#With its majestic presence

[fotos-art]

Red deer in the Caledonian Forest, Glen Affric, Scottish Highlands

© Terry Whittaker

Alamy

Meet the mighty red deer! With its majestic presence and robust antlers, this animal is a true wonder of nature. Photographed in the ancient woodlands of Glen Affric, one of Scotland’s most picturesque valleys, the red deer is Britain’s largest land mammal. Found in various regions of Europe, Asia and North Africa, it has historically been a central figure in cave art and medieval hunting traditions. Its imposing and noble figure symbolises the wild and free spirit of nature.

[kvchandru]

Peacock Drawing

[dark-moonlust]

Centaur’s Mate

Pairing: Centaur x human reader

Summary: you are traveling the valley when you meet your mate, a handsome and powerful centaur. You get pounded good, and taken back to his home. He’ll keep you forever.

Warnings: minors don't interact, 18+!!!!, monster smut, explicit centaur smut, huge 🍆, magic to fit, lots of come. Don’t like, don’t read please.

The sun hung low in the sky, its shafts casting an amber glow over the wide, rolling plains. The vast valley stretched out in every direction, a feast for the eyes. The view certainly made up for your traveling all these days. It was a breathtaking place, serene and the perfect escape from every day life.

As you ascended a gentle hill, you saw him.

At first, he appeared like a dream, his form shimmering in the distance.

But as you walked closer, you realized it was a centaur—a centaur!

Standing tall and majestic, the fading light cast shadows upon his massive form. His upper body was that of a powerful man, his shoulders wide, his chest broad, his arms muscular and toned. His lower half, however, was that of a sleek, strong horse, its coat a glossy chestnut brown.

Eyes as brown as the coffee bore into yours and took your breath away. There was something in his gaze, in his towering presence and otherworldly beauty that awoke pleasure instead of fear. You should be running for your life yet you remained moveless, captivated.

The centaur approached you, his hooves tapping the ground.

“Little human,” he said, his voice deep and scratchy. “What brings you to my lands?”

“I… I am traveling,” you stammered, head rising to face him. Now that he was closer he was at least two heads taller than you. “Am I trespassing?”

“You are welcome here.” He smiled and that made your pulse quicken.

“Fate has brought you to me at last,” he said, a hand reaching out to caress your cheek. “You look tired, little one. Allow me to offer you some comfort.”

Before you could respond, he cupped your midsection and lifted you, bringing you against him. His hold was potent, his scent musky and woody. His fingers roamed your back, massaging the tender muscles while his scent willed your submission. You felt all warm and tingling, his scent was indeed intoxicating and you felt a strange connection spark between you.

You barely protested when your clothes were tugged away.

One by one, the centaur exposed you to him, his eyes kissing your exposed skin with hunger.

“You are beautiful, little traveller,” he murmured, his eyes gazing at your pert breasts, your soft tummy and between your legs. You rubbed your thighs together, your pussy slick and hot.

“Why? What’s happening?” you whispered, feeling more liquid warmth trickle down your thighs.

“You’re responding to me. As you should, my mate”, he said, his breath hot against your ear. “I’ve waited a long time for you.”

More wetness gathered in your cunt and you winced at the throbbing need that steadily spread all over your body. You leaned into him, whining softly when he kissed your dry mouth, his lips brushing yours languidly. You clutched his soft mane while his tongue slipped into your mouth and mated with yours. The kiss went on and on, and he slowly brought his hand between your thighs, working them open. You mumbled a weak protest against his lips but he swallowed it with his kisses.

His large hand nudged your legs, a calloused finger rubbing your poor needy clit, round and round while you blabbered in his mouth and begged him for more. The thick finger entered your pussy, curving deep inside. Gods, even his finger was as thick as a human dick. Your thoughts scattered when he added another, your juices more than enough to keep him going. Slick sounds resounded as he finger fucked you while kissing you hungrily.

“Yes, that’s right, such a good tight pussy,” he said, curving his long fingers inside you. “Feels good, doesn’t it, little human?”

“Hmn… feels so good.” You arched your back, pleading him to give you more.

“Do you trust me?” he whispered, his voice vibrating through you.

“I trust you.”

“Close your eyes, little mate.”

With a nod, you did as told. You felt him fingering you deep, his finger squelching lewdly. A tingly warmth followed as he stroked you deep but with care, murmuring under his breath, the words foreign to your ears. You winced a little and guessed he had added another finger.

“Open your eyes,” he ordered, his voice strained.

You blinked, welcoming the view of his beautiful face and then gazed down at where his fingers parted your pussy. Your eyes widened! You had taken four of his fingers inside you, your lips stretched wide and trickling slick juices. Desire pulsed, you saw him pull them out, a wet squelch echoing before he thrust them back in with ease.

“You did something, didn’t you?”

“Centaur magic.” He kissed your forehead. “I’d never put my mate in danger.”

You smiled. He was so sweet, while finger fucking you into oblivion.

“You’ll take my cock deep inside you, won’t you, love?” he drawled, his free hand pinching a tight pink nipple.

“Ahnnn yesssss, I’ll try.”

He groaned, deep and low as he lifted you and pumped his fingers even deeper. Your feet left the ground and wrapped around his horse shoulders. You clutched his strong arms for stability while he stroked your sensitive walls and kissed you. You came with a loud cry, wiggling your waist to ride his fingers deeper and faster. You felt him smile against your skin and gently, he set you on your feet.

Growling low, he moved you, his hooves pounding steadily on the ground. Strong human hands guided you to stand against a huge boulder, your feet firmly on the ground, palms flat against the stone. Positioning his great horse body behind you, he stretched as far as he could go, his front hooves settling way above your head. He bent a little to adjust your height difference, supporting his weight on his back hooves.

You shivered at the feel of someone so huge against your back. You looked back and down, your eyes widening at the cock rising from under his horse belly. It was at least the size of five of his fingers. The massive length jutted upwards, the flared head leaking with pre-cum— lots of it. His balls were huge and swollen, hanging heavily from between his horse legs. You licked your lips, wondering just how you’d feel taking that monster dick inside you.

"I can’t," you muttered, breathless. “Too big.”

“You can, little mate,” he said as his swollen cock rubbed against your pussy. “You took my fingers, you were made for me.”

Heat curled down your spine at what you were about to do. But the Centaur seemed to sense your worry, so he shifted a little just so he could slide his fingers over your leaking cunt.

“Drenched and ready,” he said huskily. “My magic protects your pretty pink cunt. Do not fear.”

“O… okay. Be gentle?”

“Always, my love.”

You held your breath when you felt his cock sliding across your entrance, your pussy hot and slick. His shaft pressed closer against you, his smell surrounding you; musky animal and masculine.

Gently, he entered you, the cockhead invading the tight slit of your pussy. You inhaled sharply, your jaw slackening as you felt him penetrate you, his powerful body invading your smaller one. The sensation was unbelievable, overwhelming. You expected to feel pain but only pleasure came. You gasped when he buried himself to the hilt.

You’d taken a massive centaur cock. You felt it throb inside you, causing your belly to puff up. The centaur turned even harder at the sight of your stomach and you hissed as the head of his cock kissed your cervix.

"Tight," he groaned. “My little mate with her perfect little cunny.”

“Wow,” you panted, feeling so stretched and full.

He fucked you slowly at first, his cock drawing out of your depths frothing with your juices. You were so wet and despite the extreme tightness, that allowed him to fuck you in steady surges. His pace soon picked up, his horse body moving against you, leaving you no choice but to take his invasion.

He buried himself over and over while his heavy balls bounced and hit your clit. Eyes shutting, you came hard around him, sweet climax rolling through you. He pumped even harder, growling like the beast he was, while you mewled and rocked with the power of his horse hips. With a defeating roar, he spurted inside you, his cock pulsing so strongly that you came again with violent aftershocks.

Load after load of cum exploded inside you, it was too much. It filled your belly, turned it even more round and trickled down your shaking legs. Sleepy and pleasantly fucked, you barely noticed as he turned you and strapped you to his body, securing you with strong but soft bindings. The hold on you was sturdy but didn’t hurt you at all. His cock was buried deep inside you, your cheeks cradled against his belly.

“I will take you to my home now, little mate,” he said fondly. “You will be safe with me, cherished, loved and well-fucked forever.”

[rottiens]

How often do you think Neuvillette makes love to reader in his dragon form? And how do they prepare for it all?

⊹ tags . . 18+, neuvillette in his dragon form, monsterfucking, established relationship, female reader.

⊹ wc . . 1.4K

⊹ notes . . didn't expect to write so much for this lol but, as always, I really enjoy the ideas you put in my head and ily.

Neuvillette is very shy at first about his true nature. Very withdrawn and perhaps ashamed of his original form. He has spent so much time among humans, understanding them and being part of them, that being with you, he forgets that this non-human part is still kept inside him.

You know the Chief Justice of Fontaine and the way he presents himself to others, you know how respected he is, how loyal he is; you know your husband and you have no doubts about him. But you don't know the Dragon Hydro. So, it is understandable that he feels shy to show his true nature before you.

Your sweet words gradually encourage him to trust you and what you assure him. You promise him so many times that no matter what you see, nothing will make you turn away from him— you do this by kissing his hand, pampering his neck, adoring his body that eventually, Neuvillette decides it's time.

As expected, his dragon form is as majestic as you had imagined. The imposing Neuvillette appears before your eyes, a being of breathtaking beauty and mystical presence. His winged figure combines the grace of an eagle with the strength of a dragon. His plumage is a symphony of colors that oscillates between deep blue tones and brilliant azure hues, creating a visual effect that evokes the power and serenity of the ocean.

You witness the magnificence of his transformation, a sight that takes your breath away and fills you with awe. As you approach, his eyes, deep and full of centuries of wisdom, look at you with a mixture of vulnerability and trust. You are honored and amazed by the faith he has placed in you, knowing that now, more than ever, you must keep your promise to stand by his side, accepting and loving every part of him, human and non-human.

His wings, broad and ethereal, appear to be sculpted from liquid light, adorned with undulating patterns reminiscent of gentle ocean currents. Each feather is outlined with silvery sparkles, giving the impression that a piece of the starry sky has been caught in its wingspan.

Neuvillette's head is noble and distinguished, with piercing eyes that sparkle with ancient wisdom. His silver mane flows back like a cascade of liquid silver. His words echo throughout the room, and he lovingly rests his forehead on yours, speaking to you through your thoughts. All the energy that fills the room bristles your skin, electric sparks that make your fingers move with a life of their own towards his face. Neuvillette drops into your hands, gazing intently at you with narrowed eyes.

Watching him, you can't help but feel that you are in the presence of an entity that transcends the mundane, a living connection between heaven and earth, the ethereal and the tangible.

"You are so beautiful, Neuvillette," you confess quietly to him. He lets out a sort of purr that fills the cave where you are, his tail visibly vibrating a tender blue, tossing back and forth like the waves of the sea.

The passing years have made him more comfortable at your side in his majestic form. You snuggle next to his body as he curls up next to you, his purrs like whispers on the wind lulling you into a placid slumber. But it is not until mating season that he realizes that opening up more with you has been both a blessing and a danger.

In that period, his desire becomes uncontrollable and his dragon nature intensifies. Neuvillette struggles to maintain control, but your gentle words and the trust you have placed in him give him the security he needs to fully embrace his true nature.

The mating gifts he has brought to you —pearls that glow even in the dark, coral crystals, jewelry created from sapphire— were now accompanied by something else. Something he considers terrible and carnal. Grunting, touching more than usual in public, slightly more possessive grips. It's second nature for you to join together in bed, to merge your bodies as one, to sink into you and make love to you all night long until you're both exhausted. But this season, there's something about Neuvillette that has him all the time with his pants tight, his hands sweating under his leather gloves and his boot clacking against the floor, he needed to be back home soon.

. . . He breathes heavily as he holds you against him. Your forehead rests on his as he recites one of the ancient poems stored on scrolls. His mouth is open, salivating, his majestic body jerking with every touch of your delicate fingers on the scales of his face.

"What's wrong?" your tone is almost pained, as if you are hurt. With a frown. Neuvillette hates himself for making you worry.

His whole body shudders as soon as your fingers tangle in the mane that hides his sharp eyes.

"My body doesn't seem to listen to me. I'm sorry, I'm burning up."

Your countenance softens, a tender smile tugs at your lips and Neuvillette jerks away from you, but you are quick to act and reach out your hands, stopping him in his attempt to escape.

"It's okay," as always, you encourage him. "I love you. In this and all your forms, Neuvillette. You have nothing to hide from me."

You prompt him, urge him to follow and explore his desires. It hurts his chest to see you so beautiful for him, to see you covered by a thin transparent cloth that barely covers your nakedness; your erect nipples are visible in the moonlight streaming through the cave and he pauses to think how firm they would feel under his tongue, your thin cotton panties soaked by a sticky layer of your arousal that provokes him just and only to push them with his claw and watch you squirm beneath him. Neuvillette suffers from not being able to control himself. But seeing you ready for him makes his animalistic senses fill with adrenaline.

Soon, he leaves the comfort of your warmth to push his face against your small body. You are so fragile, and he watches you carefully. His nose sniffs you, his scales tickle you, and you laugh. But Neuvillette is so focused on what he wants that he pays no attention to anything but that smell.

He descends under your body, determined. His face pushes the fabric up while he stands on all four paws so as not to crush you. His teeth tear at the fabric and you groan in surprise, for you have never seen him so desperate. Quickly, his long tongue darts out, cuts through the moonbeam and sinks between your thighs, exploring your slick folds with ferocity.

The dragon growls hungrily, devouring everything he can reach with his insatiable tongue. The split tip of his tongue does a dance on your clit, and you raise your hips in search of that pleasure, clinging to the silken sheets as waves of pleasure lash you. Neuvillette grunts, salivates and devours you as if for the first time. You melt with each lick until the impending end of your orgasm hits you.

Even after, he continues to lick you slowly, still greedy, still hungry.

Adoringly, his nose is wet from every trace of skin he gets, worshipping you like a deity.

After this, shame consumes him, so embarrassed to let this barbaric behavior that he has shown to no one else come to light, those instincts that make him lose his composure. Yet, with you by his side, promising him that everything is fine, that you are fine, Neuvillette allows it to happen a second time and then a third. How often? I think it happens spontaneously, but especially when he is in heat, he can't help but take you in his original form, in fact even if he won't admit it, in this state it is his favorite way to make love to you. Although he may lose control of his thrusts, he always tries to be gentle with you, always leaving a mark or two after the session.

These always start with him first in his human form, stretching you with his fingers, making you cum several times with them, then with his split tongue. Finally, when you're ready, one of his two cocks slides into you smoothly, so deep you don't remember how to breathe. Deep inside, he longs for the day when you can take both at the same time.

[idkyetxoxo]

Cregan Stark - Frozen Ties

Summary - Forced into a marriage to secure alliances, she navigates the confines of her new life facing emotional turmoil and a complicated relationship. An unexpected act of kindness from her husband kindles hope, making her reconsider their union and find warmth in the icy politics.

Pairing - Cregan Stark x Targaryen reader

Warnings - None

Word count - 2437

Masterlist for Cregan • House of the Dragon General Masterlist.

"Mother, this is absurd! You can't promise me to him, you can't just send me away like this," I cried, my voice breaking as tears spilt down my cheeks. 

I stood before my weary mother, who wrung her hands together anxiously, her face etched with sorrow.

"My sweet daughter, I wish things were different, but this is necessary," she said, her voice heavy with regret. "You must marry him. We need the North's support."

"They have already declared for Rhaenyra," I protested, frustration making my voice tremble. I knew all too well how Aemond's newfound power had corrupted him.

"Does he truly think I can change Lord Stark's mind?" I continued, her hands gently cupping my face as she wiped away my tears.

"You know what Aemond is," she said softly.

"A monster," I mumbled, and she sighed deeply.

"That is not how you should speak about your king," a voice cut through our despair. We both turned to the door, where Aemond stood, composed and authoritative, his hands clasped behind his back.

"You, dear sister, will fulfil your duties as required," he said, advancing toward us with purposeful strides.

"I don't want to," I said defiantly. Aemond's face darkened with fury, his eye narrowing into a cold, merciless slit. He snatched my chin with a brutal grip, his fingers digging into my skin like talons, forcing me to meet his unyielding gaze. 

Alicent gasped, calling out his name in alarm, moving swiftly to try and intervene.

"Do as you're told and ensure he listens, or you'll be of no use to this family," Aemond commanded, shoving me back with a harshness that made me stumble. 

Tears flowed freely as I stared at the ground. 

My fate was sealed, and there was nothing left for me to do but accept it.

─── ✦⋅♡⋅✦ ───

The icy winds of the North tore through my cloak, each gust slicing into my skin like a blade. The endless expanse of snow and the pale, unforgiving sky mirrored the numbness that had taken root in my heart, where warmth and hope had once dwelled.

Each step toward Winterfell felt heavier, burdened by the weight of my impending marriage.

Upon arrival, I was met with a formal courtesy that did little to ease my anxiety. Winterfell, with its majestic yet unwelcoming presence, felt like a fortress of cold indifference. The great halls, silent and vast, bore witness to my inner turmoil.

Lord Cregan Stark awaited me in his dining hall, a brooding figure amidst the cold stone and flickering hearth. I entered with a mixture of trepidation and resolve. 

As he rose from his seat, his gaze was steady and unreadable.

"Lord Stark," I began, my voice trembling slightly but firm, "I need to understand why you agreed to this marriage. You have already pledged your support to Rhaenyra. How can you reconcile this with what's being forced upon me?"

He regarded me thoughtfully, his eyes reflecting years of experience and wisdom despite his youth. He gestured for me to take a seat across from him, and I did so, my heart pounding in my chest.

"When I pledged my support to Princess Rhaenyra, it was with the hope of ensuring stability and peace for the realm. Yet, the realm's stability is fragile, easily disturbed by shifting allegiances and the ambitions of those in power."

I leaned forward, gripping the armrests of my chair. "But why this marriage? Why agree to something that feels like a betrayal to your cause and to me?"

His expression softened, and he leaned back, considering his words. "In the intricate dance of politics, difficult choices must sometimes be made. This marriage, though forced, is intended to secure a delicate balance. The North's support is crucial, but so is the stability of our alliances. A strong marriage alliance can offer more security than mere pledges of support."

"But at what cost?" I asked, my voice trembling as a fresh wave of fear gripped my heart. "At the cost of my happiness and dignity?"

He looked at me with sympathy and resolve. "Sacrifices are often necessary for the greater good. I understand the personal toll this takes on you, and it is not a decision made lightly but it is my duty to ensure the North remains a steadfast ally, and this marriage is part of that duty."

I stared at him, struggling to reconcile his words with my reality. The burden of my impending marriage, the personal sacrifice, and the political manoeuvring felt overwhelming.

─── ✦⋅♡⋅✦ ───

A month had passed since our wedding, and the reality of my new life had settled in with an unrelenting chill. Each day felt like a repetition of the last, my existence reduced to a monotonous cycle of needlework and solitary moments with the horses. 

The stark beauty of the North, once so captivating, now seemed to mock me with its cold indifference.

I spent my mornings hunched over delicate threads, my fingers moving with mechanical precision. Needlework, though a distraction, was a constant reminder of how far removed I was from the life I once imagined.

In the afternoons, I would find myself wandering to the stables, seeking the comfort of the horses. Their warmth and calm offered brief solace from my sorrow. I cherished them, knowing they were the closest I would ever get to the dragon I longed to see again. 

As I brushed their coats, the tenderness in my touch reflected my deep yearning for connection. Yet, despite their gentle company, they could not fill the void left by my unmet desires and the strained nature of my marriage.

The horses, though beloved, were not my dragon.

Evenings were the hardest. As night fell and shadows lengthened across Winterfell, I retreated to my chambers with a heavy heart. 

The bed that once promised comfort now felt like a cage, and sleep came with difficulty. I would lie there, staring at the cold stone walls, my thoughts racing through a labyrinth of regret and despair.

Cregan, despite his stoic demeanour, was not blind to my misery. He saw the weariness in my movements and the sorrow in my eyes. He knew that the woman he had married had become a shadow, trapped in a life she had never chosen.

One evening, as I prepared for bed, I heard a soft knock on my chamber door. Cregan entered without waiting for an invitation, his presence a contrast to the cold, impersonal walls of my room. 

"May I join you?" he asked gently, though an underlying tension lingered.

I nodded, and he sat beside me, his eyes searching mine with an intensity that belied his usual composure.

"It's been a month," he began, his tone measured yet empathetic. "And I can see how this life has taken its toll on you."

I looked away, unable to meet his gaze, feeling the weight of his words. "You have no reason to concern yourself with my happiness, Lord Stark. I am here to fulfil my duties, not to seek solace."

"That's not entirely true," he said softly. "You are my wife, and it is my duty to ensure you are content, or at least as content as possible in this harsh land."

I sighed, the words catching in my throat. "This life is a cage, and I am its prisoner. I find no joy in my days, no comfort in my nights. I am lost in a place that is not my home, with a future that was never mine to choose."

He reached out, placing a reassuring hand on mine. His touch was warm, a contrast to the cold that had settled in my heart. "I understand this is not what you envisioned. But perhaps, if you allow it, we could find a way to make this arrangement more bearable."

I looked at him, my heart aching with a mix of gratitude and scepticism. "What can be done? I am bound to this life, and it feels as though my desires and dreams are nothing more than echoes in the wind."

"I am a dragon, I am blood and fire," I declared with a fervent intensity, my voice echoing the fierce spirit within me. "You are ice and snow. We were never meant to be." 

The words seemed to strike him deeply, causing a visible pain to cross his features.

His eyes met mine, filled with sadness and something softer, perhaps understanding. He took a deep breath as if steeling himself for what he was about to say.

"Perhaps we weren't meant to be," he conceded, his voice low but firm. "But here we are, bound by vows, by duty, by the threads of fate. And I refuse to believe that fate is so cruel as to leave us without choices."

I scoffed, a bitter smile curling my lips. "Choices? What choices do I have? I did not choose to come here, nor to marry you. Everything was decided for me—by kings, by lords, by the whims of men who never cared to ask what I wanted."

He flinched, as though struck, but his hand remained steady on mine.

For a moment, there was only the sound of our breathing, heavy and uneven. The tension between us was undeniable, a taut string ready to snap. 

His eyes bored into mine, his frustration clear but his sincerity even clearer.

"Then tell me," I said, my voice trembling despite my best efforts to steady it. "What is it you want from me, Lord Stark? What is it you truly desire?"

He hesitated, his expression softening as he seemed to search for the right words. "I want... I want us to find a way to coexist, to find a small measure of peace in this storm. I want us to try, together, to build something from the ashes of what we were forced to leave behind."

The words hung in the cold air between us, carrying both a challenge and a plea. I could feel my defences wavering, the walls I'd built around myself beginning to crack. I wanted to dismiss him, to cling to my anger as if it were a shield, but a small part of me buried deep beneath the resentment yearned for something more than this constant battle.

He watched me closely, waiting. I turned my gaze away, my heart heavy, unsure what to believe anymore.

"It might please you to know," he began, his voice carefully measured, "that I have made arrangements for Silverwing to be brought here."

I stiffened, my heart stumbling over itself at the unexpected words.

"What?" I asked, unable to hide the astonishment in my voice. I searched his face for any sign of deception but found none, only a quiet, earnest expression.

His smile widened just a fraction, his eyes holding a glimmer of hope. "I have had my men prepare the likes of a dragon pit to house Silverwing. It should be ready soon enough."

Before I could fully process the relief and joy that surged through me, I found myself instinctively pulling him into an embrace. The news of Silverwing's impending arrival filled me with an overwhelming sense of gratitude and happiness. 

The thought of being reunited with my dragon, my closest companion, was a balm to the loneliness that had marked my days.

He chuckled softly, his arms encircling me with a warmth that contrasted sharply with the chill of Winterfell. The sting of regret crept in for the harshness I had shown him mere minutes ago, for pushing him away when he had only tried to reach out.

As I pulled away slightly, I met his gaze with sincere eyes, the fire within me dimming to embers.

"I apologize," I said, my voice laced with earnestness. "I don't mean to suggest that you have been cruel to me. On the contrary, you have shown me a kindness that I didn't expect. Many men would not have endured their wives' coldness and indifference as you have."

His expression softened, and he nodded in understanding. "I meant it when I said that I do not wish this union to be a dreadful one. You are my wife, and I am your husband. Despite our differences, it is important that we strive to understand each other."

I sighed, feeling a sense of contentment wash over me. Perhaps I had been unfair in my judgments. 

Throughout the past month, he had never forced me into anything I wasn't willing to do. His patience and compassion had been genuine, and I began to see the depth of his character beyond the surface of our arranged marriage.

Taking a deep breath, I stepped forward once more and leaned down, pressing my lips to his in a kiss. It was a kiss of new beginnings, of understanding and tentative acceptance. 

In that moment, it felt as though we were discovering each other anew, exploring the possibilities of what our union could become.

The kiss deepened, each touch and caress reflecting a newfound willingness to bridge the gap between us. As we finally parted, the air between us seemed lighter, filled with the promise of a more hopeful future. 

With a tender smile, I looked into his eyes and took a courageous step. 

"Perhaps," I said softly, "if you are willing, you could stay with me tonight. We could share the same room, just to see what it might feel like."

His eyes warmed with surprise and appreciation. "I'd like that," he replied, his tone sincere. "I'll stay with you."

