#a doodle i made during my lunch break today

[monsieuroverlord]

One of Marvel's Pride Stories this year, apparently:

(Hi, still internally screaming, thanks for checking in!)

[omniaimy]

Highschool Sweetheart

A/N: HEYYY OKay so here is my first fiction about Wilbur Soot. Its a wilbur x reader one shot. This is the story of how you guys met and what you two have become. This story has a good and happy ending.

ANYWAY I take requests and suggestions for fanfictions from now on! If i made any spelling errors, feel free to let me know! I learn from my mistakes!

This is MY AU, not rlly a specific one. But this is played in the real world!

ENJOYY!!!!

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Once upon a time, in the quaint town of Willowbrook, two high school students, Wilbur and Y/n, were destined to find love in the most unexpected way. They had been classmates for years but never paid much attention to each other until one fateful day during their senior year.

It was a sunny afternoon, and the school's annual charity fair was in full swing. Wilbur, a lanky and awkward guy with a passion for writing and music, was helping out at the book stall. Y/n, on the other hand, was a kind-hearted and artistic soul, volunteering to run the face painting booth.

Wilbur had always admired Y/n's talent and creativity from afar, but today, he mustered the courage to talk to her. With his heart pounding, he approached her booth and asked if she could draw a butterfly on his cheek.

Y/n flashed a warm smile and happily obliged. As she painted the delicate butterfly, they engaged in casual conversation about their interests, dreams, and favorite books. Wilbur felt an instant connection with her, and Y/n enjoyed his witty sense of humor and genuine personality.

From that moment on, Wilbur and Y/n found themselves seeking each other's company whenever they could. They started sitting together during lunch breaks, sharing stories, and discovering their mutual love for storytelling and adventure.

One afternoon, they stumbled upon an old, abandoned treehouse at the edge of the woods near their school. Intrigued by the hidden gem, they decided to restore it together, turning it into their secret sanctuary. Over time, they filled the walls with their poetry, doodles, and cherished memories.

As graduation day approached, their bond grew stronger, and their friendship bloomed into something deeper. On the night of the senior prom, Wilbur gathered all his courage and asked Y/n to be his date. With a gleam in her eyes, she accepted his invitation, feeling elated and grateful that she would share such a special night with him.

At the prom, they danced the night away under twinkling lights, feeling as if they were the only two people in the room. Their hearts soared as they shared their first dance as a couple, surrounded by the promise of a bright future.

After high school, they attended separate colleges but managed to maintain their relationship through letters, calls, and occasional visits. Despite the distance, their love only grew stronger, and they knew they had found something extraordinary.

As college came to an end, Wilbur and Y/n made the life-changing decision to move to Brighton together. They found jobs in their respective fields, and soon enough, they moved into a cozy apartment near the same woods where they first discovered the treehouse.

On a beautiful summer evening, under the canopy of the old tree, Wilbur got down on one knee and asked Y/n to marry him. With tears of joy streaming down her cheeks, Y/n said yes, and they sealed their love with a passionate kiss.

Their love story had come full circle, from high school classmates to life partners. As they prepared for their wedding day, the town of Willowbrook (they decided to have their weding in the town the had first met) buzzed with excitement and joy, celebrating the union of two souls destined to be together.

And so, on a sunny afternoon, just like the day they first met, Wilbur and Y/n exchanged vows in front of family and friends. Their love had stood the test of time, from high school to adulthood, and they were ready to embark on a new chapter of their lives hand in hand.

With love, laughter, and the shared memories of their treehouse adventures, Wilbur and Y/n proved that sometimes, the most beautiful love stories are born from the simplest of moments. And as they looked into each other's eyes, they knew that their love would continue to grow, making every day better than the last, forevermore.

[bubblegumrush]

T𝕙𝕖 D𝕒𝕪 𝕠𝕗 𝕥𝕙𝕖 O𝕡𝕖𝕣𝕒𝕥𝕚𝕠𝕟⌇𝙼𝚊𝚔𝚘𝚝𝚘 𝚂𝚞𝚗𝚊𝚔𝚊𝚠𝚊 𝚡 𝚁𝚎𝚊𝚍𝚎𝚛⌇𝖬𝗒 𝖫𝗈𝗏𝖾 𝖲𝗍𝗈𝗋𝗒!!

Chapter Three

Today was June 15th...

You started to sweat as you looked up at the big building standing in front of you. "Ugh…What if he doesn’t want me there?" You groaned, ‘’Well, I can just tell him my mom sent me." You took a deep breath and walked through the automatic doors.

"I. Hate. This." You entered the hospital, nervously glancing around at the waiting room until you spotted a depressed figure.

That figure turned directly at you as they felt your eyes on them.

He let out a big sigh, "I kinda had a feeling you weren’t going to listen to me." He said this while walking towards you.

"…"

"When’s the operation?"

"It’s at 2."

You looked up at the big center clock that hung above the reception desk. "It’s 1:55…" You looked back at him, "Umm… I brought snacks and a lunch since I know surgery usually lasts a long time." You handed him a big bag full of food and drinks.

He looked at the size of the bag and gulped, "This is-"

"I know. I know. It’s a lot, but trust me, stress eating can make you eat more than you normally do. Well, at least I do."

He left out a small chuckle, which made you slightly relieved at his condition. However, you two got interrupted when one of the nurses informed you that the surgery was about to begin.

"Y/N," Sunakawa spoked, stopping you in your tracks. "This time, I’m serious. Go home. This could take all day, and you shouldn’t have to waste your time on it. So, go home." He said it sternly.

You frowned at his words, "I don-"

"Go home." He said it again, looking right into your eyes.

"Fine. But you better eat during the surgery."

With those words of agreement, he made his way to the operating room. But before he left too far, you screamed as loud as the room allowed you to.

"Sunakawa!"

He smiled to himself, knowing you would do this, before turning around to look at you.

"Good luck, and remember to keep your head up high!"

He gave you a small nod before continuing on his path. As soon as he left your view, you walked towards the waiting room and waited. It’s not like you were going home, as if.

You were doodling on your notepad until a small piece of folding paper landed at your feet. You picked up the blue-colored paper and looked at the direction it came from. You saw a petite girl quickly folding paper cranes at the corner of the waiting room, and you decided to walk up to her and give her back the paper.

"H-hi, you dropped this." You showed her the blue thing in your hands.

"Oh! Thank you so much; I didn’t even realize I dropped it since I have so many..." She thanked you, "I doubt I’ll fold nearly enough cranes…"

She sighed; a face of despair shone across her face, but a smile appeared directly after as she gave herself words of encouragement. "This is for a good cause…You can do this, Yamato!" She whispered to herself.

You stood awkwardly, looking at her hard work spread across the floor; she had at least twenty already made. "I-if you want, I can help you. I’m pretty good at paper folding." You suggested.

A big smile plastered across her face as soon as you suggested you help, "Of course! Here, take a sit." She handed you a pile of colorful paper. "Thank you so much; I really hoped to be able to do 1000 paper cranes. With your help, I’m sure we’ll be able!"

1000…paper cranes….

"I doubt 1000 is a possible thing to do for just one day… but hey, we can always try." You smiled, entertaining her idea of making 1000 paper cranes in one sitting.

You two girls sat in the lobby of the hospital, slowly warming to each other and opening up and talking about discussions you would have as friends.

Nonetheless, after the whole afternoon spent with each other and even a shared convenience store dinner together, the topic of names or shared contacts never came up. How bizarre…

"I’m gonna take a little bathroom break; I’ll be back in a minute." You told her, heading to the bathroom, when you suddenly heard the intercom telling the hospital visitors that visiting hours were soon over.

So, you hurried up to the bathroom, and when you came back, more people surrounded where you sat.

Two familiar figures came into view as you walked closer and closer, suddenly realizing it was Sunakawa and Takeo.

"Ah, you’re back. That was the girl I was telling you guys about; she helped me make all these paper cranes." She looked at you and smiled.

Both guys looked at each other confused when, all of a sudden, Sunakawa started to laugh out loud while Takeo started to piece things together.

"Y/N? You know Yamato?" He looked at you but then turned his gaze towards the other girl and said, "Yamato, you know Y/N?"

You looked at Yamato, then processed the situation that you were hanging out with your brother’s girlfriend the whole time, but you didn’t realize it. And the same goes for Yamato, who gets embarrassed knowing who you were.

"Ah! I’m so sorry; I didn’t introduce myself properly. This is so embarrassing…. I didn’t think I was talking to Takeo’s sister…" She shyly said it, her face flushed red from being embarrassed. "Nice to meet you; my name is Rinko Yamato!" she quickly introduced herself, bowing to you.

"Haha, it’s nice to meet you too, Yamato; I’m Y/N Gouda." You bowed back, "But don’t worry, it’s not your fault. I didn’t realize it either. I think the fault lies with someone else…"

You slowly turned towards Takeo, shooting death glares in his direction. "It’s your fault for always forgetting." You started accusing him.

He looked away, pretending to be innocent of the blame. *Cough* "I think we should change subject." *Cough*

"You sly fox... But yes, Sunakawa. How was the operation?" You asked, changing the conversation as Takeo had wanted.

You and Yamato were still in the dark about everything and were all so eager to know the results.

"The operation went well." He said it calmly, rapping the paper cranes around his neck.

"Really?!" Both of you exclaimed. "Thank goodness! That’s great!" She cheered.

"I went to the planetarium…But I was worried, so I came here, and that’s when Y/N and I met and started making paper cranes…" she explained to the boys.

"Yeah, I know 1000’s the number for good luck, but we only got to 100…" you added.

"Sorry about today, Yamato." Takeo apologized.

"No, it’s fine." She reassured, "I looked at your plan and at how many changes you’d made. You put so much thought into making my birthday wonderful, Takeo! And that makes me so happy! So, thank you." She explained tearfully.

"Thank you so much…" She added, "Today was my best birthday ever!"

As you and Sunakawa stood by the sidelines, watching the couple interact with each other, you giggled at how cute this all was.

"Seeing you guys like this is nice." Sunakawa spoke up, which made everyone turn in his direction. "Uh…er…"

"Do you want a girlfriend, Suna?!" Takeo asked, responding to his earlier statement.

"Um…"

"I could introduce you to someone from my school!" Yamato suggested getting her phone out.

"No, don’t do that. Please." He flatly denied it.

You laughed at them, watching them while standing apart from the group, as you started to feel a burning feeling coming inside your body. It was probably the convenience food, or maybe something else…

"He’d probably be happiest with someone he’s been friends for a long time!" Yamato exclaimed, looking at Takeo, who agreed wholeheartedly.

"That makes sense!"

"I think Sunakawa needs a girl just like you, Takeo!" Yamato declared, adding to her earlier comment.

"Guys…" You intruded on the conversation, just to end up being ignored.

"Yeah, of course! A girl like me, Huh?!" Takeo continued to agree with Yamato, going on and on about this dream girl.

"Please just stop…" Sunakawa said, defeated by their energy.

"Wouldn’t it be nice?" You asked, moving next to him.

"Huh?" he questioned.

"I mean, you’re so close to Takeo. Wouldn’t it be nice to find someone just like him?" You clarified.

"Mayb-"

"But then again, it’d be impossible to find someone like Takeo!" You mentioned interrupting him in his sentence. "He’s just so unique!"

As you continued spewing about how it’s impossible to have someone like Takeo in this world, Sunakawa looked at you, or more accurately, gazed at you, getting a similar feeling of familiarity as he talked to you. "You…"

"Mmh? Did you say something?" You asked, turning your gaze to him, but he only smiled at you and shook his head.

"Ah, imagine a double date!" Yamato fantasized, still continuing their conversations about this imaginary girlfriend.

"We’re still on this…" Sunakawa sighed, getting annoyed at the subject.

"Maybe Y/N…?"

You all turned your heads towards the voice that made this suggestion. "I-I mean, Y/N’s like me; she’s known Suna since forever, and she’s super pretty, so it’s..." Takeo started to sweat from all the eyes on him. "W-well, I mean not Y/N exactly, but more of someone like Y/N."

Suddenly, the atmosphere of the conversation got really awkward, really quick.

"Yes, I agree. Someone caring and sweet like Y/N." Yamato quickly agreed, making the awkwardness slowly disappear.

"…Yes, someone like me. And not…me." You stated it slowly, not liking the fact that you had to say it out loud.

In the corner of your eye, you saw Sunakawa’s face slowly turning from annoyed to flustered. ‘How cute, getting flustered over this.’ You thought to yourself.

A few minutes later, you four got kicked out of the hospital as visiting hours were over. So, you each went your separate ways, with Yamato and Takeo going one way and you and Sunakawa going the other way.

"Do you want to come over to my place?" You suggested, "You know, since I doubt your family is home right now."

"You stayed..." He mumbled loud enough for you to hear.

"Huh? Of course. Why wouldn’t I?" You responded, "What? You thought I left? I don’t get intimidated by you." You confidently mocked his earlier attitude.

"Sorry about earlier; I didn’t mean to be so harsh." He apologized, looking down at the ground.

"Don’t sweat it; I don’t get hurt easily." You shrugged, giving him a hard pat on the back. "So, are you coming over?"

"Sure, if it doesn’t bother your parents."

"Great! When we get back, I’ll make a huge bowl of ramen because I’m famished! Famished, I say!" You declared it to the world, walking in front of him.

He chuckled, walking a few steps behind you.

[faraway-sunshine]

How did school go??

Alright, I guess?

Mom drove me today and we arrived a bit early, but she had to dash after to make it to work on time. I had to walk into the office and hand in my medical certificate and other forms alone.

The lady at the office must have asked me something I didn't hear, because when I didn't reply she assumed I mustn't know much English and asked a girl who was licking stamps at the back to escort me to class because we have the same homeroom.

She didn't look too happy about it, but she clarified to me that it wasn't my fault, it was because she's Vietnamese and the office lady always thinks she's Japanese or Chinese for some reason when she doesn't know either language (or even that much Vietnamese).

Anyway, once Hana (the girl) escorted me to homeroom it was mostly normal. We did icebreaker activities but I'd prepared a response for "tell me something interesting about yourself" that kept me off the radar ("I moved here over the summer"). The other kids seem nice. There was only one kid absent, and Hana explained that it was likely because he was still flying back from visiting his grandparents in Corsica.

My homeroom teacher's really nice. His name's Mr Salim. As well as homeroom, he teaches Art History to the older levels and Social Studies to the younger ones. He didn't push me when I took my headphones out during an activity, instead waiting until everyone else went on break to ask if there's anything I want him to know in future.

I also managed to eat most of my lunch, though the sandwich got all soggy and I had to stop trying it after a few swallows as it got stuck and made me feel sick. I didn't risk the lunch line and just sat with Hana, whose only friend was the one in Corsica so she was otherwise alone. She was busy doodling in a notebook, though I couldn't see what. Having someone else who draws in the class is nice.

Sorry, that's a lot. I'm just getting a lot typed down before I'm too tired to reply anymore.

(Tuesday 5th September, 2000, 5:45 PM)

[keefwho]

February 27 - 2024 Tuesday

11:06pm

6/10

Very busy day today. This morning I just picked up a little again and got my laundry in the washer. I made a grilled cheese and bean soup for breakfast. Watched Bluey as usual.

During work today I read out all the fresh idea submissions, not particularly good or bad. I tried working on a pic of my otter that doubles as a YCH but someone was getting upset about it and I wasn't sure about the subject matter myself so I stopped for now. I moved on to some doodling. Today's episode of Sagwa started doing the thing PBS shows do where they interview actual kids mid episode and that was too much so we're going to stop watching it.

After stream I contacted Sun about drawing her OC but she hasn't gotten back to me. I also called my dad finally and thanked him for the nice necklace he sent me. I also made conversation about things I've been doing for once instead of being reserved and quiet. I told Daisy about it and also about other important things going on with me right now. For lunch I made mac n cheese, a granola bar, and applesauce. Granola bars used to be a treat but I'm getting kind of sick of them. It might also be the slightly burned batch I got. I played a little bit more of Ena's game. I forgot to read up on the Self chapter in my ACT book so I squeezed that in at the very end of my lunch break.

