#She gives off such gentle and friendly vibes

[localguy2]

Absolutely love how Bungie threw in 1 random Hive Gaurdian that's just chilling around trying to do good despite her Ghost being out of its mind, and the Community collectively loses its shit and makes her the fan favourite within 1-2 days, in the process replacing other fan favourite characters who've had years of build up and attention.

[into-the-grey]

~Novocaine~ Noah x F!Reader fic (18+)

This is actually the first ever Bad Omens fic I wrote, but I figured I may as well share it.

There is more to it if you're interested, but it got odd down the line.

Either way, onto the warnings:

Warnings: panic attack, smut, p in v, belt handcuffs, light choking, oral (F receiving), multiple orgasms

WC: 7.1k

Part 2

Noah sat in his office, his attention on his stream as he tapped on his keyboard. Rain pattered on the window outside, the dark storm clouds gathering over the city and creating a warm cozy atmosphere. Thunder rumbled in the distance, growing closer to the neighbourhood. Inside, the office was bathed in a soft purple glow from the lighting Noah had installed, adding to the relaxed vibe of the stream. He had been playing a game for a few hours now and was getting close to finishing it.

Every now and again, a jump-scare would frighten him, and he would flinch in his chair before laughing at himself. Each time he would hear Ruffilo's friend softly chuckle across the hallway.

Y/N sat in the spare room, watching Noah through the doorway. Ruffilo had gone to visit his parents in Richmond for a few days, leaving Y/N at the house. She was content to take up residency in their spare room for a little while. Watering Ruffilo's plants was a small price to pay.

This wasn't uncommon, Ruffilo regularly offered Y/N the spare room if she wanted some quiet time. He would always ask Noah for permission, and Noah would always gladly give it. Noah had never been a big fan of being at home alone, so having Y/N around the house eased his nerves.

Y/N had a place with roommates of her own, but she had been trying to get out for a while. Her roommates were party girls and social butterfly types, Y/N was much more introverted than that. She liked them, but their way of life could be overwhelming to her.

So, there she sat, wrapped in a blanket, watching from the other side of the hall. He could feel her eyes on him, and though he would never admit it, he enjoyed it a little bit.

The audience on Noah's stream could sense his distraction, seeing his gaze turn to her every now and again. He barely knew Y/N, she was more Ruffilo's friend than Noah's. She had stayed over a handful of times, and each time Ruffilo had told Noah off for flirting with her. Noah couldn't help himself. Y/N was normally bubbly and friendly, if a little quiet. She was easy on the eyes as well. And usually, she flirted back.

Today, looking at the girl was like looking at a ghost. She was paler than usual, and tense. She kept her lips in a solid line, looking away every time Noah caught her eye. She picked at her nails often, and if she looked at her phone, she would chew her lip.

It was obvious something wasn't right. It perturbed Noah to see her so reserved and fidgety. Noah had been subtly watching her all afternoon, and it seemed like she grew more restless as time went on. Still, he didn't see a reason to intervene...

Until he heard the gasping sound of a stifled sob.

He had taken his eyes off her for maybe five minutes, and in those minutes something clearly changed. His head whipped around to see her shaking, her fingers gripping tightly to the blanket and twisting deep into the fabric. He watched as she flinched into something resembling the foetal position, she held her head between her balled fists, the blanket clamped in her grip provided a gentle cushion from her knuckles. Her phone slipped off the side of the bed she sat on, landing with a soft thud on the carpet.

'Guys, I'll be back, I just need to check on something,' Noah said, sitting up and quickly muting the microphone. He switched the display to his "Be right back" screen and jumped out of his chair, tossing his headphones onto the desk and rushing across the hallway to where Y/N was suffering.

He entered the dim room, closing the door behind him and kneeling on the floor in front of her.

'Hey,' he said softly, 'hey, look at me, what's happening?' He reached up, taking her hands and pulling them away from her temples. The tense trembling in her hands made his heart ache. He could see the tears in her eyes as he squeezed her fingers in his.

'I'm s-sorry,' she stammered, trying to choke her sobs back and jerking her head from side to side. 'I t-tried t-to cont-trol it.' Noah leapt up from the floor to kneel beside her on the bed. He could feel her shivers through the mattress. He reached up, holding her head still and trying to meet her eye.

'You have nothing to be sorry for,' he assured her, 'it's okay.' He took the disheveled blanket, readjusting it and tucking it tightly around her before pulling her in and hugging her head against his chest. 'Come on Y/N, you can beat this.'

'I-, No- I can't-' she coughed. She squeezed her eyes shut tight, turning her face into his shirt and biting down on her lip. Noah noticed the skin of her lip turning a bloody shade of red.

'Hey, hey, stop, you're gonna hurt yourself,' he said softly, cupping her face, his thumb gently removing her lip from between her teeth. Her body froze under his hand, and Noah paused. He realised the intimacy in his touch, staring awkwardly at her. His hand retreated from her face, his stomach somersaulting and his body screaming in protest. Her lip was soft, her skin smooth... a part of him wanted to kiss it better...

'Not the time,' he mentally hissed at himself. 'Focus. Help her.' He looked to her widened hazel eyes, an apology on his face.

'Your lip... you're going to chew through it...' he said lamely. Y/N gave him a small nod before casting her eyes down. Her cheeks flushed red as tears began to flow down her face.

'I'm sor-ry,' she said through a shuddering breath as Noah sunk down beside her, their eyes level. Her nervous energy and her wild eyes made Noah's heart hurt. He knew the pain of a panic attack too well, he wanted nothing more than to pull her close and hold her until it passed. His mouth hung slack for a moment, trying to think of how to help. He still held one of her hands, feeling her squeezing his fingers tightly.

'Y/N, did someone do something to you?' He asked her softly.

'God no,' she shook her head fiercely, 'No.' Her free hand raked her fingers through her hair, the fitful movement looked painful. Noah winced, seeing a few strands of hair come free with her fingers.

'Hey, hey, come here.' He said, taking her hand back in his and shuffling closer to her. She leaned against him nervously, her head resting on his shoulder.

'Come on,' he said with a soft laugh, 'if you're going to lean on me, let's do this properly.'

He lifted himself to squat on the bed, sliding his back across and down the wall as he moved to sit behind her. Once planted firmly back on the mattress, he manoeuvred her to sit sideways, her legs draped over his right leg, cradling her back with his left arm, her head on his left shoulder. He wrapped his arms tightly around her, pulling the blanket up around her shivering form.

He heard a soft cough leave her lips, and he looked down at her. 'Better?' He asked her. She nodded, sighing and letting her full weight rest on him. For a moment, they just sat, Noah absentmindedly rubbing her arm as he held her close. He hoped she couldn't feel the backflips in his stomach. Silently he cursed himself for having these thoughts about her while she was struggling.

He watched as Y/N's eyes drifted closed, and he took deep, slow breaths for her to mimic. The sound of the rain outside picked up, a storm rolling in and filling the house with subtle white noise. Y/N's breathing slowly began to line up with his. The red in her cheeks began to subside, and her trembling slowed. Her fingers released their vice grip on the blanket, her knuckles returning to their normal pinkish hue.

After a long silence of just observing their breaths, Noah cupped her face, running his thumb along her jaw.

'Unclench your teeth and take a breath,' he murmured. Y/N followed his instructions obediently. Her jaw released, her lips parting slightly as she took a deep breath, exhaling out of her mouth.

'Noah, you don't need to look after me,' she said, her voice still unsteady. 'I'm a big girl, I've had anxiety for a long time, I can handle these attacks.'

Noah nodded, squeezing her shoulder through the blanket. 'I may not need to, but I want to.'

'Why?'

'Because I know how you feel, I've been there before,' he said as nonchalantly as he could. He didn't want her to worry about his history. He wanted her to stay focussed on the here and now.

'Oh...' she said, nodding slowly.

'Do you want to talk about what's going on?' He asked her. Y/N looked to her hands, picking at her cuticles as she shook her head.

'Is it okay if we don't?' She asked, her voice wavering, 'It's a lot, and I don't think I can get into it right now,' she said softly. Noah lifted a hand, brushing a stray lock of hair out of her face.

'We don't have to do anything you don't want to do. But, whenever you're ready, I'm here, okay?' He assured her, making a point to lock his eyes on hers. 'Just promise you'll reach out if you need someone?'

Her hazel eyes shone up at him in the darkness, glistening with the reflection of the low light coming through the window. She had her lip between her teeth again, the skin swollen and puffy, giving her a pout that made Noah's heart twist. His body moved before his brain could give permission. His hand came to rest on her cheek again. This time, she didn't freeze. Instead, she leaned into his touch. His thumb ran across her lip again, gently releasing it from between her teeth.

His heart thundered in his chest. He could feel her breath tingling his skin. Slowly, his head dipped towards her.

Y/N's head tilted up, their noses brushing, his skin on fire with the feeling of her. Before he could close the gap, a wave of clarity washed over him.

'Are you okay with this?' He whispered, his voice low and husky. Her lips were so close, his thumb still rested on her cheek, barely grazing her mouth. Her body returned all of his signals, desperate for his touch.

She nodded slightly, 'Completely,' she whispered back.

With a small smile, he pressed his lips to hers. The kiss was soft and sweet, his hair falling over their faces like a curtain. He gently cupped the back of her neck, holding their faces together. His stomach twisted in the best way, their lips moving together in sync. She tasted sweet, her swollen lip warm against his.

Her soft fingers found their way to his chest, tracing up to his collarbone and nervously hovering, barely touching him.

Noah smiled into the kiss, taking his hand from her neck and finding hers. He guided her hand to his chest and pressed her skin firmly to his, right over his heart, laying his hand flat over hers. She could feel his pulse racing beneath her palm. His tongue gently traced her lip, asking politely to deepen the kiss.

She paused, pulling back and breaking the kiss, watching his cheeks flush.

'I'm sorry,' he said, 'I didn't mean to push-'

'No, Noah,' she said, reaching for his face, still ginger in her touch. 'You didn't do anything wrong, I just feel like I owe you more of the story if that's where you want this to go, and I don't know if I can give you that yet.'

Noah nodded, looking at the beautiful woman in his arms. His whole body ached for her, and he couldn't stand the thought of not having her. He took a deep breath, his thumb grazing her cheek again.

'Look, cards on the table, you know I want you,' he said, 'If the constant flirting wasn't obvious enough, I absolutely want you. But it's your choice, if you don't want to go any further than this, I'll stop right here. If you want a one night stand, and never talk about it again, sure, I can do that. If you want friends with benefits, I can do that too. All fucking, no feelings. If you want to be all in, then say the word. You have me in the palm of your hand, it's your choice how much you want me to know and how far you want this to go, okay? I won't expect or demand anything from you, ever.'

Y/N's eyes widened as he spoke. She knew he wanted her, but to hear him say it out loud, confirming everything she had thought were only jokes... it changed the game. If she wanted him, she had him. But how did she want him?

There was the catch. She wanted him in every way. Mind, body, soul. But she wasn't sure she could tell him everything yet. But he said she didn't need to...

It felt wrong, wanting him completely without being able to give herself to him. She wanted things to be equal. But as she laid with his hand on her cheek, her hand resting feather light back on his collarbone, she wanted nothing more than to be his.

'I don't know, Noah. I want you, believe me, but I don't think I can be completely open about everything just yet, and I don't want that double standard. I want to know everything about you, but that doesn't feel fair-'

'Answer one question for me,' Noah interrupted. Y/N paused, waiting for him to ask. 'Do you want me?' He asked 'Yes or no?'

Y/N nodded, her eyes locked on him as he mitigated her spiral. She could see the desperation in his features, the way his gaze darted from her eyes to her lips and back again. He wasn't lying, he wanted her badly. And seeing him like this, she wanted him even more.

'Yes.'

'So take me. I'm offering myself to you, begging you to take me. If you have secrets, I don't care. I just want to be with you, okay?' He said, cradling her closer to him. Her palm still rested on his collarbone, her fingers trailing up his neck. Their eyes stayed locked, almost fighting for dominance. Even in his submission, Noah dominated.

'Okay,' she breathed, lost in his stare. The way he could pierce through to her soul, it was hypnotic. She had never felt so vulnerable and yet so safe.

Noah closed the gap once more, his lips on hers. This kiss felt hungrier than the last, but not in an unwelcome way. His hands roamed her body, searching for a sign of discomfort as he pulled her as close as he possibly could. Y/N could feel the tension growing, her body lighting up under his touch. If this was how he cured panic attacks, thank God for anxiety.

'How do you want me?' He asked, breaking the onslaught of kisses and breathing heavily.

'Maybe in private? Without a whole audience waiting for you?' she said with a weak smirk, her eyes flitting to the door. Noah felt her chest heaving, realising his where his hand now rested. He followed her gaze and remembered the stream that was still running.

'Right...' he drawled, forming a plan in his head. 'Okay, you go to my room, I'll go and kill the stream and try to avoid suspicion. I'll be there in ten minutes, okay?' a laugh crept into his voice as he spoke. His grin was infectious, his beautiful smile reaching his eyes.

Y/N nodded, half-heartedly swinging her legs off the bed and sitting up. Before she could stand from the bed, Noah's arms were around her waist again, pulling her back.

'Hey, wait a second, I didn't say you could go yet,' he said, lifting a hand to her chin and turning her face towards his. He laid a gentle kiss to her lips, savouring the feeling of her for a moment. 'Okay, now you can go.'

Y/N giggled at him, pecking his lips once more before standing up. She picked up her phone from where it laid on the floor, sliding it into her pocket while Noah stood from the bed.

'Go on, I'll be there in a minute,' he assured her, his hand running across her lower back as he stood. Her skin tingled under his hand, looking up to his face.

She watched as he opened the door to the spare room, and he took her hand, leading her out into the hall. With a swift motion, he kissed her knuckles and spun her to face his bedroom door up the hallway. 'I promise, I won't be long.'

Y/N finally began to move towards Noah's bedroom, her socked feet padding quietly on the carpet. Noah smiled as he watched her for a brief moment. Remembering his goal, he tore himself from his spot in the hall and quickly moved into the office, seeing the chat still scrolling with new messages on the screen. Most of the messages were debating if he would be coming back.

He sat down, putting his headphones on and unmuting the microphone as he switched back to the live camera feed.

'Hey guys, sorry but I've gotta go.' He raised his hands defensively as the chat began to flood with messages.

'Don't get speculative, it's nothing special,' he laughed, seeing people already starting to throw theories around, 'I just forgot about some friends coming to visit, so I should probably go and be a good host. I'll pick the game up another time, thank you for hanging out.'

He began to close down the game, saving it first. As the messages turned to people chiding him for "forgetting" and people saying good night, Noah waved goodbye and ended the stream. Finally, he shut down the computer and turned off the lights. The whirring of the fans came to a stop, leaving the room in an eerie silence, save only for the sound of the rain on the window.

