#INSTEAD OF IGNORING EACH OTHER AND BEING PASSIVE AGGRESSIVE

[m00ngbin]

Me when most of the high schoolers I know act like high schoolers and are really mean and judgemental and refuse to solve their problems with each other but I need friends so I talk to them anyways

[storywriter007]

hi hi hi!! i loved your preferences with the HoO boys! i was wondering if you could do another one, with literally any plot (ex- cuddling hcs, first kiss, or anything you feel like writing) with the same boys (+maybe nico if you write for him?) thank u!!

First Kiss - HoO Boys x Fem!Reader

author's note: hey i'm so glad you liked my work!! y'all have no idea how much it means to me omg :) i didn't include nico bc in the comments a valid point was brought up

warnings: kissing, cursing, whiskey is mentioned as a scent (tbh i've never smelled it, it's just vibes)

genre: fluff

word count: 3.2k (all bullet points)

-> heroes of olympus masterlist

✧.���✧.⭒✧.⭒✧.⭒✧.⭒✧.⭒✧.⭒✧.⭒✧.⭒

send me requests here! (these are my guidelines)

✧.⭒✧.⭒✧.⭒✧.⭒✧.⭒✧.⭒✧.⭒✧.⭒✧.⭒

percy jackson

you and him would've started off as best friends

and as both of you get older, you start liking each-other

percy would 100% be aware of his crush on you

he knows he has it, but he just avoids acting on it

he kinda just does his best to ignore his feelings

bc even though he's charismatic and charming

he's shy and anxious

he doesn't want to make you uncomfortable

and make you never want to talk to him again

he doesn't want to ruin everything you guys have and lose your trust in him

so he undoubtedly tries to pursue someone else

he'll talk about this other girl to you

not to make you jealous

but instead as a weak attempt to make himself feel like he doesn't like you

not a good idea

he makes you unintentionally jealous

you distance yourself from him bc you like him but can't stand hearing abt another girl all the time

but, you don't want to ruin things for him (bc you are convinced he is crazily crushing on her)

so you decide that you've just gotta let him go

percy wonders why his best friend is being so distant

you guys go weeks barely communicating

percy is still trying to convince himself he doesn't like you

but distance makes the heart grow fonder

he realizes and accepts the fact that he is madly in love w/ you (who wouldn't be?)

and that he can't stand this weird distance between you guys anymore

he decides he needs to talk to you

so one day you're just sitting on the deck by the lake with your feet in the water

you're just contemplating your love affair with him

and you see him coming your way

you're trying to avoid him so you get up and start to leave

he literally sprints to you and grabs your arm

you turn to look at him and he asks you why you've been avoiding him

you snatch your arm out of his grip and tell him it's nothing and that you're busy

he doesn't let you leave and keeps asking

so you slide a passive aggressive comment, something like "i bet your girlfriend's thinking about you"

and he realizes that you're jealous

and that he didn't convince himself that he liked this other girl

but he convinced you

he tells you everything

he tells you how much he likes you and that he never even liked this other girl

he was just trying to convince himself he did bc he didn't want to ruin things between the two of you

you confess to liking him too

both of you kind of laugh off your stupid choices

after you're done laughing, you kinda just look into each-other's eyes

both of you are leaning in

until you hear someone coming, and percy just grabs you and jumps underwater

and you guys have your first kiss underwater

your arms are around his neck and his are on your waist

you're like pressed up against one-another

the kiss is kinda steamy bc let's be honest: you've wanted to kiss each-other for five years

but it's a sweet kiss

percy smells like vanilla

you can hear the person saying "i swear they were here a minute ago" and then walking off

you both come up to the surface undeniably blushing/hot and laughing

jason grace

listen, i love jason

that man is STIFF

like you could literally leave him a note that says "i want to kiss you"

and he'd find you and go "that was a pretty good song you suggested. i like this one-direction band"

LMAO

ok but anyways, you guys are frenemies

you guys started off as rivals

you thought being the son of jupiter would make him arrogant

and you thought he was, but he was really just reserved and serious

he didn't know how to be anything different

he didn't like you because you argued with him about everything

you challenged him constantly

and you weren't as nice to him as you were everyone else

but

throughout the years, you get to know each-other better

but that doesn't mean you get along

you guys occasionally unite and get along (and typically when you do, it's the best hours of your life)

but otherwise, you two have it out for each other

constant disagreements and fights

you just loose all of your patience when it comes to each other

so you have a love-hate relationship with him

yeah you'd kill for him but you would never lend him an extra pen on tests

yeah he'd die for you but he would never let you look at his notes

you get along when you need to and this exact mentality is what lands both of you together, as praetors

but let's be real: there is so much unspoken tension between the two of you

like yeah you hate each other but you lowkey wanna make out

and you can't lie and say you didn't trust him or didn't like him

he'd proved you wrong on hundreds of occasions

he was capable, kind, caring, smart, loyal

and he couldn't lie and say he hated you either

you were fun, kind, ambitious, intelligent, and loyal too

over the years, both of you projected an "i hate you."

when in reality, you'd grown quite fond of one-another

you've shown your worst selves to each-other, you've lied for each-other, you've told secrets to each-other, and you've just been each-other's constant

y'both know you like each other: that's what makes the hate even stronger

like jason has other feelings for you but he doesn't know what to call them

attraction? a small crush? love? sexual tension? is it getting hot in here?

first kiss happens before you guys head into a huge battle

yes. the possibility of never seeing you again is what makes the man realize he's in love with you

like you guys are standing on a hill, watching the army of monsters slowly march towards camp jupiter

you guys turn to look at each other

you two are thinking the same thing: if i die, it's an honor to have served with you

"you ready?" you'd ask

"always." he'd say (typical roman)

you'd turn to look at him, but he's already looking at you

he grabs you by your arm and pulls you in for a kiss

it's a long kiss

it's passionate, and it's needy, but it's sweet at the same time

he basically lifts you off your feet and you're holding onto neck and his hair

you're pulling him closer into and he's holding you so tightly

you want to remember this

jason smells like fresh clean sheets mixed w/ whiskey

when you guys finally pull away bc you know you have to lead an army, you rest your foreheads against one-anothers

"good luck y/n"

"i'm gonna see you when this is over jason."

"i know you will."

one of the rare times you guys use first names

and yes, you do see each other again :)

leo valdez

you and leo happens when you first get to camp

and instantly his mind short-circuits and he's like DAM

he knows you're probs gonna reject him

but hey you miss 100% of the chances you don't take

so he starts off, as always, making some bold flirty comment

and to his surprise, you return the banter

he has to pause for a second

he stutters and thinks of a witty response

you laugh at how flustered he is

and that's the start of a beautiful friendship

from that day on, you two are partners in crime

your guys' days consist of: making stupid things, playing stupid pranks, sneaking out to get fast food, and making vlogs of all of the stupid things you do (on an old vhs recorder leo rigged)

you guys are a two in one; if you went somewhere, he did too

soon, your friendship evolves into things that aren't just fun hangouts

you often catch him under cabin 9 and talk to him

you guys open up to each other in his little workshop, a lot

he tells you things he's never told anyone and you do the same

what's different about your relationship w/ leo is that you don't make fun of him

you barely argue with him, you respect him, you don't call him scrawny, you don't point out his insecurities, and you never make a joke at his expense

this makes him feel a lot more comfortable around you

and he puts down whatever he's doing if you come to him in an emotionally distressful state

you guys listen to each other, cry in front of each other, and help each other feel better

leo becomes the only person in your life you can rely on

and you're the same for him

so his thoughts evolve from DAM to i think i'm in love with you

and everyday he's around you, he finds himself falling more and more in love with you

and every late night you're with him under cabin 9, you start to like him more too

he's nervous to confess to you bc he doesn't want you to not feel the same way and you end up pushing him away or something

but he can't ignore how deeply he feels for you

he can't stand it when other guys try to hit on you bc all that's going through his head is that's my girl

so after a lot of contemplating, he decides he needs to tell you how he feels

he invites you to his workshop at a really specific time (which is weird bc he just says come whenever)

but you go and this man has cleaned the place up and dimmed the lights

he has a robot that he programmed

it sees you and starts playing some really corny love song

and he confesses that he really really likes you and that it kills him seeing other guys trying to flirt with you

he says the sweetest things ever about why he likes you and he just sounds like a fangirl tbh

he starts rambling abt how much he likes and how it's totally okay if you don't feel the same way and that he doesn't want this to affect your friendship if you don't and etc

you just go up to him and kiss him

the robot starts cheering and saying "da lady loves leo!!!!" (he would totally program that change my mind)

he short circuits (like the day you met him)

but he kisses you back, hands around your waist as yours are around his neck

leo smells like burning firewood mixed with cinammon

it's a long and sweet kiss, but you guys have to pull away bc you're laughing too much

why? bc the robot won't stop cheering and saying "da lady loves leo!!!!" so he has to take a minute to make it play your favorite song

"sorry." he'd chuckle. "where were we?"

and then you guys would kiss again

frank zhang

you and frank are best friends

you first met each other cleaning the weapons room

you were looking at archery equipment and you just kinda mindlessly said "i wish i knew how to use this"

and frank's ears shot up so fast

he offered to help you learn, and you guys came to a deal

you'd help him become a better swordsman and he would help you become a better archer

during your guys' training sessions, you'd talk a lot

frank finally felt like he had a real friend

you guys would share stories about your pasts and your interests

maybe a little bit of gossip too

frank was kinda surprised you hung out with him so much bc in his eyes, he was a loser

you reassured him that having different strengths didn't make him weak

you often traded shifts with other campers so you could spend more time with him

as time went on, frank became more confident in his ability as a swordsman

and you became more confident in your skills as an archer

so during the next war game

you two teamed up and actually led your group to victory

no one expected two kids from the fifth cohort to steal a victory like that but you guys did

you were diligent, effective, and cooperative

you guys were over the moon that night and frank thanked you for helping him become a better soldier

and you did the same

it was after that night you guys both realized you had a serious crush on one-another

after countless hours training, cleaning, and working

after having hundreds of deep conversations

after helping each-other reach their goals

you guys realize that you really liked one-another

so one day, some kid at camp makes fun of frank for being better at archery than sword fighting

he shakes it off now, ever since you told him the people who make fun of him probably miss the entire target during archery

but he got really pissed off when the kid said "i guess that's why you and y/n are friends. you exchange weaknesses"

it made him upset bc you aren't weak

you acknowledged you faltered in one spot and wanted to do better

that's brave, that's strong

so frank might've "accidentally" hit the kid with his arrow

it was nothing serious, but he was pinned up against the wall by an arrow

it was rlly funny

unfortunately, reyna didn't think so, and frank got sentenced with a bunch of chores

you didn't know this, so you switched your shift and visited him in the weapons room

you asked him what he'd done to miss all the camp activites

he wouldn't say at first, but then he'd admit he kinda shot an arrow and a kid ended up pinned against a wall

you'd ask why he did that bc you knew frank wasn't violent in the least

and it just comes out right there

he admits he went a little crazy bc he didn't like how this kid was talking about you

he talks about how incredible you are and it made him angry that some kid tried to minimize you to a weakness you were working on improving

"and i don't know, i guess i get heated when it comes to people i love" he'd say, before pausing and realizing what just came out of his mouth

obviously you're smiling bc you love him too

you tell him that you love him too, and that you didn't say anything bc you were scared of ruining your friendship

so yes, your first kiss is in the weapons room

you just kinda jump on him and kiss him

he bumps into the wall behind him and he wraps his arms around your mid-section

and yours are around his neck

it's a cute, sweet kiss

it lasts a few seconds more than it should

frank smells like sugar mixed with the irony-smell of the weaponry

but afterwards, you help frank with his chores so you guys can go train

[spikedfearn]

I Said Just a Little Bit, Then I Got a Taste of It

Chapter III

bjorn x fem!reader

summary: After being transferred to another sector of Jackson's Star you reluctantly befriend a ragtag group of people with the exception of one cocky asshole who knows just how to get under your skin.

On the surface, you hate each other, but after experiencing a particularly harrowing event together, the two of you grow closer than anyone else could ever imagine.

warnings: secret friends with benefits, enemies to lovers, angst, alcohol/drug use, explicit sexual themes, non-linear narrative, side rainkay, trauma bonding, near death experience, brief mention of child abuse, more tags to be added

a/n: haha don't hate me but I split the chapter up again! that means there's no smut in this chapter either but it was getting long and the place I chose to leave off felt like a natural end. that being said this chapter is entirely you x bjorn-centric and there is a lot of pay off!

tags: @asvtrials @urfavhanna @orangebeauty (comment if you wanna be notified when a new chapter drops)

wc: 4.4k

Masterlist Next Chapter

Bjorn is the fucking worst. 