I did today's request, initially searching for a group to chat in but I decided I didn't actually feel social so I got some ambient rain sound and a stream and turned the volume way up to focus. For an hour I made Earthbound sprites of Daisy and I and also worked on another pic of solo Adora. I wanted to work on Sun's drawing today but she hadn't responded yet. Also Fiona but it was the same case. I contacted her on Twitter though so she may never see it. After drawing I started work on a variant of my avatar with dog gear. So far a collar, leash, ears, muzzle, and bone. Daisy called while I worked on it, she was cutting out the fur for her fursuit. We watched some furry videos and then an episode of Bojack. I was upset because Hollyhock is out of the show now with a very unsatisfying exit. Then we put on more of the Zelda review while she finished up. We moved to Just Dance for a bit before bed. In bed I played through the 102 Dalmatians Ice level. After Daisy fell asleep, I treated myself to a little me time with the intention of doing it guilt free.

~~~

I was so busy today, it was one thing after the next. I never stopped. I was truly tired at the end of the day which made it hard to pick something to watch when Daisy prompted. I'm happy she wants to encourage things I wanna do but sometimes I honestly want to do nothing but be in her company and decompress. I had meant to make time to play Helldivers with Samuel but never got time. Jared hit me up to play too and I suggested we try tomorrow since I was already busy. I've been thinking a lot about my sexual shame today and how that might improve as I improve my self respect and awareness. Hopefully I can just start having good nuts again. Other things have been on my mind but they are not helpful so I've been remembering to practice defusion to at least put them off until a more relevant time. It's getting tiring trying to focus my thinking and connecting with my conscious self. I wanna let it all go and just rest. There's a couple of times today I wished I had better perspective during but at least I can do it after the fact.

3 things that made me happy today:

Standing up for my decisions during stream.

Getting so much work done.

Calling my dad finally and opening up.

[jellybeandrawsthings]

☹️hi i dont usually do this thing where i ask for art/thoughts on things but ive had a super bad day and i was just curious as to what your take on your wounded-on-krypton Kara would be doing with Lena if she hadn't of come out as Supergirl but they still met and fell in love- would Kara just be floating around Lena's apartment during quarantine listening to Lena read books and making her gf tea's and flying out to get her her supplies so Lena would stay safe from getting sick? I really love your art.

aww, I'm sorry u had a bad day, I made a little doodle and tried writing a little story for it as well that should answear your queastion about my scarred!Kara and her relationship with Lena if she didn’t became Supergirl (tho I'm not a writer, so its quality might not be the best)  hopefully it will make u feel even just a little bit better

The first time she met Lena, Kara was going to L-Corp to get a prosthetic replacement from their new Cybernetic Futures program since she kind of destroyed her old one.

Okay, she definitely destroyed her old one, but to be fair, who knew kicking a cement boulder with a prosthetic leg made from human metals but with the force of an angry and very frustrated superpowered being would destroy said metal leg. Really, who could've predicted that?

Walking into the building with warm coffee in hand proved to be more difficult than Kara hoped, her busted prosthetic making her wobble every two steps since she didn't have a spare she could wear - this was the spare - and the slippery tiled floor didn't help. Making her way to the elevator she kept glancing down focusing on her steps, this meant she didn't notice when a woman absorbed in her phone walked straight into her path. On instinct, she relaxed her body as to not harm the human she collided with, unfortunately, that meant she lost her barely-there, to begin with, balance and was sent sprawling onto the floor and her coffee splashing straight at the woman's shirt. Perfect. Just what she needed today.

She had an apology already forming on her lips when she looked up and for the first time noticed the woman, no, the goddess she bumped into. Her hair was black, but when it caught the light it shone deep chestnut brown and cascading down her back, her skin was pale and looked so soft Kara found herself wanting to touch it, her fingers twitching at her sides. The woman's eyes were green, though her right eye seemed to be two shades lighter, more gray than green. She wasn't looking at her currently occupied with taking in the state of her clothes. And Rao, her clothes. The outfit was that of a businesswoman, high heels ready to kill, dark burgundy slacks with a matching suit jacket, loose black tie, and a white shirt. A white shirt that was now covered in Kara's coffee. Oh no. She needed to fix this, like, immediately. The best place to start is with an apology, right?

———————

Lena was having a pretty normal day, all things considered. She should have known her days are never normal. She woke up early, ate a small breakfast, and went to work. There she had meetings with investors from 8 to 11, some paperwork to sign, a small meeting with the head of R&D at 12, and now she finally had enough time to take a break and maybe grab some lunch. With a certain sandwich place in mind, she made her way down to the ground floor and, while answering some last-minute e-mail made her way to the exit of the building.

Before she could even make it halfway to the wide double door, she felt something surprisingly solid and at the same time very wobbly bump into her, and then a sudden warmth and wetness on her chest. Looking down at herself confirmed what she already suspected, someone, spilled coffee on her. Thankfully it was only warm and not scalding hot the last thing she needed right now was dealing with coffee-induced burns. Making sure her shirt was the only thing damaged in the incident, Lena paid no mind to the person who bumped into her, that is until a very apologetic voice started talking to her. From the floor. Looking away from her ruined shirt, she took in the person frantically trying to apologize for spilling coffee on her, at least that's what she thinks the woman was trying to do, seeing as at his point she was rambling a mile a minute.

The woman on the floor looked young, probably around the same age as Lena herself, she had blond wavy hair gathered in a messy ponytail and hidden behind cute square-framed glasses, the bluest eyes she has ever seen. There was a burn scar covering most of the left side of her face and neck and more peeking out from under her shirt. Her left leg ended right below the knee, and the prosthetic she was wearing looked like someone put it under an industrial press and then tried to put it back into shape with a hammer. She was wearing blue sneakers, jean shorts, and a yellow tank top with tiny rainbow dinosaurs on it that gave her an unobscured view of the rippling muscles in her arms as she gesticulated wildly still rambling out something resembling an apology.

Taking it all in Lena came to one conclusion. She's cute. And so with warm coffee drying on her chest and a beautiful woman at her feet, really what else was there for Lena to do other than ask the blonde out on a date.

———————

They moved in together after a year of dating. Alex asked if they were sure, but there wasn't a doubt in their minds that this was what they wanted. It felt right. And they were glad for this decision since a few months later, they and most of the world's population were confined to their homes.

Days in quarantine were spent working from home on their laptops with their legs entwined together and sharing a blanket out of the view of the cameras. When they weren't working they were finding new ways to entertain themselves. Slowly making their way through the classics of fantasy and sci-fi literature, with Kara floating them above the couch and Lena laying on top of her chest reading aloud from her Kindle was how they were spending most of the evenings. During the weekends when there was less work, Lena tried to teach Kara how to bake - with mixed results - and Kara made it her mission to recreate as many childhood experiences Lena missed out on living with the Luthors as possible. Her blanket fort wasn't the most structurally sound, but it sure was cozy. Movie nights were a nightly routine, and cooking dinner together became the most sacred daily ritual neither of them dared or wanted to skip. Weekly game nights through zoom were initiated almost immediately after lockdown and to no one's surprise, Lena and Alex's competitiveness did not lessen with the development of not being in the same room. If anything it became worse. Bets about how long will it take for the two of them to start fighting and accusing each other of cheating were as much a tradition as game nights itself. Most days though were spent working and lounging together with Kara occasionally flying out to pick up supplies they needed. And when one day Kara flew through the balcony with two cats and a dog saying there wasn't enough space in shelters, who was Lena to refuse those cute puppy eyes (it didn't hurt that the dog and cats were adorable as well).

[daikushiji]

his crush draws a heart on his hand

pairings: kageyama x reader, osamu x reader, kita x reader

a/n: some of our stoic dumb babies reacting to their crush taking their hand and drawing a smol heart <3 [here part 2  and part 3 !!]

Kageyama Tobio

you are waiting for Yachi outside the gym

when Kageyama sits beside you, angrily sipping milk

you ask him what Hinata did this time, knowing well that expression

and he just lets everything out, complaining about even the smallest thing but still sure that you are listening to him

this is one of the many reasons why he likes you

you never judge him, either he wants to vent at you for hours about nothing or just spending time together in silence

 he’s actually so whipped for you, but doesn’t even realize it

like, yeah sure you’re the only one able to calm him down with just a smile, but it’s no big deal yk

after he finishes rambling for what seems like forever, kageyama notices the pen you are holding

and then the heart you drew on his hand while he was speaking

he looks at it, tilting his head

”why?” he asks you, with a furrowed brow

he isn’t mad or anything, just genuinely confused

you shrug, trying to hide your flushed cheeks

and before he could ask anything else, Yachi waves at you

you sprint towards her, whispering an awkward ‘bye’ to him

the poor boy literally stares at his hand the entire time walking home

and while he’s eating dinner

and even before going to sleep

the next day at school you try to avoid him as much as possible

but during lunch break, he sits at your table 

and without even saying ‘hi’ to you or Yachi, he hands you a pen

”can you draw it again? this morning I was still half asleep and wash it off by mistake.”

Miya Osamu

lessons are over and you two are just talking in class 

Osamu is showing you a dish that he made the night before and saying how his twin’s tastebuds are broken to not appreciate it

watching you laugh, a soft smile appears on his face

”for this reason I just want you as my test subject when I try a new recipe. you always pretend that you like everything I make.”

”that’s not true,I love your cooking! otherwise I wouldn’t eat it every day.”

like for real, you don’t have to bring lunch at school anymore

he usually arrives with two bentos, saying that he made it too much for himself

”you literally have a twin to feed”

”he can starve for all I care”

but he actually just wants to know your opinion and watch you enjoying something he made(for you)

feel so proud of himself whenever you compliment him

while he’s still talking, you take his hand in your much smaller one

and he really has to force himself not to blush

he watches how focused you are while drawing 

”what is it?” he asks you with a grin, resting his chin on his other hand

when you move back, he sees the little heart 

”nothing.”

sure, nOThiNG, like it’s not going to be his constant thought during practice

Atsumu has to yell at him a few times because his head is in the clouds 

even at home, his twin teases him about how bad he played today

and when Osamu doesn’t respond to his insults, Atsumu understands that something is wrong

that’s when he sees the little draw and start to tease him even more

Kita Shinsuke

”Shin, you have something on your hand.”

Kita is sitting at his grandma’s table, drinking tea with her

he always stops by her house after every match to tell her about it 

but today’s game went a little bit different than the others 

he was going to tell the coach that he couldn’t play 

but you sat down on the bench beside him, giving him a warm smile

Kita isn’t someone who openly shows when he’s nervous

he doesn’t have any particular tic, like you won’t see him bouncing his leg or biting his lip

but you could tell that something was off just by looking at him

”I feel that you’re gonna play so well!”

he smirked, wondering how you always manage to understand what he wants to hear

”I don’t know, maybe I should stay off the court today”

he couldn’t finish some of his pre-game traditions earlier

(he was cleaning the bathroom, when Suna came complaining about the twins fighting and then Ojiro told him that the coach was searching for him while he was cleaning all the volleyballs)

anyway he was sure that something bad would have happened during the match

and he didn’t want to be the cause of his team’s defeat

”look at them, they’re lost without you” you told him with a smile, pointing at the guys in front of you

then you reached for his hanging hand and rest it on your clipboard

” you have to trust me on this one.” you said, proudly looking at your artwork

while he was turning red as ever, he looked at his hand in yours 

and gave you the softest smile 

”thank you”

now, in his grandma’s house, he still has the little doodle heart you made on his hand

”oh no, the manager of my team drew it”

he finally responds, looking at it with a dreamy smile

“they said that it was a lucky charm for today’s game”

his grandma has to contain a giggle, looking at Kita’s heart eyes

”well you guys won, so I guess that it worked”

[writingsfromhome]

Bad Timing II

A/N: I’m just about finished the whole series and I’m excited for you to read this! <3 Sorry for the late upload, I started a new semester and had zero time to write but I worked on this all weekend. I’m curious to know if your opinions on Harry change after this part, the next part’s going to be packed but this is an in-between. Thanks as always for reading <333

Part 1 / Part 2 / Part 3 / Part 4

--------------------------------------

I lay awake in bed, staring at the blank ceiling before my phone’s constant buzzing forces me up. A couple voicemails, and a single text from Harry: GM, call me if you need anything.

I stare at it longer than I should, the audacity to think we were fine enough to text me so casually. But there was some small solace in knowing he took the extra step to let me know. Ugh; my head injury was more serious than the medic diagnosed. I throw my phone on the bed and head downstairs where I’m surprised to see him gone. It was only 8am and I needed a coffee, otherwise I would not make it through the day. When I see the pot of coffee half full, I stop in my tracks. Harry made coffee before he left. I touch the pot and it’s still warm, he couldn’t have left that long ago.

I open the dishwasher that I’d loaded last night only to find it empty. I stand straight, hand on my hips--had he unloaded the dishes too? How did I not wake up to the noise? How did he even know where everything went?!

Maybe he wasn’t such a dense detective after all, the thought makes me smile. I look around the room and notice he’d tidied up from last night, and folded everything away on the couch he slept on. I take my coffee to the couch and without thinking, hug the pillow to my face and inhale. The strong scent of his aftershave sends a sharp and painful jolt to my memories. What the hell was I doing?

I drop the pillow and settle on my kitchen table, responding to some emails while I make a game plan for the day, shaking off the claustrophobic feeling I got thinking about going back to work. I finish the last of the coffee and start moving, shower, dress appropriately, pack my laptop...I just had to keep busy so I wouldn’t have time to think about it.

***

“We’re here for you, whatever you need,” the regional manager lets me know during the meeting. I’d learned post-trauma policies the bank had. I was sorry to know them, I really just wanted to put the whole thing behind me. I tell her that. “Unfortunately, it’s not that simple. We do require you to go to at least one counseling session, your employees have got to go to a group meet with a licensed therapist so you can all discuss this and get over the awful event.”

“I see,” I chew my lower lip. I didn’t want to talk to anyone about the way I jumped at every little thing and stared down each and every stranger on the tube on my way in today. I felt crazy. Maybe I did need a shrink. “I’ll include that in the memo I guess. Thanks again for all the support and the resources-”

“That’s my job, our job.” She motions to the man sitting beside her who hadn’t actually said much the whole time. We talk for a little while longer, and by the time they leave I’m exhausted. But I make the trek to the hospital to visit Cole like I told him I would.

***

The weekend flies by: I take the train to visit my dad up north and let him take care of me like I was a kid again. It was nice to unwind, I thought, I should visit my dad more often.