As he stood, Noah took his headphones off and turned them off, hanging them up. He couldn't move quick enough, rushing from the room and closing the door behind him. He all but ran up the hallway to his bedroom. Gently, Noah tapped on the bedroom door before entering.

Inside, the room was bathed in a soft light from the ensuite bathroom. He heard the sound of running water, and he could see Y/N bent over the sink.

'You okay?' He called, locking the bedroom door behind him.

'Mhmm,' he heard her soft reply. Noah moved across the beige carpet, the burgundy walls making the room feel warm and cozy. He could see the girl wiping at her face as he stepped into the small space behind her. She looked at him in the mirror, their eyes meeting again. His soft gaze would never fail to disarm her.

'I'm alright, I promise, I just wanted to clean myself up a bit. It's been a rough few days.' A hint of the deeper story, but no real details. Noah nodded, moving closer and placing a hand on her waist.

'You know how I always say you're cute?' He mused, watching her cheeks flush. She nodded. 'Definitely not the right word, you're absolutely beautiful.'

'You're not so bad yourself,' she smirked, turning to face him. She had used the line on him during their flirty phase, and she couldn't help copying the smile that bloomed on his sweet face.

Noah slyly reached over to the light switch, flicking it off and leaving the room dim with faint evening light, before stepping closer to her. Their chests pressed together, and he bent his knees.

'You're coming with me,' he said softly, his tattooed hands wrapping around her thighs. She barely had a moment to process his movements before he lifted her off the ground. Her arms instinctively wrapped around his neck, her legs clinging around his hips. One of his hands supported her ass, the other keeping a firm grip on her thigh.

'Noah,' she squealed, gripping awkwardly at his shirt. He turned on his heel, carrying her to the bed in the corner of the room. With careful movements, he manoeuvred himself to kneel on the mattress, still holding her up.

'You said you want me privately, this is privately. What do you want now?' His voice was husky and full of desire. His hand ran up her thigh, tracing her spine before stopping at the back of her neck. He felt the shiver that ran through her, savouring her body trembling against him.

She looked down to his face, her forehead meeting his softly, her hair falling around them. 'I want all of you. Everything you want to give me.'

'Everything?' He asked, drinking in the scent of her.

'Everything you can give me without it feeling unfair.'

'And you're completely sure this isn't too much too fast for you?' He watched her expression closely, not seeing an ounce of hesitation. Her body gave him every signal to keep going.

'I'm sure. If you're okay with this, I'm okay with this.'

She pressed her lips to his, her legs tightening around his hips as he melted into her tender kiss. He carefully leaned forward, laying her down on the comforter and rolling his hips against her. He held himself over her, brushing her hair out of the way so he could move his lips to her neck. Her gentle sigh as he nipped at her skin sent a shiver down his spine. The sound became his new goal in life, he needed to hear what other sounds she could make.

Slowly, he moved down, kissing along her collarbone and down the V neck of her shirt. His strong hand rested on her breast, surprised but pleased to find she wasn't wearing a bra. Beneath the fabric, he could feel her nipple budding against his palm. Grazing his thumb across the sensitive little nub, her body arched against him.

He expertly slid his hand under her T-shirt and up to her breast, dragging his fingers around her nipple, teasing her. Her shirt lifted, exposing the pale skin of her stomach. Again, he trailed lower, kissing his way down to the band of her sweatpants, slung low on her hips.

'Noah,' she breathed, 'Please.' Her fingertips danced lightly across his muscled arms. Her touch sent waves of electricity across his skin, but her hesitation worried him.

Noah paused his assault, returning to her face and lowering himself to her lips, kissing her deeply before taking her hand and guiding it to his neck. As her skin grazed along his throat and around to the back of his neck, he let out a sigh.

'You never need to be afraid to touch me, baby,' he breathed, searching her eyes for the fear and disarming her. Her breath hitched, her grip on the nape of his neck tightening. 'That's it,' he encouraged, 'I'm yours, take me any way you want me.'

Y/N nodded, her hands exploring his skin and building her confidence. She ran her fingers down to his hips and back up his spine, sliding up under his shirt and discovering his broad, muscled shoulders.

Noah smirked before pushing himself back onto his knees. He reached for his shirt, fluidly pulling it over his head. It landed on the floor and Y/N marvelled at his body, his tattoos, his smile, his little laugh, everything about him was perfect.

His fingers moved to his belt, undoing the buckle, but the lighting speed as he yanked the belt from the loops of his pants? Y/N had never been so turned on by such a simple movement. With a knowing grin, Noah made a point to leave the belt within arms reach.

'Your turn,' he said lowly. He bent forward, gripping the fabric of her pants and gliding it down her legs. The feeling of his knuckles across her bare ass left goosebumps on her skin. He was so methodical, so desperate to know every part of her. Somehow, Noah managed to remove her pants, panties, and socks in one go. She was left bare from the waist down and stunned.

Before she had time to figure out how he had done it, he moved again. A lighting quick movement, and suddenly his head was between her legs and his tongue was against her. Y/N's body seemed to go into a strange form of shock, a delicious moan leaving her mouth and her hips convulsing against his tongue.

'Oh fuck, Noah!' She whined, her hands flying to his head, her fingers tangling in his hair. His lush tongue drew languid circles around her clitoris, her legs clamping over his ears and earning a soft chuckle from him.

Noah grinned against her for a moment, deciding this was how he wanted to die, face first in the sweetest pussy he had ever tasted. Her legs held his head tightly, trembling.

Confidently, he positioned his fingers, sliding two deeply into her. He could feel her excitement. Her pussy clenched hard around his fingers, almost sucking them in. As he searched for the magic bump on her upper wall, he took his free hand and gripped her outer thigh hard, holding it tightly to his head and encouraging her to squeeze.

Her heavy panting told him exactly where she was, and Noah was determined to run her ragged. As her first orgasm began to peak, her panting became moans, her grip on his hair tightening.

'Fuck... Fuck... Noah...' she panted, almost breaking his fingers. His cock twitched with envy. She was so deliciously close. His only question was if he should edge her or let her come.

As she began to spasm, his name falling from her lips in breathless waves, he decided to give her the orgasm she wanted.

Barely a moment passed before she came undone on his hand and tongue. Noah refused to stop, massaging her deeply and continuing to write his name on her most sensitive parts until her body was a writhing mess, barely able to speak his name.

With a smirk, he pulled back, seeing her beautiful flushed face wearing a tired grin.

'Jesus fucking Christ, Noah' she panted.

'Oh, baby, I'm just getting started,' he told her, a salacious grin on his wet lips. Her eyes widened, excited but nervous.

Noah stepped back off the bed, removing his pants and letting them fall to the floor. Y/N was almost surprised to see that he had no piercings or tattoos on his dick, given the rest of his body. However, he was well kept, and definitely big enough to get the job done.

As he crawled back over her, she could feel his wet tip grazing the skin of her thigh, making its way up to her throbbing entrance.

Noah kneeled, lifting her T-shirt up and pulling it off her body. For a moment they took in the sight of each other. Noah took her hand in his, leaning down so he could place it over his heart, her fingers splayed and palm flat.

'It's yours if you want it, all you have to do is take it,' he murmured, locking his fingers through hers. Y/N felt his pulse thrumming under her fingers. The look in his eyes told her everything she needed to know.

'Noah,' she breathed, 'Please...'

He smiled, leaning down and letting his hair fall around them, shrouding them from the outside world. Their breath mingled in the space between, creating an intoxicating fusion. Noah's lips pressed to Y/N's, his tongue gently running across her bruised lip. This time Y/N granted him entry, tasting herself on his tongue.

Y/N's fingers tangled in the hair at the base of Noah's scalp as she rolled her hips against him. She wanted him closer, desperate to feel him in every way.

Noah smirked as he broke the kiss, rising up and kneeling over her. He looked her over, seeing her pale skin flushed. Gingerly, he took her face in his hand, thumbing over her bottom lip again.

'Only I'm allowed to bite this, understand?' He purred. Y/N nodded obediently. 'Good.' His fingers began to descend, tracing a line down her body, grazing her collarbones, then her stomach, coming to rest on her hip.

With a firm grip, Noah wrapped his hands around her thighs again, hoisting them up so her entrance lined up with his cock. Once satisfied with her position, he placed a hand flat on her lower belly.

'Take a deep breath,' he instructed. Y/N did as she was told, breathing in deeply. Noah applied firm but gentle pressure to her lower belly, just above her pussy. 'Good,' he said, 'now breathe out slowly.'

As her breath left her body, Noah eased himself into her, his cock gliding through the pressure created by his hand and filling the space the air left behind, burying himself to the hilt. His head tipped back as she enveloped him, a soft groan leaving his throat.

'Holy fuck, Noah,' Y/N gasped. 'Where the fuck did you learn that?'

'I read things,' he said with a smirk, looking back down to her. 'Now, are you a tender girl? Or do you prefer rough?'

'Surprise me,' she said, her body aching for him. The evil glint in his eye only turned her on more.

Noah grinned, cautiously rolling his hips to thrust into her. She showed no signs of discomfort or hesitation, so he began to build a rhythm. Her eyes seemed to roll back into her head, telling him he was doing something right.

His hands trailed across her body, one reaching for her breast, the other for her neck. He rolled her nipple between his thumb and forefinger, eliciting more blissful whines from her.

'Fuck you're so beautiful,' he breathed, his thumb pressing on her throat lightly.

'Noah,' Y/N panted.

'Are you going to be my good girl?' He said, taking her chin in his hand and forcing her to look at him. Y/N could only nod. Anything he wanted, she would give him.

As quickly has he had pulled the belt from his pants, he reached for the leather strap and wrapped it around her wrists, pausing his rhythmic thrusts. He pulled the belt tight and offered the loose end to her lips.

'You want to bite something? Bite this. Hold it nice and tight for me, baby girl,' he instructed. Y/N took the leather into her mouth, following his orders and holding it so the tension on her wrists stayed firm. 'If you drop the belt, I'll stop, understand?'

She nodded quickly. Noah ran his thumb across her cheek, admiring the view. Her hands rested just above her pussy, her fingers stretched out to barely graze his skin. The leather of the belt ran up her body, disappearing in her cleavage as her bound arms forced her breasts together.

Agonisingly slowly, he drew himself out of her, watching her twitch in anticipation. He started softly, rolling his hips and letting his cock search for the spot on her upper wall. Each roll built up speed until his thrusts came quick and deep. His tattooed fingers clamped around her hip, his other hand working her clitoris with his thumb.

Y/N squirmed beneath him, her hips moving with his pace and her cheeks flushing bright as she fought to keep the belt clamped between her teeth. She wanted so badly to scream his name, but she would drop the belt and that meant he would stop. That was the last thing she wanted.

'Fuck, Y/N, I can feel how close you are,' Noah panted, feeling her muscles clenching and spasming around him. A twinge of pleasure ran up his body, making him grab at her thigh with a gasp.

The sudden movement made Y/N gasp, dropping the belt. Noah held true to his word, freezing as he buried himself deeply inside of her. He looked down at her sheepish face with a mischievous grin.

'So close, yet so far,' he said, breathing heavily. He slowly drew his cock out of her, almost expecting a pop, and lifted her up by pulling the strap of the belt. She sat up, her face just underneath his as he gazed down into her eyes.

'Have you ever ridden with your hands behind your back?'

Her cheeks turned pink, chewing her lip again. His hand found her cheek once more, pulling her lip away.

'What did I tell you? Only I'm allowed to bite this.' He leaned in, kissing her deeply and biting her lip hard. She winced at first, but her body melted into his, showing him she was more than okay.

Noah ran his fingers up her spine before repositioning. He fell back onto the bed, guiding her to straddle him by leading her with the belt. Carefully, Y/N balanced herself over him.

'Good girl, now lean down,' he guided, pulling her down to his face, her breasts brushing on his chest. He released her wrists from the belt, and she put her arms behind her back. 'Good,' he praised softly. Noah kissed her forehead as he bound her arms behind her back.

'You're a bit kinkier than I gave you credit for,' Y/N said, a giggle in her tone.

'Says the girl who knew exactly what to do.' Noah's flat palm slid down her body in the space between them. His fingers curled up, finding her slick pussy and sliding back into her with ease.

'Fuck...' she breathed, her body collapsing on top of him, her forehead on his and their noses brushing.

'God, I love it when you say that,' Noah told her, biting at her lip again. Another moan left her mouth, and her pussy clenched around his fingers, making his dick twitch in envy again.

She whined as his fingers retreated, but she rose up with ease. Y/N balanced herself over his stiff cock, carefully positioning herself and lowering down until the tip popped in. Noah's head fell back again, feeling her sink down onto him was almost enough to make him come.

'Fuck, Y/N, you feel so good.' Noah looked up to see his good girl, her arms bound behind her making her back arch. Her breasts on full display, watching as her body swallowed his cock.

And then she began to move. Leaning back, she supported herself on his knees, starting to roll her hips on his cock. Bit by bit the movements got bigger, drawing further out and plunging back into her as she bounced.

'Noah, I can't hold out much longer,' she panted.

'That's what I'm counting on,' he told her, reaching for her pussy. His fingers found her clitoris, massaging it as she fucked him. Her soft moans became louder.

'Fuck,' she whined, 'Noah, Noah.' She desperately tried to maintain her rhythm, but the orgasm shook her quickly, her pussy clenching hard on his cock. Noah groaned, her walls tightening and stroking him almost had him, but he wasn't done yet.

Y/N collapsed forward onto him again, her breathing heavy. He wrapped his arms around her spent form, kissing the top of her hair as her head rested on his chest.

'Breathe, baby,' he told her, letting her rest for a moment, 'I'm not done with you. One more, and then you're done.'

'One... More?' Y/N panted incredulously.

'This time, we come together, understood?'

'Understood,' she said, nodding. While she caught her breath, Noah released her arms from the belt, kissing her head and face wherever he could reach. As her breaths evened out, she looked up to him.

'Ready?' He asked. She nodded simply. Noah tangled their legs together, holding tightly around her back before rolling the pair of them. They moved in unison, Y/N now lying perfectly under him, his cock still buried in her tender pussy.

Y/N didn't get a chance to speak before Noah began to move. His thrusts came quicker, deeper than before. He reached a hand between them, tracing circles over her clitoris, and leaned in to kiss her deeply.

Y/N could feel her body revolting. One wasn't going to be enough. Noah could feel her pussy clenching already, his own orgasm growing closer. Her eyes rolled back, her body arching into his and her hands scrambling for purchase on his muscled arms.

The way her body responded to him built that familiar feeling in his gut, the warmth spreading through him. Soft grunts and groans left his mouth as she squeezed her thighs around his hips.

Noah dived down, taking her lip between his teeth again. He wanted to hear every sound Y/N could make, to taste every part of her. He wanted to own her, to be owned by her, words couldn't describe how much he needed her.

