#Mutual Attraction

[aventurineswife]

Hi! This request is based on something personal that I do, so I was wondering if you could do it (⁠ ⁠╹⁠▽⁠╹⁠ ⁠)

It's about how readers are cold people (regarding temperature) they're always cold no matter where they are, then one day they hug the character (Aventurine, Sampo, Caelus and finally Childe), instead of it being a nice hug as it should be, the reader puts his hands under the character's shirt and it's worth mentioning that the reader has a low temperature therefore his hands are terribly cold. The reader did that just to annoy the character, also because he likes the character's warmth. It's something I do with my friends to annoy them ♪⁠～⁠(⁠´⁠ε⁠｀⁠ ⁠)

-💤���� anon

“The cold never bothered me anyway”

Tags: Aventurine x Reader, Sampo x Reader, Childe x Reader, Caelus x Reader, Flirting, Playful Teasing, Cold/Heat Contrast, Romantic Tension, Physical Touch (Hugging, Hands slipping under clothes), Vulnerability, Mutual attraction.

Warnings: Mild suggestiveness, Light discomfort (due to cold touch), Emotional vulnerability, Potential tension.

A/N: I'm not saying you're obsessed with Childe... But you're obsessed with him. I should probably run to hide my warmth 🏃‍♀️, don't know I'm still warm while wearing a tshirt and shorts in literal winter...🧍‍♀️

Aventurine leaned against the balcony railing, his ever-present smile in place, his golden rings catching the light from the stars above. Life was a game, and he always played to win—until now. You, however, were a challenge he hadn't quite figured out. Every time you entered the room, he could feel the chill in the air, the coldness seeping from your very presence, making him both curious and wary.

"Careful now, my dear," Aventurine said, his tone teasing, his eyes glinting beneath the soft light. "You're starting to freeze the very air around you."

You grinned, taking it in stride. "Maybe it's just you who's too warm."

With a sly smirk, you approached him. Before he could react, you wrapped your arms around him in a quick, almost too casual embrace. Aventurine’s laughter bubbled up at first, amused by your spontaneous affection. But then, the chill from your hands, as they slipped under his shirt and brushed against his warm skin, sent a shiver down his spine.

"You," Aventurine hissed, pulling back just enough to look at you with narrowed eyes, a mixture of annoyance and something deeper flickering behind his gaze. "Do you ever stop? I’m quite certain your hands could freeze the very life from me if you tried."

You only laughed, keeping your hands there, enjoying the sudden jolt of warmth his body gave you as he shifted uncomfortably. His usual suave charm seemed to falter for a brief moment, a rare glimpse of vulnerability.

"You’ve got all this warmth, Aventurine," you murmured playfully. "I think it’s only fair I take some."

Aventurine’s smile returned, but there was an edge to it. "You’re playing a dangerous game. Don’t think I haven’t noticed, dear. But, I must admit," he said, moving slightly closer, "it's rather... fun."

His words were calculated, but the warmth in his eyes was unmistakable.

Sampo paced around the bustling market square, always scanning for opportunities, always searching for his next big score. Yet, whenever you were around, he found himself distracted, his usual confidence slipping into something more unsure. There was something about your icy presence that gnawed at him.

"Hey, hey, don't give me that cold shoulder!" Sampo called out with a grin, catching you just as you passed by.

You simply smirked, the chill in your step unmistakable as you approached him with a twinkle in your eye. "What’s the matter, Sampo? You don’t seem as warm as usual."

Sampo raised an eyebrow. "What’s that supposed to mean?" he asked, but before he could retreat, you suddenly wrapped your arms around him in a hug. He grunted in surprise, but it was the sudden coldness from your hands slipping under his jacket that made his eyes widen.

"Sampo," you whispered mischievously, your fingers grazing his skin. "You're always so warm. Thought I'd help you cool off."

Sampo froze for a moment, his usual smooth talk faltering as your icy touch made him shiver. "O-Okay, that’s it!" he sputtered, trying to squirm free, but your hold was unyielding. "You better be paying me for this kind of service!"

You just leaned in closer, savoring the way his body stiffened in discomfort. "You’re always talking about warmth, but now you get to feel it from me."

"You’re lucky I’m not charging you double for this, you little...!" Sampo snapped, though the playful irritation in his voice was more endearing than anything. He couldn’t hide the smile that tugged at the corners of his lips. "Aha, I guess I’ll have to get you back, huh?"

The Astral Express was always a whirlwind of motion, a place where time and space seemed to bend. But even among the stars, there was something about you that made Caelus uneasy. His curious eyes often lingered on you, and while he could never pinpoint it, there was an undeniable tension in the air between you two.

"Everything okay?" Caelus asked, walking up to you with a soft smile, his eyes always so calm.

You shrugged, your cold aura wrapping around him even as you stood by his side. "Everything’s fine," you said. "Just a bit cold, that’s all."

His eyes softened at the admission. He had always been sensitive to the feelings of others, and he could tell that you weren’t just referring to the temperature.

Without warning, you wrapped your arms around him, and Caelus tensed. It was warm, almost like a protective instinct, until he felt the sudden chill of your hands pressing against his skin, slipping beneath his jacket.

"Wait—!" Caelus began to protest, but the icy sensation sent a sharp shiver through him, his breath catching for a second.

You grinned into his ear. "Just wanted to see if you were as warm as you seem."

Caelus’s face flushed, his composure slipping as the coldness spread through his chest. "That's... that's not what I meant..." His voice trailed off, and his arms instinctively pulled away from you, trying to escape the discomfort of your touch, but there was a subtle warmth in his reaction too, an appreciation for the closeness.

You couldn’t help but laugh. "Relax, Caelus. Just a little cold comfort. Besides, you’re so warm I could get used to it."

He blinked at you, unable to hide his smile, despite the discomfort. "You... really are something else," he muttered, though a soft glow of affection began to flicker in his eyes.

[Header credits]

Childe was known for his toughness, his unshakable resolve in the face of any challenge. But when you entered his presence, it was as if a strange vulnerability crept into his heart. The way you held yourself, so cold yet so determined—it made him curious, though he’d never admit it.

"What’s the deal with you, huh?" Childe grinned, leaning against the wall, his arms folded across his chest. "You always give off this frosty vibe."

You smirked back, walking closer to him with a casual air. "Maybe I just like your warmth, Childe."

Before he could respond, you wrapped your arms around him, the sudden hug catching him off guard. He was ready to laugh it off, but then, the icy shock of your hands sliding beneath his shirt made him stiffen, his breath hitching in surprise.

"Hey!" Childe exclaimed, quickly pulling back. "What the hell was that?"

You grinned widely, savoring the way he recoiled. "Just wanted to see if you could handle a little cold," you teased, your hands lingering for just a moment longer.

He shivered, but not from the cold. There was a heat to the way his body responded to you, despite the discomfort. "You think you can just sneak up on me like that?" he grumbled, though his tone lacked the usual sharpness.

"You should be more careful next time," you teased, stepping back with a satisfied smile.

Childe couldn’t help but laugh. "You're lucky I like a good challenge," he muttered, his grin wide and genuine, the warmth in his gaze unmistakable.

[callalillywrites]

Further Enhancement Training

Written for @steverogersbingo. B2 - Serum gives even more powers over time.

Steve Rogers Masterlist | Steve Rogers Bingo | Main Masterlist

Pairing: Steve Rogers x F!Reader (doctor)

Word Count: 2788

Summary: Steve wasn't sure what was happening. His senses have heightened as had his strength. He's gotten boosts in ways he couldn't define, but he knew exactly who could possibly help him. You.

Warnings: lots of feels; Steve grows closer to you; reciprocal feelings; Steve experiences doubts and insecurities/anxiety with all that's happening; medical mystery

I do not give permission to have my works copied, translated, reposted, or fed into an AI machine.

****

Your relatively quiet morning came to an abrupt end when JARVIS said, "My apologies, doctor, but your presence is requested in exam room four."

"Who's the patient?"

You checked your appointments for the day and found nothing scheduled during this time.

"It's Captain Rogers. He doesn't have an appointment, but he does seem to be in a bit of distress based on my vitals scan."

Your curiosity piqued at hearing Steve's name.

"I'll be right there. Thank you, JARVIS."

You grabbed up your tablet and strode from your office. Your comfortable shoes barely made any noise against the tiled floor, quickly covering the short distance to the exam rooms. You couldn't be more grateful for that when a muffled groan sounded from the room where Steve waited.

A quick knock on the door was the only warning you gave him.

Pushing the door open and stepping inside, you soon spotted Steve hunched over and trying to clean up a snowy-white floor. Dented containers sat against the wall, their lids crushed beside them.

"What happened?" you asked softly, setting your tablet on the chair near the door.

Steve's shoulders hunched more. He almost seemed to be trying to make himself smaller, which was near impossible with his size. His voice wavered, too, as he finally said, "Accident. I didn't mean to make a mess."

"Does this have anything to do with why you came to see me?"

You kept your voice gentle even as you slowly knelt near the containers. The dents you'd noticed before were far worse than you'd thought. The metal had been gripped and pinched until cracks split and open within the deeper creases. There was no way you'd be able to bend them back out. They'd need to be tossed and replaced with new ones.

Your curiosity surged as you glanced around the room. However, nothing obvious gave you a clue as to what caused such damage.

Well, there was one thing, no, person, who could potentially do this, but that wasn't like him at all. No, Steve usually went out of his way to be as gentle as he could with others' property.

You caught his single nod and the cough that tried to hide his affirmative answer.

Watching his hands, you caught the way his fingers tried to grip the cotton swabs and cotton balls. They never got very far though as each one either splintered or disintegrated. If you hadn't seen it with your own eyes, you wouldn't have believed it.

"How long has this been happening?"

"A couple of days," he said so low that you struggled to hear the words.

You nodded. "Anything happen on your last mission? Touch anything? Maybe it didn't seem odd at the time, but it's now giving you some pause?"

His head shook once, but he froze as if considering your words. It took him several moments before he finally said, "Dust fell on me when I opened an old door. It covered the entire room."

"Okay, that's good. You're doing so good," you gently set your hands over his, stilling them from attempting to pick up anything else from the already broken pile between you. He tensed under your touch, but he didn't shy away from it. You'd been almost worried he would, so it was with some relief that he actually seemed to relax after another moment. When you were certain you had his attention, you asked, "Anyone else go in the room with you?"

This time, his head shook without hesitation.

"Okay, so we know this is limited to you then. That's very good. Anything else I should know about before we do some tests?"

Steve nodded after a moment.

