#It was quite a productive day(even cleaned up) so I am very pleased with myself

[zkretchy]

Quick Astarion doodle while I procrastinate doing the big piece (look-I DID shade in 2 background characters okay) to force myself back into my looser style again which while I like is hard to do if the stars don't properly align

[doitforbangchan]

All Bark and No Bite 09

Yall this has to be my best chapter yet. So romantic, i really shocked myself here. Please enjoy :) The middle pic is what I imagines omega to be wearing but does not represent the body type of all readers!

Masterlist

Series masterlist

Chan x reader (y/n) x ot8

ABO!Nonidol!SKZ Alternate Universe

Previous - Next

Series Warnings: Fem reader, Smut, verryyyy nsfw, chan x reader, OT8 x reader, A/B/O, m/m/f smut, possessive! SKZ, possessive! Reader, anxiety and depression, reader is a CRYBABY, fluff, angst, virgin!reader,  cursing, violence, pet names, dom/sub dynamics, Sub reader x mostly dom SKZ, misogyny and sexism, Ateez are depicted as terrible people (sorry Atiny!) 

Chapter Warnings: cursing, crying, fluff, smut ,oral- f receiving, fingering, protected piv (ik crazy for me lol)

WC:5.6k

MDNI 18+

The birds outside woke you up this morning, the sound of their sweet melodies peacefully bringing you out of your much needed slumber. The sun was barely rising over the mountains so you knew it was still very early. The alarm clock next to you read ‘5:44 am’. You knew Chan was laid behind you, his heavy arm curled over your figure, holding you close. 

You took a moment to appreciate the feeling of being trapped by him - of his warmth. This was quickly becoming your favorite pastime; laying here with him just enjoying his presence. A part of you wanted nothing more than to lay here all day, wasting away with him. A bigger part of you needed to be productive. You had slept away most of the day yesterday and were feeling quite energized from the rest. 

Chan did say last night that you had things to do today, so why not get this show on the road! It would be a nice surprise for the pack to wake up to a clean house and hot breakfast. First things first- getting out of the alphas hold on you. You shimmied against him, lightly lifting the appendage that held you hostage to squeeze out. You paused when you heard him sigh in his sleep, only to resume when he let out a snore. Cutie pie. 

You grabbed the pillow that you had been laying on and jammed it in place of where you rested previously, in Chans hold. The alpha must have smelled you on the pillow since he pulled it closer to his body. 

After doing your business in the bathroom you went on the hunt for cleaning supplies. You crept through the halls opening doors you knew to be closets until you finally found the supplies in a closet on the first floor. Upon finding them you immediately got to work. 

Starting with dusting, then sweeping and mopping the entire first floor. After that you did all the available bathrooms and then finished with a quiet clean of the top two floors. The kitchen would come after you made breakfast. Surprisingly it only took you until about 8:00 am to get all that done. You felt very efficient! To your surprise none of the boys have awoken yet. You didn’t hear one peep while cleaning. 

You also took the time to add more comfort items to the living spaces. The omega in you begged to make it more nestable so you did. Adding blankets, extra pillows and even a few of your new stuffed animals to couches and chairs. The goal was they would start to retain the smells of your new packmates then you could cuddle the items without shame. 

Next you wandered into your own room. All the bags from yesterday remained there untouched. Sorting through you put away all your clothes and picked out a nice outfit for today. It was almost summer time so you knew it would be warm today and opted for a green floral cami dress that went just above your knees. Minho must have picked this out for you, but it was so so cute you had to wear it. It was just your style. Grabbing the dress and some panties you went to take a shower and to finish getting ready for the day. 

The shower was where you did your best thinking. A place to escape just you and your thoughts. As you washed your hair and body with the strawberry scented products you reflected on the whole pack. If you were a sane person it would scare you just how comfortable you are getting with the pack in such a short amount of time. And how comfortable they are with you. 

But you’re not a sane person. You’re an omega in love. All sanity is thrown out the window when you find your mate. All you want is to be perfect for him. And in turn also for the whole pack. 

There was a blow dryer and curler amongst your things in your room as well as makeup you had chosen while shopping so when you came out you were able to fully get ready for the day. You felt very cute today, you didn’t have any reason to look super nice back when you were with your family seeing as you rarely were allowed to leave the house- and if you did leave never would you have been allowed to wear a dress or anything remotely revealing. Fathers orders. 

You hoped your alpha and pack would like it on you. You straightened yourself up before heading down to cook. It was nearing 9:30 so you hoped they would start getting up any time now. 

Down in the kitchen as you were gathering ingredients you noticed a small sound system attached to the wall and a remote sitting on the island. Grabbing the remote you pressed the power button and when you saw the small light indicating it was on you pressed play. Out came the melodies of a familiar band. 5 Seconds of Summer? Whoever is hooked up to this obviously has great taste! 

That was where Seungmin found you, whisking eggs and belting out the words to ‘She looks so perfect’ and he couldn't agree more. ‘She does look perfect’ He thought to himself. He stood there leaning against the wall admiring you for a solid 2 minutes before you noticed him, suddenly being able to smell another person around you spun around in embarrassment at being caught like that. 

“Seungmin!” 

He cracked a smile at you, eyes scanning you up and down before settling on your reddened face. “Hey baby. Whatcha doin?” 

You turned away from him to try and hide the blush that seeped onto your cheeks, “Nothing. Just trying to get breakfast together. What are you doing?” 

He shrugged “Been up for a few minutes when I heard a commotion in here. The house looks really great. Was that your doing baby?” You felt him approach you while you nodded. 

“Umm yeah, I woke up early and wanted to get some things done for you guys.” You continued to whisk the eggs without looking at him. 

“Mmm” He reached for your face, turning you towards him, “ It is greatly appreciated, omega.” 

You let out a squeak when he called you that, causing a smirk to appear on his face.

 Seungmin could smell how pleased you were so he didn’t give it another thought before he leaned down and pressed a chaste kiss directly on your lips. He pulled away and licked his own lips still gazing into your shocked eyes. 

“How long until food is ready you think?” He asked. You couldn’t believe how nonchalant he was being right now after he just kissed you!! 

‘Should I pretend my heart isn’t beating out of my chest?’ You wondered. 

“ A-about 20 minutes.” Dammit you stuttered! Get a grip! You mentally scolded yourself. 

“Perfect. I'll wake the pack”  He said it with an evil smirk, looking forward to the task. 

-----------------------------------

Wake the pack he did indeed. By playing police sirens on his phone and bursting into everyone's rooms cackling when they swore at him and dodging thrown pillows (and one stuffy from Felix). If you had known he was going to do that then you would have woken them yourself! Though admittedly it was pretty efficient, since it was a matter of minutes until the rest of your pack made their way downstairs, looking tired and grumpy. 

The grumpiness left every single one of them though, when they caught eyes on you. Looking oh so delectable in your little dress cooking for them. What a perfect thing to awaken too. 

Not that you noticed much, you were still caught up on the feeling of Seungmins lips on your own. Each boy greeted you as they came down, most giving you hugs - except Changbin who not only hugged you but did his signature of lifting you from the ground. 

When Minho had come down you thanked him for the dress. He knew you would look great in the outfit and damn he was right. 

“You’re welcome, Baby. It looks good on you.” He replied and gave you a wink

Chan came down last as you and Minho were setting the table, looking freshly showered. 

“There's my sweet girl. I was wondering where you wandered off too.” the alpha kissed your temple. He took the stack of plates from your hands and continued your task. 

“Good morning Channie.” You reached back for the plates but he shooed you out with a smack to your rear. 

“Nuh uh looks like you’ve done enough. Sit down and get some food, omega.” He raised his brows at you when it looked like you were about to protest. You begrudgingly took a seat in your normal spot. Chan gave you a pleased smile. “Good girl.” 

Once the whole pack was sat together you all discussed each other's plans. Changbin was hitting the gym (what was new there), Minho wanted to get more food for the house and Felix wanted to join him to the store, while Hyunjin had his weekly art class he teaches at the community center every wednesday afternoon. 

“What are you up to today, baby?” Jisung asked with a mouth full. 

“Oh, I don’t actually know.” You looked to Chan for the answer. 

He wiped his mouth with a napkin, “Well you have an appointment in about an hour to see a doctor, we need to make sure everything is okay after you got off the suppressants. Then we’re heading over to the police station to clear up your missing persons status.” 

You were confused. “I have a missing person status?” 

“You ran away from home, Baby. Ran away from Hongjoong, who probably paid a pretty penny for a sweet girl like you. Makes sense they would look for you.” Jeongin reasoned nervously. The youngest alpha would never admit it but he was honestly scared about the Ateez pack coming for you or Chan. It was weighing on a few of their minds. 

Chan could sense the uneasiness in the room. “But we’re getting it taken care of today. I already have it all ready to go, just need you to sign a few things and you'll be golden. No more worrying about Hongjoong.” He smiled with that predator's smile he had. His words brought you some ease, and you nodded at him. His next words though, shook you to your core.

“Plus, if that asshole did decide to show his face around here I would take care of it.” 

--------------------------------------------

After dropping off Hyunjin and Changbin at their respective locations you and Chan headed for the doctors office. Chan had assured this man was very good at his job and could be trusted. 

Doctor Bong had been Chan's doctor for years, and before that had been childhood friends with the alpha. He was a friendly beta man, albeit younger than any doctor you had ever seen, and he did his best to help you relax with small talk as he examined you. Even though you’re the first real omega he has treated he still had some knowledge as he had to do a course on omegas in medical school. 

“Given how long you had been on the suppressants I am going to need a small blood sample to examine.” Dr.Bong said woefully at seeing your expression. “ I know it’s not ideal, but you had been on some pretty powerful drugs, Y/n.” 

“Not to mention illegal.” Chan muttered scornfully. 

Bong nodded “Yes that too. There's a reason you can’t just pick up a prescription for them. They could cause a lot of damage and we need to be sure you’re functioning correctly.”  

Your alpha grabbed your hand and released a calming pheromone to relax you. “This is to help you, baby.” 

You took a deep breath and prepared for the needle. Chan was laying his scent on thick, it now taking over all your senses completely distracting you from the blood draw. You were so wrapped up in him that you didn’t notice the draw had been done until Dr.Bong was putting a bandage on you. 

You snapped out of the daze when Dr.Bong exclaimed “All done! We will send this into the lab asap and get back to you by tomorrow morning at the latest. From what I can tell so far though your body is functioning pretty normally, maybe just your hormones are a little wacky. I would refrain from any.. Unprotected fun until we get the results in to be sure.” He looked pointedly at Chan. 

“Damn” Chan smirked and you gasped in embarrassment.

“Chan!!” 

He only laughed at your mortification. 

“Before you go�� Bong said, “If everything checks out alright are you going to need a prescription for non hormonal birth control?” 

You were too shy to answer correctly, only nodding when Chan said “Yes please Bong. Wanna have some time with my girl before we have babies.” 

As you were checking out with reception Chan thanked the Doctor. 

“I appreciate you getting us in to see you at such short notice Bong.” The alpha bro hugged his friend. 

 “Anything for you, Chris. I am so happy you found your person. I’ll keep you updated as soon as I get the results in.” 

“Thanks man.” He saw you approaching him, “Ready to go gorgeous?” 

You smiled happily, now that the hard part for you was over, “Yes alpha!” You turned to the doctor “Thank you Doctor Bong!” 

Your alpha grabbed your hand and you were off to your next stop. 

-----------------------------------

The people at the police station had the paperwork ready for you upon your arrival. They just had to ask you a few questions regarding your safety, you signed the document stating you were in fact not missing and that was that. 

It felt like a massive weight had been lifted from your shoulders, Chans too by the scent coming off of him. 

The sheriff congratulated Chan on finding his omega, clapping him on the back in a fatherly way. It seemed like everyone in town knew the alpha. It had been explained to you that Chan's family had lived in the town of Silver Ridge for generations, helping to cultivate it and protect it. His family owned the property you now live on, only now it belonged solely to your alpha. He had grown up here. His parents left the small town  with him and his siblings when he was a teenager, wanting a change of scenery. Chan had only returned when he was an adult and his grandfather had passed, leaving his massive home to your alpha. 

He had a stake in his family business of buying and selling massive commercial properties, so he was very wealthy. Though he didn’t flaunt it.To him it was just one of the ways he provided for his pack.  Not that you cared if he had money or not. You loved him for him, not his money. 

After the police station there was still about an hour before you were supposed to pick up Hyunjin and Changbin so Chan took you to a little diner down the road where he claimed they made ‘the best chili fries ever’ and that you had to try them. 

He dragged you to an old booth in the corner, his normal spot he claimed, and ordered a massive plate of chili fries and each of you a milkshake. 

As he ate you just admired him. It was crazy how handsome he was, even with a mouth full of fries his beauty was effortless. He caught your eyes and grinned at you. 

“What are you looking at, beautiful?” 

You looked down ashamed you had been caught staring “Nothing.” You glanced up at him to see him still looking at you in amusement. “You’re just really handsome is all, Channie.” 

He chuckled at your words “ And you are too sweet, my gorgeous girl.” 

You felt the mating claim on your neck tingle at his compliment, so subconsciously  you raised your hand and lightly touched the area. Of course Chris noticed- he never took his eyes off you- and asked in concern “ Does it still hurt?” 

“No, just..” There was that blush again. He patiently waited for you to find your words. “Just whenever you say sweet things to me.. It.. tingles.” 

The alpha let out a small growl at your admittance, feeling his pants tighten. 

“Does yours do that too, alpha?” you asked tentatively. 

“Tingle wouldn’t be the word I would use, baby. But I definitely feel the connection in my bite.” He winked at you. 

“W-what does yours feel like?” 

His stare was piercing into your soul, “Baby. I burn for you.” You gasped as he continued “ It's this ever present heat that dwells within me whenever you are near me.  As if I had been living in a tundra my whole life never knowing warmth and now I’ve suddenly been transported to the desert. Inescapable and all encompassing.” 

Oh my fucking GOD 

Did he really just say that?! 

What the fuck do I say to that? 

You were short circuiting. You just couldn’t believe this perfect specimen of a man was spilling his heart out to you, in a public diner no less! 

Your pleased scent was cascading off of you in waves at this point, Chan could see the other patrons start to turn to look at you, nostrils flaring. He noticed one alpha man in particular start to fidget in his seat while gazing at you. 

Chan narrowed his eyes as if challenging the other male before addressing you, “Time for us to go now, my love.” He threw down a few 20s on the table and stood, grabbing your hand and leading you out. Your alpha was pumping out menacing pheromones, letting others know he wasn’t one to fuck around with.  

You finally caught onto what was happening when you saw heads turning to watch you walk out. You clutched harder onto Chan, holding his arm close to you as he led you out. 

“ ‘m sorry.” You murmured as you exited the restaurant, climbing into the car as he held the door open for you. 

He leaned down and pressed a hot kiss against your mouth, letting it linger for a second before he pulled away. 

“Don’t apologize. Not your fault those bastards can't keep their eyes or their noses to themselves.” He gave you a tight smile at you before closing the door once he was sure you were secure. 

You couldn’t help but feel like you soured the mood, the guilt beginning to feel like a pit in your stomach. Chan climbed into the driver's seat next to you and started the car. He knew you felt bad about what happened. “Seriously Baby, it’s no big deal. It was about time to go pick up Jinnie and Bin anyways.” He gave you another kiss and you were off. 

----------------------------------

Your mood improved slightly after picking up the other two boys, they always brightened your day. Changbin was still slightly sweaty when he got in the car, his musk making you dizzy. As if he could tell he gave you a wink when you looked at him in the folding mirror. 

Hyunjin had a large canvas with him that was covered in a sheet blocking anyone from seeing what lies underneath. When you asked him what he had made he blushed and held the canvas close to him, muttering that it was a surprise. Of course Changbin would never let that slide so he relentlessly teased the beta, tugging on the sheet and whining about needing- not wanting - to see it. Hyunjin held his ground and refused each time, slapping the alphas hands away after every tug. 

Arriving home Changbin flung his door open and opened your door for you before Chan could, giving his alpha a sly smile when you thanked him. “Ever the gentleman, aren't you Binnie.” You teased him. He nodded enthusiastically. 

Jisung greeted you at the front door when you walked in, planting a wet smooch on your cheek causing you to squeal and laugh, pushing him away. “Jisung!” 

“Mm say my name again baby.” He leaned in for another kiss but instead licked your cheek quickly then ran away cackling maniacally. 

“AHH JISUNG!” 

 You went to chase after him but were stopped by Hyunjin grabbing your arm gently. 

“Ignore him baby, I do.” 

You huffed. “Fine.” 

The beta snickered and lowered his hand to hold yours, the other still gripping his canvas. “Can I show you something? In my room.” 

You nodded “Of course.” He led you up to his room. Chan gave your rear a pat when he passed you. 

You had never been in Hyunjins space before. The space was so…Hyunjin. Cream colored sheets and curtains, a big easel by the wide bay windows, shelves lined with paints and mountains of sketch books, and floral paintings covered the walls from floor to ceiling. His bed was unmade but it somehow added to the charm of the room. An artist's room. 

He closed the door behind you, and led you to take a seat on his bed. The beta then took the canvas in his hands - still covered- and placed it on his easel. He turned to you and fiddled with his hands. You gave him a patient look, waiting for him to gather himself. 

“Promise you won't laugh.” He states. 

You made an X over your heart. “Cross my heart, I won't laugh.” 

He let out a nervous breath and then tore the sheet from over the artwork. 

You weren't prepared for what lay underneath, a gasp leaving you. 

It was you. Hyunjin had painted you. In the exact outfit you were wearing now. He made you look ethereal. Capturing your image in a way that felt too perfect. In the painting you were sitting by an open window looking out into a field of flowers. 

“Oh my god, Hyunjin.” 

He studied your features, looking for any signs of displeasure. He found none. 

“I was teaching a class today and the topic we worked on was things that bring you joy.” You looked at him like you were going to cry, tears on your lash line. “The only thing I could think of was you. Of how effortlessly beautiful you are.” 

A sob escaped your lips involuntarily. The betas eyes widened in panic, upset he had done something wrong. He rushed to your side and took your hands in his own. “I'm sorry baby! I’ll get rid of it!” 

“No!” You demanded, still crying. “ I can’t believe you think of me this way. It’s so beautiful, Jinnie. Way too beautiful to be me.” 

He shook his head disagreeing. “ This is how I see you, baby. To me you are the most beautiful girl in the world. I can feel myself falling for you.” 

You acted without even thinking about it, and crashed your lips into his. He let out a noise of surprise and you pulled back quickly. 

“I am so sorry Hyun-” Before you could finish your sentence he kissed you again. He let go of your hands and brought them up to cup your face, deepening the kiss. He swiped his tongue along your bottom lip asking for permission which you gladly granted, parting for him. He tasted so sweet. Like rock candy, or a jolly rancher. Similar to his scent. It drove you crazy. 

He was the first to pull away, your lips chasing his. “You don’t know how badly I’ve wanted to do that.” He rested his forehead against his own, eyes closed and breathing heavy. 

You released your own shaky breath, his thumbs wiping away your tears. “I thought you were going to yesterday, when you left me in front of my door.” 

“I wanted to. I just didn’t know if you wanted me like I wanted you. Like I need you.” He could smell the sudden flare of arousal emanating from you. 

“ I do, Hyunjin. I need you too. It’s still taking some getting used to that it’s ok for me to need you, but I do. I think I’m falling for you too.” You were honest with him and he rewarded you by nuzzling his nose into yours, giving it a peck. 

