#THANK YOU TO BLOSSOM FOR LOOKING AT FEET WITH ME LOL | Explore Tumblr posts and blogs

healinghyunjin · 6 months ago

Text

Blossom

Pairing: Kim Seungmin x Reader (fem)

Genre: crack, smut, fluff; historical!AU, magic!AU, fuck-or-die(ish)!AU, enemies(ish)-to-lovers!AU, 18+

Word Count: 6.5k

Warnings: swearing, explicit sexual content, unprotected sex, outdated sexual norms/attitudes, public sex.

Author’s Note: After another ~long~ hiatus... I'm back! The premise of this fic is heavily inspired by a super old, now deleted AO3 fic I once read for a now dead fandom (showing my age here for you children lol). I love navigating these forced interaction scenarios - so please let me know your thoughts! Feedback and reblogs are love as always - and I now have a Ko-Fi that I would really appreciate contributions to as well (linked in my Bio)! Thank you for your support~

Summary: But what this ritual required of you, the High Sorceress, was not just some spellwork or incantations - no, this ritual involved you losing your virginity. To your King - to Seungmin. On the High Table. In front of the entirety of the royal court.

You were sure you looked like a thundercloud - dark skirts swirling, white sparks crackling from your fingertips - as you stalked through the castle towards the royal chambers.

“Milady!” Changbin chased after you, your long-suffering knight trying his best to head you off. “His Majesty is in a council meeting right now,” he huffed out. “Maybe we can seek an audience another time?”

“I don’t ‘seek audiences’ from His Majesty, Bin,” the title grating in your mouth. “I talk to Kim Seungmin when I want to talk to Kim Seungmin - especially when he wants to pretend like I don’t exist.”

You were laying it on a bit thick. But you were the High Sorceress. You had no insignificant amount of pride yourself, and nothing made your temper flare like Seungmin outmaneuvering you - exactly like he’d just done.

You arrived at the heavy wrought iron doors of Seungmin’s private chambers and, with a swish of your palm, sent the doors flying open, almost rattling off their hinges. A tableful of lords turned around to gawk at you - but you only had eyes for the man at the head of the table. He leaned back in his chair, watching you stalk into the room with a barely concealed grin. “And there she is.” The faint note of humor in Seungmin’s voice made you want to wring his neck.

“Your Majesty,” you greeted in the frostiest voice you could muster up.

Seungmin smirked. “You only use my proper title when you’re fit to rip my throat out, Lady Sorceress.”

You ignored the barb. “We have an urgent matter to discuss, my lord.”

One of the old, stodgy lords piped up in a reedy, disapproving voice. “What can take precedence over matters of council and state, Sorceress?”

“Matters of national security, Lord Park.” Seungmin rose to his feet, making everyone else jump up to theirs as well. “Council is adjourned, my lords.”

You held your head high as the councilmen streamed out of the room around you, some barely bothering to disguise their resentment. Seungmin sauntered his way around the table, coming to stand right in front of you. You scowled as you inevitably had to tilt your head back just to look into his amused face.

“You’ve been avoiding me, my witch.”

“I wasn’t avoiding you,” you snapped back, cringing at how petulant you sounded even to your own ears.

Of course you’d been avoiding him. Ever since he’d slapped those scrolls down on your worktable a week ago now, you hadn’t been able to think about him without flushing, let alone be in the same room as him. It would be for the good of the people, he’d announced crisply, looking so tall and prim and regal as he towered over you sitting on your little garden stool. I’m sure you won’t see any harm in it. You’d scanned through the parchment, ignoring the scribe’s careful translations to parse the ancient runes yourself. It outlined an ancient magical ritual to replenish the barrier wards for your nation if they ever fell - which they had. But what this ritual required of you, the High Sorceress, was not just some spellwork or incantations - no, this ritual involved you losing your virginity. To your King - to Seungmin. On the High Table. In front of the entirety of the royal court.

Seungmin snapped you out of your thoughts with a brief “Ahem,” quirking a skeptical eyebrow at you. “I haven’t seen you in a week. Every time I’ve gone to your rooms since the day I gave you those scrolls, you’re conveniently ‘not there,’ and that poor fool,” he flicked a thumb over to point at Changbin, “is stuck trying - and failing - to make excuses for you.”

You shot a glare over at Changbin - he didn’t look sufficiently embarrassed of himself, but you would deal with that later. “Well, I’m here now, my lord. And I’d appreciate it if you could tell me how you unilaterally decided to add ‘Publicly Deflowering the High Witch’ to your agenda for this evening?”

You’d hoped to embarrass Seungmin, browbeat him - like you’d clearly done to Changbin, judging from the choking sound that came from next to you. But you’d underestimated your enemy.

Seungmin sighed, clasping his arms behind his back. “Because we don’t have a choice in the matter, my dear witch. If you’d allowed me the chance to actually talk to you this week, I could have convinced you of that, and you'd have had time to prepare yourself. But - you didn’t, and so, I had to force your hand.” You shuffled uncomfortably under his piercing stare as he continued. “I know you translated the runes yourself - you know just as well as I do that this ritual needs to be done soon. Now, if we don’t want the Eastern Army taking advantage and invading us as soon as they muster up the forces. But unlike you, my lady - I don’t have the luxury to pretend like this problem will go away if I ignore it.”

And that was exactly what you hated most about Kim Seungmin. He was smart and logical to a fault - enough so that he’d trained himself to not let pesky emotions get in the way of doing what needed to be done. You on the other hand… the less said the better on that front.

Before you could snark something back at him or even just bristle up, Seungmin stepped away from you, rubbing his hands together. “Now that that’s been settled, I’m sure you have no more objections. Anyways, you have a busy afternoon ahead of you, Lady Sorceress. I’ve sent several maids to your chambers to help ready you for this evening - I’m sure you remember how exact the runes were in terms of preparation.” Seungmin wasn’t even bothering to hide his grin as he dismissed you with a wave of his hand, striding out of the room.

That patronizing bastard. You briefly contemplated throwing a fireball at his laughing back - but being executed for treason wasn’t exactly the way you intended to go out.

With a deep, soul-weary sigh, you turned on your heel to leave, resigning yourself to your fate.

Of course, if you knew exactly how the rest of your afternoon was going to be spent, you might just have thrown that fireball at Seungmin and gotten it over with.

After that useless showdown, Changbin frogmarched you back to your rooms, handing you off to an actually intimidating keeper - Chaeryeong, your personal maid. But, to your even greater chagrin, she wasn’t alone. As promised, an army of maids descended on you, all charged with different vicious tasks - stripping your skin bare and smooth with hot sugar paste; kneading various herbal, floral unguents into your skin before dunking you into cold and hot baths; brushing your hair out until it fairly gleamed in the fading sunlight. By the time you were passed off to Chaeryeong for her final inspection, you almost didn’t recognize yourself in the mirror.

Chaeryeong clicked her tongue approvingly as she walked around you, tightening the laces on your virginal white chemise. “You finally look presentable, milady.”

You bristled. “Are you saying I usually don’t?”

“Last week I had to pull a twig out of your hair before sending you down to supper. There isn’t a single dress of yours that doesn’t have mudstains, milady, and you think a splash of cold water every morning or two is enough to care for your skin.” Chaeryeong looked scandalized.

You rolled your eyes. “Well, I’m glad one of us is satisfied with this situation.”

“You’re not?”

“Why in the name of the Goddess would I be?”

“Sleeping with a man who’s young, tall, handsome, powerful, wealthy,” Chaeryeong giggled as she counted off each word on her fingers, “isn’t the worst thing in the world, milady.” She flicked you a mischievous glance as she smoothly slid to stand behind you. “Especially when the man in question has a major soft spot for you.”

You scoffed. “Kim Seungmin doesn’t have a soft spot for me, Chae. He can't even be in the same room as me without snarking at me - and I can't remember the last time he actually said anything nice to me.”

Chaeryeong’s fingers stilled in your hair as she stared you down in the mirror. “You really believe that, don’t you?” You arched an eyebrow at her in response. She let out a deep sigh. “For such a brilliant witch… you really can be dense.” She shook her head before reaching over to grab flowers to weave into your hair. “I hope you realize - the one thing standing between him and war is you. Most men - especially a King - would have just tossed you onto that table and had their way with you. And maybe they would have begged your forgiveness and understanding afterwards - maybe, if they were worried about you cursing them into oblivion. No one else would have spent a whole week waiting to try and convince you into doing this willingly.”

You opened your mouth to snap something back in your defense... and realized you had nothing to say.

“See,” Chaeryeong murmured softly. “Sometimes it feels like you’re… willfully blind to His Majesty’s kindness towards you. He’s always treated you with respect - and made sure you’re treated with respect. I wouldn’t take that for granted, my lady - or ignore what’s behind that mask he puts up all the time.”

As she put the final touches on your hair, you couldn’t help but reflect on Chaeryeong’s words. You had extraordinary freedom and liberties as the High Sorceress…but no, that wasn’t exactly right. You were given extraordinary freedom and liberties as the High Sorceress - by your King. If it wasn’t for his unwavering support for you - against the Council, against any and all reactionary forces - you wouldn't hold any of the power you did. Sure, he riled you up, jerked you around a bit - and you still hated just how easily he could outwit you. But you were being childish to fixate on that - to lose sight of the forest for the trees.

“And here’s the final touch.” Chaeryeong sidled up to you with a long scrap of silk in her hands - your blindfold. “You’re not allowed to see His Majesty until the ritual starts.” Her quick fingers made short work of fastening it around your head - and being the jerk that she was, she put it on properly tight, making sure you couldn’t see a thing. “Maybe that’ll teach you to let yourself lean on him for once,” she mused, before pulling you up out of your chair with none too gentle hands.

Chaeryeong, as always, was right. You were completely unmoored by the loss of your sight, limiting your magical abilities too. You were forced to rely completely, like a baby, on Chaeryeong to guide you through the halls to the oldest wing of the castle - and you only realized that you were in front of Seungmin when the two of you came to a sudden halt, a reverent “Your Majesty” coming from her lips.

This was it.

Chaeryeong subtly pulled you down into a curtsy, pinching you in the back to make sure you stayed low as she stepped away from your side. From the sound of her sharp footsteps receding down the hall and the lack of any other noise around you, you presumed she’d left - and you were now alone with your King.

“You may rise.” Seungmin’s amused drawl sounded from somewhere high above your head. Disoriented by your imposed blindness, you stumbled a little as you stood up - but you were caught by warm hands encircling your arms, steadying you on your feet. “How low the high have fallen, hmm?” Such a tease, you thought. But the gentle tone of his voice, the circles his thumbs were rubbing into your arms… he was helping ground you, to put you more at ease - which only made you feel more guilty.

“My lord,” you started softly - earning a harsh inhale in surprise from Seungmin. “I… I owe you an apology. My behavior earlier today - for this entire week - has been immature and not fitting for a ranking member of your court. Forgive me for my negligence.” You made to dip into a curtsy again - but Seungmin’s grip on your arms tightened, keeping you from lowering yourself.

There was a heartbeat of silence before Seungmin responded, his voice more tender than you’d ever heard it. “I don’t know what prompted this… change, but - you don’t need to apologize. I knew we both knew this is what must be done, and I knew we were going to eventually do it - but that doesn’t make it any easier for you. You didn’t want this with me, and I know that.”

Why did that last statement sound a false note in your heart? You ignored it in favor of speaking out. “But I’ve spent the past week shirking my duty. You had to force me back in line.”

“And that is my responsibility as King, my sorceress. No harm done.” You could tell that he was leaning down closer to you, his voice loud and clear in your ear. “And remember - neither this kingdom nor I will ever forget this sacrifice.”

There was an oddly charged moment of silence after that statement - which was abruptly broken by the sensation of the ground suddenly falling away from under you. You gasped as surprisingly sturdy arms lifted you up until you were cradled against a lean, hard chest. “Seungmo!” You squeaked, the childhood nickname slipping past your lips. “S-since when were you strong enough to do this?”

There was a pause - you were positive that Seungmin had rolled his eyes at you. “Just because I don’t have bulging biceps like that bodyguard of yours doesn’t mean that I’m a weakling, witch.”

“Well, it won’t be good to kick things off with you tripping over your feet carrying me in,” you muttered sulkily.

You couldn’t hold back a shiver as Seungmin tsked, his warm breath ghosting across the sensitive shell of your ear. “Such disrespect for your king? Bold, given that you’re at my mercy for the next hour.”

“Next hour? That ego of yours is still clearly giant.”

Seungmin let out a husky laugh. “It’s not the size of my ego you should be worried about right now, sweet.” You thumped a useless fist against his chest - even as your core involuntarily clenched and slickened.

There was a ear-ringingly loud blast of trumpets, followed by the creak of the gates to the ancient hall being pushed open. The murmurs and chatter of the crowd awaiting your arrival fell silent, an almost eerie hush settling in as Seungmin strode into the hall. Even with the enormous fire spluttering away in the ancient hearth, the room was always chilly; gooseflesh pimpled your arms, and you almost automatically burrowed closer into Seungmin’s neck for warmth - at least, that’s what you told yourself. The sharp raps of Seungmin’s footsteps against the flagstones came to a halt, and you were securely sat onto a hard surface - the High Table. Your sacrificial altar, you mused to yourself cynically.

You jumped a little as you felt gentle fingers clasp your hands, giving you a firm squeeze. Those warm fingertips then ghosted across your cheeks, twining through your hair as they searched for the knot of your blindfold. Your heart was bounding in your chest, blood roaring in your ears as Seungmin leaned into you, that familiar, titilatingly musky scent of his flooding your senses as he worked to unravel the tight knot, until the blindfold finally came free.

