#actually nothing beats a nice day in spring

[aendromedal]

squees !!!! everything is in full bloom !!!!

[neigepomme]

˙ ✩°˖ ✈️ stay still!! / caleb x reader

synopsis; caleb would lay his head on your lap forever if he could. he's a bit more reluctant about staying still when you bring out a weapon (tweezers) to use on him though.

🍎 pomme's notes - honestly he just has really nice eyebrows. what can i say

⋆ 1k words / fluff / reader is gender neutral / 2nd person

caleb loves laying on your lap.

the first time he did was when you were still kids — he was climbing a tree at a park you two often hung out at, and after picking two apples from said tree, he promptly made his way down to you.

with the widest grin 10-year-old caleb could muster, he looks at you and beams;

"pip!! look at what i got us!!"

his eyes shone bright, crinkling at the corners upon seeing you light up and flashing him a smile with a tooth missing. when he leaned down to sit next to you, you looked up at him and patted your lap, telling him "put your head here!! a pillow after you got us apples!!" and he swore his heart skipped a beat.

in retrospect, maybe that was the first time caleb realized he liked you, not just as a close friend — but that was a thought he could ponder about another day. right now, you looked at him with the same eyes as you excitedly pat your lap. only it was fifteen years later, and you were finally dating.

as he happily strides towards you, you think that if caleb had a tail, it'd be wagging excitedly at the idea of resting on your lap. the fleet's ever-so-serious colonel caleb xia, melting away and donning a lovesick smile on his face.

he settles on the couch, legs hanging off the edge — stupidly big man acting like a tiny puppy. head finally resting on your lap, caleb speaks up with a teasing tone;

"what's up pipsqueak? missing your favorite weighted plushie on your lap?"

"mmh, i sure did. i missed my favorite doll to experiment on."

oh.

so that's why you were so eager to get him lying down on your lap. he laughs nervously, getting ready for the worst and that's when he sees it. tweezers in your dominant hand.

visibly turning more pale, he tries to get himself out of the torturous experience you're about to put him through.

"actually, i think i have something to do, gorgeous! wow, it sure is getting late and dinner isn't gonna prepare itse-"

"i already ordered takeout. don't you worry about a thing, colonel xia, nothing will come in the way of my tweezers and your brows", you interrupt him, and that's when reality sinks in for him.

caleb is done for. the last time you did his eyebrows was two years ago, when he came back home from the DAA for spring break, and he still remembers the sting of it all.

he needed to get out.

"y- you know, you really don't have to do this!! i can handle it myself!!"

"yeah, but i want to. what kind of partner would i be if i don't take care of my handsome and lovely boyfriend, who's definitely not trying to get out of this?"

he gulped, almost comically so. you caught him, and there was no way out of this one — or maybe there was. he didn't want to do this, but desperate times call for desperate measures.

puppy eyes. caleb stared at you and tried to look as pitiful as he possibly could, praying to every deity out there that you'll have some mercy on his soul.

"come on, Y/N.. my eyebrows look fine and i don't wanna waste your time — and this hurts. i don't understand how you do it, and i could never be as strong as you. please, please, please spare me. pretty please?"

you snort and lean down, pressing an exaggerated wet kiss on his forehead, making sure to emphasize the 'mwah' sound.

"nope! loved the puppy eyes, though. you should do that more often. alright, if there are no further inquiries, i'm gonna ask you to sit tight and relax pretty boy. let's get this done."

caleb stiffens when he realizes there's no way out of this. how is it that he went through DAA training, the fleet's conditioning, but somehow, you doing his eyebrows was the end of him? he's lost in his thoughts now, thinking about happy memories, but when your tweezers make contact with his skin, he immediately flinches and starts whining.

"ow ow ow ow ow, pips! it hurts! it hurts!"

you smile and flick his forehead lightly,

"i didn't even touch you yet! you always call me dramatic but you're not any better!!"

and then you pull out a hair.

"oh my go- i can't. i can't do this, please pipsqueak, please, have some mercy on your boyfriend."

and another one.

and he yelps, keeps on wriggling and trying to get out of your grasp. he thinks that you're stupidly strong right now — and all that strength is used in order to make him suffer.

"i thought you loved me!! we grew up together!! Y/N, you're hurting the love of your life, plea- ow!!"

you're giggling now, watching your big, strong, and fearless caleb being reduced to yelps as you do his eyebrows.

he inhales sharply, trying to roll away from your hands and begging for mercy, "it hurts!! please tell me you're done with the right brow, please pips!!".

laughing even harder now, you drag him back by the shoulder to his original position on your lap, and he has his face hidden in his hands, eyes tightly shut. he's shaking his head in disagreement and fake crying.

"oh my god, sit still, you dummy! if you keep on wriggling, i'm gonna put you on a cilantro only diet for the entire week!!"

and that seems to do it. he settles down again, but not without a few whines and sniffles.

drama queen.

when you're finally done (not without some more "ow ow ow- ouch!!" and "you hate me! you hate your boyfriend!" from him), he gets up and admires your work in the mirror. he wipes a stray tear that he insists isn't a tear but rather a hair that fell in his eye, and while you beg to differ, you let him have this small win.

"light work. this was a breeze", caleb exhales. free at last he thinks. that is, until he hears you hum. and he knows you — that hum meant something bad for him.

"oh yeah? same time next week then, boyfriend."

you swear you can see the color drain from his face, and you giggle.

such a drama queen. but he's your drama queen, all yours.

🍎 pomme's final notes - this is my offering to him because i really really want farspace deprivation to come home </3 it's the only card of his that i'm missing :((

[muwapsturniolo]

IN WHICH.....A young troubled mind, lost and searching for belonging, finds solace in a group that seems to offer her a sense of purpose. Over time, however, she begins to uncover unsettling truths, realizing their intentions may not be as innocent as they first appeared.

WARNINGS..... mentions of psychiatric hospitals, depression, water/electroshock therapy. mentions of cigarettes, alcohol, throwing up. mentions of verbally abusive parents. IF I FORGOT ANYTHING PLEASE LET ME KNOW

dividers by @bernardsbendystraws

Dear Diary, I don't know what day it is...I think it's spring. The air feels nice, it doesn't smell like chemicals or shit. The sun feels warm as well, a big difference from the cold walls of the psychiatric center. They wouldn't give me my clothes back, so I'm sitting on one of the benches outside in the hospital gowns. They treat you like shit in there, but at least they had the decency to give me a blanket so my bare ass isn't parked on this bench. I'm currently waiting for Heather to pick me up. The hospital allowed me one phone call since my parents told them they couldn't pick me up, who knows if they actually even wanted to, but that's beside the point. I called Heather, and she was quick to agree to pick me up, she seemed excited. Speaking of Heather, I think I see her car coming down the road.

I put my pen in the crevice of the diary and close it shut, standing up as the beat-up beetle comes to a screeching halt. I watch as Heather scrambles out of the car, her sandy brown locks bouncing freely in the warm air. She's always been a pretty and carefree girl. She was slim, had green eyes, and a face full of freckles to show she was kissed by the sun.

She squeals as she pulls me into a hug, holding me tightly and bouncing up and down. I wasn't much for physical affection, but it felt wrong not to hug her after so long.

"I missed you Heather...." I mumble into her shoulder, clenching my eyes shut. She pulls away and gives me a sad but thoughtful smile, "I missed you too, crazy girl."

The rolling of my eyes makes her throw her head back and laugh, her hands never leaving my shoulders. "Come on, I bet you're tired of this place! Let's go!"

We rush to the car and climb in, not even bothering to buckle our seatbelts before flying off. It was only a few miles away from the hospital when Heather finally turned to me, a look of curiosity in her eyes.

"Sooo...what's up?"

I raise an eyebrow at the question, "Uhh, the sky?" She scoffs and looks back at the empty road. I could tell she was thinking about how to reword her question, possibly scared about being invasive. I don't see how she would be, I wasn't even allowed to shower alone in the hospital, eyes and ears always following you and listening.

I reach into her glove compartment and pull out her cigarettes and a lighter, immediately popping one in my mouth and sparking it. After a strong inhale of the cancer and a cough later, I turn to her.

"If you're asking how I am up here-" I tap my head a few times, "- It's all good. I mean, water and electroshock therapy gets you right after a few tries."

I take another hit of the cigarette before letting my hand rest out the window. "But honestly, I'm ok...I think? I don't even really know what was wrong with me to begin with. My parents wrote me off as crazy and a delinquent...Crazy is a bit much, but delquient would be correct. I don't know if those qualities in myself are fixed, considering I've been locked up in that place for god knows how long, so we will see how I turn out once I've 'adjusted' to being in the real world again..."

I found myself rambling, my thoughts a bit jumbled. It's been a long time since I've had the chance to talk to someone who wouldn't judge me. It's almost like I forgot how to think without being scared.

"Nothing was wrong with you, you just have a carefree spirit, and that scares people. Your parents are old folk and boring, the life we live damn near gives them heart attacks, so to hell with what they think!" I chuckle at her optimistic mindset.

That's how Heather has always been - Be the man, fuck the system.

"Enough about me and my time in the looney bin, catch me up. What have I missed?"

Apparently, I missed a lot, considering the way she immediately started to ramble.

The deli on Swanson burned down, Kirk got arrested for burning it down, a new record store opened near the library, Amber was cheating on Dylan with his older brother Shane, Miss. Jackson our English teacher from 7th grade died, and a bunch more.

However, the thing that shocked me the most was her parents dying. She said it so nonchalantly that I almost missed it. "Woah, wait, wait, wait! Your parents died? Heather, what the fuck? Oh my god, are you ok? What happened?"

"I was out with some friends, and when I came home, they were dead. Someone had broken in and killed them, stole all the money and shit too." It's odd how she brushes this off as if it was nothing. Although Heather got into a lot of trouble, her parents loved her. They never berated her like mine did or shunned her for her actions, they just kept loving her, hoping her ways would eventually change as she got older.

"Jesus Heather, I'm so sorry. I wish I could have been there for you." she waves me off, shooting me a soft smile.

"It's fine really... It happened a month after you were sent away. I know you would have been there for me, but I've been fine. I had an amazing group of people to help me through it."

I nod and rub her shoulder, "Good, I'm glad you had people to help you out."

"Honestly, I think you would like them! They are really nice and open to any and everything. We live out like an hour away on a commune, and it's just... Peaceful. There is no bullshit, no assholes, everyone feels like family...I love it a lot, and I think you would too."

I can't help the laugh that escapes my mouth, "A commune? You guys live off the land and sing kumbaya?" It's evident my laughter and joking rub Heather the wrong way, the way she hits my shoulder and glares at me tells me that much.

"Stop it! They are really nice people, and I love them! they're like family to me, and I don't appreciate you making fun of them or the life we live because you're too fucking-" She cuts herself off, getting quiet as she realizes the harshness of her tone.

"Finish what you were going to say Heather." She remains quiet, a look of regret on her face. I sigh and face forward, watching the scenery pass us by. It wasn't long before her hand found it's way to my thigh, squeezing it gently as a form of apology.

"I-I'm sorry for getting so defensive. I know you weren't trying to be harsh or degrading, you were just joking around... I-I just get protective over them. I meant what I said when I mentioned them being like family to me. They took me in and took care of me..."

Silence follows for a moment before I intertwine our fingers, finally turning towards her.

"I get it, and I'm sorry for joking about this... family, you found yourself joining. I'm happy you have people to take care of you after your parents." She gives me a small smile before looking back at the road.

"Did you want to maybe meet them? Or possibly come stay with us? I really think you would like it, especially after the hospital."

I sigh and rest my head on the window, "No, it's fine...I think I just want to go back to my parents and settle down."

"Your parents? But they are the ones who threw you in that damn looney bin! They have always treated you like shit! I don't think you should go back, they aren't going to do anything besides make you out to be the bad guy and try to put you back in that shit hole as quick as they can!"

That's something I've always loved about Heather, she always stuck up for me. It didn't matter if I was wrong or right, or even if it was against my parents.

She was a natural-born fighter - something I wish I could be.

"It's fine Heather...I can handle it."

"You sure?"

"I'm sure."

Turns out I would soon regret those words.

We pulled into my parents' driveway, my nerves bad. I could feel the sweat forming in the palms of my sweaty hands. This house always seemed scary to me, from the time we moved in, to the time I was dragged out of my bed in the middle of the night and thrown into a truck.

It had horrible memories, ones I've managed to block out since I was young.

"You know you don't have to do this, right?"

I ignore Heather's words and climb out of the car, making my way up the cobblestone path and to the front door. I debate grabbing the spare key that's tucked away under one of the potted plants, but I'd rather not get into an argument with my parents right away. I sigh out and ring the doorbell, hoping they would answer.

To my luck, they do, both my mother and father.

It's comical how they look me up and down, almost as if they are shocked to see me. I notice my mother's judgmental eyes looking past me and at Heathers car.

"No hi or hello? No hugs?" I ask in a joking manner, holding my arms up and out for dramatic effect. My father looks at me with a glare that causes me to put my arms down.

"What are you doing here?" My mother's words cause me to frown in confusion. "I got out today... The hospital called you all to come pick me up, and they said you couldn't...."

"No, we said we weren't picking you up because we want nothing to do with you."

My stomach churned at the harsh words thrown at me, but deep down, I knew something like this was going to happen.

"What so I'm being disowned?"

"That's exactly what's happening. You're a disgrace, an embarrassment, a damn lunatic! You've been nothing but trouble since you were born!"

I stare at them with harsh eyes, my hands clenched into fists, but I refrain from saying anything. There was no point in arguing with them, I learned that a long time ago.

"You are a pest! A damn parasite that we wished we never had! You've done nothing but be a burden and a damn freak! We don't love you, we never have and never will! You're not allowed under this roof, and if you come back, the cops will be called!"

Their words hurt, but i refuse to show them that.

"You know what? Fine. I'll leave, I'll drop off the face of the earth so that way you two can pretend to be one big happy family with no daughter. But I'm only going to ask you for one thing, let me grab some clothes."

My father goes to tell me no, but I interrupt him, "I need clothes. I'm about to be homeless because of you two. The least you can do is let me grab clothes."

"Fine, but be quick. We don't want you here any longer than you need to be," I shove past them silently, marching right to my room. I reach underneath my bed and grab an old duffel bag. I don't even think about the clothes I'm grabbing, simply reaching into my closet and dressers and just shoving things in there.

I pack as much as I can, as well as some sanitary products. Eventually, I change into a pair of jeans, a random shirt, and a jacket, slipping on some gym shoes, and walking out of the room. I stop in the doorway and look over my shoulder, my eyes glazing over in the safe haven I used to call a bedroom.

"You need to leave."

My mother's voice flows through my ears, and I clench my fists once more. I storm back out of the house and turn towards the sperm donors I used to call my parents.

"I hope the two of you die a long and horrible death. Fuck both of you!"

I could tell my words shocked them, they're used to me never speaking back to them or cursing them out.