Over the next minute or so, he went on to describe how everything he sees is sharper than before. His hearing also picks up more noises than it did before. Everything he eats has a slightly different taste as if he can pick up all the flavors and additives compared to before. He can also tell when something isn't quite consistent, too, and has been turning his appetite a bit. While he can't speak to his healing factors, he does know his speed has also greatly increased. To your surprise, he recounts the unofficial race he and Pietro had just yesterday. He'd not only kept up with Quicksilver, but he'd actually tied with the speedster superhero.

"I haven't touched anyone in two days," he admitted softly.

Tilting your head, you studied what you could of his face. Sadness seemed to ooze out of him as he continued, "The last person I shook hands with, I heard minute cracks. He didn't scream, but his hand started swelling so fast. We took him to the ER and they confirmed it. I fractured his hand with a simple handshake."

His hands shook under yours before he clenched them until his knuckles turned white. You could hear the soft pops within the joints of his fingers from how tightly he clenched them.

Running your own over his, you kept your voice soft, calm as you said, "We're going to figure this out together. Even if this turns out to be permanent, we're not going to stop until you trust yourself around others again."

That brought Steve's gaze colliding with yours.

You offered him your most comforting smile. "Come on, let's get started."

*****

Over the next week or so, you learned the dust he'd discussed had been merely dust. Nothing nefarious lingered within its particles, which was quite the relief. Getting your hands on any type of antidote from Hydra always proved more difficult than it should be.

Further tests revealed the reason for his increased senses and their further enhancement came from his original serum. It had boosted itself for some reason that continued to elude you and the others who worked his case. After trying to pinpoint the cause and finding no reasons, you caught the resignation on Steve's features. It broke your heart to see him as down as he was.

That'd been enough to switch your focus to helping him cope.

You took it slow with him.

Ear plugs for the noisier areas of the compound. Keeping away from textures and flavors that bothered him, especially certain foods. More tests on his new sprinting capabilities as well as his healing factor. That one hadn't really been on your list, but he'd missed a stump during a run and gashed his knee up pretty good. Before you could do much for it, his healing factor had already closed up the wound and left the smallest of nicks on his skin.

Focusing his energy on things he could control became the ultimate goal.

Even with all the progress you'd made with him in these regards, there was one area where he continued to struggle—touch.

He'd made great strides in controlling his new strength. Within the first few days, he figured out how little pressure he needed to use for a variety of objects, including delicate glass. He could eat a meal without worrying bending the silverware or shattering the glasses or dishes they used. He could even take on some of his favorite downtime activities again.

The smile he'd given you as he finally managed a sketch had you breaking your professionalism and hugging him.

He didn't reciprocate though.

That was his sticking point.

Others could touch him, but he refused to touch others.

Longing etched over his features every time he denied himself this, but then steeled resolve would wash over him. It never quite erased the longing though, and by the end of the second week, you were tired of seeing him deny himself any longer.

"Alright, soldier, hands palm up and extended out," you ordered.

He readily did as you asked.

You smiled at his eagerness.

He'd come to trust you over the last two weeks. Probably more so than he had in the past few months since you joined the medical team at the compound. You had no intention of betraying that trust as you set your own hands on top of his. Letting them rest there a moment to let him adjust to your touch again. The more he relaxed, the more you hoped this wouldn't undo all your hard work.

How could you know though if you didn't push as you were about to?

With him fully at ease, you allowed your thumbs to wander over his, grazing his skin lightly in linear motions. Back and forth until he relaxed further under your watchful gaze.

Until you stopped.

His gaze met yours with a lifted brow even as his lips thinned into a thin line when you said, "Your turn. Same motions, soldier, soft and smooth."

He shook his head. "No, I could hurt you."

"I doubt you will. Just do as I did, and it'll be fine."

His mouth opened to argue, but you shushed him, your voice dropping, "Trust me, Steve. Please, try for me."

"If I hurt you—"

"You won't," you assured, speaking over him.

His thumbs twitched, just barely brushing against your hands. The war within himself took several moments before he finally blew out a harsh breath. His gaze focused sharply on his hands as though daring them to defy him and his efforts to be as gentle as he could.

The first touch barely grazed against your skin.

The second touch lasted a moment longer, but he quickly withdrew. His brows pinched together even as he blew out another breath.

The third time, he allowed his thumb to skim across yours before he retreated just as quickly as before.

Grinning, you couldn't help saying, "You're doing great, soldier. Try again. One more time."

He returned your grin, feeling much more at ease than he looked just moments ago.

This final time, he allowed his thumb to skim across your skin a few times, only retreating when you twitched because it sent an electric zing through you. A horrified expression wiped away his smile as his hands fell to his lap where they clenched into fists again.

"I'm—"

Your lips pressed against his cheek, breaking all levels of professionalism. That didn't matter as much to you in the moment as his comfort did. You needed him to not finish his statement while also shocking him enough to hear as you murmured, "You didn't hurt me, soldier. That wasn't a pain response."

Deep red had flushed his cheeks at your unprofessional kiss, but his gaze met yours with pure disbelief.

"You didn't hurt me, Steve; you merely found a ticklish spot even I didn't know about."

"I did?"

"You did," you assured softly. "If anyone should apologize, it's me. I acted too familiarly with you, and for that, I am sorry. I shouldn't have kissed you even if it worked to distract you."

"I, uh, I didn't mind."

*****

While that session had ended on a slightly awkward note, Steve continued to see you and grew more comfortable with his newer, more enhanced abilities. His progress grew in such a way that you found yourself unable to deny his time to graduate had come. It was time for him to rejoin the others on the Avengers team and resume his duties as Captain America.

You'd even made him a small cake to celebrate all he'd accomplished over the past few weeks.

His hearing had come to accept and tune out the excess noises. His taste had shifted to find the right textures and flavors once more. His eyesight could focus on what it needed while continuing to process and pick up information he could later access better than before. His healing factor continued to surprise you with how much quicker it worked. So did his speed, now surpassing Pietro on the track a bit more each day.

The last hurdle of touch had even been surpassed.

He could touch others again without fear of hurting them. You'd seen to that over these past few weeks, working up from those simple thumb touches to full-on hugs. This included the bear hugs he and Bucky seemed to favor.

You doubted you'd ever forget the look of pure joy that spread over his features when he bested both Thor and Hulk in an arm wrestle. The other two had been flabbergasted, but Steve hadn't rubbed their noses in it, either. He played the good sport he always was and thanked them for helping him, too.

The simple fact was you were going to miss seeing him.

After you'd let your professionalism drop, the two of you had gotten closer. At least, it seemed like you had. Steve proved a harder read on the situation, keeping his thoughts to himself.

"My apologies once more, doctor, but you have a patient waiting for you in exam room four. Captain Rogers seems quite piqued about something and has been pacing in there for the last ten minutes."

"Why wasn't I notified of his presence sooner?"

"He said he required a moment, but then, he seemed to grow more and more agitated."

Fearing a relapse of all your progress, you dashed from your office towards the exam rooms. As much as you'd miss his company, you hadn't wanted to see him relapse after all his hard work. It would only disappoint him, and you'd blame yourself. Surely, you hadn't missed something these past few weeks you'd been working with him.

You tapped a hasty knock while shoving the door open this time.

Unprepared for the bulk that was Steve to be on the other side, you slammed into him and would've landed hard on your bottom without his faster reflexes. His hands gently cradled your arms and kept you upright.

"Hey, where's the fire?" he asked, his voice coming off teasing despite the slight waver you heard once more.

The déjà vu was almost too much.

Your gaze raised to meet his and found yourself getting lost in his deep blue eyes with their smallest hint of green. Something you hadn't noticed until these past few weeks.

"You okay?"

You nodded, stepping back and straightening your clothing. Now was the perfect time to regain the professionalism you'd dropped the past few weeks. Maybe then, you'd feel easier about not seeing Steve around so often. "I should be asking you that. JARVIS said you were exhibiting anxiety. Any new symptoms?"

He shook his head.

"Are you uncertain about any of the progress you've made? You shouldn't be. I've never had a patient quite so determined as you to get better or follow my instructions so readily. Honestly, I dream of someone like you."

His head tilted at your words, a possibly hopeful but shy smile gracing his features. "You do?"

Realizing the implications of your words, you squeaked even as you nodded, refusing to lie to him. It wasn't your fault that you also maybe dreamed about him a time or two, not as a patient. How could you not? Not only was Steve easy on the eyes, but you'd gotten the chance to know him. You'd seen the sweet and the sass that make up who he was.

Your response seemed enough to shore up whatever brought Steve back to your exam room. The same steely determination you've seen in him since you two began working together reappeared though his charming smile stayed in place.

"I, uh, I have a mission in a few days, but I'm free tonight." He took a moment to swallow while also taking your hand in one of his. The gentle hold was proof that he'd figured out his new strength and wielded it as you knew he would. "I was hoping you might let me take you out to dinner. Somewhere nice but quiet. A place that'll properly show my appreciation for all the kindness and patience you've shown me."

"Are you asking me as your doctor or���"

You let the words deliberately drop off, hoping he might fill them in. The need for reassurance that you both felt nearly overwhelmed you. The last thing you needed at that moment was the realization that you'd broken all professionalism and made everything up in your head.

He didn't disappoint as he finally said, "As a friend who I hope might become so much more."

You couldn't keep the grin from emerging on your features.

His words had been close enough to what you'd hoped to hear.

There was no hesitation as you said, "Then, I accept your offer."

It was a small miracle you didn't swoon when he lifted your hand and pressed the softest of kisses to your knuckles.

"I'll let you get back to work, but I'll see you tonight."

"Looking forward to it, soldier."

[meetinginsamarra]

10.000 Hits on my fic "Mutual Attraction"

The first fic I have ever started to write years ago has reached 10.000 hits today!

I am floored and absolutely happy!!!

I began "Mutual Attraction" when I had an idea that I wanted to preserve in written form just for myself. Then I thought, why not make it into a story and publish it when it's done?

Being a total newbie to writing and also writing directly in English as a non-native speaker proved to be - let's say - time-consuming.

It took me about two years to finish the story and I posted three short fics in the meantime.

It's also still the longest fic I've written so far with a whoppping 94k.

I am still incredibly proud of what I managed to achieve and I totally love my story.

So, thank you all so much who have read the fic, kudoed and commented over the years!!!

🧡🧡🙏🙏🧡🧡🙏🙏🧡🧡🙏🙏

[admrlthundrbolt]

Reckless Paradise (Silco x Chubby Reader)

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Having a food cart in the Undercity could be boring. But having Jinx as a regular customer made for interesting moments. When she has a fight with her father and comes to you for comfort. Well Silco thinks it's time to meet the person that his daughter always seems to run to.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Hey guys, I'm back at it again. So I just watched Arcane and fell in love with Silco. That of course means that he became my immediate muse and needed a story written. Anyways I hope you enjoy.

