#NAH MAN. bring me the guy who spent almost a full fucking day at the shops trying to find kit the perfect christmas present!!

[talentforlying]

LET ME ASSIGN YOU AN AESTHETIC WORD.

CAFUNÉ. cafuné means running your fingers through someone's- perhaps a lover, hair. it's such an intimate, affectionate way of showing love. if you got this result, you're a romantic at heart; very sweet, delicate, precious wandering soul. aren't you scared of your heart being too big for your body? somehow, you remind me of that pretty coral pink that bleeds into a soft indigo when the sun is slowly setting.

what i'd like to tell you is that we can't save everyone, and that's okay. you're doing your best, and it's enough.

tagged by: @danversiism!! <3 tagging: you!!

[tooruluv]

Tobio Kageyama x F!Reader ( part 9 )

❝ goodbyes hurt when the story is not finished, but the book is closed. tell me, have we started a new one? ❞

description: it had been years since you and kageyama broke up. it had been years since the two of you left each other, hatred brewing. fate works in funny ways, you thought, as you caught his eye across the café. love works in funny ways, you thought, as you woke up in his bed the next morning, his fiance calling his phone.

genre: forbidden love, cheating, ex lovers, (all characters are aged up)

word count: 2,109

warnings/notes: im so sorry for the delayed update!! midterms have been kicking my ass. anyway. only one part left!

tag list: @kara-grayson04​ @sadhwstudent​ @unlikelytigerqueen​ @kageyamavibes​ @monviemoo​ @tazzi-baby​ @1800xibal​ @amirahroronoa​ @lozzybowe​ @stinkybitch1919​​ @sillykittt​​ @pinknugget​​ @celamoon​​ @bokutosworld​​ @elianetsantana​​ @chao01248​​ @vhskenma​​ @yoitsseulgi​​ @milegonzalez96​​ @doremifa-so-fucking-done​​ @cuddlejeongin​​ @yeahhemmings-​ @melanieacademy​ @killuaking​ @animewhore28​

prev | next [final]

The second that the words left Oikawa’s mouth, he was paralyzed. He hadn’t expected to say it. His eyes were wide, skin flushed and mouth agape. Surprise and regret immediately masked his anger.

He couldn’t even move as you turned and left.

Let’s paint the picture, shall we? You, a girl who still had an incredible amount of love for your ex boyfriend to the extent that you were comfortable being the mistress in his affair. Kageyama, said ex boyfriend who still had a lot of unresolved feelings for you to the point where he had considered (on more than one account) disregarding his entire upcoming wedding. And Oikawa, your best friend and fuck buddy for the past five plus years who had just accidentally revealed that he was, in fact, in love with you.

Let’s just say that you walked a lot that day.

You walked through the city until the sky turned dark. You walked along the neon lights, through the park, and back into the city streets. You walked near the water, you walked past hundreds of people. It was incredibly melodramatic.

It wasn’t until you realized that you were actually tired, and your feet hurt, that you sat on a bench. It was pretty secluded. The bench sat facing the water, the city behind it, and you did nothing but sit.

A body sat beside yours, on the complete opposite side of the bench with as much space as possible between you. You almost giggled to yourself, despite everything.

“Hey.” The person spoke, and you knew who it was. There was only one person on the face of the earth that would take it upon themselves to be that respectful to sit on the opposite side of the bench you were sitting alone at, at night.

“Hey, Hinata.” You looked up at him. He’d grown a lot since high school.

“You found my bench.”

“Your bench?”

He chuckled, making you smile. “No, not my bench. But the bench I like to sit at when I have a lot to think about.”

“So, you would sit and think about volleyball on this bench?”

“Yeah.” He smiled brightly. There’s something about Shoyo Hinata that made it impossible not to smile. “It’s really pretty here. And there’s a lot of good food behind us.”

You turned back to the water, eyes scanning for answers.

“I’m still in love with Kageyama.” You told him.

“I know.”

“And Oikawa just told me that he was in love with me.”

“Wait, really? Finally!” He stopped himself. “I mean. I knew that, too.”

“Does everyone tell you everything?”

“Yeah, usually.” He moved a little bit closer, but not by much. “If you think you know someone’s secrets, I’m sure I already know about it.”

“Even Tsuki?”

“You mean how Hana cheated on him with Kageyama and now you are going to the wedding with him, him being Tsuki, to make them both jealous?”

“Damn. You’re insane.”

“Nah, I’m just a short stack of secrets.”

Another bubble of laughter. 

“You don’t plan to ruin the wedding, do you?” Hinata asked. 

You shook your head. “No, no. We aren’t monsters. We just want to make the two of them shake in their boots a bit. There’s way too much money being spent for us to ruin the wedding. Besides, I would somehow end up being the one sending out apology letters to family and friends for coming.”

“Yeah that would be embarrassing.”

The wedding was the next day.

You didn’t go to the rehearsal, and even took it upon yourself to stay the night at Tsukishima’s.

When you arrived at his door with a bag (that you quickly snatched of necessities from Kageyama and Hana’s), Tsuki just opened the door and simply asked you to join him in watching a murder mystery podcast. You accepted.

“Why can’t I wear a fucking suit?” You complained as you shoved yourself into the nicest dress you owned. It was beautiful, don’t let anyone tell you otherwise, and hugged you in exactly the right places. You just hated the process of getting ready.

“Because you look great in that dress. Now hurry up because we don’t want to be the only ones late.”

You left Tsuki’s bathroom in full glam.

You watched Tsuki’s eyes shift from your chest to your eyes. You smirked. “I guess the dress works.”

“It definitely works.” Tsuki rolled his eyes, bringing his arm up for you. You linked your arm through.

“You guys have fun!!” Yamaguchi called from the living room. You waved as you walked by. “Holy shit, you guys look likes gods.”

“I don’t think I’ve ever heard you cuss.” You said.

“You’ve obviously never talked to him.” Tsuki scoffed. “We’ll be back later. Or, at least, I will be.”

“Don’t die. And don’t kill anyone!”

“No promises.”

Tobio Kageyama always thought that on his wedding day, you would be the one walking down the aisle in white.

He would never admit it; but to be completely honest, he had thought about it a lot during the duration of your relationship. He had imagined standing at the end of the aisle and you walking down, and kissing you as man and wife. It was a stupid imagination for a high school relationship, but he did imagine it.

He watched as you walked into the building by yourself. He was greeting everyone, welcoming them before the wedding and telling the women where to find Hana in her dressing room.

You were absolutely stunning in the most brilliant red dress he had ever seen. The wedding was white and blue, and you stood out in the most amazing way he had ever witnessed.

Kageyama couldn’t take his eyes off of you as you turn to the door, where Tsukishima just entered. His stomach churns when he sees you greet him with a hug and the two of you laugh at something Tsukishima said. And he hates how evidently the man is your date.

He has to physically stop himself from chasing after you when you pull Tsuki by the hand and drag him through the sea of bodies to where a few members of the old volleyball team are (ie Hinata, Daichi, Suga, and Noya).

His heart leaps violently against the bones of his chest when a thought floods into his mind. The thought that you were with Tsukishima, the thought that you knew of everything that happened since you’ve been gone.

He felt as though he couldn’t breathe.

You kept yourself at Tsuki’s side the entire time.

There was a little get together before the actual wedding. Everyone just stood around and chatted with everyone that they only get to see once a year, greeting the groom and making him more nervous. After a bit, it would be time to sit down and watch the ceremony.

The thought made you want to eat dirt.

Tsuki put his hand on your waist and you looked up at him. The two of you were still in the middle of talking to the old volleyball boys, Hinata talking about his travels.

“He can’t take his eyes off of you.” Tsuki muttered into your hair. It wasn’t unnoticed by Daichi and Suga, who just exchanged a look (as they always seemed to be all knowing).

“Just wait until Hana gets her eyes on you.” You lean into his side. “She won’t make it down the aisle.”

He chuckled and placed a kiss on your temple, feeling the eyes of Kageyama on your back.

“The man of the hour.” Daichi spoke up.

Kageyama appeared beside you. Tsuki’s hand stayed on your waist.

“How are you feeling?” Suga asked, eyes shifting between you and him. You could swear he knew more than you could ever imagine.

“Good, good.” Kageyama plastered a fake smile on his face. “Just nervous.”

“Well that’s normal.”

“Can I borrow her for a second?” Kageyama turned to Tsukishima. You blinked. “I just have to talk to her for a second.”

“Yeah.” Tsuki let go of your waist. He sent you a look, basically telling you to fuck the shit outta him in the broom closet.

“I’ll be right back!” you sent them a smile.

Kageyama looked absolutely delicious in his suit. Black, with a little bit of blue accents throughout. It brought out his eyes. You couldn’t focus as you followed him to an empty room.

“Hey.”

“If you have something you have to say, you could’ve said it out there.”

“No I.” I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have said what I said. I should just leave with you right now and run away and get married and live in a forest. I am so sorry. I am so sorry. Instead, “What are you doing here with Tsukishima?”

“What do you mean? He’s my date.” You shrugged.

“Yes. But why?”

“You expected me to come to your wedding by myself?” You blinked. “Or, rather, you expected Tsuki to come by his lonesome?”

“No, I…”

“That’s a bit selfish, don’t you think Kags?” You felt anger rising in your chest. “To think that I can’t have a date to a wedding when you’re literally getting married.”

“No, that’s not what I meant.”

“Then what did you mean?” You were exasperated. “It’s incredibly clear how you think of me, Kageyama. But as for someone who will never be loved by anyone, it’s nice to go to a wedding with…”

“You’re loved by me!”

It was the first time in Kageyama’s life where he truly understood what earth-shattering silence was. It was deafening and loud; too loud. He stood there motionless as the howling of his blood pumping in his head, his heartbeat inside his chest. You were silent.

His world seemed to have stopped the second he had said those words to you. The moment those words left his lips, he wished to take them back. Not because they were lies, but because it was the first time he had said them in the most honest way possible.

You shook your head.

You shook your head and Kageyama’s world shattered. He knew that he had hurt you, over and over and time and time again. But he had done it. He had hurt you to the point that you would simply shake your head at the confession of his love.

Whatever was left of whatever the hell was still there was gone.

“Kags,” You closed your eyes. “You don’t. I’m not.”

“I do.” He reached for your hand. You backed away.

“Me and Tsuki coming to your wedding together was not to get you to tell me that you love me.” You were muttering. You were babbling. You couldn’t do this. “It was to get you jealous, yes, but.. not this. Maybe rile you up. Get Hana to admit her bullshit for sure. But not… not this.”

“I…”

“You are getting married today.” You reminded him. “To Hana. You’re getting married to her. Today. And I cannot do another confession like that.”

“Who else has confessed to you?”

“Oikawa.” You said before you could think.

“Tooru Oikawa told you that he was in love with you?” Kageyama laughed as though it was the funniest thing he had ever heard. You basically heard your heart break.

“See? That right there?” You headed for the door. “That’s why you can’t possibly be in love with me. You’re so fucking convinced that I can’t be loved by anyone because I fucking moved away in high school. Jesus, Kageyama, get over it!”

“Sorry, sorry.” He was literally wiping tears from his face. “It’s just. I knew it. I fucking knew it.” He stopped when he seen your face. “No. I’m sorry. I didn’t mean it like that.”

“Seriously fuck you.” You moved to open the door to go back to your date and get ready for the ceremony. Because this was for Tsuki, not you.

You started to walk out, but turned to him with a glance over your shoulder. “By the way, I’ve been in love with you for years. This shouldn’t be new information.”

You didn’t stay to gauge his reaction.

[giorno-plays-piano]

You were all I wanted

Pairing: mob!Peter Parker x plus-sized!Reader

Warnings: yandere, obsession, swearing, kidnapping, human trafficking, slight mention of body shaming, allusion to non-con.

Words: 2195.

Summary: You are bought by the head of Stark crime family for a kid he cares about.

P.S. Peter is an adult!

__________

"We hope you are going to enjoy your new girl, Mr. Stark." The man loosened his grip on your shoulder as he let you march straight into the arms of a stranger in a fancy striped suit and big frightening men with guns surrounding him.

"Nah, this one isn't for me." The stranger who bought you brushed it off as if your presence meant nothing. "She's a present for the boy. Peter, where the fuck are you?"

You almost jumped at his loud voice, keeping your head low and watching your unstable feet. Well, you expected as much - before you that mysterious Mr. Stark bought one of the most beautiful women you had ever seen in your life. Her striking black hair was shining even in the dim lights of the dressing room where all captured girls were taken care of before the start of the auction. She costed twice more than you and had much more admirers - you remembered how men were shouting, trying to outbid each other. You weren't that popular, but still ended up being purchased by the same man she was. Now it all made sense.

"I'm here, Mr. Stark!" A young boy's head popped out in the crowd of other buyers, and he emerged right in front of you with a long men's coat in his hands. "I'm sorry it took me so long!"

"Look at this gent." The man smirked at him, and his guards laughed a little at the boy's enthusiasm. "So caring! I hope you're not going to take the girl straight to church?"

Now there was an inappropriately loud burst of laughter, and you bit your own tongue. They all were a bunch of bastards, but your life depended on them now. You needed to keep your mouth shut if you wanted to make it out alive.

The boy smiled brightly at his patron and looked at you with sparkles of happiness in his dark eyes. Oh, at least he was more or less pleased with the way you looked, you thought.

"Congrats with your first girl, Peter." Mr. Stark's smug grin suddenly turned warm at the sight of the boy who was almost jumping with excitement in front of him. "You're sure she's the one you want? I can still get a replacement if you've changed your mind."

"No, no, Mr. Stark, she's perfect for me!" Once the man in the suit nudged you to come closer to the boy, Peter gently wrapped your shoulders into the coat he carried and smiled at you widely. "Thank you so much for your present, sir!"

"Enjoy, kid." His patron smirked and motioned to the men waiting for him. "Let's get going then, I have business to attend to."

Judging by their nasty smirks, his business had something to do with that gorgeous black-haired woman they took somewhere earlier. You did your best not to throw up at the thought of him forcing her down her knees.

"Can you walk?" The boy suddenly asked you quietly, and you blinked. "Do you want me to carry you?"

Nice joke. The guy looked twice slimmer than you, skinny as a rail. You'd break him in half, probably. You weren't sure whether he was mocking you, but it was obviously not the right time to throw a temper tantrum.

"I can walk. Thank you." You mumbled and made a step towards those men who were already leaving.

"Ok. Come with me then." You thought his boyish smile looked pretty.

You walked past other girls dressed in expensive flashy lingerie adorned with glitter, sequins, and laces. Some of young women were as terrified as you were, their faces red with tears; the others seemed strangely happy, shouting something to each other and giggling in front of their new masters - you thought those girls were prostitutes or someone of the same kind because the idea of laughing happily after being bought like a piece of clothing didn't sit well with you. You spotted a few more ladies who were still unstable on their feet because they were given too much drugs, probably. Two dozens women, maybe more, were gathered in a place like that to become someone's property. Like you did now.

It was cold outside despite September being usually warm in New York. You had never lived here before, but one of your friends moved in the Big Apple two years ago and was always talking about nice weather they often enjoyed.

"It's right over there." The boy pointed to one of the cars in a long row of them, Mr. Stark already getting inside a ridiculously fashionable one. Peter's old Honda was nowhere near that, but you were relieved. It made you feel like you weren't taken to some scary place full of criminals waiting to fuck the shit out of you.

The kid opened the door for you like you were some fairytale princess or something, and you got inside, holding the coat that almost slipped from your shaking shoulders while the boy quickly landed on the driver's seat. You couldn't guess his age, but if he drove the car he was probably older than 16.

"I'm so sorry, I know you're cold." He glanced at your silk robe beneath the coat, your legs bare - you had nothing but fluffy slippers on your feet. "It'll get better in a minute."

What a considerate little guy. If he didn't show up with that overconfident mobster who looked like he owned New York, you'd think Peter was some sweet high schooler who spent his weekends working in an animal shelter. But you weren't stupid to believe his innocent looks.

At one point you thought he might be Mr. Stark's illegitimate son, but something told you  it wasn't that. The way Peter looked at him with adoration proved that the man was more of his patron as you suspected from the very beginning.

"I know they didn't feed you today, so I brought you some chicken soup." He said and reached to grab something from the back seat - you glanced at the metal food jar thermos that softly landed on your naked lap.

Did he bring you food? For real? No, it must be some trick - there were drugs or something like that there, for sure. Why else was this guy playing the role of your mother, for God's sake?

"You're not allergic to chicken, are you?" Kid looked concerned, watching the troubled expression on your face. "Oh shoot, I didn't check your allergies!"

"I'm not allergic." You quickly replied, afraid to make him upset.

He was getting restless too fast, you thought. Peter really behaved like a kid. What was that Mr. Stark told him after the auction? Something like "congrats with your first girl", wasn't it? So, it probably meant Peter had never been with a woman before. Not that you had been with a man, either. Maybe that's why he picked you.

But it also could be all an act. Teenagers weren't getting slaves to take care of their sexual needs. Maybe this Peter wasn't as young as you thought, and in fact he was some psycho who planned to drug, rape and murder you.

Either way, he would get mad if you didn't get started with that soup - you could read it in his face.

Opening the jar, you felt a delicious smell filling your nostrils when your stomach made an ugly sound. Damn, you had never been so hungry in your entire life.

The truth was the supervisors who took care of all the girls before the auction made you starve for two days "to get you in shape". They said you were too fat and they had to do something to make you at least a bit more presentable.

"Well, if I'm going to die, I will die with a full stomach." You thought gloomly and started gulping down the warm soup. It tasted heavenly good.

The boy watched you in awe as if you were becoming more and more beautiful with eash sip.

"I'm not much of a cook, but Aunt May managed to teach me to make a chicken soup." He said with a sudden warmth to his voice. "So, um, don't worry, you won't die of starvation with me."

You forced yourself to smile at his attempt to make a small joke. As far as you were concerned, your body was perfectly okay even after you finished eating. Maybe the drug took longer to start affecting you, but maybe you were just lucky and there was nothing in the soup at all.

All of a sudden, Peter's phone started ringing, and he took it from the pocket of his jacket immediately.

"Where the fuck are you again, kid?" You could hear Stark's thundering voice even from your seat.

"I'm sorry, sir!" The boy squeaked and adjusted his seatbelt. "We're coming!"

____________

The room he brought you to was fairly large and comfortable to your tastes: there were a comfy king-sized bed, a huge table with a dozen of oddly-looking gadgets and two screens, a chair, a drawer and a closet. There was also a newly-bought TV that wasn't set up yet, and a microwave on a side table.

"I'm terribly sorry for the mess." Peter apologized to you as if you were his parent who came to scold him. "Don't worry, I'll take it all away. Please come and sit here."

He briefly gestured to the bed, and you bit down on your lower lip nervously. The kid was fast.

You didn't talk much in the car since you were waiting for the drug to kick in, but nothing happened. As for Peter, you thought that he was too shy to talk, but maybe he just didn't want to. In the end, he asked his patron to buy you for a very different reason.

"The bathroom is over there. You can take your shower, if you want." He smiled childishly at you.

How could he keep such innocent face when he was about to rape you?

You gathered whatever courage you had left and said, "C-can we talk?"

The boy froze on the spot and dropped whatever gadget he was holding back on the table. You glanced at his skinny boyish figure, that dark ruffled hair and a really pretty face - he looked like your neighbor's sweet son who would climb a tree to get a cat stuck up there back to the ground.

"Of course!" Peter landed on the bed close to you, watching you with his undying enthusiasm. "What would you like to talk about?"

"Why did you choose me?"

You really wanted to know. You weren't the usual goods they sold on that auction, the human traffickers said. Though there were a few girls who weren't breathtakingly beautiful, most of the ones brought there were well above average women. They looked like they came straight from Victoria's Secret Show.

"Well... um." You could see his ears getting red. "You're... pretty. I like you."

Huh, funny. Why did you ask? The answer was obvious - you were cheap. Mr. Stark didn't want to spend too much money on a present for the kid, so Peter had rather limited choice, probably.

"Why are you getting upset?" He sounded so concerned that you made yourself smile again to calm him down. Anyway, it was better to be grateful. You were almost sold to some disgusting old man. "Did I say something wrong?"

"No, you didn't. I'm sorry." You hurried to say. "I'm sorry you didn't get anyone better than me. That place was full of magnificent women."

What the fuck were you saying? Did you seriously think those poor souls deserved to be sold like cattle just because they were prettier than you? God, you were so messed up.

"Wait, no!" The boy grabbed your hands in his and made you flinch involuntarily. "No, no, you're beautiful! I chose you because I like you more than anyone else."

Bewildered, you looked at his worried expression, his eyes staring at you intensely while you squeezed your thighs together. Hearing the boy say that felt very odd, but kind of... comforting? Not many people ever called you beautiful, mind your mother and a few friends. It was stupid to think about it now when the one calling you that was the man whose property you had become, yet you couldn't help but get those little butterflies in your stomach.

You eyes watered, and you quickly wiped your tears away.

"People were treating you badly, weren't they? It's terrible." The boy pulled out a pack of napkins and took one, gently pressing it to your wet cheek. "But I swear I fell in love with you once I saw your photos on the website. You're the prettiest girl I've ever met, for real!"

When he removed the napkin, you saw his pupils dilating and felt his breath becoming ragged, heavy. One of his hands rested on your thigh as he leaned closer to you and sniffed your hair. Your body went stiff.

"No one gonna say anything nasty to you from now on. I'll make sure of that."

_________

Tags: @finleyjayne @alexakeyloveloki   ​@helenaeisenhower @villanellevi @hurricanerin ​@void-hoechlin @abyssaint @msruchita @opheliadawnwalker3

[kjhmyg]

rough edges pt. 5 (m)

pairing: jungkook | (f) reader genre: college!au, badboy!jk warnings: mentions of drugs, implied sex, cursing, violence, alcohol, drinking word count: 10K

1 / 2 / 3 / 4 / part 5 / 6

author’s note: hello everyone, i know there are lots of things going on in the world right now. i hope that my writing can provide, for those of you who need it, some form of temporary escapism. at the same time i have reblogged posts with info on how you can help if you wish to. anyway, i hope you enjoy this chapter i’m sorry for taking so long heh. love u guys!

Students bustle about the lawn, heading in different directions towards the booths that line the footpath. You’ve spent most of your day manning the track and field booth, handing out flyers to freshmen. Up until ten minutes ago, it wasn’t too bad. But as morning classes end, the area starts to fill up with the second years and above, probably with the excitement of having freshmen around. You try your best not to get pushed around as you scan the area for your boyfriend. 

“He’s all the way on the other side.” Sunhee says, having observed you for a while. “You know, where all the other frats are.”

“Oh.” You sigh. “Do you think I could slip away for a while? You have enough people here.” 

Sunhee looks around and thinks about it. Along with the two of you, other members are present as well, making sure all areas of the booth are covered. “But I wanna come with.” She pouts, knowing full well she can’t leave the booth, being in charge for today’s event.

“Please?” 

“Ugh. Fine. But don’t be long.” She gives in, handing you a stack of flyers. “Pass these out while you’re there.” 

“Yes ma’am.”

“I’m coming with!” Hana chimes in, standing from where she was seated on the grass. She grabs you by the wrist and makes a run for it before Sunhee can object and you slow down to a stop when you’re far enough, giggling as you catch your breath. 

You scan the area again, keeping a lookout for familiar faces. Hana shakes her head. “You look like a kid about to meet her favourite rockstar at a concert.” 

“Shut up. I miss him.” You mutter, shoving flyers carelessly to people as you pass them by.

“You saw each other this morning. And last night.” She adds. You pause and look at her from the corner of your eye. “I heard you.” 

“You did?” She waves her hand, dismissing the apology that’s about to come out of your mouth. “I’m so sorry. We’ll keep it down next time.” 

“There’s no going back.” She sighs. “You’re whipped.” 

“Am not.” 

“Right.” She nodded, a smirk on her face. 

“Just because I miss him all the time doesn’t mean I’m whipped.” You defend yourself, though you realise how that doesn’t help your case.

“Alright, alright.” She resigns. She takes on a more serious tone right after. “Listen, I’ve been meaning to talk to you about something.” 

“Sounds serious. What is it?” When you stop in your tracks, she urges you to carry on walking, checking her surroundings before speaking. 

“So I’ve been hearing lots of rumours recently...something about a faculty member involved with drugs.”

“What?” You stop again and she pulls you along. 

“I’m not sure who started the rumour or how true it is.” She looks at the ground as she speaks. “But I thought you’d wanna know. You know, cause…”

“Jungkook.” 

“Yeah.” She gives you a sympathetic smile. “I mean, there’s a chance it could be false.” 

“Could be.” You get lost in your thoughts. If the rumour is true, why would Jungkook risk dealing with a staff member? 

“Anyway,” Hana flings her arm over your shoulder. “Let’s just find him so you can exchange saliva and then we can get back to the booth before the other members realise we’re gone.” You pinch her side at the subtle remark she thought you would miss.

Soon you reach the area where guys and girls are on separate sides, making the most noise to attract future pledges. You try to ignore the obnoxious yelling, walking past the booths until you find the one with faces you recognise. A big grin appears on your face when you see him. 

You squeeze past groups of people in your way to get to him. He stands by his booth with a couple of girls from Eta Iota. They laugh at whatever he says and he revels in the attention he’s getting, as apparent from his big smile and creased eyes. But their conversation is cut short when he looks up and notices you, body suddenly on autopilot as he excuses himself and walks away from the girls, over to you instead. 

He engulfs you in a big hug. You ignore looks from the girls as they disperse. “I was just walking around. Thought I would drop by your booth.”

“Huh.” Hana interjects. “She practically begged to be able to leave so she could come see you.” 

“Shut up.” She bolts off before you can try and reach for her. 

Jungkook lifts your chin towards him and presses his lips onto yours in a slow, gentle kiss. The fabric of his shirt bunches up in your fists. He tastes so sweet. You just can’t get enough of each other. You almost lose yourself in the kiss till the sound of someone clearing their throat brings you back. 

“Keep it PG guys, we’re still on campus.” Jimin says, arms folded with a look of disgust on his face. 

Jungkook’s lips glisten with saliva and you lick your own lips at the sight of it. So pretty and tempting. But heat creeps up your cheeks when you remember where you’re in the middle of an event with hundreds of students around you.

“Hey Jimin.” You greet him properly when you finally remove yourself from Jungkook. His hand remains on your waist. But Jimin’s eyes are no longer on you. A group of girls huddled around the sorority booth behind you has his attention for now. 

“Did you come all the way here just for me?” You turn your attention back to Jungkook. Of course you did and he knows it. 

“No.” You avoid his eyes. “I was just walking by and I saw you.” 

“What a coincidence then.” He taps the tip of your nose and your lips form a tiny pout. 

“Hey,” Hana appears next to you again, holding a little gift bag with a cookie inside and the Eta Iota logo plastered in the middle. “Maybe we should pledge. They seem kinda cool.” 

Jungkook snorts, earning questioning looks from the two of you. “What? You guys aren’t really the sorority type.” 

“What’s that supposed to mean?” You ask.

“Well you know,” he fidgets. “Sororities do a lot socialising. And fun things. Not that you guys aren’t fun or anything. You are⎯ But you’re different⎯ You’re cool⎯”

“Smooth.” Jimin comments. “Anyway, I fully support this. If you join them, we'll get to spend more time together. We’re close with Etas."

"Oh. I'm out then." Hana says with a playful smile and Jungkook notes the way Jimin’s falter. 

“In case you change your mind, next week is rush week. So we’ll probably be hosting some parties.” Jimin says. “You guys should come. Get a feel of the greek life.” 

Jungkook’s phone vibrates just then and he pulls away from you after checking the screen. “I gotta take this.” He says, walking some steps away. 

“Speaking of which, are you guys coming tonight?” Jimin asks, turning your attention back to him. 

“For what?” 

“Jungkook didn’t tell you?” 

You look over at him, back turned to you. “Nope. You guys having a party tonight?”

Jimin calls out to Taehyung. He jogs over from where he’s standing and looks as happy to see you as he always is. “Hello!” He hugs you first and nods towards Hana, then goes back to Jimin’s side. “What’s up?”

“You didn’t invite them for tonight?”

“Oh of course you guys are invited!” He grins. “It’s my birthday party. We’re gonna head to the club that just opened downtown and have some drinks. Join us!” 

“Your birthday?” You squint. “Wasn’t your birthday four months ago?”

“Yeah but I didn’t get to celebrate it with you guys.” He shrugs. “Come out and have fun with us okay?” 

“Sure.” 

Taehyung beams, the excitement on his face apparent. Jungkook comes back shoving his phone away quickly. With a hand on your elbow, he pulls you aside. “I gotta go, I’ll call you later okay?” He pinches your cheek when you frown.

“You’re leaving?”

“There’s something I gotta take care of.” He grabs his bag, stored under the table at their booth. Surely, he isn’t going to work? You think it’s better if you don’t ask. “Love you.” He says, pressing his lips to your forehead before going on his way. 

“Where the hell are you going?” Jimin yells, when he realises this. 

Jungkook turns, walking backwards with a smile on his face. “Something came up, sorry!” His apology gets lost among the sea of people he disappears into, and you only manage to catch a glimpse of him running across the lawn as he goes. Jimin groans, walking off to complain to the others. 

“Is Jungkook coming tonight?” You ask Taehyung, walking back to him.

“Dunno. He knows about it. Not sure if he’d come though.” Taehyung shrugs, then walks back to his booth as he waves to the two of you. “See you later!” 

“See you.” You say. Your shoulders slump as you let out a sigh. When you turn to Hana, she gives you a comforting smile and hooks her arm over your shoulder again, offering you her cookie. 

𝄖𝄖

You: you coming to celebrate Tae’s birthday tonight?

Jungkook: nah. 

You: I’ll be there 

You: don’t you wanna see me :(

Jungkook: i’ll pick you up after?

You: [IMG_0394.jpg]

Jungkook: what the fuck

Jungkook: is that what you’re wearing

You: idk how to act in this dress. You better be there to make sure I behave. 