I storm back over to Heather's car and climb in, throwing my bag in the back seat. "I assume it didn't go we - Just shut up and drive Heather!" I bark, running my hands through my hair. Eventually, I feel the car move, the wheels meeting the concrete street before the negative energy of the house dissipates.

I can feel my whole body shaking as I hold back the emotions that want to escape, my fingers gripping at my roots harshly.

"Let it out...."

Heather's words set off a bomb inside of me, an ear-piercing scream leaving my mouth. My tears stream freely, burning my eyes in the process. My hands slam against the dashboard in anger, "I hate them! I hate them! I hate them so fucking much!"

"They've always treated me like shit!"

"They were horrible parents!"

"I wish they were dead!"

"What did I do to deserve this?"

My explosive tantrum dwindles down as Heather pulls into the lot of a convenience store, parking in a spot closest to the door. She says nothing as she climbs out of the car and walks into the store, coming out a few minutes later with a bag.

She climbs back in the car and pulls a bottle of alcohol out of the bag, "You seem like you need it."

I eye the bottle with sore eyes, breathing harshly. I shouldn't drink it, whatever meds they gave me this morning in the hospital are still in my system, but I don't care anymore. I snatch the bottle and quickly open it, taking a big gulp.

The all too familiar feeling of my throat burning brings a sense of comfort, my body immediately begging to feel warm. I pull the bottle away from my lips and gag, " I forgot how strong this shit is."

Heather laughs before lighting a cigarette and handing it to me, "Have your fun loca, you're finally free."

I'm free.

I'm free.

I take another sip of alcohol before looking at Heather, "Do you think if I show up drunk to the commune, they'll hate me?"

She squeals in excitement hearing that I'll go to the commune, "They'll love you!"

With that, she pulls out of the parking spot, rolling the windows down and flying down the street like we used to do. I reach forward and turn the radio on, raising the volume of the music. The familiar intro to our favorite song comes on, both of us screaming loudly.

"All the leaves are brown, and the sky is grey!"

I was drunk out of my mind when we arrived at the commune, stumbling out of the car and falling into the wet patch of grass to throw up. I don't remember much after that besides Heather leaving me alone to grab help, a pair of arms eventually wrapping around my body and picking me up.

I could feel my body floating as I stared up at the night sky, the stars shining big and bright due to the lack of lights in the rural area.

It was a beautiful sight.

The floating feeling soon felt like I was on a cloud, a warm cloud. Not long after, I could feel my eyelids dropping, sleep taking over me.

The next three days were depressing.

I remember waking up the day after my arrival feeling sluggish and sad. Maybe it was the hangover. I haven't had alcohol in, I don't know how long.

Maybe it was the realization that I was truly alone. I had no home, no family, nothing to call my own. Heather had come into the room multiple times to check on me, asking me how I was feeling and trying to coax me out of the room to meet everyone - I declined.

I didn't feel like meeting these new people. Getting out of this random bed seemed like the end of the world, it made a pit form in my stomach.

I felt the same unease and sadness from my first night in the psych ward.

The second day was filled with me crying in darkness, curling up into a fetal position, and letting my sadness show to no one but myself. It wasn't a good feeling, but I don't know if I ever truly felt good. My whole life was spent with me walking on eggshells around my parents, constant beratement, and getting up to no good to feel something.

I was chasing a feeling I would never know.

The third day was filled with silence, my mind shutting off as I stared at the wooden wall in front of me. I didn't feel like doing anything besides wallowing in my own sadness, but that all changed with three knocks on a door.

I thought it was Heather, so I didn't answer. I assumed it was her room anyway, so there was no point in me telling her to come in. However, I was wrong, the person knocked once again, three more times.

The thought of getting out of bed felt like the end of the world, but I managed to do so. My footsteps were sluggish, my feet dragging against the wooden floor. I crack the door open slightly, and I come face to face with a pair of blue eyes and a warm smile.

"You've been in here for three days."

I say nothing, simply looking down at the door handle. He doesn't let the silence between us stay long, opening his mouth to speak once more.

"I'm Christopher, but everyone here calls me Chris...I uhh, I helped you to bed when you arrived. You were pretty drunk; you should learn to handle your liquor."

I go to close the door, not wanting to hear him speak anymore, but he stops me, his hand preventing the door from closing.

"Hold on a second, I know you're going through some things. Heather told us that you were, but she never specified. We could hear you crying all day yesterday, and a few of us are worried."

"Why be worried about someone you don't know?"

My voice was raspy, all the crying and screaming I'd been doing clearly doing damage to my vocal cords.

He drops his hand from the door and gives me a smile that makes every joint in my body relax.

"Because on this commune, we care about each other....Why don't you come out for dinner? I know you must be starvin', you haven't eaten in the three days you've been here."

He could tell I was going to turn him down, his smile faltering before quickly going back in place. " Come on, you don't have to do it for Heather or any of us. Do it for yourself. You deserve to have some type of comfort."

Comfort.

I deserve comfort.

I deserve.

I've never been told I deserve something nice, I've only been told I deserve nothing in life.

His words bring me a sense of peace, something I never truly felt. I hesitantly nod, muttering out a soft "ok".

"Perfect...Heather will be in to fetch ya for dinner. Trust me, you'll like it here!"

and so I did.

I went to dinner, everyone in the commune sitting outside on long picnic tables. Oddly, it reminded me of school, but it was different. There were no cliques, there were no lunch monitors, it looked liked one big family dinner.

Everyone was laughing and talking, sharing food and drinks, some people were even singing songs. The atmosphere was carefree, but I still felt nervous.

What if I made a fool of myself crying so loud? What if they don't like me?

Before I could turn to Heather and tell her I'm going back to her room, an arm was thrown over my shoulder, and I was pulled into someone's side.

"I see the pretty girl made it-" his words cause my cheeks to warm, catching me completely off guard. Before I could question his choice of words, he shoves a tray of food in front of me, motioning towards it.

"Help yourself. I don't know what you like, so I grabbed a little bit of everything for you. Don't worry about how it tastes, the kitchen is pretty good at what they do."

I look down at the food, and I can feel my stomach rumble. There's chicken, mashed potatoes, corn, broccoli, and even a huge slice of cake.

"Thanks...I appreciate it." My words are soft, a clear indication that his actions meant a lot.

They did mean a lot, I've never been cared for like this.

He sends me a soft smile and pats my thigh, "S'no problem, pretty. Now eat, your food is going to get cold."

The rest of the dinner is filled with everyone, including myself eating and making small talk.

It was a different setting that I wasn't used to and yet, I felt so at peace

Heather managed to introduce me to a few people, everyone being so warm and inviting, telling me they were happy I was here. A smile I didn't know that was on my face never swayed, almost being permanent.

Sometime throughout dinner, clapping was heard, everyone immediately going silent. I turn to Heather in confusion, only to see her looking at someone with heart eyes. I follow her line of sight and see a man standing up.

From a distance, he looked pretty tall, with fluffy dark brown hair that was a bit long but not too much. He had a bit of facial scruff as well, highlighting his sharp jawline. Even though we were a decent feet away from him, I could see his striking facial features that matched Chris.

His eyes were a bright blue, but they seemed dark - It was unsettling.

"I hope everyone is enjoying dinner?" His voice booms through the air, goosebumps rising along my skin. It reminded me of my father's voice, deep and holding no room for disobedience.

I turn to Heather, whispering softly in her ear.

"Who is that?"

"Hush and listen!" I frown at the way she dismissed my question but continue to listen to him speak.

"Make sure to thank the kitchen for their work. They always put love and care into their job. Now, I'm under the impression we have a few new faces that have joined our family this week?"

My stomach drops at his words, a few people turning to look at me. I rub my sweaty palms together, anxiously fiddling with my hands.

"Could all of the newcomers please stand?"

I planned to stay seated, but with the way Heather turned to me, it felt like I didn't have a choice.

I jump feeling a hand on my back, "Stand up, it'll be ok." I turn and see Chris looking at me with encouragement and reassurance. I swallow harshly and slowly rise to my feet, trying to ignore the multiple pairs of eyes on me.

"Welcome to our home. I know many of you have come from all walks of life. Maybe you experienced something traumatic, or maybe you're just searching for...Searching for something freeing. I hope we can be the peace and tranquility that you need. I want you all to know there's no judgment here, we don't define you by your actions. All I ask, we ask as a family, is that you don't judge us, you do your part, and you find yourself..."

Despite the unsettling feeling in my stomach, his words moved me.

My whole life, I've heard from my family that I'm nothing but my mistakes, they never let me forget it. I wasn't able to make an honest mistake and come back from it, once I made that mistake, it was over from there.

To hear that these people, this random group of strangers, wouldn't define me by my actions... It was freeing. It confused me, but it brought me an odd sense of peace.

"I hope you all enjoy your night, feel free to indulge in freedom."

Everyone jumps back into dinner, continuing their talk and laughter. As the man goes to walk away, we make brief eye contact. He sends me a smile before turning away, and starting to walk away from the group dinner.

I'm snapped out of my daze by Heather yanking me back down, immediately starting to ramble about who knows what.

Eventually, dinner finishes and Heather mentions something about helping out the kitchen with dishes, taking my tray along with a few others, and stacking them. My instincts tell me to offer help, not wanting to look like I'm mooching off of this makeshift family.

Before I could even offer my help, Chris placed a hand on my thigh. I look down at his hand before looking up at him, finding him closer than before.

"Did you want to take a walk with me before you go to bed?"

I'm sure I look stupid with the way I freeze, my mouth opening and closing like a fish. "She'd love to. Maybe you guys should walk by the lake?" My head snaps to Heather who looks nothing but supportive of the proposal.

I knew what she was doing, she was playing matchmaker. She had always done this, setting me up on multiple dates so I wouldn't be alone when she was out with her many boy toys. It never went well for me, the boys were assholes, or somehow I messed it up.

I go to deny the offer, not wanting to get involved with a boy so soon after everything that has happened to me, but I'm left with no choice when Chris guides me up from my seat.

"Come on, promise I won't keep you up for long."

He guides me away from the group, his hand wrapped in mine as we walk along the dusty dirt road. Eventually, we go off trail, his body ahead of mine as he pulls me through some trees.

"Where are we going?"

"Somewhere special."

It was special.

It was a lake, a beautiful lake.

The moonlight illuminated the dark waters, showing the small ripples due to the soft wind. I could make out some wildflowers growing along the edge, as well as cattails swaying in the wind.

I feel calm, the lake-scented air filling my nostrils, making me inhale deeply and close my eyes.

"You look good."

My eyes fly open, and I turn to Chris, "huh?"

"I said you look good...I should say calm. You just look more at peace from earlier." He sits down in the grass, motioning for me to follow. I settle down next to him, our knees touching as we sit crisscross.

We sit in silence for a few minutes, enjoying the peaceful scenery in front of us.

I decided to break the silence with a question.

"Who was that guy who spoke at dinner? He looked like you." He chuckles and begins picking at the grass, "Well, I would hope he looks like me, we are triplets after all. His name is Matthew, but everyone calls him Matt. Our other brother is Nick, he wasn't at dinner."

I hum in curiosity, I've never met triplets before. "Is he like...in charge or something?'

"Who, Matt or Nick?"

"Matt."

He clears his throat before nodding, "Yeah, he is. Matt organized this whole commune due to...due to something happening in our life. We decided to create our own family. Nick is second in command, I guess you could say. He just helps Matt out with the important stuff."

"So where does that leave you?" I question softly.

"Third in command. My job is to make sure everyone settles in nicely and to just make sure everyone is ok."

A part of me feels let down by his words. I know it would be too soon for him to find any interest in me, but I was starting to think he was taking a liking to me. He was nice and was already attentive, showing me the grace that I've never received from anyone but Heather.

I look away from him and back at the rippling waters, "Well, that's nice of you...I'm sure everyone is grateful to have a friendly face guiding them around."

"Yeah well, I don't give everyone the same attention I'm giving you. So there might be some jealousy rising soon."

His words make my heart skip a beat, my face tilting down as my cheeks warm, my coils falling in my face. Suddenly, I begin to feel drowsy, my eyes getting tired and the muscles in my body feeling loose.

I don't remember much after that, I'm not sure if we stayed by the lake longer or if he helped me back to the room.

All I know is that I felt good.

Like i finally found the thing I've been searching for since I was 7 years old.

[carolmunson]

the boy is mine (carol's edition)

you know i had to do it to 'em. if you'd like to take a crack at the 'the boy is mine' writing challenge, you can check it out here. you can also see the masterlist of everyone's works here. a/n: for me, how eddie was fleshed out in FOI has always been how i see him. hurting, but goofy, but snarky, but sweet, but loving, but scared, but all that. eddie 'has taken care of himself since third grade' munson just makes sense to me. in this ficlet, our romantic night in gets muddled when eddie doesn't know how to just let someone love him right. i've also always have written eddie as older than he actually is, so here -- he's 25. argue with the wall. tw: 18+, angst, hurt/comfort, some smutty references but no smut, references to smoking and drinking. some arguing but nothing crazy.

The day was hard on his shoulders and back, no one should be hunched over the hood of a car for this long -- and even being young isn't saving him from the grimace he makes every time he gets out of his bed with a decades old mattresss. Eddie cracks his neck each way while he chugs down the road leading to Forest Hills, slick and shiny with rain from the afternoon. The orangey yellow headlights on his beat up '71 Chevrolet bounce cheerily off the darkened asphalt, but the scrape, clatter, and growl of his engine and whatever else was a stark reminder that this van was on it's last leg. As bright as the headlights were, the gloomy purpled evening sky was a perfect match to his mood.

Today is Eddie Munson's birthday.

For the past few years, Eddie has spent his birthday working double shifts at the auto shop and then meeting the guys at the Hideout to get so drunk he can't see. Can't be sad about your birthday if you're too drunk to think about how your mama's dead and your dad won't call. Can't be sad about how you won't ever get to hear her sing you happy birthday, or put on a record, or dance with you in the living room. Or have your dad make dinner and put the six pack away if only for that night. To not run out on 'a job' or 'work a late shift' where he won't come back for days afterward.

He'd drink and drink until you had to hold him up to get him out of the bar, piling him into the back seat and having the guys follow you home to help load him into bed. He always looked forward to the greasy diner hangover breakfast in the morning where it could be just the two of you, and not his birthday, and not all the awful things he thinks he is.

The gravel groans and crunches when he pulls in at the side of the trailer he used to share with Wayne. With another roll of his head and shoulders he kills the ignition, hopping out of the van and leaning over to grab his bag. It's only when he slings it over his shoulder that he notices the warm glow of the kitchen light on, passing muted through the small curtains. He hip checks the door shut and makes his way up the steps that need repairing -- another thing to add to the list for 'Spring Cleaning' in a couple weeks that he knows he'll forget to do until you remind him or one of the boards rots out. Eddie's ring tap against the metal handle and he braces for the screech of the door, only to be met with the cozy blend of garlic, onion, and rosemary hitting his nose first. He swallows while he kicks off his work boots, turning the corner to see you in the kitchenette, putting the lid back onto the one large pasta pot he has and turning the burner off. "Oh!" you jump when you see him, shock turning into a smile, "You're earlier than I thought you'd be. Hold on!"