“I won’t do anything to make you uncomfortable, baby.” Though if your smell was any indication you were quite enjoying yourself. 

You shook your head, “I’m not uncomfortable Jinnie. In fact I.. I want more.” 

“Oh baby.” Hyunjin purred then reattached his mouth to yours and he lightly leaned you back to lay on his bed, hovering above you while he kissed you. He stuck his tongue back into your mouth, massaging your own with the wet appendage. 

You let out a squeak when you felt his hand find your thigh, his warm fingers running up and down your skin. Your own hands found the front of his shirt, tugging him closer to you. You felt yourself get drunk on the taste of him. 

He slid his hands up to your hips, under your dress, and he drummed his fingers there. Without removing his lips from your skin he peppered kisses from your lips to your chin and down your neck, the opposite side from your mating mark. 

“Tell me to stop.” He said in between kisses. “Tell me to stop before I go too far.”  

“I don’t want you to stop.” 

“Omega.”  His right hand traveled from your hip to your clothed core, thumbing over the wet patch. “Already so wet for me, huh? I haven't even touched you yet. My dirty girl.” You could feel him smirk against your skin, his kisses turning sloppy and wet.  

He rubbed against the wet patch through your panties, pushing the material between your folds and stimulating your bundle of nerves. 

A small moan slipped from you and you bit your lip. By now your slick was building quickly, completely soaking the fabric. 

The beta hummed at feeling it. “I can feel you starting to wet my fingers, baby. Can’t let all that goodness go to waste, can we?” He cooed rhetorically. 

Hyunjin laid one more suckling kiss to your chest (that will surely turn into a hickey) then he scooted himself down your body and bunched up your dress to sit over your hips. He finally got a good look at your soaked panties- a pair of green lacy ones. ‘Fitting’ He thought. 

He was drowning in the scent of your arousal, being this close was like a slap in the face. He could taste it before he even got his mouth on you. Hyunjin looked up at your red, panting face one last time before closing his eyes and licking up the wet patch on your underwear. He let out the filthiest moan he had ever made when he made contact. In turn making you moan too. 

“Ji-jinnie.” 

At the sound of his name he reached up and pulled your panties down your hips just enough to lick you with no barrier, then he dove in with his tongue. He swiped it up and down your folds, over the slit, collecting the liquid that leaked from you, drinking it like he was parched. Like he was dying of thirst. 

Your hands found his hair and you yanked in pleasure, your back arching. He took that as his invitation to go further, slithering his tongue to circle your clit where he wrapped his lips around it and suckled. 

A whine tore through you, so good but wanting more. 

“Jinnnnie please” 

He hummed in response, the vibrations flowing straight through to your core. 

“Nnnnnggghh” you groaned. 

He humored you and brought two fingers up to your opening, coating himself in the slick, before pushing in slowly up to the last knuckle. 

Your panting got louder at the intrusion. You were finding it difficult to keep quiet with how good it felt, the whole pack probably knows by now anyway. Not that you cared right now, but later you would be mortified. Oh well that was a problem for later. 

He gave you a second to adjust, feeling you clench on his fingers every time he licked your bundle, before easing the digits out slowly then back, a steady motion that gradually got quicker as he went. Soon enough he found the perfect rhythm where your moans got the loudest. He paid attention to things like that. 

Your thighs were beginning to shake from the pleasure, you knew if he kept it up you would tip into oblivion. 

“Jinnie ‘m gonna cum.” You pulled his hair in warning. He stayed steadfast, if anything he licked harder trying to get you there. After only a few more thrusts of his fingers you came with a cry, hips bucking against his face and hands knotted in his blond locks.

‘Damn she sounds divine when she comes’ He mused in his head, instead letting a moan of his own escape him at the taste of your cum and the sweet sounds you made for him. 

He pulled his fingers out of you and lifted his face to show you the wetness that covered the bottom half of his face. Then he made a show of sucking those same fingers into his mouth, eyes rolling when they hit his tongue. 

“Hyunjin!” You squealed and hid your face, “That's so dirty!” 

“Only for you, baby.” It hurt how sincere he was. “Do you wanna continue, or was that enough? I don’t wanna push you too far.”

Even though you were a little sensitive from the last few days you still wanted him. “ Wan’ you Jinnie. Need you.” 

He stood quickly to pull down his pants and underwear, revealing his length to you. It was so pretty. Long but on the slimmer side. Drool worthy. 

He removed his bottoms from himself completely, and pulled his shirt up over his head letting you get a good look at his slim but fit figure. He was tan like he had been in the sun recently. He reached into his bedside table for a condom, remembering what his alpha had said about not cumming in you. Yet. He quickly rolled it on. 

He got back on the bed and crawled up your body to hover over you, where he then gave you a peck on the mouth. “Are you sure, baby?” 

“Yes. Please Hyunjin.” you purred. 

He groaned “You’re gonna kill me one day.” 

The beta took himself in his hand and lined himself up, sweeping through the liquid to coat him, then slid inside inch by inch, giving you time to adjust to him. 

Your arms came to wrap around his bare shoulders, a long drawn out moan in his ears like the most beautiful melodies. 

You were so warm inside, and you gripped him like a vice so tightly he almost stopped breathing. After a beat he gave you a gentle thrust, then another and another, going deeper with each one. He took one of your thighs and wrapped it around his waist to press himself further into you, letting you feel his weight. If he died now he would die a happy man, having gotten a taste of what it’s like to be with you.

With each thrust you let out small high pitched noises, unable to contain them. Not that Hyunjin wanted you too. It wasn’t long before you were close to the edge once again. You were still worked up from the last one. 

Hyunjin could feel his impending orgasm but he needed you to come first. He brought two fingers up to your mouth and ran them along your lips gathering the drool that was accumulating there. Then he took those same digits and lowered them between your bodies to your clit, where he rubbed hard figure 8s. 

That seemed to be all you needed, your arms tightening around him as you came hard on his cock. Your eyes screwed shut as you moaned.

When you came you clenched hard. Hard enough to push Hyunjin to orgasm, he crashed his lips into yours and he shook against you as he filled the condom. 

For a few minutes he just held you there against him, both of you breathing hard. He wasn’t an alpha so he didn’t have to worry about a knot and was able to slip out if you easily. He held the condom secure as he did so, then stood up and quickly took it off and disposed of it in the trash can in the corner. 

You were still panting but coming too as he stood up. Can’t believe that just happened. There was a twinge of guilt for it, but that was quickly replaced with peace when Hyunjin gave you that signature grin with his pouty lips. 

He came back to his bed where you were still laying and plopped down next to you, giving you a kiss. “How was that, baby? Are you feeling ok?” 

“Mmhmm” You answered, snuggling up to the beta, needing the after sex comfort. 

“I hope you don't regret it.” His voice was timid now, as he put his face in your hair. "Don't regret me."

“No Hyunjin, of course not. I could never regret you.” There was zero hesitancy in your voice so he knew you were telling the truth. Chan had given you explicit permission, encouraged it, so there was nothing to regret. It felt good to be loved and wanted by these boys. Hyunjin definitely made you feel that way. 

He showed it by taking care of you now, getting up to grab you some water and a fresh pair of underwear from your room. Then he plopped down next to you once again and engaged in some cuddles. You could get used to this. 

A/N: Finnnnaallllyyyyyy getting some action from the other boys >:) I am so damn proud of this one yall idekkkk. These chapters are quickly becoming more and more self indulgent lol sorry

Beta read by the lovely @ayejaii thank you bumble <3

Comments and reblogs are very much appreciated!

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Sorry if your tag isn't working!! Im trying my best :(

[eloves-writes]

heyyy

i couldn’t find a navigation on ur profile so if you feel uncomfortable with this request please ignore it🙏

ok how about quickie with sej in janitors closet at the academy🫣

i am feral.

-anon

babygirl very very little makes me uncomfortable on this hellsite these days😭 also i don’t have a navigation rn because i’m lazy and i suck! will work on it, sorry, thanks for this request, i am also feral for sejanus plinth🤞🏻

warnings: smut, swearing, p in v sex, exhibitionism (my signature move atp), perhaps slightly ooc sejanus but that's neither here nor there

mdni, 18+ content under the cut

you didn’t know quite what had gotten into the usually mild-mannered boy as he thrusted into you, your legs wrapped around his waist as he pushed you up against a shelf of cleaning products.

one minute you’d been sat in the academy dining hall, suggestively licking your spoon clean of dessert as you gave sejanus plinth your best fuck-me eyes, as had become customary during any interaction you had with the boy. you didn’t even really know him that well, but something about him made you feral. he was so big, so manly. so powerful. you needed him. bad. and you were not above slutting yourself out to him at any opportunity in pursuit of this burning desire.

it was working. today was his last fucking straw, forcing sej to finally lose his composure and calmy demand to speak with you outside, then roughly dragging you to the janitor’s closet as he had wanted to do for weeks.

now his thick cock was buried deep inside of you. “you like that, y/n? this what you wanted?” he taunted, withholding his own moans.

you tried to string together a sentence but you were struggling. “yes, sej,” you managed before letting out a loud whimper.

sejanus smirked, pulling out of you and slowly pushing back into your wet cunt in a way that had you gasping with arousal. “you want everyone to hear you, doll? yeah? you want them all to know what a slut you are for the district boy, huh?”

grabbing fistfuls of his messed-up hair in desperate search of support, you quietly moaned something that resembled an embarrassed yes.

sejanus pulled a face and rammed his cock into you with more force than before, earning a resounding moan and knocking several bottles off of the shelf behind you.

“say it,” the boy growled without softening his brutal thrusts. looking directly into his warm, lust-filled eyes with redness creeping into your cheeks, you obeyed.

“want them to hear you fucking me, sej. want them to know how good you’re doing it.”

sejanus smirked. “good little slut. let ‘em hear you then, princess.”

at that request, you let out the whimpers you so badly wanted to let out and the sound reverberated off the cement walls of the tiny closet, producing a vulgar euphony of your escapades.

there was no doubt that everybody in the hallway could hear it too. you made sure to moan sej’s name particularly loud so they knew exactly who was fucking you so hard.

you soon came over his cock, letting him finish inside of you and stuff your panties in his back pocket like a trophy. as you left the room in much worse condition than you found it, sej placed a claimant hand on the small of your back. he kept it there as he walked you to class, your lipstick smudged, both of your clothes rumpled, his hair untamed, rumours catching like fire in every corner of the academy about the plinth boy and the y/l/n girl in the janitor’s closet.

[thevikingwoman]

AO3 Year End Roundup 2024

Tagged by @myreia and @galadrieljones, thank you friends!!

Tagging: I am even later, but let me tag @roguelioness @redinkofshame @wickedwitchofthewilds @astrology-bf @superfluouskeys

@galadae @buttsonthebeach

—Words posted: 34,520 (including the ffxivwrite2024 pieces I didn't get together to post to ao3 until today, but it was up on tumblr in sept!)

—Additional Words Written: Unknown! My words written counter is a little less than this, as some of the works posted was started in 2023 or earlier.

—Grand total of words: My counter says around 28,500 written in 2024

—Fandoms: FFXIV, Wayfarer, Dragon Age Inquisition (AU)

—Works: 17 (inlcuding ffxivwrite2024 anothology)

—Highest Kudos: Casual Fun (Dragon Age solavellan, explicit). Not really a big surprise that a major pairing in a large fandom with lots of writer love beat out my rare pairs in a fandom with less writing/reading focus.

—Highest Hit One-shot: Also Casual Fun

—New Things I Tried: I did ffxivwrite for the first time, and it was a ton of fun! I've done a prompt/day challenge before, but this was the first one where the prompts are not known before hand. I didn't do all days, but the ones that spoke to me, and it was great! it was my most productive month.

I also wrote explicit m/m for the first time in To the Victor, the Spoils (FFXIV Magnai/Hien, explicit). I can't believe I did before, but I haven't. I was quite pleased with it!

—Fic I Spent the Most Time On: The Lovers (Meryta/Tansui, explicit). This fic is listed as "relationship talk" in my tracking sheet, and it's something I worked on intermittently from January to May - and it's been in my mind longer.

It was really important to me to write how Meryta's and Tansui's relationship changes. It's a physical fling first that grows, and I wanted to have an honest and mature conversation about exclusivity that worked in the world. And to stay true to their cheeky and teasing nature. I'm really pleased with the Xaela lore I weaved in along with both how intense Tansui feels about it, their different approaches to a relationship (Meryta is demi-romantic) and also their playfulness (it started as a silly thought, which is how they always behave in my head). It meant a lot to me and it took a lot of work; I actually went and wrote part of their conversation from both their POVs to figure out what was going on.

—Fic I Spent the Least Time On: Stamp, which I've not even counted in my ao3 count, since it's so silly, not canon, and not going on ao3.

For published fics, Casual Fun, since it was finishing something that was a few years old for "finish your WIP February" and I just cleaned it up and wrapped in up in 3 days (short for me!)

—Favourite Thing I Wrote: This is a very hard question! I did love writing The Lovers, and my Hien/Magnai fics, and all my Meryta/Tansui fics - they're just ughghgh to me.

but I think my favorite things was actually Choices, which is a Meryta introspective Shadowbringers piece - it's short and deals with the lack of agency and the Exarch and all the feelings she's going through in the story. I just really loved fleshing this out.

—Favorite Thing I Read: I'm going to be extremely selfish and say Familiar Shores by @myreia, your wrote my blorbos and you wrote them so well and I'm just SO happy reading it.

otherwise, I read many great things - I love all of what @myreia writes, and I had other fun things I read, like see me bare my teeth for you by meepfather, such a lovely and wellwritten piece and I love the aura head canons.

I also re-read @ellstersmash's nothing on my tongue for the umpteenth time, a perpetual favorite

—Something I Finished: I tend to write one-shots, so I finished many things! I love writing one shots, and it's much easier for me to write a moment than a story arch. I started out 2024 by finishing Solace and Breakfast, which really was the groundwork for all my Meryta/Tansui fics, and the productivity I had this year

—Miscellaneous Highlights: My word count was pretty typical for a "productive" year for me, and I'm glad I found footing in writing ffxiv and Meryta - along with Hien and Magnai. I have not been writing much since my interest in writing Dragon Age tapered off, Iwyn settled with Solas in my mind. I was excited to pick up writing more again!

I also tracked my writing and tried to write every day. it did fall apart in the summer, and after October, but overall it's a good goal to have, and I'll pick it up again (next week. hehe).

I'm also really happy to revisit my Wayfarers for a small Wayfarer event, I love them and the story so much!

Lastly, I was very happy to write a small piece for @myreia, I do love writing gift fics, but it's also a bit nervewrecking writing other people's characters. Meryta-as-an-adventurer was fun to visit and how she'd see Aureia!

—Writing Goals for 2025:

I want to write more Meryta. I love her, and there's lots to fill out. I started and outlined a multichapter of her time on the Steppe in Stormblood - as this turned out so important for her. I do hope to get to write more on it.

I also have more Tansui and Meryta ideas, and I am SO close to finishing Endwalker - I want to flesh out how their relationship develops during that time. in addition, I think I'll try to do @yearoftheotpevent! I'm excited for the prompts.

I would love to do ffxivwrite again, and I'd love to revisit my Wayfarers. Then I will probably play veilguard, and who knows if that will make me return to Dragon Age.

—Final Thoughts:

I really like being a multifandom, and multiship writer. While right now 80% of my brain is Meryta and Tansui, it's so fun to have other things to explore. I have a half-written estimeric piece, I have more Hien and Magnai ideas...

I think I'm still struggling with writing a rarepair and ffxiv's lack of writer engagement, but I will carry on and forward and remember the joy writing bring me in it's self - and the dear people reading my writing 💚

[mysteryshoptls]

SSR Kalim Al-Asim Bloom Birthday Personal Story: Part 3

"Happy Birthday"

(Part 1) (Part 2) Part 3

[Scarabia Dorm – Birthday Party Venue]

Azul: Finally, we are at the last question.

Azul: “How do you spend your days off?”

Kalim: I do a bunch of stuff, but… Well, last time, I went into town to shop with Jamil and some other dormmates.

Kalim: Physically going to a store and picking something to buy from all the stuff they got stocked on the shelves is super exciting, like a treasure hunt.

Kalim: Back home, the merchants would bring all of their goods directly to my home, so…

Kalim: Whenever I went shopping after enrolling here, I had such a hard time, 'cause I didn't know where I'd have to pay, or even how to pay― Ahahah!

Azul: What an enviable situation…

Azul: However, is there even anything on Sage's Island that would be discerning to your tastes, Kalim-san?

Kalim: Yeah, there's a bunch! The thing I really liked was, uhhhh, what was it called again…? Ah, oh yeah!

Kalim: CARPET CLEANER!!

Azul: Huh?

Kalim: Oh, don't you know what that is? It's a tool that cleans carpets by rolling over it…

Azul: Ah, apologies. I do not need you to explain it to me.

Azul: Only, it was such an ordinary… Rather, I mean, an unexpected response…

Kalim: Oh, okay. Recently, I've been using that to clean my magic carpet.

Kalim: It really seems to like it, too. Maybe it feels like it's getting a massage?

Kalim: Ah, that reminds me, we're almost out of the adhesive tape.

Kalim: I'll have to go back to the store and buy some more. Hmmm, I wonder if everything they have on the shelves will be enough…?

Azul: Kalim-san, are you saying… do you purchase a whole new cleaner every time you run out of the adhesive tape?

Kalim: Yeah… Eh, am I not supposed to?

Azul: Yes. After buying the product the first time, you only need to replace the tape itself and reuse it all over again.

Kalim: Eeeeh, really!? That's way too convenient! Whoever made that must've been a genius!!

Azul: Fufu, I'm sure the manufacturers would be elated to hear that you love their product that much.

Azul: Kalim-san, thank you very much for all of your precious stories.

Kalim: Yeah, thanks to you, too! I had a lot of fun because of you, Azul.

Azul: I am honored that you would say that.

Azul: Now then, I shall hand over the broom that was specifically crafted for you, Kalim-san. ―Here you go.

Kalim: Woah! This broom looks like a bouquet, so fancy and cool!

Azul: Indeed. It is quite flashy and suits you well, Kalim-san. I've also made sure to lavish it with my own heartfelt wishes!

Azul: Please take this broom and fly on the birthday road, and go an accept every person's birthday wishes.

Azul: Alright, then… Let us continue our conversation afterwards.

Kalim: Yeah, I'm off!

Kalim: Oookay, time to greet everyone from up in the sky! Gotta psych myself up and… Let's go!!

(Part 1) (Part 2) Part 3

[princesspumpkinseed]

A daily review with a twinkle of optimism and softness is exactly what I need right now. As occurs often, I had a beautiful day and yet my brows are still furrowed in disapproval of myself, which I disallow. In fact, as soon as I began typing, my facial muscles relaxed and so I deduce that I am exactly where I need to be.

Last night, I cooked a Mexican feast for two friends and I think that it went tremendously. I feel quite humbled to spend time with these two people because they’re so funny, kind, and intelligent so I was particularly pleased to see that they were impressed by the dinner I made for them. I got some ginger ale and filled the glasses with fresh mint and lime wedges; I made a two bean chilli, my classic red onion and mint salsa, some rice and tortillas and salad, guacamole, and avocado (of course). There was just enough to feed me today as well and my friends seemed satisfied. In fact, one friend praised the evening to another friend this afternoon... so yes, I’m blushing.