The change in position allowed him to thrust up into her, grazing that perfect spot again. A string of profanity passed her lips in panting bliss, making Noah smile as he kissed across her skin, only pausing at the spot just below her ear. He took her face, turning it to the side and exposing her neck. He trailed down her neck with few kisses, and then a firm bite, grazing his teeth along her tender skin. The squeal she made was all the approval he needed.

'Fuck, Y/N I'm so close,' he panted, coming back to her face. She nodded at him, her breaths ragged as she craned her neck to bite at his lip. Lightning shot down Noah's spine as he moaned. He could feel the tension begging to be released. He needed to come, and it needed to be inside her.

'God, Noah, baby please,' Y/N begged, her hands raking down his back in utter bliss. Another minor orgasm rocked her body, squeezing her walls tighter around him. She gripped at his hair, firing a wave of sparks across his scalp and down his back again.

'Fuck, now, baby,' he commanded through a gasping breath. Noah's high came racing on, the tight feeling in his lower stomach finally releasing. He refused to relent, thrusting spasmodically through his orgasm. Y/N matched his pace, her leg wrapping around his and crying out as another orgasm took over her.

'Noah! Fuck, Noah!' Y/N cried out, her arms tightening around his neck and holding his body to hers. The sound of his panting and moaning in her ear only added to her aftershocks. She could feel his cock twitching inside of her, knowing she would be dripping when he finally pulled himself out.

Spent, Noah laid himself gently on top of her, his head on her heaving chest and his hands running up her sides. Y/N felt his eyelashes brushing on her bare skin, tickling her breast. His heavy breathing matched hers. Looking down, she fell in love with the view. His deep brown eyes looking lazily up at her, filled with all the love in the world.

Y/N ran her fingers up his spine, feeling the muscles beneath his tattooed skin twitching at her tender touch. Noah hummed softly, a smile creeping across his lips.

'I could get used to this,' she said, letting out a long breath.

'You may have to, I don't think I can move,' Noah joked.

'I definitely can't, I can't feel my legs.' Noah reached down, finding her thigh and feeling her trembling legs. He massaged her leg with lazy strokes of his palm, earning a giggle from her.

'Oh yeah, these are definitely broken,' he mused, his hand splayed over her pale skin. He chuckled, moving his hand to scribble a pattern on her thigh with a single finger.

'What the fuck are you doing?' Y/N laughed.

'Signing my name, I was always told to sign my best work.' Noah grinned up at her, his cheeks flushed.

'For fucks sake.' Y/N ran her fingers through his hair, brushing it away from his face and cupping his warm cheek. Noah took her hand in his, pressing it to his lips and kissing her palm gently.

'So do you want it?' He asked softly.

'Hmm?'

With shaky limbs, Noah moved, carefully pulling himself out of her and smirking as she shook. He moved to her side, lying down on his back beside her and inviting her to cuddle into him. Y/N happily obliged, resting her head on his shoulder and draping her arm over his chest.

Noah took her hand, resting it over his heart once more. 'This,' he murmured, 'do you want it?'

Y/N smiled, understanding what he meant. She looked up to his face, guiding his hand from his chest to hers.

'Only if you take this,' she said. Noah could feel her pulse thundering beneath her skin. Her beautiful heart, beating for him if he wanted it.

'Anything for you.' He pressed a kiss to her forehead, closing his eyes and letting the scent of her fill his mind. The feeling of her soft body curling into his, their entwined hands, the sound of her breathing...

Noah never thought he could love someone so much so quickly, but here she was. Everything he never knew he wanted, wrapped in his arms and holding his heart.

'Promise me something?' He asked her softly.

'Mm?' She hummed, sleepily turning her face to his.

'Promise me you'll call me if you need someone? I don't need to know everything, but I need to know you're safe.' He reached for the edge of the blanket, tossing it over them to keep her warm.

'I promise I'll try,' she nodded, kissing his cheek. 'It might take a minute to get used to it, but I'll try.'

'That's all I ask,' Noah said, watching her eyes close as she nestled into the crook of his neck.

Noah let his eyes close, feeling a peace he hadn't felt in a very long time. Listening to the sound of her breathing, he kept her safe and warm while she dozed off in his arms.

'I love you,' he whispered as he dozed, feeling the corner of her lip twitch with a smile against his skin.

[songbirdseung]

angry angel / park jongseong

synopsis: you say I deserve better but what could be better than you?

pairing: jay x reader, grumpy x sunshine

warnings: arguments, hinting at a breakup, angtsy (cause that's all i know) but still fluff in the end, lmk if i missed anything

wc: 3k

You always wondered why he told you to keep the key to the padlock when you both pushed the latch of the lock that is supposed to symbolize unbreakable love. Wasn't the whole purpose of the love locks being to throw the key into the water to show that the love lock would be bound to the railing, just like how you two were to each other?

When you started dating Park Jongseong, all you friends questioned your taste and judged your decision-making skills. Since you two were the complete opposites, it didn't seem right for little miss sunshine to pair up with Mr. grumpy pants.

But something about that serious and nonchalant behavior, you saw a gentleman and a committed lover. To which he was, he was no lovey dovey prince charming. But you were so attracted and drawn to the person he was. You were just hoping that one day, you'll get to the bright side of Park Jongseong, the cute and soft side.

For Jay, his friends felt the same. They were always expecting Jay to settle down with someone who was like him, so when you walked in the room holding his hand; let's just say shock was an understatement. When they were told, they were going to meet his girlfriend, they thought a sophisticated, old money kind of vibe, laid back woman would show up. But there you were with your bubbly and friendly personality.

Nonetheless, they loved and adored you. It was something they definitely teased Jay about once he arrived back to the house after dropping you back home.

Jake, Heeseung, and Sunghoon are lounging on the couch, chatting and laughing. Jay enters, looking a bit flustered but trying to maintain his usual composed demeanor.

Grinning mischievously "Well, well, well, look who's back from his romantic rendezvous." Jake says. Jay raises an eyebrow "Very funny, Jake. Can we not start this?"

"Oh, come on, Jay. Don't be such a killjoy. We're just curious about your date with YN."

"Yeah, we're dying to know how Mr. Serious managed to snag such a bubbly girl like her." Hearing this from Sunghoon, Jay sighs "She's not that bubbly.

"Oh, really? Because when she walked in here earlier, she practically lit up the room with her energy."

"Yeah, and compared to her, you look like you're about to give a lecture on quantum physics."

Jay was used it, but he did share the same thought on how he managed to start a relationship with you and why were you both so attracted to one another.

But that did not change the fact that he did love you and did do things that you never expected from him.

Every morning, you wake up to the smell of freshly brewed coffee and the sound of Jay bustling around the kitchen. Despite his grumpy demeanor before his first cup of joe, he always manages to make you a perfect cup, just the way you like it. As you sip your coffee, Jay places a gentle kiss on your forehead, mumbling a sleepy "Good morning, beautiful" before heading off to tackle the day.

Or after a long day at work, you come home exhausted and stressed. Jay, despite being equally drained from his own day, immediately springs into action. He starts preparing your favorite comfort food, humming a tune to himself as he works. As you sit down to eat, he listens intently to your day, offering words of encouragement and support, reminding you how capable you are even when you feel overwhelmed.

Even that one evening, you're feeling particularly down about a personal setback. Jay, knowing how much you love spending time outdoors, suggests taking a spontaneous evening walk together. Despite his initial reluctance, he puts aside his own concerns to focus on cheering you up. As you stroll through the park hand in hand, he shares stories and jokes, doing his best to bring a smile to your face.

But the funny thing was in public, you two weren't even seen as a couple since both of your aesthetics don't even blend. A few to mention; You and Jay decide to grab dinner at a trendy restaurant downtown. As you walk in, Jay, dressed in his usual business casual attire, heads straight for the bar while you, in your bright and colorful ensemble, take a moment to admire the decor. As you wait for your table, you catch the curious glances of other patrons.

"Excuse me, are you waiting for someone?"

"Oh, yes, my boyfriend. He went to grab us some drinks."

Jay returns with drinks and wraps an arm around your waist, prompting surprised murmurs and raised eyebrows from nearby diners.

Then, at a friend's party, you and Jay arrive separately due to conflicting schedules. You, in your vibrant and flowery dress, mingle with the guests, while Jay, in his usual attire and his blazer hangs back near the snack table. Throughout the evening, friends and acquaintances approach you.

"Hey there! I didn't know you were single! You're always out and about on your own."

"Actually, I'm here with Jay. He's around here somewhere."

Also, during a weekend shopping trip, you and Jay browse through stores at opposite ends of the mall. As you peruse the racks of colorful dresses, you overhear nearby shoppers speculating about your relationship status.

"Look at her, all dressed up and shopping alone. Must be single."

"Actually, I'm here with my boyfriend. He's probably browsing in a different section." Jay unexpectedly appears by your side, pulls you into his arms for a quick kiss.

Over the years, they created countless memories together, each moment etched into the fabric of their shared history. You two explored the city's hidden gems, from markets to serene parks, finding beauty in the ordinary and joy in each other's company. Jay, with his practical nature, was always there to ground you when your dreams soared too high, while you, with your boundless optimism, infused Jay's world with color and light.

The love you had for one another was not without its challenges, of course. There were moments of doubt and uncertainty, times when you and he clashed and disagreed. But through it all, you both remained steadfast in their commitment to each other, weathering the storms of life with unwavering strength and resilience.

As the chatter and laughter filled the air at their friend's get-together, Jay found himself engaged in a conversation with Jake, one of his closest friends. They stood by the drinks table, sipping on their beers as they caught up on each other's lives.

"So, how's work been treating you lately?" Jake asked, leaning in with genuine interest.

"It's been alright, you know, the usual grind," Jay replied, his attention momentarily diverted by the sight of you across the room, deep in conversation with another guest.

Jake noticed the shift in Jay's demeanor and followed his gaze. "Hey, everything okay?" he asked, concern evident in his voice.

"Yeah, yeah, everything's fine," Jay muttered, his eyes still fixed on Yn and the other man, who seemed to be hitting it off effortlessly.

Jake raised an eyebrow, sensing his friend's unease. "You sure about that? You seem a little distracted."

Jay sighed, torn between wanting to trust Yn and the gnawing feeling of insecurity creeping into his mind. "I don't know, man. It's just… seeing her talking to that guy over there, they seem to have so much in common, you know? They're laughing and joking like old friends."

Jake nodded in understanding, placing a reassuring hand on Jay's shoulder. "I get it, but you gotta remember, Yn chose you for a reason. You two have something special that goes beyond shared interests. Trust in your connection, mate."

Jay nodded slowly, his thoughts swirling as he tried to shake off the nagging doubts clouding his mind. "Yeah, you're right. Thanks, Jake. I needed to hear that."

As the day rolled on, the group migrated to Heeseung's place for some video game fun. Jay settled in next to you, eager to spend more time together after the earlier bout of insecurity. However, his hopes were quickly dashed when you turned to Sunoo, suggesting to team up for Mario Kart.

Confusion and hurt flickered across Jay's face as he struggled to comprehend your unexpected choice. He had been looking forward to bonding with you, but now it seemed like you had other plans.

"You sure you want to team up with Sunoo?" Jay asked, trying to keep his tone light despite the turmoil brewing inside him.

You glanced at Jay, her expression guarded. "Well, you never really cared for video games, Jay. I figured you wouldn't want to play with me anyway," she replied.

Jay's heart sank at your words, the sting of jealousy and insecurity gnawing at him from within. He wanted to protest, to assure you that he did want to play with you, but the words caught in his throat, drowned out by the weight of his emotions.

With a forced smile, Jay simply nodded, his silence betraying the turmoil raging beneath the surface. As you and Sunoo dove into the game together, laughter and joy filling the room, Jay couldn't shake the feeling of being left out, of being replaced by someone who shared your interests more closely.

As the game progressed, Jay's thoughts spiraled, his jealousy and insecurity consuming him from within. He watched you and Sunoo's playful banter, their shared excitement over each victory, and felt a pang of longing for the connection they seemed to share.

But amidst the turmoil, a small voice in Jay's mind reminded him of the strength of his bond with you, of the countless moments they had shared together, each one a testament to their love and commitment to each other.

As the evening drew to a close and it was time to say their goodbyes, Jay watched you flit from friend to friend, your infectious laughter and warm hugs filling the room. He couldn't help but marvel at how effortlessly you connected with others, a social butterfly in her element.

Meanwhile, Jay lingered on the outskirts of the group, his own circle of friends much smaller in comparison. He had always been more reserved, more comfortable in the company of a select few rather than a bustling crowd. And yet, seeing you thrive in the midst of so many people, he couldn't help but feel a twinge of inadequacy creeping into his thoughts.

As you bid farewell to each of her friends, Jay's gaze lingered on your interactions, he noticed your exchange with Sunoo. You two made plans to meet up again tomorrow, a casual invitation that seemed to hang in the air between them.

Soon after, you walk up to him. "Ready to go, baby?" taking a hold of his hands and placing them around her waist, then proceeding to place her hands round his neck pulling him closer. "Yeah, let's head home."

As they made their way home in silence, Jay couldn't shake the feeling of unease that settled over him like a heavy cloak. He longed to voice his concerns, to express the insecurity gnawing at him from within, but the words remained trapped in his throat, unsaid and unresolved.

Deep down, Jay knew that his feelings stemmed not from any fault of your, but from his own struggles with self-doubt and insecurity. He knew that you loved him for who he was, differences and all, and yet, the fear of losing her to someone more like her lingered in the recesses of his mind, a nagging doubt that refused to be silenced.

"Hey, Yn," Jay began, his voice hesitant yet determined, "what are your plans for tomorrow?"

You turned to him "Oh, I'm going go-carting and to this cute arcade cafe with Sunoo," you replied, a smile tugging at the corners of your lips.

"Why not with me?" Jay blurted out before he could stop himself, his words tinged with a hint of desperation.

Your expression softened, a flicker of understanding crossing your features. "Well, you mentioned before that you weren't interested in doing those things," you explained gently, reaching out to squeeze his hand reassuringly.

Jay felt a wave of remorse wash over him at her words, a bitter taste of regret flooding his senses. "I… I know," Jay murmured, his voice barely above a whisper. "I'm sorry, Yn. I shouldn't have said that. I… I regret it now."

Yn offered him a sympathetic smile, her eyes soft with understanding. "It's okay, Jay." Jay took a deep breath and mustered up a small smile. "Just… be safe tomorrow, okay? And have fun," he said, his words laced with genuine warmth and sincerity.

You nodded, returning his smile with one of your own. "I will. Thank you, Jay," you replied, voice filled with affection.

As the weeks passed by, Jay couldn't shake the growing unease that settled in the pit of his stomach. He watched from the sidelines as you and Sunoo grew closer, bond seemingly strengthening with each passing day. They laughed together, shared inside jokes, and spent more time together than Jay and you did. And with each passing moment, Jay felt the distance between them widening, a gaping chasm that threatened to swallow him whole.

Unable to bear the weight of his doubts any longer, Jay knew he had to confront you about the growing rift between them. He waited for the perfect moment, a quiet evening at home when the world seemed to stand still around them.