"What're y--" He's interrupted by you hurrying into the fridge, glass clinking when you pull out a Mionetto bottle that was already opened to reveal the cork.

"Surprise!" you ring out, popping the bottle with a little flourish, "Happy birthday!" He stands there, unsure at first what he's looking at, trying to take it all in. You in the kitchen with an apron on, the table set nice, a cake set on the counter to cool with a covered bowl of what looks like home made vanilla frosting next to it. To the side, a familiar small notebook lays opened to a buttercream recipe -- his mom's buttercream recipe, still scrawled in her loopy handwriting on yellowing pages with fading blue ink.

"Melvald's didn't have any like, nice cups," you say with a scrunch of your nose as you pour two glasses of prosecco into flimsy plastic flutes, "Is that okay?" "Uh..." he snaps back to reality when you hand him the cup, "Y-yeah that's okay." "Happy birthday, handsome," you smile, raising your drink before you take a sip, he follows suit.

"What is all this?" he asks, voice sounding like it's coming from someone else. Objectively, he should be falling to his knees right now, crying with adoration for you. Sobbing over the clear effort you've put in for a romantic night together at the trailer. "Um," you suck in your lips quickly, and release them, eyes lowering to the scuffed linoleum, "I uh, I made braised short rib and mashed potatoes, some broccoli. Wayne told me that um, that your dad used to smoke them for your birthday but we don't have a smoker so..."

"Why?" The swell in his heart builds from genuine affection to suspicious bitterness, this was way too much.

"Did you not check the calendar today or something? It's kind of a big day," you try to lighten the mood with a laugh, taking the apron off and hanging it on the hook by the hallway, "Sit, sit." He follows your direction, sitting at the table where the place setting is the best it can be with what you have. You even folded up the paper towels nicely. He silently sips on the bubbles, uncomfortable on the makeshift throw pillow cushion on the chair, while you take the plate in front of him and begin serving.

"I should um," he starts, voice gravelly, "I should wash my hands and uh, and change or..." "Yeah," you nod, voice higher pitched than expected, "Go, go ahead. It'll all be ready when you're done washing up." He leaves the glass behind, thudding into the bedroom where he notices a Frederick's of Hollywood bag sitting at the end of the bed. A small pile of gifts in shiny blue paper lay stacked up pretty on his dresser -- a card front in center 'Eddie My Love' - you write it in the same way you sing it to him absentmindedly every now and again. Flipping the lyrics every time. He swallows again, pulling in his cheeks and biting down while he peels off his coveralls and slips into what he was planning to wear to drinks later -- a band tee and some worn jeans. It feels cheap to wear this now, now that you've put in all this effort. Now that you're looking all sweet and put together in the kitchen for him. He rolls his shoulders again, trying to stretch the frustration out. He doesn't wanna be mad at you, you didn't do anything wrong. He doesn't wanan feel so sick in his chest over it -- but he does. All this work for what? Eddie takes his rings off to wash his hands, using the same Dove bar soap to wash the remaining grime off his face from work. Big inhale, big exhale into the towel on the door before making it back to the kitchen where the dinette table was ready for dinner, two tapered candles lit in old holders on the side. He sits across from you, your eyes glittering in the light of the flame.

"You didn't have to do this," he says quietly. Your lips twitch into a half smile, head cocking slightly to the side. "I know, but it's your day...it's a big one, too. The big two-five," your voice doing its best to soothe, "Can't just, I dunno -- get plastered at The Hideout every year..."

"Sure I can," he shrugs with a quirk of his brows, pushing the mashed potatoes around with his fork. He watches the melty pat of butter ooze off one of the edges like a volcano, pooling in next to the broccoli. "And you like that? That's fun for you?" you chuckle before noticing he's just playing with his food, "You gonna eat?"

"Getting plastered at The Hideout is like, tradition," he mutters, looking at the clock over the cabinets, "And we're gonna be late meeting the guys."

"Ed..." you say, a vapor of disappointment floating through his name when you say it. He winces.

"Like I said, babe," he says, "You didn't have to do all this -- y'know, spend all this extra cash on dinner and --"

"I know I didn't have to, but I wanted to -- I wanted to do something nice so that your birthday could be sp -- " "Okay, well I don't need my birthday to be special, it never is," he snaps, he doesn't mean to, "I didn't ask you to do this for me." You hold your soft gaze at him, shoulders round down while you rest a cheek on your palm. If Eddie's mama was still alive, she'd tell you to get your elbows off the table.

In the flame, your glittering eyes turn glassy. You let a soft breath out through your nose, a sulk clear in your posture. "You're right," you mumble, a soft squeak of a sound while you slowly stand, shaking your head, "You're right, you didn't ask. I shouldn't have assumed that you..."

You trail off while you flick the lights on in the kitchen, leaning forward to gently blow out the taper candles. Your hand swishes away the smoke and soot, pushing out out of the cracked kitchen window before the smoke detector catches it. The cabinets creak while you take out some Tupperware from the top shelves, the good stuff that the ladies in the park sold Wayne back in the 70s. They click and clack as the bowls and trays and their tops hit the formica counter top.

"Well--well, wait -- you don't have to pack it up, babe," he says, sitting up a little taller in the chair. When he hears the shudder in your breath he stands, "You don't have to put it away."

"No, it's fine," you assure, a small strain coming through from your chest, "It'll be like -- you'll be so excited when you get home and there's all this food. I just gotta call the guys and tell them to just go to the bar instead of coming here."

"Whaddayou mean, coming here?"

You turn around, eyes wet now but not crying, a tug on your brow and taughtness in your jaw from where you try to hold it back.

"It was supposed to be a surprise," you shrug, "But like, it's not important. Lemme just pack this up and I'll get it figured out." "What's the surprise?" he asks, tilting his head to get a better look at you. "Well I..." you let out another breath, lower lip wobbling; an action your stop with a sharp inhale through the nose. "Well I thought it would be fun if the guys came over and did a birthday oneshot campaign with you. I helped Gare and Jeff write it and Jeff was gonna DM," you let out in one breath, "And it was gonna be like, a silly drinking game version." "You were gonna play?" he asks meekly. You nod. You rarely play, always watch. Always make snacks or help him clean up the trailer, always order the pizza because Eddie forgets to. Always add extra mushrooms on one because Richie likes extra mushrooms. Always make sure to get one with white sauce cause red cause doesn't sit great with Dustin.

"Did a, um, did a character sheet and whatever," you say, defeated, while you open the utensil drawer to pull out an extra pair of tongs and a serving spoon, "Drew her -- it's in your card."

You start to pack up the food and the tears start up again, welling in your eyes but still not spilling over. Eddie steps forward, getting between you and the pots and pans on the stove.

"Hey, wait," his voice bare audible, "Babe, don't."

"It's okay," you sniffle, "I just have to call them."

"No -- baby, stop," there's an edge now, ring hand falling on your wrist, "Stop packing it up."

"It's fine--"

A waltz between you, him, and the tupperware on the counter.

"Don't make me..." he huffs, trying to maneuver the tongs out of your hand, "If you don't stop, we're gonna have a pr--"

"Ed, enough! We will go to the bar, it's fine," you urge, anxiety heightening in your chest where it bursts, you start to cry, "Please, let me put it away. It's fine. I just -- fuck --"

"I feel like such an asshole," you sigh, breaking. You relent, letting go of the tongs where he takes them and leaves them between the burners on the yellowed stove.

"Don't be like that, you're not," he soothes, closing in on you against the counters edge, "You're not, I'm sorry."

"I really just wanted your birthday to be special," you weakly murmur, wiping at your eyes.

"You know how I get," he says, rough hands coming up to cup your face where he leaves a soft kiss to your cheek, "M'just not great at bein' fussed over."

"You deserve to be fussed over, doofus," you garble out, his thumbs replacing your fingers to catch the tears as they fall.

"It's hard, babe," he nods, "You knows it's hard for me. Y'know with my mom's stuff gone and my dad being...who fuckin' -- who fuckin' knows. The Hideout just makes sense. That's y'know -- that's what I deserve."

"That's not even true," you shake your head, "Don't be stupid."

"Well, I barely graduated so," he offers you a peck to each salty, wet cheek, "Stupid's my middle name." "Don't cry, sweetheart," he breathes, leaning in with a slow kiss. A kiss drenched in apologies and thank yous, breaks away just to kiss again. And again, and again, and again until you're both breathless under the sickly yellow green glow of the overhead kitchen light. "How about I change into something nicer than this, and we'll pop these plates in the microwave and start over," he asks, a smile toying on his full lips, "'Kay?"

You nod back, getting another peck stolen from you, and following him down the hall. "Oh, yes, yes, allow me to slip into something more..." he announces with flourish, posing half sexily half awkwardly in the doorway to his bedroom, "Uncomfortable." You snort, giggling while you follow in after him, settling on the end of his bed, "You don't have to dress up fancy." "'Course I do," he tsks, brows furrowing, "M'going to a five star restaurant doll, I can't look like a slob." He pulls out a pair of slacks from a funeral he went to two years ago, discarding his jeans and sliding them up over his pale legs. To your dismay, he plucks the t-shirt with a screen print of a tux out of his closet, and exchanges the worn Dio tee with that. You'll always prefer the Dio tee. "Classy," you tease. He winks, and that's enough to make you okay with the tux shirt. His fingers trail over the stack of presents and land on the envelope.

"Can I open the card?"

"Sure."

"Am I gonna cry over it?" he asks, looking at you over the dull paper when he flicks open the top.

You shake your head, "Nah, it's not sappy. You're the sappy card writer."

"I'm so sappy," he agrees, pulling out the card, "I gotta work on that, huh?"

"No, I like when you're sappy, ya sap." You watch him read the card, blush evident in the warm wash of gold from his bedside lamp. You're not a sappy card writer, but you always know how to make him feel like a kid with a crush. When he opens up your character sheet his bottom lip tucks between his teeth. "Shit," he grins, "Rogue tiefling, huh? You tryna kill me?"

"I thought it could be fun," you titter, standing up to look at the pages next to him, "Chaotic evil. Look at me."

"Ugh, baby's first villain," he gushes, "I love it."

"Look at the picture," you bounce on the balls of your feet while he goes to the next page. A much quieter 'shit' falls from his mouth. It was not a drawing that was for the rest of the guys to see, a sketch of a tiefling version of you in an outfit meant for his eyes only. "So you are trying to kill me," he asks, fingers tracing the curve of 'your' hip on the page where the outfit digs into the fat of 'your' hips.

"No, that'll be later," you smirk.

"Hm?' his brows raise.

"What do you think is in the Frederick's bag?" you ask, faux innocence smattering into your tone.

"Ah, you put a little costume together for me?" Eddie's mouth waters at the thought, brain fuzzy as he looks at the picture and then at you.

"Something like that," you tease, making your way back out into the hallway. "Something like that?!" he repeats back, hurrying back out to pull you into a searing kiss before you can make it back into the kitchen. The kind from the movies where he dips you down toward the faded carpet. As he pulls away, he nuzzles your nose against his, staring at you through lowered lids, "Thank you."

"You're very welcome," you nod, both of you making it back to full height, "Happy birthday."

You relight the candles on the table and nuke the plates of food, topping off each others plastic flutes with the left over Prosecco. There's three cases of beer in the fridge and you know Gareth is bringing Absinthe and it's something you pray doesn't mess your boyfriend up too much.

Dinner is the best meal Eddie's had in years, unable to keep his eyes off of you in between bites while you rehash your day and him, his. You're picking up the dishes off the table when the boys show up and they deliver. Taking the heat off you, they provide the snacks and even more extra booze. Jeff passes out party hats that make you all look ridiculous -- Eddie can remember laughing this much on his birthday, not even when he was a kid. Not even when his mama was alive.

After the oneshot completes and everyone is ankles deep in a tipsy haze and the smoke from a few joints lingers in the air, you walk in with the cake that is finally frosted -- the 2 and 5 confetti colored candles dancing in front of him while the rest sparkle in the middle of the coffee table. He makes one thousand wishes that he knows will come true because his friends are all still there with him and so are you. You're one room right over, cutting the cake and plating it up, and you'll be there when the boys leave in your skimpy nerdy costume that you bought just for him. And you'll be there while he sleeps and you'll be there when he wakes up. You'll be there across from him the next morning when he feeds you fries dipped in chocolate shake at the diner.

Today is Eddie Munson's birthday. And his mother's buttercream frosting is the sweetest it's ever tasted.

[pitchsidestories]

underneath your clothes II Cata Coll x Reader

masterlist I word count: 1687

a/n: based off the cute request here. We're really craving a tattoo on our own now after finishing this oneshot. 😂

You knew tattoos were your passion since you had gotten your first one aged eighteen. So by opening your own tattoo studio with your best friend, you had fullfilled one of your life goals in the last year.

It was not always easy but you loved your job, especially when you could make your clients happy with your artwork. But at the moment, business was slow.

You were focused on wiping down the counter when your best friend and coworker Carla grinned at you: “Your favourite customer is back, y/n.”

Surprised, you looked up and saw someone walk towards the door of your studio: “What? Oh, she‘s not my favourite customer, Cata has been her only once before.”

“She‘s still your favourite.”, Carla shrugged with a smug look on her face.

You grimaced at her: “I don‘t have favourites.” Turning to your customer, you greeted her: “Cata, hi.”

“Hi.”, the goalkeeper smiled at you.

“You‘re here for another tattoo?”, you asked politely.

She nodded: “I am.”

“Do you have something specific in mind?” You noticed her gaze linger on the inked skin of your left arm.

“Uhm, yeah…”, she replied, catching herself and looking back at your face.

You bit back a smile as you thrust your arm in her direction to show her the floral tattoo wraping around your forearm: “Liking this one?”

Catas cheeks reddened: “I do. It‘s beautiful.”

“Thank you.”, you replied. You could feel Carlas eyes on you.

“But I actually wanted to get something for my sister today. Maybe next time.”, Cata explained.

“Oh, that‘s sweet.”

The football player continued while she gestured towards her upper arm: “Yeah, I want it to be on my arm. I was thinking about a wave or something.”

“Is there a meaning behind the wave?”, you asked curiosly while simultaneously trying to picture the perfect tattoo for her.

Cata nodded with excitement: “Yes, we grew up in Mallorca…”

“Thats is adorable. I love when people tell me the meaning of their tattoos.”, you happily replied while getting your sketchbook.

“Ever been to the island?”, Cata asked while she watched you starting to draw different kinds of waves.

Without looking up from your work, you explained: “Actually, yes. My mother was born there and part of her family still lives there so we spend all of the vacations in my childhood there.”

You could hear the astonishment in her voice: “Wait, you did?”

“Yes.”

“That‘s a funny coincidence.”

You slid the sketchbook in Catas direction so she could have a look: “Who knows, maybe we‘ve met each other before without knowing. So which wave do you like best?”

The goalkeeper looked thoughtfully at the drawings in front of her:” I like that one.”

