#I've been with my husband for over 15 years now
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Even when you're in a very long term relationship or a marriage, asking for consent remains something that happens on a regular basis. It's part of what makes a healthy relationship.
I've been married 15 years now and we still have the right to say "no" if one of us isn't feeling up to it. The difference is that we've been together so long, we both know what each other's moods and such are like, and we know enough to not even bring up the topic when the answer is definitely going to be a "no." When my husband is in a broody mood? I won't bother asking, because the answer will probably be a no. I leave him alone to brood until he's ready to talk. When I've got an injury? He won't bother asking, because the answer will probably be a "no." He leaves me alone to heal, until I tell him I've recovered from whatever it is. (This week was a back injury. Huzzah hEDS.)
We've asked for consent so many times over the years that we've learned to not only gracefully accept a "no" but to anticipate when the vibes are off for the other person ahead of time.
I feel like too many consent-related posts focus too much on giving and getting consent, and not making sure that people feel comfortable not consenting. We talk too much of consent as if it is a given, as if you just have to ask and then you’ll get it.
like, there are so many things that boil down to “before you have sex, ask for consent” rather than “don’t assume you’re about to have sex unless you know for sure that the other party/parties want to, and even then they could change their minds”.
Which is just really unhelpful. The whole point of consent shouldn’t be “you should always ask for it and then you can have care-free sex”. That still assumes that you’re going to have sex, when the whole point of asking what people want to do is that it should be possible to say no.
Consent and dissent are both equally valuable. It’s OK if someone asks you if you want to do something, and you say no. And whether you say no for today, for a week or forever, it’s all fine.
Because you know that there are going to be people who think they’re so ~progressive~ and so ~feminist~. when they ask their partner(s) if they want to have sex, but then won’t be able to handle the word “no”.
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I think it's time for a break from other social media sites.
I saw back to back videos with "advice" about guys and them having friends who are girls that aren't their romantic partner.
And now I want to delete that fucking app.
The greatest hits:
He can't be trusted around her if he has the girl blocked on all social media.
He can't be trusted around her if she's the only girl he's blocked, ever.
He can't be trusted around her if he doesn't have her at all on ANY social media, or have her phone number.
I'm not even go to go into these. It's ridiculous.
Treat your friends with respect, respect their partners, respect people's boundaries, and communicate openly. That's all you need to do. I've had the same friends for 10-20 years. It's not hard.
#marvi thinks#I've been with my husband for over 15 years now#I would have to do the math to figure out exactly how long#our core group of irl friends hasn't changed in over ten years#my core group of best friends from college hasn't changed in 20 years even though we're all over the world#and I'm hella gay so if I avoided people I'm sexually attracted to I'd never have friends
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Random Batfam Headcanon's #15:
(continuation of Headcanon #12)
One of Steph's personal favorite posts was a video she posted titled "Ranking my Father(in-law)'s former lovers" and she has an entire Tier maker list created, that doesn't use any real pictures of the Lovers, just out of context photos that only people in the know would know.
Selina's picture is just a random picture of her actual Cats ("She's Chatty, she's able to help me whenever I forget my Keys, She's able to Acquire the best Christmas presents! A Tier.")
Thalia's is a picture of the stereotypical Witches Cauldron filled with a green liquid ("She's Rich, she has an army of Assassins at her beck and call, Dad was apparently Happy when he was with her??? Unfortunately, she's in a very patriarchal dominant home life with her birth family, her father forcibly broke off the relationship, and she STILL hasn't sent me a Birthday Gift!!! C Tier. Buuuutttt she mothered the current Robin, so, for him, I'll bump her up to a B.")
Harvey's picture was just a ¢50 piece she found while walking around that had a lot of grime on one half of the coin ("I'm not fully sure about this one, I never met them when they were sane, but apparently they were really good friends. It's not going so well now, so I'll put it at a C Tier.")
Harley's Photo was literally just a Selfie of Steph with Harley's Jacket draped over her head ("This one is being put into an immediate D Tier, not because they weren't Wholesome (I've heard stories), but Because she is finally happy and in a stable relationship with her own Girlfriend, and honestly me and my own relationship partner view them as Goals for our own relationship. She's also currently his therapist, so D Tier.")
Steph was completely silent as she moved The random Image of a Joker Card to a Tier Below F titled "The most Toxic relationship you will ever see"
The internet exploded when people noticed the 2 images at S Tier, one of them being Wonder Woman's Logo, and the other being Superman's iconic S emblem, but a pair of wedding bands were laid atop the S. ("Look, Princess {referring to the WW Logo} is both his second eldest's favorite person in the world, but she is also the biggest female goal any of us can have. They are adorable, they are funny, this man had to serenade a group of people just so he can save her ass. If that's not love, what is? S Tier. Now, as for the Couple {referring to the Superman Logo}, Dad has somehow been shepherded into an existing relationship, and I think the wife in that relationship just assumed that they also got our dad as a package deal with her own legal husband. Yes, they had THAT bad of a pining for each other. I, sadly, was not around to see the forming of the relationship, but it was reportedly the most awkward 3 years of Coworkers pining after each other anybody has ever seen, and if it wasn't for the Couples Youngest inheriting the "special trait" of the husband of that relationship, we'd be sat here questioning who the father was. It's also, like, the biggest bragging right, so S Tier.")
And then finally there was just a picture of a Bat. ("This man has an almost unhealthy relationship with the Bats in his mancave. He's named all of them. Well, his eldest named all of the original ones, he's just... Continued to name all the new one's that migrate into the cave?? He gets them vaccinated and takes them to the Vet??? B Tier, I'm putting them above Robin's Mom.")
#random batfam headcanon's#batfamily headcanons#dc batfam#batfam headcanons#batfamily#batfam#stephanie brown is an agent of chaos#stephanie brown#superbat & Lois#superbat#wonderbat#superman#clark kent#lois lane#diana of themyscira#diana of themiscyra#diana prince#wonder woman#harley quinn#talia al ghul#selina kyle#bruce x selina#bruce x talia#harvey dent#batman#dc joker#dc bruce wayne#bruce wayne#Batman treats the Bats in the Batcave like they're pets#Stephanie Brown's Social Media Saga
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Family
Warnings: None Category: Fluff Summary: How I'd imagine a surprise visit from you and your daughter to Levi would go.
"Oh my gosh!" Hange excitedly cheered your name upon seeing you in the mess hall with your adorable 8-month-old daughter sleeping soundly on your chest in her harness. With a hand securely on your child's back, you waved at her with your other hand after placing your soup spoon in it's bowl.
Hange scurried across the room and gave you her best side hug so as to not disturb the tiny human on your chest. "It's so good to see you here! How've you been?" She bombarded you with questions causing you to giggle behind your hand. You knew why she was so excited. It was your first time being here in the HQ building. You usually opted to stay home and tend to your cute little house with your husband in the Canaleth district with your growing child. You had been a part of the Survey Corps around two years ago, when you first found out about your pregnancy, and took the necessary precaution to hang up your Wings of Freedom for the time being.
You helped out as much as you could, administratively, but when the morning sickness started bedridding you, Levi, as nicely as possible, ordered you to stay home. Since then, you really haven't been around much, only being in around the town you live it to keep your pregnancy as stress free as possible. Your husband was not one to argue with you either.
"I'm fine Hange. So is the little one too!" You looked down at your precious daughter and began to feel her moving around in her harness at the sound of her name. "Oh! She's waking up!" Hange exclaimed slightly lowering herself to look at your baby. She opened her big beautiful eyes and stared into Hange's. "Oh, you got so big KK!" Hange's smile caused your daughter to lightly giggle despite being woken up.
"Does he know you're here?" Hange asked meticulously fixing your daughter's sock that was halfway off her tiny little foot. "He doesn't. Thought I'd bring the baby here to surprise him. He's been so stressed and upset from not seeing us lately." You spoke brushing your child's dark curls out of her face.
"That explains why he's been more grumpy." You and Hange giggled at the little insult. While you two were off in your own world, the doors to the mess hall opened and in came the cadets. Chatter began to build up as they all lined up to get their plates to get the much needed grub after sparring in the heat for the last two hours.
You were so caught up in your conversation with Hange and your baby occasionally babbling as if she were in the conversation that you didn't notice three new faces sitting carefully sitting in front of you with curious eyes. It wasn't until you noticed your baby, now sitting with her back on your tummy, out of her harness, wasn't paying attention to you anymore. You looked down to follow her gaze and was met with piercing green, dark, and blue eyes.
"Oh, hello." You spoke with a smile on your face. The boy with the blue eyes and blonde hair adverted his eyes from your face with a pink blush on his cheeks.
Cute, you thought.
"Hey guys!" Hange greeted.
"S-section Commander Hange.." The boy with the green eyes and brown hair stuttered his greeting. They barely noticed her beside you munching on her own food that's gone a bit cold from how long it's been there. "Eren, Mikasa, Armin." Hange addressed each of the kids before getting up to dispose of her plate, telling you she'd be back in a jiffy.
"W-who are you? I-I've never seen you around here..." The blue eyed boy, you now knew as Armin, asked timidly. After studying their faces a bit more, you realized that they couldn't have been over 15 years old. Such a young age to join- the Survey Corps at that. The thought made your heart tighten a little. You slightly wondered what could have caused these kids to join at such a young age.
However, your thoughts were cut short when... "Yeah! Are you a cadet like us?" The boy with the bright green eyes, now Eren, asked rather excitedly.
"Eren." The girl, Mikasa, warned.
So, she's the protective type, you gauged.
With a smile on your face, you happily spoke up while letting your daughter nibble on her teething ring making the cutest noises in your arms. You felt a little drool on your hand that held her in place, but you ignored it. "I am- well, used to be, Squad Leader Adachihara-"
"Used to be? You were in the scouts?" Eren cut you off.
"Eren," Mikasa started. "It's rude to cut people off." She chastised. The boy went on to defend himself, explaining to her that he's just curious when you chimed back in to diffuse the little disagreement. "It's okay," You held your hand up before continuing. "I got pregnant with my daughter about two years ago. Pregnant soldiers aren't allowed to be in the ranks as a soldier let alone a Squad Leader." You explained.
Naturally, your eyes drifted to Mikasa and you saw a ghost of a blush color her face.
At the mention of your child, the three of them looked down at her, who was lost in her own world wiggling and giggling in your arms, occasionally waving her teething ring around. You noticed Armin's gaze lingered on her for a bit longer than the others, almost as if he were studying her. A few compliments later and you five were engaging in a rather informative conversation for the cadets. You answered as many questions as you could so as to not scare them but prepare them for the world beyond the walls. Hange even threw in a 15-minute spiel about how fascinating titans were before leaving to grab a cup of coffee.
"If you don't mind me asking miss," Armin started. You gave him your name which caused another bloom of pink to dust his cheeks after correcting himself. "... um, where are you from?" You knew the question would come up sooner or later. "Well, long story short, my family has always been here on Paradis. My clan just resides in the Canaleth district. We all have darker skin a curly hair like mine. If you've never been to the district, you'll probably live your entire life without knowing we exist." Your smile grew a bit wider once you read his question a bit deeper. "If you're asking why I look different from you three, I'm not sure, but that doesn't make me any different." You raised your eyebrows at him as he panicked telling you that's not at all what he meant.
During his apology that honestly made you giggle, Hange returned and sat back down with a wide grin on her face.
"Sorry it took so long. I just ran into your husband and Erwin."
You looked down at your daughter who was already peering up at you. "You hear that baby, Daddy's here." You grinned. "Da!" She exclaimed before turning her little head around to search for him. Her excitement warmed your heart. She was definitely a daddy's girl.
"You're married to someone here?" Eren asked, shocked at the new information presented to him. You nodded at him. "Did you know that Section Commander?" Armin asked after Eren. Hange nodded before reaching her hands out to your baby. She began grabbing the air at Hange and leaned over to her saying, "Mmmm! Mmmm!" telling you to let her go. You gave her up and watched as she immediately began playing in Hange's wild hair.
"Who is it?"
Hange looked over at you and winked, causing you to blush. "You'd never guess!" She exclaimed. Eren looked between Mikasa and Armin before looking back at you. "Is it the Commander?" Mikasa asked. He seemed to be a family man. It was the most logical answer to her. At the mention of his name, your nose turned up in disgust.
"Uh-uh." You shook your head before taking a drink of water from your glass. "Erwin is like my brother." You spoke freely, choosing not to address him as the commander. You never did anyway so why start now?
"Is it the weird guy that smells everything?" Eren asked earning a glare from Mikasa at his careless words to describe a higher up. "Mike?" You made a face before shaking your head again. You looked towards Armin who had his gaze set on your daughter again. "Your daughter looks very familiar. She almost looks like Cap-"
"What are you three doing?" A familiar voice spoke from behind your left shoulder causing you to look over along with your daughter and Hange. Immediately, your daughter began bouncing up and down from excitement and grabbed at the air for him.
"Da! Da!"
"Captain Levi is your husband?!" Eren exclaimed causing a bit of attention to land on your table.