You blinked your eyes open to mellow, golden light - and the sight of Seungmin standing over you, watching you carefully with a small, soft smile. The great hall was awash with candlelight, long tapering candles and sticks of smoking perfume burning all around you, throwing the faces of the crowd of onlookers beyond you into shadow - but bathing Seungmin in glorious, warm light. He looked impeccably regal as he stood above you in his smart black leather doublet and swan white shirtsleeves, his royal purple ermine-edged cloak clasped around his throat. His hair was up, brushed off his forehead, and the gold of his royal circlet shone out bright against the ink black of his hair - but the brightest of all were his eyes, warm and deep brown, steady and clear as he - your King, you truly felt down to your bones for the first time - held your gaze.

Taking a deep breath, you let yourself fall back, the ancient stone of the table icy against your spine. While you couldn’t see any of the spectators surrounding you and Seungmin - the vaulted ceiling of the great hall the only thing in your line of sight - it felt like you could sense their gaze prickling across your skin, weighing you down. But before you could let your mind wander too far, Seungmin was there, leaning over you with those broad, square shoulders, blocking your sight of anything but him. You felt your cheeks flame as his hand came up to cup your face, and your heart skipped a beat as he pressed a petal soft kiss to your forehead, breathily whispering into your skin. “It will be good, my sweet. Trust me.”

Maybe Chaeryeong was onto something… You searched his eyes, finding so much affection and reassurance beaming back at you that you blinked your own shut - before giving him a brief nod.

He let his lips drag over to your temple, then down to your cheek, leaving open mouthed kisses in his wake as his lips trailed lower and lower, down your jawline, down your neck - and lower. Your mind reeled, your hands fisting the flimsy material of your gown. This was supposed to be brief and impersonal - you’d even readied a lubrication charm in preparation for the inevitable. But you should have known that Seungmin wouldn’t just do an adequate job like that. You were fighting for your life to stay silent as he added his teeth into the mix, working the thin, sensitive skin of your throat until you felt the sickly sweet pain of a bruise forming. His hand slid down from your cheek so he could softly thumb at the mark - his mark - marring your skin, and when he pressed down just right on the bruise, you whimpered - and watched as his eyes darkened to black.

From there, he was insatiable. Your hands flew up to his shoulders at the swipe of his tongue against your hardening nipple; they desperately slid to clutch at his hair when he took it whole into his mouth, the wet heat tantalizing even through the cotton of your chemise. He palmed your neglected breast hard, the soft flesh spilling through his fingers. A whine finally tore itself free from your throat, and Seungmin snapped his head up to look at you, lips twisting into a triumphant smirk. “I thought you weren’t going to enjoy this, Lady Sorceress.” His fingers came up to tweak your nipple - hard - as he mouthed carelessly at your other breast, his eyes watching you hungrily as you writhed under his touch. The pleasure carried you away on a hazy cloud of lust, into the dreamland of dangerous possibilities. What would it feel like to have this dumb chemise out of the way, so his fingers and lips could traipse your naked skin? What would it feel like to have the heat of his bare skin pressed up against yours - the weight and friction of his hard chest crushing into your sensitive breasts?

Your attention was yanked back into the land of the living at sudden, discordant noise: gasps and murmurs, you quickly realized, rippling through your audience - for your King was dropping to a knee at your feet, hands sliding with promise up your legs under your chemise. You shot up onto your elbows, staring down at him in horror. “Your Majesty,” you hissed. “This is wanton.”

Seungmin arched an eyebrow. “I’d rather be wanton than have you in pain at my hands.” You felt a traitorous flutter in your chest. “And most importantly - when you have the kingdom’s most powerful woman laid out in front of you... you worship her.”

Those large, long-fingered hands of his found purchase in the soft skin of your inner thighs, forcing them spread and keeping them spread with that hidden strength of his. He let out a small groan at the sight of your swollen folds, dragging a single, deliberate fingertip down the length of your slit. At the very first touch of his soft lips to your sensitive bundle of nerves, you choked out a moan - and startled as the candles around you all simultaneously popped. From between your legs, Seungmin laughed darkly. “Looks like I won’t need to ask you whether I’ve done a good job,” he said, the sensation of his breath and lips against your core making you squirm with stimulation. His hands slid up to your hips, anchoring you in place as he lapped languidly at your cunt, tongue flicking in and out of your aching entrance, nose rubbing up against your swollen little pearl.

There was no chance in hell you could stay quiet any more. As a moaning keen spilled forth from your lips, your eyes flicked up to the shadowy figures in the crowd watching you. You’d thought they would be judgmental - critical, gossipy, as people always were in situations like this. Instead… there wasn’t a face you could make out that wasn’t flushed, expression glazed over. Seungmin slid his arms under your legs, yanking you down the table until the base of your spine rested on the very edge of the table, your core putty under his mouth as he supported your weight - and you watched as some woman in the crowd whimpered, biting her lip in response.

Your head lolled back onto the table, and you started shuddering in Seungmin’s hands.

“I guess I was wrong about needing an hour.” With a final kiss to your folds, Seungmin rose to his feet, leisurely wiping his mouth on the back of one hand, the other drifting down to the laces of his trousers. “I didn’t anticipate just how thoroughly you would enjoy my attentions, my witch.” Tease. His eyes danced with mirth as you whined in annoyance. You felt the blunt tip of him dragging through your folds, its weight catching deliciously against the tight ring of your entrance. “I’ll start slow,” he murmured, a hand coming up to brace himself above your head. And from the first breach of his length into your walls, you knew you were in trouble.

“Big,” you gasped out. Seungmin let his free hand run loose over the flesh of your thighs and hips, kneading and caressing and soothing. “Relax for me, sweet - it’ll be easier if you let me in.” His voice was breathy and soft, eyes so warm - daresay loving - as he leaned in over you, covering your body with his. You gave him a small nod, breathing deeply and doing your best to let your body sink into the stone under you. As he carefully, firmly worked the rest of his length into your tight cunt, you couldn’t help but whimper, eyes squeezing shut at the deep, deep stretch of him, your spine arching off the table as your body contorted to accommodate him. “Beautiful,” he murmured, pupils dilated with lust. “Made to take me.”

And as the sting and discomfort started to morph into the burning, insatiable stretch of pleasure, you were inclined to agree with him.

“Let me know when I can move, sweet,” he asked, the flat of his hand rubbing soothing circles into your lower belly. “Please,” you rasped out - and the delightedly vicious grin that curled his lips in response only sent another surge of fire through you. Your limbs ached to twine around him, pulling him down into you, imprisoning him between your legs - but you were determined to maintain some public decorum. Seungmin made the decision for you though, salaciously bold as ever as he leaned forward into you, splaying your legs out wide, knees almost to your chest. He tested the waters with a rapid snap of his hips in and out - and the two of you stared at each other with wide eyes at just how deep it all felt in this position. Seungmin’s hips started rocking back and forth, almost as if on their own volition - almost as if they were enchanted - and your hands desperately scrabbled for purchase on the unyielding stone as he started pounding into you.��

Your hips canted up into his, trying to answer his thrusts with your own. And you were clearly doing something right, judging by his drawn out groans. “Mine,” he moaned. As he bore down on you, every thrust ground delicious friction into your bundle of nerves - and Seungmin’s hips were driving into yours at such a punishing pace that you were overwhelmed by stimulation. You were sure the two of you were making an absolute mess, the squelching sounds of him pumping into you only growing louder with every thrust. Just with his lips and nose and tongue, the friction and sensation and pleasure had all already brought you close to the cliff of your peak. You knew it wasn’t going to be much longer now before he dragged you over - but there was something positively strange happening to you. Your pleasure was merely riding the edge of some deeper, powerfully visceral sensation that had you gasping, shivering with every plunging stroke. But Seungmin, your ever-wise, your ever-aware Seungmin, had cottoned onto what was happening to you - and wrapping you tightly up into his arms, he only picked up the pace of his hips. “Let go, sweet,” he eked out. “I’ve got you safe, here - let go, my queen.” And before your mind could even process what he’d just given away, you felt yourself clenching up, eyes squeezing shut and nerves singing in pleasure as you hit your release - the pain of your fingers digging into the broad expanse of his back, the spasms of your tight cunt triggering Seungmin’s release simultaneously, spurts of his hot, thick seed flooding into your core, serving as a balm for your aching walls as he collapsed into your waiting arms.

Before you could let the waves of pleasure carry away your mind with it, however - your eyes shot open at the gasps and shouts coming from around you. Gold - that was all you could see - a golden bubble encasing you and your King. Seungmin lifted his head up from where it was pillowed on your chest, a look of pure wonder on his face as the two of you watched the bubble slowly float and collapse inwards, coalescing into a glowing yellow orb hovering above all of your heads. The hazy whorls of incense and candle smoke in the air took on a bright golden hue - before it all whooshed outwards in a rapid gust of wind, rattling the windows of the hall as the orb and its golden mist exploded out into the sky . You recognized the magic for what it was - the largest, purest barrier charm you’d ever witnessed.

You and Seungmin had pulled it off. A giggle of delight squeezed out of your chest, and you let your gaze snap back down to the man resting on his elbows over you. Seungmin was watching you with a small, mysterious smile, panting slightly as he tried to catch his breath. And as you looked back at him… you felt a wave of emotion wash over you, as powerful as if the ground had literally shifted under your feet. An almost unbearable fondness filled your heart as you beheld him - your King, your protector…your lover.

You had been right about one thing - there would be no going back from this, at least for you. But now you found yourself wondering… why was that such a bad thing?

Ignoring the shuffling footsteps around you as your audience slowly started to disperse, you let your arms wrap around Seungmin, relishing the feeling of his muscles bunching under your touch as he slid his arms in turn around you, helping you to sit upright. His dark eyes were fixed on the place the two of you were joined as he slowly extricated himself from you, the feeling of his sticky seed trickling out from between your legs strange and foreign. That ever intelligent, searching gaze then slowly scanned your body, looking you over head to toe as he tucked himself away in his trousers, before his eyes fluttered shut. Seungmin let out a slow exhale before blinking his eyes open again - and you were startled to see that professional mask of his slide back into place.

“Up you go,” he murmured, arm sliding around your back as he helped you off the table, supporting you as your legs quailed under your weight. With a few deft pulls, he unfastened his cloak, wrapping it around your shoulders instead. You were thankful for the warmth it provided - and the coverage, you realized, as you noticed the servants hovering at a respectful distance from the two of you. “Give me a second,” Seungmin said before turning away to address his valet and knight-at-arms.

One of the maids stepped forward, a fan in her hand to put out the few lingering candles. Before you could even hesitate on what to do, she dipped into a low curtsy, bowing her head - to you. “Your Highness,” she breathed out, an almost reverent look on her face as she glanced back up at you. Awkward with the unfamiliar courtesy, you smiled hesitantly, tilting your head at her in acknowledgement.

How had you misjudged this situation so badly? Part of your hesitation leading up to all of this had been because you’d thought that you’d be made out to be a slag - no better than the King’s kept woman. Why hadn’t you appreciated the power inherent in this? With the spectacular care with which he’d pleasured you, with the demonstration of your magic in front of the whole court, Seungmin had marked you - just as he’d told you with those hungry eyes - out to be the most powerful woman in the kingdom.

You snapped out of your thoughts to see Seungmin making his way back to stand in front of you. You frowned to see that mask of his still in place, a strange awkwardness in his manner as he addressed you. “I can help you back to your rooms now. Or,” he turned to gesture behind him, “one of the servants can take you if you prefer.”

You arched a critical eyebrow at him. “Could we go to your chambers instead?”

His eyes widened for a second, before you watched understanding wash over his face. “Ah yes, that was careless of me - there’s too many stairs to get back to your chambers. You can rest in mine as long as you need.”

Wrapping an arm loosely around you, he let you lean on him as the two of you walked out of the hall. His rooms weren’t too far away, the royal chambers taking up a significant portion of the ancient wing of the castle. But an awkward silence reigned over the two of you, Seungmin stoically looking straight ahead as you limped along beside him.

Something had clearly changed in you - because for once, instead of being the reactive fool you normally were, you saw the situation - and his reaction - for what it actually was. Seungmin was taking his turn to be the awkward overthinker - a role he’d grown out of once he’d become King… except when it came to a few specific things he couldn’t stay purely rational about. The things he cared about the most, the things that mattered most deeply… in this case - you.

You sighed. You’d probably need to gift Chaeryeong a necklace or something after all of this was over.

You bided your time until Seungmin finally shut the two of you into his chambers. He’d turned away to lock the doors behind him - and startled when he turned back around to find you standing right in front of him. As you stared up at him, watching his lips twitch in discomfort… you came to a shocking realization.

“You never kissed me,” you breathed out, even more surprised as you said it. He’d kissed you literally everywhere else - but he hadn’t touched your lips. You gazed up at him with wide eyes. “Why?”

Seungmin shifted uncomfortably. “It felt too…intimate.”

What? “You took my virginity - in public. We unleashed a magical force field together,” you deadpanned, trying to get a laugh out of him - and failing, as Seungmin continued to look at you stoically. “I’d say that’s pretty intimate, my lord.”

He shrugged, hugging his arms around him and hesitating for a second - before bluntly, in Seungmin fashion, getting to the heart of the matter. “The reality is that… freely given sacrifice, prophecy, whatever you want to call it - I took something from you that you didn’t mean for me to have.” It was a testament to Seungmin’s poise that his voice stayed even, his eyes stayed steadily on you as he spoke. “I wanted you to have something - a part of you - you could still give away of your own will.” He sagged heavily into the doorframe, finally breaking eye contact as he trailed off.

Poor baby. Your heart fluttered. “That is… quite thoughtful of you, my lord,” you choked out, taking a small step forward. Then another. And another, inching towards him. “So - that means it’s alright with you for me to do this, right?” Reaching up, you twined your arms around his neck, pulling yourself up onto your tiptoes to press your body into his. His hands reflexively grabbed your waist, steadying you even as his eyes widened in surprise - before fluttering shut as you pressed your lips to his.

His mouth was divine heat - soft, pliable against yours. He gasped as you nipped at his lower lip, and you seized the chance to lick into his mouth, deepening the kiss until your head was whirling, ignorant of where you ended and he began.