But come Monday, I’m back in my pantsuit ready to get on with my life. I try not to think about Thursday too hard but it’s difficult when first thing that morning, a therapist shows up for a group session. Most of my employees look anxious to be here, but I watch their shoulders relax as they discuss what happened. Watching everyone bond brings a lightness to the heaviness that sat in my chest: it was good.

“Ms. Y/L/N? When can we schedule a one-on-one?” The therapist stops me at the end of the session.

“I think this session helped a lot,” I put on a big smile. “I don’t think that will be necessary.”

She smiles politely, as if she expected this, “It’s a requirement for back-to-work. I have time right now if you’d like, I’m not seeing another employee until lunch.”

“Um,” I look to where everyone mingles, comforting each other and breaking off into groups. If I had to talk about it in order to work, and work is the only thing to help me get my mind off of it...I guess I had no choice. “Let’s do it now.”

But an hour later and I’ve mostly just talked her ear off about Harry showing up, how awful my luck was that he would be the lead detective on the case, how much damage he’d done to me. How he appeared on one of the worst days of my life again.

“It’s almost a sign,” I ramble. “Like...what are the odds?!”

“Do you still have feelings for him?” She asks, looking like she knew the answer.

“No,” I scoff. “I hate him. He broke my trust!” And my heart.

“Those are feelings,” she says wisely. 

“Well sure, yeah, I have negative feelings towards him. Why wouldn’t I?”

She pauses, a very pregnant pause. “It’s been almost 4 years right? Usually, those feelings start to...dissolve into a more neutral ground when you...receive closure. You take time to grieve, to sit in the wound in your heart, but then you pick yourself up and try to heal. It seems like you’ve just told yourself you were healed and got on.”

“I am healed,” I insist.

“Just like you started this sessions by letting me know you were over the trauma that happened to you a few days ago?” She asks. I avoid her gaze. “When I asked about Thursday, you said you were ‘over it’ and you just wanted to focus on work but you’re not giving yourself closure. Likewise, with Harry. You haven’t found closure even after all these years.”

I stare at her, she’d sliced right into a vulnerable part of me--I’d led her there, I realise. It was something I knew all along, I just didn’t want to point at it alone.

“You’re right...I feel like I never got closure.” I confess. “How? I just want to know h-how he could’ve left me for another woman after all those years together--as lovers and as friends? He was there when mum...he was there through hell. And then he put me through hell.”

“I’d like to believe Harry showing up on a...hellish day is a sign like you say. But maybe a sign you need closure. Talk to him, ask him what you need to know in order to close that chapter of your life.”

I exhale, the idea of it making me feel claustrophobic. She wanted me to open myself up to him again and invite him to hurt my feelings? I try to ask her more but she looks at her watch. We’d gone over.

I thank her and walk out with a weight on my back that feels bigger than the one I went in with. I thought therapy was supposed to make me feel lighter.

***

I’m hiding behind my desk as the footsteps get closer and closer to the door. I clutch the knife in my hand and-

“Y/N!”

I jump up out of sleep, and open my eyes to my office. I stare at the table in front of me where the papers I used as a pillow are rumpled.

“Y/N? You have a call on-”

“Adam,” I look at my assistant. He’d been really quiet today and I was worried about him but there was so much to catch up on I hadn’t had the chance to talk to him. “Sorry I...haven’t been sleeping well.”

“I’m sorry Y/N...the detective’s on the line he insisted he talk-”

I roll my eyes and answer the phone, motioning for Adam I’d be okay. He hesitates at the door before closing it tightly behind him.

“Y/N?” Harry’s breathless voice answers irritably on the other line.

“Harry? Why are you calling me at work?” I ask, still sleepy from the nap. Is this about the case?”

“No it’s about your things at the station, it was processed--we couldn’t find anything useful so we’re returning this batch. And I think some of it belongs to your staff? Did you want to pick it up or should I drop it off to yo-”

“I’ll pick it up,” I wanted to make it clear that Harry in my space wasn’t going to be a normal thing. “I’ll head out in a bit, can I just collect it at reception?”

“They’ll buzz you through to me, I’ve gotta go-”

“Just leave it with reception...” I say to dead air. He’d already hung up. Damn.

***

“I’m here for some things, it was taken for evidence?” I say to the woman at reception.

“You’ll have to be more specific love,” she raises an eyebrow. “A lot happens here.”

“The bank rob-”

“Ah, Harry’s case. I’ll buzz you through-”

“No I thought maybe I could collect it here uh-” I look for a nameplate. “Serena, listen, I’m in a rush so is there any way for you to get it-”

The phone ringing cuts me off. She holds up her finger and I stand tapping my foot. She rolls her eyes at whoever was on the other line, motions that they were chatty and points to the glass doors. I sigh, I guess I was seeing Harry. I think about my therapist and cringe, I couldn’t.

When I walk in, I scan the room for Harry but I don’t spot him anywhere. I walk awkwardly until someone asks if they could help but they point to his desk and tell me I could wait there.

“I’m actually here to pick up some evidence, couldn’t you just give it to me?”

“He’s the lead officer, he’s got to sign off--”

“Fine,” I hated the bloody bureaucracy around here. I go to where he points and sit in Harry’s chair, ignoring the looks from people around me. I toy with the pen and doodle on an empty paper. Y/N was here I write and smile, it was juvenile.

“Y/N! Sorry! Nobody told me you were here.” Harry shows up a few minutes later. He opens the bottom drawer and takes out a nondescript cardboard box. If I knew if was down there I would’ve left a long time ago. “Just need you to sign this.”

“Okay,” I sign where he points and reach for the box. “I’ll grab that, thank you.”

“Can I walk you out?” He fiddles with his phone.

“Will you take no for an answer?”

“Nope,” he’s all teeth when he smiles. I sigh and walk in front of him. It’s weirdly silent but I notice he was typing on his phone when I look over.

“Well...g’night then.” I say at the door but he pushes it open and walks out with me.

He finally puts his phone away and asks. “Are you alright? Have you gone back to work?”

“Yeah,” I chew at my bottom lip, nervous. “We’re really sticking together, trying to get through it.”

“That’s good. That’s how it should be.” He waits a beat. “We’ve been trying to catch the robbers, they hit up another bank so it’s hell inside. That’s why I was so busy.”

“Another?” My heart plummets, and my palms feel slick.

“Yeah but we’re working as fast as we can. So...uh, did you need anything from me before you go?”

“I...” I think about the therapist’s words and chew my lower lip. I try to work up the courage. Fuck it, I realise. I had nothing to lose. “I do...actually.”

“Oh,” he looks surprised. “Good, what’s that?”

“I want to talk, about us. I...I need like, closure Harry. I think I deserve an explanation about...” I trail off as I notice him staring at me blankly. “What?”

His blank expression settles into confusion. “What’s more to explain Y/N. I’ve told you everything, I-I dunno. I thought one day we could get together like old friends, but it’s obvious you’re still upset with everything and I don’t know what more I can say? I said everything in that letter but if-”

“The letter?” I ask sharply, cutting off his chatter.

“Yeah, the one I wrote you after we...after you moved out?” When I don’t react he continues: “I dropped it off at your sister’s the week after you cleaned out your things? You didn’t...read it?” He looks hurt, if that was possible all these years later.

“I...did. Obviously I just...had some questions.” My heart races; what letter? He wrote me a letter?

“So what do you want to ask?” He looks at me curiously, concern etched in his brows. “I would like to talk actually-”

“Now’s not a good time,” I cut him off again. I had to know about this letter first. I can’t believe I walked into this blind. “I’ve actually had a long day, this is--we can do this another time, okay? Thanks for...walking me out.”

***

The first thing I do when I get home is call my sister. I can sniff her guilt a whole country away.

“Y/N, you were heartbroken! Y-you didn’t need to have it broken all over again reading his stupid letter! I was looking out for you!”

“That wasn’t your call!” I raise my voice. “I’ve been...I haven’t had closure all this time! I thought he didn’t even care enough to try to explain it to me and you knew he sent a letter this whole time?”

“Well when he showed up to the flat I wasn’t about to-”

“When did he come to the flat?” I wanted to strangle my sisters and her protective instincts.

“After you moved your things out. He wanted to see you and I knew you were a mess, I told him you never wanted to speak to him. I was looking out for you babe I-I didn’t even realise I was keeping you from closure I just...I didn’t want you hurting. Don’t be mad.”

I swallow the lump in my throat, she was right. It was Harry who hurt me, and I shouldn’t take it out on her. “I know. I know. I’m sorry for yelling I just-I wish I could read that letter.”

“I’m sorry,” she sniffs. “I should’ve given it to you once you moved out...I still have it though. I think I tucked it into my old yearbook. D’you want me to...”

“Mail it? Yes, as soon as possible please. I need to know what he wrote.”

“What if you just get hurt all over again?” she asks.

“I’ve been hurting, I don’t think his outdated explanation will hurt any more. Just please mail it the first chance you get okay?”

I was so close to it, I think. I had to get that letter. I needed closure. I deserved it. And just knowing I could get it, it’s almost like I was waking up in a dark tunnel I hadn’t realised I was in this whole time. I knew where I was, and I could see light on the horizon.

H POV:

The last time I had a full night’s sleep was on Y/N’s couch, this case was a lot bigger than we thought. It wasn’t just a robbery at one branch, these same people have hit up two other places in the last few days and they were good. The worst part was they weren’t afraid to use a gun.

“Chief,” one of the constables comes up to my desk, where I’d been staring at footage for the last hour. “There’s been um, there’s a problem-”

“Spit it out,” I say, eyes still on the screen.

“The evidence you released on Monday...blokes down in evidence can’t find the SIM from the scene...we think they accidentally left it with that batch.”

I look up from my screen and I can practically see the sweat breaking out on his brow as I stare. If that was important evidence, we’d misplaced it at the height of an investigation. My arse would be on the line too--it was my name on the authorization letter.

“Don’t panic until we’re sure it’s not with the evidence we gave out,” I get up and put my hand on his shoulder. “I’m looking into it right now, don’t let anybody know it’s happened.”

I grab my jacket from my chair and root in the pocket for my phone but Y/N’s number goes to voicemail. I curse. I look at the time, it was 6 already. I had a feeling she might kill me but I would have to drive to her place, I hoped she didn’t leave the evidence at work...after all I did tell her to return it to her employees...I have the brief thought of asking her in the morning but I remember my arse on the line and walk quicker.

“Woah, someone’s in a hurry,” Detective Cole comments as I rush past her. “Not even a hello.”

“Sorry,” I flash her a smile. “Urgent!”

“Need any help?”

I pause long enough to turn around and answer. “Normally I would say yes but I’ve got to do this.”

“Don’t let me keep ya,” she smiles, I notice Serena eyeing the both of us suspiciously as she packs up for the day. She was always trying to convince me to ask her on a date, but I was done with dating coworkers after I made the mistake of marrying one and breaking up quickly thereafter in the past. I’d changed careers quickly after that.

Y/N’s POV:

“Oh my god,” I stop in the middle of my bedroom as my sister reveals her big news over Facetime, an ultrasound held up to the camera. “Oh my god!”

“I know!” She squeals.

“I-I-you’re pregnant!” I was shocked, I didn’t even know my sister was trying for a third kid. “You better give me a bloody niece this time!”

My sister laughs, one hand on her belly. I should’ve known, I realise, she’d been cryptic the last few times we talked, dropping clue, but I’d been so wrapped up in other things I didn’t pick up on them. “It wasn’t even planned but Y/N, it feels right. The boys are stoked--they want a sister too.”

“I am so happy for you and Stu,” I let out a whoop. “I wish I could hug you! I’m going to book some time next month and come see you--this is big! Did you tell dad?”

“Not yet, don’t say anything--oh,” a cry bursts out from somewhere on her end. She rolls her eyes and tells me she would call me back. But I get a text to say there was an accident with a toy truck and a jug of OJ, she would call me back later in the evening when everything was settled.

I throw my phone down on my bed and sit on the edge in my robe, I’d just come out of the shower to my sister’s call. I was over the moon for her, but it was times like these I felt like an awful person. Because as I think about her happy news, I put my hand to my own belly and imagine what it would’ve been like to be the one calling family with good news. The familiar ache in my chest comes back, once upon a time I did have good news for a short period of time.

It was a few months before Harry and I split, I’d skipped a period and went immediately to the pharmacy. I’d decided to wait for a week before I would tell Harry because he was stressed from work. He was always stressed at that job, but I wanted it to be perfect. I’d spent the whole week stopping by nursery stores, browsing baby books, even buying a few onesies and the cutest booties I couldn’t put down. I picture the baby--mine and Harry’s, wearing them.

But the day I’d planned to tell him, I’d woken up and knew instantly something was wrong. I never told him, I fought with him that day instead...I couldn’t even remember over what. I held the awful burden on my own, packed the future I couldn’t have into a little box and shoved it under the bed. A few months later, Harry and I were over. That future was as fragile as the paper-thin wings of a butterfly, one that would never take flight.

I do what I did on my darkest days, I root underneath my bed and pull out the box.

I still had it; it was morbid, holding on to a future that was deader than dead. But I hold it in my lap, and run my hands over each piece of clothing. I imagine just for a moment what I could have had, they would’ve been 3 and I would’ve been a mum. My chest tightens, and I squeeze the items closer.

H’s POV:

By the time I get to Y/N’s, I’d stress-sang so many 90s hits that most of my nervous energy had streamed out the car window. I gather myself, clear my hoarse throat, and knock; ready to be beheaded. When there’s no answer, my nerves return. I knock louder, and try to peer through the frosty window.

“Harry?” Y/N opens the door in a flourish, looking fresh from a shower. I try to block the visuals that spring to mind, my mind blanking as I try to remember what I had to say. “Hello? Harry? Why are you here?”

“Uhm,” I shake my head. “Urgent business--the evidence I gave you on Monday, please tell me you still have it?”

Her eyebrows furrow, “You’re knocking on my door at nearly 7 for evidence you returned to me?”

“It’s urgent,” I look around out of habit. “Y/N, we may have accidentally given you something with the evidence we were meant to keep--please I wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t important. I’m not messing with you, this is my head on the chopping block--I need to know if you have it.”

“For fuck’s sake Harry,” she opens the door wider. “Just...come in.”

“You have it?” I step in eagerly and close the door behind me, basking in the warmth inside. It was a chilly spring evening.

“I haven’t touched it since I brought it home, I threw it somewhere in my room.”

“Didn’t it...have your employees’ personal items in it?” I ask cautiously.

“It’s not like they’re eager to have reminders of that day!” she snaps and I back down. She turns in a flourish of her robes and walks upstairs. She doesn’t say anything so I follow her up, drinking in every detail I can about her new life as we pass through.

She’s headed into her bedroom when her phone buzzes. I recognize her sister from the contact photo that takes up the screen. She glances at me, and back at the phone, making a decision.

“It’s beside the dresser, don’t make a sound or my sister will come here in record time to rip your head off.”

“I take it she doesn’t like me,” I try to joke.

“She’s not the only Y/L/N sister that doesn’t like you,” she puts a finger to her mouth and takes the call into the other room.

Maybe I should stop cracking jokes with Y/N, I think. It was clear she still hadn’t forgiven me. I was surprised she still held on as vehemently all these years later.

I head into her bedroom, a tidy and plain room. Compared to what I’d seen of her main floor, her bedroom looked like it belonged in a hotel. I spot the box almost immediately resting between a laundry hamper and her dresser. I pick it up but on the way back, the box on her bed catches my attention. The lid is half on, and I know I shouldn’t but something almost possesses my hand to nudge the lid aside. I stare and what’s inside the box sends me reeling; like I was seasick, but with both feet firmly on the ground. The feeling punches me directly into a past I’d abandoned. A future I abandoned too.

