#This is fiction. please realize by the six eyes that this is fictional omg

[ghcstcd]

too Eepy to live, too Token to die.

Reblogs appreciated! ☕tip and support my art on ko-fi: ko-fi.com/A6413J35

[solastia]

Day 19

Break My Stride, Yoongi x Jungkook, ABO, 4/4 Chapters, 14k words

YOU KNOW MY DRAMATIC ASS SAVED THIS FOR A FRIDAY! If y'all thought my screeching was annoying before, be prepared for about 10x more screeching and indecipherable noises. As the very wise Deadpool once said, “MAXIMUM EFFORT!”

First off, congratulations because this was your first fic to reach 10k hits (and it’s now at 34K hits, whaaaa??!! A few hundred of those may possibly be from me...possibly...probably...most definitely! lmao)

You know my fave ship is Yoonmin (I don’t take shipping irl seriously, don’t come for me plz) but I absolutely LOVE the dynamics between Kookie and Yoongi in this fic. Your writing, the plot, the dialogue, the whole thing is just top tier deliciousness every step of the way. It is scrumptious, mouth watering, exquisite, uuugh *chef’s kiss* bellissimo!

Ok, LOTS OF SPOILERS BECAUSE THIS FIC IS MY EMOTIONAL SUPPORT FICTIONAL STORY AND Y’ALL CAN’T STOP ME, MUAHAHAHA!

In the beginning of the story, you create a sense of home for the audience. We feel like we know these characters, we get a sense that they’ve been a group of friends for a very long time, and they each hold a special part of each other’s lives, and it’s freaking beautiful.

“Yoongi shook his head and started picking the olives off his slice of pizza. When he turns to his right to give the olives away, he realizes why he’d felt something was wrong.”

You see! He hadn’t even realized that Kookie was missing, but he felt like something was off.

Oh! And I wanted to ask you about the idea for a mating run! I’ve never read anything like this before, it was an interesting concept to think about. And this would be Yoongi’s 8th run! Oh babey, he was just waiting for the right mate…

“He wasn’t sure what it was, but the image of Jungkook finding someone during the run made him feel…itchy.”

Our boi is already jealous at just the idea of Kookie finding a mate (other than him ofc, but he doesn’t know that yet, bwahahahaha!!)

“Good idea, you’re going to need all the rest you can get,” Seokjin says with an ominous smirk.”

I SHOULD GIVE YOU THE SAME WARNING SEOKJINNIE!!!

“There were even booth setups for merchandise and food.”

OMG, I could see Hobi or Jin buying some cheesy “I survived the 20__ Run and All I Got Was This Shirt”. Or maybe a beer cozy!

“No, he said that would be pointless because his mate’s a cheating cheater that plays dirty. He said the chances of them covering their scent were high. He’s making sure his den is ready,” Seokjin scoffed.

Yoongi accepted the drink Jimin handed him and chuckled. “Sounds like I might actually like them.”

“You have no idea,” Jin said with a snort”

Yoongi, are you so jaded, so blind by your general saltiness that you are not understanding the very obvious clues being thrown your way?!?!?! Kookie, where are you? Put this man in his place please!!

And then when he was told that Kook bought that house he’d had his eyes on for years, uughhh, I was hurting for our Yoonie!

“Yoongi suddenly felt like crying, but he settled for collapsing onto the bench and clenching his fist.”

AAAHHH! But wait a little while Yoongi, I promise all this hurt will be over soon!

“Suddenly, Namjoon growled menacingly, startling everyone. Hoseok looked over to the spot where Namjoon was steadily staring, curiosity in his gaze before it too hardened and he started glaring with bared teeth. A random city Alpha that had been approaching them instantly halted, hands out in surrender.”

HOW COULD I FORGET THIS SUB-PLOT!!! Jin was over there laughing at how oblivious Yoongi was, and he isn’t any better, is he?!? Imagine having Joon and Hobi scaring the competition away like that??!! I would take them home immediately!

“There’s a huge plush rug and plenty of blankets, big fluffy pillows, a little stash of food and entertainment. I even put scent blockers around so no one would smell anything coming from inside,” Yoongi preened as he thought of his perfect hideaway.

Yoongi would def be one to make his little den as comfortable as possible! But I just thought of something. In your earlier description of Yoongi’s apartment, he said it was a bit stark and lacked any real decor. BUT he went out of his way to make this den as comfortable as possible. He bought a string of fairy lights, and he had to go to the big city to get them! It’s almost like it was fate, or maybe deep down he knew that something was going to happen, and he was inadvertently nesting! (please insert “I’ve connected the dots” meme here)

“He was sure there were plenty of Alphas running around with those piercings and Kook’s ginormous honker of a nose.”

:|

Was it really Kook? Or is our boy so in love that he sees Kookie wherever he goes? Lmao!

“Yoongi was about to show this guy that he wasn’t someone to be messed with and he wouldn’t be dragged off to be someone’s good little Omega bitch. He reached into his jacket pocket and pulled out the taser he’d packed just in case.”

OMG, Yoongi is not messing around, absolutely zero chill!

“It seemed presenting had changed him physically as well, shooting him up a couple inches so he towered over Yoongi even more than usual. His arms and legs were rippling with muscle that even the black tracksuit he was wearing couldn’t hide. His face was still the same though; the innocent grin an interesting contrast with the buff build.”

SIR!! My heart cannot take this punishment! And OFC he’s a Prime Alpha, Kookie doesn’t know how to half-ass anything!

“And just like he had a million times before, Yoongi gave in like the soft ass bitch he was.”

He really is soft for all of them!!! Yoongi will let them do whatever they want with him, he’ll complain the entire way but we all know he secretly loves it!

“Yoongi dared a quick look behind him, audibly gulping at the sight of the Alpha staring at his ass like he was a starving man at an all you can eat buffet. Jungkook was grinding his jaw and had his nails dug into the dirt like he was trying to control himself.”

I mean, we’ve all seen the Yoonbooty. It does look very biteable. Relatable AF Kook!

“Jungkook continued poking around in things; picking up a candle to sniff, trying to sneak a peek into the duffle bag, ruffling around in the bag of snacks - all while stealing glances at the bed in the middle of the room. “

WAY TO NOT BE OBVIOUS KOOK!!!

“What are you doing, Kook? You’re wasting time here when you should be out there chasing down your mate. They are probably wondering where you are.”

“They know where I am.”

“You told them you were going to hang out with me and they were fine with it?”

“Hyung, you’re usually so smart. Think about it.”

Every time I read this, I die a little bit inside (in a good way, I promise). Yoongi’s whole world is about to be turned upside down, and he has no idea!!!

“The house…”

Jungkook’s eyes softened, smiling fondly at him. “I bought it for you, hyung. Whether you choose me today or not, it’s yours.”

I cry.

What a courting gift!!! Kook doesn’t understand subtlety, does he??!! And how selfless is this? This is a no-strings attached gift, given to Yoongi out of love.

I cry.

“I love the way we are now, equals with a little bit of babying me on the side,” Jungkook grins when Yoongi snorts, shaking his head fondly at the other.”

I would like to see that please.

AND THEN THIS LINE:

“Omega,” Jungkook says softly, so rife with emotion that Yoongi can hear everything he’s trying to say in just that one word. “May I enter your nest?”

This is it, this is as far as I go fam. I have been destroyed with six whole words. How can such a simple statement hold so much emotion, so much hopeful pleading?

And then the whole interaction on the bed! Yoongi asking if he wants to play cards (bwahahaha, sure Jan), Kookie being prepared to wipe away all the descenting salve, Kook getting scent high, YOONGI’S GRANDPA RUN, those first initial uses of pet names, everything was so intimate and playful. It was beautiful!

“I bet I could easily pick you up and fuck you against a wall sometime if you wanted. Maybe even have you straddle my shoulders and I could suck you off that way,” Jungkook muses so matter of factly despite the subject matter, and Yoongi can feel himself get wetter by the second.”

Aaaaaaand there’s the emotional whiplash I’ve come to love from you!

“Whatever you want. You’re in charge.”

Kookie being selfless again! I cannot! It’s about these little things that are done between partners that really matter. Kook is a newly presented virgin Prime Alpha in the midst of a claiming, and his first priority is still making sure Yoongi feels good. He’s giving him all the power here.

“Good,” Yoongi yawns loudly and throws a couple of blankets over them, tangling their legs together. “Later we can try the thing with the nipples.”

Again, I would like to see that please.

“Suddenly, Yoongi’s eyes shoot open and he gasps.

“Oh shit! Your brother is going to kill me!”

Jungkook merely laughs”

😂😂😂

“I’ll give you some meat,” Yoongi grumbles playfully as he climbs off the bed, stretching his aching limbs.

“I mean, I’m down for anything,” Jungkook giggles.”

Not to sound like a broken record, but...I WOULD LIKE TO SEE THAT PLEASE

“Jungkook walked straight towards the first woman he saw with a clipboard, blindsiding the stunned woman with one of his lethal smiles while he wrapped an arm around Yoongi’s waist to pull him close.

“Hi! We both need mating packets.”

Yoongi rolled his eyes because he could tell that Jungkook was practically bragging instead of just asking like a normal person.”

He’s practically bragging about Yoongi being his mate! I have a feeling Kookie is going to be unbearable to be around in the upcoming weeks.

And then we get a teeny tiny peek at the Nam-Jin-Hobi subplot and ooomg I hope you’re able to explore this particular pairing in the future. There is so much potential there for steamy/fluffy scenes!

“I just mean, like, soulmates. You know? Maybe we were supposed to meet to help each other find our mates. Or maybe we are all soulmates in various forms.”

DON’T! DON’T HURT ME THIS WAY, I CANNOT AND WILL NOT SURVIVE!

AAAAH this fic was wonderful! It feels complete the way you ended it, but I am definitely still craving more! Good job, dayumm!