With a dreamy smile on her lips Cata continued: “This is a nice thought actually. That we might have already met before.”

“I agree.”, you responded in a warm tone.

“I’m going to the coffeeshop, would you two like an iced coffee?”, Carla chirmed.

“Sure.”, you nodded.

“Nothing beats iced coffee on a warm spring day.”, the Barcelona player confirmed.

“So true.”, you agreed.

After Carla left the coffeeshop Cata promised you with a wink:” Next time, I’ll bring you an iced coffee before I show up.”

“You want another one already? Don’t you get into trouble for it from your coach or something.”, you raised an eyebrow at her.

Confidently she waved it off: “Oh, no. If it’s done in my free time, he can’t say anything about it.”

“Okay, good.”, you sighed relived.

“Don’t worry. I won’t get in trouble.”, the professional athlete replied.

“I’m glad to hear that.”

“Also, it’s just a small one.”, Cata reminded you while you were drawing the wave on her skin with a needle.

For a moment you looked up from your work:” Right.”

Meanwhile Carla had returned, bringing the coffees immediately to both of you:” Hey girls, I’m back.”

“Thank you, Carla.”, you answered sincerely.

“You’re welcome.”, she mumbled.

You quickly took a sip from the coffee before asking her:” What do you think of Catas new tattoo.”

After your friend took a closer look at your art piece, she whistled: “Oh, this is nice.”

“It symbolizes my sister.”, Cata explained beaming.

“How cute.”, Carla smirked.

While they talked for a bit you added the finishing touches until the tattoo was done:” Now you’re ready to go, Cata.”

“Thanks. I love it.”, the goalkeeper told you happily.

“My pleasure.”, you said and meant every word whole heartedly.

She stood up excitedly:” I’ll call you soon for a new appointment.”

“Alright.”, you answered.

After Cata has left your best friend declared dramatically:” That poor girl.”

“What?”, you frowned at her.

“Oh please, don’t play dumb.”, Carla begged you groaning.

This was the moment you realized what she has been hinting at:” Don’t worry. Next time, I’ll ask her out.”

Normally you didn’t open to customers like you did with the Barcelona player. Even though it was you who was the person who has seen her upper body without clothes, her dark eyes seemed to have seen right through you.

“You should.”, your friend grinned.

You couldn’t help but to blush as you thought about Cata:” She’s so cute, Carla.”

“I could tell that you thought that.”

Guys! Cata has a crush on her tattoo artist!“, Claudia yelled full of excitement.

The other Barcelona players looked up from their team dinner with varying degrees of curiousity and surprise while Catas cheeks turned red. A minute ago, she had just shown her new tattoo to Claudia and Patri but the youngest midfielder had immediately caught on as she heard the way Cata talked about her tattoo artist.

“Oh, that’s why she’s getting so many tattoos recently!“, Ona exclaimed with laugh.

“That’s not true.“, Cata tried to defend herself.

Mariona just smiled sweetly at her: “That’s so cute, Cata.“

“Guys, stop.“

When Alexia finally spoke up, Cata had hoped that she would call her teammates back to order but instead she just tilted her head: “So, when are you going to see her again?“

“Whenever I get my next tattoo?“, the goalkeeper shrugged.

Patri raised an eyebrow: “And that’s soon?“

“I mean I do have an idea for the next one.“, Cata admitted with a small smile on her lips.

Salma shared a knowing look with Patri: “Guess this means very soon.“

Cata was back at your tattoo studio only a few weeks after her newest tattoo, this time with an iced coffee in hand. You caught yourself smiling subconsciously as you watched the football player walked in.

“Hi Cata.“, you greeted her and gratefully took the drink from her that she handed to you. “Thank you for the coffee.“

Cata smiled as you took a sip: “Told you, I’d bring you one.“

“Appreciate it.“

It was the perfect mix of sweet and bitter. Exactly how you liked it. You set down the coffee on the front desk and thoroughly looked at the goalkeeper: “But you know that you don’t have to get tattoos all the time to ask me out on a date.“

You rolled your eyes with a chuckle.

Cata looked at you dumbfounded: “Wait, what?“

“Cata, would you like to go on a date with me?“, you asked politely.

Her face immediately lit up: “I would love to.“

“Great.“, you said and had to bite back a laugh as Carla pumped her fist in excitement behind Cata.

But the goalkeeper caught your attention again: “When is your shift over?“

“At 5 pm.“, you replied truthfully.

Cata nodded with a big grin on her face: “I’ll pick you up then?“

You nodded happily: “Yes, okay.“

“Perfect.“

Cata left the studio without a tattoo this time but she did leave the feeling of butterflies in your stomach instead.

At exactly 5 pm, Cata waited for you in front of the studio. From what you saw through the window, she looked great in her button up shirt with the sleeves rolled up to showcase her tattoos. You could barely wait to close the studio.

When you finally locked the door behind yourself, the two of you awkwardly smiled at each other and you had to admit that Cata looked even better when she was right in front you.

You pointed at the picnic basket she was holding in her right hand: “Where are we going?“

“Just trust me, follow me.”, the goalkeeper replied warmly.

You didn’t know why but you trusted her immediately. Walking along side Cata made you feel safe and welcomed. When you reached the destination, you stood there in awe: “Oh my god, the view is stunning.”

“It’s, right?”, she grinned at you.

Truthfully you told her:” Yes, I love it.”

“I hoped you would.”, the player answered satisfied.

Watching at Barcelona from a distance made your worries surrounding your tattoo studio look small in comparison and you felt lighter in the company of the other woman, so you mouthed into her direction a heartfelt thank you.

“Here’s some food.”, Cata hummed, handing you some antipasti to eat.

Closing your eyes you mumbled:” It’s delicious.”

“Wine?”, she asked you, proving to be the perfect gentlewoman.

“Sure.”, you nodded, as the goalkeeper filled your glasses and you both took a deep sip.

“You know I would have come by to get a million more tattoos just to spend time with you.”, Cata confessed with a wink.

You looked into her eyes amused:” I do, so I had to save you from yourself.”

“That’s sweet. But I still want some more.”, the goalkeeper smirked.

Quickly you promised her:” You can get them one at a time.”

“I will.”

With that said you went forward to kiss her, she gladly replied to the kiss, pulling you closer to her, to fully embrace you in her strong arms.

A few weeks had gone by, and Cata and you were officially girlfriends. You were in the tattoo studio when Carla excitedly exclaimed:” Y/n? Thanks to your girlfriend a lot of her teammates have asked us to do their tattoos!”

Hearing that you hugged your girlfriend gratefully:” Love!”

“You’re welcome.”, Cata whispered.

[lvmimis]

cw: fluff. set on rusukaina island during the timeskip.

On an island that boasts 48 seasons in a year, a warm but not oppressively so late spring day is a blessing, and the two of you have learned quickly how to make the most of it. 

Now that nearly twenty-three months of twenty-four have passed, Luffy has made this island more than welcome as home for him, and in a way, for both of you, so a day or so of leisure is no longer a fool’s daydream.

Despite this, you can’t exactly say you’re completely idling, working quickly with your fingers to twist and bend leathery plant leaves into a basket the way the inhabitants of Amazon Lily have taught you. Humming to yourself under your breath, a tune the source of which you can’t actually remember, you’re happy to watch Luffy off in the distance at the edge of the beach, cross-legged in the sand with a crudely crafted fishing pole in his hands.

He’s been quiet, almost serene for a while and perhaps a little too far away from you for your own comfort, and thus the urge to disturb the normally boisterous man overwhelms you.

“Luffy!”

“Mm?”

Your hands slip for a moment as you handle a rougher plant frond a little too carelessly, cursing as you bring your cut finger to your lip and taste iron. Luffy turns quickly as though he smells the scent of your blood and watches you carefully for true suffering but says nothing once he realizes you’re okay; you set down your basket and walk over to sit by him.

Bare feet sink into the sand of the shore as you settle close. 

“What are you thinking about?” you ask, resting your head on his shoulder.

He pauses for a moment, then his stomach growls as if responding for him, his face a huge frown.

“Worried I ate all the fish in these waters actually.”

His stomach growls again, and you pause, blinking as you look at him. He’s completely serious and you find yourself bursting into laughter.

“Luffy, you can’t possibly have-”

You pause - he could have. Your own stomach growls at the thought, but then you shake your head.

“They’ll bite eventually,” you reassure him, taking one of his hands in yours. “I do have a question to ask you though,” you add. He turns to you, with immediate trust and sudden interest.

“It’ll sound dramatic but bear with me,” you start.

He tilts his head. “Well, is it a math question?”

“Why would I-” you pause, then remind yourself to be nice, before shaking your head. 

“Okay, then tell me.” Firmly planting his fishing rod deep in the sand, he shifts in your direction, both hands folded in his lap.

When he’s so earnest looking it almost feels wrong to ask him a question like this, but that’s never stopped you before.

“Let’s say we only have fifteen minutes left to live, what would you want to do last?”

His response is blunt.

“Who do I have to beat up?” he asks. “Fifteen minutes isn’t enough time to do literally anything.”

You sigh.

“There’s nothing you can do about it,” you insist.

“Bullshit.”

“Luffy…”

He rolls his eyes, leaning back to rest on his forearms. You pout, and he grins widely, giving in.

“Fine, we’re going to die and there’s nothing to do.” He closes his eyes and ponders for a moment, then his stomach growls again.

“Big feast,” he says, opening his eyes again brightly, his eyes shining at the thought. He sits back up again, his arms wide.

“Biggest feast ever! With all our friends, so much food that no one can hardly ever go hungry.”

“We have fifteen minutes, Luffy,” you remind him.

He pulls you into his arms. “We also have Sanji.”

You scoff, but he nuzzles you close to pacify you.

“We’ll eat so well and then we can just wait, just like this until the lights go out, I guess.” 

Luffy is holding you so tightly and yet so gently, you can feel your heart race. The scent of his skin fills your nostrils as you move and find your nose flush with his bicep and you find your face warming.

“Is that really it?” you say, pulling away lest you overheat.

“Well I mean, I would never just let the world end for us but if you’re making me play along…”

His legs wrap around your waist a couple times over, like an anaconda.

“It’ll be fine as long as you’re with me. And our bellies are full.”

… and our bellies are full, you think to yourself in your head. Those are the two things that Luffy needs - to be full and to be surrounded by love.

You can at least grant this bottomless pit of a man one of those things reliably.

You peck him on the lips quickly then, before his perpetually greedy self can ask for more, pull a few picked and washed berries out of a cloth pouch attached to your hip. Popping a couple in his mouth, you then affix another to the end of the fishing rod.

“Try these.”

He chews and swallows, delighted at the sweet taste. His interest shifting back to the fishing rod, he assumes his prior position, and you hook your arms around one of his.

After a few moments, something bites, something huge enough that it blocks out the sun once he’s yanked it in your direction and you scream, but he’s laughing loudly as he jumps up and catches it.

“Here’s dinner!”

His eyes practically sparkle, and you can’t help but let your shock abate into calm complacency as he wrestles down that enormous hapless fish, remembering that the world could end any time but you’d be happy as long as you were by his side.

[whatsk-poppinhomies]

Pairing : Bangchan x F!Reader TW : unexpected pregnancy ; Chan is unknowingly (to him) an asshole ; relationship doubts ; a surprise visit from ATEEZ's Hongjoong ; a lot of angst ; and a nice little nana cliffhanger ; Word Count : 4.4k Request : Yes! By a lot of people! A/N : Back to the good stuff!! Angsty Dad Bangchan coming up!! Lets go!!!

A family of your own… It was all you had ever wanted, and surprisingly enough, Chan was fully onboard, sharing that he had similar dreams and that he wanted nothing more than to make those dreams come true with you. 

That’s why, when your period didn’t come at all for two months straight, you were more than happy, and maybe a little bit nervous, to run to the nearest corner store and grab a pack-or three-of pregnancy tests just to see if that gut feeling you had was right. 

It’s amazing how the validation of two pink lines can completely change the way a person feels. One second you’re sitting on the edge of the bathtub hoping to see those lines, and then you watch them appear as if like magic, and it’s like your entire world and your whole view of it changes, it becomes brighter, clearer, and you get this warm fuzzy feeling in the pit of your stomach that can only be described as the feeling of spring, everything in full bloom and the sun beating down and everything is just… Beautiful. 

You were too excited, you couldn’t possibly wait for Chan to get home, so you sent him a quick text. “Call me as soon as you’re able to. I love you!” You sent it, and in less than a second your phone was vibrating atop the toilet seat. “What’s wrong? You’re alright?” He asked quickly, and you realized only now that your text was probably slightly worrisome, so you took a moment to calm him, to let him know that you were safe and that you were more than alright. 

“I haven’t gotten my period in two months… You know that…” You started off, and he hummed softly to let you know that he was listening and following along. “I finally went down to the store and got myself some tests…” You continued, and you heard the lack of breathing from his end, he was waiting for you to say it, to say something. “Babe… I’m pregnant!” You practically squealed, and you heard a loud thump from his end and a muffled groaning and then someone else in the background asking if he was alright. 

“You shoulda told me to stand up before you told me that! You’re serious!? I’m gonna be a dad?! Are you sure?!” The excitement that you felt was shared, you could hear it in his voice, and you could only laugh at how giddy he actually sounded. “Do you want me to come home? I can leave right now! Baby, I’m so happy! How am I supposed to keep working? I wanna come home!” 

He was rambling, and it was honestly so cute that you didn’t have the heart to stop him. If there was anyone in the world that you knew would make an amazing father, it was him. You weren’t even fully pregnant yet and he already wanted to be home with you, you knew that you had someone that you could depend on throughout your pregnancy, someone that would be there with you, for you, through it all. “S’alright, babe. You don’t have to rush home now, it’s not like I’m in labor or anything. I just couldn’t wait to tell you. You can get back to work now, sorry for interrupting.” 

He gasped loudly, a jumbled mess of sounds coming incoherently from his mouth before he spoke an actual sentence. “You expect me to be able to get back to work after hearing that?! Baby, I wanna come home and be with you! I wanna celebrate! The album can wait, and I know that Jisung and Bin can take care of what I have left for the day anyway. I’m comin�� home now.” 

The excitement was sky high for the first two months, he’d call off work completely just to be with you for doctors appointments, he’d hold those little ultrasound images close to him as if they were the most precious pictures on the face of the earth right now. He was attached to you, and you truthfully didn’t mind it, especially since those two months had given you the brunt of all of your symptoms. He was right there with you though, telling you how amazing you were, how good you were doing, how happy he was that you were carrying his child and how he couldn’t wait to meet his little jellybean. 

By the third month, it seemed like the novelty wore off, although not completely, not yet at least. He became a little distant, not entirely, but he certainly wasn’t clinging onto you as he had been before. You simply assumed that he was just keeping you in mind since you were constantly sweating, your body temperature felt like you had been sitting in the summer sun for hours, although the doc said that was quite normal actually. Maybe he just thought that you didn’t want him constantly hanging on to you as he had been, and he wouldn’t be entirely wrong in thinking that. 

