order down on your pad and glancing up for a moment to find the blonde's eyes on you, a small smile on his face as he looked away. You looked back to the pad, taking a moment before tearing the page off and looking back to the men in front of the counter.

“It'll be a few minutes, if you want to take a seat.”

You walked back into the kitchen, tapping the page against your hand.

“Got a takeout order, anyone free?”

“I got it,” Ed, one of the chefs who had been at the diner so long you suspected he had been born in it, waved over to you, his tattooed arm still well muscled.

“Along with a little proposition for you sweetheart.”

You handed over the order with a raised brow, watching Ed read it over.

“I'm all ears, what is it?”

Ed set the order aside, straightening up with a grin.

“Got a truck out back, it'll take you any place you wanna go, just say the word.”

“Oh really?” You glanced to the back door before looking back at Ed with a smile. “What a tempting offer..especially if you wouldn't be coming too.”

Ed laughed heartily, waving you away as he started on the burgers. You went back out to the counter, finding the blonde sitting alone. He didn't look as familiar as the brunette, but you couldn't shake the feeling you'd seen him somewhere before. He was pretty cute, sitting there in his cartoon t-shirt and blue jeans. Cute, but also looking like he could easily pick you up like it was nothing. Pushing that particular image from your mind, you walked over and stood across from him, meeting his eyes after a moment.

“Your friend abandoned you, did he?”

He laughed, and you felt your heartbeat quicken a beat.

“Not quite,” He shook his head with a smile. “Went to the bathroom. But I don't think he's missed just now.”

“No?” You smiled, folding your arms. “Why might that be?”

“Gives me a chance to talk to you alone,” The blonde grinned, and you had to admire his confidence. Plus, you couldn't recall the last time someone had flirted with you and you wanted more, or even to flirt back and mean it.

“And what did you want to talk about, exactly?” You asked, taking a step closer to the counter. “World peace?”

The blonde smiled as he sat up a little, resting his hands on the counter.

“Well it would be an appropriate topic, I am talking to a beauty queen after all.”

You rolled your eyes but couldn't fight the smile, lowering your arms and glancing around the diner.

“That line is about as old as this place.”

“Just means it's a classic,” The blonde held his hands up with a grin.

“If you say so,” You smiled, looking up as you heard a loud giggle from the back corner, the blonde's friend surrounded by three girls before he made his way back to the counter.

“Let me go check in your order,” You told them, enjoying the slight look of disappointment in the blonde's eyes as you turned to walk away.

In the kitchen you found Ed laying it on extra thick with Christina, one of the newer waitresses, who looked thoroughly unimpressed.

“I leave for a minute and you're already moving on?” You sighed, walking over to Ed. “I guess that'll teach me not to get my hopes up. You got my order ready?”

“I got the whole world for you darlin,’ just ask,” Ed held his hand over his heart. “And if you don't want it I still got that truck.”

“And I got customers waiting,” You replied, glancing over to Christina as you heard her stifle a laugh.

“So before I drive off into the sunset at least let me do my job.”

Once you had the order, you took the bag and turned to Christina with a smile.

“Could you do me the biggest favour and give me a hand with the sodas for this? Three large, if you could grab just one I'd really appreciate it.”

“Of course, I got it.” Christina nodded, following you back out towards the counter. You placed the bag on the counter in front of the brunette, feeling the blonde's eyes on you.

“Your sodas are just coming,” You told him, glancing to the blonde with a smile before joining Christina by the soda machine and grabbing a cup.

“You okay?” You asked her, taking in the slight flush of her cheeks.

“Yeah,” Christina nodded, glancing over her shoulder before looking back at you. “I just can't believe-”

“Oh don't worry about him,” You smiled, pouring a soda into the cup. “He's a pain in the ass but he's harmless. He'd try it on with a mop if nobody else was available.”

You took the sodas over to the counter once they were ready, watching the men argue for a minute over who was going to pay before the brunette was handing the money over to you with a grin and insisting you keep the change.

“Thank you, much appreciated,” You smiled, glancing at the blonde, who looked annoyed to have lost out but still gave you a smile.

As you were putting the tip in the jar, you looked at Christina, who was watching the window with wide eyes.

“You sure you're okay?” You asked, turning to her. “I can tell Ed to cut the shit if you want, he'll stop.”

“No it’s not that,” Christina turned to you with a grin. “It's..well you know.”

You gave her a confused smile, glancing to the window before looking back at her. “I know what, exactly?”

“It was him!” Christina exclaimed, not exactly easing your confusion. “Don't tell me you didn't recognise him?”

“Then I'll have to say nothing,” You laughed softly. “Because I don't know what you mean. Who am I supposed to recognise?”

Christina laughed, an exasperated look on her face as she touched your shoulder.

“That was Kevin Von Erich!”

[puckthisshift]

For the ask game: Mattdrai and 60, please💙

60. Truth serum/spell

Leon has never been the type of person to wear his heart on his sleeve. He's smart enough to learn to hide anything real behind a resting bitch face and a reputation for sarcasm and excellent jokes.

That's why it fucks him up so bad when suddenly he can't hold back.

He's out at a bar in Florida, enjoying the sun even though it's February and he'll be back in the snow soon enough. The All Star Game actually feels like a welcome reprieve right now, especially because Stu's girl offered to look after Bowie so Leon could let Bowie enjoy the beach for a couple more days.

And Leon can enjoy a couple of beers before going back to his room and cuddling up to Bowie. Why would he pick up when -

"Matthew looks so fucking good."

Davo chokes on his beer and Stu snorts his beer halfway up his mustache. Leon looks around to see who said that. It's true, but it's not something that anyone should just say.

"Is the beer hitting you that hard, Leo?"