Jungkook: are you doing this on purpose

You: yes

You: so i’ll see you there?

Your last message was sent five hours ago. Read, yet not replied. Sitting in the car you’re sharing with Jimin and the others, you check the chat once again just in case. “Bet you two shots of tequila he won’t show up,” Jimin whispers, leaning in close. You narrow your eyes at him. Hana called shotgun and is in the passenger’s seat while Taehyung drives. Unfortunately, you’re stuck at the back, in the middle seat no less because the middle seat makes me dizzy, said Jimin back at the house.

“You trying to get drunk quick huh?” 

“No, I’m trying to get you drunk.” 

“He’ll be there.” The confidence you attempt to display only has half its effect as Jimin rolls his eyes and looks away. 

Your attention turns back to your screen, waiting till the screen goes black. Turning to your left, where Hoseok is, you realise he’s already staring. You only manage a small, pressed smile before looking elsewhere, wondering if he had seen your messages too. 

𝄖𝄖

“Has he said anything yet?” Suga asks directly into Jungkook’s ear. 

Jungkook maintains his composure. Judging by the smile on Mr. Kim’s face, it’s not so bad. At least he hopes so. “Well, he hasn’t said anything bad.” They exchange glances then turn back to their boss, sitting in the VIP section of the club on the second floor, designed for a little privacy or whatever the booths and translucent curtains can offer. 

They stand by the glass barrier which overlooks the dancefloor. It’s a good spot which allows them to keep an eye on the club while staying at a distance. Much less people up here too, which means more room to breathe. Suga rests his hands on the railing, looking down at the mass of people below. 

Jungkook taps his side urgently. Kim is getting ready to leave, gathering up his things and shaking the hands of his guests. A couple of ladies show them the way, down the stairs and out the back exit while their boss stays behind. Hands behind his back, he walks towards them with a satisfied smile on his face. 

“Pretty good.” He says. Jungkook and Suga nod respectfully. 

“The crowd should start to pick up soon.” 

“Oh I bet.” Kim chuckles. “If things go well, you can start bringing in the drugs earlier than planned.” 

He surveys the area for a while, walking to one end of the parapet and back to them. The wheels in his head seem to be turning but he doesn’t say much. Only a smile, before giving a rough pat on their shoulders. “I’ll be in touch.” His men walk in front as he follows along down the stairs and out the same exit as the others earlier. 

“I think that went well.” Suga grins and Jungkook snorts at the glee on his face. 

“You really got me all worried when you called.” Jungkook sighs, watching waiters and waitresses clear the empty booth. He joins Suga, resting his forearm on the barrier, eyes roaming the place. “We’re clear now. He probably won’t be back anytime soon. He rarely does spot-checks in person.”

“Didn’t you see the look on his face?” Suga wets his bottom lip. “I think he’s planning something.”

“Like what?”

“I don’t know but be ready for anything.” His words are unsettling but Jungkook leaves it for now. Suga ruffles the back of Jungkook’s head like he does to a kid. “You can go now. I’ll handle things tonight.”

With a twist of his face Jungkook shakes his head. “I’ll stay for a while.” 

From the corner of his eye, Jungkook sees the slight surprise on Suga’s face. Usually, he’d jump at the chance to clock off early. Suga wonders if he’s finally going back to the old him. That is, until something, or someone, catches his eye. 

“Oh. I see why you wanna stay.”

“Hm?”

He nods in the direction of the bar. A shimmery sky blue dress catches his eye. One that Jungkook recognises. 

𝄖𝄖

“Oh this is nice,” your words insincere, “and loud.”

“It’s a club.” Jimin says, looking at you unbelievably. It’s been a while since you last stepped foot in one. Your hand is in his as he makes sure you don’t get separated from the group. Hana grabs on to your elbow as she follows behind. 

Finally reaching the bar, you find an empty spot, pulling Hana along with you. Among the crowd, you spot some people you know and some you don't; all of them friends of Taehyung. He then rushes over and wraps his arms around the three of you. “Just have fun tonight guys! Hoseok’s the designated driver so don’t be shy, drink up!!” He cheers, running back to where his other friends are, already downing some shots. 

“What’re you having?” Jimin asks. 

“Ooh, I’ll have⎯”

“Not you.” He tilts his head to the side. “You.”

You look behind you. Hana stares back blankly but you notice the tiny smile on her lips. She’s never been one to take interest in men like Jimin. He’s much too loud for her.

“Oh my god.” You laugh. “I’ll stay out of this.” You remove yourself from your spot and switch places with Hana. She gladly entertains Jimin, whispering to you that it’s only for tonight. 

You scan the shelves of bottles on display, hundreds of them, not making your choice any easier. You haven’t been to a club in a long time and the only way you would last the night in this atmosphere is if you had some alcohol in you. 

Someone slips in next to you, body brushing against yours as they squeeze between others. When a hand appears on your lower back however, you tense up. “What’s a pretty girl like you doing all alone on a Friday night?” He says. Your grip his arm, wanting to push him away, until you spare him a glance. 

Mirroring the silly smile on his face, you shove his hand away anyway. “I’m not alone, I’m with my friends.” You point your thumb in the direction of the others behind you. 

“You look awfully lonely standing here while your friends are out there.” He gives you a once-over. “How about I keep you company?” 

“No thanks.” 

“Wanna go somewhere else? Somewhere with more privacy?” 

“I don’t think my boyfriend would like that.” 

He looks away to fight a smile forming. “What he doesn’t know won’t hurt him.” 

“Tempting...” With his back against the bar, he makes room for you between his legs and pulls you in. Your hands rest on his arm while he holds you by the waist. “You do look like the type I’d go for.” He’s distracted by the choice of lip gloss you have on, which seems to have a magnetic effect on his lips.

“Wow, you actually showed up.” Jimin hits his shoulder a little too hard and he glares at Jimin for ruining the moment yet again. “I guess I’ll have those two shots now.” He shrugs. 

“As if you weren’t going to have them anyway.” You roll your eyes as you watch him watch the bartender fix them up. He downs them in seconds, wincing as it burns but enjoying it nonetheless. 

“If you hadn’t shown up, she would’ve taken the shots.” Jimin lifts the empty glass in his hand as a toast. 

“Aw, that would’ve been fun.” Hana snickers. She turns to you. “I haven’t seen you drunk in a while. She’s a real gem when she’s drunk.” She directs the last part to Jungkook. 

“Oh I’ve had the pleasure of meeting that special lady.” Jungkook winks.

“Hey, no judging.” 

Hana raises her hands in surrender but she’s interrupted by Jimin’s hands snaking around her waist. You watch as they get into a squabble. The others have dispersed, most of them on the dance floor, Taehyung in the middle of it all. Watching him gets you stirred and you drag Jungkook with you through the dancing bodies. 

You find a spot in the centre and start swaying your hips against Jungkook. He keeps his hands on you as if to make sure every other person there knows you’re taken. With your back pressed against him, he leans down and captures your lips, tongue fighting for dominance as your hips grind against him. He has half a mind to take you right here in the middle of the floor. 

You turn abruptly to face him, disrupting his fantasy. “I know that look.” You say into his ear. “You pervert.” Those sultry eyes of his drops to your chest, openly ogling at your cleavage. Giggling, you push his face to the side and he laughs, kissing you again. You spend close to an hour dancing, or actually, grinding against him.

“I’m glad you’re here.” You say, back at the bar, thirsty from all the dancing. Your hands run up his chest. “I missed you.” 

Jungkook shakes his head. “I’ve spent every day with you in the past week. Every night too.” He winks and you play with his collar. “You still miss me?” You nod and he holds you closer, bringing his lips to your neck where it tickles and your shoulders raise as a reflex. 

“Well, look who’s here.” 

It’s a voice you recognise. And one you weren’t expecting but also glad to hear. Jungkook lifts his head up from you. Suga nods in your direction, looking at Jungkook for just a second, then back to you. 

“Hi.” You say. “You’re here too?” You look at Jungkook but his face is impossible to read. He doesn’t seem surprised nor does he look angry. He must have been with Suga before this. 

Suga ignores your question but tells Jungkook he’s needed somewhere. “They’re asking for you.” Is all he says and you feel Jungkook’s chest rise and fall in a sigh under your touch. 

“Be right back.” He says to you regretfully, kissing your cheek. Jungkook grabs Suga by the arm as he moves to take the place next to you. They share an awkward look before he says, “Keep an eye on her for me.”

“I’d be happy to.” He smiles playfully. 

Jungkook slides between bodies till he disappears in the crowd. With an elbow resting on the bar, there’s a hint of amusement in the way Suga looks at you. 

“What?” You ask. 

“Nothing. I just didn’t think you’d be the clubbing type.” 

You’re not offended, but the way he smiles makes you feel like you should be. The judgement that’s apparent on his face challenges you to prove him wrong. Even though of course, he’s right. He calls the bartender over and orders himself a vodka. The bartender’s hands get busy but she keeps her attention on you. “And for the pretty lady?” She asks.

“Oh my bad. Can I get you anything?” Suga asks. “We have iced tea.” 

You ignore him and order a shot of tequila, much to his surprise. “Coming right up.” The bartender says, as she fixes up the drink. Suga watches as you down a single shot and immediately orders another. 

“Is that all you’re having?” You nod to the vodka in front of him. You’re reaching for some cash in your purse when he stops you. 

“It’s on the house.” He says, downing his drink. “And yes, I’m not trying to get drunk tonight. I have work to do.”

“On the house? Work?” Your face scrunches up. “You work here?” 

“Work here?” Now he looks confused and slightly offended. “You don’t know? Jungkook and I run this place.” 

It hits you like a slap in the face and you wish the alcohol would start to kick in already so you wouldn’t just be staring at him in surprise. “I definitely did not know that.” 

“Oh. I’m sure there's a reason he didn’t tell you.” 

Though his face remains void of any emotion, you can’t ignore the bitterness in his tone. You hesitate before asking. “You don’t like me very much, do you?” 

“What makes you say that?” He looks elsewhere, suddenly finding interest in the people on the dance floor. 

You think over your choice of words carefully. Getting close to Suga has been your game play from the start. But with Jungkook always keeping you at a distance from him, it set you back. Once Suga trusts you, it’ll only get easier from there. Since Jungkook won’t be letting you into the world of his secret life anytime soon, the only way in is through someone he trusts. 

“We could be good friends you know.” You smile.

He waits for you to convince him, a doubtful look on his face. “Really? What could we possibly have in common?” 

“Have a drink with me and maybe you’ll find out.” 

You hold out a drink in front of him. Your cheerful demeanour makes it hard for him to say no, even though he thinks it might be the alcohol getting to you. Suga lets out an exasperated breath, and takes the glass from you.

𝄖𝄖

Jungkook groans, kicking the door shut behind him. He tosses the book in his hand on the table, knocking over a bunch of stationery. What he thought was going to be a short call, ended up being a trip back down to the HQ just to double check the inventory. 

He’s just about to let his butt touch the seat when there’s a knock on the door. “Please don’t come in.” He begs.

It opens and he sighs. The music travels inside now that the door’s open and he massages the front of his head, feeling a headache coming in. “Hey. Someone wants to speak to the manager.” Suga says casually. 

“What? Why?” Jungkook shakes his head and turns to face him. “You talk to them then, you’re the manager too.” 

“No, she wants the other manager.” 

Jungkook frowns. Suga keeps the door open with his foot and reaches over to the side. Jungkook watches as he struggles with the other person. They resist and pull away but Suga easily gains control. Jungkook sighs, preparing himself for what’s to come. 

“Stop! I said, I only wanna speak to the other⎯” You stand by the door leaning against Suga while you try to maintain your balance. Your eyes go wide when you see Jungkook and he looks back at you, perplexed. 

“The other manager.” Suga finishes your sentence. 

“Oh hi.” You fix your hair and dress before making your way towards Jungkook, stumbling a few times until he meets you halfway. 

“Um. Hi.” Jungkook says. 

“She’s had a few drinks.” Suga informs him. 

“A few?!” Jungkook guides you to his desk. 

“Don’t look at me. It was her idea.” Yoongi raises his hands in a surrender and slowly backs off, closing the door before he leaves. 

“Shh! I have a complaint!” You fail to stand on your own, needing Jungkook’s hands on your arms to keep you upright. He backs up, sitting on the edge of his desk, holding on to you while you rest your entire weight on him.

“Do you now?” He lets you lean on his chest. When you lift your head, he pushes away the stray hair. “What is it?” 

“I’m upset! You left me.” 

He laughs quietly. “I’m sorry. I had to go check on something.” 

“And why didn’t you tell me about this club?” You say in a tiny voice, pouting. “Is it because I’m not cool enough? Cause that’s what the other manager thinks...”

“Suga?” Jungkook asks. 

“Yeah him.” Your tired eyes focus on something behind him while you mumble, face a little swollen. “We’re friends now, you know?”

“That’s nice. But don’t listen to him okay? You are cool. The coolest girlfriend ever.” Jungkook kisses your forehead and you break into a giddy smile.

“Really?” He nods. “Then why didn’t you tell me about this club?”

“Because I didn’t know what you would think about it. What if you hated it?” 

“Jeon Jungkook.” You stand up straight. Or try to, at least, holding on to his arms before your hands cup his face. “I would never. I will always support you. You got that?” 

He chuckles, holding you tight against him. “You’re adorable.” 

“Also!” You push away. Your eyes roam over his body and you drag your hand down his front. “It’s kinda sexy...you being a manager.” 

“There she is.” Jungkook laughs, being reminded of the Valentine’s situation. “I knew you were in there somewhere.” 

“She missed you.” 

“Aw, I miss her too.” His hand finds the back of your neck to guide your lips onto his. The shaky sigh that comes from you as he grabs a fistful of your hair to tug on makes him smile. You hike your leg up on his thigh, trying to get whatever friction you can get. The tight dress makes it hard for him to slip his hand under, so he grabs your thigh instead, digging into your skin. “This damn dress.” He mutters, lips on yours. 

“You don’t like it?” You ask innocently. “Maybe I should take it off⎯”

The door slams open and Suga comes back inside. You separate from Jungkook with a gasp but then groan when you realise it’s only him. It’s like the two of you are invisible as he moves around the table to collect his things from one of the drawers. “What?” He stops when he notices your stares. 

“Do you mind?” Jungkook asks.

“Yes actually I do.” His eyebrows raise. “This is a shared table. I don’t want your nasty fluids all over.” He gathers his belongings, and puts on his jacket. Glancing at Jungkook, he nods to the door, “Come on, let’s go. The guys can handle things tonight.”

Jungkook turns to you. “I’ll send you home okay?” 

“No! I wanna go with you.” You whine, hanging on to his neck for dear life. 

“Y/N,” he tries to reason, prying your hand off him. You don’t budge, only clinging on to him tighter. “Fine but. We’re going to Suga’s apartment. Are you sure you wanna come?” 

“Yes.” You say, muffled. 

“Okay then. Let’s go tell the others you’ll be with me.” 

𝄖𝄖

The unfamiliar setting doesn’t bother you much, thanks to the alcohol. Jungkook comes out of the shower to find you on the floor, between the couch and the coffee table, laughing at something your new best friend is saying. He sighs however, looking at the drink in your hand. He jumps over the back of the couch and picks it out of your hand. 

“Hey!” You frown. “Give it back! We’re playing never have I ever.”

“Y/N, he’s not even drinking.” Jungkook speaks to you gently, hooking his hand under your arm to pull you up on the couch. “He’s just messing with you.” 

You turn to Suga for confirmation. That’s probably why his glass has been full since the start. “Maybe he just has never ever all the never have I evers.”

“Stop it.” Jungkook holds back a laugh as he warns Suga who’s laughing quietly, finally taking a sip of his drink. He helps you up and you get comfortable next to him on the couch. He had left you with Suga and a glass of water to sober up, but came back to the glass still full and an opened bottle of whiskey on the table.

“You smell nice.” You mumble, rubbing your head against him like a cat. “Gimme kiss.”

He complies, leaning down for chaste kisses that has you breaking into giggles. But it’s not enough. You yank him by the neck and let yourself fall back onto the couch. With a hand on the cushion behind you, he pulls away and the sticky sound of your lips separating makes Suga wince. “What are you doing?” He mutters. 

“Kissing.” 

“Okay. Can we kiss inside?” Jungkook glances in Suga’s direction and you tilt your head back. His hands slide down your side to your hips, making sure your dress doesn’t ride up any further. 

Suga smiles, sipping on his drink. “Just pretend I’m not here.” 

You laugh but Jungkook sits back up, pulling you along with him. “I think I need a drink too.” He sighs, reaching for your glass of whiskey still sitting on the table. 

“What’s wrong?” You cup his head and speak to him like he’s a child. “Is everything okay?” 

“It’s been a long night.” 

“Aw.” You embrace him, giving him soft pats. “I’m sorry Kookie.” 

“Kookie.” Suga repeats, pressing his lips into a thin smile. Jungkook drops his face into his hand and groans.  He can’t even be mad at you, not with how you’re looking at him lovingly with soft, glossy eyes and a tender smile. 

“Hey Suga,” you look around the place, suddenly curious as the paint peeling off the walls distracts you. “Why is your place so...ugly.” 

“See?” Jungkook snickers, licking his lips after a sip of the whiskey. “I’ve been telling you to at least get the walls fixed or something.” 

“Look, why does it matter?” Suga sighs. “I’m only here to sleep, shower and sometimes eat. I’d rather save my money for something else.” 

“Are you rich?” You ask, leaning your head against Jungkook’s arm. “Can you buy me a pony?” 

Suga furrows his brows then glances at Jungkook. “Why would I buy you a pony?” 

“Why not?” You say in a soft voice. “I’ve always wanted one. If you’re a real friend you’d get me a pony…” 

Jungkook breaks into a laugh, shaking his head as he squeezes you, kissing the top of your head. “Sorry. She talks a lot when she’s drunk. She’s not normally like this though.”

“It’s cute.” Suga shrugs, looking at you. 

“The last time you were drunk you wanted a navel piercing.” Jungkook says to you. “The next day you almost cried when I said I’d bring you to the piercing shop to get one.” 

Jungkook sips more of the vodka. You think about what he said for a second. “I know...I actually have been thinking of getting nipple piercings instead.” 

Jungkook chokes on his drink, coughing and clearing his throat as Suga whistles at your confession. You look at them confused. “Okay.” Jungkook sets the glass down and stands. “You’re done. It’s time for bed.” 

“Bed? Oh, bed.” You wink dramatically, with a light tone to your voice. Suga shakes his head, feeling somewhat endeared by you. You are adorable, he'll give you that. He kinda prefers you drunk than sober though. Before you leave, you turn to him. “You’re not joining us?”

“What?” Jungkook hisses. “Of course he’s not joining us.”

“Are you inviting me for a three⎯”

“You wish.” Jungkook spits out, lifting you over his shoulder. Suga sighs, swinging his legs over the side of the armchair, muttering a soft “kinda do wish though” under his breath. 

𝄖𝄖

The bed you’re sleeping on tonight isn’t any bigger than yours, but it is older and squeakier. It’s in a guest room which Jungkook has spent many nights in, although he prefers the couch. After a quick shower, Jungkook lets you wear one of his spare tees for you to go to bed in. The shower seemed to have calmed you down a little, though he can tell you’re still out of it. He lets you snuggle up in his arms. 

“You’re cute when you’re drunk,” Jungkook says, patting your head. “But you really shouldn’t drink so much. I just know you’re gonna regret it tomorrow.” 

“I just wanted Suga to like me.” You pout. “I thought it would help us bond.”

Jungkook chuckles. “He does like you. I know it.” 

“Really?” You blink up at him. 

“Yes baby.” Jungkook smiles reassuringly. “You did good.” 

You giggle, very obviously proud of yourself. You wish to talk more, but your eyelids feel so heavy. Jungkook notices this and kisses you on the forehead while his hand runs up and down your back.

“You’re not gonna remember any of the shit you said tonight, are you?” 

“Probably not.” You hum, “but I remember that I love you.”

“I love you too.”

You giggle and let out a sigh after a while. He thinks you’ve fallen asleep until you speak again. “My boyfriend would be very sad if he knew I said I love you to someone else.” 

“He’ll be okay.” 

“Will he?” Your voice goes soft. You clutch his shirt a little tighter, burying your face into him. “I hope so…”

Jungkook frowns. He figured you were messing around, but it seems like the alcohol and sleep has you sleep talking. “What do you mean?” 

“Lots of trouble...lots..drugs.” Jungkook stiffens, feeling his heart leap in his chest. “...and like...the detective...mess.” 

He remains silent for a while. It’s not like he thought you were unaware of it all. But what were you saying about a⎯ “Detective?” 

“What detective?” You mumble, slowly drifting away.

Jungkook shakes his head and lets out a breath. “Must be the alcohol. Get some sleep, baby.” Stroking your head, he kisses you goodnight. He tries to sleep himself but he finds it difficult, mind going back to what you said. He reaches under his pillow, careful not to wake you, sleeping on his arm.

Jungkook: i think we have a problem.

𝄖𝄖

“Everything sucks when you have a hangover.” You groan, trying not to drool against the counter. Hana replaces the cold coffee in your cup with a fresh batch. She transfers a blueberry muffin from the glass display onto a plate and slides it over to you. 

“Ugh.” You wince, lifting your head off the table from the sound. 

“I told you it was a bad idea.” Hana says, wiping the counter. Thankfully, you don’t have a shift today. “Was it worth it though?”

“I think he trusts me now, kinda.” You take a small bite of the muffin. “He said bye to me when we left his apartment this morning.” 

Hana gives you a displeased look. “What?” 

“The point is that he stayed with me the entire night last night, let me stay over at his place and Jungkook isn’t trying to keep me away from him.” 

“Okay so,” she gestures, “now what?”

“Now...we wait.” You take a sip of the coffee in front of you.

Hana eyes you down curiously. She steps away to attend to a customer, giving you some time to think. When she comes back, she leans against the other side of the counter and presses her lips together. “I don’t like that look on your face. You’ve thought of something.” 

You check your surroundings. The usual customers are around, scattered across the cafe, absorbed in their own work. You speak softly. “I think I’m gonna try and join his crew.”

“Are you crazy?” Hana snaps at you. She keeps her voice hushed. “Y/N, these are dangerous people.” 

“I know but Jungkook will be there to protect me.” You say it, but you don’t even believe it yourself. Sure, Jungkook’s there. And he would protect you, but to what extent can he do that?

“No. You’re not doing this.” 

“Okay wait.” You breathe out, rubbing your aching temples. “Okay how about this, I’ll see if they’ll let me work at the club. As a bartender or something.” 

“Dude no. You already have a bartending job.” She gestures around her. “Here.” 

“Hana you’re making this difficult for me.”

“Me?!” She gasps. “You’re the one joining a syndicate when you’re supposed to be getting your boyfriend out of it.” 

“This is how I’ll get him out!”

“How?” She folds her arms. “Tell me. How will joining them help you get Jungkook out?”

“Um…” You bite your lip and answer in a soft voice. “I haven’t thought of that yet.”

She shakes her head. You hate it when she does that. You sit quietly and sulk, a frown apparent on your face. “You’re getting yourself into trouble.” 

“We all know Jungkook’s very sensitive when it comes to this. Maybe if I’m part of his circle, he’ll get more comfortable talking to me about it.” You convince yourself as you’re saying it. “And then it’ll be easier to convince him to leave.” 

Hana is silent, just watching you. She leans on her forearms against the counter, moving in closer to you. “I don’t know much about these kinds of groups but, I don’t think it’s that easy. You can’t just leave as an when you want to. Don’t bite off more than you can chew.” 

You let her words sink in as she goes back to work. You have nothing to say because she’s probably right, it’s not going to be as easy as you make it out to be. There are many other factors to consider. It’s not a solid plan, but you stand by it, thinking it might be worth a shot once you figure things out. You just don’t know where to start. 

An alarm goes off on your phone and your jump in your seat. You’d set one as a reminder to head to the campus library. The sound worsens your already throbbing head while you pack your things and take the last few bites of your muffin. You follow up with the coffee and groan softly, feeling your tummy protest. A small burp follows.

“Excuse me.” You say, glancing at the man standing nearby, waiting for his drink. 

He smiles back and the first thing you notice are his dimples. “Hangover?” He asks.

“Yeah. Is it that obvious?” 

“Not to be rude but,” he leans in closer to whisper, “you look like crap.” He winks after, so you know he’s kidding. 

“You’re lucky I’m not on my shift today, otherwise you’d be getting something else with that coffee.” He raises a brow at your weak attack and you close your eyes, sighing. “Sorry. That was meant to be intimidating but...it sounded better in my head.” 

“I get it.” He nods, smiling. “Hangover.” 

“Right.” You stand from your seat and sling your backpack over your shoulder. Hana comes over and places the stranger’s coffee on the counter top before turning her attention to you. “I’m gonna go.” You say to her and she nods with a smile before going back to work. 

“And I’ll see you around Mr….” You tilt your head slightly, focusing on the name scribbled on his cup. “Namjoon.” 

He nods again with an amused smile as he watches you walk swiftly out the door. 

𝄖𝄖

You check the time on your phone and slot the book in your hand back in its place. You’ve lost track of time in the Fiction section and Jungkook will be coming to get you in an hour. You speed walk over to the References section and start scanning for a specific book. The lack of sudden, loud noises in the library is pure bliss to you. You had taken an Aspirin a while back, still waiting for its effects to kick in.

“Y/N.”

You gasp a little too loudly and jump at the sudden intrusion of your space. Hoseok holds his hands out before him to show he means no harm. “What are you doing?” You hiss. “You scared me.” 

“Sorry.” He scratches the back of his head. “What a coincidence, running into you here.” 

A towel hangs over one shoulder and a duffel bag on the other. He’s dressed in jogger pants and a basketball tee. “Is it a coincidence?” You raise a brow, eyeing his outfit.

“Okay, I kinda just wanted to talk to you about something.” He admits. He recognised you from across the library where he was printing some documents. 

“Is it about Jungkook again?” You ask. 

“Kinda.” He shrugs. “I don’t know if you’ve heard but⎯” 

“Something about a staff member?” You cut him off and watch his face twist. 

“You knew?” 

“I’ve heard.” 

“And you’re not worried? Why would he do something so stupid?”

You tense up over his words and he notices this with the way your body changes.  “He’s not stupid. Okay? And it might not even be him. The rumour might not even be true,” 

“How would you know?” 

“I don’t. And neither do you. We don’t know anything.” You roll your eyes and turn to walk away, having had enough of him. He grabs your wrist to stop you. 

“You’re not gonna do anything?” He asks, making you even more annoyed.

“Hoseok, what are you doing about it?”

He watches you silently. 

“Exactly. I said I’ll handle it so let me handle it.” You say. “Besides, my plan is working already.” That’s a lie considering you don’t have much of that plan. 

“What plan? Getting drunk and flirting with his drug pusher friend?” 

Does he mean Suga? You’re livid. Is he actually judging you for what happened the night before? Hoseok senses the change in your demeanour yet again. But it’s too late to take it back. His eyes soften though it doesn’t do much to calm you down. “Are we done here?” 

You turn to leave and he calls for you once again. This time you only stand with your back to him. “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean that. I’m really worried. For Jungkook...for you.”

“Me?” You turn back around. “You don’t have to worry about me. Jungkook would never let anything happen to me.” 

The corners of his mouth twitch a little. “Fine. But I haven’t been able to reach my friend. I’m starting to think they got to him. I don’t even know if he’s still alive.” 

“Don’t say that. I’m sure he’s fine.” You say softly, feeling sympathetic towards him. He must be really worried. “Why don’t you call his office or something.”

“I can’t because I’m not supposed to know about this investigation in the first place, remember?” Hoseok sighs, running his hand through his hair. “Look, just be careful okay? And let me know if you need anything.” 

You nod. “I gotta go.” 

He doesn’t stop you this time and you rush out of there without the book you came here for. You’d come back tomorrow perhaps. Just as you reach the exit, you hear a whisper of your name. Give it up Hoseok! You think to yourself. You pick up speed and consider running off. That is until a hand slaps onto your shoulder and tugs on it.

“Slow down.” Sunhee whispers. She notices the look of trouble on your face. “Calm down. It’s just me. Not Hoseok.” 

Of course she would know. “You saw us?” 

“Yeah. I saw you, Hoseok, and the tension between you two.” She looks back and Hoseok’s no longer there. “So what was that all about?” 

“I don’t know.” You shrug, feigning ignorance. “He’s kinda weird.” 

She narrows her eyes at you but doesn’t push you any further. You ask for her company, just in case he comes back, knowing he’d never talk about anything in front of someone else.  As you walk around campus, you realise that almost everyone you come across along the way says hi to Sunhee. She really does know a lot of people. It’s no wonder she knows everyone’s business before they even know it themselves. 

A guy dressed in a black tee and jeans walks in your direction and you make a bet with yourself that he’d know Sunhee too. He gets closer and you smile to yourself as he nods to Sunhee, greeting her. But then he greets you too. “Hey Sunhee. Y/N.” 

“Oh. Hi.” Your reply comes late. It took you a while to register that he had just said your name. But you don’t know him. “Who was that?” You ask Sunhee.

“That guy? That’s Jae.” She says. You turn and watch his back as he walks down the hallway. 

“I don’t think I know him.” You try to remember if you may have been introduced to each other before. “How does he know my name?”

“Pretty sure anyone who knows Jungkook would know your name.” 

“Oh so he’s friends with Jungkook?” 

“You could say that.” She presses her lips together in a thin smile. 

“Sunhee…” 

You slow down. “Fine. Everyone knows Jae gets his supplies from Jungkook.” 

“Oh. It’s that kind of friendship…”

Sunhee leans in close, her wide eyes staring right at yours. “Rumour has it, he saw Jungkook selling some drugs to a faculty member.” 

Your heart leaps in your chest at the thought of it being true. It’s one thing for it to be a rumour, but this person has actually seen Jungkook in the act. You grab Sunhee’s arm urgently. “I need to talk to him.” 