It wasn’t until the fourth month when you realized just how distant he had truly become. It almost seemed like he had just gotten bored of it, his initial reaction seeming more and more like a dream with each passing day. He’d give you a kiss goodbye in the morning, but the lingering touches that used to drift along your stomach were long gone, it was almost as if the bigger you got, the more he just… didn’t care. That hurt, more than you’d like to admit. 

Even still, you tried to make excuses for him. He had been working so hard on the album, and now that it was finally announced to the public, he was more stressed than ever. That had you questioning though whether he truly thought of what it would be like to have a child. There was a lot of responsibility, and while you knew that you could do it yourself if needed, you didn’t want to, not when the two of you both discussed this and in the beginning, he made it seem like this was what he wanted as well. 

Although Chan was acting the way he was, you were still beyond joyful, especially now that the most important scan was coming up. You’d finally be able to find out the gender of your little jellybean, and from day one, since he had found out, he said that this appointment was the one he was most excited for as well. There was something so magical about finding out the gender of the tiny little human that you were growing inside of you, and you wanted Chan to be there to share in the magic with you. 

“You’re already ready, that’s great!” You chimed as you stepped out of the bedroom, dressed and ready to head out, and you saw Chan standing in the kitchen fully dressed as well sipping on a cup of coffee as he scrolled through his phone. He glanced up at you, his eyebrow arching in confusion as he looked you over, and you hoped, you silently prayed that he was just joking with you right now. “The doctors appointment is today… It’s the gender scan… I told you that.” 

You tried to keep your voice as light as possible, but the slight tremor was heard by you, and you were sure that it was heard by him as well. “Ah shit… That’s today? Why would you schedule it for today? You know we have an interview today.” He was… scolding you… As if it were your fault that the appointment that you had made a month in advance had fallen on the same day of an interview that you hadn’t a single clue was going on. “You’re gonna have to catch a ride there or something, I don’t have the time to drive across town and make it back to the studio in time.” 

He was choosing an interview over you… over the baby. It was shocking to say the least, and it felt like his words alone had ripped your heart straight from your chest, but what was worse was the way he was looking at you as if this was somehow all your fault. “Right… Sorry…” You mumbled, not wanting to get into an argument with him right now solely because you didn’t want to smudge your makeup with the tears that you knew he’d cause. 

“It’s fine I guess… Just… Think a little more, yeah?” He gave you a meek smile as he walked past you, pressing a kiss to the top of your head before rushing to the door. “I’ll probably be a little late coming home today. The guys all want to go out and celebrate the upcoming release so… I’ll probably just stay at the dorms tonight.” It almost seemed like he was doing it on purpose, creating this unimaginably large space between himself and you… Or maybe it was himself and the baby, although you weren’t sure why. What you did know though, was that it wasn’t fair, not to you, and surely not to the baby. 

Being with Chan had gave you contact to some other big stars in the business, and most people would assume that you were happy about it solely because of their status, but you saw in people their best attributes, their soft sides, the sides of them that they hid from the cameras, the sides of them that made them more than just idols. One of those people happened to be Hongjoong, who had been the first person to come over and personally congratulate you and Chan when you told him you were pregnant. These past two months he had even become more invested in your pregnancy than Chan was. That’s why he was the first person you called. 

“Am I bothering you? You’re not busy… Are you?” Were the first words out of your mouth as soon as he had picked up his phone. You were sitting on the edge of the couch, watching the time tick down, getting closer to your appointment, and you hated riding in a strangers car, it made you feel uncomfortable, and Chan knew that. You hated that he would willingly put you in the position to do something like that. 

Hongjoongs soft chuckle came through your speaker, and you could hear the other guys in the background talking, but it seemed to grow distant as if he were going somewhere quieter to talk to you. “You’re never a bother, honey.” He cooed out the pet name, one that Chan had said on multiple occasions that he hated, but old habits die hard, and you knew that Hongjoong meant nothing by it. “What’s up? Are you having another craving? I can get you whatever you need.” 

God, you wished it were that simple, but you scoffed, shaking your head as if he could see it. “No… I have a doctors appointment, and I need to get there but… Chan had an interview with the guys today and he needed to be there for it. I just need a ride…” Your voice trembled as you said the words, and for some reason, you felt ashamed having to ask another man for help when your boyfriend, the father of your child, was fully capable of getting you to your appointment and just chose not to. 

“Is he gonna meet you there?” He quizzed, but you couldn’t bring yourself to verbally answer his question, at least, not with words, so you let out a dejected sigh that gave him all the answers he needed. “Alright, let me just get my shoes on and I’ll come pick you up. We’ll make it there in time. Do you want me to stay in there with you? We can go get something to eat when it’s done.” He knew that you wouldn’t turn down food, so you agreed to his offer, a smile slowly returning to your face as you finally relaxed against the couch cushions. 

“You’re a lifesaver, Joongie. Thank you so much.” You chirped, and you heard him laugh again, the sound of it almost contagious. You weren’t sure what you would have done if he wasn’t able to, but then again, Hongjoong would come help you at the drop of a dime simply because he cared about you. Chan saw it differently, but then again, if it weren’t for Hongjoong, you wouldn’t be making it to your appointment today, so in your eyes, he had no right to be jealous or upset about it. 

“A girl!” Hongjoong exclaimed, his eyes brightening as a wide smile spread across his face. Not even Chan had gotten this excited during the last two visits, it was a nice change of pace, and a very welcomed change of atmosphere. “That’s so exciting, honey. I’m so happy!” He continued, grabbing your hand and giving it a light squeeze. 

The nurse who had been wiping the gel off your stomach confusedly looked between you and Hongjoong, clearly wondering why Chan wasn’t there, and why this new man seemed more happy about the gender reveal than the actual father would have been, but you didn’t have the time to go into details about how your entire dream seemed to be spiraling, so you focused your attention on Hongjoong entirely. “Are we celebrating at my favorite restaurant?” You teasingly asked, and when his mouth fell open, you were about to backtrack and let him know you were joking, until his head fervently nodded. 

“Of course! Where else would I take you to celebrate, huh? My honeys deserve the best!” He looked at the nurse who only seemed more and more confused the more he spoke, but he didn’t seem to mind it, giving her a warm smile. “Is she done? I don’t want her to be hungry… Did you eat this morning?” He glanced down at you and you shook your head which had him looking back up at the nurse for the answer to his first question. 

Once the nurse gave you the okay that you were done and printed out the ultrasound pictures, Hongjoong grabbed your purse and helped lead you out of the office, his hand wrapped around your waist almost protectively as you rode down the elevator to get to the first floor. “Thank you for coming with me… It’s so embarrassing to be in there alone sometimes and… Seeing all the other couples kind of makes me sad.” You always felt like you could be so open with him, he was so understanding, and he always listened to everything that you had to say. It was nice to have someone like that in your life, someone unbiased that wouldn’t always take the side of Chan, and while you loved the other guys, they would always lean more towards their leader. 

“If you ever need someone to go with you, if Bangchan can’t make it, you can always call me. Remember that, honey. I’m always here for you.” He reassured you, his hand moving from your waist to your lower back as he led you out of the elevator. “You think I can have one of the pictures though? It’s so neat to actually see her, I wanna show all of the guys.” You nodded your head, climbing into the passenger seat and fishing the row of pictures out of your purse to look through them again. “Looks like she has your nose…” Hongjoong mused as he leaned over the console to look at the pictures with you before playfully tapping the tip of your nose. “She’s gonna be adorable, just like you.” 

He always gave you a warm feeling, but you attributed that to his friendliness and how kind he was, but now, sitting next to him in the car after sharing such an important moment with him, looking him in the eyes… You didn’t know if that feeling stopped there… And you felt guilty for that. Maybe it was just because you were upset with Chan and your mind was trying to find some other source of happiness… It felt wrong though. “Thanks… Joongie.” You murmured, dropping your gaze down to your lap as you fumbled with the edge of the blouse you were wearing. You couldn’t let your mind continue with those thoughts… It wouldn’t be right… Chan was your boyfriend, and you were sure that Hongjoong was simply being kind to you. That’s all it was… 

“You keep ordering more stuff for her when you know she’ll just grow out of it by the second month.” Chan grumbled when he heard the knock on the door, his annoyance with your online baby shopping becoming more and more evident with each package that came in. It’s not like you were spending his money though, you were still working for the time being, at least while you could. “You’re wasting your money.” He continued as you grabbed your phone to see which package could have possibly been delivered today. 

The door knocked again, and now you both were confused because, even if it was a package delivery, they would have only knocked once to let you know that the package was delivered and then went about their day. That, and the fact that you hadn’t gotten any notifications or updates that anything you had ordered was out for delivery. “Well it’s not for me, maybe it’s a new piece of equipment for your studio.” You said, refusing to get up off the couch considering the fact that it took you almost 15 minutes to get comfortable now that you were getting bigger. 

He rolled his eyes as he pushed himself up off the couch, mumbling something under his breath about not being able to enjoy a day off. “Look, whatever you’re selling, we’re not interes…ted…-” He trailed off as the door was opened and an excited Hongjoong stood there holding a pastel pink bag with even more pink tissue paper sticking out of the top. “What are you doing here?” Chan asked, looking down at the bag and then back up at Hongjoong who was still wearing the biggest and brightest smile, looking past Chan to spot you. 

“I came to see my honey.” Hongjoong stated as if it were a known fact that he was going to drop by, but neither you or Chan knew he was coming, but for you, it was a welcome surprise. “Can I come in?” He asked, and before Chan could say no, you were getting up off the couch to go meet him at the door instead. “You’re getting so big… In the most beautiful way, honey.” He cooed, looking you over with heart eyes and pink tinged cheeks. 

“Thank you, Joongie…” You whispered, feeling shy under his gaze, but Chans glare had tension filling the air. “Who’s the present for?” You asked, trying to change the subject, and Hongjoong took that as his queue to come inside, going straight past Chan and wrapping his arm around your waist to lead you to the couch. 

The door was slammed shut, and Chans presence alone, even if you couldn’t see him standing behind the couch, you could just feel him there. He was hovering, and you could feel the annoyance radiating off of him in waves. “I was at the store and I walked past this outfit, I just thought it would look adorable on little honey pot.” He placed the bag down the floor in front of you and reached out to press his hand against your stomach, chuckling lightly when he felt the baby kick against his palm. “She still hasn’t settled down since you texted me, has she? Don’t worry though, I brought what you said you were craving, maybe that’ll settle her down.” 

You heard Chan huff behind you, clicking his tongue against the roof of his mouth causing you and Hongjoong both to turn around and look at him. “Oh, don’t let me distract you. Just wondering why you’re buying clothes for my daughter and food for my pregnant girlfriend when I’m literally right here.” His tone was sharp when he said it, and while you had understood the hint, it either went right over Hongjoongs head or he just decided to ignore it. 

“Well I already said why I bought the outfit.” Hongjoong said casually, leaning back on the couch and draping his arm over your shoulder, glancing over his own to keep his eyes on Chan. “And Y/N sent me a text earlier saying that she was kind of uncomfortable because the baby can't seem to sit still, so I thought that I’d bring her her favorite snack. I don’t see anything wrong with that…” He turned to look at you. “Do you?” 

The air felt so thick, you could barely breathe, but truthfully, you didn’t see a problem with Hongjoong helping you out, so you shook your head no. “I really appreciate you coming over and bringing me these things. Thank you, Joong. It means a lot.” You gave him a warm smile, and he leaned in to press a quick peck to your temple. 

It was a shock to you, but what was more shocking, what had you practically jumping out of your seat was the sound of Chans hands slapping against the back cushion of the couch. “I need to talk to my girlfriend and you-” He pointed to Hongjoong, not even caring at the moment just how rude the gesture was. “You need to leave.” It wasn’t a suggestion, it was a demand, and for the first time since Hongjoong had been there, it seemed like he was finally getting the hint. 

That didn’t stop him from grabbing your hands and looking at you with his dark, almost black eyes, that looked at you so softly right now, with so much concern. “Are you going to be okay?” He asked, ignoring Chan completely at this point, his thumb brushing over your knuckles to try to keep your attention on him. You quickly nodded your head, and while he didn’t believe it, he couldn’t really do much either. “Text me if you need me, you know I’m always here for you, honey.” 

Chan didn’t have to lead him to the door, Hongjoong went there himself, and you really wished that you could have gone with him because now you were the direct target of Chans anger, his eyes like daggers staring right through you. “You wanna tell me why some other guy is buying clothing for my child? Why he’s going out and getting my girlfriends snacks? I’ve been here all fucking day and you haven’t said shit to me! I could have gotten the food for you!” 

It was jealousy, that’s all it was, and it was so hypocritically funny that you couldn’t help but laugh. “Oh for fucks sake, Chan. You haven’t spent a fucking dime on her! You don’t give a shit about me or the baby. Don’t pretend to start now just because your ego is bruised.” You snapped back, and you watched as he shook his head, his eyes narrowing even more now. 

“Is she even mine?! Why should I spend any of my money on her!? You’ve got Hongjoong out here acting like he’s the one who fucking knocked you up!” You blinked a few times, letting his words fully process in your head. He was not only accusing you of cheating on him, but accusing another guy of fathering his baby. Surely it must be guilt, knowing that you were right, but that didn’t make you any less pissed off. 

“Do you ever think he’s acting that way because he feels bad?” You asked, and Chans face scrunched up as he let out a scoff. “No. I’m being serious right now, Christopher.” He was shaking his head, his body already turning to walk away, and that was the icing on the cake, the final straw. “He’s doing what you refuse to do! I never asked him to do that, he just did because you’ve been blowing off doctors appointments, you… you treat her like a mistake and a burden and she’s not even here yet! You don’t even acknowledge the fact that I’m pregnant anymore unless it’s something that you have a problem with! I needed some kind of fucking emotional support while I go through this, and you sure as hell haven’t been supportive at all! He was there when I needed him… When you decided that your job is more important than the child that you created.” 

He stopped in the middle of the room, you could see how tense he was, his back muscles stiff under the tight black shirt that he was wearing. “Then why don’t you just go be with him since he’s better than me anyway?” He posed. You could hear how heavily he was breathing, you could see it in the way his shoulders rose and fell quickly. He was furious, although you weren’t sure who with at this point. 

“If that’s what you want, I’ll text him. I’m sure he wouldn’t mind.” And maybe it was the heat of the moment making you say it, but deep down, you knew you didn’t mean it. Chan was the father of your daughter, he was the love of your life, and even after months of him blowing you off, the future that you imagined with your daughter still had him in it. You wanted to spend your life with him. 

“I’m sure he wouldn’t. So just text him. Just fucking go.” He said flatly, storming off into the shared bedroom and slamming the door behind him. The last thing you wanted to do was go into the bedroom and try to talk to him, you didn’t even want to go in there to get your clothes, so you got up and walked out the front door, running right into Hongjoong who had been standing outside and listening to everything. 