As we settled into the bed together, the room was bathed in the soft glow of a single candle. The warmth of his presence beside me was a comforting contrast to the coldness that had previously defined our interactions. We lay quietly for a moment, adjusting to the new closeness.

Cregan's voice broke the silence, a thoughtful note in his tone. "Would you like to go hunting with me next week? It might be a chance for us to spend some time together outside of these walls."

The idea of joining him for a hunt was enticing, and I smiled at the thought. "Yes, I would like that very much," I replied, my voice soft with genuine interest.

He smiled back, a sense of relief and anticipation in his eyes. "Then it's settled. We'll go hunting next week."

As we lay next to each other, the shared warmth and the promise of the coming adventure created a sense of closeness that had been missing for so long. 

The night was filled with a quiet intimacy, and as sleep began to claim us, I felt a glimmer of hope for the future we might build together. 

In this cold land of ice and snow, perhaps there was room for warmth, connection, and the kind of companionship that could grow into something truly meaningful.

A/n - Get you a man who builds you a dragon pit cause you miss your little beast

[vipetas]

i. the radio's revival

The worst possible scenario just unfolded before Alastor's eyes—his beloved antique radio broke.

He stood in stunned silence, his usual jovial expression replaced by one of utter disbelief as the once-majestic device now lay in pieces, its intricate components scattered across the floor. With a heavy heart, he knelt beside the shattered remnants, his gloved fingers tracing the familiar contours with a sense of mourning.

It was a futile gesture, he knew, but he couldn’t help but feel a sense of loss for the part of himself that had been taken away with it. For Alastor, the radio was more than just a mere object; it was a piece of his identity. Each scratch, each dent held a story, a memory of a bygone era that now lay at ruins at his feet.

In that moment, he felt more vulnerable than ever before, stripped of the facade of invincibility he had carefully cultivated over decades. However, as he surveyed the damage, the vulnerability was quickly replaced by a flood of other emotions–anger, frustration, disappointment. How could something so precious, so irreplaceable, be lost in an instant?

The faint sound of shuffling feet then drew his attention. As he gazed up, one of the egg boys—those bumbling, loyal lackeys of Sir Pentious—timidly stepped forward with a sheepish expression.

“Uh, sorry about that, mister Radio Demon, sir. It was an accident,” the egg boy mumbled, his voice tinged with guilt.

Alastor's eye twitched in annoyance at the feeble excuse. Accidents were one thing, but this? This was inexcusable. His patience, already stretched thin, threatened to snap as he struggled to contain his frustration.

“Sorry?” Alastor repeated through gritted teeth. “Sorry won’t fix what’s been broken, now will it?”

The egg boys exchanged nervous glances, their carefree demeanor faltering under Alastor's withering gaze. “We didn't mean to, Mr. Alastor,” another one of them stammered. 

Yet it was far too late for apologies. Alastor's frustration bubbled over like a pot ready to boil, and with a growl of irritation, his form began to shift. With each passing second, his horns extended, his body swelled in size, and his once elegant silhouette towered over the trembling egg boys like a vengeful deity.

The egg boys recoiled in terror, their eyes wide with horror as they watched Alastor's transformation unfold before them. In their panicked mind, they could only imagine the worst—that Alastor, in his fury, would devour them whole.

Just as their fear reached its peak, Sir Pentious burst onto the scene. Positioning himself between the egg boys and the Radio Demon, his voice rang out in a chorus of apologies.

“Mr. Alastor, sir, I must beg for your forgiveness on behalf of my hapless egg boys,” he pleaded desperately. “They meant no harm, I assure you. It was a mere accident, a foolish mistake!”

Alastor's gaze narrowed as he observed Sir Pentious. As the snake demon continued to shower him with apologies, Alastor suddenly remembered the reason they were all gathered here in the first place—a party, of all things. With a wry smile, he glanced around at the other residents of the hotel, noting the fear etched onto their faces. The sight of their unease might've amused him under different circumstances, but the loss of something so precious to him soured his mood.

With a shake of his head, he allowed his form to shrink back to its normal size. As his horns receded and his imposing presence diminished, he felt the tension ebb from his body, the anger gradually fading away.

But that didn’t mean that all was forgiven.

“What, pray tell, am I supposed to do with my broken radio now?” Alastor's voice dripped with barely contained frustration as he shot a piercing gaze at Sir Pentious. 

Sir Pentious, visibly sweating under the weight of Alastor's glare, scrambled to offer a solution. “Ah, well, fear not,” he stuttered, his words coming out in a nervous rush. “I happen to know a mechanic—a fixer, if you will. Someone who can repair anything, no matter how... delicate.”

Alastor's eyebrow arched in skepticism, though a faint flicker of interest danced in his eyes. "Is that so?" he mused, a smirk tugging at the corners of his lips. He had his doubts about Sir Pentious' ability to deliver on such a promise, but at this point, he was willing to entertain any possibility.

“And where can I find this mechanic of yours?”

Following the instructions scribbled hastily on the back of a crumpled receipt, Alastor eventually found himself in the slums of Pentagram City. The narrow alleyways led him to what appeared to be a workshop, its exterior bearing the signs of neglect and decay. The windows were grimy, patches of paint flaked off the weathered walls, and the sign above the entrance barely hung on by a single rusty nail.

It was a far cry from the elegance he was accustomed to, and he couldn't help but feel a familiar surge of anger rising within him. This was the place that was supposed to hold the solution to his problem? The Radio Demon scoffed inwardly, doubting that anyone within these walls possessed the skill or expertise to repair something as delicate as his beloved radio.

Still, he pressed on. Pushing open the creaking door, he was met with a gust of stale air, tinged with the scent of oil and metal. Inside, the workshop was a scene of disarray. Tools lay scattered across workbenches, and half-finished projects cluttered every available surface. The walls were lined with shelves overflowing with spare parts, some of which appeared to be salvaged from long-forgotten machinery.

Alastor's lips curled into a disdainful sneer as he absorbed the surroundings. Then, his gaze fell upon the lone figure, hunched over a nearby table—you.

As he drew closer, you finally looked up, and to Alastor's surprise, you greeted him with a wide smile.

“Hi there! What can I do for you?”

Alastor's sneer deepened at the sight of the chipper mechanic, a stark contrast to the grim atmosphere of the workshop. He had half-expected to find someone as worn down and weathered as the building itself, yet here stood this bright-eyed individual, seemingly unfazed by the chaos around them.

Suppressing a sigh, Alastor straightened up, the edges of his grin faltering ever so slightly. “Good evening,” he began. “My name is Alastor, and I'm here because I was told you might be able to fix something for me.”

Your smile widened at his words, and you nodded eagerly. “Of course! What seems to be the problem?”

Alastor hesitated for a moment, eyeing you warily. He couldn't shake the feeling that entrusting his precious radio to you was a mistake. Yet, he had little choice in the matter.

“My antique radio is in need of repair,” Alastor explained, his tone guarded. “It's a delicate piece of machinery, and I require someone with the utmost skill to handle it.”

You listened intently as Alastor detailed the intricacies of his radio, nodding along with each word. Despite his cautious demeanor, you could sense the underlying concern in his voice. It was clear that this radio held great significance to him.

As he finished speaking, you gave him another nod. “I understand, Mr. Alastor,” you reassured him. “You won't be disappointed, I promise. Now, let's take a look at what you've got there.”

With that, you gestured for Alastor to follow you to your workbench, where he finally presented the fragmented piece of machinery. As you laid eyes on the broken radio, it became immediately apparent to you just how extensively damaged it was. Fractured casings, tangled wires, missing components–it was a daunting sight, yet you refrained from revealing the true severity of the damage to Alastor, not wanting to add to his distress. Instead, you maintained a composed demeanor as you turned to look at him with a confident grin.

“We'll get this sorted out, Mr. Alastor,” you assured him once more. “Leave it to me.”

Alastor felt a flicker of hope stir in his blackened heart at the prospect of having his radio fixed. Though a hint of doubt still lingered at the back of his mind, he nodded begrudgingly.

“Very well," he muttered. "Just... be careful with it.”

As Alastor stepped back, allowing you the space to work your magic, his eyes remained fixed on you with keen interest. He observed the fluidity of your movements, the subtle shifts in your expression. Whenever you encountered a challenge, your brows furrowed in concentration, and with each successful repair, a hint of satisfaction graced your lips. Alastor found himself unconsciously mirroring your expressions as he watched your steady hands diligently work to bring his beloved radio back to life.

And as time passed, so too did his initial skepticism begin to wane, replaced by a growing sense of admiration for your skill and expertise. There was something captivating about the way you worked, a sense of determination and passion that shone through with every meticulous movement.

At last, after what felt like an eternity, you made the final adjustment. With bated breath, you flicked the switch and awaited the outcome. The room fell into a tense silence, thick with anticipation. Then, suddenly, a burst of static erupted, followed by the unmistakable sound of music emanating from the speakers.

Alastor's eyes widened in disbelief as the once-silent device surged back to life. Your face lit up with a triumphant smile as you savored his reaction, a sense of pride swelling within you.

“There you go, Mr. Alastor,” you declared, extending the repaired radio toward him. “Good as new!”

As Alastor reached out to accept the radio from you, his fingers inadvertently brushed against yours in a fleeting moment of contact. In that instant, a jolt of electricity seemed to course through him, sending a distinct shiver down his spine.

It was a curious sensation, one that he couldn't quite place, yet it stirred something deep within him.

Even after withdrawing his hand, the feeling lingered, leaving Alastor perplexed. His gaze shifted from the repaired radio to your face, searching for any indication that you too had felt the same inexplicable energy pulse between you. However, your smile remained unchanged, oblivious to the tumult of emotions swirling within him.

“Thank you,” he finally murmured, his voice softer than usual, betraying a hint of sincerity that caught even him off guard. “You did a remarkable job.”

You beamed in response, your eyes alight with satisfaction at Alastor's words. “You're welcome,” you replied gently. “I'm glad I could be of help. And remember, if you ever need anything else, you know where to find me.”

Alastor offered a subtle nod of gratitude, though inwardly, he found himself oddly reluctant to leave. Nevertheless, he tucked the repaired radio under his arm and turned on his heel, heading towards the door. Stepping out into the dimly-lit street, he walked with deliberate steps. His thoughts drifted back to the moment his fingers brushed against yours, and despite his attempts to push the memory aside, his free hand instinctively flexed, fingers curling into a tight fist before relaxing once more.

This was going to be a problem.

part i / part ii

thank you for reading, hope you enjoyed<3

[psychedelic-ink]

ㅤㅤㅤ✦ 𝐀𝐒𝐇𝐄𝐒 𝐀𝐍𝐃 𝐄𝐂𝐇𝐎𝐄𝐒

ㅤㅤjoel miller x f!reader

genre: smut, jakcson era, mutual pining, strangers to lovers, minors dni

word count: 15k

summary: joel saves you and brings you to jackson, after healing you become the local librarian of the community.

warnings: some angst with happy ending, mutual pining, female masturbation, slow burn, reader's name is Ash + bisexual, oral (both receiving), heavy petting, piv, dirty talk, soft dom!joel, submissive!reader, reader enjoys bands and books, blood mention, canon typical violence, some spoilers for part 2 (for ellie)

a/n: this was commissioned by @ashleyfilm 💜 thank you so much for being patient with me and supporting me!

The sun hung low in the sky, casting a warm golden hue over the rugged terrain of Wyoming. Joel rode slowly, his horse's hooves crunching softly on the gravel path. The air was crisp, carrying the scent of pine and earth, a refreshing change from the stale, musty confines of Jackson’s walls. Tall trees bordered the path, their leaves rustling gently in the mild breeze, creating a soothing symphony that mingled with the distant calls of birds. The sky stretched wide above, a brilliant canvas of blues and pinks, with streaks of orange signaling the approach of dusk.

In the distance, the snow-capped peaks of the mountains loomed majestically, their silent, steadfast presence a reminder of nature's unyielding power. The grass swayed gently in the wind, patches of wildflowers adding bursts of color to the verdant landscape. Joel could hear the faint trickle of a stream nearby, its clear waters winding through the forest, a lifeline in this vast, untamed wilderness. The tranquility of the scene was deceptive, masking the dangers that lurked just beyond the tree line.

Joel’s eyes scanned the surroundings with practiced precision, taking in every detail. The gnarled bark of ancient trees, the glint of sunlight on the surface of the stream, the fleeting shadows cast by birds overhead – everything was noted, cataloged, filed away in his mind. The world outside Jackson was a place of both breathtaking beauty and constant peril, and Joel knew better than to let his guard down. Still, in moments like this, it was hard not to appreciate the raw, untouched splendor of the land around him.

Joel dismounted from his horse, the reins held loosely in his hand as he walked the rest of the way on foot. He preferred the quiet that walking afforded, the ability to move silently through the underbrush, alert to every rustle and crack in the woods around him. The air was filled with the scent of pine and damp earth, and the fading light painted long shadows across the forest floor.

As he moved deeper into the trees, a noise caught his attention – the low murmur of voices, urgent and panicked. Joel’s instincts kicked in, and he crouched low, moving stealthily toward the source of the commotion. Each step was measured, his boots barely making a sound on the soft ground. The voices grew louder, more distinct, and he could make out the gruff tones of men in distress.

Joel reached the edge of a small clearing and paused, hidden behind a thick oak tree. He peered around the trunk, his eyes narrowing as he took in the scene before him. Three men stood in a loose circle, their backs to him, all focused on something on the ground. Their postures were tense, movements agitated. Joel’s gaze shifted, and he saw what held their attention – a woman, unconscious and sprawled in the grass, her dark hair matted with blood.

Nearby, the bodies of two raiders lay crumpled, their lifeless forms testament to a recent struggle. Blood stained the ground around them, dark and viscous. The men standing over her seemed distraught, their faces pale and drawn. One of them knelt beside her, checking for a pulse, while the others scanned the perimeter, their eyes darting nervously.

Joel crept closer, using the trees and underbrush for cover. His heart pounded in his chest, each beat a reminder of the danger that could erupt at any moment. He could hear the men speaking now, their words sharp and anxious.

"Fucking bitch went feral," one of them hissed, his voice trembling.

"Yeah, these types are the worst," the man kneeling beside the girl replied. "They’ll do anything to survive, even when they’re outnumbered."

"Well, it’ll be easier to make use of her now," another said, his voice filled with anger and fear. "But look at them. She took them out, or at least put up one hell of a fight."

Joel's eyes lingered on the unconscious woman. She was small, curvy even in her battered state, and dressed in dark clothing. Despite the blood and grime, there was a fierceness about her that spoke of resilience and strength. He felt a pang of something – concern, perhaps, or admiration for her courage. But then he noticed something else: one of the men standing over her had drawn a knife.

"Let’s not take a chance and kill her now," the man with the knife said, his voice hard. "Then we can make use of her."

Joel’s jaw tightened. He knew these types – survivors who looked out for themselves first, willing to abandon those in need if it meant their own safety. Normally, he might have looked the other way, rationalizing it as the harsh reality of their world. But something about the girl struck a chord deep within him, a fierce need to protect her that he couldn’t explain.

Without another thought, Joel acted. He slipped his revolver from its holster, the weight familiar and comforting in his hand. Taking a deep breath, he stepped out from his hiding place, weapon raised. "Put the knife down," he commanded, his voice cold and authoritative.

The men spun around, eyes wide with shock and fear. The one with the knife hesitated, then lunged at Joel. In a swift, practiced motion, Joel fired, the shot echoing through the trees. The man fell, clutching his chest, his knife clattering to the ground.

The other two men reacted, one drawing a gun while the other tried to grab the girl. Joel moved quickly, taking aim and firing again. The second man dropped, blood blooming on his shirt. The last man, realizing the fight was lost, turned and fled into the woods.

Joel lowered his gun, breathing heavily, and approached the girl. She was still unconscious, her pulse weak and erratic. He felt that strange pull again, a fierce need to protect her. He quickly checked her for any serious injuries, then lifted her gently in his arms. 

He carried her back to his horse, securing her in front of him. With a final glance at the clearing, he urged his horse forward, heading back towards Jackson. The girl’s head lolled against his chest, and he could feel the faint rise and fall of her breath. He didn’t know who she was or what had happened to her, but he was determined to get her to safety. As the forest closed in around them, Joel’s thoughts were a swirl of concern, determination, and a growing sense of responsibility for the woman in his arms.

Joel rode through the thickening twilight, the girl's limp body held securely in his arms. The rhythmic motion of the horse and the steady beat of her faint pulse against his chest did little to calm his racing thoughts. He found himself plagued by a storm of emotions he couldn’t quite name. Usually, the sight of another person in peril would elicit a practiced detachment, a necessary survival mechanism in this brutal world. But this time, something was different.

As they neared Jackson, Joel’s mind kept returning to the clearing – the dead raiders, the unconscious girl, the inexplicable urge to save her. He shook his head, trying to clear the thoughts, but they clung to him, persistent and unyielding. His grip on the reins tightened as he urged his horse faster, the town’s gates coming into view, the welcoming lights a stark contrast to the darkness encroaching on the forest.

The gates creaked open as he approached, familiar faces of the night guards registering surprise at the sight of Joel carrying an injured woman. He gave them a brief nod, too focused on his task to engage in any explanations. He directed his horse towards the infirmary, the only place in Jackson equipped to handle such emergencies.

"Doc! Get the doc!" he shouted as he dismounted, carefully cradling the girl in his arms. A flurry of movement followed as people rushed to help. The infirmary door swung open, and Joel stepped inside, the warm, sterile smell a sharp contrast to the cold, earthy scent of the woods.

"Over here!" Dr. Allen called, clearing a space on one of the cots. Joel laid the girl down gently, stepping back as the medical team sprang into action. His hands, now free, trembled slightly. He clenched them into fists, trying to steady himself.

Dr. Allen, a middle-aged woman with keen eyes and a calm demeanor, began her examination immediately. She worked with swift precision, checking the girl’s vitals, assessing her injuries. Joel watched from a distance, every muscle in his body taut with worry.

"She’s stable, but barely," Dr. Allen said, glancing up at Joel. "What happened out there?"

Joel exhaled, running a hand through his hair. "Found her out near the old logging road. Raiders got to her, but she fought back. Took down a couple of them before I got there."

Dr. Allen nodded, focusing back on her patient. "She’s got a strong will to survive. That’s good. She’s going to need it."

Joel hovered near the doorway, his eyes never leaving the girl. He felt an intense, inexplicable need to ensure she was safe, to see her through this. The room buzzed with activity as the medical team cleaned her wounds, administered fluids, and worked to stabilize her condition. Joel’s worry gnawed at him, an unfamiliar sensation that left him feeling exposed and raw.

Hours seemed to feel like days as he waited, the minutes ticking by with agonizing slowness. Tommy appeared at some point, a concerned look on his face as he approached Joel.

"Hey," Tommy said softly, placing a hand on Joel’s shoulder. "You okay?"

Joel nodded stiffly. "Yeah, just… worried about her."

Tommy glanced at the girl, then back at Joel. "You don’t even know her."

"I know," Joel replied, his voice low. "But I couldn’t just leave her there."

Tommy gave him a knowing look, a small smile tugging at the corners of his mouth. "You did the right thing. She’s in good hands now."

The night wore on, the medical team’s efforts began to show results. The girl’s breathing steadied, her pulse grew stronger. Dr. Allen finally stepped back, wiping her brow.

"She’s going to make it," she announced, and the tension in the room visibly lessened. Joel let out a breath he hadn’t realized he was holding, relief washing over him.

"Thank you," he said, his voice thick with emotion.

Dr. Allen nodded. "She’ll need rest and care, but she’s a fighter. She’ll pull through."

Joel settled into a chair by her bedside, watching over her as she slept. The worry that had plagued him since he found her eased slightly, replaced by a determined resolve. He didn’t understand why he felt such a connection to this stranger, but he knew one thing for certain: he would be there for her, whatever it took.

As dawn broke over Jackson, casting a soft glow through the infirmary windows, Joel remained by her side, haunted by thoughts he couldn’t quite comprehend but resolute in his newfound purpose.

He remained by her side, his eyes heavy with exhaustion but unwilling to leave her alone. The infirmary had quieted down, the initial rush of activity giving way to a more subdued atmosphere. 

When the first light of dawn seeped through the windows, casting long shadows across the room, Joel's thoughts drifted to the moments before he found her. He replayed the scene over and over in his mind: the woman lying unconscious, the dead raiders around her, the way she had fought so fiercely to survive. There was something about her, a strength and determination that resonated with him deeply.

Tommy returned, bringing a steaming cup of coffee. He handed it to Joel, who accepted it gratefully. "How's she doing?" Tommy asked, his voice hushed.

"Better," Joel replied, his eyes never leaving the girl. "Dr. Allen said she’s going to make it, but she needs rest."

Tommy nodded, pulling up a chair next to Joel. "You should get some rest too, brother. You’ve been up all night."

Joel shook his head. "I’ll rest when I know she’s out of the woods. Until then, I’m staying right here."

Tommy sighed but didn’t argue. He knew better than to try and change Joel’s mind once it was made up. Instead, he settled into his chair, offering silent support. The two brothers sat in companionable silence, the weight of the night’s events hanging heavily between them.

A while later, the infirmary door opened again, and Maria walked in, her face a mix of concern and curiosity. "Heard you had quite the night," she said, her gaze shifting from Joel to the woman on the bed.

"Yeah," Joel replied, taking a sip of his coffee. "Found her just in time. She’s a fighter, though."

Maria smiled softly and approached the bedside, looking at the unconscious girl. "Seems like she’ll fit right in around here. We could use more fighters."

Joel nodded, a sense of agreement settling over him. He didn’t know what lay ahead for her, but he was certain she had a place in Jackson. Maria turned to Joel, her eyes searching his face.

"You’ve been here all night?" she asked gently.

"Yeah," Joel admitted, his voice low. "Couldn’t leave her alone."

Maria exchanged a glance with Tommy, a silent understanding passing between them. "You’ve done enough for now, Joel. Let us take over for a bit. You need some rest."

Joel hesitated, his eyes lingering. "I can’t. Not yet."

Maria sighed, but there was no frustration in her expression, only compassion. "Alright, but at least sit down. We’ll stay with you."

Joel nodded and He settled back into his chair, his eyes never straying far from her face. Tommy and Maria took seats nearby, their presence a comforting reminder that he wasn’t alone in this.

At one point, Maria leaned over to Tommy and whispered, "I’ve never seen Joel this concerned about a stranger before."

Tommy nodded, his eyes on Joel. "Yeah, it’s unusual. But I think she means something to him, even if he doesn’t fully realize it yet."

Maria glanced at the girl, then back at Joel. "Maybe she’s what he needs. Someone to remind him that there’s still good worth fighting for."

Tommy squeezed Maria’s hand, his expression thoughtful. "Maybe. Let’s just hope she pulls through."

As evening approached, she began to stir, her eyelids fluttering as she fought to wake up. Joel leaned forward, his heart pounding in his chest.

Slowly, her eyes opened, dark and filled with confusion. She blinked several times, trying to focus on her surroundings. When her gaze finally landed on Joel, there was a flicker of recognition, followed by a mix of relief and apprehension.

"Hey there," Joel said softly, his voice gentle. "You’re safe now. You’re in Jackson."

She tried to speak, but her voice came out as a hoarse whisper. "Who…?"

"My name’s Joel," he replied. "I found you out there. Brought you back here to get some help. You’re going to be okay."

She nodded weakly, her eyes drifting shut again. She was still exhausted, her body demanding more rest. Joel felt a sense of relief wash over him. She was awake, and she knew she was safe.

Tommy and Maria watched the exchange with quiet interest, noting the tenderness in Joel’s voice and the protective way he watched over the girl.

"Looks like she’s in good hands," Maria said softly, her eyes meeting Joel’s. "You did good, Joel."

Joel nodded, his expression resolute. "Just want to make sure she’s okay."

As night fell, Joel remained, his thoughts a swirl of concern, determination, and a growing sense of responsibility for the woman in his care. Tommy and Maria eventually left, their reassurances lingering in the air.

Joel knew that whatever the future held, he was committed to seeing this through. He didn’t fully understand the connection he felt to this stranger, but he knew one thing for certain: he would protect her, no matter what.

***

You drifted in and out of consciousness, your mind a haze of pain and confusion. Each time you woke, the world around you shifted in and out of focus, as if you were seeing it through frosted glass. Your body ached with a deep, relentless throb that seemed to come from every part of you.

Voices echoed around you, muffled and distant, as though they were coming from underwater. You could barely make out the words, but you remembered men shouting, the sharp crack of gunfire, and the sickening thud of bodies hitting the ground. The memories came in fragments, each one more disjointed than the last.

Amidst the chaos, there was a moment of clarity, a fleeting glimpse of a man with a hard, weathered face, his eyes filled with a mix of determination and something else���concern, maybe? His face blurred as your vision faded, and you slipped back into the darkness.

The next time you woke, it was to a different sensation. You were being carried, held tightly against a warm chest. The rhythmic motion of walking jostled you gently, and you could hear the steady beat of a heart beneath your ear. The scent of sweat, leather, and something comforting enveloped you, grounding you in the moment.

You tried to open your eyes, to see who was carrying you, but your eyelids felt like they were made of lead. All you could do was rest your head against the warmth, feeling a strange sense of safety despite the pain that racked your body.

The world shifted again, and you found yourself lying on something soft—a bed, maybe? There were more voices now, urgent but less panicked than before. Hands touched you, checking your injuries, and you flinched at the pain. You heard someone speaking close by, their voice low and soothing, but the words were lost to you.