Before she can utter a reply, you’re bolting off in the direction you came from, towards Jae. He hasn’t gone too far so it didn’t take long to catch up to him. Sunhee trails after you, calling out your name to get you to slow down. You only do so when you close up on him and with all the ruckus, he turns and stops, glancing at you with a confused look on his face. 

“What’s going on?” He asks carefully, eyes darting to Sunhee finally reaching your side. She catches her breath and glares at you unbelievably. 

“I need to ask you something.” You say gently. “It’s about Jungkook.” 

The mention of Jungkook’s name changes the look on his face. His tall, confident posture turns fidgety and anxious. “I don’t really know Jungkook.” He spits out before turning away hurriedly, pulling his cap down to cover his eyes. 

You move to stand in front of him. “You get your...prescriptions from him don’t you?” He gulps, looking around. The hallway is empty. But that doesn’t mean no one’s listening. “You’re not in trouble or anything. I just wanted to ask you about the rumour going around. Is it true?” 

“I don’t know, I didn’t start it.” He huffs.

“That’s not what I heard.” Your eyes move to Sunhee who stands behind him. He follows your gaze. 

Sunhee stares back blankly and shrugs, “What? That’s what I heard.”

Jae closes his eyes in defeat and sighs. “Let’s talk somewhere else.” He says, checking the empty hallway again. Then he leads you both down the hallway. He stops at a staircase just as the hallway ends, extending left and right into another one. As it just so happens, that’s where the staff rooms are. You would expect to more likely be in trouble if any faculty members overheard you, so why would he bring you here. 

He climbs up a few steps and takes a seat, resting his arms on his knees. “I didn’t start that rumour.” Is all he says. 

“Are you sure?” 

“Look, all I said was that I get my supplies from Jungkook.” He starts. “The rumour had already spread by then, about a staff member.” He keeps his voice low and you look around the corner every now and then to make sure no one is coming. “The thing is, it’s not that this guy gets his supply from students. He’s the supplier.”

Sunhee’s jaw drops like you’ve just promised her everything she’s ever wanted. “Are you serious? Oh my god.” She bites her lip and quietens down when you give her a look. 

“So where does Jungkook come in?” 

“When the word spread about this guy, a few guys who usually deal with me came and asked if this other guy is legit. Of course I told them I don’t know anything about it. I’ve only ever dealt with Jungkook.” He shrugs. “As far as I know, Jungkook’s the only supplier. It’s kinda weird that this guy suddenly pops out of nowhere. And since Jungkook’s been kinda missing in action lately, I guess a lot of his buyers assume he might be the one supplying the new guy to replace him.” 

“Jungkook’s been missing in action?” 

“Well not completely.” Jae says. He gets up and brushes the back of his jeans. “He’s been kinda slow on the orders. Maybe he’s busy.”

“Right.” You nod, trying to put together everything you just found out. 

“Speak of the devil. That’s him right there.” So that’s why he chose to speak to you here. Jae looks over your shoulder, and along the hallway lined with doors that are staff-only accessible, he struts down with a book in his hand and a cup of coffee in the other. 

“No way.” You whisper to yourself as you watch him. He enters the admin room, tapping a card on a small machine next to the door which unlocks it. You keep your eyes on the door, blinking away, wondering if your eyes were playing tricks on you. “That’s him?”

“That’s him.” Jae confirms. He slips between the two of you. “I gotta go now. I won’t get in trouble with Jungkook, will I?” 

“Of course not.” You reassure him, “I just wanted to know about the rumour and who started it.”

“Cool.” He nods. “You know, I’m loyal too. I never switched over cause I trust him.” 

“Good to know.” You say with a hint of amusement in your voice. “I’ll be sure to let him know you’re a big fan.” 

He only smiles before walking away, waving to the two of you. Before Sunhee can leave too, you grab on to her arm. “Keep whatever you heard today to yourself.” 

A soft whine is her response and she looks at you with puppy-dog eyes, silently pleading. You stand your ground. “Not even one person?” 

“Not even one person.” You hold out your pinky in front of her. “Promise.”

“Which part though, the Jungkook part or the new guy or⎯”

“All of it. No one has to know anything.” 

“Disagree⎯”

“Sunhee!” 

“Alright, alright.” She groans but hooks her pinky around yours and you tighten your grip. “I guess I won’t tell anyone. What’s this all about anyway?”

She raises a brow when you don’t reply. “It’s nothing. I can’t tell you.”

“You’re as mysterious as your boyfriend these days.” Can’t tell if it’s a compliment, seeing as how she’s narrowing her eyes as though she’d be able to read your mind if she tries hard enough. “Probably for the best, you know I can’t keep my mouth shut anyway.” 

“If you can keep this quiet, we’ll go for rush parties together.” There’s a sudden sparkle in her eye. Who you go with is crucial in determining what kind of night you’ll have. Being seen entering with the right people, means you’ll probably be making lots of new friends. And being seen with you, a girlfriend of someone in the host house, will lead to lots of new socialising opportunities for Sunhee.

“Deal.” Is all she says, no further bargaining. Her body turns in the direction you were headed earlier before Jae, “You coming?” 

“Um.” You look around the quiet hallway. “You know what, I'll just take this exit. Jungkook’s picking me up anyway.”

“Alright. See you next week.” She winks and heads off. 

You text Jungkook, to let him know where you’d be waiting for him. While you wait, you scan the long board display between doors. Pictures of staff members everywhere along with their names and designated roles underneath each photo. By the end of the entire row, you hadn’t found him. 

Past the glass display, full of trophies and medals from inter-college competitions, you find a board plastered with information on new extracurricular clubs. An acapella group, self-defense classes, poetry⎯ wait, self-defense classes. “Led by special instructor Kim Namjoon...” 

You hadn’t realised when he appeared behind you but his low sounding voice makes you jump. “Interested?” He chuckles when you make a squeaking sound. “Sorry didn’t mean to scare you.” 

“So you work here.” You say the obvious. 

“Yeah.” Now he’s looking at the flyer on the board. “Not to brag but, I designed this myself.” 

“It’s cute.” You nod. “Self-defense instructor and a flyer expert. Truly a jack of all trades.” 

He laughs then looks down at his feet as his hands sink into his pockets. He wears a brown checkered v-neck vest over a light blue shirt. To think this is the guy everyone’s talking about. The one dealing drugs. “Are you waiting for someone?” He asks, looking around.

“Yes, yeah, I better go wait by the exit, he’ll be here any minute.” You check your phone. 

“I’ll walk with you.” He offers. With his arm stretched forward, he gestures for you to walk with him. “Was on my way to get some fresh air anyway. How’s the hangover by the way?” 

“Oh much better, thanks.” You’re reminded of the lame attempt at a comeback at the cafe earlier and wince. “So how long have you been working here?”

“Not long.” He faces forward as he walks. “The school only confirmed my classes like a month ago.” 

“I see.” 

“Will you sign up?” 

“Oh I don’t know.” You shake your head and laugh dryly. “I have so much on my plate already.”

“Well if you ever wanna drop by one of the classes, just let me know.” 

“That’s nice of you, thank you.” You smile and once again you’re distracted by his dimples. “How’s the response though?”

“It’s great! I might have to split the class into three and have them on different days of the week.” 

“Wow, really?” You ask, surprised. “That good huh.”

“Yeah, I wasn’t expecting this either, honestly.” 

He shrugs, still wearing that cute smile on his face. You actually wonder if Jae might have gotten it all wrong. Maybe it wasn’t Namjoon. Maybe it was someone else, someone other than this big, huggable guy beside you. “That’s great though, I’m happy for you.” 

Late afternoon sun rays kiss your skin as you step out the doors. Down the steps, you see a familiar figure sitting on his bike. As it is, you get a text from Jungkook just then, telling you he’s here. “Is that your friend?” 

“Yup. I better go.” You say, one foot already down the step. “I’ll see you around. Maybe I will drop by for one of your classes.” 

“Please do.” He grins and looks so painfully handsome. “Oh and, I haven’t gotten your name.” 

“Y/N.” 

“See you y/n.” 

You trot down the steps and towards Jungkook who watches your little exchange. He removes his helmet to give you a kiss before handing over yours. “Who’s that?” He asks as you swing your leg over the pillion seat. You wrap your arms securely around his torso. 

“That’s Namjoon. We just met. He’s some self-defense instructor.”

Jungkook watches him not so subtly, hands on the handles but head twisted, burning holes in his direction. Namjoon doesn’t care too much for it. When you turn, he’s waving goodbye cheerfully. You wave back before turning to Jungkook. “What’s the matter? You know him?”

“Nope.” 

 𝄖𝄖

“So is it true?” A haughty voice fills the room as the door barges open with a kick. Jungkook keeps his back to its owner and continues sipping on his martini. Suga, sitting adjacent to him at the bar, turns in his chair. “Heard there’s a new guy in town. Have you finally lost your touch, Ace?”

Back at the headquarters in the early morning, the bar is empty save for the cleaners, picking up trash and wiping everything down. They had been called in by the lieutenant for a short meeting. Unfortunately, so had the other runners from another district. One who constantly makes it known that he hates them.

“Dude, why’re you so obsessed with him?” Suga asks calmly. They’re so used to Hongjun and his buddies running their mouths by now. 

Hongjun scoffs and the two other guys behind him laugh. “Obsessed? You wish.” He sneers. “I’m just concerned.”

“Worry about yourself.” Jungkook spits out without even sparing him a glance. 

“Are you kidding me?” Hongjun laughs dryly. “I’m so much better than you. Always have been.” 

The stool scrapes against the floor as Jungkook gets to his feet. He steps up to Hongjun, getting all up in his face. “And yet, you’re not the one they call Ace.” 

The scowl on Hongjun’s face says it all. His lips tremble with anger and he starts swinging Jungkook’s way. He lands a punch to Jungkook’s side and Jungkook retaliates with an uppercut to his nose. Staggering backwards into his friend, blood starts dripping down his nose. “You idiot! You⎯”

“What the fuck is going on.” Lieutenant Kyun appears, eyes moving from Suga to Jungkook, to Hongjun and his bloody nose, and back at Jungkook. Kyun is always calm. But dangerous. You never know what he’s thinking. “Explain.”

“I was returning the favour.” 

“You’ll pay for that!” Hongjun yells again. One of his guys slips behind the bar to get some ice and a towel. 

“Shut up.” His deep voice echoes through the empty room. “Stop acting like a bunch of kids. And you, stop whining, it's just a little blood.” 

Hongjun sinks into one of the chairs and sulks, holding up the towel-wrapped ice to his nose. Jungkook moves back to his seat, giving Suga a fist bump that doesn’t go unnoticed by the other guys. 

“First of all, you three.” He points to Hongjun and his friends. “You have a whole key of crack missing. Your numbers don’t tally, I don’t know how you guys missed this.” 

“What no, that’s impossible.” One of them says. 

“Either find it, or fix your numbers then.” Kyun says. “You know every little amount is evidence, if it lands in the wrong hands. Boss is not gonna be happy when he hears about this so I’m giving you guys three days to sort it out. Otherwise, it’s out of my hands.” 

Jungkook looks in their direction and gives a thumbs up with a smile on his face. The most genuine smile he’s ever given them probably. He gets the finger from all of them. 

“And you.” The focus is now on Jungkook. The smile is wiped from his face and he takes on his usual serious look. “What’s with the dip in your sales? You have a forty percent difference from previous months. This is ridiculous, honestly.” 

Some faint snickering comes from the other guys. Jungkook stays silent. “Come on, you know he’s being watched.” Suga says in defense. “He’s just trying to be careful.” 

“You can be careful and still do your job.” 

Jungkook has nothing to say. Besides, he thinks it’ll only make things worse. It’s best to get his ass chewed now and get it over with. Kyun checks his phone and a while later the bouncer steps in through the front door, someone behind him. “Sir, this man says he’s here to see you.” 

“Just in time.” He smiles for the first time that night. “Come, join us.” 

All eyes are on him as he steps out from behind the shadows and into the light. Suga and Jungkook watch him closely, observing the slick jacket he’s wearing above a tight tee, with tapered pants and his hair slicked back. He looks like another one of those businessmen they deal with. He exchanges handshakes with the lieutenant and the dimple on his face stands out as he smiles.

“Guys, this is our new recruit. RM.” Kyun says. He looks at Suga and Jungkook. “He was dispatched to your district. We wanted to see if he has what it takes. And so far, he’s doing well, for a rookie. You sure you haven’t done this before?”

“No sir.” The new guy says with a smile. He has a deep voice that rivals Kyun’s.

Hongjun is the first to get acquainted with him, offering a handshake with his non-bloody hand. “About time we had some fresh blood. What with how lazy some people are.” He emphasises on the lazy bit, subtly nodding his head in Jungkook’s direction. RM looks at Jungkook who stares back.

“That’s enough.” Kyun says. “Go out back and double check your numbers. Talking about lazy when you lose a whole key...” 

When the rest of the men are gone, Kyun turns to Suga and Jungkook. “He’ll be joining you from now on.” 

“No offense but,” Suga chuckles. “We’re a duo. We don’t need an extra guy.”

“No offense but you do. He’s the only reason the numbers in your district, which is under your supervision, is still steady.” Kyun says, wiping the smile on Suga’s face. “Before I let you guys off, RM I need a word with you.”

“Sure.” 

The two guys watch as he follows Kyun to a corner. They give each other a look of disapproval. Jungkook looks over at RM again, giving him a once over. 

“Now listen here,” Kyun says, keeping his voice low. He knows the other two are watching, so he speaks carefully. “I want you to keep an eye on Ace for me.”

“The kid?” RM asks, raising a brow. 

“He hasn’t been performing as well as of late. And he’s one of our best.” Kyun fakes a smile, pretending as if he’s saying something nice. “Just make sure there’s nothing we need to be worried about. He’s sharp, so don’t make it obvious. Update me weekly.”

“Done.” RM nods, returning the smile. Kyun gives him another handshake and a pat on the back.

“You okay?” Suga asks Jungkook, patting him reassuringly on the shoulder. “Don’t worry about him.”

Suga’s goes on saying some nasty things about RM but Jungkook tunes him out, only nodding as a response. He doesn’t tell Suga that he’s seen the new guy just earlier today. On those steps, with you.

[broadstbroskis]

four times matthew tkachuk tried to use a pickup line plus one time it worked

big shoutout to the anon who went around dropping pickup lines one night for some inspiration for this. you da real mvp. also i’ve now written three fics for this mofo and they’ve all been plus ones. not sure what this says about me but but i’m certain it’s something.

-----

1. Sorry, but you owe me a drink. [Why?] Because when I looked at you, I dropped mine.

It’s a Saturday night in September and you’re out with your friends celebrating the fact that every single one of you have finally landed jobs after graduation. The weather’s starting to cool down, but it’s not so cold that you can’t enjoy one of your favorite rooftop bars still. 

Around you, your friends share your excitement. The whole squad (well, the whole squad that had remained in Calgary, you’re still bitter about Lauren leaving you all for Vancouver even if the opportunity had been amazing) is partying like you’re back in school but with the paychecks you’ve all got now and you’re certain you’re going to be feeling it in the morning.

Laughing on the dance floor with Kath, Will, and Claire, you push your way through the crowd once the song ends to refill your drink. You can’t help but shimmy your shoulders a little at the song that follows it, while you wait for the bartender to fill your whiskey sour.

There’s a tap on your shoulder and you turn, to find a guy with curly hair and dimples smiling at you. His face looks so familiar, but you can’t quite place it.

“Sorry.” He tells you. “But I think you owe me a drink.”

“Oh yeah,” You ask casually, sure you know where this is headed, especially since you’ve managed to place his face. Matthew Tkachuk, star forward for the Calgary Flames and perpetual pest. “Why’s that?”

Somehow, his grin widens even more. “Because when I looked at you, I dropped mine.”

The bartender hands you your whiskey sour and you think about it for barely a minute. “Well let me help you with that!” You dump your drink on him, taking only a moment to relish his shock, before walking away to find your friends.

There’s a huge spot of laughter behind you and it’s only when you reach Kath again that you turn around to realize that it’s Matthew’s friends that laughed. Tucked under the arm of one of the guys still snickering at him is a pretty blonde girl, eyeing you with interest, until she catches you looking back, and gives you a smile and a thumbs up.

2. Do you like raisins? How do you feel about a date?

“Oh my God!” The voice, quite frankly, kind of scares you. It’s too close, much higher than you were expecting, and doesn’t sound anything like Kath’s, who’s due to meet you and Claire any minute but certainly wouldn’t greet you like that.

“Can I help you?” Claire asks, pretty rudely, but you’re not inclined to scold her for it at the moment, when this tiny blonde is standing super close and staring at you with huge eyes.

“You’re my hero!” She exclaims and then covers her mouth. “Sorry! You don’t know me.”

“No, I don’t.” You agree.

“We were all here a couple weeks ago and you threw a drink on my boyfriend’s friend.” She grins. “I’m Sam, and you are my personal hero as well as all of our friends.”

After you and Claire introduce yourselves, you ask, “If he’s that much of an asshole, why are you guys friends with him?”

“He’s more of a pest than an asshole.” Sam says immediately, which does mildly reassure you that Matthew Tkachuk isn’t a total dick. “He’s actually a really nice guy, just cocky as shit.”

“Yeah, I got that much.” You say dryly. “Couldn’t you tell?” You continue, which sends all three of you into giggles, until Kath finally arrives. 

Sam orders a drink with the three of you, hanging around the bar to chat for a while. “I’m stealing all of you.” She declares, after a while, that the four of you have mostly spent laughing. “We have a table in the back, come on.”

“I don’t really know.” You hesitate.

“Honestly, don’t even worry about that. Matty’s totally over that. Honestly, he’ll be more annoyed about the boys chirping him than you turning him down.”

And how’s that saying go? Speak of the devil and he shall appear? Right over Sam’s shoulder pops his head; she’s just missing the angel and she’d be every cartoon you’d ever seen. “Here you are.” Matthew says. “Mony’s looking for you.”

“Perfect!” She grins. “We were just coming back over”

He looks over at her use of we and grins as soon as his eyes meet yours. Just like Sam, he hasn’t forgotten you either. “Hello!”

“Hi.” You return politely.

“We’re going to head over; you coming?” Sam asks Matthew. He points to the bar. “‘Kay, see you there.”

“Hey wait,” All four of you stop, looking over at him, but he’s only got eyes for you. “Do you like raisins?”

You know this is a line, but you can’t for the life of you imagine where the fuck he’s going with it. “No?”

He grins, cheekily, that same one from last time you’d met. “How about a date, then?”

You grin back. “I’m allergic.” You pat his cheek mockingly and then move past him to follow Sam back toward that table in the corner to meet the rest of her friends.

3. Do you know what my shirt is made of? Boyfriend material? 

Matthew’s brother is in town for a game, which means his whole family is in town for a game, which apparently means there’s an after party in his apartment with members from both teams and whoever else they want to invite.

You’re not quite sure how or why you managed to be invited, were honestly planning on turning down the invitation, but Sam insisted you show up, so here you were, rolling up to Matthew’s condo, with her, Sean, and Noah, shortly after the Saturday afternoon matinee.

The party already feels like it’s in full swing when you arrive and yet, people continue to arrive after you. You get caught up chatting in the kitchen for a few minutes with a lovely blonde woman, who you only later learn is Matthew’s mother, and then spend the next five minutes denying that fact completely as Sean and Sam laugh hysterically. “But she’s so nice.”

“You should see her roast Chucky; she gives it pretty good.” Sean’s still laughing.

“Which is pretty much Matt.” Sam adds pointedly. “Come on, YN. When he’s not being a total pest, he’s a pretty great guy.”

You took a sip of your drink instead of answering her. You certainly started to see the great guy side of Matt as you and your friends had started to spend more time with Sam-who frequently came with varying numbers of a hockey team, about as often as she came with just herself-and it was definitely getting easier to see that he actually could be a nice guy. One who was always there for his friends, who adored his family, who’d drop anything the second one of his people needed help.

But a lot of the time, you still just saw a cocky mofo who was used to getting what he wanted. You couldn’t think of a time you saw him that he didn’t at least send a wink at you. He still frequently tried to make some kind of cheesy pass at you, with the biggest shit-eating grin on his face, like it was all some kind of game. 

Sam takes your silence for the reluctant admission that it is and pulls you over to play some wild drinking and card game that you never quite get the hang of and abandon quickly (you hate losing too much to play for long). But that much losing means your drink is empty already and so you head for the kitchen again for a refill.

Just your luck, the only people in the kitchen are Matthew and Brady. You would have been able to pick his brother out of a line up instantly, even if Noah hadn’t pointed him out to you when you guys first walked in. Matthew grins immediately, the same as always, and you just roll your eyes, preparing for what’s to come. “Knew this day would come.”

“And what day is that?” You return. “The one that I’m here, in your apartment?”

“And you know, you don’t have to leave now!” He holds his arm out to you as you look on unimpressed. “‘Cause you know what this shirt’s made of? Boyfriend material.”

He’s grinning that dimpled grin at you and for once, you actually refrain from rolling your eyes at him. “Shame your whole family’s in town right now or I could take it off to confirm that.” You trail a finger down his chest, stopping just before it reaches the button on his pants and grinning widely as he chokes on air, before turning to grab your drink and leave the room immediately afterwards

The sound of Brady’s laughter almost catches you for a second, since you’d actually completely forgotten he was there

4. Hey, you’re pretty and I’m cute. Together we’d be Pretty Cute.

You just needed one more afternoon pick-me-up. One more coffee would do it, right? And then this stupid project would be done? Before deadline? 

You put the order in. Your favorite barista at your favorite coffee shop promises she’ll bring it over when she’s finished with it and you settle back into your table to get back to work.

An arm drops onto your shoulders. “How’s my favorite girl doing?”

You tense immediately. At the voice, at the arm, at the words. “I doubt.” You say, hearing the coldness in your voice that is only reserved for the man who’d dropped himself into the seat across from you uninvited shortly after removing his arm from your shoulders. But at least his arm was gone. “That I could ever be considered your favorite girl, considering how many girls you cheated on me with when we were together.”

“Come on, babe, don’t be like that.” Kyle says.

You stare at him in disbelief, unable to even respond. “Don’t call me babe.”

“Who, me?” You’ve never been so grateful to see Matthew before, let alone to have him slide into the seat next to you so closely. 

You smile at him, actually moving your chair closer to him-literally anything to get you further away from Kyle-and are impressed when he doesn’t even flinch. Just throws his arm around the back of your chair and returns the grin  “Well, you too.” You tease.

 Matthew grins. “Nah, babe, you know I like riling you up too much.” You can only roll your eyes at that.

“Well this has been fun, babe.” Kyle says, finally standing up, reaching out to pat your hand resting on the table.

“She told you not to call her that.” Matthew intercepts his hand, pulling yours toward him. His voice is flatter than you’ve ever heard it.

“Be fun to do this again sometime.” Kyle continues like he hasn’t heard a word Matthew said, but you can tell from the look in his eyes that what he’s going to say next is going to hurt. “You know, if your boyfriend can share you better than you could share me.”

Your jaw drops and you can feel tears spring to the corners of your eyes as he finally, finally walks away. Next to you, you feel Matthew tense, like he wants to get up and follow him, and you reach for one of his arms. “Don’t.” He pauses. “He’s not worth it.”

“He’s a real dick.” He grumbles.

“Yeah.” You say quietly. There’s nothing really to add to that that you or your friends haven’t already said and so a long moment of silence follows that admission.

“Hey.” Matthew nudges you.

“What?” You ask grumpily, reluctantly meeting his eyes.

“You’re pretty and I’m cute.” You give him a look, like get on with it. “So together we’d be Pretty Cute.” 

For once, his cheesy pick up line brings a smile to your face, turning your mood around instantly. And the second you start to smile, Matthew does as well. “There we go, there’s that smile.”

+1. Kiss me if I’m wrong, but dinosaurs still exist, right?

Perched on the counter of Johnny’s breakfast bar, legs dangling off, you cheer loudly as Elias sinks another cup. He throws his hands up victoriously, looking over at the paper bracket that you and Sam had spent hours working on, only for someone to splash beer all over it when they’d thrown their hands up in outrage over a ruling.

It was the Flames’ annual Beer Olympics and you were still managing to enjoy yourself, even though your elimination had come early after Noah had thrown the game because he’d spotted the girl he’s been talking to recently rolling in the door. He hadn’t even been phased when you threw your half full cup of beer at him, or when it nailed him in the back, and he still doesn’t look upset about his wet back, smile seemingly permanently fixed on his face as he continues to chat with said girl.

For your part, after elimination, you’ve become both a personal cheerleader and trash-talker. You’re an equal opportunist, you know? Someone makes a bad shot, you’re going to call them out on it.

Newly eliminated, you’re not entirely surprised when you feel a new presence by your side. It wasn’t like things had abruptly changed after the run-in with your ex at the coffee shop, but the energy was definitely different. 

Gone was the cocky grin, replaced with a softer, dimpled smile that you’d always return. The pickup lines were cheesy jokes, a thing between the two of you, said with a little bit of questioning and a tiny bit of hope as each time he waited for you to laugh.

And each time you did, enjoying the smile it brought to his face. More and more you saw the genuinely great guy he was- in fact, it was the dominating trait over how much of a pest he was, how cocky he was, how annoying he could be.

Of course, it’s possible you spoke entirely too soon on this as his first move upon coming to stand next to you is to poke you in the sides repeatedly. “Why’d you have to do me dirty like that?” He whines.

“Elbows!” You repeat simply, calling him out for the same thing you’d shouted at him earlier. 

Matthew comes around in front of you, resting his cold drink on your leg in what you can only assume is payback. “You’re wrong.” He tells you. 

“Maybe,” You say with a grin. “You’re wrong.”

“Oh I’m never wrong.” Matthew assures you, and then a familiar grin appears on his face. “In fact,you can kiss me if I’m wrong, but dinosaurs still exist, right?”

He’s waiting for your laugh, you can see it in his face. But you don’t want to, is the thing. 

So you reach forward, grabbing his face and pulling it toward yours. There’s just enough time to register the shock on it before your lips meet, but Matthew pulls his shit together enough to return a breathtaking kiss, so when you do finally pull away, you’re practically gasping for breath. 

“Um. You’re wrong.” You manage, finally.

“Don’t even.” Matthew grins, stepping forward into your thighs, and kissing you once again.

[strawberrywritings]

Second problem.

A/N: I am an hour late to posting this and i haven’t proofread, but to make up for it: Señor Galindo makes another appearance! I honestly hope i managed to tag everyone because sometimes i lose a username (sorry in advance)🙈 

Hope you like this chapter, ad if you want, let me know what you think in my askbox xx 🍓

ps: look how cute Angel is when he sleeps!!!!!

/ Previous parts

The next hour and a half went by in a blur. You and Angel sat on the sofa as he proceeded to explain to you everything about what he did with the club: the drugs, the tunnels, his past, his mom. Multiple glasses of water later, there was a thick silence in the room, your arms were crossed over your chest as you stared everywhere but him, and he sat there defeated, because he knew what was coming: heartbreak.

He was the first to break the silence, “I opened up myself to you, please say something”. His voice was desperate and your heart ached. “I don’t know what to say. This is… a lot”, you had tears in your eyes, and he might not be a genius like EZ, but he could see how uncomfortable he had made you. And he hated himself for it. He nodded in understanding, and you spoke again, your voice wavering. “I just… I hope you can understand this isn’t easy for me”, rejection was coming Angels’ way, he was sure of it, so he did what he did best: building his walls back and acting as if he wasn’t breaking inside.

“It wasn’t easy for me to tell you all of that shit, either”, his voice got rougher and you looked at him, a frown on your face as your tone got firmer, too. “Well, I’m sorry I’m not used to all of this drug bullshit. – you looked at him, and while the strong façade you had put on started to crumble, Angel’s eyes stayed hard, staring into yours – I’m sorry I’m not from your world, I’m sorry I can’t understand what you’re going through. I can try, for you, but now I just need to come to terms with everything you told me. This may be just another day to you, but not for me. All I’m asking is some time”, you finished your rant with a sob, and his gaze softened at seeing you like that, he wanted to hug you so bad, but he was playing the role of the big bad biker and couldn’t get out of character now. El Pardino’s words echoed in his mind, “If she doesn’t accept it, you just let her go”. He was too afraid of losing you, and he thought that acting like this would make it hurt less. “Call me when you wanna talk”, he got up, making his way to the door and getting out of your house, not looking back.

You remained on the couch, the same couch you and Angel had spent so much time making out and cuddling on, it had become a place for sadness. You cried, and doubted your feelings towards him: was this a sign that it was best to break up with him? Could you take what came with this life? Would this happen again? That night, you couldn’t sleep. Every time you closed your eyes, your saw the pictures again, and every time it was hard to breath. Angel rode home, entering his apartment as if he was in a daze, he walked straight to the cupboard ad grabbed a bottle of tequila, drowning his feelings in alcohol and weed. He drank to escape his reality, to pretend that everything was fine, just for one night.

/

Angel arrived at the yard late, but when he did show up, everyone could see he looked like shit. He didn’t say a word to anyone and walked straight to the bar, asking Chucky for a bottle of water and some painkillers for his terrible headache. He kept quiet for most of the morning, and then lunchbreak came, so he sat at a random table and began eating. “Ain’t your girl coming around, today? – Coco spoke, plopping down next to his best friend – you could use some tlc to get that fucking shitty mood off yourself”. Angel winced at the mention of you, and Coco looked at him, his brows furrowed. “Nah, I’m good”, Angel replied and continued to eat; his friend kept quiet but looked at EZ, who just shook his head, signaling he also didn’t know what was going on.

In the afternoon, after work, EZ (poor guy, always babysitting and taking care of the others) had to snatch away his brother’s third beer, telling him to go home and get his shit together. That had made Angel scowl at him. “Mind your fucking business, prospect”, he spat the last word like it was an insult. Everyone was silent, not daring to challenge him if he was in a bad mood. Angel didn’t say anything else as he grabbed his stuff and stormed out the clubhouse, Coco going after him. “Hey, hermano, where ya going?”. “Home”. “Talk to me, c’mon”, Coco grabbed his arm and Angel yanked it away harshly, turning towards the other man and looking at him with angry eyes. “I told her everything and she said some shit about needing her space”, Angel huffed out and put his helmet on. “Everything?”. “Everything, Coco. And now I am alone again. I’d appreciate all of you not pouring salt into the wound and just letting me be”. He started his bike and sped off the parking lot, leaving a stunned Coco standing there. When he went back inside and relayed the information to his brothers, they all felt sorry for him and agreed that it would be best to leave him some time to cool off. Nonetheless, the old Angel was, seemingly, back.