When Y/N finds me a few minutes later, I’m holding the shoes from the box in my hands. She stops beside me. I look to her and her face is frozen in fear, before it shuts down into anger--no, fury.

“What the fuck are you doing going through that?” she snatches the shoes out of my hand and picks the box up.

“Y/N,” I say gently. “What...what is all this?”

“Did you find your stupid box? Just--” her eyes search the room frantically and settles on the evidence box on the bed. She picks it up and shoves it into my chest. “Take it and go Harry, I don’t want t-to talk. To you. Please just--” her voice breaks.

“Okay I’ll go I just...” my heart feels heavier than lead and I want to say the perfect thing to her but nothing comes out. When she shoves me I scuttle out. I hear the sob that escapes her as soon as I exit into the hallway, I almost turn to go back in and offer comfort. But I couldn’t comfort her, not since the day I gave up on her. I walk to my car, not even relieved to have the evidence. I don’t know how long I sit in the car and think about the contents of that box: folded in neat piles were baby onesies, bibs, and a pair of tiny shoes. Remnants from a broken past, a broken promise.

I wasn’t an idiot, and I wasn’t heartless despite what Y/N thought. I know what my selfish actions did to her, I know how I’d fucked her up without meaning to. But it’s only now that the weight of it settles entirely on my shoulders. How many years has it been, and that small box of new onesies stayed under her bed. Her room might’ve looked sterile and fresh but its corners held heavier burdens than I thought were possible. A new feeling of shame blooms from within me, and it stays like a bad aftertaste.

***Y/N POV:

I was going to read that letter, find my closure, and burn everything from my past ceremonially in a bonfire, I think as I watch the trees in my backyard rustle with the morning wind. It had been a few days but I couldn’t even focus on him finding that box, the humiliation of watching him look up at me with confusion and pity...it was enough he’d broken my heart, but now he felt sorry for me too. I focus back on the greenery while my fingers toy with the letter that’d come in the mail, a few years late.

The envelope looked worse for wear but it was still as sealed as the day Harry had written it. I hesitate, trace my fingers over my name on the front. A memory comes rushing to me, Harry in my dorm writing silly things on my post-its and sticking it in places I wouldn’t find until he’d left. Like under my covers, or inside my closet door. They would be silly like

Y/N smells like farts

or cheesy like

have a terrific day

. I usually tossed them, other I’d tucked between classroom textbooks. I wonder what happened to them.

Finally, I work up the courage to slide my finger under the seal and break it open. Two pages fall out, his distinct writing halfway between cursive and chicken scratch covers both pages. I read:

Y/N

You’re probably wondering why you’re reading this--I don’t think I deserve your consideration for even a moment let alone for enough time it will take for you to read this. Yet I want so badly for you to read this, to just know I didn’t mean for this to happen to us. And I know you think I’m the one who did it to us, but I need to explain.

You always told me I was good with my words, that maybe I was an artist in another life--a poet you liked to say. But every time I try to find the right words to say to you, English may as well not be my first language. I should have tried harder, should have found the right words for months but I kept putting it off until it was too late.

You are and will always be my best friend first, Y/N, I know I’ve broken your trust but I care about you deeply. I just wasn’t happy. And that had to do with the road we were going down together, not you. I’m deeply sorry for the words I said that day, for how I’ve made you feel these last few months. I guess, ultimately, I was being selfish. And I don’t have an excuse for that. I fucked this up but I wasn’t happy and I was taking it out on you, and on us. I used the things we couldn’t have as an excuse, but I’m not happy where I am in my life. And that’s something I need to find; I need to figure out what I really want.

I can only hope we’ll circle back to each other one day, in the future, when we’re in better places. But I don’t think we were right like this, maybe it’s bad timing, or maybe there’s a blanket over us much too heavy for us to find comfort under. I’m sorry for leaving us like this and for breaking your trust but I need to do this.

Know you’re perfect as you are, right now, there’s absolutely nothing about you I would ever change. I, on the other hand, have a lot of changing to do.

I wish you nothing but the best, you deserve the whole bloody world Y/N, but I don’t think I can give that to you. I hope one day, you can find it in your heart to forgive me. For now, know I love you and I’m truly sorry.

Harry, xx

My finger brushes over the last line, I take myself back to the Y/N and Harry four years ago--and it’s not so hard to do. I lived there more often than I’d like to admit. But I picture us, I picture Harry sitting down to write this. How might I have taken this if I read it all those years ago? I picture myself dissolving into tears--maybe my sister was right in not showing me.

I also imagine I would have known why, and maybe I wouldn’t be where I was right now if I’d had that closure.

But even all these years later, the tears stream down my face as if it were just yesterday Harry handed the letter over to my protective sister. There was so much hurt and heaviness, looking at it from the perspective I had now...I see a glimmer of truth in Harry’s letter. We’d worked wonderfully as best friends, and our intimacy was comforting. But we were also two people being pulled in two directions while clinging onto what we thought would keep us happy. It didn’t mean I forgave him for what he did, how he did it. But I finally understood why.

All this time, I asked why--I wondered if there was something I could’ve done to have fixed it before he left. I see now, he’d wanted an out the whole time. Nothing would have fixed us except time apart. I still felt like shit, but this epiphany made me feel closer to the closure I needed. The light on the horizon grows a little brighter. We’d just had bad timing.

***

I feel bright and chipper Monday morning; a sunny morning and a weekend of closure could do that to a woman. I bring along with me a box of treats; it had been a week since the horrible robbery. We’d put some precautions in since, had the therapist stay a few more days, a few of the employees decided to transfer and as sad as I was to see them go I knew it was the right thing for them to do to feel better. As for myself, I forgot about it most of the time. But it would creep in every so often and freeze me up.

I spoke to the company’s therapist once more after Monday, she’d asked about Harry and I had told her about the letter. She was intrigued but quickly changed the topic to how I was feeling after the events of last Thursday.

“Y/N?” Adam walks into the staff room as I finish the note to accompany the treats. “What’s all this?”

“Treats to cheer everyone up! Not that sweet fried dough is going to erase everyone’s PTSD...” I try to make a joke but Adam’s face is tense like it’d been since that day. “Adam I’m teasing...have you um, have you talked to someone one-on-one?”

“Me? Why?” He jumps. “I’m fine, I’m alright it’s mostly out of my head anyway.”

“Hm,” I look him up and down. “I don’t believe you but I’ll let it drop...for now.”

He fidgets with his hands, “Anyway I came in here to let you know the detective on the case called first thing about returning some evidence-”

“I can’t pick that up.” I say finitely. “Do you have room today? Maybe take an extended lunch and pick that up?”

“From the station?” he stutters.

“Is that where he said it was?”

“Uh yeah, yes. He wanted you to pick it up.”

“Well DCI Styles won’t get what he wants for once, you’ll pick it up at lunch okay? Just keep me posted.”

I go back to my office with a coffee and get a crack on with my work. I check for any updates on the client from last Thursday but I continue to receive the automated email that their office was closed for the week. It was weird, but I just make a note to follow up later on.

After lunch, Adam appears shaken, with the evidence. I instruct him to leave it in the staff room and send out an email, making sure to remind them that they didn’t have to go through it if they didn’t want to. I would keep it there until it was cleared out, even if that took the month. I think about my scarf in there, the one used to tie my hands. I wanted to burn it, never see it again. I send Adam a quick email to remove it from the box and dispose of it.

H’s POV:

“This just doesn’t make any sense,” I comb my fingers through my hair, as if it might trick my brain into seeing the pattern here. “This same group’s hit four places total, and yet Y/N...the HSBC was the first. There’s got to be a connection there, it’s here but I just can’t see it.”

“Harry,” Detective Cole puts her hand on my shoulder briefly before moving it away. “Maybe you need a break, I don’t think I’ve seen you go home the last few days and your shirt’s a bit...ripe. Maybe take the rest of the day off?”

I sniff myself, she was right. She shrugs with a I had to say it look.

She was right too that I hadn’t gone home. I did almost nothing but focus on this case, not only because it was growing bigger by the day and I had pressure from upstairs. But it was a welcome distraction to the new guilt that seemed to jam every other area of my life.

It was almost like I was reliving a timeline, going back three or so years ago. It felt like Y/N and I were freshly broken up, and I was trying to pick myself back up from it. Except that’s not the way it went all those years ago--I’d moved on, quickly then. But now, time was catching up. Or maybe it was karma.

“Earth to Harry?” Cole waves her hand in front of my face. “You really should go home.”

“Yep,” I scratch my stubble. I should shave too. “I’ll just drop by evidence before I go.”

She looks like she was going to say something but she gets up from the chair beside my desk, and walks back to her own. I sigh, sifting through the files on my desk to take home with me. My notepad underneath shifts and I spot Y/N’s familiar writing: Y/N was here. I run my finger over it and smile, remembering how she had written that on the baseboard of every flat or dorm room we’d left. And just like that, the guilt and shame take the memory’s place. How the fuck was I supposed get past this and focus, I think.

I shove my files into a bag and head out. Evidence tells me there wasn’t a lot on the sim card but they were still trying. I ask for an email if anything comes to light, and go home where I fall asleep before my head hits the pillow.

i meant to take a short nap, but I wake at 4am and my mind’s buzzing with so many thoughts that I have nothing else to do but get up, eat a mashup of breakfast and last night’s dinner. With nothing more to do, and 6am creeping up, I decide to get in my car and drive while the roads were somewhat clear.

Driving helped me think sometimes, on my worst case after my promotion, I’d gotten on the road one night and driven all the way to Leicaster. After a night’s rest in a hotel and the drive back home, I’d cracked the case. But this time, with my thoughts racing, I end up driving to Y/N neighbourhood on autopilot. Maybe because she was on my mind, the guilt a constant companion since that day.

I park on the other side of her street, and watch her front door from the rearview. I don’t know why I was there, it felt ridiculous and creepy. Yet, I couldn’t leave. Maybe I could offer her a ride to work, I think. But I know she would decline because she didn’t even come in herself to collect her evidence. She’d sent her awkward assistant instead.

Her door suddenly opens, and a strange man walks out. She leans on the doorframe and laughs at something he says. He leaves a kiss on her cheek and walks away. She shouts something after him and he turns, saying something back that gets her laughing. My heart races, seeing her face in the distance wrinkle with laughter. I remember all the times I could get her to do that, effortlessly. The guilt returns tenfold.

He adjusts his coat, turning back around and she watches him fondly for a few seconds longer before closing her door. I’m suddenly irritated, immediately suspicious of this bloke. I watch, unblinking, until he turns the corner out of sight. Who was he? Her boyfriend?

I look at the time on the dashboard, 7:08am. I sit, indecisive for another half an hour. My thoughts churn: the robberies, the motives, Y/N, the worn out box with baby clothes, her male guest who’d spent the night, the look on her face when she’d woken up after her concussion and saw me: disbelief, anger, and sadness.

I get out of the stuffy car and walk across the street where I hesitate outside her door. I knew I was crossing a line, pushing a boundary she put up by not picking up the evidence herself. She’d made it clear what she wanted, but I never denied that I was a selfish bastard. I raise my hand, and knock.

[hanatiny]

More Than Friends

a/n: Whether you have someone to dote on today or not, happy Valentine’s day~ Not only is this a not-so-little something for the holiday of love, it’s also a thank you for letting me reach 300 followers <3 

pairing: best friend!Yeosang x genderneutral!reader

genre: fluff

word count: 2684

warnings: high school AU, friends to lovers, Wooyoung is no.1 wingman (or at least tries to be), Yeosang is absolutely whipped, reader is unfortunately very oblivious

-----

January, and with it your winter break, had come and gone - you probably wouldn’t have even realized it was February if it wasn’t for the excessive amount of heart-shaped, overly cutesy decorations that were littered across the hallways of your school.

You groaned internally, making your way past your classmates and towards your locker with a sigh. February itself wasn’t what bothered you so much, what made you positively abhor the month was how lovey-dovey everyone around you acted during that time.

You’ve never really had any interest in relationships and you made sure to make that clear, which is why you were surprised to find a neatly sealed light pink envelope in your locker.

You looked around subtly, wondering if the person who put it there was still around before quickly deducing that they probably weren’t. Curious, you turned over the envelope in your hands, just in case it was meant for someone else entirely. All you found however was your name with a heart and a tiny butterfly doodled next to it, which meant that this letter was indeed meant for you.

You chuckled endearingly, although mildly disappointed that your secret admirer’s handwriting was too ambiguous for you to correlate with a person. Before you were able to lament it more, a quick glance at your phone in your hand revealed to you that you were going to be late if you didn’t get moving.

Stuffing the letter into your pocket, you quickly gathered your books for your classes and booked it to your classroom after pushing your locker shut again.

You couldn’t focus at all however because you were unable to think about anything else other than who the person who had slipped the letter into your locker before you arrived that morning might be, and - more importantly - what exactly the letter was going to say.

Too occupied with your daydreaming, you failed to notice your usually calm and composed childhood best friend fidgeting under the desk behind yours.

Lunch couldn’t come soon enough for either of you, especially not for your mutual close friend Wooyoung who had been practically glued to both yours and Yeosang’s hips the moment you both left the classroom.

You heaved a sigh as you slumped down into a chair at a free table in the cafeteria, Wooyoung seating himself opposite you with Yeosang right next to him.

“What’s gotten into you today, Y/n? You seem so unusually out of it!” Yeosang elbowed his friend, at which the younger whined exaggeratedly but didn’t comment.

You pulled the pink letter out of your pocket and flicked it at Wooyoung to let him inspect the item before handing it back to you, his head tilted in confusion as he cocked a brow at you.

“You’re this worked up about a letter of all things? Don’t you normally just throw love letters and stuff away every year without even looking at them? What’s so different about this one?”

You shrugged nonchalantly while Yeosang poked at his food, listening more intently to the conversation than he allowed himself to let on, “No idea, Woo. Maybe I should just open it and find out for myself what’s so special...?”

You muttered the last part more to yourself than either of the males sitting at the table but they both still heard you clearly, prompting Wooyoung to nod enthusiastically and offer some what he hoped to be encouraging words, “Yeah, you totally should! Worst case scenario, you can just politely reject whoever wrote that.”

“Good point, I might as well... Here goes nothing.” You murmured under your breath, carefully opening the envelope before pulling out not only a piece of paper but also a small tube of strawberry chapstick which would’ve likely dropped to the floor if you hadn’t caught it in time.

You discreetly slipped it into your school bag after inspecting it briefly before your hands quickly unfolded the letter and dropped the envelope onto the table carelessly before beginning to read.