It still amazes me how many people have read this one lol. But yeah, this is one of my favorites too. I do have other side stories that I’m working on for this one, including one from Jk’s birthday and another for Namjinseok.

I just really really love writing people that are so unapologetically whipped. Like, it’s such a major thing for me because in real life there are a ridiculous amount of people that are embarrassed to show how much they care about their SO, and like, why? Why are you even with them if you’re so embarrassed to show them any affection? Show the world that you are proud they choose to be with you, show your person that they are precious. I’m not even saying buy them shit all the time (because for some reason het males seem to think that’s what everyone means). I mean hold their damn hand, write them a note, tell them they are pretty. There’s a reason that a person who technically still identifies as gay man is in a steady relationship with me, a pan woman. And it’s because I fucking treat him like he’s the reason my heart beats and I’m not ashamed to show the world. Ok, I’m ranting now lol. I’ll stop. But you get the picture.

[xuxikook]

Roommates, Season 3, Pilot.

A/N This will show like an episode you watch on TV, examples like; Tros, LOTJ, 2D1N, Running man etc. Inspired by @/nitaescence (i love her works omg). 

And since I miss Roommates I’ve decided to make a fictional season three of the show with all of my favorite artist.

Artist (Non pairing): Y/n, BTS Kim Taehyung, NCT Wong Lucas, Black pink Park Rose,Stray Kids Bang Chan, Seventeen Seungkwan, Actress Shin Yeeun, Actor Lee Dong Wook. Summary: In which different types of people are stuck inside a house for a couple of months  Genre: Roommates!Variety show!Y/n’sAnIdol!Au Words: 3324 

*Bold/blockquote - Show’s Intro/Transition.

*...* -  Frame captions.

Italic - Present time.

Blockquote - Time

[Bold] - Camera’s filming positions.

Italic/bold  - Interview 

<...> - Place

(brackets) - Sound effects

*Due to popular demands, Roommates Season Three is back with new exciting artists!* 

 *SHOW INTRO

*Who will be our first member of the house?*

Bedroom, door

< unfamiliar dorm >

[Wall camera filming down]

You giggled at your self as you look around your dorm picking and dropping things you want to bring along to the house you'll be staying at for six months or more.

*still struggling what to bring*

"What do I bring?" You asked your self loudly letting the microphone that was hanging on your clothes catch the sound. You hummed to your self as you go to the nearest camera that was stuck on the wall. The one that was filming you down. "Guess what? I don't know what to bring."

*Oh oh..* (unison of oh)

You spoke to the camera before walking away from it to think things through. A female appeared from the kitchen as she munch on a sandwich you've made earlier for yourself, but now is in the hand of your group member.

"You're still not done packing?" She asked and you nodded your head as she comes over to you and open up your luggage and started throwing things inside, such as her pictures because she said you'll miss her.

*Transition; Introduction of Y/n.

[In front of Y/n, with black backdrop]

"Hey everyone!" You introduced as soon as the person behind the camera signaled you to start speaking. "I'm Y/n, from the rookie group AMATEUR.”

*Transition; Introduction of Y/n group and performance.

"So why did you join this show?" The same female interviewer asked as you sit in front of the camera quite shy to be alone.

"I've lived in Korea for four years now, and not once I've lived outside of the company's provided shelter, lived with my group too ever since. So I wanna see how it feels like moving in with new set of people." You said independently as you smile sincerely.

[Camera men holding up camera as they follow Y/n]

"Are you really sure about moving there?" Your member asked as she drops your luggage she was carrying on the ground. A giggle came out of your mouth as you looked at her pouting face.

"It's not like I won't come back in here," you joked. "Plus- You're going to have the room all by your self so I don't know why you're complaining."

(Sound track; Laughs.)

"Oh you're right!" She exclaimed and grabbed the luggage she had just dropped. Opening the trunk immediately and putting it in. Pushing you towards the door, opening it for you. Waving. "Bye bye sister."

"Do you know what types of people you'll be living with?"  She asked you, your face turned into a frown and shook your head.

"Nope, but I hope they'll be cool people?" You answered. Unaware of who the people are gonna be there. Well signing up to live with a bunch of strangers doesn't sound bad right? Right?

Wall camera following a man’s movement, camera transitioning to a new room.

*Who is it?*

"Ah hyung!" A whiny boy's voice echoed the door.

Transition to Taehyung’s Introduction

< Dorm’s Living room. >

as he walk over the living room where two boys focus on the screen with controllers on their hands too busy playing Mario Kart for the hundredth time since they've got home from tour. The camera that surrounds  the place following Taehyung's every move.

(Screams)

Frozen frame of Jungkook and SeokJin

*so handsome!*

"What?" An uninterested Jin asked as he continue on pressing the speed button again and again to speed up the car's speed so he can win against Jungkook after losing during the previous game.

"Take care of Yeontan for me pleaseee-" He begged dragging the word as he look at the oldest member of his group. Having no response he moved over to the huge screen and blocked it with his body in hopes of gaining the older one's attention.

(laughs)

"Ah Hyung!" Jungkook whined as he tries to move his head to the side to see the screen better. Great. Two kids are whining.

*Interview; Kim Taehyung

"So why did you joined the show?" The male interviewer asked as he signaled Taehyung who sits awkwardly alone in his seat. Not used of not having the other six people to be with him.

"I think its because I've been stuck with the same people for years and I think it'll be healthy for me to be away from them for a while." He giggled making the female crews look at him in admiration. While Taehyung recall the time he memorized the members snores after being roommates with them from time to time.

< outside of dorm >

[Camera man holding up camera as they follow Taehyung.]

"Go." Seokjin said at Kim Taehyung as he pouted at him. The camera man behind him filmed the two as they bid their farewell to one another. Taehyung went to the older one to hug him, trying to be cute and all.

*Cuteeeee* (a chorus of ‘aw’)

"Please leave." Seokjin sternly said before cracking a smile after trying to push the kid.

(laughs) 

Hugging the kid as well, knowing to himself that he's gonna miss the younger kid.

"Hey y'all!" A bright voice cheered as he sits on the chair. The common black background behind him. 

"It's me." He said before turning his head 180 degree, turning his attention back to the camera "Lucas."

(screams)

*NCT LUCAS!*

*Flashes Lucas performance with NCT and WAYV

*Wow So handsome!*

Winking to the camera. "Wait it's not recording yet!" The interviewer jokingly said making Lucas flush red as the people around him laugh at their small prank.

< Nct Dorm >

[Wall camera facing two close faces.]

"Oh Nana!" He cheered before giving the kid a man handshake. "This is Nana."

He said before the shy kid giggles before waving to the camera. "Isn't he handsome? My lil' bro!"

(laughs)

*yes he is*

"Easy~" Bambam walked over to the chair and sat down. Bowing first as a respect on the staff. Before starting the interview. 

(Laughs)

Transition; Got7′s dorm

< Bam’s room >

"You realize you wont actually need all of those things?" Jackson said as he leans on the door watching Bambam take out everything to pack up.

"You've been there. I saw your clothing. It was the same thing over and over again." Bambam snapped before smiling at the guy leaning in the door. Jackson looked at him rolling his eyes. "And heck I wont do the same."

"I honestly hope you get the worst room." Jackson said.

*We’ll see that..*

*Clip of future event; 

Bambam and Taehyung playing rock paper scissors.

*what happened?!*

*Transition; Interview Lee Dong Wook

"Yes. I'm back." The same familiar looking man said as he bows at the camera. Sighing as he rubbed the palm of his hands on his black jeans. "I don't know how. I don't know what I'm getting from this show but I'm willing to take a risk once again."

*he’s back again!*

*Clip of Season one and season two.

*We Missed you Mr Lee*

"Dongwook-ssi, Do you know that you're the oldest one in the house?" Asked the interviewer making the grown up man's eyes widen at the news.

"W-what?"

(laughs)

*Its okay Mr Lee!* *We’re sure it wont be that bad*

*Clip of future event;

Dongwook face palming himself as he sits behind the table looking at something.

*Transition; Interview Rosé

"Hiya! I'm Rosé from Black pink!" The female red haired girl greeted shyly bowing to the camera.

*Clip; Performing abroad with members.

"Unnie- do you really have to go?" Whined Lisa as she stops the car door from closing as she looks at Rosé once again.

*Oh Lisa is Sad.*

"It's not gonna be that long?" Rosé chuckled on Lisa's reaction.

*It’s okay! It wont be that long!*

"Unnie~" Lisa whined once again as she looked at the red haired girl inside the car.

(Awe)

"Do you want to drop me off?"

*Transition; Interview Boo Seungkwan

"Honestly, with that much members do you think I can't handle more people in my life?" Seungkwan said towards the interviewer. Shaking his head on the thought.

*Oh He’s confident*

*Clip of future event.

“Guys wait! GUYS! GUYSSSSS!” Seungkwan screamed trying to get everyone’s attention as he stands outside the house.

*oh no* *what happened?*

< Roommates House >

*Everyone’s home for the next months*

[Wall Camera filming the door.]

"Oh- I'm the first one to arrive." Seungkwan shyly announced as he enters the empty house filled with Cameras.

"Woah-" as he left his luggage near the door as he enters the house. The excitement can already be seen as the camera follows him around. The sound of a dog barking echoed the room making Seungkwan jump on his place as a white Pomeranian dog run towards him.

Seungkwan looked at it in awe after catching his breath once he realize the situation. He looked at the dog before checking the tag that was hanging on his collar.

"Hello my name is Bol, your little company." Seungkwan read out loud the words written in the white paper, "So You're little Bol?" Seungkwan cooed.

*Clip of future event;

Bol resting on everyone’s lap. 

“That’s bad! Bol has a favorite!”

*Transition; Interview Kim Yeri

"Honestly all I wish is not to be the youngest one." Yeri said as she shook her head on the thought. "I wanna try playing around with someone younger too you know?"

