#It's okay for a movie to be less than 2 hours

[chronomally]

I finally watched the In the Heights movie

Pros:

Considering how many movie musicals are ashamed to be musicals, it's pretty refreshing to see a movie musical not only embrace being a musical, but also try to find ways to convey the same feeling as some very unique live stage effects and embrace the inherent surreality of the world of The Musical

Cons:

They cut like half the female characters' songs + "Useless," killed Nina's mom, and basically deleted 90% of the conflict between Kevin and Benny, but god forbid we lose out on the piragüero song

For a story that doesn't really like textually engage with feminism beyond the way that women often form the back bones of a culture, it felt weirdly anti-feminist

[carnelianwings]

Went and saw Gundam Seed Freedom in theatre last night, I have so many thoughts about it (as you'd expect for a long time fan - I've been waiting for this movie ever since they announced it), there will be spoilers behind the cut, but the spoiler free highlights:

This movie is everything I ever wanted out of a Gundam Seed movie - the characters, the mecha, the OST, the cast, everything. It is as much a continuation of Cosmic Era as it is a celebration of Cosmic Era at its best, there's so much love put into this movie I can genuinely say I enjoyed every minute of it from the beginning to the end. My one and only nitpick is that they recasted Cagalli, but Mori Nanako does a fantastic job, so much so I don't have anything negative to say about her performance. (More on this behind the cut below, as I will delve into spoilers.)

Story pacing was actually really good here, in that there's no true retread/recap of both Seed and Seed Destiny. The movie assumes you've seen both, and while you could arguably get away with a cliff's notes version of Seed Destiny (even I know how much of a Base Breaker it is from watching it as it aired in Japan), if you sat through it you're rewarded between the shout outs and extra emotional impact from some of the scenes. There's a few brief clips of flashbacks to the prior series, but to me they feel like they're providing context (as you don't get to hear the characters' inner thoughts the same way you would out of a manga or a novel of the same story).

The animation just looked so good on the big screen, even the CGI used for the Gundams (like they've been doing in the newer Gundam series) looked fantastic. So smooth, no stock footage, you can tell where they made obvious homage shots to the original, but they're clearly redone for the movie. It was a feast for the eyes, in more ways than one.

The OST is fantastic, the way Sahashi wove the various melodies from songs past and present were a delight to the ears. I particularly love how he kept using various melody lines from Shizuka na Yoru ni as a way to musically reflect Lacus's journey and arc through the movie - just a line or two of the main melody, sometimes shifted into minor key, sometimes intertwined with another character's theme (usually whoever she's interacting with at that moment). There's also some glorious reprisals from both Seed and Seed Destiny, all rearranged to give it a grander, more spectacular sound to match the on-screen spectacle. Definitely one of Sahashi's best works, and I'm really happy they brought him back for it. Also, if at all possible - don't listen to the OST before seeing the movie. It will spoil key moments for the final battle, especially if you know which themes are used where.

Now, onto spoiler territory.

First and foremost, I really feel like Seed Freedom manages to redeem Seed Destiny as a whole. My biggest complaint in Seed Destiny is and always has been that Shinn's redemption happens in 5 minutes in an epilogue that was added on in an extended cut - I loved the idea and potential of Shinn as something of a Villain Protagonist early on, and even as we watched him spiral further and further into his grief and anger throughout Seed Destiny, the fact we never got to see what redemption and atonement meant for him was something of a sore point. One of the things I love is a good redemption arc, where the character learns from mistakes they made and improves themselves as a person, as an individual, and we finally get to see that here in Seed Freedom.

Shinn finally gets to do what he really wanted to when he enrolled into the academy, and under Kira's command he shines. For a character that was so heavily defined by his grief and anger for 50 episodes, he's done a 180 here, putting in the work and effort to turn his life around - we get more scenes of him smiling and eagerly working to help Kira as part of the team in COMPASS than angrily scowling or yelling at someone. He's finally found someone he can look up to and work towards being; it's clear he looks up to Kira as something of a role model, both as a goal and commanding officer, and has been rewarded accordingly as the pilot of the Immortal Justice. He's a lot calmer now, long gone are his days fighting for glory on the battlefield, he puts a priority on COMPASS's main mission of intervention and protecting civilians (so much so he'll voluntarily use Immortal Justice's shield to protect them over keeping it to defend himself). But it's not to say his past is completely forgotten or even retconned away - he gets called the Freedom Killer multiple times here (largely as a way to get at Kira too) and while Shinn never denies having been that person, his reaction shows he treats it as Old Shame, something he did but is no longer proud of.

And the true pay off to his arc comes in the end, when he gets reunited with the Destiny thanks to Cagalli upgrading it to the Spec II in the final stretch of the movie. He greets it like someone would greet an old friend, proudly and triumphantly launching this time to the fanfare of Seed Destiny's next episode preview bgm - it's hands down Shinn at his most heroic, and it's a moment he's earned. He's finally become the person he wanted to be at the beginning of Seed Destiny, before he let his grief and anger cloud his mind, before he was manipulated by Durandal. And in the end, his journey through the darkness that was his time under Durandal's command become his strength, granting him a spectacular flawless victory over the Black Knights achieved through his own skills - Stella protects him from the Black Knights' Mind Control, and his instinctual berserker Seed Mode keeps them from reading his mind to predict his moves. It's after all the trials and pain he went through that he comes out at his absolute best, and the Seed Freedom version of Shinn is hands down the best version of him.

Character development aside, it's genuinely heartwarming to see a character that was so narrowly defined by his grief and anger to be the one who brings a lot of the light and levity in what's otherwise a fairly heavy movie. Seeing him as a Big Eater during the ball at Foundation, his entire reunion with Lunamaria after she thought he'd been KIA'ed in the joint operation on the Blue Cosmos base, him getting hit by both Kira and Athrun during their brawl (with neither of them noticing ^^;;) - he's come so far since his Seed Destiny days he's (and I can't believe I'm actually saying this) one of the major highlights of the movie. And then there's his smile at the end when Kira finally relies on him and his cheerful response.

And of course, I can't talk about Shinn without mentioning Lunamaria - they've both come a long way from their days at the ZAFT military academy (if you go off the prequel novel Moonlight Valkyrie) and even from their time on board the Minerva. You can tell there's genuine love and affection between them, mutually supporting each other both on and off the battlefield, between them sharing a room onboard the Millennium and the energy transfer moment between the Impulse and Destiny. There's even a clear moment of redemption for Lunamaria's shooting skills when she shoots down a tactical nuke in her Gelgoog. And while she's definitely not one of the main focus characters in the movie, she still gets her moment of triumph, launching in the Impulse once more after Shinn's Destiny. Even though she's relegated to the Designated Chick Fight, it's a moment of personal triumph for her - she's grown as a person since her academy days, her time on the Minerva and with Shinn and Rey has changed her, and she's a better person for it. Even her time pursuing Athrun (even though he doesn't return her affection at all) comes back as a Meaningful Echo in how she ultimately deals with Agnes. Instead of choosing to kill Agnes in her GYAN, Lunamaria does something of a "pay it forward", disabling the GYAN and returning to pick her up from the moon after the fighting is over. Like Shinn, it's clear Lunamaria's in a better place than she was during the finale of Seed Destiny, and she also gets to join in on some of the lighter moments of the movie next to Shinn.

Onto Kira (because I'm saving my favorites for last), who is most definitely the main focus of the movie, along with Lacus and his relationship with her. Is his story arc a rehash of Seed? In many ways yes, and in so many ways, no. On a surface level, sure - we once again have Kira trying to shoulder the entire burden of the team on himself, of trying to do everything without relying on anyone else, of pushing himself to his limits, and as icing on the retread cake, we're even treated to a CV Kuwashima Houko girl (Agnes) trying to get his attention and affections. And that's about where it ends, because Agnes' motivations are vastly different from Flay's, Kira's circumstances this time around are entirely different from when he was in Seed - this is more about Kira realizing he really doesn't have to shoulder everything by himself, that even if Lacus is a non-combatant, she's there to walk next to him side by side, that Lacus's love for him is completely different from Flay's (initial) love for him. For Kira, it's The Power of Love while also echoing Seed's earlier themes of how easy it is to fall into old habits and make the same mistakes again. It's about Kira finally breaking past his remaining trauma with his relationship with Flay - he finally realizes that Lacus wants to be with him for him, that she never expected him to hand her everything she wanted on a silver platter, that she's willing and ready to work and walk with him to their final goal and destination, wherever that may take them. His relationship with Lacus was never a transactional one like it was with Flay - even if Flay genuinely grew to love Kira in the end, her true feelings for him never managed to reach him before she dies. And in the end, once he realizes what he has with Lacus, once he gets a chance to talk to her and clear the air, he's rewarded with a shiny new upgrade to the Strike Freedom, Lacus voluntarily joining him in the battlefield, and of course, that ending on the beach.

As for the whole "Is Kira Yamato a failure because he was a failed Accord or just Orphee insisting that he is superior to even Coordinators as an Accord" debate, ultimately it doesn't matter (at least in terms of Kira's arc - on a meta level, yes I absolutely want to know lol). He's got the one thing Orphee will never have (Lacus's love) and with that behind him he can overcome anything.

Honestly, if this is where we end Kira's story, where he gets to go off into the sunset with Lacus, to live quietly in the middle of nowhere (or even return to Marshall Islands to stay with Reverend Malchio) where he doesn't have to fight anymore, where he can just spend his days with Lacus until there's some world-ending reason to step back into the cockpit, I'm good with that. Kira never wanted to be a mobile suit pilot to begin with, he only ever did it to defend the people he cares about, and if this is where we part ways with him, because in learning to rely on other people, he also realizes he can hand things off to Cagalli, Athrun, and Shinn (and by extension, Lunamaria), I'm good with that. (I'll get to Cagalli and Athrun after Lacus, I want to save my favorites for last lol)

Lacus always came off as a little too perfect, a little too good with her words, and with a Seed Mode that ... didn't activate like your traditional Seed Mode (for one thing, she never gets the Seed burst animation on screen when she goes into it; she almost always monologues her way in). And I have to say it was satisfying to see that crack some more this time around, where her decisions are a bit more questionable, where she's finally having to deal with some of the consequences of her actions (and by extension Kira's as he answers to her and only her within COMPASS). But ultimately in the end, she's still the same Lacus as ever - Silk Hiding (nerves of) Steel, steadfast in her love and support for Kira, something that nothing can change, not even meeting her genetically destined partner in Orphee. And yes, while even she gets in on the action this time, quite literally delivering the Proud Defender to Strike Freedom to upgrade it into the Mighty Strike Freedom, I don't really have much to say about her.

I will say this though (because it gets very indirectly touched on by Athrun) - if Lacus hadn't fallen in love with Kira, and had continued with her engagement to Athrun as set up by their parents, would she have gone with Orphee? Would that alone have changed events enough so that Athrun might've been conveniently KIA'ed so Orphee would've been able to sweep in?

Now, onto my personal favorites (and complete show stealers this time around): Athrun and Cagalli.

Where do I even begin? Athrun being a Big Damn Hero for Kira not once, but twice? Cagalli taking over Lacus's role for being Crazy Prepared, Bearer of (Gundam) Gifts this time around?? The complete insanity that is the Z'Gok hiding the Infinite Justice Type II??? The (remote) Battle Couple fight????

Cagalli's just pure Crazy Prepared this time. She's learned from the painful lessons of the past 4 years, ensuring there's a plan in place to get her people to safety, immediately issuing evacuation orders for the civilians to avoid direct orbital laser bombardment from Requiem. She's made peace with the fact that sometimes, you really do just need to hop into a Gundam to get shit done, so she's seen to it that the Gundams for the top COMPASS pilots are available should they ever need it. She's the one who came up with COMPASS in the first place, providing some much-needed legitimacy for what Kira and Lacus want to do. She's also very clearly been training with Athrun for mobile suit training - where she once Could Not Keep Up, she's able to seamlessly pilot the Infinite Justice Mark II remotely, a less advanced unit than Shura's Shi-ve.A, without Shura ever realizing it was someone else piloting it. She's back as the Goddess of Victory, now older and wiser and all the better for it.

For all that she hardly showed up on screen, her presence was felt everywhere, most especially whenever Athrun's on screen. Really, I wouldn't even be surprised if the next time we see Orb get threatened by Orbital (Laser) Bombardment, she tells her people to get inside to safety before turning on a shield to protect the cities and then taking the field again.

And as for Athrun - it makes sense he didn't join COMPASS, even though the fact he has a custom COMPASS pilot suit and the Immortal Justice was clearly designed with him in mind. He's found his place in Orb, staying by Cagalli's side as her personal knight. He's even got his own custom suit with the Z'Gok-hiding-the-Infinite-Justice-Mark-II - he's got everything he could ask for while still being able to do his part to maintain peace. And in a double redemption moment - Athrun's the first one to throw the punch this time when Kira starts wallowing in his self doubt and lets his insecurities get the better of him, repaying the favor Kira did back in Seed Destiny when he, well, Saviour'ed the Saviour. Athrun's the one to remind Kira that as a close friend of Lacus's that her actions this time don't sound like the Lacus that he knows, and this time (unlike when he did something similar with Shinn) it works and gets Kira back on track. Poor Shinn - he thinks Athrun's about to do the same thing to Kira that Athrun did to him during his time on the Minerva, but while Shinn's not entirely wrong, he's also misreading the room a bit, not realizing this is a "They're really good friends, and sometimes they just gotta throw some punches to work shit out" moment.

Because in overcoming everything that happened in Seed Destiny, Athrun and Cagalli have finally grown into the people they both want to be. They've found their way, fighting for what they both believe in. Their time apart in Seed Destiny forced them both grow as individuals, so that when we get to see them working together again it's in perfect sync. In so many ways, Athrun and Cagalli (and not Kira and Lacus) are the ideal the Cosmic Era wants to push - two people working together side by side, regardless of genetics, as partners and equals. The dream of Coordinators and Naturals, living and working side by side in harmony - that's them. And ultimately, it is what they do that brings the heroes victory and lets everyone fly off into the (metaphorical) sunset together. They played the long gambit - creating COMPASS (giving Shinn and Lunamaria a means to atone for the things they did, giving Lacus and Kira a legitimate way to stop skirmishes), upgrading the Gundams, being there for their friends and allies when they needed it (Athrun literally knocking sense back into Kira, Cagalli coming in with the equipment upgrades) - all while keeping their priorities in order (first the civilians, then reequipping allies, and then finally going into combat together to take down Shura), and it all pays off in the end.

Really, is it any wonder, then, when Shura tries to read Athrun's mind in the final battle he's just thinking of hot (naked) Cagalli?

[physalian]

What No One Tells you about Writing #3

Opening this up to writing as a whole, because it turns out I have a lot more to say!

Part 1

Part 2

1. You don’t fall in love with your characters immediately

But when you do, it’s a hit of serotonin like no other. I’d been writing a tight cast of characters for my sci-fi series since 2016 and switched over in a bout of writer’s block this year to my new fantasy book. I made it about ⅓ through writing the book going through the motions, unable to visualize what these new characters look like, sound like, or would behave like without a ‘camera’ on them.

Then, all of a sudden, I opened my document to keep on chugging with the first draft, and it clicked. They were no longer faceless elements of my plot, they were my characters and I was excited to see what they could accomplish, rooting for them to succeed. Sometimes, it takes a while, but it does come.

2. Sometimes a smaller edit is better than a massive rewrite

Unless you’re changing the trajectory of your entire plot, or a character’s arc really is unrecoverable, sometimes even a single line of dialogue, a single paragraph of introspection, or a quick exchange between two characters can change everything. If something isn’t working, or your beta readers consistently aren’t jiving with a character you yourself love, try taking a step back, looking at who they are as a person, and boil down what your feedback is telling you and it might demand a simpler fix than you expect.

Tiny details inserted at the right moment can move mountains. Fan theories stand on the backs of these minutiae. One sentence can turn a platonic relationship romantic. One sentence can unravel a fair and just argument. One sentence can fill or open a massive plot hole.

3. Outline? What outline?

Not every book demands weeks upon weeks of prep and worldbuilding. I would argue that jumping right in with only a vague direction in mind gives you a massive advantage: You can’t infodump research you haven’t done. Exposition is forced to come as the plot demands it, because you haven’t designed it yet.