~~~~~~~~~~

My dearest Y/n,

I hope you don’t mind me confessing like this. I’m simply too nervous to voice my feelings out loud...

To yourself, you may not appear as someone special. To me however, you’re like a celebrity. You’re the most important person to me, and I wish we were closer than we already are as of now.

You’re a fresh breath of air to me, you’re not like anyone else. Everytime I talk to you I learn something new, and I think that’s beautiful.

Just like everything else about you. Your eyes remind me of stars the entire galaxy with how bright they shine, and I feel like I could get lost in them if I looked for long enough.

Your smile can light up an entire room, and frequently lifts my mood so effortlessly that it leaves me wondering how you continue doing it. Your voice is like music to me, and your laugh is my favorite song. And I want to be the reason that song keeps playing.

So, if you’d be willing to give me a chance to do so... meet me at the cat café later today after class. You know the one.

I hope I’ll see you there ♡

~~~~~~~~~~

You were so engrossed in the words on the paper that you didn’t look up in time to notice your friends’ reactions as you read before they recomposed themselves; a faint hint of a blush still tinted Yeosang’s cheeks while Wooyoung’s form relaxed after briefly tensing up slightly.

You folded the letter again and slipped it back into its envelope before, once more, dropping it on the table. You smacked Wooyoung’s hand away when he tried to reach for the letter, causing him to whine at you again as his lips formed a pout when you finally looked up at him.

If his eyes didn’t betray his curiosity, you would’ve said he was simply sulking because you hit him, but you knew better than to be that naive.

“No Wooyoungie, you won’t get to read it. At least not now.” You narrowed your eyes at your longtime friend as he huffed in disappointment, “But why~?”

“Because I can’t trust you to keep your mouth shut. The entire school would know about this by the end of the day.” You bit back, smiling triumphantly at the stunned silence Wooyoung offered in return.

“Touché.” Yeosang murmured, pushing his tray away to rest his arms on the table instead while he eyed you, wondering if you had any suspicions about the letter’s author.

As if reading his mind, your mouth opened to speak and Yeosang couldn’t help but focus on your lips, although he kept it as discreet as he possibly could.

“I want to meet up with the person behind these words. Something feels different about them... I initially suspected it to be Hongjoong, but his handwriting is nowhere near this neat."

Wooyoung snickered at that, but allowed you to continue and voice your conclusion.

"So for now, my secret admirer is a complete mystery to me."

"To you, and to everyone else." Yeosang added under his breath. He had a tendency to be quiet, so you weren't put off by this whatsoever.

"Indeed, Sangie...~" Yeosang felt his heart skip a beat at both the nickname and the somewhat affectionate lilt in your tone.

He was promptly yanked back out of his reverie however when you collected your belongings and stood to leave after checking the time on your phone, his eyes not straying from your form in the slightest, “In any case, we should probably get back to class.”

You turned on your heel and walked out of the cafeteria with Wooyoung in tow, the latter noticing his friend staying behind for a little longer than necessary but not commenting on it as Yeosang beamed, visibly lovestruck. It was a miracle to him and Wooyoung both how you didn’t take any of the countless hints he had given over the past few months, whether they were intentional or not being up for debate.

Completely zoned out, Yeosang jumped in his seat when the bell rang, prompting him to hastily grab his backpack and make a beeline for the classroom he shared with you, with quick steps.

He saved himself from tripping over his own two feet more than just once before he finally slid into the seat behind yours, breathless. You turned to face him, quirking an eyebrow inquisitively.

“Are you alright, Yeosang?”

It was a simple question, and yet the clear concern laced in had the blonde’s heart lurching in his chest once more as he nodded with a reassuring smile. He hated how cliché his crush presented itself, as if he was just hopelessly infatuated with you.

This was absolutely the case, as the way his heart rapidly pounding in his chest proved, but that was beside the point.

You thought it was suspicious that he didn’t seem to trust his voice because it was in no way like him to be this flustered - or perhaps you should rather say insecure. You shrugged it off though and turned back around to focus on your lecture, thinking he may just be feeling a bit under the weather.

Both of you found yourselves unable to keep your minds from going off-track, however. Yeosang was still excited about the prospect of possibly having a very real chance to be with you the way he wished to, while you kept wondering about who your secret admirer may or may not be.

The end of your torturous classes didn’t come soon enough for either of you, Wooyoung mysteriously nowhere to be found when you and Yeosang finally left the school building. You were relieved to find the crisp morning air had warmed up considerably over the course of the day, somewhat surprising considering the time of the year, and exhaled deeply, pulling a soft endearing chuckle from Yeosang’s lips.

You grinned at your friend, having always quite enjoyed the melodious sound of his voice before your expression shifted to a miniscule frown when you were eventually forced to part ways with him. Because no matter how close the two of you were, you still lived in different neighborhoods.

You turned to face him with a small smile, adjusting the shoulder strap of your bag before wrapping your arms around Yeosang in a tight but warm hug before meeting his eyes again, “I’ll call you tonight and tell you how my date went, yeah? See you tomorrow, Yeosangie~”

You waited for him to nod and boldly leaned up to peck his cheek before walking off in the direction of your house, not aware of the way you had flustered the poor boy. If it had been possible he would’ve melted into a puddle right then and there on the sidewalk, his face flushed a bright red from calling your meetup a date as he walked on in the direction of the cat café he wanted to meet you at.

He could only hope that you’d stick to your word, and actually show up.

Meanwhile you squealed in excitement when you rounded the corner, making a run for it down the street to your home. You slammed the door shut behind yourself, thankful that noone else was home presently so you could get ready and calm down your nerves in peace.

When you had finally made yourself look somewhat more presentable than you did while wearing your school uniforn, satisfied with your appearance before halting your steps when your open school bag caught your eye. After a moment of hesitant consideration, you spread the strawberry chapstick you were gifted across your lips.

Fully content now as you took one last look in the mirror, you grabbed your phone and keys to stuff into your pockets as you left your house to make your way to the café a few blocks away.

When you arrived there, greeted casually due to being a regular at the establishment along with your friends, you were led into the outside area where the cats were allowed to roam freely.

You would often jokingly call it the ‘fluffy garden’ when you were younger due to the amount of felines you’d be able to interact with. Now however, you paused mid-step upon realizing what you were seeing.

Yeosang, your childhood best friend and secret crush, lying on a blanket on the grass. He had ditched the school uniform’s jacket for his own, personal favorite jacket, you mused as you took in his posture. He had one arm hooked underneath his head while the other rested on his side, his hand petting the small cat that had positioned itself on his chest and purred from his attention.

As if sensing your presence, the animal licked Yeosang’s fingers gently before scrambling to hop off of him and run to play with its furry friends instead. You regarded the scene with a fond look in your eyes before heat rushed to your cheeks when Yeosang finally turned to face you, flashing you the breathtaking shy smile you adored so much before beckoning you over and gesturing to the space on the blanket next to him.

You watched him turn to meet your eyes when you positioned yourself next to him, a smile tugging at your lips.

“So... I take it you were the one who ‘sent’ the letter, Sangie~?” The male in question nodded sheepishly, secretly finding it cute how you never stayed consistent with the nicknames you gave to people. “Yeah, it was me. Wooyoung helped though... the chapstick was his idea, among other things.”

You hummed at the nervous laugh that slipped past his lips as he waited for your reaction, “I expected as much. A mystery how he managed to not snitch, truly...” You trailed off, reaching to brush a strand of hair out of Yeosang’s handsome face. “What’s also a mystery is how neither of us seem to have picked up on the signals we tried to send each other.”

Yeosang tilted his head slightly, subconsciously leaning into your touch as he eyed you with somewhat furrowed brows, “But I thought you weren’t interested in relationships, Y/n?”

“I did say that, but I’m making an exception for you. I guess what I’m saying is... I like you back, Yeosangie. As in... like like you.”

You bit your lip in anticipation of his next move, practically seeing the cogs turning in his head before his face lit up with relief.

“I’m so glad to hear that, I was actually even worried you had changed your mind and wouldn’t come in the first place.” Yeosang took a deep breath as he took in your shy but genuine expression, “Can I... would you let me kiss you?”

You nodded, gently tugging him close by means of his jacket before he even had time to react. Your kiss was clumsy, as expected from two people your age, but you wouldn’t have it any other way. It was perfect, just like you were to each other.

He grinned at you when he pulled back, “Did you put on the strawberry chapstick~?” You giggled in response, “Mhm, I sure did. What’s interesting though is that you taste like vanilla... and I happen to like vanilla~”

You spent the rest of the afternoon and evening talking and playing with the cats until it was time for the café to close, and you left to make your way back home. Together this time, hands interlocked.

Yeosang kissed you again lovingly when you reached your doorstep and promised to pick you up before school the following day before walking off into the night, a bright smile on his face.

You had barely set foot into your house and heard the door click closed behind you, when your phone vibrated in your hand. You didn’t need to check to know who was calling you at this hour, amusement filling you as you heard your now-boyfriend’s voice on the other end of the line.

“Well Y/n, how was your date~?”

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[rosaliepostsstuff]

Secret santa - F.W.

This is my fic for @thisismysecrethappyplace​‘s writing challenge, using prompt #27 - "Today, it's like there's rock bottom, then 50 feet of crap, then me."

Pairing: Fred Weasley x Hufflepuff!reader (although the house is not mentioned much)

word count: 2070

a/n: I’m not one of the people who start celebrating Christmas on November 1st (but if you do - live your extra life, love) but the idea of secret santa game just popped into my head and I couldn’t think of any other story to work with the quote. Year is not specified.

If you want to be added to my taglist, let me know!

December rolled around and the castle of Hogwarts has been covered in snow once again. The snow reflecting the little sunlight the area got this time of year, making the inside seem a bit brighter. It reminded you that in just a few weeks’ time it would be Christmas. Even though you were to stay at Hogwarts this year, you were looking forward to it.

During one of the study sessions in the Great Hall, you were sat next to your friends from Gryffindor. You were quietly chatting to Angelina and Katie. One word led to another and you learnt that the girls and a few more friends of yours would be staying for the Christmas break as well.

“Look, we’ll finally get to properly spend the holidays together-“ Katie started, but Angelina quickly joked, “oh, like the big, dysfunctional, happy family we are” and finished with a big grin that quickly fell when she caught Professor Vector’s eye and got back to her notebook. “Hey, that’s not a half-bad idea,” you put your quill down and looked between the girls, “how about we gather the rest and do a ‘secret Santa’ type of deal, huh?” you said enthusiastically. They studied you a bit sceptically, but you got them intrigued.

When you got them convinced, you talked to a few other people and decided to gather the next evening after dinner to draw the names so you’d still have almost three weeks to prepare the gifts.

That’s how you found yourself, all the Weasleys, Harry, Hermione, Lee, Angie and Katie gathered at one of the tables near a huge fireplace at the Great Hall. Being very excited about the idea, you prepped the pieces of parchment with the names beforehand and now everybody was to draw one from a hat passed around the group.

When it reached you, your heart started to beat slightly faster – you were quietly hoping to get Fred – you were friends, but you liked him slightly more and were hoping the act of kindness of a well thought out gift would get you some bonus points. It was now or never.

You reached in, stirred around with your hand a bit and picked one of the folded pieces, then passed the hat on. Carefully, so that no one would see it, you unfolded the parchment that read-

“Lee Jordan”

You tried not to show disappointment on your face. It was fine. You liked Lee and you planned to make the best gift you could think of. You’d still get to see Fred, even if you didn’t make the present for him.

You couldn’t help but wonder who did draw his name. Would they make a nice gift? Maybe a nicer one than you would’ve? Get his gratitude- oh, how you hoped it wasn’t any of the quidditch girls. What if it’s Angie? Oh, he must like her – she’s tall, pretty, and cool-

“Hey, Y/N?” Hermione’s voice snapped you out of your spiralling thoughts. “What’d you think? Do we exchange on Christmas eve? Christmas day, boxing..?” Asked Katie. “Uhm, the eve’s fine,” you mumbled and followed everyone, getting up and heading out.

You said your goodbyes and separated from the group – you were the only one headed to the dungeons. As you were about to go through the door you saw a piece of parchment someone must’ve dropped. Before you got to it, you saw Harry notice it and pick it up.

Passing by, you involuntarily looked at the parchment-

“Y/N Y/L/N”

Dammit, you thought and went on. That was about it for your surprise, or at least half of it.

——————⁛⁙⁘◊⁘⁙⁛——————

Days had passed, then weeks, and you found yourself with just a few days left in this term before the winter break would start.

You woke up late, with weird neck pain – you had slept in a funny position. Throwing on your robes you kicked your shin by accident and took a moment to shout out a few indecent words to help ease the pain and then you pushed through, determined to reach potions on time.

During the break, before your second period, you figured you would stop by the library to pick up a book you were going to need for an assignment you planned to start that evening.

Walking through the aisles with your destination well known, you looked out the large windows at the snow – and with the remnants of any positive attitude you had in you, you smiled to yourself.

“Have you done yours already..?” you suddenly heard Ron’s ineffectual whisper from behind a bookcase. It made you stop in your tracks and against your better judgement, you listened in. “Yeah, I got her a book…” Harry’s voice whispered back. ‘please, don’t say what book’ you repeated in your mind. “… something about the history of wizarding settlements in Britain..? I can’t remember the title, but she’ll like it.”

You grimaced to yourself at the thought – he couldn’t be more wrong. And then to top it, he added some sweets you absolutely loathed.

With heavy steps and a heavy heart, you headed to charms.

You liked charms, and you loved professor Flitwick. He was one of the decent teachers in this school, kind and sometimes even funny.

Today was one of those lessons, this time of year, that he gave up on starting a new topic and decided you were to do some revisions. Your mood slightly lifted, you were practising the banishing charm.

As the end of the lesson was drawing close you got comfortable and your mind started to wander. Thinking about the earlier events, you lost your focus and accidentally knocked over the pile od books Flitwick was standing on, sending the professor flying face down.

He was nice enough to understand your mistake and you were not punished in any way, but it didn’t change how bad you felt about it.

As you headed to lunch, cursing the universe, Merlin, and everything around, you thought the day couldn’t get any worse.

And then you tripped on one of the stone floor slabs.

You heard Fred and George’s booming laughs, lying on the floor and debating whether life was worth getting up. When the twins saw you not getting up, they stopped laughing.

Fred walked up and looked at you a bit confused – the fall wasn’t all that bad and you didn’t look hurt. “You alright there, sunshine?” he said leaning over you. You groaned in response and rolled over, then reluctantly got up from the cold floor with Fred’s help. “Peachy,” you replied, dusting off your robes and Fred snorted, then studied your expression.

He signalled for George to go without him and patted your shoulder lightly. “Today, it's like there's rock bottom, then 50 feet of crap, then me.” You gestured wildly. “Alright then, papa Fred’s got you. What’s troubling you?” he asked, slightly amused, yet genuinely as you began strolling in the direction of the great hall. You took a deep breath, wondering where to start. “I slept in, was almost late to potions which we know would leave me with trauma, I knocked Flitwick to the ground by accident when we practised Depulso  - and now this,” you kicked the cousin slab of the one that made you trip and Fred chuckled at your pout, “Oh and I almost forgot – my Christmas present’s gonna be rubbish,” you exaggerated. “How so?” he asked, confused. “Well, I know who’s my secret Santa already. Found out by accident. Then I overheard what I’m gonna get… I mean, it’s okay, but I guess I was just hoping for something nice…” you rambled looking down to the ground. “Oh. Okay then… you know what? I actually promised Lee I’d pick something up for him before lunch, so – I- I’ll see you later?..” It was your turn to be confused. You looked up at him but before you raised your hand with a little wave and mumbled small “bye”, he walked off.

——————⁛⁙⁘◊⁘⁙⁛——————

You haven’t seen Fred all that much since that weird encounter – you didn’t have any classes together and you were in different houses so it was just a coincidence to you.

The Christmas Eve came around and you were playing wizards’ chess with Ron in the great hall to pass time before the rest of the group gathered. People were slowly pouring in, each of them adding to the small pile on the wooden table, a box enchanted with a concealing spell, so that each gift looked the same – and the secret Santa remained secret. Among the last few was Fred, looking slightly sheepish for himself.

“So are doing it, lads and lassies?” exclaimed Lee rubbing his palms together, making everyone chuckle. You all sat down close in what resembled a circle, making sure no one was left out.

Hermione pointed her wand at the pile of boxes, “Revelio” and they all appeared in different forms, with various name tags attached.

You decided to open the gifts one by one going clockwise, starting with all-too-eager Lee. You couldn’t help the wide grin that appeared on your face when you saw his child-like joy after opening the gift from you. Then it was Angelina’s turn, then yours.

You reached for the package with your name on it, trying to appear enthusiastic and not-at-all like you already knew what was inside. You unwrapped the paper with a mix of shock and confusion on your face.

