#Might start the YOU ARE FILLED WITH DETERMINATION letters

[rmview]

they try to win you back, SKZ.

featuring — stray kids members x gn!reader ( masterlist )

summary — a reaction of how the stray kids boys try to win you back after a fight/break up! ( can be read as part 2 of this )

contents — mentions of past fights, reconciliation and fluff.

bang ღ chan

bang chan wasn’t the type to let things slide, especially when it came to you. after the breakup — a fallout caused by his relentless work schedule and lack of communication — he knew he’d messed up. but when you finally agreed to give him another chance, he vowed not to let you go.

bangchan started small. one morning, you woke up to a playlist he had sent you titled “for my love,” filled with songs that reminded him of you. the accompanying message read: “just a little something to start your day. i’m still learning how to do better, but i’ll make it worth it. – chan.”

later that week, he surprised you with a handwritten letter. the envelope smelled faintly of his cologne, and inside, his neatly written words laid bare his heart. he wrote about how he’d never stopped loving you, how the breakup had forced him to reflect on his mistakes, and how he wanted to be the kind of partner you deserved.

“have you been sleeping better?” he asked one evening when he showed up at your door with a basket of your favorite snacks and a plush blanket. “i remember you saying the nights feel colder now. thought this might help.”

you couldn’t help but smile at his thoughtfulness, despite trying to keep your guard up. “thanks, chan,” you said, accepting the basket.

his smile was soft but tinged with nervousness. “i know actions speak louder than words,” he admitted, rubbing the back of his neck. “so i’m going to keep showing you how much you mean to me.”

one night, he invited you over to the studio where he spent countless hours. the space felt intimate, with dim lighting and a cozy setup. “i wrote something for you,” he said shyly, gesturing to the microphone.

as the music filled the room, his voice poured out lyrics that spoke of regret, hope, and an unwavering love. when the song ended, he turned to you, his eyes filled with vulnerability. “that’s how i feel,” he said softly. “i hope i can keep showing you, every day, just how much you mean to me.”

felix ღ

felix had always been the sunshine in your life, but after the breakup, you noticed his light dimmed. when you finally agreed to give him another chance, felix made sure he poured his heart into showing how much you meant to him, determined not to make the same mistakes again.

the first sign of his efforts came in the form of baked goods. one evening, after a long day, you came home to a neatly wrapped box on your doorstep. inside were cookies shaped like little hearts, each one perfectly frosted. a note attached to the box read: “i know i hurt you, but i’m not giving up on us. let me make things right. – felix.”

the following weekend, he invited you over to his place. the moment you walked in, you were greeted by the warm aroma of vanilla and butter. felix stood in the kitchen, wearing an apron dusted with flour, a sheepish grin on his face. “i thought we could bake together,��� he said, holding up a whisk.

you couldn’t help but laugh at the sight. “you’re really trying, huh?”

“i have to,” he admitted, his voice soft but earnest. “you’re everything to me, and i won’t lose you again.”

as the two of you mixed dough and laughed over his attempts to juggle eggs (which ended in a sticky mess), felix stole small glances at you, his heart swelling at every smile he managed to coax from you and how easily your guard managed to lower.

later that evening, as you sat on the couch sharing a plate of freshly baked cookies, he turned to you, his deep voice filled with sincerity. “i’m not perfect, but i promise to keep trying for you — for us. you’ve always believed in me, and now it’s my turn to prove that i’m worth it.”

the most touching gesture came one rainy afternoon. felix surprised you with a scrapbook he had been working on — a collection of photos, handwritten notes, and little mementos from your time together. on the last page, he had written: “our story isn’t perfect, but it’s ours. i want to keep writing it with you.”

tears welled in your eyes as he took your hand. “i know i hurt you,” he said, his voice trembling slightly. “but i love you more than anything, and i’ll spend every day proving that to you.”

lee ღ know

lee know had never been one for grand gestures, but when it came to making things right with you, he found himself stepping outside his comfort zone. the breakup had been his fault — his blunt words and tendency to shut down during arguments had driven a wedge between you. when you agreed to give him another chance, he knew he had to approach things differently.

the first sign of his efforts came subtly. one morning, you found a neatly packed lunch waiting for you at work, complete with a note that read: “eat well. i know i didn’t always take care of you like i should have, but i want to do better. – minho.”

later that week, he surprised you by showing up at your favorite café. “thought you might like some company,” he said casually, sliding into the seat across from you. but the way his eyes lingered on you betrayed the nonchalance in his tone.

over time, his gestures grew more personal. one evening, he invited you over to his apartment. when you arrived, you found the place meticulously decorated with fairy lights and a small spread of your favorite dishes on the table.

“you cooked?” you asked, surprised by the spread as the warm scent made you smile.

“i wanted to do something for you,” he said simply, pulling out a chair for you. “i know i’m not the best at saying how i feel, but i hope this shows you.”

as the two of you ate, minho watched you closely, his usual sharp demeanor softened considerably. “i’ve been thinking a lot about us,” he said suddenly. “about how i didn’t handle things the way i should have. i’m not good with words, but i need you to know that i’m trying.”

the dinner together was amazing and true to his words, he brought you to the dance studio where he spent most of his time one day, a glint in his eyes. “i have something to show you,” he said, his tone almost shy.

he played a track and began to dance, every movement purposeful and filled with emotion. it was a side of him you hadn’t seen before; raw, vulnerable, and completely open. when the music stopped, he stood before you, slightly out of breath.

“this is how i express myself best,” he said, his voice quiet but steady. “i don’t want to lose you again. i’ll keep trying to be better, for both of us.”

hyun ღ jin

hyunjin had always been passionate, wearing his heart on his sleeve. but that same intensity had been the cause of your breakup. so when you decided to give him another chance, hyunjin knew he couldn’t rely on words alone to win you back.

the first time he saw you again after the breakup, he showed up with a bouquet of your favorite flowers. but these weren’t just ordinary flowers — they were intricately painted on a canvas he had spent hours creating. “i wanted to give you something that lasts,” he said, his voice uncharacteristically soft. “like how i hope we will.”

hyunjin’s gestures were deeply personal. one evening, he invited you to his art studio, where a single easel stood in the center of the room. “i’ve been working on something,” he said, motioning for you to sit.

you watched as he unveiled a portrait of you, painted in soft, dreamy hues that captured the way he saw you — radiant and full of warmth. “this is how i see you,” he said, his voice thick with emotion. “even when we were apart, you were always in my heart.”

you were touched to nearly the point of tears, as his sincerety was making it harder to keep your guard up. another night, hyunjin surprised you with a private dance performance. he led you into a dimly lit studio, where soft music played in the background. “this is for you,” he said, his eyes locking onto yours before the music swelled.

every movement of his dance told a story — of regret, love, and a desperate desire to make things right. as he finished, his chest heaved from exertion, but his gaze never wavered. “i’ve made mistakes,” he admitted, stepping closer to you. “but i’m learning. you’re the one i want to share my life with, and i’ll do whatever it takes to earn your trust again.”

hyunjin also made an effort to handle conflict differently. one evening, when a small disagreement arose, he surprised you by calmly sitting down and saying, “let’s talk about this. i don’t want us to go back to how things were before.”

his growth, combined with his heartfelt gestures, slowly chipped away at the walls you had built around your heart. hyunjin knew it would take time, but he was willing to be patient. after all, loving you was worth every effort.

i.n ღ

i.n had always been mature for his age, but the breakup — caused by his occasional aloofness and failure to recognize how much you needed reassurance — had shaken him to his core. though when you agreed to give him another chance, he knew he couldn’t take it for granted.

the first sign of his determination came when he surprised you with something simple yet meaningful: a framed photo of the two of you from happier times. he handed it to you one evening, his expression both nervous and hopeful. “i wanted to remind you of what we’re working towards,” he said softly. “this is the version of us i want to get back to.”

from that moment on, i.n’s actions spoke louder than any apology he could offer. he started paying closer attention to the little things that made you happy. one afternoon, he showed up at your place with a playlist he had carefully curated. “these songs remind me of you,” he explained, plugging in his headphones to share the music with you. as you listened together, he held your hand, a quiet promise in the way his thumb traced gentle circles on your skin.

his gestures extended to your everyday life. knowing how stressful your days could be, i.n would occasionally leave you handwritten notes in your bag or on your desk, each one filled with words of encouragement and love. “you’re doing amazing, and i’m so lucky to have you in my life,” one note read.

but i.n’s biggest gesture came one weekend when he surprised you with a small picnic at a secluded park. the spread included all your favorite foods, and he had even learned how to make one dish from scratch. “it’s not perfect,” he admitted with a shy laugh as you tasted it, “but i figured you deserved the effort.”

as the evening wore on and the sun set, he turned to you, his eyes earnest. “i know i’ve hurt you,” he said, his voice steady despite the emotion behind it. “but i’m learning to be better, and i’ll never stop trying. you mean too much to me.”

his sincerity and consistent efforts slowly began to rebuild the trust between you, showing you that he was willing to do whatever it took to make things right.

han ღ

han wasn’t one to do things halfway, whether it was his music, his humor, or his love for you. the breakup had left him heartbroken, but when you gave him a second chance, he threw himself into proving that he was worthy of your trust.

his first move was to apologize in a way that only han could: through music. late one evening, he sent you a voice note. the melody was soft and heartfelt, and the lyrics spoke of regret, love, and the hope of a new beginning. at the end of the recording, his voice came through, unpolished and raw. “i wrote this for you. it’s not perfect, but neither am i. i just… i want to make you smile again.”

from then on, han made a point to be present in your life in ways that mattered. he started showing up to your favorite café during your lunch breaks, bringing little treats he knew you loved. “thought you might need a pick-me-up,” he’d say with a cheeky grin, placing a pastry and your favorite drink in front of you.

one evening, he invited you to the studio where he worked. “i want to show you something,” he said, leading you inside. on the wall was a collection of sticky notes, each one with a memory, a thought, or something he loved about you. “this is my reminder,” he explained, “of why i can’t mess this up again.”

despite his playful nature, han wasn’t afraid to get serious when it came to making amends. during a quiet moment one night, he looked at you, his usual mischievous expression replaced with a rare vulnerability. “i know i joke around a lot,” he said, his voice soft, “but you’re the most important person in my life. i’ll spend every day proving that i’m worth this second chance.”

han also worked hard to communicate better, often catching himself when he started to get defensive or overwhelmed. “wait,” he’d say during a disagreement, taking a deep breath. “let’s figure this out. i don’t want us to fall apart again.”

with every sweet gesture and heartfelt conversation, han slowly reminded you of why you had fallen for him in the first place, proving that even the most impulsive hearts could learn to love with patience and care.

seung ღ min

seungmin wasn’t the type to let emotions cloud his logic, but the breakup had been a wake-up call. when you decided to give him another chance, seungmin didn’t take it lightly. he knew he couldn’t rely on his usual reserved nature; he had to show you how much you meant to him.

the first sign of his effort came subtly. he started paying attention to the smallest details about you, things you thought he might not have noticed. one morning, you found your favorite drink waiting for you on your desk, a neat note attached: “thought you could use a boost. have a good day. – seungmin.” it was practical, understated, and so very him.

a few days later, he surprised you with something more personal. “i know i’m not great at saying how i feel,” he said one evening, handing you a leather-bound journal. inside were pages filled with his handwriting — entries where he reflected on your time together, what he had learned, and the moments he cherished most. “this is me trying to do better,” he admitted, his voice steady but his eyes vulnerable. “you deserve to know how much i care.”

seungmin also worked on being more emotionally available. during quiet evenings together, he would ask how you were feeling, genuinely listening and responding with thoughtful insight. “i want to understand you better,” he’d say, his tone sincere. “i don’t want to make the same mistakes.”

his biggest gesture came one chilly evening when he invited you to a quiet spot by the river, where a small portable speaker played a playlist he’d curated just for you.

as the two of you sat wrapped in a blanket he’d brought, seungmin turned to you, his expression uncharacteristically tender. “i know i’ve been distant before,” he said, his voice barely above a whisper. “but i’m here now, and i’ll keep being here — for as long as you’ll let me.”

chang ღ bin

changbin had always been passionate — sometimes to a fault. the breakup, caused by his tendency to act out of frustration and say things he didn’t mean, had left him devastated. when you gave him another chance, he threw himself into showing you how much you meant to him, channeling his fiery energy into thoughtful gestures.

the first thing he did was apologize, not just with words but with actions. one day, you came home to find a handwritten letter on your table, accompanied by a small box of your favorite snacks. the letter read: “i know i’ve hurt you, and i’ll never stop trying to make it up to you. thank you for giving me another chance. – binnie.”

changbin also started showing up for you in ways he hadn’t before. if you mentioned being stressed at work, he’d surprise you with a quick visit, bringing something small to cheer you up. “i figured you might need a break,” he’d say, his boyish grin disarming any tension.

one evening, he invited you to his studio. “i’ve been working on something,” he said, gesturing toward the equipment. as the music played, you realized he had written a song for you — its lyrics raw and honest, capturing both his regret and his deep love for you. “this is how i feel,” he said when the track ended, his voice soft yet firm. “i want to be better, for you and for us.”

despite his big gestures, changbin also made an effort to be more patient and open. during one of your conversations, when emotions ran high, he surprised you by taking a deep breath and saying, “i don’t want to argue. let’s talk about this. i want to understand how you feel.”

his most heartfelt effort came during a casual evening together. as you walked through a park, he suddenly stopped, pulling you close. “i know i’ve been intense at times,” he said, his tone unusually gentle. “but that’s because i love you so much. i’ll keep working on myself because i don’t ever want to lose you again.”

with every gesture, big or small, changbin showed you that his love for you was as unwavering as his determination to make things right.

notes: i’ve never really been in a relationship so i mentioned a lot of things i’d personally want a guy to do for me (T^T) i hope yall enjoyed either way!

[solarshadow]

I have started a new cross stitch.

[cuttlekiss-mlp]

thought i might attempt to start off strong with my mlp infection au

this is still a pretty big WIP, especially with all of the characters. i've been very thorough with how i want things to go, so i've been taking my time with it.

stuck with a sketchier style bc it fit the vibe of what i wanted so well

MY LITTLE CATASTROPHE : SPIKE AND TWI

!!!TW: DESCRIPTIONS OF GORE!!! "Dear Princess Celestia, I have made a grave mistake, and my judgement is no longer sound. I have ruined everything. I am in search of a cure for what I have created. It cannot be destroyed. Normal magic cannot undo what I have done. He is gone, but maybe I can save the others. I am sorry that this letter has not been sent to you in a timely fashion. He is gone. I had to send this letter via pony mail. Please forgive me for all I have done. Friendship is not strong enough to save us. My friends have abandoned me. They know what I have done. Your faithful student, your failure, Twilight Sparkle."

Between all of the commotion of Sombra's defeat and Twilight's ascension as an alicorn, no one was quick to notice a very important missing person. As soon as Twilight realized her favorite baby dragon was not there to greet her and celebrate, she felt sick to her stomach. Where was he? Spike was found by Cadence. He was delivered to Twilight wrapped in her large pink wings, wounded beyond what could be saved. He was already dead when he was found. Her baby dragon was gone.

No amount of friendship or comfort could console the new princess. She laid with her body curled around Spike, and her cries filled the courtyard for hours. It took two days for her to move from that spot and head home towards Ponyville, where Spike would be buried in front of her home. But she could not bare the thought. Spike could not be gone, not forever.

When she returned home, she holed up in her tree house. The doors locked, the curtains covered the windows, and there was nothing but silence. Twilight worked tirelessly for hours, using magic to preserve her baby dragon's body long enough to find a spell that would erase what happened. Spike would not be dead for much longer. The power of friendship and love would bring him back to life. It had to.

She explained to her friends that if they used the Elements of Harmony, theoretically, he could be revived. They had their reservations. No one thought it was a good idea...but Rainbow Dash talked them into trying. Twilight was hurting, she needed her friends to be there for her. However, their attempts were in vein. Spike was not revived.

Despite their failed attempts, Twilight remained stubborn and persistent. She could not let this happen. Spike could not be gone. Everyone was starting to worry about her, but no amount of convincing could change her mind. They refused to continue trying. They did not believe in her and that made her very angry.

Returning into hiding, Twilight's determination became concrete. She did not sleep, she barely ate. Dash visited frequently, while the others had resolved that Twilight needed time and space. She was the only reason the princess ate anything at all. Twilight soon caught reference to a spell in one of her books. This spell was in a particular book in Canterlot's library...and that is where she would go. She packed up and she made her way swiftly to Canterlot. Unfortunately, the book was locked away, for it's magic was forbidden and dangerous. But this did not matter to her. Twilight broke into the library, stole the book, and rushed off to Ponyville. She would not allow anything to stand in her way. Spike could not be gone.

The spell required an intense amount of magic. Twilight would need help to cast the spell, to bring Spike back. But, none of the other elements would help her. They insisted she lay Spike to rest. She refused. How could they ever say such a thing? How could they give up on Spike? How could they not believe in her?

Twilight took it upon herself to cast the spell. She took the Elements of Harmony and she wielded them herself. Bright beams of pink light flooded out of her curtains...

!!!TW BEGINS!!!

"Twilight. . ." A soft, exhausted voice called from the explosion that was her living room. Twilight could barely hear it's faintness, but his voice was unmistakable. She blindly stumbled towards the voice, to find Spike. When she found him, she was first overjoyed. Spike was getting up! Spike was alive!! Bright pink and sparkling ooze spilled from his chest as he rose from his bed. "Twilight?" His voice was louder and sounded panicked? "What is happening-" his voice cut off with a sickening gurgle. Pink bursted from his mouth, and he coughed and wheezed, trying desperately to regain his breath. His eyes were bleeding, or were they rotting? Twilight couldn't tell. She rushed to his side and she held him. Spike choked and convulsed, pink ooze spilling all over his bed and onto the floor and onto her. And then...he stopped. Unsure of what happened, of what to do, Twilight stared in disbelief, in heartbreak. Had she revived him only to suffer yet another painful death? Tears welled in her eyes and she cried out with unbearable pain.