"Yn, can we talk?" Jay asked, his voice trembling with uncertainty as he watched her from across the room.

You glanced up from her book, sensing the gravity of Jay's words. "Of course, Jay. What's on your mind?" you replied, setting the book aside and giving him your full attention.

Taking a deep breath, Jay sat down beside you, his heart heavy with the weight of his words. "I've been doing a lot of thinking lately, and… I don't think this is working anymore," he began, his voice barely above a whisper.

Your eyes widened in shock, a flicker of hurt flashing across your features. "What do you mean?" you asked, voice barely a whisper.

"I mean… I think we should break up," Jay admitted, his words hanging in the air between them like a heavy cloud.

But before he could say anything more, you reached out and placed a gentle hand on his arm, touch a comforting anchor in the storm of his emotions.

"No, Jay," you said firmly "We're not breaking up until you tell me what's really going on."

Jay swallowed hard, the lump in his throat making it difficult to speak. "I just… I feel like you deserve better," he confessed, his voice barely audible.

Your brows furrowed in confusion, your eyes searching his face for answers. "Better? What are you talking about, Jay?"

"You deserve someone who's like you," Jay continued, his words tumbling out in a rush. "Someone who shares your interests, your personality… Someone who can make you happy in a way that I can't."

But before he could say anything more, you cut him off.

"Why can't you be that 'better' man for me, Jay?" you asked, "Why do you think I need someone who's exactly like me? I fell in love with you, not some carbon copy of myself."

Jay blinked in surprise, taken aback by your words. He had never considered that he could be enough for you, just as he was.

As you and Jay sat together, enveloped in the warmth of your embrace, you felt a rush of emotions wash over you. With a deep breath, you took Jay's hands in yours, your gaze locking with his as you poured your heart out.

"Jay, I want you to know that I've always tried my best to support you and your interests," you began, your voice filled with sincerity. "I may not share all of them, but I've put in effort to understand and appreciate the things you love. Remember when I spent hours learning about vintage cars just so I could have meaningful conversations with you? Or the time I surprised you with tickets to that basketball game, even though sports aren't really my thing?"

Jay's eyes softened as he listened to your words, a flicker of realization dawning in his eyes. He had never fully appreciated the lengths you went to in order to connect with him, to bridge the gap between your differences and find common ground.

"And it's not just about the big gestures," you continued, your voice growing more earnest with each word. "It's the little things too, like making your favorite meal even when I'm tired, or watching that action movie marathon with you even though I prefer rom-coms. I've done all of that because I love you, Jay, and because I believe in us."

"I'm sorry, Yn," Jay whispered, his voice choked with emotion. "I've been so blind to everything you've done for me, so focused on my own insecurities that I failed to see the love and effort you've poured into our relationship."

As the tender moment between you and Jay lingered, a playful glint sparked in your eyes, and a mischievous grin spread across your face. "You know, Jay," you teased, your voice filled with playful banter, "I was just thinking about heading to that tower where we placed our love lock. Maybe I'll grab the key, just to keep you on your toes."

Jay's eyes widened in mock horror, a playful gasp escaping his lips. "You wouldn't dare!" he exclaimed, his tone mockingly dramatic.

You laughed, the sound echoing through the room like music to Jay's ears. "Oh, you know me, Jay. I'm full of surprises," you replied, a twinkle of mischief dancing in your eyes.

As the laughter subsided, curiosity sparked in your mind, and you turned to Jay with a quizzical expression. "Speaking of the love lock," you began, "why did you tell me to keep the key instead of throwing it into the water like you're supposed to?"

Jay's gaze softened as he looked at you, a fond smile tugging at the corners of his lips. "Well, Yn," he began, his voice tinged with warmth, "I wanted us to have a reminder of our love, something tangible that we could hold onto, even when times get tough."

You nodded in understanding, touched by Jay's sentiment. "That's sweet, Jay," you replied, your voice soft with emotion. "I'm glad we have that reminder, especially on days like today when we need it the most."

With a gentle sigh, Jay pulled you closer, his arms wrapping around you in a comforting embrace. "Me too, Yn," he murmured, pressing a tender kiss to your forehead. "Me too."

As you continued to bask in the warmth of your embrace with Jay, a playful glint still dancing in your eyes, you couldn't resist teasing him a little more. "You know, Jay," you teased, your voice laced with amusement, "you were actually kind of cute when you were jealous of Sunoo."

Jay's eyes widened in surprise, his cheeks flushing slightly at your words. "Wait, you knew I was jealous?" he asked, his voice tinged with disbelief.

You chuckled softly, reaching up to gently stroke his cheek. "Of course I did, Jay," you replied, your tone affectionate. "You weren't as good at hiding it as you thought you were."

Jay shook his head in disbelief, a sheepish smile spreading across his face. "I guess I need to work on my poker face," he admitted, his voice tinged with self-deprecation.

With a soft giggle, you leaned in to press a tender kiss to Jay's lips, your heart swelling with love for the man beside you. "Don't worry, Jay," you reassured him, your voice filled with warmth. "I love you just the way you are, jealousy and all."

As Jay's arms tightened around you, holding you close as if afraid to let go, you couldn't help but feel a surge of gratitude for the love you shared. "And besides," you continued, your voice growing more serious, "why would I ever want to end our two-year relationship over something as silly as jealousy? We've been through so much together, Jay, and I wouldn't trade that for anything in the world."

With a tender smile, Jay pressed a lingering kiss to your forehead, his love for you shining brightly in his eyes. "Neither would I, Yn," he murmured, his voice filled with sincerity. "Neither would I." And as you melted into his embrace, the doubts and insecurities that had once plagued you melting away, you knew that as long as you had each other, you could weather any storm that came your way. For in each other's arms, you had found your home, your sanctuary, your forever.

[eternaldecisions]

˙ . ꒷ slytherin!matt . 𖦹˙—

slytherin ! matt pays for you, as you didn’t bring money.

you step off the carriage, your boots sinking slightly into the snow-covered cobblestones of Hogsmeade. The winter air nips at your cheeks, and a shiver runs down your spine. The faint glow of fairy lights hanging from the eaves of the shops twinkle through the falling snowflakes, making the whole place look like something out of a storybook.

you inhale deeply, the comforting scent of pumpkin pasties and the spiced aroma of butterbeer mingling with the crispness of the snow. The stress of recent exams slowly begins to melt away with every breath you take. This was exactly what you needed—a day to yourself, to wander through the village.

pushing open the heavy wooden door, a little bell jingles overhead, announcing your arrival. Inside, the warmth is immediate, and you smile as you take in the rows upon rows of sweets, each more colorful and whimsical than the last. You approach the counter, where a friendly witch with rosy cheeks stands ready to take your order.

“Just a simple Honeydukes bar, please,” you say with a soft smile, your voice almost getting lost in the lively hum of the shop. As she nods and turns to prepare it, you let your gaze wander around the cozy interior. Your eyes trace the shelves stacked with Chocolate Frogs, Bertie Bott's every flavour beans, and glittering sugar quills.

but then, as your eyes move towards the far end of the shop, they land on a familiar figure. Matt, with his brunette hair and that unmistakable crooked grin, is standing with a group of his friends, laughing at something one of them just said. Your heart skips a beat, and you quickly turn your head, hoping he hasn’t seen you.

why no matter where you went, Matt always seemed to be there? It was like an invisible thread tied you together, pulling him into your orbit every time you tried to get some space. You can’t help but wonder if he feels the same, if he ever notices this strange connection as much as you do

you try to focus on something else, anything else, but it’s impossible to ignore the way your heart races whenever he’s near. The bell on the door rings again, and for a split second, you think about leaving before he spots you, but before you can move, you hear the familiar, almost musical sound of his laughter.

taking a deep breath, you remind yourself that today is supposed to be about you, about finding peace and enjoyment in the little things, like a simple chocolate bar from Honeydukes. You try to center yourself, grounding your thoughts on the warmth of the shop, the comforting smells, and the gentle hum of people around you.

but as you glance up, you catch his reflection in the glass display case—a small, almost imperceptible moment where his eyes meet yours through the array of shimmering sweets. It’s brief, just a flicker, but enough to send a rush of warmth through you, even in the middle of the winter chill.

you couldn’t help but glance at Matt’s outfit as he walked past, your eyes drawn to the boldness of his red and black plaid jacket. The large checks of the fabric seemed to suit him perfectly, the rich colors standing out against the muted tones of the snowy surroundings. The jacket had an intriguing design—both classic and modern, effortlessly blending style with comfort.

his baggy black pants completed the look, adding a casual, laid-back vibe to his ensemble. They hung loosely around his legs, the fabric swaying slightly as he moved, giving him an air of confidence.

you quickly snap out of your trance, Matt’s presence momentarily forgotten as the witch behind the counter breaks the silence. “Honey? That will be $2.65, please,” she says kindly, her voice warm and patient. You reach for your skirt pocket, expecting to feel the familiar texture of your coin pouch. But your fingers meet nothing but the smooth fabric. A wave of panic washes over you as you realize you’ve left your money back in your room. How could you have been so careless and forget about a important thing?

“I-I didn’t bring…” you stammer quietly, your voice barely above a whisper. Embarrassment colors your cheeks as the reality of your situation sets in. The thought of having to tell the kind witch you couldn’t pay, and possibly upsetting her, knots your stomach with nerves. You curse yourself inwardly, feeling foolish.

but before the witch can respond, a shadow falls over you, and suddenly Matt is beside you, his presence both unexpected and disarming. He doesn’t say a word as he smoothly places a bill on the counter, paying for your purchase without a second thought. The witch smiles and takes the money, handing him the change before moving on to help the next customer.

your mouth falls open in shock, eyes wide as you look up at Matt. Of all people, he was the last person you’d expected to step in and help. Yet here he was, composed, as if it were the most natural thing in the world. You’re surprised, and more than a little flustered.

“Sweetheart,” Matt says with a chuckle, the nickname rolling off his tongue with ease, “I expected you to be smart enough not to forget your money in your room.”

His tone is teasing, but there’s a warmth in his eyes that makes your heart skip a beat. You feel a mix of emotions—gratitude, embarrassment, and a flutter of something else that you can’t quite place. All you can do is nod, managing a small, sheepish smile in response, the words you want to say tangled up in your throat.

"Why would you ever pay for it?" you blurt out, the words slipping past your lips before you can catch them. Gratitude hangs somewhere in the back of your mind, but curiosity and confusion push it aside.

Matt’s response is a low chuckle, the sound rolling effortlessly off his tongue, as if the whole situation is amusing to him. He glances at you, a glint of mischief dancing in his eyes, and shrugs nonchalantly.

“Felt generous,” he says, as though it’s the simplest explanation in the world. “Didn’t really feel like watching you embarrass yourself in front of everyone in here.” His tone is teasing, but not unkind, more like he’s pointing out something endearing rather than a fault. “Besides,” he adds, his grin widening, “forgetting about money? That’s quite a move. Thought you might need a little saving.”

you shake your head, trying to hide the warmth creeping into your cheeks. “Well, it’s not like I planned to forget,” you retort, but your voice is softer, the initial embarrassment slowly fading.

“That’s the nicest I’ve caught you being," you chuckle, your voice softening as you glance up at Matt. Your eyes linger on his jawline, tracing the sharp angles, before drifting down to his hands. Two silver rings catch the light, glinting like promises unspoken. You can't help but imagine what it would feel like to have that cold metal brush against your skin, preferably, feeling it against your thighs, his fingers pumping in and ou- no, you can’t think about dirty thoughts,not certainly with Matthew.

Matt’s smirk deepens as he catches the flicker of something more in your eyes, something that sends a subtle charge through the air between you. He leans in just slightly, his voice dropping to a near whisper, "Careful. I might start thinking you’re enjoying my company."

your heart skips a beat as the space between you seems to shrink. His words are laced with a hint of challenge, a dare that you can feel humming beneath the surface. You let out a soft laugh, trying to keep things light, but the tension lingers, wrapping around you like a slow, tightening coil.

“Maybe I am,” you reply, the words slipping out before you can second-guess them. There’s a boldness to your tone that surprises even you. You glance back at his hands, those silver rings now a magnet for your gaze, drawing you in with a pull that’s hard to resist.

Matt’s eyes follow yours, and for a moment, it feels as if the world has stopped, leaving just the two of you suspended in this moment of possibility, and once again, you’rs wondering what it would feel like if he reached out, if those cold bands of metal met your skin, sending a shiver down your spine.

“You should be careful with thoughts like that,” he murmurs, his voice smooth, but there’s an edge to it—a warning, or perhaps an invitation. The way he looks at you now, his gaze steady and unreadable, makes your breath catch. It’s as though he’s daring you to take the next step, to close the gap that hangs between curiosity and something much more dangerous.

and as you meet his eyes, a thrill runs through you—a thrill that whispers of all the things you’ve only ever imagined but never dared to reach for.

the air between you thickens, charged with an electricity that neither of you can ignore. Matt’s eyes darken, and there’s a tension in his jaw, a flicker of restraint that only makes your pulse race faster. He shifts slightly closer, his presence overwhelming in the best way, making it harder to remember why you should be cautious, why you should hold back.

“Am I being too reckless?” you ask, your voice barely above a whisper, though it carries the weight of a deeper question. You’re not just talking about your words; you’re talking about the line you’re both toeing, the unspoken boundary that’s grown thinner with every second.

his gaze flickers down to your lips, just for a heartbeat, but it’s enough to send warmth pooling low in your belly. “Maybe,” he replies, his voice rougher now, the careful control slipping just enough for you to catch a glimpse of the desire simmering beneath. “But that’s never stopped you before, has it?”

the way he says it, almost like a challenge, like he knows exactly what he’s doing to you, makes you ache with a need that’s becoming harder to deny. You don’t move away, don’t even flinch, as he reaches out, his fingers brushing lightly against your arm, the heat rising in your skin each second passing.

it’s the smallest touch, barely there, but it feels like a touch you wanna feel it every minute. His thumb traces a slow, deliberate path, leaving a trail of fire in its wake, and you can’t stop the soft gasp that escapes your lips. Your eyes meet his, and you see the resolve in them waver, just for a second, before he leans in closer, his breath warm against your ear.

“I can’t promise you this won’t end badly, sweetheart,” he murmurs, his voice so low it sends a shiver down your spine. “But if you want to keep going… I won’t stop you.”

his words hang in the air, heavy with anticipation, and you realize the decision is yours now. The space between you is a heartbeat away from disappearing entirely, and the temptation to cross it, to feel his hands—those rings—against your skin, grows stronger with every passing moment.

but just as the tension reaches its peak, Matt pulls back, his expression shifting to something more guarded, but the smirk still there. The warmth that had been building between you cools in an instant, leaving you feeling suddenly exposed.