***

You slipped in and out of consciousness, each time catching fleeting glimpses of your surroundings. The room was dimly lit, shadows dancing on the walls. Sometimes, you saw the man from before, sitting close by, his eyes never leaving you. Other times, you saw different faces—concerned, caring, but always strangers.

Pain flared up again, pulling you under, and you felt yourself drifting away once more. The last thing you remembered before the darkness claimed you was the feeling of a rough hand gently brushing your hair back, the touch surprisingly tender.

***

As the days passed, those glimpses began to clear. The man was always there, watching over you, his presence a constant in your fractured reality. You didn’t know who he was, but in your moments of lucidity, you felt a strange connection to him, as if he were a lifeline pulling you back from the brink.

Eventually, the pain started to recede, replaced by a heavy exhaustion that clung to your bones. You were still weak, but the moments of consciousness grew longer, and the world around you began to make more sense. You could hear conversations now, snippets of words that pieced together a picture of where you were and what had happened.

"... found her just in time," someone said.

"She’s a fighter," another voice replied, filled with a warmth that made your chest tighten.

You opened your eyes fully for the first time in what felt like an eternity, and the man’s face came into focus. He was sitting beside your bed, his expression a mixture of relief and weariness.

"Hey there," he said softly, his voice gentle. "You’re safe now. You’re in Jackson."

You tried to speak, but your voice came out as a hoarse whisper. "Who...?"

"My name’s Joel," he replied. "I found you out there. Brought you back here to get some help. You’re gonna be okay."

You nodded weakly, your eyes drifting shut again. You were still exhausted, your body demanding more rest. But for the first time since the attack, you felt a flicker of hope. You were safe, and someone was looking out for you.

And as you slipped back into sleep, you held onto that thought, letting it anchor you against the darkness.

***

The faces of Tommy, Maria, and Ellie became familiar presences around you. Each time you woke, they were there, offering quiet reassurances and gentle smiles that helped ease the lingering fear in your chest. They treated you with a kindness that felt foreign yet comforting, their presence a stark contrast to the violence and chaos you vaguely remembered.

Tommy, with his calm demeanor and steady voice, sat by your bedside, occasionally sharing stories about life in Jackson and cracking jokes that brought fleeting smiles to your lips. Maria, whose warmth and strength seemed to radiate from her, checked on you with a motherly concern, ensuring you had everything you needed. And Ellie, vibrant and spirited, chattered away about books, movies, and the world beyond Jackson, her enthusiasm infectious.

Their support made you feel less like an outsider and more like a welcomed part of their community. They didn’t pry into your past or demand answers to questions you weren’t ready to answer. Instead, they simply offered their friendship and a sense of belonging that you hadn’t realized you were searching for.

One afternoon, as you were well enough to sit up in bed, Joel walked in carrying a stack of books he found in the makeshift library of Jackson. He placed the books on the bedside table and offered you a small, reassuring smile.

"Thought you might like these," he said, his voice gentle yet tinged with a hint of concern. "Heard you were into movies and books."

You nodded gratefully. "Thank you, Joel. It means a lot."

He nodded in return, his gaze lingering on you for a moment longer than necessary. "Just wanted to make sure you were comfortable while you were healin’."

You appreciated his care, sensing there was more behind his actions than mere kindness. But before you could dwell on it further, Joel began to explain what happened, piecing together the fragments of your memory with the events he witnessed.

"You were out there, near the outskirts," Joel began, his voice steady. "A group of raiders attacked you. They... they were about to... but I showed up just in time."

You swallowed hard, the pieces starting to fit together in your mind. The shouts, the gunfire, the overwhelming sense of fear—all of it began to make sense now, though the details were still murky.

"You saved my life," you managed to say, your voice barely above a whisper. The weight of his actions settled heavily on your shoulders, mixing gratitude with a profound sense of vulnerability.

Joel shook his head, a hint of discomfort crossing his features. "Just did what anyone would have done."

But you knew better. Not everyone would have risked their own safety to intervene, especially in a world where survival often meant turning a blind eye. Joel chose differently, and his decision brought you here, to safety and healing.

As Joel stood there, his presence a reassuring anchor in the storm of your thoughts, you felt a surge of gratitude and something else—a growing connection that went beyond words. It was as if fate had brought you together, intertwining your lives in ways neither of you fully understood.

***

Slowly regaining strength each day, Joel’s visits became a steady rhythm in your recovery. It started with small gestures—him checking in on you, bringing fresh bandages or a cup of tea. But it was the mornings that stood out the most.

Every morning without fail, Joel arrived with a small bouquet of wildflowers he had gathered from the outskirts of Jackson. He placed them in a makeshift vase by the window, the delicate blooms adding a splash of color to the sterile hospital room. The gesture was simple yet meaningful, a reminder of life and beauty amidst the harshness of your world.

You watched him silently as he arranged the flowers with care, his hands gentle yet purposeful. There was a quiet intensity about him in those moments, a vulnerability he rarely showed to others. And as he turned to you with a soft smile, you felt a flutter of something deeper than gratitude—an unspoken connection that grew stronger with each passing day.

You began to talk more during his visits, sharing stories and snippets of your pasts. Joel spoke sparingly about Sarah, his daughter, and the pain of losing her. You listened attentively, offering words of comfort when the memories threatened to overwhelm him. In turn, you shared glimpses of your own life before the outbreak—memories of family, friends, and a world that now seemed like a distant dream.

Your conversations flowed easily, punctuated by moments of shared laughter and quiet understanding. There was a comfort in Joel’s presence, a familiarity that eased the ache of loneliness you had carried for so long. And in those stolen moments between nurse visits and medical checks, you began to see Joel not just as a protector, but as someone who had quietly slipped into the spaces of your heart.

One evening, as the sun dipped below the horizon and cast a golden glow across the room, Joel lingered by your bedside longer than usual. The air between you seemed charged with unspoken words, a tension that crackled beneath the surface.

"You know," Joel began, his voice low and rough with emotion, "I’ve never been one for… for flowers."

You looked up at him, meeting his gaze with a gentle smile. "I’ve noticed," you replied softly, your heart beating a little faster in your chest.

"Guess I’m makin’ an exception for you."

The admission hung in the air between you, heavy with meaning. You reached out tentatively, placing your hand over his where it rested on the edge of the bed. His fingers curled around yours, warm and solid, sending a jolt of electricity through you.

"I’m glad you did," you murmured, your voice barely above a whisper.

Joel’s expression softened, his thumb brushing gently over the back of your hand. "Me too."

In that moment, the distance between you dissolved, replaced by an undeniable pull that drew you closer together. It was as if you had been circling each other, hesitating on the edge of something profound. And now, with your hands intertwined and your hearts laid bare, there was no turning back.

***

One evening, as you sat together in the fading light, Joel’s hand found yours once more. His touch was electric, sending a shiver down your spine. You turned to him, your heart pounding in your chest, and found him already looking at you with an intensity that stole your breath away.

"Joel," you whispered, the word a prayer on your lips.

He didn’t speak, but his eyes held yours captive, searching for any hesitation or doubt. And when he leaned in, closing the distance between you, you thought the world would finally fall away, leaving only the warmth of his lips.

But what you expected never happened. Instead, he stilled, his eyes dropping to your lips and then back to meet your eyes over and over. He pulled away, swallowed thickly, and got up from his seat. He left without saying another word.

But, through it all, Joel continued to bring you flowers every morning—a silent reminder of the love and hope that had blossomed between you amidst the ruins of your world.

***

Several months passed in Jackson, and with each day of recovery, you found yourself drawn more deeply into the rhythm of life within the fortified walls. The once unfamiliar faces of Tommy, Maria, Ellie, and Joel became your steadfast companions, their presence weaving a tapestry of belonging that you hadn't felt since before the outbreak.

As you regained your strength, you sought out ways to contribute to the community that had welcomed you with open arms. It was during one of Joel's visits that he suggested you spend time at the local library, knowing your love for books and movies from your earlier conversations. The idea resonated deeply with you, igniting a spark of excitement and purpose.

The library itself was a refuge—a haven of knowledge and imagination nestled within the sturdy walls of Jackson. Its shelves were lined with dusty books of every genre imaginable, their spines worn and weathered from years of use. The air was infused with the comforting scent of paper and ink, a familiar aroma that brought back memories of lazy afternoons spent lost in fictional worlds.

Occasionally, patrons would wander in, seeking recommendations or browsing the latest arrivals. You greeted them warmly, offering assistance with finding books or answering questions about library programs. Some were regular visitors, their faces becoming familiar over time, while others were newcomers, drawn in by the promise of a quiet corner and a good book.

During breaks, you would steal moments for yourself—a cup of tea, a brief pause to admire the view from the library windows. The town of Jackson spread out before you, a patchwork of rooftops and winding streets, framed by the majestic peaks of the surrounding mountains.

Joel's visits were a highlight of your day, his footsteps echoing softly on the library floor as he approached. Sometimes, he would linger near the front desk, watching you with a quiet intensity that sent a flutter of warmth through you. Other times, he would join you in the stacks, his presence a steady comfort as you exchanged snippets of conversation between the rows of books.

As you meticulously arranged a display of newly arrived mystery novels near the entrance of the library, the familiar sound of footsteps approached from behind you. You turned to see Joel entering with Ellie at his side, their presence instantly brightening the quiet atmosphere of the library.

"Hey," Joel greeted with a warm smile, his eyes crinkling at the corners in a way that made your heart skip a beat. "How's the day treatin’ you?"

You returned his smile, feeling a rush of warmth at his presence. "It's going well. Just getting things in order here."

Ellie darted off towards the fiction section, her eyes scanning the shelves with eager anticipation. "I'm looking for that new sci-fi book Tommy mentioned," she called back over her shoulder, her voice echoing softly through the library.

Joel chuckled fondly, his gaze lingering on Ellie for a moment before returning to you. "She's been itchin’ to read that one for weeks now."

"She's got great taste."

Joel moved closer, his hands tucked casually into his pockets. "You know, Ellie's been talking about you," he admitted, his voice low and intimate. "Says you've been a lifesaver with those book recommendations."

"Well, I'm glad I could help."

"You do more than just help, you know." 

Before you could say anything his gaze, usually steady and composed, softened as he noticed the small cut on your wrist. Without a word, he gently took your hand in his, his touch warm and reassuring against your skin.

You held your breath, feeling a rush of warmth spread through you at his proximity. His fingers traced the delicate line of the cut, his touch gentle yet firm as he inspected it. "What happened?" he asked quietly, concern etched in the lines of his face.

You swallowed, trying to steady your voice. "I... I got a splinter earlier," you managed to explain, your words coming out in a breathless rush. "It's nothing, really. I took it out, but..."

Ignoring you, he continued to examine your palm, his brow furrowed in concentration. His thumb brushed lightly over the area where you had removed the splinter, and then he paused, his expression changing subtly.

"There's still a small piece in there." 

"I thought I got it all out," you admitted, a hint of frustration coloring your tone.

Joel met your eyes, his gaze steady and reassuring. "It happens," he murmured, his focus shifting back to your hand. "Let me take care of it."

With practiced ease, Joel reached into his pocket and withdrew a small pair of tweezers. He positioned himself beside you, his touch careful and precise as he gently extracted the remaining splinter from your palm. You held your breath, watching as Joel worked with steady hands and unwavering focus. The sensation was more comforting than painful.

"There," Joel said softly, finally withdrawing the tweezers and inspecting his handiwork. "All done."

You exhaled a sigh of relief, "Thank you," you murmured.

Joel nodded, his gaze lingering on yours for a moment longer than necessary. "Anytime," he replied quietly, his voice rough with unspoken emotions.

Then, without a word, he leaned in and pressed his warm lips against the throbbing patch of skin. Your breath caught in your throat, your heart beating a mile per minute. It didn’t last. It felt like a drizzle of rain, leaving your skin as soon as it touched it. He let go of your hand and took a quick step back, he looked remorseful like he regretted his action almost immediately. 

His look made you feel guilty. Your heart aching even though you knew you’d done nothing wrong. 

***

In the weeks and months that followed, you and Joel found yourselves drawn closer together, your bond deepening with each shared moment and whispered conversation. The library remained a sanctuary where your friendship blossomed amidst the pages of beloved stories and the quiet hum of everyday life in Jackson.

With Joel heading out on patrol, the library felt unusually quiet that day. Ellie had arrived earlier, her energy and curiosity filling the space as she browsed through the shelves with a voracious appetite for new stories.

You greeted her with a warm smile as she approached the front desk, her arms already filled with a diverse stack of books ranging from graphic novels to classic literature. 

"Hey, Ellie," you greeted cheerfully, taking note of her eclectic choices. "Finding everything okay?"

"Definitely! You've got so many cool books here," she exclaimed, carefully setting down her stack on the counter. "Mind if I borrow these?"

"Of course not," you replied with a chuckle, scanning the books one by one and checking them out for her. "I'm glad you're enjoying the selection. Anything specific you're in the mood for?"

As Ellie launched into animated descriptions of her favorite genres and characters, you found yourself drawn into her infectious enthusiasm. You bonded over shared interests—sci-fi novels that explored distant galaxies, fantasy epics filled with magic and adventure, and even a few graphic novels that blurred the lines between reality and imagination.

In between discussions about your favorite books, Ellie shared stories of her experiences growing up in the post-outbreak world. You reciprocated by opening up about your own journey—memories of a life before the outbreak, your love for books and movies, and the challenges of finding a new sense of normalcy in Jackson.

The hours slipped by unnoticed as you lost yourselves in conversation and exploration, your laughter echoing through the library aisles. It was easy to forget the outside world for a while, immersed in the camaraderie and shared passion for storytelling that bound you together.

As the afternoon sun began to cast long shadows through the library windows, Ellie glanced at the clock with a playful grin. "I should probably head back before Joel starts worrying," she teased, gathering up her books and preparing to leave.

You nodded in understanding, grateful for the unexpected bond that had formed between you in Joel's absence. "Thanks for keeping me company, Ellie," you said sincerely, touched by her presence and the genuine connection you had forged.

Ellie flashed you a bright smile, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "Anytime, Ash," she replied, using Joel's nickname for you with a knowing glint in her eye. "You're pretty cool, you know?"

Before you could respond, she was already halfway out the door, her laughter trailing behind her. You watched her go with a fond smile, feeling a warmth in your heart that lingered long after she had gone.

In that quiet moment, surrounded by the comforting embrace of books and stories, you reflected on the unexpected friendships that had blossomed in the wake of devastation. Joel's departure had brought you and Ellie closer together, reminding you once again of the resilience and strength that could be found in the bonds you forged and the stories you shared.

***

You lay on your bed, the soft sheets cradling your body as you closed your eyes. Your mind wandered to him, your crush, Joel. The mere thought of his name sent a shiver down your spine and a warm sensation between your legs.

You couldn't help but imagine his hands on you, his gentle touch igniting a fire within you. You pictured him hovering over you, his lips inches away from yours, his breath hot against your skin. Your fingers instinctively began to trail down your body, following the curves and dips, imagining it was his hands exploring every inch of you.

The thought of his strong, calloused hands caressing your skin made you shiver. You remembered the way his eyes lit up when he smiled, the depth in them that always seemed to draw you in. You could almost feel the weight of his gaze, intense and burning, as he looked at you with a desire that mirrored your own.

As your hand found its way between your thighs, you could almost feel his touch. Your body responded eagerly, your hips arching off the bed. You let out a soft gasp, imagining it was Joel's name tumbling from your lips. The fantasy deepened, and you could see his face more clearly now, his features etched in your mind with perfect clarity.

Your mind played out various scenarios, each one more intense and intimate than the last. You imagined him leaning in to kiss you, his lips soft and insistent against yours. The kiss deepened, his tongue exploring your mouth with a slow, tantalizing rhythm that left you breathless. His hands were everywhere, tracing patterns on your skin, leaving trails of fire in their wake.

You pictured his lips on your neck, his soft whispers in your ear, his strong arms holding you close. His voice was low and husky, filled with a need that matched your own. He told you how much he wanted you, how he couldn't stop thinking about you, and every word sent a jolt of pleasure through your body.

The pleasure built and built, and you could feel yourself getting closer and closer to the edge. You imagined him whispering your name, his breath hot against your ear, his hands guiding you, teasing you, bringing you to the brink of ecstasy.

As you reached your peak, you allowed yourself to fully indulge in the fantasy of Joel. Every touch, every kiss, every whisper, it was all in your head but it felt so real. You could almost hear his voice, feel the warmth of his body against yours, the weight of him pressing down on you, grounding you in the moment.

The waves of pleasure crashed over you, and you cried out, your body trembling with the force of your release. For a few blissful moments, everything else faded away, and it was just you and Joel, lost in the throes of passion.

And as you came down from the high, you couldn’t help but wish that it was more than just a fantasy. That one day, Joel would make all your desires and daydreams a reality. You imagined the two of you together, sharing moments of intimacy and connection, building a relationship that went beyond your wildest dreams.

But for now, you settled for this moment of sensual bliss, enjoying every second of it. You lay there, your body still humming with the aftershocks of pleasure, your mind filled with thoughts of Joel. You let yourself linger in the fantasy a little longer, savoring the feeling of being close to him, even if it was just in your imagination. And as you drifted off to sleep, you carried the hope that one day, your fantasies would become a reality.

Feeling sticky and aching, you slowly peeled yourself off the bed and headed for a quick shower. The cool water cascaded over your skin, washing away the remnants of your fantasy and providing a refreshing contrast to the heat that had consumed you moments ago. As the water soothed your body, your mind remained restless, thoughts of Joel still swirling in your head.

You felt a bittersweet twinge in your chest as you thought about him. The warmth and intensity of your fantasies clashed with the cold reality that nothing would ever happen between you and Joel. Despite how often he was around, how his presence always seemed to light up the room, he never took that next step. He never crossed the line from friendship into something more.

You replayed your interactions with him, searching for signs, any indication that he might feel the same way. There were moments that made your heart flutter—a lingering glance, a touch that felt too intimate to be merely friendly, words that seemed to carry a hidden meaning. But just as quickly, doubts crept in, and you reminded yourself that it was probably just your wishful thinking, seeing what you wanted to see.

The ache in your heart deepened as you accepted this reality. You knew that despite your longing, Joel remained just out of reach, a constant presence in your life but never quite yours. The shower water mingled with your tears as you silently mourned the unfulfilled dreams and desires that seemed destined to remain in your imagination.

As you stepped out of the shower, you wrapped yourself in a towel, feeling the softness against your skin. You took a deep breath, trying to shake off the melancholy that had settled over you. You reminded yourself that life went on, and you couldn’t stay lost in your fantasies forever.

Instead of getting dressed, you find yourself drawn back to your bed. The sheets were cool now, a stark contrast to the heat of your earlier thoughts. You climbed back in, pulling the covers around you, seeking comfort in their familiar embrace.

Your mind drifted back to Joel, to his warm brown eyes that always seemed to hold a thousand unspoken words. You pictured his smile, the way it lit up his entire face, and the sound of his laugh, so genuine and infectious. You couldn't help but wonder what it would be like to have him here with you, to feel his arms around you, to share these quiet moments together.

You lay there, your heart heavy with longing, and allowed yourself to imagine just a little longer. Even though you knew it was just a fantasy, it brought a small measure of comfort. His presence in your thoughts was a bittersweet solace, a reminder of what you yearned for but also what you could not have.

Eventually, your eyes grew heavy, and you let the thoughts of Joel lull you into a dream-filled sleep. You knew that reality awaited you when you woke, but for now, you let yourself drift, holding onto the image of his warm brown eyes and the hope that one day, you would find the love you deserved.

***

Joel sat on his horse, patrolling the outskirts of Jackson with a heavy heart. The familiar landscape, with its rugged terrain and dense forests, usually offered a sense of solace and routine. Today, however, his thoughts were far from the patrol at hand. They kept drifting back to the library, to the warmth of her smile and the depth of her eyes.

He'd felt an inexplicable pull towards her since the moment he found her. Her tenacity and spirit had captivated him. She fought like hell to survive, just like he had so many times before. It was more than just attraction—it was a connection he didn't fully understand and certainly didn't know how to handle.

"Get your head in the game, Joel," he muttered to himself, trying to shake off the distraction. But the more he tried to focus on the patrol, the more his mind wandered back to her. He remembered how her breath had caught when he held her hand to inspect her cut. There was something about her that drew him in, despite every instinct telling him to keep his distance.

Back in Jackson, she was sucesfully becoming a part of the community. Tommy and Maria had taken to her quickly. Tommy often spoke highly of her, appreciating her wit and the way she didn't suffer fools. Maria admired her resilience and found in her a kindred spirit. Ellie was perhaps the closest to her, their shared love for books and movies creating a bond that seemed to grow stronger by the day.

Joel watched from the sidelines, a mix of pride and something else he couldn't quite name filling his chest. Seeing her interact with Tommy and Maria, laughing at Ellie's jokes, and bringing a new light to the community was both heartwarming and painful. He wanted to be closer to her, to let down his guard and allow himself to feel. But the fear of loss, the weight of his past, kept him from stepping into the light she offered.

One evening, Joel found himself standing outside the library, watching through the window as she and Ellie animatedly discussed a book. Her laughter rang out, clear and joyous, and it struck him deeply. He turned away, the internal struggle gnawing at him. He wanted to protect her, to be there for her, but he didn't think he deserved that kind of happiness.

Every interaction was charged with a mix of emotions—hope, fear, desire, and self-doubt. When he brought her fresh flowers each morning, her eyes would light up with a gratitude that made his heartache. Yet, he always found an excuse to leave quickly, afraid that lingering too long would reveal too much.

They found themselves alone in the library more often than not. She would be shelving books, and he would walk in, their eyes meeting across the room. Words felt inadequate, and yet the silence between them spoke volumes. She began to notice his frequent visits, the way he seemed to hover just on the edge of their interactions, always present but never fully engaging.

One afternoon, Joel found her struggling with a particularly heavy stack of books. Without thinking, he moved to help, their hands brushing as they both reached for the top book. The contact sent a jolt through him, and he saw the same spark in her eyes. She bit her lip, a small, nervous habit he'd come to recognize, and his resolve wavered.

"You don't have to do this alone," he said softly, his voice rough with emotion. She looked up at him, her eyes searching his face for answers he wasn't ready to give.

"Neither do you," she replied, her voice equally soft but filled with a strength that shook him.

They stood there, the library fading into the background as the weight of their unspoken words hung between them. Joel's heart pounded in his chest, the magnetic pull towards her stronger than ever. He wanted to reach out, to close the distance and let her in, but the fear of losing her, of not being enough, held him back.

Finally, he stepped away, the moment broken by his retreat. She watched him go, a mix of sadness and understanding in her eyes. Joel walked out of the library, the internal battle raging on. He didn't know how long he could keep this up, but for now, he would protect her the only way he knew how—by keeping his distance, even if it tore him apart inside.

***

The library was your sanctuary, a place where you could lose yourself in the comforting embrace of books and the soothing rhythm of routine. You were deep in thought, rearranging a shelf of classic novels when you heard the door creak open. Turning, you saw Ellie standing there, her usual bright energy replaced by a troubled expression.

"Hey, Ellie," you greeted her warmly, trying to read her mood. "What's up?"

Ellie hesitated at the entrance, her fingers fidgeting with the hem of her shirt. She looked around the empty library as if making sure you were alone. "Hey, Ash," she said softly, her voice lacking its usual spark. "Can we talk?"

"Of course," you replied, setting the book you were holding aside and walking over to her. "What's on your mind?"

Ellie bit her lip, her eyes downcast. "It's... kind of personal," she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper.

You nodded, your heart going out to her. "Let's sit down," you suggested, guiding her to a cozy corner of the library where a couple of armchairs were nestled by a large window. The late afternoon sun cast a warm glow over the room, creating a safe, intimate space for your conversation.

You settled into the chairs, and you waited patiently, giving Ellie the time she needed to gather her thoughts. She looked at her hands, her fingers nervously tracing patterns on the armrest.

"I've been feeling really confused lately," Ellie began. "There's this girl... Dina. She's amazing. Funny, smart, and just... so cool. I think I have a crush on her."

"Dina sounds wonderful," you said encouragingly. "It's okay to have feelings for someone."

Ellie looked up at you, her eyes filled with uncertainty. "But... it's more than that. I think... I know I'm not into guys. I like girls. And it scares me. I don't know how people will react, especially Joel."

Her vulnerability tugged at your heartstrings. You reached out and placed a reassuring hand on hers. "Ellie, thank you for sharing this with me," you said softly. "It's a big step, and I want you to know that it's perfectly okay to feel the way you do."

Ellie swallowed hard, her eyes searching yours for any hint of judgment. "You really think so?" she asked, her voice fragile.

"I know so," you replied firmly. "And you're not alone in this. I'm bisexual."

Ellie's eyes widened in surprise. "Really?"

You nodded, offering her a comforting smile. "Yes. I've been where you are, feeling scared and unsure. But the important thing to remember is that your feelings are valid. Who you love doesn't define your worth; it's just a part of who you are."

Ellie took a deep breath, her eyes fixed on the floor as if the words she was about to say were too heavy to lift. "I'm really scared to tell Joel," she confessed, her voice trembling. "What if he doesn't accept me? What if he thinks less of me?"

You leaned forward, giving her hand a gentle squeeze. "Ellie, I know Joel can be a bit... gruff and guarded, but he cares about you more than anything. You mean the world to him. He's been through a lot, and he's seen more than most. If there's one thing I know about Joel, it's that he values the people he loves for who they are."