*oh we all do*

< Outside of RV Dorm>

"Bye my little child." Irene said as she hugs the youngest of the group. "Please take care of your self and know that everything will be seen in camera."

*Irene is gonna miss little Yeri*

"Yes grandmother."

(Laughs) 

*Grandmother?*

*Transition; Interview Bang Chan

"I heard that Bambam-sunbaenim will be there. So I think I'll be fine." Said Chan as he smiled unsurely to the camera. Just praying for Jesus to take the wheel.

< Studio >

*He’s live and talking to his fans*

*How sweet~*

"So.. as you know, I'll be joining the show Roommates and I really hope you guys support this show and I don't know if I'm gonna do more of these one on one Vlive for the next months. But maybe, the other cast would like to join if from time to time. I'll do it."

*We’ll look forward for that~~*

[camera films Chan’ talking to a camera]

He giggles at the excitement and the thought of having new people to do the talks and things with in camera.

*Transition; Interview Shin Yeeun.

"I'm Actress Shin Yeeun. Hello everybody!" The female smiled shyly at the camera as she waves with both hands.

[Films entrance door.]

Yeeun entered the house with a bear the same size of her upper body. Hugging it tightly as she entered the place. The luggage rolls behind her as her manager helps her out.

*another member in the house!*

"Wah~ it's the same as in the show." She looked at the place. Amazed. She looked at the stairs and quickly climbed the  stairs to go check the seconds floor.

Knowing what she had seen in the show. She quickly moved over to the room with three bed claiming one as hers. Dropping her bag on one of the bed.

A sound of pans dropping echoed the quiet house making Yeeun's eyes grow big. Frightened.

Frozen frame of Yeeun. CGI Ice growing around her.

The camera catching her reaction clearly as she looks at her manager.

(Scary sound)

(Oooh)

*What was it?*

She quickly ran down the stairs to see what had happened to see no one. Until a body frame appeared from behind the kitchen counter.

Boo Seungkwan.

*Seungkwan has dropped the pans!*

"AHH!" Both her's and Seungkwan's scream echoed the empty ground floor as they look at each other. In shock.

(Laughs) 

*Oh no*

"Ah- Hello." The female shyly spoke as the screams quiet down. Leaving the sound director of the show, deaf.

"I wasn't scared at all! It's just.. It's just, suddenly a person appeared?" Seungkwan said worriedly to the camera as the interviewer brought up the scene that had just happened. Laughing at his reaction.

(laughs)

*Yeah sure.. you weren’t*

<Outside of Roommates house>

[Camera men holding up camera as they follow Lucas]

"Ah hyung can you help me take this?" Lucas said as his group's manager came up to him to help out take out a long material.

*what was it?* 

A life size cut out of him was pulled out of the van.

*!!!*

*What a shocker!*

"Do you really need this?" His manager asked in confusion. Lucas nodded diligently at the question.

(laughs)

Another car appeared on the scene as Lucas was taking out his things from the car. A female came out of the car.

(Oooh~)

You came out of the car with glittery make up still on, matching your group's comeback theme. Except your outfit was just a plain white shirt and a simple ripped jeans.

*look who just got back from work*

"Oh- Pretty woman." Lucas dropped his luggage to the cemented road as he came towards you to help you out. 

*What a gentleman*

(claps)

You walked to the car's trunk to take out your luggage as your manager turn off the car.

Lucas wiped the sweat on his hands on his jeans before walking towards you the camera man was following his every move. 

*he’s preparing*

Clearing his throat, he quickly offered his hand out for a handshake to the familiar girl.

"Hi ma'am I'm Lucas." Lucas' cheeks flushed a tint of red as he realized that he had just called you 'ma'am' randomly and out of nowhere.

*what is this? Romeo and Juliet?*

"Well hello sir." You played along to the reddening Lucas as you shake his hands in the air.

"Would you like some help?" Lucas asked as he motioned the opened trunk, pulling out a grey luggage out.

"Oh shut it Yukhei. Stop playing nice just take it." You laughed at Lucas which laughed as well as he pulls out the luggage with you helping out by pulling out using the side handle.

*Huh!?*

*Transition; Interview Y/n

"We're in the same company." You answered the question that the interviewer had thrown you to clear out the confusion the viewers might get. "We hang out a lot because we used to train together. We basically don't really treat each other nicely."

*Transition; Interview Lucas.

"Y/n is a bully." Was all Lucas could let out. Your ears hearing his words clearly and with no doubt. He really just said that in national television.

"Yah!" Your scream was heard in the interview Lucas was having, and the editors and directors didn't even bother to cut that scene out.

(Laughs)

<Roommate’s entrance door>

You two pressed the door bell and the two people who are still busy admiring the place looked at one another before coming to the intercom. The intercom’s camera catches the two of your faces and Seungkwan's jaw dropped.

*Transition; Interview Seungkwan.

"I knew him! He's from NCT." Seungkwan said, "Another runaway from too many members!" Seungkwan said as he pointed both his index finger to the camera chuckling as he winks with his left eye.

(laughs)

*Nct has 21 members while Seventeen has 13*

*That’s a lot*

*Transition; Interview Yeeun.

"I was petrified! Am I the only actress in this show? Is it full of singers?" A shocked Yeeun said to the camera as she looked at the interviewer. 

*Cheer up Yeeun, you’re gonna be alright.*

"But heck, Lucas is a hella good looking man."

*We do not disagree*

"So okay.. You have an NCT member and a Seventeen member." You started talking about Seungkwan and Lucas. "Do you know how chaotic it'll be if both group decides to VISIT US?! THAT’S GONNA BE A TOTAL CATASTROPHE!"

"This is literally unnecessary." You looked at him in disgust as you carry his life size cut out to the door. Of course Lucas would have a life cut of himself.

"Your comment is unnecessary thank you very much."

The two of you entered the familiar place you've seen in your television and walked in the house. Making sure to remove your shoes and wear a house slipper you bought specially for the house.

"Is that a dinosaur slippers?" You looked down at his feet to see its covered in a green dinosaur in door slippers.

*That’s a cute choice!*

"I didn't say anything about your panda slipper so you can stay quiet." The door opened and two shy people greeted the two of you. 

[Entrance door camera]

You and Lucas' faces softened to the unfamiliar air in the air. The feeling of being around new people you've never met or just have seen passing by you was different.

*Yes trapping random people in one house isn't that bad.*

"I got so shy, because I feel like I'm crashing into someone else's home. I should've come early!" You exclaimed, looking to the camera.

a couple of minutes later, Taehyung opened the door to find four people sitting on the couch quietly. After having small conversations with each other such as exchanging names and basic information such as ages. 

Four heads turn their heads towards the door and their eyes grew on the sight of the person.

*!!!*  

[Angle one; catching the reaction.]

Quickly standing up, the four of you bowed your head on the senior that had just entered in.

[Angle two; catching the reaction.]

*!!!*

Taehyung freezing at the point. Not knowing what to do. Taehyung started bowing as well. The four kids who stood up still not knowing what to do, bowed once again as the senior at the door bow at them. With them bowing again, making Taehyung bow again, and again, and again.

*its a never ending*

(laughs)

*Transition; Interview Taehyung.

"It was pretty stupid." Taehyung laughed as the scenario repeated in his head. Cracking a smile on the reaction everyone has given during the first meeting. "But I can relate because I used to be the same."

*Transition; Interview Lucas.

"It was Kim Taehyung!" Lucas exclaimed, "He's a senior!"

A bow after a bow was what happened to the five of them. Until Taehyung knew enough was enough to the five of them.

"Stop stop stop!" Taehyung laughed at the scenario that seems to fit a sitcom rather than a reality show. The four of them stopped what they were doing. Standing awkwardly in their place. Not knowing what to do.

"Do you guys.. perhaps want some food?" Yeeun asked trying to break the silence that was growing in the place. Even the people behind cameras can feel the awkward tension in the air.

"Can I check out the rooms?" Taehyung asked and Lucas' eyes lit up to Taehyung's reaction.

"You want to check it too? I haven't seen any of them." Lucas said. Not really familiar of the place as he has not seen the show as it is. Only clips such as Jackson and Youngji bickering around the place from the previous season. Which he knows it'll be you and him in this season.

"So what are you making?" You asked Yeeun who opened the fridge. Your jaw dropped open at the sight of the fridge being full and everything you will need to feed eleven people. The same reaction Seungkwan had during his first tour in the house alone.

"This never happen in the dorm?" You said as you move closer to the full fridge with different varieties of food available. Yeeun looked at you and to Seungkwan who laughed at the confused as he leaned on the kitchen island.

"I have twelve members once the fridge is full its gone by midnight." Seungkwan said as the two look at him in amusement.

The first five people seem to be getting alone in their first hour together.

[littlemessyjessi]

James Potter : Fluffy ABC Headcanons: Plus Size Reader

Fluffy Alphabet (Shoutout to my lovely friend, Traenon! She literally saved these for me months ago from something she read and sent it to me through messenger.  So credit to OP for the prompts!)

James Potter  Headcanons James Potter x PS Reader

X Reader: PS Reader, Plus Size Reader

A = Attractive: what do they find attractive about the other?

Well, the mushy answer is your courage.  He's in love with that fierce "Mama Bear" thing  regardless of gender.  The fact that if someone even breathes a little angry at someone you care about...you just fucking lose your shit.   He's real into that ish.

Physically?  Hmm, probably them thighs!  Yasssss, he could stay there all day.   In a sweet fashion...or a naughty one, lol.

B = Baby: do they want a family? why/why not?

As an only child- yes he wants a herd of children.  I'm not joking.  He told you he wanted six.  You nearly killed him but he did say that he was ok with adoption too. The whole carrying a baby thing is fine to him but he's also cool with adoption.  He just loves you and wants to have kids around.  And to spoil them like he spoils you.