When you finally pulled away for air, his lips chased yours for a second before he caught himself. You giggled, beaming up at him. “How low the high have fallen, hmm?”

Seungmin let out a low warm laugh, such fondness in his eyes that you couldn’t help but shy away. “I have much, much lower to fall still, don’t worry,” he murmured as he bent down over you, his hair falling into his eyes as he smiled. In a single, smooth movement, he flipped the two of you around so he had you pinned up against the wall, his body pressed firmly into yours.

You cleared your throat. “Y-you really like having me against hard surfaces, don’t you?”

He shrugged, focus elsewhere as his fingers busied themselves with the laces of your chemise. “Seems like it’s the only way to keep you good for me, witch mine.” You whined as his hand accidentally grazed your sore, tender nipple, the sound making his eyes snap back to yours. A dark, wicked smile curled his lips before he crashed his mouth back onto yours, long fingers working your breast deliberately, possessively. You responded with enthusiasm, tangling your own fingers into his silky hair, until the spell was broken - for you at least - by loud noises from outside his chambers.

You pulled away from his lips with a loud smack. “What’s that?”

“Never mind that,” he rasped out, pulling you in tight against him. “Worry about it later.” Your breath hitched as he nosed his way into your neck, pulling at the loosened neck of your chemise to expose your collarbone for him to feast on.

Steeling yourself, you pushed your hands firmly against his chest. “Seungmo, I want to worry about it now.” He groaned, rolling his eyes, but let you go without a fight, releasing you from his embrace. Turning on your heel, you tugged him along to his balcony. The sounds had seemed to come from the royal gardens, which were sprawled right below Seungmin’s chambers. Pulling your cloak - his cloak - more tightly around you, you stepped out onto the balcony - and froze, as an astounding sight brought the two of you to a standstill.

Wherever you looked - below you, around you - every single plant and tree was in abundant bloom. Regardless of season, of age - fruit and flowers were everywhere, swinging in the breeze, littering the ground. You turned to Seungmin in shock - only to see him looking back at you with loving, wondrous awe. “That’s all you,” he murmured, brushing a fond hand against your cheek. “My powerful, mesmerizing sorceress.”

You flushed. “No, it’s not.” You stepped closer to him, wrapping your arms around his waist. “It’s us.” You tiptoed up to press a kiss into his cheek - and promptly hid into Seungmin’s neck as whoops and cheers rang up to you from the gardens below.

Seungmin laughed, tucking you into his side as he led the two of you back inside. “Well, you know what this means,” he said.

You quirked an eyebrow at him. “What?”

Shooting a dazzling smile your way, he caught you up in his arms once again, the heady sensation already warm and familiar to you - before peremptorily throwing you onto his bed.

“The fate of the flora of this kingdom is in our hands, Lady Sorceress.” He intoned in a faux serious voice - made only the more ridiculous by the sight of him crawling on all fours towards you on the bed. “We have crucial work to do, milady - and we must start posthaste.”

You threw your head back in laughter before wrapping your limbs around him. “Yes, my lord - let’s start immediately.”

Fin.

[If you made it all the way here... please comment, reblog and give me feedback!! My Ko-Fi is also linked in my blog if you're able to support :)]

#skz fic #skz smut #stray kids smut #stray kids fanfiction #stray kids fanfic #seungmin x reader #seungmin fic #seungmin smut #seungmin #kim seungmin #skz fanfic #skz fanfiction

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aventurineswife · 10 days ago

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Pathetic Sunday is the Best!

Summary: In the tranquil gardens, you share a heartwarming stroll with Sunday. As he nervously admires your exposed ankles, you playfully tease him.

Tags: Sunday x Reader, Fluff, Soft Romance, Slightly Suggestive.

Warnings: Exposed Ankles.

A/N: I TRIED MY BEST!! 😇🤭 I'll probably write more of him being a pathetic simp of yours (and to improve my writings) lol

Inspired by

Tags: @moonlix14-blog

The air in the Oak Family’s quarters was filled with the sweet scent of blooming flowers, a stark contrast to the chaos that often surrounded them. You found yourself wandering through the vibrant gardens, enchanted by the colorful blossoms swaying gently in the warm breeze. It was a realm unlike any other, a sanctuary that Sunday had crafted for those weary of the world.

As you admired the petals glistening in the sunlight, you heard the soft crunch of gravel behind you. Turning, you saw Sunday approaching, his signature tailcoat billowing slightly with each step. His hair caught the light, and for a moment, you were captivated by how the halo behind him glimmered like a gentle beacon.

“Ah, [Name],” he said, his eyes brightening as they locked onto yours. There was an unmistakable warmth in his gaze, one that made your heart flutter. “What brings you to the garden today?”

“I just needed some fresh air,” you replied, a smile gracing your lips. “It’s beautiful here.”

“It truly is.” he agreed, stepping closer. The soft sound of his boots against the gravel was nearly drowned out by the rustling leaves and distant laughter of others enjoying the paradise he had created.

As he drew nearer, you could see the faint blush on his cheeks. “I, um, wanted to ask if you’d like to join me for a stroll.” he offered, a nervous edge to his voice. It was a side of Sunday you rarely saw—the dignified leader who often seemed so composed and in control now looked slightly flustered, shifting on his feet (like a school girl asking her crush out) as he awaited your response.

“I’d love that.” you said, feeling your own cheeks warm slightly.

As you began to walk side by side, a comfortable silence enveloped you. Sunday pointed out various flowers, sharing their meanings and tales of how they came to bloom in this paradise. But it wasn’t the stories that captured your attention; it was the way he spoke, his passion evident in every word.

Suddenly, a soft breeze rustled your clothing, drawing your attention to your exposed ankles—something you hadn’t even considered until now. Glancing down, you realized Sunday had caught a glimpse, and in that instant, you felt his eyes widen slightly, a mix of surprise and something deeper flickering across his face.

“Your… ankles.” he stammered, his voice barely above a whisper. The way he blushed made you suppress a giggle. This was the Sunday everyone revered, yet here he was, flustered over something as simple as exposed skin.

“Do you like them?” you teased playfully, taking a step closer to him, intentionally drawing his gaze lower.

“I—uh,” he stuttered, his usual eloquence slipping away. “I mean, it’s just… you look lovely, as always.” His eyes darted away, trying to regain his composure, and his wings instinctively shifted to cover his face, hiding the flustered look that betrayed his dignified demeanor.

The sight of him, usually so confident, now struggling with a light blush on his cheeks was endearing. “Thank you, Sunday. You’re always so kind.”

His gaze returned to yours, and for a moment, the world around you faded. The soft glow of the garden, the sounds of laughter, everything ceased to exist as he looked at you with a mix of admiration and something more profound.

“Being kind is easy when it comes to you.” he admitted softly, a shy smile breaking through his initial fluster.

Feeling a sudden rush of courage, you took his hand in yours, your fingers entwining with his. The touch sent a shiver up your spine, and you could see his breath hitch slightly, a flicker of surprise lighting up his golden eyes.

“Let’s make a promise,” you said, your heart racing. “Let’s always find a way to be happy, even in the midst of chaos.”

He squeezed your hand gently, his expression softening. “I promise. Together, we’ll create a world where happiness isn’t just an escape, but a reality.”

As the sun dipped lower in the sky, painting the world in hues of orange and pink, you walked through the gardens hand in hand, lost in your own paradise, where dreams mingled with reality, and the future felt infinitely bright.

In that moment, with Sunday by your side, you knew you had found something precious—a love that transcended the pain of the world, rooted in kindness and dreams yet to be fulfilled.

#hsr #honkai star rail #x reader #honkai star rail x reader #hsr x reader #sunday hsr #hsr sunday x reader #hsr sunday #sunday x reader #sunday #hsr sunday x you #sunday honkai star rail #fluff #slightly suggestive #exposed ankle #soft romance #sfw

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fullofbees · 4 months ago

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@pompeiisystem requested: #135 With Beel and a easily flustered mc? Please I'm begging I love the big himbo man with every inch of my heart lol

CW: Talking about masturbation

»»----------► GN!Reader

“Beel, look how many likes your devilgram photo got!” You cheer, showing the gluttonous demon your phone screen.

The post was meant to be inspirational, in a cheesy influencer way, at Asmo’s suggestion. The first showed Beelzebub before Fangol practice, sitting on a bench in the locker room. One hand is slipping on his cleats while the other shovels chips into his mouth. Swipe left, and you’ll find the after photo; Beel grinning in his sweat-drenched jersey, cheeks rosy from exercise, a towel slung across his shoulders. Nobody knows that he’s smiling because, behind the camera, you’re bribing him with food so he’ll stay still for the picture.

“We eatin’ good tonight, chat. Everyone say thank you Beel for the meal?” He reads aloud, head tilted in confusion.

Your eyes widen as you look back to the screen, noticing the top comment under the post. The replies are filled with equally thirsty comments and very suggestive emojis.

The heat of embarrassment starts at the tip of your ears, making its way down your face and neck. Of course, you agree wholeheartedly with the commenters. Beelzebub has no business being as attractive as he is; solid muscle that could hold you like it was nothing, large hands that are used to stuffing-

The demon interrupts your runaway thoughts, “Wait, what does that one say?” He points to another comment with a crumb-riddled finger.

“Oh! Um,” you hum, willing your eyes to focus on the text, “New... masturbation material...”

When you look at the demon, he is already distracted by the TV - an ad for a local restaurant. He doesn’t seem bothered at all.

“Sorry, are these not... weird to you?”

“Not really,” he says as he opens his next snack, “Everyone needs something to fantasize about.”

Don’t remind me. Too many nights have you spent alone in your bed, hand between your legs, fantasizing about the demon just down the hall from you. Would he be fast and rough, or would he take his time? Would he savor you like a delicacy, or would he devour you whole in his hunger? Why did the image of bruises in the shape of his bite excite you so damn much?

“I suppose you’re right,” you say, scratching the back of your neck. This is not a conversation you ever imagined having, nor did you expect Beel to be so nonchalant about it. Compared to your flustered state - if this were one of Levi’s manga, then blood would be dripping out of your nose right now - Beel is almost statuesque in his composure.

“I’ll be honest: I get off to the thought of you.”

Scratch that; blood would be pouring.

You’d bury your face in your hands if it weren’t for the fact that you’re frozen in shock. Beel’s calm demeanor cracks slightly; a faint blush blossoms on his face as he fidgets, one hand nervously clutching the other’s wrist.

Lips part to break the awkward silence, but your mind is blank, and any words mustered die in your throat. Excitement, lust, and anxiety overwhelm you in waves. The crash comes when your phone clatters to the floor, having slipped from your increasingly sweaty grip.

Both of you react, reaching for the device at your feet. Your fingers brush together, and you must bite your lip to keep yourself in check.

Beel doesn’t move, eyes fixed on the sight of his hand easily dwarfing yours. It isn’t until you clear your throat that he returns to wringing his wrist in worry.

Neither of you speak, yet neither of you leave. You begin to mirror Beel, fingers nervously picking at loose threads hanging from your sleeves. It takes a moment for your heart to settle, for your sinful curiosity to outweigh your apprehension.

Your voice is quiet, but not hesitant when you ask, “What do you think I taste like?”

Beel’s stomach roars in its familiar hunger.

“Will you let me find out?”

•••✦ ❤ ✦••• Submit A Request | Read on AO3 •••✦ ❤ ✦•••

A/N: Sorry there's no actual smut TvT but I love flirty dialogue that allows your mind to wander ;3

#fullofbeeswrites #obey me shall we date #obey me nightbringer #obey me beelzebub x reader #obey me beelzebub x mc #obey me beelzebub smut #obey me smut

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haosweater · 10 months ago

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perhaps i loved you.

content: idol! jeonghan x gn! reader, angst, fluff, past life au, coffee shop au, royalty au (just read, you’ll get it), unrequited love.

summary: a unique cafe down fifth avenue opens a whole new door of surprises for jeonghan.

word count: 1.4k

note: based this off the short exert i wrote at the end lol. totally not inspired by real life events haha… also i’m writing this at almost two in the morning please forgive any grammar or spelling mistakes.

it was cloudy. the sun peeked through the smallest crevices it could find as the wind gently brushed against jeonghan’s skin.

he shivered, pulling his green cardigan on tighter. he reached up, grabbing his white bucket hat to make sure it didn’t fly away. god knew the wind was ruthless these past few days. jeonghan felt like the world seemed to be against him.

he hummed along to his music, walking down the street in solace. the cherry blossoms bloomed magnificently, its pink petals falling to spread its beauty. he looked up, admiring the trees with a gentle smile.

there weren’t a lot of people out this time of the day and jeonghan liked that. he liked the comfort of not being recognised, being able to go about his day peacefully. the solitude was exactly what he needed.

inhaling a deep breath, he turned and continued down the street. the shops down this road were vintage. unique little thrift stores, record stores, quaint coffee shops that sold overpriced coffee— wait.

jeonghan paused, staring into the shop. olive green bookshelves lined the beige walls of the shop. behind, there was a counter with coffee machines and cake displays. at the very front of the store, there was a table. it had two chairs with a typewriter sitting on it.

a cafe? no, bookstore? or was it a vintage thrift store? confused, jeonghan looked up at the sign.

‘caffeinated literature’.

‘how peculiar,‘ jeonghan thought. glancing around, he peeked into the cafe again, noticing no one was inside. he wondered if it was closed, a slight pang of disappointment filling his chest.

however, the ‘open’ sign on the door proved him wrong. his eyes moved down, and noticed the poster on the door, prompting him to move closer and read it.

enjoy a cup of coffee,

and let me write you poetry.

welcome to caffeinated literature.

it didn’t take jeonghan another second to push the glass door open, the soft chime of the bell ringing in the air. “hello?” he called out softly.

there was a muffled crash followed by a yelp, shocking him. “hello! just give me a moment! please, take a seat!”

jeonghan sat down apprehensively, fluffing the cushion beside him. the interior was cozy, minimalistic and welcoming. swinging his feet, he continued to observe his surroundings, not realising you had emerged from behind the counter.