"What?"

Wait, it was Leon who said that? Sure, he's been thinking it for ages but that doesn't mean he should say that he -

"Can't believe I still want him so bad."

Davo bangs his head on the table in front of him, trying to make himself forget what Leon just let slip. Leon is almost tempted to follow his captain's example, but he knows that won't solve shit.

"Spiked drink?" Stu studies him. "Sounds like truth serum to me."

"You sure it's truth serum?" Tkachuk himself finally speaks up, staring Leon right in the eye. "Because I recall him saying some very different things last May when I tried to have a conversation with him."

Fuck, he's right there. Somehow that didn't stop Leon from saying some of the most embarrassing stuff he's ever said in his life, when he did such a good job last year of -

"Lying because I was terrified."

"Didn't think you were a coward."

"Not a coward, just dumb enough to fall in love with you."

Davo might be embarrassed now, but he's going to hold this over Leon's head forever. But maybe it's going to be worth it, because instead of making fun of him and walking away, Matthew looks at him with those soft blue eyes that Leon remembers from the few moments they managed to leave their egos at the door when they fucked.

"Hey Stu, when does this stuff wear off?" Matthew asks.

"Since he's only had half of his beer, probably another fifteen minutes or so."

Matthew looks at Leon again, watching Leon bite his lip nearly bloody to keep from saying so many things he's been holding back for at least a year - possibly since that time they made out in a St. Louis bar three years ago.

"I guess I've waited for this long, I can wait a little while longer."

"I'm gonna marry you."

Not yet, but someday. Maybe. If he doesn't fuck it up again. But Matthew is willing to let Leon keep his secrets, and not take advantage of Leon's mouth running away with all of his thoughts.

"Can you at least get him out of here?"

Instead of letting Leon say anything else, Matthew puts a hand over Leon's mouth and leads him outside.

"I want you to kiss me."

That probably wasn't even the truth serum talking. That was all Leon.

[magoapple]

Work-out Buddies

Changbin x Neutral Reader

Word count: 1,138

Genre: Friends to lovers

Warnings: Suggestive language and actions, liking of sweaty changbin.

Summary: Changbin can't get enough of you and being just friends isn't cutting anymore. Little does he know you feel the same way.

Changbin and you have known each other for a few years, meeting mutually through Chan. When you first laid eyes on Changbin you were sold. What were you buying? Didn't know, but you were down bad for that man. You met Changbin when Chan offered to show you his gym he co-owned with Changbin. You had spoken about an interest in wanting to start working out, and he was there to help.

Fast-forward a few years and coming to the gym was a daily thing for you three, sometimes even just you and Changbin. When those days arose, you could not take your eyes off him. Every weight lifted, pull up pulled, and dribble of sweat was implanted in your brain. It probably would seem creepy if someone kept eyeing him down as he worked out, but Changbin did the same thing to you, just more discreetly.

He would look over and see you in the middle of your set of squats, watch a few and quickly look away. If Changbin watched any longer, he swore he'd cross the friendship line. Little did he know you wanted to cross that line ages ago. For the past few days, Changbin hasn't seen you at the gym, and he started to worry. After helping a few people with training, Changbin grabbed his phone and began dialing your number. “Come on Y/N, pick up pick up...”

Your apartment was a mess, and you weren't feeling up to cleaning it, either. Nor were you feeling like answering your phone that kept going off. These past few days, you came down with a cold, and it was hitting you hard. Therefore, you haven't been going to the gym, but you didn't let Changbin know. Chan was out of town, and that meant Changbin had to cover the gym by himself. You figured if you told him you were sick, that would just distract him from what he needed to do.

As you reached over to grab your phone from the dresser, you saw six missed calls and a few texts from Changbin and one call from Chan. You felt bad for having missed them, but we're still too tired to answer back. You knew you had to answer him soon, but five more minutes of sleep was needed. Changbin on the other hand was anxious after still not hearing from you. He cared a lot about you, and knowing that something could be wrong worried him. Even though he was worried, Changbin knew he shouldn't blow your phone up.

You literally have yourself five more minutes of sleep before getting up and taking more medicine. Since you were up, you figured you'd call your friends informing them you were still alive. When Changbin saw your name pop up, he was quick to answer. “Oh my god, Y/N! I was worried sick! Is everything okay?”

“Woah calm down cowboy, I've just been sick with a little cold and I actually think I'm doing better, just tired.” Changbin let out a sigh of relief. “You really had me scared, I was tempted to come over and call it an early day… I can still do that if you need me to, Y/N.” You were thankful for his gesture, but you also knew work was important. “Come over after work, and we can watch a movie or two.”

After a bit more of talking, you both hung up. You started cleaning up your apartment some before taking a shower. Both should have been done a couple of days ago, but now is better than never. You called in some take out from Changbins favorite place and occupied yourself with a movie until he came. Half-way through the film, you heard a knock on your door. “Y/N I'm here!” You chuckled, of course you knew he was here. As you opened the door, Changbin could see the dark circles under your eyes and felt his smile falter. “Y/N have you been eating enough and getting enough sleep?”

“huh? Oh, yeah, I promise, just been exhausted and sleep has taken over my whole life.” You laughed it off, but Changbin still seemed worried, so you grabbed his hand in yours. “Binnie I promise I'm fine now I ordered us food so let get our grub on!” Changbin could never say no to food, especially when it involved you. You could feel his eyes on you as you ate and wondered what he was thinking. “So how's the gym been? Missing me?”

“Yes… Actually, I have missed you Y/N. Why didn't you tell me you were sick? I could have helped.” You sighed and set your chopsticks down. “Because I didn't want you to worry, you had so much on your plate already, and I didn't want to add more.” Changbin understood where you were coming from, but that still didn't change how he felt. “Look I get it, but you should have told me.”