This morning’s breakfast was perfect in every domain but one: I don’t have any avocado left to make it again tomorrow. This morning I did a yoga flow with Allie Van Fossen which was powerful enough to satisfy my morning restlessness; I had my wake-up treat of a double espresso with some warmed soya milk; I showered and put on a sleek dark-academic outfit (complete with heeled boots, light face-powder, and some perfume which I perceive to be a ‘clean’ scent). I felt good, and my booty was looking pretty good when I left the shower, too.

From 9am until noon, I was in the library and I was impressed with my productivity. I found a space which had the perfect temperature and level of noise and completed the Functional Analysis homework and a problems sheet.

After that, I returned home and chatted with my housemate Bethan in the kitchen, She really does light up my days and she was making a satisfying breakfast while I assembled some leftover [fajitas] from last night. Good for her.

In the early afternoon, I got my exam notesheet done for Number Theory, despite the beautiful sunshine tempting me outside, I finished just in time to meet with my friend and his friend to go for a walk and grab a matcha coconut latte. I’d like to be a matcha-drinking individual but the first matcha I ever tasted was incredibly bitter and this one just tasted of sweet coconut with a complementary bitter undertone so I don’t know what to believe.

I talked with my friend a lot during our walk and I just hope that he and his friend were entertained by my conversation. I hope that they felt they were listened to and treated with kindness and encouragement. I loved the walk we had and I feel slightly selfish for having taken their afternoons but it made me very happy. This is the root of my self-criticism this evening, I believe.

Getting home, I made a simple yet tasty meal of leftover rice with basa and veggies. The peas and sweetcorn makes me think this dish is quite childish but there’s nothing childish about ensuring your 5 a day and preventing foodwaste.

This evening, I wrote up half of my functional analysis homework and hope to do the rest first thing tomorrow. I concluded this task with a phd salted caramel protein shake (which would have been better if I’d had blended a banana into it as well) and one of Yoga with Kassandra’s evening sequences. Now, I will treat myself to a biopic before bed :) I look forward to good weather tomorrow and to seeing my parents.

[wanderinghedgehog]

High School Les Mis time babyyyyyyyy!!!

Live reaction:

Oh wow you can barely see the stage. That fog machine is working overtime. How are they gonna clear all that after the opening number?

Oh my god short king Javert.

I drink from the orchestra pit. How clean the taste.

Valjean gets a little casually aggressive when in line waiting for pay. I think it kinda works.

Did that guy throw Valjean’s bag into the orchestra pit?! I don’t see it onstage. Oh no.

Just a moment to appreciate this Valjean’s sideburns. Kind of a look.

Okay the costumes in this production are seeming quite good. They must have a decent budget for stuff like this.

Damn the bishop opted up on that last line.

Yeah he definitely doesn’t have his bag. He’s just holding all the silver in his hands.

Wow! This kid is actually amazing. Incredible emotion during Soliloquy.

That is a very well synchronized ensemble. I wonder if this is an arts school or something.

They do so much with these small moveable set pieces

Holy shit! This Fantine is incredible! This is like professional level stuff coming from this kid. And the Tony goes to this high schooler!

Okay I actually screamed like a fan at a concert. This Fantine is just ATBLYILTBEYJTLWR

What a marvelously sleazy Bamatabois.

She grabbed his walking stick! Get his ass! Hit him!

Javert is doing the absolute most and I love it.

Everyone in this scene is amazing. I’m just in awe.

Oh no! Fauchelevent is trapped underneath a tiny cart with almost nothing on it! Whatever will we do?!

Not the sign of the cross oh my god Valjean. You’ll be fine.

That is possibly the most awkward way to pick up the cart. Literally there was a handle on the other side that would’ve been so much better to use.

Okay this Javert is killing it. Every single little gesture this guy makes is so brilliantly over the top. I love this.

Oh they brought Champmathieu on really early. It’s not even Who Am I yet. And they brought him right back off.

Who Am I was spectacular as I expected

Oops he ran right into Javert on the way out. Just go the other way!

No Fantine is dying! Nooooo! I won’t get to see her again til the finale! NOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!

NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO

Okay give Javert his stupid hat back. The wig is apparently stupider.

He doesn’t have a weapon of any kind. What’s gonna happen with the fight?

Okay I think he forgot his prop. This might’ve been intended as the chain choreo.

So no prop aside, that confrontation wasn’t too bad. Pretty standard, but the actors definitely made it engaging.

That was quite an entrance from Madame T. I think we’re in for a treat.

She’s just constantly got the intensity turned up to 11. Also, is she wearing an Annie wig?

This Thenardier couple are really going all out on the physicality.

Okay maybe they’re a little much. But I’m definitely biased on that front.

Oops they got the date of the Paris era wrong. 1842?

I think that’s a high school girl playing Gavroche. Might be doing a better job than some of the other girls I’ve seen do this. We’ll see.

Getting my hopes up for this Eponine :)

This Javert is really running all over the stage. Calm down, buddy.

Please put the hat back on.

Okay I do really like this guy’s voice

Oh no did he just skip a verse? Good luck, my friend

Stars :)

Put his heart and soul into that!

Cafe du ABC?

I love that coat. Is that Combeferre?

Cosette looks like a doll. But I think her dress is 18th century rather than early 19th.

I just always love that harmony.

That’s some good spotlight work in One Day More.

WOOHOOOOOOOOOO

You know what? I like this Eponine.

The saddest guy to ever read a letter.

Damn she threw herself head first into that song. That was intense.

I’m gonna knock that stupid wig right off your head, Javert!

Forever mad that school versions don’t include “shoot me now or shoot me later.”

Forever obsessed with the harmonies in Little Fall of Rain

Man down!

Damn okay Javert just leaning on the rifle.

Valjean doesn’t seem to know this section very well. Oh well. This is generally the section that actors get a little shaky on I think.

They had Grantaire’s verse of drink with me addressed at all the students.

This Valjean has such a lovely voice but he sounds a little out of breathe during Bring Him Home. Also bestie please don’t be sad. You don’t even know Marius.

Who is that on the ground?

What’s happening the lights are out? Oh set change. Nevermind y’all.

I’m still pretty sure this is a teenage girl playing Gavroche, but they did a pretty job with his death scene.

Damn this Valjean is actually strong. Picking up Marius like he weighs nothing. That’s some good casting.

I’m loving the lighting in the sewers here.

Javert is having such a time. The pacing is amazing.

Holy shit he’s singing fast!

Damn that was good! He mixed up the wording of a few lines, but his voice is really good so I don’t care. I’m noticing now that his face isn’t always the most interesting part of his performance, but his body language certainly makes up for it. The jump was also well executed.

The higher voices in this ensemble are all incredible.

Valjean noooooo!

FANTIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIINE

NOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!! this never gets easier to watch

Oh my gooooooood I love music and I love this musical and I love these singers

and Javert in the finale! Yippee!

AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏

Final thoughts:

AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA I LOVE THIS ONE SO MUCH

Does this Fantine know I am her biggest fan?

I called Javert a short king but I may have to reassess because his wig was really tall and I don’t know how tall he actually is without the weird wig. Regardless, he was really good. Great voice and crazy energy.

Valjean had the perfect amount of sad old man vibes. This guy almost makes me cry every damn time.

The ensemble did a great job. Shoutout to the ensemble folks for being possibly the most coordinated high school ensemble I’ve ever seen.

The set and lighting was spectacular. Still found the crazy amounts of fog at the beginning funny though.

I’m not sure I noticed any consistent problems in any particular department. Everything I found felt pretty minor. Basically no complaints.

I’m actually gonna post a link to this show because seriously just watch it. These kids are incredible.

[hellbubu]

I’m handsome, tall, and rich

Chapter 22

Due to, surprisingly, popular demand I am giving you a new chapter as a Christmas present. Enjoy!!!!

Kakashi looked way too happy to be there. He stood between the beds, hands behind his back as Sasuke and a nurse fretted over Sasuke’s parents.

“The bed feels so nice,” Fugaku commented.

“I bet you wish you could stay for a few more days,” Mikoto side-eyed her husband.

Sasuke just gave his parents a look before sighing.

“Thank you, Mr. Hoozuki, you shouldn’t have. We really owe you a lot.”

“I mean, you literally just met us today,” Fugaku quipped.

“Oh, it’s nothing.” Kakashi waved his hands like it wasn’t actually a very big deal.” I just know someone at this hospital.”

“I’m so surprised you look so young, Sasuke had told us you’re in your forties.” Mikoto gave Kakashi a look he couldn’t quite decipher.

“He’s has a rigorous skincare routine. He goes to the dermatologist quite often,” Sasuke interjected before Kakashi could speak.” He keeps trying to get me to go to his dermatologist, but I’ve just been too busy.”

“Anyway, let’s not keep Mr. Hoozuki for too long. I’m sure he’s very tired. He works harder than even I do.”

“Why are you trying to get him to leave? He did us a huge favor, the least we can do is get him a drink,” Fugaku chided.” Please have a seat, Mr. Hoozuki. Have some honey water.”

Mikoto offered once Kakashi sat down.

“Thank you.”

“I don’t mean to sound rude but don’t stay just for us. You must be really tired with having to work late and even on weekends and all.” Mikoto turned to Sasuke.” That applies to you too, sweetie.”

“Pardon?”

“You both came from work, didn’t you? Sasuke mentioned he was going to work before taking off in the morning. He didn’t even have breakfast!.”

“Mom!” Sasuke complained like a child. His cheeks were turning a pretty shade of pink as he looked at his feet and pouted.” The company gave us breakfast.”

“That’s the least they could do for overworking you so much.” Fugaku chimed in.

“The breakfast wasn’t great. Our product tasted better.”

Sasuke had to stop himself from killing Kakashi right then and there. How dare he compliment the food after making Sasuke redo it again and again and again.

“Not surprising. Sasuke has yet to stop complaining about the new CEO,” Mikoto started and Sasuke has never wanted the earth to swallow him whole more than he did at this moment.” he workload has increased so much after he arrived!”

Kakashi started choking on the honey water.

” What a bastard.”

“I never–”

“Sasuke Uchiha, do not lie to us,” his parents said at the same time.

“You always embarrass me in front of my friends.”

“Are we worse than Itachi?” Sasuke shook his head.” Didn’t think so.”

A sudden loud and sharp noise could be heard all the way from the kitchen.

“Genma, are you okay?” Itachi asked as he grabbed some napkins and the trash can.

“I’m fine.”

“Oh, your finger’s bleeding.” Itachi only noticed once he got closer.” I’ll clean up. Go put some ointment on your cut. I think the first-aid kit is in Sasuke’s room.”

Genma turned on the light in Sasuke’s room. He hadn’t been inside since they were in college. He could still remember brainstorming with Sasuke in the room.

Though so much time had passed, it had changed very little. There were still reminders and photos on the small bulletin board in front of his desk and the dinosaur paperweight was still there. The first aid kit was right next to it. He decided to forgo the oil and just put a bandaid on.

Just as he was trying to peel it, it fell. It fell into a drawer Sasuke left open. Not only that, it fell on some pages. Genma pulled out the pages.

“An employment contract?” Genma skimmed through the first page.” They aren’t actually together.”

“Thank you so much and sorry,” Sasuke said as he walked through the park with Kakashi. They were walking side by side, hands brushing, as Kakashi escorted him home.

“Don’t be sorry. That boss of yours sure sounds like an asshole.”

Sasuke let out a breathless laugh.” I didn’t mean it–”

“You should pay me back for the kiss,” Kakashi said in a more serious tone.

“I paid you back,” Sasuke raised his voice just a tad bit. He was too tired to hold back.

“It’s unfair that you talk badly about me behind my back.”

“Did I lie?”

“That’s unimpo–”

“No. No. You’re mad because I said the truth. You’re mad you were being an ass and I said as much. This isn’t about fairness or importance.”

“Well, I say it’s important! I’m your ass of a boss, remember?” Kakashi also raised his voice before lowering it.” If you cannot afford to pay for my kiss, pay it back with another kiss.”

Before Sasuke could react, Genma appeared out of nowhere and punched Kakashi.

It happened in slow motion for Sasuke. He had enough time to think about whether or not he wanted to leave them both to punch each other over recipes or whatever. But then he remembered that there had been a police officer nearby and that he didn’t want to testify in court.

“Genma, what the actual fuck are you doing?” Sasuke’s voice was flat. All he wanted to do was shower and go to sleep.

“What do you think you’re doing?”

“I could ask you the same thing.” Genma’s tone was aggressive.” Stop hanging around Sasuke if you know what’s good for you.”

“What?” Kakashi took a step closer to Genma but Sasuke put himself in between the two men.

“Let’s all calm down. I don’t want to testify in court because you both decided to try and kill each other.” Just as Sasuke said that, a police car drove by.” Just go home. I’ll see you at work tomorrow, okay?”

Sasuke grabbed Genma by his ear and took off in the opposite direction.

They ended up at Genma’s restaurant. Once they sat down, Genma handed Sasuke the contract.

“Why the fuck did you go through my room?”

“Were you forced into the relationship?” Genma asked, ignoring Sasuke’s question.” Did he threaten you?”

Sasuke just sighed.

“You should’ve told me about this!”

“Why?”

“What?”

“Why should I have told you? How is this your business? How does this involve you?” Sasuke ran a hand through his hair.” It’s none of your business if I’m in a fake relationship with President Hatake or anyone else.”

“Sasu–”

“The only reason I broke you two apart was because the police was nearby.” Sasuke leaned back on his chair and crossed his arms.” I’m very disappointed in you right now. Next time you see President Hatake, you better apologize.”

“I get that you’re worried about me, but you shouldn’t be. I can take care of myself.”

“Do you actually like him?”

“What is it to you?”

“You two aren’t going to work out. You know it.”

“I’ll get going.” Sasuke folded the contract and stood up.

Sasuke lay in his bed, writing and deleting messages just before he hit send before deciding to just thank Kakashi for the hospital bill and promising to pay him back as soon as he got paid.

He didn’t know that on the other side of Seoul, Kakashi was debating whether or not to call him.

Sasuke checked his phone as he got to the bus. Kakashi hadn’t replied to his text. He couldn’t let that distract him, though, it’d be a busy day.

“Naruto!” Someone called out to him from the other side of the garage.

“What are you doing here?” Naruto smiled brightly at Hinata.

“I know a good bagel place nearby. I got you some. It should be enough for you to share with your teammates.”

“You shouldn’t have. You’re too sweet.” Naruto grabbed the bag before pulling Hinata closer and pecking her cheek.” Here, as a thanks.”

“I’ll see you later.”

“Drive safely.”

Naruto watched as Hinata’s car drove off. Only then did he turn around. His eyes immediately caught President Hatake’s eyes. He dropped his bag. The man was glaring at him like he’d just burned the building down.

“I’m so sorry, I should’ve told you earlier,” Naruto said as they walked to Kakashi’s office.

“How on earth did that happen?”

“I bumped into her before we knew each other. It was love at first sight.”

“Why didn’t you say anything about it?”

“How would I even start? The situation is complicated enough without my relationship.”

Kakashi just sighed.

Kakashi walked into his office only to find his father sitting there, drinking tea.

“You should be more diligent. Why are you so late for work?”

“Why are you here?”

Sakumo sighed before saying, “I need you to go on a blind date.”

Faraway, Taka sat down in the bleachers of an indoor court. Well, except for Sasuke. Sasuke just barely avoided being hit with a ball as Suigetsu incoherently screamed at him. Next time, he managed to grab the ball and hit another team’s player with it.

Sasuke threw himself onto the ground to avoid being hit. Sadly, Sasuke sprained his wrist.

The game stopped as everyone gathered around Sasuke, who was sitting on the floor holding his wrist.

“You should get that checked.”

“I’ll be fine. Just get me some pain relief spray.”

“Juugo, can you go get some?”

Before Juugo could go find some, a higher-up grabbed the microphone.

“We have a special announcement. We have a special prize for the MVP.” He said with a stupid smile on his face.” The MVP, the person with the most points, gets to have a one-on-one dinner with none other than President Hatake.”

“Are you actually going to go on that blind date?” Naruto asked Kakashi once Sakumo had left.

Kakashi stayed quiet for a few seconds, thinking back on his conversation with his father.

“I’ll send you the location. Be there at 7.” Sakumo had sighed.” The Hyuga group seems to think you’d be a good match with Hanabi Hyuga, the youngest of the two sisters. She could be a good asset.”

Kakashi rested his elbows on his desk. Should he go? If he went, would that take his mind off Sasuke?

“President Hatake?”

“I don’t really have a choice, do I?”

“Will you give up on Uchiha-ssi?”

Kakashi just sighed.

[ladyelizabethraven]

Aesop and the Cursed Date (Sharpuary 2024 Valentine prompt)

Happy Valentine's! Since it's a special day, I'm posting the whole story here. But if you want to read it on AO3, it's right >>>here<<<

Contains: very mild sexual themes

It was the first time, for a long time, that Aesop had picked up anything that would make him presentable.

He stood in front of his dresser mirror only clad with a towel. Droplets of water still dripped from his soggy, brown hair. His skin glowed after he scrubbed himself thoroughly. In the past, he settled for Scouring Charm to clean himself.

But not this time.

He made certain that not a single speck of dirt stuck to his skin or hair. It was a special day, and damn him if he would ruin it because of improper hygiene practices.

The silver razor glimmered against the lamplight. The temptation arose for him to use it to even out his beard scruff. But his leg protested whenever he stood too long. Perhaps Kathrina would not mind? She had seen him a lot of times, so it would not matter, would it? He sighed and opened a cylindrical container. The salve inside was advertised to be some sort of men’s cosmetic product. From what Aesop understood, he should have slicked his hair back as though he were some sort of modern teenage dream character.

However, in truth, it made him look like an old pervert with a bad comb-over.

Growling, he removed the sticky substance from his hair and opened another small canister. The clear, viscous gel was supposed to make one’s skin smooth and clear. In fact, Black had also boasted that the product was his secret for his ‘devilishly handsome’ looks. Despite his doubt, Aesop applied a small amount of the potion to his face. At least this did not make him feel as if he had dried leaves clinging to his cheeks.

Still, it felt like he had just slapped a sheet of leech mucus onto his face.

Next, he scanned his wardrobe for the best suit to wear. Rows of identical white shirts, brown vests, gray jackets, and a deep green coat greeted him. He sighed and looked for another set of clothing in his suitcases.

A zany shirt adorned with zig-zag colorful patterns caught his eye. However, this would most certainly make him stand out for the wrong reasons. Then, he discovered a maroon coat with a leather belt around the waist. The trousers would definitely make him stand out. Upon further digging, he also found a dark blue shirt printed with constellations and comets. How Abraham thought these clothes were fashionable... he did not know. All it screamed was, “Look at me! I’m an idiot!”

He let out a heavy sigh. Perhaps his usual attire would not look that bad?

Having dressed up, he went to his desk and spread parchment. The smooth, flowing ink adorned with flourishing made his hardened heart flutter. In front of him was Kathrina’s reply to his invitation for a Valentine’s date.

Dear Aesop,

I am honored to receive your request. Truthfully, I've been waiting for you to ask me for some time now. It warms my heart that you will spend this special occasion with me.

Your romantic gestures and kind words are very much appreciated. The rose you left on my table was the most thoughtful thing anyone has given to me in a long time. Please do not apologize for being too forward; rather, I am flattered by your genuine display of affection.

I look forward to spending the whole day with you on Valentine’s Day.

Sincerely,

Kathrina

The brief note still brought a smile to his lips.