“This is not the end of our banter,” he says, more to himself than to you, as if wrestling with some inner conflict. His hand drops from your arm.

for a moment, he lingers, his eyes searching yours, as if he’s about to say something more. But then, without another word, he turns and walks away, leaving you standing there with a mix of needing and disappointment churning in your chest.

but you’re not letting him tease you with his touch like he’s winning.

a/n: i love but just love edging 🤭🤭 hope this is good prayer

[primejourney]

Aloha!

Here is my belated submission for the Sept-Ingo prompt GHOST! I was inspired by Hisuian Typhlosian's Pokedex description -- it states that the species benevolently eats lost spirits to help guide them to the afterlife. Additionally, Ingo strikes me as a "ghost" in a poetic sense, in that he is someone displaced in time, a "ghost" of the future, so to speak.

With all that said, I thought it'd be kind of funny for a Hisui Typhlosion to get a bit confused, lol. Although realistically, it would probably tell Ingo is a living person, I'm conjecturing here that Ingo gives off enough vibes similar to lost spirits (forgotten memories, a lonely aura, a sense of being displaced in time/space, etc.) to make it second-guess itself!

btw i hate having to say this but the weirdness of the internet gives me paranoia: Akari's Typhlosion is being motherly here! please don't tag as a ship i beg of you

More comments under the cut

This Typhlosion is Akari's, and she is a very nurturing, motherly type—a bit like a sweet grandma, lol. Hisuian Typhlosions strike me as gentle and kind despite being a little eerie and mysterious. They are friendly psychopomps, after all!!

Although Akari helps her understand that Ingo is indeed not a ghost to be eaten, I imagine she still goes out of her way to dote on Ingo (probably as much as she does so for Akari!). She does not see age -- everyone is a potential child to her lollll.

Ingo is not sure how to feel about this. After almost losing his beloved hat, he probably is a little wary of her at first (I think losing his hat is one way to make the composed man panic! It is one of his very few beloved possessions, and it holds strong meaning to him, even though he doesn't remember why completely). It doesn't take very long for him to warm up to the silly team mom fire badger, however. :)

Hmm, I need to come up with a name for her! You guys have any ideas? >0>

[mischiefmaker615]

I Told You So (2 of 2)

Credit: Shoutout to @darknessawaits28 who's roleplayed this storyline with me to make this one shot(s) possible! she and i both worked hard on it so please give her a follow :D enjoy!

Summary: Ignoring Loki's warnings, you blew off the fact that you might have yourself a bit of a stalker at work. When one thing leads to another, you find out you should have listened to your boyfriend.

Rating: R *dark warning!*

Song: Somebody's Watching Me by Rockwell

Note: Happy Spooky Season!

~Promp inspired by the photo actually :3

Sarah grinned from across the way while you put your apron on in a rush to help her keep up with coffee orders.

‘’..what?”

‘’your regular is here.’’ She teased.

‘’..so?” you shrug though your eyes gave a quite glance over to his usual seating area by the window.

He was blocking your view by the usual newspaper he would tend to bring in most days. If he didn’t, he usually opted to staring at you while you did your best not to feel awkward or drop anything by the fate of embarrassment. Something about his complexion always sort of reminded you of Loki’s- from his clean cut face and chiseled cheekbones, right down to the height and black hair he kept short. He always seemed to sport a suit, you often wondered if he came from the business buildings across the street- but he often avoided talking about himself and took interest in asking you questions about yourself. It was harmless at times and you often just answered what he wanted to know while he ate and drank the same thing he always got when he came here.. today he had nothing at his table.

‘’he didn’t order anything yet and he’s been here for like.. 15 minutes. I think he’s been waiting for you’’ she winked playfully, earning herself an eye roll as you pick up your notebook and pen- not that you’d need it, he always got the same thing.

Approaching the man now, he didn’t lower his paper until you had taken your last step to stand in front of him, almost as if he knew you were there. His smile was gentle, eyes soft as they gave a recognition to your presence while his ankles remained crossed to match his casual posture. ‘’there is my favorite server.’’ He teased.

You gave a friendly smile and waved the notebook a little. ‘’I’ll be assuming I won’t be needing this?”

‘’the usual please.’’ He grinned and leaned on his forearms, each hand resting on his elbows while he leaned forward. He almost gave off the vibe like his eyes would look you over but they never had.. not while you faced him anyway. ‘’get something for yourself, it’s on me.’’

‘’the benefit to working here is that I get my drinks for free.’’ You laughed while you slip your notebook into your apron.

‘’well then allow me to buy you something different.. elsewhere.’’ He said gently, not a demanding note in his voice while he set down a $20.

‘’for someone who gets the same thing practically every day, you should know it’s not $20’’ you laugh and pick it up to retrieve his receipt.

‘’consider it a tip then, as a compliment to your memory.’’ He grinned while you hesitate before giving him a friendly shrug.

‘’the tip jar will be much appreciative, as will the rest of the staff.’’ You smile gently- hating your boss for not allowing direct tips but at least it was just you and Sarah splitting it this time.

‘’you never answered my question.’’ He smirks.

You hesitate a little to remember before you smile sheepishly. ‘’I appreciate the drink offer but-‘’ you jump a little as the sound of broken glass fills your ears behind you. Turning around, a customer cups her cheeks in embarrassment while she scoots her chair away from the broken cup.

‘’oh my god I am so sorry-‘’

‘’don’t worry about it, it happens.’’ You smile, waving it off as you hurry over to clean it up. ‘’Sarah, please bring the dustpan-‘’ you call over while beginning to carefully gather up the larger pieces with your hands.

‘’I would be a bit more careful than to pick up glass-‘’ a familiar voice spoke up above you while your eyes landed on his shoes in front of you. You glance up to see your regular customer you had just spoken with- and left while he gazes down at you with a hint fo concern. Damn he was tall..

‘’it’s okay, its just- ow!’’ you yelp, the sharp pain in your finger causing you to flinch back and hold your hand to your chest.

‘’oh dear.. here, let me see..’’ he says gently and kneeled down onto one knee, his hand taking your wrist before you could think twice. ‘’just a small cut, I think you will live another day to take my order.’’ He winked with a teasing tone while he reached into his jacket pocket to pull out a handkerchief.

You could feel the slight redness come to your cheeks as his soft, slender fingers paid careful attention at holding your hand up while his other began wrapping your finger in a snug bandage. He was close where you couldn’t help but inhale, gathering the scent of pine and masculinity.. much like your boyfriends. You didn’t know you were staring until his eyes rose to meet yours, almost start long you out of your thoughts as his beautiful blue orbs searched yours.

‘’it’s on me this time, as a thank you.’’ You said quietly, slipping the $20 into his hand to place your other while you stood up and took a careful step back from the glass.

‘’what of your tip?” he raises a brow, standing up where he then reminded you of how different his height was compared to yours.

‘’it’s-‘’ you began before Sarah appeared between you both and she cleared her throat.

‘’id step back if I were you, don’t need any more injuries- mind watching the counter while I take care of this?” she said quickly and began brooming up the glass, brushing against the man’s shoes that made him take a step back with the smallest look of irritation before his eyes softened back at you.

‘’I suppose I shall see myself off right now, until then Y/N.’’ he smiled, his eyes never leaving yours until he fully passed you to leave.

‘’..wait- your-‘’ you were to late as he walks out, the money still in your hand as you watch him disappear from your winds.

‘’he gave you a lot of do-me eyes.’’ Sarah whispered with a not-so-sure teasing voice.

‘’nah, he’s just nice..’’ you shake your head but even you could see the hesitation on your face as you look down at the money in your hand.

‘’just make sure you tip stays money.’’ She warned before she headed off with the glass and with you looking back towards the door with a held breath.

~

No.. no no no no.. no- you couldn’t have.. you couldn’t’ have known.. non of this was your fault- not really.. the red flags were just.. not enough to take in consideration..

How was any of this your fault?

How were you suppose to know a car was parked behind the café? How were you suppose to know that closing alone would present opportunity? how were you suppose to know the danger that came after hanging up on your over-worried boyfriend? How were you suppose to know that this man.. this regular customer, would be sneaking up behind you and-

‘’I’ve waited to long darling to let some jealous boyfriend get in my way’’ he hissed in your ear, hand firmly clamped over your mouth while his arms wrapped around your middle, pinning your arms to your sides firmly with incredibly impossible strength-

A muffled sound came out of your mouth, most likely cuss words as your body squirmed while his chest stayed firmly against your back. It was as if you were a mouse, weak and in the clutches of a cat who didn’t seem to be bothered by any attempts you gave to free yourself. You felt your feet being pulled along the side walk while he got you to the side of the building and your front pressed up against the brick. The night air seemed to consume you while the moonlight gave no help into indicating a person near by to flag for help.

Help..

‘’You have no idea how exhausting holding up that spell can be, it is degrading to pose as a common weak mortal on top of it all’’ he said in disgust while two prong like things seemed to rest on the back of your head, almost as if they were horns as he kept his face close to whisper. You felt his chest press more into your back, hearing an inhale before a light breathy moan left his lips, having captured your scent. ‘’I’ve been watching you for some time darling, waiting.. But of course, you already knew that, don’t you?” he smirked, spinning you around to face him with a hand at your throat, threatening to squeeze if you would dare make a sound.

Your fingers latched onto his wrist automatically, knowing trying to pry it away was a fools game but the attempt was there. Your eyes widened upon the stranger who’s face seemed to give off enough recognition in what little light the night provided.

The stranger.. your customer.. no?- Loki?... your eyes widened at the sight of your boyfriend, how his horns framed his face with a sinister expression while he held you firm against the wall with one hand. His attire was- different.. seeming to take on a government official look or.. presidential vibe. What the hell was going on??

By your eyes alone, he seemed to throw his head back and laugh, the button flashing in the moonlight that read “president”. ‘’rest assured darling, I am Loki but I am not your boyfriend. Merely a.. version of him.’’ he smirked, clearly amused by your betrayed look on your features that quickly switched off to fear and confusion.

‘’what are you- talking about?” you gasped out, this ‘Loki’ granting you a little bit of air when your eyes began to flutter.

‘’Let me make one thing clear darling. I am no variant. All other Loki’s are variants of me, i am the superior one. Make no mistake about that.’’ he clarified with a dangerous expression before it seemed to change into his sick, calm smirk. ‘’and you, darling, are the right person to help me.’’

‘’w-what?” you gasped out, still trying to understand as your body tensed. At least you knew your Loki was safe if this wasn’t the one you knew..

‘’Your different from the others, you understand humans more than they understand themselves. You listen, help, care and observe.’’ he explained, his voice a bit softer as is his eyes while he remembered watching you all the time from the café. ‘’I will be in need of your input against these worthless mortals, what they look for and can sway them to get the votes. Obviously just until i am in power, then i will be able to show them what true power is and what their position needs to be, but a human understands a human. And what better human to help me.. Amongst other things, than you?’’ he smirked.

Your eyes widened while his eyes seem to slowly move down to look over your body, his grip holding firm while the other hand slowly rose up to trace a finger along your jawline. Your body shivered, tensed and your eyes glared daggers at him you wished would hurt him.

‘’fuck you! When Loki gets a hold of you, I promise you will surely- gah!”’ you gasped as he squeezed ever so slightly to cut your words, forcing you to continue purely on breathing while his eyes hardened.

‘’that variant will be lucky to be left alive under my rule, let alone get you back.’’ His eyes then indicated an idea before he gave a small smirk with his eyes flashing over you. ‘’Unless of course, i decide to keep you intact so that i could use you more than once.’’ he purred, keeping a hand at your throat while the other dipped into your cleavage, fingertips brushing up against your soft skin ‘’everything will get easier the more willing you become. Help me, and your boyfriend won’t die’’ he proposed, his eyes deadly serious.

Your eyes widened while your body stilled. He was dangerous and you weren’t sure how capable he was, even though you had faith in your boyfriend. What could you do right now? Play dumb to get lose and escape? He was smart and you were sure he would see through it immediately while your eyes slowly closed to think and ignore his unwanted attention while his finger tips seem to trace your collarbones and back down to between your breasts before trailing back up in a teasing motion. You weren’t sure what he wanted help with still, but it seemed to be negotiation purely, which you had a chance swaying the people still to rise up against him. if you made it that far..

‘’fine.. I’ll help you..’’

‘Loki’ laughed again, looking upon you with comical seriousness while he tilted his head slightly. ‘’And how, darling, would you prove to me that you will help me and not go against your word? Humans are notorious on that, and i could easily slit your boyfriend’s throat if even a second of your betrayal. How could you possibly expect me to let you go like this when you are waiting for the moment to strike?’’

‘’you are similar to him.. my Loki.. you can tell if I’m lying or not, right?” you asked quietly while he paused his hand to study your face, his eyes narrowing while he seemed to concentrate.

After a moment, he smirked, sensing no lies as he leaned forward, the tip of his nose gliding down your cheek and to your jawline before he hummed, taking in your sweet scent again. ‘’you work for me now darling, and I shall trust you until said otherwise. And that will mean that I own you.. every, single, part of you..’’ his lips murmured against your skin, a soft kiss to follow each word trailed your jawline towards your ear before you felt his warm tongue run a slow trail up to your earlobe ‘’at least.. soon..’’

‘’hey- get the fuck away from her!’’ a man yelled, standing in the middle of the ally way he must have wondered before getting close enough to take in the scene.

‘Loki’ rolled his eyes and looked over at him, clearly unbothered but thoroughly annoyed with the man who pointed a pocket knife in his direction. ‘’You humans have a tendency to think you can simply just win everything with the mask of intimidation. I’m sure your fear will have no problem showing itself when you’ve realized your wrongful action’’ his other hand stretched out, palm facing towards him before shooting a sliver of light that illuminated with a greenish tint at him, evaporating into his stomach while the man gasped and looked down with confusion.

No sooner did he look up to speak before his body suddenly enclosed in itself with the horrifying brief sound of bone cracking and innards gurling before his body disappeared completely. The sound of hyperventilating drew ‘Loki’s’ eyes back to you who looked towards the scene still with panicked eyes and mouth searching for words.

‘’I’ve always admired your human’s determination and guts, but that will not do if you are to know your place. Without it, uprising will send you all back into chaos and filth that covers this world. Don’t you agree?’’

‘’you.. you killed him..’’ you breathed, eyes seeming to not be able to look away at what was.

‘’I lost soul that was better to be disposed of than properly trained.’’ ‘Loki’ waved his hand in dismissal while his eyes softened to study yours. ‘’better to pick thy battles for those who show better potential.’’ His hand finally removed itself from her throat, moving now to cup her jaw while his thumb and pointing finger added a little pressure to press her cheeks forward, seeming to pucker her lips a little where his eyes flickers down at with lust in his eyes.