Ellie's eyes flicked up to meet yours, a glimmer of hope in their depths. "You really think so?"

"I know so," you said with conviction. "I've seen the way he looks at you, the way he worries about you. He might have his rough edges, but his heart is in the right place. And if you need someone to be there with you when you tell him, I'll be right by your side."

Ellie bit her lip, her expression softening as she considered your words. "It's just... he's been like a father to me. I don't want to disappoint him."

"You won't," you assured her. "Joel loves you unconditionally. He might be surprised at first, but that won't change how much he cares about you. He'll want you to be happy, and being true to yourself is a big part of that."

Ellie nodded slowly, the fear in her eyes giving way to a cautious optimism. "I hope you're right. I just don't want to lose him."

"You won't lose him," you repeated gently. "Joel's been through too much to let something like this come between you. He'll need time to process, but he'll come around. And remember, you have a whole community here who supports you, including me."

"Thanks, Ash. It means a lot to hear that."

"Anytime, Ellie," you said, giving her a reassuring smile. "You're not alone in this. We'll face it together."

Ellie took a deep breath, nodding as if steeling herself for the conversation ahead. "Okay. I'll tell him. But... can you really be there with me when I do?"

"Of course," you replied without hesitation. "I'll be right there with you, every step of the way."

You sat in silence for a few moments, the weight of the conversation settling between you. The sun had dipped lower in the sky, casting a warm, golden glow over the library. It felt like a moment of quiet reflection, a brief respite before the next step in Ellie's journey.

Finally, Ellie broke the silence, her voice stronger and more determined. "I've got to tell Dina too. I think she might feel the same way, but I've been too scared to say anything."

You smiled, proud of her courage. "That's a good idea. Being honest with her will help you both figure out where you stand."

Ellie nodded, a small smile playing at the corners of her lips. "Yeah, I think so too. Thanks, Ash. For everything."

"You're welcome," you said warmly. "Remember, I'm always here if you need to talk or just need a friend."

Ellie stood up, her shoulders a little straighter than before. "I'll see you later, Ash. And... thanks again."

As she walked out of the library, you watched her go with a sense of pride and hope. Ellie was on the brink of a significant moment in her life, and you were honored to be a part of it. The bond you had forged in that quiet corner of the library was a testament to the power of empathy, understanding, and unconditional support.

And as you returned to your work, you felt a renewed sense of purpose. Helping Ellie find her way was just the beginning. In a world filled with uncertainty and hardship, moments like these remind you of the strength and resilience that lay within each of us. You were not alone, and together, you could face whatever challenges came your way.

***

You were on patrol, the late afternoon sun casting long shadows through the dense forest as you walked. The air was crisp, the smell of pine and earth strong around you. Normally, you would have found the setting peaceful, but today there was an uncomfortable silence hanging between Joel and you. No matter how hard you tried to make conversation, he remained stoically quiet, his eyes scanning the surroundings with a focused intensity.

"So, Joel," you started for what felt like the tenth time, trying to break through the barrier of silence. "How's Ellie doing with all those books she borrowed? She mentioned she really liked the one about the ancient Greek heroes."

Joel grunted in response, his gaze never leaving the path ahead. "She liked it," he said shortly.

You bit your lip, feeling the awkwardness grow. It wasn't like Joel to be this distant, especially after everything you had been through. You wondered if something had happened, if he was angry or upset with you. You tried again, your voice a bit more tentative this time. "I hope she's doing okay. She's really taken a liking to the library."

"She's fine," Joel replied, his tone clipped.

A heavy silence fell over you once more. You could hear the crunch of leaves beneath your boots, the distant chirping of birds, and the occasional rustle of a small animal scurrying through the underbrush. It was a stark contrast to the usual camaraderie you shared, and it was unsettling.

Finally, you couldn't take it anymore. You stopped walking, forcing Joel to stop as well. "Joel, what's going on?" you asked, your voice firmer than you felt. "You've been quiet all day, and it's making me feel like I did something wrong."

Joel turned to look at you, his expression unreadable. For a moment, he said nothing, just stared at you with those intense, deep-set eyes. Then he sighed, rubbing the back of his neck in a gesture of frustration. "It's not you," he finally said, his voice softer. "It's me. I've got a lot on my mind."

"Do you want to talk about it?" you asked, taking a step closer to him.

He shook his head, his gaze dropping to the ground. "It's complicated," he muttered. "I just... I don't want to mess things up."

You frowned, not understanding. "Mess what up? Joel, you've been a good friend to me. If there's something bothering you, you can tell me. Maybe I can help."

He looked up at you then, his eyes filled with turmoil that took your breath away. "That's just it," he said, his voice rough with emotion. "I don't know how to handle what I'm feelin’. I've been trying to keep my distance because I don't want to hurt you. But seein’ you, bein’ near you... it's drivin’ me crazy."

Your heart pounded in your chest as his words sank in. "Joel," you whispered, taking another step closer until you were almost touching. "You don't have to protect me from yourself. Whatever it is, we can face it together."

He shook his head again, more forcefully this time. "You don't understand, Ash. I've done things, terrible things. I don't deserve... this. You. I don't deserve you."

You reached out, placing a hand on his arm. "Joel, we all have our pasts. We all have things we're not proud of. But that doesn't mean we don't deserve happiness, or love. You've been there for me when I needed it most. Let me be there for you."

He looked down at your hand, then back up at you, his eyes filled with a mix of pain and longing. "I want to believe that," he said quietly. "I really do."

"Then believe it," you urged, your voice soft but insistent. "We can take it one step at a time. You don't have to face everything alone."

For a long moment, Joel didn't move. Then, slowly, he reached up and covered your hand with his, his grip strong and reassuring. You stood there, the forest around you silent and still, a world away from the chaos and danger that usually surrounded you. At that moment, it was just the two of you, facing your fears and uncertainties together. He didn’t say a word, then, slowly, he let you go and pressed forward. 

The atmosphere between Joel and you remained tense as you continued your patrol. The silence was thick, each step through the forest feeling heavier than the last. Your thoughts were a whirlwind, circling around the complexities of your unspoken emotions. You couldn't help but imagine how it would feel to be embraced by him, to feel his strong arms around you, offering comfort and security.

You were so lost in your thoughts that you didn’t see the tree root protruding from the ground. Your foot caught on it, and before you knew it, you were falling. You landed hard, a sharp pain shooting through your arm as you scraped it against a jagged rock.

"Damn it," you muttered, wincing as you cradled your arm. Blood seeped from a cut just below your elbow, the wound stinging in the cool air.

Joel was at your side in an instant, his expression shifting from distant to concerned. "You alright?" he asked, his voice gruff but laced with worry.

"I'm fine," you snapped, though your voice was tight with pain. "Just a cut."

Joel ignored your words, gently taking your arm to inspect the wound. His touch was surprisingly tender, and despite the pain, you felt a shiver run down your spine. His brow furrowed as he examined the cut, his fingers carefully avoiding the worst of it.

"We need to clean this up," he said, his voice authoritative. "You got any water left?"

"Don't," you interrupted, pulling your arm away from him and trying to push him back. "Why do you even care? You've been distant all day."

Joel looked taken aback, his hand frozen in mid-air. "I'm just tryin’ to help." 

"Yeah, well, it’s a little too late for that," you muttered, your back against a tree as you tried to compose yourself. The pain in your arm was nothing compared to the frustration bubbling inside you.

Joel knelt in front of you, his brows tightly drawn together. "I know I’ve been an ass but. . .” 

You looked away, trying to ignore the sting of tears in your eyes. "Whatever. Just go away, Joel. It hurts more when you show softness only to take it away."

For a moment, he didn't move, his gaze searching your face for something. Then, with a sigh, he sat back on his heels, clearly conflicted. 

Joel’s hand shot out and caught your wrist as you tried to push him away again. His grip was like iron, firm yet not painful. You struggled against him, frustration mounting, but he didn’t let go. His eyes bored into yours.

"Joel, let go," you demanded, your voice shaky.

He didn't budge, his grip unwavering. "Not until you listen," he said, his tone firm.

You tried to pull away, but it was futile. "Listen to what? More silence?"

His eyes flashed with something you couldn't quite decipher. "Listen to this," he said quietly before leaning in.

You barely had time to register his words before his lips were on yours. The kiss was unexpected, a collision of emotions that took your breath away. You stiffened, caught off guard, but Joel’s hand moved to the back of your neck, holding you gently but securely as his fingers worked the muscles.

For a moment, you were frozen, your mind reeling from the sudden intimacy. Then, slowly, you began to respond, your resistance melting away. The kiss deepened, a raw and desperate exchange of everything you had been holding back. Your free hand found its way to his shoulder, gripping tightly as if anchoring yourself in the storm of emotions.

When you finally broke apart, both of you were breathing hard. Joel’s forehead rested against yours, his eyes closed as he whispered, "I'm sorry. I didn’t know how else to show you how much you mean to me."

You swallowed, your heart pounding. "Joel, you can’t just... kiss me to make everything better," you said, though your voice lacked conviction.

"I know," he replied softly, his grip on your wrist loosening but not releasing you entirely. "But I had to do somethin’. I can’t keep pushin’ you away. Not when I feel this way."

"Then stop pushing me away," you whispered, your voice trembling. "We can figure this out together."

Joel nodded, his thumb gently brushing over your wrist. "Together," he agreed, his voice resolute.

Joel's touch shifted from your wrist to the cut on your arm, his movements careful and precise. His fingers traced the edges of the wound, assessing the damage with a quiet intensity that belied his usual stoicism. You watched him closely, feeling the warmth of his hands against your skin, a stark contrast to the coolness of the forest around you.

Using the water from your bottle, Joel cleaned the cut gently, his touch light yet firm. The sting of the water made you flinch, but he continued his ministrations without hesitation. His focus was solely on you, his brow furrowed in concentration as he worked to ensure the wound was thoroughly cleansed.

Once satisfied that the wound was clean, Joel reached into his pack and retrieved a small first aid kit. With practiced movements, he carefully applied antiseptic ointment to the cut, his touch gentle despite the efficiency of his actions. You winced again at the sting of the ointment, but Joel's reassuring presence kept you grounded.

Next, he unfolded a sterile bandage from the kit and began to wrap it around your arm, securing it in place with medical tape. His hands moved with a steady rhythm, his focus unwavering as he ensured the bandage was snug but not constricting. Each touch sent a wave of comfort through you, a silent reassurance that he was there, taking care of you.

As he finished securing the bandage, Joel looked up at you, his eyes meeting yours with a mixture of relief and concern. "There," he said softly. "That should do for now."

"Thank you, Joel," you murmured.

He gave a slight nod in acknowledgment, his gaze lingering on yours for a moment longer before he slowly withdrew, giving you space. 

You sat there for a while longer, the forest around you settling into an evening hush. As you made your way back from your patrol, the tension that had gripped both of you seemed to ease with every step. The forest was bathed in the warm hues of the setting sun, casting long shadows on the familiar path to Jackson. Joel walked beside you, his presence a silent comfort.

You stole glances at him from the corner of your eye, unsure of what to say after everything. His hand, rough and calloused from years of survival, brushed against yours as you walked, a fleeting touch that sent a shiver down your spine. To your surprise, Joel’s fingers interlaced with yours, his grip firm yet gentle, as if afraid you might slip away.

Finally reaching the outskirts of Jackson, you hesitated, unsure of how to proceed. Joel slowed his pace slightly, as if sensing your uncertainty. As you approached your house, you turned to him, your heart pounding in your chest.

"Joel," you began, your voice barely above a whisper, "would you like to come in?"

His gaze met yours, searching for something in the depths of your eyes. After a moment's hesitation, he nodded, a faint smile tugging at the corners of his lips. "I'd like that." 

You led him inside, the familiar warmth of home enveloping both of you as you stepped through the door. Joel followed you into the living room, his presence filling the space.

As you settled on the couch, Joel’s hand found yours once more, his touch grounding and reassuring. The weight of everything you had shared that day hung in the air, a fragile bridge between friendship and something more. His thumb brushed against the bandage, the wound still stinging underneath. He leaned closer, lips brushing your temple, you leaned in and as you did, you slowly turned your face, meeting his lips with your own. 

He tasted sweet like a gentle summer breeze, that subtle wind that feels like a caress from the sun. You were bolder than him, parting your lips with a greed you thought you didn’t have anymore. He parted his lips with a groan, the deep sound made you tremble. Suddenly you were on top of him, your legs parted over his lap as you placed soft, rushed kisses all across his face. You felt him smile and it made your lips curl up, your heart skipping a beat. 

His hips jerked up as he parted away, his breath warm when he spoke, “Your arm, darlin’. . .” 

You felt yourself leaning in, wanting more—needing more. Joel’s lips softly brushed against yours, causing electricity to surge through your body. His hand trails up your arm, gently caressing the bandage where he had tended to your wound earlier.

"My arm feels...better now," you managed to say, trying to keep your voice steady as Joel’s hand lingers on your skin.

He leans in closer, his lips now only a fraction of an inch away from yours. "Good," he muttered, his voice low and husky. "I'm glad."

Slowly, almost hesitantly, your lips brushed against his. The sensation was electric, igniting a fire within you. You felt the warmth of Joel’s breath against your face as he deepened the kiss, his hand now cupping your cheek tenderly.

Lost in the moment, you wrapped your arms around his neck, pulling him closer. It felt like time had stopped and you never wanted this moment to end. As your lips parted, your foreheads rested against each other, both of you breathing heavily.

"I've wanted to do that for a long time," Joel said.

"Me too," you replied, your voice barely above a whisper.

Joel leaned in for another kiss, but this time it was slow. His tongue explored your mouth, tasting you, moaning whenever you tease him with a flick of your own.  

You felt a rush of excitement as Joel’s hands explored your body, his touch igniting a burning desire within you. You let out a small gasp as he removed your shirt, revealing your now bare chest.

Joel’s eyes roamed over your body, his gaze dark as the bark of the oldest tree in Jackson.  

His lips trailed down your neck, sending shivers down your spine. You ran your fingers through his hair, pulling him closer to you. 

“Impatient one, aren’t you?” he rasped. “Gonna have to teach you some patience while we’re at it.” 

Without breaking the kiss, Joel’s hands moved to your bra, unclasping it with practiced ease. You felt a rush of excitement and nervousness as he removed it, leaving your chest exposed to him.

He pulls away slightly, now gazing at you in awe. "God, you're beautiful," 

His lips moved down to your breasts, his touch gentle and tender. You gasp as he takes one of your nipples into his mouth, his other hand cupping your other breast. He twisted one nipple while pampering the other with his tongue, a soft whimper escaped your throat. You eagerly grind your hips down, feeling the hard outline of his cock. Sweat beaded at the curve of your spine, your body was blissfully being burned from the inside out. 

You buried your hand in Joel’s hair, the sensations he’s causing you almost overwhelming. As he continued to kiss and caress you, your body responded eagerly, your arousal building with each passing moment.

You moaned softly as Joel moved his hands lower, his fingers expertly teasing and exploring your most sensitive parts. You couldn’t believe how good he made you feel.

“You like that huh?” he muttered. “Can’t wait for me to devour that sweet pussy of yours?” 

You feel yourself getting lost in the moment, forgetting about everything else except for the two of you.

“Yes,” you breathed, your chest caving in on itself. “Please, Joel, you have no idea how long I’ve been thinking about this.” 

“And how long would that be, sweetheart?” 

“A damned long time,” you smiled. “Way too long.” 

You grabbed Joel’s hand and promptly stood up, leading him to the bedroom. You felt his hand grip yours tighter, letting you know that he was just as eager as you are.

When you entered the room, you turned to face Joel, your eyes locking with his. Without a word, you slowly started to undress him, your hands running over his defined chest and down his softened torso.

Once he’s completely naked, you step back and admire his body, feeling a surge of want course through you. 

“You brought me here just to ogle me?” he grinned. “That’s not very polite you know.” 

You took a step closer, your hand resting on his chest as you pressed against him, feeling the warmth of his body against yours. Your lips met in a passionate kiss, your bodies pressing closer together in unison. You felt the length of his cock, your hand wrapping around it without second thought. His chest rattled with a groan, cock twitching in your palm. You slowly brought him to the bed, allowing yourself to fall, you pulled him down with you. 

You felt his lips trailing down your neck, his tongue leaving a trail of wetness as he moved lower. Your breathing became heavier, your anticipation building with every passing second.

Joel’s mouth found its way to your most sensitive area, his tongue expertly teasing and flicking against your clit. You let out a gasp, your hands gripping the sheets as waves of pleasure coursed through you.

“Mine,” he groaned, pressing his mouth harder against you. “This pussy is all mine, say it or I’ll stop.” 

“Yours,” you replied almost immediately. “Every inch of me is yours, I belong to you, every bit of me.” 

He hummed his approval as he sucked your clit between his lips, teeth gently nibbling the sensitive flesh. Your upper body jolted, hands finding the back of his head. 

But you’re not content with just lying back and enjoying his touch. You wanted to reciprocate the pleasure, to make him feel just as good as he’s making you feel.

You pushed Joel onto his back and straddled him, your hands roaming over his chest as you kissed him. Your hips grind against his, the friction sending sparks of pleasure through you.

With an innate sense of what he likes, you took him in your hand, stroking him slowly but firmly. You felt him grow harder as precome slid down his throbbing cock, you moved lower, taking him into your mouth.

You used your tongue and lips to pleasure him, feeling him writhe beneath you. You couldn’t help but feel a sense of pride. He tasted bittersweet, cock pulsing against your tongue. Your cunt throbbed as you took him deeper down your throat, he groaned, hips thrusting forward. When you choked, he pulled you off and touched the corner of your lips with the pad of his thumb. 

“Later,” he muttered, his eyes dropped down to witness your pouty lips, only to smile when he met your gaze again. “Don’t worry, we’ll have plenty of time to use that smart mouth.” 

With that he flipped you over onto your back, his eyes full of need as he positioned himself between your legs. You spread them eagerly, welcoming him into you.

With one swift movement, he slipped inside of you, both of you letting out a moan. He started to move, his hips thrusting against yours in a rhythm that became more and more intense. You wrapped your legs around his waist, pulling him closer to you as your bodies moved together in perfect harmony. You felt yourself getting lost, your mind consumed by the pleasure each thrust brings.

Joel’s hands gripped your hips tightly, forcing your hips against him, you feel slick dripping down and staining the sheets.  Your entire body writhed against him, your eyes rolling all the way to the back of your skull as his cock stretched you over and over again. 

With one final push, you both reached your climax, your bodies trembling as waves of pleasure washed over you. You collapsed onto the bed, gasping and panting as you tried to catch your breath.

As you laid there, wrapped in each other’s arms, you couldn’t help but feel grateful for this moment. You’ve never felt so connected to someone before, and you know that you want to experience this feeling again and again with Joel by your side.

***

The next morning, sunlight filtered through the window, casting a gentle warmth across the room where you and Joel lay nestled close together. The quiet morning wrapped around both of you like a comforting blanket. As you stirred awake, you felt Joel's arm around you, his presence steady and reassuring.

"Mornin’," he murmured, his voice rough with sleep but filled with tenderness.

You shifted slightly, turning to face him with a soft smile. "Morning," you replied softly, feeling a rush of warmth at the closeness between you.

Joel brushed a strand of hair from your face, his touch gentle. "How's your arm feelin’?" he asked, his concern evident.

"It's better," you assured him, leaning into his touch. "Thank you for taking care of me yesterday."

His gaze softened, a flicker of something deeper in his eyes. "Always," he said quietly, his hand resting against yours.

You and Joel lingered in the soft embrace of the morning light, your whispered conversation carrying a weight of unspoken understanding. As you shared your thoughts, a mutual agreement emerged between you—a decision to keep your burgeoning relationship private, shielded from the complexities that often accompanied deeper connections in your fragile world.

"I think it's best if we keep this between us," Joel murmured, his voice low and earnest. "We've both been through enough already."

You nodded. "Yeah, it's just... I don't want anything to jeopardize what we have," you admitted quietly, your fingers tracing patterns on the blanket draped over you both.

Joel's gaze softened, his hand finding yours and intertwining your fingers. "Neither do I," he confessed, his voice tinged with vulnerability. "But being with you... it feels right."

A swell of warmth filled your chest at his words, a silent reassurance that echoed your own sentiments. Despite the uncertainties that lay ahead, you couldn't deny the growing connection between you, a bond forged through shared experiences and unspoken emotions.

You lingered a while longer in the quiet sanctuary of the morning, each moment steeped in the gentle intimacy of newfound understanding. As the world outside stirred with its own rhythms, you and Joel found solace in the simple promise of each other's company, silently vowing to protect what you had found amidst the uncertainties of your lives.

In that fleeting moment of shared vulnerability, you knew that your decision to keep your relationship a secret was not just a shield against potential complications—it was a testament to the fragile hope that had bloomed between you, a hope that dared to whisper of a future where you could navigate the challenges together, one quiet morning at a time.

***

“On your knees, sweetheart. Now.” 

Head completely empty, you did as you were told. The small shed at Tommy and Maria’s place was secluded enough for no one to see either of you. The leaves of a nearby tree blocked the window, the gentle scrapes making you feel safe. 

It had been a month since you and Joel started your relationship together. He was a tentative man, both in public and behind closed doors. He would remember what you told him and bring you small gifts from whenever he went on patrol. It warmed your heart and for the first time, you genuinely felt happy. 

You leaned into his touch, his palm cupping the side of your cheek. Smiling, you unzipped his pants and took him into your palm. He was hard already, eager to feel the warmth of your tongue on the sensitive skin. You gave the tip a soft kiss, smiling wider as he shuddered. His hand slid to the back of your head. He thrust forward, the length of his cock sliding against your lips. You parted them, tongue flat against the underside of his cock, you took him deep down your throat. 

“Fuck, just like that,” he groaned, head thrown back. “Show me how much you want me, darlin’.” You looked up and blinked rapidly. “I bet you're soaked right now. . . With all those people outside havin’ fun, aren’t you ashamed?” 

Your stomach bottomed out, excitement growing in your gut. You attempted to make a sound that would convey disagreement, but he only smiled, pushing himself further down. 

“Take it,” he hissed through gritted teeth. “Take all of it.” 

Your eyes widened as he began to fuck your throat with earnest, precome coating your tongue. He was impatient, which was something he rarely was. Maybe it was because of the barbecue outside, or the fact that this was his baby brother’s shed—Whatever it was, you enjoyed it. 

You could barely breathe, saliva and spit dripping down the corners of your outstretched mouth. His balls laid heavy against your chin, smacking you every time he snapped his hips forward. Your eyes rolled, tears pricking the sides. You thought you heard him shushing you, a soothing sound, at least, that’s why you assumed he was shushing you. To soothe you. You had missed the fact that your moans had grown obscenely loud despite his cock sliding between your lips—

“Hey Joel, you guys good in—” Both of you stilled at the sound, the creak of the door, the familiar soft voice. Your cunt clenched, slick dripping between your thighs. You so badly wanted to touch yourself, to soothe the pain, but that seemed like an impossible thing to do. 

Joel cleared his throat, adam’s apple bobbing as he slowly pulled out his cock. It glistened with spit and precome, the sight of it making you whimper. Your head felt like it was floating, that none of this was really and all you could focus on was the throbbing between your legs. 

He prevented you from looking back towards Tommy. He held his hand firm on your neck, massaging it to keep you calm. 

“We’ll be out in a second,” he said, voice strained. “Sorry.” 

The younger Miller said nothing else, you only realized it was the two of you again when you heard the door closing. Joel let out a deep breath, “So much for keepin’ it a secret,” he muttered. “I won’t be hearin’ the end of it.” 

“Sorry,” you said, looking up, eyes teary. “I. . . I didn’t realize I was being so loud.” 

He promptly knelt down, holding your face between rough hands, he kissed your forehead and smiled. “Nothin’ to apologize for. I’m the one who got us into this mess, you don’t need to worry about nothin’. It ain’t the first time he caught me indecent. Now, let’s get you home.” 

“Okay,” you muttered, heart feeling light and head still feeling dizzy. “Let’s go home.” 

***

Joel sat in the dimly lit kitchen of Tommy’s and Maria’s home. The evening shadows danced across the walls, painting the room with muted hues of twilight.Tommy had walked in on them—caught them in a moment of vulnerability and intimacy.

Tommy's initial shock had given way to a steady calm as he sat across from Joel at the small wooden table, the lines of his face etched with doubt. Joel’s hands were clasped tightly in his lap, knuckles white with the strain. He stared at the worn surface of the table, struggling to find the right words.

“I didn’t mean for this to happen,” Joel finally said, his voice rough with emotion. “It just... things got complicated. I know how it looks, Tommy. I know I’ve got no business...”

Tommy held up a hand, cutting him off. His gaze was steady, full of an unspoken empathy. “Joel, I’m not here to judge you,” he said firmly. “You’re my brother. And whatever’s going on between you and Ash, I support it. I’ve seen how she makes you feel. Hell, I’ve seen how you look at her. I want you to be happy.”

Joel’s eyes lifted to meet Tommy’s, a mixture of surprise and relief flickering across his features. “I know I don’t deserve her,” he said quietly, his voice cracking slightly. “I’ve done a lot of bad things, Tommy. I’m not the man I used to be. I don’t know why she’d want anything to do with me.”

Tommy shook his head, his expression one of deep, abiding concern. “Look, Joel, none of us are perfect. We all have our demons. But that doesn’t mean we don’t deserve a little happiness now and then. Ash’s been through her share of shit too. She’s not here because she thinks you’re some perfect hero. She’s here because she sees somethin’ in you that maybe you don’t see yourself.”