/

You, on your end, weren’t doing much better. You had cried yourself to sleep on the couch, woke up late and had to rush to work. All day, you couldn’t think about anything other than the man that had been in your life for the past months. Luck didn’t seem to be on your side: as soon as the bell rang, marking the start of lunch time, you smelled a familiar cologne, and you turned just in time to see Miguel Galindo approaching you; he was wearing an almond-coloured suit with the usual white shirt underneath, perfectly complementing his skin. He invited you to have lunch with him at the same café you had been to a couple of weeks prior, and you figured you could use some distraction.

Miguel had done his homework: he had Nestor find out what he could about you, where you were from, what schools you attended, how you got to Santo Padre. Knowing all these things (but bringing them up in a way you wouldn’t be able to know he knew), it was easy for him to hold a conversation with you, even though he noticed how you seemed to space out from time to time.

“Is everything alright?”, he politely asked. You were brought out of your thoughts, and you softly smiled at him. “Yes, I’m sorry, I zoned out”, you apologetically smiled and shook your head. “Something’s bothering you?”, he asked, straightening up and leaning forward towards you. “Just… a rough night. Nothing that a good night of relax can’t fix”, you lied, still smiling at him and looking at the time on your phone. “I should probably get back, I have a class in 15 minutes”, you got up and gathered your things in your purse, grabbing the check, which was immediately snatched from your hand. “I’m not letting you pay, señorita. It was my pleasure to have lunch with you”, his hand brushed the small of your back, almost imperceptibly, and he said something to the waiter, who nodded and Miguel led you out of the place.

/

You were talking by the entrance of the school, just after the bell rang, when you heard the roar of a bike approaching. Instinctively, you averted your gaze from the man in front of you just in time for EZ to climb off his bike and spot you, and spot Miguel: Taza had sent him to see what was wrong with Angel.

“Hey”, he shortly greeted you with a smile, his eyes meeting Miguel’s, who was standing way too close to you for EZ’s liking. “Prospect – Miguel said, an amused smile on his face – what brings you here?”. “Family business, actually. – the prospect turned to you and smiled, completely ignoring the look on the other man’s face – got a minute?”. You nodded and turned to Miguel, “I’m sorry, I have to go”. “Don’t worry, we’ll catch up some other time”, he leaned in and kissed your cheek, a common greeting. EZ looked at the two of you with wide eyes, but as soon as he could, he dragged you over to where his bike was parked but didn’t let go of your arm. He asked you what happened with Angel and you gave him a brief explanation, you really didn’t want to think about last night, or Angel, at all at the moment, and he felt it, too, so he let you be.

“And what the hell was that? Galindo? Really?”, he crossed his arms on his chest and you did the same, not liking the implications of his tone. “It was just lunch. God forbid I relax for an hour, eh? You and club have all these girls around, ready to throw themselves at you – and don’t say it’s not true or it doesn’t matter, Ezekiel. I’ve seen the way they look at y’all, at Angel… I had a shitty night and for once someone manages to get my mind off that, and it’s a problem?”, tears were threatening to spill from your eyes, all the emotions you held inside, spilling out. He never meant to insinuate something, and the fact that you were feeling like shit, just like his brother, meant that the discussion had taken a toll on you, too. Still, it didn’t change the fact that it was Miguel Galindo who helped you take your mind off of Angel.

You sniffled and lowered your head to regain some composure, first of all, because you were in public and secondly because you knew that your outburst to EZ was uncalled for, and he didn’t deserve it. “I’m sorry… I didn’t mean to. – you said and he nodded, his gaze was full of understanding, but you still felt bad – I have to go, now. I’ll see you”, and with that, you made your way to your car and left. EZ followed your car with his eyes, and when he was sure you couldn’t see him, he got out his phone and called his brother. “Angel, you gotta get your girl back, rápido”.

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[collectionofcherries]

Hi! I saw that you had Daryl on that list of yours! Have you by any chance heard of BakedCrispss??? Maybe you could do an imagine or headcanons based on her like little quotes?? I think it could be so funny!!! Maybe you could slot this in that window in alexandria of golden time??? Like when everything is calm before shit hits the fan and carl runs away and they meet Negan if you know what I mean??? I havent gone to the season Negan is in because I dont wanna *see you know what*

I do know @bakedcrispss, I follow them on my own blog, they are absolutely hilarious and I sincerely recommend anyone who hasn't checked them out but is into The Walking Dead check em out. Absolutely hysterical. There's so many funny quotes to choose from but I decided to choose this one. I'm not entirely sure how to source things but here is a link to their blog and of course this quote comes from them.

daryl: [ hands y/n a water bottle ]

y/n, drinking: thanks, but what's it for?

daryl: i heard from tara that you get thirsty around me.

y/n: [ chokes on the water ] 

And yeah I know what time you’re talking about and I get not wanting to see *you know what* It’s very sad but I do suggest you try and go past it, the series continues to be good. But if that’s where you decide to end it, hopefully I can help pad out that little golden time with an imagine. ---

Pronouns: Female!Reader, no mention of gender specific anatomical body parts. Warnings: Fluff, incredibly light angst? More like longing maybe? Nothing sad though. My attempt to write the way Daryl speaks is a warning in and of itself. Word Count: 2,473 ---

   Man, these beet root cookies were good, damn Carol knew how to bake and they were even pink and cute. Baking had never been your strong suit even before the world started eating itself. “You got more than one?” Was whined.    You looked over and smiled at Tara. “Perks of being one of the originals, extra cookies.” You teasingly sang, sticking the tip of your tongue out in glee of your cookie horde.    “I'll trade you some oatmeal mix that Denise made?” She pitches and you wrinkle up your nose as your answer and she sighs as she plops down beside you. “I know.” She agrees with your wrinkled face.    “Tobin is drowning in these, he's the guy you should try and corner. Dude's getting nothing besides cookies and kisses.” You remark.    “The dream.” She sighs.    “You've got oatmeal and...” You struggle to think of a word, you can practically feel your brain strain. “Optimism.” You settle offering a smile, she barks out a small laugh and looks at you with a raised brow. “You come up with something that starts with O.” You insist. “Also you are optimistic, you came over here hoping to trade oatmeal for a full fledged cookie.” You pointed out.    “I was hoping the love you have for me would get me a cookie.” She said looking at you with big eyes and you squint at her with yours. “You know silence hurts.” She teases making you giggle a little and shake your head. “Guess I'm not your type though.” She dramatically sighs.    “I don't even know my type, Tara.” You scoff.    It was her turn to squint at you. “I think everyone knows your type.”    “Enlighten me, maybe you'll get a cookie for it.”    “Brown hair, blue eyes, kinda brooding, incredibly greasy, handles a crossbow--don't--do not give me that confused look.” She insisted at the end. “Daryl.” She said exasperated.    “Yeah, you don't get a cookie.” You brushed off trying to hide your face.    “I most certainly do get a cookie, anyone here could get a cookie by answering that question.”    “We're friends and Daryl doesn't like me like that.”    “One, the question wasn't who likes you back it was who you like and commonly drool over and two, yes he does.” She scoffed at the end.    “I don't drool!” You gasped hitting her shoulder.    “Right, no drool cause you're too thirsty.” She teases back shoving her shoulder to yours.    You roll your eyes. “Yeah, I am thirsty, why don't you go get me a bottle of water to trade for a cookie?” You pitch trying to get off this subject and actually get some water, these cookies were great but a little dry.    “Fine.” She says getting up.    “No Dasani, get me the good stuff if you want an entire cookie.” You remind as she walks away.    She waves you off as she keeps walking and you continue to munch on your tiny dragons hoard of cookies, an entire three of them, Carol was quiet these days but this amount of cookies? Definitely a sign of love. Daryl brought you stuff too, since the beginning he's always brought you stuff...you sigh as you think about him, about all the time you've spent together over what are years now, how much you've been through together, how much you've both changed for the better...could your relationship ever change? So much in your lives had changed and just the thought made your nerves seize with a horrific mixture of excitement and fear. Excitement because who doesn't wanna be with the person they love? At the idea of going to bed together and waking up to them and than the horrifying fear that the wrong words could cause him to pull away from you, that would be the worst, you didn't even wanna think about that, no, no, no-- “You gonna take it or not?”    You almost jumped out of your skin as you came back from your thoughts to face the man they'd been about. “What?” Was all you managed.    “The water.” He said squinting at you in confusion as he once again shook it this time closer to your face.    “Oh, thanks, but what's it for?” You asked as you took it and took a sip.    “I heard from Tara you get thirsty 'round me.” You immediately choked out the water you were drinking. Fuck. Fuck. HE HEARD WHAT FROM

TARA?! “Whoa, whoa you alrigh'?!” He asked patting your back until your coughing stopped and you nodded in his direction. “You forget how'ta drink?” He teasingly scoffed.    “You leave me breathless.” You tease back as you try to get rid of the stinging in your throat with another sip of water.    “Stop.” He says as he sits down beside you and elbows you.    It's the exact same action Tara had done not five minutes ago but it makes you warm when he does it, it fills your heart and rouses a giggle from you. “Cookie?” You offer breaking it in half and offering it out to him.    “Thanks.” He says taking it from your hand and taking a bite.    “How many did you get? I got three, so far it seems to be a record and I appear to be the favourite.” You tease.    “I had four.”    “Fuck.”    He chuckles a little. “This's the first one I've had.” He lets you know.    “What're you throwing them away?”    “Carl asked for 'em, somethin' 'bout a date or somethin' with Enid.” He shrugged.    “Awe, Daryl that's cute.” You coo.    “Stop” He scoffs but you see the smile playing at the corner of his lips.    “Playing match-maker is giving a new meaning to those wings on your back, Cupid.” You can't help yourself. He rolls his eyes and looks at you annoyed but his corners give him away, you know you've got the wiggle room to keep bugging him. “Don't worry, I won't tell anyone your secret day job.” Once again the tip of your tongue finds it's way out between your teeth in glee of your own teasing.    If only you knew how far that smile got you, how that stupid cheeky smile of yours allowed you to tease him like no other. “So...why're you thirsty 'round me?”    You have to try with everything in your power not to cough up your cookie. “Oh-I-uh-I-I was trading a cookie for water with Tara, these are great but a little dry, I didn't know she was gonna get you to bring it over.” You stumble out. Sure, that's convincing enough, as long as you don't look at Daryl you can't know that he doesn't buy a single word out of your mouth. Solid plan. “I actually think this means she forfeits her cookie since you brought it and not her.” You point out trying to get off the subject. “You know she tried to trade that oatmeal mix Denise makes for one of these?” Even your laugh is a little tight.    He knows something's up, you're a decent liar so what was that? That was horrible, he'd never seen you lie so bad. “You think I bought one ounce of that bullshit?” He asked his face partially scrunching up in skepticism.    “Yeah I couldn't believe Tara thought I'd trade one of these for that oatmeal either. Real bullshit.” You avoid.    It clearly doesn't work as the skepticism on his face doesn't change until he grumbles out something with a shrug and takes another bite of the half of cookie you've given him. “Denise's oatmeal mix ain't that bad, looks like dog shit but it ain't half bad.” He points out.    “It's not bad but is it worth a cookie?” You point right back.    “Nah.” He agrees. “Why'd she wanna trade anyway? She not get one?”    “Tara got one, she's just jealous Carol loves me more and gave me three.” You say a little pridefully.    He chuckles a little and shakes his head at your delight, if that's one thing he's always liked it's how happy the little things have always made you. Whether it's him bringing you back a pen that happened to be your favourite colour or Carol giving you a cookie more than everyone else it always made you smile and over the years some days it felt like the only good in the world came from that smile. Not that he'd ever breathe a word about that. No, he'd make an ass outta himself trying to phrase that. “You gonna give it to her?”    The only thing you were planning on giving Tara was a deck over the head for telling Daryl 'you get thirsty around him.' “Maybe.” You settle on.    Things are quiet for a moment as you sit on the steps of your home, taking in the community that's around you, Daryl still feels out of place but having friends around helps him settle in enough to enjoy something as simple as this. “You gonna tell me

what she meant or am I gonna hav'ta out trade you with cookies?” He prods looking over at you.    Fuck. “That's cheating. That's abuse of power--no, no worse that is abuse of cookies.” You rush out shaking your head.    An amused breath makes it way out of him. “So you gonna or what?”    “How would Carol react if she knew you were using her cookies for evil?” You gasp.    “Probably laugh.”    Damn him, you know he's right, she'd probably arm him with more cookies. “It's just a dumb pun. You and me work up a sweat when we go out hunting together that's all she meant. Just a stupid pun, you know her jokes aren't that great.” You bluff.    That sounds like it makes sense but Daryl just doesn't buy the way you're selling this. “Why didn'tcha just say that?” He asks confused. What the Hell was going on with this 'thirsty' shit?    “I just realized it, it's such a bad joke it took me a minute.” Could you worm your way out of this? Maybe, there was a small light at the end of this tunnel that let you get through this without telling Daryl you were thirsting for him like a dehydrated fish. “I'm gonna go give her the cookie before she tries another terrible joke to get it.” The lights getting closer as you get up and he nods a little. “See you tomorrow? See if you can teach me to ride your bike?”    You don't want to give Daryl the idea you're running from him you just need to run away from this situation and it seems to work as he looks up at you and smiles a little. “I just got done tunin' it up and you wanna go and wreck it?” He teases.    “Words hurt Daryl, I only fell off once.” You gasp putting your hand over your heart.    “Yeah, sure, tell that to the dents I hammered out.” He scoffs.    “See you tomorrow.” You brush off as you turn around.    He grumbles under his breath but it's all lighthearted and you know it as you give a wave in his direction. He watches you leave and gives a small shake of his head, at least his bike is tuned up to run as good as it can so you're less likely to wipe out again. He finishes off the last bit of cookie before brushing off the crumbs on his pants. “Hey, Daryl.”    He looks over and gives a nod at Glenn who's also got a bottle of water and it gets him thinking again. “Hey, Glenn lemme ask you somethin'.”    “Yeah, sure man, what's up?” He asks as he takes a sip of water.    “Do I make you thirsty?”    Glenn coughs up his water the same way you had. “What?!” It's partial shock but mostly laughter.    “Ne'er mind.” Daryl grumbles as he gets up. He doesn't need to feel stupid for not getting this 'thirsty' bullshit.    “Wait, wait, wait.” Glenn says getting ahold of himself and reaching out to him. “Where'd you hear that phrase? I-I just need to be clued in.” He asks trying to keep his giggles in at Daryl using the word 'thirsty'. But God, that was funny.    “Tara said to get Y/N some water cause she gets thirsty 'round me, Y/N said it was just a bad joke, sure as Hell sounds like one.” Daryl explains bringing his thumb nail up to his mouth to chew on, something about this subject was starting to make him nervous.    “Ooooh.” Glenn nods as it all slides into place and again he has to desperately try not to laugh but a small chuckle makes it way out of him. “Man, Tara is dead.” He scoffs under his breath.    “Just tell me what the Hell is means.” Daryl says letting his hand drop from his mouth.    “It's uh-it's slang.” Glenn tries to explain keeping his giggle fit at bay the best he can with a deep breath. “It's when you find someone so hot they make you 'thirsty' like uh I'm thirsty for Maggie.” He explains as plainly as he can.    The annoyance is clear on Daryl's face, that slang is fuckin' stupid as far as he's concerned. “Wait.” He says as it dawns on him.    “Yeah.” Glenn confirms what Daryl's catching on too.    “Nah, that don't make sense.” Daryl denies.    “It makes sense dude.” Glenn scoffs. “You two could die of thirst beside the ocean.” He teases.    “Shut up.” Daryl barks.    Glenn knows Daryl's bark is worse than his bite when it comes to friends, the most danger he's in is

being shoved. “You asked to know.” He points out.    “That ain't how it is.” Daryl brushes off shaking his head.    “Yeah, sure. I'm gonna go quench my thirst and go see my wife.” Glenn nods with a wave as he starts to walk away. “I suggest you also quench your thirst.” He adds with a little too much glee for Daryl right now.    If he had a water bottle right now he'd quench Glenn's thirst by pegging him with it. Quench his thirst--quench his thirst?! Dumb ass, no good, fucking bullshit. That's all that was. Didn't make any Goddamn sense, he refused to have it make sense. No, no, no, no, no way in Hell. He went for a walk to clear his head of this junk but no matter how much he walked his head just kept going back to it...there was just no way you had feelings like that for him...right? His pacing was stopped by a loud. “Ow!”    He looked over to see you and Tara who was rubbing her head. “Your girlfriend is a doctor, you'll be fine.” You scoffed before walking off.    “Y/N wait up! Don't be mad please, come on.” Tara said chasing after you    'Man, Tara is dead.' Rang through his head...could it be true? ---

~Admin Coral. 🍒 Buy Me A Coffee?

[themoonlits]

Title: THE CYCLE

Main Character(s): Seo Daehyeon.

Summary: Daehyeon had fallen into a routine he couldn't bring himself to get out of. To spend countless nights with unknown men, seeking intimacy in moments of lust and desire, but never truly getting what he craved, surrendering himself to moments of loneliness and rash decisions.

Warning(s): sexual content (no actual sex), potential slut-shaming, bad mental state, mentions of toxic relationships

When Daehyeon was growing up, he had been enticed by the prospect of fairytales and happy endings. He was fascinated by the idea of a true love so strong it would stand the harshest tests the sand of times used in an attempt to bury the romance. As Dae grew older day by day, so did his desire to fall in love. To fall so fast, that it would be impossible to avoid it. To fall so hard, that his body would never forget it. To fall so carelessly, that he would never regret it.

When Daeheyon was growing up, he left the idea of being in love alongside memories in the past. He threw himself overboard from his journey in finding his true love, and subsided into a sea of yearning instead. As Dae grew older day by day, so did his disdain for the concept of falling in love once again. To fall so fast, that the adrenaline of it all wouldn’t let the pain be felt until long after. To fall so hard, that there would be reminders in and on his body of how harsh the impact was. To fall so carelessly, that he would never make another move without any thought again.

The young idol shook the drink in his hand gently, only taking sips of the water whenever nobody was around so he could freely pull his mask down. He tried to submerge himself in the waves of music that illuminated the bar, without the tinge of alcohol rushing through his body. Water, because drinking alcohol on nights like this had already burned a regret so fiercely that Daehyeon still felt the flames of its pain. The bar had become both another home, and had become a thriving reminder of the countless mistakes Dae had made and the mistakes he was bound to make.

With how comfortable and acquainted Daehyeon had become with the constant hookups and one-night stands it wasn’t difficult for him to know which streets of Seoul to venture towards to find places that had what he was looking for. Never trying to become too familiar in a particular bar or club, in a specific part of Seoul, Dae spent countless nights bouncing between Itaewon and Jongno, sometimes going to buildings hidden in dark alleys and quiet streets.

He never made it a habit to visit a particular establishment too much: although Moonlit wasn’t booming with popularity, he wasn’t looking to take the risk. Plus, it was a hit or miss with the guys Dae spent the night at hotel rooms with.

Some of the guys were the type who Dae knew he’d never see again: the type who used Dae like an experiment. The ones who would fuck Dae without caring a bit for the idol’s pleasure or desire. Simply wanting to see if their attraction to men was something real or not, before slipping out of the room the moment they finished, never intending to return. If they realized they had no interest in men, Dae simply became a memory hidden in the darkest corners never letting the light reach. If they realized they had an interest in men, Dae was out of the question: they wanted someone who was made for a relationship, not someone who was good for spreading their legs within seconds.

Some of the guys were exactly what Daehyeon was looking for. Men who were on the same path of simply wanting a good fuck, no strings attached and no romance threatening to peek around the corner. If they both enjoyed their companies, they’d share numbers and solely contact whenever one wanted the other, no simple pleasantries.

Yeah, maybe Daehyeon was just something to be used to these men, but it wasn’t like it was any different for him. Being used meant being needed, and it had gotten to the point where as long as Dae felt needed, it was ok.

He suddenly felt someone slip into the seat next to him in the bar, looking from the corner of his eyes to see a guy who’s back was to the bar, idly sipping his drink. If it had been Dae’s first time out like this, he would’ve simply turned and continued to mind his business, but having spent so many nights like this he knew what it meant.

It wasn’t the easiest thing to simply walk up to someone and ask if they wanted to have a good time for countless reasons ranging from the awkwardness of it all, to the possibility of a blunt rejection. Little motions and movements like these were simpler and got the message across in a way that was solely known between the two people.

Daehyeon leaned back just a bit, to the point where he made eye-contact with the man and gave a small nod. He had a striking face, his straight brows highlighted his sharp eyes, cheekbones that would’ve made Dae think he was a model if he wasn’t so confident showing his face like this, and soft red lips that had a playful smile the moment he met Dae’s eyes.

It wasn’t even a moment after he got up and left towards the bathroom that Daehyeon followed, leaving his water at the bar. Taking barely a step into the bathroom, he felt a hand grasp onto his wrist, tugging him into one of the stalls. Dae slipped off his mask almost out of habit, ready to speak before he felt lips pressed against his.

A surge of worry spread through his body like a bolt of electricity, feeling the man’s hands grab onto his back pulling Dae closer into him. However, the momentarily worry fades when he finds himself seeping into the kiss, letting his desire take a hold of him.

A gentle gasp slips from his lips at the man’s sudden movement to Dae’s ass, grabbing a hold of it as he pushes Dae back against the stall wall, the gasp allowing for his tongue to touch against Dae’s. The daze that the idol’s become far too familiar with, the feeling flourishing from his mind to throughout his body was what he was craving the moment he stepped into the bar. The feeling of being wanted; the feeling of being needed.

Daehyeon couldn’t stop himself from moaning into the nameless man’s mouth as he got harsher with his hands, squeezing his ass with both a sense of desperation and lust. He left himself in the mercy of the stranger, allowing for the latter to take full control and lead Dae however he wished.

It wasn’t until both men were out of breath that they pulled away, locking eyes again for what seemed like only the second time before he made a move once again, this time his hands darting towards Dae’s jeans only for the idol to stop him.

“Hold on, I’m not getting my back blown out in a bathroom stall.”

“I thought that’s why you followed me?” the man’s voice was smothered in a tone that made the question falter more like a statement, Dae having to stop his knees from feeling weak when he heard the deep raspiness emitting from his words.

“Ok, well, yeah. Definitely wouldn’t mind getting my back blown out, but bathrooms aren’t my thing.”

“Speaking from experience?” the man now had the slightest smirk growing on his face, leaning over just to the point where his shoulder was resting on the opposite wall.

“Maybe, maybe.” Daehyeon ran a hand through his hair, licking the same lips he wished were still pressed up against the lips of the man in front of him. “Not planning to try it out again here, though.”

The man whose eyes seemed to dance with a light-hearted brightness that rivaled the bright lights of the bar outside simply took a moment to catch his breath, idly looking Daehyeon up and down as if he was questioning if he was worth something more than a quickie right next to a toilet.

“Fine. Let’s go.” his words were brief and lacked any real care, as if he was the one in full control of what happened tonight; as if Daehyeon was simply just something from him to tug along until he no longer wanted him around. And maybe that was the truth.

The two left the bathroom together, neither making any type of move to look as if they were together; it was simply the man who smelt like the most cautious mixture of cigarettes and the woods walking in front, while Dae idly trailed behind him. It wasn’t until they were both out of the bar that the idol finally matched his pace, walking side by side to the man who was just moments ago feeling every part of his body, only to walk now as if he had little to no care if Dae would follow.

“So, can I get a name?”

“Nah.” Daehyeon only smiled at what he assumed to be a joke from the man, only for the smile to fall as fast as it appeared when he realised he was completely serious. “It’s not like you need it, and it’s not like we’ll see each other after tonight. I know a cheap hotel, c’mon.”

Daehyeon grew silent, realizing any idle chatter created in an attempt to lay down a comfortable environment was not needed. It wasn’t rare for Dae to meet someone like this, after all he’d fucked married businessmen who made it seem as if they didn’t even want to know anything about Dae aside from how he looked bent over a bed. It wasn’t uncommon for Dae to feel like a slut on nights like these, after all he had since long lost track of the number of men he let fuck him in the most questionable manners and places.

However, he was more than fine with feeling like that.

Daehyeon didn’t mind feeling like a slut or being called a slut, because it was the truth.

Daehyeon didn’t mind it, because he would much rather wear his scarlet letter brightly on his chest, than to let his heart beat on his sleeves. Being used as someone who was just good for a quick fuck, sometimes not even in private, and sometimes not even with a care for his own pleasure, was much better than being someone who was vulernable to having his heart stolen from him; to have each aorta ripped out in the name of love, each valve ripped open, leaving nothing for himself while having given everything to someone else.

Before, Daehyeon was drowning in the waves of bad memories that someone he once so clearly loved and cared for, had decided to pull the tide against him. Every time he attempted to raise himself up, another wave simply crashed into him, always casted upon him by the people he loved but never truly loved him.

Now, Daehyeon had decided to simply float amongst the countless waves, instead of fighting against them.

It was different now. Rather than being vulnerable to pain that he would never see coming, Daehyeon was in control of what happened to him. Maybe he got hurt every so often, but it was different to be in charge of the hurt, than to be hurt by others.

[scythian-andromache]

the 7-Eleven off I-40

based off this post

also available on [AO3]

Drew has worked at the 7-Eleven off I-40 for three years, and two of those he’s spent on the night shift. It’s a shit job, honestly, but it’s what he’s got to pay the bills while he works at getting his GED (long story) and takes care of his baby brother (even longer story).

He’s seen some weird shit in his time; kids high off a late-night adventure, actual addicts shaking as they bring snacks up to the register, people so drunk they couldn’t walk straight, someone dressed up in a full-on ball gown and feather boa, you name it. He’s been held at gunpoint twice for the contents of the register, and has been cussed out more times than he can count.

So when, at six minutes past two in the morning, a guy that looks like he could be straight out of an action movie—and probably the villain, because he’s vaguely good-looking in a European way—waltzes in with another pissed-off looking guy dressed like a bum, hoodie pulled over his face and grunge jeans and what’s clearly a gun in his back pocket, Drew’s immediate thought is fuck. This is going to be a bad night.  

The two men are clearly arguing about something, but it’s low enough that Drew can’t hear, and he’s not about to approach them to listen in. He hopes desperately that they’re not arguing about how to rob the store.

Then, Action Movie Villain says something that causes Grunge Wannabe to gesticulate wildly, flipping the guy off with a hiss of “connard!” Or maybe Drew misheard, and the guy’s name is Connor. Yeah, that’s probably it.

Connor moves on to examine the display of beef jerky and Grunge is looking at the day-old pastry section, but it feels suspiciously like they’ve fanned out, like they’re casing the place, glancing shiftily around every few moments. Drew is five seconds from typing 911 into his phone and holding his thumb over the call button when the door bursts open again, and two more people tumble in: a women and a man, also in ripped, dirty clothing, and fuck, are those bullet holes in that dude’s jacket, the one soaked in a dark substance that Drew doesn’t want to think about?

The woman—white, thirty-something, looks like she could murder him with her pinky—says something in a language that definitely isn’t English, and Connor and Grunge each snipe something back. Drew tries his hardest to listen in without making it obvious that he’s listening in, and glances down just as Grunge makes another profane gesture in Connor’s direction.

“Calmati, Habibi,” says the man with curly hair and the maybe-bloodstained-jacket to Grunge, and then, “Booker, cut it out,” in English to Connor.

There’s more hushed argument in what Drew thinks might be a different unfamiliar language—and this time, the scary woman says, “Hey!” sharply—and then they’re interrupted yet again by a young black woman entering, with a heaved sigh of “We’re all gassed up and ready. Everyone got their snacks?”

“Not quite,” says Blood Spatter, this time in lightly accented English. “Booker, as I was saying, just let me drive if you think Andy’s so bad at it.”

“You?” snarks Connor—Booker? “The last time I let you drive, you drove us to Bratislava.” Drew takes a moment to wonder where that is. Kentucky? Missouri, maybe? They’ve got some real funny place names there.

“So?” says Blood Spatter, apparently unperturbed.

The man’s eyes almost pop out. “So? We were going to Vienna!” There’s definitely a Vienna in Missouri; he drove through it once.

“Eh, that is barely two marhalah away from Vienna.”

“Sure, except it was the wrong country”—oh, so maybe they’re talking about Europe—“and in the interim the wall went up and we got stuck behind Soviet borders for a MONTH.”

Soviet borders? Drew isn’t particularly up on world affairs, but he’s pretty sure that was like, from the 80s, wasn’t it? None of them look old enough for that, in fact—

“Hi,” says the younger woman brightly, leaning against the counter, and he’s distracted by how pretty she is, the angles of her face and the swirl of her braids. “I was wondering if you had any earplugs.”

She smiles disarmingly, tilts her head as if to say this bunch, huh? and Drew finds himself grinning back, mentally trying to run through the catalogue, remember if they do have any earplugs anywhere.

“I, uh. I don’t think so,” he says.

The woman looks disappointed, but just shrugs. “No biggie. Thanks anyways.”

“Hey, uh—” says Drew, before he can think the better of it. “Do you need any first aid supplies?”

The woman raises an eyebrow and he flushes, gestures vaguely at her midriff where there’s definitely dried blood ringing perfectly circular holes in her shirt.

“Oh,” she says. “Nah, but thanks for checking.” There’s an awkward beat. “Costume party,” she adds, gesturing at herself, like it’s an afterthought.

(There’s been no such party anywhere in the county, or he would have heard about it. In their neck of the woods, it would be a stretch even at Halloween, and it’s currently March.)