Between her cries and uncontrollable sobbing, she didn't hear Dash break through one of her windows. She held Spike and cried and cried. The house was a mess and Twilight was a mess and covered in pink ooze and Spike was a mess and pink ooze was still coming out of him. Despite her best efforts, Twilight would not let go of Spike. She snapped at Dash to leave her alone, and that is what Dash did. She didn't want to, but what was there to do?

Twilight fell asleep in the midst of her crying, holding her baby dragon close and covering him with her wings.

She woke to a gurgling growl and a terrifying creature standing above her, with pink, sparkling drool dripping from it's mouth. It's eyes were dark and lifeless but little pink glowing orbs betrayed it's gaze. It stared and growled and breathed raspy, shallow breaths. Twilight pushed it away in fear, scrambling up from Spike's bed. That is when she realized what the creature was. It was Spike...but it wasn't truly. He twitched and groaned and dripped pink ooze.

Before she knew it, a knock came at her door. Spike's head snapped towards the sound.

The door opened.

Spike lunged.

Screams and Spike's growls erupted.

What had she done?

[weasleysbliss]

𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐬, 𝐢𝐧 𝐬𝐞𝐜𝐫𝐞𝐭 | 𝐭𝐨𝐦 𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐯𝐨𝐥𝐨 𝐫𝐢𝐝𝐝𝐥𝐞

pairing: tom riddle x slytherin!reader

summary: each week, y/n finds a new anonymous letter waiting for her everywhere she goes—poetic, mysterious, and increasingly intense. as the notes grow more captivating and unsettling, y/n becomes determined to uncover the writer’s identity. one day, she discovers it’s tom riddle. now, y/n must decide how to handle the dangerous boy who’s been watching her from the shadows.

warnings: slight cursing, small mention of smut

word count: 1.8k

➽────────────────❥

You sighed in exhaustion, using your remaining stamina to climb the stairs to your dorm room. As you reached the door, you unlocked it with your wand. Finally, you could rest, you thought. You glanced over at your bed—it had never looked more comfier.

You huffed, still remembering you had to shower. Placing your tote bag on your desk, you caught sight of a piece of paper in the corner of your eye. "I probably forgot to throw this out," you thought. But just as you were about to toss it into the trash, something stopped you, and you unfolded the note instead.

The note read, “You don’t notice me, but I see you. You are intriguing—more than anyone here. You have my attention, Y/N.”

Your brows furrowed in confusion and annoyance. "What twit is fucking around with me?" you muttered, raising your voice slightly as you slammed the note back on the table. You didn’t throw it out, though. Something told you not to.

Despite the irritation from the note, you carried on with your night and eventually fell into a restless slumber.

.・。.・゜✭・.・✫・゜・。.

A week passes with no new notes in sight—not that you’ve given it much thought. The first one had slipped from your mind soon after you received it.

You were in your Charms classroom, half-listening to Professor Flitwick as his voice reminded you of those ambient sounds that help you fall asleep. You were about to doze off any second.

"Turn to page 416 in your textbooks," Flitwick instructed. You clicked your tongue under your breath.

You pulled your textbook from your bag and began flipping through the pages until you reached page 416. And there it was. A note. Without thinking, assuming it was the same as the last one, you unfolded it.

"You read by the fire every evening. Do you ever wonder if someone is looking back?"

no. fucking. way.

Fear gripped you as you read the note. Someone is watching me? Panic rushed through your mind. Am I being stalked? Too many unsettling thoughts swirled in your head.

The class wasn’t even over, but you couldn’t stay another minute without spiraling into overthinking. In a hurry, you grabbed your tote bag and the note, then stormed out of the classroom. You heard Professor Flitwick call your name, but you didn’t bother turning around.

.・。.・゜✭・.・✫・゜・。.

The week after the Charms class incident, you began to expect the notes to appear wherever you went. But now, you found yourself paying close attention to anyone who might seem suspicious or could be the culprit behind this note fiasco.

Unfortunately, no one was able to catch your attention. This was a guessing game, and you were terribly losing. Not one person you could suspect.

You had classes with most of your fellow Slytherins, excluding females—Draco Malfoy, Blaise Zabini, and Tom Riddle. But there’s no way any of them could be behind this, right?

Usually, you and your friends would hang out after school—whether it was catching up, gossiping, or filling each other in on the latest boy drama. Standing in the circle with your friends, you listened to them, but you made sure to stay alert, keeping an eye on your surroundings.

You still weren’t going to give up.

On this particularly chilly day, you were lucky enough to remember your jacket. Your hands were starting to freeze as the cold air bit at them. You stuffed your hands into the pockets, hoping for some warmth, but instead, you felt something—paper.

You pulled it out. Another note.

Excusing yourself from your friends, you claimed you had to go back to your dorm to start your pile of assignments. On your way there, you unfurled the note once again.

"You deserve admiration from someone who sees your true potential. I could give you the world—or take it from anyone who gets in my way."

Frustration bubbled inside you, eating away at your patience. You still had no idea who was behind these notes.

Once you reached your dorm, you tossed the note aside and began searching for the other two you’d hidden around the room.

To your luck, you found the other two. You laid all three notes side by side, carefully examining each one as you read them over again.

"Whoever this is, they must be really slick around me," you muttered under your breath, your annoyance growing with each passing second.

.・。.・゜✭・.・✫・゜・。.

Another week passed, and you were expecting a note once again. You silently hoped this would be the last one.

You were walking swiftly down the hallway, your hair swaying with each step. You noticed Tom Riddle approaching, but as he passed, he suddenly stopped.

"Something's waiting for you on your bed," he said. Before you could respond, he turned and disappeared into the crowd, vanishing in less than a second.

Your expression froze, a mixture of confusion and worry spreading across your face. How does he know something’s waiting for me in my dorm? Did he get inside? How? Or does he know someone who put something there? Is it another note? What is it?

You shook the thoughts from your mind and quickened your pace towards your dorm. Anticipation surged through you—you had to find out what it was.

Once you reached your dorm, your eyes immediately went to what Tom had mentioned—your bed. There, lying on the bed, was a note. You snatched it up and opened it without a second thought.

"If you’re bold enough, meet me at the Astronomy Tower at midnight. Let’s see if you’re worthy of the attention you’ve earned." Tom’s name was signed at the bottom.

It was Tom Riddle who had been writing to you all this time. He was the same person who had snuck into your dorm and secretly placed the notes in your textbook and jacket.

You had to admit, Tom was undeniably attractive. His masculine features were striking, and you couldn't help but notice how handsome he was. Despite his looks, one thing about Tom—he always got what he wanted.

You had a small crush on him back in your third year, but it never lasted long—you never thought he’d reciprocate those feelings.

Now, though, what awaited you tonight was all you could think about.

.・。.・゜✭・.・✫・゜・。.

11:50 PM. Ten minutes until midnight. That gave you just enough time to make your way to the Astronomy Tower. You left your dorm room, silently praying this whole thing wouldn’t end up a disaster—and hoping you wouldn’t get caught by a professor for being out so late.

Your nerves were getting the best of you. Usually, it wasn’t an issue when it came to boys—after all, you were the one who flustered them most of the time. But this was different.

It was Tom Riddle. He was unlike any other Slytherin guy you’d met—more charming, reserved, and undeniably alluring.

As you made your way to the Astronomy Tower, your mind raced, running through different scenarios of how this whole situation could unfold.

You didn’t realize how much time had passed while your mind scrambled, but when you glanced up, the clock had already struck 12:00 AM. Thankfully, you were just in time. With one final step, you reached the top of the Astronomy Tower.

And there he was—the man himself, Tom Riddle. His back was faced to you as he gazed out at the night sky, waiting for your arrival.

You didn't even get a chance to make yourself known at the scene, because he already had. He felt your presence behind him, and turned to face you. Your eyes locked with his deep, dark ones.

"You came," he said, his voice smooth, a touch of satisfaction lacing his words.

"You wanted me to," you replied, your tone sharper than you intended. After all the trouble with the letters, it felt impossible to hold back. "What do you want from me, Tom?"

He took a step closer, his expression unreadable. "I thought I made it clear. I don’t want anything from you—I want you."

Your breath hitched, the weight of his words sinking in. "And if I don’t want to be part of... whatever this is?"

Tom’s lips twitched into the faintest hint of a smirk, though his gaze softened. "I don’t think you’d be here if you didn’t. You’re curious, drawn to me, just as I am to you. Admit it."

You hesitated, every warning in your head screaming to turn and leave, but your feet stayed rooted in place. "You don't know me, Tom," you said, putting sharp emphasis on the word 'don’t'.

"Oh, but I do," he spoke, still stepping closer. His voice dropped, sending a shiver down your spine. "I’ve watched you, studied you. You’re clever, gorgeous, ambitious, and so much stronger than you give yourself credit for. You could be extraordinary—we could be extraordinary together."

The weight of his words wrapped around you like a spell, leaving you dizzy and unsure. "What if I don’t want that kind of power?" you whispered, barely trusting yourself to speak.

Tom leaned in, his voice low and filled with something almost tender. "Then I’ll prove to you why you do."

His hand brushed yours, and you didn’t pull away. Instead, you met his gaze, the intensity there making your heart race. "I haven’t decided yet," you admitted softly.

"Then let me give you something to think about," he murmured. His fingers tilted your chin up, and for a moment, he paused, his dark eyes searching yours. When you didn’t move, he leaned in closer, his lips brushing against yours in a kiss that was both gentle and inarguably commanding.

The kiss was so intoxicating it almost felt like you were floating. His lips were astonishingly soft, almost unreal in their tenderness. They perfectly aligned with yours as you both explored each other’s mouths. His hands gently slid up your skirt, fingers tracing your smooth skin. The combination of his touch and the kiss sent waves of sensation through you, making it impossible to want to pull away from either.

It ended as quickly as it began, leaving you breathless.

His hands remained under your skirt, his palms hugging your curves as if they were made for you. His fingers trailed lower to your already-soaked cunt, grazing your sweet spot. He knew that touching you in a sensitive place would manipulate you into wanting him more—hence why he did it. Heat rushed to your cheeks, and a soft, involuntary whimper escaped your lips at his teasing touch.

"You're already mine," he murmured, his voice low and sultry. "But I could show you so much more—if you let me." His hand came out of your skirt, and made it's way to your waist. He ended with a passionate kiss to your neck, his teeth grazing your skin in a small bite that made you wince—though the sensation only fueled your desire.

"I’ll wait for your answer, darling." he said, his voice smooth as silk. With one final, lingering glance—seductive and full of promise—he turned and disappeared into the shadows, leaving you alone in the cold night air. Your heart raced, and your mind was a blur, overwhelmed with thoughts of him and a deep, undeniable desire.

Needless to say, he undoubtedly won a chance with you.

He was yours, in secret.

[i4oba]

nct dream as… / times of a day 𓈒✳︎🚃

[— might be a little suggestive here and there!]

✰ 6:45 am .. jaemin

helios, through the half lidded eyes of yours was there to greet both of you at the same time—you could feel its hands coming near your bare body, the rays of the sun hugging your shape perfectly, casting such beautiful silhouettes behind, you and jaemin blending all together in your hazy state. you could feel the weight of his arms on your waist, hugging you so tight, sweet nothings leaving his lips, barely above a breath, hoarse voice laced with sleep. his scent, the sweet fragrance is dizzying, the warmth of him engulfing you just as much as helios’ breath of the morning; the sky is rosy, as if it was blushing while taking its time to fully wake up, faint shades of orange and yellow dancing through it endlessly. it’s such a beautiful way to start a day, with your lover all over you, deeply ingrained in your existence.

✰ 1:20 pm .. chenle

with the fierce determination of hermes, an arm slung around your waist; you were there—sun burning the uncovered skin of your shoulders, sweat making its way down on your temples as you took a look at the beautiful postcard in your hands, quickly snatched from a souvenir shop you passed barely twenty minutes ago. with such beautiful words and phrases, cursive letters and the scent of blooming flowers, you handed it over to your lover, hands aching to intertwine. he takes it, honest smile on his face, mumbling something along the line of “i’m the luckiest guy around”, wanting nothing but strolling around the foreign city for the rest of the day, stopping just for a minute in front of a pastry shop. there are freshly baked croissants!

✰ 3:25 pm .. jisung

was it all just a coincidence or did he know about all of it, you cannot be quite sure of but you, in fact enjoyed the way he pulled you straight into the sudden dancing flashmob. the sun was shining, birds singing endlessly along with the folk music played by a kind-looking band of teenagers, flute and harp harmonising together with the occasional sound of the guitar; you did not know how to dance or what kind of dance you should think of, but your lover pulled you closer to himself and took the lead, precise moves following one another as you felt yourself become a gracious nymph all of a sudden, trapped in a human’s fragile body. “honey, you’re doing so great,” jisung beamed happily, hands travelling lower on your skin, smile so wide and heartwarming. “i love you, so much,” he mumbled into your ears, voice losing the battle against the beautiful music.

✰ 7:05 pm .. jeno

with dionysus musing in your ears, you take a sip of the rich, sweet red wine your lover poured a few seconds before. the important event you two should have gone to long forgotten, with absolutely lust filled intentions you touch jeno’s rosy lips, tugging at his messily made tie, thighs rubbing against each other as you pulled him closer to yourself. the voice of dionysus slowly fading, you could feel the inviting hands of eros, guiding every movement of yours with extra care, fully planned with a hint of sinful acts. you sighs against your boyfriend’s mouth, not caring about consequences, reputation nor anything else, as you put his hands on either side of your hips. you wanted him—you needed him at that exact moment, the taste of his lips intoxicating, almost too permanent.

✰ 8:50 pm .. renjun

with lips slightly parted, tongue darting out to wet them quickly, renjun focused on the way your bare body looked behind the canvas. he couldn’t keep his eyes off of your curves, the way your hands did such a bad job at hiding yourself, timid reflection making it all too complicated to even think about anything but you. he felt drunk, as he watched your neck, the beautiful thighs of yours, wanting nothing more than to look deeply into your eyes and touch you, touch you everywhere he can and everywhere you’d let him to do so; you were everything and even more, compared to helen of troy, magical and enchanting, alluring. “can you please finish that painting, my junnie…” you mumbled quietly, shaking your head slightly. “i need you.”

✰ 10:45 pm .. haechan

“you should never come back to this studio, man, taeyong will kick your ass,” you laughed so hard, tears were about to fall out of your eyes, replaying the freshly made song of your boyfriend. he was a self proclaimed master producer but the thing is—it was rather funny than good. of course you appreciated his effort in making a lovesong for you, to confess for the hundreth time and once more. you were his muse supposedly and even if it was unlistenable, you loved it. at least more than taeyong, who would be furious if he knew you two were there, late into the night, making out on the couch of his studio until your lips were swollen, out of breath and with only one thing in your mind: love, love and love. you would never do anything else, even if it meant taking the risk of battling twelve times like heracles.

✰ 11:35 pm .. mark

being faced with the rolling credits after god know’s how many movies being watched, you slowly rested your head on mark’s shoulder. you reached out for his hand so you could take it in yours, not caring about silly actors’ and actresses’ love affairs or the world ending in front of you. all that mattered was the two of you, the adoration you felt for him, how he needed to have you close to him. his hair falling into his eyes, you tried to brush it away from there cautiously, caressing his cheek ever so lightly. you’ve never wanted to kiss him more than you did at that moment, every rational thought vanishing from your brain at the beautiful sight of him, as if he was the long lost son of the oh so wonderful aphrodite. “do it, love. kiss me and i’m yours,” was all he said quietly.

[act-nat-ural]

hii! I’ve been in a Kageyama and Suna mood lately, could I be so vague as to ask for anything cute for either of them? I love your writing, I’m so glad you started posting!💕

Alphabet Dating

note: thank u for the kind words :’) means so much. I hope you enjoy this :p I might turn this into a series for the rest of the alphabet tbh.

word count: 1680

Though you and Tobio cherished each other dearly, you both had to admit your dating life had gotten a bit plain. In the beginning of your relationship, you used to go on exciting dates with each other as often as you could. It’s not like you don’t still love each other, you just have gotten used to staying in together. You were both cuddled together in bed, each during your respective things. He was currently flipping through one of his volleyball magazines, as you were scrolling on your phone. Suddenly, a video popped up on your feed.

“Tobio, look! We should totally do this.” You say excitedly. He puts his magazine down and scoots closer to see what you're referring to. It's a video of a couple talking about ‘Alphabet dates’. “Basically, each week they go on a date based on a letter of the alphabet. Like, for ‘A’ we could go to the arcade or something. Does that seem fun to you?” You give him a hopeful smile. He nods, just as excited. 

“Yeah. How do we decide what to do, though?” You hum thoughtfully. 

“I guess we could split the letters, so I pick some and you pick some. That way we both get a say.” 

“That sounds fair. Good idea, baby.” You sigh contentedly, resting your head on his chest. 

“I know. I’m full of them.”

–

A- Arcade: The first week, you both agreed that you would get to pick, and he would pick next week’s date. You had already used it as an example, so you thought you might as well go to the arcade. That, and you know how much Tobio loves a good competition. You were holding hands as you and him entered the building. 

“I’ll go get us some tokens.” He kisses your head and jogs to the counter. 

You leaned against the game machines, scanning the bright, flashing lights and sounds that filled the room. The arcade was busier than you expected, with groups of people laughing and yelling out in excitement as they played. Tobio returned with a handful of tokens, his usual confident smile in place.

“Alright, which one should we start with?” he asked, holding out the tokens.

You grinned mischievously, pointing toward the racing game in the corner. “You’re on. But I warn you, I’m really good at this.”

He raised an eyebrow, clearly not impressed. “You think so? I’ll show you how it’s done.”

The race began, and you immediately shot ahead of him, your fingers flying over the controls. Tobio, despite his competitive nature, was caught off guard, but he quickly adjusted. You could hear him muttering under his breath as he tried to catch up.

“You’re not going to beat me that easily,” he said, his voice full of determination.

You couldn’t help but laugh. “We’ll see about that, Tobio!”

The race ended with you narrowly winning, and Tobio let out a dramatic groan, shaking his head in mock frustration. “Okay, okay, you won this round. But I’ll take the next one.”