"And what of it Jeager? Got a problem?" He asked, narrowing his eyes at the young boy. "Da! Da!" Your daughter was now trying to lean over Hange's shoulder, who was laughing at their shocked expressions as Levi gently scooped him daughter up in his arms and settled her on his hip as she tried her best to wrap her tiny arms around his neck in a hug.
You saw the faint curve of his lips upward at the gesture and planted a kiss on her forehead.
"N-No sir!" Eren exclaimed, scrambling to his feet to give him a salute.
"Get outta here brat. You've pestered my wife and child enough."
You giggled at his brashness. It reminded you of how things were before you took maternity leave. Levi hasn't changed much since you left. Well, at work. At home, he was completely different. Clingy, soft, and most importantly, a little happier.
Eren scurried off with Armin leaving Mikasa to fight back an eye roll at their skittishness. She gathered their forgotten plates and slightly bowed to the table before leaving your little group alone.
"I'll go find them." Hange offered before taking her cup of half-finished coffee with her leaving you and Levi.
"Da!"
And Kuchel.
"What are you doing here?" He asked hearing his voice soften tremendously. No matter where you two were, sparring, in a meeting, or even slicing through 15 meter titans, Levi always seemed to talk to you in a softer tone, expressing his admiration for you this way. You noticed his eyes would soften upon speaking to his squad, Hange, and Erwin, but the look never reached his tone.
It was his way of telling you that you were special to him. The only other person he did this for was Kuchel- who was stuffing Levi's cravat in her tiny little fist trying to put it in her mouth. The action made you laugh a little while trying to contain your blush from his undivided attention. His eyes haven't left you since he sat down, only when pulling something inedible from your daughter's stubby hands knowing she'd put it in her mouth.
"You haven't been home lately," You attempted to hold his loving gaze noticing him taking in your appearance. His beautiful grey eyes scanned your pretty face noticing the little details such as you filling out your eyebrows some, a different lip gloss that had hints of glitter, and the fact that you actually used the mascara you purchased a few weeks ago.
"...so I..." you lost your train of thought getting lost in his eyes. Your heartrate sped up slightly and your breathing became slightly irregular. You were sure the cherry blush on your face darkened to crimson the longer you held his gaze. Unable to withstand the pressure, you adverted your eyes and took a quick deep breath, telling yourself to calm down.
How he still had this effect on you four years later was beyond you.
"Cat got your tongue sweetheart?" He teased, lowering his voice to keep your conversation private considering the number of unwanted eyes on you two following Eren's outburst.
"Levi." You whined, feeling your temperature spiking at the intimate name. He laughed, making it sound more like a scoff to go unnoticed by the cadets and an eavesdropping Hange.
"Ma! Ma! Mmmm! Mmmm!" Kuchel began to whine and wriggle in Levi's arms making grabby hands at you, well... your boobs. She was hungry. Levi immediately noticed this and ushered his little family into his private quarters on the fourth floor and helped you get comfortable before going to find Erwin. After taking much longer than he wanted, he finally found the blonde tucked away in the library nose deep in a history book. From there, he told the commander of the surprise visit where Erwin smiled a genuine smile for the first time in a long time. Not having a family of his own yet, he was happy for Levi and granted him the rest of the day off to catch up on the much-needed family time.
Levi graciously accepted and went back to his quarters to tell you the good news. Upon arriving back and opening the door, he realized just how long he had been gone. You were laying on you side with your breasts exposed so your daughter could eat comfortably, but upon further investigation, he realized that you two fell asleep like that.
With a small smile on his face, Levi locked the door and pulled out a change of clothes and headed into the bathroom to change. Upon putting his uniform in the dirty clothes hamper, he exited the bathroom and placed a pillow on the other side of your daughter, on the edge of the bed, in case she got a little wild during her nap. He then carefully crawled on the bed behind you, pulling your shirt and sports bra down in the process.
He gently pulled you into his chest, leaving a little space between you and Kuchel to give her some space, and buried his nose in your pineapple bun, enjoying the scent of coconut oil and your peppermint shampoo. Levi didn't nap with you two, but instead chose to enjoy the little intimate moment in the quiet.
It was in this moment that Levi forgot what lied on the outside walls. All that went through his head in this moment was how lucky he was to have the God above bless him with the two most important women in his life. It made him all the more excited to give you more children, to live with you for the rest of his life. He was genuinely happy.
#levi x black reader#levi attack on titan#levi aot#levi x reader#levi ackerman x reader#levi ackerman#attack on titan#aot x reader#levi ackerman fluff#levi ackerman smut#snk levi#snk x reader#hange zoe#erwin smith
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Precious Truths: Part 15
Fandom: Bridgerton
Pairing: Benedict Bridgerton x F!Reader
Summary: After your father finds out you’ve been writing under a male pseudonym, he threatens to marry you off to an atrocious man unless you find yourself a husband within a month’s time.
Series Masterlist
You and Benedict decided to go riding today. Eloise wanted to stay back and read, thus leaving you and Benedict alone. You weren't sure if this was a blessing or a curse.
In the past few years, it's clear that Benedict has matured greatly, however, you still see glimmers of the boy you fell in love with all those years ago. He's still playful and loves to tease you, but he also knows when to give you rest and let you think.
These new qualities he's adapted makes your heart stir and it's driving you mad.
You're currently resting at the creek where you like to rest on your rides with Bluebell. You guide her to the water and she leans over, drinking from the creek. Monsieur Montclair's horse, Jack, follows Benedict to the water, mimicking Bluebell.
Benedict is parched as he gulps down the water from his water pouch. You giggle, reaching up and wiping the trail of water cascading down his neck.
Realizing how intimate that gesture was, you clear your throat and look back at the creek, "I've come here a lot lately after James' passing. When I need a moment to myself."
Benedict looks around, the tall trees looming over, the sunlight peeking through the branches. He nods, "I can see why. It's very serene here."
You take your satchel and plop underneath the usual tree you sit under, "I've also been attempting to write again."
"And how's that going?" Benedict asks as he sits beside you.
"I have some lines here and there that I like, but putting them all together is the problem."
"Can I see?"
You snort, "Absolutely not."
He gives you a pout, "Why?"
"Because they're not ready yet!"
"Y/N, how many times have I shown you my unfinished work? Come now, it's only fair you do the same," he reaches out for your bag and you pull it away.
"Nope!"
He tries again, reaching further out and you keeping it out of his reach, "Y/N, don't be difficult!"
"I should be saying that to you!" you exclaim with laughter. You yelp as you fall over and Benedict crawls on top of you trying to grab your back.
You're laughing, "Benedict! Quit it!"
"Not until you show me your work!"
With as much force, you toss the bag and look at Benedict. Who scrambles to his feet and you're rushing after him. He gets to the bag first and now it's his turn to keep the bag away from you. You're chasing him around trees and brush, your laughter echoing around you.
"Benedict Bridgerton, you come back here at once!"
"Who are you, my mother?!" he cries out as he pulls your notebook out of the bag, dropping the bag onto the ground as he continues to keep away from you.
"You leave me no choice!" you jump and tackling him, both of you falling onto the grass with a thud.
Benedict groans in pain, "Was that really necessary?"
"Yes!" you cry out as you grab the notebook from his hand. You sit up, straddling him and promptly slip it into the cleavage of your dress.
"Cheater," Benedict grumbles with a frown.
You stick your tongue out at him and then realize the position that you're in, "Oh," you climb off him, cheeks heating up in embarrassment. You brush any leaves and dirt from your dress and clear your throat, "I'll show you my work when I'm ready, Ben." You stick out your hand to help him up.
"Fine," he says with a sigh, he takes your hand and rises from the ground. He dusts off his pants and look at the sky, "The sun is starting to set. Shall we head back?"
You nod, "Yes, that's probably best." You two walk together back to the horses.
Benedict bumps his shoulder to yours, "So, how are you feeling?"
"A lot better. Your presence has really helped...and Eloise! Yours and Eloise's presence has helped me a lot. Thank you."
"Of course," he responds with a grin. The two of you reach the horses, who have been waiting patiently for you.
Benedict helps you mount Bluebell and then goes to mount Jack. You two ride back to the estate in a comfortable silence.
___________________
At dinner, you talk to Eloise more than you talk with Benedict. You've felt like you've been neglecting her, which isn't fair.
"I take it you enjoy the library?"
"It's incredible! I haven't seen that many books in one room!" she looks to the Montclairs, "Can I stay here forever?" The older couple laugh.
"And how about you, Mister Bridgerton? Have you been enjoying your stay?" Monsieur Montclair asks.
Benedict gives him a polite smile, "Very much, monsieur. Your home is wonderful and it makes me feel relieved to know how well taken care of Y/N is here."
"Thank you, that's very kind," Madame Montclair says, "So, Mister Bridgerton, how have the marriage prospects been going for you? I hear your mother is trying very hard to find you a match."
Benedict suddenly feels nervous. It feels wrong talking about this with you around. He doesn't want to hurt you by potentially reminding you of James or-
"I hear all of London has been throwing themselves at Benedict," you say jokingly, which causes him to whip his head towards you.
"How do you know that?"
"Penelope," you respond with a smirk as you sip from your glass.
Eloise groans, "The amount of women that have come up to me to get information regarding my brother is so annoying and rude! The amount of times he's used me as a shield!
You chuckle and look to Benedict, "Can't handle all the attention, Ben?"
He smiles, "You know I never cared for it."
"Well if you do find a match, you'll have to let me speak to her first. I need to make sure she can handle you and your family."
He laughs, "Yes, of course, I'll be sure to remember that."
While you and he banter, Monsieur and Madame Montclair give each other a knowing look.
__________________________
You've just gotten ready for bed when Madame Montclair knocks at your door. With your robe wrapped tightly around you, you open it.
"Is something wrong?"
"No, of course not, cheri. I just wanted to discuss something with you."
"Alright," you sit at the edge of your bed.
"Your father and I have noticed that you and Mister Bridgerton have a special connection."
"We've been friends since childhood."
"Yes, we are aware, but not that kind of connection." She gives you a pointed look that makes you feel like a scolded young child.
"Well...my relationship with Ben had always been platonic, but my feelings for him were romantic for the longest time, until I met James. The day of the wedding, Benedict confessed his love to me and then walked out of my life. He broke my heart. I do love James, mama, I swear-"
"Cheri, I never doubted your love for James. But I can see that your love for Benedict is something much deeper."
You nod, "Having Ben back in my life has brought on feelings that I thought were long gone."
Madame Montclair approaches you and grabs your hands, giving them a squeeze, "Perhaps this is your second chance, cheri. Papa and I have always told James to fight for what he loves. We are going to tell you to do the same. You take care of that heart of yours. And know you will always be part of our family."
Hearing and processing Madame Montclair's words felt like a burden was being lifted from your shoulders. You stood up, wrapping your arms around the older woman, "Thank you so much, mama. I'm very grateful to have you as my mother."
"And we're thankful to have you as a daughter," she presses a kiss to your head and it makes your heart clench a bit. If your mother was still alive, you were sure she'd like Madame Montclair.
#benedict bridgerton x reader#benedict bridgerton imagine#bridgerton imagine#f!reader#fem!reader#female!reader
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𝐓𝐡𝐚𝐰𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐇𝐢𝐬 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐭— 𝐁𝐚𝐧𝐠 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐧 𝐅𝐅
Please check Intro about me ;) , my masterlist :) , Requests (& Rules) ^^
I'm currently in my writer's era, so I wanted to publish this Fanfic I've been writing for the past few weeks. I've always had POVs and ideas for stories in my head but I stored them away in my notes app or my diary. But this one, I wanted to share. (I publish on Wattpad as well but my reach over there SUCKS.)
Consider giving this story a read and tell me what you think of it. Leave your comments and feedback, I always appreciate it. I'm still a beginner, so there might be some errors here and there. If you spot any please tell me and I'll correct them.
I'll try to upload weekly or whenever I finish writing a new chapter.
WARNING ⚠️ This story is for matured readers since there's smut, mention of alcohol and strong language.
Ready? Let's get in.
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Description:
𝑻𝒊𝒆𝒅 𝒃𝒚 𝒂𝒈𝒓𝒆𝒆𝒎𝒆𝒏𝒕, 𝒚𝒆𝒕 𝒅𝒆𝒔𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒆𝒅 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒎𝒐𝒓𝒆...
He knew that this marriage was under his agreement that it's only valid for a year. But once their contract ends and Aria tells him she is carrying his child, his protectiveness, possessiveness over her increased a ton more. He didn't want this marriage to last more than he wanted but now he can't live without her.
Bang Chan x fem/OC - Arranged marriage. Mature content. Cold Husband. Billionaire. DUAL POVS
TW ❗❗: Pregnancy (I know not everyone enjoys this trope but I can assure that once you read it you will understand the plot. Do consider giving it a chance)
This story contains mature content such as mentions of alcohol, sex and strong language. 🔞
Note: Underlined chapters are already published and non underlined ones are upcoming. Ones marked in red contains smut. At the end of each chapter, the next one is linked.
𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬:
Chapter 1 || Chapter 13
Chapter 2 || Chapter 14
Chapter 3 || Chapter 15
Chapter 4 || Chapter 16
Chapter 5 || Chapter 17
Chapter 6 || Chapter 18
Chapter 7 || Chapter 19
Chapter 8 || Chapter 20
Chapter 9 || Chapter 21
Chapter 10 || Chapter 22
Chapter 11
Chapter 12
. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁˖ . ݁
ʀᴇʙʟᴏɢꜱ, ʟɪᴋᴇꜱ, ᴄᴏᴍᴍᴇɴᴛꜱ ᴀɴᴅ ꜰᴇᴇᴅʙᴀᴄᴋꜱ ᴀʀᴇ ᴀʟᴡᴀʏꜱ ᴀᴘᴘʀᴇᴄɪᴀᴛᴇᴅ.
If you want to be added to the taglist, let me know <3. New tags will be included in the upcoming chapters, but please note that I won't be updating the taglists in previous chapters.
Thank you for reading!
xx,
Ivyy
#bang christopher chan#stray kids fanfic#bangchan skz#bang chris#lee know#changbin#hyunjin#han jisung#felix#seungmin#i.n skz#bang chan#fanfiction writer#fanfic#oc writing#writing#pregnancy#ceo#billionaire#fast paced#quick update#skz channie#smut#mature writing#bang chan smut#mature couple#arranged marriage#romance#fanfic writing#Ivyyscollection
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2500 please?
Support me on Ko-Fi | Sign Up to the Tag List | AO3 Listing
Fandom: BNHA
Pairing: Dad!Bakugou x F!Reader
Themes: Bakugou is not the perfect dad but is trying his best, based off of a TikTok Sound
Summary: You get a call from your nearly 16-year-old daughter at 2 a.m. asking for $2500.
Word Count: 1K
Tag List: @optimisticprime3 @dreamcastgirl99 (Sorry if I've forgotten or gotten someone's tag wrong)
A/N: I should've been working on an assignment instead of this....
“Hey mama, do you have $2500 you can send me?” You heard your 15-year-old daughter’s voice through the phone.
You leaned up in your and Katsuki’s bed, looking at the time. “Katsumi, it’s 2 am. What do you possibly need $2500 for?” Your head hot the pillow before you suddenly sat u straight. “Katsumi, where are you?”
“Um-” You heard your daughter’s voice go weak though you could still hear her smile over the phone. “An escape room?”
“The truth, Katsumi.” You warned, sitting up in your bed.
“... Prison?”
You sat up straight, your eyes open wide. “PRISON?!”
Your husband Katsuki sturred awake, mumbling some curses.
“You can’t tell daddy!” Katsumi’s voice strained. “My friends and I were just goofing around-”
“Can’t tell me what?” You heard Katsuki's grumbly voice say before you turned your head, seeing your very tired 42-year-old husband. He grabbed your phone as he sat up, pulling it to his ear. “What did you do and where are you?”
You heard your daughter's voice become quieter and you could imagine her doing the thing she’s done since she was 3 and got in trouble with your husband. Lower lip pouting, looking down with hands behind her back and kicking rockings with her feet.
“... My friends and I snuck out and we went to a party and the cops were called and apparently there were drugs-”
“Drugs?!” Katsuki’s voice boomed. “You’re doing drugs?!”
“Nononono!” Katsumi panickingly rushed out. “There happened to be drugs there! That’s why we got arrested-”
“ARRESTED?!” Katsuki was going to pop a blood vessel with how angry he was.
You heard your youngest daughter Fuku crying now from her room. You gave your husband a look, but all you saw was anger behind his eyes. He took a deep as he clutched onto your phone tightly.
“Where are you being held?” He asked through gritted teeth as he signalled to you to check on your 7-year-old daughter.
You groaned as you got out of bed to go check on your youngest.
Katsuki waited until you left the room before glaring at the phone as if Katsumi could see his glare. “You’ll be grounded for 2 months, your birthday party is cancelled and you’ll write your mother an apology letter.”
“What?! But that's so unfair!-”
“Do you want me to come pick you up or do you just want to walk straight home?” You snapped at his daughter.
“... Fine…”
The drive from the police station was long and awkward. Katsumi wondered if her father was driving the long way home just so the guilt would eat her alive. She looked up at Katsuki with her eyes, the same eyes that you had.
He was silently fuming.
She looked out of the sports car passenger window, looking at her reflection in the side mirror. Her eyeliner was smudged and her father’s wheat-blonde hair looked messy with your hair texture on her head.
“Where’s mama?” She asked.
“At home. Someone had to watch your sisters.” He answered coldly.
When he noticed he was getting close to the street they lived on, he parked on the side of the road close to the park he used to take Katsumi to.
She stared at the park, remembering when she first got her quirk at the said park when she was 4. How you held her so closely with a smile and spun her around while Katsuki just watched, realising Katsumi had his same quirk.
“Why did you go?” He asked her, trying to keep a level head.
“I just wanted to do something fun with my friends.”
“You’re 16 in 4 days!” He pointed out to her. “You shouldn’t have snuck out! What if something worse happened than just drugs happening?”
“Why would you care-”
“Because you are my daughter, Katsumi!” Katsuki tried to hold back a tempered response. You told him to be gentle. He was never really good at it. He tapped his finger on the steering wheel. “Is this about that boy at school?”
The lack of a response from Katsumi confirmed it Katsuki. He took a breath in trying to not get angry.
“I know you don’t like him-”
“Understatement of the year, Sumi.” Katsuki butted in.
“-but I really like him!” Katsumi had small tears in her eyes and her fists clenched.
Katsuki was silent, tapping his finger on the wheel.
“... Don’t change yourself for some boy, Katsumi.” Katsuki said to her. “If you’re going to date, don’t make it a life lesson for yourself.”
Katsumi turned her head away from her father, crossing her arms. “Whatever.”
Katsumi barged through the front door, avoiding making eye contact with you as she made her way to her bedroom, passing her sisters’ rooms along the way. She slammed the door shut and locked the door, leaving you and Katsuki alone with high tension lingering in the house.
“What did you say to her?” You asked him with a raised brow.
“I told her not to change for that stupid boyfriend.” You angrily answered as he made his way back to your two’s bedroom.
Once you closed the door did he take off his shoes and shirt before getting back into bed. You sat beside him and gently rubbed his old man's back.
“Was he at that party?” You asked Katsuki gently.
“I don’t fucking know-! Probably!” He groaned, burrowing his face into a pillow.
“... Maybe we need to have the talk with her-” You stopped yourself when you saw the nasty look Katsuki was giving you. “Don’t act like that, Katsu. I started having sex when I was around her age.”
“With who?” He glared, his possessiveness over you still strong as ever, even after 18 years of marriage.
You just rubbed his back. “Not important. You have to accept that she’s going to start dating, there isn’t much you can do about that.”
Katsuki sighed, getting comfortable in bed. “Let’s just go to sleep. It’s 3am.”
You leaned down and kissed Katsuki’s forehead. “I love you.”
“I love you more.”
#mha x reader#bnha x reader#mha imagines#bnha imagines#bakugou x reader#bakugou katsuki x reader#katsuki bakugou x reader#bakugou x you#katsuki bakugou x you#bakugou katsuki x you#bakugo x reader#katsuki bakugo x reader#bakugo katsuki x reader#bakugo x you#bakugo katsuki x you#katsuki bakugo x you#x reader#x you#dad!bakugou
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I want to make a little PSA and warning about future content being posted to my page very soon. I will not stand for the slander of writers who choose to write about Miles Morales due to popularity of the movies. Let me make something clear since it seems there are many fake Marvel Fans out there who know nothing about the universes. THERE ARE UNIVERSES WHERE MILES IS ALREADY AN ADULT.
Earth-8 comes to mind where Miles is LITTERALY a full grown MAN MARRIED TO GWEN STACY and they have 2 CHILDREN TOGETHER. Their names are Charlotte and Max Morales. LOOK IT UP IF YOU DONT BELIEVE.
Every universe has a differing age/look from the Miles Morales we see in the movies and know why? BECAUSE THERE IS DARN NEAR THOUSAND IF NOT INFINITE universes of Miles. SO YES. There is a universe with events just like the movie with slight differences and Miles over the age of 18. So litteraly any story about about Miles would litteraly be cannon in someway!
Just like how we can have a Adult Peter Parkers like in the movie exist at the same time as underage Peter Parkers like Tom Holland's. Or should I say," -Dr. Strange and the little nerd on Earth 199999 (AKA Tom Holland)"~Miguel O'hara. And if you were paying attention to the movies you'd know that Miles cannonly exist in live-action human form. Uncle Aaron played by musician and actor childish gamebino mentions he has a nephew who wants to protect to Spiderman. You see that same prowler Childish Gambino Uncle Aaron captured in the new movie. He was captured by Hobie Brown and locked uo as anamoly needing to be sent back to his universe. Meaning that Adult Miles can exist at the same time as kid Miles!
NOT ONLY THAT. But here is some hyprocracy I have found. THE ANIME FANDOM. The most popular characters in the anime are 15- 16. FROM Deku and Bakugou FROM MY HERO, to Luffy FROM ONEPEICE, to Sukuna/Yuji from JUJITSU KAISEN and many many more. Most main characters are highschool age. HOW IS IT? That they can age up charecter that alot of times we will never see 18 or older and write a fanfic sometimes while the charecter in the story is still 15-16 and get a away with it. But Miles Morales authors go out their way to age him up before they even write it and litteraly aren't wrong since their are universe where he is older, are weirdos and pe***. I don't see some anime writers doing that? Make it make sense?
I PERSONALLY DONT EVEN WRITE FOR FOR CHARECTERS THAT DONT HAVE A CANON ADULT VERSION OF THEM AVAILABLE FROM THE OG CREATORS IN MEDIA. Guess who fits the criteria? MILES MORALES.
A message for my unsure authors out there.
~So for all my writers not their scared to post their fics. Label it Earth-8 Miles who is a father and husband to Gwen and say it's a headcannon of what ps happend he's 18-25 before he got married if you feel that weird about it.
Some of ya'll are fake fans who completely missed the point of the movie and it's implications. Don't come in my DMs telling me to take anything down because I'm not. You will be blocked and locked out of interacting with my page. And if you feel uncomfortable block me. Just know if you block you will be missing out of 50+ fics I've been working on 18+ characters for about a year now and will be posting starting in July. It's littersly an event I've been working on called the 'Lemon Fest', since it's my birthday month.
Once again every charcter I write about had a cannon adult version of them made by the creators or is already an adult. I was going to keep this a secret by I've gotta protect my fellow authors especially if they are being wrongly targeted. Wanna get mad? Wanna get angry at some authors? Get mad at the ones the ones that write about you favorite anime charecters that are likely 15-16 then ask them to delete it...oh wait...you won't.. because if done that would litteraly be deleting 3/4 of the fanfiction written on this site.
#black girls of tumblr#disney#miles morales smut#miles morales#across the spiderverse#author#my hero fanfic#fanfictions#fanfic#hobie brown smut#smut#lemon fic#lemon#spiderman#peter parker#miguel o'hara#earth 42#marvel#x reader#miles morales x reader#miles morales fanfiction#prowler miles#small psa#my writing#gwen stacy#miles morales headcanons#try again#fake fans#you guys are wrong#writers on tumblr
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Sweet Dreams
dad!leon x mom!fem!model!reader
not my gif^^
request: Hey sweetie, may i've a request for Leon Kennedy and female model hot reader.I wonder what Leon's home life is like with their s/o and daughter and son… or maybe two
requested by: @kawaistrawberry21
a/n: ty for the request !! i imagined this as infinite darkness leon, but you can picture it as whichever leon (it really doesn’t matter) ! i got a little carried away
key:
d/n - daughter’s name
m/n - middle name (if you don’t have one, ignore it)
genre: fluff, hurt/comfort, a little angst
summary: leon loves his gorgeous wife and his adorable daughter.
cw: implication of reader having absent parents, reader worries about being a bad mom, id!leon gets that dinner he wanted <3
—————————————————————————-
leon had made plans with his gorgeous wife to get dinner. they were supposed to meet back at home, and go, but leon just loved watching her do her job.
“ok, a little to the left- yup, now lean into- yes! perfect!” the photographer commanded y/n. leon watched before his wife could noticed he was there. ‘my god, she’s so beautiful. how did i get this lucky?’ he thinks to himself, smiling subconsciously at the model. she notices he’s there and smiles brightly at him. “mrs. kennedy, lose the smile.” her manager growls. “fine..” she mutters and gives him a bored expression, to which he rolls his eyes. “alright, last one; hands on your chest- yeah, chin up- good, part your lips- yes!!” the photographer orders. “…and that’s a wrap!”
y/n walks over to leon and gives him a kiss. “this is a nice surprise!” she smiled. “thought i’d pick you up before we leave.” he smiles back. leon’s smile was rare for everyone, but for you, it was his default expression around you. “and you just look so perfect, how could i pass up an opportunity to see my beautiful wife in action?” he says and you laugh. “y/n. m/n. kennedy. stunning as always! you were amazing today!” the photographer praises. “aw, thank you, paula, couldn’t have done it without you of course.” you give her a hug. “is this your husband?” she gasps. “yes, this is leon!” you grin proudly. he waves awkwardly and says hi (in true leon fashion). “damn, your husband’s fine too!” paula exclaims. “alright, see you tomorrow.” you sigh, hiding your laughs. “bye, y/n! nice to meet you, leon!” paula waves. “you too, paula.” he says and the two of you walk off, arms linked.