He’s considering saying something more, or maybe just shooting his shot—stranger things have happened, right?—when five armfuls of candy and snacks get dumped on the counter.

The older woman sends an icy glare his way, and Drew immediately starts ringing up the purchases, as fast as he can, barely noticing as half of them leave again.

It’s the Booker guy who pays, dropping a bill that looks like play-money on the counter (it says “100€”), before the pretty woman elbows him and swaps it out for a hundred dollar bill, smiling apologetically.  

“Keep the change,” she says, as they sweep up the bags and glide out the door.

Keep the change? This is a 7-Eleven, not a restaurant, and he blinks for a second, stupefied, before running to the door to protest, to tell them that’s not how it works, and also that he’s not supposed to accept any bill denomination above twenty, but there’s a screeching noise, and their car is already disappearing down the road and into the night.

He stands, alone in the empty convenience store, the overhead lights too bright and too harsh as he tries to make sense of what just happened. The hundred dollar bill sits limply in his hand, and he returns to the register to make the correct change and set everything in order.

Drew looks around, wondering, for just a second, if he imagined the entire experience. Everything looks exactly the same. They’ve gone without so much as the slightest indication that they—with their larger-than-life bickering and supposed costumes and strange stories—were ever there, and Drew is suddenly struck by the vague feeling that he just fulfilled a role as an extra in, like, a heist movie. Strange, indeed.

But this is the 7-Eleven off I-40, and sometimes the night shift is just like that.

***

fin.

***

*connard: Nicky has just called Booker a bastard in French, as one does.

*calmati: google translate tells me this means “calm down” in Italian, but what do either of us know?

*Habibi: we all know this one, right? “My love” in Arabic.

*marhalah: an Islamic measure of distance from antiquity, equivalent to roughly 44km, and considered about a village-length. Joe is sort-of correct; the quickest route from Vienna to Bratislava is about 80 km (but the shortest is 67 km).

[smiles-quotes]

She’s my girl JJ x Reader

Hey guys so here’s just a quick one shot I did cause this TV show is just fucking amazing. And can i just say WTF was that shit with Kiara and Pope they have zero chemistry. JJ should’ve ended up with Kiara tbh. Warnings of violence  

You can read it here on ao3 or below :)

JJ hadn’t had the easiest time with his father, that was for sure. He was ultimately surprised nobody had really poked around and found out just how bad it was with his pops. He knew that he shouldn’t have to put up with this, but it was his father and some people must have it worse right? Summer seemed to be the perfect time to just forget all his problems and just live. He mostly stayed at John B’s place refusing to go to his fathers if he could avoid it. Food was ‘meh’, he hadn’t gotten any all day and the weed gave him cravings which is why they were all (John B, Kiara and Pope) headed to the Wreck hoping Kie’s dad could give them some leftovers. Pope was ranting about his scholarship when JJ saw you, fuckin’ Y/N. She was the most beautiful girl he had ever seen, and fuck she was fierce. JJ remembered seeing you beat up a few guys, most of them Kook’s and stupid idiots who didn’t know their boundaries and that he found hot as hell. You were also JJ’s neighbour, JJ had known you all his life. They would sneak out beers when their families were asleep and go down by the beach. Those were the good old days, it had been a while since JJ had talked to you since he wasn’t at his place recently. 

He snapped out of his thoughts when John B shoved him to the side laughing, “It’s been five minutes and you haven’t said a word!” John B laughed, “Where you at dude?” He threw an arm around JJ’s shoulders bringing him closer so he could ruffle his hair.

“Nah I’m good, just food man.” JJ shoved himself from John B’s grip, before looking over his shoulder to try and spot you once more.

“She’s right there.” Kie pointed to the girl walking across the street. You were laughing at something a friend of yours was saying, waving your hands in salute before reaching the sidewalk. God she was just so gorgeous. “Oh man you’ve got it bad.” Kie laughed, running her hands through her hair to bring it up in a messy ponytail.

“Wh-what no,” He spluttered, “I mean okay yeah, yeah I do but have you seen her.” JJ added waving to all of her. Pope and John B laughed in silent agreement and Kie just shook her head silently with a small smile on her face. 

“You’ve had a crush on her for ages man!” Pope added “Just like confess your feelings or some shit before this gets sad.”

“You do realize i’ll never be good enough for her right, like what do I have to offer?” JJ scratched the back of his neck, his friends quickly started to protest saying he was more than enough but JJ put his hands up saying “Guys, doesn’t matter it’s never going to happen either way. She’s a thousand times better than me an-”

“Who’s a thousand times better than you?” A voice cut him off. JJ turned around with a yelp only to find you looking at him expectantly. “Do I have to go kick some girls ass here? She thinks she’s better than you?” you added teasingly but JJ knew that if he said the word she’d do it. 

“Uh no, no I mean I just,” JJ tried obviously flustered which got a laugh out of you. God’s her laugh was beautiful JJ thought as you tucked a piece of hair behind your ear looking up at JJ. “It’s nothing, don’t worry about it.” His friends just snickered behind him which captured y/n’s attention a cloud of confusion crossing your face at their antics.

“Mhhm,” you smiled, “You home tonight?”

“Uhh- no, we’re going to do a fire down by the beach with a keg if you want to join though.” JJ announced excitedly making the others chuckle as his antics, JJ couldn’t stand still on his best days, always full of energy.

“Oh, that’d be great. I have to make dinner for my folks but if I can sneak out after then I’ll pop by. If I’m not imposing.” You explained slowly biting your nails. It was a nervous gesture he recognized. He had spent nights trying to get you to open up about it until you finally admitted the habit had started because your parents were always telling you you took too much space and annoyed everyone. 

JJ quickly stepped up grabbing your arm to stop you from biting your nails, “Hey no, you know you’ll never be a bother to me. Come on y/n.” He dropped a quick kiss to your fingers before letting you retrieve your hand. JJ had seen you bite at your fingers till they bled, he hated when you did that to yourself. He looked up from your hand only now noticing how close you both were and man your eyes. JJ felt he could just look at you all day and never get bored. 

“Anyways I, I think I have to go now before I piss off my folks. I’m late home so yeah, bye JJ.” You stepped back from JJ, looking at your watch before leaving without a further word. JJ watched you go in a dreamy daze before Kiara snapped her fingers in front of his face bringing him back to reality. 

“You are head over heels in love with her man,” Pope laughed, clapping him on the back. 

“You fuckin kissed her fingers, never knew you could be such a romantic.” John B snickered, him and Pope leaning on one another as they laughed. 

“Cut it off man, she’s like a pearl in the sea you know.” JJ smiled goofily motioning to the world around him as if he needed to be heard. 

“Oh no that’s just cheesy,” Kie smirked “She’s literally into you though, I never knew you could make a girl blush like that JJ.” She teased.

“Oh shut it guys.” JJ lightly shoved the guys before they set out for the Wreck once again. 

/

The party down at the beach was in full swing and the guys had teased him the rest of the afternoon for his hopeless crush on y/n. He’d been coerced into a conversation with Kie about how he should go for it and he just nodded the whole time so she would let it go. No matter what they said JJ knew that you couldn’t possibly be into him. There were so many better guys out there he didn’t think you could ever think of him that way.

“A penny for your thoughts?” You asked laughing. You’d shown up! JJ didn’t think you would actually show but yet there you were and looking gorgeous as ever. You were wearing the same clothing from before but still looked damn good. You had a ratty Led Zeppelin t-shirt with denim shorts and although that was a common look in the cut he didn’t think he’d seen anyone else wear it better. 

“I uh, do you want a beer?” JJ asked, finally looking up to your eyes to notice you staring at his chest? Arms? “You checking me out y/n?” He chuckled lowly.

“Oh don’t think I didn’t notice you doing the same JJ.” You laughed but he could see the dark blush staining your cheeks. “And I would appreciate a beer very much thank you.” You chimed, biting your bottom lip distracting JJ for half a second. JJ nodded and disappeared for a few seconds before reappearing with a red cup of beer. 

“There you are.” JJ smiled, handing you the cup and taking a sip from his own. “How are you, it’s been too long since we’ve hung out.”

“Well you’re the one who disappeared on me,” you said with a small smile, “but I guess I’m doing alright. Same old, you?” 

“Yeah I’ve been, I’m good. Just a rough patch with my dad I guess.” JJ answered walking out towards the water beside you. “Sorry for abandoning you though, I know you must be missing my presence something fierce.” JJ teased lightly, happy to see it bring a blush to your cheeks. God’s he loved being able to do that. 

“Ha-ha, you’re hilarious. I’m pretty sure it must be you missing me something fierce.” You rebutted shaking your head. It occured to JJ that they were flirting and he had to restrain himself from jumping up in happiness.

“Uhuh,” JJ smirked stepping closer to her, “I missed you always face planting in the sand cause you’re too clumsy to walk.”

You groaned at the memory, it had been quite funny. It was a few weeks ago when they had both sneaked out of their houses with beer and ended up wasted. You had had too many beers and kept tripping in the sand, JJ had needed to carry you back. “I’ll have you know that was one time and I was wasted.” 

“Excuses excuses,” JJ laughed, still unbearably close to one another, “I’m convinced you only wanted to be in my strong arms.” JJ remembered carrying you back to the hammock in your backyard where they’d crashed for the night. A small hammock he might add.

A wave rushed up to them, the cold water hitting their feet which sent you into his arms and JJ stumbling back, his arms coming up around you to stabilize them both. “Oh baby, if you want me to hold you all you have to do is ask.” 

You swatted at his arm with a look of indignation but made no move to step back. He let out a small laugh bringing you impossibly closer which gave him a small sound of satisfaction from you. “JJ I-” you started looking up at him. Their lips were almost touching, he stared at you, noticing you lick your lips in anticipation. Gods he wanted to kiss you so badly but he wanted to make it good, and he was always kind of an asshole he thought to himself. 

“You what?” JJ whispered, he could feel your breath on his lips and he barely held back from kissing you right then and there. He could see you pout slightly as he awaited for you to answer him.

“I want-” and JJ’s hand came up to cup your cheek, the other grabbing you by the waist a little more harshly drawing a small whine out of you.

“You want what?” JJ teased, his hand grabbing your ass hitching you closer and your lips lightly touched.

“You asshole, just ki-” and then he was kissing you and damn was he happy he teased you cause he could feel your breath hitch and you were grabbing him as if he was about to disappear. JJ had spent hours upon hours imagining this moment and now that he was kissing you and being able to feel how your soft lips sighed open in content. He knew this was a thousand times better than what he ever could’ve imagined. You tasted sweet and warm and a little like beer but it’s perfect. JJ smiles at the small moan you let slip when he licks into your mouth and suddenly the kiss is something else. Its harsh and teeth collide for a second making you both wince slightly before you’re back at it and your nails are digging into his scalp. It should hurt he thinks but instead it creates pulses of pleasure. Groaning JJ grabs at your ass and his other hand holding you by the waist squeezing you gently wanting to bring you closer.

You both separate, needing to breathe and with a smile JJ keeps kissing along your jaw and sucking slightly at your skin making you clutch his hair harder. You let out another moan making JJ growl, wanting to be closer you push your hips together making you lose balance and suddenly you’re falling backwards. You let out a little yelp of surprise and JJ starts laughing as he lands into the sand with you on top of him. 

“Gods, I’ve been wanting to kiss you for ages.” JJ laughs his hands running up your thighs.

“Then why didn’t you sooner?” You say leaning forwards to kiss him again and you bite his bottom lip making him open his mouth panting slightly. JJ grabs you by the back of the neck and it’s messy, you’re both fighting for dominance of the kiss and gods JJ has never been more turned on before.

“Well, what do we have here?” Rafe pipes up with his two other goons, Topper and Klece. JJ and you separate suddenly at the interruption, he gets up slowly pushing you behind him. The three boys seem drunk and itching for a fight. Fucking kook’s. JJ’s a little surprised they came to bother them since they gained a little distance from the party when they were walking.  

“Can’t you guys see we were busy now?” JJ sneers annoyed. You’re clutching his arm tightly, he’s not too sure if it’s to hold him back from them or because you’re scared. JJ knows that no matter how many guys you’ve beaten up, you’d never taken on several at the same time. 

“What are we bothering you and your slut here?” Rafe laughs and before he knows what he’s doing JJ marches up to him and slams him on the side of the face. 

“Don’t you fucking dare call her that!” JJ shouts trying to punch the other in the face again but Klece grabs him by the neck in chokehold while Topper punches him in the abdomen. 

“Let him go!” You shout running forwards only to get thrown back by Rafe. 

“Don’t fucking touch my girl you piece of shit!” JJ seethes trying to get away by jamming his elbows into Klece that still has a strong hold on him. JJ can feel himself gasping for breath as Klece breaks off his air supply. Rafe just laughs and grabs you by your hair making you stand up from where he pushed you down.

“What did you say?” Rafe demands with a grin on his face. “You tell me not to touch her?” JJ manages to get out of Klece’s hold, spitting out rage when Rafe grabs you harshly by the jaw making you whimper in fear. You know in the back of his head that Rafe is about to kiss you but before he can manage you knee him in the balls and JJ slams into him. JJ manages to get several hits in before Topper and Klece are back on him and throwing him off Rafe. 

“Just let him go, we weren’t even bothering you guys!” You run forwards trying to get to JJ, but then Rafe has you by the waist hauling you off and your screaming bloody murder to get other pogues here. He can see Rafe shouting something in your face and ripping your shirt open laughing. In his rage JJ’s aware of running coming towards him from where Klece is back to choking him. Suddenly the boys are ripped off of him by John B and Pope. Kiara’s spitting into Rafe’s face. Without a second to lose JJ tackles Rafe to the ground sending fist after fist into his face. It takes him a few seconds to realize that he’s also shouting something at Rafe. 

“You fucking piece of shit, never touch my girl again or I’ll fucking kill you I swear!” JJ fumes only being taken off Rafe by John B and Pope. The guy looks like he won’t be able to see for the next few days but you don’t care. JJ thinks John B, Pope and Kiara are talking to him, telling him to calm down. It only takes a whimper from you and he snaps out of his anger turning to you. Your shirt is ripped and there’s a bruise forming on your jaw which almost sets JJ off again but JJ can see your tears forming so he gathers you into his arms making soothing noises.

“I’m so sorry baby, I swear they won’t hurt you again. Okay?” JJ whispers, stepping back to look into your eyes. “Here put this on.” JJ says taking off his shirt and putting it over your head. It has a bit of blood on it but you appreciate it as it hides your chest from the others.

“What happened?” John B asks.

“I don’t know, those fucking kooks came to bother us when we were alone.”JJ spits out anger resurfing but then you step into his arms sniffling. “We’re gonna go, can we crash at your place John B.” John B just nods as an answer. JJ cradles you into his arms, nodding back to John B in thanks. 

“You hurt anywhere?” JJ whispers scanning your body for injuries he might’ve missed. 

“No I don’t think so,” you tremble, biting your nails unconsciously. JJ still seems mad about the whole situation but after clenching his jaw for several seconds he looks at you decided.

“All right, let’s go.” JJ says holding you close, walking to John B’s. When you get at John B’s house JJ pulls you close, both of you crashing into the pullout. You’re still shaken about the whole situation, shocked at how much of an asshole these kook’s can be. 

“I’ll get them back for what they did.” JJ mutters angrily thinking up plans of what he could do as revenge. You grab JJ’s face in your hands gently shocking him out of his stupor. 

“Let’s not think about them right now.” You say looking at JJ in the eyes, grateful for how much he defended you and still wants to defend you. JJ has several bruises on his side blooming like never before. His lip is split and he has bruises on the side of his face. “I didn’t see them hit you in the face.” You whisper in confusion. JJ’s eyes snap to you but he quickly looks away shrugging.

“That was my old man, nothing I can’t deal with.” JJ admits running his hand down your back. JJ has never fully admitted that his dad would hit him but from all the times you hung out together you had your doubts. 

“Oh sweety, it’s nothing you should have to deal with.” You reply earnestly. “You can stay with me if you want.”

“You wouldn’t mind?” JJ stammered self consciously.

“Of course I don’t mind, I feel safest when I’m with you,” You look up to him smiling shyly. JJ’s looking back at you with something like awe in his eyes. “You know my hammock misses you.” You add making JJ laugh at the memory. 

“Gods you have no idea how much I love you, do you?” JJ whispers smiling as he holds you closer to him dropping a kiss on your lips.

“I love you too you know.” You add your hand running through his hair to coe rest on his cheek wiping away the tear on his face. “I’m serious, I really do love you.” JJ lets out a choked sound at your admission and buries his head into your chest cuddling you close.

John B, Pope and Kiara find you asleep in one another’s arms the next morning and they smile to themselves taking a picture with John B’s old Polaroid camera. The camera’s flash wakes the both of you causing JJ to grab a pillow throwing it vaguely in their direction before cuddling into your side once again.

[suicidalcatz]

Running in the rain

Pairing : Jake Kiszka x reader

Genre : Fluff / OS

Prompt : 24. “Your romanticism will never cease to amaze me”, for @langdonsluxiouslocks

AN : Hi, it’s been fucking forever. First things first, I’m sorry for my 10 months disappearance. I don’t have any fancy excuse, I just didn’t feel like writing anymore. I thank you if you understand, but I’ll get it if you’re mad at me too.I’m even more sorry to the person who kindly asked for this prompt. Sweetie I deeply apologize, my english is a bit rusty but I hope you’ll enjoy it.

                                          Running in the Rain

It was a really strange feeling, seeing him onstage. And it was even more uncanny the way his head would suddenly raise to stare at me, eyes sparkling with joy. The girls next to me would push and scream, giggling loudly, and I couldn't blame them for thinking it was for them, while I would shyly look away in a vain attempt to hide the blush creeping up my cheeks. The truth was that Jake only had eyes for me. But they'd never know.

Some time ago, I too was on the other side of the stage. Sharing forbidden glimpses. The ghost of a touch when his hand would brush past mine across the barricade. Smiles, in the rarest moments. All those memories from a past that seemed so ancient it almost felt like a dream, slowly fading away as days passed.

It was so easy to ignore everything that wasn't Jake, even more so when he was so caught up in his solo. The melody would reach my ears, and the whole world around me would be forgotten. Whether it was the cheering crowd of loyal fans, applauding and whistling. Josh frolicking back and forth on the stage with his oh so charming smile and tambourine. Sam, letting his hands through his long luscious locks before taking a drink, making all the girls cry in awe. Danny, always the serious one, never missing a beat on his drums, even when Jake was leading and going to unknown destinations with his melodies. Even with all of this, the sounds, one by one, disappeared, except for the torturous notes escaping from the guitar. They were all slowly fading to black, leaving Jake the only one under the spotlight of my mind. And with unconcealed admiration, I smiled fondly.

                                                          * * *

- I was really surprised to see you here tonight ! You didn't text me so I thought you couldn't make it.

Jake was beaming, glee exhaling through his every pore, still high on adrenaline. He couldn't dream of a better surprise than us being together tonight, and I knew it. It was the very reason why I didn't think twice before booking a flight to see him.

- You know what day we are. I wouldn't miss it for anything.

For a second, I could see him soften at my words, and it made my heart flutter. Such saps we made... and of course Sam was enjoying reminding it to us every damn minute. Tonight, though, he made us the gift of settling for a disgusted grimace instead of a scoff, but nevertheless got kicked out of the dressing room by my boyfriend handing me a drink.

- Me neither, he finally replied, sore throat making his voice hoarser than usual.

Jake was all over me the second he had downed his glass of water, gently pining me against the wall, both arms framing my face, preventing me from escaping him. Like I'd ever wanted to run away from him. Through long lashes, his dark eyes trailed all over me, devouring me without even touching me... And I gladly returned the favor, darting my gaze on his Adam's apple, admiring the way it bobbed when Jake swallowed. Before I even knew it, my eyes were venturing further south, where his unbuttoned shirt reaveled skin covered sweat glimmering in the dim lights of the green room like caramel slowly melting under the sun, yet hiding the best parts behind those few buttons, like it was teasing me, asking me to rip them open. I licked my lips unknowingly and Jake seemed to read the mood because his body not-so-subtly pressed against mine, efficiently trapping me under his hot self, resting his forehead on mine.

- You know..., he huskily whispered, I can think of a few ways to celebrate...

I couldn't help a chuckle from escaping my throat, shaking my head in fake disbelief.

- Your romanticism will never cease to amaze me.

As his only answer, Jake shrugged, lips pursed in a comical « why not » face, and I rolled my eyes, gently pushing his torso to brush past him, arms already crossing against my chest. Swiftly, his fingers locked against the crook of my elbow to bring me close to him once again, his free hand resting on my neck, keeping me in his grasp like he couldn't physically bear for us to be apart even for a minute.

- Do you really think I had nothing planned for us tonight ?

The surprise his words caused made my mouth form a silent O and it was Jake's turn to chuckle.

- You almost had me when you didn't answer my texts, I'll give you that, but everything was already set anyway, y'know, just in case. So... shall we go ?

It was true I got a bit sneaky by kind of making him believe I might not be able to come to his show tonight but, in all fairness it was all bluff, we had planned this together. As romantic as the idea sounded, it was unrealistic to surprise someone as busy as Jake by suddenly barging in without telling him first. Even on our anniversary. The man had a life beside me, and it would've been more than right if he had planned something with the band instead. And yet, after all this time together,  Jake still found ways to surprise me. It was like the magic we feel at the beginning of every relationship hadn't worn out, instead settling with us and gracing us of its spark, keeping every touch electric, every moment spent together ecstatic.

Fortunately, no interview was set tonight, and as for the few fans waiting in front of the venue, Jake was the first one to great them while I was waiting for him near the backdoor not to draw attention on ourselves. It was always fun, looking at him exchanging with fans, witnessing his astounded yet admirative face whenever he received gifts, and hugging them tightly with shared respect and love. He didn't look like it, but Jake was a very expressive guy, I had come to learn. You could always read the interest in his eyes when he spoke to a fan, giving them his full attention, and the way the corner of his lips would slowly stretch into a friendly smile when you joked with him. And thus, his joy was communicative. Like a tidal wave of delight hitting everyone around him, and bathing them in warm emotions. We often used the idiom « What you see is what you get » to sell goods, well... Jake was exactly like that. Nothing hidden, just everything laying on the surface... And I really liked what I saw. In a way that might make sense only to me, he was real.

The chilling air of Spring rised in the trees, causing the leaves to whistle, the fans to shiver, and Jake's head to perk up in my direction, checking in on me. A reassuring smile didn't stop him from saying goodbye, leaving the girls in Josh's care to get back to me. Rough fingers found mine, and we disappeared in the dark of the night to our secret rendez-vous.

The evening was quiet, Jake and I's voices chatting pleasantly, interrupting the birds' conversations, breathing in the sugary scent of blooming, just enjoying each other's company. The streets were busy, even at this hour, but it didn't matter. In fact, nothing mattered to us in this moment except the other. Taking the lead, Jake took me into a park near the venue, forcing us to get through fluffy bushes, not really knowing where our feet were going to land on the uneven ground. We looked like little kids going on an adventure in their parents' garden, with him pulling my hand with excitment and merrily shushing me when I asked questions. Playing along, I followed closer as we sunk in deeper into -how Jake called it- the wilderness, pushing aside branches from our way and letting the wild grass caress our calves until he stopped on his tracks, announcing this was the place. And oh, it was. Taking a breath in, I let him gently pull my hand so I could stand by his side.

It was the perfect spot under the stars. We were high enough to admire the city lights, a million of minuscule dots shining lightly in different colors, like a flower field that sprawled infinitely, kissing the sky on its horizon. Opening his backpack, Jake wordlessly pulled a blanket out of it, spreading it neatly in the fluffy grass, motioning me to sit.

- Are we having a picnic ?

- We are !, replied Jake with the same enthusiastic tone while freeing the sandwiches of their plastic prison. Because you know I figured- Who on earth likes fancy restaurants ? All those... gourmet dishes with exquisite flavors, prepared by renowned chefs... Nah, screw that, let's have peanut butter jelly sandwiches sitting on a plaid.

His humor never failed to make me laugh, and by a swift hand motion I slided the tupperware aside and out of the way so I could get closer to Jake, taking his fingers in mine, patting his digits softly, searching for his eyes in the almost darkness.

- It's perfect.

Even if he looked confident, and rightfully so, I felt the need to reassure him and to show him how appreciative I was that he planned this for us. His gaze found mine, pupils dancing, switching their focus from my right eye to the other, before a small smile spread across his face.

- Come here.

Matching words with actions, his hand tangled itself in my hair, pulling me into a kiss. His lips were soft as silk when they met mine, gently pressing against them before he deepened our embrace, sighing into it with content, finally getting the caress we both craved for so long. Becoming needy, feeling touch-starved, calloused palms rediscovered my silhouette, not missing anything ; every shape, every curve, fingers digging into the flesh of my hips with both want and longing, as if I was going to disappear into thin air in a second. Heat was rising to my face, feeling intoxicated by the smell of his cologne, the taste of his still sweat-salty lips, the sensation of his hungry mouth devoring mine, his fingers gripping me, kneading me like dough. I loved every little thing and his whole everything put me on fire, filling me with such strong feelings my chest felt like an over inflated balloon about to burst. That's why when a cold drop crashed on my cheek, I thought I was crying. When another landed on my nose, I thought Jake was the one crying. When the brunette let go of me to look up at the firmament, we both understood too late it was the sky that was.

By the time we were struggling to stuff all of our belongings into Jake's bag, it was already pouring, and the sandwiches were waterlogged, like sponges filled with jam. There was no point in trying to salvage them, so that's how our dinner went straight to the trash.

As soon as we exited the park, we ran our way back to the busy street, like headless chickens, trying to catch a cab, not really knowing where to go, but wanting to do it fast. Around us, people were moving quickly, passing and averting us swiftly, taking shelter in front of shops, in cafés, trying to cover their head with briefcases, purses, or, less efficiently, newspapers. After a little while, though, it became obvious that it didn't matter anymore. The rush of the first drops of rain was way past us now, and we silently agreed to accept our fate. I looked at Jake, with his hair so plastered on his head that a large strand crossed his face, almost blinding him. Black spots had formed on his jeans, progressively darkening the already inky denim. His unbuttoned shirt did nothing for him either, and soon had more similarities with a mop than anything else. It must've been such a sorry sight, the both of us.

- I'm sorry. I should've watch the weather report, he said dully.

With a smile, I shook my head, taking his between my cold sleeves.

- I don't mind. Now why bother when we're already soaked to the bone ?

As if mocking me, our so long awaited taxi passed right by us in a rush, rolling full speed in a puddle of water the size of Lake Michigan, forcing me to take a shower of muddy water. A shiver ran down my spine, aside with all the droplets of rain rolling on my skin like a cold sweat, and I looked at Jake with distress filled eyes. It only took one second for the moron to laugh as hard as he could, taking in the sight of my pathetic self.

- Oh you'll regret that, Kiszka !

We loved to play chase, but getting Jake was difficult. The boy had incredible out-of-this-world reflexes. I had long ago learnt it at my expense, when all of my attacks had been turned against me. If I wanted to catch him, the only way was to act on a whim. And that's exactly what I did. Without warning, I leapt at him, not missing the way his soles slipped on a watery sidewalk as he tried to dodge whatever was coming at him. We were laughing hard when our hands caughted each other, fighting for dominance, ignoring the hurried passersby weird looks. When Jake's slippy shoes betrayed him, I had him cornered against an abandonned shop's doorstep, relishing in the way his yelps got interspersed with excited giggles, adrenaline kicking in as I pulled his shirt out of his pants to stick my soaked sleeves to the dry skin of his hips. He must've feel the cold, cold drops slowly making their way to his lower back and thighs because Jake squirmed under my touch, desperately trying to get away from this torture, but too weakened by the tickling sensation to put up a good fight. As his only way of getting rid of me, he counter-attacked, lifting up my hair with one hand and smacking his other one in my neck, causing me to instantly squeal and tense.

We looked at each other, out of breath and jaw hurting from laughing, eyelashes heavy with droplets, rain tickling our noses, and entering our open mouths. Jake let out a content sigh, caressing my cheek to rub off some of the water.

- Let's call a Uber.

                                                          * * *

The first thing we did after stepping foot into the motel room was to abandon our drenched clothes to the ground in favor of a comfy, warm bathrobe. The second was to ease our aching stomaches by ordering some junkfood. Sitting both in the bed while switching the tv channels faster than necessary, I could see Jake sulking in the corner of my eye. It wasn't easy to realize, since he often looked completely lost in thought, but his pout had something distinctive I couldn't quite describe, and he didn't eat much. Losing interest for the torture I inflicted to the remote, I turned my head to him, calling his name softly, waiting patiently for him to speak up. There was no point in lying, I could tell the boy had something on his mind. I just hoped he knew I was here for him.

- I had planned for things to go differently..., he finally mumbled while playing idly with his food. I really wanted this night to be special, you know ?

The remote got discarded, laying at the edge of the bed, as I put my food aside and turned fully to him, sitting cross-legged, giving him all of my attention.

- What are you saying ? This is the best date I've ever had.

- Don't be silly-

- It is, I assured him. Are you kidding me ? Picnic under the stars-

Getting to his feet to put all of our trash in the room's dustbin, Jake cut me off, sighing heavily. I could tell suddenly standing up was his way of pacing, because he felt frustrated that things didn't go as he had planned. When he had an precise idea in mind, he'd always do his best for it to go smooth sailing. But alas, sometimes things just simply didn't go by the book. And it didn't matter.

- Running in the rain, eating junkfood and watching shitty tv reality shows, Jake finished.

- Yeah. With you. Which changes everything. Didn't I come all the way here to see you ? It's the only thing that matters to me.

A silence settled between us, during which Jake was processing everything I just said. His kind brown eyes found mine, and a moment later, a smile spread on his lips.

- You're amazing, you know that ?

There was an absolute fondness in his tone when the words were delivered, a sheer tenderness and gratefulness in his expression, and he took some time to look at me, as a whole, as if considering something, but all I can see on his face was adoration. I never doubted his feelings for me, and probably never will, but at times like these I knew for sure, felt how much he loved and cared for me. Now certain that our date wasn't ruined, he lit up a bit, regaining the nonchalent confidence I terribly liked about him.