You could tell he was enjoying himself, even if he didn’t want to admit it. After a few more rounds of games—some you won, some he did—you both wandered around, playing everything from claw machines to rhythm games. At one point, you even challenged him to a dance-off on one of the dance machines, and though you got a few more perfect steps than him, it was clear he was having fun.

As the night wore on, you both were out of tokens and laughing, your competitive streaks fading into a comfortable camaraderie.

“Thanks for agreeing to this,” you said, leaning into him as you walked toward the exit. 

He kissed your forehead again, a rare soft smile on his lips. “This was fun. We should definitely do this again.”

–

B- Bowling: The next week, it was Tobio’s turn to pick, and of course, he chose something that could fuel his competitive nature—bowling. You arrived at the bowling alley, the neon lights casting a soft glow across the floor, and Tobio immediately headed for the counter to get your shoes. 

“Why do we always have to wear these ugly shoes?” you muttered, wiggling your feet in the bright orange pair.

Tobio smirked at you. “It’s part of the experience. Deal with it.”

You rolled your eyes but accepted your fate. After a quick warm-up, you were both standing at the lane, picking out your bowling balls. Tobio’s form was impeccable, smooth and practiced, and you couldn’t help but admire how effortlessly he lined up his shots. 

He grinned as the ball rolled down the lane, knocking down nearly all the pins. “Your turn,” he said with a smug look.

You were determined to show him that you could be just as good. You stepped up, took a deep breath, and threw your ball with confidence. Unfortunately, it veered slightly to the left and only knocked down a few pins. 

Tobio’s smirk widened. “Oof. Better luck next time.”

You stuck your tongue out at him. “Shut up.”

For the next few frames, it was a back-and-forth between you, with a lot of joking and laughing, and a bit of trash talk from both sides. At one point, you even managed to throw a perfect strike, which you proudly pointed out to Tobio, who merely nodded in approval.

The game continued, and by the final frame, you were trailing behind by just a few points. “You’re not going to beat me now,” Tobio said, raising an eyebrow in challenge.

But with a wink, you proved him wrong, hitting another strike to seal the win. “Guess I did.”

He shot you an exaggerated glare. “Lucky shot,” he muttered, but his smile betrayed how much he enjoyed the friendly competition.

“Maybe,” you said, slipping your hand into his as you walked toward the exit. “But I still won. So, how does that feel?”

“Fine,” he sighed dramatically, “But next time, I’m definitely beating you.”

–

C- Cooking Class: It was your turn to pick, and after thinking for a moment, you suggested something that would definitely get Tobio’s attention: a cooking class. When you mentioned that the class would teach you both how to make curry, Tobio’s eyes lit up, and you could practically see the gears turning in his head. You knew his love for curry was well-known, but you also knew he'd never pass up the chance to learn how to make it from scratch.

“Curry?” he asked, sounding pleasantly surprised. “That sounds... interesting.”

You smiled. “Well, it’s your favorite food, right? I thought it’d be fun to learn how to make it together.”

Tobio nodded, clearly warming to the idea. “Alright, I’m in. As long as I get to eat it afterward.”

That settled it. You booked the class, and soon you found yourselves standing in a cozy kitchen studio, surrounded by the scent of fresh herbs and spices. There were a few other couples in the room, all eager to learn how to make the perfect curry.

The instructor, a cheerful woman with an easy smile, introduced herself and began guiding everyone through the process. Tobio was already paying close attention, his eyes narrowing slightly in concentration. 

As the class went on, you and Tobio worked well together, passing ingredients back and forth and making sure everything was perfectly seasoned. By the end of the class, you had created a beautiful serving of pork curry.

The couple next to you complimented your dish, and even Tobio seemed impressed with your teamwork. You smiled up at him. “See? That wasn’t so bad, right?”

He looked down at you, eyes softening. “I’ll admit, it was kind of fun. Maybe we should do more of these.”

You grinned, feeling the warmth of the evening. “Maybe next time, we can cook something for just the two of us.”

He smiled, clearly content. “Deal.”

–

D- Dancing: By now, you were both getting into the rhythm of trying new activities together. For the letter ‘D’, Tobio had picked dancing—something neither of you had much experience in, but it seemed fun.

You both showed up at a local dance studio for a beginner’s salsa class. Tobio was clearly nervous, glancing around at the other couples who seemed to know what they were doing. “I don’t know if I’m cut out for this,” he admitted, tugging at the collar of his shirt.

You chuckled, stepping closer to him. “Don’t worry, I’ll help you. We’ll just have fun.”

The class began, and the instructor walked everyone through the basic steps. You and Tobio stumbled through the movements at first, your feet not quite in sync. Tobio was a little stiff, but after a few tries, he started to loosen up.

“See? You’re doing better,” you said with a laugh as you spun under his arm.

“Yeah, I’m not as bad as I thought,” he replied, a small, amused smile tugging at his lips.

By the end of the class, you both managed to keep up with the routine, laughing at your missteps and high-fiving after you nailed a particularly difficult spin.

“You know,” Tobio said as the class ended, “this wasn’t half bad.”

You leaned against him, smiling. “I told you. We should do more of this kind of thing.”

Tobio smirked and kissed your lips. “Maybe. We’ll just have to see.”

–

You two had just gotten home from your dance class, and as you were taking off your shoes you heard him let out a deep sigh. You turn to him, eyebrow raised. “Yes? What’s bothering you?” He gives a slightly embarrassed look and mumbles something. “Huh?”

He sighs again and says louder, “I said I wish we could skip to ‘V’.” You blink in confusion. 

“Why? That’s weeks away.” He pouts. 

“I want to teach you how to play volleyball.” You let out a laugh and rest your hand on his cheek. 

“Tobio, you realize we could do that any day we wanted, right?” His mouth opens and closes before he tries to play it off.

“Psh. Yeah. I knew that.”

[silvertongues-emeraldlies]

Marked - Prologue {B.B}

Soulmate AU - People are born with their soulmate’s initial on the inside of their right wrist in red. When they meet, the initial turns a barely visible gold. If one dies, the initial turns black. If their soulmate isn’t born yet, it’s white. Though that doesn’t last very long…on most occasions.

Part 2 || Part 3

Pairing(s): Bucky Barnes x Reader, Steve Rogers x Peggy Carter

Warning(s): Mentions of torture (i think that’s it)

Word Count: 1,189

——

Bucky Barnes had always been the protector. He remembered his childhood filled with scrapes and bruises, not just from the neighborhood kids or his own adventures, but from stepping in to defend Steve Rogers. Skinny, scrappy Steve with his big heart, he never knew when to back down from a fight. It was on one of those summer days, the sticky New York heat pressing down on them, that they first noticed the marks on their wrists. Bucky was 16, barely old enough to know what it all meant, but old enough to understand the significance.

“Hey, Buck, look at this,” Steve had said, leaning against the railing of their Brooklyn apartment stoop. He rolled up his sleeve, exposing his skinny wrist to reveal a tiny, vibrant “P” in red ink, glowing under the sun. “Guess someone out there’s waitin’ for me.”

Bucky had stared at Steve’s wrist, a knot forming in his throat. It was something everyone dreamed of, that mark—a confirmation of belonging, of fate, of connection. “Looks like you’re not alone, Stevie,” he managed with a grin. He could feel Steve’s happiness radiate off him, and Bucky felt proud, protective. Steve deserved this.

But when Bucky pulled up his own sleeve, there was only a faint, colorless outline of an initial, but it was white, as if fate hadn’t bothered to finish the job. He laughed it off, hiding his disappointment. “Guess mine’s defective, huh?”

Steve frowned. “I dunno, Buck. Maybe it’ll change someday. Maybe you just haven’t met the right person yet.”

But Bucky had already started pulling his sleeve back down, a smile pasted on his face. “Yeah, maybe. Or maybe I get to be a free agent. Can’t have someone tied down to me, anyway.” He winked, but Steve’s concerned look stayed in his mind far longer than he would have liked.

As they grew older, the difference between their marks only seemed to widen. Steve’s soulmate initial was a bright red badge of hope, a promise of love and loyalty. But Bucky’s remained empty, pale and unfinished. He’d learned to hide it, to laugh and flirt his way through every gathering or dance. If he could make people smile, maybe they wouldn’t notice the white mark on his wrist. Maybe they wouldn’t see that empty, hollow part of him.

Bucky’s initial might have been invisible, but his duty to his country was anything but. When the draft came, he enlisted without hesitation, a sharp determination flaring inside him. If he couldn’t prove his worth through a soulmate bond, then maybe he could through service, through courage.

The first night in training camp was harsh and unforgiving, but Bucky kept his spirits high. He worked his way through every drill, every task, driven by the knowledge that he was now part of something larger than himself. When the war letters came in, soldiers would huddle around, reading notes from their sweethearts, kissing the paper as if it would bring them closer to home. And when Bucky would feel that emptiness tugging at him, he’d close his eyes, clutch his white initial, and remind himself that he didn’t need anyone else. He was already whole, even if it didn’t feel like it.

One evening, as he wrote his letter to Steve, he paused, the pen hovering above the paper. The words seemed to blur, the memory of his colorless mark vivid in his mind. Did it really matter if he didn’t have a soulmate? Did that define his worth? And yet, no matter how many times he reassured himself, there was a pang that never faded. He’d pour his heart into each letter home to Steve, recounting the good times they shared and his worries about the future, always keeping the more vulnerable thoughts locked away. There was no point in worrying Steve.

Bucky’s last mission was a disaster. Hydra forces overwhelmed them, and soon, Bucky found himself captured, bound, and transported to a place he could barely identify through the haze of pain and exhaustion. His body ached with bruises, and blood trickled from cuts he couldn’t even feel anymore. Every nerve in his body screamed, but he bit his tongue, forcing himself to remain silent. He wouldn’t give them the satisfaction. When they branded him with new scars, injected him with unknown chemicals, built him a new arm in place of the one he’d lost falling off the train, and whispered promises of destruction, Bucky felt his grip on reality slipping. But through it all, the faint white outline on his wrist remained, a barely-there line that somehow anchored him. The ghostly mark he’d once hated now became his lifeline. His fingers found it in moments of agony, a small, fragile reminder that he was still human. That somewhere, somehow, he had a tether to the world he’d left behind. Days blended into nights, which melted into more endless days. His memories of Brooklyn, of Steve, of the life he’d known began to fade, lost in the haze of Hydra’s relentless conditioning. But that white initial—it was there, like a whisper, a name he couldn’t quite remember but couldn’t bear to forget.

When he was first awoken for a mission as the Winter Soldier, almost 20 years later, the world around him was cold, sharp, and unforgiving. Every time they brought him back, he’d feel a sliver of confusion, a sense of loss that gnawed at him but never fully materialized into a coherent thought. And every time he felt that emptiness, he’d catch a glimpse of the mark on his wrist—a mark he didn’t understand, a blank canvas that somehow connected him to a life he didn’t remember. In the field, he was a machine—unfeeling, mechanical, a force of destruction honed to perfection. He followed orders without question, took down targets with precision. And when he returned, he felt nothing but the cold, the emptiness that clung to him like a shadow. The white initial had become his only company in a world stripped of humanity.

But one night, after a particularly brutal mission, something shifted. He returned to his cell, the taste of iron in his mouth, the ache of bruises blooming beneath his skin. He raised his arm, rolling up his sleeve with shaking hands. And there, where the colorless initial had always been, was a red letter, vibrant and alive, stark against his skin. A letter he’d once seen only as an afterthought, an empty promise, now burned with a brightness that sent his heart hammering.

It was real. He had a soulmate. He wasn’t broken.

For the first time in years, Bucky allowed himself a moment of emotion—a tear slipping down his cheek, a shuddering breath that broke the silence of the room. Somewhere out there, someone was waiting for him. He hadn’t been alone all this time; he’d just been waiting for this moment. And as he clenched his fist, feeling the strength return to his limbs, he knew he couldn’t give up. He had to fight, to escape, to find the person who’d saved him from the abyss, even if they didn’t know it yet.

———

This was a little rushed so it’s not the best. I had a friend help me write as well because i didn’t know what to write. I’m planning on making this fic a short series so let me know what you think!!

xx Cris

[twstowo]

I noticed that you opened the ask box, so I came to ask for Floyd x Yuu with the scene from "The Little Mermaid", in which Ariel saves Eric from shipwreck, like it was an au where they met like that

I hope i'm not being too picky with my order ♡

♡OMG, I literally thought about this but with Azul, but then I was like, "Would Azul be able to save you?" because I have this mental image of him not being able to swim very well/being really slow. Lmao

♡Warning: Drowning

You'd always been a wanderer at heart, eager to explore the world, discover new places, and connect with people. Your adventure began when some sailor buddies welcomed you aboard their ship. Days at sea were filled with chants, parties, drinks, talks, and lending a hand to everyone. Once on land, you made the most of each day, wandering through cities and villages, documenting your experiences, and sketching landscapes. Your circle of friends in these new lands expanded so much that monthly, you'd receive a flood of cards and gifts, making it a challenge to find a spot for them all. Life was easy-going, a privilege granted by your birth into a well-off family, affording you the means to sustain yourself in these faraway places.

As you wrote letters to your distant friends, the sea's scent became a comforting constant, making you feel more at home on the waves than on solid ground. With night approaching, you finished the last letter and stepped out for a walk before dinner. It was then that one of your sailor friends, looking pale and alarmed, rushed towards you. "A storm's heading our way!" The wind had already picked up, and though storms at sea were nothing new, the urgency in your friend's voice unsettled you. "This one looks really bad, we might need your help," he said, and you nodded, following him.

With the wind intensifying, tasks on the ship became more challenging. The wind seemed determined to push everyone off the deck, and as you struggled to secure the unruly sails, your hands felt the sting of the rope. Panic spread across the crew, and for the first time, you feared this might be your last adventure. Looking at the encroaching storm, escape seemed impossible.

"Look out for that barrel!" you screamed as you watched the object land on someone's head, sending them tumbling down the ship. You ran towards them, grabbing their hand and holding it with all your strength to prevent the man from falling into the wild sea. The boat waddled with the strength of the waves, and you started to fear it would turn around at any moment.

"Don't let go!" you told him as you tried to pull him back up. You watched the fear in his face fade as he placed all his hope in your confident words. However, uncertainty crept in as the strength drained from your arms. The biggest wave you had ever seen approached the boat. You feared you'd never see your friends and family again as you said your last words before the wave hit all of you. "Fuck!-"

──── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ────

You felt so cold, your body shivering as you slowly opened your eyes. It was mainly dark, but you could see some strange light from above reaching towards you. Nothing made sense as your brain tried to process everything around you. Strange wood started sinking around you, and the bodies of the crew members slowly sank by your side in a slow rhythm. You tried taking a deep breath, but your brain didn't allow it as you realized that you were underwater, having fallen off the boat after that huge wave hit it.

You finally grasped the situation as you started flapping your arms and legs around, trying to reach the surface. Wood pieces hit you along the way, sending you tumbling repeatedly. You feared the oxygen would not be enough for you to save yourself. Your throat burned as you tried holding your breath, unable to swim back to the surface. Everything started to become dark as you dared to breathe in the water. Then, you felt a strange touch on your shoulder. The lack of oxygen was surely playing tricks on you as you watched a strange creature look at you with a curious glance. You closed your eyes, awaiting death to take you.

──── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ────

Floyd observed your sleeping form on the sand. He had brought you to the nearest land he could find, ensuring that your chest's gentle rise and fall indicated life. It was the first time he had come in contact with a living human, finding you strangely intriguing. Although he had seen some humans at rock bottom underwater, encountering a living one was a different experience.

Attempting to wake you, Floyd shook you gently, his fin hands reaching for your shoulders. However, your eyes gave no signal of opening. Annoyed, he sighed and lay back on the sand, half of his long tail submerged in the water.

Minutes passed as he lay there, gazing up at the sky. Strangely, after saving you, he felt in a remarkably good mood. He wanted to talk to you, for you needed to thank him, and he had questions about the inland people. Your head leaned against his shoulder, your cheek touching him, catching him off guard. He grinned as he gently arranged your hair.

When your eyes started to open, Floyd watched as you struggled to comprehend the situation. Weak and almost unable to move, you stared at his face, just a finger's distance away. You had never seen someone like him—strange ears, unnatural skin colour, and vibrant yellow/brown eyes. "Wh-Who are y-you?" you weakly whispered, and he quickly glanced behind, sitting down on the sand with his arms, reaching for the water.

“Oh My! Y/N is that you!” a voice shouted, and you tried to sit down, looking in the direction of the man who had vanished. You swore you had seen a tail—had you been saved by some sea creature? "We need to take you to a doctor!" a friend's hands reached for your arm, trying to help you stand as you continued gazing toward the ocean.

──── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ────

“A human? I wasn’t expecting you to take such a strange liking to one of them,” Jade mocked his brother with a grin.

Floyd wasn’t enjoying Jade's tone as he swam away. He had been interrupted by another landwalker just when he had the chance to talk with you, not even learning your name. Though he'd never admit it to Jade or Azul, Floyd occasionally returned to that beach, hoping to meet you again. Perhaps one day, the two of you would get to talk properly, and Floyd could finally learn your name.

[rhiannonsknife]

── ❆ DAY 24: christmas with the yellowjackets

— summary: christmas eve with the yellowjackets hcs (shauna. jackie. lottie. nat. van. tai. laura lee.)

— warnings: fluff. established relationships. gn!reader.

shauna shipman

❆ christmas eve at shauna’s is endearingly chaotic. after a slightly overwhelming family dinner, shauna catches your eye from across the table, her expression speaking volumes. as soon as the dishes are cleared, she tugs you by the hand up to her attic bedroom. It’s small but cozy, filled old soccer trophies, faded posters, a stack of dusty books, and most importantly, it’s just the two of you. she pulls out a half-empty bag of holiday chocolates she stashed away earlier and plops down on the bed, grinning as she offers you one. “this is way better than listening to my mom ask about my ‘five-year plan,’ right?” she teases, leaning her head on your shoulder as you unwrap the candy and settle in for a quiet moment together.