A marginal part of you just assumed that maybe he was an angry drunk following your little exchange in the bar but no—he's just angry.

Despite your previous apprehension you begin to accept Kay’s invites to join her and the others whenever they get together, which is a lot. You know you're treading in dangerous territory, allowing yourself to get close to them, but you're powerless to stop it, unable to recall the last time you had this much fun, almost too much, feels a little wrong, like it should be illegal. 

The only downside is dealing with Kay’s asshole cousin Bjorn, like stepping on a dull thumbtack you can't dislodge when you see him joking around with Tyler, his eyes narrowing as soon as he notices you approach, like he has some score to settle. 

You don't let it get you, not immediately, not letting him run you off out of spite, just as petty as he is. 

You can only hold your tongue for so long however, before reacting explosively to whatever insult is thrown your way, giving him exactly what he wants. 

The others stop trying to intervene after so long, when they realize neither of you are willing to back down, deciding to just roll their eyes and ignore your immature back and forth, splintering off to start a new conversation of their own.

It's another one of those nights, the tension between the two of you thick, thicker than the smoke coming from the bonfire, gathered in the quarry again. It's a regular hangout spot for them, liking the exclusivity of its location, far from the hustle and bustle of the streets alive at night, when the majority of the colonists who’re assigned to work in the mines aren't slaving away underground. 

You and Bjorn have been taking digs at each other all night—what else is new?—cycling between something passive aggressive and flippant, or overt and direct, depending on how irritated whatever he says makes you. 

“Always so hot and bothered, ain'tcha’ sweetheart? If ya’ shut up and c’mere I can give ya’ a real mouthful,” he smirks, grabbing himself through the loose crotch of his frayed cargo pants.

Disgust pinches the bridge of your nose, nice and tight, hissing back, “ugh, you're such a pig. I’m thoroughly convinced the shitty apple didn't fall far from the shitty tree,” words soaked in venom, the aftertaste of acid burning the lining of your esophagus. 

It's like pulling the pin on a grenade, watching the way everyone reacts, a collective gasp shredding through the calm. Your revulsion is replaced by one of confusion, head cocking to the side as your posture wilts, losing all strength in your shoulders. You don't get why, not when you've said far, far, worse to one another, made a little game of it even. 

You don't see the usual anger or arrogance you've become accustomed to. Instead he looks hurt. Wounded. Blinking twice as fast like he's trying to stop his eyes from watering only to catch himself, schooling his face into something neutral, something mean.

Bracing yourself for the fallout, Bjorn does something completely unexpected—he leaves. Doesn't scream or swear or snark back, just silently turns and retreats, gravel loudly crunching beneath the black worn-in soles of his stormer boots, not sparing a single glance your way while he does.

“Not cool dude,” Navarro chides in your direction, slinging the strap of the backpack she bought the beer in over her shoulder before jogging off in hot pursuit of her brother, “Bjorn, wait up man!”

It's enough to kill the whole vibe, everyone awkwardly parting ways not long after. You return to your apartment sooner than predicted, playing the scene over and over in your head as you try and decipher what could've triggered that response, like he was on the verge of tears. And the others, with the exception of Andy, all seemed floored, clearly clued in on some context you're missing. 

But the thing is, why should you even care? For Bjorn and his infantile way of coping with whatever he's dealing with? When he's not once shown you the same consideration in return? You shouldn't. 

At least—that's what you tell yourself as you strip down to your underwear and crawl into the familiar warmth of your bed, cocooning your body in your blankets as the exhaustion and sleeping pills kick in, lulling you into a restless sleep. 

A sharp knock on the front door startles you awake, eyes bouncing off the walls of your cramped room before they're drawn sideways, finding the analog clock sitting on your bedside table. 

It's late in the afternoon, not nearly as late as you usually allow yourself to sleep on days off, still, that's not what's currently puzzling your still-waking brain.

There's a followup knock, reminding you why you're awake in the first place, begrudgingly removing yourself from the comfort of your sheets while you try and figure out who'd be visiting you right now, pulling on yesterday's jeans left crumpled on the floor by your bed. 

Maybe it's Kay stopping by to check on you. She looked like she wanted to say something last night, after Tyler smothered the bonfire and everyone had left but ultimately never did, choosing to run and catch up with Rain, weaving their fingers together once she did.

You swear though, if it’s just some corpo from the council coming to assign you mandatory overtime you might just take the automatic jail sentence.  

It ends up being neither. To your surprise it’s Tyler, fist raised like he’s getting ready to knock again, immediately taking one step down on the concrete steps leading up to your doorway to give you some room, cheeks a little red. 

“Sorry, didn’t meanta’ wake you,’” Tyler greets, probably taking note of your unkempt appearance, from your tangled hair to the rapid flutter of your lashes, trying to blink the sleep out of them. 

“Could—would you mind if we had a chat?” He amends, adding on, “it’ll only take a sec,” after the fact, the porch light above your head just bright enough to illuminate the hope on his face. Well, this is new. 

You’ve grown to like Tyler and the company he provides, always thoughtful and in high spirits, regardless if he just clocked out of a sixteen hour shift or not, hands shaking and wrapped in dirty gauze from the wounds he sustained. 

That being said, you’ve never met up just the two of you, only ever spending time in facilitated group settings outside of the mines. 

Nonetheless you move aside, a nonverbal queue to come in that he readily accepts, maneuvering around you to step into the tiny kitchenette adjacent to your bedroom. You watch as he gazes around, taking in the surroundings like all the apartments the colonists reside in don't look exactly the same. Albeit yours is pretty bare, not seeing a point in decorating when you could be transferred again at a moment's notice.

“So,” you say, shattering the quiet, leaning back against the laminate counter, arms folded out in front of you with one foot crossed over the other, right heel lifted off the tile floor, “what did you wanna talk about?”

There’s little doubt in your head as to what it's pertaining to, suspicion shortly confirmed by the sheepish look in Tyler's eyes when he meets yours again,“it's about Bjorn.” 

“I figured as much,” you sigh, waiting for him to go on, his hand coming up to anxiously rub over the back of his neck.

“Right, so. Is’not my place to share but Bjorn has a lot of baggage there—with his family. It's a super sore subject for ‘im,’ so when you said that it kinda dug all that shit up.”

Tyler continues, cutting you off before you have a chance to interrupt, “And I know you didn’t mean it, that you don't owe ‘im anything, and you certainly don't hafta’ listen to me but would you please just. Talk to ‘im?’

You can tell Tyler means well, that he wants to smooth things over between the two of you and, while you’d never readily admit it aloud, you do feel a little bad for Bjorn. Bjorn. Sunlight must be shining through the perpetual polluted cloud cover from up above.

It’s just, you know what it’s like, dealing with the aftermath of familial trauma, trying to navigate a world that’s taken so much and given nothing back. Learned to bare your teeth rather than your soul, the only guaranteed method to alleviate the emotional damage life on Jackson’s Star brings.

Maybe Kay is right. Maybe you and Bjorn are alike.

And maybe Tyler is too, about talking to Bjorn, maybe it's time you two talk it out, try and find common ground so the others don't have to play referee anymore. 

“Fine,” you agree,“I’ll talk to him.” 

All the tension in Tyler's shoulders melts away, a relieved sigh deflating his chest, like he had been steeling himself for a potential refusal. 

“Lovely, that's—thank you. Really.” Tyler beams, drawing you into an unexpected hug, a quick, thankful little squeeze despite your arms still being crossed.

Tyler pulls away so you can face each other again, “I know he can be a total fuckin’ wanker but he's one a’ the only people Kay and I got left. And Kay’s got you now and—you don't have to like ‘im. Hell I don't half the time, but if you could just try and tolerate each other maybe?” 

A giggle bubbles up out of you, offering a reluctant nod in return, “sure, I can try. No promises though.” 

“S’okay. I don't expect Bjorn to listen anyways but if I can at least get you on board, things should be smooth sailin’ yanno?” 

You doubt it'll be that easy, that Bjorn will even be receptive to talking but you're willing to honor Tyler's request and try, for him, Kay and the others. 

Once Tyler leaves, you decide it's better to just rip the bandaid off and go looking for Bjorn, who's apparently putting in overtime, something he's prone to doing whenever he needs to blow off some steam according to his older cousin. 

You clock in and check out a drill, the only way low-level colonists gain entry down here, lugging it through one of the series of carved paths towards the sound of shrill cogging you hear echoing off the walls just up ahead in the distance. 

Bjorn isn't hard to find. He's the only one laboring on his day off, the only one in this section of the mines at least, save for the lone guard stationed at the mouth of the tunnel, paying you little mind as you pass. 

The drill head Bjorn's wielding bores into the hard rock, heavy handed from the anger he's trying to work through, sparks flying off as a result. 

Your stomach swoops low when he looks at you, anticipating some kind of reaction, his muscles sagging just a little but, like the guard, he goes back to working, drilling a little harder than before. You can tell this conversation will be like pulling teeth. 

“Bjorn,” you call, trying to be heard over the sound of grating metal, pulling your goggles up and your mask down, letting it hang around your neck. “Bjorn!” 

The lean lines in his forearms built over time flex harder, highlighted by the sweat gathering there, gloved fingers constricting around the worn handle of the power tool as he readjusts his grip. Even through the face shield you can tell he's gritting his teeth, grinding them just as hard as the drill against the rock, the muscles in his neck straining from the way his jaw is set so incredibly tight.

“Bjorn!” You repeat, growing frustrated, taking the risk of losing a finger or two by pushing at Bjorn's shoulder, “can you please just—look at me?”

He’s quick to snatch your wrist, startling you, strong enough to keep the drill upheld with his other arm while he thumbs the off switch. 

“Wha’ in the bloody fuck d’ya want?!” He snarls, eyes narrowed and brows pinched, twisting your arm to hold it down in between you, mindful not to actually hurt you.

“M’sorry,” you mumble, avoiding the angry scowl he's wearing, now the one unable to make eye contact.

“Wha’ tha’ fuck was tha’?!”

Your throat feels rougher than sandpaper, finding it harder to swallow than the pills you pop every night. “I said I'm—sorry.”

The laugh he gives in response sounds hollow, bitter, “oh thas’ bleedin’ rich comin’ from you. Come ta’ say sorry so you can sleep a little easier tonight, have ya?’ Well I don't want ur fuckin’ pity.”

Your head whips up at that, doing your best to keep composed, despite your fight or flight urging you to combat his animosity with your own. 

“I didn't come to apologize to make myself feel better, that's not who I am. Whether we get along or not doesn't matter. I realized I crossed a line and you deserve better than that. That's why I came to say sorry.” 

His face softens just a bit, just long enough for you to notice before his expression hardens again, lips parting to say something more but he never gets the chance to, interrupted by a low ominous groan that shakes the entire roof of the tunnel you're standing in. Shit, that doesn't sound good.  

You share a look of dread then, before either of you can react, a crevasse three feet wide fractures up the entire length of the rock right above your heads as the deafening roar of a cave-in drowns out every other noise.

The only thing you feel is Bjorn’s calloused hand still holding onto your wrist roughly yanking you into his body right as everything collapses around you.

The first thing you register is the fact you're still alive. Aching all over and windpipe tight from inhaling the harsh toxins released into the air all at once, but—alive.

The next is the ringing in your ears, a high frequency whine that sounds like a mortar shell just went off by your head, leaving you disoriented, possibly concussed.

And the last is the solid body of muscle you're lying on top of, the same one that just saved you from biting it several moments ago. 

He's sprawled out on his back, the rapid wide-eyed blinking and quick rise and fall of his chest trying to draw air back into his lungs an indication he's in much the same condition as you, goggles cracked and his face shield missing. 

Your breath catches when you notice how close the two of you are, so close you can see the dirt clinging to his goatee and the dried cracks of his chapped lips, breath smelling like rolling tobacco and polar ice gum. As much as you hate it, you can't help but think how attractive the view is.

He seems to regain his focus, looking down to lock gazes with yours, realizing the position you're in. His eyes roving over your face as if he's appraising you, as if he's checking you out. 

“Ahem,” you clear your throat, the severely dim lighting disguising the blush bleeding into your cheeks, rolling off and away from him, hoping he didn't feel the rapidity of your heart beating against your sternum like a battering ram. “Thanks.” 