Joel’s gaze dropped again, the weight of Tommy’s words sinking in. “I just don’t want to mess it up,” he admitted, his voice barely above a whisper. “I’m afraid that something’s gonna come along and ruin it.”

Tommy leaned forward, his voice low but firm. “You’re not alone in this, Joel. None of us are. You’ve got to trust that maybe you’re worthy of something good. Maybe you’re worthy of her. And if you’re worried about messin’ things up, then do somethin’ about it. Fight for it. But don’t keep it a secret from everyone who cares about you. It’s not a burden to bear alone.”

Joel nodded, the knot of tension in his chest loosening just a bit. “Thanks, Tommy. I appreciate it. I just... I needed to hear that.”

Tommy clapped Joel on the shoulder, a gesture of solidarity and support. “Anytime. Just remember, if you need anything, if you need to talk, I’m here. For both of you.”

***

In the weeks following the decision to make your relationship with Joel public, you found yourselves navigating a new reality in Jackson. The once familiar streets now felt charged with curiosity and speculation. You walked through the bustling market and communal areas of the town, your hands entwined, openly displaying your affection for each other.

The reactions from the community were varied. Some greeted your union with open arms, offering congratulations and warm smiles. Others were more reserved, their curiosity evident in their glances and whispered conversations. You and Joel faced these moments with a combination of resilience and humor. Your quick wit was particularly effective at easing the discomfort of those around you.

One sunny afternoon, while you were browsing through the market stalls, an elderly woman approached you both with a skeptical look. She raised an eyebrow, peering at you from beneath a wide-brimmed hat. “So, you two are an item now?” she asked, her tone a mix of curiosity and caution.

You turned to face her, a playful smile spreading across your face. “Yep, that’s right. Joel here is my favorite person to argue with,” you said, giving Joel a mischievous look.

Joel smirked, adding, “And she’s the one who keeps me grounded. Can’t have one without the other.”

The woman’s stern expression softened into a smile. “Well, that’s a refreshing way to look at things. Congratulations then,” She patted Joel on the shoulder and ambled away, leaving behind a sense of acceptance.

As your relationship grew, so did the depth of your connection. You and Joel became more attuned to each other’s needs and emotions. Your bond was tested and strengthened through shared experiences and mutual support. Each day brought new challenges, but facing them together made your partnership even more resilient.

One particularly trying day, after a demanding patrol that left Joel physically and emotionally drained, he returned home to find you waiting for him. The sight of you, with a warm meal and an understanding smile, was a balm to his weary spirit.

As you sat down to eat, Joel hesitated before speaking, his voice barely above a whisper. “Today was rough, Ash. I don’t know if I can keep doing this.”

Your eyes softened with concern. You reached across the table, your hand covering his. “You’re stronger than you think, Joel. We all have days that test us, but you’re not alone in this. I’m here with you, every step of the way.”

Joel met your gaze, the exhaustion in his eyes slowly giving way to a glimmer of relief. “I don’t know how I’d manage without you,” he admitted, his voice thick with emotion.

You squeezed his hand, your expression resolute. “You don’t have to manage alone. We’ve got each other. That’s what matters.”

Your relationship was not all about serious moments; it was also filled with lightheartedness and affection. Your playful banter and shared humor brought a sense of normalcy and joy into your lives.

One morning, as you prepared breakfast together, the kitchen was filled with the usual clatter of pots and pans. You were juggling two eggs and a fresh stick of butter when, in a moment of clumsiness, you dropped the eggs across the floor. Joel, standing nearby, couldn’t help but chuckle.

“Well, looks like we’re having eggs for breakfast and a side of floor clean-up,” Joel said, his voice dripping with mock seriousness.

You rolled your eyes, picking up the scattered pieces with a smirk. “I’m just adding a bit of excitement to our otherwise boring mornings. Keeps things interesting, don’t you think?”

Joel leaned against the counter, shaking his head with an amused grin. “You and your ideas of excitement. I guess I should be grateful for the change.”

Later, as the day drew to a close and the sun dipped below the horizon, you and Joel found yourselves on the porch, enjoying the tranquility of the evening. You sat close together, the warmth of your bodies and the fading light creating a cozy atmosphere.

Joel wrapped an arm around you, pulling you gently against him. “You know,” he said quietly, “for all the chaos and challenges, I wouldn’t trade these moments with you for anythin’.”

You rested your head on his shoulder, your voice was soft and content. “Me neither. We’ve built something really special here. It’s worth fighting for, no matter what comes our way.”

As you sat together in the fading light, your bond felt stronger than ever. The shared laughter, mutual support, and tender moments of connection were the foundation of your relationship. In the midst of a world fraught with uncertainty, you and Joel had found a precious refuge in each other, a testament to the enduring power of love, humor, and unwavering support.

[undreaming-fanfiction]

Robin gets horrible period cramps during her employment at Scoops Ahoy, she's in pain, she's annoyed and she's stuck there with Steve Harrington of all people. She just sits in the break room, hoping her misery will soon be over, but of course Harrington can't stay at the counter for five minutes and decides to enrich her suffering with his presence.

She expects a stupid quip from him, something about her slacking off.

Instead, he looks at her with a jock equivalent of sympathy. "Cramps?" he asks and Robin's jaw drops to the floor. "I mean, none of my business, I know, but you look really miserable. Did you take a painkiller?"

Robin just shakes her head, clutching her stomach. "Left mine at home," she mutters. "And I really need to get some...supplies, but I can't even stand up. What a day."

Steve just nods and turns around and Robin thinks he'll leave her alone now, maybe mock her for too much information, but then she sees him through the window - he's temporarily closing the shop.

His majestically hairy head peeks through the window as he asks: "Tampons or pads?"

"...pads?"

Steve nods and disappears from her sight.

Robin is pretty sure she hallucinated the whole thing, but ten minutes later Steve is back, pads, painkillers and a...

"A burrito?" she asks and she has to laugh, she really does, because what the fuck is happening?

Steve just shrugs and grabs a handful of napkins. "No heating pads in a summer shopping mall, so I had to improvise. These things take ages to cool down so if you wrap it, it should stay hot for a while and help."

A few minutes later, Robin is back, having used her "supplies" and Steve urges her to sit down, handing her the carefully wrapped burrito. "I'll cover the counter, but if you need anything, let me know."

Robin wants to tell him many things, such as How did you know all of this?, Weren't you supposed to be an asshole?, How did you come up with the burrito idea? and much, much more. But she's really tired and the painkiller is taking its time, so she settles for the shortest one.

"Thanks, Steve."

(look, we all know Steve had many girlfriends and with his caring nature and observation skills, he'd be a cramps relieving pro)

[baelarys]

req!!

jealous aemond at their twin daughters or their other child nameday…when the reader be ask dancing with some lord. And BAM jealous husband moments…

𝙅𝙚𝙖𝙡𝙤𝙪𝙨

Aemond targaryen x reader velaryon ¡Niece!

Word count: 3222

Warninig: Jealousy, fluff

Pt1,pt2 & pt3(I will continue with this dynamic until I die or you get tired hahaha because I love this little family, don't be shy and make more requests for whatever you want!)

Everything had to look impeccable, perfect like in a fairy tale, and you had worked hard to make sure it was so. The castle halls and gardens had been adorned with millions of flowers, each one carefully selected to harmonize with the colorful and majestic tapestries hanging from the stone walls. The servants had worked tirelessly under your watchful supervision, ensuring that not a single detail was out of place.

You had eagerly awaited this day, your princesses' name day, an event that brought together the most powerful Lords and Ladies of Westeros. The sun shone high in the sky, blessing the celebration with its warm light, while the tables in the gardens filled with delicate dishes and golden cups of wine.

You stood by the grand doors of the hall, attentively watching as the guests arrived. Elegant laughter and lively conversations filled the air as ladies in silk and brocade dresses gracefully paraded, followed by knights whose armor gleamed in the sun. The banners of the great houses fluttered proudly in the wind, each a reminder of the nobility and power gathered at your celebration. Every courteous gesture, every measured smile, and respectful bow reflected the harmony you had worked so hard to achieve.

Your daughters, Vaera and Vaerys, were the very image of joy and youthful pride. Clad in matching dresses, their golden hair crowned with flower garlands gleamed under the light. They walked confidently through the hall and gardens, their small steps filled with enthusiasm and curiosity, as if they were truly the mistresses of the place. The laughter of both mingled with the soft music accompanying the event, as they played carefree among the guests, who were quick to praise their charm and beauty. The attention they received pleased them immensely, their childish smiles lighting up every corner they passed.

Aerion, on the other hand, did not share his sisters' festive spirit. Since waking up, he seemed to carry a cloud of discontent that darkened his little face. He had not left your side all day, and his irritability became evident whenever you tried to step away for even a few minutes. As soon as you were out of sight, his cries echoed through the halls, a constant reminder of his foul mood. Your attempts to soothe him with sweet words and caresses seemed to have only a temporary effect, as any interruption of your presence turned him into an inconsolable baby.

The hour of the banquet had finally arrived, and you found yourself seated next to Aemond, who, despite his well-known aversion to such events, wore an expression of patient resignation, trying his best to appear comfortable in the midst of the celebration. The great hall was filled, with the royal family occupying the seats of honor. To your right, Queen Alicent exchanged solemn glances with her children, while your mother and grandmother, Rhaenys, and the Velaryons sat at the main table alongside your maternal relatives. The torches illuminated the room, casting golden reflections on the goblets and platters overflowing with delicacies.

You, for your part, tried to remain present, though your attention was divided between the banqueting bustle and Aerion’s persistent restlessness, still nestled in your lap. With gentle movements, you stroked his golden hair, trying to soothe him as the little one emitted soft sighs of exhaustion. It was a fragile, temporary comfort, as if at any moment the child's bad mood might resurface.

Suddenly, an unsettling feeling crept over you, as if a burning gaze was resting on your skin, piercing through the warm atmosphere of the hall. At first, you thought it was Aemond, watching you as he often did when he thought you wouldn’t notice. You turned your head slightly, expecting to find his one eye fixed on you, but to your surprise, he was engrossed in a whispered conversation with his mother, Queen Alicent. Their words were barely audible, but his concentration seemed complete.

Confused, you glanced away, discreetly searching the nearby faces. That’s when you saw him. It wasn’t Aemond watching you so intently, but Lord Donald Tarly, whose position at the table gave him a clear view of you. His penetrating green eyes were fixed on you with a mix of curiosity and something more—something difficult to decipher from across the distance. It was a gaze laden with intentions you couldn’t interpret at that moment but which undoubtedly made you uncomfortable.

The lord, heir to one of the oldest and most respected houses of the Reach, had only recently arrived at court after several campaigns on the western border. His reputation as a formidable warrior and strategist preceded him, and although his public demeanor had been impeccable, that insistent scrutiny from the other side of the room made you feel vulnerable.

Instinctively, you adjusted Aerion's position in your lap, using the movement to divert your gaze and cover up by appearing focused on your child. However, the discomfort remained. Lord Tarly's gaze was unyielding, as if he was waiting for some kind of reaction from you.

Aemond, despite his apparent detachment from the surroundings, noticed the change in your posture. "Is everything alright?" he murmured, his deep voice barely a whisper as he leaned closer to you, his expression unchanging. There was no need to explain the situation to him; his keen perception seemed to have sensed your discomfort even before you fully understood it yourself.

The banquet continued, with the atmosphere growing denser and more charged as the food came in endless trays of roasted meats, golden breads, and fragrant sweets. However, your attention was far from the feast. Aerion, still in your arms, was beginning to fidget, his heavy eyelids struggling against the sleep that wouldn’t quite come. His sisters, not far off, had started to sway in their seats, their eyes heavy with sleep after a day of games and excitement.

With a gentle gesture, you leaned toward Aemond. "I think it's time to put the children to bed," you whispered, watching as Aerion nestled closer to you, seeking the warmth of your body. Aemond nodded slightly, a sign of approval that needed no further words. With one last look at the hall, you carefully stood up, holding Aerion in your arms while summoning one of the maids to help with the girls.

You left the hall, leaving behind the growing clamor of the evening. The sounds of laughter and animated conversations were muffled as you walked away, and the echo of your footsteps resonated in the wide corridors. The torches illuminated your path as the girls, tired but obedient, followed closely.

You finally reached the children's rooms, where the maids had already prepared their beds. Gently, you placed Aerion in his crib, caressing his forehead with a tenderness only a mother could offer. His eyes, now almost closed, sought yours for a brief moment before surrendering to sleep. The girls, between whispers and soft giggles, were guided to their beds by the maids, who soon dimmed the lights and left them to their dreams.

Once you ensured that everyone was peacefully asleep, you paused for a moment to watch them. Aerion breathed calmly, and his sisters, wrapped in their blankets, looked as innocent and peaceful as the day they were born. You sighed, letting go of some of the tension you had accumulated throughout the night.

When you returned to the great hall, the atmosphere had changed dramatically. The festivities had evolved, shedding the formalities that marked the ceremonial dinners. Now, laughter was louder, wine glasses were raised more frequently, and the sound of music blended with the clinking of glasses and the rhythmic footsteps on the marble floor.

The center of the hall was cleared, turned into an improvised dance floor. Pairs of nobles, some visibly affected by wine, spun and laughed, their garments shining under the torchlight. The music, once soft, had come to life, with violins and lutes setting a livelier rhythm, suited for the occasion. The younger guests, those who stayed away from the stern gazes of the older ones, seemed to embrace the celebration with a freedom you had not seen earlier in the evening.

Determined to return to your seat next to Aemond, you maneuvered around the edges of the dance floor, avoiding the couples spinning and laughing in their intoxication. The hall vibrated with the lively music of the lutes and violins, and the atmosphere, filled with wine and laughter, seemed to intensify by the second.

However, just before reaching your destination, an unexpected obstacle appeared before you. As you looked up, you came face to face with Lord Donald Tarly. His smile was wide, and the warmth with which he regarded you suggested more than mere courtesy. His eyes roamed your face with a familiarity that made you uncomfortable, but there was no way to avoid the encounter without appearing rude.

"My lady," he greeted with a courteous bow, though his tone held a confidence that bordered on insolence. "It would be an honor to invite you to dance."

You hesitated for a moment, feeling the urge to decline his offer to avoid stirring Aemond’s displeasure. However, given the public nature of the event and the presence of nobles and allies, you decided to maintain appearances. After all, it was just a dance, and courtesy dictated that you should not refuse without a clear reason.

"Of course, Lord Tarly," you replied with a nod, taking his hand when he offered it. You knew Aemond wouldn’t be pleased, but you trusted he would understand; after all, some formalities were unavoidable in court.

Lord Tarly’s fingers gently closed around yours as he guided you to the dance floor. The music continued to resonate, and the violins began a softer melody, fitting for a quiet conversation. As you started to move to the rhythm, Lord Tarly broke the silence.

“It’s an honor to dance with you tonight, my lady. I must confess I’ve been looking forward to this moment since I arrived at the banquet,” he said, his tone kind but with a hint of flirtation.

You managed a courteous smile. “It’s a pleasure, Lord Tarly. I hope you’ve enjoyed the festivities.”

“I would enjoy it more if every night included the privilege of your company,” he replied without losing composure. You could feel his gaze examining you with interest, and you decided not to respond to that.

However, as the dance continued, you found yourself laughing at one of Lord Tarly’s anecdotes. Despite your initial reservations, the conversation turned out to be more pleasant than you had anticipated. His humor was subtle, and his ability to keep the conversation flowing made time pass quickly.

But then, as you gently twirled to the music, you felt a shiver run down your spine. It was as if an invisible force compelled you to look across the room. Raising your gaze, you met Aemond’s eyes on the other side of the hall. He was seated, his posture rigid, his expression grave. The tension in his jaw was evident, and though he hadn’t said a word, his gaze conveyed everything you needed to know. Aemond’s lips barely moved, but the fire in his eyes indicated that the scene before him displeased him greatly.

Your heart skipped a beat. Aemond was not known for his patience when it came to you, especially when someone else showed interest in your attention. His gaze was a mix of jealousy and barely concealed anger, and you could see how his fingers tightened around the goblet he held, as if trying to contain himself.

“Are you alright, princess?” Lord Tarly’s voice pulled you from your thoughts.

You forced a smile, though your attention was no longer fully on the conversation. “Yes, of course. Just a bit distracted.”

“I see that Prince Aemond is watching you quite intently,” Tarly remarked with a barely perceptible smile. “I hope I’m not causing any misunderstandings.”

You tried to laugh lightly, though you knew the situation was becoming more tense. “No, of course not. Aemond is… very protective, that’s all.”

“Protective?” Lord Tarly’s smile widened a little. “I can’t blame him. There’s certainly much to protect.”

You felt uncomfortable at the double meaning in his words, and as the music began to slow down, you decided it was time to end the dance. “It has been a pleasure, Lord Tarly, but I think I should return to my husband.”

You stepped away gracefully, determined to return to Aemond. When you sat next to him, you hoped he would break the silence, but he did not. He didn’t even look at you. His jaw was tight, and the jealous glint in his single eye was unmistakable, though he made no effort to conceal it.

Frustrated, you took his hand in yours, trying to smooth over the situation. However, his rigidity remained. “Do whatever you want,” you said, your voice tinged with a mix of irritation and exasperation.

You hoped for a reaction, a word, something that indicated he was willing to discuss the issue, but Aemond simply continued to stare ahead, his silence more stubborn than ever. You bit your lip, suppressing the urge to keep pressing the issue. You had no intention of arguing over something so trivial. Not here, not now, and certainly not over a minor courtly dance.

His jealousy seemed, at that moment, rather childish. You stood up firmly, adjusting your dress with a decisive gesture. There was no reason to prolong the discomfort of the situation, especially not in public. You decided that it was best to retreat to your room. If Aemond wanted to maintain that absurd attitude, you would not waste your energy discussing it at a banquet full of onlookers. Not for something so insignificant.

Aemond did not stop you, which irritated you even more. Without looking back, you left the hall. As you made your way through the torch-lit corridors, you felt the tension in your shoulders beginning to ease slightly. You repeated to yourself that distance would do you both good and that tomorrow, things would surely look clearer.

You reached your room, closing the door softly behind you, though more decisively than you had intended. Silence greeted you, and the tranquility you had longed for during the hectic night began to settle. You removed your jewelry with methodical movements, letting your thoughts drift away from the previous scene.

But the echo of your thoughts was soon interrupted when you heard the door open with an almost imperceptible sound. There was no need to turn around to know who it was. Aemond.

You turned slowly, finding him in the doorway, his expression a mix of wounded pride and barely contained regret. There was no need for immediate words; his presence said it all. He couldn't bear the idea of letting you go like this, just like that. And although he was a man who rarely apologized openly, you knew that his way of following you was, in itself, an acknowledgment that he had let jealousy overpower him.

"Are you going to say something?" you asked, keeping your gaze fixed on him. Your tone, though controlled, had enough acidity for him to know you weren't willing to let the matter pass easily.

Aemond stopped a few steps away from you, his gaze locked with yours, but the silence continued to fill the space between you both. He seemed to be torn between his pride and the desire to make things right, a tug-of-war that you knew all too well in him.

"What do you want me to say?" he finally murmured, his voice low but charged with barely disguised tension. "That I didn't care to see another man approaching you as if he had any right? That I should have stood idly by while he looked at you that way?"

You sighed, crossing your arms in front of you. "Aemond, it was a simple dance. Nothing more. You can't react like this every time someone speaks to me. This isn’t the battlefield, and not everyone is an enemy."

"A simple dance?" he retorted, taking another step toward you, his eyebrow raised. "I saw what I saw, and it wasn't just a dance. That man has no idea what respect means, and I'm not going to tolerate anyone even thinking they can..." He stopped, his words hanging in the air as he struggled to contain the rising heat of his temper.

"Can what?" you challenged, shaking your head, frustrated. "What do you think is going to happen, Aemond? That I’ll leave you for Lord Tarly? For a man I barely know and, to be honest, means absolutely nothing to me? You can’t keep acting as if any interaction is a threat to you."

For a moment, his eyes showed something more than jealousy: there was insecurity in his gaze, a shadow that he rarely revealed. You knew it wasn’t just a matter of wounded pride; there was something deeper affecting him.

"I can’t stand the idea..." he started to say, his voice softer now, almost broken, "that someone else might even imagine having your attention, your closeness. I’m a man of war, but with you... I don’t know how to handle this."

The echo of his words hit you hard, disarming any defenses you had built. Aemond, however fierce he was with people or in court, found himself lost when it came to expressing what he felt for you.

The echo of his words hit you hard, disarming any defenses you had built. Aemond, however fierce he was with people or in court, found himself lost when it came to expressing what he felt for you.

You looked at him for a moment, letting your shoulders drop, tired of the argument and knowing that despite everything, there was some truth in his fears. "You don’t have to handle anything. I’m not going anywhere, Aemond. I’m here, with you."

There was a silence loaded with emotion before he took the final step toward you, closing the space between you both. His hand slowly rose to your face, his fingers brushing your cheek with a tenderness that always surprised you in someone like him. "I’m sorry," he murmured, almost in a whisper, his gaze searching yours.

Before you could respond, his lips met yours in a kiss that, although starting softly, soon grew more intense, filled with a mixture of regret and need. Your hands clung to his clothes, responding with equal fervor, allowing the tension that had filled the space between you both to dissolve in that intimate moment.

When he pulled away, just a few inches, his eyes shone with a silent promise. "It won’t happen again," he assured, his forehead resting against yours. And in that moment, you knew that, as complicated as the emotions you shared were, you would always find your way back to each other.

[angelickisscs]

all he could ever want ~ blurb ‧₊˚

‧₊˚ ୨ ୧ ˚₊ pairing ~ jude bellingham x reader

summary: a usual night with you and your boyfriend

NO SOUNDS CHALLENGED that of the TV show Jude had opted for. Somehow, you managed to keep your focus on the page in front of you, your eyes slowly moving from side to side.

A comfortable silence washed itself upon your living room, just like that of a calm sea. Neither of you felt the need to say something to one another, all your talking having happened all throughout your day.

Warmth emitted from the missing sun, it still leaving its mark no matter what. It wasn’t humid however, the heat being the kind that didn’t make you sticky but rather just hung in the air, showing its presence with no consequence to those around.

You had your legs perched upon his lap, his hand mindlessly creeping under the pyjama bottoms, that you had stolen from him, so he was able to run it across your leg.

This had become your nightly routine ever since moving in with each other. How it came about? You wouldn’t know. It had just come about one day and ever since, the both of you had unconsciously followed it.

It was coming up on 10pm when Jude had turned off the television show, his head falling backwards to rest against the sofa as his eyes stared lovingly down at you.

The strong aroma of flowers clung to your nose, the fresh bunch that he had brought for you only that morning being placed on the table in front of you. They were beautiful, some of the best he had ever brought you. Though you could not name the particular types they were, their colours were majestic and that was enough for you.

“What are you reading?” He questioned softly, not daring to break the peace that encircled you.

You looked up from your book, the word that you had just read quickly leaving your mind. “Just some random romance book I found at the library.”

Turning it around, you let your eyes quickly scan the blurb, reading aloud the parts that described the book the best.

He chuckled at that, the vibrations bouncing throughout your calf muscles. You couldn’t do anything but turn your head to the side, your mind coming up blank as to what he could be laughing at.

Jude seemed to swiftly catch onto your confusion, a smile settling onto his face.

“Read it to me?”

His voice was small, almost nervous as you could hardly make out his loving eyes through the darkness. The singular light that pressured into making the whole room bright enough seemed to have given up, its golden hue hardly making it past the corner that it sat in.

You nodded, opening your arms so he could make himself comfortable. And he did just that, his head finding solace in your neck as his hands wrapped around your waist, their stroking motion restarting but this time on your back.

Flipping to the first page, you began. His breath was warm against your skin, it’s evenness a calming noise. One of your hands held the book whilst the other was in Jude’s hair, the paring of your movements and voice meaning that he fell asleep quicker than he would have liked too.

He could have listened to your voice all day and night, opting for that over anything that the TV could provide for him. It was gentle, perfectly becoming his favourite kind of hug on a chilly day.

It was all he could ever want, and he could not be happier that he had gotten it.

[ancientgoddessofegypt]

Astro Notes : Short N' Sweet - Saturn's Theme

Saturn in the 1st - Emotional creatures, you just don't know it. Definitely isn't visible to the eye, they wear it well. They can handle themselves better than most. This is not only a compliment, but it also shows how they can be emotional stable even if they don't feel that way. Saturn here makes you grounded in the physical reality more. So you tend to get back on your feet quicker than most.

Saturn in the 2nd - Financial struggles at an earlier age has prompted them to force themselves into roles where getting to the bag is the higher goal. I mean, its a must. You gotta have it all, and they know how to get it. They're pretty practical here, and most can handle their advice when it comes to material needs and finances. They won't go crazy on the spending, but they'll at least make sure their needs are met.

Saturn in the 3rd - Prompt speakers. Intelligent leaders. Shapeshifters with their words. Charismatic thinkers that can charm you with their smile. Their needs are met when they have someone important to them that listens. When they're screaming inside, someone who just knows them well and can feel it without them saying anything is what they want. They are emotional readers, can sense danger ahead or when a problem is going to start.. Very majestic flow and auras. Problem solvers!

Saturn in the 4th - Soft spoken individuals who crave attention that isn't just when they're committing to labor. Not your mommy and daddy, so don't bring all your issues to them. Can be sweet and loving to people who are kind to them. They could turn this off quickly depending on who you are. Super swift, and can create a foundation like no other. After seeing what they were living with they know what is right for them and are committed to receiving it.