❆ shauna insists on a tradition she started as a kid: exchanging one gift on christmas eve. she pulls out a small box she’s been hiding under the tree all evening and hands it to you with a sheepish smile. “i couldn’t wait for this one,” she admits softly, watching you unwrap it. inside is something thoughtful: simple, but so uniquely her. when it’s your turn, you pass her a neatly wrapped book you’d been meaning to share with her for months: it’s your favorite, but you’ve left small notes and annotations between the lines.

❆ shauna definitely isn’t one for large, over the top gestures. instead, she finds subtle ways to show she’s thinking about you. while everyone’s distracted during dessert, she quietly slides the last piece of hers onto your plate with a small, knowing smile. later, as the family gathers around the living room to watch a movie, she settles beside you, her knee pressed against yours. the way her fingers softly brush against yours under the blanket you’re sharing says everything she can’t in a room full of people.

jackie taylor

❆ jackie insists on everything being perfect for christmas eve, and that includes you. she spends way too long fussing over her outfit, then quickly turns her attention to yours. whether it’s a cozy sweater or something more festive, jackie 100% makes it her mission to ensure you both look like you’ve stepped out of one of these cheesy holiday romcoms she makes you watch. only then, the two of you join her family for dinner. of course, her mom comments on how good you both look, which jackie takes as confirmation that all her efforts were worth it.

❆ jackie adores introducing you to her extended family, playing the role of the best friend perfectly. they might not know the true nature of your relationship, but she makes a point in showing you off nonetheless. she clings to your arm, proudly showing you off and basking in the compliments about how amazing the two of you look together. when her little cousins start to get rowdy, she ropes you into playing board games with them, determined to prove she can win more than just soccer matches.

❆ after dinner, jackie insists on dragging you outside for a walk in the snow where it’ll just be the two of you. complete with scarves, gloves, and her earmuffs. it’s her favorite part of the day; walking hand-in-hand as the neighborhood lights twinkle around you. in her block, the neighbors went all out with their decorations and it’s fun to wander around and look at the different lights and houses. at some point, she’ll stop, her cheeks rosy from the cold, and kiss you softly, whispering, “merry christmas”

lottie matthews

❆ on the 24th , lottie wakes up early, watching you sleep from her desk while she works on the final touches of your present. by the time you wake up too, she’s finishing up her letter for you. you blink your eyes open to the bright, white light coming in through the windows and find her with her legs drawn to her chest and her eyes on you. she gives you something meaningful, albeit a little too expensive for your personal liking, like a charm bracelet with a symbol that reminds her of your connection, and watches nervously as you open it, her face only lighting up when you smile and approve.

❆ with you, christmas feels a lot less lonely and lottie makes use of that in every possible way, relishing in your company. you can spend the day however the two of you like, so she takes you out before anyone else is up, only returning after a thorough walk through the snowy streets of wiskayok. she spends the whole time clinging to your hand and whether there’s something for you to talk about, or just comfortable silence, you both enjoy each other’s company. “i think christmas is way better with you here” she admits before kissing you gently.

❆ she has a sweet but quirky side that shines during the holiday season: insisting you join her in lighting candles for “good vibes” before dinner, picking out the prettiest ornaments for the tree, and even convincing you to meditate with her by the fireplace after the chaos of the day. by the end of the night, you’re both cuddled under a blanket, sipping tea while she curls up against you.

nat scatorccio

❆ christmas eve with nat starts quieter than most. she’s not even used to it being a big deal at all. however, since she started dating you, she’s been showing up on your doorstep every christmas to spend the holiday with you instead: knocking on your door with a lopsided grin and a couple of small, awkwardly wrapped presents in hand. again: she’s not used to big celebrations, but the sight of your warm, bustling home instantly softens her.

❆ nat, being nat, spends a lot of her time deflecting with sarcasm, trying to pretend like none of this is getting to her at all, complaining about your aunt’s fruitcake or your dad’s bad jokes. but you can tell she’s secretly enjoying herself by the smiles she flashes you from across the room whenever the mask accidentally slips. when your family hands her a stocking they filled for her last minute, her eyes widen in surprise, and she mutters something about how “totally cheesy” it is while holding onto it like it’s the best thing she’s ever received.

❆ after dinner, nat drags you (and your siblings/cousins) outside for some “fresh air” and immediately starts a snowball fight, pelting you with snow while laughing so hard she nearly falls over. when you finally tackle her to the ground, pinning her in the snow, she grabs your face with cold hands and kisses you impulsively. “merry christmas,” she says, grinning up at you. “now help me up before i freeze to death here!”

van palmer

❆ van is not a morning person, not even on the day of christmas eve, so unless you wake her, she’s staying in bed as long as possible - even if you’ve got plans for the evening. when you do finally poke and kiss her awake, she insists on dragging the blankets with her to the couch, still half-asleep but grinning as she wishes you a lazy, “merry christmas.” she’s the kind of girlfriend who wraps herself around you on the sofa and refuses to let you go until she’s fully awake and ready for coffee.

❆ christmas movies are non-negotiable with van. she pulls out a stack of VHS tapes she’s been keeping since october and insists you watch them all with her. she recites all the best lines, laughs way too loud at the cheesy parts, and even makes up drinking game rules if you’re up for it.

❆ van 100% thrives on the energy of the holidays, so she makes sure to keep things fun whenever she can: whether it’s putting way too much whipped cream on your hot chocolate, building an absurdly decorated gingerbread house with you, or starting a wrapping-paper-ball fight in the living room, she’s all about making you laugh and creating ridiculous memories together. at the end of the day, she pulls you close under the glow of the christmas lights and whispers, “this might be the best christmas yet”

taissa turner

❆ tai, unlike van, is also up rather early, making sure everything is perfect for the day. she’s not overly sentimental, but lets her thoughtfulness show in little ways, like sneaking downstairs to make you coffee and setting up your favorite breakfast before you’re even awake. she’ll also “randomly” give you a gift so personal and meaningful that you feel overwhelmed in the best way possible.

❆ tai knows how to navigate the chaos of christmas eve much better than you do yourself. if you spend it at your place, she happily helps your family keep everything on track, whether it’s herding your younger siblings or stepping in to help with cooking. but she always makes time to steal quiet moments with you, slipping away to sit outside or wander through the snow, her gloved hand intertwined with yours whenever possible.

❆ if things ever get overwhelming (whether it’s a noisy dinner table or your little cousins running wild) tai is always the first to notice and pulls you aside, offering calm reassurance, a subtle shoulder rub, a tight hug, or whatever else you might need. by the end of the night, you’re curled up on the couch together, her arm draped around you as she murmurs softly, “i love spending today with you”

laura lee

❆ laura lee wakes up extra early on the 24th. it is definitely her favorite holiday and she’s even more excited to share it with you. in the morning,she spends some time reflecting on ‘the meaning of the season’ and invites you to join her -not because she expects you to share her faith exactly, but because it’s important to her to include you in something so personal. you sit together by the tree, sipping cocoa as she quietly talks about gratitude and the hope she finds in the season.

❆ laura lee has a gentle way of making literally everything feel peaceful and meaningful. whether it’s the way she smiles at you during a family dinner or how she softly sings along to christmas songs while holding you close, she makes you feel like the most important part of her day. by the end of the night, you realize you’ve never felt more at home than you do with her.

❆ laura lee appreciates it when you join her for christmas church service, even if you don’t share her beliefs. she doesn’t take your presence for granted, holding your hand tightly in hers as you sit together in the glow of candles and the sound of hymns. afterward, she’s all soft smiles as she thanks you for being there with her. later that night, curled up together under a blanket, she reads to you from your favorite book while you rest your head on her shoulder.

— a/n: merry christmas to all those of you who celebrate today and/or tomorrow!! thank you for joining me on this writing challenge! i really hope you enjoyed reading these as much as loved writing them for you guys! you can find all 24 christmas fics here!! <3

[libby-for-life]

A trade I did with @sir-tater-of-the-tot

I hope you all like it! These are humans with animal-like attributes but I will refer to everyone as animals.

The Rabbit and The Wolf

Adam prowled through the dense, shadowy woods, each step careful and deliberate as he searched for his next meal. The underbrush was thick with brambles and fallen leaves, damp from the night's rain, and the air was heavy with the earthy scent of moss and decay. Being homeless was a harsh reality, especially for a wolf like him. The other creatures of the forest kept their distance, wary of his hungry eyes and ragged coat, leaving him with little company and fewer options for sustenance.

With the sun hanging low in the sky, casting long shadows through the trees, Adam moved stealthily along the winding path. He had learned to rely on a dark instinct—an understanding of which way the unsuspecting travelers might wander. His stomach growled as he recalled the taste of warm flesh, and a flicker of determination ignited within him. He had discovered that overtaking those who strayed too close to the edge of the woods was a plausible strategy; plucking them off the road and dragging them back to his hidden den.

As he licked his jaws, a primal hunger surged through him, the thought of the feast that awaited spurring him on. In the depths of his lair, the dim light filtering through the trees would reveal shadows and flickering movements, reminders of the life he had been forced to abandon. But for now, all that mattered was the hunt. He inhaled deeply, letting the scents of the forest fill his nostrils, ready to seize the opportunity that might come his way.

Adam considered himself fortunate that day. As he stealthily moved through the dense underbrush of the ancient forest, he spotted a solitary figure making its way along a narrow, winding path. This trail, flanked by towering trees with their leaves whispering in the gentle breeze, wasn’t frequented too often. If it were, the forest's inhabitants would start to notice the abrupt absence of their fellow creatures.

The figure drawing closer was a deer, its graceful silhouette framed by the dappled sunlight filtering through the canopy above. The deer moved fast, its delicate hooves barely making a sound on the leaf-strewn ground. To Adam, a starving wolf prowling just a short distance away, this unsuspecting mailman of the forest seemed like a perfect meal, the kind of opportunity that didn’t present itself every day. His heart raced with the prospect as he calculated his next move, the thrill of the hunt igniting his primal instincts.

It didn't take long for him to hunt the creature down and drag his bloody form to eat. Most animals had outgrown this way of life. Eating other animals and such was considered barbaric in polite society. Adam never claimed to be polite. Besides, he wouldn't be in this situation if it weren't for the fact that everyone despised wolves of any kind.

Adam sighed happily, chewing on a bone as he looked through the mail. He opened all of them, browsing for potential meals. Most were just bills and unimportant stuff. But, there was a letter that was addressed to someone named Lilith.

The wolf was aware of a particular creature known as Lilith. She resided in a quaint cottage nestled among towering trees, their branches intertwining to create a natural canopy that filtered sunlight into delicate patterns on the forest floor. Lilith was unlike any other; she possessed a wild spirit and a deep understanding of the untamed world around her.

Adam had learned to respect her solitude. Being a wolf as well, he felt a kinship with Lilith, knowing all too well the challenges and struggles of life in the wilderness. They shared an unspoken agreement to maintain distance, aware that it was often wiser to let each other be. Their lives intersected only in the fleeting moments when their paths brushed against one another, a silent acknowledgment of their shared existence.

Well, she was writing to someone named Lucifer. Adam's interest was high and they decided to open it.

Reading the letter was a bit boring and full of flattery and flowery words that made Adam's nose wrinkle. It then hit Adam that Lilith was once again pulling a con. He was used to her ways of seducing other animals through letters, getting them to come to her house before devouring them.

Adam happened to know that Lilith would be gone for a couple of weeks. The letter said he would be visiting tomorrow. Adam smirked and knew how to get his next meal. Lilith wouldn't ever have to know that he was near her domain, and he would be able to get an easy meal. With that set in mind, he left the bones of his meal to mix with the elements. No one would find him here and even if they did, Adam would be long gone.

XxX

Adam tracked the path to Lilith's secluded cottage with surprising ease, guided by the faint trail that wound through the dense underbrush. His muscles ached with fatigue, each step feeling heavier than the last, but the thought of reaching his destination ignited a spark of determination within him. The cottage, nestled among towering trees, promised the comfort of warmth and nourishment—something he had been yearning for during his long, arduous journey.

As he approached the weathered wooden door, a sly grin crept across his face, anticipation swirling in his stomach like a hungry beast. Tonight, he would lay in wait for Lilith’s elusive pen pal, his instincts sharpened and senses heightened. The air was thick with the earthy scent of moss and damp leaves, amplifying his primal hunger.

Adam took a deep breath to steady himself, feeling the coarse bristles of his jaw lock tight with eagerness as he pushed the door open. It creaked ominously on its hinges, a warning to whatever life lurked within. The moment he stepped inside, the dim light revealed the rustic charm of the cottage, but his mind was focused solely on the hunt. With his wolf instincts awakened, he felt the thrill of anticipation surge through him, the promise of a meal just inches away.

XxX

Adam stood in front of the mirror, pondering the best way to present himself before Lucifer's arrival. He knew first impressions mattered, especially when dealing with an animal of such enigmatic nature. With deliberate movements, he drew a warm bath, filling the air with the soothing scent of lavender. As he sank into the water, the warmth enveloped him, melting away any lingering tension.

Once clean, he meticulously brushed his fur until it shone, each stroke revealing the deep hues of brown that reflected the flickering candlelight in the room. The soft bristles glided over his coat, and he took a moment to admire his reflection, ensuring he looked polished and inviting.

To add the finishing touch, he reached for a delicate bottle of Lilith's perfume. With a few light spritzes, the air filled with a floral, almost intoxicating fragrance—one that he knew had an alluring effect, often causing animals to lose themselves in a dizzying haze, making it easier to eay them. Adam hoped this subtle allure would help bridge the gap between them when Lucifer finally stepped through the door, ensuring that their encounter would be anything but terrifying. At least at first.

Looking at the clock on the wall, Adam concluded he would be here any minute. If Lucifer questioned his appearance and why he was a boy instead of a girl, then he'd just say that he was scared to tell Lucifer the truth, afraid he would reject him. Hopefully, that would garner some sympathy points. A knock roused him from his thoughts.

Adam smirked and breathed in once before placing on a submissive face and heading towards the door. Opening it, his eyes widened to see a rabbit on the steps. Oh, it had been so long since he ate a rabbit. He forced himself not to drool as the rabbit said, "Hello! Are you Lilith?" Lucifer asked with a big smile on his face. "It's Lucifer!"

The rabbit stood before Adam, dressed in a flowing white peasant shirt that billowed gently with each movement, its fabric adorned with intricate patterns that hinted at a rural charm. Below, dark black pants clung to its legs, contrasting sharply with the crisp whiteness above. A striking red hood framed his face, the fabric vibrant against the muted tones of the surroundings, and large ears, tall and alert, poked through neatly woven slits at the top, twitching ever so slightly as if attuned to every sound.

As Adam took a closer look, he realized that this creature was not just any ordinary rabbit; it was a hare, distinguished by its long limbs and graceful posture. Though this hare was on the short side. A rush of hunger coursed through him, but he quickly smoothed his features, striving to project a calm demeanor. "Ah, yes. Come in," he said, ensuring his tone remained gentle and welcoming, despite the tension that tightened in his chest.

The hare's eyes sparkled with gratitude, and an inviting smile spread across its face. "Thank you!" He replied, his voice cheerful and warm, instantly easing the atmosphere.

"So, Lilith, I like your place," Lucifer said with a hint of appreciation in his voice. However, the name 'Lilith' grated on Adam's nerves. He despised being misidentified, especially in front of his prey. What he truly craved was the sound of his own name being spoken, a deeper recognition of his true self.

Taking a deep breath, Adam summoned his resolve to stir up some emotion, deciding it was time to bring out the waterworks. With his heart racing slightly, he adopted an expression laden with vulnerability. "Actually, I must confess something," he said, letting his gaze linger on Lucifer.

He made sure his eyes shone with an artificial sheen, reminiscent of someone on the brink of tears. The thought of confessing hung heavily in the air, and as he stared into Lucifer's inquisitive eyes, he felt a mixture of adrenaline and exhilaration. "My name is not Lilith. It’s Adam." The revelation hung on his lips, charged with a tension that was palpable.

He took a moment to let the words sink in before continuing, his voice almost trembling. "I... pretended that I was a female because I was afraid you would reject me..." As he spoke, he exaggerated the quiver of his lip, trying to summon that flicker of sympathy he so desperately needed.

But as he glanced up at Lucifer, he was met not with the shock or horror he anticipated, but with a look of genuine compassion. Lucifer's eyes softened as he regarded Adam, and he felt the triumphant recognition he craved and a bubbling snort threaten to escape him—a mixture of incredulity and amusement at how easy it was to manipulate him.

“Oh, Adam. You didn’t need to weave such a web of deception. I understand that your kind is not looked on favorably.” Lucifer said softly, his voice filled with a blend of empathy and concern. He stepped closer, his gaze piercing and yet understanding. Adam felt a warmth flush across his cheeks at the admission; the hare's words struck a chord deep within him. It was painfully true—his kind had been unjustly treated by both nature and animals alike. The world had become a relentless battleground, demanding constant vigilance from wolves like him. He was always on alert, aware that danger lurked around every corner, hunting wasn’t just a means of survival; it often required cunning and subterfuge.

As Lucifer continued speaking, his voice carried a gentle sorrow. "I'm sorry if I ever gave you any reason to question my sincerity. I understand the burdens that weigh heavily upon you." The hare’s sympathy cut through Adam's defensiveness, stirring an uncomfortable vulnerability within him. He had spent so long in the shadows, relying on deceit to fill his belly, that the idea of trust felt foreign and unsettling. The two of them stood in a moment of silence, the air thick with unspoken truths and shared struggles, each reflecting on the harsh realities of their existence.

Suddenly, the hare lifted his head, his sensitive nose twitching as he took in the scents swirling around him. His large, round eyes darted from side to side like he was scanning the surroundings for any potential threats. Adam glanced around, his instincts kicking in as he searched for the source of the hare's agitation. The only scent that filled his nostrils was the lingering perfume he had absentmindedly sprayed on himself earlier, sweet and floral mixed with something he couldn't name, but it was devoid of any danger.