“hello, so sorry about that! what can i get for you today?” you panted, handing him the menu.

jeonghan looked at you in awe. your voice sounded like sweet, smooth honey that dripped slowly into a cup of warm tea. there was a sense of familiarity to you, but he couldn’t figure out what it was.

“uh, sorry,” he mumbles, snapping out of his thoughts. “i’ll just get an iced cappuccino and a poem, please.”

you grin. “great choice. i’ll be right back with your coffee, so just take a seat in tbe front,” you gesture to the table with the typewriter. he nods, getting up as you disappear behind the counter.

jeonghan feels light-headed from staring at you. something about you was so enchanting, so magical and so familiar. he sighed, annoyed that he was unable to figure out what it was.

the aroma of his coffee drifted in the air as you brought it over. he thanked you as you sat across him, smiling as he sipped on it slowly.

“oh, wow, this is really good,” he remarked, licking his lips. “thank you.”

“it’s no problem,” you say, smiling. “now, for the poem,” you gently slot the paper into the typewriter. turning around, you turn the speaker on, calm jazz music filling the cafe.

“i know this sounds rather far-fetched, but i usually hold people’s hands to get a better feel of their aura before i write their poem. do you mind if i do that with you?”

jeonghan shakes his head almost instantly. “no, not at all,” he says, extending his hands.

you smile, nodding in acknowledgement as you take his hands into yours, slowly shutting your eyes.

jeonghan shivered, and suddenly, he wasn’t in the cafe anymore.

he was now clad in formal wear, standing at the entrance to a balcony. you stood at the edge, back facing him. the moon was bright and the stars shone in the sky.

“i didn’t expect you to come,” your voice wavered. jeonghan couldn’t speak– he could not control what he did.

“i’m here now, aren’t i?” he chuckles, swirling the glass of wine in his hand. “what bothers you, my dear, on the night we are to celebrate?”

when you turn around, tears rolling down your cheeks, he freezes. you stare at him, sniffing softly. even when you’re crying, you look breath-taking to him.

averting your gaze, you sigh. “i can’t lie to you anymore, han,” you whisper. “tonight i watched you get married to the love of your life, confessing your love to each other in front of the whole kingdom,” you look up at him again.

“and now, i will confess my love to you, in front of the moon and stars.”

jeonghan is in shock. he doesn’t know how to comprehend this situation. it is all too fast, too quick– was this his past life?

“i have loved you ever since we were kids, han. my heart has held onto you tightly, refusing to let go. i’ve seen the best and the worst of you. i’ve seen all your flaws and imperfections and yet still i love you. i have been your friend, but never once did i love you like one. i loved you more than that. i would sacrifice the moon and the stars just to gaze at your beauty. i would burn the kingdom down if you wanted me to. my heart aches and yearns for your touch, your love, your heart and i know i will never get it, but i had to tell you.”

by the time you’re done, you’re panting, out of breath. jeonghan wants to rush forward and hold you, but his body stops him. there is no control.

“b-but y/n, i’m a prince and you’re a—”

“knight, i know,” you sob. “i prayed to the gods every day that my heart would let go of you because i knew i could never be yours, nor you, mine.”

jeonghan simply stood there, heart aching at the sight of you. “i am sorry, y/n. i am sorry i cannot love you the way you want me to,” he whispers, taking a step forward.

“it’s okay, han,” you say softly, tears staining your once rosy cheeks. wiping them away, you look at him with a sad smile. “it was never meant to be anyways.”

with a loud gasp, jeonghan finds himself back in cafe. he’s panting, eyes darting around vigorously before landing on you.

you were crying.

and so was he.

“sorry,” you let out an awkward laugh, wiping your tears away. “i don’t know why i’m crying,” you whisper, trying to stop yourself from crying, but the tears keep coming.

“it’s okay,” jeonghan stutters, quickly wiping his own tears. he wants to comfort you more, but he couldn’t find the words to. he felt like he didn’t deserve to.

sniffing, your fingers suddenly start to gly across the typewriter, the clicks ringing in the air. jeonghan observes you intensely, watching you throw draft after draft away. you were clearly frustrated.

finally, after his ice had melted, his coffee finished, you were done.

“sorry,” you say, removing the paper. “i had a hard time finding the right words,” you confessed as he smiled.

he looked down, reading the poem as you fidgeted with your fingers. his eyes drift across each word, heart clenching as he reached the last line.

“this is beautiful,” he says breathlessly. “thank you. i love it.”

you return the smile. “thank you for coming. i hope to see you again.”

jeonghan’s heart flutters at your words momentarily. “thank you for the coffee and poem. and who knows? perhaps i will see you again,” he chuckles before waving goodbye, pushing the glass door open as the bell chimed.

the breeze was stronger now, and jeonghan had to grab onto his hat again. with a loud sigh, he began to walk down the street, thoughts flooding his mind. it was racing, restless and utterly confused.

as he reached the end, he stopped at a traffic light, waiting for it to turn green. pulling out the piece of paper, he reread what you had written, tears forming in the corner of his eyes once again.

‘who are you,

stranger?

you look rather familiar.

perhaps i have loved you.

in another life.’

#seventeen 🫧#seventeen x reader #seventeen angst #seventeen fluff #seventeen fics #seventeen fanfic #seventeen jeonghan #jeonghan #yoon jeonghan #jeonghan x reader #seventeen #seventeen imagines #mei’s ✍️

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pastanest · 1 year ago

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Spencer Reid x she/her!reader

A/N: set during S1E6: LDSK - another baby Reid fic bc he’s a sweetpea

Warning: actually really sweet Gideon lol I know he’s a tad controversial amongst stans but pls allow for a sweet fatherly moment ty

gif from an unnamed source on google so if it’s your please let me know and I’ll credit!! ♡

CCSW: Close Contact Serial Worrier

Ever since Gideon requested Hotch and Spencer go to check the surgeon’s story with a witness, you have been on edge. Something about this doesn’t feel right, and it isn’t just that your favorite person is no longer at your side.

Immediately picking up on your anxiety, Gideon bumps your shoulder with his. “Hotch’ll look after him.”

You nod, trying your best to reassure yourself, but it does little to calm the raised hairs at the back of your neck.

Standing with Elle, JJ and Gideon, you continue theorizing about the unsub, something not quite adding up about the profile so far, but your conversation is suddenly interrupted by the sound of gunfire. The heart previously in your chest all but leaps into your throat as you run towards the sound with your team, leading you all to the Emergency Room, but finding the doors already barricaded from the inside by the LDSK you all came here in search of, with Hotch and Spencer locked in there with him.

Time seems to freeze in place as you shakily lower yourself into one of the hospital’s waiting room chairs, your legs bouncing anxiously as tears sting your eyes, and that is how you stay.

“Hey, pretty girl, what’s-” Derek begins as he enters the room with a folder in hand of the unsub’s professional record, but Gideon stops him.

“Leave her, Morgan, what’ve you got?” Gideon advises, the rest of the team circling around you to discuss the information Derek has found, doing their best to keep you included, but you are in far too much shock to participate in the conversation.

A moment later, Gideon lowers himself to the chair beside you, a kind smile on his face that you can see from the corner of your eye, your gaze otherwise fixed on the hospital floor.

“He’s a strong kid, he’ll be alright.” He tells you, knowing the source of your anxiety without you needing to say anything. Gideon saw your crush on Spencer blossom the moment you laid eyes on him, on your very first day.

You nod. “I know, just the thought of him getting hurt, I-” You can’t even finish your sentence, closing your eyes in a pained blink as you shake your head, trying to push the thoughts from your mind.

Gideon gently pats your knee to reassure you. “I guarantee you, in a few minutes you’ll see him again and he will be absolutely fine.”

You nod again, finding the strength to turn and give Gideon a small smile. “Thanks, Boss.”

With that, Gideon stands up to talk with the SWAT Team leader, your ears straining to overhear the conversation. “Please, don’t send your men in yet.”

“You have to consider the possibility that your men are dead, or at least disarmed.” The SWAT Team leader responds, his words making you feel physically sick as you stand up and walk a few feet away to lean against a wall, breathing heavily.

A couple of minutes pass in the blink of an eye and the slowest eternity you’ve ever lived, simultaneously, and you watch as the SWAT team approach the door, ready to break through it and put your colleagues' lives even more at risk.

Then, a single gunshot makes you jump out of your skin.

“FEDERAL AGENT, FEDERAL AGENT, HOLD YOUR FIRE!” Hotch’s yell comes through the other side of the door.

The moment he opens it and tells the SWAT Team it’s all clear, you bolt for the door without hesitation, pushing through the SWAT Team until you find Spencer on the floor, gun held in bound hands with nothing more than a few superficial wounds on his face, but that is enough.

“Spencer!” You cry out, running for him and falling to your knees on the floor, pulling him into your arms in a tight hug before abruptly pulling away to check over his face in a panic. “A-Are you hurt? Do you need anything? I-I’ll go get it!” You blurt out, eyes wide like a deer in headlights as tears continue to fall from your eyes.

Spencer watches you with a curious and bashful smile, having not at all expected his first hug from you to be the result of something like this, but definitely not complaining. “I’m fine, (Y/N), are you okay?”

You release a breath you didn’t realize you’d been holding and pull Spencer back into another hug, sniffling into his shoulder, too overwhelmed to say anything as you help him to his feet and lead him out of the hospital.

The two of you perch yourselves on the back of an open ambulance, and you’re yet to acknowledge the fact you haven’t let go of Spencer’s hand, but the lovestruck smile on his face is enough to confirm he is very aware of it.

“Are you alright, (Y/N)?” He asks you again in a gentle voice, seeing your glazed-over eyes and the shock that lingers on your face.

“I was so worried, back there. I’m sorry, Spencer, I know you can handle yourself, I just- the thought of someone hurting you-” You ramble, shaking your head as tears threaten to enter your eyes again.

Spencer’s expression softens as he moves to stand in front of you. “Hey, look at me.”

Lifting your head, your gaze locks with his, and he gives you a dazzling smile.

“I promise you, I’m fine, Hotch kicks like a 9 year old girl.” He jokes lightheartedly, managing to bring the desired laugh from you, which causes his own smile to widen into a grin as he laughs with you. “There’s that smile!” He says, knowing it’ll make you giggle, and it does. Spencer squeezes your hand in his. “I do really appreciate your concern for me, (Y/N), I don't think I’ve ever known anyone that worries over me like you do.”

You smile sheepishly at that, glancing down at your hand in his with a twinkle of something he can’t decode in your eyes. “Part of my charm, baby.”

On the flight home, you find yourself fast asleep with your head on Spencer’s shoulder as the jet flies through the night sky. He dutifully wraps a blanket around you and is just tucking it under your chin when Gideon sits down opposite him.

“She really does care about you a lot.” He says.

Spencer smiles down at you fondly. “I know.”

Gideon’s ever-evaluating eyes soften at the scene in front of him. “A love like that, from a girl like her…it’s a rare and beautiful thing. If she’s what you’re looking for, don’t let her slip through your fingers.”

Spencer’s eyes widen at Gideon’s mention of ‘love’, swallowing nervously but nodding regardless, very much appreciating the fatherly advice. “I won’t, ever. If she wants me, that is.”

Gideon chuckles, glancing out of the jet window before his gaze settles on your sleeping form. “Given the way she was unafraid to tackle several SWAT Team members to the ground to get to you, I think it’s a safe bet that she does.”

#spencer reid #spencer reid x reader #spencer reid imagine #x reader #criminal minds #imagine #criminal minds x reader #criminal minds imagine #imagines #fanfic #fanfiction #headcannons #headcannon

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arabaka · 9 months ago

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ᰔ ̗̀➛ CHAPTER O3. BLOSSOMING.

₊˚ʚ ☁️ ₊˚ ♡ ﾟ. content warnings ⤸ sfw. reigen arataka x afab!reader. no cw but while this chapter is sfw, the story is generally not. 1.1k word count.

₊˚ʚ ☁️ ₊˚ ♡ ﾟ. author's note ⤸ chapter 3! sorry for taking so long, muse was dead but thanks to my beloveds, meg and @bulle-blackhole, i was able to break the curse and finish this! b also gave me the AMAZING idea that you'll see when you see reigen again and that honestly got me through the rest of the chapter lol.

CHAPTER ONE. | CHAPTER TWO. | TABLE OF CONTENTS.

“We should probably set some ground rules, right?” You murmur to his chest after a short while of being in his embrace.

Admittedly, Reigen hadn’t thought about that. “Yeah… Probably.” Reigen croaks, his cheeks heating up to an obvious red as he hears himself. “Sorry, I’ve just…”

The man looks away, ashamed, brown eyes looking anywhere but yours as his sheepishness shows in red hues blooming over his cheeks. Though he knows, there is no running from this, not from the very truth of the fact that…

”I’ve never been in a relationship.” His voice drops decibel by decibel with every word but the shame that drips off every word has no one to blame but himself.

The “going home” club really was a foolish decision.

You watch Reigen's throat tense with a barbed swallow, your heart beating with sympathy (but not pity) at the sight of it. He’s pensively pushing his fingers and his gaze is to the floor. The only noise bouncing off the walls is the nervous tap, tap, tap of his feet. If his words didn’t say it, his body language certainly does: the man is anxious. Reigen thought for so long that being self-made was enough for him, but as he’s confronted with his first relationship ever, he can’t help but think he’s falling short of what you need. What you deserve.

That’s when your hand comes over his, fingers curling in for a reassuring squeeze. The corners of your lips subtly curl, a tender smile appearing as you tell him, “That’s okay. Every relationship is different anyways… And I think we can both agree our situation is very different.”

We. Our.

Those two little words seem to snap him out of his stupor; after all, Reigen wouldn’t want to miss that smile of yours.

His hand shifts, his fingers moving to lace with yours. Immediately, he gulps, “S-Sorry, my hands are kinda sweaty.”