Not every story is simple and straightforward, but even penning the first draft with your vague plan, *then* going back and adding in deeper worldbuilding elements, more thematic details, richer character development, can get you over the writer’s block hurdle and make it far less intimidating to just shut up and write the book.

4. It’s okay to let your characters take the wheel

I’ve seen writing advice that chastises authors who let their characters run wild, off the plan the story has for them. Yeah, doing this can harm your pacing and muddy a strong and consistent arc, but refusing to leave the box of your outline greatly limits your creativity. I do this particularly when writing romantic relationships (and end up like Captain Crunch going Oops! All Gays!).

Did I plan for these two to get together? No, it just happened organically as I wrote them talking, getting closer, getting to know each other better in the circumstances they find themselves in. Was this character meant to be gay? Well, he wasn’t meant to be straight, but you know what, he’d work really well with this other boy over here. None of that would have happened if I was bound and determined to follow my original plan, because my original plan didn’t account for how the story that I want to tell evolves. You aren’t clairvoyant—it’s okay if it didn’t end up where you thought it would.

5. Fight. Scenes. Suck.

Which is crazy because I love fantasy and sci-fi, the actiony-est genres. Some authors love battle scenes and fistfights. It comes naturally to them and I will forever be jealous. I hate fight scenes. I hate blocking and choreographing them. I hate how it doesn’t read like I’m watching a movie. I hate how it could take me hours to write a scene I can read in 5 minutes. I hate that there’s no way around it except to just not write them, or put in the elbow grease and practice.

Whatever your writing kryptonite is, don’t be too hard on yourself. It won’t ever replicate the movie in your head, but our audience isn’t privy to that movie and will be none the wiser of how this didn’t fit your expectations, because it’s probably awesome on its own. It could be a fight scene, sex scene, epic battle, cavalry charge, courtroom argument, car chase—whatever. Be patient, and kind to yourself and it will all come together.

6. Write the scenes you want to write first

And then be prepared to never use them. It can be mighty difficult working backwards from a climax and figuring out how to write the story around it, but if you’re sitting at your laptop staring at your cursor and watching it blink, stuck on a tedious moment that’s necessary but frustrating, go write something exciting. Even if that amazing scene ends up no longer working in the book your story becomes, you still get practice by writing it. Particularly if you hate beginnings or the pressure of a perfect first page is too high, you’re allowed to write any other moment in the book first.

And with that, be prepared to kill your darlings. Not your characters, I mean that one badass line of dialogue living rent free in your head. That epic monologue. That whump scenario for your favorite character. Sometimes it just doesn’t work out anymore, but even if it ends up in the trash, you can always salvage something from it, even if that’s only the knowledge of what not to do in the future.

7. “This is clearly an author insert.” … Yes. It is. Point?

No one likes Mary Sues, because a character who doesn’t struggle or learn to get everything they want in life is uncompelling. The most flagrant author inserts I see aren’t Mary Sues, they’re nerdy, awkward, boring white guys whose world changes to fit their perspective, instead of the other way around—they don’t have anything to say. I’m not the intended audience to relate to these characters and I accept that, but I don’t empathize with the so-called “strong female character” who also doesn’t have flaws or an arc either.

A good author insert? When the author gives their characters pieces of themselves. When the “author insert” struggles and learns and grows and it’s a therapeutic experience just writing these characters thrown into such horrible situations. They feel human when they’re given pieces of a human’s soul. They have real human flaws and idiosyncrasies. I don’t care if the author wrote themselves as the protagonist. I care that this protagonist is entertaining. So if you want to make yourself the hero of your book, go for it! But make sure you look in the mirror and write in your flaws, as much as your strengths.

[bridoesotherjunk]

Okay, so it's been a handful of days since I've seen Venom 3.. and I think I've finally got my thoughts together.

This review will have spoilers, so it will go under the cut.

these are all my opinions, so don't take my word as gospel or anything...

Anyone who knows me and my blog knows how much I've loved these movies since 2018, so to see me not ranting about the third Venom movie should be evidence enough how I feel.

I... don't feel like this was a satisfying conclusion to the Venom franchise. I really feel like there was so much more that could have been done, and should have been, instead of what we got.

I truly feel that introducing Knull into the story was a mistake. The first 2 films were so much smaller scale. Expanding all the way to the fucking symbiote god after only having done Carnage just felt like such a massive leap. And they really didn't do much with him anyway.

It felt like they included Knull because they were obligated to. Like Sony made them in order to have a weird spin off involving Knull trying to kill stuff. I don't know. He didn't do much besides tease future movies where he's the villain again. And that's kind of boring...

I will sound so narcissistic saying this, but I truly feel that the story I came up with, where the villains of Venom 3 are former Life Foundation employees angry at Eddie for ruining their lives, made way more sense. In terms of scale, you know? Much less "huge universal threat" and more of the small scale "threat to Eddie and Venom specifically" type story. Even Riot, being a threat to the Earth, was smaller scale than Knull. Knull is just too much. Too big. Too unfocused. It felt like too wide of a net. It felt generic, i hate to say it. It just felt like every other dumb ass gritty movie where the bad guy wants to destroy all life as we know it. (And quite frankly, he could have been taken out of the movie and not much would have changed. Venom and Eddie could have been hunted by the xenophages for any number of reasons.)

The part of the movie that I enjoyed most was the beginning. The part that felt like Venom. Where we saw Eddie and Venom working in sync to free those dogs. I loved that. I loved seeing how far the two of them have come and how well they work together. .. seeing their journey in a montage later? That felt... lackluster. After seeing them literally working together just an hour earlier in the movie, it felt kind of cheap. The way the story ended for these two didn't feel like a victory. It felt like the Avengers Endgame "well we gotta get rid of this character because their contract is up" situation.

The movie was definitely a fun time. I enjoyed myself watching it. But I was left feeling a sense of "That's it?" That I haven't felt since Avengers Endgame.

I'm happy that Tom Hardy got to do these movies. I absolutely will forever adore the first 2. They're fun, they're goofy, they're gay, and I love them. .. but this third one just... yeah. I'm disappointed.

I will always love Venom. That much is not going to change. I love these two gay losers and I'm so happy I got to have them in my life. They brought me so much joy, and so much brainrot, and I will miss the fuck out of them.

[rosedpetal]

Until Death Do Us Part

Summary: Harvey and you have been on a rocky road lately, but hopefully, you can still find each other.

Pairing: Harvey Specter x Reader

Word count: 932

Warnings: stablished relationship (reader and Harvey are married), mentions of body image struggles, hints at +18 themes.

Masterlist

"No. Absolutely not." Your husband frowned when you came out from the closet wearing your 'costume'.

A huff of annoyance leaves your lips.

"What the fuck is wrong now? Did I gain weight and suddenly you can't get up or something?" Venom drips from your sarcastic remark and Harvey rubs his temples.

"Why are you like this? Jesus Christ, Y/N, it's not about some shit like that, stop trying to make me a bad guy at every given chance!" He snaps. "It's just your stupid wings, okay? You look like you came straight from a Barbie movie, when you said you'd like to roleplay being a fairy, I thought you'd use one of those Lord of the Rings-"

"Those are elves. Not fairies. They don't have wings!" You seethe, taking your plastic wings off and accidentally pressing the light button on them, turning the pink leds on, and Harvey's eyebrows shot up in surprise.

"I'm sorry if my knowledge in a fictional world lore is lacking, it's because I actually have a real job."

That was cruel and uncalled for and he knew it. Harvey had a bad habit of saying the most callous things without even thinking. It didn't help that he hated the idea of roleplaying from the very beginning.

"How could I forget, it's the only thing you care about!" You raise your voice, and it breaks in the end. "Tonight was supposed to be fun!"

Harvey immediately regrets the jab he made at your wings. Well, it's not that he couldn't get himself to be motivated by you while you were wearing them... It's just that it was fucking weird because he was a grown man and he was pretty sure his kid niece wore the same pink fairy wings every Halloween.

And he could explain that to you, but you just had to make a self deprecating comment about your body and imply that he wasn't man enough to look past his partner putting on some weight.

Which was another ridiculous thing, because, seriously? He couldn't care less if you were a size 2 or 20. It didn't matter. He married you because he loved you, inside and out, and you weren't an airhead that couldn't carry on a conversation with him. He respected you. He was interested in what you had to say (most of the time, at least).

But for months now, you two have been fighting nonstop, and more than often saying some hurtful shit to each other and no longer searching for the comfort of each other's arms in the middle of the night.

He wondered if your sudden self consciousness regarding your body was because you've been stress-eating ever since the chasm between you two was created.

Harvey was selfish, harsh, arrogant and snappy, but he wasn't insensitive to how women sometimes had insecurities that ate them alive.

He sighed, following you in the closet, his chest tightening at the sigh of your angry tears while you put on sweatpants and a top (the sleepwear you wore on nights you made sure no intimacy was gonna happen).

He even agreed on going to therapy with you, which he thought was an admission of defeat, that you two weren't mature enough to solve your problems on your own.

"Honey." He called, his voice soft with regret.

He hates the 'homework' your therapist gives you every week. A dinner date, a little getaway, a road trip, sitting down and talking for an hour. He feels like his own relationship is being scripted and that you can't find common ground anymore.

"What?" You wipe your tears, unable to look at him in the eyes.

"We don't roleplay." He said in a teasing tone. "Why would I want you to pretend to be someone else when you already exist?"

He gently holds your face in both hands, wiping the remaining tears with his thumbs.

"I'm an idiot. I promise my reaction has nothing to do with whatever's been making you feel vulnerable right now. Seriously. The wings just reminded me of halloween, and halloween reminded me of children going trick-or-treating and you don't want your husband to be thinking of children in the bedroom, do you?"

You grimaced. "God, no."

"Glad we're on the same page, babe." He gently pressed his forehead against yours. "Dance with me."

"There's no music." You sniffled.

"We have a nice record player in the living room. Come on, baby."

Gently, he guided you out from the room, his fingers intertwined in yours as he put on some sappy jazz music. He sways barefoot with you on his arms, your head on his chest, and it takes you back to simpler times.

"I'm sorry. For everything." He's the first to speak, and you appreciate the sentiment, because you know how hard it is for him to apologize, specially when he's the first one to bend the knee to make peace.

"We'll get through this." You mumble, and he kisses the top of your head, and suddenly the golden ring on your finger feels lighter.

"I love you more than anything in the world, darling. Please, don't doubt that. I need you to remember that every single day, specially when I'm at my worst."

"I love you too, Harvey."

He knows there's a long way to go, but the little progress you made tonight makes his heart feel more at ease, as long as you're both on the same side, because he knew with every fiber of his being that he meant it when he said 'until death do us part'.

[mrsfancyferrari]

Real Love Pt 2

Summary: You and Carlos were just supposed to be a PR couple for less than a year but someone decided to catch feelings. Part 2

Song: Collide - Justine Skye

Part 1 Author’s note: Please like, reblog and share this! <3

Word count: 8.6k

MASTERLIST - F1

You lay snugly beneath the soft sheets, the golden morning light streaming through the sheer curtains of your bedroom, gently warming your skin.

You can feel the faint rhythm of Carlos’s heartbeat as he lies beside you, the intimate silence only occasionally punctuated by the soft chirping of birds outside.

The world feels as if it has paused, just for the two of you.

“Are you sure you won’t regret this?” you ask, pulling back to study his face, your heart racing.

This is the third kiss since you woke up an hour ago, a sweet closeness you never thought would come to this, despite the countless moments shared—the stolen glances during games, the playful banter after late-night training sessions.

His dark eyes search yours, a flicker of something fierce and protective igniting in their depths. “Mi amor, I could never regret this,” Carlos replies, his voice low, an intoxicating blend of affection and certainty.

“But what about the team?” you counter, slipping further down into the warmth of blankets, away from the weight of the conversation. “They’ll be mad about us breaking the PR contract.”

Carlos pushes himself onto his elbow, his hair tousled but framing his striking face perfectly. “I don’t care about them,” he declares seriously, leaning closer as if the intimacy of the space can seal your secret. “I only care about you.”

The words sit in the air between you both like a fragile promise. For a moment, you can’t breathe, your heart thundering against your ribcage as his gaze holds yours captive. With a deep breath, you let his confession wash over you.

“I want to do this…for real,” you answer, your voice scrunching down into uncertainty beneath the weight of possibility. It feels right but so precariously delicate, like the morning sun reflected through the rain-slicked leaves outside.

Carlos’s lips curve into a genuine smile, the kind that lights up every shadowed corner of the room. “Then let’s go for it,” he says, the playful twinkle in his eye returning. “Let’s make this our secret love story.”

You chuckle softly, the tension beginning to melt away. “Our secret? Like something out of a rom-com?” You raise an eyebrow teasingly as a grin dances on your face, allowing your own excitement to bubble beneath the surface.

“Exactly! Just without the horrifying misunderstandings,” he adds, chuckling and wrapping his arms around you, pulling you closer. You snuggle into his chest, feeling the steady beat of his heart, the warmth of him igniting something deep within you. The soft scent of his cologne mixes with the morning air—a heady concoction you want to bottle forever.

“Okay, Mr. Love Story, what’s the premise?” you ask, looking up at him with mock seriousness.

He scratches his chin, feigning deep thought. “A blockbuster soccer star falls for the journalist tasked with covering his team’s next big match, but they must navigate the storm of media scrutiny and a wildcard PR nightmare,” he finalizes, winking at you.

“Wow, that sounds…dramatic,” you laugh, shaking your head. “We’re not exactly in a movie, Carlos.” But even as you say the words, the thought isn’t entirely unwelcome. This does feel like a story freshly spun from the hearts of the fortunate.

“Do you not want to be in a movie with me?” he teases, leaning down so that his lips graze your ear, his breath hot against your skin, sending shivers racing down your spine.

“You know I’m already in one,” you whisper back, your pulse quickening. “With the hottest player in the league, no less.”

His laughter vibrates through you, a melodic sound that rattles the silence and ignites the room. “Then let’s make this one a blockbuster, too.”

You chuckle but then grow serious again, those reminders creeping back in. “But what about the consequences? Our teammates? What if they don’t take it well?”

With a single finger, he lifts your chin, forcing you to meet his gaze. “Let them talk. You and I? We’re worth it. If we stand together, we can face anything. Right?”

Your heart swells at his confidence, your own self-doubt hindering but not extinguishing your burgeoning feelings. “Right,” you agree, your mind skipping back to the moments before this: how he turned from being just a teammate into something much deeper, something exhilarating.

Carlos leans in closer, his nose brushing against yours. “So, tell me, are you ready for a bit of adventure, then?”

You swallow, considering your response—because it’s no longer just an idle thought; it’s a leap you are willing to take. “As long as you’re by my side,” you finally say, honesty spilling from you. “I think I am.”

“Then let’s make it an adventure. Just us,” he murmurs, brushing his lips against yours, each kiss igniting embers of anticipation as if the world outside the walls had vanished entirely.

You close your eyes, feeling the cocoon of his arms—and the reality of your mutual promise—that no matter where this journey takes you both, you’ll face it together.

As the kiss deepens, you push aside your lingering doubts, giving in to the warmth that curls around you like a soft blanket. In this moment, nothing else matters except the two of you, wrapped in this intimacy, ready to rewrite your own story—even if it meant braving the chaos that love always brings with it. As dawn breaks fully outside your window, the slate is clean, and the sun just beginning to rise, a symbol of new beginnings, a notion that glows warmly between you.

And together, you choose to embrace the story—whatever that may entail—fully and absolutely. . . .

You stood in the kitchen, staring across the room where your boyfriend Carlos, racing superstar and current Formula One champion, was leaning against the counter, arms crossed and a playful scowl on his face.

His dark curls fell over his forehead, making him look both infuriated and irresistibly charming. The kitchen was buzzing with activity; friends and family had gathered to celebrate his latest Grand Prix victory, laughing and raising glasses of champagne in a toast to his success.

But all you could think about was the tension crackling between you and Carlos, a palpable energy that felt wholly out of place amid all the jovial noise.

“Carlos,” you whispered, a teasing smile tugging at the corners of your mouth, “you can’t seriously be thinking about that right now. Look at everyone!”