Inside the paper was a box of your favourite chocolates and underneath a plain-looking book. You opened it and it turned out to be a photo album filled with photographs of you with your friends, along with some captions and thematic drawings on the white-ish pages around them.

With mouth slightly open you flicked through a few pages and ran your hand over the doodles. You looked up at Harry, who had the same expression as anyone in this circle – except for one person who studied your reaction and tried to hide the satisfied smile on his face.

The gift opening continued. It was when Hermione opened hers and you saw what you had thought you’d get that it dawned on you. It started with the assumption that when Harry picked up the note with your name it meant he was your secret Santa, which (obvious for you now) didn’t have to be the case and it wasn’t. Then with your mind set in stone, you just kept assuming things.

“Did you like your gift?” with newfound courage thanks to the good mood, you nudged Fred on the way out. He slowed down to walk beside you and separate from his mates. “Why, were you my Santa?” he asked cheekily. “No, not this year. Just curious.” you shrugged your shoulders. “Yeah, it was nice.” he stated simply, and after a bit of silence added, “d’you like yours?” “Why, were you my Santa?” you giggled. He put his hands in his pockets and avoided your gaze as a smile started creeping upon his face. “Merlin’s beard, you were..?” you cursed yourself for saying that out loud as your heart started thudding. “Maybe.” He looked at you with a mischievous smile and you melted. “Freddie, I loved it. It was really… sweet,” you said, shyly. “Good then, glad it wasn’t rubbish.” he snorted lightly and you wanted to bury yourself right then and there. “I’m soo sorry about that, it was a misunderstanding. I was in a bad mood, I thought somebody else was making a gift for me, I- I didn’t… I’m sorry Freddie.” You smiled awkwardly at him and he chuckled, ruffling your hair. “It’s alright, sunshine. I’m happy you don’t resent me” “I could never.” “Oh?” he stopped and looked you straight in the eye, smirking. “Uh, I mean…” your mind went blank. “You see, I was really happy when I drew your name.” he looked up above the two of you and your eyes remained on him. “It just so happens that I really like you so you must agree it would be convenient if you liked me back.”

You gulped. He looked back down at you, then gestured with his eyes for you to look up.

There it was, hovering above you, in all its glory – the magical mistletoe.

“So?” He leaned down a bit, turned his head to the side and tapped his finger on his cheek, “make it up to me?”

[sorenskyhigh]

How the Haikyuu boys would get their s/o out of their zoom meetings (for example, pretending that they are getting kidnapped and getting dragged off screen) My sister did this before and my teacher was cracking up. THANK YOU BEST FRIEND :)

YES! I love this! Imagine if they took you on a sweet little date afterwards and you both just mess around all day!!! o(��∇≦o) and thank you so much for supporting me!!!!!

Also I want to apologize for not writing anything, there's been a lot going on and I've just had no will to do anything ˚‧º·(˚ ˃̣̣̥⌓˂̣̣̥ )‧º·˚

Includes Daichi Sawamura, Koushi Sugawara, Asahi Azumane, Yū Nishinoya, Tetsurou Kuroo, Kenma Kozume, Toru Oikawa, Hajime Iwaizumi, Koutaro Bokuto, Keiji Akaashi, and Satori Tendou

Not proof read

Getting You Out Of Zoom Class

Daichi Sawamura

Daichi may end up being a cop and he may seem like a stickler for the rules, but........

He is super smart

And I definitely wouldn't put it past him to break some rules here and there

Daichi knows you hate the particular class that you're sitting through right now

The teacher was an ass and the class was just not your forte

Daichi was sitting just out of shot and you angrily scribbled down notes. You knew you could lie and make excuses for why you didn't do the work but, your conscious just wouldn't allow you.

Every once in awhile Daichi would reach out a soothing hand under the table and rub his thumb a couple times over your knee to sooth you.

At one point Daichi got up and just stood there for a second.

He intook a large breath before picking you up out of the chair and swinging you over his shoulder.

Hus face appeared in your camera and he just smiled wide and said, "Sorry, they've got something more important to do."

With that he left, not even bothering to turn off anything before he walked out to the kitchen with you and started making a lunch for you two.

Koushi Sugawara

We all love our chaotic Sugamama

Suga though isn't exactly theatrical person

What he would do would be simple and easy but very effective

Koushi was in your kitchen making a cute little brunch for the two of you. He had set everything up in your living room.

Nice, comfy nest on the floor, open windows, a short table to set everything on.

You had been particularly stressed since you had had to start online classes. A lot of people could learn this way, but, you just couldn't

You were busy working and didn't notice when your feed cut out and froze then turned off.

He had asked Yamaguchi what he could do since Yamaguchi was surprisingly good with electronics.

He had gotten into your account and was messing with it. Somehow, since a computer and and his laptop were trying to use it at the same time it genuinely messed it up but that was a worry for later.

"Awww c'mon!" You said before you screamed in surprise.

Koushi had popped up from under your desk,"I think you need a break."

Asahi Azumane

Asahi is a super nervous guy, we been knew

But when he saw just how stressed his little baby was over your online classes

You were sitting in your living room on the floor, all your stuff spread out. You looked like you were spread so thin as you tried to keep up.

Suddenly your front door slammed open and big guy in a mask came in and snatched you up and took you outside after shutting your door.

You were of course until you got outside then you both started laughing.

Asahi had gone over this with you many many many times es just to make sure you were okay with it.

Aftwards he also kept worrying over you on whether he hurt you or not.

Nishinoya Yū

You know this boy would go all out for this

As loud and wild as he can make it

Yū had decided to be as obnoxious as possible. It was simple, yet highly effective.

Not only did you have to turn off your mic but your teacher asked you to turn off your camera as well.

Yū wasn't just a auditory nuisance but a visual one as well.

As long as he could be seen or heard he would either be being a pest or too funny for anyone to concentrate.

After your teacher had asked you to cut off your sound and camera you both obviously left.

Yū wanted to go and eat your entire fridge while you watch horror movies.

Tetsurou Kuroo

You know this man would bring in straight facts

He would cut down any of your teacher/professors excuses as to why you had to stay

"Too much time on a computer, phone or TV screen can cause serious retinal damage. If they can't see then they can't do the work you want them too. Life would be so much harder for them if they lost their sight."

With that he hurriedly turned off your computer and rushed you out of there so you guys could hang out and watch probably an animal science documentary.

Kenma Kozume

You know this boy is tech proficient

He would have your computer so screwed

Why even try

You go to get into your class but the potato filter is on and you can't fix it.

Your teacher is angry at you bc 'you're young and apart of the generation that grew up with this technology so figure it out and blah blah blah.

You're struggling so with the sound, you sound like you had just sucked on a can of helium.

Then the loud celebratory noise emitting from your computer and an all too familiar voice came over and said, " Not today, pudding." Then your entire computer "crashed".

Kenma entered the room very queitly as you sat there.

"It's not broken. But if you don’t play video games with me I won't fix it."

Toru Oikawa

This twink ass drama queen

I pity whoever dates this man if you have to take zoom classes

You know he would be super dramatic about it

You're sitting at your chair and are dutifully taking notes when your bedroom door is flung open.

There stands Toru.

His hands are on his hips and he's pulling his little pouty face.

"Now, little cutie. You have been ignoring me for weeks."

You look at him as if he had lost his mind. You just talked to him this morning.

"If I didn't know ow any better I'd say you had the hots for someone in that class!" He was slowly raising his voice.

"I thought we were happy?! I love you and I wanted to marry you."

Disconnected

After he had unplugged you're entire computer he giggled and kissed you, "Sorry little cutie, I just hate to see you so stressed from those stupid classes."

Hajime Iwaizumi

He gets enough drama from Shittykawa

So he's not going to create any of his own if he can help it

But he did think that video of someone "kidnapping" their friend was pretty funny

You were in the kitchen with a glass of water when Hajime very quietly came in. You had just baby heard your front door close.

He held his finger up to his mouth and pulled a bandana up over his mouth.

He skillfully it over him since this wouldn't be the first time you had had distractions from your friends during class.

You were curious about what he was doing.

Then all of a sudden you were grabbed from the side, the stool falling over as Hajime shut your laptop.

He carried you outside where Shittykawa, Mattsun, and Maki were waiting.

"No more classes for today."

"Yeah you get to have just so much fun with us," Maki said sarcastically.

Koutaro Bokuto

This man

This MAN

I love him to death but not only would he get the entire team in on it but he would screw it up somehow

You were on your bed with your laptop on a blanket in front of you as you listen to your teacher drone on and on and on.

Then you shrieked when your bedroom door was thrown open and three fairly big guys came rushing in.

Naturally you screamed in fear.

Koutaro was the one carrying you as the Konoha turned off your laptop and Akaashi stood there. He was so not with this.

The thing is, Koutaro didn't tell you on purpose so your reaction would be genuine enough to fool your class.

He got you so upset that Akaashi, Konoha, Anohori, Komi, Onaga, Sarukui, and even Washio were chastising him for it.

They weren't having his dumb shit today, no sir.

He made it up to you though, so did the rest of the team.

Keiji Akaashi

After dealing with Bokuto for what felt like a lifetime

He wanted to keep things simple and easy

Akaashi had just walked into your room while you were sitting at your desk.

He had pushed your chair out of the way and simple turned everything off. Saving any documents you may or may not have had open first of course.

Then he took your hand and he took you to a nice and quiet Cafe where you guys spent the rest of the day.

Satori Tendo

Itcha miracle boi

You know that when he starts to make you leave ethe teacher say soemthing he will fight them ლ(ಠ益ಠ)ლ

He's ready to dish it out

Straight up insults them

You were sitting in bed with your laptop while Satpri was sprawled across your lap.

He hadn't disturbed doubt thus far. He was actually being very well behaved.

Thankfully with how you and your laptop set up, no one saw him chillin' like a villain in your lap.

That is until he groaned and started to whine about how boring it was.

Your teacher addresses you and scolds you for having Satoir there.

"Why, it's not like I'm distracting you. You're not doing anything anyways. Let's leave, my Paradise."

After that Satori had a long argument with your teacher, your teacher very clearly losing. More than half your class was losing it at this point.

"Look, you abarrent brat,'" thats when you got mad.

"Excuse me? What did you just call him??!!" You slammed your laptop shut after that.

@kneecapstealingalien @multifandombrainrot @vaniatslover @popcorntime-doodles @i-need-coffee-now-pls @jiheonity @shadowsbutdead @goshikisimp @anothershadeofpink @mestayanon @ghostexhibit @smallmangi @thatfunnysprout @backalley-astrologer @itsallgonnabokayihope @g00s3 @boreateo @all-around-fandoms31 @weareallhumans123 @lil-mellow-bunbun @strawberrymakki @beelziee @mehreenackerman @taiyahhh @sakusasgerm @cr4z3d-cl0wn @detective-bakugou @mainnews32 @turtletris2tumble @oshun22 @syirahtorizawa @wouldsimply31

[monsieuroverlord]

Work doodles I did today during my lunch break.

Fun Fact: Sukajan jackets originated as souvenir jackets for American GIs post-WWII. The name is thought to originate as a portmanteau of “Yokosuka Jumper” (or from “Sky Dragon Jumper” -- the origin is a little unclear). In the 1960s and 1970s, sukajan ironically became a symbol of rejecting American influence, adopted by rebel youth and the counter-culture scene, eventually making their way to yakuza associations.

Up until the 1980s, they were largely made by hand and personalized according to the wearer. For example, GIs would largely commemorate their service, time in Japan, emblems of their unit, or other symbols with significance.

Counter-culture youth Gang members took inspiration from Irezumi and traditional Japanese elements such as dragons, tigers, cherry blossoms, etc. 

Nowadays, it’s experienced a resurgence in popularity all over the world in the fashion industry, even in “high-end labels” such as Tom Ford, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and others. 

Anyways, since its canon that Akihiro has had/worn sukajan, why wouldn’t he have had a custom-made one from his youth? Perhaps stashed away somewhere because a) kept it hidden from Romulus (as a sign of defiance) b) its old and special and c) a vinatge sukajan is worth a fucking ton -- especially the custom ones and he’s not fucking around with feral collectors.

I chose centipedes ‘cause that’s what his tattoo was originally supposed to depict, higanbana to correspond with theme of death and decay, maple leaves, and a hint of bamboo grass

[writing-freak]

BNHA Soulmate AU Week Day 5: Drawing on Skin

(GIF credit to its owner!! :) )

Kaminari Denki x Reader

Word Count: 1,441

A/N: It’s day 5 of my bnha soulmate au week! Today’s fic, featuring this lovable idiot, is an au where anything soulmates write/color on their skin shows up on their soulmate! Reader has the same chaotic energy as Kami does, and they’re covered in marks all the time. I had a ton of fun writing this, so I hope y’all like it! Remember, I’m taking soulmate au headcannon and imagine requests for BNHA characters in addition to the 2 other fics I have planned for the week! Stay tuned - tomorrow I’ve got one with my favorite girl, Jirou! If you want to be added to this week’s taglist, or have a request, let me know! Thanks for reading!! :))

Masterlist

You thought your friend was crazy.

You were currently waiting on her bed before you left for classes, watching her fret by the mirror with her concealer on her chin.

“They got paint on their chin again!” she complained, and you rolled your eyes.

“I just want to get to class on time,” you whined in response, pulling up your sleeve to reveal your own marks covering your skin.

But in reality, you were complaining about more than that. As you looked fondly on all of the drawings, notes and messages your soulmate (or you, you couldn’t even remember at this point) had marked on your body, you just simply could not understand wanting to cover them up with makeup. You were proud of your soulmate, and the marks that meant that they belonged to you, and you belonged to them.

You pulled out a marker from your pocket (at this point, you always carried one around), and wrote a small message on your palm.

Hi, you wrote, adding a smiley face beside it.

Pretty soon, the drawing was changing, and a little tongue was added to the smile, along with two more smileys on each side of it. You smiled in response.

And then there was a little movement a bit further up on your arm, and you saw where your soulmate was writing a question in pen on your skin.

Do you want to hear a joke, cutie? they asked.

Grinning to yourself, you wrote a quick yes in response.

What do you call an alligator in a vest?

idk

An investigator

You burst out laughing, and your friend stopped what she was doing to look at you, seeming a bit concerned. But when she saw you writing again on your arm, she sighed and rolled her eyes.

“I’m done,” she said.

“Oh,” you said, hopping to your feet. “Okay, well, we’d better hurry.” You pulled your sleeve down again, grabbing your bag as you followed her to the door.

Everyone was pretty used to you drawing all over yourself by now. It was common to find you with a marker in your hand, writing messages on your wrists or knees or palms. And everyone knew that your soulmate must be just as crazy, as you walked around with marks head to toe (it wasn’t even that crazy to find a doodle on your cheek or your forehead). But you had never minded the stares you got in the hallway. You loved your marks, and your little conversations with your soulmate.

“Do you think that when you put makeup on, it appears on your soulmate too?” you asked your friend as you made it to class.

She shrugged her shoulders. “It must, if their paint is always showing up on me. But I’m just doing them a favor, they probably don’t even realize they have paint on their chin! That would be embarrassing!”

You took your seat, nodding to yourself. As class began, you found yourself drowning out the noises around you, and went to doodling absentmindedly on your fingers. You saw your soulmate making additions of their own, and even felt the beginnings of something starting on your shoulder and neck.

You rolled your eyes. Only your soulmate would find a way to draw on their neck during class.

What was it - english? - that your soulmate was taking now? You couldn’t remember, but you did know that whatever it was, it was always their least favorite, and you got the most drawings during this time.

You saw a little doodle figure popping up on your right arm, where some blank space was left over. The person they were drawing was small, with long hair that covered his face. But as the drawing slowly progressed, a familiarity with the figure that was being sketched washed over you.

The hair, the ropes around his neck. It was Aizawa, or Eraserhead, as the general public seemed to know him. But you knew him in a different capacity, as a teacher at your school.

Your heart began pounding in your chest. But you tried to calm down for a second, reminding yourself that the teacher was a famous pro hero.

You found yourself unable to breathe as your soulmate began scribbling a message beside the image.

My teacher looking about as tired as I feel, they wrote, and to top things off, they added an arrow pointing to the teacher you knew too well.

The pounding of your heart stopped, and you felt your breath hitch in your chest.

Your soulmate went to your school. They were in this building, right now.

The moment your teacher dismissed your class you were up, running out of the classroom without even sparing a glance in the direction of your friend, even after she called after you.

You didn’t know where you were going, but you were running in the direction of the hero classes. But when you finally reached the doors to class 1-A, you found the classroom empty.

Training? you wrote quickly on your hand. There was a hesitancy, and you imagined the shock your soulmate was feeling as well. But then you saw the yes scribbled beneath your question, and you were off running once again.

You found your way to the training facility just as class 1-A was finishing up, or so you assumed, as all of the students were filing out, bags slung around their shoulders, their gym uniforms unzipped and their faces red from exertion.

They didn’t seem to notice you as they passed, each more exhausted than the last. But you were looking frantically at all of them, all of their faces, arms, necks, hands. Until the very last group came through the doors, and a blond boy, with his sleeves rolled up and his jacket unzipped, marks covering his arms and his neck and his hands, walked out with his friends.

You stopped in your tracks, staring at the boy. He hadn’t seen you yet, and he was laughing, just as you would have expected. You weren’t even sure if you would have needed the marks over his skin to let you know he was yours. There was just an aura about him, one you were all too familiar with, from all your years communicating with him over writing.