Just then, Lucifer turned to Adam. His gaze was piercing, imbued with an intensity that made Adam’s heart race and caused him to flinch slightly. It was a reminder of their stark differences; Adam was a wolf, powerful and confident, while Lucifer was a timid creature, a mere rabbit. The contrast was striking. And yet…why did it feel different?

“Adam… oh, you naughty puppy,” Lucifer exclaimed with a playful lilt in his voice. “I didn't realize you were interested in that sort of thing.” His tone was teasing, and there was a glimmer of something in his eyes that suggested...something dark between them, one that Adam couldn’t quite decipher at that moment but felt he was about to find out.

"If I had known this was what you meant by asking me to come visit," Lucifer said, an edge creeping into his voice, "I would have come more prepared."

He felt a chill run down his spine as Lucifer stalked closer, a devilish smirk curling at the corners of his lips. The intensity of Lucifer's gaze deepened, his red eyes shifting into a dark, predatory glimmer that sent a wave of unease coursing through Adam. This can't be happening, he thought, shaking his head slightly. Adam was the wolf here, the one with the power, the natural predator in this unsettling scenario.

Yet, as Lucifer closed the distance between them, Adam's confidence began to wane, evaporating like mist under the rising sun. A growing sense of vulnerability washed over him, making him acutely aware of how small he felt in the face of Lucifer's looming presence.

With nowhere left to retreat, Adam's back pressed against the hard, unyielding surface of the wall behind him. He could feel the weight of his own heartbeat as he glanced up into Lucifer's eyes, realizing that the balance of power had shifted in ways he never anticipated.

"I can't wait to taste you~."

"What—"

Adam was pushed to the floor, pinned under strong arms. The wolf gasped, stunned at the turn of events. This was not how he envisioned things going for him. At this point, he was supposed to have eaten Lucifer and make his escape. Not whatever was going on here!

"Adam...you smell divine!" Lucifer exclaimed as he sniffed at Adam’s neck, his arms easily pinning Adam's down. How was he so strong?! "All this for me? You really shouldn't have but I accept!"

Accept what?!

Adam gasped again as his clothes, or Lilith's depending on how you look at it, was ripped from his body. He shouldn't have been so embarrassed by that, he was used to hunting without them anyway but for some reason, it made him feel vulnerable.

"Oh, you look delicious!" Lucifer complimented, making him flush red. Hands roamed his body but Adam could only squirm in embarrassment and slight fear as Lucifer touched him everywhere. A hand swiped down below and Adam whimpered, hating how needy he sounded.

“Oh my! An even better surprise!” Lucifer said as his hand came back up to show off his slick-covered hand. Adam blushed horribly, knowing exactly what he found down there. Adam was born with both parts and to a hare built to breed…it must have been like finding treasure.

He could feel the slick slowly dripping down his thighs and Adam, despite knowing he could break free if he truly wanted, let out a frustrated whine and tried to ignore the ache between his legs. His cock was at half mast, dripping pre-cum.

“You were asking for it with that perfume…” Lucifer growled before taking off his own pants. Adam's jaw dropped at how massive he looked. What he lacked in height he obviously made up in other ways.

The scent of Adam's own arousal made it hard to focus. Every movement and touch felt like Lucifer was lighting a match under his nerves. Fingers were quick to spread him as he moaned at the touch. If he had been more lucid, he would have thought about Lucifer's last sentence about the perfume he was wearing.

The perfume was designed to make animals horny…specifically to mate. That was how Lilith got her prey. If Adam had read the bottle he never would have put any on. As such, he was in too much pleasure to care.

Lucifer was swiftly in entering him and Adam whimpered at the feeling of being whole. He had no idea you could feel this good! He moaned as Lucifer went fast, growling down at him as he took him on the floor.

“I'm gonna fuck you. Fill you with my babies. Then, fuck you while you're pregnant with them.” Adam could only drool at his words. Never had he experienced something this stimulating. Not even when he went into heat.

“More!” Adam cried as Lucifer bottomed out. “Faster!” Lucifer growled and obeyed, fucking Adam as hard as he could. Adam cried, tears of pleasure rolling down his face as he was rocked into at a speed only a rabbit could do.

They did this for several hours and in many different positions. On the wall, on the bed, on the table and even outside. Lucifer was determined to impregnate Adam.

When they were done, they collapsed onto the bed, feeling drained. Adam was tired but satisfied. Lucifer sleepily looked at Adam and muttered, “You never wrote to me, did you?”

Well, shit.

XxX

Adam let out a frustrated groan as he propped himself up on his elbows, feeling the weight of his pregnancy settle heavily on him. Every movement felt sluggish, a reminder of how difficult it was to navigate even the simplest tasks. The cravings gnawed at him, and right now, nothing sounded better than the sweet, juicy burst of strawberries dipped in rich, velvety chocolate.

Beside him, Lucifer sat with a calm demeanor, his presence a source of comfort amidst Adam's discomfort. He gently cradled Adam’s feet in his hands, his fingers expertly working over the arches and soles, applying just the right pressure to ease the tension. Each tender stroke made Adam's body relax, and he couldn't help but let out a soft whimper of relief. Lucifer looked up at him, his eyes filled with affection, the gentle smile on his face a mirror of the love they shared.

"I got you," he said softly, his voice smooth and soothing, laced with warmth that enveloped Adam like a cozy blanket. "Don’t worry, we can take this one step at a time." Adam felt a wave of gratitude wash over him, knowing that Lucifer was there, supporting him through every struggle and craving.

Strangely enough, Lucifer found himself remarkably unfazed by Adam's earlier deception regarding his correspondence. It wasn’t the lie that ruffled his tail; rather, it was the audacity of Adam’s bold proclamation that he intended to make a meal out of him. With a resigned sigh, Lucifer had gazed at Adam with mock exasperation and remarked, "You are very lucky you're cute." As he spoke, he playfully pinched Adam's cheek, a gesture that served both as a lighthearted reprimand and an affectionate acknowledgment of Adam’s endearing charm.

Despite the unusual circumstances, Lucifer’s irritation melted away with surprising ease, especially when the revelation hit him that Adam was pregnant. The news shifted the entire atmosphere, filling it with a sense of warmth and anticipation. Lucifer's demeanor transformed as he realized the implications of this twist in their story, his irritation replaced by a mix of concern and excitement for the future they would share.

As Adam had settled into the warmth of Lucifer's burrow, the air filled with a sense of newfound freedom for the hare, who was eager to dote on him. The wolf let out a contented sigh, closing his eyes as he felt the tension melt away from his body under Lucifer's gentle touch. The soft pressure of his partner's fingers kneading into the arches of his feet was blissful, and he could hear the subtle sounds of the forest outside—a world that felt both distant and safe now that he was no longer out in it constantly.

“Thank you…” Adam murmured softly, a sense of gratitude threading through his voice. He opened his eyes just in time to catch Lucifer's gaze, shining with affection and concern. The way Lucifer smiled at him made Adam’s heart swell with warmth.

“Of course, Adam. I’m so glad to see you feeling better,” Lucifer replied, his tone soothing and full of love.

The challenges of pregnancy had weighed heavily on Adam, each day bringing its own set of struggles, both physically and emotionally. But within the comfort of Lucifer's embrace, he felt a soothing reassurance. Having such devoted support made the journey not only bearable but also an experience filled with unexpected joy and tenderness. It was a quiet moment of intimacy, a promise that together they could face whatever lay ahead.

"Hmm...keep this up, and I'll definitely let you fuck me..."

Lucifer's smile turned into a smirk. "I'm glad...I've been missing your taste~” He gently kissed Adam on the lips and giggled at his flustered expression.

[kelcemenow]

Return To Sender - Chapter 2.

Pairing Travis Kelce x Reader

Words 1551

Warnings Nothing, we're still setting the scene. But there's a smidge of flirting!

CHAPTER 1

CHAPTER 2

The radio played softly in the background as you meticulously proof-read the last paragraph that you had quickly typed. You had woken up early, motivated and determined to have your first draft finished and sent to your editor, meaning you hadn't even changed out of your pyjamas before sitting down at your desk to work.

Reggie was still snoozing in his bed when you leaned back in your chair, scrolling carefully to check again for any obvious spelling errors or punctuation mistakes. You adjusted your posture and attached the document to an email to Sarah, your editor, clicking the send button with a small smile. Rolling your neck, you rose from your chair and glanced around your office, a small collection of brown boxes piled in one corner and a stack of framed photos and pictures that you hadn't gotten round to hang onto the walls yet. As you checked your watch for the current time, your doorbell rang, causing Reggie to lift his head excitedly.

"Stay there, Reggie." You said, holding your palm out with the verbal command.

The old, original wooden floorboards creaked as you paced towards the front door, the sound from the radio growing louder as you approached the living room. Turning the key in the lock, you opened the door to see your neighbour standing on your front porch.

"Hey, I...uh...brought your mail again. They keep delivering it to my house." He said with a sheepish grin.

You took the small stack of letters from him, "Thanks. Although, you could've just left them in my mailbox again?"

His eyebrows lowered slightly, "Yeah. But I figured bringing them to you was the neighbourly thing to do?"

You smiled, biting your bottom lip awkwardly in the short silence.

"Anyway-" He started.

"Would you like to come in for some coffee?"

His eyes twinkled for a moment and he lifted his hand to rub the back of his neck, "Uhh...sure. Thanks."

You turned around and headed for the kitchen, leaving him to close the door behind him and instantly wondering if the coffee invite to a complete stranger was a mistake.

Meandering around the large dining table that was situated in the middle of the kitchen, you reached your coffee maker and opened the cabinet above it, your hand ghosting over the myriad of options, "Latte, cappuccino, americano?"

He stood in the kitchen doorway with his hands in his pockets, "Americano, please, thank you."

You nodded towards one of the dining room chairs as you grabbed the correct coffee pods that you needed, "My Mother would be so disappointed in me. She always told me not to invite strange men into my house for coffee."

The man laughed as he sat down and dipped his head, resting his elbows on the table and interlocking his fingers, "I suppose I should've introduced myself first, huh?"

"It's only fair. I mean, you know my name from snooping at my mail."

"Hey, I was being a good neighbour and bringing it to you!"

Your shoulders shook as you chuckled, "I'm just messing with you! I appreciate it, really."

"Travis. I'm Travis."

You pushed the coffee pod into the machine with a soft click and turned to face him, "It's nice to meet you, Travis."

He smiled back at you, the creases around his eyes deepening, "So, you like it here?"

"Yeah. I mean, I only moved in on Sunday so it might still be too early to tell. But so far...all good." You carefully filled the mug with coffee before placing it down onto the table.

He grabbed the drink with his large hands and pulled it closer to him, nodding his head in appreciation, "So, where are you from?"

You finished making your own drink and took a seat opposite to him, "Chicago, originally. But my family moved down to Atlanta when I was young. Then I went to New York, Buffalo...Kentucky for a little bit. And now I'm here." You shrugged.

"Wow, that's a lot of moving."

You laughed under your breath and glanced at another stack of unpacked boxes by the refrigerator, "Yeah, you'd think I'd be better at it by now."

Travis' eyes darted towards your outfit, "Are your clothes still in boxes?"

You looked down, confusion washing over you before noticing that you were wearing your pyjamas. A warmness rushed to your cheeks and your hands flew upwards to cover your face subconsciously, "Oh my God, I didn't realise I was still wearing these."

"It was either that or it was some new fashion that I didn't know about."

"Well, this is embarrassing." Your head dropped, shaking from side to side.

Travis sipped his coffee quickly, "Nah, it's kinda cute."

You looked up at him through your eyelashes, your chest burning from his comment. Almost immediately, Reggie came bounding into the room, seemingly impatient from waiting in his bed.

"Awww, hey big guy!" Travis called out, allowing Reggie to place his front two paws on his knees as he praised him, "You're a good boy aren't you? You're a good boy!"

You smiled as Reggie's tail swayed wildly, "I take it you're a dog guy?"

"I love dogs. I got two at home." His head tipped towards the window that faced the street, "If you ever need a dog walking partner, I'm your guy."

"That would be awesome. Reggie needs a lot of walks so sometimes we are out for hours just walking for miles." You stood up to retrieve a treat from the glass jar on top of the refrigerator, "Luckily, I work from home and for myself so my days are pretty flexible."

You handed the treat to Travis, which he accepted gladly, as did Reggie, "What do you do?"

"Oh, I'm a writer." You said, almost coyly.

"A writer?" His eyebrows lifted, "That's impressive. Would I have read anything of yours?"

You folded your arms, "Probably not, unless you read romance novels often?"

"Hey, I can be a romantic guy!" He winked, causing a tightness again in your torso. "Wait...Y/N L/N?"

You winced, unsure of his reaction, "Yeah?"

"My Mom loves your books!" He called out, his eyes wide and his hands gesturing towards you, "She's read like...all of them!"

"Yeah, I get that a lot." You nodded and rolled your eyes, "My demographic is single working women and Moms."

Travis smiled, "She's going to be blown away when I tell her that you're my new neighbour!"

"I could sign a couple of copies if you think she'd like that?"

"Are you kidding? She'd love that!" He clapped his hands together, "Imma get some serious good son points for this!"

You giggled, "Glad I could help with that!" You took another sip from your coffee, "So, what do you do? Apart from being a part-time mail man?"

Travis smiled widely, "I'd be a great mail man! I'd sing on my rounds, I'd tell jokes, I'd dance down the street, people would love me as their mail man!"

"I expect that tomorrow morning then!"

"You got yourself a deal." He tipped the rest of the coffee into his mouth, using his thumb to wipe away a drop that escaped onto his bottom lip, "I play football."

You leant forward slightly, intrigued, "Like, play football? Or play play football?"

Travis' lips thinned as he smiled, "What's the difference?"

"Do I have a football star in my kitchen, is what I'm asking?"

He shrugged slightly, "Well, it depends what you mean by 'star'?"

Your mind suddenly flashed with information, and Travis' face became instantly recognisable, "Travis Kelce? Oh my God, you're Travis Kelce? I can't believe I didn't recognise you, I saw you on SNL!"

He rubbed his beard with his left hand, his right one still gripping his empty coffee mug, "Yeah, that's me."

"Oh my God, I...I can't believe I'm having coffee...in my pyjamas might I add, with Travis Kelce." You choked slightly on your words, "My brother loves you!"

"Hey, invite him over! I'll get my Mom here, we'll have a barbeque and make our families happy!"

You laughed, leaning forward to lightly tap his arm, instantly noticing how solid his muscles were, "We could get married and maybe their brains would explode!"

Travis' laughter bellowed out as he slapped his hand down on the table.

"Wow, that was weird." You pressed your fingers to your temples and stared straight ahead at Travis, who was clutching his stomach, "I don't know why I said that!"

"Relax, Y/N. It was funny." He said breathlessly.

The corners of your mouth lifted and you exhaled a relieved sigh.

"Listen, I gotta go. But thank you for the coffee, it's been really cool getting to know you."

You picked up the two empty coffee cups from the table and placed them into the sink as Travis said his goodbyes to Reggie. Smoothing over your pink satin camisole top, you made your way to the front door and opened it, letting the fresh air and bright mid-morning light pool into the hallway.

"I'll see you around?" Travis said as he arrived next to you at the door, "And try and have some clothes on next time, huh?"

You blushed as you watched him skip down the few steps and onto the pathway, turning quickly to flash you another smile.

______________________________________________________________

Not much to say for this one, it's still building somewhat! I am always open to suggestions as to what should happen with my ongoing series' so feel free to send a message or an inbox with any ideas!

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[fr0stf4ll]

Forge of Starlight - Part 8

paring; Azriel x reader

summary; In the heart of Velaris, a skilled blacksmith's quiet life is turned upside down when unexpected bonds begin to form with the enigmatic Spymaster of the Night Court. As she navigates the challenges of her craft and the complexities of newfound relationships, she discovers that love and loyalty may be the strongest forces of all in a world where darkness often lingers just beyond the light.

word count ; 4k

warning; fight, mention of death, mention of blood.

notes; hope that you enjoy the chapter ... <3

here is the link for part 7 or part 9

---

The night had never felt so cold, so empty. As you and Azriel tore through the streets of Velaris, the city that once felt like a haven now loomed around you with an unfamiliar menace. Every shadow seemed deeper, every corner more treacherous as you sprinted toward the House of Wind, where you knew Rhysand and the others would be. The pendant and the blood-stained letter were clenched in your hand, the weight of them pulling you down like anchors.

The wind whipped through your hair, but you barely noticed it, your mind consumed with the image of Stellan’s lifeless body and the terrifying absence of Alex. The boy you had promised to protect, the one who had become a part of your heart, was out there somewhere—alone, scared, or worse. You couldn’t let your mind go there, couldn’t let yourself think of what they might be doing to him.

Beside you, Azriel’s face was set in stone, his wings beating powerfully as he flew, his grip on you tight as he carried you through the air. His shadows were darker than ever, swirling around him in a violent storm, mirroring the rage and fear that you knew was building inside him. You hadn’t exchanged many words since leaving the apartment—there was nothing to say, not until you could find Alex and bring him back.

When you reached the House of Wind, you barely had time to register the shocked expressions on the faces of the others as you burst through the doors, Azriel’s shadows flickering like dark flames around you.

Rhysand was the first to approach, his eyes narrowing as he took in your appearance, the blood-stained letter, the wild fear in your eyes. “What happened?”

You could barely find your voice, but when you did, it came out broken, trembling with the weight of what you had just witnessed. “They’ve taken Alex. They killed Stellan… they took him.”

Cassian was on his feet in an instant, his expression darkening with fury. “Who? Who took him?”

Azriel stepped forward, his voice low and filled with a deadly calm. “The same people who sent the letter. They left this behind.” He handed the blood-stained letter to Rhysand, who took it with a grim expression.

Mor moved closer to you, her hand resting gently on your shoulder, but you could see the tension in her eyes, the way her fingers trembled just slightly. “We’ll find him, Y/N. I promise you, we’ll find him.”

Rhysand’s eyes darkened as he read the letter, his grip tightening on the parchment. “They want you to complete the order, don’t they? This is their leverage.”

You nodded, your voice barely above a whisper. “Yes… but I won’t do it. I won’t make that weapon for them.”