“don’t you have to return that dress you were wearing?” leon asks as you both get in the car. “nope, perks of being a model.” you smile.
you both make it home. “mommy and daddy are home!” your 6 year old daughter, d/n, squeals when she sees you, hugging you and leon’s legs. “hey sweetie! we missed you!” leon says as he lifts her up, perching her in his arms. your nanny, melissa, walks over to you and leon. “hi mr and mrs kennedy!” she greets you. you talk about d/n and work and tell melissa you’re going out for dinner tonight. “no problem!” melissa smiles and you and leon say goodbye to your daughter. “be good for miss melissa, okay my love?” you hug your daughter. “okay, mommy!” she says. you both say “i love you” and leave.
you get to the restaurant and talk about work and life and all that stuff (a/n: i’m lazy , sorry).
you get home at about 7:45pm and see melissa on the couch, reading. she put d/n to sleep 15 minutes ago. “thank you, melissa. we’ll see you tomorrow.” leon thanks her and gives her her paycheck. melissa leaves and before you can even move, you hear the pitter patter of little feet come down the hall. “aren’t you supposed to be in bed, princess?” leon chuckles at his daughter. she makes grabby hands at his as to signal “pick me up”, so he does. “i wanted to wait for you and mommy to get home!” she pouted. “will you read me a story?” she asks. “of course.” he says and begins carrying her to her room.
you and leon had both been gone more recently and you felt terrible. you had never wanted to be absent for your children. guilt washed over you. you make your way to d/n’s room and there’s leon reading her a story. d/n signals you to sit next to her on the bed by patting the spot on the left to her, leon already sitting on her right side. you sit down and cuddle her in your arms as you both listen to leon narrate the story.
by the time he’s done, she’s fast asleep. “good night, princess. i love you so much.” leon whispers and kisses his daughter on the forehead softly. “night, sweetie. i hope you know how much i love you.” you lay her down and smile melancholically. you and leon tiptoe out of the room and make your way into your bedroom.
he unzips your dress as he asks “what’s wrong?”. “we’ve been gone so much recently, i don’t want d/n to feel abandoned.” you sigh. “listen, my love, sometimes we have to work more times than others. you work your ass off and you still manage to be an amazing mother. we occasionally both get breaks, and we get to be with d/n more, but we have to work harder to get to those breaks.” leon reassures you. “i just- i never wanted to end up like my-“ you start, but leon interrupts you. “and you’re not. you’re not like them. you’re a fantastic parent.” he tells you. “thank you, honey. what would i do without you?” you sigh. “i know, right?” he replies sarcastically.
you both finish getting changed into your pajamas and doing your night routine and get in bed. “thank you so much, y/n.” leon whispers, hugging you into his chest. “for what?” you respond. “i’m so lucky to have you and d/n. i don’t know what i did to deserve this.” he says. “you deserve happiness more than anyone, my love.” you cup his cheek.
suddenly, you both hear a blood-curdling scream. leon jumps up so fast it almost gave you whiplash. he runs down the hall to d/n’s room and you follow close behind. there is d/n sitting in her bed, tears streaming down her face. “what’s wrong, baby?” you ask as you cradle her in your arms. leon checks the room for intruders, but there are none. “i- i had a n-nightmare… you and daddy were g-gone and i-“ she stutters through sobs before bursting into tears. “oh, i’m so sorry, baby.” you sympathize as you hug her closer, wanting to take away all her worries and fears. leon sits next to you and takes her softly from your arms. “mommy and i aren’t going anywhere, princess. i won’t let anyone hurt you. i promise.” he chokes, his eyes watering the smallest amount, but he’s quick to cover it up. she clings onto him and sobs more. “can i s-sleep in your bed tonight?” she sniffles. “of course, sweetie.” you smile.
leon carries her to your shared bedroom and lays her down between the two of you and you both cuddle her. “sweet dreams, princess.”
#resident evil#leon kennedy x reader#leon s kennedy#leon kennedy#leon kennedy fluff#leon kennedy re2#leon kennedy infinite darkness#id!leon kennedy#leon kennedy angst#leon kennedy re4#re4r#re4make#resident evil 4 remake
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Ghost of You | J. Miller (Chapter One)
Series Summary / Grief is a strange thing. In the beginning it had been all-consuming. There wasn’t a moment of the day where you didn’t cry, didn’t ask yourself why it couldn’t have been you instead. And no-one ever explains the guilt you feel when it isn’t anymore. When it’s just a dull ache and you can finally breathe again, when you can start letting people get close to you again. People like Joel Miller.
Pairing / Joel Miller x Female Reader
Word Count / 3.4K
Warnings / soft!Joel, reader is a widow, in depth discussions and descriptions of grief and depression, will have eventual smut, SLOW BURN.
Authors Note / I AM SO PROUD OF THIS LITTLE STORY YOU HAVE NO IDEA. I've wanted to write soft!Joel for so long so I hope you love it as much as I do! If you do enjoy it, reblogs, asks and likes are my drug so I'd love to know what you think! Also considering following for more!
Main Masterlist | Series Masterlist
Grief is a strange thing. In the beginning it had been all-consuming. There wasn’t a moment of the day where you didn’t cry, didn’t ask yourself why it couldn’t have been you instead. There were days that you couldn’t bring yourself to throw back the sheets of your bed and get up. For the first month, you think you managed to shower three times. No point if no-one was going to see you. You hadn’t left your house since the day of the funeral, life had become a monotonous circle of waking up, soaking your pillow with tears until you made yourself sick, throwing on the same clothes as before and then doing the same thing but led on the couch.
People had reassured you it would get easier. That each day it would subside, little by little, and you cursed them for being right. The longer you sat with your misery, the easier it became. One morning, a few months ago, you remember waking up, only this time you didn’t roll over and place your hand on the empty side of the bed and cry when you realized your husband wasn’t there anymore. You got up and showered, taking 15 minutes to brush the matted mess of your hair, and you dressed in new clothes.
You managed to walk to the market hall and purchase food with your ration cards and Maria had almost fallen over when she saw you in the aisle. That was the worst thing though. You’d been absent from life in Jackson for almost six months, and whenever you left your house people looked at you. Some still had those sympathetic eyes, telling you they were sorry for your loss, but there were the others who judged you. How pathetic you were for falling into despair like you had.
It wasn’t as if he’d met a violent end, he was quite lucky, actually. In this world death came at the hands of evil, whether it was being taken and tortured by raiders, or torn limb from limb by infected. Your husband had died peacefully, drifting off in his sleep in the hospital. The doctors had said it was cancer, which seemed painfully unkind to him. He’d never smoked in his life and was probably the healthiest person you’d ever known, but when was life ever fair?
You could tell they whispered once you’d passed. How dare she be so upset when my husband was killed on patrol? How lucky you were to have been able to say goodbye and hold his hand as he passed, when someone else turned into one of those things all alone. So now it wasn’t grief that kept you behind closed doors, but shame. Shame at knowing you thought they were right, that not being able to pull yourself together was selfish. Selfish to all the people who had managed to carry on with their lives after losing someone, selfish to the community for not being able to pull your weight. You were stuck and you had no idea what to do about it.
The only way you could face leaving your home these days was on Maria’s comforting arm. She’d been your friend for years, she and Tommy seemingly the only people who understood you. Didn’t force you to do anything, let you come to your own decisions when you felt ready. No-one would dare look at you or speak in hushed tones whilst she was around.
The sun was soaking Jackson now, it was summer, and you were grateful for the warmth of the sun on your skin, everything felt better with the sun on your back. With summer came one of your favourites of life’s simple pleasures. Strawberries. In the market you picked up as many as you could purchase after buying your essentials. Maria walked you home, helped you put away everything and then left with a comforting hug.
You carefully placed a large handful of the fruit in a bowl, rinsing it under running water. You were about to sit down on your couch to eat them, but the sun was filtering invitingly through your front windows. You stripped off your jacket, leaving you in your simple tank top and jeans before opening your front door to sit on the bench on your porch. You had sunglasses resting on your face, Tommy had found them on a patrol trip a few months ago and you were grateful for the safety you felt from them. People couldn’t walk past and meet your eye.
You were finishing your third strawberry when Tommy walked past, a man you didn’t know on his left shoulder. He took a look to your house and smiled on seeing you sat in a patch of sunlight, he waved, which you return, then he turns to the mysterious man on his left to say something before they start walking over.
“It’s good to see you out, honey,” He smiled, walking to lean over the railing of your porch, “What’cha got there?” He asked, motioning his head to your bowl of strawberries.
“You want one?” You asked, picking the bowl up and walking over to meet him, he gladly takes the biggest fruit in the bowl, pinching the spidery leaves off before putting the whole thing in his mouth, “How about you?” You asked, extending the bowl to Tommy’s mysterious companion.
He takes a strawberry as well, doing as Tommy did, but he takes smaller bites of the fruit, like he’s savoring it, “This here’s my brother Joel,” Tommy speaks, Joel extends his hand and you take it, shaking it softly in greeting, “He arrived a few weeks back, he’s been getting settled with his daught… with Ellie, but I thought it was high time he started pulling his weight.”
He had a smirk on his face as he said it and you could see the beginnings of a smile on Joel’s face too, “This one’s a real taskmaster,” You say to Joel, a smirk across your lips, “You’ll be wishing we had a retirement age soon enough.”
“Can’t think where he gets it from,” Joel chuckles, “You were takin’ notes all the time we worked together before weren’t you?”
Tommy smiles and nods, “Learnt from the best,” There’s another round of chuckles from the men, “Listen, we should get a move on, but I mean it, it’s nice to see you out like this.”
“Thanks Tommy,” You offer a small smiled, “Here, take a strawberry for the road.”
Both men take another fruit gladly before the way and make their way back down the street, leaving you on your own once more. You slide the sunglasses back onto your eyes and take your place in the path of sunlight on the bench. You sit there for a while, eating your strawberries, thinking about all the times you and your husband had done the same, holding hands as the sunset, cuddling up into his side when the temperature dropped. You realized suddenly that you weren’t sad. That the tears that usually threatened to fall were nowhere to be seen. Instead, there was just a feeling of happiness, grateful that you’d experienced love in a world where it had seemed impossible. Sure, you wished he would reach over and take your hand in his like he used to, squeeze it and place a soft kiss to your palm, but you were no longer ruled by the grief that had consumed you all those months ago.
*
“She seemed nice.” Joel muses as he walks with Tommy.
“She’s lovely,” He replies simply, “Just had a pretty rough time of it recently.”
Joel hums in acknowledgement as his boots hit the ground in time with Tommy’s, “When you said it was good to see her out, what did you mean?”
Tommy sighs at his question, but not out of frustration like he usually did when Joel asked him questions, more out of sympathy, “Her husband died about a year ago,” He begins to explain, “Nothin’ violent or anythin’ like that, the doctors reckoned it was cancer, but she took it real hard, I don’t think she got out of bed for the first week, and then after his funeral she just kinda withdrew, she’s been all alone in that house for months, refuses to leave unless it’s with Maria because people talk.”
“People talk about her?” Joel is shocked, in a world where loss in inevitable, what makes someone else’s grief less worthy than others?
“We’re safe here,” Tommy says, steering him into a building at the end of the street, “But that doesn’t mean people don’t die when they’re out there,” He references his patrol men, he’d lost a few which he would always hold heavy in his heart, “Maria told me once that when she took her to the market a few months ago, some busybody wives were talkin’ about how unfair it was she got to say goodbye, that he’d been sedated and it was easy for him.”
Joel stops in his tracks, letting Tommy walk in front of him. They’re in the gun store, not for anything in particular, just so Joel knows where everything is so he can stop following his brother round like a lost puppy. His mind inevitably wanders to his own grief in this moment. The pain of losing his own daughter, the all-consuming feeling of ‘what is the point in life anymore?’ without her. The scar on the right side of his face and the hearing loss in the same ear when he’d tried to end it all. He hadn’t been strong, not really. If he hadn’t of flinched that would have been it, the easy way out, as some would have said. He’d struggled for a long time with his survival but that didn’t mean his was worth more than your grief, or yours more than his. It wasn’t that simple.
“I spoke to them, told ‘em if I heard ‘em gossiping again then we’d have no issues moving them on their way, but I suppose people are always going to talk, they just do it where we can’t hear them.”
“I’m guessin’ she knows?”
“Of course she knows, Joel, that’s why she shuts herself away, easier that way I guess.”
“Doesn’t make it fair though, feelin’ like you can’t leave your house because people are gonna judge the way your husband died.”