“Why should I have, we're just friends, and I was looking out for you." Changbin rubbed his face. “Because you're not just my friend Y/N and I care a shit ton about you!” In your years of being friends with Changbin he's never raised his voice at you. So hearing him do it was now shocking just as much as his words. “What do you mean, I'm not just your friend?”

“I mean, you're not just my friend and I thought it was obvious that I like you Y/N…" Changbin liked you. So you weren't dreaming when he would more than subtlety flirt with you or lay his hand on your thigh on occasions. “You like me?” Changbin turned towards you on the couch and held your face in his hands. “Y/N L/N, I Seo Changbin do indeed like you… Actually, I think I'm in love with you and have been, so can I kiss you to prove it and get the message through your cute little head.” You nodded quickly, too shy to even speak.

As Changbin pressed his soft lips to yours, fireworks went off in your mind. You don't know what took you so long to get to this point, but you didn't want to stop. Changbin deepened the kiss while pulling you into his lap. The feeling of his thick and muscular thighs against yours had your heart racing. You pulled away, resting your forehead against his. “Binnie?” He moved some of your hair out of your face and pressed kisses along your neck. “Yes love?” You giggled, gently pushing him back. “I think we should continue this somewhere more comfortable, don't you?” Changbin didn't even answer as he swept you up in his arms and began walking to your bedroom. “I'm definitely calling in sick tomorrow~”

◄Tumblrs system works on reblogs so if you'd like to support my content please reblog but do NOT feel obligated to►

[kendrene]

Prompt: Ava/Beatrice + genderfluid!Ava please?

“Are you mad?” You have to force the words past the lump in your throat, not sure that you really want her to answer. But Beatrice has been quiet since you told her, and she has that faraway look in her eyes, the one she gets when she’s thinking too hard about something. There’s a book open in her lap, and you can tell, you are sure she hasn’t read a single word. 

“Am I-” Beatrice looks up, looks at you for the first time since you’ve said - mumbled, nearly lost in your cup of morning tea - hey, I don’t feel like a girl sometimes, is that okay? - and frowns. “Did you forget to unload the dishwasher again?” 

“Uhm. No?” 

“Ate all my leftovers?”

“Nope.” To be honest, you've been tempted. The kung pao chicken Beatrice ordered last night from Aunt Fēn had smelled very very good.

“Have you taken my fleece without asking? You know, the green one with the sleeves that are too long for you and you have to roll up?” 

God, you love that fleece. It's soft and cozy and above all it always smells of Beatrice, even after washing. 

"It's in the closet. I know because I wanted to wear it, but then I remembered I should ask you for it first."

"Thank you, Ava." Beatrice places a piece of paper in between the pages of her book, closes it and pushes it aside. "Then why are you asking me if I'm mad?"

You frown, shaking a corner of the napkin you've been tearing apart loose from where it stuck to your finger. You expected this conversation to be hard. You had resigned yourself to it. You’re not prepared for it to be confusing.

“Beatrice.” You begin slowly, trying to pick your words with care. It isn’t easy. You’re not the kind of person that often thinks before they speak. “None of the things you’ve asked me about make you mad when I do them.” 

Oh.

You blink.

Ohhhhh.

“Exactly.” Beatrice reaches across the table, squeezes your hand with a gentle smile. “So why would I be mad that you told me about yourself?” 

“I don’t know.” You admit, dropping your gaze. The tea cup’s left a wet ring on the surface of the table, and you dip the tip of a finger in it, drawing lazy figure eights. “Maybe because I kind of sprang it on you? Made you fall madly in love with me then went: surprise! I’m not a girl all the time, actually.”

“Ava.” Beatrice flips your hand palm up, tracing her thumb across it until she’s resting it on top of the small knot of veins at the hinge of your wrist. Your pulse quickens, races fast enough for her to feel. “When I fell in love with you, I didn’t expect you not to change.”

“No?” 

She shakes her head, still smiling. 

“That would be falling in love with an idea. But we all change, we all grow. Sometimes we have parts of us we don’t discover until we’re ready, or until we reach a turning point in life. There’s no time limit on it.” 

“So you’re okay with it? Even though I don’t have it all figured out, yet?” You want to explain that it feels shiny and new, but also familiar, like a pocketful of change you forgot inside an old coat only to be pleasantly surprised when you unearth it a couple seasons later. You want to tell her that some days you look at yourself in the mirror and you do see a girl, but not the kind that Sister Frances had in mind when she had refused to cut your hair as short as you’d have liked and forced you to wear dresses. That at night you lie awake till late, listening to her breathing even out as she falls asleep, and imagine the friction of your nape, shaved bare, against the cotton of the pillow. 

And, sometimes, you think, maybe, you’re a fraud. “What if I’m wrong?” Your voice shakes a little. “What if it turns out this was a waste of time?” 

“Getting to know yourself is never time wasted.” Beatrice lets go of your hand and comes around to your chair, sinking to her knees there. “I love you, Ava” She says and you cling to her words the same way she clings to your wrists, the two of you forming one lifeline. “Even if you eventually decide this label doesn’t fit. Even if it turns out none of them do, I love you.” 

You lean down, rest your forehead against hers and it feels a bit precarious, this position, like when people refer to you as she. But Beatrice loops her arms around you, steady. Ready to catch you.

And you know that, no matter what, she always will be.

[merakiui]

For that ask game, i'll be answering it genuinely and with how i truly feel when it comes to your writings. Forgive if it's long-- Here goes:

👀👀👀👀👀 putting you on notif even; always a joy to see your new thoughts everyday

⏰⏰⏰ Sometimes you drop two or more bangers on such a sort span like, ma'am-- how do you do it??