Once the kicked-up soot and debris has settled a bit you take in everything around you—what's left of it. Both your headlamps are busted, both of which you discard along with the goggles and gloves, drills buried somewhere underneath the rubble you just were, the entrance to the tunnel you're in decimated to a cataclysmic degree, the only way in or out. You guys are trapped. 

“Ah fuck,” Bjorn swears, grasping the utterly abysmal situation you’ve both found yourselves in. “This is bad.”

“Thank you for your valuable insight. Where would I be without your brilliant observation skills,” you snark, the two of you sitting up to face each other, backs against either side of the walls that are still intact, knees drawn up to your chests to give each other a little more leg room.

“Shoulda just let ya’ get crushed by them rocks,” he huffs, “woulda saved me tha’ headache. And tha’ oxygen.” 

He's right about the oxygen. In an enclosed space like this with no ventilation, you're both in short supply, aware you'll run out of it soon enough. Even if the collapse didn't initially kill you, the suffocation inevitably will. 

“I seriously can't believe I'm gonna die down here with you of all people.”

“Ah yah,’ cuz this is how I wanted ta’ spend ma’ last moments before I kicked the bucket,” he rolls his eyes, untying the simple knot of his red bandana, which is grimier than usual due to the ash and sediment lingering in the air, setting it on the ground beside him. 

Bjorn pulls a rolled joint out of the breast pocket of his shirt, lighting up as soon as it's in his mouth. You almost tell him to put it out so you can preserve the limited oxygen you have but ultimately you elect to stay quiet. What's it matter anyway? Dying sooner might just be a mercy. 

“How much ya’ wanna bet some synth fuck’s up there right now tellin’ tha' council we're not worth tha' time or trouble?”

“You really have it out for synthetics, don't you?” 

You were aware he didn't like Andy, an opinion he made known every time Rain brought him to group hangouts but you didn't realize it ran that deep, never connecting the dots between his insults and the prejudice he clearly harbors. 

He chuckles, smoke billowing out of his mouth as he does so, a pungent cloud of weed looming over you, “ever tha' observant one, aren't cha babes?” 

“Fuck you,” you bristle, arms loosely wrapping around your shins, fingers lacing together just below the kneecaps. Although, to be fair you did more or less say the same thing to him not even five minutes ago. 

“Don’t threaten me with a good time,” the few oil lamps the cave-in didn't snuff out highlighting the wink he throws your way. “And if ya’ must know—yeah, I do. Every fuckin' last one of ‘em.” 

Deciding to tread carefully you simply ask, “why?” exercising a level of caution you normally never do.

Silence drags between you, expecting Bjorn to ignore your probably invasive question when, to your surprise he replies, answering with a painful degree of honesty that nearly blindsides you, “my mum. She worked in tha’ mines like most o’ us had to. When I was eight, there wuz a collapse much like this one. ‘Cept she was one o’ three miners on one side o’ the tunnel while there were a dozen in tha’ otha. A synth convinced tha’ council her life wuzn’t worth theirs. So—they let her die. Scared. Confused. Probably hopin’ for rescue. She always told me ta' keep tha' light on fo’er when she'd tuck me inta bed before her shift every night so she could find’er way back ta’ me.” 

He yanks out two sets of dog tags tucked underneath his shirt by the chain, one of them his and the other presumably his mother's, just like the ones you’re wearing, the corporation’s way of identifying bodies of miners lost, his thumb running over the engraving etched into one of the nameplates. 

Sympathy swells inside of you listening to him, “that's horrible.” 

You had assumed Bjorn's past was traumatic based on the little information Tyler was willing to share but you never expected it to hit so close to home.

“I get it,” you murmur, head tipping back to stare at the chiseled rock and remaining support beams to hold back any stray tears that might threaten to fall, clenching at your dirty pant legs a little tighter.

“My mom. She was pregnant and forced to work down in the mines until the shit she was inhaling induced her prematurely. Guess toxic fumes are bad for a pregnancy,” you roll your eyes, biting off a sarcastic, watery chuckle. “She ended up dying during childbirth.” 

There's a pause, your words hanging heavy in the air. You've never shared that with anyone who didn't already know. Word traveled fast around each sector, gossip the only news worth spreading, people talking about the girl orphaned by a reckless mother who should've known better. Fuck, it makes you sick just thinking about it.

When Bjorn speaks it's soft, comforting. “Thas’ horrible. So thas’ why you been volunteerin’ for Kay.” 

“Yep,” you confirm, popping the p, head rolling forward to lock eyes again, watching him put out the remnants of his joint on the wall next to him before flicking the butt into the pile of debris. 

“And ur dad?” he asks, the bend of his elbows resting on either one of his knees, leaving his forearms to dangle. 

“Never knew him,” you shrug, becoming detached at the very mention of him, like you’re discussing a stranger, which in a way you are, “he left right after knocking my mom up. Didn't want the added responsibility of raising a kid.”

“Fuck, I wish my old man woulda jus' dipped out from tha’ start. Woulda been the only decent thing he ever did fo'us,” Bjorn spits, words dripping with vitriol, clearly holding a hatred reserved for his father only. 

“What happened to him?” No longer trying to tiptoe around the questions that pop into your head since you're both over sharing. Since you're both dead anyway. 

“He’s still around but 'e's not around if ya know whadd’i mean. After my mom died 'e started boozin’ heavily to deal widit. When he wasn't in the mines 'e was out gettin’ piss drunk. Stupid prick gave fuck all about me and Navarro.” 

There's a growl that rumbles deep in his lower register, rotating his arms so they're pointed wrist-up towards the ceiling. You follow his line of sight, seeing scars littered across his skin, raised and round and purple from healing. Cigarette burns. 

“Bjorn…” you trail off, a level of sadness you haven't felt in a long time settling deep in your skin, “That's—what the fuck. Did Jackson’s, did they do anything about it?” 

“They don't give a rat's arse, yanno that,” he scowls, but not at you, turning his arms back down, “s’long as I'm alright enough to work they'll overlook a black eye or busted up lip. They can all fuckin’ eat shit far as m' concerned.”

“I'm so fucking sorry about earlier. I really, truly am,” You stress, even more genuine than the initial apology you offered, feeling like a total bitch for what you said to him in the quarry. 

He waves you off, combing his fingers through his sweaty, clumped bangs to separate them, “s’alright babes. Already forgiven.” 

You never thought you'd say it but you're actually glad Tyler convinced you to talk things out with Bjorn, even if it inevitably did lead to your approaching demise. If, by some miracle, you both survive, maybe you can be friends. At the very least, friendly. 

“Can't believe m' gonna die a bloody virgin,” Bjorn groans, head falling back against the rock. 

“Really?” You laugh, a full-body chuckle that has you coughing into a loosely curled fist immediately after, your lungs burning from all the shit you've breathed in, “that's your concern?”

“Uh yah! What else do I hafta' be worried about? Dying? That shit’s imminent at this point, hate ta’ break it ta’ ya’ darling.” 

He has a point. Besides, maybe focusing on a smaller problem will diminish some of the fear about the larger one at hand. 

“You're right,” you concede, though you can't help but be surprised by the revelation, with the way Bjorn carries himself he seemed like the type to sleep around with anyone willing to let him, “that does suck.” 

“Oh? So ur not one then?” he asks, raising an eyebrow that disappears under his hair, curiosity piqued. 

“No. Made a few mistakes back in my old sector, had a few one night stands. Nothing serious,” you shrug, indifferent. None of them ever meant something to you anyhow, just a brief period of time when you used alcohol to cope, when you just wanted to feel someone's arms around you. 

“Course—I don't hafta’ die a virgin.” 

His eyes openly roam over you, from your face down to what he can see of your body with the position you're sitting in, tongue parting his lips to slowly lick over them. You feel your stomach flutter, like you'd just swallowed a congregation of butterflies. Okay, he's definitely checking you out now. 

Are you seriously suggesting I sleep with you?” You ask in disbelief, the question entirely rhetorical considering you're the only other person here and he's eyeing you like a prime cut of steak, “what are you, high?”

“Clearly babes. That's beside tha’ point. Wouldn't be tha’ worst thing in tha' world, now would it?” 

“It might be,” you retort, “so was this just your plan all along? Get in my pants?” 

“Ah yah, I collapsed tha' mine so you'd drop ya' knickers fo' me, fucking come off it. And come with me, why don't ya?’” He smirks, doing that signature cocky head tilt of his.

That's not what you meant. Moreso wondering if that was his goal from the start, the tension between you seeming sexual in retrospect. You spear your bottom lip between your teeth, actually considering the offer, always finding Bjorn annoyingly, stupidly, attractive. Maybe you're the one that's high.

“I—” 

As if on queue you hear a familiar rumble, just like the one that trapped you here to begin with, rubble and soot raining down on top of you and Bjorn, looking up just as the ceiling bows.

Bjorn is quicker to react than you are, lunging at you right as one of the wooden support beams gives way and topples sideways, taking another chunk of the mine with it, the both of you avoiding another close call as the tunnel around you continues to shrink and shrink. 

This time he ends up on top of you, the full weight of his body pressing down onto yours, his gaze drawing away from the roof to meet yours again, the intensity of his stare causing heat to pool low in your core.  

Then he kisses you—and you let him. 

[butter-bubbles]

How Mike's S4 Rink-o-Mania Fight Parallels Will's S3 Rain Fight....

OMG, OMG, OMG. So while allowing chronic Byler brainrot to consume my thoughts, I had a revelation and I'm not okay. Like at all.

Okay, so in S3 with the iconic Byler rain fight, Will says this:

This whole fight stems from two feelings.

Will's upset that Mike's ignoring and neglecting their friendship to "swap spit with some stupid girl", thus ruining their party.

Will feels abandoned by the person who he's developing romantic feelings for and doesn't know how to handle it.

This was never about the party, not really. It was about Mike's failure to be a good friend to Will and Will's frustration at not being a priority in Mike's life when Mike is a huge priority in his.

Now, let's look at what Mike says to Will during their Rink-O-Mania fight:

This is an interesting choice of words, as it's not an exact parallel to "ruining". Instead, he says "sabotaging", as though Will was actively trying to ruin their date by being snide and sarcastic. Implicitly, it reveals to the audience that Mike believes Will has enough influence over his and El's date to ruin it at all with some very minor sass.

But let's put that aside for a moment and think about what Mike is actually talking about here, since it clearly has nothing to do with El

Will is attempting to sabotage his relationship by... not being as nice and emotionally invest in Mike as he usually is.

Now we know that at the end of S3 that Will promises not to join a new party, and Mike breaks out into this absolutely elated smile.

But at the beginning of S4, Mike fiinds out that Will might have a girl he likes via the letter from El.

Will brings the girl's painting to the airport, Mike does not ask about the girl/crush (like most friends would) but instead very weirdly/passive aggressively questions Will about the painting after awkwardly ignoring his hug, and then spends the remainder of the date pretending to ignore Will and getting pissed at him.

So for reason number #2 we can deduce:

2. Mike is upset that Will is neglecting their relationship for a girl by bringing her painting to their reuinion at the airport and not paying attention to him/acting rude during his date with his girlfriend.

If you look at the reasonings side-by-side, they're basically exact parallels to one another, even down to the immediate denial from both Mike ("That's not true!") and Will ("She was lying to you!"). In fact, I'd argue Mike's accusation is even more damning because it's basically admitting that Will has influence over his relationship with his girlfriend and that he believes Will is intentionally ruining something dear to him, while Will's accusation is more about Mike's inconsiderateness/selfishness. Mike lets Will know Will has influence over him through his willful acts of sabotage whereas Will doesn't even think Mike is considering him at all/he has no influence over Mike because he's too wrapped up in his relationship with El. Will accuses Mike of "ruining our party" because his feelings for Mike go deeper than friendship and therefore he feels neglected when he isn't Mike's priority, and Mike accuses Will of "sabotag[ing] the whole day" because his feelings for Will go deeper than friendship and he feels neglected when he isn't Will's priority.

This parallel just seems like further proof that Will's feelings are reciprocated because there's no way it's a coincidence that both of their signifcant fights in S3/S4 mirror each other so perfectly if the show wasn't trying to communicate that they have mutual romantic feelings/crushes towards one another. They're literally having the exact same argument, but this time it's flipped with Mike expressing disproportionate anger at Will's lack of interest in him. This is great foreshadowing for the #WillfellfirstbutMikefellharder agenda!!