“She’s been better recently,” Tommy speaks, leaning against the table behind him, “Still won’t really go anywhere without Maria, but seein’ her today, it was nice.” Joel nods his way through Tommy explaining the signing out system for guns, follows him around to the stables where he shakes the hand of the young girl in charge of caring for them and then settles himself next to his brother at the bar for a drink. All the while, he can’t stop his mind drifting back to you and your loneliness, your despair at your loss, or the rotten porch step he’d noticed at the front of your house that might just give him the reason to get a little closer to you.
*
A few mornings later, there is a soft knock at your door. Your face contorts in confusion, Maria wasn’t supposed to come until tomorrow. Leaving the coffee pot to its filtering, you walk slowly to the door, opening it to find Joel stood on your porch, toolbox in hand and planks of wood resting against the railing.
“Good mornin’,” He croons, “Not interrupin’ anythin’ am I?”
You shake your head, “Can I help you?” You asked, wincing slightly at the defensive tone of your voice.
“Well, I hope you don’t mind, but when I passed with Tommy the other day, I noticed your porch step was rotting,” He points to the old timbers behind him, “I’m surprised you’ve not fallen through it already, so do you mind if I fix them?”
Your exterior softens and a small smile pulls at your lips, “Of course,” You say, “I’m just making some coffee, do you want some?”
“If you don’t mind sharin’, then I’d love some.”
You leave him on the porch to get started. Your mug is already set next to the coffee pot, you open the cupboard and instinctively reach for the only other mug you ever needed. It had meant nothing to you when you moved in. It was white and had a pattern of sausage dogs printed on it, but it had always been his. You hold it in your hands when you realise what you’ve done. His face flashes behind your eyes. He’s standing in front of you, his hair tousled from sleep, his voice still low and raspy. He thanks you as he takes hold of his mug, pressing a soft kiss to your lips. You set it back in the cupboard like it had burned your palms, reaching instead of the plain black mug at the back of the cupboard.
You rest your palms on the counter, closing your eyes to take deep breaths, feeling the weight of your body through to the ground. Once you don’t feel the wave of sadness flowing through you any longer, your quickly pour the coffee into the mugs, taking them out to the porch where Joel is currently working to take the rotten boards up, not that it’s taking much work, a little force from his hands and the wood in crumbling.
“Here you go,” You say softly, setting the mug down next to his toolbox, “I hope you don’t mind it black, I spent all my rations on strawberries this week, so no milk.”
“Just how I like it,” He says, looking up at you, “Thank you.”
You take a seat on the bench out front, it’s been a long time since you had the company of someone that wasn’t Maria or Tommy and it was nice to watch him work whilst you sat in the sun.
“Thank you, by the way, I didn’t realise it had gotten so bad,” You remark, and before you can think about what you’re saying, you add, “My husband always used to handle this stuff.”
You press your fingers to your lips as Joel’s movement still slightly, he knows what you’ve said, but he continues working, “It’s alright, this is what I used to do before all of this, so I’ve got an eye for rotting wood.”
“You were a builder?” You asked, desperate to steer the conversation away from your loss.
“I was, Tommy and I were contractors, worked on a bunch of different sites together, kinda annoying the world ended, we’d just booked a really big job, was gonna pay the bills and then some for once, my daughter had already spent the money on a trip to Disney.”
“Ellie?” You enquire, remembering the name Tommy had given.
He shakes his head as he sits back on his knees, coffee mug in hand, “No, she’s not mine by blood, she came along a lot later, I lost my daughter on outbreak day.”
“Oh,” You say simply, “I’m sorry Joel.”
“It’s alright,” He shrugs, taking a mouthful of coffee, “I struggled, for a long time, didn’t see how it was fair, but it’s been easier recently, all because of Ellie, and this.” He motions around to the town.
You’re silent for a while, your gaze flits between Joel working and the dregs of liquid in your cup. You understand in a way. The loss is different, but it’s loss all the same.
“What was his name?” Joel asks quietly as he’s rooting through his toolbox for some nails, “Your husband.”
“Mark,” You speak quietly, realizing quickly it was probably too quiet for him to hear, “His name was Mark.”
“Were you together long?”
“Eighteen years,” You answer, “He was my neighbour in the first QZ I was in, I’d lost my parents a few years before the outbreak so I was on my own, he moved in a year later and would always wake me up every morning when he stomped about to go to work,” You were smiling, recounting how you’d met, “One morning I’d had enough, I went right over there, pounded on the door and gave him what for. Said I was tired of waking up to the sound of his work boots every morning, and I guess the rest is history.”
Joel smiles as he reaches for his hammer, nailing in the new boards, “Love at first sight?” He asked, worried at first that it’s too personal a question.
“Something like that,” You offer in reply, “I guess it just kinda happened really, like most things do.”
There’s silence between you again as Joel hammers in the last of the nails. He stands up, pressing his full weight on the step, “All done,” He declares, shutting away his toolbox, “Don’t have to worry about you fallin’ through it now.”
You stand up to admire his handiwork, you must admit he was good at what he did. Efficient but thorough, the step had never looked so good, even when you’d first moved in, “Thank you Joel,” You place a hand on his arm and give it a gentle squeeze, “I really appreciate it.”
“No problem,” He bends to pick up his coffee mug and hands it over to you, “Nothin’ else need sorting?”
“I mean, nothing that risks death or serious injury,” You jest, “But there is something you might be able to help with.”
You gesture for him to follow you through the house, setting the dirty mugs in the sink as you pass through. You open the back door and motion for him to join you. The garden is a mess, there’s no beating around the bush here. The grass is out of control, but that’s because you haven’t been able to go and get your gas ration for the lawnmower. The decking out back is fine, Mark’s handiwork in the year before he died, but you point to the unfinished table and chairs in the corner, or rather the pile of wood that never got to become the table and chairs.
“Mark was going to build some table and chairs, you know, so we could have guests over or sit out here in the evenings, but he got sick before he could really start,” There’s a lump in your throat now and you’re willing yourself not to cry, not now, in front of a man you barely know, but nothing you do can quell the feeling inside of you and a few tears fall down your cheek, “God, I’m so sorry,” You sniffed, “I’ve done so well not to do this today.”
“Hey, it’s alright.” Joel soothes, he pressed a firm hand to your shoulder for comfort but keeps his distance, which you are grateful for.
He gives you a moment to compose yourself, watching closely as you rub the tears from your eyes and take a deep breath, “It would just be nice to have somewhere to sit where people aren’t going to watch me.”
Joel’s heart almost breaks at your words. He doesn’t know you, not in the slightest, but the thought that you felt like you had to hide away, in your own community, the place that was meant to make you feel some semblance of normal, was preposterous to him.
“I’ll build you something, don’t worry,” He reassures, “Tommy has me on patrol for the next few days, but as soon as I can, I promise I’ll build you the best damn table and chairs you’ve ever seen.”
You laugh now, through the remnants of your tears, “Thank you.” Is all you can manage to say.
He’s turning around then, you go to follow him, but he stops in his tracks, eyes admiring the trellis against the back wall of your home, full in bloom of sweet peas, “These are beautiful.” He comments.
“They’re sweet peas,” You inform him, “Maria found the seeds for me, said something about it being good for me to have something to put my energy into,” You shrug, “I guess she was right.”
You reach out and pluck one of the deep purple blooms, “These are my favourites,” You say, turning the bloom over in your fingers before you hand it to him, he looks confused, “Sweet peas are meant to symbolize kindness and friendship,” You explain, “Also fond goodbyes, but I think kindness is more appropriate here.”
He takes the bloom and tucks the stem into the breast pocket, the petals of the flower peeking out where you can both see it, “Well then, thank you,” He nods, “I’ll see you soon, sweet pea.”
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#Pedro Pascal#the last of us#the last of us hbo#Joel Miller#Joel Miller smut#Joel Miller fanfic#Joel Miller fic#Joel Miller fan fiction#the last of us fanfiction#the last of us fanfic#Joel Miller x you#Joel Miller x reader#Joel Miller x female reader#Joel Miller x f!reader#Joel Miller Pedro Pascal#GOY
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AITA for telling my friend's husband to stop claiming he had a mental illness for his own benefit?
I know the title really makes it sound bad, and maybe it is because I'm actually conflicted now.
I (26f), Grace (27f), and Will (26m) are the key players to the story. They had a baby almost a year ago, and I love her. I am the best unofficial aunt and official godparent- but that is neither here nor there.
I have stayed at their place before and I also have been at hotels, if I stay at their place I try to pay them and they decline. This last time I visited, I stayed at their place because Will wanted to take Grace on a date and get a hotel somewhere so I would watch the baby.
However, Will has just increasingly pissed me off claiming he has OCD and needs to be accommodated. I helped fold laundry, he told me it wasn't right and redid everything I did that was his- fine, we all fold things differently.
Grace pulled me into their bedroom one time to have a private and intense conversation that last over an hour and I sat on his side of the bed. He stripped the bed and put new sheets on and then yelled at Grace for allowing that as "my germs" were covering the bed. Grace felt bad because she didn't know he would care, I felt upset he yelled at her since he had never communicated with her, nor would I have done that if I had known.
Grace has movies displayed alphabetically, and it has ALWAYS been this way every time I have been over. Baby grabbed the shelf and they fell. I fixed the shelf, and put them all back. Will came in the room, saw it, became upset and claimed I was doing it wrong and effecting his OCD. He changed it to genre's, which is fine but it has never been that way. He claimed it had and I was mistaken.
Couldn't change the Baby's diaper because "what if fecal germs get on me?" He has gotten mad at Grace for not cleaning the right way, always falling back on germs being his big "issue" in OCD.
But I've never seen him actually have a compulsion? I have anxiety that can be debilitating at times... for example i have to lock my door 4 times each night for me to feel safe. I have a specific routine I do before bed and if I dont I panic. I got in a wreck two months ago, and now I can't drive that route. Maybe I have OCD maybe not, I know I have anxiety though.
But then Will goes and claims to have OCD and does...nothing. It feels really random to me?? Says his big issue is germs, yet can handle when the cat pees on the floor and can handle cat litter. Got a second cat, a kitten, who is still learning the litter box and does not care one bit and cleans it up.
Will's friend got drunk and laid down on his bed. Will laughed at how drunk he was and helped him stay in the guest room. Went to bed almost 15 minutes later and never changed the sheets or anything like he did when I sat there.
Has shared water bottles with friends (Grace would make sense, they literally had a kid together). He has dropped food on the floor then ate it. Will has made fun of Grace when she cooks, because she has to have steak well done because she got food poisoning one time and has been afraid since, which he knows, but wants his steak rare.
Anyways, I feel he is lying about OCD and using it to justify his actions which pisses me off. Grace has called him out for the double standard before. Grace has also tried to encourage him to get therapy, which he refuses. Grace does give him well grace when he does seem to be anxious to do something (like the movies, she shrugged it off and said if it makes him feel better sure).
The final straw was they were at MY place this past weekend, and I noticed how he kept staring at my pictures hanging on the wall. I already had a terrible day and was on edge, which they both knew.. He ignored our conversation and got up and took down a picture. I asked him what he was doing. He said his "OCD is acting up" because it wasn't in line with the rest of the pictures. I said it was a design choice (for a mental image, imagine three pictures in a row, picture one and picture three are the same shape and size hung at exactly the same level, while picture two is hung above that level somewhat, so it kind of looks like "^" with the points being the pictures, but the middle is not as pronounced). Will told me I was a terrible interior designer.
I'll admit, I saw red because it felt like he just wanted to have a chance to insult me. I told him he was a dick and using mental illness as an excuse to be one. I told him that if his OCD is that debilitating to go to therapy, but it seemed to me he was an asshole just trying to use it to justify his actions. He called me an asshole and a bigot and looked to Grace for comfort. Grace said that Will had no say in my design choices, but that I could have found a better way to tell him. Will didnt like that answer and stormed out and left my house.
Grace is now being told by Will to drop me as a friend. She won't. It is causing me a lot of anxiety because I know it is causing a lot of stress in their marriage and I don't want to be the cause of it. Will is adamant I apologize while I am adamant that he should apologize to me. i would be willing to apologize for what i said if he would apologize for trying to change my house, but he says i "dont understand OCD". AITA?
What are these acronyms?
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Go Fund Gaza - Palestinians that have reached out to me
Don't have money to donate? Head over to arab.org/click-to-help, they'll convert every click you have into one Lebanese Lira, which are converted at a rate of 15 Lira to 1 USD donation regardless of the Lebanese economic crash and other economic exchange rate changes
I offer my deepest and most sincere apologies to the countless families whom I've been unable to help and were left not responded to in my inbox. I should've shared these months ago. I hope that sharing these now can at least help some.
Folks of Tumblr, some of these haven't received donations in months and/or have less than 1% fulfilled. If you have any funds to spare, donate at least something. Even just a single euro. Please.
If you want verification, I advise you find a different person to ask or reach out to people who have the energy and means to verify them. I'm not qualified to attempt that, and I'd rather be scammed than subject someone to genocide, especially given GoFundMe has a scam protection policy that refunds donators.
Please keep in mind that names/grammar may be slightly different in some places: some names anglicize multiple different ways (for instance, shonen being anglicized from Japanese) and English is a complicated second language.