C = Cuddle: how do they cuddle?

Ha, good luck.  You're not going anywhere.  James is not above pushing the bed against the wall, forcing you to the inside and trapping you between him and the wall.  He loves you.  You're his favorite.  He's not about to give up one ounce of cuddle time.  

D = Dates: what are dates with them like?

He does love a good ride on the broom on a clear starring night.  I mean, that's just a perk.  But honestly?  Some of the best have been in detention.  He's purposefully gotten you both in trouble before just so you could hang out alone together, lol.

E = Everything: “you are my ____” (e.g my life, my world…)

You are James' inspiration.  You're his drive.  You are the light of his life and the fire to keep him running.   For you?  He'd do anything.

F = Feelings: when did they know they were falling in love?

When Sirius' mother showed up at the school and started screaming at him.  And you?  You hexed her six ways from Sunday.   It's your protective nature that really drove it home for James that day.  Also, sidenote- Sirius sees you as his sister and you're his favorite.  He steals you away from James all the time so you can hang out, lol.

G = Gentle: are they gentle? If so, how?

For all his boisterous personality, James really is a sweetheart.  he'd do anything for you.    You're amazing to him.

H = Hand/Hold: how do they like to hold? how do they like to hold hands?

Listen, if you're near James...You're fucking stuck.   That boy, lol.  Omg, I hope you're not sensitive about your fingers because he's threading them together and they're in a vise grip...forever.  If for some reason, you have to leave to I don't know- void your bladder- prepare to be yanked back into his chest and he'll whine for ten minutes.  Only when your bladder is on the brink of explosion and you unlease your rage will he let you go....and maybe not follow you.

I = Impression: first impression/s

Your first impression of him was that he was a git.  Second was that he was a pretty awesome quidditch player.  You didn't actually give him the time of day until about 5th year and even then you broke his nose when he swatted your bottom playfully.  He got the fucking message, lol.

J = Joker: are they into pulling pranks?

Please, he's the king of pranks.   He pulled one on you....once. You retaliated to the point of near death.   He got the fucking message.

K = Kisses: how do they kiss?

They're so random sometimes but super special and sweet.   Never fail to make you smile.

L = Love: who says I love you first?

He did.  He's been saying it forever anyway.   But the first time for real? He did and it was super cute because he was loaded with firewhiskey.   But he remembered the next morning 6 am when the hangover hit him.  Poor guy, pajamas barely hanging out and he's screaming up the girl's dormitorities until someone shoved you down to him.

"I just realized I said I loved you last night." "Yeah, I know James." you laughed rubbing sleep from your eye. "I was shit faced." he said. Your laugh was a bit dimmed, "Yeah, I know.   You weren't really all there at the moment." "No, that's not what I meant." he said taking your hands into his.  "I mean, - what I mean is that I do love.  I mean it.  I meant it then.  I've wanted to tell you for a long time." "James you've been telling me since we were eleven." you laughed. "Yeah, but not for real." he said. "And I mean it- for real.  I love you." "I love you too, you crazy boy.  Now go back to bed and sleep off your hangover.  And for the love of god brush your teeth before you try to talk to me again."

M = Memory: their favourite moment together

He adores the time you nearly beat someone on an opposing team to death because they cheated during a quidditch game.   He flew right into the stands to kiss you.  Both to quell your rage and because he loved you.

N = Nickel: do they spoil? do they buy the person they love everything?

He does but it's usually vintage finds.  Little things you come across together.  The both of you have this completely useless matching pocket watches.  They don't work and it gets stuck half the time but they match and they're special.

O = Orange: what color reminds them of their other half?

Well, he loves house colors on you of course.  But he also favors you in blue.  Just something about it on you looks amazing. ��Doesn't matter the shade.  Just blue.  

P = Pet names: what pet names do they use?

He's totally a 'babe' person.  

Q = Quaint: what is their favourite non-modern thing?

James actually loves going antiquing with you.  It's a favorite thing. There's a whole cabinet of useless junk you never do anything with but he likes it.  And looking at it makes him smile because he remembers the little dates you went on when you got it and how you got whipped cream on your nose when the two of you stopped for ice cream.

R = Rainy Day: what do they like to do on a rainy day?

Whines.  He whines, lol.  Truthfully, he doesn't mind the rain.  He just doesn't want to be stuck inside.  So you drag him up the tower where you can be sheltered but still be outside, technically.  You cast a protective, warming, moisture wicking spell and it's all fine.  Until his love for you gets the best of him and he tries to get frisky.  You threaten to throw him over if he doesn't stop pinching your butt.

S = Sad: how do they cheer themselves/each o ther up.

He cheers himself up by sticking to you like glue.   You cheer him up by telling him how much you love him. He cheers you up with the most delicious treat to ever deliciously treat.

T = Talking: what do they love to talk about?

He's a whore of a gossiper, lol.  And he knows everyone so he's always got it.   As quidditch obsessed as he is, you'd think he'd talk about that.  But nope.   It's juicy gossip.

U = Unencumbered: What helps them relax?

Baking.    Honestly.  Baking.   A trip to the kitchen and a little experimenting.  Somehow baking up a cake or making some cookies puts him at ease.

V = Vaunt: what do they like to show off? What are they proud of?

Everyone knows he's amazing at quidditch but he loves to show you that he's intelligent.

Pranks are fine.  Quidditch is fine.  Magic is fine.  But he knows you're impressed with the mind and so he enjoys acing things and making you swoon.

W = Wedding: when, how, where do they propose?

When: Every day from the moment you started dating him.   Been calling you Mrs. James Potter since you were 14. The guys literally call you Mother Prongs or Mrs. Prongs.

But he really asks you one day seemingly out of the blue.  Truthfully, he's been thinking about it for ages.    

"I call you my wife.  Everyone says you're Mrs. James Potter.  But honestly, babe.   That's something I think about all the time." "Are you asking me to marry you?" "Honestly, woman.  I haven't even got the question out of my mouth and you're already questioning?" "James." "Give a lad a chance!" "James." "I mean-" "James Potter, if you don't ask me within the next five seconds I'm marrying Sirius." "How dare you!"

Still didn't ask you for six days out of spite and protest. So you acted like you were marrying Sirius.  

He held strong until Sirius asked him to be the best man and he nearly killed him, lol.

X = Xylophone: What’s their song?

"My Girl" - The Temptations. And he sings it to you and whoever else who happens to have the unfortunate experience of being around..... Whenever, wherever. Quidditch? Hospital? Funeral? Grocery store?   Just know that if it strikes him...he's singing it and you'll have to bare witness to his one man concert whenever he feels the need.

Y = You’re the ___ to my ___ (e.g the cookies to my milk, the macaroni to my cheese)

"You're the snitch to my seeker, babe.  Can't keep from trying to catch you." "You're a chaser, James." "And you're a keeper. Get it?" "Be very happy that I love you. No one else would put up with this level of cheese." "You got it, babe."

Z = ZZZZ: How do they sleep? Surprisingly light and usually not for very long.  Years of quidditch has made him an early bird so he's usually up first.  You hear his ass blundering around.  But on the plus side, there's always hot tea for you when you do get up.

Hello darlings! Hope you enjoyed this little piece and have a wonderfully awesome day!

If you wanna see more of my content just check out my blogs! @littlemessyjessi is the main blog full of fandom fictions, imagines, headcanons and sickeningly sweet fluff! Yeah, I know, lol. Barf.  But hey, I like it. @witchyweirdness is the magical blog full of witchy content And last but not least !   @monsterbaesbymamakennysaurus is my monster blog full of all kinds of monster related content! So I hope to see you there! Love, Kenny

@frankie2902

@pleasantdreamqueen   @becrazy–beyou –beyou

@becrazy-beweird

@littledeadrottinghood @blackirisposts

@therealmrshale @woodworthti666

@jimmys-afterlife-love-deactivat @thegreatirene@fanfictionandjunk

@angelus320

@alanlizzingtonshore@buriednurbckyrd@disneymarina@@tubbypeachwriting

@sullybot @georgiagrl1990 @whenallsaidanddone

@mischiefnevermanaged94 @inumorph

@congurl

@centerhabit

@bubblymusiclover13

@meetcally

@qtmeryr

@thisismysecrethappyplace

@tnupsweetpie

@alisoncdariel

@hannahloveslife

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@maggyme13

@amethyst09

@lostdarksoul6

@fanfics1717

@coffeebooksandfandom​

@gruffle1​

@neeadinghugs​

Love, Kenny

[alj4890]

RCD Appreciation Week Day 6 Prompt

(Matt Rodriguez x Addison Sinclaire) with the day's given prompt concerning side characters of Red Carpet Diaries.

(Matt x Addison) A Choices Red Carpet Diaries Fan Fiction one shot

A/N I realized I have never had these two meet in a storyline. I always start them well after they are close. I thought I might spice things up a bit with showing their first encounter and falling for one another. 

@rcd-appreciation​ @hopelessromantic1352​ @lilyofchoices​ @moodyvalentinestories​​ @krsnlove​​ @sunflowergirl05​​ @cora-nova​​

Masterlist

Crushing It

"I can do this." Addison repeated over and over, and what the heck, over once more. She carried a few possible outfits toward a trailer sitting back behind a sound stage.

She took a deep breath and tried to prepare herself at meeting for the first time an actual real life movie star. "Be cool." She commanded herself. "No giggling or drooling allowed!"

Just as she went to knock, the door opened.

OMG!!! HE'S BETTER LOOKING IN PERSON! HOW IS THAT EVEN POSSIBLE?!? Her mind screamed at her. "Hi!" Her voice squeaked. "I um..." Say something! Her brain commanded as the part that controled her lips failed to register. You look so stupid right now! Say anything before he figures out what a fangirl you are!

Matt smiled warmly at her. "You must be the new costume designer. Can I help you with those?" He reached over and took some of the hangers from her.