[pretty-blkgirl]

Soul’s Desire [Ch. 39]

- Masterlist -

~~~~|~~~~

”Are you nervous?”

You don’t answer, instead you subtly do breathing exercises while staring at the white wall ahead of you.

Rose sighs but chooses to fix a small flaw in your hair instead of pushing for an answer.

Of course, you were nervous, you were at the KMA’s. Your group was up for four different awards, including Musician of the Year.

The funniest thing about being up for arguably the most important award of the night was your soulmates were up for the same award.

The “pregnancy scare” that happened a few days ago left you feeling a little overwhelmed. You hadn’t been ignoring your soulmates, but you’d be lying if you said you were jumping at any opportunity to talk to them.

You made sure to keep them in the loop about the doctor’s appointment you scheduled two days after the initial scare, and you could feel the relief they felt through your symbol when you confirmed what the at-home tests already told you.

They understood why you needed a bit of extra time to think, but they missed you terribly.

Chan would try his best to catch you at the company, and when he did, he bought you food every time. You thanked him with a few kisses and a tight hug each time, so he started to believe you weren’t angry at them.

Rather, you were just…tired.

Your career, the trauma stemming from your mom, the way Eunji was still very passive-aggressive towards you. So much was happening at once, and you were just ready to rest.

Truth was, after the award show, you were set to leave and go straight home. You had a flight to Jeju the next morning, and you were excited to have some time to relax.

Your nervousness carried for the rest of the night. From taking your seats in the audience to interacting with other idols. It spiked when you realized eight pairs of eyes were a few rows in front of you, taking advantage of the fact that a group they were close friends with sat next to yours.

They took turns looking back, pretending to joke and laugh with their friends but staring at you with what you’d call “puppy dog eyes.”

Seungmin was the best at it, of course, always lingering a little longer when it was his turn to stare.

You smiled each time they looked at you, so they knew you weren’t upset. You loved them, and that little spat wasn’t a make or break in your relationship.

Soon it was your turn to perform, and your anxiety was replaced with excitement and adrenaline for a few minutes while you and your girls destroyed the stage.

You could barely enjoy the standing ovation you received when that familiar feeling crept back into your stomach.

You were on autopilot for the rest of the night, only coming out for a while when your soulmates took their turn on stage. You weren’t shy to admit you were even louder than the fans that were there.

Soon after their performance, it was time for the grand prize winner to be announced.

Your group managed to snag an earlier award which you were extremely grateful for, but this one was the most important.

Again, nervousness.

The murmurs of the crowd sounded like static in your ears. You watched the presenter, nonblinking, as the world around you slowed down.

You watched her mouth move

“And the award goes to…”

She revealed who won. But you didn’t hear her. The feeling that shot through you, starting at your palm and ending at your feet, made you gasp.

You thought your soulmates had won, that was why you felt such strong emotion despite you actively blocking the bond.

But no, it was your group’s picture up on the screen. All of a sudden, you felt hands shaking your shoulders and screams all around you.

Your palm was burning, so you quickly checked it to make sure the ointment wasn’t coming off.

Your older group mates grabbed you and dragged you to the stage with them. As Dae gave a tearful speech, you looked out into the audience, seeking a specific group of people.

They were all standing, giving you looks of pure pride and happiness. Your anxiety vanished, quickly, as if it were never there to begin with.

That moment was when you started to think about your future with them, and that moment was when you started to get excited about the future.

~~~~|~~~~

Taglist: @chuuyaobsessed @h0rnyp0t @prttyxbby @yukichan67 @hanniemylovelyquokka @xxeiraxx @loveforlee444 @whatdoyouwanttocallmefor @cunninglibrarian @holly-here @galaxy4489 @hyunmikim @yougottobekittenme @hyeon-yi @katsukis1wife @multi-fandom-nightmare @staybabblingbaby @kozumesphone @fuck-you-im-gae @thatonedarkskinnedsiren @just-a-blackthorn-cookie @champagneconfetti @juju-227592 @borahae-reads @reallychaoticwoo @hwangfrnd @fiest4plum

[jeonscatalyst]

Did anything about jikooks (or vminkook if that interests you) dynamic surprise you in are you sure? I think the extent of JK's brattiness and their play-fighting did surprise me a little. I think it's because I haven't been following them beyond the music that much in solo era. Also if I compare vminkooks dynamic from say that joint live in 2021 or the live incl Hobi (in 2022 I think?), I think it's a little bit different from what we're seeing in the show. If I think about it, it does check out in many ways with regards to what they've told us but I don't think it's something we've seen this plainly before

Hey anon,

Nothing about Jikook’ or Vminkook’s dynamic surprised me much, infact I would say the boys haven’t changed at all. Jungkook has always been bratty. Literally all the members have complained about him being bratty and stubborn and as for the play-fighting (I am assuming you are talking about Jikook) that has literally always been their thing. Someone described Jikook’s dynamic as a mix of all the other duo dynamics in BTS and now I really cannot unsee it. They playfight like jinkook, bicker like yoonmin, are soft with each other like Namkook, are besties like taekook and are caring towards each other like Jihope. There is literally a mix of everything in their dynamic and that is one of the reasons why Jikook are so difficult to explain as a duo. I personally don’t have any trouble understanding the other duo dynamics of BTS but Jikook still challenges me sometimes.

It was definitely kinda new to see them bicker so much, I mean we had seen them bicker before but the other members were usually in the mix so just seeing them bicker about parking was kinda new but not really surprising to me.

As for taekook, I didn’t see anything about their dynamic that surprised me at all. They are the duo who know how to have maximum fun when they are together as they have so many things in common when it comes to personal interests so it is extremely easy for them to be in sync but they also have moments where they could come off a bit nonchalant towards each other (but this is very normal) and I have seen so many people say they have a passive aggressive energy about them but I don’t see it personally. I just think that Jungkook sometimes has his moments you know, when he doesn’t really feel like being enthusiastic about anyone (Jimin included) and Tae isn’t like Jimin who will still try to initiate interactions when Jk gets in that mood but instead Tae just kinda ignores as well or throws in some snarky comments and maybe that is why people see some passive aggressiveness but generally I think they have gotten much closer than they were a few years ago and even their emotional bond seems to have deepened a little more than before.

For Vminkook’s dynamic, I think it is pretty much the same to be honest. Like I said before, Jungkook has his bratty and soft moments with both of them and Vmin are still the two hyungs who dote on him but call him out in their own way when he starts going too far. Jungkook has a very different dynamic with both of them and it is seen more when he is with the two of them (or atleast I noticed it more). I had always known but just seeing it in play out in AYS was….interesting. I think with Tae, Jk really enjoys just doing the fun boy stuff. They both look their happiest around each other when they are bringing out the childishness out of each other and I can see why they easily connected when they were rookies. One person starts something and the other very easily goes along with it, no question asked. They are also a good example of dumb and dumber or the blind leading the blind because it seems like between the two of them, no one is the voice of reason and we all crave people who we can just be extremely silly with without overthinking anything and I guess that is what taekook are to each other and that is why Tae can call Jk and ask him to join him in Hawaii and Jk takes a 9 hour flight there, you know just for the fun of it. Unlike what taekookers would like to believe, it isn’t because Jk is in love with tae or none of that. If I had a bestie whom I usually have alot of fun with when we are together and we both like the same things and I had Jungkook money and time, I will do the exact same thing. But, just as I had said before, it just feels like the foundation of their friendship is mostly centered around the fun and shared interests, not much else. They ofcourse really care for each other and are supportive of each other as well. I thought it was extremely sweet how Jungkook immediately climbed that wall to encourage Tae when Tae was scared to jump. Those are some of the moments that show just how they get each other and how much they care about each other. Taekook as bestfriends works so well but I don’t see them working out as romantic partners and I also understand why they don’t seem to be each other’s go to person for comfort. This is because they are way too alike. They both are naturally takers so they need givers for things to balance out. That is why at some point, they both sought out comfort from Jimin who is a a natural giver and not from each other.

Jimin and Jungkook are kinda different here because even though those two also have alot of fun with each other, Jimin is actually very different from Jungkook. He isn’t as spontaneous and he thinks about everything way too much. He also likes to have a schedule or plan things out before he executes them but Jungkook takes everyday as it comes and doesn’t seem to think about things too much so because of this, Jimin is like the voice of reason but sometimes Jungkook doesn’t want a voice of reason, he just wants adventure. A good example of this is that episode from I land where Jungkook stole TXT’s food from the pantry. He was in there with Tae and while he was stealing the food, Tae just went along with it and didn’t say anything but instead just found the whole thing funny but immediately Jk went outside with the food and Jimin saw him, Jimin (as well as the other members) asked him to return the food and they even scolded him (Jimin included lol). This is how Tae and Jk are partners in crime because they both readily go along with each other’s mischief but Jimin is that voice of reason that Jk needs because Jk is very impressionable (he said it himself) so if he doesn’t have some Jimins in his life, he could easily go astray. Even though Jikook are so different, they still are so alike and they click and just get each other so well and I don’t even know how to explain it. It seems to me like they are the definition of opposites attract, ying and yang. Jimin has the light that Jk needs and Jk has the darkness Jimin craves, they balance each other out, they give each other what the other lacks, they complement each other completely. Their bond in my opinion is definitely deeper as the foundation of it much more than the fun they have when they are together. There is an underlying intimacy in their play that isn’t there in taekook’s too. While taekook just play around like 5 year olds without a care in the world, splashing around in pools or shooting at each other with water guns, there is a subtle intimacy and softness in the way Jikook play around and they are definitely more handsy with each other too. This is pretty much everything I already knew about them and it is exactly the same thing I saw so I don’t really think anything was surprising or maybe just how much Jikook can bicker, if I had to pick something lol.

So anon, I have written a ton even though you probably just wanted a shorter answer but I couldn’t help myself lol. I have a problem not expatiating as much as I can. I hope this answers your question though and if u don’t mind, I would love to hear what you thought was different about Vminkook’s dynamic from 2021/2022 and now. I don’t really think we can compare from those moments you mentioned but I’d really love to hear or read your thoughts.

[keepingeahalive]

Why Rapple Wouldn’t Work as a Couple

First off, let’s get this out of the way: Raven and Apple are not related. Well…more like distantly related, but to the point where any relation is almost nil. Raven is not destined to marry Apple’s father because Apple’s dad and Raven’s dad (The Good King) are two separate characters. Raven is only destined to be jealous of Apple and poison her. That is all.

Okay, on with the real debate.

I'm probably gonna get a lot of hate for this, but I can't see Apple and Raven as a couple. While both of their arcs were about coming to accept each other, they weren't equal in their relationship. Raven made it clear to Apple many times that she felt disrespected, and Apple ignored that and pushed her own agenda on her. It may have come from a place of caring, but Apple didn't get Raven at all. I can see them working through their issues down the line, but their love story (if you can call it that) is better as platonic.

Bulldozing and Passive Aggression

From the first episode, we can see that Apple immediately took control for both of them. She went behind Raven's back to room with her and decorated Raven's side of the room without her permission, all because Raven is an important part of "her" story.

Not their story. "Her" story.

Her friendship with Raven in the first three chapters was surface-level at best. She assumes what Raven wants instead of actually getting to know her, like when she decides to take "Home Evil-nomics" to get back at Raven for taking Princessology. But Raven's favorite class isn't Home Evil-nomics. It's Muse-ic.

We can see Raven trying to be patient with Apple because Raven is a good person. She doesn't want a repeat of what happened between Snow White and the Evil Queen. In fact, we see her other friends hide their concerns from Apple because they don't want to upset her.

When Ashlynn finally comes out about her relationship with Hunter, she's immediately met with Apple's dismay. Apple tells her several times that she's making the wrong decision, and it gets to Ashlynn so much that she chooses her friendship with Apple over her relationship with Hunter because she doesn't want everyone to be upset. Although Ashlynn decides to do what makes her happy, Apple still tells her outright that she's making the wrong choice.

Briar starts to feel the weight of her destiny sink in and, instead of being met with compassion and understanding, Apple tells Briar "we all have our part to play." While Briar rightfully calls her out for how privileged she is, it takes her three chapters and two more specials to admit to Apple that she was too scared to tell anyone that she didn't want to follow her destiny.

They both go behind Raven's back to poison a birthday cake she made for Apple just so she would stop crying about it.

Apple is the next Queen of Ever After, and she wants to take an active role in serving her people. But she thinks she knows what's best for everyone. If they don't do what she says, then there's something wrong and she has to fix them. Everyone enabled this behavior, except for Raven. This domination is what causes her and Raven's tension at the start of the series.