💀💀💀💀💀 few examples that haunt me till today is DRU and promising young man; the fear i got from reading them are so delicious

💌💌💌 always nice to read extra tidbits and extra headcanon, or just seeing your ask posts in general <3

🤡🤡🤡 and boy, there are times when i feel like i have a clown nose ready to plaster onto their faces; clownery and irony are sisters in some ways

💖💖💖 your writings are so delicious i'm actually tempted to read the ones outside of twst, specifically the ones abt scaramouche (thank u for introducing mouchey to me <3)

🥵🥵🥵🥵 literally horny gripping my thighs for dear life--

💔💔💔💔 i remember having to douse my head in cold water after HBE; anyway, yes, your angst gutted me more times than i could count--

🍓🍓🍓 When you write fluff they always got me soooo >_< they're downright diabetic!!!

🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸🩸THIS. THIS BE THE MAIN REASON I"M DRAWN TO YOUR BLOG LIKE SHARK TO BLOOD

🎀🎀🎀the same with the fluff, the way you write these scenes always give me butterflies and got me sooo 🥺🥺 <33

🧠🧠🧠🧠🧠 methinks your brain should be studied and put on display in a museum <3

🌺🌺🌺 even when all the death/bad end flags are there, i still hope the otherwise because i want them to survive so badd

🍄🍄🍄🍄🍄 i'm insane about how you write them actually, loving the mental gymnastics i go thru whenever i read them <3 you really bring the freaky out of these freaks uwu

🩰🩰🩰🩰🩰 not exaggerating, but the first time i found your blog i felt like finding a hidden gem and has been in love with your writings until today (and i suspect for an even longer time <3)

🌞🌞🌞 and sometimes they turn me into an emotional mess and make me insane (affectionate)

⭐⭐⭐ not only they draw me in immediately, they refuses to leave my head; they're living rent free as we speak--

🎨🎨🎨 plenty times i have to look up meanings and symbolism from your writings and it's so much fun gaining new knowledge!

💡💡💡some of your fics really do got me thinking "How did you come up with this???" and i am always INTRIGUED

🧸🧸🧸 how can i not when they're THAT good?? They's comfort fics! (and said comfort fics have not given the characters comfort AT ALL)

🍀🍀🍀🍀🍀 the emotional rollercoaster you put me thru everytime i read your stories is real; i don't think i'll be getting off soon.

📗📗📗 THEY SHOULD BE BOOKS IN MY OPINION ACTUALLY

🧩🧩🧩 oouughh it's got me acting like that one meme of a guy with his whiteboard

💐💐💐i ADORE how you write your MCs, each one of them has such a distinct personality and a refreshing point of view!

🧶🧶🧶 they flow so nicely and smoothly >_< especially love it when you write bickerings like old-married couples

🧊🧊🧊 even when said character may not act like this in canon, the way you write them actually feels like they might??? Somewhere in the multiverse of this specific character, there's this character acting just like how you write them--

💎💎💎 and i especially love it when they're unreliable narrators and/or slowly descending into madness <3 but yes, i just love you write thought processes of each characters in general

💧💧💧both tears of agony and joy, definitely. The butchered got me bawling actually, getting so attached to Marisa even though knowing she won't survived... OTL OTL

🌌🌌🌌🌌 some i wish you'd elaborate more, like that aein in ant hill fic with floyb because i'm honestly curious with worldbuilding of that one

😱😱😱 and you make an amazing build-up towards it too! They're not so sudden and you can even pick the crumbs as the stories go. love it when my suspicions are proven to be correct

🎵🎵🎵🎵🎵 like a moment of epiphany; and i have to say, "Good Luck, Babe" would make a good fem!rido song--

🍇🍇🍇 very very great taste i must say, they're like *chef's kiss* ✨✨✨

🍆🍆🍆 considering they make up the majority of your writings, AAAAAA yes i do love how you write them >_< (they're very much canon in my heart)

🪀🪀🪀 they're definitely not a quick read to me, but they're highly enjoyable!!

🔮🔮🔮 i can't say how many times your plot twists make me feel like getting hit by a baseball bat-- (in a good way) and sometimes (many times) i have to put down my phone and go "....hUH? WUH???"

💣💣💣💣 countless times you've put me on the edge of my seat and got me bouncing me leg in anticipation >_<

🎬🎬🎬🎬🎬 they way you write your stories are so vivid that it's so easy seeing them portrayed scene by scene in my mind (sometimes i like to even imagine them in a visual novel game format)

🎱🎱🎱 and they blew my mind every time <33

🎩🎩🎩 everytime you update new chapters, i like to re-read the previous chapters in order to refresh my mind and see the current plot in its wholeness

🧛🧛🧛 so much that i'm dropping everything i'm doing every time you posted a new fic <3

In short, i bow before your throne of godly writing skills and rejoice for the feast you kindly bestowed upon us <333 again, i'm sorry of it's long >_<

(ask game)

KHEYY, YOU ABSOLUTE MADLAD!!!! YOU DID ALL OF THEM AND PROVIDED EXTRA THOUGHTS????? Sending you lots of kisses and happy vibes in a package because WAAAAAA THIS IS SO SWEET AND KIND OMG?!??!?!?!?! ｡°(°.◜���◝°)°｡ thank you so very much!!!!! I am cradling this message in my heart forever and always,,, 🥺💖 please don't apologize for the length!!! These positive vibes added so many years to my life!! (〃´𓎟`〃) I am incredibly honored to be a blog worth putting notifs on for,,, and to say my works should be books, that they can be imagined in VN format, that many aspects and more can be enjoyed so thoroughly....... AAAAA OMG YOU'LL MAKE ME CRYYYYYY!!! T^T