"No, yes, I mean..." She had to tear her eyes from his face. Get it together Sinclaire! "I am the new girl and thank you for helping. I'm Addison."

Oh. My. Look at that smile. And it's directed at me. Brain functions turning to mush. Body slowly melting at his cuteness.

She smiled back at him while walking inside. Matt's trailer was simple in design. The only luxuries were the plush comfortable furniture everywhere, most likely to help recover from strenuous action scenes. Possibly shirtless action scenes.

"Which do you want me to try on first?" Matt asked.

Addison set the clothes down and focused on her new job. She picked some shirt and pant combos then debated on others. Matt's smile grew with her finally becoming less nervous and just a tad bossy.

At one point, she helped him take off a shirt she decided was the wrong color for his golden skin tone. Her fingers brushed against his chiseled abs snapping her back to the fact that she was undressing Matt Rodriguez, the very man she had kept a poster of above her bed in college.

Matt noticed the blush suddenly appear on her cheeks and the slight shaking of her hands. She was reverting back to the one he had first met. He wasn't sure which was cuter on her, the shy nervous miss or the miniature blonde Napoleon.

"Which color do think looks best on me? He asked to help her refocus.

She slowly lifted her eyes up his torso. "Er...mostly warm but there are a few in the cool colors you can wear."

"Isn't every color cool if I wear it?" He teased.

Addison giggled and nearly threw herself out the window when she snorted in a very unattractive way while giggling. Granted it would have only been like a six foot drop, but maybe the bruises would snap her out of this high school crush rapidly developing.

"I think this is the one." She handed him a snug dark blue t-shirt. The soft material outlined every aspect his trainer had made him work on.

"Wow." She mumbled. Her eyes met his and she blushed some more. "Are you allowed to eat carbs?" Why don't you just blurt out every thought? Perhaps throw in a couple of embarrassing stories from childhood next time.

"Allowed? No." His lips curved into a sheepish smile. "But I dream about them every night."

Addison nearly doubled over laughing at his exaggerated longing expression. He mocked being hurt at her making light of his passionate love for breads and pastas.

"When the movie is finished, I promise to take you out for an all you can eat carb night on the town." Her smile glowed with how easy it was becoming to talk to him. His ability to make fun of himself made him so incredibly adorable.

"You know I am going to hold you to that." Matt walked over to a calendar he had on the wall. "Phil promised me that we should be done shooting in another six weeks." He circled the week in red and wrote PDA across it.

"PDA?" Her blue eyes widened.

"Pasta Date with Addison." He told her with a wink. There was a knock on his trailer door for him to come to the set. "Thanks again for taking the time to find me clothes that don't make me look like some run of the mill action star. Most that have handed me outfits in the past did not even try to see what works best. They just threw a pair of jeans and a white t-shirt at me."

Addison smiled proudly. "You're the first person I've gotten to dress since I graduated. I can't have you look like everybody else."

"I'm you're first? But you act like you've done this before!" His smile glowed as he encouraged her on his way out. "See you soon, Addison."

She gathered the discarded clothes and followed him out. The director's assistant complimented him on how he looked for a scene. Matt gave Addison all the credit without realizing she was a few steps behind him. She wanted to drop the clothes and hug him for being so sweet.

"And I thought I loved him before I met him." She said to herself. "

______________

Four years later...

"Matt, will you hurry up! I've got three other people to dress." Addison reached over and quickly began to unbutton the packet of buttons on his pants.

"Sorry. I've never worn period clothing before and am having trouble figuring it out." He mumbled while pulling a shirt over his head.

She shook her head while pulling his pants down.

"Addison!" He ripped the shirt off. His hair was sticking out at odd angles. "Could you wait a minute and let me do that?"

"I've seen you in your underwear before." She muttered. "We've been friends like forever. I promise not to ogle you."

Matt squirmed at her hands helping him undress. This was the only part he hated about working with her. He knew one day his body was going to betray how he felt about her. Removing his pants was something she didn't need to do unless she planned on changing their relationship status.

Addison gathered the clothing and grinned at the blush covering his cheeks. He is such a sweetheart. He is still so modest after all this time. She loved working with him. He made the days so much more fun.

"I'll be back to help you dress for the next scene." She promised, leaving before he had a chance to tell her that wasn't necessary.

He groaned and collapsed face down on the couch in his trailer. Doing a historical romance was more challenging than he anticipated. Thomas was teaching him so much about the depth of subtly in acting. Holly had written a screenplay he found interesting. Addison had created costumes that were already garnering nominations. He loved the fact that he was working with both actors and behind the scenes people that were his true friends.

But Addison was also a little something more. She just didn't know it yet. His crush had grown over the years to love. Needing her assistance more so than usual to dress in these elaborate military outfits was going to end up ruining their friendship. He needed to confess his feelings and be done with it.

Addison walked in on Victoria going through some lines with Holly. She eyed the glittering ice blue silk ballgown and nodded in approval. Everything was where it was supposed to be.

"Need anything?" She asked.

Victoria grimaced. "Will you check on Chadley. He thought a cravat was a type of carrot. His disappointment will ruin the next scene."

Addison choked back a laugh as she backed out of the dressing room. Holly caught up with her a few moments later.

"I see Matt's clothes clutched lovingly in your arms." Holly teased. "Finally got him naked, huh?"

"Holly!" Addison hissed checking to see if anyone overheard her.

"Please. We all know." Holly rolled her eyes. "You started crushing on him when you crossed the California state line."

"I did not." Addison protested. It happened...huh. It was when she came here for college.

"You did too." Holly corrected. "And if I were a lady who bets, I would bet a large amount that you're feelings would not be unwelcomed."

Addison was as red as the jacket she held. "Look, my feelings for Matt are perfectly fine in the friend zone."

"Really?" Holly narrowed her eyes. "So it wouldn't bother you that Victoria ran into Pippa Majors and she plans on stopping by the set later for a visit?"

"Why would that bother me?" Addison asked.

"Because she specifically asked if Matt would be here."

"Oh." Addison's shoulders drooped.

"Good thing you don't mind her coming. I think she is going to ask him to be her plus one to Marcus's wedding." Holly studied her friend closely for a spark of temper. She hoped her prodding would spur her into action.

"I...I gotta check on Chadley." Addison hurried away.

____________

A few hours later...

"Hey Holly. Have you seen Addison?" Matt asked. "She promised to help me dress for the next scene."

"She must still be with Chadley." Holly glanced at the handsome actor taking a sip of water. "I think they make a cute couple."

Matt spit his water out. He coughed, apologized to the poor grip he spit on, and cleared his throat. "What?"

"I think Chadley has a crush on her." Holly continued innocently. "Addison thinks he is a sweetheart. I think they could possibly be together if I encouraged them both."

Matt was adamantly shaking his head. "No. They would not be good together."

"Why not?" Holly ignored the look Thomas gave her as he overheard their conversation. "They are both genuinely kind. Chadley might be lacking in the brains department but he is a very handsome guy. Addison is as sweet as she is cute. I can't think of two people more meant to be together."

Matt paled. He caught a glimpse of Addison squeezing Chadley's hand as she left his trailer. Whatever he said had her smiling and waving goodbye.

Holly followed his gaze and prodded some more. "Can you think of a better match for her?"

"I..." Matt's usual pleasant expression hardened as he walked off without another word spoken.

"Nicely done." Thomas remarked as he passed his notes to her.

Holly grinned. "I thought so too."

______________

Another hour after that...

Matt paced his trailer. Thoughts and possible outcomes flickered through his mind, angering him. "Come in." He barked.

Addison paused in the doorway. "You okay?"

"Yes." He snapped.

Her crystal clear blue eyes reflected the shock and slight hurt she felt over his tone. "I'll just leave these here."

"Addison, wait." Matt rubbed his hands over his face. "I'm sorry. I didn't mean to snap at you." He sat down, motioning for her to join him

She came back in and gently rubbed his back. "What's wrong?"

Matt swallowed nervously. "I'm in love."

NO!!! NOT PIPPA! Her brain screamed. "Oh? That's...that's great."

"No it isn't." Matt muttered. "She doesn't feel the same."

"I bet she does." Addison rolled her eyes. That jerk Pippa is probably playing hard to get.

"She likes Chadley." His eyes focused on her face.

"Who would ever choose Chadley over you?" Addison covered her mouth at her own outburst. "Don't get me wrong he is a sweetie, but seriously...I mean, have you met you? You're literally the best guy ever. You got it all. The body, the heart, the brains...you're the whole package, Matt. If Pippa can't see that, then she is a bigger idiot than I thought."

Matt nearly whooped with relief until she brought up Pippa. "What does Pippa have to do with anything?"

"Aren't you taking her to Marcus's wedding?" Her puzzeled expression caused his own.

"No. I had planned on asking you to go with me, but I didn't want to interrupt the time you could be spending with Chadley." His puzzlement grew as her brow furrowed even more.

"Why would I do that? Don't get me wrong I like him as a friend, but he is better in small doses." Addison slowly smiled. "You were going to ask me to be your date for the wedding?"

Matt's sheepish grin appeared. "Yeah. Would you like to go with me?"

"Yes, I would." She wondered if he realized how close he was to her now.

Matt leaned even nearer. "Would you like to have dinner with me after the shoot?"

She nodded, lowering her eyes to his lips.

They barely brushed her cheek. Matt's arms wrapped around her as he ever so slowly kissed her.

Her touch was just as gentle. Her mind though...well...

"GET SOME GIRL!"

[maxattack-powell]

The Freshman 1-14

Book 1-14

Chapter 14: The Ashton Affair

Masterlist - go here for other chapters and related original fics

Disclaimer: The following are fics (adaptations from actual game chapters AND original works) to Choices: The Freshman and The Sophomore stories. It is a fictional adaptation. I (we) do not work for Pixelberry Studios, the game developer or own the rights to the characters Chris Powell, Nicole or any other IN GAME character. All of the ORIGINAL characters, storylines and events were developed for my adaptation of The Freshman story.