2. Apple's Fears

Apple is a selfish character. But that selfishness is born of fear.

She believes going against her destiny means dying and being forgotten.

I believe she does care about her friends, in the same vein a God-fearing church-goer cares about the people in her community. She believes there is only one true way of staying safe: following your destiny. If you don't, something bad happens. And she has to remind you of that. She thinks she's helping people when she's really being insensitive and condescending. And this comes down the hardest on Raven.

Raven is the equivalent of someone who's become disillusioned with their faith. She's unhappy with the system she's been put in and she wants something better. That doesn't mean she's not afraid of what might happen if she does. She's terrified she might doom everyone at first. But taking a risk on Legacy Day and showing everyone they can live without following a predetermined path made her and others more hopeful that they could live better lives.

But Apple can't be convinced with one act of rebellion. She doubles down on her beliefs and blames Raven for ruining her Happily Ever After. She's so afraid of her future being uncertain that she would rather follow a status quo where someone she claims to care for is locked away for the rest of her life. You could argue that she doesn't understand that's what would happen, but she never bothered to understand Raven's perspective. Raven takes Apple's perspective in Thronecoming and considers the consequences of her actions. Raven cares about her friends too, so much that she's willing to put her happiness aside to keep them safe. Apple never once did that for her, or for any of her other friends.

This stems from Apple being promised the best destiny out of anyone. She'd go on to live a very prestigious life as Queen. But she's too naive to realize what that would mean for everyone else: Raven would be locked up for the rest of her life, Ashlynn would die to continue her legacy, and Briar would marry some random dude several decades younger than her and never see Apple or anyone she knew ever again. I understand that no one wants to lose the stability they've had their entire life. But she doesn't seem to understand how good she has it.

3. Apple and Raven's Growth

Way Too Wonderland and Dragon Games gave us a lot in terms of character development. Apple and Raven have gotten to know each other better at this point. Even though they have their differences, they do care about each other.

Say what you will about Way Too Wonderland, but I do believe Apple has come to know Raven and is genuinely shocked and heartbroken when Raven finally signed the Storybook of Legends. She's come to care about who Raven really is, she knows Raven would never want to hurt anyone, and she realizes that destinies can be dangerous. I understand her main reasoning was that anyone could easily take someone else's destiny if they had the chance. But seeing what signing the book did to Raven frightened her. Destroying the book with Raven cemented a level of trust and understanding that Raven was longing for.

Which is what makes Dragon Games so heartbreaking.

Apple is a privileged little princess who was promised the best destiny one could expect. I don't think anyone would be all that happy about letting that go. It goes back to what she fears the most. She doesn't know what to do without her destiny. And with her mother only feeding into these insecurities, it allows Apple's doubts to resurface and for someone to take advantage of that.

Apple could have prevented releasing the Evil Queen. But she was too deep in her own cowardice to think clearly. Desperation will make people do anything, especially if promised a happy ending for you and everyone you love (maybe subconsciously hoping Raven would be her True Love). That doesn't excuse her freeing a war criminal who happens to be her best friend's estranged mother, thereby breaking her trust all over again. Raven had just started seeing Apple as someone she could depend on. That's gone now, and Raven had a right to be angry with Apple's selfishness and cowardice.

"But Apple realized her mistake and Raven forgave her in the end!" That's true, but that doesn't mean things are okay between them. Apple is still Raven's friend, and it's in Raven's character to forgive her. But I don't see her forgetting this experience any time soon. That trust would have to be built up all over again and, if you ask me, this ruled out any chance of them getting together romantically. I think Raven would need some time away from Apple to figure things out. Apple could use that time to figure herself out too, especially after figuring out it was Darling who woke her.

If that trust was able to be built back up again, hopefully they would have grown as people and learned to be better friends. But you can't expect this level of trust to be regained for a partnership.

4. A One-Sided Romance

If Rapple were to be anything romantic, it would only come from Apple.

Apple was always obsessed with Raven. I do believe she wanted Raven to fulfill their destinies so they would both be safe, but was too selfish to consider how that would look from Raven's end. She never showed any interest in Daring and, while she enjoyed the admiration she got from other boys, never expressed interest in anyone else.

Except Raven.

So, yes. I do believe Apple was in love with Raven. But I can't see Raven returning those feelings. Apple always disregarded what she wanted, ignored her when she argued against her destiny, and continually tried to turn Raven into something she wasn't. Even after her much-needed character development in Way to Wonderland and Dragon Games, these two still don't have a good foundation of trust between them. If we had gotten more of the show, we might have seen some healing. And, in my opinion, that would include Apple learning to let go of Raven and focusing on her own growth as a person.

And maybe someone else...

In all seriousness, Apple and Raven have a complicated relationship that I don't see working romantically. I know they have the most development together, and it would be an interesting take on the enemies-to-lover trope. But with how often Apple betrayed Raven's trust and how grounded and self-aware Raven is, I can't see them getting together.

I can see Raven being Apple's first crush, but the closest these two can get is sisters.

Because, you know, Raven has a boyfriend. It's Dexter. Say what you want about him, but they have a healthier relationship than Raven and Apple could ever have, romantic or not.

[earako]

Gah!

Okay, apologies in advance for the feels but I refuse to be the only one subject to my brains shenanigans-

Thinking of the "better world au" from journal three and I'm imaging what if somee weird magic stuff basically turned Stan into a guard against Bill entering their dimension

Like, I'm thinking maybe Stan pulled a Betty Grof and when he stumbled across wish magic, he wished for the power to keep his family safe, only instead of merging with a chaos entity Stan becomes a statue or he's transformed into something that makes it impossoble to accrss the journal he's holding.

And maybe an expedition group digs up magicified Stan and call in Ford for an inspection cause they don't know what they're looking at "but it's neat that it looks almost exactly like you, huh Dr.Pines?"

At first Ford tries to laugh it off as a coincidence but then they run some tests.

They find out their artifact is alive.

They find out its binding magic,meant to keep something hidden.

They fins Journal three and Ford can't ignore it anymore-this was Stanley, his twin, his little brother he sent away all those years ago, eternally stuck as nothing more than a magic safe for Stanfords mistake.

Cue a whoolleee lot of guilt, but also, for maximum angst, if they manage to undo it, Stan swinging between being angry at Ford but also secretly believing keeping the journal hidden was the one thing he did right and now its back with Ford and underneath Stan's prickly, passive aggressiveness is a concerningly low sense of self-esteem.

So in short: Stan twins gotta wrestle with hating themselves, lingering anger at each other, but also trying to be the bigger person (and failing miserably)

[ravenbloodshot]

How Riize Members Argue Tarot Reading

Overall, the way they handle disagreements

They can get very passionate and be quite stubborn about things they feel their right about. But there's still an energy of holding back, not completely going off or being too direct. Almost like they know that keeping the peace is vital even when they are angry with each other. I heard "I still have to see them in the morning." They keep things respectful but they still argue their points to the fullest.

I get a vibe that members apologize a lot after fights. Even if a member was in the right, they still apologize and hug it out after the fight settles.

I feel like most arguments are about teaching/letting another member know what one is and not okay with. Boundary setting

Now let's see how they individually argue

Eunseok

He's quite assertive and direct when he argues. Not one to give up easily even when others don't understand what he's mad about, he still says how he feels. He's very stern as well, it would be quite hard to ignore him or purposely play stupid. He's like "nah, your wrong about xyz. Don't do that again".

He keeps a cool, calm, and collected demeanor about him. Not very phased by what the other person says, just wishes to get his point across and be done with it.

Sohee

Sohee is more meek, timid and holds back from arguing even if he's in the right. He's the type to talk to other members about what he's upset about instead of directly addressing the member he has a problem with. It's like a vibe of gathering witnesses and allies so that they could stand up for him. Almost like he doesn't want to confront anybody by himself (tbh he doesn't want to confront anybody at all)

He's not very secure and firm with his points when he argues. For example, if he was to confront someone and they gave any kind of push back, he would just drop it or play if off like "oh maybe I misunderstood the situation."

Sungchan

He's not confrontational as well. Likes to always appear as peaceful and happy (probably doesn't like the feeling of being angry, so he kind of avoids that emotion).

He's another one that would go talk to others about his problem instead of addressing the person he has a problem with. But he may only talk about what the other person did that was wrong, never tell what wrong he may have did.

I feel like he's the type to have a problem setting up boundaries. Doesn't stand up for himself either. For example, let's say a member would always make a mess of the kitchen every time they made food. Instead of Sungchan telling them to clean up after themselves, he would clean the mess up himself. And maybe say a few passive-aggressive comments

Anton

Does not argue in a healthy way. He can become VERY disrespectful when he's upset. He's the type to roast and make fun of the person he has a disagreement with. It could just be that most of the arguments/fights he's been in were with people that were equally as disrespectful and aggressive. But I do see that he still has a problem with calmly arguing his points without spewing insults and malicious comments

He's one of those ppl that would talk about how much money he has and how he is of a greater status when he argues. "Your not even on my level level" "your a brokie, a straight bum". Not gonna lie, his roasts can be pretty funny if your not at the receiving end of it.

Overall, he can become quite egotistical when he argues.

Shotaro

He's the definition of "the calm before the storm" or "fuck around and find out". He initially keeps a calm disposition when he's confronting/arguing with someone. But thats as long as the other person has that same energy, as soon the other person wants to get loud and rowdy that's when he will give that same energy back. And he's not one to be messed with

He does still have a mature and peacekeeping way about him (this side of him is especially reserved for when he argues with ppl he cares about). But there is another side of him that can be very petty, vengeful and antagonistic. All depends on how you come at him plus the scale of how much he gives af about you

Wonbin

I heard "he's not" when I asked how does he argue and handle disagreements. I found it strange that the message was "he's not" and not "he doesn't". It makes me think that no matter how much of disagreement someone has with him , he won't engage in arguing, there's literally no point in confronting him. It reminds me of a King during ancient times that would have lords and townsfolk come to him with their problems, as the King he would listen and say his piece. That's the end. There's no argument. You visited the King, said what you needed, he gives a comment or two, and then your dismissed. (Lol his energy is hilarious, if only I could be this regal when I argue).

He does listen and hear ppl out. But I don't feel like he says much. Even with his lack of engagement, he likely still is someone others don't stay mad at for long. Probably bc he himself isn't mad at the other person so even if they hold a grudge against him he would act like everything is fine (bc technically everything would be fine on his end). The type to invite them to hang out and chill minutes after an "argument".

[sublimecatgalaxy]

could u write a angsty elliot fic?? also your other elliot fics are so good!!

I love my Elliot requests with all of my heart, he's one of my favorite people to write for :) thank you for this!!

"So you've been hanging with Jules a lot." I call out from my computer, looking at Elliot who dangles off my bed with a joint between his lips, a shrug on his shoulders.

"Yeah, she's cool. We've been worrying about Rue together, mutual interest, I guess." He explains vaguely and I feel a pang hit my heart as I recall seeing all three of them talking and laughing with each other after lunch, without me and in between classes, not even caring enough to invite me.

"Yeah, you've been spending all your study halls with her and Rue outside in the corridor. I would've liked an invite." I laugh it off but his brows pull together, obviously annoyed by my intention behind bringing this up and making that subtle jab.

"Yeah but they don't know you like that." He scoffs with a twisted, pained smile and I can tell he's trying to tell me to politely fuck off and explain to me that he doesn't want me hanging out with him and his friends but at this point, after weeks of wondering, I'd rather him put me out of my misery.

"Then help them know me like that, we're dating, Elliot." I set my computer aside, the frustration of weeks finally bubbling to the surface as my eyes turn to slits, glaring at him from across the room, neither of us moving or speaking for a few moments as awkward silence swarms around us.

"I guess. I don't see why this is such a big deal to you." He mutters, looking down at his hands and I know he hopes that that would be the end of it but it only fuels my fire more, blood boiling in long anticipated anger.

"Because you're choosing to spend time with these two girls that you don't even know that well over me, the person that you've been with for over a year." I'm on my feet now, marching over to the bed and standing directly in front of him as he obliviously ignores my presence, picking at the skin around his nails till it's red and inflamed.

"I know but they're cool." He mutters, almost as if he's a kid who's being heckled and nagged by a parent and it almost makes me impossibly angrier with him but instead, it hits my heart in a certain way that brings tears to my eyes, feeling completely and utterly unappreciated and overlooked.