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

Jinx slammed a fist against his desk. “I just don’t understand why I can’t go to the meetings.”

Silco sighed. “Because your not old enough.” He gave the thirteen year old girl an irritated look. “We’ve been over this, it’s not safe for you.”

Her eyes began to water. Not wanting to let him see how upset she was, she ran out of the room.

As he watched her go his heart panged with sadness. It was always a hard task to tell her no.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

Rushing down the street, she went to the only other place that felt safe. Your food cart was outside of the brothel. Joking that the workers there were the ones that needed a good meal the most. This logic kept your pots empty and pockets full. It also came with the bonus of the bouncer looking out for you. Something you were going to snub your nose at.

So to see one of your favorite customers stomping over to you. It was a sight to behold. The small blue haired teen was in a mood you rarely saw her in. Sneaking into your secret stash of fresh fruit. Something you kept on hand for her. You started peeling and slicing, as she plopped down on a stool.

“How's my favorite customer doin'?”

Folding her arms onto the edge of the cart, she laided her head on top of them. “Fine.”

As you put the final piece of fruit in the bowl you sighed in a exaggerated way. “To bad. I suppose I could trade this bowl of fresh fruit for a bit more information.”

She perked up at the offer, but raised her eyebrows in suspicion. “How much do I have to tell you?”

With a shrug you said. “Enough to make you get it off your chest.” Then you stuck out your hand. “Deal?”

A smile spread across her face and she shook your hand. “Now give up the fruit.”

Chortling at her demand, you slid the bowl to her. Then listen to her complain about her dad. You could see both sides of the argument. A kid that wanted to make her father proud. On the other hand a dad trying to keep his daughter safe. It was a tricky situation to say the least.

“I can’t stand when he treats me like a kid. When is he gonna take me seriously.” Her eyes began to water again.

Leaning forward you put a hand on her head, ruffling her hair. “I know you don’t want to hear this, but he just wants to protect you." She gave you a hard look, still you continued. “That being said, you should always know that you’re welcome here.”

Her grin returned, only to dampen. “Yeah, you’re probably right.”

Putting a hand on your hip, you smiled brightly. “Of course I am. You can make up when you get back home.” Wiping down the cart top, you put away the last of your wares.

Shaking her head feverishly, she stayed glued to the stool. “Nuh uh, I’d rather sleep on the streets tonight.”

Bitting your lip, you thought through the options. Only one solution seemed the way to go. “I can’t let you sleep in a random ally. Come on, were going to have a sleepover.”

Jumping up, she helped you finish packing up and push your cart home.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

He paced behind his desk, eyes occasionally darting between the door and window. Where could she be, it's getting late. The door opened, only for Sevika to walk through.

Her eyes looked over him and she scoffed. “She's still not back.”

He grumbled under his breath. “No, obviously not.”

Rolling her eyes at the boss’ mood, she nodded her head towards the window. “I'll go look for her, anything to calm you down.” Going back through the door she barely caught his last comment.

“As you should.”

She could hear the worry bubbling up, so she let it slide.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Bring a spare blanket and pillow to the couch, you set up a temporary bed. As Jinx skipped towards you, you gave her a mock glare. “Did you brush your teeth?”

She nodded with a frown. “The paste tasted weirded.” Then jumped onto the couch.

Tucking her under the blanket you laughed. “Sorry I only have mint. Now off to bed, need to rest up if you want to help me with the cart tomorrow.” This got her to settle down quickly. Brushing a bit of hair, that wouldn't fit into the braids you gave her, you turned off the lights.

Doing your own nightly routine, you were bombarded by thoughts of the girl lying on your couch. You tried to look after anyone that needed it, but Jinx was a special case. She had been through so much tragedy in her young life. She also had a habit of clinging to you after a fight with her father.

A sudden knock at your door startled you from your pondering. Waiting a moment, hoping it was someone at the wrong place. But as another louder knock sounded, you made your way over to the door.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Sevika grunted in annoyance and glare into the distance. It didn't take long, after asking around, to find out where the brat had gone. A food cart that hangs around the brothel. The only problem was no one would tell her where you lived. How was she supposed to question you if nobody would give up your location.

After more time than she would like to admit, someone spilled the info. It was a useless little welp that often gets thrown out of the brothel for wanting free services. He called you a stuck up bitch, because you wouldn't give him the time of day. So he was all to happy to direct her to your home.

Now that she was in front of your door, she hoped this would be simple from here on out.

Though when the door opened it wasn't at all what she expected. There you stood plump and with prominent laugh lines on your face. You looked all of a motherly type. So the frown on your face as you stared at her seemed out of place on you.

“Can I help you?”

She glanced past you and her eyes widen as she spotted the girl. Pointed her out, she said. “I'm here for her.” Seeing you block her view, by closing the door a bit, she added. “Bosses orders.”

Narrowing your eyes at her, you flashed a look over at the kid. Stepping outside of the doorway, you quietly closed the door behind you. “I'm not sure who your boss is, but I can make a guess.” You placed your hands on your hips as an exasperated expression sat on your face. “Look she's already asleep and doesn't want to go home. Do you really want to carry her back kicking and screaming.”

She cringed at the thought, the brat was bad enough in a good mood. Giving you another once over, she thought back on her search for you. Not one person had a bad thing to say about you. Plus if the brat was comfortable staying with you, what was the harm.

“Tell you what, my cart is set up at the brothel. Why don't you let her father know that he can pick her up to his leisure there tomorrow. I'm sure the gesture would make a better impression on her than dragging her home.”

You made a good point. So with a shrug and a smirk she said. “I'll let him know the situation. But I can't guarantee that I won't be sent back to kick in your front door.”

Putting your hands up in a sign of peace you shook your head. “No need, if he insisted I'll let you in. I just think him picking her up would mean a lot. Be it tonight or tomorrow.”

With a nod she starts making her way back to Silco. Only to stop after a few steps and turn back to you. “You know you have quite the reputation around here. Made it more of a challenge than I would have liked to find you."

This caused a sheepish smile to settle on your lips. “It helps when you can provide a hot meal.”

Her smirk deepened. “Maybe"

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

When she got back to the office he was half asleep in his chair. Slamming the door shut, she quietly snickered as he jump in his seat.

“Wha.” He scanned the room and glared as his eyes landed on her.

She couldn't help but noticed how the look fit much better on him than you. “I found Jinx.”

Glancing around her, his visage swapped to one of confusion. “Well, where the hell is she.” He gestured about her and grew more agitated.

Folding her arms across her chest she slid onto the chair before the desk. “With a food vendor that sets up shop in front of the brothel.”

Rubbing his temples, he tried to kept his temper in check. “And you didn't bring her back because?”

“The woman made to many good points.” She then launch into a recap of her conversation with you.

As the explanation was given, he couldn't help but agreed with you on most points. What he didn't like was you not giving him his daughter. How dare you keep what belongs to him, even if it was for only a night. He could tell by the way that Sevika spoke of you, it seemed you had garnered her respect. Which was a hard won thing to achieve. “Do you agree with her?”

This caused her to pause. Then realize that even if it wasn't what he wanted to hear, the truth was her answer. “Yes, she has the trust of the common folk and Jinx. Trying to disrupt either could result in negative backlash.”

He had to consciously unclenched his jaw. It was a thought out and comprehensive analysis. But not what he wanted to consider. “I suppose that given the situation, a little time apart could do us some good. Does she seem of the trustworthy sort.” His scrutinizing gaze rested firmly on her. Taking in any body language that may betray her thoughts.

“In all honesty, I didn't hear a single bad thing about her. Except that waste Mitch, but his opinion matters as much as a sewer rat's. It's like she's made herself a positive facet in the tunnels of the Undercity.” Placing her hands on the arm rest she leaned forward. “She might even be able to help with getting through Jinx's teenage years. Having some one she can confided in that's outside of the family business. Someone that you could keep in your back pocket for times such as these.”

The suggestion made his hackles fully lower. That could be a great boon in helping keep his daughter in line. For the first time that night he smiled. “Yes, it may be the right moment for me to meet this vendor. I will be freeing up tomorrow morning to gather Jinx from this woman.”

Nodding she had to restrain herself from smirking. She had a feeling that this meeting would be an entertaining event, to say the least.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

He walked down the street with his usual swagger. The past couple of years had his reputation skyrocketing. Taking shimmer from a small lab to a large scale production had made him a respected yet feared person.

Still it seemed there were people like you. People who weren't under the thrall of his power. So to say he was taken aback at seeing you for the first time, would be an understatement.

Your cart was homey and decorated with many personal touches. There were a few plants hanging about the canopy. Odd sizes of seating set up in front of a bench attached to the cook top. Jinx was next to you, listening to you give her patient instructions.

Then there was you. Comfortable casual clothing clung to your plump body in an alluring manner. Your cheeks were flush with effort as you mixed together a bowl of ingredients. A beaming smile made him glance away, for fear your brightened expression would blind him.

He pauses and took a moment to gather himself. This was not at all the type of senerio he saw himself stepping into.

You noticed movement not to far from your cart and glanced towards it. It wasn't hard to realize it was Silco, Jinx's father. The marred eye was his biggest giveaway. Still you couldn't help taking in his lithe figure and handsome angular features. You had no idea that such a tantalizing treat was scouring the Undercity, right under your nose too.

It was a few moments later that he heard his daughter call him over. Putting on his best face he made his way over to the pair. “Hello Jinx, how pleasant to see you this morning.” He was hoping the jab would be understood.

She looked up at him with excitement as she flipped the cooking batter. “Hi, can you believe how good this smells. I've never had breakfast from here.” She turn her attention back to the cook top and continued flipping.

“Well thank you honey. I'm glad that you feel that way." Facing him you nodded your head at the seats. “Take a seat, it won't be long before it's ready.”

He was grateful for the invitation. She was right about the smell, it was heavenly. “I believe I will take you up on that. My daughter didn't give you to much trouble, did she?”

Shaking your head with a chuckle, you began to plate up some fresh fruit and hot cakes. “Not at all. If anything she's been a great help. Didn't even complain about waking early to set up the cart.”

She perked up and jumped onto the seat next to him. “Yeah, we were out here before the morning rush. You should have seen all the people that came by.” She began shoving food in by the shovelful.

Noticing a plate had also been slid in front of him, he took a bite. It was delicious, the pairing of the lightly dressed fruit and warm pillowy cakes. He hadn't enjoyed a meal this much in a long time. Finishing the dish faster than he would have liked to admit, he couldn't keep his gaze from you.

You moved with such practiced precision behind the cook top. The way you wielded your knife made him believe you could transition into a proper assassin easily. But as he looked over at his daughter, smiling and chatting with you. He knew that you were in a better postition here.