He stepped closer, the sound of laughter fading away as he moved in, eyes darkening with mischief. “I’m serious. You’d better get rid of everyone in this house or I swear to God, I’m gonna fuck you on the first flat surface I can find, and I know you don’t want anyone to know what you sound like when I’m fucking you.”

Your heart raced at his boldness, a heat rising to your cheeks. Gone was the charming boyfriend; now you were staring down the passionate, possessive man you adored, and a thrill shot through you. You glanced at the crowd of shared laughter and merriment that felt impossibly distant now. “What, you think I can just shout ‘party’s over’?”

Carlos stepped in closer, lowering his voice. “Maybe just suggest a drink outside? We don’t need an audience for this. I'm not joking, cariño.” His eyes bore into yours, filled with a fierce warmth that made your breath hitch.

“Heavens! How did I get stuck with such a needy boyfriend?” you teased, swaying your hip slightly as you pretended to survey the party, putting up a façade against his fiery gaze.

“Needy? You have no idea, love,” he said, stepping into your personal space, his breath warm against your ear. “I’ve waited all day for this.” The possessiveness in his voice sent shivers down your spine, leaving you torn between laughter and an overwhelming desire to pull him into a nearby room and shut the world out.

You motioned discreetly to your friend Emily, who was standing near the snacks table, her eyes twinkling with merriment. You gestured for her to come over. “Listen, I need you to cause a distraction. The kind only you can pull off.”

Emily raised an eyebrow, a smile dancing on her lips. “Are you getting interrupted by a hot F1 driver here? Because I can kick them out if necessary!”

“Just kick them out,” you whispered, trying to suppress a laugh. “I need some alone time with Carlos, and I don’t mean just to stare at him.”

With a knowing grin, she straightened and clinked her glass loudly against the snack table. “Alright everyone! Who’s down for a game of charades? Because I want to see if Carlos can act out the last lap of the race!”

The room erupted in a mix of cheers and laughter, and you felt Carlos’s arm slip around your waist, pulling you possessively against him.

He leaned in, brushing his lips against your temple. “Good job, mi amor,” he said, warmth flooding through you as he spoke. “Now let’s get out of here.”

The two of you slipped quietly through the back door, navigating the sprawling garden where soft twinkling lights adorned the trees like stars.

The noise of the party faded behind you, the cool evening breeze wrapping around your skin as you stepped into the intoxicating silence of the night.

Carlos didn’t waste any time. He turned to face you, his gaze heated, full of need. “Finally,” he muttered, fingers tangling in your hair as he pressed his body against yours, closing the distance in an exhilarating rush.

You giggled, both nervous and excited. “We really shouldn’t. What if someone comes out here?”

“The only thing I care about right now is you,” he said, lips brushing yours just enough to tease but not enough to take. “I want you to know exactly how much I’ve been thinking about you all night. It’s torture having you close and not being able to touch you.”

“Then why don’t you?” you challenged lightly, your own body tightening in anticipation.

Carlos smirked at your challenge, there was a dark promise in his eyes as he pulled you flush against him, capturing your lips with his. The kiss ignited something deep within you, a need that wasn’t just physical but pulled at your very soul.

He deepened the kiss, and you sighed into him, fingers threading through his curls, wanting more, wanting all of him.

“You’re beautiful,” he murmured against your lips, breaking away just enough to trace the line of your chin with his finger. “I’m lucky to have you.”

“Lucky or not, you’re not getting rid of me,” you teased, sweat and laughter alighting the air between you.

“I don’t want to,” he replied, his face serious now, eyes dark and earnest. “You’re the one I want, always.”

A rush of warmth flowed through you, and you found yourself caught between laughter and exhilaration. “So, where do we…?” you began, glancing around the garden, your heart pounding like the engines of the race cars he drove.

“There,” he said, nodding toward a flat stone bench nestled between the blooming azaleas. “Perfect.”

You couldn’t help but giggle again, and Carlos grinned that breathtaking smile that made your heart race even faster. Before you could respond, he swept you into his arms, holding you close as he placed you onto the cool stone surface.

Your body tingled as you felt the warmth radiating from him, the electricity in the air palpably changing as you pulled him back to you, lips crashing against his in a fervent dance.

“Just us now,” he whispered against your lips, and with a smirk, you could hardly believe the sense of freedom you felt.

Tonight, in this garden, when the whole world seemed to recede, there was only Carlos, only you. And the night seemed like it would stretch on forever. . . .

You had just settled comfortably into your cozy corner of your shared home with Carlos when your phone rang.

It was a sunny Saturday, far removed from the high-octane world of Formula 1, and you had spent the day reading and sipping on a cup of chamomile tea, looking forward to Carlos coming home after practice.

“Hey, Charles,” you said, trying to keep your voice upbeat.

You had always appreciated how close your boyfriend was with Charles Leclerc, but the more you got to know him, the more you were aware that he had a serious side, especially when it came to his friends.

“Hey Y/N,” he replied, his tone more serious than usual. “I’m at the paddock with Carlos. He’s not feeling well.”

“Not feeling well? What do you mean?” Your heart raced, your pulse quickening as you imagined the possibilities.

The last thing you wanted was for Carlos to be sick. Your afternoon suddenly shifted from a tranquil day to a worrying reality.

“He just collapsed after getting out of the car,” Charles said, his voice filled with concern. “I think he overworked himself today. You should come out here.”

You felt a rush of panic. “I’ll be there right away. Is he… can he stand?”

“Not really. I’ve got him lying on the ground. He should be okay, but he needs you.”

“Okay. I’m on my way,” you said, already gathering your things as you rushed toward the door. Anxiety pulsed through you as you grabbed your keys, your mind racing with thoughts of Carlos, imagining him weak and vulnerable on the ground amid the chaos of the paddock.

The drive felt eternal. You envisioned Carlos's laughter, the way his eyes sparkled when he talked about racing, and how his smile could banish any dark thoughts.

The thought of him ill gnawed at you. “Get it together, Y/N,” you whispered to yourself, gripping the steering wheel tightly.

Arriving at the paddock, you sprinted toward the chaos, a whirlwind of mechanics and team members working frantically. Your eyes scanned the scene, searching for a familiar face until you spotted Charles, his brows furrowed with concern.

“He’s over here,” he said, leading you to a shaded area where Carlos lay on the ground, looking pale yet conscious. Your heart sank at the sight of him, but relief washed over you when you realized he was still aware of his surroundings.

“Carlos!” you called, rushing to his side. He looked up, his eyes trying to focus as a small smile crept onto his face despite the discomfort.

“Hey, beautiful,” he murmured weakly.

“What have you done to yourself?” you scolded, crouching beside him and gently brushing the hair off his forehead. “You scared me!”

“I just… pushed a little too hard today,” Carlos admitted, his voice hoarse. “I thought I could handle it.”

Charles chimed in, trying to lighten the mood. “I warned him, but you know how stubborn he is.”

“Don’t start,” Carlos groaned, trying to sit up before deciding against it. “I’ll be fine, really. Just need to catch my breath.”

You held his hand, feeling the warmth in his palm even if the rest of him felt cold. “Well, you’re going to take it easy for the rest of the day. No racing, no pushing boundaries.”

“Deal,” Carlos said, his smile returning to his lips. You couldn't help but smile back, relieved that he wasn't in dire straits.

“I’ll make you soup when we get home,” you promised. “Oh, and I brought your favorite snacks.”

Carlos's eyes lit up at the mention of food. “You really know how to win a man’s heart.”

“Just stay focused on healing first, and maybe I’ll share them with you later,” you teased, squeezing his hand gently.

As you all waited for the paramedics to check him over, Carlos leaned back on the ground, looking at you with admiration. “Thank you for coming,” he said softly.

“Always,” you promised, your heart swelling. “Just try not to scare me like this again, okay? I can’t handle it.”

“I’ll work on that,” he replied, a mischievous glint in his eye. You could sense the underlying bond between you deepening, filled with unspoken emotions.

You lay curled up on the couch, a plush blanket wrapped around you like a cocoon, feeling every bit of the cold that had taken residence in your bones.

It was a dreary day outside, the skies painted in hues of gray, and you could hear the faint echoes of the Formula One race festivities happening just outside your front door.

Carlos was deep in the paddock, working on the final preparations for the race, but all you could focus on was the dull ache in your head and the scratchiness in your throat.

You glanced at the clock. It was nearly six o'clock; Carlos should be back soon. You had tried to muster enough energy to at least make him something to eat, but the thought of standing up made the fatigue swell inside you.

Instead, you settled back into the cushions, reaching for your phone to check if he had sent any updates. As if on cue, a message popped up from him.

Carlos: "Just finishing up here. Can’t wait to come home to you. Love you!"

You smiled weakly at your screen, your heart fluttering at the thought of him. It wasn’t long before you heard the familiar click of the door, followed by the shuffling sound of Carlos’s shoes.

He appeared in the living room moments later, his expression shifting from exhaustion to concern when he spotted you.

“Oh no, mi amor,” he said, rushing to your side. He knelt down beside the couch, brushing a thumb across your forehead. “You’re burning up.”

“Just a little cold,” you replied, attempting to sound nonchalant, though your voice felt raw and shaky. “How was the paddock?”

Carlos stood up and grabbed a tiny towel from the kitchen, dampening it before placing it on your forehead. “The paddock was noisy and chaotic. You didn’t miss much, except for a few rumors about the team. But you? You’re the most important thing on my mind right now.”

You couldn’t help but smile. There was something so comforting about the way he effortlessly switched from race-mode to nurturing boyfriend.

“I’m just glad you’re back. I have to say, being alone while feeling like this isn’t the most fun I’ve ever had.”

He chuckled softly, his deep voice resonating in the quiet room, and sat on the edge of the couch, looking down at you with those intense brown eyes of his.

“I’m glad you’re resting, but I can’t leave you like this. I’ve got your soup from last time and some herbal tea I brought back from the paddock for you.”

“Oh, you didn’t have to go out of your way,” you said, feeling a warmth stir within you, annoyed at how sweetly he always insisted on taking care of you.

“Of course, I did,” he replied, reaching out to tuck a stray hair behind your ear. “Your health is my top priority. Tell me how you feel.”

“Like I’ve been run over by a car,” you joked, failing to hide a cough that erupted afterward. “And like I’m stuck in a room without food.”

“I can fix that.” He flashed a grin, and just the sight of it lifted your spirits despite the fog of illness clouding your mind.

He sprung up from the couch, his presence like a whirlwind moving through the kitchen.

You listened to the sounds of clinking pots and scrambling movements as he maneuvered around your shared home. The aroma of garlic and broth filled the air, a mixture that made your stomach grumble with unexpected hunger. You shifted uncomfortably on the couch, trying to ease the fatigue that weighed down your limbs.

Minutes passed, and soon enough, Carlos returned holding a steaming bowl of soup and a small cup of herbal tea. He carefully placed the bowl on the sofa’s armrest before handing you the cup.

“Here, drink this first. It should help your throat,” he said, watching you as you took a cautious sip. The warmth spread through your chest, soothing the discomfort. “How’s that?”

“Better, actually. You always know how to pick the right remedies,” you replied, sipping carefully as you looked into his eyes, feeling adequately grateful.

He smiled, pleased, and took a seat beside you, lifting the bowl of soup to your lips. “Now let’s get some nourishment into you. Open up.”

You let out a laugh at his silliness. “You sound like a parent feeding a child.”

“Well, someone has to make sure you eat,” he rebutted playfully, taking a spoonful for himself and nudging it closer to you. “Besides, I happen to be an excellent caregiver. Ask the team.”

You laughed but complied, allowing him to feed you. Each small bite of soup made your stomach feel more alive. “You really do care too much, you know that?”

Carlos’s eyes softened, a tender look sweeping across his face. “Caring for you is the easiest thing in the world. Look at you; you’re adorable, even when you’re sick. I can’t help but want to take care of you.”

You felt heat rise to your cheeks at his words, and the drowsiness seemed to fade away momentarily. “You’re the adorable one, you know.”

“Is this a competition now?” he teased, feeding you another spoonful. “Because I’m winning.”

As the soup slowly diminished, laughter filled the space between you two, easing the sickly clouds in your head. The warmth in your chest was now anchored by his company, and just being near him felt like a balm to your aching body.

After the last remnants of soup were consumed, you laid back against the couch, your eyelids drooping. “Thanks, Carlos. I really needed this.”

“Anytime, mi amor,” he murmured, brushing a gentle kiss against your forehead. “Now let’s get you tucked in. You need your rest.”

“What about you? Aren’t you tired after all that?” you asked, watching him as he arranged pillows behind your head.

“I’ll be just fine,” he replied lightly, climbing onto the couch beside you. “As long as I’m with you, I’m always energized.”

Curled up under the blanket, you nestled your head against his shoulder, allowing the heaviness of sleep to pull you down into its comforting grip.

Carlos’s warmth enveloped you, and as his fingers lightly traced the back of your hand, you felt safe and cared for, even in your vulnerable state.

“Get some rest, and I’ll be here when you wake up,” he whispered, voice low and soothing, lulling you into a peaceful slumber.

In that moment, everything felt right.

And as you drifted away, you knew, without a doubt, that you were exactly where you were meant to be—with Carlos, the man who would take care of you, on and off the track. . . .

As you pull into the driveway of Carlos’ childhood home, your palms are a mixture of sweaty nervousness and anticipation. Carlos glances at you, the corners of his mouth twitching upward, and you can see the warmth in his eyes, reassuring you. “Are you ready?” he asks, shifting the gear into park.

You take a deep breath, glancing out at the modest brick house. “As ready as I’ll ever be,” you reply, forcing a smile that barely conceals your anxiety. You’ve heard Carlos talk about his family countless times, but stepping into their world feels monumental.

Carlos nods, eyes shining with a curious blend of pride and fear. “Just be yourself,” he says, his voice steady. “They’re going to love you.”

You step out of the car, allowing the early evening sun to bathe you in warm light. As you walk towards the front door, the sound of barking draws your attention. A small, scruffy dog bolts to the edge of the yard, tail wagging furiously. “That must be Piñón,” Carlos chuckles, grinning. “Just wait until you meet him.”

You hunch down instinctively, and soon enough, Piñón leaps into your arms, showering your face with slobbery kisses. Carlos chuckles at the spectacle. “He likes you already!”

Laughter bubbles up from your chest, lightening the heavy atmosphere in your stomach. “I think I’ll keep him,” you tease, giving Piñón a belly rub as he squirms with delight.

Before Carlos can respond, the front door swings open with a creak, revealing an older man with a broad smile and deep-set eyes—Carlos Sr. “What’s this?” he booms, taking in the scene with amusement. “Are we adopting a new family member?”

You straighten up, releasing Piñón, who trots eagerly toward his owner. “Um, I’m actually here to meet the rest of the family,” you say, a hint of nervous laughter escaping you. “I’m—”

“Whispering sweet nothings to my dog, I see!” Carlos Sr. interrupts, wrapping you in a warmth-filled embrace before you can finish your sentence. “Welcome! I’m Carlos Sr. You must be the enchanting one my son has been raving about!”

“Dad!” Carlos playfully scolds, his cheeks flushing a subtle red as you smile.

You look between father and son, feeling the love radiate from both. “It’s lovely to meet you, sir,” you say, awkward but earnest.

“Come inside! Come inside!” Carlos Sr. gestures, leading you both into the cozy home decorated with family portraits. The living room is filled with the scent of something delicious simmering in the kitchen.

“Blanca!” Carlos Sr. calls out, and a moment later, a bubbly young woman appears, her hair cascading in curls as she flashes a wide smile. “Is that you, Carlos? And who’s this?”

You feel Carlos’ hand slip into yours as he beams proudly. “Blanca, this is—”

“Your girlfriend! I’ve heard so much about you!” she interrupts, wrapping you in her embrace before you can respond. “Welcome to the family!”

“Thank you,” you manage, caught between shock and delight.

“Where’s Mom?” Carlos Sr. asks, glancing toward the kitchen. “She should be here to meet the new addition!”

Just then, Reyes V��zquez de Castro strides into the living room, wiping her hands on a dish towel, her presence immediate and commanding. “Carlos! You’re here!” she exclaims, her eyes sparkling as she moves past Carlos to envelop you in a warm hug. It feels as if she’s been waiting for this moment forever.