"So am I, you'd know that if you actually spent time with me." The silence now is filled with anger instead of annoyance and I pause for a moment, feeling nervous, knowing that when he's angry, he's really angry. He looks up at me with annoyance and frustration behind his once happy hues and I begin to blame myself for even bringing this up in the first place.

"I don't have to spend 24/7 with you to be a good boyfriend." He snaps and I snap right back, hoping to finish the argument so I can storm off and be done with this once and for all.

"Yeah but you at least have to give me the bare minimum and treat me like you actually like me." I laugh mockingly and he smiles, tilting his head in a calculated way that has my stomach dropping and I know that I'm in for no good, knowing how passive aggressive and petty he can be when pushed into a corner.

"Well you acting like this doesn't make me want to hang out with you any more than I'm already suffering through."

...

What?

"What-" The words barely make it out of my mouth before he's on his feet, hands incasing my shoulders as he tries to get me to look at him but the bile is already in my throat and my heart feels a tight pain around it. I shake my head, pushing him away as he frantically grasps at me.

"I didn't mean it. I'm sorry-"

"Get out." He goes to speak once more but I hold my hand up to him while mumbling. "Shut the fuck up and get out of my house."

[0vergrowngraveyard]

the sky is being noisy (thunderstorm directly over my house) so i’m gonna talk about my villain au boys because they need therapy like right now 🫶

tw: abusive behavior

sonic:

sonic was taken in by eggman when he was young (eggdad moment) and didn’t realize that the doctor was just using him for his own gains. when sonic did find out, instead of having a battle of morals, sonic just straight up said that he would be better than eggman ever was and ran away

being around tails has changed his life both for better and for worse. for better because, well, it’s tails! a sonic will always need a tails! they’re a cosmic truth, after all! …right?

unfortunately, being around tails has also caused some harm. he does consider tails to be his little brother, but subconsciously the thought of family scares him after figuring out that eggman had been using him. he’s terrified of rejection and getting attached

is tails just using him too? what if the kit leaves him alone as well? he doesn’t deal with thoughts like these very well, frequently spiraling into extreme highs and lows where he’ll either guilt trip tails into staying by his side or passive aggressively pushes him away

he hates that he does it, he’s very self aware and knows he’s hurting the kid, but he can’t bring himself to either change for the better for leave the kit somewhere he’ll be safe

tails:

tails was not abandoned by his parents in this au, but they were very abusive towards the kit. the prower name is a pretty big one so he’d frequently make public appearance where he was forced to hide his mutation. at home, his parents basically ignore him yet get mad at him for not being the perfect child they wanted

when tails met sonic, he’d been kicked out of the house for the day. he was six years old. sonic found him sitting outside and just started talking to the kit, eventually convincing him to run away with the hedgehog

while being around sonic has helped him feel protected, he can’t help but crave that parental affection he was never shown by his own parents. he’ll go above and beyond just for a simple “good job” or fur ruffle (he does not swat sonic’s hand away). he’s also still very insecure about his namesakes and rarely ever flies

despite craving sonic’s attention so much, he’s also kinda scared of him. he never knows when the hedgehog will snap next and is walking on eggshells almost 24/7

the brothers love each other, they genuinely do, they’re just damaged. nothing about their bond is healthy. it’s very codependent, both of them relying on the other to be their source of happiness. it’s ruining them both

they’ll never leave each other’s side, tho. they’re all each other have and neither of them wants to be alone

[gothlcsan]

Study Partners ; KIM JIWOONG

PAIRING nonidol!jiwoong , afab!reader

GENRE SMUT 18+

SYNOPSIS Being best friends since childhood, it’s not too hard for fall for your best friend and tutor, yeah?

WORD COUNT 2511

WARNINGS kissing, oral (reader receiving), best friend since childhood trope, fingering, hair pulling, fluff, use of both lube and protection, jiwoong likes to ask for consent, feminine pet names, reader is a praise whore (me too)

♫ love on the brain - rihanna

a/n day thirteen of kinktober! i think best friend slash tutor jiwoong is super attractive (and his hands ?? 😵‍💫) so this was a bit self indulgent i won’t lie.. if you enjoyed please consider liking and reblogging as it helps ! ty <3

You glance up from your workbook, catching a glimpse of your tutor, Jiwoong, staring at you with the most blatantly obvious bored expression on his face. Neither of you wanted to be stuck in your bedroom, your mother repetitively coming to drop off sliced fruits and drinks every hour on the dot. Jiwoong and your mother’s were best friends since their high school days which meant you were thrown into the highly unfortunate, “forced to be friends” trope. Pushing your workbook away from yourself you tuck your chin into your arms, raising an eyebrow as Jiwoong starts to get up from the floor.

“Are you going home?”

Jiwoong nods, collecting his books into his hand, reaching for his bag that is laid next to him, you puckering your lips and nodding.

“Tell your Mom that I don’t need your tutoring anymore, it’s not like it’s helping anyways.”

The last part you grumble, barely audible, Jiwoong scoffing with an annoyed smirk as he bids you goodbye, leaving to go back next door. Not only did you go to college with Jiwoong but living next to him with both your Moms being best friends was inherently exhausting within itself. Both of you entering your senior year of college meant that they’d be on your backs to study, suggesting that the two of your study together at each other’s homes. Neither of you spoke up with your disinterest in doing so, ultimately deciding it was easier to do what you were told than speak up and say no.

Standing up from your spot on the floor, you plopped down onto your bed, falling backwards to lay flat against the mattress. You were exhausted from your long day of class, your eyes growing heavy whilst your mind began to wonder off. Your eyes shoot open, you scream into your hand, sitting up looking around your bedroom as if someone had intruded on you and your very scary (and highly inappropriate) thoughts about Jiwoong. Ultimately you decided to swallow and repress them, taking an ice cold shower before bed to help rid yourself of any thoughts.

A few days later and you still cannot shake the thoughts that plagued your mind, being reminded of them each time you opened the front door to let him in for tutoring. Your eyes wander down to his hands, gulping as he asks if he could come in, apologizing with a blush as you step out of the way. Studying is almost impossible as everything feels heightened in the space of your bedroom.

“What are you planning to do for your team project?” Jiwoong asked while rolling up the sleeves to his shirt, making your face turn beet red, trying to hide the fact by placing your book directly in front of your face.

“Um, I haven’t planned it out just yet, we’re currently deciding on the topic.”

Jiwoong snorts, you dropping the book onto the table making him flinch and swear under his breath startled.

“Why don’t you pick the topic yourself and dish them out tasks instead? Waiting on them to decide if they want to help or not.”

You know what Jiwoong meant, implying to not be a pushover and take charge, you telling him to calm down as he repeatedly encourages you to text them, taking your phone out and sending the text. The response is overall good, the one teammate being a bit passive aggressive with their response but you choose to ignore it, going back to your book now a little less stressed with work. Jiwoong lifts his hand up, giving the top of your head a few slow pets, making you freeze with widened eyes.

“Good girl.”

Jiwoong’s words bounce around your skull making you blink in confusion and undoubtedly horniness, chuckling nervously as you shy away from his hand. He drops his hand apologizing, you being a little too quick to reassure him it was perfectly fine, smiling sheepishly with your face instantly flushing. Quietness blanked over the room as you both refocused on your respective studies, you feeling a bit unfocused thanks to Jiwoong’s words from earlier, Jiwoong himself becoming a distraction all together. Your eyes linger from his unholy sculptured features, traveling down his shoulders, a little sad his first three buttons aren’t undone like usual, stopping at his hands. Those stupid hands. The very hands that have held yours multiple times throughout the years since childhood, the hands that had just petted your hair, the hands you ached to have in between your thighs. It’s painfully hard to focus as Jiwoong asks if you’re ok, stumbling over your words as you try to play it off as just being tired, Jiwoong raising an eyebrow in suspicion.

“You sure you’re ok?”

You swallow before nodding, giving Jiwoong a faint smile as you clenched your thighs together, it grows increasingly difficult to think or keep yourself out together. Jiwoong places down his pencil, leaning towards you over the table, making you lean back with a flushed face, as you asked him what he was doing. He caresses your cheek into his hand, his smile making you weak in the knees thankful you were sitting down.

“What Jiwoong?” You asked again, pretending to be oblivious to his actions, although not that they made much sense anyways. Jiwoong smirks as his thumb brushes over your bottom lip, bouncing back into place as he finishes swiping across it. Your breath hitches in your throat not sure how exactly to feel or react to this, wanting it so desperately your limbs felt nearly numb.

“You’re so god awful pretty.”

The words make your heart nearly stop beating, scanning his face looking for any indication he was joking, screaming in your head practically begging for him to be serious. The look in your eyes must’ve given you away as Jiwoong leans closer, his eyes darting from your lips back to your eyes.

“May I?”

Nodding, you wait for him to kiss you, softly saying yes before he pressed his lips against your own. They’re soft, almost too soft, the subtle hint of stubble brushing over your top lip as your lips worked in harmony. Impatience numbs your limbs as you wrap your hands around both his forearms, silently begging for him to come closer, Jiwoong not disconnecting from you once as he moved around the small table. He pulls you onto his lap, his hands warm on the small of your back, the other just barely touching the exposed skin on your waist, intoxicating you with his touch. Shaky gasps fall from you when Jiwoong swipes everything off the table, open pencil bags spilling across the floor. Giggling when Jiwoong lifted you up by your waist to place you on top of the table, not wasting any time to spread your legs apart much to your embarrassment. His hands trail up your thighs as he teases you for your underwear saying he didn’t take you as a lace wearer, threatening to kick him if he didn’t put his annoying mouth to proper use. Placing open mouthed kisses on the areas of your legs that your skirt failed to cover, you hum in approval, combing your fingers through his hair tugging at the ends between clenched fingers.

“Jiwoong,” you breathlessly moaning as you let your head fall back as he takes his hands, hiking up your skirt and wrapping his fingers around the band of your panties. Lifting your hips up enough for him to slide them down your legs, hurriedly kicking them off aimlessly to get him back where you wanted him most. Jiwoong moves a hand up your right thigh moving your leg up to get a better access to you. The kisses he leaves up your thighs before stopping just over your cunt, his breath fanning hot over you making you shiver with need, looking down at him with a desperate pout. Jiwoong looking up at you through his eyelashes with that smirk makes you nearly faint, wrapping both hands into his hair to keep him in place as he pushes himself face first into your cunt. His lips brush over your clit giving it opened mouth kisses before focusing his tongue to lick a wet stripe down your slit, delving it into your hole as he moves you closer to his face. Breathy moans fall from your lips as you lay back against the table, head hanging off the edge as you keep your fingers in place, desperate to keep Jiwoong. His hand travels from your thigh to meet alongside his tongue, making you swear under your breath when he slowly pushes a single finger into you.

“Sh, relax, baby.” Jiwoong hushes you as he relaxes you, which allows a second finger to slip in easily, your eyes rolling back as he laps you up. You’re overwhelmed with pleasure not being coherent enough to think or speak complete sentences, being reduced down to noises and broken sentences.

“Want more.”

“Hm?”

You look down at Jiwoong chewing on your lip before repeating yourself, the smile on his face lighting up as he slowly pulls away, standing up to strip. Watching in awe as his fingers undo his dress shirt, the black fabric being tossed elsewhere in the room, your cunt wet with need as he unhooks his belt. The sound of the metal clicking together makes you genuinely insane, clenching around nothing as he steps out of his slacks, his dick hard in his boxers. By any means he’s not painfully huge but he’s definitely above average, praying internally to be able to take him. Watching him take off his boxers nearly takes you out, his dick hard against his lower abdomen making you want him more. He asks if you have any lube and condoms, pointing to your bedside table telling him to look in the drawer.

“Huh, you’re that type of girl huh?”

You arch yourself to be able to see him, sitting up in a panic going to slam the drawer nearly crushing his fingers.

“Pretend you saw nothing.”

“Aw why? Embarrassed that your best friend saw your vibrator?”

“I’m going to kill you.”

“Oh so scary.”