He looked up from his friends, a lazy sort of smile on his face, and he saw you. Your sleeves were rolled up at this point from all your running around, and you knew your tie had been loosened around your neck. His eyes went wide, his mouth hung open.

You were both frozen, staring at each other from just a few paces away. His friends seemed to notice something was up (probably when he stopped talking for five consecutive seconds), and after giving you amused glances, they left the boy.

The boy seemed to come out of a trance, and a goofy grin returned to his face. He closed the small space between you, looking at you in amazement. His eyes trailed your body, paying special attention to the marks on your arms.

He held out his hand (complete with a smiley face message), finally meeting your eyes. “I’m Kaminari Denki,” he said.

A wide grin on your face that matched his own, you skipped the hand and hopped straight into his arms, hugging him tightly.

“Your jokes are really corny,” you mumbled into his shoulder, laughing.

“Oh yeah?” Kaminari said, pulling back so he could raise his eyebrows at you. “You sure they don’t make you laugh?” He poked your cheek teasingly. “Cause you seem to be smiling now, cutie.”

You couldn’t help but throw your head back as you laughed. It was so natural, this interaction. It was like you had known him for years, and you expected that was because you had.

After introducing yourself, the two of you linked arms as you headed back to the main building, planning on eating lunch together during your break.

“What did the nut say to the nut he was chasing?” Kaminari asked as you walked with elbows linked.

“The nut?” you couldn’t help but laugh.

“Yes, it’s a nut,” Kaminari shoved you lightly, breaking away from your arm as you stumbled away. But he didn’t go without touching you for long, and before you knew it, his arm was slung around your neck. “It needs to be nuts for the joke to work.”

“Alright then, what did the nut say?” You turned to look at your soulmate, your eyes narrowing as you waited for an answer.

A big grin spread across his face. “I’m gonna cashew!”

Taglist: @anything-and-everything-here69​ @engel-hageshii​ @mrsreina​ @pm4gal​

[hearteyesbowen]

twenty-dollar baby ☆ ricky bowen

big red thinks that ricky’s lost his touch and isn’t as smooth as he used to be, so they make a bet to see who is right

warnings: swearing, kinda cliché, fluff

part I , part II , part III

♡ ♡ ♡ ♡

Big Red and Ricky were sitting at their usual lunch spot, staring at his now ex-girlfriend, Nini Salazar-Roberts. It had only been two weeks since school started again and Ricky was still angry at how Nini had moved on so fast. He believed that they were only on a break, just so he could wrap his head around the whole “I love you” drama.

“You know, the more you stare, the creepier you look.” Big Red teased, nudging his best friend.

“I’m so over Nini now. How could she just find a senior boyfriend so fast?” Ricky complained.

“You broke up with her, dude.”

“It was a pause!”

Ricky stopped himself from getting any louder. He ruffled his hair, trying to destress himself. He pushed his lunch tray to the side, clearly losing his appetite over his anger.

“I should move on, too. I’ll start dating again.” Ricky declared.

Red scoffed, “Good luck.”

Ricky snapped his head at Red, raising an eyebrow. “What does that mean?”

“It means you’ve lost your game. You were in a relationship for almost a year, how would you know how to get another girl?”

“You’re so supportive, you know that?”

Red rolled his eyes, pushing his tray away and sitting up. “I’ll bet you $20 that you can’t get another girlfriend in a week.”

“Excuse me?” Ricky asked in disbelief.

Red quickly scanned the cafeteria, looking for a girl that he can give to challenge Ricky. His eyes found you, sitting at a table in the center with your best friend Carlos. You were sitting extremely close with him as you he had his phone out to show you some videos.

Red smacked Ricky’s arm and pointed towards you, “I bet you can’t get Y/N to be your girlfriend.”

“What? No, I don’t want to be a dick. She’s super nice and literally in all my classes. Plus, I don’t need a bet to prove that I can get a girl.”

“You auditioned for a musical just to get Nini back and she’s still dating her new boyfriend and doesn’t even want to look at you.” Red pointed out.

Ricky sighed, staring at you from across the lunch area. Strands of your hair framed your face. Your head was laid on Carlos’ shoulder as you stared at his phone screen. Ricky never denied that you were pretty, in fact, he thought you were one of the most beautiful girls in the school. Everything about you captivated him, it was like you had him under this spell for the longest time.

You and Ricky shared almost every class with him. Only meeting at the end of your sophomore year, you both grew a treasured friendship. He would always try and get you to laugh during lessons, sometimes getting you both in trouble. If you were lucky, the teacher would let you two partner up for class projects. You thought he was cute, really cute. You never thought could like him, maybe because he didn’t seem like your type or that he had a girlfriend for a year. When they broke up during the summer, you made sure to check up on him whenever you could. He would ask you to hang out a majority of the time, so you grew even closer.

Ricky’s ego was building up, and maybe it was because his best friend was playing with his emotions, but he decided that he would take the bet. He knew he would have regretted this choice completely, but that’s a problem for later.

“Fine, in one week, I’ll get Y/N to be my girlfriend.”

Ricky and Red shook hands, finalizing their new deal.

➢➣ ➢➣

You rolled your eyes the more your teacher lectured minutes before the final bell rang. You rested your head on your chin, doodling swirls all over your notebook where your notes were supposed to be.

“Make sure you keep in touch with your partner, I’ll give you some class time tomorrow to finish the assignment.” Your teacher closed his textbook and walked to his desk as everyone packed their things.

You sat up and closed your notebook. You stuffed it inside your backpack, tuning out all of the noise of kids laughing and talking loudly. You took out your phone and your earphones, plugging them into your ears when you felt a small object hit your head. Your head looked to the floor where the item fell, and you found a tiny paper ball. You laughed and looked a few desks in front of you to your friend. Ricky was already staring at you, smiling to himself as he got up with his backpack and squeezed through the aisle to get to your seat.

“There wasn’t any other way for you to get my attention?” You wondered, picking up the ball and throwing it back at him.

Ricky laughed and kneeled in front of you, “I tried to call you but you ignored me. It’s your fault for sitting in the back.”

“No, it’s your fault for getting moved for distracting me from learning.” You teased.

The last bell of the day rang, making everyone in class shove each other out the door. You stood up with Ricky who grabbed your backpack for you, and you both headed out the class. He grabbed the door handle before you could and held it open, letting you pass through first.

You gave him a confused look, “Who let you be a gentleman today?”

Ricky’s mouth grew open in shock, “I can’t just be nice to my friend?”

“No, you’re a dick.”

“Wow, you and Red both make me feel so much better about myself.” He joked.

You walked down the staircase to the bottom floor. The theatre door was ahead, meaning you and Ricky had to part ways.

You tilted your head, “What did he tease you for this time?”

Ricky’s eyes widened, averting from yours. He scratched the back of his neck, “The usual.”

You laughed, said bye and started to walk away, assuming Ricky would just walked into rehearsal. Before you could take two steps away from him, he called for your attention.

“Y/N.”

You turned around on your heels, facing the anxious boy. He stood with his hands in his pockets, swaying back and forth on his feet. His mouth was open, as if trying to find what to say.

“Ricky?” You asked, stepping closer to him.

“What are you doing later?” His voice was soft, almost nervous.

“Nothing, why?”

“I have rehearsal for only an hour today, we’re ending early. Maybe I can pick you up and we can go out?”

You were now face-to-face with him. He had a timid smile, anticipating your response. You smiled brightly at him, easing his anxiousness.

“Are you asking me out on a date, Ricky Bowen?”

His lips grew wider, relieved of your reaction, “What if I am?”

“Then I would love to go on a date with you.”

Ricky sighed, making you giggle. He wrapped his large arms around your body for a tight hug. Your hands went around his neck as he lifted you off the floor for a few seconds. Once you were set back down, he checked the time on his phone.

“I’ll pick you up at 4:30?”

You stood on your toes to kiss his cheek lightly.

“Don’t be late.”

➢➣ ➢➣

Looking in the mirror, you finished checking yourself to make sure you were ready for your date. You finished fixing your hair, making sure it’s perfectly smooth.

You don’t know why you were so excited about going out on a date with Ricky. Sure, you thought he was cute, but you never thought of him that way. He was always really nice to you, and made sure you were ok after anything happened to you. Maybe it was because of how close you two got recently, but something felt different with him.

Ricky had sent you a text five minutes ago that he was on his way to pick you up, so you picked up your small purse and opened your bedroom door to leave.

“Y/N, Ricky is here for you!” Your mother called out from the living room.

You walked through the hall and saw Ricky in front of the door next to your mother, holding a small bouquet of red and yellow roses. He wasn’t dressed formal, just a light sweatshirt and jeans. You practically matched him, mostly because you didn’t know what his plans were for the date.

His eyes looked you up and down, his lips were parted slightly. “You look beautiful.”

You stood in front of him and smiled as he offered you the roses. “Thank you very much. You look handsome.”

His face grew pink, making your mom laugh behind you. “Remember what we talked about, alright?”

Ricky nodded his head furiously as he held your hand, “You can trust me.”

He sent a wink to your mother before he opened the door. You waved goodbye to her and closed the door behind you once you got out. You turned and saw Ricky’s small car parked in your driveway.

“Sorry it’s not some sports car, but I hope it will do.” He said nervously.

You laughed, “Anything will be fine. I’m just not sure what we’re doing today.”

Ricky opened your door for you, ushering you inside. You got in and watched as Ricky closed the door and ran around the car to his side and sat inside as wel.

“I’ve learned a thing or two about dates. Not sure if I’m any good at it yet but I’m learning. But I thought it would be nice if we go to the pier.”

“Like, the beach?”

“Yeah, why? You don’t like the beach?”

You scrunched up your nose and hid your face in shame. Ricky put his hand on your shoulder, his face in awe.

“How do you not like the beach?”

You shrugged your shoulders, “Just never did.”

“I’ll try and make this the best date ever. We don’t even have to go near the sand, the pier is way more fun anyways.”

“Well this is a step up from any date I’ve been on.”

Ricky started the car, letting the engine run for a few minutes. Confused, he tilted his head towards you.

“What do you mean?”

Great, now you get to look like a loser in front of your date. You shifted uncomfortably in your seat, clearing your throat and fixing your hair, a habit you developed when you get nervous.

Ricky put his hand on top of yours which rested on your lap. You faced him, a small grin on your face.

“Have you never been on a date before?” He wondered. You shook your head slowly. Your head grew hot from the embarrassment. “Am I your first ever date?”

“I feel pathetic now.”

“No, no, no, don’t feel that way” He promptly put his hand on your shoulder. “I promise to make this the best date you will ever go on.”

➢➣ ➢➣

The sun was already beginning to set by the time you both made it to the pier. The beach was tame, not many people were swimming, mostly families running around with each other in the sand or friends starting bonfires in the charcoal pits towards the center of the beach. The pier wasn’t as full, either. Other, older, couples were walking together, holding hands or dining together at the restaurants. It was fully lit with lamps on the sides of the fencing blocking you from the sand. Any other light came from the sun already dimming away.

You didn’t know what to focus on first. Everything about the atmosphere was so breathtaking. To think that you had never gone out to see beautiful spots like this was a crime.

Ricky made sure to hold your hand the entire way, keeping you from running off to the numerous sites that caught your attention. He couldn’t help but be amazed at how beautiful he thought you looked in front of him. It almost made him forget this wasn’t real.

You dragged Ricky to the edge of the pier, staring straight ahead at the ocean in front of you. The sun was barely showing anymore, and all the colors molded together from day to night. You stepped on the fence and leaned over, gazing down at the water below you. Ricky’s strong arms held you at your waist, preventing you from falling over.

“I’ve never seen anything like this, or anything this beautiful.” You awed, stepping down from the rail.

Ricky’s arms stayed wrapped around your body and nestled his head in your neck. “I can think of something.”

You rolled your eyes playfully and laughed as you turned around to face him. “You’re really cute.”

His eyes glanced at your lips the more you stared at each other in silence. Your hands rested on his shoulders as you leaned up hastily. Ricky followed your actions, his breath shaky.

Ricky’s loud ringtone interrupted your possible kiss, making him scrunch you his face in frustration.

“Sorry, I should have silenced my phone.” He apologized, bringing out his phone to see it was a call from Red.

You shook your head, laughing slightly, “It’s fine, answer it. I’ll be here.”

He was quick to kiss your cheek before answering his phone and taking two steps away from you. As much as you knew it would be rude, you were curious as to what Big Red could have called for. Fortunately, you could make out some of what he was saying through the phone, and all of Ricky’s responses.

“Yeah, I’m with Y/N. Why?”

You turned your head slightly, your attention fully in their conversation at the sound of your name.

“So is it going to happen tonight?”

“Dude, don’t say that. Be respectful, you dick.”

You laughed at the way Ricky and his friend fought. He struggled to hang up with Red. The look of impatience on his face grew more and more. Boys are so stupid.

Once he was finally able to hang up, he shoved his phone in his pocket and turned back to you.

“Do you want to get ice cream?” He offered, holding out his hand.

You walked up to him and held his hand, “I would love to.”

➢➣ ➢➣

The sun had already set completely, so the pier looked even more gorgeous. Lights coming from the inside of shops and restaurants lit up the walkway along with the lamps. Less people filled the area, most of them leaving to the sand.

You and Ricky had just bought your ice cream, almost finished with it immediately. Your plan was to go to the arcade. He challenged you to play against him in Guitar Hero, so you simply couldn’t back down. This night was far too perfect for you, it was almost like a dream.

Ricky, on the other hand, couldn’t keep steady. He bounced his leg or fumbled with his hands when they weren’t holding yours. It’s not like he wasn’t trying to take you out on a nice date, he wanted to make this as special as he could for you. He never truly realized how much he really did like you until now. You made him feel something he never felt when he was with Nini.

Ricky’s problem was that he was still lying to you. He didn’t ask you out because he has loved you since you two met, or at least that’s what he wished was the case. He wishes that he discovered this emotion towards you early, that it could have been different. He still made a bet, a $20 bet that was just useless at this point. But when would he tell you this is what aches him the most.

“I need to tell you something, Y/N.”

You stopped walking along the pier and stared at him confusingly while you threw away the spoon with your finished ice cream, “Is everything alright?”

He toyed with the spoon inside of his almost empty cup, not able to look at you. “I seriously need you to know something, but I’m really scared that you will hate me forever.”

You rubbed his arm soothingly, hoping he would look at you. When he did slowly move his head up to you, you gave him a soft smile.

“I could never be mad at you. Ricky. Especially after everything you have done for me tonight. You’re the nicest guy ever.”

His eyes saddened. His foot tapped rapidly along the wooden flooring, and his upper body looked as if he tensed up. One of his hands went to his eyes, rubbing his temples furiously.

“I just feel bad.” He mumbled, still covering half of his face.

“Why?” You wondered, feeling petrified of his tone.

Ricky lifted his head again from his hands and had a smirk displayed across his face. “I feel bad that I’m going to beat you at every single game in that arcade.”

Your whole body relaxed at his response. You let out a relieved laugh and picked up the spoon from his cup that had the smallest scoop of chocolate ice cream.

“Yeah, but at least I don’t have chocolate on my face.”

He furrowed his eyebrows, “What do you mean?”

You gave a sinister grin as you took the spoon and smeared it on the top of his cheek and across his nose. You laughed and threw the utensil in the trash near you.

He groaned, throwing the cup away as well. He wiped his face with a napkin he had and eyed you down. “You’re going to get it.”

You bolted off immediately away from Ricky, who was still cleaning up his face from the chocolate. You went inside the arcade, knowing he would chase you down.

You ran around the children and teens playing in front of the large machines, hoping you would lose Ricky as quickly as possible. You tried to find something large to hide behind so you could watch out for him. Soon, you found a large basketball game that was set up on the side of the wall towards the back. You ran to the machine and ducked down, trying to see if you could spot him.

After a few short minutes of looking, you couldn’t find Ricky anywhere. You thought that maybe he just completely lost you. Well, he didn’t.

Once you stood up to try and get a better look around the area, a pair of strong hands grabbed you from behind and picked you up. You screamed, only to hear a familiar laugh from the person who grabbed at you.

“You aren’t good at hiding.” Ricky teased as he set you down.

You faced him, still being held in his arms and quickly greeted with his devilish smile. “Yeah, yeah, don’t get too cocky.”

“Sorry, loser.” He joked, bringing you closer to his body.

You decided to make the bold move and lean up to plant your lips on his. You held at his neck and stood up on your toes higher to meet his height. Ricky was completely shocked, but only for a second so he could kiss you back. Your lips molded together perfectly, making you feel warm. Although it was short, you didn’t think it was anything less than perfect.

You pulled away after a few seconds, and giggled at his peaceful face. His eyes stayed closed, along with a small smile.

“Wake me up when I’m done dreaming.” Ricky whispered.

You placed a gentle kiss on his cheek, making him open his eyes. He pecked your lips once more, making you giggle. You held his hand and led him to one of the games you ran past earlier.

As you both walked around, Ricky felt another buzz from his phone. He pulled it out of his pocket and checked the notification.

Big Red 🔥

Nini and EJ broke up, and I’m pretty sure it’s because of you.

A/N - we love a cliffhanger lol this is for sure going to be a longer series ( maybe not too long but longer than two parts ) . hope u guys like this one !! also i hope u guys are home , staying safe and healthy , and all that stuff cuz we’re not trying to spread and catch diseases ): love y’all xx

[erensnubs]