Finishing the delectable dish he brushed away any debris from himself. “Thank you for the fabulous food. But I think it's time we be on our way.” He stood, then turned to Jinx. She was disappointed, though she followed his lead.

Smiling at the duo you held out a container filled to the brim with various items. “Here's something for the road. And I don't want either of you to hesitate to come back either.” Winking at the pair, your smile widened at the happiness on the kid’s face.

Nodding at you, he hoped his expression didn’t show how flustered he was. You were stirring feeling in him that he hadn’t felt in quite some time. “We will have to do this again then, Mrs….”

A more alluring cast settled on your face. Full attention landing on him you said. “Actually it's Miss (Y/N).” Holding out your hand, you gave his a healthy lingering shake.

Keeping a calm appearance he released your hand. “A pleasure, until next time.” Walking away with Jynx, as she called out her goodbyes. He couldn't help glancing back. Only to be shocked at your eyes raking over his own figure. Your gaze met after a few moments and you gave him a heated look. The spell broke as his daughter yanked him forward, going on about how much fun she had with you. It had him thinking about all the fun times that you and he could have together. But that would come in time. For now he would enjoy you through the stories Jinx were telling.

[classycookiexo]

Love it but sometimes I be having to look away right after because it can get intense, especially if y’all don’t break the stare 😂

[dirtyspicythoughts]

There is so much to be said about the intimacy of easy touches, comfortable moments of silence, and just existing together.

[drymushroomfics]

Lust for Life

Colin Firth x Reader (non gender specific)

You're an up and coming actor. Your first big film is with your favorite actor. Now that you and your co-star are seeing the film for the first time, how will you both react?

You watch awkwardly as the scene plays out on the huge screen. Sex scenes of yourself always seem uncomfortable to you. You're a fairly new actor and you haven't exactly had many on screen romances yet. So jumping right into a scene like that was jaring. Eventhough your co-star, Colin Firth, made it as comortable and easy as possible, you still felt nervous in those moments. It didn't help that he was attractive and you were a fan of his other works.

"Do you find watching yourself to be uncomfortable?", Colin asks, pulling you from your thoughts.

"Definitely...You?", you ask, leaning over to whisper your reply.

He shrugs, "I don't really look at it as myself as much as a character. I asked because you seem a little uncomfortable."

"It's the first time I've seen myself in this way so it's a little... uh... different."

"I like the music for this. It's perfect. Didn't you pick it?", he asks.

You nod.

He's referring to the song playing as your characters are 'getting it on' as one may put it.

"What' made you choose that song?", he asks.

"Um..."

You think carefully, wondering if you should be bold or say something generic to hide your true inspiration for the song.

You've both had just a little to drink so your bold responce may have something to do with it.

You lean forward, whispering, "My co-star."

You pull away, face red. He looks at you with a smile.

"A smile is good, right?", you wonder to yourself.

"I wish to hear the song in it's entirety.", he whispers right up against your ear.

"I can let you hear it later if you'd like... My hotel room has a great speaker system."

You can't believe the invitation that just came from your mouth.

He reacts by looking in your eyes in a way you've never seen. His eyes seem to darken a little. You can feel your whole body heating up.

"I would gladly wish to hear it from.. your hotel room speakers."

You both spend the rest of the film, barely able to focus on anything other than what may be in store after the premiere.

Some people are throwing after-parties but you know neither of you will go.

As everyone scatters, leaving in their designated transports, Colin slips into the same car as you.

The alcohol is starting to wear off as you tell the driver where to take you both. Your nerves increasing again.

"What if he backs out or isn't feeling it?", you wonder, doubt creeping in and not leaving till you and him have made it to the elevator of the hotel.

Before you could register anything, he has his body pressed against the elevator wall. Your lips moving against each other. All the pent up lust is let out all at once.

They force themselves to pull apart when they hear the familiar elevator ding.

"After you.", he says, running a hand through his hair.

You walk down the hall with him folllowing closely behind you.

He doesn't notice the 'do not disturb' sign you slip onto the door handle as you let him inside.

You turn to him, watching him drape his jacket over a chair.

"Want a drink?", you ask, knowing you need more liquid encouragement.

He nods, walking over the the champagne that's sitting in an ice bucket.

He pours himself a glass after handing you one. You clink your glasses before taking a sip.

"Can I hear the song?", he asks.

You blush, nodding and moving to find your cellphone.

You find it in your clutch purse. You attach it to the speaker system, letting the song fill the room.

He takes your hand, pulling you against him.

"What about your co-star, made you pick such a song.", he whispers in your ear.

You lets your hands run up his arms to rest on his shoulders.

"Ya see, my co-star is known for being quite the gentlemen but I learned something about him that day.", you say, boldness coming back to you.

"What might that be?"

"The way his hands gripped my hips and his breath on my neck... He knows how to take control and be everything but polite."

"We should definitely take off your clothes then if we are to understand the truely embrace the lyrics.", he smirks, kissing at your neck.

You take in a breath you didn't know you were holding. The song soon ends and you don't even care as he takes your hand to find the bedroom.

[xxwitchylanexx]

A Night Under The Moon-Cloud Strife x Reader

Rebirth Retold Chapter 3

No Story Spoilers

Chapter 4

Masterlist

*~*

That night their group set up camp on the edge of the somber swamp, finally ready to cross the desolate stretch after two weeks of odd jobs in the Woodlands. The murky water and foggy air made for the perfect hunting grounds for the infamous Midgar Zolom. The possibility of being ambushed had everyone on the edge of their seats. You assured them that the camp was far enough away from the edge. The tents more into the woods than on the shoreline would give ample time if it was to strike. However that had little effect on the rising tension becoming more and more charged with anxiety and adrenaline by the second.

You laid flat backed on your sleeping roll with a knee bent towards the sky. You could barely see the gentle twinkles of the stars above through the thick mist that blew off the sulfuric water. You missed the ambient chatter of the Woodlands despite being literal feet from it. The polluted land long since drove out anything but fiends and scavengers. Even the others grew quiet the lifeless swamp slowly sapping the once joyful vibe leaving everyone disheartened.

You couldn’t take anymore. The silence was suffocating and your ears felt as if an immense pressure was pushing against your ear drums causing the intake and exhales of your breathing to echo loudly in your skull. You rose to your feet quickly and strode off into the shadows of the looming treeline. As soon as you felt you were far enough away from the bottomless pits of muck, debris, and decomposing remnants you slowed. You footsteps quieted into the soft padding of the old dirt road you used earlier that day. The dark withered plants that would crumble by the lightest of touches slowly morphed into strong mossy green ferns, and the occasional patch of wild flowers that thrived in the abundance of nutrients the forest provided. You soaked in the bursting energy for the whispers among the leaves, breathed in the crisp clean air, and only then did the infectious despair fade within the steady beats of your heart.

You knew it was silly. You’ve came toe to toe with bigger evils than the Midgar Zolom. You’ve seen worse horrors than the over polluted river that carried the remnants of the mako pipes that have leaked over the years. It was silly that something as insignificant in the scheme of these could unnerve you. You, who has endured an unimaginable amount of humanity’s abominations. You, who did not falter under the strain of pressure or threat of danger.

You just hated that a place like this was seated on the opposite side of such a wondrous place. You hated that anyone who was lucky enough to flee the monstrosities of Midgar only to find some peace in the Woodlands then gets trapped in the complex uninhabitable hunting ground of Midgar’s creation. You hated that your home, or the closest thing to a home you had, was basically a cage to prevent anyone from spreading their seeing Gaia with their own two eyes.

It was hard to believe you were leaving once again. How long had you been here this time? A year? Maybe eighteen months. You were thankful for Bill. Even after having his plate full with raising his grandkids after the death of their parents he still found space to take you in when you had nowhere to go. He provided you with room and board in exchange with training some of his chocobos, and when he realized you had a special talent for connecting with them he even found you some clients interested in giving you a shot. Then through the power of word of mouth and your hard work you built up a clientele that allows you to do this for a living. You never thought people would benefit from your gift besides betting on your tremendous jockey record.

Your feet carried you up a winding foot path and up a steep incline, using a few of the thinner trees to keep your stability. Once the ground leveled out you slipped through a gap in the trees where the grass grew a bit more wild. A few wildflowers popped here and there across the wide meadow, and the forest gale swept through the blades of grass leaving behind its melody. You leaned against the rough bark of the nearest tree and toed off you boots the course stems of grass tickled at the underside of your feet. You bathed yourself in the light of the moon as you twirled across the field to the center taking in a huge breath relishing in the crispness of the air.

You gazed up at the vast sky, finding peace in the gentle winks the stars bestowed upon you. Slowly you sank onto to your knees before laying down until the flat of your back met the chilly ground. You ran her fingertips through the blades of grass at your sides, and gently plucked at a few from time to time. Time slowed as you allowed yourself to swept away from any troubles in the symphony of buzzing wings, the song of the cicadas, and chirping grasshoppers.

You never could get used to how far the sky above you, unlike the steel sky you grew up under. Everything felt so restricting back then. The darkness of Midgar was skilled in clipping your wings before you truly learned to fly. It kept you shackled to the inhuman ways of greed, lust, and power. Though you tried your hardest not to allow yourself to be caught in the lurking memories of the life you led then, you couldn’t help but wonder if anything had changed. Did anyone miss you? Probably not. In fact many slumlords probably slept easier knowing your blade had been buried with the body they believed was yours while your captor raged at the loss of income you’d brought in.

Six years ago you truly thought you were going to die that night in the coliseum. You hadn't wanted to participate in the Corneo Cup but the debt you owed to that woman for your upbringing-if you could call it that- was was high as the walls around Wall Market, and only winning the matches would provide enough to keep your ‘guardian’ at bay. You survived all the rounds by the skin of your teeth, the exhaustion of such a drawn out competition draining you in a way that left you lifeless. So the terror when they announced a surprise finale had hooked its claws into the fascia of your useless muscle. Bile rose into your throat and you actually considered to just lie down and accept your fate. But when your opponent was released onto the stage with you you knew your death would be far worse than any pain you’d experienced before, and you never in a million years thought the Don to be so cruel. Fresh from the depth of the Shinra labs, as if he knew where she came from, a humanoid figure stumbled through the gates. It’d smelled of rotten flesh and smoky char. Painful groans emanated deep in its’ chest since its mouth was branded shut. Claws glowed a foul purple, more that likely a product of producing some kind of venom that could prove fatal or just paralyze you so you’d be conscious as it teared you apart. You didn’t remember a lot of details beyond the pain that consumed you as its claws impaled you and twisted within your belly. You should’ve died.