Comments: I enjoyed playing Choices The Freshman… and then I found this awesome group of people and their works - I’ve loved it all, very much so. Deciding that I wanted more interaction than the options allowed, I’ve gone through the first book, chapter by chapter (omg painfully slow) to follow the story (95-99% I’d say) and add to it as I felt would benefit.

Basically, I wanted to include certain things that weren’t really full fic size worthy, adding to the story. However, I did add some full size fic moments also… some are included in cannon chapters, some are their own full chapters in between. I wanted to see MC and Chris through their freshman year… with more angst, fluff, sweetness, real life and overall detail. So, if you like that pairing then you’ll be satisfied, otherwise sorry James & Kaitlyn fans lol. I even added some parts from Chris’s POV, so that we have a chance to see what he’s thinking, knowing what she experienced.

There will be ADULT and/or NSFW moments in certain chapters - this is a warning lol. I will try my best to make it obvious as it occurs…

Paring: MC x Chris

POV: ~MC~ or ~Chris~

 ~MC~

James shoots MC a pleading look. She quickly collects herself and plays along. "Sorry, James, I didn't realize you'd already told them about our engagement." She tries her best to hide her sweating palms, as she's suddenly put on the spot. "I know you wanted to keep our engagement a secret, but I had to tell them." James raises his eyebrow, hoping she continues to go along with it. "Um, right. Yes, I'm MC. It's nice to meet you." MC lightly bows her head at them both with a friendly smile. "George Ashton, and this is my wife, Olivia." He reaches over and places his hand on the small of his wife's back. Olivia doesn't seem to be too impressed at the moment, almost frowning at MC. "A pleasure." George shakes MC's hand while Oliva gives a polite nod. They both glance at Vasquez, George cleaning his throat. "And who is this?"

Caught off guard Professor Vasquez stumbles across his excuse. "I..." James looks at MC at a loss, clearly panicking now. She clears her throat and steps forward. "Allow me to introduce him... I am his assistant. This is Professor..." James cuts in quickly. "Vega. Professor Vega. He teaches business economics at Hartfeld." Professor Vasquez blinks a few times. "That is... uh, me. How do you do?" He reaches out a hand which George heartily takes, his smile now huge. "Well meet, Professor! Hartfeld's business program is renowned. I must congratulate you on your sterling reputation." Now apparently on board with the situation, Professor Vasquez takes it in stride. "Yes. Thank you." He takes in a deep breath and looks at James. "A-hem, well, as pleasant as this is, I have some... economics papers to grade." Olivia nods. "Right. Well, we'll be on our way shortly then." They both turn to MC, causing her to tense up. George reaches for her hand, holding it softly in his. "MC, we'd love to get to know you better while we're in town." Keeping her hands clasped together, Oliva agrees. "Yes, why don't you join us for dinner tonight?" MC's eyes search for James, this time asking him for help. He quickly responds, coming to her aid. "You don't have to do that. Besides, I'm sure she's very busy..." His mother instantly cuts him off. "Nonsense, James. She's going to be part of the family after all. We insist." The look she gives James makes MC gulp, knowing she has no choice. "...all right." George doesn't seem to notice or care about his wife's attitude. "Perfect. We'll meet at the Savoy at six o'clock. Sharp." They both turn to leave, not saying a word to anyone else. MC just stands there for a moment, waiting until they are out of earshot. James doesn't look her in the eye until she begins talking. "So, are you going to tell me why your parents think we're engaged?" James sighs. "It's a little complicated..." She crosses her arms and stands her ground. "Can't wait to hear it." James looks from MC to Professor Vasquez, who wisely busies himself with the papers on his desk. "My parents what me to major in business, to inherit my father's investment company, to marry the right woman..." MC's eyes widen considerably. "Wow... that must be a lot of pressure on you." He suddenly looks relieved for the first time since she entered the room. "It was... until I decided to pursue my own path." She raises an eyebrow at him. "Let me guess... you haven't told them you're still single and studying literature." He tightens his lips, creating a thin line. "No, I haven't. First, if they knew I was single, they'd pressure me to date some well-connected girl they've hand-selected." She shrugs slightly. "That doesn't sound so bad..." He scoffs. "I've never liked anyone they've picked before." MC's face falls. "Oh..." James continues, "And secondly, they wouldn't understand why I want to be a writer." She frowns at him. "Isn't it hard to keep that secret? It's what you love." His expression turns dark. "It's not easy, but... I have to stick with it. At least until I finish my play." He looks into her eyes, pleading. "Will you help me out?" Behind them Professor Vasquez clears his throat. "I strongly believe she should. This is an excellent opportunity for you, MC." Her nose wrinkles as she glares at him. "You mean for you." Vasquez actually smiles at her. "I never said it wasn't mutually beneficial. Go to dinner with Mr. and Mrs. Ashton... and tell me all about it." She snorts at him before turning back to James and giving him a genuine smile. "I would be honored to be James's fake fiancée." James let's out a sigh of relief. "Thanks MC. I'll pick you up at five thirty." As MC turns to leave, Vasquez clears his throat again, asking for her attention. "And MC... if you're having dinner at the Savoy, I suggest you dress for the occasion." She closes her eyes as her hand rests on the door handle. "I'll work on it." She tries not to sound too put out as she leaves the office. As MC makes her way across campus, she checks her phone, noticing all the missed calls and messages from the night before. She forgot to turn it back on until she arrived at Vasquez’s office, however she didn't dare check it until now, knowing he would have an absolute fit if he caught her on it. She stares at the screen in shock, unaware she had thirty or so notifications for missed calls and messages. MC quickly shoots Zack a message about her new situation before going through the rest.

She stops at a bench on the path and sits down as she scrolls. There were a few from Zack, Abbie, James...even Tyler. But the majority, probably at least two thirds or more of the notifications, were from Chris. She slowly goes through the messages, most a form of ‘where are you?’ or ‘are you okay?’ from everyone, but the ones from Chris start to become more... panicked… if she had to use one word to describe them. The first two spaced out a few minutes with each following text sent over a shorter and shorter period of time.

'Hey'

'Where did you go? Let me give you a ride home'

'MC? Please answer.'

'Are you still in the park?'

'I’m here, please tell me where you are…'

'Okay, I’ll shut up. Just let me take you home.'

'MC, you're making me worry…'

'I get it. I know I screwed up. You can make me pay for it tomorrow, okay? You love your friends, don't make them worry anymore. Let me take you home?'

She looks at the timestamps and realizes that many minutes passed before he sent the remaining two texts.

'I assume you're not going to respond at this point… I just want you to know that I’m sorry. We all care about you. Please be safe. I’m still in the park. Near the gazebo if you need me'

Then the final text.

'I've been burning, yes, I've been burning

Such a burden, this flame on my chest

No insurance, to pay for the damage

Yeah, I've been burning up since you left'

She recognizes that the last text is a lyric set, her brows draw together as she tries to recall the song. She gives up after a minute and Googles it, finding that it's from Burning by Sam Smith. This makes her frown as she lets out a sigh, whispering to herself.

“Why does he keep doing this. I’m trying to do what he wants, and he keeps...” She closes her eyes tightly, forcing her low words through gritted teeth. “I don't know what I’m supposed to do anymore…”

She sits there for a while, her eyes close as she focuses on breathing in and out slowly, searching for peace. Her mind runs through hundreds of scenarios. How she should try to resolve this, to move on. After a while she folds over, placing her face into her hands as she rests them on her knees, staring at the ground exhausted. Finding some solace in focusing on her current task at hand, the dinner with James’s parents, she takes in a deep breath and stands after a moment. She is determined to put all her focus, her efforts, into this for her friend. He needs her now, and she could use the distraction.

When MC finally arrives at the dorms she hesitates before going inside her suite. Knowing there's a chance Chris is inside, she's unsure how to act if they run into each other. When she enters she finds an empty living room. She lets out a small sigh of relief, hoping she can make it to her room without running into anyone. She actually manages to get all the way to her closed door before the one across from her opens suddenly, causing her to turn at the noise.

Chris stands in his bedroom doorway, a small weak smile on his lips. “Hey, MC.” He searches her face as she stands there silently for a moment, like a deer caught in headlights.

She blinks and gathers her thoughts, realizing she isn't saying anything, making the interaction very awkward. “Uh, hey… Chris.” She gives a small wave and quickly turns into her room, trying not to meet his eyes again as she shuts the door, missing his face fall in disappointment. When MC turns around, leaning her back on the door she startles. Zack jumps up from his spot on her bed, a huge exaggerated smile on his face. "There she is! I got all your text and read them twice. You and James, engaged! You really do move fast!" He laughs and runs to her, squeezing her in a hug. "I hope I'm invited to the wedding..." Zack winks at her as she glowers at him, shoving him off. "Ha ha Zack. Can we stop thinking about the 'I do' and focus more on the 'I wear' part please?" She heads to her closet with a frustrated sigh. "I don't think I have an outfit that will impress a pair of very sophisticated, fancy people." Zack raises his eyebrow at her. "Not to mention James, right?" She pauses and thinks about his question. "Well... I suppose he will be at this dinner too." Zack waves at her dismissively. "Hey, don't worry! I've already called a friend of mine. She works at an upscale boutique and can get you the perfect dress." She takes a slow deep breath. "I know this dinner will go much better if I dress up..." MC turns to look at Zack pleadingly, chewing on her bottom lip. Zack affirms her statement with a nod and hooks his arm in hers, opening her door and leading them into the hall. MC’s eyes glance up, seeing Chris’s door open, finding that unusual. Her eyes drift further into his room, finding him sitting on his bed, his guitar across his lap. As her eyes continue their journey, they find a pair of blue eyes, his head lifted towards her door since the moment it opened. She quickly breaks the connection and turns with Zack, determined to focus on the task at hand. Determined to move on.