“Wow, I feel like I’ve been hugged by a whirlwind,” you laugh, stepping back a little. “It’s wonderful to meet you, Mrs. Vázquez de Castro.”

“Just call me Reyes!” she replies, her eyes twinkling. “I can’t tell you how happy I am to finally meet you! I’ve heard all about you.”

“Only the wonderful stuff, I hope!” you joke, glancing at Carlos who is attempting to hide his amusement.

“Absolutely. Only the best,” Reyes laughs, giving Carlos a mock glare. “Now, come help me in the kitchen. Dinner will be ready soon, and I could use a second pair of hands.”

“Sure! What do you need?” Carlos replies, slipping away to help his mother.

You hang back, feeling the warmth of the family’s connection wash over you. Blanca sidles up next to you, her eyes sparkling with curiosity. “So, how did you and Carlos meet?”

You share the story of the serendipitous meeting at the local coffee shop, how an accidental order mix-up sparked a series of events that led to your blossoming romance. Blanca giggles at the details. “It sounds like a movie! I can’t wait to see him in action when he tells it to all of us at dinner.”

Soon, the living room is filled with the aroma of a deliciously simmering stew, and the family gathers around the dining table. You sit beside Carlos, who reaches for your hand beneath the table, giving it a gentle squeeze as Reyes serves up generous portions of food.

The conversation flows easily, stories of Carlos’ childhood, Blanca’s mischievous antics, and heartfelt anecdotes from Carlos Sr. The laughter bounces off the walls, wrapping you up in the kind of warmth you’d always imagined family dinners would emit.

“Tell us something about yourself,” Carlos’ mom prompts, her approach direct, yet kind.

You look around, feeling suddenly vulnerable, but a swell of confidence rushes through you. “Well, I grew up in a small town too, with a family that loves to laugh over dinner. My parents would host big gatherings; it was chaotic but full of love.”

Carlos’ eyes sparkle with delight as he listens, absorbing every word. “I can see where you get your warmth from,” he adds, and the affection in his tone makes your heart swell.

After dinner, Piñón curls by your feet, and the family sits around the coffee table indulging in dessert—homemade flan. “This is amazing, Reyes!” you compliment, taking another bite.

“Gracias! I’m glad you like it,” she beams.

“Mom taught me everything I know,” Carlos adds, leaning back with confidence.

“Except how to clean up messes,” Blanca chimes in, laughter spilling around the table.

After sharing more smiles, Carlos leans closer. “So, what do you think?” he whispers.

You glance around the room, Your heart brimming with warmth and belonging. “I think I’m never leaving,” you reply, grinning. “You all make it feel like home.”

The evening winds down, and you help clean up amid playful banter. Carlos Sr. pauses at the sink, looking at you with sincerity that pins you in place. “You know, Carlos has been different since he met you. In a good way,” he says, and you can feel the weight of their approval in those words.

Your heart swelled with gratitude. “Thank you, Carlos Sr. That really means a lot to me,” you said softly, feeling the genuine affection radiating from the family.

He nodded, his smile deepening. “Just making sure you know—you’re not just a date. You’re becoming part of this family.”

As the night draws to a close, you find yourself holding Carlos’ hand tightly, feeling grateful for this family that had so warmly embraced you.

In that moment, with laughter and love resonating in the air, it dawns on you—you’re not just here as Carlos’ date; you’re becoming part of something special.

"Okay, enough mushiness! Who's ready for some card games?" Blanca interrupted, her eyes sparkling with mischief. “I hope you’re aware that I’m the reigning champion and will defend my title fiercely!”

"Only because you cheat," Carlos teased, wrapping an arm around your shoulders. “Somehow, I always end up providing her with winning cards.”

You laughed, feeling that beautiful tension between them — a comfortable bond born from years of sibling rivalry and an unspoken love that filled the air.

As the evening wound down and the games began, you settled into the rhythms of the Vázquez de Castro household, needing no script to feel at home among them.

Hours melted away in bursts of laughter and competitive groans as you all settled around the dining table. Piñón sprawled at your feet, his tail thumping rhythmically against the floor whenever he caught your eye.

“Okay, okay. Last hand of the night!” Blanca declared, shuffling cards with a practiced flair as you prepared for what you hoped was a winning hand. Carlos leaned close, his breath warm against your ear, making you shiver in a pleasant way.

"You're going to win, right? Because I’m going to blame the loss on you if I don't.” He winked, his teasing masking a deeper affection that made you blush.

You shot him a challenging look. “Well, if you lose, you have to dance with me later.”

“Only if you promise to lead,” he shot back with a smirk, clearly enjoying the playful banter between you two.

As the game progressed, the laughter only intensified, but it inevitably came to an end. With a dramatic flourish, Blanca tossed her cards on the table, victorious as expected. “Ha! And that’s how it’s done!” she exclaimed, holding up her winning hand.

“Fine, fine—the reigning champion takes her victory lap,” Carlos said sarcastically, rolling his eyes dramatically, which only made you laugh harder.

“Let’s do the dance now! I think that’s only fair!” Blanca prodded, a mischievous glint in her eyes.

Carlos groaned, “I can't believe this is happening. You know, I can’t dance to save my life?”

“Oh, come on! Don’t let your reputation be tarnished! Besides, if you can’t dance, no one will know because I’ll be too busy saving my own ass over here,” you replied, your cheeky comeback earning you a sound laugh from Blanca.

The music began to play softly, and Carlos extended a hand to yours. “Alright, lead the way, my esteemed dancer,” he said, mock bowing as you both made your way to the living room.

With a playful shove, you took charge, attempting to lead him through a modified waltz. Each spin and turn brought stifled laughter as Carlos fumbled, stepping on your toes. "This isn’t a classical ball! You’re allowed to relax a little," you said, pulling him gently.

"Let it be known that I’m a terrible dancer," he said, and in that moment, your worlds collided, the laughter easing into a beautiful closeness.

When the last note faded, you both stood there, gazing at each other for just a heartbeat longer than necessary. You could feel the warmth of his hands lingering on your waist, his eyes searching yours for something you barely understood.

"Wow, I wouldn’t trade this night for anything," Carlos said softly, his tone shifting into something sincere and serious that drew you in.

“Me neither,” you whispered back.

As the night drew to a close, you settled with Carlos on the couch, blanket draped around your shoulders, and Piñón curled at your feet, snoring softly. The moments spent with them—filled with easy laughter and unexpected tenderness—made your heart ache with gratitude.

“I’m glad we stayed the night,” you said, looking up at Carlos, who was now reclining against the couch, his fingers brushing yours. “Being here really feels like home.”

Carlos squeezed your hand gently. “You’re not just a guest here. You really are part of this family already.” His voice was steady, and in that moment, you could see how he felt—how the walls you both wore were starting to dissolve, making way for something deeper.

The comfort of that sentiment wrapped around you like a warm embrace, yet the weight of those words lingered in the air. You leaned into Carlos, resting your head on his shoulder, and he moved closer, intertwining your fingers.

All of a sudden, you were no longer just his fake girlfriend or a visitor but someone who belonged—wrapped in the embrace of his family.

With laughter and love resonating through the home, you realized you were part of something special, and as you drifted off to sleep, you couldn’t shake the feeling that you were right where you were meant to be. . . .

[simphornies]

Angst! I choose you! (That was cringe I'm sorry 😭)

Can I please request a Vox x Female Reader where Reader protected Vox from Valentino

(PS: Val killed Reader in the process)

And because of that Velvette has to take care of a Depressed Vox

A/N: My friend and I were going back and forth on ideas for this because we love angst. I hope you guys enjoy! A part 2 will be made for this because I love you guys

Word count: 1.6k (1,611) Warnings: ANGST, valentino being a FUCKER, descriptions of violence, death, there is no mention of y/n but it's f!reader

My Beloved [ Vox x F!Reader ]

Vox got into another argument with Valentino. Both overlords had anger issues so their arguments always end up becoming explosive with glassware being thrown around. You came in as soon as you got word of their fight. When you ran into his office, it was clear that it was about you again. Valentino shoved you out of his way, glaring at you, seething with anger. He slammed the door shut but you couldn’t care any less. You ran to your lover’s side and held his hand.

“Vox? What happened?” You frowned, seeing all the broken glass. “Are you hurt anywhere?”

“It’s…” He hesitated and planted a gentle kiss on your hand, “It’s nothing, baby. Don’t worry about it.”

“I’ll always worry, my beloved.” You held his hand close, “Is it about the shoot again?” He sighed and nodded.

“He came in here demanding I convince you to be in one of his movies. I told him no and well,” He gestured to the shattered glass that littered his office, “You see how well that fucking turned out. Fucking moth just won’t stop. I told him that there’s nothing he could ever offer for your body! He ju-” You gently tighten your grip on his hand, cutting him off. He looked at you and the worry in your eyes melted his anger away. “I’m sorry, baby. It just makes me so angry when fuckers like him think they have any right to a sweetheart like you.”

“I’m sorry I’m causing this much stress.” You said softly, “I’ll talk to him if you need me to!”

“No!” He said as his screen got brighter with his increased panic, “No, babe. It’s fine. I got it handled. I promise, okay?”

You knelt next to him, your head on his lap, “Okay. But if anything happens, I’ll always be here for you, my beloved.”

He smiled, gently caressing your head, “Of all the souls in Hell, I know that the most, my dear.”

Your relationship with Vox seemed to come out of nowhere to those that didn’t know the past he shared with you. Velvette was the first to learn about his life with you before he died. He confided in her. At first she just wanted tea on his life before Hell but it ended up with her showing genuine interest. He had been pining for you even after his death. He wanted so desperately to confess how much he loved you. You never left his mind in his final hours and when he found himself in Hell, his heart broke. He feared that he would never meet you again. This fear pushed him into trying to get into relationships with people that had the smallest of reminders of you. You were an angel to him, the gentlest soul he’d ever met. He was sure that you would go to Heaven but when he saw you aimlessly roaming the streets of Hell, he rushed to meet you. You didn’t recognize him at first glance but the moment you heard his voice, everything fell into place. He, honestly, didn’t understand how you ended up in Hell. You had to remind him that you ran his “business” with him. His love for you blinded him from your heinous crimes, almost erasing it from his memory just out of adoration for you. He got such a massive ego boost when he learned you went on a bit of a rampage after his death that led to your execution.

It wasn’t long after your arrival that the two of you entered a honeymoon phase, constantly out on dates and always being at each other’s sides. After months of flirting, teasing and a multitude of dates, Vox finally asked you out. He was bad at romance more than he’d like to admit. Without Velvette’s help, he was definitely going to change his mind. The way he asked you out made you think he was going to propose. He had petals scattered on the floor and held the sweetest flowers he could buy in Hell. He was a nervous wreck waiting for you to arrive at the location he sent. The sight of him standing disheveled in front of a giant “Will you be mine?” neon sign made you burst out into laughter. But you said yes nonetheless.

Days passed after the argument. You were walking up to Vox’s office and as you got close you heard yelling. It was Valentino starting another fight. You started to run as soon as you heard glass breaking. When you reach the doorway you see Valentino aim a glass cup at Vox.

You grabbed his arm to stop him and raised your voice. “Stop! Valentino, that's enough!”

Valentino got angrier at your attempt to stop him and he pushed you off of him, knocking you down to the ground. “Don’t fucking touch me, bitch. You’re lower than me, don’t forget that.” He hissed. Vox ran to your side and helped you up.

You scowled at him as you held your head high, “I don’t give a single shit who you are. You’re a little bitch baby that can’t take no for an answer.” You spat back.

“What the fuck did you call me?!” He yelled and began to step closer to you. Vox blocked him from getting any closer.

“Val. Fuck off. I said no and my decision isn’t going to change.”

You saw Valentino raise his hand to hit Vox. Without thinking, you pulled Vox out of the way. You barely dodged his swing, his claw scratching your cheek deep enough for it to draw blood. You growled at him and slapped him across the face. It shocked all three of you. Your confidence faded once Valentino opened his wings, his face shrouded in rage.

In the blink of an eye, he had you by the throat. You instinctively held onto his hands, trying to pry his tightening grip on your neck. His hold alone left bruises on your neck. Before Vox could reach him, Valentino flew through Vox’s balcony. He used your head to break through the glass door, making you scream from fear.

“Valentino! What are you doing?!” Vox yelled, running after him.

“Aw, what?” He teased, “You’re telling me you really give a fuck about this bitch?” He laughed, menacingly. You struggled against him and managed to get a glimpse of how high up you were. “You loved me too, remember? Before her.”

“Put her down, Valentino!” He screamed, glitching from both fear and anger. His pleas received laughter.

“You’re turning out so pathetic and soft, Vox.” He grins, blood dripping from the side of his mouth. “I’ll put her down, just for you~”

Your eyes widened at his tone and knew exactly what was coming. You looked at Vox with tears in your eyes. The fear in his eyes broke your heart. His hand reached out towards you as if he could reach you. THe only thing you could do was smile at him. He couldn’t get himself to smile back, he could only stare at you. This exchange only fueled Valentino’s rage.

“V-Vox.” You croaked out, your voice hoarse from Valentino’s grasp. “I love y-”

Before you could continue, you were suddenly pummeling towards the concrete below you.

“No!” Vox screamed at the top of his lungs.

You heard his cry for you. You heard Valentino’s cackle. As you got closer to the ground, you relaxed your body and shut your eyes, accepting what was about to happen. And then you no longer heard anything. You didn’t hear the way Vox screamed and cried. You didn’t hear the hums of electricity that came before his power outages. You died from Valentino’s rage.

All power was cut off in Pentagram City. He heard your last words. He knew what you wanted to say. After the time you shared together, you had never told him “I love you.” because of your personal past. He didn’t need to hear you say it, you both knew how much you love each other. He didn’t know that you were finally ready to tell him you love him. He didn’t know he helped you get over your past. And he’ll never get to hear you say you love him. He’ll never hear your sweet voice again. He’ll never get to make up the time he lost with you. The only time he’ll be able to hold you again was to collect you from the ground.

His heart was shattered. It was obvious to everyone around him. Vox never left his security room. He locked himself in there and drank his pain away. He played the videos he had of you, looked at your photos and longed for your smile. He’ll never hear your songs, your jokes, your laugh or see your smile. He was alone again.

The only person that managed to get into his security room was Velvette. She did her best to comfort him and get him to clean up. Everytime she went in there, the entire room would reek of alcohol and grief. As cold as her heart was, the sight of him crying at your photos and videos broke her. She grew close to you when you first came. Her first impression of you was from Vox’s lovestruck stories and meeting you was a different ride. She understood why Vox loved you the way he did. She never spoke of it but she cried with Vox when you died. She was enraged. The only thing that stopped her from killing Valentino herself was the grief.

None of the Vees spoke to Valentino for months and that pissed him off.

Tag list: @froggybich @baizzhu @dickmastersworld @matrixbearer2024 

[spdrvyn]

parched — MIGUEL O'HARA

(( I FINALLY WATCHED ATSV AAAGHHHH IT WAS SO GOOD !!! not gonna say anything because if i ramble it will 100% go into spoiler territory but it was probably the best movie i've ever seen no exaggeration. anyway, here's a small miguel one shot? drabble? spoiler-free :3 ))

READ PART 2 HERE.

You and Miguel led nearly entirely different lives.

He was constantly out and about. Putting his body, his mind through strenuous lengths for the sake of the people. For the sake of everyone. He sacrifices a piece of himself, bit by bit. Everyday. Just for everybody else's peace.

Your job almost felt a little silly next to his. After all, you were quite sure that being Spider-Man didn't offer a week of paid vacation. Which you were extremely grateful to have, by the way.

In all honesty, you felt the smallest piece of pity for him. You were able to catch up on your hobbies, enjoy shows that were put on your list for so long, and get more than 5 hours of sleep.

You knew that Miguel was barely getting a shred of that. How did you know? Even in two in the morning, while you were resting on the couch and catching up on yet another show, you hadn't heard him come in through the window that you normally keep open for him.

Worry seeps it's way into your brain as you try to focus on the pixels in front of you. Of course, you were scared for him. Everyday that he went out, the unexpected could happen and well... You didn't want to think too deep into it.

At least, your mind was distracted when you were working but now you were relaxing, the thoughts that you tried bury deep down under to the crevices of your mind were all coming back again.