You were told you’d struck it down before it could finish the job however you lost consciousness. You’d came to weeks after hidden away in a strange bedroom you’d never seen before. That’s when Chocobo Sam waltzed in, filled you in on the details, and proposed an exchange. He’d arranged for the world to believe you dead, and was preparing a funeral. He would smuggle you out of Midgar in exchange for your employment in the world of chocobo racing. After all help never came for free. Even back then in the streets of Midgar you held a special connection with his chocobos, and with a little training he believed you’d be a world class jockey, and in turn make him a lot of money. Now, as a free woman who’s had the chance to finally spread your wings, you looked for ways to atone for the for the things you’ve done, and people you’ve hurt.

You thought if you stayed on your own, embraced the bitter loneliness that forever contained, and used your skills to help the people of Gaia as you wandered from town to town that maybe the sins of the past would begin to fade. And when you take your last breath on this Planet the scars you’ve inflicted would disappear alongside you. At least that was the hope. Though you aren’t really sure anymore. Maybe there was a better way to set things right.

You told yourself you’d accompany them until they arrived at the saucer, return to your work, and consider it another job well done, but with every day, even though it’s only been two short weeks, you find yourself wishing that you would never have to leave them.

Tifa was like a big sister. The raven haired beauty always checked in with to make sure you was eating enough, or that you weren’t getting too worn down from all the fights that seemed to gravitate their way. She asked your favorite foods, and tried to accommodate your preferences alongside everyone else’s, and don’t get you started about how she nitpicks at your sleeping habits. You don’t understand why it’s such a big deal to sleep under the stars instead of inside of a tent.

You got along well enough with Barret. You quickly learned that as long as you listened to his many stories about the planet and how Shinra was shit, which was the one thing everyone could agree on, you’d get along fine. Though you made a mental note to pick up some ear plugs the next time the group stays in a town. You didn’t mind how much his voice carried in the daylight, but if you had to lose another second of sleep to his ground breaking snores you was going to lose you mind.

You absolutely adored Red XIII. The two of you had become fast friends. In fact the moment you offered him some of the choco treats you had, you had him eating out of the palm of your hand. Literally. As a thank you, Red would often curl up next to your bed roll to cast some extra heat your way. Sometimes after everyone else drifted off you’d point out your favorite stars that hung in the sky and he’d teach you the name of it.

Aerith was a breath of fresh air. So upbeat and full of life. She seen the good in everything, and led her life with grace. As they traveled, she’d point out flowers that she liked or ones she thought you’d enjoy as well. You didn’t have the heart to tell her they were just a part of the background for you. She’d ask you so many questions like: Where are you from? What do you like the most about chocobos? What’s your type in guys? The last one so out of left field it caught you off-guard.

The only guy you currently thought about was the one member of the group that remained a mystery.

Your curiosity burned within you, at times consuming your thoughts that’d be better used elsewhere. The occasional peek behind this tough, brooding act fueled you to be more daring, but the odd swelling of your heart urged you to keep your distance, and he had little to no difficulty in avoiding you. Every now and then Aerith— her insistence seemed a bit odd to you but you figured maybe she was just trying to get him to be polite-suggested that he should sit next to you, or accompany you to collect water or firewood, but even then his body would remain as stiff as a board. It was very clear how uncomfortable he was. Yet, from time to time she could feel the way his stare drilled into you, or when you thought it was safe to sneak a peak at him- I mean who could blame you- he’d already be looking at you. Embarrassment would swell at being caught though the weight of his eyes would remain heavy on your flushed face even after you’d look away.

You sighed as your gaze refocused on the luminous moon, and in a moment of vulnerability you asked it to shed some light on the situation, and maybe ease the fluttering in your chest.

Somewhere in her peripheral a green flicker bounced through the tall grass. You rose onto your elbows, and twisted at the hips in the direction you first saw it. You trained your eyes, scanning high and low for the source. You began to believe you had imagined it until the faint green glow flared once again, flashing six times before growing dark. Lightning bugs.

*~*

Cloud hadn’t meant to stumble upon the scene that played out in front of him. If anything, it was Tifa’s fault since she had asked him to go and find more wood for the fire.

He had combed through the woods after no luck finding burnable pieces near the swamp. Everything was soggy and covered in rot from lying in such mucky water. Truth be told, he jumped on the opportunity to stray from stifling group setting. He basked in the tranquil silence that didn’t happen much anymore since the group had doubled in size the only noises he heard now were the crickets calls and his feet swishing across the ground. He aimlessly picked up dry sticks and bark for kindling and trekked over to a few tress that had a few fallen branches that would last awhile when a rhythmic thumping vibrated through the ground from the clearing up ahead. The movement up him on alert dropping the wood to the ground next to the trunk of the tree he was at and brought a hand up to grip the hilt of his sword.

With measured steps, he stalked forward doing his best to blend into the thin shadows the tress cast to the edge of the tree line. His bicep brushed against the bark roughly as he peered around its’ circumferences. Cloud expected some fiends, boy was he wrong.

The entire clearing was bathed in the full moon’s light. Hundreds of flashing lightning bugs fluttered in circles in soft shades of greens and yellow, and in the center of it all was you in all your striking beauty swaying along with the insects’ movements. He felt himself pull his blade from his back and lean it up against the truck that has kept him hidden. His expression softening without his permission and his eyes swimming in awe of the way you danced as if you were the wind yourself.

His feet began to inch closer to you, his clunky boots padded softly in the grass despite being too hypnotized to care if you was loud or not. He found it rather amusing that he’d tried his hardest not to be alone with you and yet here he was being drawn to you like a moth to a flame. He still didn’t know what to say or do around you. Should he act tough, or should he be more gentle? How would he even go about that? What should he talk about, or should he let you choose a topic and just go along with it? What if the other realize he’s acting different around you? Would they all tease him as mercilessly as Aerith did? He was so stuck in his own head that most of the interactions had been awkward he always felt he came off colder than he wanted to. Only for Aerith to have been watching the entire interaction and tease about his ‘crush’. He’d scoffed, and wave her off saying nothing had changed, but you clung to every bit of his free thoughts and he felt like he was going wild.

You weren’t shy or meek. You had the guts to put Barrett in a headlock when he rambled on for two hours about Shinra killing the planet. Did you have a death wish? You were smart and intuitive, winning Red’s affection by appreciating his intelligence instead of treating him as an animal. How you trained with Tifa and surprisingly could hold your own. His head still plagued him with worry that he wouldn’t be able to protect you in the coming challenges this journey will hold. Yet the spark in your eye when you try to convince him to allow you to fight did something to him. He hated how chummy Aerith got with you. Every day she’d approach him with some new info she learned that could ‘help’ him out. You grew up in Midgar. You liked being in the outdoors vs. being inside. You didn’t seem all that interested in flowers. You preferred salty over sweet, and other things she deemed important for him to know. All it did was make his hands clammy when he got close to you, and internally panic as he was unsure how to interact with you.

So why was this moment so different? Sure his pulse raced, but his need to be close to you override the hesitation that consumed him. Maybe he had to be in a trance so his desires could run freely, though his nose crinkled at the thought that he wouldn’t ever be able to be himself around you. He stopped just a few feet away. You were to focused as you hunched over one of the flickering bugs, your braid falling over your shoulder as you leaned over. There was just something so enchanting about seeing you trying to capture lightning bugs like he had when he was young back home on nights sleep eluded him.

Your brows drew together, and that crinkle between them reappeared, as you stretched out your hands and cupped each one in a half circle. You took in a deep breath and exhaled as you quickly clapped your hands around one, as fast as a snake. You shrieked with joy as you hopped a little as cradled the tiny insect against your chest. You peered down at it through the gaps between your finger, a gentle smile graced your pretty face the greenish light highlighting the e/c of your eyes.

He stretched a hand out to you, for what purpose he wasn’t sure, but you must have seen him then out of the corner of your eye because you jolted upwards with a quiet squeak - cute - and hands thrown up releasing the bug you worked so hard to catch.

“Fuck!” you cried as a hand clutched at your chest as you tried to still your rapid heartbeat. “You scared the shit out of me!” You yelled as you stomped over to him and smacked his shoulder. He had to summon all the stubborn willpower in his body to keep the corners of his mouth from inching into a smile. “I worked so hard to capture him, you ass!” You spun the opposite direction without giving him a chance to explain and began looking for your next target like he wasn’t even there.

He scratched at the back of his neck as he shuffled a tiny bit closer to you, “Sorry. I- uh,” Cloud shifted from one foot to the other uncomfortably. “Was looking for firewood.” Your lack of a response had him cursing at himself. Maybe he shouldn’t have approached you at all. He awkwardly turned back to the forest and intending to collect the branches, get back to the camp, and hole himself up. He even made a few steps back to the treeline before he stopped to consider if he should say goodbye. He twisted on his feet to look at you again.

He hadn’t expected you to be watching him, for your eyes to trace over him, study him, as he struggled with what to do next. The silence continued and while it should’ve felt awkward it didn’t. He huffed before looking over at a group of the bugs to the right of her, muttering. “I, uh, could help.” He flicked his eyes to your face briefly to gauge your reaction, not expecting the lopsided smile to be there as you continued to stare him down. “Or whatever.” He shrugged.

“Really?” You asked your head leaning slightly to the side. He only nodded to answer your question. “Alright, show me those skills, soldier boy.” You laughed the sound making him feel so much lighter.

He groaned at your teasing. “Ex-soldier.”

As ge spent a good hour or two jumping, leaping, and rolling trying to catch one of the damn things, no doubt completely embarrassing himself as you sat back and enjoyed the show, he wished he’d never opened his mouth. You must think him pathetic that a man of his skill set couldn’t catch one little bug, but when he finally caught one to present to you it made every minute of it worth it.

Your eyes lit up like he’d given you the heavens, a wide smile glowed on your s/c skin, and the gentle brush of his hand against yours as he settled it into yours had goosebumps racing against his flushed skin. To be close enough to shamelessly admire you, as you watched the critter flutter around your cupped palms, was enough payment for his services. Not that he’d ever charge you, and he’d do it all again just to see the way your face slowly warmed once you realized the attention he was giving you.

Until you finally couldn’t take it anymore, and you peered up at him through your dark lashes like you did that first day. His heart knocking against his ribs, trying to burst through his chest and land in your palms to be handled just as gently as the bug. Your voice was barely louder than a whisper as you spoke, “Thank you.”