Saturn in the 5th - Teachers of the art. Self mastery at they're passions and hobbies comes at a price, but a great one at that. Can be an intellectual or an artistic. No matter what, its always a great time with them. Magical authors. Creative thinkers. Special characters they are. Life is art, & so they make it sweet.

Saturn in the 6th - Figures of authority. People who can manage a room. Natural leaders. People tend to make you the lead even if you don't like it. Can have a tendency to do more than what they need but this comes from a place of always over extending themselves to people. There is a time and place for all of it, this group has to allow themselves to be on the receiving end. Balance is key!

Saturn in the 7th - Captain save a ho's. Lol. Jokes. ;) But seriously, you see a damsel in the distress and you might try and change em. You can also be a great lover, that isn't up to debate. Very old school & traditional. Can be the life of the party. Needs somebody who keeps the momentum going. Can be alienated by authorative figures a lot, its because you're one of them, you just don't see it yet.

Saturn in the 8th - At a young age they knew they we're meant for something. Something that would shake the world. Secrets of the unknown tend to carry them to a long journey. A journey that leads them to their final destination. The path less spoken for, but the bravest tend to move mountains here. <3

Saturn in the 9th - Excellent learners. Yearn for something deeper. Could move into religion or stick to something that speaks to them and helps them grow in this lifetime. They are committed to whatever fits their beliefs, and they sit with them and mature into them gracefully.

Saturn in the 10th - The masters of what they came to achieve. They believed they could be more and so it was. A dream to be a prominent somebody, its a gift & a curse is it not? Spellbounding auras, and a respectable presence nonetheless.

Saturn in the 11th - Could only have 1 or 2 friends that mean the world to them. They're big on achieving goals not having a bunch of friends. Can be very standoffish but theres some history behind it. When they want to be, they can be very sweet and nurturing. Can bring acts of service to a group of people if its time to.

Saturn in the 12th - Creative thinkers. Beyond this realm. Have difficulties with aligning with sources that don't match their integrity. Can bring people to their knees with just their mind power. The truth is, they must choose wisely with what they ask for because saturn here blesses them with it. Be careful what you wish for ;) Its a commitment that changes things.

[seonghrtz]

ME & THE DEVIL.

SYNOPS𝑖S,ㅤㅤsukuna falls in love with the purest angel.

両面宿儺ㅤ♡ ⠀ angel!reader⠀ . . .ㅤ fluff & angstㅤwarnings suggestive blood death occ sukuna　─　13k words.

The worst crime a creature of darkness could commit was to fall in love with a creature of light.

Sukuna Ryomen was aware of this, and yet he allowed himself to be loved by an angel, just as he allowed himself to love one.

But his disobedience cost him dearly, and his whole world fell to ruins. For the first time in his life, everything he had ever sworn was beautiful was reduced to cold, distant memories that occasionally disturbed him in the dead of the night.

The peaceful life he had once been promised, sworn to under the stars, had been taken from him in the cruelest way, just as the only person he had sworn his eternal love to had been taken from him, ripped from his arms, turned into nothing more than a sweet memory that could no longer be touched. It had been like taking away the oxygen he needed to stay alive.

And now he was trapped in chains, thrown deep into the cell of the maximum security prison in the dark lands he once called home, and now was nothing more than a place where he was imprisoned, without the slightest will to live, and with only revenge trapped in his thoughts and the deepest desires of his dark and broken heart ⸻ which he believed he no longer had, since it had been taken from him, just like the life of his beloved.

𝔊aia, The Society of Humans

Sukuna rolled all four of his eyes at once and smoothed his black hood over his pink hair. He hated going to Gaia, hated leaving his home in Umbra, the Society of Darkness. Although the presence of demons and creatures of darkness was permitted by law in Gaia, its inhabitants were not very fond of them ⸻ especially with their frightening appearance and deadly gaze ⸻ but unfortunately it was only in Gaia that he would find the best whisky of the Three Societies. So much work for a bottle of alcohol.

The demon held the leather pouch with two bottles he had bought and another with a slaughtered calf that he would have Uraume prepare for dinner. However, his plans fell apart when he realised that there was something wrong with his surroundings in the Lost Forest ⸻ the path that would lead him to Umbra. In one swift movement, Sukuna stopped and turned to see a white figure hiding behind a tree with a broad trunk. Out of patience, he left his leather pouch with the drinks and the calf on the ground and approached the tree. Ryomen leaned one of his arms against the trunk and waited for the figure to leave its hiding place ⸻ which didn't take long.

"Oh," the person ended up facing Sukuna's cloaked chest, startled by the demon's sudden presence.

"Oh?" Sukuna repeated the stranger's words, raising an eyebrow.

Looking down with eyes that conveyed nothing but boredom, he analysed the person before him. Her long, white gown seemed to glisten in the dim light filtering through the massive treetops of the Lost Forest. Something that hadn't gone unnoticed by Sukuna, aside from the unique, angelic beauty of the stranger before him, was her majestic wings.

Those wings could only belong to someone from Oriana, the Society of Light. And not just anyone, but an angel.

An angel…

This little encounter between them was wrong in itself, as it was against the laws of the Three Societies.

Though the Society of Light and the Society of Darkness lived in eternal feud, the only thing they had agreed upon for thousands of centuries was that no being from Oriana could have contact with a being from Umbra, and vice versa. Interaction between the two societies was strictly forbidden. So much so that the worst crime a creature of darkness could commit was to have a romantic relationship with a creature of light.

And that rule applied to Gaia as well.

Without a word, Sukuna turned his back on the angel and went to gather his things and leave for Umbra, he had already spent too much time in the lands of Gaia for his liking.

"You..." the angel began to speak, trying to get Sukuna's attention, but nothing seemed to stop him.

"Can you stop following me?" Sukuna turned around, burning with anger. "Or would you rather be a side dish with the calf at my dinner party?"

"You... you wouldn't do that, would you?" She looked at him in horror at the idea he was suggesting.

"You want to stay and find out?" A sinister smile formed on Sukuna's lips, making the angel tremble all over and take small steps backwards. "Just as I thought, how pathetic you are," he murmured the last part.

"I am not pathetic!" The angel said with conviction, but her posture still showed fear, as did her trembling voice.

"The very fact that you're an angel, on Gaia, far away from your brilliant, stupid society, following a demon through a forest, tells me exactly how pathetic you can be. Now leave me alone."

"What's your name?" She avoided the last topic, even more curious, but without moving.

"That's none of your business," Sukuna made his way to the portal that would take him back to Umbra, this time without an angel in his way.

All five times Sukuna had returned to Gaia with the solemn intention of buying at least two bottles of whisky, he had met the (pathetic) angel who had followed him through the Lost Forest. She kept asking him questions, to which he answered with absolute silence. But during the five times, she didn't seem to mind his silence because she knew he was at least listening to her ⸻ which seemed to be enough to make her happy.

But the sixth time Sukuna went to Gaia, she wasn't waiting for him in the forest.

The demon was surprised by the little angel's absence and shrugged his shoulders when he realized that she wouldn't appear on his path.

He briefly tried to convince himself that it was better this way, both for his short patience and for the innocent, pathetic angel who knew nothing of the world she lived in.

But something seemed wrong…

It seemed wrong to walk back to Umbra in silence, with only the sound of the forest itself ringing in his ears. Sukuna wouldn't admit it, but a part of him, deep down, missed the thousands of questions the angel had asked him, both about himself and where he came from. But he couldn't miss that singular thing.

It was best to stay away from her, so he wouldn't get into any unnecessary trouble. Although he liked getting into trouble and unnecessary fights, Sukuna preferred to avoid anything that involved Oriana and the Light Ones; it was easier to get into a fight in Umbra, where he knew the laws and the rules of the game. Not to mention that he knew that if he got involved in anything with Oriana and was found out, even if he hadn't done anything, the creatures of light would do everything they could to put him in prison for life.

Sukuna looked back once more and, realising that there was nothing there, not even a shining white figure, he simply stepped through the portal into the chaos that was the Society of Darkness.

"Where were you last time?" Sukuna asked when he met the angel again after the fiasco of the last time he was in Gaia.

"Oh, did you miss me?" The angel smiled openly at the demon's comment when they met on one of the paths in the Lost Forest.

"Answer my question." Sukuna said authoritatively.

"I was in Oriana, my mother asked me to come back because she felt I was spending too much time in Gaia," the angel smiled and walked after Sukuna as she always did, "You know, you never told me your name..." She commented, playing with the white fabric of her dress.

"Why should I tell you my name?" Sukuna asked.

"Because I've already told you mine!"

"My name is none of your business."

"I promise I won't bother you anymore if you tell me your name!"

"Don't make promises you don't intend to keep." Sukuna rolled all four eyes and turned to the angel.

"Please," she begged him.

"And stop begging, you look pathetic doing it."

Sukuna looked into the bright, innocent eyes of the angel before him. There was something there that made his heart skip a beat. The way she looked at him was so pure that a part of him wanted to corrupt her completely, but the other part wanted to drown in this purity that made him feel less like a monster for a few seconds ⸻ even though he was a demon by nature.

"Lord Sukuna." He said quickly, using his title.

"Lord?" The angel asked curiously, "Do they have titles in Umbra?"

"Do you think Umbra is the end of the world?"

"No, no! In Oriana we don't have much information about Umbra..." She explained quickly.

"So you want to go to Umbra?" A mischievous smile appeared on the demon's lips.

"I'd love to, actually!" she said, delighted at the idea of getting to know another place, especially the mysterious Umbra.

"You'd be killed the moment you set foot in there," Sukuna laughed at the angel's fearful reaction to his statement.

"But... but I... I've never done anything..."

"Understand something, Angel, Umbra and Oriana do not mix, it is forbidden by law, so I think you better stop what you are trying to do or planning to do, because in the blink of an eye you will be killed. Oriana is the safest place for your kind, and I suggest you get back there before it is too late for you to see the light again.”

"Lord Sukuna..." She swallowed dryly, "I know I'm not the best company you could have, but please... I just..." She took a deep breath, giving up on saying what she really wanted to say "I... I'm sorry for bothering you all this time, I..." The angel turned her back to Sukuna, ready to walk away and perhaps leave Gaia forever, but was stopped by a hand on her forearm, holding her tightly and preventing her from leaving.

"Never stop speaking your mind. Finish talking and I'll let you go."

"I... I just wanted a companion, someone to talk to, but I think I was looking for that in the wrong person."

Sukuna's hand slowly left the angel's forearm.

"Angel..." Sukuna said and turned to leave. "Meet me here, same time, tomorrow."

"Lord Sukuna?" The angel glanced at the demon who had his back to her, but received only silence from Sukuna as he made his way back to Umbra.

Sukuna took a deep breath for the tenth time, wondering why he had acted without thinking the day before. He waited for the angel while he thought about everything that had happened and why he thought it was a good idea to take her to a less crowded part of Gaia ⸻ or rather, a field away from people. The truth was, even he didn't know why he was acting the way he was.

That angel could only have bewitched him...

And if she hadn't bewitched him before, he was certainly bewitched the moment their eyes met.

For some reason, the angel looked neater than usual, even wearing hair ornaments that matched her white dress with gold details.

"Sorry for the delay, Lord Sukuna!" The angel smiled as she approached the stone he was sitting on while he waited.

Sukuna just stared at her and got up, taking a different route from the one he usually took.

"Where are we going?" She asked curiously, having been curious ever since she had been told to meet on the road to the Lost Forest, something that was certainly far from Sukuna's fetishes.

"I will take you to a deserted place to devour you," Sukuna said calmly.

"WHAT?!" The angel's eyes widened in shock at the demon's comment.

"Well, if you keep quiet, I might consider sparing your life, if I don't turn you into dinner first."

Silence fell between the demon and the angel as they walked, and all that could be heard was the sounds of the forest and their footsteps on the leaves, the broken branches on the ground, and the fertilized earth beneath their feet. Sukuna was surprised by the angel's silence, but didn't question her, while she herself was lost in her thoughts, trying to prove something true about him devouring her.

"We're here." Sukuna said, drawing the angel's attention and freeing her from the thought loop she was trapped in.

She looked around; it was an open, flowery field, and there was a cliff overlooking the sea, which seemed to connect with Gaia's sky on the horizon. Enchanted by such a beautiful view, the angel approached the cliff, feeling the icy, salty breeze against her body.

"If you stand too close to the cliff, you might fall." Sukuna said from behind the angel, frightening her.

"Oh, you're right!" She said, a little frightened at the thought of falling from that height.

"You have wings, do you know that?" Sukuna rolled his eyes, "You can fly if you fall."

"Oh, that's true, well, it would be true if I could fly, but I can't.”

"Haven't you learned how to fly?" Sukuna said in a provocative tone.

"Um, I just got hurt and the healer said that if I wanted to fly again, I'd have to spend some time recovering, without forcing it."

"That must suck for you..." Sukuna shrugged and sat down on the grass to bask in the sun.

"You have no idea, almost everything in Oriana is on top, so it's easier to fly there. That's why I spent so much time in Gaia, everything is on the ground here, I don't need to use my wings," the angel sat down next to Sukuna and looked up at the clear blue sky, "What's it like in Umbra?"

"Why are you so interested in Umbra?"

"Because... Well, because nobody in Oriana talks about Umbra, it's almost as if it's forbidden. I once asked a group of colleagues if they knew anything about it and they just stared at me and then scolded me for commenting on the place."

"There's nothing wrong with Umbra, Angel, it's just an ugly place that harbours evil people with terrible hearts, it's no place for creatures of light."

"But you're generalizing, aren't you? Not least because you are an exception, aren't you?"

"Exception? An exception to what?" Sukuna arched an eyebrow.

"Well, you're not evil, maybe you've said some evil things to me, but you've never done anything too bad."

"Gaia's laws are completely different from Umbra's. I just don't feel like being arrested again."

"Have you ever been arrested?" The angel asked him incredulously.

"Like ten times? Or more?" the demon shrugged, "It's quite common in Umbra. Why is that? Isn't there a prison in Oriana?"

"Well, we do have something called a detention center, where those who break Oriana's laws are taken, but it's rarely full."

"Ah, you really are privileged..."

"Lord Sukuna, you told me that Oriana and Umbra don't mix, but why?"

"You really don't know anything, do you? What did they teach in the schools in Oriana?"

"Nothing to do with Umbra, the only thing they say is that we can never go to Umbra or have contact with any dark beings," the angel murmured.

"And here we are, aren't we..."

"But what's so wrong that our contact is forbidden by law?" The angel asked curiously.

"It's a long story..." he said, uninterested in this particular conversation.

"Aren't you going to tell me?"

"Maybe another day..."

"So you mean we'll have more meetings like this?" She smiled excitedly at the thought of seeing Sukuna again.

"Yeah... maybe... if you behave like a good little angel, I can think about..."

The angel lay down beside Sukuna and looked up at the clear blue sky. It was beautiful, and as much as it resembled Oriana's sky, in some ways it was extremely different. But perhaps it was the presence of the person, or rather the demon, next to her that made everything she knew, or thought she knew, seem completely new.

"Your marks... the ones you have on your body, were you born with them?" she asked, breaking the silence between them.

"Uhum," Sukuna mumbled in reply.

"What's your favorite color?"

"Why the hell would I have a favorite color?"

"Now that you've said it... I don't know either. In Oriana there aren't many colours, it's always light tones and often the same shades of white and gold. When I came to Gaia, I was enchanted by the variety of colors..."

"You really do surprise yourself with very little..." Sukuna squinted at the angel, "How did you manage to come to Gaia?”

"I was tired of Oriana. It was always the same things to do, it was the same boring routine every day. Just playing the harp, sitting by the crystal lake, reading and talking about the same things... I begged my grandfather, who is a general, to let me go to Gaia, if only for a few hours.” The angel's eyes focused on the slowly changing shades of blue in the sky, from light blue to pinkish orange, as her mind wandered through her memories: "Did you know that there is no night in Oriana?"

"Why don't they have a night?" Sukuna raised an eyebrow. Oriana was the complete opposite of Umbra; while one was bathed in light, the other was bathed in darkness.

"When the sun goes down, the sky turns orange until the next day's sunrise.”

Time seemed to flow when she was in Sukuna's presence. He said nothing and answered her questions indifferently, maliciously, spitefully or sometimes not at all. But the angel was happy. She was happy that she didn't have to spend so much time bound by the pure customs of Oriana, that she could speak freely and ask her thousand questions without being silenced for merely expressing a genuine curiosity about the worlds beyond the sacred portals of the Society of Light.

"Lord Sukuna, thank you for showing me this place and listening to me..." the angel murmured as she turned her head sideways to look at the demon's profile.

"Tsk... it's not a big deal..." Sukuna just stood there with his four eyes closed, enjoying the breeze (and secretly his new companion).

Sukuna had never thought that meeting this angel would become part of his routine in Gaia. Even Uraume had noticed that his Lord's frequent forays into the Society of Humans were no longer just about the good bottles of whisky or the cheap meat. However, Uraume knew better than to question his Lord and put this fact to one side ⸻ at least Sukuna seemed less grumpy when he went to Gaia.

Although he denied it, especially to himself, it was a form of entertainment to be in the company of the innocent and curious Angel.

And, in a way, it made him feel a little better that he had broken one of the strictest rules in the Three Societies.

Looking around, the demon saw the young angel munching on a typical Gaia fruit as she accompanied him to yet another secret location far from any civilisation that he had suddenly decided to take her to. It was a great surprise to him that she simply followed him, without questioning or even suspecting that this might be the last time she would see the light of day. It was amazing how much trust she had in him and how naive she was about her own world, her own people. And even though Sukuna had no intention of hurting her, except with his unfiltered words that came out without thinking, he couldn't help but wonder what would happen to her if she accidentally bumped into another demon, or perhaps a perverse human from Gaia.

It was almost comical how concerned and protective he was when it came to the Angel. Even if he refused to accept such feelings, only justifying his actions with the idea that she wouldn't survive a second without him by her side.

And when she almost fell on her butt in the middle of the road, it was as if Sukuna had received a sign from the universe itself, confirming his theories.

‘She's not even safe from herself,' he thought as he watched her laugh at her own disaster. She was too precious for any of the worlds.

"Are we there yet?" She turned his head in Sukuna's direction.

"Uhum," he mumbled.

And before she could complain that he had given her the same answer a long time ago, Sukuna pointed his head in front of her, making her look expectantly where he was looking.

The great waterfall, with its crystal-clear water reflecting the sun's rays divinely, had enchanted her.

It was beautiful. Just as beautiful as the open field of flowers by the sea that Sukuna had taken her to the other day. But these trees with their green leaves, the flowers, the water falling in a steady, calm rhythm, it was all so beautiful, so wonderful in her eyes.

"How did you know such a beautiful place existed?" Smiling, the angel approached the edge of the pond and placed her hand in the water, surprised to find it warm and not as cold as she had imagined.

"I found that out when I was hunting." Sukuna replied, sitting down on a rock near the edge and getting his feet wet.

"We... Can we swim here?" she asked excitedly.

"Um, go ahead." Sukuna said nonchalantly, after all they were far from Gaia's civilization and it was very unusual for there to be any people or creatures there.

Without further ado, the angel began to remove her long satin skirt and the pearl belt, then the top of her dress and the necklace she was wearing.

"What do you think you're doing?" Sukuna caught the Angel's eye just as she was about to remove her underwear. He had kept quiet, just watching her undress, but he hadn't imagined that she would be naked in front of him.

"Taking my clothes off? To swim?" Her speech came out more as a question because she was confused by the situation.

"You know you don't have to be naked, right?"

"But in Oriana it's very common to bathe in the lakes without clothes..."

"Are you telling me that you get naked? In public?" Sukuna arched an eyebrow in disbelief at the creature of light before him.

"And why wouldn't we? It's actually quite common over there."

"Yes, but I'd advise you not to do it here in Gaia, or anywhere else but Oriana..."

"Hm? Ah, well then..." Giving up on the idea of taking off her underwear, the angel simply removed her hair ornaments and walked over the wet stones into the lake "Aren't you going in too? The water's fine."

Sukuna stared at the angel for a few minutes, watching her play with the water, before deciding to take off his clothes and join her in the water. However, he was content to stand at the edge, leaning against a rock.

The angel approached him with a slight smile on her face, leaning her back against the stone and standing next to Sukuna.

"So in Oriana you strip naked in public?" Sukuna asked with a mischievous smile and was answered with a murmur and a positive nod from the angel, "Hm, I'd pay to see a show like that..."

"I wish I could take you to Oriana," she sighed, "but apparently there's some kind of spell on the sacred gates that prevents anything but a creature of light from passing through."

"Why do you think I wanted to go to your fancy little town?"

"Because you always take me to beautiful and enchanting places, I'd like to thank you for that."

"I don't need your thanks, let alone to see your gold-painted paradise." Sukuna said dismissively.

The angel shrugged at Sukuna's reply. She was getting used to the demon's blunt and direct manner.

Looking at the water, she noticed that it was so clear that she could see the bottom. Interested in a small pebble that caught her eye, the angel dived to the bottom without saying anything and returned to the surface with the stone in her hand. She had been so busy admiring the red stone that she hadn't noticed Sukuna looking in her direction.

"What do you have in your hand?" the demon asked in a tone that did not hide his curiosity.

"It's a red stone," she said smiling, "On my first trip to Gaia, I came across a merchant who sold jewelry, he had several necklaces with the same stone, I think it's called a ruby... But whatever it is called, it reminds me of your eyes"

"So you like stones?" Sukuna asked, ignoring the angel's last comment about his eyes and especially the fact that his heart was beating a little faster.

"Yes!" she replied with a smile.

"Follow me!" he ordered as he climbed out of the water and picked up his clothes from a rock, but didn't put them back on.

Confused by the sudden change of plans, and a little sad to be leaving the warm water, the angel picked up her clothes and began to follow the demon, who walked around the pond, without asking any questions. When they reached the edge of the waterfall, Sukuna went behind the water and disappeared from the angel's sight.

Uncertain about what was happening, but trusting the demon, she closed her eyes and went behind the waterfall as well. When she opened her eyes again, she was surprised to see a path behind the water. But what made her eyes sparkle were the coloured stones set into the wall, glowing and illuminating the whole place.

"Are you just going to stand there?" Sukuna asked as he followed the path in front of him.

Without hesitation, the angel quickened her pace and followed Sukuna. It didn't take them long to reach their destination, a small hot spring.

"The water is better here than outside." Sukuna said as he stepped into the water.

The angel left her things on the ground and stepped into the water, relaxing next to the demon.

"Just when I think you can't surprise me anymore, you come along and prove me wrong, Lord Sukuna."

"Or maybe it was your golden palace that wasn't so interesting."

"Well, I think you'd be surprised by Oriada's angelic beauty."

"More surprised than to see you swimming naked in a pond?" A mischievous smile formed on Sukuna's lips as his predatory eyes stared intently at the angel.

"Lord Sukuna!" A blush spread across the young angel's face as she turned her head to the side, trying to avoid the demon's gaze.

A small laugh escaped Sukuna's lips as he was amused by the angel's reaction. Maybe spending time with her wasn't the worst thing in the world, as he always tried to convince himself it was. She had a special way of making Sukuna want her by his side ⸻ even if it was forbidden. Sukuna squinted at the angel, noticing the doubt in her expression, showing her indecision about whether to say what she was about to say.

"If you thank me again, I'll never take you anywhere again." Sukuna lied.

"Ah! How... How did you know what I was going to say?" She looked at him, startled.

"You're as predictable as an open book."

"Oh?! But I know how to disguise it well."

"I doubt it." Sukuna smiled sideways at the direction of the conversation.

"I'm a very good liar!" She swam over and stopped in front of Sukuna.

"Oh yeah?!" Sukuna brought his face close to the angel's.

"Yes!" She said with conviction.

"Hm." He murmured as he pulled the angel by the waist and brought her closer to him. "Then tell me a lie."

"Ah... well... I won't lie right now, because I don't want to," she said confidently, but Sukuna couldn't help but laugh when he heard her answer.

She really knew how to amuse him.

Sukuna had always been indifferent when it came to Gaia. He obviously preferred Umbra, for various reasons, but lately Gaia hadn't been such a hateful place for him, even if he still believed that humans were the weakest and most influential creatures he'd ever seen. But as long as he was on Gaia, with some special company and away from civilisation, Sukuna thought it was a good pastime ⸻ although he wouldn't admit it, being stubborn as he was.

Little did Sukuna know that teaching Angel how to hunt would be so much fun.

From a very young age, the demon had learned to use various tools and strategies to catch small prey. And it was almost a talent, as if he had been born to be a predator.

But the Angel he knew had no such ferocious instincts, and even less skill with weapons. While Sukuna was a predator, the angel was nothing more than a small, defenseless prey.

The fact that she was so clumsy amused the demon, who could hardly contain his laughter when he saw that she couldn't keep the bow and arrow together.

With a sideways smile, Sukuna positioned himself behind the angel and helped her. He put her arms in the right position and told her to aim at the tree in front of them. Taking a deep breath and holding it, the Angel released the arrow, sending it flying into the hard gravel of the tree.

With a big, bright smile, the Angel turned to Sukuna, proud of her achievement ⸻ even though he had helped her.

"Let's raise the level," Sukuna smiled sideways and pulled the angel through the Lost Forest until they found a majestic deer near a small lake. "Now do what you did with the tree," he whispered in the angel's ear, so as not to frighten his prey.