‘’Every day I wondered what you’d do with your life, or if you enjoyed being at the bottom of this economy cleaning glass and serving muffins.’’ His other hand took hold of her wrist, holding her hand up before his fingers gripped his handkerchief from the other day for her wound and pulled it off. ‘’You’re better than that,.. but if you will yourself at the bottom, you’ll always be at the bottom. Just as you are now, under my boot.’’ he smirked and ran his tongue over your wound, his eyes practically fluttering as he moaned at the taste of your blood. ‘’Which is why i offer you this chance. Thank me later if you must, I’m sure you’re still concentrating on how your sacrifice has saved your boyfriend. But you'll learn to be selfish soon enough.’’

‘’you’re a monster..’’ you breath out, your body tensing as he leans forward and ghosts the tip of his nose against yours, his eyes falling down to your lips while your hands grip his wrist at your jaw.

‘’monsters turn away from it’s society. I know you will see my offered salvation for this world, soon enough..’’ he murmured before brushing his lips against yours, almost seeming to tease himself as his lips turned up into a grin before he pressed them more firmly against yours.

‘’mmph-‘’ your grip tightened, body pressing more into the brick behind you as if to create any distance you could away from him- but he pressed on.

His body seemed to mold against yours like a glove, a perfect fit if it wasn’t for the fact that this situation was wrong.. so.. so.. wrong.. you squeezed your eyes shut, willing yourself to try not to think about what was happening right now, and what will happen after.

You should have listened to Loki and his incredible instincts.. your body shook and you felt the tears fall down your cheeks at the memory, at how he pleaded, and how you ignored him. ‘Loki’ continued to kiss you and hum against your lips while your mind all but told you you wished you could kiss your Loki one more time.. to ask and beg for forgiveness.. will he still love you after that? At what you’ll be after this?

‘’your tears will taste all the more sweeter when they run down your cheeks from joy and ecstasy, this I promise you darling..’’ he murmured against you, having pulled you away from your thoughts to realize he had ran his tongue gently to take in your liquid sorrow. You didn’t even have the sanity to respond anymore as your heart tightened while he paid no mind at how you felt and merely tilted your head to the side, showing and granting more access to your throat in which he began to indulge with sucking and nipping.

Help..

‘I’m here..’

The familiar voice in your mind had your eyes shoot open to find that ‘Loki’ was staring at you, eyes just as wide as mouth gaped open with words that had been lost for who knows how long before realization. His body was still, tense and hand still gripping your jaw in a much looser form before his hand dropped to his side with his eyes now glazing over. You pressed your back against the brick, body frozen and panicked with not even a dare in your mind to move.

But he did..

With a sharp inhale, ‘Loki’s’ body tensed before his eyes closed before you finally saw it. His body shook, light seemed to spring out from his chest before it spread out to cover the rest. Everywhere the light appeared, his body would vanish. Your eyes widened, in confusion and shook with fear whatever was happening would happen to you. His head tilted up, his sharp jawline highlighted in the moonlight before he jerked again with a grunt, eyes shooting open and hands pressed into the brick beside your head- startling you with a quick yelp.

‘’I.. will.. find-‘’ he then gasped and in one quick second, his entire form vanished with a flick of light, causing you to cover your eyes with quick breaths of panic.

Blinking to clear your vision, you slowly lowered your hand, having heard pants to match your own as you looked in front of you to see Loki, panting and shaking with a strange prod of some sort in his extended hand where the.. President Loki had stood. His eyes were exhausted but in fear, hair messed up like he had been running his hand through it all day and clothes wrinkled, being the same ones form this morning.

‘’L-Loki..’’ you breathed, your voice cracking with relief washing over you while he dropped the prob away from him before rushing forward. His arms engulfed you in a second, your face burying itself in his chest as his arms held you close and his chin on top of your head.

‘’are you hurt? Are you okay? Who was that? Do you need anything? Are you hurt?” he rambled, his voice barely above a whisper as his heart thundered in his chest while he pulled back just enough for his eyes to scan over your body.

‘’I’m okay I’m okay-‘’ you clam him quickly, your hands holding onto him tight as you get as close as possible and shook in his embrace. ‘’it was- he was.. I don’t know.. he was you, but- not you? A variant of some sorts.. posed as one of my customers’’ you tell him with a racing mind, still trying to understand it himself while Loki raised a brow and blinked.

‘’a variant?” he thought out loud, tensing as he held you closer and his head rose, looking around as if to make sure they were still safe. ‘’I’m not sure how that’s possible..’’

‘’wha.. what is that thing?” you asked, your eyes falling down to the prob that lay on the floor, it’s tip no longer glowing.

‘’a friend of mine gave it to me, guess it came in handy..’’ you could hear the attempted smile in his voice as he turned and kept his arm around your side. ‘’I think it’s best if we talk somewhere safer, let’s go home..’’ he whispered, his body still tense while his eyes searched your surroundings.

You quickly nodded, glancing back behind you at the scene you had just been. ‘Loki’ gone and a man dead, no evidence left behind.. what did it all mean? Why you? Why Loki?.. your mind continued to race even after you’ve gone to bed, keeping yourself close to your boyfriend’s side while slept took it’s time to come.

And it did, eventually.

The sun behind your eye lids indicated that it was morning, making your squeeze them shut tighter as your fingers pulled the pillow over your face. You were tired.. so so tired..

The feeling of soft finger tips trailed over your spine, traveling up your neck before gliding down to your tail bone in a repetitive journey. The sheet lay just over your lower self while you tried going back to sleep on your stomach, strongly debating if you wanted to if your boyfriend was going to continue to arouse you like this with somehow only a finger.

‘’darling..’’ his voice whispered, a little muffled where you had to lighten on your hold on the pillow over your head with your lips smiled at his voice.

‘’hmm?” you hummed with tired pleasure, the feeling of his hand and the sound of his voice never failing to sooth you. Until what he said made your eyes shook open and your body tense under his touch.

‘’..i don’t want you going to work today..’’ 

The ending is up to you, thats the spookiness behind it i suppose Lol

Tag List: @foxherder13 @asgards-princess-of-mischief @fire-in-her-veinz @buttercupcookies-blog @nervouseden @echo-is-worth-more-than-2000 @toogaytofunctiondangit @cabingrlandrandomcrap @daeguchu @pureheartcreativity @loki-euphoria @bowarrowz

Tag List open for future fics :) let me know

[hwnglx]

for anon with the red heart ❤️

winter's reputation among idols

based on tarot. i do not know these idols personally. energies are always changing. what i say is NOT straight fact. pls take it with a grain of salt!

female idols

female idols see winter as a go-getter. there is this perception of her being very charismatic, and knowing how to charm people in order to get her way. like she just has this natural appeal that she can turn on, and it can instantly get her anything she wants. they believe it can get very fake, she just plays people to her advantage in their eyes.

a lot of female idols also think she's incredibly eager, to an excessive extent. they believe she's a bit of a spoiled and entitled brat. she doesn't know how to appreciate what she's given, and therefore is never really satisfied. in their eyes winter can get selfish and harsh with her words, and constantly expects the best treatment only, because that's what she's used to. i can see many of them believing that sm idols in general, but especially aespa, have a huge advantage by being in the right company at the right time. they think that winter also benefits from that privilege, however is so deep in her delusion that she isn't aware of it.

female idols think that anyone could've gone that far if they had a big company like sm pushing them the way they do, and being so overly protective of their image. they think that she's just a great product of marketing. someone who appears to be this perfect and likable sweetheart, but is very vain and full of herself behind closed doors.

i can sense a big disconnect to a good portion of girls who look at her in a pretty prejudiced manner and judge her on a surface-level, without even getting to know her. she has an arrogant and inaccessible image, which seems to have spread throughout a lot of the community. they just form opinions on her without even talking to her personally. there's also this vibe of thinking her whole 😇 persona just not being representative of who she actually is, because she just appears too perfect to many idols. (so surprisingly similar to wonyoung) like “she's always smiling and putting on this lovely act on cam but doesn't even talk to us off camera, what a bitch.” is what it's giving. (jeez these girls are ruthless)

male idols

male idols' perceptions of winter seem to vary more. some of them seem to look at her as a genuine sweetheart, who has very gentle and pleasant energy. they think that she's someone who beyond all the gossip and shit talk, is sincerely nice. like she truly doesn't resemble the image some people seem to have of her. i can see some male idols meeting her and being surprised at how friendly and personable she is.

however, some male idols also seem to carry a sense of mistrust towards her, and i think a lot of that (plus the entirety of female idols' apparent misconception) just comes from her being very protective and distant around most people. they think she's all nice and polite when you approach her, but it's incredibly difficult to actually get close to her. she just doesn't engage in much conversation outside what is needed for professional purposes, and prefers to keep a more intimate and tight circle. there is this huge vibe of, just not really knowing who she actually is. so naturally, many of them start forming opinions and making judgements of winter based on what they think she could be, or what they want her to be. she for sure has this unapproachable and cold image to most male idols. many of them can't figure her out.

they also think that, she's just very focused on herself and her own ambitions. she doesn't concern herself with anyone else's business, because she puts much determination into herself. it's almost like, she'll engage with someone if she feels like it'll be to her advantage, but stay distant if it doesn't serve her in any way. male idols think she behaves in a very calculated manner and exactly knows what she's doing, and how she needs to act in certain instances. they think she might be hiding a lot of her more fierce and driven sides for most people not to see. there might be talks and gossip of her saying some mean stuff to people behind the scenes.

[redstringraven]

Okay I gotta pull an uno reverse card and ask you about your ocs now bc you asked me really good questions and now I'm wondering how in depth your OCs are 👀. If they each had to introduce themselves in a small group of strangers how would they do it? How do they react to someone incorrectly correcting them in something they know a lot about?

<:333 *excitedly paps hands on my desk* omgg THANK YOU 🖤🌷

these are such good questions, too, aaaAAA!!!

---*---

if they each had to introduce themselves in a small group of strangers how would they do it?

cassia she's usually pretty fearless (and eager) when it comes to meeting new people! if you look interesting, or what she overhears from your conversation catches her attention, girl's gonna step right up and involve herself. a decent amount of her ''''introductions'''' start with complimenting an accessory of yours she loves or thinks is neat--maybe asking where you got it. if the vibes stay good and groovy through that initial exchange, she'll follow up by giving her name. if not, she'll dip. simple as that. nyxram pre-triceraton rebellion? she simply would not. most of the time, her presence in the room is either subtle or unnoticeable, anyway. she's only going to socialize with you if there's no other option, and she definitely won't be the one to initiate it. it will be less an 'introduction' and more 'how many ways can i signal to you i don't want to talk'. post-rebellion, she's, in some ways, forced to socialize a bit more, but remains monosyllabic and minimalist as she can get away with. you'll get her name, and the bare minimum answer for any question that follows that. she'll be as friendly as she feels she has to be. gwyn chances are, if she's the one initiating the interaction, she's talking to you because she thinks you might be 'useful' somehow. you won't know this, of course. could be as small as needing directions or getting a scope of the area, but she could also be looking into swindling you out of a meal or lifting something off of you when you let your guard down or even setting you up to take the fall for something. she will have discretely hovered nearby--listening, getting an idea of what you respond positively and negatively to--and when she actually does talk to you, she'll use whatever approach will put you at ease the fastest. could be joining the conversation enthusiastically and confidently, could be joining with the preface that she's a little lost and needs guidance as she's new in town. she's a tricky one. a social chameleon, for better or for worse, and she'll work a room when she needs to. ash will most likely NOT make herself known in a group of strangers and continue playing the role of an inanimate object (she often takes the form of a dagger on gwyn's belt). on the rare occasion she feels the need to make herself known, it's usually in a threatening manner and done to keep you away from gwyn (who's most likely unconscious) or herself. this is how they met the turtles, actually. after gwyn passed out from a burn-wound, leo reached to pick ash (currently in the form of a spear) off the ground, and she shape-shifted into a scythe-like weapon, cutting his forearm in the process.

how do they react to someone incorrectly correcting them in something they know a lot about?

cassia immediately tells you you're wrong, probably with a lopsided smirk and a long "uuuuuhhhhh noooooo?". depending on the energy you gave her when you corrected her will depend on the energy she gives you back. if you were rude about it, she's going to be equally rude and condescending when she corrects you--and best believe she'll have receipts and proof that she's right. if you weren't rude, she'll be more gentle and take a more 'educative' approach. you shouldn't be shamed for being wrong if you're willing to learn! and also if you weren't a jackass about it. nyxram says nothing verbally, but her eyes say it all: you're wrong. this isn't an opinion, it's a fact. but you're free to continue living in your wrongness. she makes no effort to correct you and carries on as though you said nothing at all. whether you think she's right or wrong, or whether you know yourself to be right or wrong, doesn't matter to her. the only exception i can think of to this 'rule' is traximus (and maybe grax's spouse, xi, once they become friends), but i doubt he'd correct her when it comes to an area she's obviously very knowledgeable in. the most likely situation would be when it comes to translating/communicating with other races and potentially getting words or sentence structure confused. he's often on the right track with this sort of thing, but not quite right. when this happens, she prompts him to provide reasoning for why he thinks his answer is right, then bluntly (but not unkindly) tells him why it's not. he's usually receptive to this; they trust each other. gwyn varies with who she's talking to, as well as the context of the situation. like... if she thinks it'll be beneficial to let you be right, she will. if it'd be even more beneficial to stroke your ego, she might prompt you to "tell her more" or "teach her" (this will not only give you a false sense of control, but it will also give her a better idea of YOUR understanding of the topic or lackthereof, which could be useful to exploit if necessary). if she doesn't think letting you be right matters, she might go the opposite route and respond however she thinks will most embarrass you or make you feel stupid. could be laughing at you, could be bluntly telling you you're wrong... again, depends on the person, the topic, as well as her current 'needs' out of the exchange. ash says in the most matter-of-fact tone you can imagine: "...no." and then moves on. does not elaborate--in fact, often refuses to elaborate. you'll know you're wrong, but nothing more. die mad.

[steponmeinejghafa]

Little Crow Pt. 1

Summary: The Crows (Kaz, Inej, Jesper, Wylan, Nina, and Matthias) find a lost child and kinda raise them as their own. So, a collection of scenarios where they all try and (sometimes fail) to parent you.

Six of Crows x Child!Ravkan!Reader

Age: 6

———

The afternoon sun beat down harshly on the streets, making its rays glint off blindingly from closed windows of the nearby buildings.

There you were, standing outside, alone and scared, lost in the streets of the Barrel. You’d managed to escape the slaver’s ship, and you were desperate to find food and shelter. Tears gushed down your cheeks as the sights and sounds overwhelmed you, and you backed away into an alley, unbeknownst to a watching figure nearby.

Kaz Brekker was not unfamiliar with the strangeness and frightening demeanour of the Barrel, so it was no wonder that he found a crying child in an alley, with nothing but the clothes on her back and not a penny to her name.

He limped towards you and tapped on you shoulder gingerly, “Excuse me, young lady, are you lost?”

You gasped and smacked his hand away, not knowing if he was a just being friendly or just a slaver in disguise. Kaz didn’t wince, simply smirked as he silently appreciated your fiery and vigilant spirit.