He blinked once and then turned away from you completely. He didn’t wait for you either as he walked back to the edge of the clearing the weight of his thoughts revealing things he’d never expected to feel. How on Gaia did this even happen? One minute he was a bad ass mercenary and one bug later he was a love struck fool. He had to put some distance between you before he lost his mind altogether. He didn’t have time for shit like this. Sephiroth is out there and if he found out, Cloud could only imagine the shit he’d do to exploit this new weakness. He only allowed himself to look back once after he slung his sword onto his back and gathered the wood he’d abandoned there. “Let’s go back.” He called to you before quickly stalking back to the camp, leaving you there alone.

You looked around the shadowed field, noticing all the wonderful critters disappeared almost as abruptly as they appeared. The whole scene faded like a dream and left you with more questions about the man than when you asked the moon just a few hours ago. You glanced at it once more before making your way back to camp wondering if it was mocking you.

[aventurineswife]

hiii!! may I request aventurine x female!reader who wears jirai kei? you can write any plot you like, I'll leave it to your imagination!

“His Luck Was a Lie; Her Love Wasn’t”

Summary: In the dreamlike cityscape of Penacony, where illusions and debts intertwine, Aventurine—IPC’s charming, calculating risk-taker—crosses paths with a mysterious young woman clad in Jirai Kei fashion. Drawn to her bittersweet beauty and emotional authenticity, he invites her into his world of high-stakes games and emotional subterfuge. But as the night unfolds, masks slip and truths surface. Between velvet lace and velvet lies, the two discover a connection neither expected—a gamble of vulnerability, trust, and something dangerously close to love.

Tags: Aventurine x Female!Reader, Jirai Kei Fashion, Slow Burn, Emotional Intimacy, Angst with Comfort, Subtle Flirting, Mutual Attraction, Psychological Themes, Hurt/Comfort, Symbolism & Body Language, Hidden Vulnerability.

Warnings: Emotional trauma and past abuse references (slavery, survivor’s guilt, religious trauma), Mild suggestiveness/Romantic tension, Psychological manipulation themes, Light angst, Subtle allusions to self-worth struggles.

The artificial twilight of Penacony bathed the skyline in a gentle lavender haze, casting blurred shadows over casinos shaped like glass towers and serpentine railways that shimmered like silk. The city pulsed like a heart too full of secrets. A place of dreams and delusions—perfect for a man like Aventurine.

And perhaps, perfect for a girl like you.

You stood outside the Celestial Roulette, Penacony’s most exclusive (and absurdly opulent) gambling lounge, your (Jirai Kei) outfit making you look as if you'd walked out of a dream. A delicate blend of rebellion and sweetness—frilly lace blouse, oversized sweater draped like armor, a skirt embroidered with broken hearts and stars, and lace-up boots that clicked like soft defiance. Black ribbons threaded your hair, and your heavy eye makeup made your eyes look like storms with lashes.

You didn’t belong here.

And yet, neither did he.

He was leaning beside the entrance, tossing a coin—gold-edged, glinting with something not quite light. Aventurine's eyes, magenta and cyan with slitted pupils, landed on you with the ease of a predator spotting a wildcard in a rigged game.

“Well,” he drawled, tucking the coin into his sleeve with magician-like flair. “You don’t look like someone who came here for safe bets.”

“And you don’t look like someone who makes any,” you replied, brushing your skirt as if flicking off expectation. “Am I being scouted or stalked?”

A grin spread across his face, sharklike but oddly sincere. “Why not both?”

He invited you in—not with words, but with a gloved hand held out like an invitation to the gallows.

The casino inside was dazzling—roulette wheels in the ceiling, dealers in porcelain masks, and chandeliers dripping with artificial starlight. You were underdressed for its wealth, overdressed for its authenticity, and Aventurine? He was dressed like someone who invented decadence.

Your hands brushed as you took a seat beside him at a private card table, and for a moment, he froze. You didn’t notice—too busy scanning the room with calculated detachment.

But he noticed you.

“Your look,” he said as the dealer shuffled, “it’s… tragic elegance. Rebellion dipped in sugar. I like it.”

You tilted your head. “And yours is ‘snake with a tailor and a god complex.’”

He laughed—genuinely. “Touché.”

Cards were dealt. You played with hesitance. He played with flair. But you didn’t miss how he occasionally glanced at his left hand—always hidden beneath the table, curled into itself like a memory he couldn't shake.

You leaned closer, the scent of rose perfume and clove curling around him. “Are you always this performative, or am I a special occasion?”

Aventurine turned his head slightly, the smirk faltering just enough to show something real. “You’re not like the others.”

“Because I dress like sadness wrapped in pastels?”

“No,” he said, quieter now. “Because you look like you know exactly what it feels like to be caged. And you wear it like art.”

The two of you left the casino around midnight, the air thick with the perfume of distant dreams and neon melancholy.

You walked along a translucent bridge above the cityscape, your sweater sleeves pulled over your hands. Aventurine’s overcoat billowed in the wind, the roulette wheel design on his back glinting.

“I used to think survival was just a numbers game,” he said suddenly. “You know—play your odds, take your chances, and bluff the pain away.”

You glanced at him, surprised at the drop in bravado.

“But then you came in,” he continued, eyes fixed ahead, “wearing heartbreak on your sleeves. No poker face. Just… authenticity. You reminded me that pain isn’t always a weakness. Sometimes it’s just proof you’re still real.”

You didn’t answer right away. Just slipped your hand into his—gently, not forcefully. He startled, a sharp intake of breath escaping him like a held gamble finally lost.

His hand was warm. You felt the faint tremble he tried to hide.

“You’re real too, you know,” you murmured. “Even if you try to pretend you're just… luck in a suit.”

He looked at you then, eyes softening into something terrifyingly human.

“If I kissed you,” he said, voice low, “would it be a risk or a reward?”

You leaned in, daring him. “Only one way to find out.”

Aventurine, for all his charm, had never gambled with honesty. But with you, he found himself laying down pieces of his soul one card at a time.

And for the first time in years, the game no longer felt rigged.

Just real.

Like the brush of lace against fingertips.

Like a kiss beneath artificial stars.

Like two broken things daring to become something whole.

Together.

[callalillywrites]

Not Your Motorcycle

Written for @steverogersbingo. A4 - Motorcycle.

Steve Rogers Masterlist | Steve Rogers Bingo | Main Masterlist

Pairing: Steve Rogers x Reader

Word Count: 1861

Summary: All you wanted after a long day at work is to ride your motorcycle until your tension and stress disappeared. The last thing you ever expected was to find Steve checking out your bike or anything that follows.

Warnings: mutual pining/attraction; meddling friends (mainly Nat, but Tony to smaller extent); fluff; lots of fluff; gentlemanly Steve (absolute warning)

I do not give permission to have my works copied, translated, reposted, or fed into an AI machine.

****

Dr. Banner couldn't get back fast enough.

Exhaustion and tension threatened to cave you in as you stepped onto the elevator.

Who knew a shift with Tony Stark could feel like an eternity?

Oh, how you missed the quieter, can-hear-yourself-think time spent with your actual boss. There hadn't been one thought that Mr. Stark had kept to himself. If he wasn't talking through one problem he wanted to work on, he was blasting his music at an ungodly level. Your head thumped to the beat until it throbbed and screamed for the quiet you preferred.

Dr. Banner played music, sure, but it was always at a level that you could tune out when it suited you. He also never really spoke unless he needed your opinion on one matter or another. The two of you could spend almost the entire day in silence, working on your respective duties. It was something you wouldn't ever take for granted again while praying you wouldn't have Mr. Stark for company again the next day.

All you wanted in that moment was to hop on your bike and ride.

Where? It didn't matter. Just wind yourself through the streets and out to the more country-ish roads until you found the peace you desperately needed. Sure, maybe you'd stop for a bite to eat somewhere, but you had no plans to stop until the hour grew late.

Maybe you'd even make a weekend of it. It's why you kept a spare set of clothes in your saddlebags. All it would take is a quick search for a little place to spend the night.

Your grand plan ground to a halt the moment you stepped into the parking garage.

Some oversized dude had apparently taken a liking to your bike and was now sitting on it.

The absolute audacity. The nerve.

"Excuse me," you shouted as you marched toward the guy on your bike. "What exactly do you think you're doing? Didn't your mama ever teach you not to touch other's stuff? Get off my bike before I—"

The words died abruptly in your throat.

The great hulk of a man who'd been on your bike had turned toward you at the start of your tirade. But, you'd been so caught up in shouting it took a moment to compute who he was. When your brain finally caught up to your mouth, it was too late.

Staring back at you were the bluest eyes you've ever encountered. The same eyes you'd dreamed about a time or two. How could you not? After all, they belonged to none other than Captain America, Steve Rogers himself.

To his credit, he appeared at a loss, quickly and easily moving off your bike and taking a few steps away. His hand came up to rub at the back of his neck as pink suffused his cheeks. "I didn't realize it was yours. Tony's been talking up his newest bike, and I was led to believe this was it. My sincerest apologies."

Your earlier ire died swiftly.

His sincerity and horrified expression was more than enough to easily forgive him. It was a relatively minor transgression compared to if he'd been a complete stranger who'd wandered into the gated garage.

If anyone should incur your wrath, it should be Mr. Stark, not Captain Rogers. No, Steve Rogers had only ever been kind and even sweet whenever the two of you interacted. It wasn't often he'd come into Dr. Banner's labs. When he did though, he was always courteous and maybe a little quieter than you thought he would be as you worked. He wouldn't linger, either.

You had no idea that he often wished he had more excuses to come into Dr. Banner's labs. Nor were you aware that he's liked you from the first time he'd seen you, but he'd never found an opening that made sense. He'd give almost anything to have a chance to learn more about you.

"It's, uh, okay," you finally stammered when you realized you hadn't responded to him. No, you'd been a bit busy losing yourself to your thoughts while also staring at him. Not drooling or anything, mind you, but in a way that Steve couldn't quite read if he'd deeply offended you or not. "I wasn't aware that Mr. Stark was a bike man. He doesn't seem the type."

That earned you a huff of what could only be laughter.

Steve's eyes crinkled at the corners as his smile blossomed.

"Yeah," he said after a moment, "he's more a collector than rider nowadays. Prefers his suit, you know."

You smiled at him. "Oh, I know he does. I don't think he stopped talking about it all day as he worked in Dr. Banner's labs. You don't, by any chance, know when Dr. Banner's coming back from his mission, do you?"

"Not a fan of Tony in the lab?"

Your face must've shifted more than you imagined it did. One moment, Steve's grinning at you, and the next, he's shaking his head and chuckling under his breath.

"You won't tell him, will you? I don't want to bruise his ego or anything. I mean, he could use an ego deflation now and then, but he's an okay boss. I just prefer Dr. Banner. That's all."