Thank you in advance. I expect to see both the Arab.org Daily Clicks (I DO MONITOR THIS. WHY IS LESS THAN THE EQUIVALENT OF 0.05% OF THE POPULATION OF THE UNITED STATES DOING THEM. 15000 PEOPLE ON AVERAGE? WHAT THE FUCK.) and donations go up.
I'll be posting these in threads of messages I've received at a time because there's a lot, and Tumblr doesn't care for posts with large quantities of links/@'s. 7 September 2024: Ahmed Khalil Tumblr: @ahmed0khalil GFM:
7 September 2024: Esraa Ayyad (with Maram Rafat) Tumblr: @esraayyad14 GFM:
7 September 2024: Muhammad Al-Sir Tumblr: @mohmadelser GFM:
7 September 2024: Ola Ahel Tumblr: @olagaza, @olagaza1, @olagaza2 GFM:
8 September 2024: Ahmad Salem Tumblr: @saveahmad2468 GFM:
8 September 2024: Ali Muqdad Tumblr: @alimeq92 GFM:
8 September 2024: Ahmed Al-Agha Tumblr: @ahmed-gaza12 GFM:
8 September 2024: Ahmed Zor Tumblr: @ahmedabuzuorfamily GFM:
8 September 2024: Jumana Hassan Tumblr: @mohmoud-j GFM:
9 September 2024: Noha Abed Tumblr: @nohabed GFM:
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Stolen Fate
The youth plopped in front of me and hunched down in the previously vacant seat. He was a pretty average, round face with glasses, a grey sweater, earphones and a skateboard.
I glanced out my window to see a group of jocks searching the train terminal for for who I assumed was the youngster across from me. With my raspy voice I told the boy to duck down as a gaggle of bullies started to peak through the windows heading our way. He scrambled down and pressed himself against the outer wall, just underneath the train's window. The athletes seemed to give up the hunt and gathered in the lobby. My old heart sank as I realized the leader of this group of miscreants was my own grandson Lachlan.
In fact, the seat across from me was reserved for him so he could accompany me to the city for some shopping. I sighed. I knew my grandson was a bad egg, he had been caught more then once bullying kids. My daughter and her rich husband always made whatever problems Lachlan had go away. This ride was supposed to set the boy straight, that's why I had spent over the last 6 months enchanting this train ticket.
Now the ticket was reacting to this strange boy. On an impulse I handed the ticket to the boy just before the conductor came to punch it. There was a brief flash of golden light and the youth sat back down into his new seat. I heard a soft thanks as he sighed with relief.
"Now Dear, whom do I have the pleasure of saving today?" I asked in my raspy voice.
"M...M.....M....My name is Davis Kent ma'am" he stammered.
"Nice to meet you Davis. I'm Marlene Anderson, but you can call me Grams, everyone else does."
Davis sat a bit higher, a subtle golden glow surrounded him.
"Thank you Grams, You really saved me from those stupid jocks," he said with a touch of confidence.
"Tell me about yourself Davis"
"Not much to tell, I'm 18 errrr.... ugh... 19 going to college"
"And those other boys?"
"One of them, Lachlan use to be my friend, then he found out I was gay, now he and those football stooges hunt me down for fun" Davis had a startled expression and moved to cover his mouth.
I cackled as only an old woman can, "Hehehehehe, that's quite alright dear. I've been a supporter of your rights for years now."
Davis just stared at me, mouth ajar. "Thank you Mrs. Anders........ Grams"
I nodded in approval, and a sense of excitement. The tunnel was coming up and this particular enchantment works better when no-one can see.
Flash......... Flash...............Flash
The glow settled down and now an older Davis sat across from me.
"Davis, have you had any luck on the job hunt?"
"Not yet Grams, It was nice for Mom and Pete to host me at their house during the summer, got to play with Lachlan a little bit, but he was to busy to hang out with his older Bro."
I was a bit surprised, but the new memories soon filled in. Davis was now my elder grandson and step brother to Lachlan.
"I'm so glad you could ride with me back to the city Grams, It's been like forever sense you and me could spend some time together."
"Were you able to find a place to stay while out on the job hunt?" I asked. Curiously the golden glow still was there changing him slowly as we spoke.
"A few of my college friends went in together on a three thousand square foot loft on the north side of town. They said I could crash there while I find a job."
"Any boys I should know about?" I asked, just to see his face flush.
"N.....n......n.....no Grams I'm kinda in-between guys right now." he said with an embarrassed stammer.
The glow started to intensify as we passed into a deep forest where the sun was barely visible. In the dappled light the changes progressed even further.
"Hey mom, thanks for coming with me to the city, Greg and I need all the help we can packing and what not."
I stared at the new Davis, almost 30 with a loving, long term boyfriend Greg.
Davis was now my youngest, born when Lachlan's Mom was 15.
"Are you excited to be working in such a small town?"
"Mom....ugh..... I know... I know.... Greg and I have discussed this. Working as a corporate drone was draining me, and well he can work from home anywhere with an internet connection. Anyway, I want to put my History and Sports Medicine degrees to good use."
I was just giving the poor boy a hard time. Secretly I was overjoyed that he and Greg would be moving closer to family. Lachlan had been getting into a lot of trouble lately, and having a pair of strong male influences like Davis and Greg could be just what the boy needed. Plus as both the high school football coach and history teacher Davis could keep an eye on her troubled grandson as he tried to graduate a second time.
Davis kept being oblivious to the golden aurora and I was getting nervous. I liked this Davis and I didn't want him to change but as we entered the city the sun was being blocked by the high rises.
"Ma, you ok?" the deep bass voice rumbled as a huge hand shook my knee.
I nodded, as more new memories assaulted my mind. Davis is still my son but now he is twins with Lachlan's mother. He and Greg are still together, only now they have kids.
Oh my God, I have more grandkids to spoil! Five, to be precise: 3 boys and 2 girls!!!!
I felt my knee shake again and I could see the look of concern in my eldest's eye.
"Ma you sure your alright? I can go into town to pick up the boys. You could just rest here at the depot."
Knowledge poured into my head, I could remember why Davis and I came to the city. Lachlan..... only not the original Lachlan..... My oldest grandson had now grown up with his uncles Davis and Greg plus his 5 cousins who saw him as a role model. He was now a bright and kind boy with a sense of responsibility. He had graduated early was now in his second year at state university. He was also JV Quarterback and quickly rising to be an All-Star for nationals.
We pulled into the station and a thick wall momentarily blocked the sun. Davis's final change settled on him. Along with a fantastic husband and great kids, Davis was now the first openly gay Head Coach at a major University. I am so proud of the man he's become.
We get out and stretch our legs, Davis now stands at incredible 6'8" and weighs about 300 lbs. He commands the attention of every passerby. Some even want to take pictures with him and he basks in the attention he receives.
Shaking my head I give an over-exaggerated cough. My big man turns around and blushes, then we make our way through the throng of onlookers to the busy streets.
The city is packed with people as pride is in full swing. Everywhere is color and celebrations of what makes us unique. I was enthralled with the spectacle of it all that I didn't notice we had found Lachlan and his boyfriend Tristian Kent.
#reality change#nerdtojock#male muscle growth#ai art generator#mentaltf#muscletf#personality change#tf
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sex therapy :: 19. open up
chapter tags/warnings: dad! toji. angsty! megumi. strong language. classism. infidelity. manipulative undertones. naoya sucks ass.
word count: 3.6k
notes: thank you for waiting for this update! i was taking exams for some work-related licenses and started my big girl recently. i've also added more chapters to this series because i underestimated when i first planned out the fic. likes, comments, and reblogs are appreciated. enjoy! xoxo
fic masterlist | 01. 02. 03. 04. 05. 06. 07. 08. 09. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20. 21. 22. 23. 24. 25. 26. 27. 28. 29. 30. 31. 32. 33.
“Can...we talk?”
At first, Toji blinked.
Naturally, he wasn’t sure how to react to such a situation: his client, who he had assumed avoided him for weeks, now standing at his apartment door? This was new.
He didn’t quite understand how or why you ended up here at this hour, but he forced a worried smile. “Yeah, of course, we can talk.”
When you first tried to speak, your voice only came out as a hoarse croak. So you had to clear your throat, and you forced words to come out again.
“I’m sorry,” you managed to eke out.
“Sorry?” Toji raised a brow in surprise. “For what?”
Hesitating, you bit gently at your inner cheek. “If I tell you, can you please promise me you won’t get mad? Or judge me? I’m just...looking for someone to talk to, and I really, really need you to promise me.”
In hindsight, that was a stupid question because you both knew that listening was his job, his profession, his field of expertise. Even with the minimal information Toji had gathered in these few seconds, he probably began piecing together your story on his own already. He was good like that—that was what made him your therapist, so there was no need to sugarcoat anything when he already read right through you.
Still, Toji eased you with a sturdy nod. “Sure. I promise.”
You didn’t even know where to start in this apology, frankly. You were sorry for doubting him, sorry for ignoring all the red flags he had pointed out about your husband Naoya Zenin. In the end, you were sorry for being so fucking stupid.
The first time Toji had warned you about Naoya, you should have listened. Toji was the expert here, so how blind could you have been? There was nothing like the crushing realization when you realized for yourself that winning your husband back was nothing more than a pipe dream.
Far before marrying you, Naoya had long loved someone else. Sure, ‘love’ may be a strong word, but why else would Naoya never want to be home? He could hardly find interest in you and became revolted when looking your way. He must have felt so wrong, so immoral, when cheating on his side-girlfriend for his wife.
The way Naoya had spoken to you tonight just rubbed salt into the wound. Just shut up. Know your boundaries. Because you were just, in his words, a fucking ornament.
His mistress sure wasn’t, though, and anyone could place the winning bet that he had gone off to spend the night with her.
Why were you not enough?
Was it because she was pretty and you were ugly? That she was smart and you were dumb? That she was funny and you were dull? Just...why? What was the reason?
And, through thick swallows and blinked-back tears, you told Toji all of that.
In one gusto, you have once again dumped all your troubles upon his shoulders. A horrible person, that was what you were—and knowing this, your gaze stayed low.
From your rambling onslaught, Toji must be processing a lot but gave away no emotional indication. From his years at work, he probably had heard it all.
You waited for Toji to retort with a pompous ‘I told you so!’ or burst into a disdainful laugh—that was how Naoya would have responded. But those reactions never came.
On the contrary, Toji tapped his chest. “Come here.”
You frowned over at him, brushing a stray tear from your chin. “What?”
“Just get over here.”
When you still wavered with reluctance, Toji pulled you tight against him—one hand firmly pressed against your lower back as the other guided your face to nestle by his shoulder.
Not expecting this, you were initially stiff and awkward in his arms. Toji’s chest was hard and muscled rather than comfortable, chiseled from his frequent strength training sessions at the gym. But when he began to rub slow circles at your waist with one hand, the other running up and down your back in gentle strokes, something about these little gestures let all your emotions go.
Slowly, you brought your arms up to wrap around him, hugging him in response. He was warm, his body like a furnace that heated your skin. You curled your hands into tight fists, grabbing the fabric of his T-shirt along with your hold.
Then, like floodgates bursting, you melted into Toji with a sob.
“What have I done wrong?” you wailed. “Why can’t I do anything right? What do I even do from here?”
Toji listened silently as you continued to bawl, releasing all your anger and pain from the terrible weeks that you had endured. He squeezed you the tightest when you sobbed the loudest, comforting you with his ‘there there’ hums.
“Everything will be okay,” he affirmed eventually, but his words seemed so difficult to believe.
“No! Everything won’t be okay, Toji,” you cried and shook your head into his neck. “My husband doesn’t want me. Then, if Naoya doesn’t want me, the Zenins wouldn’t want me. Then, no one will want me!”
“Not true,” Toji was quick to say. He pulled you closer, his large hands patting your upper back too. “Forget Naoya, he’s an utter jerk. He might leave you, but you know who won’t? At the very least, your father won’t—he loves you.”
“But I would have disappointed him.”
“How?” he countered sharply. “If he had known how his son-in-law was treating his daughter, why would your father be disappointed in you?”
Between sniffles, you ruminated his points, half-convinced.
Toji, breathing out, then added, “Also...I won’t leave you, either. I care about you. There. You’ve already got two on your side. You will not be alone.”
“But then, what about,” you kept your lips pressed onto his collarbone, “What about the Zenins? Would they turn their backs on me too?”
Underneath your fingertips, you could feel Toji tensing at the name. “With a family so large, there are bound to be those supporting you as well. You make it sound like all his aunts, his uncles, his...,” he paused briefly, “...his cousins, all worship Naoya when a household like that is rife with drama beneath surface level. Family isn’t family for something like the Zenins. Politics comes first. Business comes first.”
His answer came out with such confidently that you silently questioned how he could be so sure.
But you suddenly remembered the kind embraces from Mai and your heart softened at the thought of Maki.
Maybe Toji was right.
A soundless sigh flew from your mouth before your arms tightened around Toji's torso, hugging him and resting your chin on his shoulder. After several moments longer, you finally released one long exhale, your tears having stopped and your breathing less erratic.
Your heart was like lead in your chest, but you pulled your face away from him.