They head out of the dorm and to the bus stop. After a short ride and some pleasant conversation, they arrive downtown. She smiles as they talk, enjoying her time with her friend. MC realizes that Zack had become one of her favorite people since arriving at Hartfeld, one of her closest friends. He always tries to be there for her, and she knows she will do whatever she can for him. As the bus comes to a stop, they step off and walk a block to the posh boutique.

The door jingles, signaling their entrance as Zack waves at someone. MC assumes it's the friend he was talking about as they cross the threshold. Both begin the search, sifting through the racks of fancy clothing. MC pulls an elaborate colorful dress off one of the racks. The embroidery and hand stitched bead work was impressive. Zack walks over when he sees her search still. He lets out a few impressed sounds as he gives her a look. She goes to the changing room to try it on.

After a moment she comes back out, taking a spin in front of the long mirror before turning to her curly haired friend. "Zack! I love this look." He whistles appreciatively, his eyes traveling up and down her figure. "Me too, it says 'Look how perfect and sophisticated I am for your brilliant son'." He grabs a set of pearls from a nearby display and tosses them to her. She smiles. "That's what I'm going for!" She laughs as she catches the necklace and puts it on. "Thanks Zack. You're an awesome friend…” He raises an eyebrow at her and smirks, causing her to snicker. “Okay, you're the best. I really appreciate all of your help." MC gives him a tight hug. Zack gasps from the lack of air. "Hey, hey... watch out, you'll wrinkle the dress." He winks at her when she let's him go, both laughing. She pays for the dress, thanking Zack and his friend for the discount, before they head to the bus stop. They stop at a nearby coffee shop, realizing they have a few minutes to wait for the next bus to arrive. After placing their order they go back to the bus stop to enjoy their iced teas as they split a cookie. The two chat for a while about the dinner and what she might have to do to help James. After a while things turn silent and thoughtful.

Zack finally breaks the silence, knowing the bus will arrive soon. “Okay, I’ll just come out and ask since you haven't said anything yet.” She tenses a little before he continues. “Are you okay?”

A small, unconvincing smile crosses her lips as she turns slightly to meet his solid stare. “Yeah. I’m fine Zack.” When he narrows his eyes at her she sighs. “Really. It’s okay. I’m just… tired.” She thinks about her choice in words. 'Tired of everything...'

Zack nods and moves closer, gathering her into a warm hug. “I’m here, okay? Whatever you need, whenever you want something, go somewhere, if someone’s ass needs kicking… I’ll get Kaitlyn and Abbie to do that... but the rest of it I’m ready to handle. Just say the word.” She lets out a small soft laugh as tears threaten to creep out, squeezing him for a moment before they break as the bus approaches.

~Chris~

MC and Zack are gushing about something as they enter the suite. She’s totally distracted with her conversation with their curly headed friend to notice Chris in the living room. He sits up straight from his relaxed position on the couch as he watches her pass through. He immediately sees that she has a long dress bag in her arms. It's mostly opaque, but part of the dress is peeking out under the bottom edge. He tries to get a better look at the dress as he watches them cut through the suite.

Chris’s mind goes into overdrive, searching his memories for anything he may have missed that would clue him in about the new dress. He knew the Hartfeld Formal was coming up and he swallows, it hitting him for the first time that the dress may be for the dance. That MC probably has been asked to the formal by someone, possibly someone he knows. His chest tightens at the thought, turmoil swirling inside him.

He stays in the living room for a while, hoping his other roommates would join him at some point. He’s finally rewarded with Tyler’s presence, giving him a friendly nod as he joins Chris on the couch. They hang out for a while, watching TV and joking about different things they see in commercials. Chris realizes how much he missed doing this. How much he missed his friends.

At five thirty, there is a knock at the door. Chris stands to answer it after he and Tyler shrug at each other, obviously clueless at who it could be. However, before he can take a step towards the door, Zack comes flying out of the hallway and quickly opens it first. From his position in the living room, Chris can't see who it is. Tyler leans over, trying to get a better view, but he too cannot see around the open door.

Zack grins at the guest and turns towards the hallway, yelling towards the bedrooms. “MC! Your date is here!”

Chris blinks, stunned at Zacks statement. Tyler looks from Zack to Chris, a question across his face, receiving only a shrug and a shaking head from the quarterback. Chris’s face turns pensive as he stares at the door, the anticipating building.

Zack steps aside and gestures for someone to enter. Chris’s eyes focus sharply on her ‘date’ as they enter. Much to Chris’s surprise, James Ashton steps inside. He's dressed in a nice formal suit, holding a bouquet of roses in his hands.

MC enters the living room moments later, her eyes trained to James as she crosses the room, unaware of the other occupants. Chris slowly lowers himself back to the couch, his eyes appraising her dress as she floats towards the door. He feels a lump in his throat as he thinks about how beautiful she looks, knowing she's about to go on a date. With James. He slumps back onto the couch, his eyes still watching, now laced with a sadness… and something else. He realizes what it is after a moment. Jealousy.

MC smiles at James and gestures to the flowers. "What are these for?" James shakes his head slightly, pretending to be put out. "Can't I do something nice for my 'fiancée'?"

Tyler raises an eyebrow and slowly looks at Chris, whose face is twisted in confusion. Zack watches his tall muscular friend from his spot in the kitchen, his eyes boring into Chris’s. Feeling the hole being burned into him, Chris finds Zack’s gaze and holds it for a moment. He sighs and shrinks back, turning his eyes from everyone, focusing on the TV.

~MC~

She scrunches up her nose and taps her chin with a single finger. "Hmmm..." "They're a thank-you. For agreeing to do this for me." James hands the flowers to her. "They're beautiful." She gladly accepts and turns to the kitchen, handing them to Zack as he reaches for them to put them in water. "So are you." James pauses, a startled look crossing his face at the sudden admission. "...er, that is to say, you look very nice." MC tries not to blush, or make eye contact with Chris, finally realizing that he and Tyler were on the couch, become increasingly interested in her interaction with James. "James, was that a compliment?" "It was just an observation." He smirks. "Come on, admit it. What do you say? Youuuuu think I'm prettyyyy. You wish we were engaged for real." She tries not to laugh as his normal composure fractures from her playful ribbing. His eyes widen as he chokes on his words. "What, I--" MC lets out a soft laugh at his flustered reaction. "Relax, I'm teasing you." James shakes his head. "In all honesty, MC, you are breathtaking." He gives a small smile before looking a way briefly. "And I'm sure my parents will be very impressed." He holds out his arm. "Shall we go?" She smiles at his compliment, feeling relaxed and almost excited for the first time in a while. As they head out the door, she misses seeing Chris’s shoulders slump as he falls further into the couch, his frown deepening. Once downtown, they walk towards the restaurant, still arm in arm. James raises his free arm across his chest. "I should probably warn you that my parents will try to intimidate you since we're engaged." She waved dismissively at him. "Don't worry about me! I can handle myself... but we should probably get our stories straight. What do they know about me?" "Very little. They know I proposed last week after we'd been dating a year and that we met at a meet-and-greet for future business leaders." She nods, trying to absorb his words into memory. "So, I'm also a business major?" "Yes, and you take your career very seriously. You're even in the Sherman-Jones Fellowship Program this summer." "I take it that's some super fancy fellowship for business people." She raises an eyebrow, waiting for confirmation. James nods once. "Very astute." "You're talking to a future CEO after all.” She grins at him. “What about my family? My hobbies? Skeletons in my closet?" She prods.