Steve's hands came up as if to ward off any more of your words. His smile gentled once more into the one that filled your dreams at night as he said, "Your secret's safe with me. Bruce should be back by next Friday, I think. I'm not exactly sure since his mission doesn't have a strict turnaround or deadline compared to others."

"Ah, okay," you said, hoping he didn't catch a hint of your disappointment. You'd really been hoping Dr. Banner would be back by Monday morning. That way, there would be no more Tony Stark in the lab. "Thank you for letting me know though. I guess I'll, uh, see you around, Captain Rogers."

When you would've stepped towards your bike, ready to get one with your plans, Steve stepped in front of you, blocking you from it.

"Call me Steve, please," he said softly, his voice holding a hint of something you couldn't quite put your finger on. When you glanced up to meet his gaze, you found his eyes watching you with something you so wanted to be interest and maybe a little bit of hope. As if to confirm, he asked, "You going straight home? I know a diner nearby. Good food, great atmosphere. It's a good place to wind down after a stressful day."

That certainly had your attention.

All previous plans flew out of your head as you stared at Steve and saw that same expression deepen with his gaze. Even his posture shifted in a way that made you think of a puppy, hoping it would be the one chosen this time.

Now, that was the most surprising part of all.

It was well known around the Tower that Steve was ogled and drooled over every time he walks by. He could have his pick of any hundred-plus women that work within its glass-lined walls. That included you though you adamantly denied you were as bad as some.

"Are you asking me out?" you couldn't help asking. After all, you had to be sure for fear you'd make a fool of yourself.

He nodded so emphatically. "Bad idea?"

"Oh, no," you shook your head, a smile sliding back in place, "diner food sounds really good right now."

"Yeah?"

You nodded your head rather vigorously.

Steve beamed down at you before his cheeks went pink. "Okay, great, um, just let me grab my jacket and keys. Then, we'll go. Wait for me? Five minutes, tops?"

He almost made it a full stop, but you managed to stop him. Your smile widened into a full-blown grin. You even shook your head while gesturing to himself.

"You're wearing your jacket," you said softly, then pointed at the keys peeking out of his pocket, "and I believe those are your keys right there. Unless you somehow managed to lift mine, copy them, and return them without my noticing."

His cheeks darkened into a rosier color.

You couldn't help thinking how unfair the color suited him better than it ever would you.

"Sorry, guess I'm just excited you said yes," he murmured, his hue growing even darker and spreading.

Your heart, the traitor, started pounding in your chest at the sweetness of his words. It'd been a bit since anyone had shown this level of interest in you, and you found it a little daunting but also so sweet. You couldn't help but feel the butterflies kick up when his gaze met yours with an earnestness that literally stole your breath for a moment.

Before your courage could fail you, you rose on tiptoes and pressed a chaste kiss to his cheek. Pulling back, you said, "Well, my bike is calling me to ride. Wanna grab yours and show me your diner? Maybe after, we can go on the drive I had planned for myself. I mean, if you don't have anything else to do and want to spend more time together."

"I'd really like that, but I don't want to impose on your alone time."

Oh, this man could just about kill you with his gentlemanly behavior.

"Wouldn't have offered if you'd be imposing." You allowed yourself a squeeze of his arm before stepping back and picking up your helmet. "Now, I'm starving, so let's get going. Definitely want to get out of here before Mr. Stark tries to find me and drag me back to the lab."

Steve grinned. "I'd keep you safe."

"Hm, that's good to know."

The two of you quickly donned what gear you typically wore. You with your full-body protection gear and Steve with only a helmet that you made him put on. Despite hearing his protests about the serum, you weren't having it, not when you'd gained what you hoped to be the first of many dates with him.

Your bikes roared to life within minutes, then spun out of the garage and onto the city's streets.

*****

Meanwhile…

"You didn't have to throw me under the bus like you did, Romanov," Tony groused while watching the screens in front of them. "Can't believe I didn't see your meddling sooner."

Nat smirked, her eyes never leaving the screens. "You never do, genius. Besides, my plan worked just as it was meant to. Those two were never going to make a move if we didn't help them along."

"Yeah, I guess," Tony continued to grumble, "but next time, don't make it where I almost cost Banner his assistant. He'd never forgive me, and we don't need a Hulk situation in the city."

"You know I can't promise that."

'Tony sighed, his gaze going a final time to the screens. He watched as you and Steve made your way out of the garage. A smile flitted over his features.

"It's nice to see him happy, yeah?"

Nat nodded. Her smirk transformed into an honest smile as she said, "Yeah, it is."

[leapdayeveryday]

Anyone, no matter how they look, can be hot. Period.

I’ve been seeing people throw around the words, “hot,” and, “ugly,” lately. Oftentimes to put themselves down or put others down because they’re, “not hot.” But it’s clear they’re talking about what’s, “hot,” as a universal concept and not just what they’re attracted to. When they do this, their standards of, “hot,” are informed by cishet white patriarchal standards of beauty.

Stop it.

“Hot,” is up to an individual. There is no universal standard of attractiveness, it’s all what individuals are attracted to. And because of that, literally anyone can be hot.

It is my genuine belief that being hot has more to do with the energy you give out then the things you can’t control about your looks. And even if you think you look ugly, someone out there thinks you look hot.

So we need to STOP furthering oppressive and restrictive standards of beauty. I’ve seen some of the most gorgeous people I know say they’re not hot. I just want to shake them by the shoulders until they realize that’s not true.

Once you accept that you’re hot, it’s so freeing. Trust me, I know this. Because I know I’m hot.

[admrlthundrbolt]

Tongue Tied (Luke x Chubby Reader)

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Luke believes that his luck in love ran out before he was even born. So after weeks of Marnie trying to set him up, he finally accepts. Will it be a wonderful night or a disaster. And how exactly has he been entranced by them. Could they have a secret of they're own.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Hey guys, I'm back at it again. I had a hankering to watch some spooky Disney movies. So I watched the Halloweentown series for the first time. I am so disappointed that I hadn't seen it before. But no time like the present. And like many before me I was enamored with Luke. This is the result. Hope you enjoy.

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

Luke had always known his luck in love was lousy. But he thought college may give him a leg up. Tons of new and different people to get to know. It was only a matter of time before he met someone he was compatible with.

As he paced his dorm room, he had to reconsider his choices. It had been months, already, a whole semester had come and gone. Yet he struck out again and again. Frowning he decided a walk could help him gather his thoughts.

Leaving the dormitories a bright flyer for a neighborhood block party caught his eye. Causing a memory to jolt in his mind. Rushing back up to his room. He hurriedly sent a message to Marnie.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

She was practically skipping around her room, listing off all the great things about you. “She's so sweet and good natured. Quite the book worm too, but that doesn't keep her from enjoying a good movie. You guys are going to get along so well.” She gave him a look, wiggling her eyebrows and everything. “Not to mention she is totally cute. You see her and just want to squeeze the life out of her she's so adorable.”

He tried to hide his blush behind the soda he was drinking. It seemed like you were the total package. So what would you want with a guy like him? Between his ugly mug and uglier past. Would you really give him a chance. “If she's this great, then why set her up with me?”

Marnie frowned as she took in his downtrodden expression. Why was he always so hard on himself. Still she gave him a reassuring smile. “Call it witches intuition, I know you guys are perfect for each other. You'll be each other's yin and yang.” Seeing his mood not brighten, she thought a new detail may lighten the situation. “Besides I told her you were interested already. You would not believe how excited she was.”

His face fell into his hands with a groan. What was he kidding, he would just mess this up too. But then a sudden idea came to mind. Head shooting up, his wide eyes stared at his friend. “OK, but on one condition.”

She nodded eagerly, anything to make the perfect match.

“You make me look human for the date.” He watched as her face fell. Scrambling to make his case, he almost fell from his seat. “Look I just want to make the best impression. We both know that I'm more confident when you take away the goblin features.” Running his finger through fluffy hair he sighed. “I don't want to mess this up. I mean like you said, we're made for each other.”

Nose scrunching in annoyance she crossed her arms. “Is it really the only way you'll agree.” Nodding he watched her resolve crumble. “Fine let me talk to my Grandma and we'll see what we can do.” She wanted to be angry with him. But as the wide grin settled on his face she found she couldn't. If this was what got the two of you to meet then so be it. You really did belong together. Hopefully you could knock some sense into him on your date.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

You shuffled in front of the movie theater. Nerves and excitement burning in you veins. You had been a bit skeptical when Marnie mentioned a blind date. But after all the good things she had to say about Luke. Well if he's half the guy she claimed then you were willing to try.

He swatted Marnie's hands away as she tried to straight his coat for the millionth time. She had been fretting over him since they met up. It was making his anxiety flare up terribly. If he hadn't already agreed to this he might head home. But there was no way he could disappoint his friend or a sweet stranger. So he took a deep breath and cleared his mind. “OK, I think I'm ready.”

Her smile widened. “Great. Now don't forget that the spell only last a few hours. Even though I still think it wasn't the best decision to begin with.”

Glancing at a nearby window, he couldn't help but admire his handsome face. He doesn't hate his goblin features, they just made him self-conscious. Especially when meeting a cute girl for a blind date. “I know how you feel, you've told me a ton of times. I just want to make the best first impression I can.”

She reluctantly nodded and spun him around. “OK, start with the movie, then dinner afterwards. The perfect first date.” She pushed him in the direction of the cinema. Grinning all the while.

He got to the theater in a few short moments. Still this was a new territory for him. Even with the artificial glow up, his heart was hammering. Steeling his nerves he turned the final corner and paused. There was no way that was his blind date. Looking up and down the street he knew there must be a mistake. You were the only person standing in the place Marnie had set up as a meeting spot. You were gorgeous, the vision of a goddess. Your plush body complimented well by the outfit you had chosen. He was enamored with the sight of you. It made him all the more sure of asking for the makeover. Making his way over he called out your name.

Spinning towards the call, you smiled warmly. Only for your brows to pinch in confusion. You could have sworn that Marnie said he was a goblin. So why was this human guy saying your name. “Hi, are you Luke?”

His grin broadened. “The one and only. It's nice to finally meet the girl that Marnie keeps talking about. Putting a beautiful face to the name and all.” He mentally cheered at your flushed cheeks. Maybe he could charm you into not caring about his face.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

He held the door open as you both exited the cinema. “Can you imagine how much they spent on fake blood? I mean that scene at the end with the bloodfall.” You looked up at him as you gushed about the movie. Going on about the special effects and detail of the props. It was endearing how much you seemed to love movies. He loved your reactions and random comments. Every so often you would tug him towards yourself and whisper something in his ear. He always had to hold back a shiver at your cute action. Every moment he spent in your presence made him open up just a bit more. As if you were drawing out his true nature, without even meaning to. You were so sweet and inviting, it was impossible to not like you.