The angel positioned herself, holding the bow and arrow just right, and took aim at the deer. But when she looked at the animal, she couldn't let go of the arrow. Hitting the tree was one thing, but now an animal seemed too difficult. She lowered the bow and arrow and looked at Sukuna with a depressed expression.

"I... I can't..."

Sukuna just watched the angel, knowing deep down that she couldn't hurt what she saw suffering in front of her. She was too pure for such brutality.

The demon simply took the bow and arrow from her hands and positioned the weapon perfectly before hitting the small deer in one of its vital points. The angel closed her eyes as the animal grunted in pain.

"Let's go." He walked around the lake to pick up the animal and headed for the waterfall that he had taken her before.

Arriving at the place, Sukuna wasted no time in making a fire and gathering the things he had brought from Umbra to cook for the angel. He prepared everything, taking out of his leather pouch a few other ingredients he'd taken from the kitchen at home ⸻ hoping Uraume wouldn't miss them too soon. The demon wasn't the best in the kitchen, but he'd seen Uraume make this kind of broth for so long that he hoped it would work.

"Do you need help, Lord Sukuna?" The angel asked as she approached the demon who was preparing the food.

"No," he replied, "just sit there," pointing his head in the direction of a rock near the water.

Without questioning him, the angel obeyed his command and sat down on the rock, watching as Sukuna cut the fresh meat from the deer with his back to her. The demon had broad, strong shoulders and there were black lines that adorned his body perfectly. The Angel felt her own cheeks begin to burn with every second she looked more closely at every detail of Sukuna's body ⸻ the one that most resembled a sculpture.

Suddenly ashamed of where her thoughts were taking her ⸻ thoughts she hadn't imagined she would have ⸻, she stood up and began to walk around the pond, observing the different kinds of flowers that were around. Sukuna could always point to the fact that she was surprised by the smallest things, but where she came from they didn't have all these vibrant, captivating colors. It was truly a fantastic experience for her.

The angel picked some flowers and sat down on the stone she had been sitting on before. Sukuna, meanwhile, continued to concentrate on preparing the food.

The demon was so focused on his goal that he wouldn't settle for anything less than perfection (and he certainly wasn't doing it all for the angel, he kept telling himself). However, all his concentration on the broth he was preparing was taken away when he felt something resting on his head. Looking up, he saw the angel standing behind him with a huge smile on her face.

"What's that?" He asked, feeling her adjust the object that adorned his head.

"A flower crown."

"A what?" he asked, incredulous at the answer.

"A flower crown." The angel repeated her answer with a slight chuckle.

But who would believe it, or even imagine the scene? A demon with a crown of flowers on his head. It didn't seem like words that would fit into a sentence in a harmonious and positive way. And maybe it didn't help that the demon in question was none other than Sukuna Ryomen.

Sukuna just rolled his eyes and poured some of the ready-made broth for the angel sitting next to him. She gladly took the bowl and didn't take long to taste it.

The demon looked in the angel's direction with a hopeful expression, feeling a slight fear grow in his chest to know what she thought of the food.

"Is there anything you don't know how to make? This is delicious!"

"Of course it would be delicious, I made it myself," he said smugly, but deep down a sense of relief was inevitable.

"Could you teach me to cook? I bet I'd be better at cooking than hunting."

"Who knows, one day..." Sukuna said vaguely.

Thinking about such a moment in the future seemed quite unlikely in reality, but nothing stopped him from imagining such a situation ⸻ not even for a moment.

Gaia's sun shone brightly, its rays reflecting off the crystal clear waters of the calm sea before the curious gaze of a creature of light.

Sukuna, following the path to a small abandoned hut, noticed that someone was missing from his side and turned to see the angel watching the landscape.

"Hey, Angel!" Sukuna caught her eye "If you just stand there, we can't get into the sea!"

"We can get into the sea?!" She asked excitedly, running across the sand to catch up with the demon.

"And why can't we?"

"Well, we don't have a sea in Oriana, but I read some books that talked about scary sea creatures."

"These creatures tend to stay at the bottom of the ocean, there's not much for them on the coast."

"Are you sure about that?"

"Do I look like I'd lie?" Sukuna turned to face the angel, then rolled his eyes when he saw the expression on her face at his question. "Okay, no need to answer, I get it." Sukuna made his way to the wooden hut that stood on the other side of the beach.

The hut had been abandoned for years, but it was still in good shape and usable. It looked more like a single person's house on the beach, as everything in it was for one person. Sukuna used to go there when he went fishing, but that was a long time ago ⸻ it was easier to hunt or buy something at the Gaia market than spend time waiting for a fish to show up.

The angel left the leather bag she was carrying on a wooden chair outside the house and watched the scene unfold before her. The more time she spent with Sukuna, the more she realised that she knew very little about the world. There were many things she had never seen, and things she had never imagined could exist. And she never thought that she would be eternally grateful to that stubborn, arrogant demon for showing her all that, for making her feel things she never thought she could feel.

"I thought you were excited about going to the sea."

"Well, I guess I'm a little scared." A short laugh escaped Angel's lips.

"Angel..." Sukuna approached the creature of light, holding her face to make her look at him, "I'm here, if anything happens I'll save you."

"What if we go in together...?" The Angel bit her bottom lip.

"OK, then get ready," Sukuna let go of the angel's face as he went into the hut to drop his and the angel's things and take off his clothes, leaving only his underwear.

When he came out of the hut, he found the angel already in her underwear, curiously watching the scenery, as if she still had doubts about going out to sea even if she wanted to. Sneaking up on the angel, Sukuna took her in his arms as if she were a bride and walked out to sea while she struggled against his big, strong chest, begging him to let her go.

"Lord Sukuna, please let me go!" The angel pleaded.

"Since you ask!" Sukuna released her into the sea.

"I can't believe you did that!" the Angel said as soon as she came back to the surface.

"You're the one who asked me to let you go!" He raised both upper arms, as if to declare himself innocent of such an accusation, and crossed both forearms as he smiled sideways, suppressing the urge to laugh at the whole situation.

"That was very evil– AH!" The angel screamed in fright as she felt something brush past her leg and leapt into Sukuna's lap, who caught her without the slightest effort.

"What happened?" Despite a smile on his lips, Sukuna's tone could not hide his concern.

"Something went through my leg..."

"It must have been just a tumbleweed," the demon's explanation reassured the Angel, who slowly got off from his lap.

"It's not that bad..." the Angel smiled slightly, "but I still think I'd prefer to be a little closer to the coast."

"So you want to go back?"

"Uh, just until I get used to it."

With the waves breaking on her knee, the Angel let her intrusive thoughts take over and she kicked at the water, wetting Sukuna in the process. The angel looked at the demon beside her, shocked by what had happened, and Sukuna just looked at her, expressionless, which made her shudder a little with fear.

"Was that a request for war?"

"No, Lord Sukuna, I didn't mean it, I swear–"

"You have five seconds."

"Five seconds?" She looked at him doubtfully.

"Five... four..."

Without thinking too much, the angel just ran as fast as she could.Without even finishing counting, Sukuna took off after the angel. He kept his speed down, though, because he knew it wouldn't be any fun if he caught her first. But as he grew tired of his own game, the demon soon caught up with her and threw her over his shoulder.

"Lord Sukuna, please forgive me, I swear I didn't mean to"

"I'm not entirely convinced of that..."

"Please, I'll do anything!"

"Anything?" Sukuna stopped walking, interested in the angel's proposal.

"Yes! Anything!" The angel pleaded.

"I don't want anything right now." Sukuna lifted her from his shoulders and carried her in his arms, "But I hope you will remember this promise."

Time passed slowly as they enjoyed each other's company. As the sun began to set, the angel returned to the hut, dripping wet as she held several small shells in her hands. She left the shells on the table and Sukuna soon handed her a bowl of stew he had prepared.With the bowl in her hand, she left the hut and took a seat on the steps, enjoying the food and watching the sun set. It wasn't long before Sukuna joined her.

They both watched the horizon as they enjoyed their meal. There was no greater tranquility than that moment. But a strong wind blew across the shore, sending a shiver down the Angel's spine.

"I think it's time to go in." Sukuna stood up with the two bowls in his hand and walked into the hut, followed by the angel.

"Um, Lord Sukuna... it's starting to rain..." The angel said as she looked out the window and hugged her own shivering body.

"You are shivering." Sukuna approached the angel and rested his big, strong chest on her wings.

The angel felt a shock run through her body and a sudden warmth that slowly warmed her icy body and stopped the shivering.

"Your body is warm."

"I know," Sukuna whispered into the angel's ear.Without hesitation, he grabbed her waist, turned her towards him and then picked her up. He calmly walked over to a small three-seater sofa and sat down with her still on his lap.

"Lord Sukuna..." the demon's name came weakly from her lips as she rested her hands on his strong shoulder, drowning in the depth of his crimson eyes.

"Hm?" He murmured, looking at the face he adored so much.

"You have the most beautiful eyes I've ever seen." One of her hands reached for Sukuna's face, running her fingers gently over the marks on his face.

"I disagree. There is nothing in the Three Societies that compares to your beauty."

Sukuna's lips reached for the Angel's and captured her in a soft kiss ⸻ something that was certainly controversial given his personality. The kiss didn't last long, but it was enough to make Sukuna thirsty for more. When they parted, the Angel tried to catch her breath, but it wasn't long before Sukuna was kissing her again, this time with a certain need, an unquenchable desire to have her all to himself.

The demon sat her down on his lap, using two of his hands to hold her there while the others traveled the length of her body, decorating every little curve.

"Lord..." The angel let out a faint moan as she felt Sukuna's hand squeeze her breast.

"You're so perfect..." Ryomen murmured as he approached the angel's neck and kissed the length of it.

"Sukuna... you... you're..." the angel let out a louder moan as she felt something hard against her intimacy as Sukuna kissed her collarbone and with one of his skilful hands undid the knot of the bra she was wearing and wasted no time in sucking on one of her exposed breasts.

"How do you feel?" A mischievous smile formed on Sukuna's lips as he watched the angel's satisfied face.

"It's... good," she moaned softly.

"You seem to be enjoying it, would you like some more?" One of the hands that had been on the angel's waist moved down to her ass and she gasped as she felt a strong squeeze.

"Uhum"

"Use your words, angel," he murmured in her ear.

"Yes... please... please..."

"I'll make you feel so fucking good..."

"Do you still want to go to Umbra?"

Sukuna's question had been the first thing he had said when he had met the angel again on the way to the Lost Forest.

"Yes! I'd like to go there." The angel smiled, her cheeks flushed.

The angel thought that after what had happened between her and the demon the last time they met, it would be difficult to look him in the eye again, and perhaps she wasn't entirely wrong. Sukuna had touched her in places she had never imagined being touched so viciously. But she couldn't deny the indescribable pleasure she had felt that night.

"Okay, then, let's go to Umbra," Ryomen shrugged, as if it were no big deal.

"Wait, really?" She looked at him hopefully, hoping this wasn't just a joke.

"Yes, but you can't go to Umbra like that." Sukuna looked the angel up and down, observing her natural angelic appearance.

"What do you mean?" she tilted her head in doubt.

"If you go through the portal, you'll soon be recognised. In Umbra, things aren't as clear as your clothes."

"So what do we do?"

"Put these clothes on." Sukuna handed the angel a burgundy dress with black details.

"Shall I put it on here?" she asked, holding it to her chest.

"It's not like you've never taken your clothes off in front of me," Sukuna smiled sideways, teasing the angel.

"Lord Sukuna!" the angel said embarrassed.

"Lord Sukuna? That's not what you called me last night."

"I'll change behind that tree." She said, ignoring both Sukuna's comment and his cheeks burning with embarrassment, and went to change.

"We need to fix your wings too..." Sukuna said as soon as the angel returned ready. "Can you hide them?"

"If I have a cloak, maybe I can."

"Too risky, I think we have to stick to my main idea."

"Your main idea?" The angel looked curiously at the demon who was fiddling with his leather bag.

"Let's paint it black." He took two tins of paint from the bag.

"You really came prepared..." The angel looked at him in amazement.

Sukuna opened one of the tins of paint and positioned the Angel so that she was facing away from him. The demon wasted no time and quickly stuck his hands into the can and began to run his paint-smeared hands over the Angel's wing feathers, but she quickly pulled away, laughing at Sukuna.

"That tickles!" She turned to Sukuna with a big, bright smile as she laughed.

Sukuna just watched the Angel and felt the urge to take that sound and put it in a bottle so he could get drunk on it every night.

"I think... I think we'd better hurry so we don't waste any time." Sukuna looked away from the angel and took a deep breath, controlling the urge to take her for herself at this moment, in this place.

The angel agreed, holding back a laugh as Ryomen ran his inky hands down the length of her wings.

"We need to do something about your face," the demon said after he had finished painting the angel's wing, closing the tins of paint and taking a cloth to wipe his hands.

"My face?"

"Put this on." He handed her a lipstick and she put it on without question.

"Can we go now?" She asked excitedly.

"I think we're ready."

"Lord Sukuna, may I ask you something?" The angel's hands found the fabric of her skirt and she began to play with it, trying to distract herself.

"Hm?" He turned to the angel, waiting for her to speak.

"How do we get to Umbra?"

"Through the portal," he replied bluntly.

"But how do I get through the portal?"

"Like everyone else," Sukuna held out his hand to the angel, who took it immediately. "Unlike Oriana, there is no barrier that prevents creatures other than creatures of darkness from passing through the portal. Anyone can pass through, but most aren't curious about Umbra because it's an ugly place with a bad reputation."

"So if I'd wanted to go to Umbra all along, I could have?"

"Yes, but you'd soon be barred because you look like a creature of light, so you had to change your clothes and your wings." Sukuna replied, "And remember, under no circumstances are you to say you're from Oriana."

"All right." She said with a smile, feeling more relieved and excited for everything that was to come.

𝖀mbra, The Society Of Darkness

The Angel had never imagined that she would actually pass through the portal and visit Umbra. This moment seemed more like one of her dreams than reality, and she couldn't help but be amazed by the whole place around her ⸻ no matter how hard she tried to hide her curiosity.

Umbra was completely different from all the descriptions she had read in the books about it in Oriana and Gaia. It wasn't a pretty place, and it was certainly dark and gloomy, but it had a unique charm that enchanted her.

The ground beneath her feet was rocky and barren, dry and devoid of vegetation. The surrounding trees were basically just a twisted trunk and branches, creating a frightening and sinister appearance. The sky was dark, as Sukuna had told her, and she had no idea whether it was morning, afternoon or night.

"We're in the Dark Forest, soon we'll reach my land." Sukuna said, still holding the angel's hand and leading them through the place.

"Your land?"

"Uhum," he murmured in confirmation, "my land is not so far from the forest, but it is far from civilization."

"Why do you live so far from civilization?"

“Because I have no patience.”

And just as Sukuna said, it wasn't long before they arrived at Sukuna's home.

"Do you live in a shrine?" The angel asked as she looked at the huge Torii in front of her and a huge shrine in the background, but like everything else she had seen in the Dark Forest, it had a frightening appearance and an evil aura.

"Something like that," Sukuna shrugged as he entered his own territory with the angel. Even he couldn't believe he was taking a creature of light into his own home, something he had promised himself he would never do, in life or in death.

"Lord Sukuna." A servant bowed as he saw his master.

"Where is Uraume?" Sukuna asked the servant.

"In the kitchen, making tea for your brother."

"Really?" Sukuna rolled his eyes, ignored the servant and pulled the angel into the room.

"You have a brother?"

"Twin," Sukuna replied indifferently and led the angel into the room where he took his meals.

The Angel simply observed the interior of the sanctuary, which was much larger than it appeared. She had the feeling of being in a palace, but one that was much darker. There were many shades of black, red, grey and even gold. There weren't many paintings on the walls (at least not the kind she was looking for), but the few that were there depicted wars or monstrous animals.

"Jin..." Sukuna's boring tone made the angel turn her attention to the demon instead of her surroundings.

"Ryomen– Oh, you have a visitor?" The man called Jin turned to the angel with a friendly smile.

Jin, as Sukuna had called the man earlier, was the complete opposite of Sukuna. He was tall, but not as tall as Ryomen, and he didn't have four arms or any visible body markings. Perhaps the only similarity was the pink hair. Other than that, nothing was the same. He certainly didn't match the descriptions of demons she'd read in some of Gaia's books, and even less did he resemble some of the ones she'd met at the Human Society fair ⸻ although she didn't consider those to be any kind of parameter for characterizing the citizens of Umbra.

Sukuna quickly introduced the angel, hiding her true identity as a creature of light and calling her by her name. It was the first time Sukuna had called her by her name and not "angel", well, apart from the intimate evening they had spent on the beach when he had spared no expense in using her name.

"I'm sorry Ryomen, I didn't know you had a guest today. I just wanted to introduce you to your nephew, Itadori Yuji." Jin said with a smile on his face as he held his son in his arms.

The angel approached the baby with more curiosity than the boy's own uncle and smiled as she noticed the huge rosy cheeks and a few pink strands on his head.

"Would you like to hold him?" Jin asked the angel with a gentle smile.

"May I?" She turned to Sukuna and waited for his confirmation to hold the newborn in her arms. "He's so cute."

"His face looks like a knee." Sukuna said as he approached the angel and looked at his nephew.

"Don't say that!" The angel scolded Sukuna, who just shrugged with a mischievous smile, "He's the cutest little thing I've ever seen." She smiled at Jin and handed the baby back to him.

"Isn't he a bit small and big-headed?" Sukuna asked.

"He has the proportions of a healthy baby, and that's what's important, Ryomen," Jin said politely, "Now that I've introduced you, I'll be going home. And it was a pleasure to meet you, Miss."

"My pleasure!" The angel smiled "I hope Yuji grows up healthy."

"Thank you," Jin smiled before leaving the room.

"Well, I think I'll ask Uraume to prepare something for us to eat and then I can take you to the garden."

"Do you have a garden?" She asked in amazement, never imagining Sukuna to be the type of person to have a garden or anything like that at home.

"Don't get too excited, it's not as nice as the places I've shown you in Gaia," Sukuna said, referring to the places in Gaia that contained extravagant and unique flora.

The Angel simply sat down at the table and waited for Sukuna to return so that she could continue her questioning about Umbra and her own home. The Angel had an endless curiosity, she loved to discover new things and understand what she didn't know. Though the people of Oriana found her questions irritating and unnecessary, telling her that perhaps it was better to live in ignorance than to dwell on reality, Sukuna embraced her curiosity and answered what she knew, always answering with the truth and never trying to soften his answers. The demon never criticized her questions, or even said they were annoying or unnecessary ⸻ although at first he was a little irritated by the number of questions she asked. But he let her ask anyway, he loved the sound of her voice and found her curiosity admirable.

“You seem amused by the decorations." Sukuna sat down on the edge of the table.

"This isn't exactly how I imagined your home."

"No?"

"No, I didn't think it would have much decoration, really."

"The shrine and the land belonged to my ancestors, I just inherited everything. And making changes is a lot of work and a headache, so I decided to leave it as it was."

"Your ancestors?" The Angel asked, curious about Sukuna's past generations.

"The Great Demon King." Sukuna replied, surprising the angel and making her eyes widen.

But before she could ask him if he was joking, or even ask him about his family tree, some servants entered the hall, set the table and served the banquet. On the table were various foods that the Angel had never seen before in her life.

"If you don't like it, don't eat it," Sukuna said before starting to eat.

The angel looked at the food with fascination, but soon gave way to her desire and curiosity to learn more about Umbra's cuisine and what made it different from Oriana's and Gaia's.

"This is very good!" She smiled as she tasted one of the dishes and Sukuna just watched her, holding back a satisfied smile. He watched as she tried all the dishes, commenting on what she thought of them as if she were a judge in an eating contest.

After they were satisfied with their meal, Sukuna took her to his garden. The garden was a gloomy place, there were some trees with twisted trunks like those in the Dark Forest, there were some flowers that were shades of dark blue and purple, there were some that had black petals, there were some bushes with dried leaves and some that seemed to be rotting ⸻ something that Sukuna said was characteristic of the species itself.

The Angel approached a tree that had some flowers that seemed to be hanging from it, their petals in shades of purple and blue.

"It's a fuchsia." Sukuna said.

"It's beautiful... If I had a garden, I'd want it."

"And what's stopping you from having a garden?"

"I have no home..." The angel turned to Sukuna with a smile, but her attention was soon drawn to some sort of small house behind him. "What's that?"

"My Cerberus' house."

"Cerberus?"

"My dog. Would you like to see him?"

"Do you have a dog?" The angel asked excitedly, although she didn't have any dogs in Oriana, there were plenty of them in Gaia and she loved playing with them.

Without saying a word, Sukuna approached the little house and opened the door, revealing a huge, monstrous dog with three heads and a snake tail. The angel watched the beast with fear and took small steps backwards.

"It won't attack you." Sukuna said.

"I think I'd still prefer to keep a safe distance..."

"Come on." Ryomen held out a hand to the angel, who reluctantly took it. He took her in his arms and approached Cerberus, who was staring at them with his three heads. He didn't look like he was about to attack her, the little angel in her master's arms was no threat. Or perhaps the dog was aware of his master's feelings.

"He's kind of cute..." The angel murmured, reaching out a trembling hand to the middle head, which approached and sniffed it, soon followed by the right and left heads mimicking the movements, getting used to her scent. The middle head lowered itself, allowing her to stroke it. "And the fur is very soft..."

Without the angel noticing, Sukuna gradually let go of her and let her play with the infernal dog. He moved away a little, folding his arms across his chest. As he watched her, Sukuna began to notice things he hadn't noticed since the night before they ended up together. Though he had noticed her change in personality ⸻ something that happened when he was only in the Angel's presence ⸻ he noticed his own heart growing restless, pounding so hard against his chest that it seemed it might jump out of his body and into the Angel's delicate hands at any moment. She had been an extreme change in his life and in his own feelings. But what surprised him most about the whole situation was that he didn't even mind the change, in a way it pleased him enough. And Sukuna wouldn't complain if he could see a scene as domestic as the one that was unfolding in front of him.

If he could, he would take the Angel for himself and only for himself.

"I think he... or rather they liked me!" She said excitedly as she approached Sukuna with a smile, followed by the dog.

"Would you like to meet the civilisation of Umbra?"

"What? Are you serious?"

"If you behave, we can go."

"I'll behave, I promise!"

"I'll have the horse prepared." Sukuna said with a sideways smile, "Stay here with Cerberus until I get back. And don't be disappointed if you find that Umbra is nothing but a morbid place."

"I'm sure I won't be disappointed, because sometimes it's not the place that counts, but the company."

"Tsk... I won't be long," Sukuna turned to look for a servant with a smile still on his face.

He was fucked…

𝔊aia, The Society of Humans

Sukuna was almost one hundred percent sure that this wasn't the best idea.

It was a fact that the demon liked to keep things between him and the angel private ⸻ less public and more private. But a few weeks before this day, Sukuna had found it almost impossible to say no to the creature of light.

Not that he hadn't tried to say no. He had, many times. But his voice didn't seem to come out as he uttered that simple little word, watching the angel's hopeful face.

It was all a great dilemma for him.

And that's why the two of them, cloaked and hooded, walked through the bustling shops of Gaia, observing the stalls.

They hadn't bought anything, they were just enjoying each other's company as they walked hand in hand. They just commented to each other about the products that caught their eye at the stalls. It wasn't as if they didn't have the money to buy anything. Sukuna had enough money (and plenty of it) to buy all the stalls in the place, but he needed the Angel to really want something there for him to put his hand on his money. But the Angel didn't seem that interested.

However, what seemed to be a quiet (and romantic) afternoon went up in smoke when the Angel heard her name called out in the crowd.

She looked forward and saw her grandfather in his armour, along with other Oriana guards. They stood out from the crowd with their golden armour, which seemed to radiate light from within.

The angel squeezed Sukuna's hand, sensing her desperation, and took a few steps back.

"Angel...?" Sukuna looked at the creature of light doubtfully, sensing the awe coming from it.

"We have to get out of here!" The Angel said frantically as she ran to pull Sukuna between the tents.

The angel pulled Sukuna into the Lost Forest, but the guards and her grandfather continued to pursue them.

"What's going on?" Sukuna asked in a serious tone as he dodged an arrow.

"My grandfather is chasing me..."

"Why?”

"I argued with my grandfather. The last time I was in Oriana, we had an argument and I said something like the people of Umbra deserved our respect and that it wasn't fair to judge them mercilessly based on myths and false accusations. My grandfather didn't like his granddaughter defending those he had always tried to destroy. I just didn't know he was going to come after me– AH!!". 

The angel fell to the ground as she felt something cross her bruised wing.

Sukuna looked back angrily, searching for the archer who had shot his beloved, only to find a dozen creatures of light pointing an arrow at him. The demon just laughed mockingly at the whole situation, he couldn't spend all his time running, he had to fight too.

"Angel..." he said, catching the eye of the creature of light lying on the ground behind him, "remember you promised me you'd do whatever I wanted?"

"Sukuna–"

"Run!" Sukuna said, interrupting the angel, "Run without looking back. I'll take care of them." He knew he wouldn't be able to concentrate on the fight if he knew she was in danger.

"But..."

"I didn't think you were the type to break your promises."

"Will you find me?" The Angel asked, worried that she would never see the Demon again.

"Always."

After hearing Sukuna's answer, the angel got up, feeling a pain in her wing, and ran deeper into the forest.