“I’m sorry,” you rasped, throat raw. “My makeup got onto your shirt.”
Toji’s smile was soft.
“That’s fine.” He couldn’t give a damn about his white top. Reassuringly, he ran his hands along your waist before settling on your hips, thumbs rubbing circles into your skin. “As long as you are feeling better, that’s all I need. Besides, that’s my job, yes?”
“Yes...” you mumbled shyly, wiping tears from your face with the heel of your hand.
At the sight, Toji reached toward a tissue box behind the door frame.
“Don’t cry anymore. Naoya isn’t worth the heartache, I’ll guarantee you that.” He dabbed at your pretty face with the napkin in his hands, wiping away not only the remaining tears but also the stream of snot. Lovely. “I am your friend, okay? Before the therapist stuff. We will fix this, together. That’s what friends are for.”
Friends.
When Toji first called him your friend, you did not think that he would somehow become your closest confidant.
You leaned into his touch briefly, sinking into the comfort of his palm.
“Feeling better, princess?”
Toji watched you with a chartreuse glimmer in his eyes before you finally pulled yourself from his grasp. His fingers flexed at the lost touch, almost like he was hesitant to let you go, but who was he to stop you? It wasn’t like Toji was your husband or anything.
"I am,” you replied. “Thank you.”
“Any time.” He hummed in the ensuing silence before stepping to the side. “Since you’re already here, why don’t you come in? I wouldn’t want you going back like this. Naoya won’t be home, so at least you will have some company here.”
Tempting.
“I really shouldn’t stay...”
“What? Are you sure?”
No, you were not sure, and Toji sure as hell knew that.
He lolled his head toward the interior, a few of his black strands sliding across his forehead with the movement.
“C’mon, I won’t bite,” he reassured before chuckling, “unless...you want me to.”
You shot the therapist a glare, but the resolve to stay upset faded when you saw him gleam with a wide smirk. Well? that mischievous spark in him seemed to say. What do you think?
Rolling your eyes, you initially snorted at the offer but could not help smiling at the stupid joke immediately afterward. Your body crumpled forward as you burst into giggles, realizing that this was the first time in weeks that you were...laughing?
“Fine,” you relented.
Toji seemed to beam in silent victory, which was cute coming from someone who looked so tough. He swept his arm in a gentle arc toward his apartment.
“Then, after you, m’lady.”
You gusYou gushed at the title.
"If you insist,” and you stepped in.
The warmth from his condo was the first to greet you as though a fireplace had been crackling in the distance. For someone who somehow had the means to afford such a luxurious space, Toji went simple in his furnishings. His cream-colored walls were cleared, save for some framed art pieces that dotted the corridors, and there were no ornate cabinets or dazzling décor. His taste in minimalism and timelessness contrasted with the grandeur in your palatial-like residence, but both styles had their appeal.
He had a gray and beige color scheme going on with the couches, the tabletops, and the lighting fixtures. The walnut wood flooring added a rustic touch to the apartment, and every corner effortlessly converged refined aesthetics with the sense of home. Even the smell inside was cozy because the apartment emanated of him—of Toji himself: spices with the redolence of bergamot and sage.
He guided you through a (very wide) hallway that opened into an equally expansive living room. Towards the side was a spiral staircase that led to an upper floor and, further ahead, floor-to-ceiling windows opened to an evening panorama.
The sky was completely dark, with the sun sunk below the horizon long ago, and the waxing moon hung like a silver sliver far away. Holding your breath, you stepped towards the glass, observing the bustle far below that twinkled like firecrackers against the concrete backdrop.
“You know, your place...is a lot nicer than I expected.”
The man tucked his large hands into his front pockets. “I’m offended.”
Instantly, you grew flustered. “No, I didn’t mean it like that!” (Yes, you totally did.) “It’s just that Sukuna had made it sound like—” That you were dirt poor. “But then Geto said...” Okay, you shouldn’t be dragging more people into this. “Never mind.”
Quickly, you glanced back outside again, hoping to look like you were distracted by the vista.
“But then Sukuna and Geto said what?” Toji pried, not letting you live this down. He appeared uncharacteristically intrigued. He wanted to know what his coworkers had spilled, by how much you knew. “What have the other therapists said about me?”
“Ah, nothing much really,” you confessed, which was the truth to some extent.
“How much is ‘nothing much?’”
“Just, well,” you rolled your lips together in thought, “maybe that something, some event, or some person wronged you.” Geto’s words rang fresh in your head. “That ‘Toji just isn’t where he could possibly be.’”
Half-expectantly, you looked over at the said man from under your lashes, waiting for him to comment on the matter. Toji always appeared so hesitant to talk about his past, but you hoped that he would stop being so mysterious. It was as though he was an enigma for cautious reasons, assessing how much he could open up before he could entirely trust you.
Toji had pursed his lips as the silence in the living room became uncomfortable. But just when he appeared ready to speak, someone else filled the silence for him.
“Why the hell are you here?”
All heads turned to a frowning teenager who stood by the foot of the stairs.
He had dark eyes—dark eyes glared only at you, narrowed into a violent abyss as though he was mentally aiming daggers into your soul. For a fleeting moment, you were puzzled at who this boy was until Toji spoke first.
“That’s no way to greet a guest, Megumi.”
Oh, right. Toji had an eighteen-year-old son, and Megumi was his name. While you had spoken with the teenager on the phone before, it was different to see him in person for the first time.
For starters, the physical similarities between father and son became immediately apparent. Sure, Toji’s features had a rough edge around them—shaped from his additional years in life—but the two shared the same black stands, pointed noses, and taut lips. There was no denying the flawless genes that flowed between them.
Megumi, though, had a subtle softness to him. The teenager was smaller and shorter compared to his imposing and rugged father, but he tried to mask that youthful innocence instead with his brash style. He pulled off that ‘wild’ look better than most boys his age could, his hair longer and more tousled. The way he stood in a contrapposto, coupled with how stylish he appeared in his fuchsia tee and black cargo pants, made him look like a model from a streetwear magazine. He reached for an ear piercing with fingers adorned with flashy rings, toying with one particular stud as he examined you.
Goodness, Megumi Fushiguro was as good-looking as Sukuna had hyped him up to be.
“Well?” the boy’s irritated voice snapped you back to the present. “What are you doing at our apartment?”
“Oh, me?” You pointed to yourself. Well, no shit. Who else was he talking to? “I, um—”
“You’re another one of my dad’s women, aren’t you?” the teenager asked out of the blue, leaving you staring at him dumbly.
“One of your dad’s who?”
“Hey!” Toji warned, tone sharp. Frowning at the boy, he reprimanded him with one forceful thwack. Dad Toji was very different than Therapist Toji. “Watch what you—"
“You’re the one who called me down here!” Megumi shouted back, pushing his father’s arm away.
“Yes, I did. So what took you ten minutes to get here?”
“I was in the middle of Valorant. I left my team mid-game but for this?”
And suddenly, there was this thick and awkward tension that engulfed the room. If you had the magical ability to teleport at will, you would. Toji was obviously distraught at his son’s outburst and Megumi was similarly bristled by your presence.
About you? Well, there wasn’t anything you could do.
You took a few steps back. It was unsettling to be caught in a heated confrontation between father and son, and you silently wondered if you should just slip away to let those two sort out their miscommunications.
“So, this is your new strategy, huh?” Megumi seethed vehemently toward his father, capitalizing upon the silence. “Telling me that Nobara and Yuuji are here only for you to introduce me to, out of everyone in this world, her?!”
The attack felt personal when Megumi raised his arm and pointed squarely at you, even if the boy glowered at his dad instead. You had frozen, stopped by confusion, as Megumi continued in anger: “What is the meaning of this!”
Toji, who was returning his son’s glare, glanced at you briefly. He didn’t show this side to him very often: the one where he was just a single dad, handling a moody teenage son at home.
You wondered if Toji felt weird that you were watching him deal with Megumi’s tantrum. At least, he must be embarrassed that this was how your first encounter with Megumi was going, but he didn’t offer much into his internal dialogue because he clenched his teeth, his eyes sliding slowly to his son again.
“Megumi,” Toji started, “please...don’t point at people. That’s not nice.”
His voice was sterner than before, but the boy responded with a dramatic scoff.
“Nice?!” Megumi repeated. “You want me to be nice to her? Is this some sick joke?!” His face twisted with disbelief. “With all the horrible crap that had happened to us, what good thing has she ever done? Just because she’s pretty, and suddenly, you’ve forgiven her for everything?”
You blinked, stumped.
Forgive you?
Why would Toji need to forgive you?
Perplexed, you turned to Toji but he did not meet your gaze.
“There is nothing to forgive her for. She hasn’t done anything wrong,” the older man defended, but Megumi wanted to hear none of this.
He was out for blood.
“That’s because you’re too fucking infatuated to see the demon she is,” he huffed, voice laced with bitterness. “Dad, I wish you would put your goddamn brain to use and stop thinking with your dick first.”
“Language!” Toji snapped with a roar. “She’s our friend!”
“Friend, my ass! I don’t like your fucking friends!”
With eyes blown wide, Megumi clenched his fists so tightly that his hands began to shake.
“I just...I just can’t believe you,” and when his voice cracked, there was pain that bubbled from the frustration. “I already told you that I don’t want to meet whoever you are bringing home. Just stop trying so hard for my sake. This hurts me, and this also hurts you. Can’t you see that, Dad? Nothing’s going to bring Mom back! I’m over that, alright?” His Adam’s apple bobbed when he gulped, though, before he finally added: “And I’m tired!”
At that, Megumi walked—correction, stormed—away.
“Fuck this shit,” he spat and marched up the stairs, grumbling more profanities upon his climb.
The footsteps’ volume started to fade, but not before a loud bang startled you when Megumi slammed his bedroom door shut, the entire apartment seemingly shuddering with the sound.
Beside you, the Toji that you had always known—the snarky man who always seemed so unruffled by even the wildest moments—crumbled a little when he sighed. He rubbed his face with a free hand, sinking his forehead into his palm as he muttered indiscernibly.
He collected himself he turned back around to you, but you saw that his shoulders sagged with an invisible weight, the emerald glimmer in his eyes now a dim flicker. Within ten minutes, Toji had grown to look stressed and incredibly tired.
“Hey,” Toji started, his voice impossibly small for a man as large as him. He pinched the bridge of his nose. “Sorry that you had to see that. He’s usually a good kid. I’ll talk to him again later.”
You bit your lip.
“Oh, um...Well...That’s okay,” you eventually replied, which was a total lie because that was not okay. Even as you offered a small smile for support, Megumi—his words, his tone, his ferocious glare—slashed at your heart. You rationalized his behavior aloud to ease your own pain. “Megumi’s eighteen, and you know what teenagers are like: hormonal with their mood swings all the time. You are a great father, Toji. This isn’t your fault.”
“No. This is my fault,” he replied very quickly.
Oh. So instead you said: “I get it.”
“Except you don’t get it.”
Your heart sank at his words, realizing that you truly did not understand where this father-son conflict stemmed from. Was it...was it because of you?
You never intended to burden anyone, yet your mere existence appeared to be doing just that.
It was painful to see Toji like this. During your lowest lows, he always offered considerable comfort and renewed confidence, but you weren’t sure what to say to provide him with the same. By some weird twisted fate, Toji now needed you more than you needed him. As a therapist, he had a special soothing effect, and never have you so badly wished for the same.
“Then,” this time you were more careful with your words, “Then, help me understand. Help me so that I can then help you.”
Tone resolute, you longed to learn about the unspoken difficulties that Toji had been facing by himself. While you had your troubles, he must have had many more for his son—not even Toji himself—to act this way.
Perhaps you also cared for him more than you thought because, as he noted himself, he’s your friend.
Toji held a long inhale, thinking and thinking and thinking, before breathing out in one audible go.
“Where do I even start?”
last chapter || next chapter
end notes: I loved fleshing out our relationship with Toji from a channel to mutually release sexual frustrations to a friendship built upon shared vulnerabilities. Also, Megumi is very much in his emo and rebellious teenage era. Like most people his age, he has his reasons…
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#jujutsu kaisen#jjk#jjk fluff#jjk angst#jjk smut#jjk season 2#toji x reader#toji x y/n#toji x you#naoya x you#geto x reader#choso x reader#sukuna x reader#toji#naoya#geto#sukuna#choso#megumi#jjk toji#toji fushiguro#megumi fushiguro#jjk megumi#anime#anime fanfic#anime angst#anime fluff#anime smut#fanfic#fanfiction
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Prompt - Wei Wuxian and Lan Wangji in the 15-year old selves's bodies
I just had a thought. imagine WWX and LWJ transmigrating into an alternate reality (which is pretty much the same, but events changed there do not affect events in their world) as their 15-year-old selves; and for half a day, they both think it's an individual thing; and then Wei Wuxian sees Lan Zhan, and can't control his words, "Oh my god, Lan Zhan so cute!!" and Lan Wangji is like "Wei Ying (fond) is adorable too."
and they both sorta have that look and realize they both transmigrated; and it's so funny because by the rules of the array (or whatever), they can't tell anyone where they are from, or about the future (like they can only personally act differently and suggest actions to other people, knowing very well they hold little power to cause systemic changes, just two nails in a machine, but well, what are they if not always trying).
and this time, Wei Wuxian doesn't punch Jin Zixuan "but Lan Zhan... I really wanted to," But he does say a grand choice of crass words that get him punishment with Lan Wangji again, who's forcibly out of his seclusion and in classes.