Azriel’s hand found yours, squeezing it tightly. “You won’t have to. We’ll find another way.”

Rhysand looked at you, his expression torn between rage and determination. “They’re trying to force your hand. They think that by taking Alex, they can control you. But we won’t let them.”

Cassian growled, his fists clenched at his sides. “We need to find out who they are and where they’re keeping him. Now.”

“I’ll have my spies start searching immediately,” Azriel said, his tone hard. “Every lead, every possible location—nothing is off-limits.”

Rhysand nodded, his mind clearly already working through the possibilities. “I’ll reach out to the other High Lords, see if anyone’s heard of a group operating like this. We need to move quickly.”

Mor’s eyes were filled with concern as she looked at you. “Y/N, do you have any idea who might be behind this? Anyone you’ve encountered in the past who could be connected?”

You shook your head, feeling the helplessness wash over you. “No… I don’t know. I’ve never seen that symbol before, never dealt with anyone like this.”

The room fell into a heavy silence, the gravity of the situation pressing down on all of you. The stakes had never been higher, and the danger had never felt more real. But even in the midst of the fear and uncertainty, there was a resolve that burned in each of you—a determination to bring Alex back, no matter what it took.

Rhysand’s voice broke through the silence, his tone firm. “We’ll find him, Y/N. And when we do, they’ll regret ever touching him.”

Azriel’s hand was still in yours, his grip steady, his presence a source of strength that you clung to. “We’ll bring him home,” he whispered, his voice filled with a quiet intensity that left no room for doubt. “I swear it.”

With that promise hanging in the air, the planning began in earnest. Every resource at the Night Court’s disposal was put to use, every contact, every spy, every piece of information that could lead you to Alex. The hours passed in a blur of activity, but no matter how much was done, it never felt like enough.

As the night stretched on, you found yourself standing by the window, staring out at the darkened city below. The silence was oppressive, the weight of the unknown pressing down on you with a force that made it hard to breathe.

Azriel appeared beside you, his presence comforting in the quiet darkness. “Y/N,” he said softly, his voice breaking through the haze of your thoughts. “We’ll find him.”

You turned to look at him, your eyes burning with unshed tears. “What if… what if we’re too late?”

He reached out, gently cupping your face in his hands, his thumbs brushing away the tears that had begun to fall. “We won’t be. I won’t let that happen.”

The conviction in his voice, the unwavering certainty in his eyes, gave you the strength to nod, to believe in the promise he was making. “Thank you, Azriel.”

He leaned down, pressing a soft kiss to your forehead, a tender gesture that spoke of his own fears and the comfort he was trying to offer you. “We’ll bring him home,” he repeated, his voice a quiet vow.

The night stretched on, and the darkness deepened, but you knew that you wouldn’t face it alone. Whatever lay ahead, you would face it together—with Azriel, with Rhysand, with Cassian and Mor. And no matter how dark the path became, you would not stop until Alex was safe, until the boy who had come to mean so much to you was back in your arms.

But as you stood there, staring out into the night, you couldn’t shake the feeling that this was only the beginning—that the road ahead would be long, and fraught with dangers you had never imagined. And in the depths of your heart, you knew that nothing would ever be the same again.

The following days were a blur of restless activity, each moment filled with a tension that gnawed at your insides. The Night Court’s network of spies had been mobilized, scouring every corner of Prythian for any trace of Alex. You barely slept, the worry gnawing at you every moment, and when you did close your eyes, you were haunted by the image of Stellan’s lifeless body and the fear of what might be happening to Alex.

It was early morning when Azriel came to you, his expression grim. You had been pacing the floor of your shop, trying to keep your hands busy by working on a blade that no longer held your interest. When you saw the look on his face, you knew he had news.

“They’ve found something,” Azriel said quietly, his voice laced with the tension of the past days.

Your heart leapt into your throat as you turned to face him. “Where? What did they find?”

Azriel took a step closer, his shadows swirling around him as if reflecting the storm of emotions he was trying to keep in check. “There’s been some activity at the border between the Night Court and the Day Court. A few of my spies picked up traces of unusual magic—a residual signature that matches what we found on the letter. It’s faint, but it’s something.”

You felt a flicker of hope, quickly followed by a surge of determination. “Then that’s where we need to go.”

Azriel’s expression darkened, and he shook his head. “Y/N, I don’t think you should go. This could be a trap. They might be expecting you to follow this lead.”

Your jaw tightened, the resolve in your chest hardening like steel. “I have to go, Azriel. This is my fight. They took Alex because of me. I can’t just sit here while someone else handles it.”

Azriel stepped closer, his eyes intense as he reached out to take your hands in his. “I understand that, but you have to think about the bigger picture. If something happens to you—”

“Then I’ll face it,” you interrupted, your voice firm. “But I can’t let someone else do what I’m meant to take care of. Alex is out there, scared and alone. He needs me, Az. And I can’t—” Your voice broke, but you quickly gathered yourself. “I can’t live with myself if I don’t try.”

Azriel’s hands tightened around yours, his gaze searching your face as if trying to find a way to convince you otherwise. But he knew you too well, knew that once you had set your mind on something, there was no turning back.

“Then I’m coming with you,” he said, his tone leaving no room for argument. “We’ll go together. But we do this carefully, Y/N. No rushing in without a plan. We can’t afford to make mistakes.”

You nodded, relief and gratitude washing over you in equal measure. “Thank you, Azriel.”

He leaned down, pressing a soft kiss to your forehead, his breath warm against your skin. “We’ll find him, Y/N. And we’ll bring him home.”

With the decision made, the two of you set about preparing for the journey ahead. There was no time to waste—every moment that passed was another moment that Alex was in danger. But as you gathered your weapons and prepared for what was to come, you couldn’t shake the feeling that the road ahead would be more dangerous than anything you had ever faced before.

As the hours passed and the preparations were completed, you found yourself standing at the edge of the city, the sun just beginning to rise over the horizon. Azriel was beside you, his wings unfurled and ready to carry you both into the unknown. The weight of the situation pressed down on you, but there was no hesitation in your heart.

You turned to Azriel, your voice steady despite the fear gnawing at your insides. “Let’s go.”

And with that, the two of you took to the skies, leaving Velaris behind as you flew toward the border, toward the danger that awaited you. The wind whipped through your hair, the landscape below blurring as you soared higher, faster, driven by the unrelenting need to find Alex and bring him back.

But even as you flew, the dark clouds gathering on the horizon seemed to echo the storm brewing in your heart—a storm that would not be calmed until you had faced whatever awaited you at the border, and until Alex was safe once more.

——

The journey to the border was intense, the air thick with tension as you and Azriel flew across the vast landscape. The wind howled in your ears, but you barely noticed it, your mind focused on the task ahead. Every beat of Azriel’s wings brought you closer to the danger, closer to whatever trap awaited you at the border between the Night and Day Courts.

You had brought your best swords with you, the ones that had seen you through countless battles and challenges. They hung at your sides, their weight familiar and reassuring as you soared through the sky. You knew the path ahead would be fraught with danger, and you were prepared to face whatever came your way.

As the day began to wane, the sun dipping low on the horizon, you and Azriel landed in a dense forest not far from the border. The trees towered above you, their branches forming a protective canopy that blocked out most of the fading light. The air was cool and damp, the ground soft beneath your boots as you made your way through the underbrush.

The dense forest at the border between the Night and Day Courts was eerily quiet, the only sound the soft rustling of leaves as a cool breeze whispered through the trees. You and Azriel moved cautiously, your senses heightened, every shadow and flicker of movement catching your attention.

You were both on edge, knowing that the slightest misstep could lead to danger. And then, as if on cue, the silence was shattered by the sudden rustle of leaves, the snap of a twig, and the unmistakable sound of steel being drawn from its sheath.

A group of figures emerged from the shadows, their faces obscured by dark hoods and masks. Their movements were swift, coordinated—a group of trained killers who had clearly been waiting for you. Without hesitation, you drew your swords, the familiar weight of the blades bringing a surge of confidence as you prepared to face the threat head-on.

The first of the attackers lunged at you, his blade slicing through the air with deadly precision. You met his strike with a powerful parry, the clash of steel ringing out through the trees. Without missing a beat, you pivoted on your heel, bringing your other sword around in a swift arc that cut through the attacker’s defenses, sending him stumbling back with a grunt of pain.

But there was no time to pause, no time to catch your breath. Another attacker was on you in an instant, his movements fast and brutal. You sidestepped his initial thrust, your body moving with the grace and speed of someone who had spent years honing their skills. As his blade passed harmlessly by your side, you brought your own sword up in a fluid motion, slashing across his chest and sending him crashing to the ground.

Azriel was beside you, his shadows swirling around him like a living storm as he fought off his own assailants. His blades moved with lethal precision, every strike calculated, every movement efficient. The air around him seemed to darken, the shadows lending him an almost otherworldly aura as he cut through the attackers with ease.

But even with your combined skills, the attackers were relentless, their numbers greater than you had anticipated. You found yourself surrounded, forced to fend off strikes from all sides as the enemy pressed in. The clash of steel and the grunts of exertion filled the air, your senses overwhelmed by the chaos of battle.

One of the attackers managed to get close, his blade slicing across your arm before you could fully deflect it. You hissed in pain, but the wound was shallow, barely more than a scratch. As you glanced down, you saw the blue flames flicker across the cut, healing the wound almost instantly. The flames danced along your skin, sealing the flesh as if the injury had never occurred.

The attacker hesitated, his eyes widening in shock as he saw the flames. You didn’t give him a chance to recover. With a fierce cry, you drove your sword through his defenses, the blade biting deep into his side. He fell with a choked gasp, his body crumpling to the forest floor.

But the momentary distraction had left you vulnerable. Another attacker seized the opportunity, launching a quick strike that you barely managed to evade. The blade grazed your side, cutting through your tunic and drawing blood. But once again, the blue flames flared to life, closing the wound almost as quickly as it had been made.

Azriel noticed the flames as well, his eyes flicking to you even as he dispatched another attacker with a swift, brutal strike. There was a flash of concern in his gaze, quickly replaced by a renewed determination as he fought his way to your side.

The battle raged on, but with each passing moment, you and Azriel began to turn the tide. Your swords moved in perfect harmony, cutting through the ranks of attackers with deadly precision. The blue flames continued to flicker across your skin, healing every wound that dared to mar your flesh, their light casting an eerie glow in the darkening forest.

Finally, after what felt like an eternity, the last of the attackers fell to the ground, his lifeless body joining the others in the clearing. You stood there, panting, your swords still gripped tightly in your hands as you scanned the area for any remaining threats. But the forest had fallen silent once more, the only sound the ragged breathing of you and Azriel as you slowly lowered your weapons.

Azriel sheathed his blades, his shadows slowly receding as he turned to you, his eyes filled with a mix of concern and admiration. “You handled yourself well,” he said, his voice rough from exertion. “But those flames… I’ve never seen anything like that.”

You nodded, still catching your breath as you looked down at the place where the wound had been. “It’s… a part of me. They’ve always been there, ever since I was young. They heal me, protect me.”

Azriel stepped closer, his gaze intense as he studied your face. “They’re remarkable. You’re remarkable.”

You managed a small smile, the tension of the fight beginning to ebb away. “Thank you, Azriel. But we should keep moving. There might be more of them out there.”

He nodded, his eyes lingering on you for a moment longer before he turned to scan the area. “Agreed. But first, let’s rest. We need to regain our strength before we push on.”

The two of you found a small clearing a short distance away, where you quickly set up a makeshift camp. Azriel gathered wood for a fire while you kept watch, your swords resting beside you, ready to be drawn at a moment’s notice.

The night was quiet, the only sounds the crackling of the fire and the distant rustle of leaves in the wind. The flames danced between you, casting flickering shadows across the ground as you both settled down to rest.

Azriel’s gaze was thoughtful as he watched you, and after a moment, he spoke. “Those swords… they’re not just weapons to you, are they?”

You glanced down at the blades resting beside you, the memories of their creation and the battles they had seen flooding your mind. “No, they’re not.”

Azriel waited, his expression patient, and after a moment, you began to speak, your voice soft as you shared the story of your swords.

“This one,” you said, lifting the longer of the two blades, “was the first sword I ever forged on my own. I was still an apprentice at the time, working under my master. It took me months to get it right—every strike of the hammer, every fold of the metal had to be perfect. My master wouldn’t let me use it until he was sure it was ready.”

You ran your fingers along the blade, the steel cool and smooth beneath your touch. “It’s seen me through some of the hardest fights of my life. Every time I draw it, I remember the lessons my master taught me—the importance of patience, of precision, of never letting fear control you.”

Azriel nodded, his eyes reflecting the firelight as he listened. “And the other one?”

You smiled faintly, lifting the shorter dagger from its sheath. “This one was a gift from my master when I completed my apprenticeship. He said it was a symbol of my journey, of everything I had overcome to reach that point. It’s small, but it’s sharp—like me, he used to say.”

You chuckled softly at the memory, the sound tinged with a hint of sadness. “These weapons are more than just tools. They’re a part of me, a testament to the life I’ve lived, the battles I’ve fought. They’ve been with me through everything.”

Azriel’s gaze softened, his voice low as he spoke. “I understand. My blades… they carry the weight of every life I’ve taken, every mission I’ve completed. They’re a part of who I am, just as yours are a part of you.”

You nodded, feeling a sense of connection between the two of you—something deeper than just the bond forged in battle. It was a shared understanding, a recognition of the sacrifices you had both made, the burdens you both carried.

The fire crackled softly between you, its warm glow casting flickering shadows across the clearing. The conversation had lulled into a comfortable silence, the weight of the journey and the battle you had just fought settling over you both. The night air was cool, but the warmth of the fire and the presence of Azriel beside you kept the chill at bay.

As you sat there, lost in thought, you felt a gentle, almost playful tug at your hair. You glanced over at Azriel, but his hands were resting on his knees, nowhere near you. It wasn’t until you noticed the faint, wispy tendrils of shadow curling around your hair that you realized what was happening.

Azriel’s shadows, usually dark and brooding, seemed to have taken on a life of their own. They twisted and danced around your head, teasing the strands of your hair as if playing a game. One of them curled around your wrist, its touch surprisingly warm, almost affectionate.

You looked at Azriel, your eyebrows raised in surprise. “Are they… playing with me?”

Azriel followed your gaze, his own eyes widening slightly as he observed his shadows’ behavior. “It seems so,” he said, his voice tinged with a hint of wonder. “They don’t usually do that. They’re… not like this with anyone else.”

You tilted your head, watching as the shadows continued to weave through your hair, their movements gentle and almost tender. “Why do you think they’re doing it?”

Azriel’s gaze softened as he studied the shadows, his expression thoughtful. “I’m not sure. They’re usually more reserved, more… cautious around others. But with you…” He trailed off, his voice quiet as he watched the shadows curl around your fingers, almost as if they were holding on to you. “It’s like they’re drawn to you.”

You couldn’t help but smile at the thought, reaching out to let one of the shadows wrap around your hand. It felt warm, like a gentle breeze against your skin. “Maybe they know I’m not a threat. Or maybe they just like me.”

Azriel’s lips curved into a small smile, his eyes meeting yours with a softness that made your heart skip a beat. “I think they do. They’ve been doing this more and more whenever you’re around.”

You chuckled softly, the sound light in the quiet of the night. “I suppose I should be flattered. It’s not every day you’re befriended by shadows.”

Azriel’s smile widened, and there was a warmth in his gaze that made you feel as if the world had narrowed down to just the two of you, sitting by the fire with the night wrapped around you like a protective cloak. “You should be. They’re very particular about who they let close.”

The shadows continued their gentle play, weaving through your hair and around your fingers, their touch light and almost soothing. It was a strange, but not unwelcome sensation—one that made you feel connected to Azriel in a way you hadn’t expected.

After a moment, Azriel’s voice broke the silence, his tone soft. “It’s a good sign, you know. That they’re comfortable around you. It means they trust you.”

You looked up at him, your smile fading into something more serious, more intimate. “And what about you, Azriel? Do you trust me?”

He held your gaze, his shadows still swirling around you, their movements slowing as if to match the rhythm of your heartbeat. “Yes,” he said quietly, the word carrying a weight that made your chest tighten. “I trust you, Y/N. More than I’ve trusted anyone in a long time.”

The sincerity in his voice, the openness in his eyes, made your breath catch. You reached out, your hand resting on his, the connection between you deepening in that moment of shared vulnerability.

“Thank you,” you whispered, your voice barely audible over the crackling of the fire. “That means more to me than you know.”

Azriel’s hand turned beneath yours, his fingers intertwining with yours as he gave your hand a gentle squeeze. The shadows, now more subdued, continued to dance around the two of you, their presence a comforting reminder that, despite the darkness ahead, you were not alone.

And as you sat there, hand in hand with Azriel, the warmth of the fire and the gentle touch of the shadows surrounding you, you knew that whatever lay ahead, you would face it with him by your side.

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[weirdly-specific-but-ok]

pt XIV good omens season 2 (still not traumatic) episode 2

Here we go. It might not have been traumatic, but it has made me utterly in love with a fictional character. Great.

While everyone runs around between episode 1 and 2 to use the loo or fetch emotional support fruit, in preparation for my inevitable gay panic for Crowley, I eat an emotional support banana as the intro sequence plays.

I realise too late that bananas remind me of fellatio.

The episode begins. There are incoherent screams of BILDADDY through the chat. The phrase religious fervour and ecstasy comes to mind. I do not say it.

God and Satan are betting on a poor bloke so his goats and kids are going to be dead, Crowley has a permit to wreak havoc, Aziraphale is scandalised.

Gabriel's angel hair is very Lord Farquaad. Everyone agrees.

Jimbriel is determined to make his new dad proud, and rearranges all the books in alphabetical order of the first letter of the first sentence. Aziraphale struggles to compliment him.

CROWLEY LIVES IN THE BENTLEY. I'M READY TO RIP THROUGH REALITY'S FABRIC TO GIVE THAT IMMORTAL SOME LOVE AND AFFECTION. AND OF COURSE HE STILL KEEPS ALL HIS PLANTS AND HAS THEM IN THE BACK. @neil-gaiman WHY MUST YOU CAREFULLY CRAFT BEAUTY THAT BREAKS ME.