Jiwoong smirks, taking the lube and condom in his hand, wrapping his other hand around your waist as he pushes you onto your bed. His knee pushes up against your cunt, making you flush red, suddenly shy from him being in your bed. Ripping the condom open with his teeth, he places a generous amount of lube onto his dick before using the lube covered hand to roll the condom on, humming at the sensation. Seeing him work up makes you giddy, licking your bottom lip as you watch him, gasping when he wraps his hands around the back of your knees, pulling you flush to him. His fingers rub over your cunt making you hum in satisfaction, mumbling for him to hurry, him chuckling calling you impatient as he aligns himself to you. Jiwoong slowly starts to push into you, your fingers curled around his forearms as your mouth hangs open due to the stretch. He gives you time to relax, praising you as he carefully pushes until he bottoms out, you grunting in slight pain but it becomes pleasure when you familiarize with the size. Giving him the ok, he begins to roll his hips, his thighs meeting against yours - - making him hit the places you wanted him for so long. He leans down to catch you into a kiss, comforting you as he begins to pick up pace, the sound of skin hitting skin making your brain foggy. Moaning against his lips he swallows each and every single one, his praises being lost as the pressure begins to blossom in the pit of your stomach. Wrapping a hand around the back of his neck, you curl your fingers around the baby hairs that laid there.

“More, faster, please.”

You can feel Jiwoong smirk against your lips, knowing the exact shit eating grin he was sporting, him obliging by quickening his hips, snapping against you hard enough to leave harsh red marks. Throwing your head back you babble how good it felt, how good he felt, burying your face into the crook of his neck as you moaned uncontrollably. Without warning he hits you in your bundle of nerves, your vision blurring letting him know to keep it up, fingernails digging deep into his shoulders. Pleasure builds up in your stomach until it becomes too much, begging to cum, Jiwoong petting the side of your head telling you to breathe and cum for him. The soft tenderness of his praises mixed in with his own moans is enough to tip you over the edge, clinging to him as you cum, vision stark white with stars bordering the edges. Your breathing relaxes as Jiwoong continues to help you through your orgasm, focusing on his own, snaking one hand up to intertwine your fingers with his. He leans his other arm down so his forearm is pressed against the mattress by your head, quickening his thrusts, stopping when he cums, thighs spasming as he slowly rides it out in waves. Both of you are panting heavily trying to catch your breath when he slowly pulls out, groaning at the drag alongside your walls. Jiwoong pulls off the condom, tying it close before finding your box of tissues, wrapping it up before tossing it into the trash. Jiwoong offers to help you clean up, asking him to grab you a wet cloth, cleaning yourself up as he pulls on his boxers. You watch him as he cleans up your school supplies, looking for your clothes as you get dressed.

“How do you feel?”

You look over blushing as Jiwoong is finishing getting dressed, slightly sad to see him clothed.

“I feel really good, less tense. How do you feel? Was it ok?”

Jiwoong looks at you in confusion, walking up to you to caress your cheek into his hand, pressing a kiss to your lips between each word.

“You were incredible, I swear. We should do this more often, what do you say, baby?”

A blush creeps up from your neck to your cheeks, giggling when Jiwoong lifts you up from your thighs to wrap your legs around your waist. His hands cup your ass as he kisses you, asking if you could promote him from tutor to boyfriend. You giggle at him, nodding in agreement giving him another kiss before wrapping your arms around his shoulders in a hug.

“Best friend to tutor to now boyfriend? Be careful, someone might call me greedy.” You joked.

Jiwoong laughs, bringing you up to lay your back flat against the wall, trailing his lips and kisses both down your neck to leave marks.

“Greedy? I like greedy, I want you to claim me as your own, as I am with you.”

Nodding, you both promise to be greedy with another, making out until you beg him to take you back to bed, forgetting about studying all together.

[shriekingmoon]

I've seen a few posts about people not really liking Passive Nightmare being y'know passive and I agree

(Also TW Suicide mentioned and bullying. The text mentioning it is in bold and will be under that cut.)

But it got me thinking, what if he was? What if he was just a kind, shy bookworm or whatever in the beginning? Idk, this was random and not thought out, just a brainworm I felt the need to put out there

What if Nightmare had friends, maybe just two. Maybe Dream knew they would get along and introduced them to each other and those two just happened to not know about or disagreed with the Nightmare being evil thing.

So they're a small friend group, Nightmare, Dream and two others. Dream might hang out with them more than other villagers. They play together, hang out, etc.. The fact the villagers don't really like him doesn't matter, because he has friends who like him, his brother, and the villagers don't bother him beyond occasional nasty looks. 

Then Dream starts to get called away more and more to help people and the other villager children drag him away to play often, because he can't bring himself to say. Then the little free time he has with his brother is spent listening to him read or resting. 

And then the bullying starts.

The bullies just target Nightmare at first, but then they learn about his friends and start bullying them too. Maybe that makes Nightmare stand up for them, start being petty and passive aggressive instead of passive.

Maybe the bullying escalates enough that the friends get banned from being friends with Nightmare because the parents blame him for the bullying. Or the parents decide to move out of the village completely.

TW Suicide mention

Maybe, if we go down a darker path, the bullying escalates enough that one of the friends kill themselves. The friend that's still alive might blame Nightmare for it and either ignore him when they see him getting bullied or even join in, or be banned from continuing to be friends with him.

The bullying and loss of his only friends could make him mean, do things to get back at them and ultimately make things worse. Because by doing that, he's proving the villagers opinions right, they wouldn't care that he was only doing it in self-defense.

Then maybe him retaliating is what gets the adults involved because in their eyes he's the abuser, not the victim, which leads to the apple incident.

[jerzwriter]

The amount of issues that could be avoided if people had the decency and maturity to speak to each other like civilized human beings instead of resorting to the more commonly used methods here, like anon hate, vagueing, and passive-aggressive posts that are clearly targeting a person or group.

In the three years I have been on this hellsite, I have witnessed how these "methods" turn minor issues into outright, unnecessary wars.

Here is some information for those who are unaware:

Anon hate is douchey and wrong. If you send it, you're a douche and wrong. Period. If you can't understand that, please stop reading because you are already beyond help.

Unless someone has notifications set for you, there is an excellent chance that your intended target will not even see your vague/passive-aggressive rants.

Then, when said vague/passive-aggressive rant goes unanswered and ignored, the person or mob behind it festers, simmers, and becomes more outraged.

Bruh. They probably never even saw it, and if they did, they may not known it was directed at them. Now, the problem is 10 times bigger and, best of all, the original problem was never even addressed, much less solved!

Here's another tip:

Don't always assume the worst about someone!

Especially when you never bothered to communicate with them. You're making blind assumptions when you have little or no facts. Trust me, unless you're a mind reader, you don't know. You're not that smart, babes. Trust me. I'm not, either. TALK like grownups. It's much easier than all the bullshit that arises because of the above.

Now, you may be saying, "Hey, yeah, but aren't you vagueing/targeting right now, too?"

I'm sure some will take it that way. Since they likely won't reach out to me directly, they'll take their skewed logic as gospel and insist that they know my motivation. They'll also insist it's regarding "this" fandom event or whatever our drama du jour is.

Well, absolutely no one knows my motivation except me. So I'll make it clear. This is not geared toward any specific event, past or present, but an amalgamation of everything I've seen and experienced in the past three years. My motivation is two-fold. 1) I'm letting off steam, but, more importantly, 2) it is my sincere hope that people will see this, think about how they act and interact with others, and try to be better people.

I'm sure the fandom mind readers will dismiss what I just said and assign motivation to me. Have at it. I don't care.

No one knows my motivation except me, and no one knows my desired end goal, either. My desired end goal Is that everyone, myself included, will reflect more on how they behave and treat other people. I assure you, doing this will save others, the fandom, and, more importantly, it will save yourself a whole hell of a lot of unnecessary distress.

It's not that hard. Be better.

[sugawarassoulmate]

pining! kei starts acting super cold and passive aggressive towards reader. she confronts him and in the heat of the moment he says something out of pocket making her cry. he instantly regrets it and runs after her to apologize but she’s in aki’s arms sniffling

😈😈😈

word count: 614

cw: fem!reader, name-calling, jealousy, pining!kei, no smut but minors dni

"you're crabbier than usual lately, what crawled up your ass and died?" you poked at kei's side, interrupting his study session for the millionth time.

he had been so snippy with you the past few days, which wasn't completely out of the ordinary but he usually had a reason for being upset. "if you're not here to study, go bother yamaguchi," he said curtly."

kei should know better than that, though. you've always been a thorn in his side—a welcomed one most of the time but a thorn nonetheless. his words do little to dissuade you and within a few minutes, he can feel your hands on him again.

"fucking what?" he snaps again, slamming his textbook down on his desk but it barely fazes you.

"just tell me what's wrong and i'll leave you alone," you said, crossing your arms. "i don't think i've done anything wrong to bother you lately so just get over it."

kei is always patient when it comes to you but for some reason, you're the last person he wants to see. he tries to ignore your constant nagging but you're persistent as ever.

and he, unfortunately, snaps.

"do you always have to be so fucking annoying? can't you see i'm trying to do something? do you need attention so bad all the fucking time, jesus," he says, pushing you away from him to turn back to his work.

you tried to speak up for yourself afterward but kei wouldn't hear it. "are you fucking deaf? i don't give a shit, y/n. go bother someone else." he berated again, plugging his headphones in to tune you out.

he isn't quite sure when you left but kei could feel the guilt from his words buzzing inside himself as soon as they left his mouth.

the truth was kei had noticed the closeness between you and his brother and had gotten a little jealous. you had always been his friend and the idea of akiteru swooping in and taking you — sweet, naïve, vulnerable you — into his clutches bothered him.

but the crush you had on kei's older brother was painfully obvious. all your longing stares and heart doodles in the margins of your notebooks were dedicated toward the tall goof. it made kei wonder why you never looked in his direction with the same affection.

still, coming at you like that did nothing to make him feel better and he's sure you're feeling way worse. coming out of his room, kei decides he's gonna go to your place to apologize.

as he's heading to the front door to put on his shoes, he notices the door of akiteru's bedroom. it's slightly ajar but just enough for kei's golden-brown eyes to make a passing glance.

kei stops dead in his tracks when he sees you curled up in his brother's arms, sniffling into his shoulder. "i wasn't trying to bother him, aki, i don't know why he snapped like that," you said, tears still evident by the tone of your voice.

akiteru, who noticed kei as soon as he walked into the hallway, had you in his lap, strong arms curling around you protectively. "shhhh, don't feel bad, baby," he coos, patting your head gently. "maybe he needs some space. why don't we spend time together instead, hm?"

he wipes your tears away, smiling softly at your pretty face, and offers more kind words to help you relax. "there's my pretty girl, let's take a nap," sniffling once more, you nod and allow akiteru to shuffle your bodies around so you're laying in each other's arms in his bed.

kei walks back to his room alone

©sugawarassoulmate 2023 all rights reserved - please do not repost/translate my work on other platforms!

[sequinsmile-x]

Instincts - The Fifth Time

Five times Emily doesn't yell at her mother-in-law, and one time she does.

Part 5/6

-x-

Hi besties <3

Thank you so much for the love on this version of them! In the next chapter, Emily will FINALLY lose her shit and I'll be using the prompt that inspired this whole fic.

As always, let me know what you think <3

-x-

Warnings: Full list of tags can be found on the Master List

Words: 3k

Read over on Ao3, or below the cut

The fifth time, Emily cries but she doesn’t yell, and she takes that as a win. 

It’s Jack’s birthday, and despite telling him he could do whatever he wanted to do, all he wanted was Emily’s homemade lasagne and time with his family. It was sweet, and adorable and everything she’d come to expect from her eldest, but that didn’t mean she wasn’t immediately filled with dread at the thought of spending the evening with her mother, Caroline and Roy all at once. 

Thankfully, either through divine intervention or Jessica simply being able to read Emily’s mind to pull some strings with her dad, Roy declined the invitation to dinner and said he and Jess would take Jack out on another day. Emily is more grateful for it than she thinks she should be, relief rolling in her belly along with her little girl as she stands at the kitchen counter preparing dinner. 

She chuckles to herself and rubs a circle on her bump, “You have no idea how much I’d like a glass of wine tonight, sweet girl,” she says, grimacing at the thought of the evening ahead with her mother and Caroline in the same room, “But you’re worth it,” she lowers her voice as if she’s telling the baby a secret, as if she’d understand her, “I’ll just eat all the garlic bread instead.” 

“Surely not all of it.” 

She looks up and smiles when her eyes meet her husband’s. Hugo is on his hip, the 18-month-old’s tiny fist wrapped around the collar of Aaron’s polo shirt. Their matching smiles make her stomach flip in a way that has nothing to do with the little girl rolling around in there, and she finds herself having to hold back tears like she had to so often these days. She was entirely at the mercy of her hormones, and she knew that was part of the reason she was not looking forward to this evening. 