- Then if you're still up for it, I have something else for you.

Choosing not to answer my silent questions, Jake left me dumbfounded as he motioned for me to join him next to the bathroom. Gently but firmly, his fingers pressed on my shoulders in order to place my body in front of the bathroom door.

- Ladies first, his hoarse voice came from behind me, awfully close to my ear.

The heat that spread on my cheek and neck where his breath caressed me didn't distract me from the task at hand, curiosity always getting the best of me. But when the door slided open, and Jake switched on the light, my brain shut down, overwhelmed by all it witnessed. My mouth opened, as if to say something, anything, but nothing came out, and Jake laughed, not having wanted to miss the expression on my face. His arms slipped around me, circling my waist lovingly, and his quiet breath tingled the back of ears when he rested his chin in the crook of my neck.

- Well... What do you say ? Still want to continue our date ? The day isn't over already.

- Jake it's- When did you have the time ?

My fingers caressed the soft skin at the top of his hands, wanting to show gratitude but too bewildered to remember how to. Delicately scattered all over the ground were rose petals, their color the prettiest, most intense red I've ever seen contrasting greatly against the bathroom's white floor tiles. Resting in an ice bucket next to the mirror was a bottle of champagne and two glasses, and Jake pushed me inside, making me walk alongside him, then taking the bottle in hand to open it.

- I told you, didn't I ? That I had everything planned, even if you couldn't make it. Now, beautiful, would you mind starting running the water ?

Still amazed by how much thought Jake put into his surprise, I did as I was told, not missing the moment my boyfriend popped the cork, making the champagne scent fill the air, and the foam pour out and on Jake's hands, until it ended up splattering on the floor.

- Nothing better than a hot bath after being soaked by rain, right?

When Jake smiled at me, handing me a glass of champagne, in this hotel bathroom filled with roses, I felt the happiest I've ever felt in maybe forever. In a strange yet terribly logical way, I felt whole.

- I didn't think I could love you more than I already did.

Jake chuckled, getting closer, making our glasses clink, his warm brown eyes watching me as if I was the most precious thing he's ever seen.

- Happy anniversary.

[breanime]

Helpess (Part Eight)

This part’s a wee bit shorter (maybe 800-1000 words shorter) than the others have been, but I hope you like it!

*banner by @starkrobb​*

Billy was never the romantic type. He didn’t pine, didn’t lose himself in a pretty girl’s eyes, didn’t beg, but damn…

…You were making him want to.

He was watching you sleep—something he never imagined himself doing—and all he could think about was the last thing you’d said before you’d fallen asleep. Disappear. You were going to disappear on him—again.

“Don’t,” he had said back, his heart—of all things—speaking up before his brain could even get a grasp on what you just said, “Don’t.”

Shit had moved fast when he first met you; Billy went to picking up a pretty girl at a bar to burying himself inside of her for days on end. He never did that—he wasn’t a repeat offender, not unless there was something in it for him (intel, prestige—shit, even bragging rights were enough of a motivation for him). But with you… Man, Billy had just liked being around you from the get, had liked the ease of your relationship. It was just so… natural between the two of you, and he had never experienced that before. He liked it, as much as he tried to downplay it and pretend he didn’t; he did. He liked having you in his life.

But when he left, and came back to find you gone, things had slowed down to a crawl in his life.

He had still been busy—Anvil was just getting on its feet, he had paid his debt to Rawlins, he was his own man—but his life had just seemed so… slow without you in it. Which was ridiculous, given how little he’d known about you, and how little you knew about him. But it was true. And now that you were back in his life, shit was moving fast again. Except this time, he was determined to keep up with you.

He woke up before you, and Billy spent a good fifteen minutes arguing with himself over whether or not to wake you up. He wanted to be inside you, wanted to kiss you and caress you and hold you. He wanted—needed­—to make you stay with him, and the only way he knew how to do that was to convince you with his body, because he wasn’t at all confident that his words could do the trick. But he also wanted you to rest. You’d gone through so much so quickly—and he knew, from the moment you’d propositioned him for sex in the safe house, that you still hadn’t had the chance to properly mourn your brother. He could see it in your eyes, hear it in your voice, and feel it in your touch; you were hurting, and it killed him that there was nothing he could do to fix it for you. All the money and power and success he’d accumulated, and yet he still didn’t have the power to take your pain away.

Newly agitated, Billy decided to let you rest. He got up, pressing a soft kiss to your forehead—another thing he usually didn’t do that he easily did with you—and got dressed.

Frank was already up—not that Billy was surprised. He was drinking a cup of coffee (black, Billy knew), and staring at the monitors. He was watching a woman and two kids, and it took Billy a second to recognize them.

“That Micro’s family?” Billy asked, coming to stand beside his best friend.

Frank nodded. “They have no idea he’s alive,” he said, eyes still on the monitors, “They have no idea who I really am…”

“Ah…” Billy put his hands in his pockets. “They know you as Pete,” he guessed.

“Yeah.”

Billy moved, made himself a cup of coffee, and then came back to stand next to Frank again. The mom was fixing the kids breakfast while they sat at the table, and Billy wondered if that was how things were supposed to be. Frank’s childhood had been like that; Frank’s family had been like that. But Billy never had that. You did, though, for a little while. That was probably worse, Billy thought; having a family, parents who loved and cared for you, and then not having them. He’d never had that, and he was never let down by his foster parents because he had no expectations of them. But you did. And you’d gotten Joe Yakavetta, a man who used you as a tool, putting you in danger and painting a target on your back so he could get rich.

Billy was itching to kill him.

“You never told me about her,” Frank said, breaking Billy out of his thoughts.

Billy took a sip of his coffee. “There was nothing to tell. We were… a thing,” he explained, “and then we weren’t. I honestly didn’t think I’d ever see her again, but then…”

“Then this happened.” Frank nodded. “Small world.” He turned to Billy. “It’s almost like it’s—”

“—don’t say it,” Billy groaned.

“—Fate,” Frank finished, grinning.

“You know I don’t believe in that shit,” Billy said back, turning back to the screens, “You see me being helpless to something like fate? Nah,” he shook his head, “fuck that.”

“I dunno, man,” Frank went on, “only you would pick a girl who was raised by a crimelord and drives like Ghost Rider. And only you would be involved with a girl who happens to be on the shit list of the guy who’s pals with the guy on our shit list.” He swallowed a gulp of coffee. “Seems like fate to me.”

“Kiss my ass, Frankie,” Billy turned to Frank, “You get Madani to see sense?”

“About putting Rawlins and Yakavetta and whoever else gets in the way in the dirt?” He shook his head. “Nah.”

“Eh,” Billy shrugged, “she’s in for a rude awakening.”

“Yeah,” Frank agreed, “This gonna be a problem for you? Workin’ with her? I know things didn’t exactly end well between you two.”

Billy grimaced. Madani had been a fun distraction for a short while for him, but she was predictable. He’d seen her coming a mile away; he knew her type. Self-righteous and born with a silver spoon, a bleeding heart with a strict moral code and lack of life experience. He’d known she wanted something more than sex when she first approached him, but it took him a few days to figure out what. But he did. He always did, eventually. He didn’t mind her using him to get to Frank, he was using her right back, after all. She hadn’t been happy when she put two and two together, and she was really unhappy when she inevitably realized that Billy walked away with much more intel than she had by the end of it. “That ain’t the problem,” he said, “the problem is with Y/N.”

“Fuck Bill, I thought you aged out of love triangles.”

“I did,” he said, smirking despite himself, “but this isn’t that.” He took another sip of his coffee, frowning now as he thought about the way you’d asked Madani about your brother, the hurt and disappointment he’d heard in your monotone voice… “Madani treats Y/N like a pawn,” he explained, “Like she’s just a case, not a person. And if she keeps pulling this ‘pillar of justice, I’m here to protect you’ shit,” he shook his head, “I dunno if I can keep it together, Frankie.”

Frank laughed, and Billy looked at him, an eyebrow raised. “No, that’s… It’s cute,” Frank said, “It’s nice—seeing you like this over a girl. I never thought the Beaut…” He shook his head, lips on the rim of his mug. “Didn’t really know if you had it in you, but Maria did.” His eyes shimmered the way they always did when he was thinking of his wife—not the corpse, but his actual wife, when she was alive and vibrant and his perfect mate. “She said there’d be a girl who could get you like this. She knew.”

“Like what?”

“Like… this.” Frank gestured to all of Billy. “Man, we’re maybe hours away from killing Rawlins or dying trying, and you’re thinkin’ about Y/N. Not yourself, not what happens to Anvil if you die, not what kind of power you inherit if we kill Rawlins—you’re thinking of Y/N and how she’s been treated. I just…” He smiled, the look soft on his face. It made Billy think back on their days in the Marines, that look. When Frank smiled like that, he looked younger, lighter… “I want that for you. I really do.”

“Thanks,” Billy said, looking down into his coffee, “I… Fuck, man. I want that, too.” He looked up at Frank. “I want that with her, and I’m not even sure what the hell ‘that’ even is.”

Frank laughed. “Oh, man, I can help you out with that—it’s love, man. It’s fate,” he patted Billy on the shoulder as he walked past, “It’s letting yourself be helpless.”

It took you a minute to figure out where you were when you first woke up. But when you did, the first thing you did was reach out for Billy, but he was gone.

What else was new?

Sighing, you got up and got dressed, your muscles burning from last night’s activities. You and Billy had… You shook your head—there was no you and Billy. There was Billy, and there was you. And if things took a turn here, if Joe saw you coming and gave you the same treatment he’d given Ronnie… there wouldn’t even be a you anymore. But, in all honesty—you were fine with that. As long as you took Joe down with you, you’d be happy. You opened the door—

—and jumped. Billy was standing on the other side, one of his perfect eyebrows raised as he looked down at you.

“You hungry?” Was all he asked.

You followed him into the main room of the warehouse, and you sat down to breakfast—toast, eggs, and the strongest coffee you’d ever had—with Billy freaking Russo and the Punisher. It was weirdly nice, though, and you enjoyed watching the easy back and forth between the two men. Micro woke up next, and he plopped himself down next to you, much to Billy’s chagrin. For a few minutes, as you sat and talked with the guys, you forgot that you were on the run, you even forgot how hollow you were, and instead, you could pretend you were just having breakfast with your friends and… someone who was more than a friend to you.

Then Madani walked in, bringing the crushing weight of reality with her.

“I can deputize you,” she said as a greeting.

“The fuck does that mean?” Frank grumbled around a mouth full of eggs.

“It means give us temporary badges,” Billy answered for her, frowning, “It would make us temporary Homeland Security agents and her our boss.” He took a sip of his coffee. “It’s a joke, and she’s not authorized to do that anyway.”

Madani’s face scrunched up the way it did whenever Billy called her on her shit. “It would be retroactive,” she explained, “but it would allow you to bring Rawlins and Yakavetta in without—”

“Are you still on that?” Frank shook his head. “There’s no bringing them in, Madani—none of ‘em. At best, Rawlins is getting a bullet in his head, at worst, he goes slow—but either way, he goes.”

“That’s against the law, Castle—”

“You think I give a shit about the law?!” Frank boomed, standing up so quickly that his chair toppled to the floor. “My family’s dead, Madani! Micro’s a fucking ghost, Billy sold his soul—that’s all on Rawlins’ orders! He doesn’t get to walk away! He doesn’t get to rot in a jail cell. He rots in the grave,” his eyes were wide and wild, “and if you want to stop me, Madani, you better make sure your aim is good.”

“You’re gonna have to kill me, too,” Micro declared, standing up. When his chair didn’t fall, he kicked it to the floor.

She turned to Billy, who just continued drinking his coffee. Defeated, Madani turned her attention to you. “I can’t protect you from this,” she warned you, “If you join up with them and kill Rawlins—”

“To be honest,” you interrupted, “My chances of killing this Rawlins guy are pretty low. But Joe?” You shook your head. “If anyone but me kills him, I’m gonna be disappointed.”

She sighed, taking a step closer to you. “Y/N,” she tried again, “if you do this, I can’t grant you immunity. The robberies and heists and everything else—those I can get you immunity for, but murder?” She shook her head. “They’ll put you away for life. Can you imagine that? Four walls and a cement bench being your only privilege? No drag races, no chases,” she took another step, “No more roar of an engine or smell of gasoline. Is that what you want?” She was right in front of you now. “Is that what your brother would have wanted for you?”

Your response was immediate. “Ronnie’s dead. He doesn’t want anything anymore.”

“You can either get on board,” Frank said to Madani, “or get the hell out. We don’t have time for this.”

“I can’t let you—” she started.

“For fuck’s sake,” Billy groaned, whipping a gun out and pointing it at Madani as he stood up, “Let’s just make this easier, huh, Frankie?”

“Bill…” Frank said, frowning.

Madani pulled her gun out, too, and pointed it at Billy. “Put. Your. Weapon. Down, Russo.”

“Madani—” Frank tried.

“C’mon, Frankie,” Billy said, his eyes still on Madani, “We ain’t got time for this. Every second we waste on this same argument is time Rawlins and Yakavetta have to get away. I’m not lettin’ him disappear on us again.”

“She’s a cop, man!” Micro said, eyes wide. “We can’t—she’s—we—”

“Give the word, Frank,” Billy said, his tone even.

You looked at Frank. He seemed to be considering it, but he shook his head. “She’s just tryin’ to do her job, Bill.”

Billy clicked his tongue, clearly unhappy with the decision, but lowered his weapon.

Madani did the same. “I could have you arrested for that, Russo,” she hissed, “How are you gonna run your business from prison?”

“Can we get to the part where the cop leaves and we get on with this,” you drawled, still in your seat, “Because Billy’s right—we’re wasting time here. So, Agent Madani, you’re either with us, or against us. You can come with and try that divine justice thing out for the .5 seconds before we kill them, or you can fuck off and let us do what has to be done. Which is it?”

She tucked her gun away, sighing. “I’m coming with you,” she said, “because I… I owe you, Y/N. I’m want… I’m going to protect you.”

Billy was in front of her in a second, his dark eyes narrowed dangerously as he glared down at her. “I’m telling you right now,” he growled, “you do anything to get in the way here…”

“…She’s dead,” Frank said, stepping over to them and putting his hand on Billy’s shoulder, “she knows, Bill. Don’t you, Madani?”

She nodded, eyes on Billy. You couldn’t see his face, but you knew he was serious. Billy made an aggravated noise and moved away, sitting back at the table with you.

“Let’s get started, then,” he said, voice low.

For the next three and a half hours, the five of you sat at the table and planned out what was going to happen. By the time that it was over, you were ready to go.

“We got one hour before T-time,” Frank said, standing up, “Gear up.”

Madani turned to you, opening her mouth to speak, but was interrupted when Billy stood up, taking your wrist in his hand. “Come on,” was all he said as he dragged you back to your room.

Billy kicked the door shut behind him and turned to you. “I want you to stay here,” he started, “but,” he went on, his eyebrows raised, “I know you won’t. So I need you to at least make me a promise.”

“Okay…?”

“Promise me that you’ll listen to me when we’re out there,” he said, “Just… There’s gonna be a lot going on, and I need you to stay safe.”

“Aw, c’mon man,” you waved your hand in the air, “You’re gonna get paid either way; Homeland’s good for it.”

“I’m serious, Y/N. I need you to be safe, I can’t—” He stopped, taking a step back. “I just need you to be safe.”

Normally, you would have let Billy deflect. Hell, you were a grade-A deflector yourself, but considering the fact that you were only 59 minutes away from a possibly violent death, you figured you’d push. “Why?”

“Why what?”

“Why do you need me to be safe?” You asked. “You told me you took this job because it was personal to you, and I get that, I do, but… The job’s done, man. Homeland is compromised, and even if it wasn’t, Madani is gonna wash her hands of me after this, I know it. So why does it matter to you if I stay safe or not?”

“Because,” Billy answered, glaring, “it does.”

“Yeah, but why? You have your own fight with Rawlins, why are you worried about me?”

“Because.”

“Because what, Billy?” You glared up at him. “Because what? Tell me. Say it.”

“Because I fucking care about you,” he growled, grabbing you by the shoulders, “Jesus, Y/N, I was hypnotized by you from the moment I first saw you, and when we hooked up, I thought that would cure me, but it didn’t. Fuck,” he sighed, “You think I wanted this? To care about you like I do? Cause I didn’t—but I do, so here we are.”

“Billy…”

“And I know,” he went on, dropping his hands, “I know you want to disappear, and I… I get that, but…” He sighed. “Fuck… I don’t want you to.” His eyes were staring into yours, and you felt your chest tighten as you looked at him. “I’m not—I need you to be safe, regardless of what happens, but… If we survive this, I don’t want this to be the last time I see you.”

“So…” You licked your lips, unsure of what you were feeling, but knowing that it was distinctively related to Billy. “What… What do you want then?” You knew it was hard for Billy to be open like this with you, and you weren’t trying to push him (anymore), but you had to know. So much of your back and forth with Billy was unsaid, and you just… you needed things to be said. Just in case. You didn’t want to die not knowing what you meant to him—especially if you meant something to him.

He shrugged one shoulder. “You,” he answered, “I just want you.”

Once he said that, it was impossible for you to do anything but kiss him. You wrapped your arms around his shoulders and let yourself melt against him. Kissing Billy, being in his arms, made everything else fall to the wayside. “You want me?” You whispered against his lips. “You want me?”

“I want you,” he repeated, his tongue slipping into your mouth, “and I need you to stay glued to my side this whole time, alright?”

You wanted to argue, but how could you when he was kissing you like that, and his hands were on you? You couldn’t. So instead, you just kissed him back, trying to bring him closer.

He was smiling when you pulled back. “I need to hear it,” he said, his lips ghosting over you chin, “I need to hear that you’ll stay safe and listen to me out there…”

“I’m starting to think this whole ‘listen to me’ thing is some kind of secret kink…” You grinned.

He bit your neck, and you squealed. “Say it.”

“Okay, okay,” you giggled, “I’ll listen to you and stay as safe as I can.”

“As you can?” Billy titled his head to the side. “That the best you can do?”

“I dunno,” you purred, “Can you make me cum in less than an hour?”

Billy grinned.

Five minutes later, you were on your back with your pants around your ankles and your chest heaving. Billy was next to you, propping himself up on his elbow as he grinned down at you. “Any other requests?” He asked.

You shook your head, your body tingling from the force of the orgasm he’d given you—using only his fingers.

Chuckling, Billy leaned down and pressed a soft kiss to your lips. “Let’s get you dressed,” he said.

You let Billy dress you—again—and you smiled when he lifted you up and sat you up, propping your back on the pillow. You closed your eyes, still smiling, as he helped you into your shoes, feeling pampered, but frowned when you felt something heavy on your lap. You opened your eyes to see a bullet-proof vest. “Oh.”

“You need to wear that at all times,” he said, all-business.

You pouted.

Billy flicked his tongue out and licked his two fingers, chasing the taste of you.

You put the damn vest on.

Later, you, Billy, Frank, Micro, and Madani stood in the garage of the warehouse. Billy and Frank were armed to the teeth, you’d been given a gun, Micro had his… computers and stuff, and Madani had her guns. Your skin felt too tight; you were excited and anxious and scared and ready; you still had the taste of Billy’s lips on yours—you were ready to get this done.

“Micro’ll take the van,” Frank said, clarifying the plan for the benefit of no one, “Y/N, you’re driving the rest of us. We follow the plan,” he said, glancing over at Madani with a scowl, “and if we die…”

“…We die,” Billy finished for him. He looked down at you. “But we’re not gonna die.”

“Look at Russo, the optimistic!” Micro cheered.

“Alright,” you grinned, running your fingers across the hood, eager to be behind it, “Let’s fucking do this.” You looked over at Billy, a man who you’d met in a bar who was now the only person you had left in the world.

No matter what happened—you refused to be helpless. You wanted a life after this, wanted to work out whatever you were with Billy with Billy, wanted to be a permanent fixture in his life. But more than that—

—you wanted revenge. And if you had to die to get it, well…

…you’d die.

*******************************************************************************************

Ruh roh... things are about to get DARK. And action-packed! Let me know what you think of this chapter, please. Thanks for reading! 

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[dammitadolfnomorecake]

Once Bitten, Twice Stupid prt 150

150

Settling back into Garrison, Keith and Lance were rather rudely woken as Pidge and Hunk slid into Lance’s bed with them, the day after the they’d come home the previous afternoon. Krolia had somehow managed to give them food poisoning. Not that he knew for sure. Yet seeing she’d tampered the possibility was strong. Coran the only one game enough to finish his slice of cake.

Kicked out of the house so their friends could set up for their “Surprise Return Party”. He and Lance had nothing to do except wait until they’d gotten the call from Pidge that they were allowed to return. She didn’t need to call. The pair of them had only gone as far as the back lawn, Lance lamenting over the state of his garden and Keith annoyed his sleep had been interrupted after being sick the previous night.

Playing up the surprise theme, they both had their eyes covered, then were led into the living room. The space had been transformed. A Christmas tree up. Stockings hung. Presents piled up on the coffee table. Kosmo dressed in a reindeer outfit with Blue glaring from her cat tree, not pleased to be dressed as an elf. Okay. So maybe their friends got a pass because of the theme. Wearing a hideous green sweater, Pidge beamed as she waved her arm to gesture to where “Merry Christmas” hung over the fireplace

“Ta-dah! It’s our Christmas do over! I know! I have the most amazing ideas!”

Keith didn’t bother correcting Pidge about it being Lance’s hope to recreate Christmas

“Guys! This is...”

Lance rushed Hunk, throwing his arms around him. Hunk sweeping Lance up with a chuckle

“Merry Christmas, bud!”

“I love you! Oh my god! I can finally give you guys your Christmas presents! And I can finally give you your birthday present! Please tell me we’re celebrating your birthday!?”

Hunk laughed awkwardly as he set Lance down

“Nah, it’s...”

Lance cut Hunk off

“Don’t you dare think you’re getting out of this. I was the worst friend in human history and didn’t call for your birthday!”

“It’s wasn’t...”

Great. Lance was being hyperactive... Seeing his boyfriend hadn’t stopped cleaning until nearly 1am, Lance had too much happiness and energy...

“Nope. Okay. Keith, can you grab Mami’s bag for me? I’ll grab everyone else’s presents...”

That seemed a lot of work and everyone seemed to have forgotten to give him his coffee. Blankly staring, he hadn’t realised Matt was wearing a set of ridiculous antlers on his head, or that Curtis and Shiro were there. Baubles hanging on Curtis’s horns. Groaning, Keith bumped into Matt as he went to turn, not really sure where to go

“Pidge, did you kick Keith out without his coffee?”

Pidge cackled

“Maybe?”

Always loud, Matt started yelling

“Guys! We’ve got a Keith without coffee! I repeat; We’ve got a Keith without coffee! It’s a category three disaster in the making!”

Pidge confessing

“It’s not that we didn’t make him coffee... I forgot and drank it myself”

Well “fuck you” to Pidge. He deserved his coffee. He’d barely got his morning pee in before they were tossed out. No wonder he’d been so sleepy and useless as Lance talked

“Don’t worry, bro. I’ve got you. Double shot topped with tequila, right?”

“Fuck off and get fleas”

Matt laughed at him. Too many people were laughing. Not enough coffee to upright. Lance moved from Hunk to his side, kissing Keith on the cheek

“I’ll put the coffee maker on for you. Don’t worry about Mami’s bag, I’ll grab it. You just focus on your coffee”

Lance hadn’t eaten either, Keith trying to remind him

“Food... you?”

“Yep. Gimme a bit”

Caffeinated Keith perked up. He’d been worried about them coming home, Lance admitting he feared the house would no longer feel like his after all the time he’s spent away from it. So when Lance had gone on a cleaning frenzy, Keith hadn’t interrupted. He’d let Lance do what he needed, despite the fact his boyfriend hadn’t been happy until late in the night and Keith just wanted to go bed several hours earlier. Seeing Lance happy felt right. He knew some of it was an act. And he’d noticed the occasional jolt in Lance’s moves as if he was forcing himself to move, but there was definitely something there that told him Lance felt more at ease than he had in a long time.

Disappearing, Lance returned with his arms laden with presents. Keith immediately trying to help. Vampire or not, Lance shouldn’t be moving heavy things around. His boyfriend laughing as he tried to protest the fact. With the size of Lance’s present pile, Keith couldn’t help but be conscious of the fact his own was tiny in comparison. His nerves over gifting left his stomach rolling, with a cold sweat across his forehead. He’d tried to gift shop on his own as much as possible, but with Rome being Rome and the daily repetition of the council meeting... No. He was making excuses. He’d sucked at gift giving for the others because his head was filled with how much he missed Lance.

Setting the presents down, Keith noticed then that a whole bunch were for Shiro. 7 wrapped all the same way, seemingly from each of them

“Is that everything? Because I want to open my presents already!”

Lance shook his head at Pidge

“Not quite. You’ll have to be patient a little longer, Pidgeon”

Shiro gaped at Lance, Keith kind of feeling the same way. Their Christmas’s were never like this. Staring at their friends group. His brain supplied an unwanted thought. Pidge was a girl and Hunk was a boy. Rieva was a girl and Matt was a boy. Was this party extra important because Lance had already thought about them? That they could be hurt? Or was it just him over thinking things? Pulling the top present off the pile, Pidge threw it at Shiro

“How can that not be everything? And why is there so many presents for Shiro?!”

Lance chuckled at their impatient Gremlin. Pidge seemed mortally wounded at the stack for Shiro

“Mami bought you all presents. Just small things from Cuba. We weren’t sure when we’d be allowed back, so we hit the markets in case we could come back for Christmas. It’s not much, but she did try to think of you all”

“Do you want me to...”

Lance sighed with a roll of his eyes at Keith’s offer

“Babe, sit down already. You’re being overly attentive. I can still do things like face the stairs”

“Okay. I just thought...”

“Stop thinking and sit down. Pidge will divide the presents up. Hunk, do you need any help bringing things in from the kitchen?”

“I’ve got it! But... uh... Bud, please be careful on the stairs”

Matt nodded quickly

“Maybe Keith and Hunk have a point, dude? You don’t have a great track record with the stairs”

The look Lance gave everyone spoke volumes. The stairs were now a forbidden topic that he didn’t want to be reminded about again. He’d healed from falling down them, and they’d all be in the shit if they started fussing over him. Keith felt goosebumps erupt at the look. Swallowing hard, Keith couldn’t remember the last time he’d shut up by a single scathing look like that from his boyfriend. He couldn’t help the almost phobia he’d developed over Lance and stairs. Especially with two very special passengers on board.

With Lance upstairs, Pidge went about dividing out presents, asking as she did

“So when are we going to hear all about Rome?”

Keith shrugged. He supposed Pidge and Hunk had been super anxious in their absence, but the topic of conversation had kind of fizzled out

“When Lance hears about Rome? I don’t know. All I can tell you is that he’s safe”

Pidge huffed, pausing mid-sorting to look up at Keith

“I can see that. I mean, like, is he really safe? We were talking with Shay, and she’s worried about him too. He seems happy but I don’t know. He wasn’t that happy when he came back”

Keith was surprised when Rieva answered

“In his defence, he was exhausted. Physically and mentally. Matt getting us kicked out of Cuba wasn’t on the plans. He’d had a very long day”

Pidge sighed

“I wish we got to go with him”

Lance had been so very missed by his two best friends

“Lance would have loved to have you guys there, but he couldn’t tell anyone he was down there in case you guys were contacted or in danger”

Matt added unnecessarily

“Yeah. Listen to Keith. The first thing he did was lose his shoes, then he made Lance cry. Boyfriend of the... ow!”

Rieva elbowed her boyfriend in the ribs

“Keith was under a lot of stress too. You guys should have seen him. He barely kept his temper under check, too impatient to be back with Lance”

Shiro chuckled

“You guys should have seen him in Rome after you left. I think he must have packed and unpacked a hundred times so he’d have something to do before his flight”

“That’s true. I don’t think he slept the night before he left. I worried about letting him on a public flight with how much coffee he’d had”

Now Curtis was teasing him. Keith looked to Hunk

“Don’t worry, man. We all know how in love with Lance you are”

“The only couple more loved up than you guys are Hunk and Shay. Oh! I forgot to tell you, Shay totally knows everything!”

Pidge dropping a bombshell like that had him, Curtis, and Shiro, all shocked as they looked to Pidge

“What do you mean she knows?”

“Apparently Hunk gets blabber mouth after sex”

Hunk blushed so deep a red, Keith was surprised his head didn’t pop

“It’s... not... I didn’t... Pidge!”

Pidge laughed at Hunk, resuming present sorting

“I’m not judging, but I think you could have picked a better time to tell her vampires and werewolves were real”

“It’s not my fault! She’s... Lance wanted to tell her!”

Okay... but if Shay knew, that led to an important question

“If Shay’s in the loop now, why isn’t she here?”

“Because she’s working. I tried to get her to swap shift. Plus, he didn’t tell her Lance was up the duff with twins. Nice going with that. You and your wonder sperm”

That wasn’t entirely his fault. It was. And took full responsibility, but he still wasn’t sure how it happened. Snarking back at Pidge, he felt defensive of Lance who wasn’t there to stick up for himself

“They were a complete surprise. We’d only just gotten around having one, let alone two. There’s nothing wrong with Lance being pregnant or the twins”

Sensing a potential fight, Shiro forced a laugh

“Leave him alone. He’s super excited about the twins. And frankly, I think we’re all looking forward to meeting them. It gives us something good to focus on”

“I hope you remember that the first time you change a shitty nappy, Uncle Shiro”

Coming back into the room, Lance had much smaller gifts this time, as well as an envelope with something in it that Keith couldn’t help but cock his head at

“What’s that?”