Sukuna fought fiercely against the guards, who, despite being outnumbered, were no match for the demon. However, after knocking another guard to the other side of the forest, a shrill scream echoed through the place, alerting Sukuna and making his heart clench in his chest as he recognised the voice.

Running between the trees, Sukuna reached the cliff where he had taken the angel on their first encounter. But it was no longer a beautiful place, not as it had been when he was there with her, not when he knew that the scene before him would haunt him forever.

At the edge of the cliff, two of Oriana's guards held the angel tightly, and beside them lay one of her wings. Sukuna's jaw clenched at the sight of the torn wing; not even a demon would do such a thing to his own kind.

"Surrender, demon, and we'll set her free," the angel's grandfather said.

"RYOMEN, DON'T DO THIS!" The angel screamed through her tears as she tried to free herself from the guards' grip.

With each passing second, the tightness in Sukuna's chest grew as he struggled to decide what to do. He could fight all those guards (who were certainly no match for his fury), or he could surrender, accept the punishment and save the life of the only being capable of touching his heart of stone.

Not even Sukuna could believe that he, the most feared demon, would think of surrendering. Just to save the life of a creature of the light.

"Let her go and I will gladly surrender." Sukuna looked from the angel to her grandfather.

"RYO, PLEASE–" her whimper came out weak and garbled.

"Promise me she'll get out of here safely."

"Of course she'll be safe, she's my granddaughter." The angel's grandfather straightened his already upright posture, trying to convey an air of superiority that made Sukuna roll his four eyes, "All right, let's take this demon to jail."

"NO!" The angel shouted, "YOU CAN'T ARREST HIM! SUKUNA HAS DONE NOTHING"

But as the angel tried to free herself from the guards again, her body was thrown backwards, causing her to lose her balance and fall off the cliff.

Sukuna's four eyes widened in shock at the sight, and her body quickly ran to the edge of the cliff to search for the angel's body. Without one of her wings, she wouldn't have been able to fly and save herself. But when he looked down, all he saw was the angel's body being engulfed by the seawater, taking her to an unknown place and out of his reach.

In his moment of vulnerability, Sukuna was stabbed in the back and gradually his vision began to blur until it became a black screen.

𝔘mbra Maximum Security Prison

Jin watched his surroundings as one of the prison guards led the way. Never in his life had he imagined that he would be walking through Umbra's maximum security prison. Of course, he knew about his twin brother's possible imprisonment, but it had never occurred to him that he would be incarcerated in a prison that housed those who defied the laws of the Three Societies, and especially those concerning Oriana.

The guard motioned for Jin to sit in the chair facing a cell, and he simply nodded as he looked around.

Everything was so dark and damp and didn't seem to be hygienic at all. Jin took a deep breath and looked ahead, seeing his brother in the middle of the cell, bound by numerous chains that were supposed to hold him down. However, Jin soon realised that those chains weren't capable of holding his brother, they were there because Sukuna didn't want to leave, he had already accepted being in this unhealthy place.

"Are you just going to stand there and stare at me?" Sukuna's voice was hoarse. Jin would have been scared if he didn't know Sukuna.

"I was just waiting for an explanation from you."

"What?" Sukuna looked at his brother, "Do you think it's time for bedtime stories?"

"Well, if that's the only way you can explain what you're doing in this prison..."

"I have nothing to explain."

"Ryomen," Jin sighed, "you're being held in a maximum security prison, I think you owe me an explanation for that."

There was silence in the room, causing Jin to take a deep breath and wonder how his brother could be so stubborn.

"You know what kind of person is imprisoned here. Don't tell me you were pestering Oriana's government in your spare time?"

"I wasn't pestering anyone, I was just living my life."

"And how did you end up here if you were just living your life?" Jin asked, confused.

"I was living my life with an angel..." the name of the angel left his lips with a tone of melancholy mixed with the anger he felt at the whole event that had cost the life of the only person that mattered to him.

"She was an angel?" Jin's surprise only increased when he recognised the name of the person who had been with him the last time they had met. "Having a relationship with a creature of light is the worst crime a creature of darkness can commit. And you were never one to sympathize with anything or anyone related to Oriana."

"She was different from those stupid angels... and very stubborn." Sukuna sighed.

"Ryomen..." Jin called to his brother, finally understanding the whole situation that had led to his current predicament. "I thought you were involved in a murder or an attack on Oriana's government, but... Ryomen, you've fallen in love with her."

Sukuna felt a pain in his chest, as if his heart was about to be ripped out of his own body.

In love.

He was hopelessly in love with the Angel and would never be able to say such a thing to her.

"It doesn't matter anymore..." Sukuna tried to appear indifferent.

"And why not?"

"She's dead." The words Sukuna had been so afraid to say came tearing out of his throat. He had avoided saying them, hoping it would hurt less, but it didn't, it hurt just as much.

"Ryomen..." Jin murmured his brother's name. He didn't know what Sukuna was going through, let alone what was going through his mind, but Jin could imagine it. He couldn't bear it either if he lost his wife and son. "You shouldn't give up. From what little I know of the Angel, I know she would want you to carry on."

"You don't understand, Jin." Sukuna clenched his fists, "She was the purest being in the Three Societies, and yet they had the nerve to kill her. They ripped off one of her wings as if she was nothing and then killed her in the most cowardly way."

"I know that losing someone important is painful and may be a pain that never heals, but you have to move on, be strong for yourself and for them. And cherish all the moments, all the memories you shared. She can't be here with you physically, but I know her love will always be with you.”

Before either Sukuna or Jin could say anything, a guard appeared to escort Jim out of the prison. Sadly, Jin said goodbye to his brother, who remained silent, staring at a fixed point on the floor.

To honor her memory…

What the Angel wanted most of all was for the Three Societies not to be divided by laws, and for them to treat each other with respect. And if that was what she wanted, Sukuna would do anything to fulfill one of her noblest dreams, even if it meant an inevitable war.

As the barren earth of Umbra began to tremble, Sukuna found a sense of satisfaction growing in his chest.

After escaping from the maximum security prison and freeing all those held there, Sukuna had assembled an unstoppable army hungry for vengeance.

The angel was right. The people of Umbra deserved the respect of the others, and if they were incapable of giving it freely, then Sukuna would have to enforce it in an unconventional way: by starting a war after centuries of "peace".

Ryomen's thoughts turned back to the Angel. He wondered if she would be proud of him for leading the creatures to receive what they should have received years ago. Perhaps she wouldn't be so happy about the means Sukuna had chosen, but she would certainly be proud if it brought positive results.

Sukuna would turn the Three Societies into hell itself for the Angel, and that's exactly what he was going to do.

In the midst of the chaos, it wasn't difficult to invade Gaia, especially as the humans were no match for the creatures of darkness. And when Sukuna reached Oriana's portal, which prevented the dark creatures from passing through, he smiled mischievously.

There was nothing Sukuna couldn't do, and no portal would stop him from avenging the Angel's unjust death.

With his four hands clenched into a powerful fist, Sukuna punched the portal until it shattered into tiny, insignificant pieces. A sigh escaped his lips, it had been easier than he had thought.

𝕺riana, The Society of Light

As he stepped through the portal, the demon immediately noticed the golden sky and the great buildings hovering above him ⸻ just as the Angel had described them to him long ago.

There was certainly something angelic about Oriana, but he knew that the vast majority of the creatures of Light were as rotten as the trunks of the Dark Forest.

Almost at the centre of the entire Society of Light civilisation, Sukuna noticed a large building that resembled a temple, made of white marble and decorated with gold and gems that reflected the light.

If the Angel's grandfather was anywhere, he had to be there.

As some of the creatures of darkness entered Oriana and fought with the guards of light, Sukuna was busy trying to figure out how to get to the top while dodging the attacks coming his way. After climbing some sort of golden tree, Sukuna arrived at the temple, causing the whole place to shake.

"Demon." The angel's grandfather appeared on the other side of the temple, holding his bow with an upright posture that conveyed superiority, something frightening, but not to Ryomen. "What do you think you're doing?"

"A war?" Ryomen shrugged.

"And why are you starting a war after centuries of peace?"

"Peace?" A dark laugh left Sukuna's lips, "You creatures of the light treat my people with contempt, imposing laws that only benefit you and branding all creatures of the dark as villains. We have stood by and tolerated you for many years."

"And why now? Why are you revealing yourselves now?"

"Because I didn't care before... until you took the one good thing from me."

"If you hadn't got involved with my granddaughter, she'd still be here!"

"Oh really..." Sukuna rolled his eyes and attacked, hitting the Angel's grandfather square in the face.

Ryomen felt his anger take over as he viciously attacked the creature of light. There was nothing left to stop him, for the only thing that had any influence over him was no longer at his side.

"She..." the creature of light choked on his own blood, "My granddaughter... still lives..."

Sukuna felt a hand close around the angel's grandfather's neck.

"She's... she's in the... Sacred Garden..."

"And where is that?" he asked harshly.

"Behind... the temple..."

"If that's a lie, know that I'll cut you seven feet to the ground myself." The demon struck the creature of light one last time, knocking it unconscious, and made his way back to the temple.

The Sacred Garden was a place beyond Sukuna's imagination. There was a huge pond of crystal clear, translucent water surrounded by a garden of gold and white flowers and some fruit trees. Although it was a beautiful sight, the angel hadn't lied when she said that everything in Oriana followed the same colors.

In the midst of the flowers, and facing a defoliated golden trunk, was a glass coffin in which the angel lay serenely.

Ryomen felt his heart clench in his chest as he approached the glass coffin. One of his hands rested on the glass, incredulous and afraid that this was his own mind playing tricks on him.

He had spent days believing that his beloved, sweet angel had died, blaming himself and angry at himself for being her undoing. But there she was. Lying serenely, just as he remembered her.

Then Sukuna opened the glass lid of the coffin and a hand reached for the angel's icy face.

"Forgive me..." the words came from his lips like a breeze and he slowly approached her face to kiss her goodbye before returning to the war.

But as Ryomen reluctantly pulled away from the angel, she slowly opened her eyes, startling the demon.

"Ryo?" She asked confusedly, trying to tune into her memories.

Sukuna whispered her name and took her in his arms, nuzzling her against his strong arm. Oh, how he had missed feeling her in his arms.

"What happened?" she asked, confused.

"It doesn't matter anymore..." He replied, running a hand through the angel's hair. His hands moved down to her face, gently caressing her cheek before kissing her.

𝕾omewhere in Gaia, The Society of Humans

With a small porcelain watering can, the angel smiled as she watered her fuchsias, which were growing every day. She looked at the blooming flower in front of her and remembered the day she had fallen in love with it. Surely it was a memory that would live forever in her heart.

She walked through the small garden and into the house, where she saw her husband sharpening one of his knives while drinking tea.

"Jin sent a letter." With a smile on her face, she approached the demon and sat on his lap.

"He always sends letters."

"It's Yuuji's birthday, he's turning five." She smiled excitedly.

"That brat only has birthdays and never grows up," Sukuna huffed, dropping the objects in his hand to hug his beloved's body, one of his hands running up her back, stopping on the angel scar where one of her wings should have been.

"I know you like Yuuji deep inside." The Angel approached Ryomen's face and kissed him.

"Perhaps, but there are things I like better." A mischievous smile formed on Sukuna's lips as he approached the angel's neck. He planted a kiss on a particular spot of her neck, sending shivers down her spine.

Five years ago, the Angel broke one of the most sacred laws of the Three Societies, the one that prevented contact between a creature of Light and a creature of Darkness. And five years ago, Sukuna Ryomen led an army to avenge her (presumed) death, ready to fulfill her wish for unity between the Three Societies. Five years ago, the Three Societies signed a peace treaty that did not prevent contact between them, but encouraged cultural exchange between the societies.

But all that was over, as was the law that forbade love between a creature of light and a creature of darkness. And now the angel could live out her dream, enjoying a peaceful life with her beloved. And Sukuna, well, he had found the peace he had dreamed of. He had no more worries, not when his whole world was safe in his four arms.

© seonghrtz, 2024. all rights reserved, please do not copy / steal / translate / modify any of my works !

[radiance1]

Apparently, Shazam was friends with a dragon.

No one, not even the core members, knew of this. But that fact was prominently displayed when they were fighting off an invasion.

One lead by the apparent Ghost King, who was known for his strength and tyranny, who declared war on humanity after having been summoned by cultists. His ghostly army being fought off for days on end, being lead by a general known as the Fright Knight, before he himself, decided to grace the battlefield with his presence.

Superman, Wonder Woman, Shazam, Zatanna. Every heavy hitter they could spare was fighting against the Ghost King, the Fright Knight being fought against by Batman, Green Lantern, Constantine with the Flash keeping mostly to fending off the giant army along with various other heroes.

It was a tough fight, fighting tooth and nail to not give an inch of ground.

Until, from a portal came a large eastern dragon with glowing green eyes, glowing white scales and mane that looked Majestic as it did deadly. The heroes weren't optimistic enough to think it was help, not for them, but rather for the invading force.

Of course, such they were surprised when instead of fighting any of them, the being instead rammed its body straight into the Ghost King, knocking him back and releasing Shazam from his grip, and all the way from across the battlefield did he stare at the Fright Knight, and glared.

The Fright Knight stood down.

The Ghost King got up and shrugged off the attack, running a hand through his hair as he stared as the dragon was hovering around Shazam rather protectively and, with a simple raise of his hand, the entire army ceased their attack.

The dragon seemed to shift, long body shortening as he transformed into a more humanish form, tail and horns still present, with a crown floating above his head, he crossed his arms and stared down the Ghost King who, for his credit, simply stared back.

The stare went on for a while, the air seemingly more awkward rather than tense. Then, the draconic humanoid grabbed onto the nearby Shazam, various heroes tensing, before placing the man in front of him, putting his chin down on his head, and then starts yelling at the King for waging war on humanity just because he made a human friend.

The Ghost King, who just a few minutes ago was waging war on humanity, seemed more of a tired father, rather than the mad tyrant raging on the battlefield. He just stayed silent, taking all of the yelling as if this was the usual before, as the (apparent) prince was catching his breath, he stated his reasoning rather calmly.

He just wanted to test and accurately gauge the strength of the Champion of Magic, stating that only the strongest would have the right to stand alongside his son.

The Prince immediately called bullshit.

And the Ghost King agreed, he really did just want to wage war, though he wished it would have lasted longer, the mortal warriors (and Demi-goddess) proved themselves to be quite the challenging foes.

A few minutes later, the Ghost King was leaving, calling off the war and sending his soldiers back to the zone. Before the king himself left, however, he directed a thumbs up at all those who fought him in direct combat, then left, the Fright Knight and Batman were in a stare off, both silent and instead seemed to be having a conversation with their eyes than words.

Then they grunted at each other, nodded, and the fright Knight left.

In the League room, the Ghost Prince was apologizing for the behavior of his father, more prominently to Shazam the most.

[reasonsforhope]

"GNN has reported several times over the last three years about large baleen whales returning to waters in which they haven’t been sighted for decades.

Now again, news from Argentina shows that the benefits of the 1946 International Convention for the Regulation of Whaling are still compounding, with sei whales returning to the South American nation’s coastal waters for the first time in nearly a [century].

Overhunting during the 1920s and 1930s led these massive blue-grey giants to abandon their ancestral waters in Argentina.

“After nearly a century of being hunted to near extinction, sei whale populations are now bouncing back and returning to their former habitats,” said Mariano Coscarella, a biologist and marine ecosystem researcher at Argentina’s CONICET scientific agency, who added that the whales “reproduce every two or three years, so it nearly took 100 years for their population to reach a level where people could notice their presence.”

The third largest whale in the world, the sei can grow up to 64 feet (20 meters) in length and weigh up to 31 tons (28 tonnes). It’s also among the fastest whales in the world, and is certainly the fastest for its size group. It can swim 31 mph over short distances.

Despite being recognized on the IUCN Red List as Endangered, there are estimated to be 50,000 sei whales in a global population that is trending up.

Apart from sei whales and Argentina, a recent survey in the Seychelles sighted 10 groups of at least a few blue whales, the first such observations since 1966.

Back in March, a New England Aquarium aerial survey team sighted a gray whale off the New England coast last week, a species that has been extinct in the Atlantic for more than 200 years.

The largest animal on Earth, the blue whale, is returning to coastal Californian waters in numbers not seen since before the whaling industry, GNN reported in 2023 based on a 2014 survey.

And down in Antarctica, where many different whale species come to feed and breed, recent surveys have found the Southern Ocean is once again becoming a Sarengetti for whales, with an estimated 8,000 Southern fin whales found between 2018 and 2019."

-via Good News Network, May 16, 2024

[lady-boketto]

Gyomei Himejima General Headcanons (Sfw/Nsfw)

a/n: I hope i did this right but anyway, I have a lot of ideas but i don't really know how to right them out and his is my first time actually drumming up the courage to post anything lmao but after writing this I had a lot of fun and actually feel more confident in writing headcanons but let me know what you think! :)

SFW (Safe for Work)

Gyomei is a man who is very in tune with his feelings, so he's very attentive to your emotions and when you're not feeling quite like yourself so he likes to help you out when you're not feeling well or when you ask him to hold you, he always welcomes you into his strong arms with a warm smile on his face

when someone comes to confide in him, Gyomei is more of the type of person to listen to your problems or stories that you want to tell him than he is at trying to come up with topics or solutions to talk about but he will comfort you with ressasuring words if he feels like you need it and always has a warm smile on his face when you approach him

Sometimes when Gyomei has time to himself to relax and unwind in his own space it is often interrupted by someone (his comrades or you, his beloved) not that he minds at all at their presence he actually welcomes them as he found with time that the people around him naturally gravitate towards him and tend to be comfortable enough to share stories with him which he's more than happy to listen and be engaged in anything they might say, Gyomei suspects it might be due to the mixture of his large stature and calm demeanor that people naturally feel that they are protected and puts those around him at ease

Due to people casually coming and talking to him, Gyomei is a bit of a gossip and likes to know things but doesn't really do anything with the information, he doesn't like to start drama or be around it, he would rather be spending time at home with you, he'd take a seat in the lounge area and when he has made himself comfortable he'd raise his hand out to gesture for you to come and sit with him so he can tell you all the stories he has collected since you last spoke with a wide grin on his face

He may be blind but that doesn't mean that he is completely useless, in reality Gyomei has learned how to compensate for his short comings in a way that makes the people around him forget that he is even blind

tries to hide how amused he is when you forget that he is blind (ex. when you try to show him something interesting or when you comment on how dark the room is)

he loves it when the both of you have the time to relax and enjoy each other's company, especially the warm afternoons where he can sit in the grass without a care as you are relaxing peacefully in his lap, reading out loud to him the book that you picked up from the markets while he was out on his last mission.

also there are days where he likes to sit outside ( by himself or with you) and play his shakuhachi ( it's like a flute but sounds so majestic lol) , he doesn't know a lot of songs but likes to play notes and find which ones sound good together and plays little random tunes ( sometimes he makes up lyrics to go with the melody but most times its just meaningless tunes)

Gyomei has two weaknesses and that's: you and cats. It's a struggle for him to balance the two but with persuasion ( he secretly likes to be complimented and hugs, especially when you hug his arm) he will choose you with little to slightly moderate regret to the stray he saw on his way home from his meeting with the leader and the rest of the hashira.

Gyomei especially has a fascination with the maine coon cat breed not only because they are one of the biggest breeds of cat but because they are rather social creatures like Gyomei himself, they don't mind spending time around other people. He also finds it very funny when he get to spend time with a maine coon cat and he feels them softly making biscuits on his haori when he's trying to pet the other cats or talking to you

NSFW (Not Safe for Work)

Gyomei likes to praise you in bed so that he can feel the heat rise from your skin under his large hands

not really the one to risk getting caught doing anything other than kisses on the cheek or a loving embrace in front of others

there's a whole another side behind close doors and in your shared space, he becomes more desperate for your touch and especially loves it when you roam you hands down his chest and shoulders, he blushes and softly sighs when you pay more attention to his thighs ( lightly moans if you lightly drag you nails down his mid thigh)

Gyomei's ears are very sensitive and likes to hear your voice (has a thing for your voice) so he enjoys every little noise you make for him, it ties a knot in his stomach when you lowly whisper in his ear how much you desire him and he more than happy to comply to your wants

Another area that is sensitive for Gyomei is his neck and collarbone, he can't help but squirm and firmly hold you by your waist as you are on top of him and attacking his neck with kisses and bites

The one thing he doesn't mind other people seeing is the love bites you (or hickies) leave on his neck because most people that he talks to are actually too anxious to tease him about them when they catch the sight of them peeking out of his uniform, but little do they know he knows what they are nervous about because although he can't see the chain of marks you've left, he smirks to himself as he body shivers with the slight sting of pain when he traces his fingers over his neck as he remembers your touch

Gyomei likes to rely on his other senses to please you in the bed room and due to not having the proper time to go out and meet people it has left him a little touch starved so he loves to use his mouth on your body

He wants nothing more than to kiss your body on the parts you are most sensitive to and tell you how much you brighten his world by being in it and telling you how lucky he is to call you his lover while his hands are working to bring you closer your desire of coming undone in front of him

He is a bit embarrassed to admit to you but loves to use his mouth on your chest and moans like crazy when he has one of your nipples in his mouth, also likes to feel up your hips and thighs as he works his mouth on your chest

Gyomei's favorite places to kiss you are your lips and inner thighs because he secretly love how needy and how vocal you get for him (it makes his chest swell with a sense of pride and wants nothing more than to hear you praise him more so he can do his best for you)

He doesn't like to use his full strength on you in fear of hurting you in some way, unless you specifically ask him so to do or that you managed to work him up so much that he can't control himself and has to set a boundary to show you who is in charge of the current situation by sneaking up behind you with a firm press of his hips to your behind or when his hands find their way to your neck to put a light pressure, warning you to behave for him or else he'll have to use drastic measures on you if you dare to test him further)

if you'd let him if would love to cum inside you, he likes it when you beg for him to cum inside you (the heat of the moment makes the both of you blush like crazy) especially Gyomei because he doesn't stop thrusting his hips until you're both coming down from the high of the moment (he loves to feel you spasm and eventually relax against his body)

Gyomei always makes sure to take care of you after you are both done, he's amazing at massages (he's very good with his hands) and will clean you up or run the bath for you with your favorite soaps and scented oils or he will gladly get you a glass of icy cold water with the small ice cubes that are so easy to crunch with your teeth (whatever you want or need, Gyomei is ready and willing to serve your every need)

[whencyclopedia]

Book of Kells

The Book of Kells (c. 800) is an illuminated manuscript of the four gospels of the Christian New Testament, currently housed at Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland. The work is the most famous of the medieval illuminated manuscripts for the intricacy, detail, and majesty of the illustrations. It is thought the book was created as a showpiece for the altar, not for daily use, because more attention was obviously given to the artwork than the text.

The beauty of the lettering, portraits of the evangelists, and other images, often framed by intricate Celtic knotwork motifs, has been praised by writers through the centuries. Scholar Thomas Cahill notes that, “as late as the twelfth century, Geraldus Cambrensis was forced to conclude that the Book of Kells was “the work of an angel, not of a man” owing to its majestic illustrations and that, in the present day, the letters illustrating the Chi-Rho (the monogram of Christ) are regarded as “more presences than letters” on the page for their beauty (165). Unlike other illuminated manuscripts, where text was written and illustration and illumination added afterwards, the creators of the Book of Kells focused on the impression the work would have visually and so the artwork was the focus of the piece.

Origin & Purpose

The Book of Kells was produced by monks of St. Columba's order of Iona, Scotland, but exactly where it was made is disputed. Theories regarding composition range from its creation on the island of Iona to Kells, Ireland, to Lindisfarne, Britain. It was most likely created, at least in part, at Iona and then brought to Kells to keep it safe from Viking raiders who first struck Iona in 795, shortly after their raid on Lindisfarne Priory in Britain.

A Viking raid in 806 killed 68 monks at Iona and led to the survivors abandoning the abbey in favor of another or their order at Kells. It is likely that the Book of Kells traveled with them at this time and may have been completed in Ireland. The oft-repeated claim that it was made or first owned by St. Columba (521-597) is untenable as the book was created no earlier than c. 800, but there is no doubt it was produced by later members of his order.

The work is commonly regarded as the greatest illuminated manuscript of any era owing to the beauty of the artwork and this, no doubt, had to do with the purpose it was made for. Scholars have concluded that the book was created for use during the celebration of the mass but most likely was not read from so much as shown to the congregation.

This theory is supported by the fact that the text is often carelessly written, contains a number of errors, and at points certainly seems an afterthought to the illustrations on the page. The priests who would have used the book most likely already had the biblical passages memorized and so would recite them while holding the book, having no need to read from the text.

Scholar Christopher de Hamel notes how, in the present day, “books are very visible in churches” but that in the Middle Ages this would not have been the case (186). De Hamel describes the rough outline of a medieval church service:

There were no pews (people usually stood or sat on the floor), and there would probably have been no books on view. The priest read the Mass in Latin from a manuscript placed on the altar and the choir chanted their part of the daily office from a volume visible only to them. Members of the congregation were not expected to join in the singing; some might have brought their Books of Hours to help ease themselves into a suitable frame of mind, but the services were conducted by the priests. (186)

The Book of Kells is thought to have been the manuscript on the altar which may have been first used in services on Iona and then certainly was at the abbey of Kells. The brightly-colored illustrations and illumination would have made it an exceptionally impressive piece to a congregation, adding a visual emphasis to the words the priest recited while being shown to the people; much in the way one today would read a picture book to a small child.

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