Anyway.

NO NOT ANYWAY I'M STILL RAGING BUT WE HAVE A SUMMARY TO DO AND I'M A FUCKING PROFESSIONAL GODDAMN IT.

Angels are assholes. Jimbriel is very supportive bookseller's son.

The shit-job subtlety attempt last episode was very powerful because TOGETHER THEY ARE STRONGER! *unicorn music*

Aziraphale strokes Crowley's chest. The fandom sobs.

Crowley suggests getting humans wet to make them 'vavoom' and the apple falls from my slack jaw mid bite.

Aziraphale and Crowley are shit at interpreting human media.

Job storyline. If I open my mouth I'll start scream-crying about how Crowley didn't even kill the goats. He had both heaven and hell's permission, orders from God and Satan, and he didn't even kill the goats. Anyway no we're not doing this now thanks.

Crowley introduces Aziraphale to food. Aziraphale goes ham on the ox rib while Crowley has a little spring awakening about his kinks. I eat my other emotional support banana in honour of the blowjob angles.

Crowley didn't even want to reveal that he'd saved the goats to Aziraphale even though Aziraphale was looking at him with betrayal, because it was for the goats and he wanted to-

Sorry. I'm so fucking normal about goats.

David Tennant and his son are having a HECK of a time.

All Crowley wanted to do was ask questions and christ if he isn't angelic who is he put goats' safety over his-

Bildaddy is the best cobbler and obstetrician. Gabriel is an idiot.

Back in actual time, Crowley gives up on Aziraphale mid-flashback and they saunter off to facilitate some lesbian romancing.

OUR BOOKSHOP. OUR CAR. PLENTY OF USE.

Boundaries, Aziraphale, please. Someone reminds us that the Bentley is all Crowley has left. I fill with preternatural RAGE again.

Aziraphale poor baby has a crisis over betraying heaven. Crowley comforts him even though Crowley fell so every defence of heaven is an attack to himself. I'm totally normal and start eating my emotional support kiwi.

Still eating my emotional support kiwi when the episode ends. Crowley says Aziraphale is too pure and angelic looking to be a demon which means that she doesn't see how pure and angelic she was while making the stars, she thinks she was marked in some way, imperfect. It is okay for her to fall, not Aziraphale.

Anyway yes summary all done.

BUT THE GOATS. CROWLEY DEFIED HEAVEN AND HELL FOR GOATS. AND-

END END THE SUMMARY NOW.

[intynidad]

I love the cult Yandere fics you have done! They’re really well written and a joy for me to read!

I’m curious what you think what would happen if the reader came down with a terrible illness? How would the cult members feel or react?

Thanks for reading this and I hope you are having a wonderful day/night ^_^

Im glad you guys liked the yandere cult serie! This might be a little short

Warning: not really yandere but just in case?? , mention fainting, cult things, looking at somebody sleep

It was a seemingly ordinary evening within the cult, with most of the followers diligently tending to their tasks in the fields. However, a sense of curiosity and concern started to circulate among them as they noticed your absence.

"Have any of you seen our esteemed leader, Y/N?" a young woman inquired, her brow furrowing with worry. "They are usually up and about by this time."

A discussion ensued among the group, each member expressing their willingness to check on you. Voices overlapped as they debated who should have the honor and responsibility of ensuring your well-being.

"I believe I should go and see if they are alright," one voice asserted confidently.

"Why should you be the one to check on them?" another voice chimed in, challenging the first.

A third voice joined the debate, its tone filled with determination. "I have a closer bond with our leader. It should be me who goes to inquire about their well-being."

The exchange quickly escalated as more voices joined the fray, each passionately arguing why they were the most suitable candidate to fulfill this important task. The once calm and serene atmosphere in the cult now buzzed with the intensity of their determination to reach you.

"No, I should be the one to go!"

"Wait, I've known our leader the longest! It's my duty to check on them!"

The voices blended together, rising and falling in a cacophony of competing interests. Each follower believed they possessed a unique connection with you, and their ardor to fulfill this duty was evident.

The fields that were buzzing with work a few moments ago came to a halt, that is until a lone figure emerged from the central tent.

“Oh great leader!We were worried about you!”- one voice exclaimed with glee and with that, the fight stopped and all of the followers were around you.

As the cacophony of voices surrounded you, a disoriented feeling washed over you. Your head felt hot, and your stomach churned with unease. Strangely, you couldn't recognize any of the voices that were engaged in the fervent debate.

You tried to make sense of it all, desperately searching for familiar faces or even a trace of recognition. But amidst the fervor and the overwhelming flood of voices, it seemed impossible to pinpoint a source of familiarity.

The last thing you remember was a series of screams as you closed your eyes and your legs gave up

….

When you woke up you where in your bed, a damp cloth on your forehead and a note by your bedside…well several notes one your bedside

You picked one that was written in a more formal way and didnt had any hearts drawn on them

“Dear leader, i am the medic on duty, at the time im writing this letter you been asleep for 2 hours and i can’t stay on your tent any longer without the rest of your followers skinning me alive.

Please take the glass of water next to this note and take some of the herbal medicine i prepare, ill check on you when i get the time

I love you

Rest well”

You decided to ignore the last part of the note and take your medicine unaware of the abnormal large shadow that extend next to your pillow.

After taking the herbal medicine, you went back to sleep unaware of the darkness that started to consume your tent, only when you were sleep a figure emerged from the pool of shadow and tower over your sleeping form

“My poor little lamb…” the figure says in a almost undetectable whisper.

Their clawed hand looms over your cheek but as it got closer it just went right through it

“Not yet” the figure says “but soon”

Since they managed to contact one of the followers with the promise of you as a prize if they worshiped him, things were finally starting to change

The chains that bind them to their realm were ever more weak, after all they couldn’t project themself as a shadow into your realm before…

They gave you one last look and a small “kiss” to your forehead (even thought it went right through you), you deserved to rest

[metalmonki]

Objection! Part 5

Rafael Barba x fem!Carisi!reader

2.1k word count

Summary All you wanted was to be a lawyer like your big brother Sonny. So what happens when you get a job working under the famous ADA Rafael Barba

slow-burn, colleague to friends to lovers

Previous Chapter / Next Chapter

For months the days where just as busy as that first day. Some days were filled with paperwork, some days were spent entirely at the courthouse. More and more I was working independently of Rafael only crossing paths briefly to hand off files or to discuss a case. Rafael had even organised me my own office. As much as I enjoyed the newfound freedom within the DA’s office, I was also missing being so close to Rafael. We still had a little meetings, casual lunches and nights out with the SVU team, but it became less of us and more the whole team.

Finally, a case came up that allowed me to work closely with Rafael again. What started as a runaway with no connection to SVU and turned into a possible stranger abduction had become a massive manhunt for a yet unknown person who was enjoying taunting Rafael in the form of letters with clues which to places with more clues that lead to dead ends. 2 months and hundreds of mans hours had been put into finding this person and we were still no closer. No name, no witnesses, no evidence and 7 missing teenagers. We had rearranged the entire SVU pull pen pushing all tables to the sides and filling the middle of the room with drawing boards. I was currently sat staring at the clues we had been sent. The first ever letter we received from this guy told us that we would find the missing teen just by following his clues. Yet all the clues had led to dead ends. Something wasn’t adding up, something didn’t make sense.

“Y/n we have to go update the mayor” Rafael said coming to a stop next to me.

“Yeah, yeah coming”

“You’ve been staring at these notes for ages” Rafael sliding his hands into his pockets.

“Somethings bothering me about them. I feel like we’ve missed something” I say eyes not leaving the boards in front of me.

“You’ve been working for almost 40 hours, lets update the mayor then you can go home and get some sleep.” Rafael held out a hand to help me up.

I took Rafael’s hand and stood, though my eyes lingered on the boards a second longer. The sketches, cryptic letters, and scribbled coordinates seemed to mock me, each taunt from our unknown suspect ringing louder in my mind. But he was right—I needed a clear head if I was going to see whatever was lurking in the details.

As we made our way to the mayor's office, I replayed the clues in my mind, hoping a fresh perspective or a conversation might help connect the dots. This case had turned into something personal for everyone involved, especially for Rafael, whose frustration was mounting with each letter that slipped through our fingers and led to nothing.

In the elevator, he broke the silence. “You know, we’re close. I can feel it.”

I glanced at him, seeing the exhaustion mirrored in his expression. But there was something else too—a simmering determination that made me feel as if we were on the brink of a breakthrough.

“You think he’s messing with us on purpose?” I asked, voicing a theory that had been nagging me.

“Absolutely. He’s got a plan,” Rafael said, his jaw tight. “And he wants us chasing our tails.”

The elevator doors opened to reveal the marble hall leading to the mayor’s office, but before we could step out, Rafael's phone buzzed. He glanced at the screen and his face darkened.

“It’s another message.”

A chill ran down my spine as he opened the new text. Another cryptic line: "When you reach the end of the labyrinth, the prize will be in plain sight. If you just open your eyes." It was as if the perpetrator could sense our frustration, even knew that we were about to speak with the mayor.

“Another clue,” I whispered, looking over Rafael’s shoulder. But something was different this time. The tone—it wasn’t taunting. It was almost... instructional.

Rafael took a deep breath, as if steadying himself. “Looks like we’re not going home anytime soon.”

“No,” I said, a spark of determination reigniting. “But I think we’re finally starting to understand his game.”

As we turned back toward the precinct, abandoning the meeting with the mayor, my exhaustion melted into resolve. I’d follow every hint, trace every step. This time, I was determined to beat him at his own game.

…

The precinct was quiet, nearly deserted, with only the faint hum of overhead lights filling the silence. Midnight was approaching, and most of the team had taken off for a quick break. Olivia and Rafael had left to grab food for everyone, Amanda was somewhere in the break room nursing yet another coffee, and Sonny was curled up in the bunk room, catching some much-needed rest. Finn had gone out hours ago to chase down a lead.

I sat in front of the board, staring at the latest clue we’d pinned up: "When you reach the end of the labyrinth, the prize will be in plain sight. If you just open your eyes."

A familiar presence broke the silence beside me as Nick ambled over, arms crossed, eyes scanning the chaotic tangle of clues, locations, and scrawled notes we’d collected over the past two months. He’d been watching me closely for a while, occasionally throwing out theories, but mostly letting me sift through my own thoughts.

“Still chewing on that one?” he asked, tilting his head toward the new clue.

I nodded, barely looking at him. “Yeah. This one’s different. It’s… almost like he’s taunting us less, like he’s trying to lead us to something.”

Nick furrowed his brow, clearly considering it. “Or maybe he’s getting cocky, slipping up a little.”

I tapped my pen against my notebook, scanning the list of locations we’d already searched, the cryptic clues leading us from one dead-end to another. I was exhausted, but something kept gnawing at me, like an itch I couldn’t quite scratch. We’d been to all these places, followed every lead, yet somehow, I felt like I’d been staring right at the answer without seeing it.

My mind flashed back to the first letter—the one he’d sent that started this whole twisted game. "You'll find them if you look beyond the obvious."

A realization hit me, cold and electric. “Nick,” I whispered, my voice barely audible. “What if we’ve been overthinking this? Maybe the answer isn’t at the end of some long, winding path—it’s been right in front of us all along.”

Nick leaned in, interest sparking in his eyes. “You think he’s hidden something we’ve overlooked?”

“Yes. Or maybe he’s been hiding in plain sight, knowing we’d miss it because we were too focused on finding something complex.” I scanned the board again, every location we’d been to flickering through my mind. Parks, subway stations, alleys, all public spaces with no clear connection other than being… central.

My eyes widened. “Nick, what if he’s been using these places to form a pattern, like a… map?”

Nick straightened, a gleam of understanding lighting his face. “So you think he’s been leading us in circles—maybe around somewhere specific?”

“Exactly.” I felt my pulse quicken. “I think he’s been taunting us by leading us right around his hiding spot, and he’s getting a thrill out of knowing we haven’t found it. But I need to check, and I can’t explain why just yet.”

I turned to Nick, urgency thickening in my voice. “Come with me. We have to go now, but don’t tell anyone. Not until we’re sure.”

He looked at me, searching my face, his jaw tightening as he weighed my request. Then, without another word, he grabbed his jacket off the back of a nearby chair. “Alright, I’m with you.”

We slipped out of the precinct, moving quickly and quietly down the stairwell and out the back exit. The chill of the night air hit me as we stepped onto the empty street, adrenaline sparking through my veins.

“You have any idea where we’re headed?” he asked as we walked.

I gave him a small smile, my confidence growing. “I do. I just hope I’m right.”

And as we headed toward our destination, a strange sense of clarity washed over me. The missing piece was within reach; I could feel it. This time, we weren’t going to let him slip through our fingers.

The streets were empty as Nick and I navigated our way through the quiet alleys, following my hunch toward one of the oldest and most forgotten parts of New York’s sewer system. With each step, the city above felt more distant, the buildings looming like silent witnesses to our descent. We slipped through an unmarked, rusted gate, making our way down a narrow, crumbling stairwell that reeked of mold and decay. Somewhere ahead of us was an answer—a clue, maybe even one of the missing teens—but right now, every instinct was screaming that this was a mistake.

“Are you sure about this?” Nick murmured as we approached a door at the end of the passage, barely visible in the dim light of my flashlight.

“Positive,” I whispered back, my voice tight with anticipation and dread. The door was dented and corroded, with a single piece of paper pinned to it. I lifted my flashlight, illuminating a simple, handwritten message: Welcome, Rafael Barba.

A shiver ran down my spine as I stared at the name, the ink bold and deliberate. “He was expecting Rafael,” I whispered, pulling the note down with a trembling hand.

Nick glanced around, his hand instinctively reaching for his gun. “Looks like he planned something special.”

I crumpled the note, stuffing it in my pocket. “We’re here now. Let’s see what he had in mind.”

I pushed the door open, and we stepped inside, the smell of damp concrete and rust thickening in the air. Before I could react, the door slammed shut behind us with a heavy clang, echoing through the tunnel as it locked into place. Nick spun around, yanking on the handle, but it didn’t budge.

“It’s locked,” he muttered, frustration flashing in his eyes.

I felt my stomach twist as an unsettling silence settled over us, thick and foreboding. And then, a crackle overhead—a faint hum of static that made my heart pound. Somewhere in the darkness, an intercom system buzzed to life, and a voice filled the room, low and edged with disappointment.

“Well, well,” the voice drawled, with an eerie calmness that sent chills down my spine. “I was expecting Rafael Barba. But instead, he sends his… assistant.” A pause, as if he were savoring the surprise. “Not what I had hoped for. But I suppose you’ll do.”

I clenched my fists, anger simmering beneath my fear. “If you wanted Barba, maybe you should’ve faced him directly, instead of hiding behind your little clues.”

The voice chuckled, a cold, amused sound. “You misunderstand, my dear. This was never about facing Barba—it was about creating something he couldn’t ignore. A labyrinth, an elaborate little puzzle designed just for him. I wanted to watch him sweat, watch him chase his own tail. Just like I had to do when I begged him to take my sisters case” He paused, his tone turning playful. “But now, it seems I’ll get to see you and your friend test your wits instead.”

Nick tightened his grip on his flashlight, his jaw clenched. “We’re not playing your game.”

“Oh, but you already are,” the voice purred. “In fact, you’re at the very heart of it.”

I scanned the room, my pulse racing. The walls were lined with passages, each one barely visible in the dim light, twisting and disappearing into darkness. The intercom crackled again, the voice practically dripping with satisfaction.

“I’ve left you a series of clues,” he continued, “if you can find them, that is. Each path you choose will lead you deeper into the labyrinth. Or… to a dead end.” He laughed softly, the sound echoing around us. “And who knows? Maybe you’ll even get out alive.”

Nick shot me a look, his expression deadly serious. “What’s the plan, then?”

I took a deep breath, steadying myself. “We play along. For now. But we stay sharp and look for a way to turn this back on him. He thinks he’s got us trapped, but that’s his first mistake.”

The intercom crackled again. “Tick-tock, Y/N. Time is running out. I’ll be watching—don’t disappoint me.”

The line went silent, leaving us in darkness, with only the soft, persistent drip of water echoing through the tunnels. I gritted my teeth, the weight of the situation sinking in. He wanted a game? We’d give him one he wouldn’t forget.

Tag List!

@geeksareunique @pinkladydevotee

[mapileonxputellas]

Jealousy (Alexia Putellas x Reader)

I think this might have been my favourite one so far! I hope the ending was suitable, I hate writing things in the future, I just feel like I'm pre-empting things so I couldn't include the final. Request can be found here. 4.7k words. Quite a long one!

Leaving Lyon was a tough decision to make. You were captain there for just over three years and more importantly they were your family. But you’d won all there was to win at the club and when Barcelona came with an offer it felt like fate was calling you.

You were billed as the star signing, the one who could fill the void by their own captain’s absence. You never wanted to be labelled as this replacement for Alexia, though you both played in the same position you were very different players. When news of her injury reached you during the Euro’s you couldn’t help but feel gutted you wouldn’t get to play alongside her.

The previous season has been kind to you, finishing the club season with a Champions League medal and going on to win the Euro’s, but as soon as you stepped foot into the Barcelona training centre you couldn’t help but feel different, in some ways complete. Thankfully the players were all very professional and only a few joking comments were made about your goal against Barcelona in the Champions League final.

You weren’t expecting to get the captain’s armband but Alexia’s absence as well as a few niggling injuries left you with the armband and your leadership was undeniable by the coaching staff.

Alexia herself had been a mystery to you, you’d seen her around the facility and at a few games but you never had the chance to speak to her.

But today that would change as today you were informed would be her first day back in group training, she had a long way to go to be back playing but you knew how big a step this was. Just over four years ago you had been subject to those three little letters, three letters which changed your life. You were excited for Alexia, the recovery process was so long and you were determined to make her first session back a good one.

You arrived at the training ground hours before anyone else was meant to be there to add some little changes. You bought a little welcome back sign to hang on her locker, sourced her favourite wine and chocolates for her to take home after and got all the girls to sign a card on their way in.