“That's okay. Some sweat never hurt anybody.” You assure him with a light laugh. “How about this…” You whisper as your other hand folds over his knuckles. “Let's revisit this tonight, in the meantime we can think about all of this and… Shower because I know I need one.”

The proposition is a relieving one, Reigen letting out a breath he didn't even know he was holding when you were done speaking. “I think that's a great idea.” He murmurs with a chuckle, eyes cast on your linked hands as he continues, “I really… Don't want to screw this up.” The man admits, unable to shake off the fear that everything will fall apart and it will be all his fault. He can fake it ‘til he makes it with everything else, everyone else in his life, but he would never do that with you.

He doesn't have to.

And when he hears you tell him that he won’t screw it up, that you won’t let him, with the sweetest smile, he believes you.

—

A few hours and many, many, Mobgle searches later, Reigen stands outside of your apartment door. He’s traded his suit for a more casual look, even tried parting his hair a different way… Until he saw his reflection in the nearby window and quickly rectified that mistake.

Just in time too because there you are, opening the door with a bigger smile on your face than the one you had this morning. “Reigen!” You chirp, extra excited to show him the bouquet of flowers you had bought for him earlier that day… Only to see the exact bouquet in his hands as well.

Pink roses line both arrangements but the real stars are the gerberas, their stark white petals standing out among the rosy leaves and bundles of baby’s breath. Both sets of flowers are the same, down to the pink cellophane wrap and white ribbon around the stems.

Both of you blink in surprise at first, stunned to silence until an escaped snort from Reigen gets you both to start laughing. “What are the odds?” You ask after a giggle, wiping your eye of the single tear that came from the belly laugh. “Let me guess…”

You don’t have to, Reigen jumps on it seamlessly, “‘You can’t go wrong with roses and gerberas!’”

“And let me guess…” You start again with a toothy grin, “He didn’t charge you for the baby’s breath either?”

“... What?”

–

You sit on the couch– yes, the same couch you two were shamelessly making out on like you were teenagers at the height of puberty less than 24-hours prior. Though this time, there isn’t any tension to cut through. No gulped swallows and nervous stirrings of the gut.

“We should say our first rule out loud at the same time.” You’re overeager, every cell in your body just itching to hammer out these details so you can kiss that stupid face of his again…

Okay, you really just want to seal the deal so you can officially call Reigen Arataka your boyfriend.

Reigen exclaims with a sweat already running from his brow, “What if yours is way more serious than mine?!”

“Aw, c’mooooon.” He’s still hesitating so you bring out the big guns… A pout and a stare that would put a kitten to shame.

Reigen’s face could not get redder. He can practically feel his heart ramming against his ribs just looking at you! “... Fine.” He clears his throat, trying to recover from the strike to the heart that was your expression. “You’re not gonna do that every time you need me to agree with you, right?” He asks after a beat, letting out a chuckle that makes the red glow on his cheeks even brighter somehow.

“I make no such promise.” You answer with a nod and a smug smile, your chin wrinkling from the silly expression. “Now, c’mon! One… Two… Three!”

“No PDA at work!”

“We shouldn’t do anything at work!”

You both let out a sigh of relief.

“Oh, good.” Reigen leans back on the couch, eyes closed briefly in contentment. “I’m glad we see eye-to-eye on this. But it’s not because I don’t want the others to know!” He’s now sat upright, needing you to see the honesty in his eyes because he would never want you to get the impression he wants to hide you for any reason.

Your hand on his knee soothes his worries, a touch he can already see himself craving. “Hey, hey, hey. Don’t get ahead of yourself. I knew what you meant but Reigen…” You smile at him tenderly, squeezing his leg as you assure him, “You don’t need to watch yourself around me, afraid you’ll make a mistake just because we’re going to be dating now.” Oh, how your cheekbones already tingle from how much the word “date” makes you giddy.

“Right, right.” Reigen returns your affectionate smile, his hand coming to hold yours. The gesture is still foreign to his bones but god, it feels perfect. “Well, I’m sure we can handle ourselves at work.”

“Totally.”

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dilatorywriting · 4 months ago

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hii!! i just wanted you to know that i stumbled upon your black butler work on ao3 and fell deeply in love with your writing!! i was so glad to find that you had a tumblr account just so i would be able to share my gratitude!

beyond your writing style, i also fell in love with your take on the characterization of the reader-insert— it feels so fun whenever i find myself rereading everything. plus, i’ve grown very soft with the blossoming bond between the mc and ciel, i absolutely adore every word between them.

whether or not you have future plans for the fic, i would like to express my sincerest gratitude for gracing me with your writing! it was a joy being able to read your work. i look forward to everything else (twst!!) you have in store. much love <33

Thank you!! The original fanfic it's based off of has such a special place in my heart and I can't wait to get back to updating it into something more cohesive with this new version. Yana Toboso has really hooked her way into my soul with her characters lol--first Ciel and Sebastian, and now the whole ass Twst Cast. Lady knows how to get me.

And I definitely plan to go back to it! It's been sitting so long, admittedly, because time management aside, I started to get a lot of comments on it that were just "update?????" "update when" "hello update??" and it irritated me enough that I stomped my feet like a toddler and was like "well now you have to wait even longer." But lately everyone has been incredibly sweet on there and my rage has settled lol so I'll probably be hopping back onto it soonish!

#Asks

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flowersbane · 1 year ago

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As someone who is seriously thirsting over Joshua Rosfield, I would not object to seeing more fanfics of him with a reader... >>; *coughpleasefeedmyaddictioncough*

I have been thinking about what to write for more Joshua content (since ppl seem to be on board for it) when I heard a song that inspired me to write this piece, which I now dedicate to you. Lol, I would gladly help a fellow fan satiate their hunger for more fics!

(=´∀｀)人(´∀｀=)

Light A Fire

Joshua Rosfield x Reader

You and Joshua are caught in a sudden storm during your travels. As his sworn protector, you guide him to shelter, but on the treacherous path, you both lose your torches. Inspired by the song Light A Fire, by Rachel Taylor.

Rating: Teen

Word Count: 1.1k

Tags: Dangerous Travels, Sworn Protector/Sworn Protectee, Hugging, Hint Of True Feelings, Comfort, Cuddling For Warmth, Unedited

Cold winds beat down on the two of you. Snow swirled with the air and cut any exposed skin like a thousand needles. Joshua kept an arm over your shoulder to help you through the storm. He wasn’t coughing, but if you didn’t find shelter soon, he would start to.

In the thick of the storm, there was little your eyes could make out. You kept your hand on the stone of the mountain as you followed the treacherous path. Careful with your steps, you made it onto the mountain pass.

“Is that a cave?” Joshua’s voice was barely audible over the winds and your heavy clothing.

You followed his gaze until you caught sight of what he was looking at. Relief washed over you, but it is short lived. The path to the cave was narrow, even more so than the one you had just made it onto. One wrong step would send either or both of you tumbling down the mountainside.

You turned back to him and held out your hand. “Take things slow,” you instructed.

He nodded, taking your gloved hand in his. You led the way forward. The winds picked up. You pushed through them. Every step was as slow as the last. Though the cave wasn’t far, it could’ve been miles away with how difficult the path was. Your boots threatened to slip, but you kept them firmly planted on the ground.

By the time the two of you finally reached the cave’s entrance, you were breathing heavily. The cold air burned your throat, but there was little to do about that. The stone guarded you from the wind as soon as you entered. You glanced back at Joshua. He was clearly exhausted, but by Greagor’s grace, he hadn’t started coughing yet.

You pulled out the torch from your bag. Joshua did the same. He lit his own with a wave of his hand and touched the end to yours to share the flame. You nodded your thanks before continuing further into the cave. Even with two torches, your surroundings were dark, as though brought on by some enchantment. You continued with as much caution as you had on the cliffside.

“We shouldn’t wander too far,” said Joshua. “We don’t know what creatures may have also taken shelter in here.”

You agreed.

“And stay close to me.”

Despite the cold, a warmth blossomed in your chest. “And you to me,” you reminded him. “I am your sworn protector, remember.

He agreed, but only after a moment’s hesitation.

The two of you didn’t travel much further before the floor gave way under your feet. A loose rock or a faulty foundation, all you knew was that one moment, you were standing, the next, you were falling. A cry escaped your lips. Your torch tumbled from your grip. Your hood fell from your head.

Joshua reacted immediately, catching your hand before you could follow the torch into the dark abyss. In his haste, he placed his torch down, only for it to tip over the edge as well. He whispered a curse, but wasted no time in pulling you back up. You fell into his chest, heartbeat still thunding from the sensation of being suspended a hundred yards above solid stone. He wrapped his arms around you, holding you close enough that you could hear his heartbeat and feel his breath.

You stayed like that for longer than you needed to. You began to relax, but he didn’t seem to. His hold didn’t loosen. His breath didn’t slow.

“We should–”

“No.” His voice took on the commanding tone you knew he didn’t use unless his emotions were running high. He seemed to catch it as well, for his tone changed when he spoke next, heartbeats later. “Please. Not yet. Just a little while longer.”

You didn’t refuse him.

He held onto you as though he were afraid you might evaporate into the air if he did not. Several minutes had passed before he was willing to let go. “Let us continue.”

You nodded.

Your travels led you to a small area, hidden from the main tunnels, but not too far from the entrance. Your supplies were soaked through from the storm and both of you had lost your torches.

“I’m sorry. If I had been more careful then–”

“Do not shoulder the blame on your own. The same could be said for my own failings.”

“I would never say–”

“Then do not speak of yourself in such a fashion.” Your jaw snapped shut. His tone offered no room for argument. “It is pointless to concern ourselves so deeply with things that we cannot change. For now…” He raised his hand. A ball of flame burned to life in the palm of his hand. He suspended it in the air. “This will have to do.”

“But it will drain you–”

“It will have to do,” he repeated, more firmly this time.

You chewed on your bottom lip, torn between your respect and your concern for him. He spoke before you could decide on what to say.

“Come here. We will have to stay close to keep warm.”

He took a seat against one of the cave walls and held open his arms. You flushed at the prospect, but knew there was no better way of keeping warm. “Do I…?”

He reached up, took hold of one of your wrists, and pulled you into him. You landed between his legs and your face suddenly did not need his proximity nor his flames to warm. “I will keep you warm.”

“What about you?”

He chuckled. You felt the sound vibrate against your skin. “The Phoenix does not fold so easily to the cold.”

You looked up to gaze upon his face. He was still mostly hidden by fabrics, but your eyes found his. In that moment, you saw through his saintly exterior. You saw the young man that harbored the flames of the Phoenix. “You would have me believe you are invincible. You might very well be. But even if you are, that does not mean you must shoulder every burden on your own.”

A flicker of surprise lit up in his azure eyes. “I–”

You do not give him a chance to argue with you. Instead, you adjust to lean into him, pressing the side of your face against his chest. “Good night.”

You could hear the way his heartbeat quickened, even through the many layers of clothing. Joshua shifted beneath you only a little before quickly settling down.

As exhaustion began to claim you, his arms tightened their hold on you. Through the haze of unconsciousness, you weren’t sure if your ears heard correctly when you heard him say, “for you, I would.”

#ff16 #ffxvi #final fantasy xvi #final fantasy 16 #ffxvi spoilers #final fantasy 16 spoilers #final fantasy xvi spoilers #ff16 spoilers #joshua rosfield #joshua rosfield x reader #fanfic

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jerzwriter · 7 months ago

Text

Choices Fandom Acts of Kindness - April 2024

Hello @moominofthevalley ! I am your secret pal for the @choicesfandomappreciation Acts of Kindness event. After driving relatives around to see the cherry blossoms last week, I thought this would be the perfect spring day for Trystan and Emily. But it's not all hearts and flowers; it comes with a bit of sarcasm, too. I truly hope you enjoy this, I always get nervous writing other characters, but I hope it fits! (This is some serious fluff! lol) Thanks so much for being such a kind and supportive member of the fandom—I'm so glad you're here! 🩷🩷

Spring's Eternal

Book: Crimes of Passion

Pairing: m!Trystan Thorne x f!MC (Emily Rose)

Rating: Teen

Words: 700

Emily attempted to hide the grimace on her face as she looked at her watch. It was 6:35, and she was more than ready to go home. Her aching feet would provide the perfect excuse, but that would require admitting Trystan was right about wearing more comfortable shoes, and she was not about to give him that.

"Trystan!" she hollered, but he had already taken off. Bolting ahead with the excitement of a child who had just spotted a candy display.

In some ways, he had. The city was coming to life after its long winter slumber. Flowers seemed to pop up everywhere, dotting the cityscape with vibrant bursts of yellow, purple, pink, and blue. New York was nature's canvas, and even the most jaded native had to admit... this artist had created a masterpiece.

Its crown jewels were the cherry blossoms in Central Park, and that's where Emily thought they were heading when they headed out at the crack of dawn. But, no. Trystan insisted on starting on the Lower West Side and meandering the length of Manhattan Island until they reached the crowning glory.

Emily walked as fast as her sore legs could take her; her enthusiasm for the beautiful blossoms had diminished somewhere around Rockefeller Center, but not Trystan. Trystan spun around, camera hung around his neck, taking shot after shot after shot. She couldn't help but roll her eyes as she approached him; the goofy grin on his face was priceless. No matter how much she wanted to go home, she wasn't about to deny him this, but that didn't mean she wouldn't tease him.

"Trystan Thorne," she huffed upon approach. "Do you understand that we live here? You're not a tourist; you don't have to take a million pictures to ensure you remember this all."

"Ah, but I do," he grinned. "We live in New York all year round, but these delightful pink treasures are here for a very short time, and I want to remember them."

Emily chuckled in spite of herself. She had to admit that Trystan's zeal and enthusiasm were softening this tough detective's edges, even if she didn't fully understand why.

"I don't get it. You've lived in New York for how many years? Yet you're acting like you're seeing spring in the city for the very first time."