It only concerned you more when throughout the week so far, you'd seen him less and less. On occasion, in the middle of the night, the click of a lock would alert you awake but before you could sit up and investigate, strong arms locked around your waist and a head pressed into your shoulder.

You sighed, reaching for the remote and pausing your show.

The worries, the yearning. It all gave you a swirling, growing feeling in your gut that you hadn't really familiarized yourself with. You weren't sure if you liked it, you weren't sure if you hated it. Though the way that it pierced into you like a newly sharpened spear just confused you even further.

Trying to focus on another feeling growing inside of you. Hunger and satisfying it, you hoped it would get all of this off of your mind as you lazily walk into the kitchen.

A reoccurring theme whenever you wanted a snack was once you actually made your way to the pantry, decisions were a foreign concept and your cravings were like trying to read binary code.

Instant ramen? Cookies? Chips? Ice cream?

Felt even worse this time when you hadn't particularly been exercising your brain recently, a mental note to yourself to be just a little bit on edge when you get a break like this.

You opt on giving up entirely, you slam the cabinet door, and turn around to get back to the couch until—

There's a weight against your back and waist, keeping you against the counter.

As you look down, you see the familiar shades of red and blue. Sighing, you look to a little over your shoulder and take a little peek. To see closed eyes signalled by Miguel's mask. The marks trembling shut, you feel his grip on you get tighter.

In a volume as close to a whisper, you break the silence, "Miguel? You okay?" Like you expected, he takes off his mask. Eyes screwed shut, brows furrowing as you can see the stress lines and deep circles under them.

He sighs but not out of being content, thumb tracing small shapes into your stomach. "Been so lonely, mi cielo."

Your heart clenches as that. That was right, you understood what kind of lover that he could be. Needy, clingy, these qualities festering even more each moment he spends away from you. You noticed how much he was holding back right now.

He normally liked to fix himself up before getting all comfortable and relaxed with you. Showering, brushing his curls, general self-care but the moment he came inside his first instinct was to go to you.

Those thoughts from a while ago that were nearly going to absorb you came back. To think the cold that Miguel had to endure out there from how tightly he wanted to absorb your warmth.

"I missed you so much. Me sentí tan solo, don't wanna let go."

You were going to respond but your mind practically short-circuited when he started pressing soft kisses along your neck and shoulder. You let him indulge himself, just a little while.

Of course, his job terrified you sometimes but seeing him like this. Seeing him let his guard down, talking about how much he missed you, calling you his darling.

Perhaps Spider-Men had their own charm but Miguel's just got you wrapped around his finger like nobody else could.

For a brief moment, he nibbles on the flesh at the back of your neck. Pressing one last kiss, "Will get fixed up, then voy a demostrarte cuánto te extrañé después de todo este tiempo."

Shamefully, you didn't pick up learning Spanish yet from how much Miguel speaks it to you. Yet through context clues and bashfully asking him what the things he said meant sometimes.

You knew exactly what was going to come next.

[brainddeadd]

5 Times Auston Kissed You on the Nose (And 1 Time You Kissed Him)

1. The First Kiss – Purely Playful

The sun was blazing, and a warm breeze drifted through the backyard as laughter filled the air. You were at a friend’s barbecue, squinting in the sun while trying—and failing—at a game of cornhole. Auston, of course, was doing way better than you. Every time he made a shot, he'd smirk like he knew exactly how much it irritated you.

"That fence didn’t do anything wrong," he teased as your beanbag completely missed the board and clattered into the fence behind it.

You groaned, pushing your hair out of your face. "I swear, it’s rigged."

Auston snickered, ducking when you half-heartedly tossed another beanbag at him. "You’ve got the aim of a toddler."

You stepped closer, giving him a playful shove. "Careful, Matthews, or I’ll sabotage your next game."

His smirk deepened, and before you could react, he leaned down and gave your nose a quick, soft kiss. It was so unexpected that you froze in place.

"There you go," he said smugly. "That’s your consolation prize."

You stared at him, heart skipping a beat, the kiss lingering far longer in your mind than it probably should have. "You’re an idiot," you muttered, hoping the warmth in your cheeks wasn’t noticeable.

"And yet, you love me," he replied with a wink, already turning away to grab another drink, leaving you stunned and confused about how something so small could affect you so much.

2. The Accidental Kiss – Just a Reflex

The bar was buzzing with energy after the Leafs' victory, and you found yourself deep in conversation with Auston at a corner booth. You were still riding the high from the game, excitedly recapping the moments you thought were the most impressive.

"And that pass? Absolute perfection," you said, grinning as you passed him a beer.

Auston leaned in slightly, his arm resting along the back of the booth. His dark eyes were locked on you with an intensity that made your stomach flip. As you handed him the beer, you shifted closer, and without thinking, he leaned in and kissed the tip of your nose, a brief, soft brush of his lips.

It was so casual, so natural, that you almost didn’t notice—until you did.

You blinked, stunned. "Uh… did you just kiss my nose?"

Auston looked momentarily caught off guard but quickly masked it with a shrug. "Force of habit."

"Force of habit?" you repeated, incredulous. "What kind of habit is that?"

He smirked, taking a sip of his drink. "The kind that works, apparently."

You gave him a skeptical look, but the warmth spreading through your chest made it hard to be annoyed.

3. The Comforting Kiss – After a Rough Day

It had been one of those days—the kind where everything went wrong from the moment you woke up. Work was a nightmare, and by the time you got home, you felt like you’d been dragged through hell and back. You were ready to collapse on your couch and cry yourself to sleep when your phone buzzed with a message from Auston.

“I’m coming over.”

You hadn’t argued. Less than half an hour later, he showed up at your door with your favorite snacks, a bottle of wine, and a dumb rom-com DVD. He didn’t say much—he never did—but his presence was enough.

You sat beside him on the couch, leaning against his shoulder while the movie played. Your exhaustion weighed heavy on you, and for the first time all day, you let yourself relax.

Out of nowhere, Auston tilted his head and kissed the tip of your nose. It was soft, gentle, and somehow more comforting than any words could have been.

"You’re tougher than you think," he whispered, his voice low and soothing.

The warmth of the kiss lingered long after, easing the ache in your chest. You closed your eyes, grateful for the way Auston could make you feel like maybe, just maybe, things would be okay.

4. The Teasing Kiss – Just to Annoy You

You hated losing to Auston—especially when it was something as stupid as trivia. The two of you had spent the evening battling over random facts, and every time Auston got an answer right, he made sure you knew about it.

"No way you knew that!" you exclaimed after he answered correctly about the capital of a country you were sure didn’t even exist.

Auston grinned, smug as ever. "What can I say? I’m just smarter than you."

You glared at him, crossing your arms. "There’s no way. You cheated somehow."

He leaned closer, ruffling your hair like you were a kid. "Admit it. I’m a genius."

You huffed in frustration, trying to swat his hand away, but before you could react, Auston bent down and kissed the tip of your nose.

"Stop doing that!" you cried, shoving him back.

"Make me," he teased, laughing as you turned bright red.

You wanted to be annoyed, but the way your heart fluttered every time he did it made it nearly impossible.

5. The Goodbye Kiss – An Almost-Confession

It was late—far too late to still be out—but neither of you wanted to leave. The night had been perfect in a way that felt bittersweet, like something was about to change. You stood outside his car, the city quiet around you, streetlights casting a warm glow over everything.

"I had fun tonight," you said softly, not wanting the moment to end.

Auston smiled, his hands tucked into his pockets. "Yeah, me too."

For a moment, the two of you just stood there, the silence heavy with everything unsaid.

"See you around?" you asked, though you weren’t sure if you were asking a question or making a plea.

Auston stepped closer, his gaze soft and unreadable. Without warning, he leaned down and kissed the tip of your nose—a kiss that felt heavier than the ones before, like it carried the weight of something unsaid.

"Yeah," he whispered. "See you soon."

And just like that, he was gone, leaving you standing there with the lingering warmth of his kiss and the sinking feeling that things between you had shifted irreversibly.

+1. The Kiss That Changed Everything – From You to Him

You weren’t sure when it had started—this feeling that every kiss on the nose meant more than either of you let on. The tension between you and Auston had been building for months, hovering just beneath the surface. Every time he kissed your nose, it left you breathless, waiting for something more. But the kiss on your lips never came.

Until tonight.

You were alone in his apartment, the air thick with unspoken words. Auston stood in front of you, watching you with an intensity that made your heart race. Something was different—something you couldn’t ignore anymore.

Before you could second-guess yourself, you rose on your tiptoes and kissed the tip of his nose, mirroring all the kisses he’d given you.

Auston froze, his breath hitching. "Did you just—?"

"Yeah," you whispered, your voice shaky but determined.

For a moment, neither of you moved. And then, Auston’s hands were on your face, tilting your chin up as he leaned down and kissed you—really kissed you—like he’d been waiting for this moment just as long as you had.

When you finally pulled away, breathless and dizzy, Auston rested his forehead against yours. "Took you long enough," he murmured with a soft smile, his thumb brushing over your cheek.

You laughed, your heart feeling lighter than it had in ages. "Better late than never."

And this time, when Auston kissed you again, it wasn’t on the nose—it was on the lips, and it was everything you’d been waiting for.

[clockwayswrites]

Neon Adjuration - Start

The bike sputtered to death on a cliché middle of nowhere American road. It might have well been straight out of a movie set with the rows of corn, gold light, and nothing else around for miles.

Jason was less than impressed.

After nearly an hour of pushing his bike and with the idyllic light quickly fading he was even less impressed. It wasn’t as if he didn’t have options. His insurance came with roadside assistance (he thought), he could give in and call a sibling to steal the Batplane and come get him, or a corn field wasn’t the worst place he’d ever slept. He had options, just none of them were really appealing.

Recognizing that the feeling was stupid didn’t make calling for help feel any less like giving up.

The corn field had to have rodents. As he had pushed his bike, they had turned from carefully manicured rows into wild, unmanaged looking things. Jason had enough sharing a bed space with rodents as a street kid to want to do it again. Jason was probably about ten minutes away from giving in and calling Dick when he saw the glow.

It was neon salvation looming out of the oppressive darkness.

The cyan light spread the furthest, but Jason could also catch magenta from where the sign was peering around the edge of what must be the shop the sign was connected too. The cast of the cyan light made the corn feel otherworldly, and Jason pushed his bike slightly faster. More of the sign was revealed with each step, carefully crafted letter by carefully crafted letter.

Jason nearly sagged in relief. Not only was it finally, blessedly civilization, but it was a mechanics shop. ‘Fix-it Freddy’s’, the sign cheerfully proclaimed. It sat next to just the sort of building that looked like it might hold up to the claim. The base structure was probably from the late 40’s, that magical time of growth when the war and dust had both faded, but it had obviously been altered and changed and repainted hundreds of times. Just from the light of the neon and the one, lonely white flood light above the large roll up door Jason could see a myriad of colors. The current one seemed to be an already fading cyan to match the sign.

Praying that shop either had someone still working or cheap security and a lock he could jimmy, Jason leaned his bike against his tired leg and rang the bell between the roll up door and the man door. His finger was barely off the buzzer before the aluminum panels shuddered and groaned. Creaking with all of the years in it, the door rolled up.

Hanging onto the chain was, well, not exactly what Jason was expecting to find out in the corn fields. They were young, Jason’s or close enough. The black hair was wild, long in the middle and pushed around from a long day of working with engine grease and oil but shaved close on the sides. The way the neon light caught their eyes practically made them glow. Their smile was almost concernedly easy. “Can I help you?”

“Yeah,” Jason said and then had to clear his throat and try again. “Yeah. I guess you’re Freddy?”

They laughed, tossing their head back. Magenta light brushed along the length of their throat. “Nah, Freddy’s been dead for nearly thirty years, not that it would stop him from working. I’m Danny, this is my place now. Why don’t you roll your bike in and we’ll take a look at it, okay stranger?”

“Jason,” he said reflexively.

“Jason,” Danny repeated with that same easy smile.

--

AN: Aaaaaaand Moody Monday check! (Can I get all the days of the week? Let's see! 2 down, 5 to go... fingers already taped together.)

Masterpost I no longer tag, visit the masterpost to subscribe!

[nocturnalrat]

can you do tired stressed miles (earth42! Or regular 1610! Miles)

Miles had a stressful time at work(fighting or sumn) and reader is just being a hugeee brat so he puts her in her place 🥹💕

Hi! Thanks for the prompt!

I chose Prowler!Miles for this, as I think he’d be more assertive & possessive than our ball of sunshine aka Earth-1610 Miles. :p Enjoy!

---

Dating someone with a double life had certain advantages, without question. But the list of drawbacks was just as long.

Moments like these made you realize how frustrating and difficult dating him could be sometimes.

You had planned on meeting tonight. But while you were waiting outside the movie theater, the following messages appeared on your phone:

won't make it tnight

sry

will make it up 2 u

You stared at the three texts and were irritated to no end. It had been weeks since you had last spent time together, just the two of you, and now you were being stood up by him. Again.  

When you finally arrived home, you ordered some food, worked on an essay for one of your college classes, and kept looking at the clock hanging on the wall.

Hours passed. You finished the essay, prepared a presentation for your biochem class, and tried to keep yourself awake with the help of coffee and an energy drink.

It was half past two in the morning when the front door opened quietly. He probably thought you were asleep. Well, he was wrong.

"Do you know what the word priority means?" you asked, annoyance clearly evident in your voice.

He didn't flinch when he saw you, nor did he look particularly surprised. Of course he didn't. There wasn't much that could startle Miles Morales; he was far too composed, too stoic, too stern for that.

Wretched fatigue showed on his face; he had dark circles under his eyes. Others would have found his moody demeanor threatening, but you knew that he was not half as evil as he looked. 

His reply came quick. "And do you know what the word responsibility means?"

You knew that this particular part of his life, and the responsibilities that came with it, took up a lot of his time. But that didn't mean you were happy or okay with it.

 "You stood me up three times in a row," you said, arms crossed in front of your chest. You tried not to pout too much and sound like a petulant child. "You know, Morales, not many people would put up with the shit you pull sometimes."

He raised an eyebrow and snorted. "Yeah, but you’re still here. Do you know why?" He took a few steps toward you.

"Easy one,” you replied. “Because I’m too nice and too good for you.”

“Don’t be bratty.”

“It’s the truth, though.” You shrugged, seemingly unfazed. “You know how many options I have? You’re not the only good-looking guy in New York, Miles.”

You knew immediately that you had said something wrong. His gaze darkened and he clenched his jaw.

You felt a chill run down your spine.

"What I meant by that is -" you started, but he cut you off.

"Shut up. Do you know why you’re still with me, despite the circumstances?”  

He leaned his forehead against yours and took your face in his hands.

"I asked you a question." His grip tightened.

You tried to swallow the lump in your throat and attempted to shake your head, but you couldn't move; his grip was too strong. "No," you said quietly.

"Because you’re mine," he replied, and his voice was velvety and soft. "Mine alone. You belong to no one else. Got it?"

"Yes."

"Good.” He smiled as he stroked your hair. "I never want to hear you say something like that again.”

"Then stop being so tired and stressed all the time," you muttered, unable to keep the hurt and sadness from your voice.

"You wanna know what would make me feel less stressed and tired?" A smug grin appeared on his face.

You rolled your eyes. "Pretty presumptuous, don't you think?"

"I'd rather call it determined and self-assured."

"The answer’s no. You don't deserve it."

"Really?" He kissed the corner of your mouth. "Didn't you say you missed me?"

"Just because I missed you doesn't mean I'm going to throw my self-respect overboard -" But the firmness of your sentence faltered as his large hands began to caress your body.

"Mine," he whispered against your lips. "And what's mine, obeys."

You loved it when he called you his own, when he put you in your place. A tingling, warm feeling blossomed inside you.

The following day you woke up next to a handwritten note and a box of your favorite chocolate.

8 p.m. tonight, Lincoln Square 13.

It's a promise.

[lkfarrout]

Seventh (Stan x fem!Reader) 18+

Summary: Stan reveals he has less experience than his confident demeanor lets on

Warnings: Smut/NSFW/18+ soft, slow, and sweet this time :)

This is 2 chapters but both are included here. The real smut starts in chapter 2.

Minors do not interact

Chapter 1

You were more nervous than you should have been. You'd been on plenty of dates with Stanley Pines, but as you waited for him to pick up the phone, you could feel your heart fluttering in your chest.