“Where are your parents, little one?” He asked, eyebrow raised.

“I—I don’t know,” you replied, about to burst into another flurry of tears. “I escaped from the ship, that’s all I remember.”

Seething internally, Kaz muttered to himself, “Damn slavers,” before looking at you with shockingly gentle eyes as he added in a slightly lighter tone, “Why don’t you come with me, I’ll give you some shelter and warmth for the night. Then you can be on the next ship back to…” he paused, unsure of where you were from.

“Ravka,” you corrected.

“Ah,” he nodded. “Your Kerch is very good, for a Ravkan,” he admitted as he let you hold his coat sleeve and walk with him back to the Crow Club.

“My mother was Kerch,” you said, feeling comfortable with this strange crippled man with a sour face. He gave you the vibe of a guarded, but well-intentioned person. “My father was a Ravkan translator for the foreigners who’d visit, so I know many languages!” You puffed your chest out with pride, earning a soft chuckle from Kaz.

“Interesting,” he said. “I didn’t catch your name, though.”

“I didn’t tell you my name,” you replied, frowning.

“Naturally. But if you’re going to stay with me for a while, we should get to know each other.” He replied, ushering you inside the club as you both arrived.

“You first,” you said, crossing your arms over your chest.

“I’m Kaz Brekker,” he said. “The owner of this club.”

“I’m…I’m Y/n L/n,” you replied, “The owner of nothing.”

He barked a laugh, something which didn’t happen often, and limped to his office, where he could offer you some peace and quiet.

“There’s a bed, and I can ask around for some clean clothes,” he offered. “You can go to the bathroom there and bathe while I do.”

“Thank you, Mister Brekker!” You smiled, running to the bathroom.

Inej, meanwhile, had crept in, soundlessly as usual, saying softly, “Seems like Kaz Brekker has a soft side.”

“Please,” he scoffed, rolling his eyes. “The child is here temporarily. I’m just offering her something which none of us got when we were alone in the world.”

“Like what, letting her sleep in your bed, bathe in your own bathroom, going out of your way to actually buy her clothes?” Smirked the Suli, placing her knives down.

“She escaped a slaver’s ship, Inej,” said Kaz. “It’s a wonder how she’s still alive.”

“She’s got the potential to be a Crow, wouldn’t you say?” Suggested Inej, crossing her arms across her chest. Seeing his stubborn face, she added, “Come on, we both know her parents are dead and she’s got no family to go back to.”

“And?” He replied, limping over to the door, calling for one of the worker boys and asking him to fetch some comfortable clothes for a child.

“She needs a family, Kaz,” the Wraith replied, following him. “Can’t we just do that? Can’t you?”

Kaz thought for a moment, and sighed, “Fine. But we’ll have to tell the other crows, too. Jesper, Wylan, Nina.”

“Nina is going to be thrilled,” said Inej. “Trust me.”

You came out of the bathroom, wearing one of Katz’s shirts which was long enough to be a dress for you, and your face dropped into an expression of intense vigilance again as your eyes landed on Inej and her knives which glinted in their sheaths.

“Mister Brekker,” you said, eyes wide with fear. “Who is she?”

“This is—“ Kaz began, but Inej cut him off with a hand.

“I’m Inej Ghafa,” she smiled, approaching you, hands up in surrender to show you she meant no harm. “I’m a friend of Kaz.”

“Oh,” you said. “You’re not a slaver’s friend then, right?”

Inej laughed and shook her head, “No, I’m not.”

The worker boy appeared at the doorway, panting as he held a paper bag in his hand. He handed it to Kaz, and scurried away, before he former handed you the bag.

“It’s something I figured you might like. My shirt cannot possibly be your only source of clothing,” said Kaz, his jaw set firmly as usual, but his eyes still held that same softness.

You accepted the bag with a happy little ‘thank you’, and pulled out a shirt with a pair of pants and suspenders, which made you laugh gleefully.

“It’s comfy!” You grinned after having run to the bathroom to put it on.

Another knock sounded at the door, making your face turn fearful again. What if the slavers had found you?

It wasn’t the slaver, as three bright and cheerful faces appeared at the doorway. Two males and one female.

The woman gasped and rushed towards you, before she had to take a pause to ask Inej, “Why’s her heart racing so fast?”

“She escaped from a slaver’s ship,” explained the Wraith. “Kaz seems to have gone soft, so he took her in.”

The woman nodded and waved her hands, slowing your heart rate down and calming you. A Heartrender? More importantly, a Grisha?

“Hi,” said the Grisha with a beaming smile at you. “I’m Nina Zenik. This is Jesper Fahey and Wylan Van Eck. We’re friends, don’t worry.”

The reassuring words and Nina’s smile kept you at ease, and you looked at Kaz, asking, “Why did Inej say you ‘took me in’?”

The man limped over to you and kneeled to your height, making sure not to put too much pressure on his bad leg, before saying, “How would you like for us to be your new family, Y/n?”

You thought about it for a moment, before asking, “You’re all going to take care of me?”

“Yeah,” nodded Nina.

“Absolutely,” said Inej.

You nodded and looked at Kaz, responding to his question, “I’d like that.”

“Well,” said the Zemeni-looking boy, “Welcome to the Crows, little one. Get ready for a life of madness, mayhem, and murder.”

“Do we beat people up? The bad people?” You asked with a big grin on your face, looking at Kaz.

“Oh yes we do, little crow,” he replied, smirking slightly.

“I don’t know this kid,” said Jesper with a grin, “But I love her already.”

[saxifrage-wreath]

Tag Game: How Cuddleable Are Your Ocs?

Rules: Answer the above question using a scale from 1-10 and include context!

Thanks for the tag @freenarnian :)

This was fun and got me thinking more about each of these folks and what they’re like.

Kazia, 5/10: our heroine is somewhat touch-starved as a result of having a cold marble statue of a woman for a mother. She rather likes to be held, but has had less experience than she’d like, which can make her appear cold or stiff, however, with people she’s really close to, she relaxes and becomes much warmer, more approachable and huggable.

Melossa, 0/10: Kazia’s ‘marble statue’ mother does not do displays of affection. Imperious, solemn, and hyperconscious of her image and position and need to be strong, she exudes a cold, touch me not aura. She almost never touches anyone and no one but her husband touches her. Any embrace she ever gave would be the stiffest most formal one ever.

Tarvagal, 8/10: Kazia’s husband, Tarva is a warm and friendly fellow who grew up in a happy and affectionate household with parents, siblings, and friends. He has a lot of good experience and practice with hugs and such like. He hugs often and well and he loves to both give and receive them. Some situations can make him awkward and he does less well with people he knows but little or who embarrass him, hence the couple of points off.

Kazana, 3/10: Kazia’s cousin has a position and profession that are decidedly not very cuddly; her need to consider the dignity thereof produces in her a strong ‘touch me not’ vibe – like, ‘touch me and it’s swords right now’. Very few people get to see the woman rather than the mask/public facing image. Is willing to be hugged by loved ones, such as her husband, beloved cousin Kazia, and said cousin’s children. Privately.

Dragash, 4/10: Kazana’s husband is a quiet, serious, scholarly gentleman. He is friendly enough, but prefers people remain at arm’s length and not rumple his suit. Why hug, after all, when one can instead have conversations about mathematics or somesuch? Exceptions are made for his wife and children.

Morsal, 9/10: Kazia’s brother, is a jovial figure who loves life, loves people, and likes to make these facts plain. By virtue of being the younger sibling, he manages to get away with caring less for convention and appearance. He loses a point for maybe being overwhelming to more reserved people, but puts most everyone on their ease and gives the best of bear hugs.

Manetha, 11/10: Kazia’s protege (we’ll say), is a exceedingly affectionate and adorable ray of sunshine. Wants to hug almost everyone and inspires a similar feeling in others. Has to be restrained from doing so for reasons of decorum.

Very gentle tags for @accidental-spice @lightthewaybackhome @sailforvalinor @thatfriendlyanon and anyone else who’d like to play

[stariikis]

ship ur moots with idols & why

omg i've been waiting for this i love this!!

@rikizm --- jay. i saw your pinned post about the workout motivation and i was like ohhh she needs to be paired with a gymrat 😭 and who else but JAY who's hardworking - just like you <33

@jungwoniei --- han for sure! you're one of my only skz stan moots, and i think your blog is so cute and totally han's vibes 😭 then again we don't interact that much but i'd love to talk to you more !!

@wwonwonism/@copyhanni --- jungwon. isn't it obvious?? one account is like the softest, prettiest shade of pink and the next slaps you in the face with a deep red. the duality??? it's soooo jungwon.

@ashtxrie --- sunoo!! you are literally the cutest soul ever, super super sweet and friendly and i always look forward to your comments and rbs when i post fics <33 sunoo to my riki forrealzz

@nikiswifereal27 --- sunghoon, like lowkey you and your blog give off his vibes. like his goofiness is so you how do i explain it??

@suzurio --- heeseung! something about your blog vibes, minimalistic yet elegant, exudes lee heeseung. and your rbs too! the way you tag text is just like how i imagine him to be ~~

@chaseyikis --- riki ~~ ayyy bias matchers! anyway, all your vibes totally point to and match up to nishimura. the aesthetic and the humour too, i think they all align perfectly. ^^

@lilacnini --- hanni 🥹 you really give me this soft aura, and you are super super sweet and gentle ^^ when i interact with you i always feel at peace.

@nishimurasone --- yunjin ? i feel your personalities would really match. both of you have such a pretty aesthetic ~~

@jlheon --- jakeeeee bestie... he would literally fall in love with your style and humour 😭

@mewhenwonbin --- taki! i saw your jo fic and i got so excited that i've got an &team stan moot (i love jo). anyway, at first i was debating between harua and taki, but your writing style and theme just point to taki TT

@stariekis --- moka ~ you both exude so much confidence and are so sweet and friendly. your fics are absolutely top tier and you have so much variety! it's reflective of how moka can pull off any concept on stage <3

@ms-no1kpopstan --- yeonjun! just like him, you're an untimate extrovert for sure and i admire how quickly you make friends with people ^^ (ps im looking forwards to your new ficceess)

@enwonz --- soobin gegegeekekek do i need to explain

sorry this is long and have a good rest wherever you may be my loves ᕙ( ~ . ~ )ᕗ

[mermaidsirennikita]

ARC REVIEW: The Wedding Witch by Erin Sterling

4.5/5. Releases 10/8/24.

vibes: "are we friends or have we always wanted to bone (the second one)", TIME TRAVEL!!!, sexy hilarity punctuated with emotional gutpunches, and Lite Christmas (Yule)

Heat Index: 6.5/10.

The Basics:

Powerful but reclusive witch Bowen Penhallow hires the chaotic human Tamsyn Bligh to be his personal magical-item-finder... for reasons that may have a lot to do with redemption. After months of a slowly-building working relationship that becomes genuine friendship (albeit with a lot of sexual tension) the two accidentally end up at the same wedding. Tamsyn is out to steal a million-dollar find for a mystery item. Bowen... is coming face to face with the darkest part of his past. But when a witch accidentally sends the two of them back to the 1950s, they're stuck trying to right what went wrong long ago--otherwise, they just might be trapped there (or worse) forever.

The Review:

I've really enjoyed Sterling's previous books about, you know, witches, kissing, a good bit of romcom-ery. But as soon as I learned that there was a Penhallow brother who looked like a craggy werewolf, I was like "THAT ONE". And God, his book did not disappoint. Easily my favorite of the series, The Wedding Witch takes us to a different place both physically and emotionally, while at the same time maintaining the things I loved about the previous books--a lot of humor, a lot of chemistry, and the friction two people who really wanna fuck but don't want to confront their feelings.

And the magic is kicked up a good bit, too. The series has always been pretty paranormal. Like, this isn't Immortals After Dark, but it's also far from Bewitched. You have ghosts, curses, some actual factual spookiness. Here, we go to another level with a grief-stricken witch throwing Bowen and Tamsyn to a different decade... and I fucking loved the way the time travel was done.

Like, instead of getting up its own ass about How Time Travel Works, this novel goes full camp in the best way. Oh my gosh, that's that old lady we saw at wedding, but she's a YOUNG LADY now. That's the crazy father of the bride as a little, crazy boy! Those are my grandparents? Young and hot and bickering at each other?

Which is really one of my favorite things about the novel. Bowen and Tamsyn are actually thrown back to shortly before his grandparents' wedding... and they've just broken up. So it's a PARENT TRAP SITUATION. Or rather, a GRANDPARENT TRAP SITUATION. Bowen and Tamsyn (apparently) need to get his grandparents back together before the solstice! Aaaaah!!!!

Like, it gives hard Christmas movie in a lot of ways, even though the holiday is less Christmas and more Yule. For the record, though--I can be a little iffy on consuming Christmas content this far ahead of the holiday, but honestly? While there are some Christmas-y moments, the sense is more... Christmas media than Christmas, if that makes sense. I mean, I've definitely seen my fair share of time travel Christmas romcoms.

And in many ways, this was my IDEAL Christmas time travel romcom. Because first off... this is a fuckton hotter. Like. The Wedding Witch doesn't end on a chaste kiss. There are several sex scenes, and each one fully goes for it. (It's never a bad thing when the hero is all "I'm worried that I won't be gentle enough for you" and the heroine is like "PROMISE?"). The sexual tension between these two is heavy from their first meeting, and while I do think this one could fall under friends to lovers... Were they ever really friends? Did they ever see each other in a truly friendly way? Or were they just slow-motion falling in love the whole time?

While by no means is this a heavy book, there is also a kind of emotional resonance that you won't find in most Hallmark Christmas movies. I was really fucking sad about The Thing driving Bowen (and his guilt). There's one aspect of the plot here that's really bittersweet--not in any way that directly affects our romance, don't worry, this is very much an HEA, but in a way that injected some seriousness. I kind of wanted everyone to get everything they wanted in the end, but by withholding that indulgence, Sterling ensured the book hit harder.

I don't know if she'll write in this world again, but if she doesn't, she went out on a high note and didn't tie every single thing up with a little bow, which I appreciate. But to be clear: this is, overall, a very funny, adventurous book. You have a snarky teenager who actually isn't annoying, the horror of realizing your grandparents were hot and also had a fiery sex life (Elspeth and Harri were QUITE the secondary couple, and I loved every bit of pagetime they got), and some truly classic tropes. (Only one bed, sexy bathtime, very MUCH opposites-attract shenanigans.)

I read 80% of this in one sitting, and that's kind of hard for me to do at the moment. But it was just so fun! And I really wanted to see what happened next the entire time. Which is when you know a book is really good, right?

The Sex:

Like I said, you get several sex scenes, and while there's one other thing I would've liked to see on the page (it happens, it's just not directly on the page), what we do get is so good. Like. It gets hot up in this romcom. Tamsyn fantasizes a lot about Bowen before they get together, and she lets him know exactly what she does when she fantasizes (in total darkness... with him becoming QUITE responsive). There's some mirror action. There's some tree action. Look, you'll be happy with this shit.