𝑩𝒆𝒂𝒖𝒕𝒚 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑩𝒆𝒂𝒔𝒕

Oikawa x F! Reader

Chapter 3

Word count: 1.7k

Random posts:

"So… Sho how's school been?" You ask him as you're pinning up Natsu's hair into "fairy braids".

They were essentially little flowers braided into sections of her hair.

Sho looks occupied. You think its his volleyball team.

"School's okay I guess. But volleyball is SOOO COOL! I NEVER KNEW YOU AND DAICHI-SAN, AND ASAHI-SAN AND SUGAWARA-SENPAI WERE CLOSE?!"

You start laughing, "Sugawara senpai what?!?"

Shoyo looks at you quizzically, "What do you mean? That's what he said to call him."

You giggle. God that man is too funny, you think.

"Okay enough about my upcoming volleyball career," Shoyo says while you roll your eyes.

"How's your manager life?"

You shrug your shoulders as you delicately place a flower into Natsu's hair.

"Well, me and the captain are on good terms now. And I think I'm somewhat friends with people on the team," you say thoughtfully.

Yesterday, you and Oikawa studied over the weekend at the coffee shop. It was surprising for you to see the proud captain turn almost submissive when you studied with your project together and when you talked about volleyball. You knew in the back of his mind he still felt bad about the way he mistreated you, but now you were fine.

"Well guess what? Daichi-san and Asahi-san want you to go out with them sometime! They miss you," Shoyo adds.

When you first came to Karasuno, you quickly became friends with Fuki and Riki. You were your own separate group, the artsy bitches who liked editing and drawing random shit, making concept art and scribbling doodles on each other's papers.

Then one day you decided to sit next to the shy boy-man? Man-boy? The boy with the man bun? Whatever. You decided to sit next to him during lunch, because your regular seating area was taken.

Next to the man bun boy was, stoic boy and beauty mark boy.

You didn't know that these boys were going to be the next best friends of your lives.

There you formed a friendship with three of the sweetest men you've ever met in your life.

It started off with talking about how brown is actually a good ass color, then to how the school lunches could have better milk, to groaning about essays together.

To them supporting you with your family, and you with volleyball.

"You're so stupid Riki!! Its the answer B obviously!!" Sugawara says slamming his hand on the lunch table.

You and Daichi start giggling as Riki rolls her eyes.

"What if it's not B, huh Koushi? What if it's actually C?!?" Riki retorts.

You chuckle with the memories of lunch arguments, walking together, and trips to the city with each other.

Later, you helped Daichi find a manager for the volleyball team, Kiyoko Shimizu and later became a friend of yours.

You never wanted to admit it but all of them became a found family, a fantasy that you recreated in your head over and over when you spent time with them, just because of how fucked up yours was.

You loved Suga's laugh and the way he held you while you were boisterously laughing about something stupid, but you hated the way that you knew that it was something friends did. And not what family did.

You loved it when Riki, Fuki and Shimizu came over and did your face with makeup because it made you feel like you were being pampered by aunts and sisters you didn't have.

When Asahi and Daichi constantly checked on your wellbeing, even until now, when you moved schools for Christ's sake. It made your heart clench in pity, because you know this is the closest thing to parents checking up on you.

The sad thing is? Is while you're over here playing found family, the rest of them were just doing something that friends do.

That's why you distanced yourself from all 4 of them when you moved schools.

But Shoyo, he had to remind you about them.

"Yeah.. I.. Uh… I miss them too," you say slowly, braiding the rest of Natsu's hair.

Natsu leans back against you and hands you your phone.

"You don't wanna play minecraft anymore?" You ask.

She shakes your head, "No Kiyoko is calling you!"

She waves the phone in your hands and you feel the vibration of the call.

Oh god, did Kiyoko figure it out?

With shaky fingers you pull the phone from Natsu's grasp and answer the call.

"Hey Kiyoko-"

"I'm outside your house…"

You sputter your words out, "What?!?! Kiyoko?!"

"I'm waiting for you so we can finally go out together."

She pauses.

"Just you and me," her soft voice carried comfort to you.

"Okay… I'll go soon. I'm outside with Sho and Natsu," you say picking yourself up and turning off your phone.

You wave goodbye to them and gesture with your other hand to the phone.

Shoyo gives you a thumbs up and goes back to playing outside with Natsu smiling.

You run back inside and grab your shoes and jacket and throw them on. You flung the door open and see Kiyoko Shimizu in all her grace, beauty and splendor.

"Kiyoko-"

She grabbed your hand and pulled you close to her chest and squeezed you tight.

"Me and Daichi were scared, you know. We all were. Very worried about you," she starts off quietly.

"Tell us, [Name], when something's wrong. It hurts us when you don't."

You sink into Kiyoko's arms and relish the feeling of them.

"I will. I'm sorry for not doing that."

She pulls away and gives you a soft smile, her beauty mark perking up.

"It's fine [Name]... Now get in the car! We're gonna go eat out today!"

"I'll have meal 1 please," you tell the waiter.

"Meal 5 with a side of tofu as well," Kiyoko adds.

The waiter leaves and now it's just you two You were at the ramen shop near Seijoh.

Which just so happened to be the Ramen shop that was close to the convenience store near Seijoh.

The convenience shop that you and Oikawa went to.

You shake your head to get him out of it.

"Uh…You okay?" Kiyoko said questionably.

You wave her away, "Yeah I'm fine. Just remembering something weird."

She leans forward,"Hmm okay. But hey. Heard you became a manager at Seijoh.. You trying to one up me or something?"

She smirks and you scoff.

"Kiyoko please. I learned everything from you. I don't know how I would manage this great team without your prior knowledge I would have never survived," you say.

You sigh and look up, "They're one of the best in the whole prefecture and I'm in charge of them. The pressure is real."

Kiyoko pats your hand affectionately, "I bet. I mean Oikawa and this other dude from another school have been butting heads with each other ever since middle school. It's his last year so Oikawa is probably incredibly stressed."

You raise an eyebrow, "I mean Oikawa has been a little on the edge, but I didn't know it was from some dude since fucking middle school."

"Yeah. Ushi-Waka from Shiratorizawa. He's also from a powerhouse school. The best in the prefecture. They've gone to Nationals, multiple times. Ushi-Waka is in Japan's best under 18," Kiyoko says softly, like she was passing secret information to you.

You not, sipping your water as you let her continue.

"Oikawa has always been beaten by Shiratorizawa and has NEVER made it to nationals. Once! So this year is his last year, he gets 2 chances and then poof!" Kiyoko says.

Her hands are in a circle and they suddenly break.

"Bye bye volleyball career."

You were taken aback.

No, you were stunned.

You always knew Oikawa was determined but God, this puts it on a whole nother level of determination. You wonder how stressed the team was when Oikawa supervised. Or vice versa. You wonder how stressed Oikawa was when he supervised.

Is that why Iwaizumi encouraged you to book practices with college volleyball teams? Probably. The more practice the better, you remember him saying.

Oh and how could you forget the dark circles under his eyes.

You lean back and exhale, "Wow. I feel horrible for not knowing."

Kiyoko sighs, "You should know as a MANAGER, but didn't you have a rough start with him?"

You nod and recount the events that took place as the waiter sets down your food.

"But that was yesterday so I guess we just started our 'working relationship'", you finally say.

Kiyoko lets out a low whistle, "Looks like you got your work cut out for you sweetheart. Our team is in the works."

Her voice drops lower and she grins evilly,

"We'll beat you, [Name], I have hope for this team."

You grin back, "We'll see about that."

The two of you talk back and forth about other things for a while, laughing about the dumb shit Sugawara pulled and the new students.

You pause, "How's Hinata doing? I don't know if you remember him but he's a family friend."

Kiyoko smiles, "He's doing wonderful. Had a rocky start with another 1st year but they're friends now."

"Oh I remember him telling me that. Kageyama?"

"Yes. He was a middle school prodigy. Came from the same school as Oikawa and most of the Seijoh players actually," Kiyoko informs him.

"Huh," you say mentally noting that fact into your mind.

"Anyways, I'm glad we…you know. Got to talk. Hopefully we can go and hang out again with the others," you say as both of you clean up your table and walk out.

"Same. But Karasuno is gonna beat you at the practice game next week," Kiyoko says with a wink.

"Pfft Seijoh will wipe your asses over the gym floor," you say.

You're in your bed, covered in blankets and half asleep from your eventful day. When your eyes finally fluttered to sleep, your phone buzzed.

Buzz, buzz, buzz.

You pick up your phone lazily and open up the messages.

Oikawa?

You groan. What is so goddamn urgent that he wants to meet with you so early in the morning?

You push the thoughts and the judgements out of your mind and go to bed early.

So much for a day out to relieve stress.

[Name] and Kiyoko both have a slight obsession with milk tea

IMPORTANT INFORMATION TO DISCLOSE

Kiyoko introduced [Name], to the more traditional Japanese food when she moved here rather than the trendy ones portrayed in the Media

Unbeknownst to [Name], Kiyoko keeps tabs on the Seijoh boys just in case something bad happens.

Prev/next

Taglist: @tanakasimpcorner @zukoslosthishonor ​@saladskittles​

A note from Chef Tina: ty for sticking with me everyone for this fic! I feel like my efforts on writing this are paid off! Pls like, reblog or comment! It would help a lot! 

[sandersstudies]

Espressoly for You - Chapter One

Coffeeshop AU, you all wanted it, and I delivered. Hope there’s more coming but you guys know I’m historically unreliable with regular updates so here’s hoping! No trigger warnings for the chapter, just good clean coffee. 

***

Virgil was halfway inside the fridge when he heard the bell on the front entrance ring. He scooped a jug of milk under each arm, slammed the fridge door with his foot, and shuffled awkwardly back into the cafe. 

Logan was at the register, making small-talk with Wendy as she ordered her two usual black coffees. He glanced up with a split-second smirk as Virgil emerged from the storeroom. 

“Will that be all for you, today?” Logan asked.

“Yes, thank you, dear,” Wendy said, fumbling in her change purse. “Oh, wait, I’m so sorry, do you have the blueberry muffins today?”

“We do,” Logan said. “They only came out of the oven an hour ago.”

“I’ll take two,” Wendy said. “My grandkids love your muffins.” 

Logan turned around to wrap the muffins and stole another stare at Virgil, who ducked to hide his face in the mini-fridge as he put away the milk. He made a show of rearranging every jug inside so the labels faced out, and Wendy was toddling out of the cafe by the time he stood back up.

“You sure were in a rush to put away the milk,” Logan said.

“Just trying to get stocking out of the way,” Virgil said. 

“I don’t think so.”

“Think what you want.”

“You’re waiting for your boyfriend to come back.”

Virgil felt his face flush hot, and ducked back down to rearrange the milk all over again. “He is not my boyfriend, and if you ever suggest anything like that…” He hoped his glare, flashed over the top of the fridge door, finished the sentence for him. 

“Okay, okay,” Logan said, turning to stare out the front windows. “Oh, there he is now!” 

Virgil winced as he thumped the back of his head against the inside of the fridge. He rubbed his scalp as he stood up more slowly and saw that there was no-one in front of the store at all. Logan had a self-satisfied grin on his face that Virgil would have liked to wipe off. 

“It’s perfectly alright to like someone,” Logan said. “Have you finished sorting the fridge by the Dewey decimal system?

“I’ve never said one thing about that guy,” Virgil retorted, ignoring the sarcasm of the question. 

“And that’s exactly why I know you like him,” Logan said. “You love to gossip about customers but every time he’s in here you get awfully quiet. And you can’t ring in his order without stuttering.”

Virgil was guilty of that. Of course, it didn’t matter. That was one order he had memorized by heart. Large cinnamon oat milk latte with extra cinnamon-sugar on top. 

Logan strolled to the espresso machine and started steaming the milk for his usual café au lait. 

“I’m going on my break,” he said. “Don’t burn the place down while I’m gone.”

Virgil couldn’t think of a retort as Logan finished his drink and vanished into the storeroom. The door swung shut behind him. Virgil took a cloth and began to wipe down the counters, and kept one eye on the windows. He’d finished half the cafe when Terry, a regular, appeared in the door of his office building across the street. Virgil was already pulling the espresso for Terry’s usual americano by the time the bell at the front of the cafe chimed. It felt good knowing the regulars and being confident with the espresso machine. It had taken weeks before Logan trusted him in the cafe alone, and months before Virgil trusted himself. Now, everything was second-nature. Virgil handed Terry his drink and, when Terry swiped his card, Virgil reminded him that with only three more visits he’d have another free drink.

“And that should be about this time tomorrow,” Terry joked. Virgil mustered an authentic smile as Terry chuckled himself out the door, americano in hand. Terry could be counted on to visit two, sometimes three times a day, morning and lunchtime, and often as he left work just before the cafe closed. 

Virgil’s cinnamon-latte visitor was, unfortunately, not so reliable. Virgil didn’t work on Mondays or Tuesdays, and Cinnamon Boy

Oh no, I can’t start calling him that.

Cinnamon Guy never came in on weekends. He and his posse dropped by after afternoon class during the week before taking the bus back home, or at least Virgil had picked up that much from “accidentally” overheard conversations while sweeping. At least one of the group was almost always wearing the local university’s swag, so he knew which college they attended too. Sometimes they propped up study sessions on one of the cafe tables, notebooks sprawling. At least one of them was studying science, judging from the textbooks, but Virgil wasn’t sure which one. 

Over the past year of working in the cafe, he’d gotten better at starting small-talk at the register and over the espresso machine, but he always seemed to clam up when that group was around, only managing to stutter out a greeting and a total, if that. The three boys were almost always wrapped up in their own conversation, though, so it didn’t matter much. 

It was Wednesday now. Logan said he’d seen them on Monday, but there was no sign of them yet. A pair of girls, one of them wearing a university sweatshirt, appeared outside the window and came inside. The bell jingled and Virgil found himself spacing out as he rang up and made their lattes.  One of the girls tipped a dollar, and they both left. 

The lull between the lunch rush and after-school rush was dragging on, and Virgil realized he couldn’t wait for the unpredictability of spring break. Next Friday, university classes took a week off, and students in town with no class filled coffee shops during the day, and house parties at night. Virgil poured himself a black coffee. This job was giving him caffeine tolerance the likes of which he’d never imagined. The largest cup the cafe offered, filled to the brim with strong french-pressed coffee, barely lifted his eyelids anymore. During lulls, he and Logan had been known to take shots of espresso like liquor as a daily ritual. 

Virgil sipped his coffee absentmindedly, and hunched behind the register to begin a doodle on the side of an empty coffee cup. The curvature made clean lines impossible, but he managed a rough sketch of the building across the street, and was just beginning to outline windows when the cafe bell chimed. Virgil straightened.

“I told him I don’t care anyway, spring break starts next week.” 

“You’ll care when finals week creeps up on you.” 

“Well, it’s not finals week now, is it?”

Virgil fumbled for something to do so he wouldn’t seem to be spying on the conversation, and turned to the coffee pot immediately behind the register to press buttons that did nothing. 

“It’s a difficult class, that’s all I’m saying.”

“I took it last semester, it wasn’t that hard.”

When the three boys approached the register Virgil pretended to have just noticed them.

“Oh, hello, what can I get started for you guys?”

The first boy, clad in a leather jacket despite the growing spring warmth, didn’t even have to look at the menu. 

“Large iced coffee with light caramel, light cream, please.” He was already sliding his card into the reader, having heard his total many times before.

“Great, and looks like you only need one more visit before you’ll have a free coffee reward!” Interacting with customers using canned lines sure had gotten easier with time. It was only difficult when a customer tripped him up… Virgil made direct eye contact with the second boy to avoid looking at the first one.

“These two will both be on one ticket,” the boy said. He was dressed more practically in a university t-shirt of white and red, with clashing oversized athletic shorts in black and green, and the logo of a local high school. “I’ll have a black coffee with five sugars.” He extended his fist and dropped a wadded-up five and what seemed like a pound of coins into Virgil’s outstretched hand. “And whatever he’s having. Keep the change, bro,” he said, slapping the other boy on the shoulder before he strode away. He took a sugar packet from the condiment station. 

“Large cinnamon oat milk latte with extra cinnamon-sugar on top,” the other boy said as Virgil kept his gaze affixed to the register screen.

“Eight-fifty,” Virgil muttered, unfolding the five and beginning to count out the coins. He felt the customer’s eyes on him, tried to count faster, lost his place, and started over. He tried to muster a haphazard comment about the nice weather, failed, and swallowed.

Thankfully, most of the coins were quarters, and there were still almost two dollars left over afterward, what seemed like an hour later, though it was really less than a minute. Virgil extended them and tried to drop them into the other boy’s hand neatly, but two quarters clanged onto the counter, and one went rolling in a dramatic run for escape.

“Oh gosh, I’m so sorry,” Virgil said, trying to slap the quarters under his hands. The other boy moved at the same time, and Virgil felt their hands brush together on the counter.

“No, no, it’s cool,” he said. “I was just going to make it a tip, anyway.” He let the coins clink into the jar.

“You sure?”

“Yeah, it’s my brother’s money anyway. Thanks!” He raised his hand in a friendly salute before hoisting his backpack higher onto his shoulder and striding toward the table with the other two boys.

“Gosh, Roman, embarrassing the barista by dropping shit everywhere,” the brother said  before emptying his sugar packet directly onto his tongue. Roman. Virgil would file that away. He started steaming the milk and pulling the espresso shots for Roman’s latte. It was a strange name, but better than thinking of “Cinnamon Guy.” Waiting for the shots, he poured coffee for the other two boys and set them on the counter, where they retrieved them. 

He constructed the latte a little slower than usual, and noticed when he set the cup on the counter that Roman was facing away from him. Virgil mustered his voice and said, “Hey, I’ve got that latte here for you.”

Roman turned around. “Hey, thanks.”

“No problem.”

Roman turned away again, and as Virgil began searching for something to do with his hands, Logan emerged from the door to the back room.

“Busy?” he asked with a knowing grin. “Anything interesting while I was gone?”

“I’m going to brew fresh coffee.”

Logan smiled knowingly.