"You've reached the Mystery Shack."

"Hey, sailor."

"Oh hey, toots! How're ya doin?"

"Good, Stan. Hey, I was wondering -- I got this new movie, and thought maybe you'd want to watch it with me? Are you free tonight?"

"Yeah, I'm not doin' anything. What time?"

"I can be over at 8 if that works for you?"

"Oh, you're comin to the shack? Well, see I only got the one chair, and--"

"It sounds like I'll have to sit on your lap then, big guy."

"Oh! Yeah, sounds like it. I'll, uh, I'll see you at 8 then."

"See you then! Oh wait!"

"Yeah?"

"Would it be weird if I wore pajamas?"

"I don't see why it would be."

"Well if you're gonna be in slacks, I'll feel pretty underdressed, you know."

"Ha, I promise I'll wear somethin comfy, okay?"

"Perfect, see you later Stan!"

"I can't wait, doll."

---

As the clock ticked closer to 8, you pulled out the outfit - the perfect 2 piece pajama set - silky shorts and a button up top, with matching bra and panties to complete it. If this didn't get him in bed with you, you might consider giving up altogether.

His reaction when he opened the door was exactly what you wanted, "Wow, ya look gorgeous, babe." He pulled you in by the waist and gave you a passionate kiss.

"Not too bad yourself, Stan." He was in a white undershirt and red plaid pajama pants - a pretty big contrast to the multitude of layers he usually wore. The tank top showed off his broad shoulders and thick stomach perfectly and he looked very snuggle-able. The thought of sitting on his lap for the next two hours gave you butterflies.

"Why don't ya put the movie in, I'll get some snacks." Stan headed toward the kitchen.

As you fiddled with the remote, trying to get the subtitles on, you heard him settle into the chair behind you. When you turned around, he had a blanket over his lap, which he opened up with a big grin and said, "Ya ready to climb aboard the Stan-o-War?"

You couldn't help but laugh at his joke, and you gladly joined him in the chair. You threw your legs over one armrest and laid your head on his shoulder. He wrapped the blanket around you, and as you relaxed further into his lap, he stirred a little. You lifted yourself back up a bit, "Everything okay?"

"Yeah, I just, uh," he tugged at the front of his pants, "there." He chuckled a little as you settled down, and you felt his erection pressing into your hip.

"Sorry 'bout that, doll, I can't help it when you're around."

"Oh, so you DO like me," you teased him, "I was starting to think maybe all these dates were out of pity or something."

"What are you talkin' about? Course I like you."

You fiddled with the gold chain poking out of the neck of his tank top. "C'mon Stan, everytime we go out, you flirt shamelessly, talk a big game, play footsies under the table, and then you take me home and all I ever get is a kiss goodnight. Don't you want anything more?" You made a very obvious glance downward.

"No, I do! I just," he sighed, "I dunno. Maybe I'm nervous."

"Stan Pines is nervous?" You teased him, "I didn't think that was possible."

You continued, more serious this time, "What are you nervous about?"

"I just, didn't want to disappoint ya, I guess."

"Why would you disappoint me?"

Stan scratched at his stubble and avoided eye contact. "Well, I hate to admit it but, I don't exactly have the most," he waved his hand in a circle, looking for the right phrase, "notches in the bedpost, I guess."

You couldn't help but raise your eyebrows in genuine surprise, "Really, Stan? I'm shocked."

He shrugged.

"Wait, weren't you married once?" You asked.

"Yeah, for like a day. We uh, consumated the marriage, I fell asleep, and she stole my car."

You laughed, and he continued, "You know, it's actually a pretty good story, see--"

You cut him off, "Hey! Don't try to change the subject on me!"

"Alright, you got me."

"So, just how little experience are we talking here? Like, you can count on one hand, or?"

"Gee, let's see," he ran a hand through his hair before chuckling nervously, "maybe one of Stanford's hands."

"Six? Ah, so that's what?" You teased him, "Once or twice per decade since you turned 18?"

He rubbed his nose under his glasses, "God, when you put it that way..."

You took his hand in yours, "Hey, it's alright, I'm just teasing you." You planted a kiss on his cheek, "It's no big deal, I promise."

He didn't seem very soothed by your words.

"Well, it aint just that." The movie, completely ignored, continued to play in the background. "See, I've never actually made a woman... finish before."

"Ah," you nodded.

He continued, "At least, I feel like I know when I'm gettin' lied to, y'know?"

You chuckled, before asking, "Well, do you know how to?"

Stan rubbed the back of his neck, "I have... a vague idea."

"Well," you placed a hand on his cheek and leaned in to whisper, "would you like me to show you?"

Even in the dim light, you could tell he was blushing. He nodded, "Yeah, I'd like that."

Chapter 2

His bedroom was cast in a soft red light from the stained glass window. It was cozy, simply decorated, and a little messy -- not too different from what you'd imagined in your head 100 times over. In those fantasies, however, you always stumbled in, pulling each other's clothes off halfhazardly.

In reality, he slowly led you in by the hand and sat you on the edge of the bed next to him. He cupped your jaw with both of his large hands and began to kiss you, softly and intentionally.

Your hands wandered over each other's bodies, and over time, the clothes piled up on the bedroom floor.

His touch was light, and almost timid as he ran his fingertips over your breasts, continuing to kiss you. Your hand found it's way up his thigh and onto his dick, a bead of precum already forming at the tip. At the contact, he sighed into your neck. You gave it just a few strokes and a squeeze before asking, "Are you ready, Stan?"

"Oh yeah, baby."

"Okay, it's probably easiest if you sit behind me."

He propped himself up against his pillow and the headboard, and you seated yourself between his legs and layed back against his broad chest. His hands wandered over your waist, stomach, and breasts, this time with more confidence, all while his arousal pressed into your lower back.

You directed his hand downward and as his middle finger divided your folds, he breathlessly exclaimed, "Ah shit, babe, you're soaked."

"Mmhmm, all for you, Stan."

His finger teased your entrance, "Show me what to do, doll."

You placed your hand on top of his and guided him to your clit. "Do you feel that? Right there, that's it."

He nodded in response and began to massage in little circles, "How's that?"

"That's great, Stan." You couldn't help but move your hips, grinding against his touch.

"Wow," he sighed, "ya look real pretty doin' that."

The heat was building, and your breathing turned into soft moans while Stan's free arm supported you and kept you securely in front of him.

After a few moments, he asked, "What else can I do? I wanna help you cum, sweetie."

"Just keep talking, talk me through it, please."

"Alright babe, just keep makin' your pretty sounds. I've got ya, don't hold back. You're so good for lettin' me do this."

"Oh, Stan..."

"I never thought I'd get so lucky, doll. I can't wait to be inside ya. I don't know if I'll even make it that far, with your sexy body rubbin' up against me."

His fingers kept a steady pace the whole time, but it was his words that did you in. He seemed completely enamored by you. As the orgasm came over you, he fell silent, just taking it all in, still diligently massaging you and holding you steady through it.

At the end of it all, you placed your hand on his to still his movements, and he wrapped his arms around you, giving you a light squeeze from behind.

"Did I do okay?"

"That was fantastic, Stan, thank you. What did you think?"

"Hottest thing I've ever seen." He laughed lightly, "And a whole lot simpler than I thought."

"Yeah?" You turned around and gave him a kiss on the forehead. "It's your turn, sailor. Lay down for me, I want to ride you."

He did as he was told. "I ain't gonna last too long..."

"That's okay," you positioned yourself over him, "That's the beauty of letting me go first."

He let out a deep groan as you slid onto him, "Oh, baby, you feel so good. I-- I don't deserve this."

"You deserve to feel good, Stan. You made me feel so good."

You increased your pace slowly, grinding on him and drawing out more groans and sighs.

"You like that, Stan? Is there anything else you want me to do?"

"Just keep movin' those hips, doll, I'm real close. Some of those pretty sounds of yours would help, too."

You obeyed, moaning softly in rhythm with the motions. The look in his eyes was one of absolute awe and infatuation, even as he furrowed his brow and swore, "Fuck, babe, can I cum inside ya?"

You nodded, "Fill me up, Stan."

He gripped both of your hips firmly and pressed his own up a little further into you.

"Oh, shit, I--" his voice trailed off and was replaced by another series of groans as spurts of semen filled you and began to slowly leak out.

As he caught his breath, you leaned down and kissed him on the nose before dismounting and cuddling up next to him.

---

The two of you began to dress yourselves. This time, Stan left the pants behind and stuck with just his boxers.

"Hey, uh, I got a question," He pulled his undershirt on, "If I'd lasted longer, could you have finished again just from that?"

You explained that while some women don't orgasm at all from penetration, it is possible for you in certain positions. "But," you said, buttoning up your pajama top, "that's something we can work on next time."

"Next time?" He smiled.

"Of course. You didn't think I'd let you stop at seven, did you?"

[j-onedrabbles]

𝒘𝒉𝒆𝒏 𝒊𝒔 𝒊𝒕 𝒎𝒚 𝒕𝒖𝒓𝒏 (𝒉𝒚𝒖𝒏𝒈 𝒍𝒊𝒏𝒆) 𝒑𝒕 2

✧   PAIRING: SKZ X READER ✧   CW: BSF!SKZ, GN!READER, MENTION BREAKDOWNS, CHAN CALLS READER PRETTY, FOOD/EATING, CRYING, BSF TO LOVERS, CUDDLING ✧   WC: 2.3K TOTAL ✧   NOTE: ✧ HYUNG LINE PT 1|MAKNAE LINE PY 1 ✧ HYUNG LINE| MAKNAE LINE

❥bang chan

Two thirty in the morning. It took Chan less than ten minutes to get to (Y/n)’s apartment. He knocked on their door and waited a few minutes before he heard it unlock. He first noticed the baggy sweatpants and hoodie they had on. Then he saw the red puffy eyes.

     “Come here,” he said as he opened his arms to them 

     (Y/n) wrapped their arms around him tightly without a second thought. One in-the-morning breakdown were typically the worst ones. It was the silence that surrounded them that made you just start to overthink. Overthink everything and that turned into tears.

     Chan wrapped his arms around them and rubbed their back slowly as the two stood in silence for a few more moments. “Come on, I promised you ice cream.”

     (Y/n) nodded and turned back inside, and slipped their shoes on. Quickly grabbing their house keys before stepping out of the unit. (Y/n) locked their small home up before the two headed down to the street. Chan kept his arm around their shoulder and (Y/n) sniffled next to him. 

     The two made it down to the twenty-four-hour store near their place and headed straight for the freezers. (Y/n) opened the door and grabbed a tub of their favorite and turned to Chan to signal him to grab his own. The producer quickly grabbed one before they let the freezer door close. 

     “Do you want anything else while we’re here?” Chan asked as they slowly made their way up to the cashier

     (Y/n) shook their head silently. The two got up to the night clerk and Chan quickly paid for the frozen dessert. He thanked the clerk and grabbed the bag. He wrapped his free arm around his friend again as they exited the store. The quick walk back to the apartment was silent as (Y/n) stared at their feet. Chan simply rubbed their shoulder as he kept them close to his side so they didn’t get hurt while not looking ahead, and to keep them warm.

     Once they got back to the building and made their way to the unit. Once they got inside, Chan grabbed a couple of spoons from their kitchen while (Y/n) sat on the couch. Chan sat with them as the two ate in small silence. Chan had turned on their tv and turned on their favorite movie, keeping it at a low volume.

     “Thank you,” (Y/n) spoke

     “You don’t need to thank me.”

     “Do you think I’m unlovable?” (Y/n) blurted out and took a bit of ice cream

     “Not at all (Y/n). I think people just don’t see how great you are.”

     “I’m not really that great, let’s be honest here Chan.”

     “Okay,” Chan set his ice cream down on their coffee table and then grabbed theirs and set it next to his.

     “Hey!” (Y/n) complained

     “You are one of the best people I have ever met,” Chan started as he turned his body toward them. “You deserve every happy thing that has and will happen to you. I want to see you be happy and I will do everything I can to see you smile. Even just a little. I’m here for you, always.”

     “I feel like you’re about to confess you’re love to me.”

     “No, not after you’ve had a half-hour breakdown,” Chan stated

     “That means you’re in love with me” (Y/n) joked

     They had missed the tips of his ears turning red. “It’s late. I’ll clean up, you go to bed.”      “Can you spend the night?” (Y/n) asked, a little scared they’d have another breakdown as soon as the silence hit them again

     “You need cuddles now?” Chan smirked as he got up to clean up the ice cream and put the leftover in the freezer

     “I would never reject your cuddling.”

     “And I would never reject giving them to you. Come on.”

     The two headed to bed wrapped in each other’s arms. Even when the morning hit, they stayed wrapped up. Right under the warm covers of the bed. Chan woke up a few minutes before (Y/n) and just laid there, smiling at how cute they looked sound asleep; practically curled up on his chest like a baby kitten. 

     (Y/n) finally woke up after a few minutes and unwillingly glared at him, “Why are you staring?” they asked as they rubbed the sleepiness from their eyes.

     “You're pretty,” he smiled down at them

     “Shut up,” (Y/n) slapped his chest as they sat up in bed

     Chan followed and wrapped his arms around their waist and rested his head in the crook of their neck. “I like you, a lot.” he finally said

     “No shit, we’re best friends.”

     “I meant romantically.”

     (Y/n) froze up a bit before turning to him slightly, “You mean it?”

     “With my whole heart,” Chan looked up at them. “I’d like to take you out on a real date that doesn’t include me coming over when you’re crying and getting you ice cream”

     “You’re not joking?”

     “Not one bit. What do you say?”

     “I say yes.”

     Both of them smiled like idiots at each other as Chan kissed their shoulder and cheek. Maybe it was finally (Y/n)’s turn to get that happiness everyone around her seemed to have at the moment.

❥lee know

     Minho showed up a lot sooner than (Y/n) thought. And he was gonna knock up until (Y/n) answered the door. He smiled at his friend as the door opened. 

     “You look worse than I thought,” Minho stated as he held up a plastic bag of food containers, “But I brought comfort food.”

     “That’s you’re only saving grace right now Lee Minho.” (Y/n) stepped aside and let their friend in

     Minho gave them some time to enjoy the food he had brought them before he interrogated them. 

     “So?” he finally questioned as they sat cuddled up on the couch with a movie playing on the screen. 

     “So what?” (Y/n) replied

     “Why were you crying over your friend going out on a date?”

     “Because I'm exhausted of everyone finding love except me.”

     “Well, you tend to have terrible taste in partners.”

     “You’re not helping.”

     “Sorry. Continue.”

     “It just… It makes me feel like I'm unlovable. Like, why can every single one of my friends get happy relationships while I can't? I'm just here. Like, I'm happy for them but at the same time, I want that happiness too.” (Y/n) rambled on

     Minho quietly listened whilst they messed with his hoodie strings. “I don't think you're unlovable.”

     “Then why haven't I had a good relationship in years while all my other friends are talking about marriage and kids?”

     “Because you don't need someone to make you feel complete. You know you can take care of yourself. But yeah, sometimes we all want someone to cuddle and kiss at the end of the day.”

     “Well, you got the cuddle part. Just need someone for the kiss.”

     “I can do both if you want.”

     “What?” (Y/n)’s head shot up from his shoulder. They stared at him, trying to find a hint of joking in his face. But he seemed pretty serious. 

     “What?” he asked

     “Did you just indirectly admit you wanna kiss me?”

     “Maybe.” Minho smirked, “Only if you want to.”

     “You're joking.”

     “Not this time.”

     “Minho…”

     “Test run. See how we like it.”

     (Y/n) thought for a moment. Minho saw the hesitation and took one of their hands. He gently kissed their knuckles. “We don’t have to. Just know I’m always gonna be with you.”

     “What if we don't work?”

     “We go back to being best friends though it might take time.” Minho had all the answers tonight. He always did. 

     “Can we try?”

     “Of course.” Minho smiled and pulled them into his chest and kissed the top of their head. (Y/n) smiled in contentment. 

     “We’re going on a proper date tomorrow. You can brag to your friend how great of a boyfriend I am”

     (Y/n) chuckled at his comment while the movie played. The comfort of falling for your best friend was something no one thought was real, just something of fiction but (Y/n) was lucky they got it. Especially with Lee Minho. 