You watched on as she came in to get changed before training, letting all her friends shower her with congratulations as you got changed with Claudia one side of you and Patri the other.

“Have you met Alexia yet?” Claudia asked as you tied your shoelaces.

“No, well not properly. I don’t think being opposing captains counts.”

“She’s lovely, you’ll both get along.” Patri reassured you. “You’re both very similar.”

“I hope so.”

There was never a better time than the present and you waited back at the end as people flooded out to get the chance to speak to her alone and introduce yourself. Only when you locked eyes on her, instead of waiting for you to finish she made her way out of the dressing room.

You always gave people the benefit of the doubt and presumed maybe she thought you weren’t heading out, instead leaving you running after her. “Hey.” You started once you were level with the Spaniard, a single glance sent your way before she carried on walking. “I don’t think we’ve met before, well properly. I’m Y/N.”

“I know.” Ok you weren’t exactly expecting that, her lack of words was cold but her the tone made it all the colder. But sometimes to your downfall you were a painful optimist and maybe she was just having a bad day.

“Erm, how are you feeling? The team really misses you out there, everyone always talks about you and-“

“Listen OK?” She whisper aggressively, her fingers reaching out to grip your wrist. “I don’t need you to give me a debrief about my own team. I know them more than you ever will and things will change now.”

“Alexia I-“

“Stay out of my way and I’ll stay out of yours.”

It shocked you how much her words hurt. You dealt with anger all the time on the pitch, getting equally angry when defending your team but this felt different. This felt like a personal attack.

You tried to hide the hurt in your face as you reached the rest of the group in the gym, all stood in a circle waiting for their captain.

“I want to say a few words.” Jona said as you stood between Alexia and Ana. “Ale we can’t wait to have you back in the team. You’ve worked so hard up until now, one final push and you’ll be back out there in no time. Let’s finish this season strongly, I want a medal around all our necks at the end of the season.”

“We’ve captured the enemy now, of course we will.” Ana teased wrapping her arm around your shoulder. “The final piece of the puzzle.”

You stole a glance at the woman beside you and almost cowered back at cold eyes watching you and Ana. You tried to give her a reassuring smile as the rest of the group started chanting her name but that didn’t stop the frown on her face. When Jona brought out the presents you had bought on behalf of the group with the signed card you couldn’t help but notice you was the only one she didn’t thank, the only one who didn’t receive a hug. Not even a glance when you heard her asking Sandra about it.

“Oh Y/N sorted it out, she likes organising things like that.” Sandra commented not noticing the anger growing on Alexia’ face.

“Oh really.”

“Yeah that’s why she’s a leader.” The look that comment made could have turned you into stone.

One thing was for sure, this was definitely the biggest hurdle you’d encountered in Barcelona.

…..

The following day was the first time you got to witness the full La Reina effect on the pitch. But from minute one it felt like she was going out of her way to make your day horrible.

When you walked into the canteen that morning and lined up alongside her you hoped maybe yesterday had just been a bad day for her however as you found the frown on her face you knew that was not the case.

But whatever was going on you weren’t going to rise to her level and gave her the smile people often described as charming. “Alexia how are you this morning?”

“Fine.”

Wow the chat was scintillating. “I’m glad there’s one apple left I can’t start my day without one.” You said noticing the one apple left as you firstly got your scrambled eggs on toast. “What about you? Any traditions?”

“No.”

It shouldn’t have really been a surprise to you when you got to the end of the breakfast bar and found the fruit bowl lacking any apples and it really shouldn’t have surprised you when you turned around and found one sat on the tray in front of Alexia, a smirk on her face as she sat down.

“Ale I thought you never had an apple in the morning?” Jana questioned. “You never start the day without an orange.”

“It’s always worth a change.” Of course it was, not at all because of the comment you’d made.

“No apple this morning?” Claudia questioned when you sat down, the smirk only growing on Alexia’s face as she looked up at you.

“No there were none left.”

“Here have mine.” Frido pushed hers down the table, being received with a thankful smile from you. “Can’t have our little superstar without her favourite breakfast.” If looks could kill…..

It didn’t stop there.

During just the warm-up of the training session it felt like she was everywhere. The occasional shoulder barge into your side during the drills, the little nicks under your feet during the rondos, you were half surprised she hadn’t two footed you during the five-a-side match.

“Do you think it will be weird playing against Vicky?” Bruna asked Alexia during the water break referencing the former Barcelona captain now playing for Roma who you’d just been drawn against for the Champions League.

“It will be weird but you should all be confident. There’s no-one left who we shouldn’t believe we can beat. We were unfairly beat in that final but this year is different, none of those players would get anywhere near us when we’re at our best.”

Usually you would assume a comment like that would be made forgetting your link to that team but you knew Alexia’s game and you knew she made that comment directed at you.

“And now with Salma, Lucy, Geyse, Nuria we’re a better team.”

She was being horrible, malicious and it was all directed at you but you had no reason why. You’d been wracking your brains all night trying to find some kind of reasoning for her seemingly hating you. The two of you had never had a run in before, well at least that was memorable enough to have some kind of grudge. The two of you had been up for awards together but she’d always won, including this year’s Ballon d’or but even then on the flight there she must have already had some ill feelings towards you.

“Come on captain.” Vicky came up beside you tugging your arm. “Let’s win this match.”

Football has and probably always will be the out you have for your emotions. Feeling happy: go and pick up a ball. Feeling sad: go and pick up a ball. Right now with the mixture of sadness and anger running through your veins you picked up that ball and gave the small, sided game your all.

You weren’t a malicious player but you got stuck into every tackling, winning most and always being clean and fair.

Maybe that meant it was fair game in her eyes, fair game to give it her all as well. Make sure she left a mark on you, never going so far as to injure you but you knew tomorrow morning you would be covered in bruises from her tight marking on you.

“That was some battle.” Jona wrapped his arms around the pair of you as you walked off the pitch. “I don’t think we can play the both of you at the same time, it just wouldn’t be fair on the opposition.”

“Yeah.” You feigned an agreement knowing how much you wanted to play with Alexia before this all happened, now you weren’t so sure.

“Go and practice your free-kicks.”

The two of you joined Mapi at the far goal posts, Caro and Salma also staying back as the others did some rondos.

It was stupid you’d played in front of millions before, you’d lifted the biggest trophy in club football and yet you’d never felt nerves like practicing free kicks in front of the Queen herself. Thankfully you thrived under pressure and all three balls found their way to the back of the net.

“Way to go princesa.” Mapi found her nickname for you soon after you’d arrived thanks to your healthy addiction to a good beauty treatment. When you weren’t playing football on a Sunday you would more than likely be found in the local spa facilities.

Mapi and Caro made their way over to the corner flag to practice corner kicks leaving the two of you watching Salma line the ball up. “Maybe if you didn’t spend so much time getting ready you could spend some time on your shooting. Any good goalkeeper would have saved all three of them.” Alexia whispered in your ear.

“They were top bins Alexia.”

“Keep telling yourself that. We don’t settle for mediocracy here, remember that.”

“It’s a good thing the manager doesn’t think that. There’s a reason I’ve been sharing the duties with Mapi.”

“You two good?” Salma asked raising her eyebrows at our hushed voices.

“We’re fine thanks.” You assured the young girl. “I was just asking about the plans for travelling tomorrow.”

“Good.”

If she was going to act like this you could take it, you were big enough to deal with someone not liking you. The problem came with the team dynamics, you weren’t about to let some vendetta affect the rest of the team.

“This won’t work if you can’t even look me in the eye.” You whispered as you made your way inside at the end of training. “Whether you like it or not we’re on the same team, when we’re on the pitch forget about it.”

“Fine.”

“Sure?”

“Yes.”

…..

Things didn’t get better, they just got manageable. You grew to ignore the glares, ignore the little comments made, ignore the fact that every morning just in case there was always an apple on her plate and yet it never got touched.

She kept her promise, no matter what she thought of you off the field, which you still hadn’t worked out, it always stopped the moment you stepped foot on the pitch. That didn’t mean you were best friends on the pitch but you could share a few tactical words and miraculously the two of you worked well together.

Maybe it shouldn’t have been as much of a surprise to you, you had spent a lot of time reading her game both for Lyon to play against her and for Barcelona to play with her. You knew all the moves she made, the way she liked to push forward and when she held back. So you adapted your game to suit that, you knew if Barcelona had to choose they would pick her and you knew you could play alongside her with a few subtle changes rather than just you or her. When she would push on you stayed back, when she moved into one area you placed yourself where you knew she liked to lay the ball back.

Today you would be pushing those limits even further as Alexia prepared to make her return in the league. Alexia had admitted herself that Chelsea in the Champion’s League wasn’t the right time to return in a match with so much at stake but today you had the chance to win the league and by half time you were already 1-0 up, Jana soon making it two in the second half.

Jona gave you the decision of when you felt it was comfortable enough to get Alexia back on the pitch and when you got that two-goal cushion you knew you would be able to control the game from here so you made the signal and waited for them to make the change. At this point you were beginning to tire having played 90 minutes just three days prior and now another 65 minutes.

When the board came up with your number on it as well as the number 11 you made your way over to the touchline, unstrapping the band from around your forearm and held it out so Alexia could put her arm through it. Without looking her in the eye you made a point of strapping it up for her and then brought her in for the usual interchange hug before making your way to the bench.

You took your seat on the edge of the bench next to Mapi, the player handing you a water bottle and allowing you to catch your breath.

“Was she alright?” You questioned knowing Alexia was in your seat only a few moments prior.

“She’s ready, bit nervous but she wants to be there for this moment.”

The final 20 minutes went by very quickly Assisat scoring the final goal to seal the league title win. On the final whistle you all made your way onto the pitch, one of your biggest ‘superstitions’ if you would call it that was to always go around and shake all the opponents’ hands before you celebrated any cup or trophy win and this came into that category. You shook all the hands of the Huelva players and their coaching staff before joining your teammates.

Ana was the first one to spot you and the Swiss giant opened her arms up for you to jump into as she twirled you around in the air. “We did it.” You shouted down her ear as you felt further arms wrap around you.

“You did it.” She put you down on the floor and put her hands on your shoulders to meet your eye. “Take a bit of credit, you’re an incredible player.”

“Thanks Ana.”

So far you were thankful no-one had noticed, or at least commented, on a rift between you and Alexia and you weren’t about to let them see it now. You joined the rest of the girls in the traditional celebration for a player returning by throwing them up in the air for three cheers before you all made your way over to the front for the trophy presentation.

“Alexia if you could follow me.” An official came down to guide Alexia up into the stands for the trophy collection. You could see the glances that came your way but in your mind Alexia was always the captain and she should have this moment so you watched on, a smile etched on your face as you saw the joy in her face at lifting the trophy.

“Y/N come on.” Before you had the chance to protest Marta grabbed your hand leading you to the front of the pack as Alexia came down with the trophy.

“This is for you two, you’re the captains.” You tried to get through to Marta as you knew Alexia wouldn’t like this.

“You’ve led this team for the past eight months. You deserve this moment as much as we do.”

You could see there was no room for manoeuvre in her tone and in her face, simply staying put where you were. When Alexia clocked you standing amongst Marta you could see the distain on her face hidden by one of the fakest smiles you’d seen in a long time. You allowed yourself this moment, tucking into one side of Alexia and wrapping your hand around the metal trophy to lift it together as one.

“You two deserve this.” Marta whispered wrapping you both in a hug and pressing a kiss to both of your foreheads. “This team wouldn’t work without the both of you.”

“I don’t think-“

“It’s true, everyone thinks it. We all love you both.”

“Thank you.”

……

After the league win it was fair to say both you and Alexia were observers of the main celebrations, both of you knowing that the Champions League was the main aim this season. You both drove the standards in training knowing what a stern task Wolfsburg would be. The games leading up to the final all had major rotation so Alexia and yourself were yet to play more than twenty minutes in the dying embers of the game together, the captaincy always with Alexia.

The day before the final it was decided both you and Alexia would be part of the pre-match press conference in Eindhoven taking your placed behind the podium with Jonaton.

Jonaton of course covered all the tactic and personnel questions before you were both in the spotlight.

“Y/N it’s hard to believe this is still your first season in Barcelona. How much would it mean for you to lift that trophy tomorrow?”

“Yeah the time has definitely flown by. I came from a team of winners and I’ve joined a team of winners and we won’t settle for anything less than perfection tomorrow. I want more than anything to feel that joy I felt last year.”

“How would you assess your first year? Did you expect to be as integral to the side as you have been both in playing and in your captaincy?”

“It’s been a bit of a crazy year. I have high standards for myself and I hope both the club and fans can see that. I came here because I believed I could add something to the team and I hope they can see what I bring to the plate. In terms of the captaincy that is simply a role I have been sharing with many members of the team even if I sometimes have the armband. Alexia may not have been on the pitch for a long time this season but that doesn’t mean she doesn’t have the leadership in training and before matches.”

“We’ve yet to see much of you two together on the pitch. Does that excite you?”

“Of course, I’ve watched Alexia for a long time now and I hope we can work together on the pitch soon, will that be tomorrow? I guess only Jona knows that.”

“Alexia how much would it mean to you winning the trophy tomorrow after the year you’ve had?”

“Yes it would be very special. I’ve worked hard behind the scenes but more importantly this team has got us to this point and I hope I can be a part of the final push tomorrow.”

“You’ve probably watched a lot of this team over that past 12 months. How have you improved since last year?”

“That final taught us a lot about ourselves and of course the improvements we have to make both in terms of our play but also our mindset. Of course we improved in personnel, Y/N has been a massive part of that and answering a previous question I can’t wait to play with her.”

Wow, you weren’t quite sure if she was being fully truthful or if this was all a show but it had to be worth something, right?

Unbeknownst to the two of you, the rest of the team were watching the interview in the other room. A light murmur of chatter amongst everyone as they watched the two people they considered their captains complimenting each other.

“Have you ever noticed that weird tension between those two? I’ve never really seen them talk but they just work on the pitch, they’re different when they’re playing together.” Ingrid asked Mapi, the two of them sat on one of the beanbags. “Is it just sexual tension that neither of them will give into?”

“How can you miss it? I’ve tried asking Alexia about it but she just dismisses it. Maybe they’re hiding something, I’ve never even seen them interact more than a glare at each other.”

“Ten euros they’re together by next season.”

“Ten euros they’re together by the world cup.”

…..

Alexia didn’t say a word to you after the conference, the both of you separately making your way up to your rooms. Thankfully the club had given you all single rooms so you didn’t have anyone disturbing you as you tried to work out Alexia. She had been nothing but horrible to you since you first met each other and yet she said all that in the press conference. It just wasn’t adding up.

Your thoughts were interrupted by a quiet knock on your door if you weren’t completely silent you probably wouldn’t have heard it but you did. It was only eight o’clock but you were about to try and get an early night.

Presuming it was one of the younger ones who had forgot something you went to answer the door but instead of seeing Bruna or Jana at the door, your heart started racing when you came face to face with Alexia.

“Hi.” Her whispers were barely audible as your mind spiralled as to what she could be here for. “Can I come in?”

“Of course.” Her voice knocked you out of your daydream as you opened the door wider for Alexia. “Take a seat.”

Alexia sat herself down on the vanity chair as you took a seat on the bed, wondering what was going on with the woman as she started at her hands, picking her fingernails.

“Are you alright?” You questioned breaking the silence.

“I um, I-“ You’d never seen Alexia like this, nervously fumbling over her words and a hesitant look on her face. “I want to apologise before tomorrow.”

You hoped you knew what she was apologising for but you wanted the full clarification. “Apologise about what?”

“When I first found out I’d done my ACL I was worried about how this injury would change me, how I would never be the same after it and how different things would be when I’m gone. When I heard Barcelona were signing you I knew that would jeopardise my place on the squad, I heard everyone talk about what an amazing player you were and of course I knew that myself. Then you got the captaincy armband and it just felt like you were my replacement.”

“Ale-“

“So when I came back I had this almost anger to you that you’d got to be a part of this team, that you’d got to lead them out at Camp Nou and seen those wins. I was jealous, I admit that and I heard someone mention it once that the only way to settle this was for one of us to leave.”

“So you did all this so I would leave?”

“I thought the only way to push you to leave was to be horrible to you. I can’t believe how horrible I was to you when you didn’t deserve any of it. I’m so sorry Y/N, I’ve been waiting for this moment for a few weeks but I can’t go in tomorrow with any tension between us. We’ve got to work together.”

“Thank you, but Ale it was never you or I.” You assured her. “I came on this team to work with you not instead of you. When you came back into training I genuinely just wanted to play with you and then you seemed to be trying to make my life a living hell, it was like you were going out of your way to disrupt my day.”

“I tried to hate you but it’s just impossible, you’ve got this smile that everyone seems to love and you always give everything 100%. Plus the team love you, I’m sick of hearing Jana talk about your dancing or Mapi talking about your tattoos. I want to see that side of you.”

“Hug it out?”

“Come here.” You wrapped your arms around the Spaniard, her own arms coming up around your neck as you settled into the hug.

You could never hate Alexia no matter how much she almost pushed you to it, you could never do it, you knew what injuries could do to people and this was no different. You were sadly just the one who got the rough end of it.

“Do you reckon Jonaton will play us together tomorrow?” You asked separating from the hug, a smile on both of your faces.

“I hope so. I really hope so.”

If it weren’t the night before the final you would have been up till the early hours getting to know Alexia but instead you both went for the early night option, your dedication to the sport the biggest thing you admired about each other.

It wasn’t lost on you the few glances you got the next morning as you both walked into the canteen together laughing and joking about a story Alexia was telling you about Nala. The both of you ignoring them as you sat down, a little comment made about the lack of an apple on Alexia’s plate instead just an orange next to her avocado on toast. “I need you on top form for tonight.” Alexia had commented back.

“You’re seeing that right?” Ingrid whispered to Mapi. “Yesterday they wouldn’t speak two words together and now they’re laughing and joking like this.”

“Loud and clear. Maybe now we can see the true La Reina and Princesa on the pitch together.”