It's always great when a book not only lives up to your expectation but surpasses them. Full of whimsy and heat and FEELINGS, The Wedding Witch is one to catch!

Thanks to NetGalley and Avon for providing me with a copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[delicatebeauties]

My 2024 Gmmtv crushes

I saw a few lists for boys crushes, but i have had to make one just for *gmmtv* as I couldn't chose.

mentally mapped to a hotel de luna/white lotus vibes bc! gif heavy below

The accountant

bc who says accountants have to be nerdy appearances wise. Efficient, hard working, crush worthy and so easily pissed off if the paperwork isn't correctly filled..

Mond Tanutchai is and always has been a snack!

Head investor son

He doesn't come often, but sometimes crashes because it's closer than his parent's mansion. Has been known for sometimes giving a hand for the hotel's IT. -

P'Aof

Hotel Director

Aof noppharnach

Fierce, shrewd and intense but has been known for looking at his phone with a smile unexpectedly.

The night receptionist

Funny, infinite patience. Sorts out most issues before they are escalated . - Drake Sattabut Laedeke 

The night manager - main investor's family friend son

Khaotung Thanawat  - Usually not seen. There is still a debate if there is actually a night manager or if it is a running joke. Sometimes red roses and jasmine have been observed as dropped by the breakfast bar, on some evenings old tunes have been heard playing from the piano. Rare sightings.

Head waiter / Breakfast bar manager

first kanaphan - Gentle elegant man, friendly with customers - Usually managing the morning coffee bar with a smile and a tired gaze. Very punctual, has been seen petting a grey cat which has been denied as belonging to the hotel! Other hotels try aggressively to poach him.

The gym trainer

Neo Trai - The goofy sports trainer - scarily efficient at whipping you into shape with a smile .

The spa manager

earth pirapat. A spa ruled with a gentle but strict hand - the spa is known for physical and mental healing - decorates the place with candles . Can be seen swimming at the beach bar. Sets the standard at the gym for maximum weight benched.

The repair man

Fluke gawin - Known for hanging around the breakfast bar at closing time, has been mistaken for a tourist due to an american accent. There is no electrical circuit he doesn't know.

The breakfast waitress

Emi Thasorn - Her laugh and smile catches on in the early mornings and have customers queuing from 7 am. Seen off-work feeding stray cats including a fluffy grey one.

The day shift receptionist

Patchatorn Thanawat / Ploy -Always jugging two phones and tapping her nails on the screen, customers are surprised at how she remembers them. Has been spotted once crying in the arms of the night manager. Sometimes yellow flowers can be seen adorning the desk . Strangely there is always something breaking down electricity wise at the reception.

[thesillygoosetapes]

First Impressions - Jing Yuan

Word Count: 621

POV: Second Person

Commission for: myself

Note: this is ocxcc! I wrote it in second person, yes, but this is ocxcc!

When you guys arrived on the Luofu you didn’t expect to be running around like chickens with your heads cut off saving people. Welt explained that the Luofu is generally a serene and peaceful environment, but that this time was much different. You already knew what lied ahead, having played the game and all, but decided to stay quiet about it for the time being. Everything had gone smoothly so far, even despite the small differences. You didn’t want to accidentally fuck anything up.

“The Ambrosial Arbor sure is pretty.” March 7th commented, “So that tree is what keeps everyone alive for so long?”

“It is a plague mark,” Welt explained, “planted by the Aeon of the Abundance, if my readings are right.”

“But the people of the Luofu still see it with such grandeur.” you said. “Right?”

“I wouldn’t say everyone does,” Welt said, “though, that foxian lady did.”

“Tingyun?” March 7th said, “Yeah. She’s giving me a weird vibe.”

“You’re not alone in that.” Welt responded.

You shrugged to Stelle, who shrugged back in response. Stelle looked at March 7th and Welt before sighing and heading into the Seat of Divine Foresight. Stelle had always been a quiet one among the Astral Express, being a Stellaron and all. You never knew what she was thinking, what she thought, or how she felt about the whole thing. She mostly kept to herself, silently working in peace as the rest of you went around talking to people. She never seemed like much of a sociable person, but you two had been able to get close to one another.

The Divine Seat of Foresight was really a sight. Such a beautiful indoor library/office area with guards all around. In the front area there was something akin to a game of checkers on the projection. It was almost like a human sized checkerboard. You and the rest went up the stairs leading to the rest of the place, which is where Jing Yuan stood smiling and greeting you all.

“Hello there, nice to finally meet in person.”

The projection of himself did not do that man any justice. He was very tall (and you were only 5’) reaching to about 6’6, with big bulky armor that made his chest pop. He had this smile that reminded you of a cat, the way his lips curled up into a smile. It was almost as if you could draw whiskers on his face and he wouldn’t look any different. He also had this air of authority around him, but had a sense of gentleness too. You weren’t afraid of him, and it seemed like he didn’t want to make you afraid of him.

Throughout the conversation you realized that he was actually smart, not that you doubted him, but that he was clever. He knew how to strategically get around the mara-struck people and deal with the intruders around them. It had seemed like he thought of everything up to this point, and even then he was still planning what to do for the future. He was a kind man, offering you guys a place to stay in the Luofu (which March 7th was wary of) as you stayed for the unforeseeable future.

He seemed gentle and friendly, but also a good leader too. The way he knew what to do and what steps to take next. He really did earn the title of “General” with how well thought out his plans were, even if he did keep some of them to himself. As far as you knew, the General was loyal to the Luofu and was willing to do anything to protect it. He was proud of all that he had accomplished so far in terms of the Luofu.

Maybe that was what drew you to him the most.

[stuffedsand]

Wahey milgram oc time my silly guya

013 - Shiratori Masaki

My boy

- 20

- prisoner number 013 (I slapped them into base milgram cuz I don't wanna make a whole new cast)

- to quote my own character notes: cringefail specimen of a man.

-- fun name thing! His first name means "true, hope" hehe

UNDERCOVER

"Under, oh so aware of all that you say

This makes me sick, so please, go away"

Votes (fabricated lmao)

T1 - INNOCENT

T2 - GUILTY

Songs of Prisoners

+T1 – what…what are you talking about?

+T2 – no…you-you’re lying!

Voice trailer (t1)

Oh uh… Shiratori Masaki, that's my name. 20, uni student. Uhh what else … oh, sorry if I forget anything, i, ah, my memory has never been any good

If I'm being honest…I don't know what the hell you're talking about! No one around me has died recently. At least…not as far as I can recall…

*Takai? Takai! Wake up! This isn't funny..!*

Voice trailer (t2)

Hi, Es-kun, how have you been? Ah, Shiratori Masaki. You didn't forget our deal, right?

*Shut up! I don't want to listen to you and your stupid problems anymore!*

Personality

-- a timid yet stubborn man. It is very difficult to change his opinions on things. Polite, but very quick to turn defensive if blame is turned on him.

He can be a prick at times.

Extra notes

-- a man with really bad memory loss. During T1 interro, he makes a deal that he'll take MILGRAM seriously if Es can tell him who his victim is. And he has to believe it

-- not mentioned but his memory loss is a trauma response. Dead bodies are traumatic I don't think that's a contraversial take

-- the indirect murderer of the pair

Full body:

Please note -- his ugly fucking shoes were not an accident he has a horrible fashion sense

014 - Akabane Kazuko

The She

-23

-prisoner number 014

-based off one of my multifandom ocs (and my favourite of the 2)

--fun name thing! Her name means "gentle/kind/harmonious child". 子 is also(apparantly) male specific. I have fun reasons for that

UNDERCOVER

(pardon the artstyle change this was done on my tablet instead of my computer and was. Rushed💀)

Under, I don't care if I'm in the right or wrong

Songs of prisoners

Full of malice, we will waltz to our doom

Votes (edit)

T1 - guilty

T2 - (?)

+t1 – let's get on with it, shall we?

+T2 – ...you're not very good at this.

T1 – voice trailer

Hello. I am Akabane Kazuko. 24. A pleasure to make your acquaintance, Warden.

I am interested in how all this will play out. But nothing will really change the impact of our actions. Remember that, Warden

* My final act… will take your breath away! *

T2 – voice trailer

Good day, Warden. Kazuko, you remember, yes? Seems your choices have caused quite the ruckus.

* You…You know what you've done! I'll make you pay for it!*

Personality

-- a calm and gentle woman. A showman at heart, she is elegant and loves performing magic tricks.

-- some are unsettled by her, but she does her best to be kind and friendly to those she speaks to

Extra notes:

-- Magician coded :)

-- because I can fabricate fan theories, es assumed they killed 2 people in trial one. They have only killed one.

-- the direct murderer of the pair

Full body: (outdated a lil, I changed her vibe. Design still stands)

Please note -- bowling alley socks

Interro qns (please give me some interro questions tho I'm very bad at thinking any up)

Also note: interros are formatted as

--

Question

Kazuko

Masaki

--

Cuz I wrote this when I labelled Kazuko as 001 and Masaki as 002. I'm changing it to reflect their new numbers but editing on Tumblr mobile sucks so I'm not changing the order </3

Q)Tell us your family structure

014 — mother, self, brother,

...it's just me now

013 — parents, me and my twin, Shiratori Takai.

Q)Is there people you hate?

014 — hypocrites.

Don't become one, warden

013 — people who always depend on you

Q)Which prisoner is the most similar to you?

014 – yuzuriha kotoko.

013 – hm...

Probably kayano. He looks like he doesn't know why he's here, too

Q)What was your murder weapon?

014 — what a bold question

It was a bottle.

013 — haha, I'll humour you for this one

Hmmmm...... My words, maybe? I've been told i have quite a sharp tongue

Q)What was your family like?

014 — kind, resilient. They were wonderful. I

loved them

013 — they're ok.

Which prisoner do you get along with the least?

014 — mr mukuhara. Nothing against him, he just reminds me of someone.

013 — …Kusunoki. No reason, but I do wish she'd stop trying to talk to me. It's annoying.

Q)How has your experience been within MILGRAM ?

014 — quite good, considering we're all in here for murder.

013 — uh… good? I still don't believe you saying we're all murderers.

Q)Do you have regrets?

014 — yes. I should have done something sooner

013 — no? I did argue with my brother recently, but it was nothing, really. I'll apologize and everything will be fine

Q)Is there a verdict you hope for?

014) all I hope for is your honest judgement. I want to see how you choose to judge

013) Well, since I don't think I've done anything… I'd hope to be forgiven, of course.

Who was your victim to you?

014) nothing.

013) eh? Warden, I don't know. We made a deal remember? You tell me!

What is your father like?

014) i dont consider him my father.

013) uh…he’s my dad. What more do you want me to say, really...

What do you think of the prisoner paired with you?

014) Shiratori? Not much opinion. I do wonder what he's done to be here, though.

013) Ms Kazuko..? Shes intimidating, if I'm being honest. Not scary, just...intimidating

[gemini-sensei]

Awww, I need a Moon version of the single mom! pregnant!reader series now! The Hawk one was too cute.🥺🙏

💖💖💖

Moon x Single-mom!Pregnant!Reader

Fem!Chubby!Reader ○ pure fluff

Absolutely love this little series. I think I'll always be up for writing these 💖 but with Moon it's so much softer and ugh! Yes. (unedited)

Moon meets Reader at a local small business fair. She's all about supporting locally owned and small businesses, especially ones owned by women. Reader is at one of the stalls helping a friend, hoping to draw in customers to get things going. Moon is certainly intrigued by the handmade jewelry being sold, and it doesn't hurt that Reader is super cute too.

Reader stands up to give the pitch, introduce Moon to everything they have and such. It's the moment Moon sees her pregnant belly, which was a little hard to see behind the table. She's a bit sad, thinking Reader has a partner already, but that doesn't stop her from chatting with her and thinking she's cute. She totally thinks Reader has that pregnancy glow about her.

They start up a conversation about the pieces Reader's friend is selling, but it quickly changes into introductions and things progress from there. They're laughing and having a good time when Moon spies Reader rubbing her belly and she just has to ask.

"So, how far along are you?"

Reader smiles. "Twenty weeks."

"That's halfway, right?"

"Yep," Reader laughs and rubs circles onto her belly. "About twenty more and I'll get to meet this cutie."

"Do you know if it's a boy or a girl?" Moon asks curiously. She can't help it. The happy and motherly vibes are practically beaming off of Reader and she's soaking in that energy, making her all the more intrigued. "Sorry for all the questions."

"I don't mind," Reader tells her. She eases back into her seat and sighed. "And I don't know yet. I find out in a couple of weeks, though. Kind of hoping for a girl, but whatever they are or grow up to be, I'll love them anyway."

The conversation carries on from there, with both Reader and Moon gushing over the unborn baby. Moon ends up buying a few pieces of jewelry from the stand before they part ways, sharing her number with Reader and following each other on Instagram, too. She leaves and spends the rest of her day accidentally Insta stalking Reader, thinking she looks so pretty.

It isn't until a few weeks into their friendship that she learns that Reader doesn't have a partner. While it's a sad reality that they left Reader alone and pregnant, she looks forward to the future of motherhood and doesn't let that little piece of information dampen that. Moon is secretly so happy she's single because her crush on Reader has only gotten bigger and bigger.

As they hangout more, they get so much closer. Moon offers to rub her back when it hurts and her swollen feet too; they cuddle while watching TV or just hanging out; Reader links arms with Moon when they got to the mall together. The hormones are so bad and upsetting one day, Moon takes Reader to Build-a-Bear to make her feel better. They build bears together and giggle together the whole time, in a more than friendly way. One employee asks if they're girlfriends and both of them blush and say no, they're just friends.

They laugh about the whole experience on the car ride back to Reader's place, and when they get there they decide to cook. So they set their bears down on the couch and go into the kitchen. They turn on some music and get to work. It's full of laughter and messing around. Once their hands aren't busy with food, they're dancing together. Reader can only move so much, so it's slow and sweet. Moon is so gentle with her as they move around the kitchen, giggling to themselves, and things get slower as Reader gets a little tired. It turns into slow swaying...

Then, before either of them know it, it's a sweet kiss.

They're lost in each other, holding hands as their lips lock together and the world just stops around them. Moon squeezes Reader's hands, their fingers interlaced, and their sweet moment feels like it will last forever.

That is until the water on the stove boils over and makes them pull away from each other. Moon tells Reader to "stay right there" in fear that she could get burned and rushes over to take the pot off of the heat. There's a bit of a mess, but she wipes it up quickly and checks the pasta they were making. When she gives a thumbs up that everything's okay, Reader bursts into laughter and they both fall into a little fit of giggles.

It's the start of a lovely relationship, one both of them can't imagine not having after that point. They talk about it over vegan mac and cheese, because it has to be discussed a little bit at least, and Reader can't see herself being happier with anyone else. Moon is just happy she's happy and puts a hand on Reader's belly, even happier to be a second mama to the little one on the way.