"I am," he said, looping his arm around her shoulder and pulling her near. "After all, it's the first time I'm seeing it with you, and that makes everything immeasurably more beautiful than it was before."

Emily wrapped her arms around his waist, nuzzling her face against his body as she held him close. The moment was precious, and she craved the closeness, but there was more: she didn't want him to see the full effect of his words.

"Trystan, you need to stop this. I have a reputation to uphold, and you're doing all you can to erase it. I won't have it."

"Don't worry," he laughed, stopping to place a kiss upon her head. "You're reputation will still be firmly intact, and I'll defend it to the fullest. People will believe it too because the softer side of Emily Rose... that's something reserved for those closest to you, and this year, I'm so happy that includes me."

He let out a breath as her hand smacked his chest. "Stop it! Stop it, stop it, stop it! You're going to give me diabetes with all this sweetness."

"Fine," he smiled. "I'll dial it back. Besides, I know you're tired. Would you like to head back home?"

"I did," she said, watching the blue sky melt into a palette of purple and pink. Once more, nature put on a show for free. The air was beginning to take on a bit of a chill, but Trystans's embrace kept her warm. The truth was, she wished the moment could linger forever. "I did. But now... I don't want this to end. You're right; spring is entirely too short, and we should enjoy it."

"It is, but it's going to be a little longer this year."

"It is?"