These pictures illustrate how I felt reading every one of your lovely words. I'm so flattered,,, orz orz uuuwaaaa I will continue to cook up the most delicious of feasts!!!!!! ᕙ( •̀ ᗜ •́ )ᕗ

[celestie0]

Girl I was balls deep in my attempt to make fanart for u a couple months ago

Like I had the reference pictures collated and I sat my ass down and picked up an pencil with the intention of actually drawing something after ages

cause basically I became a lil sad cause I felt like I forgot to draw bc last year in school I took an external art subject and it didn’t occur to me that doing a hands on subject through distance study wasn’t the brightest idea

anyway that fucked me over and led to me dropping and taking up fucking legal studies 😭

Even though I’m a bit more STEM based I can still fw the wordy subjects but not this someone pls save me why am I being assessed on the bi cameral structure of parliament

saur yh I’m super lazy as is with anything so that situation just put me off drawing and art completely

congrats to me setting every world record for yip yapping and going off track

ummm yh for context it was like my 10th read through of the kickoff chapter 6 scene that compelled me to collate a bunch of reference pics that ranged from twitter smut comics to bathroom sinks and eventually I gave up because anatomy is a bitch

I changed into a dress with the same type of neckline I think reader was wearing bc of the way it tucks under her boobies and I was this close to just shamelessly positioning myself in front of the mirror to make my own references

then ofc I got distracted by a half baked portrait of Rose from titanic that I drew when I was like 15 and ended up drawing a two hour long remake of the same picture

only for my friend to tell me it looks like Mary Shelly’s ghost

Should I know who that is

To be fair it looked nothing like her but I mean it was an improvement from thinking all my ability just went poof and I drew better when I was 15

never the less I was somewhat disappointed with the product and I haven’t drawn since

wait I wanna show u actually lemme try

https://share.icloud.com/photos/0edTRG9Tb54pRh9Qe5unszRrg

the Mary Shelly in question

do these links work I’m scared I’m gonna accidentally leak personal details or my whole camera roll lol

also IM NOT AN ARTIST don’t judge me peeps I’m just a girl idek how to drive yet

I feel bad every time I send an ask I feel like I’m force feeding u Ellie babes u have the patience and commitment of a saint

also OMG IF YOU MADE ART FOR ANY OF MY FICS I’D SOB!!!!

I want to 😞🫶 but alas prospect of fanart from me will most likely never see the light of day

that crack scene in ihm was tempting tho everything u write is just so visual

♥️ mwah my gorgeous gorgeous writer wifey

hellooo my dear PLS the ramble of this ask is legendary and i found it very entertaining xD

ouuu the dress that reader wears in ch6 of kickoff is actually based on a dress that i own, here's some pictures of it!! i'm curious if the dress you have is similar!! but yea this is the official outfit reference hahah

looking at it now it's kind of a mild sweetheart neckline lol n yea def tucks under the boobs very nicely xd i was actually gonna sell it on depop a couple months ago when i did a closet cleanout but i was like nahhh i gotta keep it bc it inspired that scene

taking your OWN reference pictures sounds so badass. and its ok babe it's the thought that counts haha <3 i feel u about the losing passion/talent in art thooo aaa i used to draw too but ehh hobbies fizzle

ahh i can't see the cloud photos :(( but anywho thanks for the yap my dear!! i ate it up. also side note but i'm so glad my writing comes off visual to you!! i always worry there's not enough description in my scenes so that's reassuring to hear. much love!

[theladyofdeath]

Sooo currently it's exam period in my country at my uni. Which means I need a lot of motivation, something I lack atm. I use my time wisely catching up on fics instead of studying. So I kindly ask you for some motivation, preferably in the form of Elorcan. Preferably them also needing motivation or stress release. I mean I don't really have a preference as long you like writing a little Elorcan. With maybe Elide still studying for her last exam and Lorcan coming home from work and helping her out or something? Idk? I'm bad at prompts? I know it's not summerish but it's sunny outside and hot and I have to study? So that also summerish? Anyways enjoy your free time and have a wonderful day!!

I am always here for fluffy Elorcan! Good luck on exams! x

Everything on Elide's screen had gone blurry. She'd been staring at it for so long that nothing made sense and letters officially were beginning to look like ancient symbols that had yet to be discovered. She knew that she needed a break, but her last exam of the semester was in fifteen hours and if she wanted to get any sleep tonight, there was no room for breaks.

Even if she desperately wanted one.

Just as she threw her head back with a groan, the front door opened and Lorcan trudged inside. With one look at his fiance, he lifted a brow. "How long has it been since you last moved?"

Elide didn't even know. "An hour...maybe five."

He snorted as he kicked off his shoes and walked across the living room to where she sat on the couch, her laptop on her blanket-covered lap. He leaned down and kissed her, slowly. At the touch of his lips, the tension faded from Elide's body.

"Hi."

"Hi," she whispered, and kissed him again. "How was your day?"

"Better than yours, it seems," he mumbled, plopping down on the couch beside her. "You look stressed."

"I am." She had been stressed all week, it was nothing new. Tomorrow was her last final, the final final she would ever take as a student. After tomorrow, she would be finished, and in the matter of a couple of weeks, she would be a graduate of the University of Perranth with a degree in psychology.

"Why don't you take a break?"

"There's no time for a break."

He blinked, surely thinking that answer was ridiculous but Elide didn't care. This was important to her. "Okay, well, can I do anything for you? Help you study? Bring you wine? Strip tease?"

"You were a horrible student, so I can't say that your help in studying is very tempting," Elide chuckled. "The wine and your nudity, however, are pretty tempting, but both are too distracting for my current state of mind."