Her mother she could handle. Somehow their relationship was as good as it had ever been. Caroline had created a mutual ground between mother and daughter that had never existed before. They’d throw looks at each other across the room if she said something passive aggressive, and Elizabeth would make a point of showing Jack and Hugo affection Emily hadn’t known she was capable of. It was Caroline she was worried about. Emily struggled to keep her cool around her mother-in-law at the best of times, let alone when she was almost 8 months pregnant. Every one of her nerves felt like they had been scraped raw. Exhaustion and weariness that she’d learnt were unavoidable when she was pregnant with Hugo stripping away all of her self-made protections. Walls and turrets and bared wire she’d wrapped around herself since she was Jack’s age that just disappeared the moment she began to feel overwhelmed. 

She knew she’d be more susceptible to Caroline’s behaviour than usual. Her digs. The comments she’d make. How she’d treat Hugo slightly differently to Jack, but not in a way that was significant enough to call out, each instance something that could easily be explained away with wilful ignorance or by simply calling it a misunderstanding. Aaron had suggested that they try and have their mothers come at different times, divide and concur, but Jack loved his grandmothers, and Emily could pull herself together for one evening for his birthday. 

“Most of it,” she replies, raising an eyebrow at her husband, “By the end of the evening my plan is to have as much garlic bread in me as I do baby.” 

He laughs and he walks over, stamping a kiss against her cheek and then her lips when she turns her head, “Can I help?” 

Her reply is cut off when the doorbell rings, closely followed by Jack yelling from upstairs and the thunder of his footsteps on the hardwood floor. 

“It’s Grandma Lizzie, I was watching out the window.” 

Aaron smiles reassuringly at Emily and leans in to kiss her cheek. Hugo wriggles in his arms, no longer satisfied with being so close to his mom and not in her arms. 

“Mama.” 

“I’ll take him,” she says, abandoning the vegetables she’d been chopping before she opens her arms up to her little boy, her smile wide as his eyes meet hers, “You go make sure our eldest doesn’t fall down the stairs with excitement,” she settles Hugo on her bump and smiles wryly at Aaron, “I don’t think a trip to the ER with a broken bone is the way he wants to spend his birthday.”

Aaron nods and turns, already calling out to Jack as he goes, “Buddy, be careful on the stairs.” 

Emily blows out a slow breath and then smiles at Hugo, taking the opportunity to draw a giggle out of him by tickling his tummy. He laughs and presses his face against her neck and she kisses the top of his head.

“It’s going to be a long evening, sweet boy. You’re lucky you’ll be in bed before dessert.” 

He pulls back to look at her, his smile blocking out the background noise of the front door opening and Aaron and Jack greeting her mother.

“Mama,” Hugo says, his hands on her cheeks as he leans in to kiss her, his lips catching the tip of her nose. It was something he’d watched Aaron do again and again, and he’d started doing it recently, something he understood was affection as he would kiss the nose of whoever was holding him.

“I love you too, baby,” she says, kissing his cheek and breathing him in to store away as much time with her son as she could before the evening began. She hears familiar footsteps, and looks up to see Aaron walking in to the kitchen, Elizabeth just behind him with her arm around Jack’s shoulders. 

“Mom,” Jack says excitedly as he looks at Emily, “Grandma Lizzie got me a massive present. Can I open it?” 

“We should wait until your Grandma Caroline gets here, okay?” She replies, and he sighs like he has the weight of the world on his shoulders. Emily smiles as she turns to Elizabeth, “Hi Mom.”

“Hi,” she replies, “How are you feeling?” 

She groans good naturedly, “Like the most pregnant person to ever exist,” she quips and then she bounces Hugo a little to get his attention, “You want to go to Grandma?”

“Gamma,” he exclaims as he reaches out for her, giggling as she takes him into his arms and settles him on her hip. He leans in and kisses her nose, which draws a confused frown out of her that makes Emily chuckle. 

“I’ll let Aaron explain that one,” she says, raising her eyebrow at her husband and smiling when he tries to feign innocence. The doorbell rings again and Jack’s eyes light up as he runs out towards the front door.

“I can finally open my presents.” 

“I should go make sure he doesn’t bowl her over,” Aaron says, following Jack out of the kitchen, leaving Emily alone with her mother and Hugo. 

“Here we go,” Emily mutters, blowing out a breath as she starts preparing dinner again. She looks up at her mother and sighs, “I know you get a kick out of winding her up, but can you try to be civil for me? I’m too tired and too pregnant to deal with it all.” 

“I don’t know what you’re talking about Emily,” she says, adjusting her hold on Hugo, “But if she so happens to say something first I can’t be held responsible for that,” she looks down at the toddler on her hip, “Let’s go see your other grandma.” 

As soon as Emily is alone she groans, her eyes drifting closed as she tries, and fails, to centre herself, “Fuck it,” she says, letting the knife in her hands clatter to the counter as she opens the fridge, “I’m putting the garlic bread in the oven.”

___

She feels more relaxed after Jack opens his gifts - a new bike from Elizabeth and a skateboard from Caroline. Neither one of them had been particularly subtle in their attempt to outdo each other. When Emily checks on dinner she makes sure to add bandaids to the shopping list stuck to the fridge, unable to stop herself from sighing as she imagines the scraped knees and elbows Jack would have in the near future. 

She’s just finished plating up the lasagne, a celebratory slice of garlic bread in hand, when Aaron walks in. 

“Can I help with anything?” He asks, “Everyone is in the dining room.”

She hums and rubs at her sternum, “Yeah you can start to take everyone’s through if you don’t mind.”

He furrows his brow as he watches her rub her sternum again, “Are you okay, sweetheart?” 

“The baby is giving me heartburn.”

He hums, and looks down at the plate of garlic bread on the counter, “Are you sure it has nothing to do with the 3 slices of garlic bread you just ate?” 

She narrows her eyes at him, “Are you in here to help, or are you here to just lower your chances of ever having sex again?” 

He clears his throat and leans in to kiss her cheek, and then he picks up two plates, “Here to help.”

She smiles and bites the inside of her cheek in a failed attempt to contain it, “Correct answer.” 

He has to help her sit down when everyone has their food. One of his hands on her back and one hand in hers as he helps lower her onto the chair she doesn’t remember being so low when they bought them. She smiles tightly as she looks across the table at Caroline and Elizabeth, embarrassment colouring her cheeks even though she knows they would have gone through this too. 

Caroline smiles sympathetically, an edge to it that Emily had learnt not to trust, and she has a bite of her lasagne, “Even if we didn’t know you were having a girl, I would have guessed it. You’re carrying her differently than you did with Hugo.” 

Emily smiles tightly, her hand on Aaron’s thigh as she digs her fingers in, her lips pressed together as she fights to find a polite way to respond to Caroline’s not-so-subtle comment about her weight. 

“She is definitely lower than Hugo was at this stage,” she says conversationally, reminding herself that the kids were in the room, “I think I might go into labour before my due date again.” 

“You’re flying back home next week, aren’t you Caroline?” Elizabeth asks, her eyebrows raised in fake curiosity, “Such a shame you won’t be able to get back here until at least a month after the baby is born.” 

Caroline smiles and sips her wine, “Oh, if it comes to it and Emily and Aaron need me here I can fly back earlier. Work will understand.” 

“Oh I’m sure you’ll formulate a plan,” Elizabeth replies, her smile sweet and fake, and it makes Aaron almost choke on his scotch. Caroline’s face falls, her jaw tight as she tries and fails to think of a response, and when Elizabeth looks over at Emily she only seems more delighted by her daughter’s disbelieving expression. 

“Mom,” she says through her teeth, throwing her a warning look before she looks over at Jack, desperate to move the conversation on so they don’t end up going over old ground again, “Are you enjoying your birthday dinner, sweetie?” 

He nods enthusiastically, “It’s so good Mom. Thank you.” 

“You’re welcome, honey.” 

“Is it a new recipe?” Caroline cuts across, her eyebrows furrowed as she looks down at her plate, and Emily shakes her head.

“No,” she replies, smiling tightly, trying to focus on Hugo in his high chair to make sure he actually ate some of his dinner and didn’t just smash it all over his face, “It’s the same as when you had it last time.” 

Caroline hums, “It’s just saltier than I remember, that’s all.” 

Emily would never be able to figure out why that’s what sets her off, why a simple comment about the taste of a meal she’d made for her son’s birthday makes tears press at the back of her eyes but it does. She feels a now familiar wave of emotion overtake her, pulling her under until she can’t breathe, drowning the hormones that seemed to rule everything she did these days. She presses her lips together to try and stop her chin from trembling but it doesn’t work. Tears splash down on to her cheeks before she can stop them, and because she’s turned towards him to help Hugo with his dinner, Jack is the first to notice,

“Mom, please don’t cry,” he says, unintentionally drawing everyone else's attention to her, his eyebrows furrowed together, “It’s delicious I promise.” 

Emily closes her eyes, which only makes more tears spill down her cheeks, and she feels Aaron’s hand on her back. She turns to look at him, her cheeks warm with embarrassment and tears, and he squeezes her shoulder. 

“Sweetheart-”

“Emily, there’s no need to be upset,” Caroline says, “I was just saying, maybe next time use a bit less salt.”

It tips her over the edge, and she knows if she doesn’t get out of here now she’ll say something that will break a years long promise to her husband. Somehow, defying her own thoughts over what she was currently capable of, Emily stands up by herself, her hand on her bump as she makes sure she’s steady before she turns to leave the dining room, “Excuse me for a minute.” 

She walks towards the kitchen, a mix of her mother and Aaron both chastising Caroline as she goes slowly fading into the background. She’s oddly proud of herself when she makes it there without bursting into tears, her hand over her mouth to capture her sob so no one else hears it as all the anger she feels spills out down her cheeks. 

She isn’t alone for long. Aaron walks in with Hugo on his hip, a mirror image of how they’d walked in on her earlier, except this time Hugo has remnants of pasta sauce on his face that she hadn’t quite cleaned off. 

“Sweetheart-”

“I’m sorry,” she says, wiping tears from her cheeks before she shakes her head, “Actually, no. I’m not. I know she’s your mom Aaron but she does this every time.” 

He sighs and steps closer, “I know, Em-”

“And I know what I promised, but it is getting harder and harder-”

“I know-”

“And if the boys weren’t there-”

“Emily,” he says, finally catching her attention as he cups her cheek and makes her look at him, “I know. I’m sorry. She…” he drifts off and shakes head, “She always somehow manages to outdo herself.”

“I don’t know,” Emily hums as she leans against him and reaches out to run her fingers through Hugo’s hair, “Giving my newborn baby formula when we specifically told her I was exclusively nursing will still take some beating, honey.” 

“I know that too,” he says, kissing her temple, “Whilst we’re on the topic…your mom’s comment about her ‘formulating a plan.’” 

He raises an amused eyebrow at her and she shakes her head, “You’ve got to give it to her, she’s funny when she tries to be.”

“If it helps,” he says, running a hand up and down her back, “Mom always criticised Haley’s cooking too.”

She hums, “Oddly, that does help.” 

They stand there in silence for a few moments before he kisses her head and stands back. He leans in and kisses her nose, smiling when she scrunches it up. He turns to Hugo and shifts him closer, “Okay buddy, I think Mama needs another kiss to feel better.” 

Hugo beams and does as he’s told, leaning in to stamp a kiss to the tip of Emily’s nose, something that makes her laugh when she also feels cold pasta sauce pressed against her cheek from his. She doesn’t miss Aaron’s smile of victory when she laughs and she shakes her head lovingly at him.

“Okay, pasta boy,” she says, taking Hugo from Aaron, “I’ll go give you a bath and then put you to bed,” she looks up at her husband, “Maybe Daddy will make sure your grandmas are gone by the time I’m back downstairs?” 

Aaron nods and salutes her, making her roll her eyes despite her smile. He leans in and kisses Hugo’s head, “Good night, Hugo. Love you.” 

“Love Dada.” 

Emily smiles as she watches Aaron walk away and she blows out a breath before she turns her attention to her youngest son. 

“Okay, kiddo. Let’s get you cleaned up and in bed, and then I can fall asleep watching whatever movie your brother chooses later.” She starts walking towards the stairs and then she pauses, taking a moment to kiss Hugo’s head again, whispering a promise against his skin that she’d been making since the day he was born, “I promise I’ll never make you, Jack or baby sister feel like this,” she says, holding him close, basking in the comfort of him against her chest, of the roll of her daughter in her belly, and the unmistakable timbre of Jack’s voice down the hall, “I promise I’ll always be exactly what you need me to be.” 

That was a promise she knew she’d always be able to keep, no matter what.