Ever since the first letter he wrote for her became widely circulated in Hogwarts, his feelings for her have become the center of attention. His attempts at hiding his attraction towards her were rendered futile after Black blurted it out to the whole faculty staff. The nosy son-of-a-bitch guy couldn't stop meddling in others' affairs. As a result, rumors were bound to spread and people would embellish them beyond recognition. But he had no intention of quashing them as they were quite close to the truth. He thought about the Alchemy Professor more often than necessary.

Still, he wished to vanquish Peeves for spreading out his love letters. How humiliating it was for that blasted poltergeist to fly about, cackling like a deranged bastard and yelling, “Who wants some cornbread and red wine from Mr. Lovesick?”

He shook the memories away. There was no reason for him to be angry about what happened. Instead, he took out another set of parchment and scribbled the schedule he planned.

1. Pick Kathrina up in her classroom.

2. Have a lovely picnic breakfast by the Black Lake.

3. Walk along the countryside road leading to the Valentine’s Carnival.

4. Spend the afternoon strolling around the carnival grounds.

5. Have a candlelight dinner with her and watch the fireworks on top of the Astronomy Tower.

6. Wait for the meteor shower.

7. Take her back to her chambers. (Maybe give her a goodnight kiss?)

It was a simple and straightforward itinerary. Yet, the mere idea of stepping outside his comfort zone was enough to make Aesop tremble with excitement. Years had passed since the accident, and he feared he had lost his appeal to any sane woman. After all, how would a damaged man ever gain the affections of a beautiful, spirited woman?

But she proved him wrong.

In their frequent exchanges, she never mentioned his scar once. Treating him like any other wizard, she earned his immense gratitude. Finally, the walls he had built to protect himself started crumbling down. Slowly but surely, she chipped his armor off and revealed the vulnerable man underneath.

Yes. There was still hope for a man like him.

Grinning, he picked up the bouquet of yellow daffodils resting on a potting tray. He casted Aguamenti before giving them a light shower of water. After drying them off with a quick charm, he stared at the blooming flowers. Aesop remembered Kathrina mentioned that these particular flowers grew in abundance where she lived. She would love the fact that he recalled a passing detail. He could imagine the smile in her face as she sniffed the fresh floral scent. Perhaps it would bring a glimmer of nostalgia in her eyes.

Though he was confident in his choice of gifts, Aesop still checked his appearance on the mirror. Hair? Check. Beard? Check. Breath? Check. Suit? Check. After a final brush-up on his outfit, he pocketed his wand, grabbed the flower, and headed out.

As Aesop left, Black approached him with a scowl. His eyes squinted, and his bushy mustache bristled. With a voice gruff and accusatory, he demanded, “Sharp, have you forgotten the regular batch of cures?”

“No. I didn’t, sir,” Aesop replied. “Your... medicine will last until Friday next week. I am sure it can—”

“I need a new batch now.”

“Pardon?”

“Are you deaf? I said, I need a new batch now.”

His expression faltered. “Sir, with all due respect, that isn’t possible. If you recall, today’s Valentine’s Day and we’ve already had plans.”

The headmaster tilted his chin up and crossed his arms over his chest. “Do you think your love life is more important than my health, professor?”

“We are not talking about a life or death situation here, Professor Black. You can manage without your medication for three days. It’s not like the first time you tried that.”

“Don’t act as if you understand my medical condition!”

The younger man merely narrowed his eyes, sighing at his headmaster’s overbearing attitude. “Fine. I’ll brew a new batch on Thursday morning and deliver it to your office after breakfast. That would have to do for the meantime.”

Aesop attempted to walk past the obstinate older man, but he seized his arm with surprising strength. “Peeves just spilled my medication and I can’t sit in the Great Hall surrounded by all those rowdy students. Imagine what they would say when they see their Headmaster haggard and miserable? Are you going to subject your hardworking, brilliant superior to such humiliation, Professor Sharp?”

He rolled his eyes. Black was fantastic at making his problems sound so damn urgent. This was nothing but a poor attempt to guilt-trip him into doing whatever he wanted. With a sigh, he tried to make a compromise. “I can make three vials, but the rest have to be brewed tomorrow morning.”

There was a hint of hesitation in his voice, “Three vials wouldn’t last until the morning.”

“Then perhaps you should cut the portion size a little bit. You don’t need to drink the entire bottle of Cure for Boil—”

“May I remind you that my condition is strictly confidential, Professor Sharp?”

Aesop rubbed his temples as he felt an impending headache forming. “Very well. I’ll get your infernal potion ready at the earliest opportunity, Professor Black.”

“Good!”

The headmaster let go of the Potions Professor and left.

He groaned. The stubborn fool changed his mind, precisely when he desired solitude with Kathrina. How irritating it was for Professor Black to command him like he was his lackey! Shaking his head, he limped down to his office as fast as he could to brew three bottles of Cures for Boils. He glanced at the clock. It was almost six in the morning and his date would begin in 30 minutes. Damn. There was no chance for him to pick up Kathrina now. She would just have to wait.

Inside the empty Potion’s room, Aesop eyed the large, stone cauldron placed in the middle. Quickly, he placed the bouquet of yellow daffodils on top of his supplies shelf, fired up the cauldron, and began brewing three batches of the requested concoction. With practiced efficiency, he bottled up the vials and send it to a house-elf for delivery. Black always wanted him to deliver the potions personally, but Aesop was not in the mood for his ridiculous requests. Besides, there were more pressing matters to attend to.

Grabbing the yellow flowers on the desk, he rushed out of his classroom. According to his pocket watch, he was already ten minutes late. Fucking hell. Kathrina must be very disappointed in him. Would she be understanding about his circumstances? Or would she berate him for wasting her time? He grimaced, trying his best not to be distracted by negative thoughts.

The stairs leading to the Alchemy Classroom was long and arduous. It was on the other end of the dungeons, and he cursed the Hogwarts architects for failing to account for disability access. His limp slowed him down, making every step agonizingly painful. He leaned onto the wall, gasping for air, feeling his leg protest with the overexertion. Popping Wiggenweld into his mouth, the liquid soothed the pain in seconds.

Resuming his trek, Aesop passed by a couple of sixth and seventh years holding hands and giggling incessantly. He could not help but smile. Valentine's day weekend was a perfect time for lovers to spend together. Not that he minded. In fact, the romantic atmosphere may facilitate developing his relationship with Kathrina.

A loud bang sounded, and thick purple smoke emerged from an open doorway. And within the cloud, Peeves rushed in with a bucket in his hand. “Bombs away!” he cackled, flinging a handful of bright, shining glitters.

Aesop tried to protect himself, but it was too late. The flying sparkles coated his shirt, trousers, coat, hair, and beard with sticky glitter dust. It looked like he just went to a wild, drinking party. In desperation, he shook his body vigorously to remove the offending material, but they only stuck closer to his clothing.

“Now you look stunning, Professor Sharp!” the poltergeist called out.

Glaring, he chased after the rude entity. “Get back here, Peeves, and fix this mess!”

“If you want to catch me, you gotta move faster, old man!” it called out and phased through the wall, escaping Aesop’s grasp.

“By Merlin’s saggy left testicle! What in Morgana’s name did I do to deserve this torture?!” he yelled in frustration. Despite wanting to change, why did the Fates conspire against him? Was the cosmos so bent on making his life miserable? He sighed. No. He would not accept such mockery. No reason for him to stop moving forward despite the misadventures.

Steeling his resolve, he hurried towards the Alchemy Room, ignoring the confused stares of the other teachers and students. By the time he saw the door to the classroom, he saw Kathrina coming out with her bags and equipment. She carried a picnic basket covered with a checkered red and white cloth. She wore a white and blue blouse with a white long skirt and brown boots. Her auburn hair cascaded in curls over her shoulders. When she met his gaze, her honey gold eyes lit up with glee.

He stood up straight, combed his messy hair with his fingers, and tried his best to look presentable. Aesop gave a small bow, greeting the Alchemy Professor. “Professor Holmes...” he began.

“I think Kathrina will be fine,” she giggled.

Heat crept up to his cheeks as he cleared his throat. “Ah yes, Kathrina. Thank you for waiting for me.”

Her gaze softened as her eyes traveled to his feet. “Is your leg not giving you any trouble? You look like you ran a marathon for the past hour.”

“Ah, I have to run. You see Black has a special request that involves...uh... a cure for boils.” He coughed. “Anyway, the potions are finished and sent to his office.”

“Why, Professor Sharp. You’re so kind.”

He blinked. “Pardon?”

“You are kind to accommodate Professor Black in his illness. That is very selfless of you. Even if he has a tendency to boss you around, you still attempt to look after his wellbeing.”

He raised his eyebrows and nodded in agreement. “Well, I would not go that far,” he said while scratching the back of his head. Then he noticed the glitter still sticking to his clothing and boots. Sighing, he pulled out his wand and cast Scourgify. “I apologize. I just met Peeves on my way here. And he gave me a...makeover.”

She giggled. “It seems like you had quite an adventure. Still, you look very dashing, Aesop.”

His face heated and his pulse sped up upon hearing her say his name. When was the last time a woman paid so much attention to his appearance? Clearing his throat, he handed her the bouquet of yellow daffodils. “For you,” he said nervously.

“Really? These are my favorites. How did you know?” she squeed. But the moment she touched the flowers, it sprang up to life.

HONK!

Aesop could not believe what he had heard.

HONK! HONK! HONK!

He tried to remember what had just happened. He went to his classroom, placed the yellow daffodils beside his supply cabinet, brewed the potion, left the room... Where did he go wrong?

Then the realization dawned on him. There were honking daffodils in the supply cabinet. Those flowers were potent in the experimental potion he was working on. And in his panic, he grabbed the honking ones instead of the regular daffodils. Why, oh, why, did it have to be that plant?

“Oh, for fuck’s sake!”

He clutched his head, trying his best to calm down and suppress the embarrassment he was feeling. First, he was late, then he got showered with glitter, and now he gave his date an annoying batch of living flowers. Perhaps he should not have bothered fixing himself up? After all, he was nothing but a scruffy, clumsy, pathetic excuse for a man. He had ruined his chances with her.

But Kathrina let out a laugh. It was not the derisive kind. Rather, her voice soothed his fears and assured him he had not screwed up. “They look pretty!” she exclaimed, grinning as she caressed the petals of the noisy plants.

He sighed in relief. “I’m sorry,” he apologized again, “I wanted to give you a perfect first gift, but it seems I even messed up that one.”

“I think this is perfect!”

“Huh?”

Kathrina grinned broadly. “Everyone I see in this school is giving chocolates, flowers, stuffed toys, jewelry... The gifts seem impersonal. But this?” she motioned at the lively, honking flowers. “This is absolutely perfect!”

“Are you sure?”

She laughed. “Of course, silly!” she said while slapping his arm, “No one in their right mind will give his date a bouquet of honking daffodils!”

Aesop did not know whether to laugh or cry. But he would do neither. Instead, he smiled back, relieved that the misunderstanding did not ruin the start of their first date. “Shall we get going? The picnic at the lake awaits.”

She nodded. “Wait, let me put these lovely daffodils in a pot so we can keep them alive.”

“Of course!” he chuckled.

He watched her as she gently dug a hole on the soil, transplanted the roots of the lively flowers, and filled the cavity with soil. After that, she placed the potted plant in her classroom and summoned a watering can. She poured water over the clay pot before turning back to him. Aesop offered her his hand. Without hesitation, she intertwined her fingers with his own. Together, they walked across the castle grounds and made their way towards the Black Lake.

♥♥♥

Aesop held out his arm so Kathrina could latch onto him. “You might slip on the grass,” he explained, which made her giggle. The pair continued walking to the edge of the Black Lake. As they made their way there, Aesop realized that this was the first time that he went on a picnic since his injury. In the past, women would constantly flock to him, always begging for favors, money, and gifts. In exchange for his company, he could receive free meals and entertainment. Sex and company never lacked in his bachelor’s life.

But ever since his accident, oh how those people vanished when they saw him sprawled helplessly in St. Mungo’s. The ones who had called him, ‘My hero,’ became complete strangers once the limelight was gone. Not one of his former flings asked how he was doing. They were quick to replace him and find better partners. His closest friends, if he could call them that, also turned their backs on him.

Since then, only a bottle of firewhisky became his constant companion in his chambers. At least it would not judge him nor betray his trust.

Still, he did not want to dwell on past mistakes. Today, he was spending time with the person whom he genuinely cared about. Sure, his past experiences involved dates on fancy restaurants and elegant dinner parties, but a picnic was quite refreshing.

He held the picnic basket while Kathrina kept the parasol steady. The early morning sun shined brightly above them, illuminating the grounds and warming the winter cold. A light breeze blew past them, bringing with it the scent of the nearby Forbidden Forest. All around them, students laid on the lawn, conversing with each other while basking under the warmth of the sun. He observed lovers on a blanket, kissing without worry. Students played with giant, animated chess pieces on the lawn. Others were laughing with their friends, obviously enjoying the festivities.

He closed his eyes and smiled. Life seemed beautiful until it reared its ugly head.

“Shall we sit over there?” Kathrina pointed to a spot that was partially hidden behind the bushes. The ground was soft and wet, indicating that it rained earlier that morning. The place was near the lake’s edge. Perhaps if he was lucky, he could introduce her to the Giant Friendly Squid that resided inside the waters.

“Yes. There is good as any,” he said.

He spread out the picnic cloth, and they settled themselves on it. Aesop was about to offer Kathrina a plate of sliced bread and a glass of tea. But to his surprise, a tentacle erupted from the lake, stole his serving, and retreated into the water.

He blinked and shook his head vigorously. Did he just imagine things? Or was a gigantic monster eating their food?

“Something wrong?” Kathrina asked.

“Oh... It’s nothing. Here have some scones and fruit salad.” Aesop picked up another forkful of fruit salad, but once again, a giant, slimy tentacle snatched it out of his grasp. What the-?!

“Um...” she covered her mouth. But the tremors on her shoulders revealed she was trying to suppress a laugh.

He narrowed his eyes as he stared at the ripples forming at the surface of the water. When the movement subsided, he sighed and eased himself down on the picnic mat. Getting rattled by a friendly squid was not the impression he wished to give the woman next to him.

He opened basket and took out the sandwiches and sweet rolls. “These are the delicacies in Mrs. Steepley’s Tea Shop. Would you care for a bite?” he asked.

“Wow!” Kathrina marveled as she brought the sandwich up to her nose. She sniffed. “It smells wonderful.”

She took a bite and chewed it gently. Aesop noticed how delicate her lips were, how beautiful she was with the sunlight hitting her golden eyes. He imagined how her pretty cherry lips would look when she wrapped them around his co-

No! This was not the time to have such fantasies. He mustered all his willpower and pushed the inappropriate thoughts in the back of his mind.

He popped a cucumber sandwich into his mouth and focuses on other thoughts. Getting all horny in the first date was uncouth behavior. A gentleman must reserve his sexual desires for later when both parties mutually agree on such acts. Until then, he must only think with his brain, not his nether regions.

Right now, he would just try and get to know her better. “So... How do you find Hogwarts so far?” he cleared his throat, “I assume it’s much more different than Durmstrang?”

She nodded. “Yes. It’s bigger and much more modern. Durmstrang Institute is more like an old, castle. It has this dark, medieval atmosphere. Everything is dark wood and stone. Hogwarts is so light and open.” she took another bite, “It looks more like a prison fortress than a school, though. It’s too high and the walls are too thick.”

He raised an eyebrow. Her words sounded like there was more to that statement. But Aesop decided not to pry. So he chose his words carefully. “And the curriculum? Does it differ greatly from ours?”

She bit her lower lip. “Not that much. Though the study of the Dark Arts are treated there like your Charms. But otherwise, the classes are mostly the same. Herbology, Astronomy, Potions, History of Magic, Defense against the Dark Arts, Arithmancy, Runes, Beastology, Care of Magical Creatures...” she stared at the still waters of the Black Lake. A hint of misty tears formed at the corners of her eyes.

“Kathrina?”

“Hmmm?” she asked as if being roused from a dream.

Aesop glimpsed a sad look on her face, but it disappeared when she met his gaze. A smile replaced her frown, but he sensed that something was not right. “Is something wrong?”

“Oh, it’s nothing. Just reminiscing.”

He nodded. While he was curious, it would be too insensitive for him to question her further. Aesop did not wish for their first date to end with her crying.

Perhaps he could try and lighten up the mood? He eased closed to her and took a sweet roll. But when he was about to feed it to her, he discovered a squid tentacle wrapping around the treat.

“Oh no you don’t!” Aesop growled and grabbed the offending tentacle. Despite his efforts, the limb refused to release its grip on the bread. So he tightened his grip and wrestled the creature for it.

After a few tugs, the Giant Squid released the roll and withdrew.

After checking for ink and mucus, Aesop handed out the slightly slimy sweet roll to Kathrina. “Sorry it’s sticky, but it’s edible,” he said as he wiped it over his sleeves.

His colleague giggled and took the sugary snack from his hands. With a small lick, contentment filled her expression.

Seeing her enjoy the sweet dessert made Aesop’s heart skip a beat. Why was he acting like a lovesick schoolboy? Was he becoming weak and vulnerable because of his feelings? His attraction for her grew by leaps and bounds, and he was uncertain if that was a good thing or not.

On one hand, he felt hopeful and happier. On the other, he feared he was going way too fast. If his feelings left uncontrolled, he might crash and burn. The tragedy of his previous relationships still shook him to the core. But if he wanted to move on with his life, he had to take the chance.

He gulped and tried to compose himself. “Kathrina, I know that this is too early for me to ask but...”

SLAP! The squid’s tentacle groped around the picnic area. While it was searching for food, it accidentally slapped Aesop’s face with its long appendage.

“Gah! Get off you, impertinent brute!” he shouted as he slapped the appendage away.

At first, Kathrina looked horrified by the scene before her. But then she giggled.

He cleared his throat and stared at her eyes. “As I was saying...”

SLAP! SLAP!

His eye twitched with rage as he glared at the half-submerged creature. “For Salazar’s sake, leave us alone, you nosy pervert!”

But the monster would not listen. It continued to grope around for any food items while splashing about.

“Umm, Aesop, I think your friend is lonely.” Kathrina offered the rest of the sweet roll to the aquatic animal, “Here you go!”

The tentacle caught the treat mid air. With a friendly wave, it slipped back into the waters of the Black Lake.

He watched Kathrina clap with delight at the cute antics of the creature. Aesop could not help but admire how she interacted with the Giant Squid. At least the mood had lightened up.

Glancing at his pocket watch, he noticed that the carnival that settled by the outskirts of Hogsmeade would open in thirty minutes. “It’s time to go,” he stated as he cleaned the plates and cups they used for their meal. “I hope that nosy squid had its fill. Because it just ate almost all of our breakfast.”

“I’m sure we can find something to eat while at the carnival. Do you think there will be cotton candy?”

His heart skipped a beat when she flashed her cute smile. He couldn’t help but notice her joyful expression. The melancholy look from earlier had disappeared. With a nod he offered his arm to her and said, “Let’s see what the carnival has in store.”

The two professors packed up the picnic supplies and made their way toward Hogsmeade. The entire village had been decorated with lights and streamers for the occasion. Couples of all ages strolled, admiring trinkets and clothing available at shops. Of course, everything was Valentine’s themed. Most of the merchandise were red, pink, and white, with images of hearts everywhere. It made Aesop gag a little; however, he wouldn’t let anything ruin his day with Kathrina.

♥♥♥

As they walked through the stalls, he talked about his childhood and how he started learning Potions. He also told her about his family and where he grew up. And for the first time in a long time, Aesop was enjoying himself and getting to know someone he really liked. There was no pressure to be larger than life. Pretentiousness was absent in their conversation. Everything just flowed naturally between them. It was as if he found a connection that was missing in his life.