Lorcan clicked his tongue and sighed. "How about I go pick up dinner and feed you while you cram, then?"

Elide swore she had never been more in love with him than in that moment. There was a little bistro across the street that had soup made by the gods, and in half an hour, Lorcan was back with a giant container of chicken barley soup that had Elide's mouth watering, and a couple of paninis.

She couldn't help but be distracted by Lorcan as he made his way into the kitchen and took out a couple of bowls and plates to fill them with food. He didn't even notice her watching him - he never seemed to - and Elide had always found that charming.

Five minutes later, the coffee table that Elide had been lovingly using as a footstool was covered in food and drinks - wine included, and even though Lorcan claimed both glasses of wine were for him, she knew better.

"You're trying to get me too tipsy to study," Elide muttered, keeping her laptop up and running while she ate.

"No, I'm not," Lorcan said, mouth full. "I'm just trying to give you enough to take the edge off. You're obviously stressed as hell, and if you won't take my cock for twenty minutes, I'm pouring you wine."

Elide lifted a brow. "Twenty minutes?"

Lorcan just narrowed his eyes and took another massive bite of his sandwich. After he swallowed, he said, "Fine. Fifteen."

Elide continued to stare at him.

Lorcan pursed his lips and took a sip of wine. "No need to be rude, damn."

Despite herself, Elide laughed, and out of the corner of her eye she saw Lorcan's lips twitched. He was always trying to make her smile, even when it didn't seem like it.

It was one of the many reasons that she so desperately wanted to marry him. He always made her smile, always made her laugh. It was a side of him that only she saw - well, she and his closest friends. Lorcan wasn't the warmest of men. In fact, he was rather broody, but for her...he made her whole world a hell of a light brighter.

While they ate, Lorcan kept quiet, but when he was done, he pulled Elide's feet onto his lap and rubbed them through her fluffy socks while she scrolled and read and reviewed her notes...and tried her best not to doze off.

She had no idea how much time had passed before his fingers grew weaker, then slowed, then stopped altogether. She glanced over at him and chuckled.

Her future husband had his head thrown back against the couch cushion and his mouth hanging open. His eyes were closed and he was snoring softly.

"Lor."

Nothing, not even a twitch.

"Lor." She nudged his lap with her toes.

He shot up, his fingers resuming their rubbing. Elide laughed, quietly. "Go to bed. I'll be there soon."

"No, you won't," he said, running his hands up her shins. "You'll be here all night. Which isn't healthy, by the way. In fact, you should take breaks while studying or else the information won't fully stick in your brain. Trust me. Your brain needs time to process."

Elide rolled her eyes.

"Hey, I got my degree. I passed my exams. I know what I'm talking about," he defended. "At least take a few minutes. Take a shower. Or a bubble bath. Pee, for the gods' sake."

Elide groaned, closing her eyes, just now realizing how much they ached. "Alright. Fine. Ten minutes and not a second more."

She wanted to finish out her senior year strong and allowing herself to become distracted wouldn't help her do it. Even if she had been studying all day.

All fucking day.

The second Elide shut her laptop, she felt guilty. But, Lorcan was there, taking her hands into his and pulling her onto his lap.

She nuzzled into his shoulder and took a deep breath as he wrapped his arms around her.

"You know that I'm so proud of you, right?"

His voice was quiet, hardly more than a whisper. Elide leaned back. There was nothing but pure adoration and support in his eyes.

"I know," she said, and kissed him, softly. "Thank you."

He nodded and twisted a strand of her long, dark hair around his finger. "I know it hasn't been easy for you to get here, but you..." he shook his head and huffed a laugh. The genuine affection in his gaze had her tearing up. "You made it, El. No matter how tomorrow goes - and it's going to go great, because you've been studying your ass off - but, no matter how it goes, I hope you're proud of yourself. You're going to be a college graduate. Have a degree from one of the best universities in the country. That's amazing."

Elide nodded because she didn't trust herself to speak. She would be the first in her family to get a college education as far as she knew. Her parents died young, but her uncle, who she had lived with after their deaths, hadn't gone to college. No, he had just been a lazy, drunk asshole that Elide tried to ignore as much as possible until she turned eighteen and got the hell out of there.

"I love you," he said, once it was clear that she was getting nothing out. He kissed her forehead. "Pee. Take a quick shower." When she raised a brow, he held his hands up in surrender. "I promise to stay out and not try to steal your innocence."

There was no point in saying that he had "stolen" her innocence at least a million times.

Elide snorted.

"When you come back out, I'll have all this shit cleaned up and I'll let you study the night away."

There was no point in denying his wishes. She did have to pee horribly and knew that her hair needed a good washing. She did it quickly, though, and fifteen minutes later, she was walking back towards her spot on the couch.

Lorcan was in the kitchen, washing dishes, and although the coffee table had been cleared of their dinner, there was a newly filled glass of wine and a full glass of ice water sitting on the glass. She suppressed a smile, checked out Lorcan's ass while he dried a plate and put it in the cabinet, then snuggled back up on the couch to boot up her laptop, yet again.

Once Lorcan was done, he plopped back down on the couch. Elide's eyes left her screen and found his. "Not going to bed?"

Lorcan shook his head as he fought a yawn. "I'm here to keep you company and support you until your beautiful brain can't hold anymore information." He pulled her feet back onto his lap. "Study away. Let me know when you're ready for me to quiz you."

The fact that he was obviously exhausted and was too stubborn to leave her to study alone made her love him all the more. She was truly lucky to have found someone so...so....right. He was different from anyone she had ever known.

He was everything.

Soon, she would be a graduate of the University of Perranth.