"I didn't elaborate, so it's up to you. Don't go overboard." He gives her a serious but pleasing look. "Too late. I've already got it. My family's rich, I like golf..." MC's grin grows. "And my dark family secret is that..." She briefly pauses, building suspense. "...my crazy mother lives in the attic." "I appreciate how Byronic that is... but now I'm nervous." He gives her a questioning look, a smile trying to appear. "I'm joking. Don't worry. I'll stick to the script." She winks at him, his shoulders visibly relaxing. "I'll be the best fake fiancée ever." James laughs. "I'm holding you to that." He smiles and moves a little closer. Suddenly MC's phone buzzes and she startles. "Sorry, I should see who it is..." She opens her purse and rifles through it, searching. "Oh yeah, that reminds me... did you ever hear back from Vasquez's daughter?" MC shakes her head with a frown. "Nope. I sent her a text yesterday to follow up, but there's still no answer. I don't think she's going to talk to me..." Finally she pulls her phone out, victorious. "Ah, here it is." She glances at it. "It's Kaitlyn. I can get it later--" "No, please. I'll leave you to it." James releases himself from her hold and walks a few paces in front of her, giving her privacy. MC quickly picks up. "Kaitlyn?" Kaitlyn's cheery voice comes across the phone. "Hey MC! I don't have anything going on, so I was thinking... spa night! What are you up to right now?" "Oh, er... I have a dinner thing tonight... maybe we can go tomorrow?" MC grimaces, hoping she let her down gently. Unfortunately she could hear the disappointment on the line. "Awww... okay! I'll talk to you later then" Kaitlyn doesn't wait for a response and quickly hangs up the phone. MC stands there for a second before dropping the phone back into her purse, quickly catching up with James. He turns as he hears her approach. "Everything all right?" "Yeah. Kaitlyn's just seeing what my plans are tonight." She hooks her arm back into his when he offers. "Is she feeling better? What'd you end up doing once she got back from the hospital?" He inquires as they continue towards the Savoy, glossing over the fact that she split from the group at the hospital. "Nothing much. A horror movie marathon, then we all went to bed. It was a nice end to a crazy weekend." She decides to leave out some of the other moments from that night and the following day. "I'm glad for her... and for you." He says gently. She looks at him questionably. "For me?" "Yeah..." MC thought she saw him blush slightly but it was gone instantly if he had. "...you were really upset at the hospital. You must care about her a lot." "I do. Kaitlyn is very special to me. She's my best friend..." Her sentence fades into nothingness. "It must be nice to be friends with your suitemates. I wasn't nearly so lucky. I don't think I've kept in touch with anyone from back when I lived on campus." He shakes his head. She frowns, but thankful she isn't experiencing the same. At least, not with everyone. "Awww... were they that bad?" "No, we just had different interests. It's not like I regret it. I like who I spend my time with now." He smiles down at MC, receiving a shoulder nudge in response. She laughs. "You're not so bad yourself, James." He flashes her a brief smile. "Thanks." They round the corner and approach the Savoy entrance. James takes a deep breath. "Alright. Here's the restaurant." As he reaches for the big wooden doors he turns to MC. "Are you ready for dinner, fiancée?" "After you, fiancée!" Her eyes crinkle as she gives him a huge smile. James let's out a long breath then ushers her inside. The maitre d' leads them to a table in the back. James turns to her. "I hope you don't mind..." He then puts his arm around her waist and pulls her close. "For appearance's sake." But his smile implies otherwise. "You want us to look like a couple, huh? Maybe you should move your hand lower." She narrows her eyes as she dares him, dying to whiteness his response. "As tempting as that sounds... I don't think I should do that right now. But I'll keep that in mind for later." He gives her a mischievous smile, keeping his hand firmly on her waist MC nods with a smirk. "You know what, you're right. You should move your hand higher. This is a classy place, and we're a classy couple, James." She scrunches her nose at him, trying not to laugh. He lets out a deep husky laugh, raising his hand higher on her back. "Good thinking." They remain quiet until they arrive at the Ashton's table. "Right on time, you two! I've already ordered some wine to start..." George gestures towards their retreating waiter. Olivia eyes MC's dress. "I have to say dear, that dress is lovely." MC blushes, glad she had Zack to back her up. "Thank you." "It reminds me of Paris." Olivia looks thoughtful as she inspects the dress closely. "Did you live there?" MC asks. "Yes... many years ago, when I was a model." Oliva beams. "My first shoot was there actually. I was posed under the Eiffel Tower in a dress much like yours with a picnic basket and a very handsome man..." She appears to drift off into memories before coming back to the present. "It was simply magical." MC smiles. "It sounds like it." Olivia delicately clears her throat and gives her a small smile. "James, it seems your fiancée has some taste." "She chose me, didn't she?" He says in a neutral tone. "That I did." MC flashes James a sweet smile. Oblivious to his wife's story, George continues. "Anyway, its great that you two could come out tonight." Olivia nods. "That's right. We couldn't believe it when James told us he was engaged. I was almost certain you didn't exist... but here you are." She gestured towards MC, clearly still surprised. Picking up on her attitude, George gives his wife a quick glare before turning back to MC. "Now, now, don't mind Olivia. She's upset she didn't get to introduce James to that one girl... what was her name?" Olivia's eyes narrowed as she glares at her husband, almost grinding her teeth. "Vanessa Kingsley." James sighs. "Mother please, I--" His mother's mood instantly turns neutral, almost pleasant. "It's all right, James. I'm willing to meet your MC... that's what tonight is about, isn't it? This is our chance to get to know her. Tell me... how did you and James meet again?" MC glances at James, his face hopeful that she remembers what they talked about before entering the restaurant. "James was the first person I introduced myself to at a meet-and-greet for business majors." She flashed him a grin. "I don't think I talked to anyone else that night." James turns shifts his body towards MC. "Me either." He reaches to grab her hand, MC gladly clasping his. Their eyes meet and they both smile at each other. "It was the best night of my life." MC scrunches her nose slightly, still looking at James. James let's out a small laugh. "You can say that again." Oliva clears her throat. "So, MC, both you and my son intend to major in business? As my husband can tell you, it can be a hard path to distinguish yourself in." George nods in agreement. "The road to greatness is never easy." MC looks at them both earnestly. "I agree. I take my career very seriously." She notices James's attention on her and gives his hand a small reassuring squeeze. "Actually, this summer I'm going to be part of the Sherman-Jones Fellowship Program. I assume you're aware of it?" George looks at her with surprise. "That's an excellent program... and competitive to get into." "I want to be the best, and I'm not going to let anything get in my way." MC holds his stare. He slowly nods, absorbing her directness. "I wish my son were that determined. I'm expecting him to take over the company that I've run for the last thirty years." MC feels James shift in his seat as he lets out a small sigh. His father either didn't notice or didn't care that he was irritating his son. "You know I built that up from nothing? I wouldn't have been able to do that without ambition. But James has never shown any initiative." James goes stiff, his features turning dark. "That's not true." Olivia turns toward his son. "Then how come out turned down that internship at Kingsley's company last summer?" "It wasn't the right opportunity." James grinds out between clenched teeth. "It was the perfect opportunity." George spits back. Olivia begins to look worried. "George, let's not get into this now. James will fall in line. I have something far more important to ask." James looked at his mother curiously, unsure of her new direction. "What is that?" She gestures between MC and her son. "You two have only been dating for a year. Why the rush to get married?" MC jumps in. "Because we're in love!" Olivia looks shocked at her quick and enthusiastic response. "That's sweet, but... are you certain there's no other reason you're interested in our son?" MC leans back in her seat, dropping James's hand and crossing her arms in front of her chest. Narrowing her eyes, she frowns. "What are you implying exactly?" Unphased, Olivia looks her directly in the eyes. "James is an Ashton, and someone with our reputation can't associate with just anyone. I merely want to make sure an ambitious girl like yourself isn't in it to take advantage of James's position." James jumps to her defense, his hands clenched into fists on the table. "MC isn't like that." Before he can elaborate, MC cuts him off. "James, I've got this." She was beyond pissed.

"Do you really think I'm only marrying James for his name? You don't give him enough credit. James is wonderful. He's articulate. Words just come right out of his mouth with such ease and grace. He always knows the perfect thing to say." James clears his throat. "MC, you don't have to do this..." She holds up her hand slightly, silencing him instantly. "I'm not done. James is also kind. He's considerate and thoughtful of how I feel. He's also brilliant, witty and insightful. Not only that, but he's passionate and hard-working. He doesn't give up until he's finished something and done it well, fully throwing himself into everything he's ever undertaken." MC turns to James before continuing. "And that's only part of the reason why I like him. He's not only my fiancée, but my friend. I know that he'll disagree with me when I'm wrong..." She winks at him. "...and that he's got my back when I need him." James reaches out and takes her hand again, giving it a squeeze as a small appreciative smile appears on his face. "I respect him a great deal." MC turns back to Olivia. "That's why I want to marry him." For a moment no one says anything. His parents look taken aback. Stunned by MC’s monologue. She starts to worry that she went too far. "Uh... I rest my case?" "It's all right, dear. You don't have to defend yourself further. In fact, I'm mildly impressed." Olivia leans back in her seat, her eyes judging the two across from her. MC's face grows warm. "Thanks." "And it's clear you care about our son." Olivia gives her a quick nod. "Of course I do." MC answers honestly. "As for me, I hope he doesn't disappoint you. I've yet to see him work hard when it comes to his career." George says without any remorse. "That's not true. It's just not business that in interested in." James interrupts, letting the wrong response slip out. "What? What do you mean by that?" George raises his voice and eyebrow as he stares at his son. MC's eyes go wide as she leans slightly, whispering. "James, what are you doing?" James shakes his head. "You were right, MC. I don't know how long I can keep this up. After hearing what you said about me... let's just say, you inspired me." He turns to give her a small but heated smile before turning back to his parents. "Mom, dad, I have no intention of taking over the family firm." Olivia’s face twists with anger. "What?" James continues. "I'm going to be a writer. That's what I've been working towards my entire school career. I didn't take the internship at Kingsley's firm because I chose to work directly with Enrique Vasquez." George joins his wife in glaring at their son. "The author? You turned down a job... to write?! That's so preposterous, I can barely speak." Olivia is now fuming. "James, I don't understand why you've changed your mind. Did MC put you up to this?" James immediately jumps to her defense again, his anger taking over. "No, not at all. In fact, MC's not my fiancée." Olivia’s eyes grow huge, her frown deepening. "I knew it! She--" James quickly cuts her off. "MC did nothing wrong. I'm just tired of you trying to push the right job and the right girl on me." "The two of you may not actually be engaged, but I can tell something's going on between you two." Her eyes narrow as they flick back and forth between the two. "Are you romantically involved?" James stutters in response, taken by surprise. "I... er..." He looks to MC, completely at a loss for words. MC's cheeks flush as her face heats up. "Well, this has gotten awkward. I'm going to go..." She quickly gets up from the table without another word and rushes outside. Cheeks still burning she pulls out her phone to text Zack. James pushes through the restaurant doors only seconds later, searching both ways until he sees MC. He sprints towards her, trying to catch up. "MC, wait!" As he closes the remaining feet between them his face changes from shock to concern. "Can I walk you home at least?" MC pauses her walk and looks at James. "Don't have to deal with your parents?" He shakes his head and grumbles his disgust. "They can wait. It's probably better I give them time to, uh, reflect." She thinks better of his request. "That's nice of you, but it's fine, James. The nights over. I'm not your fiancée, and we don't need to pretend. We can even go back to not liking each other like normal." He lets out a long sigh. "If I'm going to be completely honest, I don't want that." He averts his eyes away from hers. "The thing is, MC... I do like you." He slowly but confidently turns his eyes back to hers. "Perhaps as more than friends." James takes her hand, his gaze meeting hers, eyes searching. MC sucks in a sharp breath of air. "James... I don't know what to say. It's just... well..." She is interrupted by her phone. He lets go of her hand so she can pull it out of her purse. She gasps at the caller ID. "I can't believe it!" James looks at her with concern. "MC? Who is it?" She shakes her head in disbelief. "...it's... Gabriela."