When they reached a game stall, Kathrina dragged him over. It was a simple game of shoot the moving pictures. Cardboard cutouts of fwoopwers, dandelion puffs, snidgets, and bludgers whirled around the table.

“It’s all about precision,” Kathrina mused.

She pulled out her wand and aimed at the targets. The targets whirred and moved erratically. Kathrina squinted, pursing her lips. She shot a spell, but it missed the target completely. She groaned and sighed in frustration.

Aesop patted her back. “There, there, Kathrina. Let me handle this,” he said with a wink. His old cocky self resurfaced for a moment.

He took a deep breath, steadying his wand and lining up his shot. He focused on a dandelion puff. Its wings fluttered and changed directions repeatedly. He had to account for the distance and speed in his calculations. Time stopped as he mentally computed the variables.

Aesop considered everything, then released the spell and hit the target. With precision, he targeted and struck each of the moving cutouts. He was in his element. The spells flew out of his wand as if they were extensions of his body. There was a rhythm to the way he executed the charms. Each move was precise, powerful, and clean. He made it all look so easy.

But then he saw a different shaped target. A racoon-faced pixie floated in the middle of the target, wiggling and swaying in circles.

“This must be a special target!” he smirked. In a single flick of his wand, he hit the tiny pixie head.

POOF!

Sprays of paint showered on Aesop’s face. It coated his beard and eyebrows with neon colors. Reds, greens, blues, yellows, and whites stained his hair, neck, clothes, and shoes. It looked like he had just gotten caught in a rainbow explosion.

PLOP!

And to add insult to injury, a puffskein landed on his head.

Aesop glanced at Kathrina, whose efforts to hold back a laugh failed. She exploded in a fit of uncontrollable laughter. Tears spilled from her eyes as she struggled to breathe.

“Ouch, tough luck! You just hit the jester target,” the stall owner shook his head, “I’m sorry, but you lost the game.”

Meanwhile, the puffskein squealed in fright, leapt off his head, and bounced away.

The Potion Master’s eyes bulged. “Wha- why is there something like that among the targets?!”

“Uh, have you read the rules, sir?”

Aesop glanced at the wooden board. And it was written there in bold letters: “In case you hit the racoon pixie jester, you automatically lose the game.”

“What sort of incompetent, idiotic, bullshit-“

“Hey, hey, hey, Mr. Wizard, calm down,” the stall owner raised his hands, “It’s not my fault you can’t follow simple instructions.”

“I demand a refund!”

The stall owner sighed. “Now you sound like that little girl over there who threw a tantrum because she lost.”

“Why you—”

Kathrina held his arm. “Now, calm down, Aesop,” she said soothingly. “It’s just a game.”

The Potion Master groaned. There was no need to get worked up over a mere children’s carnival game. His pride and ego could survive such a slight humiliation. Even so, looking like a fool in front of the woman he admired... That was embarrassing!

Kathrina was still smiling when he turned to face her. But Aesop saw something else in those eyes: compassion and understanding. Despite her laughter, he understood her intentions were not malicious. With a heavy sigh, he followed Kathrina, who led him towards another attraction.

After cleaning up using his wand, they went on a walk past the other booths.

A spooky-looking house caught his attention. The house's roof had a pointy cone shape that caught his attention. Red and gold banners draped on the windows. Cheap-looking skeletons swayed by the front porch. Two glowing red lanterns hung by the entrance. The large signs in front of the house that read "House of Horrors" were particularly eye-catching.

Aesop snorted. Such a cliche name was ridiculous.

“Oooh, is that a horror house?” Kathrina exclaimed excitedly, tugging on his coat sleeve. “Please, please, let’s try that one!”

“Kathrina, look at those garish decorations,” he waved at the entrance, “No one believe haunted houses looked like that! Any wizards with half a brain would know that this was fake and not even worth anyone’s time!”

But his companion didn’t seem to pay him any heed. “C’mon! I want to see what’s inside!”

He was about to roll his eyes when he stopped himself. Perhaps this would regain what little pride he had lost after that last stunt. “Very well, Kathrina. If you insist, let us enter.”

There was no queue, so they were ushered right in.

Aesop looked around. The design of the blue-green lights clearly resembled moonlight. Cheesy moans and screams echoed at the corners, obscured by thin black cloth. And an obvious enchantment depicting the howling wind felt more like a pathetic whistle. He almost felt ashamed for stepping foot in such a tacky location. They should bring back whoever performed the special effect charms on this house to Hogwarts and make them retake Charms. Abraham’s students could pull off better effects than this.

After passing through the haunted door, he noticed that the temperature had dropped several degrees. The interior had black paint on the walls, ceiling, and floor. Faint traces of dusty cobwebs hung around the hallway. Aesop wondered if those who made the webs had seen spider webs because of their yarn-like texture. A shadow of a spider crawled along the crevices of the room. But the large screws attached to the spider legs made him cringe a little.

In the distance, a female figure wearing a white veil appeared, blocking the path forward. She was a lanky woman in a ragged, wedding dress. She moaned as if she was in pain.

Kathrina shuddered and hugged Aesop. While it felt good to feel the heat of her body pressed to his own, he kept his eyes fixed on the white figure. With a loud whisper, he said, “This is an illusion. Those are basic charms for making the shadows and figures look eerie.” He explained, “I once apprehended troublemakers who used such cheap tactics to scare innocent people.”

“Huh? Are you sure? The house looks quite frightening...” she said.

“There is nothing to be afraid of. Here, I’ll show you how it works,” he grinned.

Aesop strode confidently towards the apparition, pointing his wand at the woman. “Finite!”

Suddenly, the woman vanished in to thin air.

“OI, YA CUNT! DON’T EXPOSE OUR SECRET TECHNIQUE!” a man yelled out of the blue, “If you ruin the fun of people who are trying to be scared, YOU ARE NOT WELCOME HERE!”

“If you want to be respected as an illusionist, then work on your charms!” he snapped back.

“Oh, you think you’re tough, big guy? Let’s see if you don’t cry like a little bitch in the next chamber!”

Aesop shrugged as they walked through the doorway and entered the next room. A cloud of thick smoke drifted from the top of the hall and spread along the floor. Behind the thick fog, a cluster of orbs dashed across them and vanished.

He rolled his eyes. “That’s the best thing you can do?”

“Shut the hell up, smartass!” the disembodied voice yelled, “You haven’t seen nothing yet!”

They continued to explore the rooms of the haunted house. After walking across the dark corridor, they reached a room with a staircase. The wooden stairs seemed to descend endlessly as they spiraled down into the basement. Each step they took made the floorboard creak with age. Hanging from the sides of the railings were torn-up black sheets with silver chains.

Another sound bellowed from the depths. But this time, it sounded like the scream came from the lower part of the stairs. Silvery, scratching sounds groaned throughout the hollow space. Flying creatures of the night approached them like bats, but their faces resembled human skulls.

Aesop snorted and flicked his wrist, sending the illusionary demons flying backward with the motion of his hand. “Seriously? Skeleton Bats? Have you never heard of the Hungarian Horntails or Manticores? You fools don’t even know what an actual threat is! This is more pathetic than a mediocre fairy tale!” he said and scoffed loudly, “In fact, if you really want to know what’s terrifying, I’d invite you to tour the Hogwarts dungeon. Let’s see if you can last an hour without pissing yourself.”

A series of curses rang out through the walls. But he knew it was a bluff. Those amateurs behind the scenes were only threatening him with their empty bravado. He smiled triumphantly. If the owner wants to defend his craft, he must face the challenge.

Kathrina tugged on his sleeve. “Aesop, what’s that?” she whispered while pointing at the floating figure.

The Potions Professor raised an eyebrow.

A heavy mist filled the slaughterhouse-like basement. Each rotten beam and pillar shook relentlessly. Once again, the mysterious cluster of orbs hovered within the shadows. Slowly, the orbs moved, as if it was being pulled in a magnetic force. Loud banging noises emerged from the darkness of the basement.

Kathrina gripped his arm tighter and shivered.

CRAAAAAAACK!!!

While still obscured from the fog, the orbs cracked open, revealing a long, sausage-like figures floating mid-air. It spun in the air briefly before landing on the floor.

Aesop rolled his eyes. “What is this shit?” he asked as he pointed at the fallen object with his wand. “Those are just pig intestines, you uncreative bastards! Don’t even bother with this juvenile crap!” he roared and gestured angrily, “You call that a true haunted house?!”

“Oh no, those aren’t pig intestines...” the voice replied.

“What’s that, then?”

Limbs sprung out of the mass and began crawling and twitching as they scuttled forth. Their pale, bulbous bodies twisted and warped as it crawled towards them. The dim light finally revealed what those things were: a horde of four-legged haggis! The strange meal made of lamb innards jumped to life and charged at them!

Aesop could swear that the high-pitched screams came not from him. But the fact was that his mouth was wide open and his vocal chords were producing the worst sound he had ever uttered in his life. The last thing he remembered before his vision darkened was Kathrina asking him if he was alright. Then the world went blank.

♥♥♥

“Aesop? Aesop? Are you alright?”

Aesop forced his groggy eyes open and saw Kathrina hovering above him. The evening breeze brushed past his face and ruffled the skirt of her white dress. Her hair caressed his skin with every movement.

“Are you okay?” she touched his forehead and his left cheek, “You suddenly fainted earlier.”

He blinked, trying to process what happened. They were in an unfamiliar room. The light was much brighter here. He realized he was lying on a soft, warm surface. Blankets and pillows surrounded him. Soft scent of antiseptic permeated the air.

With his mind now clearer, he could discern where they were. Apparently, Kathrina had taken him to the Infirmary.

“Yes, I’m fine,” he said hoarsely. Embarrassment crept upon him as he recalled that he screamed like a helpless child and collapsed like a wet rag after seeing the horrible sight of the four-legged haggis.

Shaking his head, he glanced at Kathrina. He noted how she was so concerned with his well-being. No signs of derision or mockery crossed her face. Instead, he found patience and kindness in those lovely eyes. Somehow, it brought comfort to him. His supposed lovers had left him when he needed them the most. But here, Kathrina stayed with him.

“How long was I unconscious?” he asked.

“For more than an hour now,” she said and took his hand, “I’m sorry I made you go there. You told me not to, but I insisted anyway.”

He grunted and sat up. “It was my fault. I got a bit carried away.”

She frowned. “I never saw someone faint like that after screaming bloody murder. Is there a reason for it? Was the haunted house so terrible for you?”

“Nothing about the haunted house was more frightening than the contents of my Potions storage closet.”

She tilted her head. “Then why did you scream when you saw those four-legged haggis?”

Aesop’s cheeks turned red in embarrassment. He grumbled and coughed to hide his shame. But then he realized Kathrina had the right to know the truth. So he began his tale, “The truth is... haggis... in its raw, living state... is absolutely terrifying. My mum loved it and made her own version of the meal. But the truth is, she was a horrible cook. I could smell the rotten meat from across the manor!”

“Oh...”

He sighed. “I hated haggis and everything that resembled the abomination that is that damn meal. Every time she placed that food on the table, I could not stop vomiting!” he covered his face with his palm and continued, “I don’t know why my father said that she’s a splendid cook. Maybe because he loves her? I don’t know. But it just encouraged her to keep cooking more of that awful food.”

“I understand what you mean... I remember going to Durmstrang. And... and... they serve dragon tongue for lunch. They think that’s a delicacy. It was the worst day of my life.”

Aesop looked up at her, stunned. He had never revealed the truth behind his distaste for haggis to anyone. When his exes suggested the meal, he threw out an excuse that he was allergic to lamb. In the past, he worried his vulnerability would repel women. But now, he confessed his secret to Kathrina with no fear or regret.

And she returned the gesture by revealing her own uncomfortable story.

Hope blossomed further in his chest. Did he finally find that one person he could trust with all of his heart?

He held her hand and squeezed it. “Thank you, Kathrina. "I never expected to meet someone who shares my feelings," he smiled.

Her lips curled up as well, and the two of them exchanged gazes for a while. As they stared at each other, Aesop felt an invisible string pulling her towards him. Perhaps it was his feelings urging him to kiss her. He saw her moist, supple lips moving closer. And her honey gold eyes narrowed as she waited. Her sweet breath touched his lips and her fingers ran through his hair.

And their lips inched closer... and closer... until...

“Oi you lovebirds, get a room, will ya?” the man lying on the cot beside them shouted.

The spell was broken.

Kathrina pushed herself away. Her cheeks reddened as she tucked the stray auburn lock of hair behind her ear. She stood up and smiled weakly at him. “Um, I will ask the matron for the bill,” she said and then hurried away.

Aesop watched her as she left his side. Her wavy hair danced around her waist and her dress swished back and forth. She was truly beautiful inside and out. And he wanted her so bad.

“Oi you horndog, your junk’s poking outta your pants,” the other man hollered.

Aesop flushed. His member had gotten hard while he was lost in Kathrina’s beauty. And the fucking idiot beside him had announced that to the world. “Why are you looking in another man’s pants anyway?” he spat back.

“Ey, if you wanna shag, go to a brothel. Don’t do it here. Not everyone’s got a valentine, you know!” the patient complained.

He rolled his eyes. “That’s not my problem,” he said. He pushed himself up and put on his jacket and coat. The warmth of the infirmary blanket was nice. But he would not stay there while an insufferable man complained about him. After fixing his clothes and hair, he went where Kathrina had paid the bill for the infirmary services.

Peeking out of the window, he saw that the sky had darkened. His pocket watch told him it was already half past six in the evening. He gritted his teeth. So far, his date with Kathrina was a disaster. He was late for their breakfast. Peeves showered him with glitter. The Giant Squid interrupted their picnic. Aesop ruined a chance to impress her by getting a faceful of colorful paint. Then he just screamed in front of her when he saw those accursed haggises.

To make matters worse, he almost ruined their first kiss! Aesop sighed. At this rate, Kathrina might not want to go out with him again.

‘No, Aesop, don’t think that way. You still have one last ace up your sleeve!’ he said to himself while he reviewed his itinerary. Professor Shah revealed the occurrence of a meteor shower that evening. And lucky for him, its full glory would be in full view at the top of the Astronomy Tower. He and Kathrina would have dinner at the top of the tower while staring up at the stars. After hearing about it, Abraham offered to magically set up the place for a romantic dinner with Kathrina. He did not know if it was a good idea to entrust the task to the Charms Professor, but he had no choice. Now, he hoped nothing went wrong with the setup.

When they met again, her cheeks were less flushed. But her shy and reserved mannerisms remained. “I hope you don’t mind that I paid for your bill,” she said, “I regret bringing you to such a scary place. And this is the least I can do to make amends.

He shook his head. “No. It’s perfectly alright. I should’ve been more vigilant. But we shouldn’t dwell on that,” he held her hand and offered, “Shall we get going?”

“Okay, shall we grab something to eat? I know a good place.”

Summoning all the courage to let out another confident smirk, he said, “Actually, I have somewhere planned for us to have our supper.”

“Really?” she asked. A glimmer of curiosity sparkling in her golden eyes.

“Yes. Let me show you the way.”

♥♥♥

The hallways of Hogwarts was quiet. All around, the students had retired back to their dormitories to prepare for ’s Ball. The torches illuminated the hall with bright light. Cool yet gentle winds caressed the leaves of the potted plants stationed around the perimeter. As if Merlin also wanted to view the upcoming meteor shower, the night sky was clear. No cloud dared to spoil the starry night's celestial beauty.

Aesop was nervous. He always made it a point to look confident and self-assured in front of others. However, in the presence of Kathrina, he was stripped of that persona. Back in his Auror days, his interactions with other women were flamboyant, extroverted, and proud. He would sweep them off their feet and charm them with his confidence. No one could resist his charm.

But things were different with Kathrina. For the first time in a long while, he was feeling vulnerable. He feared that one wrong move would put his chances of gaining her affections at risk. The incident at Scarborough had shaken him deeply. It made him doubt himself. And it was his ego that caused him to spiral downhill.

But now that he was slowly picking up the pieces, determination filled his heart to be more careful with Kathrina. His affection for her grew exponentially by the minute. Despite his desire for intimacy, he knew patience was key in establishing a firm foundation for their relationship.

And it would start in this lovely dinner beneath the starry sky.

He took her by the hand as he led her up the steep steps of the Astronomy Tower. His leg injury complained about the prolonged climb, but he would have to endure the discomfort just for tonight. The Pain Relief Potion that he drank earlier had helped ease the tension from his muscles. Hopefully, it would work long enough for their evening.

As he carefully climbed up the stairs, he saw hints of pink, gold, and red drapes and ribbons decorating the corners and wall railings. Various heart-shaped balloons floated upwards. Scented candles and flowers adorned the area. Red and pink rose petals scattered around the floor underneath the table and chairs. He even spied an enchanted string quartet playing a very pleasant tune near the balcony. But someone had arranged all those decorations in a very bizarre and tacky display.

He covered his face with his free hand and groaned internally. ‘Why does everything have to be in this garish design?’ he said to himself.

Kathrina, meanwhile, covered her mouth and tried to stifle her giggles. “It looks... cheerful.”

“Oh, dear Merlin... Why Abraham... just why?”

“Did Professor Ronen help you with the decoration?”

Aesop sighed heavily. “He volunteered to the task. I was too careless in my planning, and he discovered my plans. He said he was an expert towards romantic matters. I did not want him to interfere, but he insisted.”

He stared at the feast spread across the table. There was an assortment of roast beef, potato, soup, bread, and dessert. Fresh and sweet scents wafted from the delectable dishes, beckoning them to take a bite. A bottle of red wine, two wine glasses, and a bucket of ice for cooling drinks rested in the center of the table. Everything looked perfect.

However, the color scheme of the setting did not match the mood Aesop was trying to build. He envisioned something elegant and seductive, like deep reds and blacks. But Abraham was all about loud, ostentatious displays of romance.

“It looks amazing. He outdid himself!” she said, “Shall we sit down?”

He pulled the chair for her, and she took a seat. After that, Aesop went and settled at the opposite end of the table.

“Can we ask the quartet to play something... slower?” he said, “The piece they played is too bouncy. It doesn’t suit the mood.”

She blinked. “What mood are you thinking about?” she asked innocently.

The lump in his throat swelled and his palms felt sweaty. But he managed to answer with a nonchalant smile, “I... wish for a more sedate ambience... it’s much more conducive to conversations...”

She nodded in understanding. With a wave of her wand, the quartet switched to a slow and soft melody. The music was no longer lighthearted. It was now low, romantic, and seductive.

“Much better. At least it doesn’t sound like we’re in a tavern. Thank you.”

They started on the food. And it was heavenly. The roasted meat melted like butter in his mouth, and the gravy was smooth and flavorful. Aesop marveled at the house-elves' ability to create a quick, splendid meal. Perhaps he should show his gratitude to their skills tomorrow.

As he ate, he notices his date observing at him with half-lidded eyes. Her eyelashes fluttered as she gazed upon his face. And he swallowed a mouthful of food nervously.

“Is there something wrong?” he asked as he wiped his lips with his napkin.

She giggled and rested her chin on her knuckles. “It’s been a while since I shared a meal like this. With someone...” she stared at her plate of food and said, “Someone special.”

“Kathrina...”

“This is so weird. I dine with friends and acquaintances. But never with someone I’m really interested in.”

Aesop’s lips parted slightly. Then he allowed them to curl up to form a genuine smile. “Me too... It’s been a long time... Never did I think I would find someone I enjoy sharing meals with again.”