"Sure is, spring's eternal now. I have it whenever I'm with you."

~~~~~

(I imagine about a week later, on a cold, rainy day, Trystan gave Emily the collage he created (above). She hung it on the wall in her bedroom, and though the skies were grey outside, spring was eternal... it lived in their hearts.)

#crimes of passion #trystan thorne #trystan thorne x f!mc #trystan x emily #moominofthevalley #choices fandom appreciation #spring kindness week

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victimeyez · 2 months ago

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Happy Birthday 🎂🥳🎁 (I also have a September birthday so I think that’s neat)

I think overall, the thing about p/v that keeps me hooked is the intensity of the whump. I’ve read other whump stories before and while what the characters go through in them is horrible, I’ve yet to find another character that goes through the kind of stuff Tommy does. The man’s life is just brutal, and as a avid horror fan I find that deeply compelling. I want him to one day get his final girl moment, even though I read early on that it’s probably not gonna happen.

I think the two whump moments that stand out the most for me so far are the meat hooks and the use of Agent Orange. The meat hooks scene was such a intense body horror moment it almost made me think about quitting, but I also couldn’t get it out of my head. I had to know what was gonna happen next to this poor dude. By contrast, the Agent Orange bit had me thinking to myself, “whelp Tommy and Caius better pray that stuff wasn’t real, otherwise their both dying of cancer lol”

Anyways I’ve rambled on enough. I hope you enjoy your birthday and that you get to do something fun with the people you love. (Tommy sure won’t lol)

Thank you, and happy birthday to you too!!!

Ooh, where to start. A few years ago, I discovered a writer online that wrote the most brutal content I had ever read. To this day, she makes my writing here look quite tame. We bonded over a mutual fandom that was difficult to find content for. One thing led to another, and I ended up helping write and edit her first original book.

I’’d never had someone before that I could talk to about enjoying really twisted stories. I was always admonished for a blossoming interest in horror by my mom, who believes horror is the work of the devil. It is still hard for me to share darker ideas. I get nervous about being judged for going too far, being too much of a freak.

A big part of what made me decide to write Pro Vic with the design it has is that I wanted to be able to explore lots of different whump scenarios, without things getting too stale of the same things over and over. I have fun with Caius, but I can also explore whatever other forms I want to with clients in my own version of a monster-of-the-week formatting lol. Plus I can throw in extra time with Sam, or Rory, or Michelle, orrrrr whatever! As for the meat hooks and agent orange - Once again, I am sorry, and you are welcome lol. Can I blame Dead by Daylight and weirdly specific Vietnam War nightmares?

I love me a final girl! I actually have a shirt that says FINAL BOY in bloody letters lol.

I have a long game in mind. Tommy is going through it – that’s not going to stop any time soon. But without wanting to say too much - Tommy has a future ahead of him where he plays a very different role...👀

I cannot tell you how much it blows my mind that people are actually reading this. I’m grateful for the readership, the notes, the tags, everything, I read them all a thousand times and lay on my bed kicking my feet while I write about it in my diary. Okay maybe not literally that, but mentally that is where I am. Getting to be the random person that wrote something you find compelling is the greatest badge of honor in my life. That’s not a joke. Sharing my creative passions has been the one thing I have known I wanted since I was three years old. When I was sitting on the floor of the kitchen, banging pots and pans together for drums and screaming my best “opera”.

#professional//wank #asks #pro//vic asks #hello i love you plz have the best birthday!!!!!!!!

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misc-obeyme · 1 year ago

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Congrats on 500 followers 🎉🎉

for the event would it be okay to request Barbatos with the prompt shivers?

Thank you, anon!

I felt like this prompt could have gone in so many different ways, but in the end I settled on this scenario. Hopefully it turned out okay. I love Barbatos I could write so many fics of him lol.

Thank you for participating! <3

GN!MC x Barbatos with prompt Shiver

Warnings: None!

It was a slow afternoon at RAD and you were in potion making class with Mammon and Levi. The three of you were working together to make a heat resistant potion. According to the textbook, mixing the ingredients correctly would result in a potion that would keep the drinker cool in any kind of extreme heat conditions. You had been going through the ingredients on the table, trying to make sure you had everything you needed and in the right amounts. Then you began to list off the ingredients in order while Mammon and Levi put them into the cauldron.

"Okay and now have you to add the snow blossom," you said, reading from the text.

"Here it is," Levi said, handing it to Mammon, who dumped it into the cauldron.

"And then-" but you were interrupted when the cauldron exploded in a fog of frost that hit you directly in face.

You sucked in a breath as your entire body slowed down significantly and you felt as though you had been encased in a block of ice.

"MC!" Mammon yelled, going to your side, but not touching you. "Are ya okay? Levi, ya gave me too much!"

"Me?" Levi demanded, hovering around you in a panic. "You're the one who measured the snow blossom!"

"What appears to be the trouble?" Barbatos had appeared beside you. Mammon and Levi both started talking to him at once. When he finally was able to understand what had happened, he shook his head at them.

"We will need to act quickly," he said. "Human bodies cannot withstand this level of cold for long. I will transport them to the castle where I have a remedy already prepared."

Barbatos turned to you and took your hands. You were shivering, your teeth chattering. You looked down at your hands and saw that your skin was turning blue.

Barbatos opened a portal, pulling you through it with him. You found yourself in his room with its odd staircases and large windows. He left you for only a moment, returning with a blanket and a small vial.

"Please drink all of this, MC," he said, opening the vial and handing it to you. He wrapped the blanket around your shoulders as you attempted to drink the cure.

Your hands were shaking too hard for you to be able to get the vial to your lips without spilling it. Barbatos saw you were struggling. He put his hand over yours and held the vial steady for you. You managed to gulp it down, but you still felt like you were standing inside a freezer.

"B-Barbatos," you stammered out. "H-how long does this take t-to work?"

"You should start feeling the effects in moments," Barbatos said. He took a step closer to you. "However, if you feel like you could use a little extra warmth until then…"

You nodded, unable to speak with the way your teeth continued to chatter.

Barbatos smiled before wrapping his arms around you and pulling you close to him. He rubbed at your arms and back to help you warm up faster.

You felt the remedy kick in as your body began to thaw. Slowly you actually began to feel Barbatos's touch, a soft and warm embrace that you couldn't help melting into. You let go of the edges of the blanket, allowing it to fall to your feet, so there was just a little less fabric between you and Barbatos.

"It is most unfortunate that this happened to you, MC," Barbatos said softly in your ear. His hands had paused now on your back, slightly pressing you forward into him. The way his lips brushed your ear caused a shiver to run down your spine, one that had nothing to do with the cold that was quickly fleeing your body. "But I must admit that I am pleased to have you in my arms."

You couldn't deny that you were happy to stay there while your body slowly regained its proper temperature. You may have pretended that you were still cold for some time after the cure had taken full effect. He was likely fully aware of it, but neither of you felt the need to point it out.

the original prompt list

masterlist | Thank you for reading!

#obey me #obey me shall we date #obey me nightbringer #obey me fanfiction #obey me barbatos #obey me barbatos x reader #obey me barbatos x mc #barbatos x reader #barbatos x mc #misc 500 followers event #misc writes

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doll-elvis · 1 year ago

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re: elvis and black women- there was also darlene love of the blossoms who gave interviews about elvis hitting on her during filming change of habit. he told her "you know, i really like you and i've never been with a black woman..." and she replied "well, you're not about to be with this one either", which made him burst out laughing, lol.

oh my gosh I’ve never actually heard this story before so thank you so much for sharing because I absolutely love this 💀 like Marty Lacker really expected us to believe that the biggest ladies man of all time didn’t flirt with every beautiful woman he saw, bffr 😭

and it’s always funny to me whenever elvis got humbled a little bit because I think he expected most girls to fall at his feet and whenever a girl didn’t, I think it would make him want her even more (like the story of how he met Dottie Harmony and how she ignored him until he got on his knees and basically begged her to go out with him lmaooo)

darlene is a stronger woman than me because imagine having enough will power to deny him when he’s looking like that 😩

#thank you for sharing!!!#please come into my inbox with more lil stories like these #I just know Elvis was pouting about being rejected in his dressing room lmaoo #the blossoms #darlene love #the comeback special #elvis presley #elvisaaronpresley #elvis #i love him #elvis history #elvis asks

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warmerthanhotcoco · 2 years ago

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Hi if ur able to, can you PLEASE PLEASE do an Imagine or headcannon of if Newt Scamander suddenly got powers like Spider-Man? From an accident with an acromantula that he was dealing with or something lol! I’ve had this idea forever but don’t have enough creativity <3

I can protect you now

Tags: Newt Scamander/You, Fluff, Spiderman AU, Outdoor-café dates, Astronomy Tower dates, Slytherin reader, Established Relationship, Boyfriend material-Newt Scamander

Summary: Newt, your adorable animal-obsessed Hufflepuff boyfriend, faced a mishap with a young acromantula in the Forbidden Forest. For some godforsaken reason all he got instead of venom... were the magical spider's abilities. Thank Merlin you're around to help him through it all.

A/N: Ron Weasley's nightmare. ANON I LOVE YOU SO MUCH- This is perhaps the craziest, coolest idea and I'm all here for it! Sorry it took bloody long (writing block hits hard in college)! I was in dire need of Newt fluff and one daydream later your Ask blossomed in my Notepad.

You asked for an imagine/headcanon but hey- I'm famous IRL for turning a tiny idea into a frigging novel so haha, hope ya like it, here we go! This will have two parts, the first one here being more fluff, and the second tomorrow being more action laced with fluff. Can't write Spidey-Newt without a single decent fight! See ya 'morrow xx

Part 1/2

The moon was partly hidden by the clouds, its silver light hazy, trickling along the marble floor of the Astronomy Tower. The stars weren't around today: it had been a very boring day, and was now a very boring night. The perfect night to invite your boyfriend for a midnight chat over Firewhiskey and Chocolate Frogs: he always rambled about his favourite creatures for hours on end.

Boredom was Newt Scamander's sole enemy.

The little wooden door to the Tower opened and shut with a creak.

"What took you so long?" you held out a Chocolate Frog. "It's almost 1 in the morning, love."

"I was... working." He evaded your gaze as he settled on the floor beside you, snuggling close for warmth.

"You did mention homework but your hair is as messy as your shirt and is that dirt on your trous— Goodness you're cold!"

"A-Am I?"

"...Newton Artemis Fido Scamander. I know that face. What did you do? Which animal did you kidnap to help heal it this time?"

"I-" he blinked in surprise before bursting into a string of soft chuckles. "I didn't kidnap anyone! It was more him kidnapping me this time..."

"Oh for Salazar's sake, what happened?" You gripped and shook him by the arm. He looked down at the spot where your legs were tangled together, anxiously biting the inside of his cheek. "Please talk to me," you pleaded, gentler.

Silently, he slid his hand up to his neck and tapped his nape. You frowned, leaning over his shoulder to check.

There were two round red marks on his skin, at least a millimetre deep. The skin around the wound was a brilliant sore pink.

You smacked his head with a hiss. "You dunce! I've been warning you for years against chatting up wild animals. You kept asking why, huh? This is why!" You raked your fingers through his hair, rubbing the spot you hit: not that you regretted but maybe it hurt a little bit. He subtly leant into the touch. “Get up, now."

"Why?"

"To take you to the matron. You’re lucky that’s my aunt.”

"I really don't think that's necessary..."

"But I do, so get up. Exactly what bit you?"

"..."

"Newt..."

"Acromantula."

"...A what?!"

"It was only a young one..."

"You could have been killed!"

"He was wounded..."

“Or eaten alive!" Your hand covered his neck protectively. "What were you thinking?"

"They usually don't attack me when I help..."

"It's a bloody acromantula, Newt— Tsk, forget it." You didn't want to make him feel worse, so you pulled him to his feet, pecked his cheek with a whisper of "Sorry I yelled" and dragged him down the stairs to the hospital wing.

It had been three weeks since, and the summer holidays had begun. Newt was growing unusually quieter in his letters, and had skipped a coffee date last week. You were wondering what he was up to now, when an owl pecked angrily at the window. "Oh, so sorry, love," you opened the glass to let her in. "Did he reply?"

The barn owl opened her beak and dropped the tiniest box onto your palms. You tossed her a treat and picked up the box. Realising it was indeed heavy for something so small, you swished your wand at the box to enlarge it.

No wonder your owl looked so pissed: the box was huge and Newt had probably only managed one lightening charm.

You blinked at the glittery green wrapping. The little scroll at the top held only two sentences within.

I'm afraid I can't explain everything on paper. Tomorrow, 5, same place?

So he did like it after all, you smirked, recalling your date the last holiday. With a flick of your wand, the gift-wrap (he sure knew how to make a Slytherin happy) came undone and the box popped open.

Just a small apology. The words on the paper in the box had been cut through multiple times: attempted and re-written a dozen times.

But the gift was no small deal. Inside the box was... the prettiest autumn dress. All apple green chiffon, with cotton lace that boasted the finest little floral designs. No matter what anybody said, Newt Scamander was a man of taste.

You were early.

Okay, let’s be honest, you were at the café almost an hour early. Not your fault you were worried sick over your suspiciously secretive dearest.

About twenty minutes to three, the chair before you tumbled backwards. “Well hello.”

“You’re early.”

“So are you,” you smirked at the extremely clumsy but elegant Hufflepuff towering over you at the table. He may not be on the team but he was taller and (despite trying to hide it with a dozen layers of clothing) fitter than you — and you were a Slytherin Chaser. Newt was dressed in a dark teal shirt and khaki slacks: perfectly complementing your gown and reflecting his hair and ocean eyes. “You know, what you lack in asking-out skills, you make up for in your style,” you grinned. “Sit down already.”

“Thanks,” he mumbled, making himself comfortable. “I asked for two Butterbeers and cakes for now, is that…” he asked slowly, pausing between words.

He was controlling his stutter. But his stutter hadn’t appeared for months now, with your help… Something was definitely wrong.

“Yep, perfect for now,” you looked around the outdoor-café. It was an inn full of open space: like if the Leaky Cauldron was in Lancashire and had a Hogwarts grounds-sized garden. The grass was fresh enough for Newt’s little friend to walk around in, and the Hippogriff and Thunderbird statues around the fountain were fine granite. It was no wonder it had grown into your date venue and study spot. “Less crowded today.”

Newt nodded, clearly relieved about it. Only after the order arrived did he speak. “Y/n… S-Sorry.”

“Newt, I told you over a dozen letters, it’s alright. Now that I know you’re healthy and well, it really is alright.”

He nodded, grateful.

“But an apology won’t save you from explanations.”

He swallowed hard, fingers drawing distracted patterns on the table. “I…”

“One sip and a deep breath, love,” you slid your hand close to his, fingers intertwining.

He obeyed immediately, eyes still avoiding yours. “Prom… Promise you won’t be mad.”

“I’ll try,” you sighed.

Finally he met your gaze: his bright blue eyes were pleading. “Promise.”

“Alright, fine, IswearonyourBowtruckleIshallnotbemad, now spill!”

“Do you… remember the acromantula?” You nodded impatiently. “Well.” He turned away from the table and fixed his eyes on one of the table legs. He raised his right hand and flicked his fingers at the table — Zap! A bright cobweb wrapped around the leg so fast you nearly missed the string that shot out of his wrist. Newt cleared his throat to break the silence that ensued. “I… still don’t know how to undo it. Too sticky.”

You forced your open jaw shut and frowned, perplexed. “Newt, what in Merlin’s name was that?”

“Acromantulas have two prominent defence skills. Venom. And they can trap victims in a cobweb at lightning speed. The web wraps around the target… it’s sticky, lasts long enough for the acromantula to consume its prey.” Not once did he stutter: he was doing what he loved and was best at. “At least I don’t have the venom.”

“So you’re a human spider now.” You gulped down Butterbeer to ease your blood pressure.

“…S-Something like that.”

“Hey,” you took both hands, thumbs rubbing his wrists. “Relax. I’m not mad, nor disgusted. Just a little… confused. This isn’t supposed to be possible.” You shook your head, lifting one hand to kiss the knuckles. “But we’ll figure it out, hm? Hogwarts Library, bribing the CoMC professor, breaking into the Ministry's records…" His eyes grew wider and wider at every suggestion. "We’ll figure it out. And for now, we could take a trip to my aunt’s place.” He gripped your hand, alarmed. “Not to tell her everything but to have you checked for poison. This looks fun but I need to know you’re safe.”

A small half-smile played at his lips, a soft sigh washing over your face as he leant forth to kiss your forehead. “I am safe. I was… scared. Thank you,” he whispered.

“If you thought you’d get rid of me just from this, keep dreaming, spider-boy,” you laughed.

He grinned, leaning back into his seat and diving into the cake.

“Aren’t acromantulas also known for their intelligence?”

“Mhm.”

“Let’s hope your Potions grades go up then.”

He burst into laughter, grabbing the serviette to wipe the icing all over his mouth. “Perhaps.” As the laughter faded, he stared at you, eyes soft and crinkled at the tips. “The part that I-I like the most about this is…”

“Hmm?”

“…I can protect you now.”

You sucked in a gasp, images of the group of Gryffindor bullies flashing through your mind. All the times Newt had caught you running late to dates with a black eye… “I guess so.” You wordlessly thanked him with a chaste kiss.

He tasted of vanilla frosting.

#fantastic beasts #harry potter fluff #hogwarts fluff #newt scamander fluff #newt scamander x you #newt scamander x reader #newt scamander x slytherin reader #hufflepuff x slytherin #acromantula #spiderman au #newt scamander is a man of taste #he stutters but it's cute #he's an idiot but he's beautiful #harry potter x you #fantastic beasts x reader

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alj4890 · 2 years ago

Text

Right by Your Side

(Maxwell Beaumont x MC) in a Choices The Royal Romance one shot.

For @moodmusicmonday 's Luck of the Draw with the song

A/N I fell hard for this song while trying to think of something for it. So many different Choices books came to mind for this but then as I listened to the lyrics over and over, I kept going back to TRR book 2 and the mess with Riley's reputation and how Maxwell stood by her from the very start (and of course the running LOL) So, here's what my Maxwell shipping heart needed from the beginning of that storyline.

Masterlist

Right by Your Side

Riley felt numb that first night at Ramsford. Perhaps she was still in shock from having guards drag her away as if she was the most vile criminal ever to come to Cordonia. Maybe it was because everyone had seen pictures of her in her underwear and they would forever be on the Internet.

Or, was it because Fate had stepped in to keep her from having to make a decision?

She flopped on her stomach when the image of Liam standing before her in the hedge maze came to mind.

I don't need to wait any longer to make my choice. I love you.

Was that fear she felt in that moment? Was she afraid of hearing what her heart would say if he were to actually pop the question?

Was it because the man standing before her was not the one who had been by her side all along?

The one who came rushing to the airport to stop her from leaving?

Riley buried her face in her pillow. Hot tears began to stain the satin pillowcase as she muffled her cries against it. She didn't want to answer that. She didn't want to address any of the thoughts going through her mind.

Then why did I tell Bertrand that I was innocent with Tariq but I am in love with someone else?

She knew deep down that was the truth. That was the only good thing to come out of this horrible night.

She'd finally spoken about what was truly in her heart.

*****************

The next morning...

Half asleep, Riley mumbled for whoever was knocking to come in.

Maxwell poked his head in.

"Hey blossom."

"Hey."

He walked over and sat down on the edge of her bed. "You okay?"

"Yeah."

She pushed herself into an upright position.

"I'm fine, Max."

"Are you fine fine or fine?" He asked.

Riley couldn't help but smile. "I'm definitely on this side of fine fine but not quite there yet."

That dimpled smile of his she adored appeared, lighting up his entire face.

And her heart.

"Good." He crawled across her bed to settle comfortably next to her. "I can't stand to see you with tear streaks."

"It's not my best look." She tried to joke.

He draped his arm around her shoulders and squeezed her close. "You know you're gorgeous, but yeah. Tears and your skin do not go well together at all."

She laughed while gently elbowing him in the ribs. "Thanks ever so much."

"Anytime." He jumped to his feet when they heard an all too familiar throat clear from the doorway.