Then, she would be Lorcan Salvaterre's wife.

[boss-hoody]

HEAVENSWARD IS FINISHED!

You might think I'm rushing through the game, but I'm not. I just have no life. Ah the life of one who's friends all either have kids or live thousands of miles away...

ANYHOO

Heavensward was fantastic, although I have to wonder how the Dragoon job quests go if you were to pick it up after beating the HW MSQ considering what happens to Estinien at the end. Does time just break and he's just inexplicably there? Or does the game say "Nah, fuck you, no Dragoon for you"?

I had to kind of laugh in the final couple boss fights though because I kept accidentally predicting things. "Are they gonna pull a DBZ?" They did. "Whats he gonna do with that dead guy? Hit me with him?" He did.

The Ascian boss(es) were really fun even though we wiped 4 times. I think all but one of us was a first timer. Our tank was very patient and dropped tips in the chat, but also seemed to let us learn the hard way. "Run away from the guy you're chained to" (Told after we got nuked by the buddy system from hell) "You can tell which will go off first based on the distance between them when they appear" (Told after I got tricked by the ice and fire thing. I'm not complaining though. I'd rather experience and THEN be told rather than be told and then experience.

As for the final boss against god king super pope, I spent the first five minutes panicking as it seemed like he was throwing everything at us all at once... And then he threw everything at us all at once. CHAOS! I loved it

And then for a split second I stopped focusing on mechanics and instead on the fight and realized we were trapped in a dramatic reenactment of Knights of the Round, starring the knights of the round.

Whole bus clapped when the shatter bit happened.

Also the music in that one library dungeon was SO chill.

Various thoughts Lalafells are still the devil, except Tataru. She gets a pass. I got a kick out of her randomly changing outfits after she became a weaver

The voice acting is much better across the board

That first large, empty snowy area did not start the expansion off on a good foot. Going from being able to run fast on my mount, and even fly, to suddenly NOT being able to fly, and being back at base mount speed, AND suddenly being in a huge-ass map that I had to slog across multiple times on my slowcobo? Didn't love it. I get why we can't fly right off the bat in a new region (and I actually liked that you had to earn flight through quests and exploration) , but they could at least just let us keep mount speed. That motorcycle with automitic level 1 mount speed in Mog station is lookin' Reeeeeal tempting.

I really liked the locales in this expansion. Islands in the sky, weird plant life, etc.

I didn't really care for Bismark and Ravana. They just didn't interest me much and their fights were just kind of boring to me.

I'm heading into the post-game next. I'm guessing there's another raid series waiting for me in there somewhere. I just hope its as cool as the Crystal Tower raids were.

Oh and as soon as I buy Shadowbringers my ass is switching to Gunbreaker. Because Gunblade. (I still think its weird that its a tank job though)

[quxxn0fhxarts]

Sonic Senior Year - 18+ - 1. Back to Acorn Academy

Cover and Photo Made with Bing AI

Aged Up

Links to Wattpad and AO3 at end of the post

------- Headmistress Longclaw: Rosemary Laigle: 38, 5 foot Soar Laigle: 40, 7 ft 7 ------- September 2nd, 2014 7:43 AM

Acorn Academy, Mobius City, Mystic Highlands

   Tails barely exited the SUV before his step-father drove off, "Bye, Momma..." Tails sighed, thinking he was the only one in the parking lot. Usually, he was never this late. He would normally be at the Boarding School a week early, but things had gotten tricky. He looked to his right to see Shadow looking at him while walking to the main building. Tails gulped and jogged onto campus.

   The Prowers were an established family in Mobius. His father was an Army Hero, and they were supposed to have the perfect family, but that was different behind closed doors. Amadeus had just been buried at the beginning of the summer, and his mother had already remarried. Of all Mobians she could marry, it was an Eagle. Eagles were the mortal enemy of the Foxes, but his Mom was way too happy to be a widow of three months.

   Tails wasn't too upset to ignore his traditions with Sonic, so he laid his ears back and crouched until he could pounce on his friend, using his tails to propel further. Though, like always, Sonic had heard him and quickly stepped back to catch and pull him into a hug. "Tails! I was so worried about you. I thought you decided to go on to university since I had only heard from you so little this summer.

   "I told you I was going on Vacation, and I might not have service, silly," He hugged his arms around Sonic's neck.

   "Have you heard the news? it's terrible!" Sonic whined, and Tails raised an eyebrow. He has yet to have time to check his emails or texts because they have just returned to West Valley. "Everyone has been assigned a new room and roommate since there were so many pregnancies last year.

   "What?" Tails gasped. He had been roommates with Sonic since Pre-K. Acorn Academy has never been split up into genders. Pregnancy had never been an issue before since they would let students pick their roommates, and they would usually pick their best friend. It made Tails feel like less of a freak. 

   He didn't only have two tails, but he also had genitalia of all genders. He identified as a Male. However, it's harder for him to get respect because many people still look down on Omegas, and they don't even know he is an intersex Omega at that. The general public didn't even know as he loaded anti-heat spray on his body and took some pretty intense anti-heat pills.

   "You should probably swing by the office to see where you are staying now," Amy suggested, and Tails nodded. He was worried that the luggage he sent to the school a couple of weeks ago didn't make it to his new room.

   "No need. He is in my dorm. Building 14 Dorm X," Shadow said as he was walking by. He watched Tail's eyes grow wide and Sonic's face growing angry. "Not thrilled about it either. I'm being forced to sleep here and not at my mansion," Shadow muttered as he rolled his eyes and went to Rouge to see what she had been up to all summer.

------- 2:53 PM    "Professor Robotnik? You said that we had partners for this project?" Silver asked, reminding the eclectic teacher to inform everyone of their partners as the dismissal bell rang.