Chan watched through the blinds in the bedroom, watching as Hongjoong led you to his car, helping you in before gently closing the door behind you and then climbing in. He watched and he waited for you to climb back out, but then the car started backing up… And then it pulled off. He had just forced you into the arms of the very person that he was terrified would take you away… All because he was jealous, and he had gotten so distracted with work… He had fucked everything up. The future that he had built with you in his dreams, that he imagined and drew out… It was all thrown out the window and he had been the one to throw it. 

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[adoregojo]

he doesn't realise how lonely he is.

the birds nagging on the early morning was freaking annoying and made him wanted to block the window ten times more. he hated how his breakfast tasted, he added to much salt and now he keeps grimacing at every bite. the usual black stray cat on his doorstep keeps greeting him every morning, and all he could find to reply to it meowing was a frown. sunny days were nothing but a pain, the bright light hitting his face as if it was forcing him to like it. how vexing.

the difference shape of flowers peeking out from the next door store brings him nothing of a sense of joy, if anything he wanted to stay away from it due to it attracting the bugs. his coworkers never talk to him, not like he wants to talk to him. he never looked them in the eyes anyway.

he can clearly hear them, their whispers -that were too loud for him to hear- about him being likely an old grumpy grandpa in disguise, they even made bets on if he would smile one day. it didn't hurt him, he couldn't gave a good fuck for it, he just wanted this day to end so he could go home and never have to see anyone.

he doesn't take his shoes off when he's in the apartment, it was too much of a hassle and he doesn't get any visitors anyway. there's barely any food in his fridge, mostly leftovers. he just eats to survive another day. watching pointless tv shows that never truly entertained him, in fact he found them boring but as long as they kept him busy he didn't care.

winter was too cold, summer was too hot, autumn was stressful, and spring gets him a sick problems all the time.

he truly doesn't know where to enjoy anything in life.

well, until he met you.

all of a sudden, the birds melody doesn't sound so bad, so he opens the window for some fresh air. he stared to put afford in making breakfast, not his usual too slaty eggs it is now a fluffy pancakes with your guidance as you embraced him from behind. they weren't perfect, but the pleased noises you make after every bite made him proud. of course he doesn't forget to feed your cat, the same black cat that he claimed it was nothing but a bad luck.

he didn't realise of how much of a neighbours he had till he started coping how you greeted them, it was nice when they started sending you guys food. especially when you liked them and sometimes they'll send his favourite.

sunny days were welcomed now. especially when the bright light would hit on your skin causing a reflection that's making you a walking glowing star. maybe he liked the sun a bit now.

he made progress on talking back to him coworkers, instead of the silent treatment he actually looked at them knowledge them. he actually started looking at them when they speak to him because you told him it was rude not to. soon he was invited to lunch with them where he would show off his bento box you made for him, he was glad the whispers disappeared. he didn't get how much it bothered him till now.

the owner of the flower shop who was an old lady was now a common person he had to see every week, she remarked he was her most loyal client. he received a tones of advice and recommended flowers as well pinching his cheek as a farewell message. needless to say he always tried coming home -he stopped calling it an apartment- to you without an empty hand, having your favourite pair of flowers was a must now. as well taking off his shoes and putting it directly next to yours, this was it right place.

rethinking it now, winter may be still cold but at least he got the scarf you got for him warped up to his neck, if he buried his nose in the soft fur he could smell your cologne -a reason why it was his favourite one- summer was perfect for you two picnic dates, and every time he could kneel down and thank the sun for making you so blazing and sparkly.

autumn was where you would count the crunchy golden leaves, you sometimes warped yourself around it as if it was snow. it was his favourite memory since it made his heart beating fast. and in the end you were his spring, where his love would bloom for you again and again.

restaurants weren't a waste of money and time now. he has a prefers show and it was the one that made you laugh until the tears formed in your eyes, he honestly doesn't find them as funny but it makes you smile so he didn't care.

life stopped being meaningless afterwards, and he could finally say that he enjoyed living as long as it was beside you.

nagi, rin, sae, toji, choso, ushijima, kenma, diluc. kei, sakusa. you favs!

[cosmichahn]

when candles burn out.

[i. SPRING]

abby anderson x scientist!reader

— 4 seasons with abby; seasons pass, feelings grow.

— notes: fluff, abby being silly, reader trying to be serious

“Can I help you, Abby?"

You were sitting on a stool, hanging at your usual spot. The Science District. Looking over a microscope, your eyes transferred to a visitor. She's tall, muscular, has dirty blonde hair, and, well, she's hot, but you had to shake those thoughts away. Not necessary nor relevant at the moment.

“I was just checking up on you." she replied with that beguiling smirk on her face. “I also got some honeysuckles for you.”

You thank her and place the flowers in a spare jar, walking over to the faucet and letting this bask in the sunlight by the window. “What made you so decent to me all of a sudden?" you joked, crossing your arms, furrowing your eyebrows. Head turning to face her.

“Nothing, my schedule's just free and I don't know what to do." Abby leaned over the door frame with her arms crossed. “So I'm here to see you."

What is she on about? Your eyebrows curved, wondering what really made Abby go here of all places. Why not where Manny is? Or maybe Lev. “Ok, Anderson." You went back to observing the moss-infused mushroom that you took. It was growing a couple of blocks away from your laboratory. “Just don't touch or mess with anything. Thanks."

The atmosphere of the room seemed off. You felt her eyes observing and wandering over her, and she knew it was going over your buttons. “Can you stop staring?” You sighed, looking annoyed. Abby’s nice, you knew that, but she liked getting under your skin which you’re not sure why or how come.

“No.” She said in a blatant manner.

“And why not?” You looked away from the microscope once more.

“Just want to.” Abby retorted.

You tried to hide the heat rising up your face, getting hit by one of her lines again. “Just go play some music or whatever. I have cassettes over there on the shelf.” Abby doesn’t have that much of a bad music taste anyway, so you just let her choose whatever was available.

She swiftly walked along the organized place, heading towards the mahogany shelf that you found lying somewhere and just cleaned it off. The options were not much, so she just ended up choosing a shuffled cassette. It had pretty cheesy songs that you found a guilty pleasure, but hey, they were actually good.

The opening of a random love song started to play. Abby looked at you, and you looked back. She started swaying along to the beat, giving you that childish look. Somehow it’s as if she wants you to join her. And she did. “You look very ridiculous right now.” You were trying to hold in a light laugh, but a sly smile still lingered in you. “I’m not gonna dance with you, Abby.”

“The best part’s coming on soon.” It was the chorus. Abby loved the chorus. She always hummed cheesy love songs whenever she was alone, reading a book, or doing some kind of errand that didn’t require her to patrol all over the area, but sometimes it was a random 90s punk song that she usually listened to. It reminded her of you. Almost everything reminded her of you.

“Don’t leave me hanging.” She walked up to you, waiting for you to give your hand. She can whisk you away like she always does, helping you escape your mind that never stopped thinking. She was your escapism in a world not full of it, sadly. You just wouldn’t admit it. Or perhaps you couldn’t. You liked Abby, that was all there was. You should at least try soon before things are too late, right?

With a bit of convincing that only lasted for ten seconds, you removed your gloves, placed the mushroom inside of a container with a bit of hole to help it breathe, and gave the right conditions to it. Afterwards, you stood up, walking awkwardly towards her. “I’m on my way…?”

Abby chuckled, she adored you and everything you were. She was bothered though. Bothered by your unending attachment to your work. Night and day, she passed by your lab doing other things, and you would just be so focused on your research with a mug in hand, filled with bad coffee that didn’t even help, but it was the only thing with caffeine that you can access, so whatever. Your work was important, yes, but your health was just as important. Sometimes you don't even sleep, you just drown yourself in your work. She is constantly worried about you, so she tries to find ways to press your buttons a little bit to loosen you up, but she’ll never cross your boundaries.

As soon as you walked up to her, she took your hands and held them dearly. Abby looked so tough, and yet here she is. Gentle. “You can come closer, you know.” She placed your hand on her waist, leaving you room to decide whether to move closer to her body. Slowly as each chord passed, your arm began to curl around her, practically giving her a hug now.

Your heart, it was calm, quiet. It flowed freely, that invisible string connecting the two of you. Soon, both of your arms are around her waist, holding her dearly. She rested her arms on both of your shoulders, trying not to put on too much weight. She’s heavy, of course she knew that. It was hard trying not to catch her eyes, and that’s exactly what you were trying to do. Avoid them. Her gaze was captivating. Her icy blue eyes that gave you warmth. Her gentle hands that felt as if it could heal every bruise and every scar.

Finally you met her gaze. Her eyes softened, she gave you a smile. The brightest one you’ve seen. Something always happened between the two of you. Moments like this to be exact, and yet… What even are the two of you? Abby never addressed that spark happening whenever you were around each other. She likes you, you know that. You like her, and she knows that too, so what’s keeping the two of you from going for it? You always wondered.

“Abby.” You called. She just looked at your eyes, caught in your enchantment. “Abby?” Tilting your head a little to the left. You let out a little snicker, but that toned down soon. “Abby.” Your left hand brushes that loose strand of hair to the side. Went from the strand of hair to her face, stroking the side of her cheek with your thumb. This, surprisingly, snapped her out of whatever hypnotism she had.

“Yes?” She finally answered.

“There’s something.” You replied as she listened in anticipation. “I have to tell you something."

“What are you gonna tell me?" Abby answered, trying to make her voice go softer.

You leaned in, tugging on her waist with a conspicuous devilish smile on your face. Teasing her wouldn't be so bad, right? She always did it anyway. Your thumb began tracing circles on her lower back, letting your fingers snake up beneath her shirt.

“Abigail…" You whispered.

“Mhm?" Abby murmurs.

“Lev's at the door." Quickly, your arms untangled around her, peeking behind her to see Lev trying not to let out a laugh. “See you later, Soldier.” And there she left, a pout in her face as she walked away, hearing distant playful scolds to Lev and he began teasing her even more.

i. SPRING ii. SUMMER iii. AUTUMN iv. WINTER

[the-bofurin-digest]

Hajime Umemiya Casual Headcanons

Casual Headcanons

> Loves the smell of just basic, fresh cotton. It's his favorite only after the smell of a freshly watered garden in the spring. > Cannot and also will not ride a bike. Has tried to learn but can't coordinate enough to pedal AND steer at the same time. > Would probably enjoy DnD once or twice for fun. Would enjoy to pretend being someone else for a few hours while having an adventure > Hates socks. > Secretly reads The Secret Garden weekly. > Highlight of his weekends is Karaoke with Kotoha, Hiragi (who was forced into this mess) and Tsubaki

Dating Headcanons

> Love language when receiving love: quality time. not only does he like spending time with his friends, he love spending it with his partner. Nothing makes him happier than the two of you just relaxing on a nice sunny day, him working on his garden and you laying in his hammock napping or reading one of his books and just being close to one another. > Love languages when giving love: Acts of service, a given. This man would do almost anything for you with or without you asking. It can get a bit annoying, actually. > Comes up with obnoxious nicknames/ "Ship name" for the two of you. INSISTS you guys are referred to as that early on in the relationship (Hiragi eventually convinces him to change his mind) > Is a sucker for moonlit slow dances on the school roof with you. Has compiled the perfect playlist for just the occasion but will even do it in public. If he hears your song over the market radio he will not hesitate to pull you in his arms for a quick little spin around the aisle while you blush and laugh > Blanket hog during covers. You better have two and even then he still might roll up in the second one. > When he's beat up or had gotten involved in something rough, he will shut down and not come to you until he is healed/in his right mind because he is afraid of scaring you away. One too many cuts, bruises, seeing him in a fight is what he thinks will end your relationship. It takes a lot for him to accept that you are in it for the long haul, despite his positive and happy demeanor the self worth of that side of him in relationships is hard.

[lohotine]

AN: IM OUT HERE SIMPING FOR ANYTHING THAT BREATHES. anyway ♡

BUT OMG, EHEHEHEHEB 🤭

Longan Dragon x Reader

Oneshot

Warnings: just fluff

-Falling in love-

A cool spring breeze flows throughout a flowery medow, causing the grass to sway. Resting in the middle of the field were the Ivory Dragon and yourself.

Quite the rare scene indeed, since getting Longan dragon to agree to something as trivial as making flower crowns is a very difficult thing to manage.

They themself had wondered why they agreed to it. There was nothing particularly special about the day; you had just randomly asked if they'd like to make the things with you.

And despite that, they couldn't bring themself to say no.

So here the two of you were: sitting in a large, open field as you taught Longan how to make flower crowns.

"And just like this-" you held up the end result and showed it to them. "Ta-da!" A bright smile was on your face.

Longan would continue giving you that cold, emotionless stare they always had on their face. If you hadn't known them well, you'd think they were uninterested.

But of course, if Longan saw this as a waste of time, they would have said so already.

You leaned towards them, carefully placing the now complete flower crown atop their head.

If it were anyone else trying to get this close to them, Longan would have killed them already.

So why were you the anomaly?

You hadn't done anything to earn this dragon's respect. All you ever did was talk with them sometimes or complete small projects such as this one.

The way you treated them as if they couldn't destroy you at any second... How content you always were.

It was so naive... yet so captivating and peaceful at the same time.

It couldn't be.. had Longan developed a soft-spot for you? Had you melted this uncaring dragon's cold heart?

Your voice soon snapped them out of their daze.

"Here, you make one next!" You placed some freshly picked flowers into their hands and began to recite the steps to them.

It was easy, of course. Creating flower crowns was not something beyond the Ivory Dragon.

The thing that troubled them so much was that lingering question.

Why were you the anomaly?

How is it that after such a long time living, their ideals would eventually bend to your will?

Perhaps they should have been upset. But, they just couldn't feel that way. It was a rather odd feeling, actually, though not bad.

In fact, it was quite nice. It made them feel as if all of the flowers in the meadow shone just a little brighter.

"Oh, you're finished already?" You took the flower crown out of their hands and carefully examined it. "You're a natural at this!"

You handed the crown back to them and continued to sit peacefully.

Longan would just gaze at the object, thinking.

"You know, I really enjoy the time we spend together," You'd say randomly.

They looked up to meet your gaze. "You do? I don't think I'm very good company.." they'd respond.

"Sure you are! Why else do you think I asked you to join me today?"

Longan looked back down at the crown before placing it on your head, leaving a touch that seemed to linger for just a little too long..

A subtle blush spread across your face as you continued to smile.

It was in that moment that everything clicked for them.

Why they adored you so much, why they wanted nothing more than to be around you, and to protect you.

Why their heart beat just a bit faster around you, and why your smile had long since become one of their favorite views.

Why their ideals would bend for you, why they agreed to this rather stupid idea of making crowns out of flowers.

Why they thought of you so often, and why for the first time in a long while, they felt something other than hate.

They were falling in love, and there wasn't any way it could be undone.

Hopefully you're ready for what consequences would come from this.

[2knightt]

if you havent already, request for the outsiders boys with a super sweet sunshine s/o?