His gaze locked with hers, and the invisible string once again drew him closer. Heat bloomed in his chest and spread through his body. He reached her hand across the table. The delicate features of her fingers traced the back of his palm. Their breaths mingled together, and he could see a blush on her cheeks.

Their faces were just inches apart...

“LOOK! IT’S ALREADY HAPPENING!”

A dozen of students rushed onto the balcony, making their way to the stone railings. The entire tower shook with their sudden movements, making Kathrina and Aesop yelp in surprise. Professors hid in tower corner, as the students gawked at skies.

Aesop muttered a curse as the tension once again popped like a balloon. He was so close, too! Just when he thought he could finally steal a kiss from her. The timing was perfect! Everything was going so well, until the Astronomy Club arrived to interrupt them!

“Why are you even here...?” he grumbled, “Aren’t you supposed to be in the Great Hall?”

“We wanted to get a better view of the meteor shower,” Amit replied while staring at the marvelous celestial event, “Sorry to intrude on your date. We’ll try to be quiet.”

The club members opened their star maps and telescopes, making notes of the event. Their quills scratched on the paper as they scribbled down the dates, times, and trajectories of the falling stars.

Meanwhile, Kathrina went back to her seat and started eating her supper. Her cheeks were still red with embarrassment, and Aesop’s blood boiled with rage. His plan was a total failure! Why could he not have a romantic evening with the woman he liked without some kind of interruption?!

Just as he was inwardly fuming, Kathrina once again held her hand and stroked the digits lovingly. She whispered, “There’s a spot in the balcony where we can watch the meteor shower. Want to come with me?”

He gulped and nodded his head. The gesture flicked the flames of desire within him. She pulled him towards a secluded area of the balcony, away from prying eyes. Flaming balls dropped from the dark, like fireflies in the night sky. As they watched in silence, Kathrina leaned into his broad frame. Aesop felt her silky tresses brush against his jaw, and her lavender perfume mingling with his earthy musk. With each passing second, she closed the gap between them.

Unconsciously, he wrapped his arm around her waist and pulled her closer to his body. Though he was taller than her, he made sure Kathrina felt comfortable in his embrace. She hugged him back and placed her head against his shoulder.

The ooohs and aaaahs of the students grew so far away. All he could hear was the beating of his heart and her shallow breathing. The rest of the world vanished and became a blur. All he could see was her. There was nothing else in the universe except her. Not even the celestial display above them could rival the brilliant twinkle of her honey gold-colored eyes.

His hand snaked its way up to her neck as his thumb gently stroked her chin. The desire lingering behind those eyes mirrored his. But he kept his moves slow and steady. He did not want to scare her away with his passion. Giving her time to react, he lowered his head and whisked his lips over hers.

And she reached out and pressed her soft lips against his.

And on that very moment, time ceased to exist.

Aesop closed his eyes and savoured the moment. He was afraid that any movement or noise could ruin this special moment. His heart threatened to burst out of his chest. The roaring tempest of emotions within him made him feel like a child who received the greatest gift for Christmas. He tightened his arms around her waist and pulled her closer. Merlin knows he wanted more than just a kiss. But would he be greedy in taking it? He didn’t know. And he would be happy to be contented with just this moment.

As they broke apart, he noticed the pink dusting her cheeks. The lustrous sheen in her eyes was so bright that it rivaled the sun itself.

“Wow that’s... amazing,” she said breathlessly as she smoothed the fabric of her dress, “So that’s what kissing you feels like.”

Aesop chuckled at how she attempted to play off the excitement and glee after the kiss they just shared. It was gratifying for him to know that someone he admired and liked felt the same. “First time?” he joked.

A ungodly snort came out of her. “Well, I don’t want to hurt your pride, but let’s say... yes and no,” she tapped her chin, pretending to think about it.

Aesop frowned. “Elaborate, please.”

She smirked and gave him a playful wink. “I don’t kiss and tell, Professor Sharp,” she giggled and resumed watching the meteor shower, “Don’t you have any decency not to pry into a lady’s secrets?”

“I’m still a trained Auror. Secrets are my specialty.”

She caressed his cheek. There was a hint of fondness in her expression, and a gentle smile tugged her lips. “Oh, Aesop. You wouldn’t be able to coax a single word out of me. So why try?” she booped his nose and smiled at him. “But to soothe your burning curiosity, allow me to say that you’re my first REAL kiss. Not my first kiss, but I would count our kiss as my real first.”

It wasn’t what he wanted to hear. But it satisfied him nonetheless. “That’s... better,” he said, returning the smile.

They continued watching the display with renewed interest. Aesop stole glances at the Alchemy Professor. There was a joyful twinkle in her eyes as she stared up at the stars. The light of the celestial objects painted a streak of light across her cheeks, giving her an ethereal glow.

He sighed and smiled. This was the best date he ever had in a long time. And it was all thanks to this woman.

♥♥♥

After the festivities had died down, Aesop walked his date back to her quarters. Butterflies fluttered in his stomach as his mind wandered to the possibilities of their next date. Or if she wanted to become his lover. But the question lingered. What if he rushed things? Would he look like a desperate fool?

As they reached the door of her chambers, Aesop cleared his throat, trying to look more of a gentleman and less of a lustful beast in front of the woman he desired. He placed his hands behind his back and stood straight.

“Thank you for coming with me today,” he started, “I never thought that I could have a pleasant day after all those events that happened.”

“You jest, right? That is the best Valentine’s Day Date I’ve ever been in,” she laughed. “I didn’t expect you to have a romantic, and lighter, side to you.”

“I have a lot of layers to unveil.”

“I think we’re both pretty complex,” she replied.

“Perhaps we’re made for each other, then?”

A blush crept up to her cheeks. Kathrina’s gaze darted away from his face. “I-I agree with you...” she said. “I’m not sure if I’m ready, but...” She lifted her head up and stared at him with eyes that only confirmed her hesitancy.

He could feel his ego deflating faster than a punctured bludger. “I can wait, Kathrina. I’m a patient man,” he said, trying to not look crestfallen.

She sighed softly, and her shoulders relaxed. “No. It’s not like that. It’s just... We barely know each other for a couple of months and I feel like it’s happening too fast...”

He shook his head. “I understand that. It’s quite overwhelming for me, too. I don’t want to rush things. As I’ve said, I can wait,” he said in a comforting tone. “Let’s just go slow. One day at a time.”

Kathrina reached out and held his hand. “Yes, that’s exactly what I feel. Thank you so much for understanding,” she said.

As silence lingered between them, Aesop kept his gaze fixed on her lovely face. Her round, pale face seemed to glow under the lamplight. The smooth curve of her cheeks, the delicate shape of her nose and chin, and her soft, cherry lips. They were all the traits he found most beautiful about her.

He took a step forward. And she did not try to back away. Their faces were inches apart. Her breaths tickled his skin, and he could smell the wine on her lips. He cupped her cheeks with his hands and brushed her bottom lip with his thumb.

At the corner of his eye, he saw Peeves rushing towards them. His wicked grin spread from ear to ear as he clutched a couple of water balloons in his hands.

But this time, he was ready.

He pulled his coat off, tossing it over Kathrina’s head to shield her.

“NOT THIS TIME, YOU BLASTED CLOWN!”

SPLAT!

The water balloons hit his torso dead-on, spilling the cold liquid all over his dress shirt and waistcoat. Icy chills grasped his aching leg, but he ignored it. With a flick of his wand, he aimed at the poltergeist and yelled, “Rictusempra!”

BZZT!

The yellow bolt hit Peeves directly in the middle of his face, sending him spiraling backwards. Water balloon fragments splashed on the floor and the walls of the corridor. His maniacal laughter echoed through the passageway as he rolled away from them, laughing.

“Aesop, are you alright?” Kathrina asked after removing the coat from her head. Her honey-gold eyes searched his face in concern.

“Yes. I’m fine,” he said, smoothing his waistcoat and shirt with his hand, “Nothing a little drying charm can’t fix.” He reached out for the hem of his shirt and pulled the soaked fabric up from his skin. “How about you? Are you wet?” he asked.

She averted her gaze away from his bare abdomen. Her race turned bright red and her lips parted. “N-no... I’m okay...,” she squeaked.

He blinked. Why did she sound nervous? Then he realized his mistake and pulled his shirt down. “Oh... I apologize... I don’t want to make you uncomfortable... It was inappropriate of me to undress in front of a lady... Especially in the corridor where anyone could see us...”

With a quick deep breath, she looked at him in the eye. Her stiff posture told him that of the herculean effort not to stare anything below his neck. “Perhaps you can come inside my chambers and dry off there?” she offered, “I don’t want you to catch a cold.”

Aesop felt heat rising up his neck and ears. He never expected such a suggestion from her. “Are you sure? I can always clean myself up in my quarters,” he said, trying to control his thumping heart.

She bit her bottom lip nervously. “I insist. Consider it as my gratitude for shielding me from the prank attack.”

“Well I...” he stammered. All the bravado he showed earlier vanished as his imagination took him to places that he shouldn’t be. But he mentally slapped himself. He needed to remain calm and not let his raging hormones get the better of him. He had promised Kathrina that they would go slow. And he was staunchly determined to keep that promise.

She cleared her throat. “And... I’ve heard that you’re a connoisseur for fine spirits,” she kept her eyes fixed on the doorknob, “Maybe you’re interested in tasting the 150 year old Ogden’s Old Firewhisky I’ve got in my private stock? I’ve been waiting for a perfect chance to taste it. Maybe you would enjoy it more if you share it with a friend?”

His heart skipped a beat. This day could not get any better. “How could I refuse such an offer?” he grinned.

A shy smile and a bat of her eyelashes greeted him. “Wonderful,” she said before unlocking the door. “I’m sure you’ll enjoy it.”

He could not help but grin ear to ear as he followed her inside. Perhaps the day had not gone as bad as he thought.

--FIN--

[purple-hel]

Compilation of the personal life posts I've made elsewhere in the last couple weeks

I don't want to deal with any of this. I don't want to deal with cleaning out the house my mother has been hoarding in for 20+ years that got rodent infested. I don't want to deal with my mother freaking out about me cleaning, even tho anything that isn't soaked in rat piss I'm just shoving upstairs to throw away after she dies. I don't want to deal with my brother who would rather things not get done if they aren't being done his way, and has therefore sabotaged my cleaning. I don't want to deal with trying to do all this with no money except what I can beg from my friends, which is nothing even approaching enough (not that I'm not grateful, I am!). I don't want to deal with living in a house with no fridge or washer/dryer once it's done. I don't want to deal with having to figure out how to replace leaking pipes. I don't want to deal with my roommates, who have nowhere else to go and are therefore the REASON we're doing this (I could find somewhere else to go, or just move on from this life), but who aren't putting in as much work as I am, or as my friends are, my friends who have no stake in all of this except wanting me to have a place. I don't want to deal with still not being able to find a job after 17 months. I'd really just like to have a nice quick aneurysm and fall over dead.

I just got my car back and this happened as I got home and parked, frozen snow/ice. I'd really like to just never wake up, please and thank you, universe. I've got two weeks to get moved and without the cargo capacity of my car, I can't fucking do it.

I'm just done. I give up. Every time I think things might actually work, the universe kicks me in the gut. 17 months out of work and I can't even get an interview; I'm being evicted; I got the money I thought I'd need to make moving into my mom's work, there's more problems than I thought and it took more money than I thought and I'm out of money and only like half done. Then my family decides to be shitty and threaten to tank the whole thing, which I never did solve, just decided to ignore and keep going anyway. Then I figure out a way to get my car running again so maybe I can get the moving part done if I work myself into the ground, tho it means it's not my car anymore once I finish moving, and the DAY I get the car back, with just barely enough time to make moving work, not that I have enough gas money to actually make all the needed trips, the car is out of commission again. The universe is sending me a very clear message, that I'm just fucked and it's stupid of me to think I can change that and I'm done trying to argue with it. I just need to figure out what to do with the cats. (and this is a money problem, not a neurochem problem, so a grippy sock vacation will just make it worse, so don't.)

Took one dose of every sleep aid I have that definitely won't interfere with my ability to function tomorrow. (melatonin, trazodone, no thc hemp product, and prescription anti-anx.) Maybe things will look better tomorrow, but I can't imagine how. Either none of this means anything and enduring suffering is only worth it if you want to; or there's some deeper meaning, in which case fuck this shit, short of a lottery win right the fuck now, there's nothing that could be on the other side of this I would consider worth going thru this. I've had a nice comfortable life, and even if I was handed it back tomorrow, it wouldn't have been worth this. I'd take it, cos Bestie and the cats, but it wouldn't have been worth this. Never worrying about money again for me and everyone I ever gave even half a fuck about, that would be worth this, but that's not going to happen.

Oh, yeah, and on top of everything else? I'm pretty sure my 17y/o cat is heading for the rainbow bridge. Nothing seems wrong, but….I just have that feeling. Pretty sure my not-quite-ex will cover the last vet visit if needed, but my old man would definitely be happier just falling asleep at home, so I hope that's what happens.

Ok, getting my car fixed seems possible, tho I have no idea how long it will take. One time fixing this problem took like a week, one time it took a day. A friend is talking about getting me a uhaul the last weekend before I have to be out of the apartment, which....I am comfy driving a van. I have driven the shortest uhaul truck ONCE and it was very stressful. I am NOT comfy driving anything bigger than the shortest truck. One person said they could drive it, but then immediately when silent when I started trying to make the plans? So I'm trying to line up a backup.

[jodilin65]

FRIDAY, APRIL 28, 1989 Earlier tonight I finally got to see where Linda lives. She brought me over to her house. It’s pretty nice. She has nice furniture and a really nice stereo and she’s neater than I thought she’d be.

Jai and I continue to spend quite a bit of time together. I dressed up a little for him and he liked it. He fixed my gold-flowered bracelet and said, “I’m glad I fixed that. I like that on you.”

I put on earrings too, and did my nails which are fairly long now.

I wonder where Nervous is? I doubt the building’s livable yet, so he’s probably on the streets.

MONDAY, APRIL 24, 1989 I had started to write yesterday, but the phone had rung. I was pissed that day.

I was today too, cuz I had gone without my meds since last Friday, but I took them late this afternoon. Next time I want to try to go longer.

Tomorrow I think I’m gonna go down to Urgent Care cuz I have a yeast infection and a urinary tract infection. Wish I could figure out why the hell I keep getting them all the time.

Also, I need to go to the bank to report my new address and to Saratoga Drug for food stamps.

I wish to hell I had money to go clothes shopping.

Two nights ago I got a hell of a surprise from Nervous. He called, and right away I could tell something was up and he goes, “My building’s on fire.”

It took a minute to register, then when it did I thought - Sasha! She’s ok, though, and is here with me now. Nervo, I guess, was out on the streets all weekend and probably still is cuz the building has probably got to be either rebuilt or heavily repaired, and that’ll take time. I guess from what he says it was a really bad fire started by kids.

MONDAY, APRIL 17, 1989 I had such a fantastic day. I am sitting right now out on the back porch where the sun’s warm and the breeze is gorgeous.

Jai and I talked for hours. It also occurred to me that I knew his brother Leo from school in Longmeadow.

Linda was over earlier and we sat out on the balcony wall.

Today I was up all day and very productive. Therefore, I feel much better. I cleaned all my windows, vacuumed and mopped the kitchen floor and a few other things too, such as sweeping the porch or balcony or whatever it’s called.

Jai took his bike to a bike shop for some spokes for a bike wheel. He builds bikes. He left his door open saying he felt rude shutting his door on me. I really, really like him so much. He’s easy and fun to talk with and be with.

You didn’t dare leave home and leave your door open on Oswego St. It’s so safe and private here.

Early this morning I walked to Shopper’s Drug and it was so beautiful with trees and flowers, rather than graffiti, broken glass and Puerto Ricans gathered all over doing drugs and giving me the eye. Although, males will give you the eye anywhere, white or not.

SATURDAY, APRIL 15, 1989 I was quite pleased again shortly after the last time I wrote. I was not only able to play on the piano the notes I was singing to the song I wrote but also the chords and the left hand. I never knew I could do that.

I overslept today and was worried sick about missing my appointment with Dr. Moshiri, but thanks to Andy, I got there. He drove me home too, but first, he stopped at Newsstand to buy Billboard magazine.

Later on, after I came home, even though I was dead tired, Jessie and I went to Bradlee’s where I got this sexy teddy and then to Heartland’s Food Warehouse. I used quite a few coupons and didn’t get too much so I was surprised the bill came to $55.

Jai and I spent quite some time together. We had some very interesting talks and he taught me how to play the one song he knows on the piano, Let It Be.

I like him very much and I know he likes me, but he has a girlfriend and I’m not attracted to men. He’s not ugly, but cuz I can’t have what I want, I’d rather stay alone than settle. I’m coming to realize that I don’t want to give up my space and privacy by getting committed. Especially when I can’t have what I want to make it really worth it.

Andy was out all night with his friend Mary. He answered at 3:00 and said he couldn’t talk but would call me back in half an hour. Mary was probably right there in the room. She’s as opposed to our friendship as his folks are.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 12, 1989 I am really pissed cuz for the third time in a row I missed Unsolved Mysteries, but they’re all repeats anyway.

A little while ago I went to McDonald’s with Andy, who’s probably out grocery shopping now and will be calling me back later. We’re still ranking on people with funny names.

This Friday, I have to see Dr. Moshiri, but after that, Andy and I may go to the beach.

Earlier today, Tammy (my sister) called to say she’s going to Florida and that if there’s any shit with Mom, she’ll pack up and leave. I told her Jessie’s surprised we haven’t disowned Mom and Dad and she said she wouldn’t hesitate to if need be, just like they disowned Bill’s parents. His mother is a real bitch, I guess. Sometime soon I’m gonna go down to see her with Jessie.

I called Mom today and she didn’t get pissed. She’s been so nice ever since Dad was here.

Nervous brought over a guitar he found which looked pretty useless to me. The neck was all smashed.

Later…

I put together a fairly decent song on the guitar in no time, even though it’s not quite finished yet. I just played and sang what I heard in my head and it really is quite nice. I’m gonna go try and finish it.

TUESDAY, APRIL 11, 1989 Not much has happened since I last wrote. Linda was over yesterday briefly, and I spoke with Andy, Jessie and Tammy.

Jessie was here Saturday night for a while, and like a jerk, I let Al come over while she was here and he totally ruined my night. He is such a cruel nasty loser. After they went home, I had an excellent talk with Jai next door. He is so nice. If I was straight he’d be great for me. We had a good talk tonight, too.

I invited Nervous over, which I do once in a lifetime, and he brought me some milk and a candy bar and helped me balance my checkbook. Hopefully, before the month is out I’ll have some extra money cleaning houses for this guy Jim P. He’s getting customers pretty fast. I spoke with him today about it.

I can’t wait till I get extra money cuz I want to go clothes shopping so bad. I want to get some really nice fashions.

I decided to do my outgoing message on my answering machine with me singing and playing the keyboard for a couple of seconds.

Earlier at 2:00, I called Dr. Walker but they were all out to lunch, then fell asleep and woke up too late to call again. Tomorrow for sure.

FRIDAY, APRIL 7, 1989 I realize I haven’t written for a while, and there is a lot to tell and catch up on, too.