   AP Robotics was Tail's favorite class. He loved making artificial intelligence and trinkets. He does it every day. He would much rather work alone, but he was a rule stickler, and would make a fuss about it. He tried his best not to look in Shadow's direction as if it would tempt his tough luck.

   "Your dorm mates, if you don't have a dorm mate in AP Robotics, then you can see me after class," Dr. Robotnik waved them all away. Tails avoided Shadow as he walked out of the classroom, while Shadow didn't even think about approaching him. He wanted to go to his room and nap.

   "Nope... Nuh-uh... I forbid it," Sonic crossed his arms as Tails told him what happened, "I will talk to Principle Longclaw. She loves me,"

   "She is your mother... and she never listens to your demands. She doubles down so you learn your lessons," Tails pouted.

   "I don't care,"

   "Is Shadow all that bad? You haven't even asked Tails if he wanted to change roommates... aren't you happy with Knuckles?" Amy shrugged. She couldn't hide the tiniest bit of jealousy. Tails was so cute, just Sonic's type. 

   She didn't fully believe that they had been friends for this long and hadn't developed feelings for each other. An Alpha and an Omega can't just be friends for this long, and it is strictly platonic. "Seriously... they will only be Robotic partners for a week so that you can chill,"

   "Amy, he is pure evil. Do you not remember him cutting off your pigtails when you fell asleep back in third grade? What about you, Tails? He gave you so many wedgies I am surprised that you didn't have crap in your brain,"

   "Thank you for the image..." Tails and Amy pinched their noses.

   "And worst of all... He put laxatives in my precious chili dogs... I didn't eat them for at least 5 hours after that..." Sonic was seething. No one messed with his chili dogs and got away with it with their lives.

   "Sonic, it's not like I want to be his partner... and it isn't for a week. It's for the entire school year," Tails sighed.

   "What?" Sonic and the gang gulped.

   "We have to build a life-size robot that is functional as a human, which can have conversations, thoughts, wants, and skill building," Tails ran his hand through his ginger hair.

   "Tails, I will fix this, okay..." Sonic said, and before Tails could say anything, Sonic had jetted away.

   "Are you coming to the party tonight?" Amy asked. " It's a back-to-school party thrown by Jet. He has it every year in the forest."

   "Oh, um... I am pretty tired, raincheck?"

   "Of course, hon, I am going to try to find Sonic," Amy said, patting Tails on the back and walking off with Cream and Blaze. Knuckles waved to his little buddy before walking off for soccer practice.

   Tails has been trying his best to avoid Silver all day, but it was hard since he had most classes with him. He tried walking away, but much like his brother, Silver was fast, "Tails," He didn't want to overpower Tails. Tails tried to act oblivious to him and put earbuds in his ears, but Silver was persistent. He was followed from the main building to the opposite side of campus. "Miles," Silver sighed, placing a hand on Tail's as the fox was reaching to unlock his door.

   "Silver, please... I don't feel like talking right now,"

   "I don't want to talk. I want to see how you are doing," Silver told him. He didn't need an answer from Tails to know he wasn't okay. "I... um, I am not mad- I... understand-" Silver said, pinching his nose. He needed to learn how to approach this. He didn't want to seem like he was permitting Tails to do anything. Soon after, Tails hugged him, and Silver hugged him back.

   "I am not mad at you... I need some time," Tails sighed.

   "Faggots," Vector said, passing by the two. Only a few people knew about Tails being intersex except for his immediate family and the doctors at Mobius City Medical... and after this summer, Silver.

   "Don't listen to him..." Silver told Tails, rubbing circles on his back, "I am in Building 23 Dorm A..."

   "Thank you, Silver," He managed to say goodbye and get into his dorm before he began to tear up. Tails and Shadow immediately made eye contact before both immediately looked away.

   Shadow transitioned from a bully to a recluse/loner two years ago. No one knew what happened. When he was old enough to emancipate himself, he moved out of the orphanage and into his parents' mansion. The Blackbournes were well-known politicians who passed away before Shadow's first birthday. 

   Shadow hated the orphanage, having to dorm at Acorn Academy, and, most importantly, having roommates. He would be at his home right now, but the academy had a rule against going off campus for the first week of School. The manor was 30 minutes away by motorcycle on Ghost Hill. He missed it so much.

   Tails looked through his luggage for his school sweats. He pulled out the project he had been working on all summer. A balcony and a little nook were in the room, so he would try to have some alone time.

   "I am sorry that you are upset," Shadow sighed. He could smell how devastated and upset Tails was... and he wouldn't be able to fall asleep. He hated the scent of sorrow. It smelled like rain. "If you want, I can go with you to file a roommate swap in the morning,"

   "Huh?" Tails asked, and then he let what Shadow said sink in, "No, I am not upset about that... Yes, I am nervous, but something else is happening," Tails sighed. He looked over to Shadow, and the gloomy guy nodded before closing his eyes and putting his headphones on.

   Tails had never heard Shadow apologize before. It had been a long time since he had been a bully. Tails knew it could be too soon to tell if he was a good guy now. Meanwhile, Shadow knew he could manipulate Tails because of his looks and aura as an Alpha, but he wasn't sure if he wanted to. It wasn't Tails' fault that he was forced to stay more on campus. 

   The two didn't press anything, going to their respective worlds away from the campus. Tails found his micro-robot and tolls before leaving the balcony to destress from the day.

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Wattpad

Sonic: Senior Year - Chapter 1 - quxxnofhxarts - Sonic the Hedgehog - All Media Types [Archive of Our Own]

AO3

Sonic Senior Year - 18+ - 1. Back to Acorn Academy - Wattpad