“I don’t know. It’s to you, from Krolia. I found it in my room when I was looking for my phone. I guess it’s a present or something”

That sounded just like this mother. How hard was it to shove something into his hands awkwardly and change topic? It’d worked well for Shiro and Adam. They didn’t make him awkwardly exchange gifts

“Of course she can’t just give it to me like a normal person”

Lance smiled, he could because he faked out of the cake with nausea. Not completely fake, but the only smart move that wouldn’t make Krolia angry or suspicious

“Be nice. I’m sure she didn’t mean to give you guys food poisoning. Anyway. We got these in Cuba. When I still could go out and stuff. They’re not much, but each is heart felt. Mami loved all of you. She loved the bond between Shiro and Keith. She loved how mischievous our little Gremlin was. She whole heartedly agreed that Hunk was like sunshine whenever he’s around. She thought Matt... was a bit... weird, but in a good way. Curtis, you may as well have been my actual cousin. I think she might have even slipped up and said you were. And she found you very exotic and mysterious Rieva. She was very upset that someone would ever hurt you. Mami was a lot better at a lot of things than I am. I guess... I know this might be selfish, but these are the last presents from her. I guess it’d make me happy to know that you’re taking care of them... and... she just loved you all so much. I made on my own for so long, but... she was so grateful I had all of you in my life. She always worried what would become of me after she passed... I know she made Keith swear to be there... but... I really did miss you guys... I’m sorry my anxiety was so shit I couldn’t talk... and I was so scared you’d all never want to talk to me because I had to lie so much... I hated lying to you. I did...”

Keith was the first to move, but they all kind of moved as group. Lance forced into being hugged by the lot of them

“You are the biggest undead idiot around!”

“Oh, man! You’re my brother!”

“You’re part of my pack! We’ll never leave you alone!”

“Group hug!”

The words fell over each other. Lance’s sniffles turned to laughter. Keith not too happy that his boyfriend was being squashed, and that he was being squashed as he tried to protect Lance’s bump, but at the same time he was overwhelmingly happy that they were all together again. Mami knew someday she’d pass, and had entrusted him with being there for Lance. She’d left Lance, but no matter how far their little family split or went, they’d always have each other when they needed someone.

“Okay! Off! You’re going to crush me and the twins!”

Lance gave them a few long moments. Everyone other than Pidge and Keith let go, Pidge poking her tongue at Keith

“He’s my brother. You have to share”

“I’ve already shared enough. Now take your paws off him”

“Laaaaance, Keith is being mean”

“I’m sorry, but he does have a point. Your hugging my belly. Squeeze too hard and I might throw up”

Pidge wrinkled her nose as she let go

“Curse you vomit. Next time I shall have my hugs”

Lance smiled at her fondly

“Will you settle for me sitting between you and Keith?”

“Fine. Now hurry up. I’ve been dying waiting for this”

“Okay. Okay. Calm down. You do know this is Keith’s first Christmas with us. You’re going to have to be nice”

Lance sounded like a dad scolding this hyperactive daughter. Keith clueless to what they were on about

“He snoozes, he loses. Them’s the rules”

“Be nice!”

Opening their presents was a thing. A very different thing than living with Shiro and Adam. They did small gifts, lunch if they didn’t have to work, and movies after work which usually involved falling asleep on the sofa. That was not the case here. Seeing Pidge was so damn excitable she went first, opening all her but one of her gifts before it moved onto Hunk next, and so on around their circle of friends. Lance took his time to explain that normally on Christmas Day he’d be in Platt with Mami until the evening, then they’d do presents at his place. That didn’t explain what was coming after the present part... which he was honestly more nervous about than his own gifts, which were more or less trinkety things from Rome, apart from his gift to Lance which was an old fashioned wrist watch he’d found in an antiques store. He wasn’t sure if Lance would love it, but he seemed to as he was made to help put it on his boyfriend’s wrist almost immediately after opening. Lance’s gift to him was a vintage camera that probably cost a fair bit. His boyfriend also sourcing the film for it, which Pidge laughed over being antiquated and all that.

They all seemed on the same wavelength about keeping Miriam’s gifts until last. Shiro buried under a pile of ugly sweater that Curtis found hilarious, as he’d known about them. Down to Miriam’s presents, they all fell kind of quiet, appreciating that Mami had thought of them all. Keith couldn’t help but not want to open the lovingly wrapped gift. Hunk and Pidge had gifted him a new kitchen knife and a coffee cup. Shiro’d already given him his gift Christmas Day, a new clip on cover for his personal phone so he’d be able to wear it on his Blade suit seeing they’d both probably stick with the Blade suits despite being full time hunters for Coran.

Watching Lance, his boyfriend ran his fingers over the small gift in his hands. Eyes growing teary

“Sorry. I already know what it is... but... She was really happy picking out presents. Honestly, if I’d left her unsupervised your gifts wouldn’t have been quite PG”

“It’s okay, babe. We don’t have to open them right now if it’s too much”

“Nah. She wanted you to have them for Christmas. She’d want you to open them and to smile as you did”

“Should I go first?”

Lance nodded, wiping at his eyes

“Yeah. Sorry... God... we haven’t even gotten to Hunk’s birthday presents and I’m a mess. Mami’s birthday present to you is in there too. I rewrapped them after... so they’d stay together. That’s why your present is a little larger than the rest of ours”

There were still two other presents that hadn’t been handed out sitting on the coffee table. Pidge had left them, Keith didn’t know why. Making to sling his arm around his boyfriend, he used the reposition to see they were to both he and Lance from Miriam. Lance had mentioned she had presents for the twins. It must be those

“Come on, Keith. You said you’d go first”

Keith ignored Pidge. He only had one hand free unless he wanted to put Lance in a choke hold. Thank god he was ambidextrous. Pulling the paper away from the tape, something small dropped into his lap. Picking it up, he realised it was a red stone pendant

“She knew you loved the colour red. It was what caught her eye first at the stall. All our gifts are similar. If you tilt it you can see cat in there. It’s like micro etched in. Mine has a fish. Shiro’s I think is a tiger...”

Keith interrupted. He wasn’t really a pendant kind of person, but this was one of the most heartfelt gifts he’d been given in his life. He wanted Lance to know he appreciated it

“Do the clip for me?”

“Sure. You guys can open yours. No trades or swapsies. She picked each thinking of you”

Rieva and Matt both had wolves with mother of pearl inlay. Curtis’s was a white shiny stone that kind of looked like a pearl. Lance said it was made from a polished tooth, Keith immediately glad he hadn’t met anything in Cuba with teeth a big, and that he hadn’t said he thought it was a stone. Shiro’s stone was black, Keith thought it looked more like a Lion than a tiger, a bigger cat than his, his was cooler because it was red. Hunk’s yellow stone had a sun. Pidge’s green stone a leaf. And Lance’s blue pendant was indeed etched with a fish.

Other than the two presents on the table, Keith thought the line of gifts had come to an end. Picking up both presents, he passed one to Lance, who seemed to be attempting to go cross eyed looking down at his pendant

“Babe, these are the last two from Mami”

“Oh. What. Oh... technically there’s a gift for Allura, Coran, and Krolia... but they’re not here...”

Pidge scrambled to her feet, holding her hands out as if trying to stop them from ripping into the last two presents

“Wait! There’s another two presents from me and Hunk... well, Shiro chipped in, and Curtis helped... hold on. Do we do this now?”

Pidge looked to the group, Matt rolling his eyes at his sister. Keith was slightly jealous of how much energy Pidge had. Then again, she’d probably had a propers night sleep and more coffee than him

“Go on. I know you’ve been dying to show them all fucking week”

Keith playing along with Matt, trying to sound serious and not half an emotional wreck over all the thought behind each present

“Should we be worried?”

“Ha! Rude! Okay. We’ll do the one for Lance first, then we’ll do Keith’s because his bigger”

Matt groaned

“Why don’t you just tell them already, big mouth?”

“Shut it, you. Okay. So, like, this ones from the group. Coran totally helped out. Then it took hours to get it right... wait here”

Climbing on the sofa, rather than going around, Hunk was smacked in the head as Pidge pulled out a ridiculously large flat gift

“Pidge!”

“Sorry! It’s not like you were using your head anyway. Okay. We kind of had the idea but we changed it, and anyway...”

“Dear Sister of Mine, you are babbling. Pass it over. You didn’t even show us before you wrapped it”

“Shut up! I’m trying to do this right. Okay, so you guys are probably better standing up for this. It’s kind of big”

“It’s nearly as big as you”

Matt’s joke earned him a kick in the shin and a huff from Pidge.

Getting to their feet, neither of them knew what to expect. If it was a gift from Pidge it’d either be tech based, or some kind o explosion for leaving Garrison for as long as they had. Rieva suggesting

“Why don’t you let Keith hold it while Lance opens it?”

Pidge snapping back

“I was going to do that! Here. Don’t you dare drop it”

Passing the gift over, Keith could feel what felt like a frame through the wrapping paper. Lance on the same wavelength as him

“It’s not going to blow up, is it?”

“Rude. A lot of love went into this. And we totally ripped off Keith’s idea. Now open it already!”

Lance started with a small rip, then all but tore the paper apart. Eyes filling with tears that made Keith look down to realise what it was

“We got the footage from Coran. It took ages to clean it up and pick the right shot

“Mami’s first scan...”

Okay. So that was it was. Keith wasn’t that great at picking that up from upside down

“Yep. And then down the bottom it’s got us, because we’re the bestest friends ever. We wanted to get you something big to remember it by... it was going to be of us camping until... Mami passed. Do you like it?”

Lance nodded as he covered his face, Keith would have put the frame down but he kind of didn’t know how to, or where to put it

“I do... Guys... thanks... I...”

Lance fleeing wasn’t what he saw coming. Turning, Lance jogged from the room. Keith handing the frame to Hunk, intending to go after his boyfriend. Shiro stopping him before he could

“Why don’t you let Hunk and Pidge go talk with him? He’s missed them. We can work out how to hang the frame”

“But...”

But he was Lance’s boyfriend. Plus he kind of needed a break too. Everything was a lot and a lot at once. Matt lifted the photo frame off Hunk

“Keith, they’ve got this. He’s out the back, if you want to guys want to go. We’ve got this”

Shiro sided with Matt

“It’ll be a good chance to show Lance we can handle putting the nursery together”

Keith unconvinced that they could, yet... Pidge and Hunk had really missed Lance. He’d let them go this time, but next time he wasn’t being swayed so easily

“Go. But go easy on him. His anxiety levels have been pretty high”

Pidge rolled her eyes at him

“We’ve got this. Personally I’m more concerned with how you losers are going to hang the frame up. If you break it, I’ll castrate you all”

Shiro saluted Pidge. Keith internally groaning at his brother feeding the Gremlin’s ego

“Ma’am, yes, Ma’am!”

“That’s more like it. And don’t make a mess! Come on, Hunk, our bestie needs us”

[crocodilenialledfics]

story page // masterlist // wattpad

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Six: You could bring the devil to his knees

word count: 5299

warnings: contains swearing, mentions of violence, sexual content, and drug use 

“Always with this midtown shit,” Luca mocked. “What, Brooklyn isn’t good enough for you?”

“Actually it’s not,” Rosalind agreed, eyes flicking to Niall’s. “Brooklyn is boring and I’ve got to get my thrills some how since I’m not allowed to do my fucking job.”

Niall gave her a subtle smirk, the one that gave Rosalind flashbacks to when he’d find himself between her legs, looking up at her with his devilish grin. Rosalind could kill him, looking at her that way with so many people around.

“And who’s this dickhead you’re getting your thrills from?” Luca demanded, hands on his hips. “Since it’s some big secret.”

“Just an asshole from Brooklyn,” Rosalind told him, the nonchalance in her voice made Niall chuckle, turning toward the door.

Rosalind’s recovery was slow and painful, but worst of all, it was boring. She’d spent weeks in bed, hardly able to even sit up. As her wound healed, another one grew. Niall was twisting the knife in her gut with each passing moment they spent together. 

The softness he offered her in touches and kisses. It was enough to open Rosalind up from the inside out. She’d craved it, touches like that, her whole life. She was never a child, not even when she was one. She’s never gotten the softness. 

As if that wasn’t bad enough, Niall had been coming around the shop more and more. It aggravated her, the way him and Luca got along. The laughs and jokes they shared, Rosalind wanted to burst both of their bubbles.

She wouldn’t, though. Her anger management was a challenge and she’d admit that to no one. The self control was hard, she learned. Rosalind’s favorite thing was instant gratification and anything that didn’t give her that sent her into a fit that ruined a lot of good things. 

Every day was a challenge for Rosalind but she was grateful to be back at work, mind occupied on other things. Luca held Rosalind back, making sure she didn’t dive in head first like she usually did. 

“I can go with you to Roger’s,” Rosalind murmured, arms crossing over her chest as she looked at all the eyes on her. The ones she didn’t want to see were Niall’s. 

Their deal with Rogers included both Rosalind and Niall. A loan taken out on both of their accounts. Rogers was notorious for pulling stunts which is why Luca was going in her place. It didn’t make her any less mad.

“It’s better that you just stay here,” Luca explained, tugging his jacket on. “Don’t want anything to happen to you, Roz.” 

“So I’m just supposed to sit around here all day doing absolutely nothing?” Rosalind demanded, eyes flicking between Niall and Luca, almost daring them to speak.

“The last time you went, things got physical,” Niall responded, and unsureness to his voice. Rosalind wished he wouldn’t of said that because was there a logical reason he would know that? 

“Yeah you had those bruises for weeks, Roz,” Luca added. “Just sit this one out, please?” 

Rosalind would be lying if she said collecting the money owed to her wasn’t her favorite part. The rush she got from every situation was what she lived for, what got her here in the first place. 

“You’re no good to us if you’re dead,” Luca told her, looking up at her from across the room. “Then I’ll be in charge? Or even worse, Gio? Nah, Roz. No one does this better than you.”

“Fine,” Rosalind conceded, sitting down at the desk. “Don’t fuck this up,” she warned. “Get the money and leave. He’s a sick fuck, likes to talk and shit. Don’t buy into it or else next thing you know, you’ve put down 10 large on some bogus stock that’ll go under before you walk out the door.”

Niall watched Rosalind, the offhanded way she mentioned it all. He thought he should be scared, the way she calculated everyone and everything. No less, it was a person she’d spent less than a couple hours with, tops. 

“Did you hear me?” Rosalind asked, pulling Niall from his thoughts. 

“Yeah,” Niall nodded. 

“Okay,” Rosalind muttered. “If I’m not here when you get back it means I’m in midtown. Staying up there a few days, I think.”

“Always with this midtown shit,” Luca mocked. “What, Brooklyn isn’t good enough for you?” 

“Actually it’s not,” Rosalind agreed, eyes flicking to Niall’s. “Brooklyn is boring and I’ve got to get my thrills some how since I’m not allowed to do my fucking job.”

Niall gave her a subtle smirk, the one that gave Rosalind flashbacks to when he’d find himself between her legs, looking up at her with his devilish grin. Rosalind could kill him, looking at her that way with so many people around. 

“And who’s this dickhead you’re getting your thrills from?” Luca demanded, hands on his hips. “Since it’s some big secret.”

“Just an asshole from Brooklyn,” Rosalind told him, the nonchalance in her voice made Niall chuckle, turning toward the door. 

“Well why don’t you bring him ‘round,” Luca offered. “Wanna shake his hand for puttin up with you and your volatile mood swings.” 

“He’s awfully busy,” Rosalind assured them, sitting down at the desk. “Now get the fuck out of here before Rogers gets pissed. Remember what I said.”

Rosalind watched the two of them walk out, knowing full well they were trouble put together. She knew Luca would come back later talking about what a guy Niall was and Rosalind would hate it. She wouldn’t say anything, though. 

There was no logical reason to hate Niall so vehemently. He was a good guy, a strong head on his shoulders, and he was honest and loyal. Thus, the perfect man, a man she could be proud of. All of that, though, Rosalind wasn’t quite ready to talk about nor admit aloud. 

She settled for keeping her lips sealed, finishing the little bit of desk work she had before traipsing off to midtown like she’d said. Her gut told her Niall would be around soon, mouth moving a million miles a minute. Rosalind was waiting for him, too, hoping he’d come. 

Rosalind found herself stuck in the hallway outside of her door, talking to Tony. She felt trapped in the small talk, wanting to escape it all. She went out to walk around the city a bit, grab a magazine or two and tony caught her on her floor. It’s like he always knew. 

“I hear you’ve got a man,” Tony told her, a ring to his voice that annoyed her. 

“That’s quite personal,” Rosalind told him, shifting on her feet. “And I don’t want to be disturbed. It’s been a long couple of months for me I need to-“

“Oh fuck!” Tony exclaimed. “Yeah, you got shot outside Al’s. I heard about that. Everything okay with that?” 

“Fine,” Rosalind nodded. “Everything is fine.” 

“Well alright,” Tony nodded. “Call if you need anything.” 

Rosalind slipped away from him, into her room, feeling relieved. She grabbed the bottle of wine, her magazines and went into the bathroom where she started the bath. 

Rosalind was never big on baths. She lacked the time and patience. Since her recovery, it was one of the best parts of her night. It helped with the anger, sitting and thinking alone. She did believe it would.  

Through her therapy, Rosalind realized her anger came from within, at the lack of time she had for herself. At first, she thought it was a crock, but after re-examining her life, there was truth to it all. 

Rosalind was well into her soak when she heard the door snick closed. “Roz,” Niall called out. “It’s me.” 

Rosalind didn’t respond, head turning to the door. Niall appeared in the doorway, though. Knuckles bloody, a gash on his cheek and Rosalind swore she’d kill Roger’s the next time she saw him. 

“Fuck,” Rosalind mumbled. 

“Well I laughed at an inappropriate time,” he declared, leaning against the doorway. “And I almost cant blame him for it. Hurts like a bitch, though.” 

“Laughing isn’t a reason to fuck up someone’s face,” Rosalind muttered, sitting up, water sloshing around her. 

“It is when you’re psychotic,” Niall chuckled, sitting down beside the tub. “I’m just glad you didn’t go.” 

Rosalind wished she would’ve been there to get her hands on him. He was one of the names on her list of people that had it out for her. She wouldn’t put it past him, the way he always played dirty. 

“Anyways,” Niall mumbled, head leaning back against the wall. “That fucker downstairs, Tony. Almost got into a fistfight with him. Trying to tell me you weren’t expecting anyone. I said our rule is I tell ya her name and number and come up but the prick pushed me so I punched him. I told him if he ever put his hands on me again, I’d make a hero outta him.” 

“Fuck,” Rosalind laughed, shaking her head. “It’s like you always have to cause a scene.” 

“It’s ridiculous that everyone wants to test me,” he muttered. “And keep me from you? Yeah fuckin right. The traffic was shit on the bridge and then they try to tell me I can’t come up. No fuckin way.” 

Rosalind chuckled at that, shifting back, knees bent. She let out a breath, eyes fluttering a bit. Niall watched her, eyes gazing over the sharpness of her neck, just picturing the skin beneath the water. There was no one he’s ever wanted more. At any given moment, it was safe to say that he wanted her. Bad. 

“But you know that tony guy?” Niall asked, further pressing the subject. 

“Yeah we dated in high school,” Rosalind murmured, sliding her feet until her toes poked out of the water. “Nothing major. Every time I come he tries a bit too hard.” 

“There’s a million decent hotels around here if he’s a problem, why do you still come here?” Niall asked, waiting for her to say the words he wanted to hear. A confession of some type.  

“Some of the guys come here,” Rosalind shrugged. “It’s good for business. And close to the casino. Lots of famous faces walk through here.”

“I know but why do you come?” Niall asked, the emphasis on her making her eyes flick to his. 

After a long moment, Rosalind finally answered him. “Tony and I loved each other. Or so he thought. After high school I was lined up to work odd jobs for my father’s friends and tony was going off to community college. The thought of it made me sick. I hated it. The college thing. Tony’s dad was best friends with my dad and it didn’t make sense how he didn’t want to be just like his father. We fought, I punched him, we broke up.” 

Niall hummed, not giving her a sound response to what she shared. It wasn’t as bad as he feared. He thought maybe Tony and her were close the way Niall and her were close or a million other things that ended with Rosalind in bed with someone that wasn’t him. 

“What?” Rosalind asked, at the way he was staring so hard at her. It made her uncomfortable for a number of reasons. 

“Nothing,” Niall shook his head, a set of words that would surely get him a black eye on the tip of his tongue. “You guys fuck still?” 

“No,” Rosalind responded, annoyed but not angry. That’s how he knew it was the truth. Her anger came when she tried to lie or mask her feelings in a way that was impossible. 

“You fuck anyone?” Niall asked, eyes focused on her face. “Else,” he added. 

Rosalind met his eyes, eyebrows furrowing. “So if I answer that and ask you the same you’ll tell me the truth?” 

“Yeah,” Niall responded. “I would.”

“Okay well before I answer, you should know that about a month ago, Lanzo saw you hanging around with some guys from Ralph’s in the back room at that club on west. Some blonde girl all over you,” Rosalind told him. 

“That was...” Niall trailed off, a loss of words. 

“That was whatever,” Rosalind finished for him. “And I don’t care who you fuck around with but to come around here asking what I do in the time that I’m not with you isn’t any of your fucking business. If you asked to start a new fight with me, don’t. I’m tired.”

“I just wanted to know,” Niall explained, voice quiet. “That was like a one time thing, though. We just did like hands stuff, you know.” 

“I don’t care what you did,” Rosalind laughed, standing up. She unplugged the drain, and grabbed her towel off the rack. Niall’s eyes followed her. “I didn’t ask. I didn’t want to know.”

“Well I don’t fuck anyone else,” Niall told her. “Haven’t in a while.” 

Rosalind didn’t answer him, stepping out of the tub. She dried herself off, tugging her robe on. Niall followed her into the room, watched her push the balcony doors open to let the cool air in. She leaned down, pulling a baggy out of her suitcase, a couple blunts. 

Niall followed her out onto the balcony, dying for her answer. Rosalind sat down, picking up her lighter to light the blunt. Niall watched her, blunt between her lips, lighter in hand. What he’d give to have her like this forever. 

Only when she took a hit of the blunt did she finally answer him, passing it his way. “I don’t know what answer you want from me, but even if it is the one you want to hear, it isn’t because of what you think.”

“Okay,” Niall responded, almost dumbly. 

“I don’t fuck anyone else. I haven’t since we started doin this,” Rosalind told him, relaxing against the chair. “Fucking more than one person is confusing and messy and quite frankly, it’s disgusting. Just thinking about where your fingers have been is enough to make me want to throw up. So don’t tell me what you’ve been doing. I don’t want to know.”

“I told you I don’t fuck anyone else,” Niall argued. 

“Okay,” Rosalind retorted, rolling her eyes. “If that’s the story you’re sticking to.” 

Niall didn’t respond, passing her the blunt. Rosalind took a slow inhale, eyes fluttering. She let out a breath, passing it back to him, “gonna fuck me after this?”

“Dunno have to see if my other girlfriend- the blonde one is busy later or not. If she’s busy then yeah.” 

“That’s a sound way to get yourself a broken jaw,” Rosalind told him, shaking her head. “I might be in anger management but I still have a right hook that’ll make your head spin ‘round your neck like the cartoons.” 

Niall let out a chuckle, taking a hit. He handed it back to her, declaring, “that’s enough for me.”

Rosalind hummed, eyelids already a bit heavy. “Fuck, okay,” she murmured. “You ever thought about fucking out here?” 

Niall’s eyebrows raised, looking around the city skyline around them. Anyone could see them sitting there. If things weren’t so secret, he’d think about it. Niall let out a chuckle, standing up, “okay come on Roz.” 

Rosalind followed him back inside where he took his clothes off until he was underwear clad, pushing her onto the bed. Her robe fell open and Niall smirked down at her, finger slipping inside of her. 

“I don’t wanna be on the bottom tonight,” Rosalind told him, spreading her legs for him. She let her finger drift down, pressing at her clit. Niall watched her, not having it in him to tell her to stop. Seeing Rosalind touch herself turned him on in ways he didn’t think possible. 

“Keep touching yourself,” Niall told her, finding himself ducked down between her legs, watching her body move. 

“Really,” she mumbled at how boring that was. She wanted his mouth, or fingers on her. 

“Yeah it’s hot,” Niall told her, spreading her folds with his fingers. 

“Was hoping you’d put your mouth on me,” Rosalind told him, fingers disappearing as she sat up. 

“Don’t feel like it,” Niall told her, shrugging as he sat up. “You can ride my thigh, though.” 

“Don’t wanna ride your thigh, wanna ride your dick,” Rosalind told him, shrugging her robe all the way off her body. 

“Guess we’re at odds, then,” he shrugged, eyes trailing over her body. 

“So this is a negotiation,” Rosalind chuckled, nodding. “What is it that you want?” 

“I want you to make yourself cum,” he told her nudging her leg with his knee. “By yourself. Just want to watch you.” 

“That’s quite boring,” Rosalind answered. “It’s not even like I have any toys to make it fun. Just me and my fingers? Boring.”

“So?” 

“So save that for a rainy day,” Rosalind offered. “Back at my place.”

“Fine,” Niall gave in. “New negotiation. I wanna do anal.”

“Do you have any lube?” Rosalind asked, eyebrows raising, knowing full well that he didn’t. 

“Fuck,” he muttered, collapsing on the bed beside her. 

“Jesus,” Rosalind laughed, falling back on the bed. 

“Okay let me try to tie you up again,” Niall offered, appearing over her face, eyebrows furrowed. “No cheating this time.” 

“Then don’t tease me,” Rosalind retorted. “I hate to be teased.” 

“Just let me edge you a couple of times,” Niall offered, already working the belt out of the robe she was wearing. 

“No way,” Rosalind mumbled, shifting on the bed to sit up on her elbows. “No edging.” 

“Just one time,” Niall offered. “Come on, baby,” he honeyed, head tilting to the side. “Wanna see you begging for it. Close to the edge, crying out because you want it so badly. Sensitive skin all over, just begging for me to touch you.”

“No,” Rosalind breathed out, but her cheeks flushed thinking about it. 

“Ya sure?” He asked, eyebrow raising as he looked down at her. “Looks like maybe you want it too, Roz.”

“I might be convinced,” Rosalind offered. “After you kiss me a while.”

Niall let out a chuckle, nodding. “Come ‘ere.” 

Rosalind found herself straddling him to where her wet center rubbed against his underwear clad cock. She’d barely done anything and Niall was already breathless. 

“You’re the one that needs edged,” Rosalind told him, thumb brushing over his bottom lip as she rolled her hips against his. His eyes fluttered and he chuckled. 

“Maybe in the morning,” Niall offered, fingers wrapping around her hips, to grind her against him. 

Rosalind caught his lips in a desperate kiss, moaning against him. Niall licked into her mouth, the sounds sending him into a spiral. Rosalind began to think about a morning with him, what that meant. It was a passing thought, letting it leave her mind as fast as it entered. 

Niall kissed Rosalind until they were both breathless, panting against each other. It was hot and wet and with anyone else, she probably would have thought it was repulsive. With Niall, she was so desperate for more. A harder, messier, dirtier kiss with desperate hips brushing against each other. 

It felt like hours before Niall pulled away for good grabbing her wrists between them to tie them up. This time, the knots were tight leaving her no room to wiggle or move. Rosalind gave him a pout, looking up at him. 

Niall didn’t give in, nodding toward the bed. “Lay down, then.”

Rosalind let out a heavy sigh, licking her lips. She looked down at the bed, nodding slowly, “alright. Fine. But I’d like for it to be known that I won’t enjoy any second of this.”

“I’m sure you’ll enjoy a lot of seconds of this,” Niall told her, watching her lay down. He spread her legs wide putting her in full view. 

Niall started slow, kissing at her thighs open mouth kisses that had Rosalind sighing out. Without warning, one finger inside of her. Rosalind clenched around him, pulling him in and he almost called the whole thing off, ready to take her from behind. 

“Roz, baby,” he murmured, pressing a kiss to her clit. “You’re so tight. Know you’re trying to tease me.” 

“I’d never,” Rosalind murmured to the ceiling, eyes shut. It was in her nature to tease, though. 

Niall didn’t tease Rosalind this time, beginning the assault on her most sensitive spots. He licked at her clit, reveling in the way her body moved. 

Rosalind’s legs spread wide, gasping out his name. It was music to his ears. One finger inside of her, and Rosalind groaned, the trench of it. It felt like forever since she’s had him. Two fingers in, and Rosalind writhed against the bed. 

Niall’s tongue on her clit, the constant pressure and the slow stretch of his fingers inside of her had her a mess on the sheets. She moaned, back arching off the bed. Niall’s hand on her stomach kept her grounded, hips pressing against the bed. 

Niall’s mind raced with thoughts about being the only person to have her in this way. He was the only one with his lips wrapped around her clit, fingers curling inside of her to make her gasp. It was just his. 

Niall ground his own hips against the bed, seeking some relief. He was painfully hard, humming against her dewy skin. Rosalind let out a particularly loud moan, thighs beginning to shake and that’s when he pulled away, sitting up to watch her. 

Rosalind let out a breath, looking down at him. She was unimpressed, he could tell. Rosalind dropped her legs to the bed, eyes slipping shut. “I hate you, for this,” she mumbled.  

“I’m sure,” Niall agreed, crawling up her body to kiss at her neck until he met her lips. He kissed her bruised lips, careful not to touch a single part of her body. 

Rosalind was desperate for it, though, hands sliding down to palm at his hard cock. Niall chuckled against her lips, pulling away. “What’re you playing at?” 

“Think I wanna suck you off,” Rosalind told him, eyebrows furrowed. “Isn’t that weird.” 

“For you, yeah,” he chuckled, sitting back. “Ya want to, though?” 

“I think so,” Rosalind murmured, letting out a sigh. 

Niall hummed, licking his lips. “Alright, lover. On your knees.” 

Rosalind let out another heavy sigh, sitting up. She got onto the floor, situating herself on her knees, hands falling to her lap. Niall palmed himself, just looking at her. Her red cheeks, puffy lips. She’s never looked so good. 

Niall scoffed forward, shoving his underwear down over his knees. Rosalind looked up at him, shaking her head. “This is gonna be hard, you know. Might need some help.” 

“I’ll help,” Niall told her, pushing the hair from her eyes. “Long as you’re a good girl.”