Last Saturday night, Linda came over and she and I did some laundry. Then she fell asleep and like a fool, I went downstairs where Gracie used to live to meet whoever lives there, and it was this guy who was totally drunk. There was a girl too, but she said she didn’t live there and was only visiting. She told me to come in and have a drink, but I said I didn’t drink and that I had a cup of coffee upstairs, and she said to bring that down, but I wasn’t interested. Especially since I could see right away that this guy was looking at me with you-know-what on his mind. So I went upstairs and about an hour later, he pounds the hell out of the door, and cuz I was dressed inappropriately, I slouched down against the door and he goes, “My God.” He no doubt thought I was awfully short.

Then he said I sounded kind of grouchy and I told him he woke me and my girlfriend up. Then he says, “Oh, I just wanted to know if you needed anything.” I said no, and left him standing there totally wasted, and then on and off from midnight till almost 4:00, he pounded the hell out of the walls till I called the police and the landlord, which was definitely the right thing to do, cuz I haven’t heard from him. The whole building heard his racket.

Last Tuesday, I cleaned Russ’s house, and then that night Dad called and was talking unusually carefree and I couldn’t hear Mom in the background. He says, “I’ll pick you up tomorrow.”

I said, “Yeah, sure,” and he said he was home. At first I didn’t believe him and said I’d call him back, but sure enough, he flew in to see Tammy and the kids and take care of business at the store.

He’s coming up to see my place tomorrow, and he bought me the Judds’ new tape and new batteries for my little piano. I was there at the house with him all day Wednesday and we had a great time. We joked a lot and he teased me as usual.

I played the keyboard for him and shocked the shit out of him. I also showed him how good my pitch is and how I can tell notes just by hearing them. He figured all I could really do was pick with one finger, no left hand, and play only one or two songs. I definitely shocked him.

When I sang for him he could see the improvement despite my nasal sound. He also agrees with my theories about Nana and Pa’s spirits guiding me, and feels I have what it takes to make it and should go to music school. I need to clear up my allergies first, though, and today I’m definitely going to call Dr. Walker. I’m gonna call the college, too.

I called Ma today and she was unusually friendly. I rambled on and on about my singing and piano playing, and can you believe she listened? I know it’s cuz Dad said something. I just wish I wasn’t so stuffed up cuz I know I have the potential to be a 9 or 10 instead of a 7 or 8, but I know I’ll get lucky and make it someday when I least expect it.

Andy says he’ll let me make a demo of my singing on his 4-track, but I want to clear up my allergies and improve first and he said, “You already have improved.”

When we first got together he didn’t feel I had much of a voice. All I could do until a year ago was sing on key, but it really wasn’t a voice. He doesn’t like Gloria’s voice for the same reason I don’t. Cuz it’s a voice that’s just there. It’s nothing special and there’s nothing to it. There’s no vibrato and it’s not strong sounding. I love her songs and her looks, though.

Then Andy said something that really touched my heart. He said, “Remember how I said I’d never be in the same band with you? Well, I have a feeling that very soon I’ll be playing the keyboard with you as the lead singer.”

That just made me feel so good. Plus, we should make it together cuz we need and trust each other so well. I’d feel safe with him, and he’d know how to handle almost any situation good or bad.

We discussed him taking me to a woman’s gay bar maybe this weekend. I’m skeptical, but I’ll go just to get out.

Later…

I just called Linda. She says that maybe later she’ll stop by for some tea.

I wonder when Jessie is gonna come over. She was really pissed at me saying, “When are you gonna be home for more than 5 minutes and have time for having anyone else over?” I told her yesterday she could come over, but she didn’t. I hope this weekend she can. She never saw Oswego St. either, and she agrees it’s about time we see each other more. I mean, we are good friends after all.

I can’t wait to get together with Andy too, and I especially can’t wait to go to the beach. This is my last year being white as a ghost.

Later…

I learned that I could have a kid by artificial insemination. Without being married or rich. It’s an elective thing and the sperm is donated by someone out of state which is great cuz I’ll never have to see the guy or worry about him trying to get the kid or bother me. I’ll never ever go to bed with a guy again or be one’s friend either. Of course I’m gonna wait a while, get a decent job and save up money.

Jessie says to make sure I have someone to help me. Yeah, right. There’s no such thing as me falling in love with someone attractive and decent that’d have me. Only ugly jerks are available to me, but I want to raise a kid myself, rather than get involved with someone, then break up with them and have them try to hurt or take away the kid out of revenge. The only thing that worries me is my family. Would they have DYS on my ass and check up on me all the time? If my mom pulled any shit like that, I swear I will disown her.

Earlier today I was at the house loading up the van with Dad for almost two hours.

Jessie may be over later. I doubt Linda will be.

[harveyhawkscripts]

[A4A] Discussing OCD With an Android [Android Speaker] [Platonic] [OCD Comfort]

Usage:

- Okay for monetization

- Please credit me as Harvey Hawk :)

- Tweaks, improv, and pronoun changes are okay! Just please do not rewrite the script completely.

Synopsis: The listener, a young adult with OCD, returns to their apartment building to find the resident Tenant Assistant waiting for them. As the android escorts them to their apartment, the two get to talking about obsessive compulsive disorder and how it affects day-to-day life.

Google Doc

Key:

[SFX and Action]

(.) Short Pause

(...) Longer pause

(Voice instruction)

Word Count: 987

TENANT ASSISTANT ANDROID:

Good evening, tenant. I am here to escort you to your residence. How was work?

(.)

Oh dear. You say fine, but your tone indicates otherwise. Rough day, I take it?

(.)

Very well, I will not ask. But know that I am here to listen if you change your mind.

(.)

Of course. The time we spend together is more than just a job to me; I consider you a friend.

(.)

It warms my circuits to hear you feel the same.

(.)

My day was productive. No emergencies , thank goodness, but I did remove a racoon from the garden shed.

(.)

About as well as one would expect. It is a good thing I am made of metal or he would have torn me to shreds!

(.)

I am alright. Thank you for your concern.

(.)

 Right- apologies, my friend. I am programmed to assist.

(.)

You are the only tenant who prefers to open the door, actually.

(.)

It does not bother me when you refuse my help. My priority is the safety and well being of the apartment's tenants. I have no intention of making you change the way you do things.

(.)

If I may ask, though- Is there a reason you do things the way you do? For example, you always turn your door handle three times.

(.)

Certainly. Given that no emergencies arise, I can stay and talk. May I come in?

(.)

Thank you. Now, as you were saying?

(.)

Obsessive compulsive disorder? Forgive me, I'm afraid my WiFi is disconnected while the router is being fixed.

(.)

Yes, still. Apologies. It should be repaired... eventually. My point is, I cannot look up "Obsessive Compulsive Disorder." What is it, exactly?

(.)

... Ah, I see. So it is also called OCD. What a coincidence; Miss Minnie mentioned the same thing when I was helping her clean her office.

(.)

Yes, it was quite an endeavor. I appreciate Miss Minnie's work, but she is not the tidiest person. Nevertheless, I was dusting the bookshelf when I noticed the books were not in order. I took it upon myself to arrange them - alphabetically by author's last name, of course. When Miss Minnie saw this, she said there was no need to spend so much time organizing the books because she is, quote, "not OCD about these sorts of things," unquote.

(.)

That was a strange laugh. Did I say something wrong?

(.)

I see. So, this is a popular misunderstanding about OCD. Then, if you do not mind, what is Obsessive Compulsive Disorder actually like?

(.)

Those types of thoughts do sound troubling, not to mention disruptive. How consistent are they?

(.)

Is that so? They were nearly constant for you, but now they have gotten easier to manage. That is good. You know, once I had a glitch that caused a memory loop in my processor. I could simultaneously run other programs, of course, but it was distracting and slowed me down considerably. I cannot imagine that sort of thing every day.

(.)

That... Forgive me, friend. I do not understand. How does turning the doorknob thrice prevent a break-in? That is highly illogical.

(.)

Then OCD is dictated not by logic but by fear? I suppose, in an odd way, that does make sense. Somewhat.

(.)

It has been a while since I have checked on Dr. Claussen. He is one of those tenants that is rarely home. However, next time I see him I will ask to borrow a psychology book.

(.)

The human mind is fascinating, true. However, I would also like to learn for the sake of you and the other tenants. It is my job to create a sense of safety and facilitate a community of support. It says so on my packaging. That, and I do care for you.

(.)

Is that why you did not wish to talk about your day? Your OCD interfered with your ability to work?

(.)

Not only to work, but to focus on day-to-day things as well. That is troubling. I can see how such things can build high amounts of anxiety and stress.

(.)

Were you able to talk to someone about lightening your workload?

(.)

My goodness! Your supervisor was that indifferent to your plight?! That is awful. Perhaps you can go to HR and file a complaint.

(.)

What? No, of course not! You are not stupid, my friend. You have a mental health disorder that affects your ability to carry out tasks uninterrupted. If anything, I commend your ability to carry yourself so well. Please, do not doubt yourself. You are smart, kind, and helpful to all of your neighbors. You simply work a high-pace job that does not mix well with your condition. Where did you ever get the idea that you are unintelligent?

(.)

Is that so? Tomorrow I will bring you the wanted ads with your mail. Perhaps we can find you a quieter, slower-paced job. Something remote might be nice.

(.)

Do not worry, friend. I will help you. You will not be going about this alone.

(.)

Certainly. You are not incapable, my friend, you simply need support. Support that I can more effectively offer now that I know the scope of what you are dealing with.

(.)

Do not apologize. You are under no obligation to tell me anything you wish to keep private. I am just grateful we are having this discussion.

(.)

Asking for help may be hard, but there are people who care for you. Mr. and Mrs. Jada, for example. They always talk about those meals you cooked for them when their son was in the hospital. I am sure if you went to them they would be more than happy to lend an ear. You could even start appointments with Dr. Claussen. I hear he is accepting new patients this Summer.

(.)

Do not get so lost in your own fears that you do not see who is in front of you. I am always here.

(.)

I am glad I could help you feel better, my friend.

END

[s4kasaki]

Hey, Can i have domestic fluff with Izumi and leo?? Thank you and have a nice day!!

oooo two of the sillies in knights!! I love writing for Knight's.. did you guys know that? ( Just not Tsukasa, he hurts my brain..) I hope you enjoy it and thank you as well!! I hope you have a nice day too~ also I've returned for a while

♡ — leo & izumi | domestic fluff

‣ tws/cws: none!!

‣ reader: genderneutral - they/them

‣ author's note: silly's.. lub them.. yes it's 1 am, yes Im exhausted.

☆ — IZUMI

people always like to say that Izumi would be a bad boyfriend/husband. so! I’m gonna tell you now, he's really just the best boyfriend you could ever have.

We all know how Izumi can be a little hedgehog sometimes, always balling back in his shell when something makes him seem vulnerable and less capable of doing stuff by himself— but, when you push his confident border to the side.. by pushing just the correct buttons..! you will soon find out that he's fond of being physically loving just as much as he is with actions and words

our Izuhug is the cook of the house, and he rarely ever allows you in the kitchen— he says it's a “knights duty” and that the only duty the prince/princess should be having: is savoring being taken care of. no going against his say-so, cus it's no good. he just won't accept you working in the kitchen. though when you do get your hands to cook in the kitchen! he's teasing you about it!

“you really can't reach up there? hmph, how annoying…~ move out the way.”

but he will accept you being his little assistant just so he can get a reason to call you his "little assistant"

Speaking of which, you always sit with him in the kitchen and watch him make whatever he's making at the time and it makes him so very happy— because he truly enjoys your company even though he might not tell you that up-front sometimes! with one hand he’s stirring the food and with the other, he’s spinning you around and if you listen close enough you’ll be able to hear him quietly singing "Ironic Blue" to himself with a smile. all while the lyrics are directed to you~♡

this guy is great at everything, even cuddling. wait— did I mention cuddling? No? Then do it. Please, love him and give him affection. He especially loves it when you fall asleep in his arm, or with your head on his lap. You're just so pretty to him, he can not describe it in proper words. But, when your head is resting on his lap and he gets to see all the beauty that lies in that pretty little face of yours when you're not talking. yes, he finds you pretty when you're quiet— but he's gotten so used to you talking around him even when he's working, that it's quite hard for him to focus properly without you talking to him about absolutely anything.

He probably has a cleaning schedule and what not and you’re wrong if you think he isn’t gonna make you follow it

“Hey beautiful, wake up. We’re doing laundry and cleaning today. Yeah, it’s Sunday”

Honestly it’s mostly him cleaning and you "bothering" him because you’re not cleaning to his so veryyy high!! standards

“Hey, you can’t mix those products- just give it to me”

And you stand there and watch him while you dance. Izumi the housewife <3

He most definitely has a cleaning playlist on spotify that’s full of R&B and lovey dovey type of music

You probably catch him dancing with a mop at one point and he chases you around the house yelling your name in that silly tone he would when he calls “Yuu-Kunnnnn~”

When you do the laundry he's always making some silly remarks about your fashion taste, you have this bad of fashion? while dating the Izumi Sena? really??

This results in a laundry war and you two just start throwing clothes at each other even though he definitely isn't gonna want to pick all the clothes up again :giggle:

He always promises to cook your favorite dinner if you hurry up to finish all the tasks he’s laid out for the day, it's his special treat~

And after a veryyYY long day of cleaning and being silly… He likes to sit with you on the couch and cuddle while watching a movie~

He honestly enjoys the cleaning days because it means he gets to spend the day with you, fully aware that cleaning with you also comes with many surprises and giggles that he adores to hear slip from ur mouth

grocery shopping with him though …

He makes a very strict list and he says that you can only buy what’s on the list when you two leave so if you want something, you’re gonna have to make him add it to the list before you leave two otherwise he’s not buying it ┐(—_—)┌

If he wakes up before you for work he’ll make breakfast for you and leave a note aggressively telling you to eat and take care of yourself today or else there will be serious consequences… such as no kisses for an entire day

When he gets home from work and long day of singing and modeling, his first move after taking off his shoes is to immediately go find you

“Did you eat the food I made for you this morning? You better have (-_- )ﾉ!”

He shows that he cares about you in all of these ways. Like adding your favorite food to the shopping list even though you didn’t ask for him to, doing your laundry on rough days, making your lunch for work, etc

Domestic Izumi is just super cute and wholesome in his own way~

☆ — LEO

moving in with leo was an absolute rollercoaster of a ride. it felt like you were going through your childhood all over again and now you’re excited to come home from work than you have ever been before knowing you have an undyingly affectionate lil ginger waiting for you at home

Leo is a little disorganized— but you see him actually trying to get better at it, without you needing to tell him and it warms your heart

your favourite thing about sharing a home with him is that you get to wake up next to him. The first rays of sun of the morning come through the window and hit his face, enhancing how truly handsome and cute he is. you stir a bit and his hold instinctively tightens, refusing to let you go even when he’s dreaming. you leave soft, feather-light kisses on his face and soon he’s fluttering his eyes open, a lazy shit eating grin spreads across his face as he pulls you against his chest~

Leo's favourite thing about sharing a home with you is dancing in the living room (｡•̀ᴗ-)✧! You’ve already had dinner and you’re reading a book when you see him connecting his mics to the speakers and singing. soon, he's singing one of your favourites and he’s putting out his hand for you to take. you smile and let him help you up and soon your swaying in the living room, eyes closed, soft smiles and hearts connected to each other

loves cuddling with you ALL. THE. TIME. it’s a problem. especially if Tsukasa is forcing him to go to practice and when you visit him at the gym he’d definitely go “my s/o! hey! cuddles!!” he’s like an excited puppy whenever his eyes set foot on you!

very much adores when you play with his hair while you’re both on the couch or the bed or just chilling, y'know? (≧▽≦) it's the softest when he just got out of the shower and it’s kinda damp but it’s down out of its usual ponytail and he looks so soft and cuddly… and handsome! and just absolutely ready for you to smother him with affection !!!

falls asleep on top of you. you once complained that this ginger is too heavy for you but did he listen? no. he loves pressing his head on top of your chest and hear your heartbeat. if he focuses too hard he’ll hear that it’s in sync with him and it gives him that random spark of composing ideas~!

when he holds your hands, he likes to swing them back and forth— he may be just a lil too energetic but it’s cute! He'll loves it even more if y'all are in a crowded place and you hold onto his hand, intertwined fingers and all, makes him feel like he had to protect you and works extra hard not to lose you in a sea of people he once did— he cried…

randomly kisses your nose because he loves to see your face all scrunched up from the ticklish feeling and he’d always lean back to laugh at how cute you are~

loves loves loves loves to swipe your hair away from your face (if you have long hair) if not, he likes to ruffle your hair like how he would to his younger buddies like Tsukasa or similar to how Izumi would do to a tiny fan of his!

every night is movie night no matter how tired the both of you are and it’s literally just a mess of limbs tangled together to the point that you don’t know whose leg is whose, and the movie is playing in the background as the two of you talk about how your day went while looking at each other adoringly and listening intently to what the other is saying

on the times where he comes home earlier than you, he’d spam you with a lot of chats, emoticons especially, calls, whatever. telling you how much he misses you already and how he hopes that you hurry home because if he doesn’t get all the cuddles and kisses he’ll die!

would ocassionally wrap his tiny arms around your middle from the back whenever you’re washing the dishes and places his chin on your shoulder. he loves to watch you do whatever and for him it’s already the most beautiful thing ever .

okay he loves you when you're awake and sleep but he does likes watching you sleep like— not in the crazy natsume “im gonna kill you” way, but in the way you look so peaceful and without a worry in the world and how you just look so natural and imperfectly perfect!

blasts loud music in the house whenever y'all are cleaning around the house, you both are doing more 80% dancing and 20% cleaning~ he’d find some hidden and old stuff from different parts of the house and he’d get distracted playing with it and tagging you along as well. in the end, the cleaning will have to be done another day <3

[xbunny-k]

The Actor & I: PART TWENTY-SEVEN – What If We Just Hook Up And Then It’s Awkward?

SO SO SORRY FOR THE DELAY! my IRL job came in and took over my life, but i am making time for this over christmas! This is part TWENTY SEVEN of a very long, SLOW BURN series on Austin Butler and a Production Assistant on set of Elvis (2022).

Masterlist here!

Anything italicized is main character’s thoughts!

Warnings: Possessiveness, smidge of misogyny, Smut, Fluff, eventual Spoilers for Elvis (2022), language (If i missed anything, please comment so i can add!)

Tags: @manddor @pumkiinpasties​ @its-funny-til-its-not​ @karamelcoveredolicity @butlerstyles @feral4austinbutler @mirandastuckinthe80s @emilykolchivans @atombombbibunny @francescababy @starry-night-20 @yeetfack-blog @milaa24 @londonalozzy @xo-aurora @chaoticbilly @mamaspresley @sageskywalker @cryingabtab @readerloverlevy @jakiki94 @dancer4j @pennyroyalcreep (Let me know if you’d like to be added!)

Please, if you like this, share it, comment, like it and enjoy xx

Day Two of intital fittings starts off much like the previous day except this time there’s a dresser to help with Austin getting in and out of costumes. As much as I’m happy to avoid incidents like yesterday, I do miss being so close to him. Ana, you can’t stop saying you want him to stop acting like your boyfriend and you want to be completely friendzoned, but then you complain you’re not helping him get dressed and undressed… I rub my temples at the thought. The day goes late again and by 8:45 PM, we start heading out.

Before I leave, I clean up the space and make sure everything is ready for pick up in the morning as a driver is coming to pick up Catherine’s costumes and bring back to her studio. I leave last again and lock up before heading to my car. Once again, Austin is leaning against my car, but this time he’s on the phone. I’m not sure who he’s talking to, but I hear him say, “No, it’s just not smart. I just got out of everything with Vanessa. I need to be alone for awhile…”

What isn’t smart? Should I eavesdrop or just interrupt? I decide to just listen for a few more minutes and hear Austin say, “She just started at this job, I can’t even risk that for her. What if we just hook up and then it’s awkward? She’d quit? That’s fucking awful, man.” I gulp, there’s no way he isn’t talking about me. What am I supposed to do? What does it mean he’s talking about our situation to someone else? Is that good or bad?