He tug subconsciously at his ear as he smiled down at you. “You know, you don't strike me as the type of girl that would be interested in a movie like that.”

You gazed at him with glittering eyes. “I love all kinds of movies. They're a great way to bring any story to life. Everyone's story deserves to be told.” If he became anymore enamored with you his heart may just beat right out of his chest.

As a nearby clock chimed loudly you wrapped your plush arm around his own. Surprised he had to stop himself from jumping. “Oh, I know just the place for a great bite. If you like diners that is.” Your full cheeks puffed up as you grinned widely at him.

“Yeah, I could go for a burger and shake.” His own smile spread as you made your way down the block.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Dinner went even better than the movie. He could hear you talk for hours about anything. But the captivating way you spoken about movie was delightful. You listened to every opion he gave and giving your own in an intriguing way. It made his thoughts feel validated and encouraged.

You both enjoyed the food. He had to agree with you, it all tasted amazing. Though there was an awkward pause when the waitress brought out his shake with two straws. She threw a wink to your table and left.

With a small yet genuine he slid the glass towards you. “Go ahead and try. It's way to much for just me anyways.” He flushed at the sweet smile you gave him. Only for his grin to broaden as you shifted to second straw to him.

~~~~~~~~~~~~

Now you were strolling through the park. Your arm wrapped around his once again. Supple body pressed against his own. Enjoying the quiet peace and pleasant ambiance together.

You look up at him with dazzling eyes. “I've really enjoyed tonight Luke.” You gave his arm a tight squeeze, smiling softly.

He couldn't help but mirror your expression. It really has been one of the best nights of his life. He honestly wanted to hit himself over the head for not listening to his friend sooner. “I have too. This has been great. But don't tell Marnie, her head would get to big for her body.” He flushed at the sweet giggle you let out.

As the town centers clock chimes the late hour, he swiftly stops. Feeling his face shifting, he tries to turn away from you. Noticing the sudden change, you grip his arm tighter and ask what's wrong.

“I I I need to go.” He desperately wants to run. You couldn't see him like this, it would ruin everything. He covers his face with his hands.

Worried that he could be hurt, you pry his hands from his face. He squeezes his eyes shut, not wanting to see the disappointment on your face. “Luke, please, tell me what's wrong.”

His eyes widened in shock. Staring down at your face, he was surprised at what he saw. Your were worried, your eyes glittering with unshed tears. “I'm a monster, that's what. Or actually a goblin.” His shoulders sagged in resignation. “I ask Marnie to change my appearance so I would have a better chance with you. But I guess I was having such a good time, I didn't realize the hour. I understand if you want to never see me again.” His posture slouch further as he thinks about how stupid he was. That he would ever have a chance with a girl like you.

Bringing your hand to his cheek, you guided his eyes to yours. “Luke I've known from the beginning that you were a goblin. Marnie has shown me pictures of you before.”

His brows pinched as you admitted this. “You knew? And you still wanted to go on a date with me?”

You nodded enthusiastically. “Of course, how could I not. She could only say good things about you. I was actually the one who suggested the date.” Looking away shyly, you gave him a bashful grin.

Shaking his head, he smacked himself on the forehead. Sliding the hand down his face, he sighed. “I really have been dumb.”

Your melodious giggle sounded through the air. “How about you make it up to me on a second date.” He straighten up and hastily agreed. “I can tell you all about my heritage. I am an eighth troll after all.” Your smile widened at the disbelief on his face and the barrage of questioned that followed.

[sarahallen225]

Good morning ☀️ ☕️

[cal781]

Levi Snippet #1: Reunion

After he saw kenny leave him levi saw a girl that looked familiar to him her height was no more than 5 feet and she had (H/C) (H/L) *for both the hair color and length that is for you to decide… even if you want her to have a pixie cut ). “WHAT’S WRONG ? NOT ENJOYING YOURSELF NOW? TRY TO COP A FEEL NOW YOU SICK FUCK !!” While the girl continued to roughly beat her opponent to a bloody pulp .. the young raven haired boy couldn’t help but recognize her facial features , while she had bruises and blood both on her forehead and corner of her lip . ‘If you ignore all of that , she’s pretty’ , before today levi thought his childhood friend (Y/N) had died a long time ago . ‘ back then she was a happy but kindhearted girl when we were kids.. Y/N what the hell happened?’ . His thoughts were disrupted by hearing the perverts wail… spitting on his face “ Tch… after all that talk of “making me scream” I thought you’d be a challenge you pathetic piece of shit “ roughly kicking the mans ribs which sounded like a crack making him scream louder crouching down to further taunt him “ Shut Up … you’re lucky i’m feeling merciful .. If i ever see your sorry ass again i will kill you “ Icily threatening him . Before the ruthless girl could walk away a young boy called out her “ Oi.. You’re Y/N Right?” “ Tch who wants to know ? Who…?” Losing her words y/n’s eyes widened as if she saw a dead loved one . ‘ N-No way … he’s alive ?!’ Before she spoke y/n swallowed the lump in her throat “ You.. what’s your name? “ “Levi “ … finally allowing her harsh facade to crumble y/n showed her long lost friend a relieved smile with tears finally falling down on her face . Walking towards him the girl boldly held levi’s hands making him taken aback and stiffen at first … “Levi you ass , i thought you died ages ago “ although she was crying he couldn’t deny she was smiling at him “Tch .. dumbass that’s my line” allowing himself to gently smile at the girl he likes . “Y/N (your nickname) what happened -? “ not wasting a second longer y/n started to lead levi to her home while still holding his hand “In a moment levi, i want us to catch up … you can tell me all what happened after we got separated … i’ll warn you in my home i like to keep it clean “ . Usually disgusted when others touch him , and yet he couldn’t bring himself to do it this time ‘ Not with her .. Y/N whatever happened you’re still able to smile like that ‘ y/n gently rubbed his knuckles .. her subtle way of showing affection towards the boy she cares for which made levi gently smile .

Notes : this is how I imagine y/n would look like when nearly killing that man when levi sees her again .

[merthurao3recs]

Dave

Author: Camelittle, LFB72

Rating: Teen And Up Audiences

Word Count: 60,354

Details: Merlin/Arthur Pendragon, Alternate Universe - Modern Setting, Modern Setting, Modern AU, Alternate Universe - Comedians, Comedy, Comedians, British Comedy, Comedy Shows, Comics, Stand Up Comedy, Stand Up Comedians, Fluff, Romance, Misunderstandings, Mutual Pining, Pining, Physical Disability, Veteran, War Veteran, Amputee, Leg Amputees, Ablism, Rude Comments, Emotional Constipation, Idiots In Love, Dad Jokes, Bad Humor, Eventual Happy Ending, Friends To Lovers, Implied Sexual Content, Happy Ending.

Summary: Merlin - lover of crunchy fried snacks and secret admirer of his straight flat mate, Arthur - never expected to have a career in comedy. But after trying stand-up on a successful open mic night at university, he finds himself hooked. He and Arthur run a successful late night talk radio show for a while, but Arthur’s father intervenes. After a misunderstanding forces them into conflict, Merlin vows never to see Arthur again, to protect his own soft, pathetic, pining heart. Which would be fine, if the UK comedy circuit weren’t so small. But for some reason, they keep bumping into one another - at comedy festivals, and on radio and TV panel shows - and despite everything, the chemistry that made their radio show so popular in the distant past grows stronger than ever.

[cal166]

Levi Fanfic Idea Snippet # 5 : To Let Go

Levi and Sakura Age : 14

Levi thought he’d never let anybody inside his walls, get close to his heart and to be touched by anyone. and neither did sakura she swore after those men took away her mother and seeing how men down here are untrustworthy that she’d never trust again. But levi was the first one she let see her , the true her .. not the cold exterior she created before she knew it he wiggled his way in and gained her trust. For the past year levi showed through his actions he truly did care about sakura . It was like any other night except she caught levi walking towards her after a job . As soon as she saw those eyes that she understood all too well . Yes she’s able to mask it almost perfectly that even her sharp eyed friend never noticed . She didn’t ask why he was depressed , no need to . “Levi you don’t need to tell me anything .. just let me help you “ showing him a soft but understanding smile. Although hesitant to do so he slowly went into her arms like they were a safe haven .tightly clutching onto her clothes like she’ll disappear without a trace . Once sakura started softly stroking his hair , the mask of his cold exterior mask began breaking piece by piece. silently he began sobbing feeling that it was safe for him to show sakura his vulnerable side . This was the anniversary of the night kuchel had succumbed to her illness . While crying levi felt tears staining the shoulder of his shirt . ‘ tears?’ Once looking up for a brief moment the boy saw the girl he grew to like in a romantic light was crying in front of him it made levi’s heart ache he hated seeing her like . ‘sakura why are you making such a pained face ?’. Having a hunch it was about levi’s mom .. sakura couldn’t help but think of her own mother that she lost far too soon. Once their tears had dried up levi felt lips on his forehead making his heart beat faster than ever before along with his cheeks heating up . Not used to receiving such care and affection it made his heart feel warm . Sakura’s cheeks were red as well and levi thought she was the most beautiful girl he’s ever laid his eyes on .When levi woke up the next morning he noticed sakura wasn’t in the room they shared . ‘Strange , where could-‘ he saw her messy bed head and shorts that accentuated her curves. Despite her petite figure levi felt no other could compare to sakura’s beauty both inside and out . He wasn’t sure quite yet what to name this feeling whatever it was he wasn’t going to fight it . Once sakura saw that he’s awake she gave him that bright smile that made his heart flutter. she walked up to him and hugging the raven haired male , hid body stiffened at first but then relaxed because it was her . “Levi !, perfect timing i was just about to wake you up for tea “ “you made me tea? “ “ of course! you said before that the tea i make is good in which i find it the sweetest compliment you’ve given me “ answering his question like it was the most obvious thing . Levi wasn’t used to these kind gestures from anybody but he didn’t hate it either. Taking a sip of the tea sakura made was just how he remembered it ‘it’s true it tastes good whenever she makes it ‘ . “You know Levi apart from the taste another reason i love tea is because my mother would make it for us .. to me the flavor didn’t matter but it’s the one memory i cherished the most from her” although reminiscing on the memory sakura’s eyes were glossy . He didn’t do it often but he smiled , really smiled. “Thank you y/n “ she showed him a loving smile and spoke in a soft tone. “ Of course because for you i’d do anything “ once he finished his drink levi gave his undivided attention to the girl he cherishes listening to various topics she talked about .. sakura was unaware the boy she likes was smiling at her .. a true smile that held so much affection for only her.

Notes : this is to give a visual idea on how i think levi and sakura (oc) would look like .