↳i love you, so let me get to you!₊˚✧

──IN WHICH, the gang dates a happy go-lucky reader!。✦

||✰ — the gang, separately

Johnny Cade ;

your kindness probably frightened him at first, he wasn’t used to anyone as nice as you.

but when he gets to know you are—he can’t get enough.

your happiness probably rubs off on him.

johnny’s smiling more, opening doors for people, and has a little spring in his step.

the gang definitely knows about you and teases johnny about it.

“you gotta stop hangin’ ‘round y/n. you’re starting to get their smile.”

“yeah, johnnycakes. i swear—i ain’t never seen you this happy.”

“get used to it, i dunno.”

you refuse to see the bad in people, and honestly johnny kinda likes that mindset.

but he doesn’t at the same time.

he knows people in the world suck, he knows how cruel it can be—but with you by his side, you make it bearable.

you make him feel actual hope that he can get out of this place.

make him feel like he has a future.

“thank you.”

“for what?”

“..everything, y/n.”

Dallas Winston ;

opposites attract dare i say?

i can see you calming dallas down, just a bit though.

not too much. just a lot.

he stops beating up people for no reason, yelling so much, and even helps a few old ladies cross the street.

only when people aren’t look though. this is still dallas.

“jus’ get outta ‘ere, punk!”

“aw, dallas! you let ‘em go! ‘m so proud.”

“whatever.”

he mumbles, snaking an arm around your waist with his other hand stuffed in his pocket.

the gang was so fucking shocked when they found out you two were dating.

“…for real?”

“you ain’t pulling our legs, are ya?”

“no? what the hell would make you guys think that?”

“they’re sweet while you’re—you.”

“fuck’s that ‘posed mean?”

“nothing.”

i feel like a lot of people would judge you for being so happy, especially with the situation with soc’s and greasers.

but dally shuts them up real fast.

“they gotta be on drugs. no way someone can be that happ—“

“who? who’s on drugs? c’mon, you can tell me.”

“uh—no one, dallas.”

“you sure?”

“yeah.”

punches them anyways.

but i don’t want you to scroll with a bad taste in your mouth.

just know, you’re the only relationship dally has been serious about in a long time.

a very, long time. so—he loves you to death.

Ponyboy Curtis ;

admired you somewhat.

he loves the aura that surrounds you. he thinks it’s different—way different than what he’s used too.

he’s used to people beating others, spitting on people, mocking, teasing.

but you?

you go out of your way to help those who were pushed down, bullied, spit on.

he admired that. he admired you.

he loved that about you.

tries to pick up your habits—but ends up failing.

“pony, when’d you become so…happy go-lucky, huh?”

“is it bothering you?”

“a little.”

“…fuck you too then.”

i feel like he’d look for a partner like that.

his type??? possibly???

you just,

give him hope.

hope that he can leave tusla and live the life he wanted on the country side.

Sodapop Curtis ;

same thing, different font.

you two get along so well it’s sickening.

when the two of you walk in a room together you blind everyone with how bright the both of you are.

im not joking.

“did he really, soda?”

“yeah! can you believ—“

“JESUS CHRIST!”

“what?”

“get out.”

“WHY?!”

“what?!”

“y’all are ruining my bad mood. screw off.”

“is he always like this?”

“yeah. just ignore two-bit.”

takes after you a lot.

like a lot.

started fighting less, helping out more costumers at the DX, etc.

he loves talking about you.

he just

does.

you’re all he talks about. i’d know, cause i’m literally writing this rn.

Darry Curtis ;

THIS DYNAMIC IS SO CUTE OH MY GOD.

cold, closed off darry with a cute, kind and sweet reader.

i’m crying just thinking about it.

you force him to open him to others.

literally.

“how’s your day, darry?”

“okay.”

“just okay? didn’t something happen at work today?”

“well yeah.”

“then tell, em! he’s your brother, babe.”

people always chuckle, seeing you cling to his arm—all smiles while he sits, looking like a guard dog.

but as soon as darry glares at them—they stop laughing.

everyone calls you sunshine after darry mockingly called you that. sorry i don’t make the rules :/ (yes i do.)

“hey, sunshine!”

“oh—hey, dal!”

“don’t call them that.”

“why not, superman?”

“because.”

Steve Randle ;

Guard dog 2.0

you gotta hold him back all the time help.

“steve! you know violence isn’t good—i hate it!”

“LEMME AT ‘EM, BABE! C’MON!!”

isn’t also—not used to people being so nice to him.

so you being so affectionate, looking out for him, loving him—just being so nice to him in general is so..shocking.

“you did so good today, love. ‘m so proud.”

“what?”

“oh? did you not hear me?”

“no—i did. it was just, outta nowhere. kinda spooked me a lil.”

please just love him.

please. he needs it.

he needs someone like you in his life and he’s so glad you are in his life.

he would’ve lost his mind a long time ago if you weren’t.

Two-bit Matthews ;

YALL ARE SO CUTE.

silly goofy guy with a sweet loving partner.

you let him ramble about anything and everything. he couldn’t be more happy.

“and they dance, like all the time!”

“even the dog?”

“EVEN THE DOG! he got his own moves, y/n!”

brags about dating the kindest person in Tulsa 24/7.

like, actually.

if you don’t like his drinking cause you know it’s slowly killing him, he’ll slow down on it.

“two, you know i don’t like you drinkin’ this stuff!”

“i know. but it’ll be my last one tonight, promise.”

“better be, ‘m worried for you.”

you’re like all he talks about.

he’s just so blessed to have an angel in his life!

like, what’d a guy like him do to get a person like you? save a country?

[lunarriviera]

new year's letter from halan, january 1998

dear everyone, hello, it is i, captain zheng bei of the halan public safety bureau anti-narcotics task force. things are going well however there have been a few challenges this winter so i thought i would take this opportunity to update you on our progress here in halan.

first of all there's xiaoguang and nan nan. everyone is really happy that xiaoguang sat up again and started talking and getting better, me most of all. i might have cried a little and i definitely hit him. the weird thing is he speaks exclusively cantonese now and we're not sure why but hopefully nan nan's cantonese will get better so they can communicate. gu yiran says it doesn't really matter because they could never actually communicate in the first place and i don't want to say gu yiran is right but just in this one specific instance he might have a point. anyway nan nan seems happy and they sing a lot. and make other noises as well but we aren't going to talk about those.

zhang xueyao is also doing well, she has some kind of boyfriend but she won't let us meet him and i find that somewhat distressing. i'm worried if he is ugly or maybe has two heads. or what if he's really tiny. maybe he's only like 150 cm tall and she just beats him up all the time, something that would not be good for a police officer to do. on the other hand she seems a lot calmer and doesn't chase guozhu around the office anymore trying to kick him, so i guess it's been good for her. again gu yiran claims that the boyfriend is probably completely normal and just afraid of us but i don't know why that would be true. we're only cops, there's nothing scary about any of us?

ding guozhu has not changed in any way whatsoever, he has knitted eight sweaters this winter and at this rate the only one of us who doesn't have a sweater is me. that's because i don't wear sweaters because i never get cold. i only wear t-shirts even when it's -30ºC which it is right now. gu yiran on the other hand is wearing three sweaters at this very moment in his lab but i can still hear him bitching. i told him when he wears three sweaters at once he looks fat and he told me my head is fat. i told him his head is stupid and he looks stupid and then he told me i am an unmitigated idiot and then we wound up in a supply closet in the hallway and then some other stuff happened. when we came out of the supply closet somehow i was wearing one of guozhu's sweaters. surprisingly it is very soft and kind of nice, and guozhu made it red, my favorite color, and tried to give it to me so maybe i will keep it after all.

then there's uncle. he went on vacation with his granddaughter to hangzhou and they never came back. i think he likes it there, he keeps sending us photos of them by the lake eating sugar pastry in shirt sleeves and smiling. we have all started using email now and uncle likes it the most because he says he doesn't have to waste money on postage anymore. gu yiran tried to explain to him that electricity and telephone usage also cost money but uncle says he's already paid for those so it doesn't count. anyway he keeps sending very large photos that clog up the office inbox for several hours while they download. sometimes there's a lady in the photos, i keep asking him who that is but he never answers. gu yiran says when he feels like telling us about her, he will. here's an old picture of him with gu yiran because it's how i like to think of him, still here with us.

ma and ba are fine and nan nan finally talked them into closing the restaurant one day a week to take some rest. they are saying they might go visit uncle in the spring, or go to shanghai. they are a little bit upset that gu yiran and i moved out, but they also like having nan nan out of their apartment so that worked out okay after all.

i guess that's the big news, that gu yiran and i moved to a new place. it was sad to leave the building but after the incident with the wall we figured it was probably time. i explained to ma and ba how the hole was only an accident but it was still a very big hole so they were right to be upset, we all worked very hard one weekend to tear the wall down and replace it with a better one. the hole wouldn't even have happened if gu yiran and i hadn't had a fight, but we did, and then we weren't speaking so he went home to do his experiment in the apartment instead of in the lab, and there was sort of an explosion. but it was really my fault, because if i hadn't called him an arrogant cocksucker we wouldn't have fought. on the other hand if he hadn't gone after six drug dealers in the chicken van by himself with nothing but a baseball bat and some sock bombs then i probably wouldn't have called him that. so i guess maybe we were both to blame.

the good news is our new apartment is very solid and sturdy, we found this out on the first night when we walked in the front door and gu yiran threw me bodily up against the wall and proceeded to [redacted] me. he says that as a true scientist he has to keep conducting ongoing tests to ensure the structural integrity of our domicile and i'm not entirely sure what that means but as long as he keeps slamming me up against things honestly does it really matter.

here he is studying and looking very handsome and also cute. when he catches me taking photos of him studying, he hits me and tries to get the camera away from me, i don't mind because when he starts hitting me it's sort of funny and also easy to tickle him. it turns out gu yiran is very ticklish, and when he starts laughing and his glasses fall off and his hair gets messed up he looks even cuter and then we usually forget about studying or taking pictures or hitting or tickling.

well that's about all the news from halan. there are always new drugs and new dealers trying to make money off them so we stay pretty busy. director gao says i can't say anymore about that because it's official police business but i will tell you that even though we have a new office and a bunch of new recruits from the academy, i still miss the old cafeteria, and uncle bringing noodles and bao for the team.

PS gu yiran says he wants to get a cat. at first i wasn't sure it was a good idea considering his track record with houseplants, but then i thought about it and decided i don't mind being the one who mostly takes care of the cat. after all i do a pretty good job with xiao ran.

[bloody-bee-tea]

Emotional Spring 2025 Day 8 - That's not an option

Shouta watches Hitoshi's parents leave and he can't help the uneasy feeling in his gut as he pinches the bridge of his nose against the oncoming headache. There wasn't anything explicitly wrong with their conduct during this parent-teacher conference but Shouta has been a pro hero enough years to develop a sixth sense for this and it's telling him that something is wrong.

They appeared completely normal, not really doting but not cold towards Hitoshi either and they were interested in what Shouta had to say.

He remembers them frowning when he said that Hitoshi isn't the best in class academically, but he still excels in a few choice subjects and he's in no way in danger of failing any classes.

It's something parents are usually proud to hear but something about their response was just off and he felt as if they were trying to get him to agree to things he already agreed to—mainly that Hitoshi is a good student and that his conduct is without fail—but his responses also clearly didn’t make them happy in the way they should have.

Something just feels off about the whole interaction.

Hitoshi's parents were the last he had to talk to today, so he leaves the conference room in search for Hizashi. Shouta knows he invited Hitoshi's parents as well, because Hitoshi is well above average in English and Hizashi has been giving him work sheets from his third years to complete and even those Hitoshi aces.

Hizashi probably talked to them about extra lessons and Shouta is dying to hear what he thought about the Shinsous.

It doesn't take him long to find Hizashi, they've been married long enough for Shouta to know all of his usual haunts and predictably he finds Hizashi in front of his favourite vending machine, getting the most sugary treat he can find.

Hizashi looks at him with a deer-in-headlights expression but right now Shouta couldn't care less what unhealthy treats he indulges in.

"You spoke to Hitoshi's parents," Shouta says without beating around the bush and Hizashi nods, even as he stuffs his cheeks.

He's clearly afraid Shouta will take his treat from him and Shouta is happy to let him think that because it means it stays an indulgence and not a daily thing.

"What did you think?"

Hizashi swallows as he frowns at Shouta.

"They were perfectly normal parents," he gives back and in all honesty Shouta had not expected that answer at all.

"Come again?"

"Shou, I don't know what you want me to tell you. They were interested, nice and supportive. Did something happen during your talk with them?"

Shouta can't really say yes to that because nothing really did happen, except that he has a feeling.

Hizashi can clearly read that right off his face because he sighs.

"Just because Hitoshi doesn't like to talk about his parents doesn't mean that anything is wrong at home, you know that, right?" He waits until Shouta nods, even though he thinks it does mean exactly that. "They were much nicer than some other parents, they were interested and agreed to let me tutor Hitoshi some more in English. What more do you want?"

Shouta thinks about it for a moment, trying to decide how to make Hizashi understand what he feels but he knows he can never adequately explain his suspicions.

"Something just felt off. The way they talked about Hitoshi was almost condescending and their mannerisms were creepy. They kept completing each other sentences. They gave me a headache," Shouta almost grumbles out because he knows that's not a real reason, and just like he feared, Hizashi throws his head back and laughs.

"They just know each other really well. I thought their mannerisms were sweet. Clearly they've been married for a long time."

Shouta doesn't point out that he and Hizashi don't complete sentences like that, mostly because it would be childish, but Shouta also knows that they could if they really wanted to.

Still, it doesn't help with the uneasy feeling in his gut.

"You're—actually worried about something," Hizashi finally says, all traces of humour gone from his face and Shouta shrugs.

"I have a feeling," he simply gives back and Shouta knows Hizashi understands what that means.

They have been married long enough for that.

"Suspicion?"

"Bad, actually," Shouta corrects him. "Something feels off about them and it's worrying."

Hizashi doesn't brush Shouta's feeling off, for which he loves him all the more, and in the end he nods.

"We can keep a closer eye on Hitoshi. Maybe even ask him, see what he has to say about that. He never mentioned any tension or anything at home."

"Because he never talks about his home," Shouta reminds him and Hizashi presses his lips together.

"I promised his parents to stay in touch regarding the extra lessons, so I'll try and see if I can spot anything, too. You should definitely talk to Hitoshi, though," Hizashi tells him and Shouta nods.

Hitoshi will already be on his way home, but they have training tomorrow after school and Shouta is going to get to the bottom of this.

It's been a long time since his gut feeling about someone was wrong and if it means Hitoshi could be in danger, he's not going to sit idly by.

~*~*~

"How are things at home?" Shouta bluntly asks the next day and Hitoshi looks at him with big eyes.

"What do you mean?" he carefully asks and Shouta motions for him to sit down next to him on the ground.

"Your parents were here yesterday, for the conference," Shouta says even though Hitoshi knows that damn well himself.

"Yeah? Did something—happen?"

It's subtle, but Shouta could swear there's a spark of hope in Hitoshi's eyes and it only solidifies the bad feeling Shouta has about his parents.

"No," Shouta admits, because it didn't.

It doesn't make it any easier to see Hitoshi shut down on him, though.