❥changbin

     Changbin sure took his time getting to (Y/n)’s apartment. They had questioned the last message he had sent until there was a knock at their door. The last text had them forgetting about their crying session. 

     (Y/n) trudged over to the door, exhausted from crying, and opened it. Revealing a smiling dwaekki and boxes of food. (Y/n) let him inside and closed the door behind him. 

     Changbin set the food down before silently opening his arms, and inviting his friend in for a hug. (Y/n) started tearing up again as they quickly moved into his arms, wrapping their arms around him. 

     “You're okay. I got you.” Changbin rubbed their back as they began to cry again. After a few moments of standing while comforting his friend, he maneuvered the position a bit so he could pick them up and carry them over to the couch. 

     He sat back with them on top of him while they cried into his chest. Changbin let them get it all out again. He didn't keep track of how long they cried but he would continue to offer his comfort for as long as they needed.

     Once they had calmed down a bit, they sat up and went to thank their friend. Changbin wiped away the tears that stained their face. “Feel better?”

     “Kinda,” (Y/n) shrugged, “just kinda tired.”

     “Are you hungry?” he asked

     “A little.”

     “You put on the movie, I’ll bring the food over.” 

     (Y/n) nodded and got off their friend. Changbin got up and grabbed the food, bringing it over to the coffee table by the couch. (Y/n) put on their favorite movie. The two ate the takeout while they watched the film.

     Once they finished their food, (Y/n) curled up in a blanket and cuddled into the rapper's side. Changbin wrapped his arm around their shoulders and kissed the top of their head. Then they remembered the last text he had sent them. (Y/n) sat up and looked at him. 

     “What?” he asked

     “You said you'd kiss me.”

     “I just kissed your head. Do you want more kisses?”

     “Binnie…”

     “(Y/n).”

     “Do you…” they didn't know how to ask the question without sounding a bit conceited. 

     “You are my best friend, (Y/n), and you always will be. And I don't keep secrets from my best friend. I love you more than a friend but I didn't know how exactly to tell you.” Changbin grabbed their hand and rubbed his thumb over their knuckles. “But I would love a chance to be the one you always come to, wake up to, kiss, everything.”

     (Y/n) was struck. They’d been right and didn't know how to react. They started tearing up again and Bin pulled them in for another hug. Tears of joy this time.

     “You definitely can Binnie,” (Y/n) said between cries

     “I’ll be the best boyfriend for you,” he said and kissed their temple. 

❥hyunjin

     (Y/n) did as Hyunjin said and dressed cozy; just a thick hoodie and sweatpants and waited for him to show up. Mostly fiddling with the hoodie strings. Once they got the text that he was at the door. (Y/n) got up from the couch and shuffled over to the door. Quickly slipping their shoes on before opening the door. 

     Hyunjin smiled softly at them as they came into view. “Come here.”

    (Y/n) quickly shoved their keys into their hoodie pocket. They left the comfort of their home and hugged their friend. Hyunjin wrapped his arms around them and stood there for a few moments. 

     “Thank you,” (Y/n) mumbled

     “You don't need to thank me,” Hyunjin replied

     “No. But I wanted to. You didn't have to come over and take me out.”

     “I wanted to though. I hate seeing you sad and this seemed like the best way to cheer you up.”

     “Just hanging out with you makes me happier.”

     Hyunjin was glad they were still hugging and (Y/n) couldn't see him blush a little. But soon the two locked hands and headed down to the street. They took a nice walk through the City, the sun getting lower in the sky. 

     The dancer brought them to a park near the Han River, the sun getting lower in the sky. It was nice out for the evening, just a bit chilly. The two sat on a bench and looked out over the river. (Y/n) stuck close to their friend and rested their head on his shoulder. 

     Hyunjin smiled as he fiddled with their fingers, finally interlocking their fingers together. 

     “This is probably the best date I've been on,” (Y/n) smiled as they stared at their hands

     “I'm glad. You look better when you smile.”

     “You think, we can have a second date?” (Y/n) asked 

     “Of course.” Hyunjin smiled and lifted their hands to kiss the top of their hand.

     Once the sun set, the two headed back to (Y/n)’s apartment, hands interlocked the whole way there. Even when they got to the door, Hyunjin didn't let go. Rather he pulled them against him and beamed at them. (Y/n) smiled back as they stood in each other's arms. 

     “Hi,” (Y/n) said

     “Hi,” Hyunjin almost giggled before he kissed the tip of their nose

     “Wanna come in and cuddle?”

     “I'd love to.”

      Both went inside, away from the cold air outside, and cuddled up on the couch under blankets with a movie running in the background. Eventually, both fell asleep on the couch. Might regret that choice tomorrow but it was worth it right now. 

M. LIST ✧ TIP JAR

© 2023 jonedrabbles. Please do not copy, translate, or republish my works anywhere.

[abbysimsfun]

Sims In Bloom: Generation 2 Pt. 114 (A Winterfest to Remember?)

The events of this post occurred leading up to and during Winterfest (Generation 2 parts 99 to 102)

As Winterfest approached, Nicola and her brother Dominic allowed themselves to reminisce about holidays with their father. The spirit of the season had begun to infect them, and their gloomy hearts were beginning to open up to the spirit of the season.

Hazel woke late and came downstairs - she'd been at the Gnome's Arms until the early hours of the morning, and Nicola wondered how she could be so chipper. "Morning!" Hazel said, but the number of good mornings between them had dwindled. "Are we all ready for Wicked Winterfest Movie Night at the pub?"

"You've been home for five hours and you already want to go back?"

Hazel shot an annoyed glance at her wife. "We've been going to Wicked Winterfest every year since high school."

"Midnight Massacre 3 is barely even a Winterfest movie."

"It takes place on Winterfest Eve!"

Nicola sighed. "I just don't feel up to it this year. Don't you want to stay in and watch something less gory? My mom said she'd bake her chocolate chip cookies."

"River, Cass, even my Dad said they'd be there tonight. It's a tradition. I have to go."

"You don't have to go."

"Well, you don't have to stay home."

Hazel left for work in a foul mood. While she and the mayor canvassed in Finchwick that afternoon, he stopped to talk with her near the village green.

"Is something wrong, Hazel? You haven't been applying yourself to the job as much lately as you did when you started."

"I like my job, Mayor Varner, but I'm not sure this is what I want to be doing. It's a lot of administration and I don't know if I'm making a difference."

The mayor smiled warmly. Taking the reins of a town like Henford was rarely a stressful job, but Mayor Varner was kind and unflappable. "Enjoy your time off over the holidays, and give your future some thought. We can talk more about it in the new year."

Hazel met her family in the upstairs den of the Gnome's Arms, where every Winterfest they played slasher flicks for those who appreciated a little subversion from the usual cozy celebrations. Her sister-in-law, Cassandra, was delightful and charming but also a little gloomy from time to time, and she loved this tradition as much as Hazel.

"Midnight Massacre 3 never gets old. It's a Winterfest classic!" she gushed, too excited to sit down.

Hazel stayed out late for another night, chatting into the early hours with fellow local horror fan, Elsa Bjerg-Watson. She lived in Old New Henford with her parents, Bjorn and Clara, her wife Maira, and their daughter Jada, but she said the family had just made room for her niece, who had moved to Henford from San Myshuno.

"Suri broke up with her girlfriend a few months ago and she needed a change of scene. My mother's the best professional baker this side of Simlandia - even she knows she'll never match Noemi Alegria in Tartosa - but Suri wants to be as good as her grandmother someday."

"If Suri's cakes are as good as Clara Bjergsen's, I'll be her best customer," said Hazel.

The next morning was Winterfest Eve, and Nicola's mom, Kim, made chocolate chip cookies. She probably missed Eddie's presence at their holiday celebrations even more than her kids, leaving the cookies on the kitchen table before heading upstairs to cry it out in her room.

Hazel joined her wife in the kitchen and made a beeline for the cookie platter. "Did you want to head over to my parents tomorrow in the morning to open presents, or did you want to open presents together here?"

"We want to open our presents on Winterfest Eve this year because Dad always liked opening them before bed."

Hazel shrugged. "Okay, great. Then tomorrow we can go over in the morning for presents with my family, too."

"We want to go for a walk to see the wildlife on Winterfest morning. Dad loved living out here for the wild foxes and bunny rabbits."

Hazel didn't mind Henford's picturesque forests, bunnies, and birds, but they could walk through Isle of Volpe Park any day of the year. "I'd really like to go over to see my family in the morning."

"You're with them all the time," she said. "Why not make time for me?"

"Nic, I'm sorry you lost your dad, but he wouldn't want you to mourn him this long. He loved you too much to see you so sad. But when I'm home you're grading papers."

"You don't know what my Dad would have wanted, Haze. And seriously, when are you home?"

"I'm home right now and we're fighting again!"

Nicola and Hazel finally heard themselves and grew quiet, but a bitterness had long ago started to fester.

Hazel spent Winterfest Eve and most of Winterfest Day with her family, not her wife. She gushed over Heather's new engagement ring, and wouldn't let her own relationship troubles dampen her excitement for her big sister.

Hazel lingered outside a while before sunset. She hoped to delay going home just a little longer, in favour of a cozy celebration with her family. Like old times. She finally turned to leave when her phone buzzed with a text from Nicola.

Come meet me by the rink. Please.

Henford's local ice rink was just across the laneway from her childhood home on Cobblebottom Street, and she met her wife next to the ice with a kiss.

"I'm sorry I've been so hard to live with lately," said Nicola with a sheepish smile. "I don't let myself get sad about my dad, but holding it in makes me angry. I know I need to talk to someone for me as much as we need to talk to someone for us. But I love you, and I want to make us work."

"I want that, too."

With the sunset providing a picture-perfect backdrop to a tense Winterfest season, Hazel and Nicola found a way to end Winterfest with a cozy celebration at the ice rink, after all.

Could their blissful moment last, and would they make time for counseling as intended? ->

<- Previous Chapter | Gen 2 Start | Gen 2.1 Summary

Gen 1 Start | Gen 1 Summary

In case you're wondering why this is such a sad arc already, Nicola's grief moodlets say it is:

[ducktoo]

Syncing Dream [Aespa x M!Reader]

27. Terror in Tokyo

Note: wooo fight time part 2

Masterlist here

As Y/n was getting ready to finally collapse on his bed after a long day out in Akihabara, a soft knock echoed from the door. He rubbed his eyes, wondering who could possibly want anything this late. Opening the door, he was met with Winter and Ningning standing there with mischievous grins on their faces.

"Y/n-oppa, you’re not gonna like this," Ningning started, leaning casually against the doorframe. “But we’re going clubbing.”

Y/n blinked, his brain still catching up. “Wait… what? Clubbing? Now?”

Winter, who normally didn’t suggest such things, nodded with a nonchalant shrug. “Yeah. We’ve had a long week, and we want to blow off some steam. But... we need a bodyguard, so you’re coming, idiot.”

Y/n crossed his arms, eyeing Winter suspiciously. “You, clubbing? Really? I thought you hated those kinds of places.”

Winter chuckled, brushing her hair behind her ear. “I’m not a fan. But I’ll only go if you or the members come with me.”

Y/n raised an eyebrow. This was a side of Winter he hadn’t expected. She was usually more of the homebody, preferring to chill in the dorm with movies or video games. “You’re serious?”

Winter nodded. “Yeah. But you’re the only reason I’m okay with it. I trust you’ll keep things from getting too wild.”

Y/n sighed, rubbing his temples. He couldn’t say no, especially when Winter was laying it out like that. "Fine," he groaned, “but I’m only coming because I don’t want you two causing random shts in Tokyo.”

Ningning snickered and tugged him toward the door. “Relax, we’re just gonna have fun. You’ll barely notice we’re there.”

“Doubtful,” Y/n muttered, but he followed them anyway, quickly throwing on his jacket.

-

The club was loud, packed with people swaying to the booming music. Y/n found himself standing off to the side, once again acting as the responsible one while Winter and Ningning danced away under the flashing lights. Y/n wasn’t exactly in the mood for dancing, but watching the two girls enjoy themselves at least made him feel a bit better about being dragged out.

But Winter, surprisingly, was fully embracing the scene. She moved in rhythm with Ningning, flashing a rare, carefree smile as she danced. Y/n couldn’t help but notice how she seemed more relaxed than ever, laughing freely as if the usual pressures had lifted.

As the night wore on, Y/n kept a close eye on the crowd, making sure no one got too close to the girls. Winter shot him an occasional thumbs-up from the dance floor, her way of letting him know she was fine. Every time he met her eyes, she grinned, showing that she was actually enjoying herself.

After a couple of hours, Winter finally made her way back to Y/n’s side, her cheeks flushed from dancing. “Thanks for coming with us,” she said, slightly breathless.

Y/n smirked. “Tired already?”

Winter rolled her eyes. “Maybe a little. But it’s been fun. I needed this, I think.”

Y/n chuckled. “I’ll admit, it’s a little surprising seeing you like this. Didn’t think you’d be the type to enjoy clubbing.”

She leaned against the bar next to him, shrugging casually. “Normally I’m not. But it’s different when you’re here. Feels… safer, I guess.”

Her words caught Y/n off guard. He wasn’t sure what to say for a second, so he just nodded, feeling a strange warmth spread in his chest. “Well, I’m glad I could help make it less terrible.”

Winter nudged him playfully. “I didn’t say it was terrible. Just… a bit much, sometimes.”

Ningning danced over, grabbing Winter’s hand and dragging her back toward the floor. “C’mon! One more song before we leave!”

Winter gave Y/n a quick wave before she disappeared back into the crowd with Ningning, both of them laughing. Y/n stayed at his post, glancing around the club every few seconds to make sure things stayed calm. His mind lingered on Winter’s words, her trust in him resonating deeper than he’d expected.

Maybe this night wasn’t so bad after all.

-

Eventually, around 3 AM, Winter finally pulled Ningning away from the dance floor, both girls flushed and grinning. “Alright, we’ve had our fun,” Winter said, wiping sweat from her brow. “Let’s head back.”

Y/n nodded, relieved that the night was finally coming to an end. As they left the club and began walking back to the hotel, the cool night air hit them, refreshing after the heat and noise of the club.

Except Y/n.

See, Y/n’s senses had been on high alert since they left the club, and the feeling that something was off only grew stronger. As the night air turned colder, the streets became quieter, with fewer people around. That's when Y/n caught sight of him — a man walking a little too close behind them, his pace mimicking theirs.

It wasn’t just a coincidence; it was deliberate.

Y/n’s stomach tightened. He slowed down his steps, positioning himself closer to Winter and Ningning without saying anything just yet. His eyes darted to the storefront reflections, catching the stranger’s shadow trailing them, his gaze fixated on the girls.

Trying not to alarm them, Y/n spoke in a low, steady voice. “Jeong, Ning. Stay close to me.”

Ningning looked up at him, confused. “What? Why? What’s going on?”

“Just… stay close,” Y/n repeated, his tone firmer this time.

Winter glanced over at him, noticing the seriousness in his eyes. She followed his gaze toward the man and immediately tensed up. “Is he… following us at 7 o'clock?”

Y/n gave a slight nod, his jaw clenched. “Yeah. Don’t look back. Just keep walking.”

The mood shifted instantly. The playful banter and relaxed vibe from earlier evaporated, replaced by a silent, shared tension. Y/n knew they couldn’t keep walking blindly down the street — they had to shake him off. He scanned the area quickly, spotting a side alley that could lead them away from the main road.

“Turn here.” Y/n instructed, his voice calm but urgent. Winter and Ningning obeyed without question, their footsteps quickening as they rounded the corner. Y/n slowed his pace slightly, hanging back just enough to act as a buffer between the girls and the man.

The narrow alley was quieter, dimly lit by flickering streetlights. The only sound was the soft echo of their footsteps and the ominous click of the stranger’s shoes behind them, getting closer. Too close.

Y/n’s patience snapped.

He spun on his heel, stepping directly into the man’s path. “Can I help you?” Y/n asked in English, his voice steady but laced with a warning. He stood tall, broadening his shoulders to block the man’s view of the girls.

Of course he wouldn't answer. Y/n asked him in English. The creep's a Japanese.

The man said nothing, his eyes still locked on the path Winter and Ningning took, a creepy smirk curling at his lips.