I decide I’ve heard enough and I make my way to my car putting myself in his line of sight. I see him start wrapping up his call and by the time I get to my car, he’s hanging up with whoever he’s talking to. I giggle and say, “Well, fancy meeting you here, Mr. Presley.” He beams at me and asks, “Ok, where are you taking me for a late dinner because I’m too wired to go home.” I smile at him and say, “Oh, where am I, assistant, taking, movie star, to dinner?”

I giggle and he laughs before saying, “Ok, ok. Where am I, actor not movie star, taking you, amazing more than an assistant, for dinner?” I laugh and say, “That sounds much better. What are you in the mood for? Like does diner food sound good?” Austin’s face turns into the biggest smile and I giggle as I say, “Well I’ll take that as a yes.”

Austin and I drive separately to a diner near my place. He beats me there and waits out front of the restaurant for me as I park. I freeze with embarrassment as I’m a terrible parallel parker. After many attempts at fitting into a spot, I finally get out and walk up to him giggling as I say, “Don’t judge my parking skills, I’m really just….bad at anything to do with driving.” He laughs and holds the door open for me as I walk ahead of him. We sit in a booth on opposite sides from each other as we look over the menu. After we order, we just go over the day and how much work it was for him to get in and out of certain leather costumes.

“Well, Baz and I are actually going to Memphis next week,” Austin says as he plays with this spoon in his coffee. “Aus, that’s amazing. Are you going to Graceland,” I ask with big eyes as I look at him instantly relaxing. It looks like he feels much more comfortable now than he did before we left the studio space.

“Anastasia, I can’t wait. We’re going to Graceland. They’re working to get me to meet Priscilla even,” he says as he looks up at me. His eyes stare right into mine like he’s looking for something. I give him a warm smile as I say, “Aus, that’s incredible. You have to really decompress before and just get in the best headspace for that, ya know?”

Austin looks at me deeply and then looks down as he says, “We’re going to record some songs in the studio Elvis recorded in too. I just cannot believe this is my life. This is what I’m doing for work?” He shakes his head in disbelief. “Aus, of course it’s your life. You work so hard, and you’ve been chipping away to get to something like this,” I say firmly, but softly. He beams at me and asks, “Well you’re coming with us, right? It’s definitely something I need you there for.”

I glare at him. He needs me…? Before I can say anything, our waiter drops off our food and we both thank them. I mess with my eggs on my plate and say, “I feel like you and Baz should do this together. But you can call me so I can hear your singing.” I giggle and he doesn’t look pleased. “I’m gonna have him talk to you, you have to come,” he says very matter of fact-ly. I sigh as I look at him before I start to eat my food. He pulls his phone out and apologizes as he sends a text.

Our waiter comes back and Austin orders a vanilla milkshake and I stare at him as he laughs and says, “Our first phone call you said they were your favorite.” I smile at him and he laughs. “I can’t believe you remember that. Wow, that feels like it was so long ago,” I say and he looks at me. His eyes darken as he whispers, “Anastasia, I don’t forget anything you tell me.” Why does he have this effect on me?

My thoughts are interrupted as my phone is going off with a phone call from an unknown number. I apologize to Austin as I step away to answer the call and I’m met with a familiar voice, “Hi Ana, it’s Baz, sorry to call you late after a long day.” I giggle as I say, “Oh, hi Mr. Luhrmann, no it’s totally fine! What can I do for you?” Why is he calling me? Does he know I’m with Austin? I shouldn’t keep hanging out with him this is so unprofessional.

“Ana, please, it’s Baz. I was actually wondering if you’d be able to check over your schedule for next week as Austin and I are going to head to Memphis and go to Graceland. We’re going to do an in-depth private tour and start recording some songs for the film. I think you should come along so you can help with any content we want to record for promotion and be someone we all feel comfortable having in such an intimate, important moment,” he says firmly.

At first, I’m over the moon excited, but then I realize Austin definitely just texted him to ask me. I don’t want him speaking up for me or looking like he’s doing any favors for me…

“Mr. Luhrmann, I mean Baz,” I giggle as I continue saying, “I would be so honored. I can move around whatever I need and work from wherever! Plus, I know the studio is going to love the idea of having content of you both going there.” I smile as I look in Austin’s direction as I can see him clearly watching me on the phone. I stick my tongue out at him as I listen to Baz continue about their plans in Memphis.

“I’m really so honored to be included and I’ll coordinate with your team on booking transportation and putting together an itinerary,” I say and Baz responds with one of the best compliments I’ve ever received, “Ana, we’re so lucky to have you on this. Your attention to detail is going to help every step of the way. I’m glad you were assigned to us.”

I thank Baz for the amazing compliment, and we hop off the call. I head back to Austin at the booth and before I can sit, I giggle as I ask, “So what did you text Baz?” He smiles and says, “I don’t know what you’re talking about.” I smile at him as I sit across from him and sip on the milkshake waiting for me at the table. “Well, he asked me to join y’all on your trip to Memphis.” He beams at me and says, “Good, good. I told you I’d get you to come.”

I giggle and we spend the rest of the night talking about Graceland and him recording music. Austin really opens up and he looks so at ease. Eventually, I realize the time and say, “Aus, it’s almost midnight. And I have a long day at the office tomorrow.”

We both get up from the table and I stretch before we walk out. As I’m stretching, I see Austin’s eyes run up and down my body. His eyes darken and he sinks his teeth into his bottom lip. He walks me to my car and before I get in he says, “When are we hanging out again? We should watch some of that Elvis footage of him performing this weekend so I can prepare to record next week.”

I smile at him as I answer, “Yeah, that sounds nice. Are you free Saturday?” He beams at me and says, “You can come to my place this time and I may even cook us dinner.” I giggle and say, “I don’t know… what are your kitchen skills like?” He laughs and closes my car door as I slide into the seat.

[rusty-phasma]

Nsfw alphabet for Jay

A/N: i am having quite a productive morning, anyways, i hope you like it.

Warnings: smut, unprotected sex and mention of injury but not in depth. If you think i should add more warnings, please let me know.

A = Aftercare (what they’re like after sex)

He is great at aftercare- if he's not absolutely exhausted, if he's returning from a mission with the ALF he will fall asleep almost immediately after, he is not only tired but probably hurt as well, so please understand. But if he isn't tired he will make sure he wasn't too rough with you, or if you need water he'll get you a glass, he will wipe you with a damp cloth, or run you a shower where he'll probably (if you are up for it) want another round.

B = Body part (their favorite body part of theirs and also their partner’s)

I think that Jay loves your hands, wether they are thin, chubby, short or long, he loves your hands and whenever you two are together and alone (and safe 💀) he will always be playing with them, kissing them or just holding them, but he is definitely a boobs guy, idk he gives me that vibe lol. On himself he loves his arms, he has to exercise a lot if he want to get out of missions alive, so his arms are toned and he loves not just how they look and how you feel them whenever you can, also loves hugging you.

C = Cum (anything to do with cum, basically)

Jay's pretty neat, so he likes keeping it inside of you, and when he pulls out and it starts dripping he will wipe it clean. But there are days (probably if he's angry or jealous) in which he will pull you aside, fuck you, cum inside of you and just pull your panties up, leaving his cum there all day.

D = Dirty secret (pretty self explanatory, a dirty secret of theirs)

Jay: he really does get a kick of fucking you when there is danger of one of the guys from his team catching you. He even likes the idea of someone watching him absolutely railing you, he finds it really hot of them knowing you are his. I am 100% sure he is a jealous man.

E = Experience (how experienced are they? do they know what they’re doing?)

Jay: i feel like he has enough experience to make you feel really good, i feel that because of ALF being his whole life he never really had time for a relationship and all he had were one night stands, but now he has you hehe.

F = Favorite position (this goes without saying)

He loves fucking you upon surfaces, with your legs resting on his shoulders, also your tits almost on his face so he can kiss, lick, suck and mark all he wants.

G = Goofy (are they more serious in the moment? are they humorous? etc.)

Will tease you, but other than that he is pretty serious during sex, maybe will joke around during after care if he's not falling asleep.

H = Hair (how well groomed are they? does the carpet match the drapes? etc.)

I am sure he trims it for comfort, but not very often, since he hasn't got much time for grooming himself, he usually just takes a really quick shower. And i think his pubes would be jet black.

I = Intimacy (how are they during the moment? the romantic aspect)

Jay: he is pretty intimate, i mean i think he is in general a pretty serious guy so sex isn't the exception, he is serious and quite romantic too, i think that didn't really know how romantic he actually is until he was with you, roses and candles kind of romantic. But he will try to make you laugh during aftercare if he isn't dead tired.

J = Jack off (masturbation headcanon)

Oh he does, when he's on missions and is talking with you on the phone, i feel that sometimes he will start masturbating while hearing your voice and wait for you to notice (unless you are talking about something serious), he will even make a game of it, seeing how long he can go without you noticing, but when he is not on missions he will not do so at all, again, he has you.

K = Kink (one or more of their kinks)

I am not sure if this counts as a kink but he loves marking you, the idea of seeing the evidence of what he did to you. Praise kink, he loves praising you, i see Jay as a Dom so he loves to dominate you but he is a soft dom. Maybe bondage, but a little bit.

L = Location (favorite places to do the do)

In your house, mostly. But if you are with the ALF it will not just be your house, it will be hotel rooms and sometimes even semi public.

M = Motivation (what turns them on, gets them going)

Seeing you wear his clothes, most of the time talking on the phone with you turns him on, also how passionate you are really does it for him.

N = No (something they wouldn’t do, turn offs)

He will never hurt you other that a spanking and some light breathplay and he will never share you, he's quite possessive.

O = Oral (preference in giving or receiving, skill, etc.)

Loves to see you between his legs, sometimes he will be working and you are there, blowing him, he doesn't really get much work done, but it is the thought that counts, also he really likes giving you oral, loves the way you squirm and moan, will sometimes overstimulate you.

P = Pace (are they fast and rough? slow and sensual? etc.)

Depends on the mood, sometimes he loves to go slow and sensual, make love to you if you will, but on some other days he's gonna go fast and rough and he loves both.

Q = Quickie (their opinions on quickies, how often, etc.)

Oh yes, you guy have had quickies everywhere, closets, public bathrooms, your car, you name it.

R = Risk (are they game to experiment? do they take risks? etc.)

He is open to anything as long as it isn't gross or harmful to anyone.

S = Stamina (how many rounds can they go for? how long do they last?)

Depends on how tired he is beforehand, if he's very tired just two and you are on top, if he's not, he lasts around three.

T = Toys (do they own toys? do they use them? on a partner or themselves?)

He doesn't use toys on himself but he bought you a nice wand for when he is not home (you use it while on the phone with him ofc).

U = Unfair (how much they like to tease)

Oh he loves to tease you, he thinks it is really hot how you moan and whimper in protest each time he pulls out when you are about to cum, or when he just edges you.

V = Volume (how loud they are, what sounds they make, etc.)

He is not actually loud apart from a bit of groaning and a few moans when he is about to cum.

W = Wild card (a random headcanon for the character)

He has this fantasy in which you get a call while he is fucking you and you answer it but he doesn't stop. Idk he kinda seems that type of guy heh.

X = X-ray (let’s see what’s going on under those clothes)

An inch and half above the average so around 6.5 inches and just a little bit girthy.

Y = Yearning (how high is their sex drive?)

Quite high actually, specially since he got with you, before it was quite a hassle for him to be able to get off without, with how busy he is all the time and he didn't even want to try, but now he has you and he just can't get enough.

Z = Zzz (how quickly they fall asleep afterwards)

Again, it depends on how tired he is, if he just returned from a mission, he hasn't pulled out and he is already asleep, but if he isn't it takes him a while; see, he is on missions often so he doesn't see you as much or if you go with him, he doesn't have the time, so he likes to look at your peaceful face for some minutes before going to sleep.

Thanks for reading! 💙

[bukojuiice]

— genshin boys and how you take care of them when they’re sick.

ೃ ft. childe, diluc, kaeya, zhongli, and xiao x gn! reader

ೃ tags: modern au, headcanons, and tooth-rotting fluff.

ೃ 200 to 300 words per character.

ೃ genshin masterlist  ♡ mha masterlist  ♡ aot masterlist

ೃ note: if you enjoyed this, please do reblog! and if you want to be a part of my taglist, answer this form! ♡

CHILDE:

Childe has a very strong immunity system. No lame flu could ever get him. Mayhaps it's the below 0-degree temperature in Snezhnaya that helped his body grow accustomed to certain climates and temperatures? Because according to him, he "takes colds and kicks ass." However, after having too much fun and getting too competitive with Scaramouche at the Dragonspine Ski Resort, he's struck down with a terrible fever. From Sneznaya's Greatest Love Machine to sick babie in (y/n)'s care. He's not necessarily the whiny type but Childe is very helpless. Whether it was intentional or not, he couldn’t help himself at all. He forgets about the cough drops he has to drink and you have to remind him about it, when he refuses to eat Goulash fresh from Dragonspine and demands for alphabet soup, or when you're doing work in the living room and he comes up to you wrapped in a burrito blanket, asking for cuddles because "hugs are the best medicine." to which, you would reply with a hard "no." because you couldn't risk the both of you getting sick. (Even though you were craving hugs from him too.) Due to your boyfriend's stubbornness, it took a week before he could fully recover. And when he did, you bet he rushes to you, screaming, "I'm cured!" peppering you with kisses on your cheek and enveloping you in hugs that you've longed so much from him.

DILUC:

Colds are Diluc's worst enemy. Whenever he got remotely sick when he was a kid, whether it be a runny nose or a small allergy, his immune system literally betrays him. So, when he gets sick, he literally gets sick. Since then, He vowed to maintain a healthy body. You've never even seen him get a headache! It's always been Diluc taking care of you whenever you’re down with a cold. You had always wished for a moment where the tables would turn and it would be you taking care of him for once. That would soon happen on a particularly normal day. Diluc approaches you and asks if you could check his temperature. You bring out a thermometer to check if he has a fever, and it read 38 degrees. Diluc suddenly panics. His face red as a tomato and feeling woozy and lightheaded, your boyfriend wraps his arm around you for support as you bring him to your bedroom. Then, he suddenly sneezes. An adorable sniffle you did not expect to hear from your boyfriend or from anyone as handsome as him at all. It was the cutest "achoo." you've ever heard. You giggle, reaching for his neatly folded pajamas in the closet and handing it to him. "Pretend you didn't hear that." He says coldly, trying to not act embarrassed. Since that night and until he became well, you barely left Diluc’s side. He's wrapped in a blanket, his usual well-dressed get up is replaced with a dark gray hoodie and joggers, your stuffed plushies are cuddled up beside Diluc to keep him company whilst he's bed-ridden, and you're bringing him healthy and delicious meals to help him get better soon. When he had finally recovered, Diluc thought that maybe getting sick wasn't all that bad. Especially if the the one most dearest to him could love and care for him so well while he’s at his weakest.

KAEYA:

Kaeya tries to hide his cold at first. He doesn't want to make you worry too much. After all, he's not the type to get so sick easily anyway. T'was the cursed downpour of rain on that particular Wednesday night after his evening classes to blame for all of this. When you're around him, he clears his throat every time he has the urge to cough, He tries to sneeze as quietly as possible so you wouldn't hear, and he takes his daily medicine for colds behind your back. It wasn't til you accidentally hear his loud coughs whilst he was on his phone when you realized that he had a cold for the past few days now. You were a bit sad at first because Kaeya shouldn't have hid this from you, and yet, you quickly understood when he told you why. Since then, you've been taking care of him. He would lie on your lap as you apply a fever patch on his forehead, massaging his temples, as he coos adoringly at your gestures of affection. In fact, he loved the special treatment that he was getting from you  so much, that even if he was getting better, he still asked if you could rub his temples to ease the pain he's been feeling from his common colds. Although it is very clear that he's already free of his illness, you chose to play along with him. and so from then on, giving Kaeya a loving massage became a part of your daily routine, and he was loving every minute of it.

ZHONGLI:

As a herb and tea enthusiast, Zhongli is able to keep a healthy mind and body. Chamomile tea before the two of you go to bed and a scented humidifier wafting around your house to rid of the germs. However, after eating something he had ordered for the both of you on Postmates and not knowing there was seafood in it, his mild allergies suddenly strike him with a severe cold. Zhongli hates this feeling. He hates not being able to get up, water the plants, read his books, or stroll around the city with you. He had no physical energy to do anything. He kept your house as clean and as influenza-free as possible. Yet here was, on your shared bed, speaking in a nasally but cute voice, a glass of orange juice on the bedside table, and tuned in to the Discovery Channel because it was the closest he could get to the wonderful world around him whilst he was sick. "I miss hearing your soothing voice." You say jokingly, drying a hot towel so you can pat and place it on Zhongli's forehead. "I'm afraid I can't do anything right now, my love. I'm sorry. A-Actually... my body feels hot. I think I need to take a  shower." Wearing a bathrobe or else he'd shiver and have his condition worsen, you help your boyfriend take a hot bath by washing his hair and help dry it right after. Zhongli wasn't the type of boyfriend to ask for these kinds of things, but it was such a sweet gesture. You gingerly wash his hair, spread shampoo around his auburn streaks and small upward curls, and massaging his head in the process. He hums in delight whilst you giggle at his utters of praise, leaving him once you're done with your deed. After a relaxing bath that had probably defeated the colds that was plaguing him, Zhongli is back on his feet the next day. Unfortunately, you were the next victim of this stupid flu and now, it was Zhongli's turn to take care of you and making sure you would get the love and treatment that you had given him.

XIAO:

Calling your boyfriend stubborn when he's sick is quite an understatement. As a very productive person, Xiao always sets a certain amount of things to do as his goal for the day. Going to the skate park, hanging out with you, playing sports, or playing video games were just many of the activities he would do in a span of a day. But, when he catches a cold after staying up too late (sleep is for the weak! According to the Vigilant Yaksha as the mad lad had stayed up till 7 AM) after getting too invested in playing Resident Evil Village, he comes down with a flu that same afternoon. And so, his usual routine of going to the skate park, hanging out with you, and playing video games were soon to be replaced with lounging in the bed, taking medicine, being reprimanded by (Y/N) for moving too much, and feeling like shit because he can't do anything at all. You will literally shoot daggers when you see your boyfriend dashing around because he's supposed to be in bed, getting all the rest he can get. You were very strict with him, simply because you had to. Xiao was very careless after all. You were cooking dinner that same night when Xiao comes up to you, resting his chin on your shoulder, wrapping his arms around your waist and whispering, "I can go to school with you tomorrow." "Xiao... no you won't. Go to back to bed. I'll bring you the Veggie Radish Soup there." You reply harshly, paying no attention to him at all. His tsundere tendencies were showing when you deliver the soup to him and he grumbles, "Y-you don't have to take care of me like this. It was my fault as to why I got sick in the first place. I can take care of myself, you know." You raise an eyebrow, giving him a knowing yet loving look. "I know that. But, I'm doing this because I love you. You're my freaking boyfriend for petesake! Why would I not care for you like this!?"

ೃ taglist: @mignonextte @inlovewithadeptusxiao @duhsies @qimiie @kozu-zumi @volleybloop​