With a disapproving glance to his brother, Bertrand walked in with a breakfast tray.

"What's all this?" Riley asked.

"Breakfast in bed!" Maxwell told her.

"Maxwell convinced me that when a young woman goes through something traumatic, that she needs rest and ample sustenance." Bertrand explained.

"Guys." Riley blinked back tears. "You shouldn't have gone to so much trouble."

"You are no trouble." Maxwell argued.

"Well..." Bertrand paused when Maxwell glared at him. "It isn't necessarily you, that is the trouble."

"The trouble is the situation." Maxwell added to try to smooth over his brother's words. "Not you."

Riley wiped at her tears. "This is why I should go back to New York. Look what happens when an outsider comes here."

She forced herself to look up at them.

"I don't belong in your world."

"You do!" Maxwell argued, jostling the tray as he sat down beside her again. "You fit in our world perfectly."

"Not perfectly." Bertrand corrected. "But we can fix that."

"How?" Riley asked.

"By teaching you everything a lady of the Royal Court would know." He explained. "Once you blend in with the other ladies, we'll be able to find out who sabotaged your moment to become queen."

Riley paled some. "I appreciate that, but I don't want to be queen."

Bertrand grimaced. "Be that as it may, you'll never truly be free to be with whomever you want if scandal is associated with your name. No Cordonian family would allow it."

Riley blinked as his words sunk in. "I see."

"Plus," Bertrand continued. "The Beaumont name has been tarnished because of our sponsorship of you."

"Oh no." She buried her head in her hands.

Maxwell was quick to comfort her.

"Hey, don't worry about us." He hugged her close. "I've made a mockery of the name Beaumont more times than I can count."

Bertrand rolled his eyes over that bit of family history.

Riley couldn't believe that not only was she in what seemed an impossible situation but that she'd somehow also lost her chance to be with the man she was secretly in love with.

"I'm so sorry."

"It isn't your fault." Bertrand gruffly argued. "But we are going to need your help to right this wrong. And," his stern demeanor softened, "you are a Beaumont."

"I am?" She asked.

"You're stuck with us." Maxwell winked at her. "For better or for worse."

"Definitely for the better." She winked back with a tremulous smile. "So? When do we start the lessons?"

"Once you've had a chance to eat and get ready for the day." Bertrand told her on his way out. "Meet us in the ballroom."

"Yes, your grace." She dipped her head in thanks.

A slight smile appeared on his lips. "Perhaps our training won't take as long as I once thought."

He bowed and left her alone with Maxwell.

"Give it to me straight." She pleaded. "How bad is my reputation and how horrible are these lessons going to be?"

Maxwell hesitated, raising his hands like a scale weighing each option.

"Crap." Riley flopped back on her pillows.

"It won't be all bad." He told her. "I'll be there to help you through it and to find ways to escape the boring lessons."

Riley rose up on her elbows. "That takes care of the lessons, but what about when I am back out in public?"

"Tell you what." He reached for her hand. "The moment it gets too much for you, just say the word and BAM! We run out of there."

"Really?" Her smile grew at the thought. "You'll run away with me when a noble is acting like a jerk or I accidentally mess up?"

"Yep." He squeezed her hand. "On my honor as a Beaumont."

"Then I think I can get through this." She sat up straight and began to pour some coffee into her cup.

Maxwell watched her settle in to the breakfast he and Bertrand had painstakingly prepared with a great deal of relief. His room shared a wall with Riley's and he'd heard her crying off and on during the night.

It was a slash to his heart as he thought of her in here alone, probably blaming herself for everything that happened.

Around four in the morning he decided that he was done playing the simple escort. From now on, he would protect her from the direct cuts and slurs that those of his rank would hurl her way.

Even if it meant irreparable damage to his family name, Maxwell would do anything for Riley.

*****************

Madeleine's home...

Riley's stomach churned. She wanted nothing more than to beg Bertrand and Maxwell to take her back to Ramsford so that she could hide there forever. She knew though that if she was to ever have a chance with the man by her side, she would have to find a way to get through this.

Swallowing nervously, she paused in the open doorway of Madeleine's ballroom. Her eyes darted over the familiar faces. Heads were already bent toward each other while fingers pointed at her. The few reporters allowed within the event had their cameras poised to capture the first images of Riley being called out for daring to return.

Just as fear made her legs twitch to run in the opposite direction, Maxwell settled his hand over hers. She looked up and saw nothing but pride in his eyes.

"You're doing great." He whispered, squeezing her ice cold fingers. "Keep your chin up. Here comes, Adelaide."

After the greetings, Adelaide stepped back from the pair, critically studying the way they stood together.

"Don't you make a cute couple?"

Riley immediately jumped on that. "We do, don't we?"

"We do?" Maxwell's eyes widened.

He wasn't certain if he more surprised by Adelaide saying it or Riley agreeing.

"The cutest." Riley added with her first genuine smile of the evening.

Maxwell tried to excuse the conversation as Riley probably needing something to latch on to help stop the gossip of her with Tariq. He didn't mind being the new source that Cordonian's biggest gossip would have spread around before they even walked across the ballroom. If that's the role Riley needed him in now, then he was more than ready to play it.

To prove his point, he kept his hand over the one she had resting on his arm.

"Ready?" He asked when they spotted Liam and Madeleine.

"As I'll ever be." She mumbled, instinctively moving closer to Maxwell. "I really need to talk to Liam and clear things up. Don't you think?"

He hesitated. He knew how much his friend had fallen for Riley. It would hurt Liam to hear she didn't return his feelings. Yet wouldn't it hurt more to wait until he saw her with whomever she was in love with?

"I think you should, just not right now." He barely nodded toward the nobles staring intently at them. "Not with this audience."

"You're right." She released a sigh. "I guess I have to wait. If only he had called me after everything happened, then I wouldn't be so nervous to how he'll react."

What if Liam refused to let her remain in Cordonia? What if he wouldn't let her try and clear her name? She'd never be able to be with Maxwell if that happened.

Lost in her tormented thoughts, she found herself dipping into a curtsy before the royal couple.

"Lady Riley." Liam lifted her hand to his lips, eyes revealing a wealth of adoration for her. "We should talk-"

"To our newly arrived guests." Madeleine finished for him.

"Right." Liam shot a pleading look at Maxwell.

Riley cleared her throat. "Congratulations you two."

Madeleine beamed at her while hugging Liam's arm close against her chest.

"Thank you. Liam is such an attentive fiance."

Riley managed to somehow not roll her eyes. If the countess had any idea that she wasn't wanting him back, then she probably wouldn't put on such a show.

"I can't imagine him being anything less." Riley managed to say with a straight face.

"We really must go greet our other guests." Madeleine told them. "Enjoy the party."

Maxwell released the breath he was holding once he and Riley were left alone. "That went well."

She chuckled. "Honestly I expected her to brandish a scarlet A while screeching for guards to throw me out."

Maxwell's grin brought out her own.

"She'd at least have the decency to wait to do that until they start serving dessert."

"Thank God for small favors."

Maxwell squeezed her hand once more. "Come on. We'll find out seats."

After enduring a brief conversation with Penelope and Kiara, Riley was able to relax for the time being once she was seated between Maxwell and Bertrand. Perhaps she would be able to get through this easier than she expected. She'd hoped to have Hana and Drake on her side, yet they were nowhere to be found.

At least she had Maxwell there to help her wade through this minefield of pompous manners and tradition.

*****************

"One night down." Maxwell collapsed on her bed with an oof.

Riley sank down beside him as she slipped her heels off. "Thanks to you."

"Me?" He shook his head. "Tonight was all you, blossom."

"Yeah, but I wouldn't have been able to get through it without you." She argued.

"We make a great team." He quipped.

"The best." She stressed.

The two jumped when there was a knock at her door.

"You think it's Bertrand?" She whispered.

Maxwell shrugged.

She peeped out the door to see a servant with a vase filled with roses. Taking them without a word, she quickly shut and locked her bedroom door.

"Oh!" Riley buried her nose in the fragrant blooms. "How beautiful! Did you get these for me?"

Maxwell hated that he hadn't thought of doing so. "No. Wish I had."

She set it down on the table, admiring the bouquet.

"There's something wrapped around that stem towards the left." He pointed out.

Riley unfurled the paper. "It's from Liam!"

"What's it say?" He got to his feet to read it over her shoulder.

The pair both felt guilty when they read the new king's heartfelt plea to meet secretly upon his balcony.

"I have to go." Riley folded the note and slipped it into the pocket of her dress. "I have to tell him the truth."

Maxwell felt a new slash to his heart. After these past few weeks of having her to himself, he realized he was falling in love with Riley. He couldn't tell her, since she was already having to let Liam down. The last thing she needed was more stress over her complicated love life. He just hoped whoever she loved realized what they had in her.

"Madeleine placed your rooms as far apart as she could." He explained. "You're not going to be able to sneak over there with all the nobles here."

Riley eyed her window. "There's more than one way out of this room."

"We're on the third floor!" Maxwell exclaimed. "You'll get hurt or worse!"

Riley opened her window and examined her path to Liam's room.

"Riley please. When I said worse, that meant death!" Maxwell pleaded. "Don't-"

She climbed out the window, perched on the edge, and winked at him. "Promise I'll be careful."

"Riley!" He harshly whispered.

He stuck his head out to watch her precarious walk around Madeleine's home. His heart was stuck in his throat when she struggled to reach the railing to Liam's balcony. She swayed somewhat until she got a good grip.

Once he saw her climb over safely, he ran to her bathroom and emptied the contents of his stomach. Maxwell had never been more terrified than he was in thinking he could lose her if she tumbled off the wall. He hoped Liam would realize the dangerous path she took and find another route back to her room. He honestly couldn't take seeing her try to make her way along that narrow ledge again.

******************

"Riley!" Liam rushed to her when he heard her land behind him.

"Liam." She stopped him from embracing her. "We need to talk."

"I know." He took her hands in his. "It's just so good to see you again. I need to tell you--"

"Liam, I'm in love with someone else!" Riley blurted out, unable to hear him say anything nice to her.

The guilt was killing her that she couldn't return his love.

Liam froze. He shook his head as if to clear it.

"I'm so sorry." Riley squeezed his hands before pulling away. "But somewhere along the way I fell in love with someone else."

"Is it Tariq? Is that why he was in your room at Applewood?" Liam asked.

"No! I've never felt anything for him. His being in my room was a big misunderstanding." She explained.

"Then who-"

"He doesn't know how I feel." Riley hedged. She needed to tell Maxwell how in love she was before anyone else found out. "And unless I can clear my name, I won't be able to be with him."

Liam folded his arms and leaned against the wall. His lips that had once been in a delighted smile were now in a firm line.

"Then we must do all we can to help you clear it." He decided.

Riley's eyes burned with tears.

"You'd, you'd do that? For me? After I just..." She lowered her head in her hands while shaking with sobs.

Liam gently took her in his arms, softly shushing her apologies.

"Riley, I want you in my life in whatever capacity you allow." Liam admitted.

It hurt to say he would settle for being her friend. He hoped that perhaps she would one day return his affections as time went on. But for now, he'd do what he could to keep her, protect her, and clear her name.

The two briefly discussed what to do during the engagement tour.

"How did you get over here?" He asked.

When she pointed to the narrow ledge, he paled over the danger she'd placed herself in.

"There is a hidden set of corridors through here." He opened a panel in his room to reveal the path servants traveled in the early morning hours. "At the end of the hall there is a door that opens out into the main loft at the top of the stairs."

"Thanks Liam." She hugged him. "And not just for an easier way back to my room."

His lips curved in a sad smile as he looked at her. "No need to thank me. Goodnight, Lady Riley."

"Goodnight."

*****************

Venice, Italy...

Bertrand and Justin were once again telling Riley how to act to continue to win over nobles.

"We're making progress." Maxwell repeated to her. "Not only with your reintroduction to society but in finding clues toward whoever is behind the pictures."

"Do you think she'll be there tonight?" Riley asked.

"It's the biggest event in town. Everyone will be there which means the press will be there in droves." He explained.

Justin wished them luck once they left the limo.

Bertrand went on inside, giving them a moment alone.

"You okay?" Maxwell asked.

"I..." She shook her head with a laugh. "Honestly, I wish we could get out of here. Go enjoy Venice at night."

Riley looked about, longing to be anywhere than on a mission.

"Cordonia is the first European country I've ever visited. Now I'm in Italy and I wish I could experience it as a tourist." She snorted softly. "An average, maxed out her credit card to get here, tourist."

Maxwell laced his fingers with hers. "You want to run away?"

Her head jerked up to look at him. "Could we?"

"Say the word, and we will use all our training to get out of here." He told her.

Riley couldn't help but giggle over the memories of their early morning runs around Ramsford.

Maxwell began to over exaggerate his stretches.

"Stop!" She burst out laughing, feeling all her tension melt away.

"Gotta get limber if we're to run." He explained with a smile, his dimples deepening over being able to make her laugh.

"You're crazy." She teased. "And I am so ready to call your bluff."

"Not bluffing." Maxwell corrected. "I promised you I'd run away whenever you needed us to." He leaned down, nose nearly touching hers. "So, m'lady? Do you need to run away?"

Riley's breath caught at his face so near her own. She could see all the different shades of blue in those ocean colored eyes of his. She could detect the light splash of cologne he preferred mixed with the cinnamon Altoids he was known to munch on whenever nervous.

She longed to lean forward the few inches and kiss him. She wondered what he would do. She assumed he would be shocked at first. Would he participate in the kiss once he got over the surprise? Would he admit he felt something for her?

Or would she walk away in embarrassment and heartache?

Maxwell realized his mistake the moment he got too close. He should have thought through his actions instead of just going with whatever he felt in the moment. Her face, the one he adored, was already hard to keep from staring at. Now he was able to see every single feature that held his attention.

Her eyes, green as the first leaves of spring, shined with warmth. The freckles that dotted along her lightly tanned skin dusted her upper cheeks and bridge of her nose. Her lips, petal pink with the bottom slightly plumper than the top one, parted as if ready to be kissed.

What would she do if he allowed himself to accidentally (on purpose) lean more forward so that his lips could brush hers? Would she gasp in delighted surprise or would she shove him away in disgust?

"There you two are!" Hana ran down the steps to embrace them, unknowingly breaking the sexual tension developing. "I was worried I would have to go in by myself."

Maxwell and Riley forced themselves back from one another. Both knew they couldn't run away now, especially with Hana so relieved to see them.

"Shall we, ladies?" Maxwell held his arms out to them.

The three got in line to be photographed.

**************

Riley somehow managed to get through the dinner without jumping out of her seat to confront the photographer. Maxwell sat across from her, smiling in encouragement each time her eyes met his. He was the only thing keeping her calm. She wasn't certain how she impressed both the Italian noble and Olivia, barely paying attention to what she said in response to the wine and Cordonia joining the EU. Yet somehow, she'd managed to rack up more points in improving her standing in Cordonian society.

If only it mattered in her having a chance to be with the man she wanted.

Bertrand seemed so proud of her performance. Would he still be if he knew she wanted his brother?

Riley longed to bang her head against the table. She was utterly exhausted from playing the part of a proper lady turned secret detective. She was bored hearing the small talk of the other ladies of the Court.

Then Penelope opened her mouth and asked her about Maxwell.

"What?" Riley bit out.

"Do you think Lord Maxwell would be interested in making a match with me?" Penelope repeated.

Riley glared at the model perfect woman. How dare she even think she could be with Maxwell! Didn't she listen to the rumors that he and Riley were a couple? That that was the reason they were always together now???

Riley was ready to tell her to back off. Then she caught sight of Bertrand off in a corner observing her and somehow tempered her answer.

"No offense." Riley tried to control her voice. "But you're not really his type."

"Oh." Penelope's lips formed a perfect pout made for lipstick commercials. "What is his type?"

"Someone gorgeous. Lots of fun." Riley felt her own heart drop over not being his type. "Someone who appreciates his sweet ways and how he--"

"So someone like you?" Penelope interrupted.

"Me?" Riley stared at her immediate sworn enemy. "Um..."

"Shh!" Hana softly shushed them. "Here he comes."

Maxwell bowed his head to the group. "Ladies? If you would excuse us, I need to have a word with Lady Riley."

"Of course!" Penelope beamed at him then at Riley as she followed the others across the room.

"What was that about?" He whispered.

"I'm not sure." Riley couldn't decide if Penelope was as horrible as she thought. "What's up?"

"Things are quieting down, so now would be a good time to find the photographer and do a little interrogation." He explained.

"Okay." She looked around the crowded place. "And how do we do that without drawing attention?"

"Oh, we're going to draw attention." Maxwell's grin turned mischievous. "Just the kind that doesn't let anyone know what we are really up to."

He led her to a less crowded area where a group of the press were near.

"Your call on what we should do to draw their eyes this way?"

Riley looked up at him as she considered a few options. He could always pretend to be throwing her out of House Beaumont or...

"You should propose to me."

Maxwell stilled. His eyes searched hers to see if she was messing around to only see a shuttered almost vulnerable look in the green depths.

With her hands clasped, she quickly told him he could then pretend to be confessing his love for something else, like gelato.

"Okay." He audibly swallowed.

"I'll give you the signal when I see the photographer." Riley added.

"Sounds good."

He cleared his throat loud enough for some people to glance over at them.

"Lady Riley?" Maxwell gently took her hands in his. "There's something I need to confess."

"There is?" She asked.

He nodded, completely serious at this moment. "I should have seen it happening, yet I was blind to what was standing right in front of me."

"Maxwell, what are you..." She trailed off when he swept down to one knee.

The press surrounded them, each trying to snap pictures of the romantic moment.

"I want to shout it from the rooftops." His smile bloomed. "That I love..."

Everyone waited with baited breath.

"Gelato!" He exclaimed.

Riley choked back a laugh as everyone else expressed their dismay.

As the group left them, grumbling over the lack of drama, Riley spotted the photographer.

"There she is!" She whispered, yanking him up.

The woman noticed the two and took off running.

"After her!" Maxwell nudged Riley into action.

The pair dashed out of the restaurant and down the dark streets of Venice in hot pursuit.

"I can't believe we're gaining on her!" Riley puffed, hiking the skirt of her dress higher to give her legs more freedom.

"I knew our early mornings would be worth it!" Maxwell teased.

They cornered the woman and got a credit card number of the one who paid her for the pictures. This only created more questions for them to find the answers to.

"We did it!" Riley launched herself into his arms, hugging him tight.

Maxwell stumbled back against a wall the moment her body collided with his.

They both stilled, save for their excited breaths. Their eyes met and before either could talk themselves out of it, their lips met in a desperate kiss.

Maxwell's hands slipped into her blonde hair as his lips moved over and over hers, memorizing the taste and texture of her mouth.

Riley kept her arms around his waist, gripping him as close as she could.

They broke apart to catch their breaths, hearts racing with more than just the mad dash across Venice had caused.

"Riley?" Maxwell couldn't make himself ask the question he needed an answer to.

"It's you." She breathed. "It's always been you. I fell in love with you with all the dress fittings and early morning wake up calls and--"

She moaned into the heat of his kiss. Her arms slipped around his neck as his hands drifted down her body.

"I love you." He muttered against her mouth. "So much."

Riley sank into his embrace, her leg wrapping around his hip as they kissed.

"We really need to find somewhere else to continue this." Maxwell groaned when she moved against him.

"My room." She stepped out of his arms. "On the train. Now."

He pulled her close to his side. "You're not worried someone will see and hear us?"

"I hope they do." She paused when it hit her that he might not want that to happen. "I'm sorry. I forgot that you can't be with me until my name is cleared."

"What are you talking about?" He asked, nudging her chin up.

"Bertrand said no family would allow me to be with anyone with my name associated with scandal." She reminded him.

"That doesn't matter with me." His smile gave her hope. "Don't you remember? You're a Beaumont."

Her eyes widened. "You mean..."

"It doesn't matter if we ever clear this scandal up." He pressed his lips to hers. "We can be together out in the open because we're Beaumont's. Let them try and say anything."

Tears sparkled in her eyes. They were for the first time in a very long time, tears of absolute joy.

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