Rosalind rolled her eyes at him, letting out a laugh. “Don’t push it.” 

Niall laughed, shrugging his shoulders. “I just wanted to see what would happen.”

Niall reached around, gathering her black hair into his hand. Rosalind sat up, eyelashes fluttering at him. Niall let out a groan, wrapping his hand around himself, “swear you’re the most beautiful woman I’ve ever seen, Roz.”

“Why is it that you’re only nice and sweet when I’m about to suck you off?” Rosalind asked, shaking her head. “Seems suspicious to me.”

“I decline to comment,” Niall told her, tightening his grip in her hair. “Open up, would ya.” 

Rosalind pursed her lips for a moment, holding back her eye roll. She licked her lips, straightening up, eyes on Niall’s. She let out a breath, opening her mouth. Niall gave her his smirk, resting the tip of his cock on her lips. 

The whole thing had Rosalind aching between her legs. Niall guiding her along, one hand in her hair, the other on his cock. Rosalind had to close her eyes, a moan falling from her mouth as she took him in deeper. Just the weight of him on her tongue. 

“Good girl,” Niall grunted out, eyes glued to her face. “Fuck, Roz. That’s it.” 

Rosalind hollowed her cheeks out, eyes pinched shut as they began to water. She took him down though, until he hit the back of her throat. Niall cursed under his breath, hips stuttering. 

Niall could count on one hand the amount of times Rosalind had sucked him off and each time left his mind in a haze. This was no exception. Rosalind bobbed her head until Niall pulled her off, groaning as he did. 

Rosalind wiped the back of her mouth with her bound wrist, eyebrows furrowed. “Why’d you stop?” 

“Didn’t wanna cum,” he told her, watching her with an intent that should have made her nervous. “Can’t decide what I want to do.” 

Rosalind let out an unimpressed sigh, sitting back on her haunches. “This is why you’re never in charge.” 

“Well fuck me, Roz. You’ve said no to everything I wanna do,” Niall grunted, shoulders falling as he looked down at her. 

“How’s about you untie me,” Rosalind smiled, head tilting to the side. “And let me ride you.” 

“Roz we get it. You have thighs of steel. You can ride dick long after I cum. No need to show off all the damn time,” Niall mocked, pulling her up to her feet by the wrists. 

Niall pulled her in for a kiss, hands gripping her hips. Rosalind kissed him back feverishly, desperate for something. Anything. The kiss didn’t last very long. Niall pulled away, licking his lips. “Okay, Roz. Hands and knees.”

“Niall,” she all but whined. 

“You said I was in charge,” he argued, eyebrows raising. 

“But...” she trailed off, shoulders falling. “I hate it like that.”

“Why?” He laughed. 

“I can’t see you,” she explained, a softness fo her voice that made Niall ache. 

“That why you like to ride me?” He asked, already beginning to change his mind.  

“I like it when you watch me,” she told him, just dying to kiss him, the way he was looking at her. 

With a flutter of her eyelashes, Rosalind has changed his mind. Niall’s back hit the headboard just as Rosalind straddled him, her wet center brushing over his hard cock. Niall groaned at that, gripping her hips. 

“You gonna untie me?” Rosalind asked. 

“In your dreams,” Niall murmured, pulling her in for a kiss. Rosalind rolled her hips against his and he groaned. 

“Come on Niall,” she whispered, nosing along his jaw. “Get the condom.”

“Lover,” he said, “I’m not going to cum in you, if that’s what you think. We’re just getting started.”

Rosalind watched him, not believing it. He lifted her hips just enough to slip inside of her. The air left her lungs just as Niall groaned, eyes slipping shut. “Fuck, baby,” he breathed out. “You feel so good.”

Rosalind let out a moan, as Niall lifted her hips again, getting them into a rhythm. Niall kissed at Rosalind’s neck, teeth scraping against her throat. She felt seconds away from cumming. It was all so overwhelming. The intimacy. The teeth on her neck. Rosalind cried out and Niall pulled her off of him. 

“Niall,” she begged, chest heaving. “Please. I feel like I’m dying.” 

“You’re not dying,” he murmured against her neck. He slid his finger between her legs, thumbing over her clit. “What is it you were working? Delayed gratification.”

“Not like this,” she whispered, eyes slipping shut, as a moan escaped her lips. “I’m hating every second of this.”

“Your moans sound an awful lot like enjoying,” he teased, sliding his hand over her hips. “I’m thinking of all the ways to get you back for all the times you‘ve kicked me out of your place.”

Rosalind breathed out a laugh, shaking her head, “not fair. I’ll never get to cum.”

Niall smiled above her, letting out his own laugh. Without a warning, Niall lifted her hips again, sliding inside of her. Rosalind moaned, stretching around him as she bottomed out. 

Niall caught her lips in a kiss. It was wet and messy and it had Rosalind groaning against his lips. She wanted more more more. Her hands on him, to feel him everywhere. She whined against his lips, feeling the overwhelming urge to cry. 

“Niall,” she begged, pulling away. “Please,” she whispered, a tenderness to her voice that he’d never heard before. “Please, I need to cum so badly. Please.”

Niall’s nose brushed against hers as he pressed a soft kiss to her lips. She whimpered against his lips, eyes stinging. Niall pulled away, telling her, “lay down on your back.”

“Niall,” she whined, teetering on the edge of anger. 

“Easy, tiger,” he murmured, tapping her on the bum. “I need to get a condom.”

Rosalind let out an unsatisfied groan, disentangling herself from him. She laid down while Niall got off the bed, searching his pants pocket for a condom. 

Rosalind let her hands slip between her legs. She rubbed herself against her palm, letting out a sigh of relief. Niall pushed her hand away, straddling her, knees on either side of her thighs. “Roz, stop it,” he said, opening the condom. 

“You’re an asshole,” she said, unable to help herself. 

“I know,” Niall chuckled, shaking his head. “And you’re a brat.”

“Can you let me cum now?” She asked, feeling herself calm down, the closer they were.  

“Maybe,” he nodded. 

“Can you untie me too?” She asked sweetly, eyelashes fluttering.  

“Afraid not,” he shook his head. 

“I wanna touch you,” Rosalind begged, holding up her wrists as if to prove it. “Wanna pull your hair and wrap my hands around your throat. I wanna grab your ass and-and leave scratches on your shoulders.”

Rosalind could tell Niall was teetering on the edge. He was going to give in. Rosalind wrapped her hands around his hard cock and he let out a breath, eyes fluttering. “Please,” she whispered, breathy and soft. 

“I hate you,” he mumbled, grabbing her wrists. He pushed her hands away. “Arms over your head.”

Rosalind groaned, lifting her arms nonetheless. Niall slid the condom over his aching cock, spreading her legs just enough to slide inside of her. Rosalind moaned, back arching slightly as she wrapped her legs around his hips, pulling him impossibly closer. 

“Baby,” he murmured, nosing along her jaw. “Feel so good.”

All Rosalind could do was moan, pleasure coursing through her. She was desperate for relief after all the teasing he’d done. It was clear Niall was just as desperate, the way he he fucked into her good and hard. 

Rosalind was once again reminded that there would be no one after him that could compare. Her orgasm crashed over her in a sharp gasp and curling toes. Niall was right along with her, teeth barred against her shoulder. 

Niall collapsed beside her, tossing the condom into the waste basket. Rosalind let out a disgruntled sigh, rolling onto her side. “Niall,” she grunted. “Can you untie me?”

“Shit,” Niall laughed, sitting up on his elbows. “Sorry. Forgot.”

Rosalind rolled her eyes, extending her bound wrists toward him. Niall untied her, setting her sore wrists free. She couldn’t find it in herself to be angry about the marks left in her skin just yet. 

The urge overwhelmed her, so Rosalind kissed him, hands tangling in his hair to tug just enough to Niall’s breath to hitch in the back of his throat. It took everything in her not to press herself against him and rut just a little bit. 

That must have been character growth on Rosalind’s end, that she didn’t want to get him back. Niall, unwitting, was amused about her eager kiss. He let his hand slide down the curve of her back to settle at the bottom of her spine. The other, he pushed Rosalind’s sticky hair from her forehead. “Thanks,” he said. 

“Wasn’t easy letting you do that,” she told him, eyelashes fluttering at the softness of his touch. 

“I know,” he chuckled. “Did you enjoy it, though?”

“The ending, yeah,” Rosalind laughed, letting herself lay down beside him, just for a second. “In between stuff... not so sure.” 

“I enjoyed all of it,” Niall declared, pressing a kiss to her forehead. “Favorite part was when you said please.”

“don’t go telling anyone that I said please,” Rosalind warned, sitting up. She tugged her robe on, standing up. “I’ll have no street cred.” 

“Wouldn’t dream of it,” Niall murmured, watching her walk off to the bathroom. This Rosalind was just for him to see.

//

taglist: @swasanfrancisco​ @halluciniall​ @coconutdawn​ @exoticniall​ @missy14us​

[pascalls]

Deciding that he’s over their mutual depression, Charlie convinces Skinner to follow him for some time away from their worries where they allow themselves to forget, if only for one night.

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

“Alright. I’m sick of you moping.”

It was a proclamation. And one that he often wanted to say to himself. Since things had been going south for both he and Skinner, both at the mercy of two men who didn’t seem to want anything but to use them, Charlie had spent quite a few days with Seymour in his office once the students had gone. Most of the time was spent downing a few flasks full of vodka, but that was a secret they kept between themselves. But enough was enough. 

Nothing would change as long as both he and Skinner were just going to sit around, drowning their sorrows in cheap liquor and waxing poetic about the things they wanted but couldn’t have. Nah. Nope. Charlie had a bit more life to him than that - he liked to imagine, anyway - and with the other man severely lacking in any real drive to do much of anything anymore, it was up to the hybrid to take the lead and get them both back on their feet.

They didn’t have much in common, Charlie thought. Seymour was a self-proclaimed momma’s boy; a fairly straight-laced and somewhat boring heap of a man who had all but given up on trying to assert himself to anyone except school-aged children. He wouldn’t stand up to Chalmers, wouldn’t stand up to his mother, and wouldn’t take the reins to turn things around when he found himself at a loss. Charlie, on the other hand, was normally a spit-fire. He didn’t like to make a habit of pitying himself. He’d resolved to turn his own life around. Maybe once he’d been able to relate to the other man, but no more. No longer being human had one perk and it was to be different than he used to be.

“C’mon,” Charlie continued, reaching to snag Seymour by the sleeve and tug him out of that oversized office chair of his. Being annoying in his insistence. “We’re gonna go out and… do something. Go somewhere. Stop being all of… this.” He gestured to Skinner’s general… aura. To which Seymour frowned, unsure if he should be offended or not.

“But I’m supposed to pick up dinner for mother!” He began to protest, despite the fact that his feet were moving and he was indeed letting himself be pulled out of his chair by the masked hybrid who had yet to discard his disguise that he wore during the school day. 

“She can Doordash it. It’s 2020. She’ll live.” Charlie was not sympathetic. And though Seymour sputtered a few weak attempts to persuade Charlie otherwise, none seemed to work. He eventually gave up in favor of following the other out and about, leaving the school building behind as they set forth to God knows where. 

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

By the time they got to their destination, Skinner’s curiosity was almost driving him crazy. Not only was the anxiety about his mother’s waiting anger hovering in the back of his mind, but he had no clue where Charlie had dragged him out to. They seemed to be in the lowest, most downtrodden part of Springfield, the buildings largely abandoned and the streets all but empty, save for a few broken down cars here and there. Presumably with people sleeping inside them… The thought skeeved him out. A little.

“This is the last time I trust you to bring me anywhere,” he said with an agitated huff to Charlie who had abandoned his disguise several minutes before. In favor of the appearance that only a few were accustomed to. Seymour didn’t mind it. He’d seen Charlie several times at this point and the shock seemed to wear off after the second or third. 

“Oh shut up,” Charlie replied, though he didn’t seem to be upset about the jab. In fact, there was a little bit of a pep in his step as he led them onwards, a few more blocks before he came to a stop in front of a set of doors with a heavy industrial lock on the front of it. A jubilant “we’re here!” accompanied the reveal, even though Skinner’s response was anything but impressed.

“Uh-huh. And where is here exactly?” He was skeptical, glancing up at the doors. How were they even supposed to get inside?

“Well. Not here YET. We gotta go around.” Charlie snagged Seymour by his sleeve again - a habit that almost annoyed Skinner, though he seemed to allow it, for now - and tugged him around to the side of the building, guiding him to a small stairwell that took them down to a much smaller door. At least this one didn’t seem to have a lock on it. But Seymour was beginning to think that he shouldn’t have followed Charlie at all. Still, he remained silent. If only to see what kind of horrible things awaited them on the other side. 

Charlie gave a little knock on the door which popped open just a touch, a sudden deep thrum of bassy music beginning to eek through the opening. A soundproof door, Seymour thought. Huh. But the music was beginning to clue him in. And he wasn’t entirely sure how he felt about it. Besides nervous. But he didn’t have much time to swish the idea around in his mouth before the hybrid was, again, tugging him right inside where the music grew louder and the light grew dimmer.

Down a hallway, Charlie led him, no longer clinging to his sleeve, but Seymour kept close all the same, not wanting to get left behind or lost. He was entirely out of his element. And all things considered, he was putting a lot of trust in this lizard man who seemed to be practically skipping with excitement. 

One last corner was rounded and the bass was overwhelming. He’d done a lot of… interesting things in his life, but he couldn’t say that he’d ever stepped into a place like this before. Lights flicked back and forth with life and vigor while the music blared all around them. Other people crowded the large room that they’d stumbled into. It had to be at least a hundred, if he were to give it a cursory count. Not that he could. The lights made it almost impossible. 

“Charlie…!” He called out to the hybrid who was in the process of handing a few dollar bills to a younger guy, trading the cash for little glowy trinkets that Charlie fashioned around his wrists and neck, holding out two for Skinner with a grin once he’d adorned his own. “What are we doing here?!” He did his best to be heard over the music, though he found himself having to close the distance between his impromptu companion and himself to do so.

“We’re here for FUN!” Charlie said, his emphasis placed firmly on the last word. “You and I - MOSTLY YOU - are not gonna let this bullshit stop us from living! And YOU need to loosen the hell up!” Adamant, he reached to snap a few of those bright, glowing bracelets around Seymour’s wrist. Skinner could only watch with a little bit of a frown. Entirely out of his element. But admittedly… It didn’t seem like anyone seemed to notice them come in. And if Charlie didn’t seem to be bothered by the fact that his scales and tail were out in full view, maybe nobody would notice that Seymour was in there either. He had a professional reputation to uphold, after all. And he could only imagine what Chalmers might say…

“Come on!” The hybrid continued, taking Seymour’s hand in his own. Not his sleeve, this time, Skinner noticed. “Just for a bit. One dance. Don’t care how bad you are at it! Just give it a try!” Charlie offered the other a toothy grin, practically begging in all but his words. And Seymour, for all of his huff and bluster, found it increasingly hard to refuse. 

Surely, there couldn’t be any harm in just one.

“...Oh fine,” he relented, allowing Charlie - pleased as fucking punch - to pull him out into the throng of people before he could add any insistence to not tell anyone about their little night out. But by the time he allowed himself to soak in the atmosphere, the distinct scent of fog machine and the muggy warmth that came with so many others crammed in the same space, he didn’t… seem to care much. Not when his dance partner seemed to be having the time of his life. Happier than Seymour had ever seen him, anyway. He always seemed so sarcastic and quick to offer nothing but dry wit whenever he dropped by to check on him in the nurse’s office. This was, admittedly, a very different side of the hybrid.

But not an unwelcome one.

As time ticked on, Seymour allowed himself to forget that there was such a thing as time at all. They carried on, both temporarily oblivious to anything but the music, the lights that illuminated the space around them, and each other. Charlie would have to convince himself later that he didn’t overtly enjoy seeing Skinner do something exciting for a change. His face started to hurt from grinning so damn much, somewhere around hour three. But he didn’t mind it. Especially not when they drew closer and shared more than just a few coy - and admittedly flirty - looks. Maybe it was something in the water. If Charlie could remember even drinking water at all. 

At some point, Seymour thought he felt his phone give a few buzzes. If he did, they would be calls from his mother, no doubt. But even when his mind very nearly gave way to those familiar nerves, Charlie caught him by the waist, pulling him closer and into another flurry of movements that made those little buzzes from his phone seem like nothing but phantom memories. 

He would stagger home close to sunrise that night. And his mother would yell. As she often did. 

But this time he’d let it just fall from his shoulders - 

Drowned amidst the lingering thrumming in his ears from the beat that they danced to. 

[ubernoxa]

The Token: A Guns N’ Roses FANFICTION

Chapter 8: The Wrath of Betsie Tate

Masterlist

Story Summary: Story inspired by the movie She’s the Man. A female Duff is tired of dealing with the bullshit of trying to make it on the strip as a female bassist. In a desperate attempt to make it big doing what she does, she cuts her hair and mascardes as Duff. What’s the wors that could happen?

Chapter Summary: Betsie pays Michelle a vist at work.

Taglist @viralwolf02 @littlemisscare-all @smokeandmirrorz @aratbaby @slashscowboyboots @achiweyow

My mind had created two lists of almost equal importance.

The first list contained the following names:

Walter

Macy

Betsie

Derek

Kendal

Izzy

Six people, only six people knew that Duff was actually Michelle the former bassist of Pixie. It could be worse since I had been doing this for a little over a month now, but it could also be a hell of a lot better. I was careful to never get too tipsy. I made sure to watch what I said and even how I sat, but there is still a sinking feeling that resides in the bottom of my stomach. The feeling that one day everyone would find out, and everything I’ve worked for would be gone.

No more Duff.

No more Guns N’ Roses.

No more music.

Maybe if this didn’t work out I could move to New York and become a secretary or some boring shit ass job like that. I wasn’t sure what I was more afraid of, losing Guns N’ Roses or giving up on my dream. Bottom line, both of them terrified me.

The second list was much shorter. It only had two names on it, Macy and Izzy. This list, which barely even qualified as a list by the fact that there were only two names on it, was the list of people I trusted with my secret.

Walter had been rather blunt with his disliking of me performing as Duff. I quickly learned that the entire intervention was all Walter’s idea from Macy this morning when she profusely apologized. She swore up and down that he forced her to help him. I wasn’t sure what to believe, but I trusted her none the less. I really didn’t have any other options. A list of one name was defiantly not a list.

Ever since Betsie stood by as Pixie kicked me out and dragged my name through the dirt, I don’t trust her. I used to though. I used to trust her with my life, but now I couldn’t trust her to poor me a glass of vodka. Her comments on how I’m betraying females everywhere also don’t help the unpleasant taste in my mouth.

Derek is and forever will be a wildcard, and he is probably mad that I didn’t tell him.

Kendal. Kendal. Kendal. Kendal was the reason I showed up to work this morning two hours early. I was hoping, no praying, that I could talk to her and try to explain myself. It was the least she deserved after yesterday.

I felt the nerves multiply in my stomach the second I opened the shop early. I tried to distract myself by singing along with the songs that came over the radio that echoed through the coffee shop, but as I prepped the shop my mind still focused on one thing...Kendal.

Last night, I chased after her the moment the gig had ended. I knew where to find her, there wasn’t a doubt in my mind to where she was. The coffee shop on Minlter Street, the shop I worked at, the shop where she spent her child hood, the shop she would one day inherit. I shoved my keys into the door and unlocked it full force. Instead of a Kendal sitting at her favorite table sipping on her cup of favorite coffee, I was met with nothing. I fought back tears as I stood in the middle of the hauntingly quiet coffee shop. Fuck.

I could already feel it unraveling.

I watched as the clock struck 6 AM and I flipped the small sign to open. I eyed the door all morning waiting for her to walk in as I worked. Bottom line, we needed to talk. 10 minutes turned into 5 hours later as I watched the clock strike 11 AM. Where the hell was Kendal? Usually she would get to the coffee shop by 9 AM at the latest when she was in town, but today was obviously not one of those days. I peeled up as I heard the bells that hung on the door chime. A customer, or hopefully Kendal had just walked in.

To my surprise Izzy walked in holding a small stack of papers in his hands. It was clear that he had just woken up from his hair that stuck out almost every which way from under his hat. The hat he must have tied to use to control that chaos that was growing on his head.

“For someone who lives on the other side of town, you seem to frequent this coffee shop a lot. Must be it’s great customer service,” I said as he walked up to my counter. I could feel the stares that were directed towards us from some of the customers. I tried to ignore them, but I could feel them judging.

“Nah, I come here because I look forward to getting glared at by it’s older clientele,” he teased back. I couldn’t help but giggle.

“How are you doing?” His question caught me off guard. It sounded genuine. He sounded like he actually cared.

“I’m still employed, so I got that going for me,” I let a sigh escape me as I hunched over, defeated.

“Bye Michelle, thank you for the stories!” I turned and sent a smile towards Suzy who was a mother of the cutest twins I have ever met. She would come every Wednesday morning during the summer for peace and quiet, and if it was slow like this morning, I would read her kids a story.

“Oh Michelle, he’s hot! Is he your boyfriend?” I turned red at the Suzy’s daughter’s question. I didn’t dare look over towards Izzy who was most likely enjoying the situation as he did in most situations where I squirmed.

I felt my cheeks get hot as I tried to find words, “No...he is just a friend...who is a boy.”

Suzy took my nerves as a cue to quickly escort her daughters out of the coffee shop.

“Friend who is boy?” I let a groan escape me as Izzy smirked leaning over the counter.

“I thought we were AT LEAST band mates,” he added.

The bell rang again as another customer walked in. My heart sunk when I noticed once again that it wasn’t Kendal.

“Shut it Stradlin, I gotta go help a customer,” I then went back to the front counter to take the woman’s order.

Luckily the customer only wanted a black coffee, so I was able to quickly make it for him. Not that I wanted to go and talk to Izzy or anything, but because I wanted to see what papers he was holding.

“So, what brings you to my coffee shop?”

“Your coffee shop? Didn’t know you owned the place...” Izzy replied as he began to fake ponder and look around the shop.

I couldn’t help but roll my eyes, and snatch one of the papers he was holding.

“Guns N’ Roses Live at the Troubadour. Get yourself together, drink till you drop, forget about tomorrow, and have another shot,” I froze for a second when I noticed the date and time.

“Izzy this is an add for Saturday night.”

“Yeah, and we need fliers out now,” he added as he dramatically held the small stack he had in his hand. I would have giggled at him being unintentionally cute, but I was more focused on the fact that we were stealing Pixie’s weekly gig.

“Pixie plays Saturday nights at 8 at the Troubadour. They have been for the past six months,” I simply received a shrug from Izzy.

“Did they get a better gig, or are we taking their spot,” I groaned as I received another shrug.

“All I know is that Axl has been wanting to play at the Troubadour, and stopped by there this morning to have a talk with someone. The next thing I know he came bursting in and asking me to make fliers,” I nodded as he spoke.

“Hope you don’t mind the photos I chose for you. We need someone to take a group shot of us, so we at-least look a little more professional,” I immediate shook my head when Izzy finished talking. I couldn’t help but chuckle at the thought of Guns N’ Roses being professional.

“No, I look pretty bad ass, good choice,” I sent him a warm smile as I looked over the flier.

“Can I hang one up on your billboard over there?” I nodded a motioning for him to go right ahead. He handed me some extras, I’m assuming in hope that people would take the flier for the $3 admission discount.

I watched as Izzy went to go hang up a flier, and tried to ignore the girls who were curiously eyeing him.

“Good show last night,” I turned to see Derek who was currently restocking the remaining pastries. I tried to read him, but his face remained stoic with each cherry pastry he stacked.

“Thanks, I really appreciate your help. Even though it didn’t go as planned,” I replied. My heart slowly sunk as Derek didn’t look over towards me.

“Hey, Derek....” he turned around as I spoke finally giving me his full attention. Thank god he actually looked at me.

“I mean it. Thank you so much, here,” I handed him a flier, but before he could read it I began to talk again.

“We’re playing again Saturday night. It’s a prime time show and it’s going to be insane. You and a plus one will get in for free,” I sent him a warm smile as he began to read the flier.

“Okay, cool. Thanks! I’ll ask Mica tonight,” he sent a warm smile my way causing me to relax.

“The Troubadour is a cool place and I can’t wait to see y’all there,” I smiled back.

THANK GOD. THANK FUCKING GOD HE DIDN’T HATE ME.

Before I walked away I felt him pull my arm back, “I meant it. You guys are really good. Plus...I will admit I was pissed you didn’t tell me at first, but I don’t know that last time I saw you actually enjoying yourself onstage. You seemed free, and you were right. If I was you I would do whatever takes to make my dream come true. Let me know when you release your first album! I’ll be first in line.”

I sent him a nod before I went back to work cleaning down dirty tables. I quickly shooed Izzy out of the coffee shop, much to the displease of the girls he was talking to, in hopes that Kendal would be more forgiving if Izzy wasn’t here.

Two more hours had passed, and I eventually gave up on Kendal showing up. The place was rather busy for a Thursday morning, and I already had to replace the flier twice.

I was pulled from my thoughts as I saw a familiar blonde throw on her apron and hat before joining us behind the counter.

“Hey Patty, what are you doing in early?”

“I honestly don’t know, I got a call from Kendal to come in a couple hours early,” she then shrugged before she went to inspect our coffee machines. Panic filled me as I remained frozen. Patty either worked the shift opposite of me or late nights, not while I was working during lunch.

Fuck.

I turned towards Derek who shared the same expression as me.

“Hey Michelle can you come into the office real fast,” I tried to keep my breath easy as I followed my uncle to his office. When the hell did he get here, I was watching the door all day? Unless he came in when I was talking with Izzy.

His office was small, but it didn’t need to be large. That’s not who my uncle was. My uncle never needed to have some sort of reminder to everyone he was in charge like a large desk or office. We always joked that the only reason he had the office was to keep him from eating all of the pastries. All he had to do was walk onto the shop floor and customers and workers alike would smile at him. He was never a dictator and it wasn’t uncommon to see him helping with the dishes when a large rush came in. Calling in an employee to come in early was rather unusual.

The moment I walked into his office I felt the uneasiness that resided in my stomach grow larger than the Grinch’s heart.

“Michelle, please sit,” I offered my uncle a kind smile before I sat down.

I turned to give one to Kendal as well who was lurking in the corner, but she refused to make eye contact with me. I didn’t need to be psychic or a mind reader to know what this meeting was about. The scowl that was planted on my cousin’s face was enough to know.

“So this meeting is nothing to serious, I just want to ask you a couple questions,” my uncle calmly stated. I sent him a soft smile before nodding.

Nothing serious? SERIOUSLY? With Kendal glaring me in the corner I felt like I was on trial.

“Well, how are you today Michelle?”

“I’m good, never better,” I cautiously replied. Every word I spoke felt like taking a footstep through a minefield.

“Recently we have received some customer complaints about you,” I nodded my head trying to figure out which customer her was talking about. Over the past two weeks I haven’t really had any ‘incidents’. Six months ago I had a poor encounter with a customer, but that was SIX MONTHS AGO.

“What were they about?”

“The clientele that you let into this coffee shop,” I froze and stared right at Kendal when the words left my Uncle’s mouth. That fucking bitch tattled on me. I thought we were practically sisters. I thought she would confront me about it in private. I thought wrong.

“Uncle, we let everyone in,” he cut me off before I could continue.

“We let everyone who pays in,” his sharp words cut right through me.

“Izzy’s and Axl’s coffees are ALWAYS paid for,” I quickly shot back. One quick look at my Uncle’s face told me that I said the wrong thing. I shouldn’t have let those words out of my mouth.

“By who?” And so the demon speaks. I shot Kendal a glare at her stupid question. I was relieved to see that she wasn’t receiving a glare from just me. My uncle, her father, was also sending one towards her.

“Me or them depends on the day. I made them coffee for a long practice, and the other day Izzy bought some,” I tried to keep my voice calm as I spoke. It was clear that my Uncle wasn’t entirely pleased with Kendal at the moment.

“So you bought your boyfriends coffee,” before my uncle could continue talking I immediately interrupted him, “band mates. Not boyfriends.”

I watched as a flash of realization crossed his face. Out of the corner of my eye I saw a smirk flash across Kendal’s features. FUCK. I slipped up.

“You’re still trying to be in a band? I thought you quit that dream last year,” I shook my head no at his question.

“No, I just stopped telling you about my bands, and you assumed that I stopped playing I never lied to you,” my uncle sighed at my response before pinching the bridge of his nose with his two fingers. Saying that I never lied to him probably wasn’t the best defense.

“Does this band affect your ability to perform your job,” my uncle eventually broke the uncomfortable silence that had grown in the room. Kendal and I immediately answered the question with two drastically different answers, yes and no.

Our lovely meeting was quickly interrupted by shouting before we could continue. I followed my Uncle and cousin, and immediately regretted it.

“What the fuck Michelle,” I didn’t need to see her to know who was screaming. I remained frozen, I didn’t even need to guess what she was screaming about. It was clear that Betsie was pissed that Guns N’ Roses stole Pixie’s time slot.

“WHOAH Whoah woah, calm down,” Derek immediately hopped over the counter in attempt to block Betsie from coming after me.

“Calm down? CALM DOWN? That two timing traitor bitch stole my band’s gig,” she shouted back.

“You don’t own a gig!” I casually replied, not really thinking my actions through. My uncle placed his arm in front of me gently guiding me behind him.

It was clear that today was only going to get worse.

She only got angrier from there, “you listen here you two timing whore of a bitch, and don’t you dare try to hide behind your uncle. You think that just because Axl promised strippers on stage that you can take MY GIG. Is that all you think I am? Nothing more than a fucking stripper?”

By now the entire coffee shop was watching us.

“What is going on?” My uncle bellowed through the shop.

“Your barista or whatever the fucking hell you call her is a damn traitor who dresses up as a guy and plays in a rock n’ roll band on the strip” she shouted at my uncle.

He then quickly turned towards me, as if I had a logical straight forward answer. Getting fired was now the least of my worries.

Fuck.

Fuck.

Fuck.