“Hey!” Y/n barked, stepping forward. “I asked you a question.”

But the man still didn’t respond. His face twisted into a sneer as he lunged forward, making a grab for Ningning.

Y/n reacted on pure instinct. He shoved Ningning behind him and intercepted the man’s outstretched hand, gripping it tightly before twisting his arm and pushing him back. The man staggered but quickly regained his footing, his sneer morphing into anger as he swung wildly at Y/n.

Y/n ducked just in time, narrowly avoiding the man’s punch. His breath came faster now, adrenaline pumping through his veins. "Stay back!" he shouted to Winter and Ningning as the man advanced again, this time with more ferocity.

The man swung again, and Y/n blocked it with his forearm before retaliating with a sharp jab to the man’s ribs. The impact made the stranger grunt, but he didn’t back down. Instead, he tackled Y/n, sending both of them crashing into a nearby wall.

“Y/n!” Winter screamed, but he held up a hand, silently telling her to stay put.

Pinned against the wall, Y/n gritted his teeth as he struggled to push the man off. The guy was stronger than he looked, but Y/n wasn’t about to let him win. He braced his legs against the ground and shoved hard, breaking free from the man’s grip. Y/n swung his fist, connecting with the man’s jaw, sending him stumbling back a few steps.

The man wiped a bit of blood from his mouth, his eyes filled with rage. He lunged again, this time throwing a wild punch. Y/n ducked, and the man’s fist grazed his cheek. Y/n countered with a swift kick to the man’s legs, causing him to lose balance and hit the ground hard.

But the man wasn’t done. He scrambled to his feet and charged at Y/n again. This time, Y/n was ready. He grabbed the man by the collar and twisted him around, slamming him against the alley wall.

“Stay still,” Y/n growled through clenched teeth. He didn’t care how much the guy struggled — there was no way he was letting him near the girls.

“Y/n!” Ningning’s voice was shaky but focused as she fumbled with her phone. “I’m calling the cops!”

Winter, standing a few steps away, balled her fists at her sides, her eyes flashing with a mix of fear and anger. “You better stay down,” she muttered, glaring at the man.

The creep squirmed, trying to twist free from Y/n’s iron grip, but Y/n held firm, pressing his knee against the guy’s back to keep him pinned against the wall. The man groaned in frustration, but there was no escaping Y/n’s hold.

“Who do you think you’re messing with, dipsht?” Y/n hissed, his voice low and dangerous. “You think it’s okay to follow them like that?”

The man thrashed against Y/n’s hold, throwing an elbow that caught Y/n in the ribs. Pain shot through Y/n’s side, but he tightened his grip, refusing to let go. The man managed to land another punch to Y/n’s stomach, causing him to double over for a second, but Y/n quickly recovered, grabbing the man’s arm and twisting it behind his back.

“You’re not going anywhere,” Y/n growled, slamming the man’s face into the wall for good measure. The man struggled, grunting in pain, but Y/n held him firm, his chest heaving with exertion.

Winter, watching in horror and awe, clenched her fists, ready to jump in if necessary. But Y/n had everything under control, his grip unyielding despite the struggle.

It wasn’t long before the faint sound of sirens filled the air. Relief washed over Y/n as he heard the police arriving, but he didn’t let his guard down. Not yet. He kept the man pinned until the officers rushed into the alley.

“Over here!” Ningning called out in Japanese, waving to the approaching police.

Two officers quickly took over, cuffing the man and hauling him away. One of them nodded gratefully at Y/n. “Thanks for holding him down. You alright?”

Y/n nodded, his muscles finally starting to relax as he stood up straight. “Uhh. Ok. We are” He said, using all the Japanese words he could find from his memory.

The officers escorted the man into their patrol car, and soon, the alley was quiet again, save for the heavy breaths of the trio. Ningning let out a long, shaky sigh, her hands still trembling as she pocketed her phone.

Winter, still looking a bit shaken, glanced at Y/n. “Are you ok, Y/n?”

"Of course, I am" Y/n smiled. "I should be asking you that instead."

"I…genuinely had no idea what I would do if you get hurt." Winter whimpered. "I would lose it."

Y/n shrugged, rubbing his sore shoulder. “As long as you are around, I won't be going anytime soon.”

Ningning, still jittery, glanced back at the now-handcuffed man being led away by the police. “Honestly, I thought we were just going to have a fun night out. Didn’t expect a full-on street brawl.”

Y/n looked between the two of them, feeling a strange mix of exhaustion and satisfaction. “Let’s get back to the hotel. I think we’ve had enough excitement for one night. I need the damn sleep.”

-

As they finally made it back to the hotel, Y/n’s adrenaline started to fade, replaced by an overwhelming exhaustion. Winter and Ningning walked in silence beside him, still shaken by the night’s events, but visibly relieved to be out of harm’s way. Y/n was just glad it was over.

The hotel lobby was quiet, the soft hum of distant conversation the only noise as they stepped inside. But the moment they walked through the door, Karina and Giselle were already waiting by the elevator, their faces full of concern.

“There you guys are!” Karina exclaimed, rushing over the moment she saw them. Her eyes flicked between Y/n, Winter, and Ningning, quickly noticing their disheveled appearances. “What happened? You guys look like you’ve been through hell.”

Winter gave a weak smile, brushing off her jacket. “Well, we kinda were. Some creep followed us after we left the club.”

Karina’s eyes widened in alarm. “What?! Are you okay? What happened?!”

Ningning nodded, stepping closer to the group. “Y/n handled it. He basically went Y/n mode on the guy and held him down until the cops came.”

Giselle’s jaw dropped. “No way. You serious?” She looked at Y/n, a mix of amazement and concern in her eyes. “You okay, man?”

Y/n, too tired to even offer much of a response, waved them off. “I’m….so….dead.”

Karina crossed her arms, her brows furrowed. “Dead? You just took down a stalker, and you’re telling me you’re just dead?”

“Hey, that’s the appropriate response…” Y/n sighed, leaning against the wall for support. “Whatever…you guys are safe…I’m happy...”

Winter, who had been uncharacteristically quiet since the incident, stepped up beside Y/n, giving him a light nudge. “He was so calm. Like, scary calm about the whole thing.”

Ningning nodded in agreement. “I’ve never seen him like that before. It was… kinda cool.”

Karina shook her head, still trying to process the whole ordeal. “I don’t know whether to be proud or worried.”

“Both,” Giselle muttered. “Definitely both.”

Y/n chuckled weakly, trying to shake off their concerns. “I’m fine…I think. As long as Ning and Jeong are fine...”

But despite his reassurances, Karina and Giselle weren’t convinced. The protective instincts in both of them were flaring up, and Y/n could tell they weren’t going to let this go easily. Not that he blamed them — he knew what it was like to worry about the people he cared about.

“Alright, let’s get you guys upstairs and settled,” Karina said, placing a gentle hand on Ningning’s shoulder. “You all need some rest after tonight. Especially you, Jung Y/n.”

As they headed up to their rooms, the atmosphere was a strange mix of relief and tension. Y/n could feel his energy draining by the second, and by the time they reached their suite, he was practically sleepwalking. The girls filed into their rooms one by one, but Y/n didn’t make it that far.

The moment he stepped into the living area of the suite, he collapsed onto the nearest couch, his body finally giving in to the exhaustion. His eyelids felt like they weighed a ton, and he could barely keep them open as he sank into the soft cushions.

Winter peeked her head out of her room, noticing Y/n slumped on the couch. “You’re really just gonna crash right there?”

Y/n mumbled something incoherent, his face half-buried in a pillow. “Too… dead…”

Giselle let out a soft laugh, leaning against the doorframe of her room. “Looks like he’s done for the night.”

Karina shook her head, her expression softening as she watched Y/n. “After what he just did? He deserves to pass out.”

Winter, still feeling a strange mix of emotions from the night’s events, walked over and grabbed a blanket from the closet. She draped it over Y/n’s sleeping form, her movements gentle as if she didn’t want to disturb him.

“Sleep well, Y/n-nie, and thank you.” she whispered, stepping back.

Ningning gave Winter a teasing smile from across the room. “Look at you, being all caring.”

Winter rolled her eyes, but a small smile tugged at her lips. “Shut up. He saved our asses tonight.”

The girls shared a knowing look, their usual playful bickering taking a back seat to the gratitude they all felt for Y/n. They knew how much he’d put on the line for them, and they didn’t take it lightly. After everything that had happened, they were just glad to be safe and together.

As the suite finally settled into a calm, peaceful quiet, the girls retreated to their rooms, leaving Y/n to his much-needed rest on the couch. His breathing evened out, the stress of the night slowly melting away as he drifted into a deep sleep.

Tonight, at least, he could rest easy knowing he did well.

-

The next morning came far too quickly for Y/n. His body ached, his limbs felt heavy, and his mind was still foggy from the events of the previous night. Slowly, he blinked awake, finding himself still sprawled out on the couch. The blanket Winter had thrown over him was now tangled around his legs.

“…sht. It hurts…”

He groaned, trying to stretch, but was immediately met with something unexpected.

“Good morning, sleepyhead,” Ningning’s voice chimed from beside him.

Y/n froze, his eyes snapping open in confusion. Ningning was sitting cross-legged on the floor next to the couch, casually massaging his legs like it was the most normal thing in the world.

Y/n blinked, still not fully awake. “Uh… what are you doing?”

Ningning hummed, continuing her amateurish massage. “Well, you looked like you needed it after last night. Figured I’d help loosen you up a bit.”

Before Y/n could protest, he felt something else — soft hands pressing against his shoulders, kneading his muscles with surprising precision.

“Relax,” Winter’s voice came from behind him, sounding far too amused. “You worked hard last night. Let us pamper you for once.”

Y/n sat up, his mind reeling. “Wait, wait, wait. This is too weird. What are you guys—”

“Shhh.” Ningning placed a finger over her lips, laughing softly. “You saved our lives, remember? This is our thank you.”

Y/n could only stare in disbelief as Winter continued massaging his shoulders, her touch firm but oddly soothing. He didn’t know whether to laugh, cry, or run away.

“I don’t need a thank you! I'm getting paid for this!” he protested, glancing between the two girls, his face turning a light shade of red from the situation.

“Oh, come on,” Winter teased, digging her knuckles into a particularly tense spot on his back, causing him to wince. “You deserve it. Besides, we don’t get to see you like this often. Let us have our fun.”

Y/n sighed, feeling completely outnumbered. He tried to wiggle free, but Ningning grabbed his ankle, holding him in place as she continued her impromptu leg massage.

“This is... too much,” he muttered, though he couldn’t help but feel a bit touched by their sudden affection.

Winter smirked, her hands still working their magic on his back. “Too much? After last night, I’d say this is just the beginning.”

Ningning giggled, patting his leg playfully. “You’re not getting out of this, Y/n. Just sit back and enjoy.”

Y/n let out a defeated groan, slumping back into the couch. “I don’t even know what to say anymore.”

“You don’t need to say anything,” Winter said, leaning in a little closer to whisper near his ear. “Just admit you like it. Getting massaged by two beauties.”

"You sure? I only see one, Jeong." Y/n deadpanned. "Owowowowowow!"

"Aish." Winter increased her output, forcing Y/n to groan.

Before he could protest further, the door to the girls' room opened, and Giselle and Karina stepped out, their expressions a mix of amusement and confusion as they took in the scene in front of them.

“Uh… what exactly is happening here?” Giselle raised an eyebrow, crossing her arms as she watched Ningning and Winter practically hovering over Y/n like they were performing some kind of strange ritual.

Karina, however, took it a step further, her eyes narrowing as a smirk formed on her face. “Are we interrupting something?” she asked, her tone dripping with fake suspicion.

Giselle immediately caught on and let out a snort, nudging Karina playfully. “Yeah, Y/n, should we give you three some privacy?”

Y/n’s eyes widened in alarm. “Wait, what?! No, it’s not like that! They just—"

Winter pouted, feigning innocence as she leaned closer to Y/n’s ear. “You know, idiot, if you don’t deny it so strongly, people might not think it’s that weird.”

Ningning giggled, continuing her fake massage. “It’s too late now, oppa. We’ve already been caught.”

Giselle and Karina exchanged knowing looks, pretending to be scandalized. “Wow, okay, I see how it is,” Giselle teased. “We leave you alone for five minutes, and suddenly we’re not invited.”

Karina clicked her tongue, crossing her arms with an exaggerated sigh. “I guess this is what happens when you save people’s lives. You get all the attention.”

"Oh, for fck sake…this harem is not needed." Y/n groaned towards the pillow. “I hate all of you.”

But even as he said it, a small smile tugged at the corners of his lips. Despite the teasing and the ridiculousness of the situation, he knew they were just messing with him. The tension from the night before had all but disappeared, replaced by the familiar chaotic warmth of their usual dynamic.

Ningning finally let go of his shoulders, stepping back with a satisfied nod. “There you go. You’re all pampered up. How do you feel?”

Y/n stretched his arms, rolling his shoulders experimentally. “I feel… weird. That was weird.”

Winter chuckled, giving him a light shove. “You’re welcome.”

Karina and Giselle watched the whole thing, their teasing grins still in place as they plopped down onto the nearby chairs. “Well, at least we know who Y/n’s favorite members are now,” Karina said slyly, eyeing Winter and Ningning.

“Definitely the ones giving him the royal treatment,” Giselle added, winking.

Y/n could feel his face heating up, but before he could retort, Winter leaned in with a smug grin. “Hey, at least my solo song’s still his favorite.”

That got a collective groan from the others, and Karina shot Winter a mock glare. “Still? You’ve been holding onto that since ages ago, haven’t you?”

Winter shrugged, unbothered. “What can I say? It’s true.”

Ningning nudged Y/n again, her voice playful. “You’re too easy to mess with, oppa.”

Y/n sighed, feeling the warmth and humor of the moment wash over him. Despite all the teasing, despite the chaos that seemed to follow him wherever he went with these girls, there was nowhere else he’d rather be.

They might drive him crazy, but they were his chaos. And for now, that was enough.

“Alright, alright,” Y/n said, standing up and stretching his arms, trying to shake off the weirdness. “Enough of the massage stuff. I’ve got work to do.”

But as he moved to step away, Ningning and Winter shared a mischievous look, and before he knew it, they both lunged at him, tackling him back onto the couch in a fit of giggles.

“Not so fast, idiot,” Winter teased, pinning him down playfully. “You’re not off the hook that easily.”

Y/n laughed despite himself, trying to push them off. “You guys are relentless.”

“And you love it,” Ningning added with a wink.

Karina and Giselle looked on, shaking their heads with amused smiles.

"Guess you’ve got your hands full," Karina said, crossing her arms as she watched the chaos unfold.

Y/n sighed, glancing up at her with an exaggerated look of defeat. “Oh, wow. Thanks, Jimin.”

[dimonds456]

Okay, as a former film student, there is ONE PART of James' apology that is GENUINELY viable that people keep criticizing him for:

He was going to use $3,000 to make a short film.

This IS possible, done all the time, normal, and FINE.

I've seen professional films that are 2 hours long that were made on a budget of $8,000 or less.

If you could do that, then $3,000 to make a short film is MORE than fine, especially if it was all going to the actors.

If you want to make a short film unprofessionally and for fun, you can 100% put up posters saying "I'm making a film, volunteer actors needed!" And people will sign up for free purely off the novelty of BEING in a movie. I've made 4 short films where that was the exact case, including an animated film I did by myself in a MONTH for a school assignment (here's the link if you're curious).

The one thing you NEED to spend money on for your set is something called "crafty," or more commonly known, "lunch." You need to buy food to have on set, enough for everyone that isn't something shitty that will put everyone in a bad mood. Having crafty is essential to filming if you're even REMOTELY serious.

Listen. Somerton's apology is absolute dog shit. But this is the one thing he said that is genuinely okay and normal and fine. Don't put it into people's heads that they need a massive amount of money to pursue their passions. You don't need a Marvel budget to film a fun action film in your backyard.

From the way he talks about his process, yeah that's shit. You don't need to completely throw away a script because it's the wrong fucking SEASON outside, all you need to do is retool your story and rewrite it. That's a sign he's a bad writer. A lot of the other things he says about Telos is also a load of all BS.

But the $3,000 thing is fine. Whatever.