And in classes, Lan Wangji sits in front, ever the dutiful while Wei Wuxian sits behind him; sleeping, talking, flirting, writing notes; and Lan Wangji doesn't reprimand him as much; and when Jiang Cheng says rude shit to him, the Second Young Master Lan glares at him and everyone is so confused.
and they have punishment together in the library and it's just... Wei Wuxian courting Lan Wangji. Lan Wangji courting him back.
Exhibit 1:
"Lan Zhan, my hands really, really hurt from all this copying :(("
"I will do it."
"Hehe~"
Exhibit 2:
"Er-gege, I really can't go on without alcohol. Please."
"No."
"You said you'd never deny me, your husband."
"We are not married yet in this reality."
"So, our marriage is limited only to one realm? Only our reality? So, I'm a young, virgin, unmarried boy?? Are you abandoning your husbandly duties?"
"..."
"Fine, then we are not married. I won't even ask! I won't marry you."
"... I will take you to Caiyi. You can drink there. Do not drink with others in the dorm."
"And in the Jingshi?"
"..."
"Are you denying me my marital home? You said it was our home!"
"Alright."
"Hahahahahahahahahaha"
Exhibit 3:
"Er-gege, let me sleep."
"Wei Ying, we are in class."
"But it's 6 am. Er-gege, I'm not even alive right now. I've been dead and I was more alive when I was dead than now."
"..."
"Please hide me from your uncle. I really can't keep my eyes open."
"Did you not sleep well?"
"How can I sleep??? Next to Jiang Cheng! Without my husband to hold me??"
"..."
Exhibit 4:
Wei Wuxian is messing around in the creek in Cloud Recesses when someone shoves him lightly. He doesn't fall but his hair opens and his ribbon disappears. Everyone laughs but then Lan Wangji walks over, stands behind him, pulls a red ribbon out of a sleeve, ties his hair up while asking him if he's okay and casts an icy look at the guy who shoved him, pats his head and leaves.
Jiang Cheng: "what the fuck what the fuck what the fuck"
Nie Huaisang: "OH. UM. uhm. Uh. Wei-xiong..."
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The Hills Chapter 25
pairings: ran haitani x wife(reader)
wordcount: 2k
warnings: n/a
a/n: continuing the hills 2 years down the line and we're still getting caught up in some bonten bullshit.
1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 15 | 16 | 17 | 18 | 19 | 20 | 21 | 22 | 23 | 24 | 25
Your heart raced as you stared at the two agents, fighting to keep your expression neutral. "Of course," you said smoothly, gesturing to the chairs in front of your desk.
"Please, have a seat." you said.
As they settled in, you sank back into your own chair, mind whirling. What could Ran possibly have done to warrant ATF involvement? And why was he turning himself in?
"Mrs. Haitani, we have reason to believe your husband may be involved in some illegal weapons trafficking," Agent Vancouver began. "Have you noticed anything unusual lately? Any suspicious packages or late night meetings?"
You shook your head, forcing a puzzled frown.
"No, nothing like that. Ran's been busy with work, but that's normal for him."
Agent Harrod leaned forward, his intense gaze boring into you.
"And what exactly does your husband do for work, Mrs. Haitani?" Agent Harrod's voice held a note of skepticism.
You met his gaze steadily, your heart pounding beneath your calm exterior. "He's in imports and exports. Mostly consumer goods from China and Southeast Asia." The lie rolled smoothly off your tongue, practiced and polished over the years.
"Mhm," Agent Vancouver murmured, jotting something in his notepad. "And you've never noticed anything... out of the ordinary with these shipments?"
"No, never," you replied, allowing a hint of confusion to color your tone. "Is there a specific reason you're asking about this? Has something happened?"
The agents exchanged a glance. "We're not at liberty to discuss the details of our investigation," Vancouver said carefully. "But we have credible information linking your husband to some very dangerous people."
You forced a look of concern onto your face, though inside your stomach churned with anxiety.
"Dangerous people? I don't understand. Ran's just a businessman."
Agent Harrod's eyes narrowed slightly.
"Mrs. Haitani, we have evidence suggesting your husband may be involved with the Bonten syndicate. Are you familiar with that organization?"
Your breath caught in your throat, but you managed to keep your expression neutral.
"I've heard the name on the news, I think. Some kind of criminal organization?" You shook your head. "But I don't see how Ran could possibly be mixed up with anything like that."
Vancouver leaned forward, his voice softening.
"We understand this must be difficult to hear. But we need your cooperation. If you know anything at all that might help our investigation, now is the time to speak up."
The tension in the room was palpable.
A chill ran down your spine, but you kept your composure, arching an eyebrow skeptically.
"I find that hard to believe," you said, injecting just the right amount of indignation into your voice. "Ran is a businessman, not some kind of criminal."
Agent Harrod's eyes narrowed slightly.
"With all due respect, Mrs. Haitani, you might be surprised what your husband is capable of."
You felt a flicker of anger at his insinuation, though you knew it was likely true. Still, you clung to your role as the innocent, oblivious wife.
"I think I know my own husband," you said coolly.
Vancouver held up a placating hand.
"We understand this must be difficult to hear. We're just trying to get to the truth. If you think of anything that might be relevant, please give us a call." He slid a business card across your desk.
You picked it up, examining it briefly before setting it aside.
"Of course," you said, your tone polite but cool. "Is there anything else?"
The agents exchanged a glance. "Not at the moment," Vancouver said, rising to his feet. "Thank you for your time, Mrs. Haitani."
As they turned to leave, you called after them.
"Agents?" They paused, looking back. You fixed them with a steady gaze. "My husband is a good man. I hope you'll keep that in mind during your investigation."
After they left, you sank back in your chair, exhaling slowly.
Your hands trembled slightly as you reached for your phone, desperate to call Ran. But you stopped yourself, knowing it wasn't safe. If they were watching him, they might be monitoring your calls too.
Instead, you busied yourself tidying your desk, mind racing. What had Ran gotten himself into this time? And why hadn't he warned you sooner?
As you sorted through papers, your eyes fell on the box of wedding invitations. A lump formed in your throat. Would there even be a wedding now?
The rest of the day passed in a blur. You went through the motions, seeing patients and handling paperwork, but your thoughts were elsewhere. By the time you locked up the office, your nerves were frayed.
The drive home was tense, your eyes constantly darting to the rearview mirror, half-expecting to see a tail. But no one followed you to the quiet suburban street.
As your driver pulled into the daycare parking lot, the late afternoon sun cast long shadows across the asphalt. The cheerful chatter of children and parents filtered through your car window, a stark contrast to the turmoil churning inside you. You plastered on a smile as you walked through the colorful hallways, decorated with finger paintings and construction paper crafts.
Kai's face lit up when she saw you, her chubby hands reaching out as she toddled over. "Mama!" she squealed, her dark curls bouncing. You scooped her up, inhaling her sweet baby scent, and for a moment the world felt right again.
"Hey, baby girl," you murmured, kissing her cheek. "Ready to go home?"
The drive home was filled with Kai's animated babbling from the backseat. You nodded and responded at the appropriate moments, but your mind was elsewhere. As you pulled into the driveway, you scanned the quiet street, half-expecting to see unmarked police cars. But everything seemed normal.
Inside, you went through the motions of your evening routine - dinner, bath time, bedtime stories. Kai seemed to sense your distraction, clinging to you more than usual. As you tucked her into her little bed, she looked up at you with Ran's eyes.
"Where Dada?" she asked sleepily.
Your throat tightened. "Daddy had to work late, sweetheart. He'll be home soon." You prayed it wasn't a lie.
As Kai peacefully slept, you found yourself unable to relax in the stillness of the house. Every little noise sent shivers down your spine and made you question who or what could be lurking in the shadows. You poured yourself a glass of wine, but even that couldn't calm your nerves as you anxiously took in the ticking of the clock on the mantle. Just when you thought you were safe, the sound of the doorbell shattered the silence. Panic set in as you debated whether to answer it or hide away from potential danger. Who could possibly be at the door? How did they manage to get past all of the security measures? Your mind raced with conflicting thoughts and fears as you cautiously approached the door.
With trembling fingers, you approached the door, heart pounding in your chest. Through the peephole, you caught a glimpse of a familiar silhouette - tall, lean, with shoulder-length hair. Relief washed over you as you recognized Rin, Ran's younger brother.
You quickly undid the locks and pulled open the door. Rin stood there, impeccably dressed as always in a tailored three-piece suit, his gold-framed glasses glinting in the porch light. The Bonten tattoo on his throat seemed to pulse in the shadows.
"Rin," you breathed, ushering him inside. "What's going on? Is Ran okay?"
Rin's stoic expression betrayed nothing as he stepped into the foyer, his polished shoes clicking against the hardwood. The scent of expensive cologne and something darker - gunpowder, perhaps - wafted around him.
"He's fine," Rin said, his voice low and controlled. "Everything is under control."
You closed the door behind him, double-checking the locks. "Under control? Ran said he was turning himself in. The ATF was at my office today, asking questions. What the hell is going on?"
Rin's amethyst eyes swept the room, taking in every detail. "Is Kai asleep?"
You nodded, frustration building.
"Yes, she's been down for hours. Now will you please tell me what's happening?"
He moved further into the house, settling into an armchair in the living room. You perched on the edge of the sofa, hands clasped tightly in your lap.
"There was a... situation," Rin began carefully. "A shipment went missing. Someone talked. Ran is handling it."
You felt a chill run down your spine at Rin's words.
"Handling it how?" you asked, your voice barely above a whisper.
Rin's expression remained impassive, but you caught a flicker of something in his eyes - concern, perhaps?
"It's best you don't know the details," he said. "Plausible deniability."
You swallowed hard, fighting back a wave of nausea.
"And turning himself in? Was that part of... handling it?"
Rin nodded slowly. "A calculated move. It buys us time and throws off suspicion. He'll be out by morning, as he told you."
Your mind reeled, trying to process it all. The quiet life you'd built, the normalcy you'd craved - it was all hanging by a thread. And yet, a part of you had always known this day might come.
You sat in silence for a moment, processing Rin's words. The ticking of the clock on the mantle seemed deafening in the quiet room.
"How bad is it?" you finally asked, your voice barely above a whisper.
Rin's eyes met yours, his gaze intense. "Bad enough that we need to be prepared for anything. Ran wanted me to come check on you and Kai, make sure you're safe."
A chill ran down your spine. "Are we in danger?"
"Not immediately," Rin replied, his tone measured. "But it's best to be cautious. I've stationed extra security around the perimeter. They're discreet - you won't see them, but they're there."
You nodded, a lump forming in your throat. "And Ran? When will I see him?"
"Soon," Rin assured you.
Rin's words offered little comfort as the reality of the situation sank in. You stood abruptly, pacing the living room as anxiety coursed through you.
"I can't believe this is happening," you muttered, running a hand through your hair. "We were supposed to be planning our wedding, not... not dealing with missing shipments and federal agents."
Rin watched you silently, his expression unreadable. After a moment, he spoke, his voice low and measured. "Y/N, you've always known who Ran is. Who we are. This life... it comes with risks."
You whirled to face him, anger flashing in your eyes. "I know that," you hissed. "But I thought... I thought things were different now. We have Kai to think about."
A flicker of emotion - regret, perhaps? - crossed Rin's face.
Rin stood, crossing the room to place a hand on your shoulder. His touch was surprisingly gentle.
"Ran is doing this for Kai," he said softly. "For all of you. He wants to secure a future where you can live without looking over your shoulders."
You let out a shaky breath, fighting back tears. "By putting himself in danger? How does that help us?"
"It's complicated," Rin replied, dropping his hand. "But Ran has a plan. He always does."
You nodded, knowing it was true. Ran was always three steps ahead, always maneuvering behind the scenes. It was part of what made him so successful - and so dangerous.
"What do I do now?" you asked, feeling suddenly lost.
Rin's expression softened slightly.
"You do what you've always done. You take care of Kai. You go to work.”
You nodded, taking a deep breath to steady yourself. Rin was right - you had to keep up appearances, for Kai's sake if nothing else.
"Alright," you said, squaring your shoulders. "I'll carry on as normal. But I want updates, Rin. No more being kept in the dark."
A ghost of a smile flickered across Rin's face. "You're tougher than Ran gives you credit for," he murmured.
You raised an eyebrow. "He should know better by now."
Rin nodded, his expression turning serious once more. "I'll keep you informed as much as I can. But Y/N... be careful. Watch what you say, who you talk to. Trust no one outside the family right now."
The gravity of his words sank in, and you felt a chill run down your spine.
#the hills#continuation#ran haitani x fem reader#i thought i ended it#but now its back#the drama never stops#i love ran sm#wife reader#bonten
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