"Why are you asking, then?"

"Why are you avoiding the question?" Shouta shoots back and then sighs when Hitoshi stays stubbornly silent. "Listen, kid. Nothing happened, and I shouldn't really say this anyway, because it's just a feeling but—something about your parents was off. Are you safe at home?"

"They've never beaten me," Hitoshi mutters and while that is good to hear, it doesn't really equate to being safe.

"And I hope they never start," Shouta says and leans closer so he can catch Hitoshi's gaze. "But physical violence is not the only reason to not feel safe at home. If you ever do feel unsafe at home, for whatever reason, you can always come to me and Hizashi. You have our address, or you can talk to us here at school. Do you understand?"

He holds Hitoshi's gaze until he finally nods and then he watches how Hitoshi fiddles with the hem of his uniform.

"You think something about them was off?" he asks, clearly nervous, clearly desperate for Shouta's answer and if this is what pushes Hitoshi to ask for help—either now or in the future—Shouta sure as hell is not going to play his gut feeling down.

"Yes. I can't pinpoint what it was but I learned to listen to that feeling. Something about them wasn't quite right and until I know why that was I want you to stay safe."

"You're going to talk to them again?"

"Hizashi is. He promised them to keep them updated on your English progress and I'm going to listen in on those talks," Shouta admits, completely shameless, and it seems it was the right course of action because the hope is back in Hitoshi's eyes.

Something is definitely not right then.

"Okay," Hitoshi nods and then adds almost too quietly to hear "Thank you."

"I haven't even done anything." Yet, Shouta adds mentally, because there is no doubt in his mind now that there is something to be done.

He'll just have to wait for Hitoshi to come around and confide in him, or figure out what is so upsetting about his parents himself.

Shouta hates that this is the situation Hitoshi finds himself in now, but he's not going to fail the kid.

~*~*~

That very same evening finds Shouta stretched out on the couch, a cat on his chest, Hizashi's head on his stomach and a knock on the door to ruin the perfectly relaxing atmosphere.

"No," Hizashi whines out but he doesn't hold Shouta down when he untangles himself because with his hell class—and what he told Hitoshi just today—there is no way in hell Shouta is going to ignore whoever is on the other side of the door and Hizashi knows it.

And rightfully so, because when he opens it, he comes face to face with Hitoshi who is sporting a black eye and a split lip.

"Who did this?" Shouta immediately growls out and Hitoshi shuffles on his feet.

"You said I can come here when I don't feel safe at home," he says and for a split second Shouta sees red, before he gets himself back under control and steps to the side.

"And I meant it," he says as he waves Hitoshi in. "Zashi, get the first aid kit!" he yells into the apartment and he can hear Hizashi scrambling towards the bathroom.

"What happened, Hitoshi?" Shouta asks once Hitoshi is seated on the couch and Hizashi's eyes get big when he gets back to the living-room, first aid kit in his hands.

"I'm no longer safe at home," Hitoshi says again and Hizashi almost fumbles the kit.

"Your parents did that?"

"I told you something was off," Shouta mutters at him before he takes Hitoshi's chin between his fingers and tilts his head this way and that. "Any other injuries?"

"Dad kicked me when I was down, and something kinda cracked?" Hitoshi carefully says and Shouta can almost feel how Hizashi vibrates with anger.

"Your mother?"

"Did this," Hitoshi says and motions at his face.

"What the hell is going on?" Hizashi asks and Shouta has to wonder the same.

This seems like a drastic change, especially given that Hitoshi told him just today that his parents have never hit him.

"What happened?"

"They told me they don't want me training with you anymore," Hitoshi says and holds Shouta's gaze. "They want me to drop out of U.A. That isn't an option. I can't—I can't just not be here, I have to be a hero!" Hitoshi desperately says and then takes a deep breath, wincing as he clearly aggravates his side.

"I take it they weren't too happy about that," Shouta guesses and Hitoshi lets out a desperate chuckle.

"You can say that."

"Hitoshi, today you said they never hit you before, but you clearly didn't feel safe at home even before that. What's going on there?"

"It's just—you have to believe me. Please, you have to believe me," Hitoshi pleads and he seems desperate enough to make Shouta think that maybe people have not believed him before.

"We will, little listener, we will, we promise. Tell us what's going on," Hizashi says as he carefully dabs some disinfectant on Hitoshi's lips and the raw looking skin around his eye.

"My parents—I don't know if it's their quirks but they have this way of convincing people to do and think what they want. I've seen it before; it's almost as if they suggest something and then you can't refuse? It's hard to describe."

"You don't know their quirks?"

Hitoshi shakes his head and Shouta frowns. This is unheard of; usually the quirk of a child is a combination of their parent's quirks, or an evolution. A child would greatly benefit from learning from their parents and to think that Hitoshi doesn't even know his parents quirks—

"They never said and they don't like me asking questions," Hitoshi admits.

"Have they used their quirks on you?" Shouta wants to know and Hitoshi helplessly shrugs.

"I think so? I'm not sure. I don't really feel compelled to do what they say, it's just—I know that if I don't do what they want they get mad so I do it anyway. I don't know if it's them using their quirks though. Today was the first time I can remember telling them no and it really didn’t go over well at all," Hitoshi wryly says and shrugs, wincing immediately when he aggravates his side.

To think that Hitoshi is terrified enough of his parents to always do what they ask of him is already a red flag if Shouta has ever seen one and he shares a worried look with Hizashi.

"Have you asked for help before?" Hizashi carefully asks and Hitoshi nods, pressing his lips together and causing the split lip to bleed again.

"Several times. I told the police, some teachers, I event went to CPS one time but—they take me seriously, but as soon as they speak with my parents, it's as if my concerns are just made up. Everyone always agrees to what my parents say and I just—I stopped asking for help. But now—I can't drop out of U.A., please, you have to help me."

"Of course," Shouta immediately says and then remembers the headache he had when the Shinsou's left. "Are you suffering from headaches at home?" he asks because he might have an inkling of what's going on.

"Yeah. I think there's something in the walls? Or maybe it's the paint or mold?" Hitoshi mutters and Shouta turns towards Hizashi.

"After your talk with his parents, did you have a headache?"

"No. What are you thinking?"

"I'm thinking that they both have mental quirks and that they don't work well on people who also have mental quirks. I had a headache after the talk, almost as if I used my quirk too much."

"You think they tried to influence you?" Hizashi asks.

"I think they try to influence anyone they talk to. Have they always finished each others sentences?" Shouta wants to know and Hitoshi nods.

"For as long as I can remember."

"Hizashi, go call Tsukauchi, I want this investigated. We're enacting the Emergency Fostering Protocol and you'll stay here until we’ve figured out what's going on, Hitoshi. We won't let you drop out of U.A. and we won't let them hurt you again," Shouta promises Hitoshi and is startled to see tears in Hitoshi's eyes.

"You promise?"

"I promise. No matter what they try, it won't work on me anyway and if we get Tsukauchi involved we have ample opportunity to get them into quirk suppressors before any kind of talks happen. They won't get away with this."

At that the tears spill over and Hitoshi lets out a shuddering breath.

"Thank you," he manages to get out and Shouta carefully pulls him into a hug.

"We've got you, kid, don't worry. You're safe now," Hizashi promises as he pats Hitoshi's head and then he leaves to call Tsukauchi.

Shouta hates that he was right, but he's glad Hitoshi came to them for help because now they get to make sure that he'll be safe and protected.

They won't let any more harm come to him.

(It turns out Hitoshi's parents have minor suggestion and influence quirks, but they figured out early on that when they work together they are powerful enough to get away with anything. They were excited for a child, because they had high hopes for the quirk they made but were insanely disappointed with Hitoshi because brainwashing was too obvious and Hitoshi too good a person to use it on a whim anyway. They try to talk their way out of all the accusations being brought up against them but with the quirk suppressors around their wrists, there's really nothing they can do. They get separated and sent off to jail and Hitoshi gets to stay with Shouta and Hizashi.)

[ncityprincess]

And don’t you forget it

Pairing: bf taeyong x single mom reader ft. asshole johnny

Plot: blah blah blah this is just fiction I don’t know these people. Johnny is not very nice in this and he may bring up some abandonment wounds so proceed with caution 🫶🏾

MINORS DO NOT INTERACT

“Yeah sorry babe, something…came up” Johnny slurred with a dazed chuckle. Here you were, up way earlier than usual getting your 5 year old daughter ready for her day with her incompetent daddy, and he couldn’t even be bothered to give you a heads up before he cancelled. Again.

“Yeah I can see that John” you sighed, running out of the little patience you had left. You could tell he was lying in bed with whichever chick he picked up last night. “You know, being hungover on a Tuesday isn’t a good look. And neither is flaking on your daughter for the umpteenth time in a row.” You were ready to tell him off even more, but you were interrupted by a woman’s cartoonishly seductive voice.

“Johnnyyy baby, come play with me again.” A woman with a thin sheet wrapped around her body came into the frame and leaned down to press sensual kisses into Johnny’s neck. He groaned obnoxiously, making you roll your eyes. “In a minute, doll” he purred.

“Ugh, you’re such a joke. You know, Kaylee is going to kindergarten this year. She’s not dumb John, she’s gonna grow up to resent you for abandoning her like this.” Your voice kept getting louder and louder in the echoey bathroom. You had dealt with his carelessness for far too long.

“Look I’m sorry ok?” He said nonchalantly. “Let’s just try again next week. Gotta go, give Kaylee a kiss for me, will ya?”

“FUCK YOU” You shrieked, and hung up the FaceTime call before slamming your phone onto the bathroom counter. You could feel the hot tears forming in your eyes already. Once again, your child’s father had made all these extravagant plans for your daughter, just for him to not follow through.

A faint knock on the en-suite bathroom door made the shame of the situation set in even more for you. You took a deep breath and let out a defeated “come in.” It was Taeyong, your current boyfriend and first relationship after having your daughter and separating from Johnny.

Even in your state of frustration, you were able to admire how beautiful he looked with his messy bed head and navy blue boxers hanging dangerously low on his lean hips.

Your relationship with johnny all came to a head when he had made the final screw up that made you gain the courage to break up with him. He missed Kaylee’s 3rd birthday party because he was out doing his usual routine of getting hammered, and ended up getting into a bar fight for one reason or another. he had to spend the rest of the night sobering up at the local jailhouse, thus missing his baby girl blow out her candles.

After spending the better part of a year beating yourself up over your break up and blaming yourself for Kaylee not having a good father in her life, you decided enough was enough. Johnny needed to figure his own shit out, and do his own healing. His demons have nothing to do with you or your daughter, and it wasn’t your job to fix him. You made the decision to try the co-parenting thing, but it was easier said than done.

On one spring day, Taeyong had approached you at a cafe to tell you how beautiful you looked in your yellow dress. You couldn’t even look him in the eye, too embarrassed to receive such a compliment. It was the first time you had actually felt seen that way in a while. From there, your relationship flowed like water. Everything just came naturally for the two of you. Kaylee absolutely adored Taeyong, and he loved to spend quality time with her. He would take the three of you to see the latest Disney movie, go to the water park, and treat you to ice cream dates. Everything just felt. Natural.

But of course, the great co-parenting dilemma always lingered.

“Hey” he greeted with a softly with a small, gentle smile.

“I hate him Tae. I hate him so much!” By now the dam had broke, and the tears started flowing. Taeyong immediately embraced you and rubbed your back soothingly.

“My love…” he cooed, but let you continue.

“Why does he get to keep doing this to us? To her? He—he doesn’t even care that he’s hurting Kaylee. And once again, I’m left to break the news that her father doesn’t want to see her.” You sobbed.

This song and dance of johnny attempting to be a father had gone on for far too long. When you were pregnant, you were convinced the three of you were going to be a happy little family forever, but once Kaylee was born, Johnny had changed. A lot. He partied till 4 am, came home plastered, and did the same thing all over again the next day. You were the only one getting up at all hours of the night to feed your daughter and change her. You were cooking all the meals and cleaning the house. You were there to pick up the pieces when Johnny messed things up. You felt like a single parent in your own home. After three years of failing to be a good father to Kaylee, you made the decision to break up with him and asked him to move out of your house.

“He’s a coward. Any man that can’t take responsibility for their child is immature and selfish. We’ll figure this out together baby.” Taeyong held you for a few more moments and pulled away to cradle your face in his warm hands. You looked up at him through tear-stained lashes. His eyes held so much sincerity and reassurance.

“The day doesn’t have to be totally ruined. How about the three of us go to the Zoo! They just opened up that new butterfly exhibit, those are Kaylee’s favorites.”

You sniffled, making taeyong’s heart swell. “Yeah?”

“Of course.” He said softly. Taeyong wiped the last few straggler tears that were left on your cheeks. “You’re too good to me, Tae” you whined. “Nonsense, nothings to good for you, my love. As long as I’m around, you and Kaylee’s happiness are my top priority.”

He leaned down to press a soft kiss against your lips. Taeyong’s kindness was one of the things that drew you to him the most. He was so selfless and never made you feel bad about being a single parent. The overwhelming love you had for him made you fall deeper into the kiss. You wanted to forget all about this situation with your ex.

After a few moments of passionate kissing, taeyong gently grabbed your hand and guided you back into the main bedroom. He stopped right in front of your full length mirror. Taeyong stepped behind you and ran his hands up and down your sides. “Look love, look at yourself in the mirror. Aren’t you so beautiful?” He whispered into your ear.

You cast your timid gaze into your own reflection, noting taeyong’s hungry eyes staring into yours through the mirror. You could feel the front of his body pressed against your ass. You felt yourself getting damp at the sensation of taeyong’s morning wood. You quickly looked down at your feet, the intimate sight in front of you was too much to handle. “Tae come on…”

“Ah ah ah, say you’re pretty. Tell me how pretty you are.” he raised your head back up with gentle fingers and looked down at you. He pressed slow, intentional kisses into your neck, making your eyes roll back.

“I’m—I’m pretty” you finally breathed out.

“Yes *kiss* you *kiss* are *kiss*”

Your legs felt like jelly. If it wasn’t for taeyong’s strong arms wrapped around you, you surely would have melted onto the floor. His one hand snaked up the front of your body, past your tank top covered breasts and settled around your neck. His piercing eyes met yours in the mirror once again “and don’t you forget it.”

Taeyong pulled your tank top off of your body, cursing when he saw your bare breasts. He played with your nipples, admiring the way your ass started to grind against his stiff dick.

“Mmm, I want you” You moaned out. Taeyong guided you onto the bed and laid you on your back. “I’m all yours, my love.” He pulled off both of your bottoms and stroked himself a few times. You both moaned once he finally entered you. The delicious stretch of his cock got rid of whatever lingering thoughts of johnny you had in your mind.

Taeyong wrapped your legs around his hips and picked up the pace. He caressed the side of your face, smiling down at you. “You feel so good baby” he grunted. You loved how gentle and sweet he was being, but you needed something a little different in this moment.

“Tae…pound me, please?” You begged. Taeyong slowed his movements and a smirk grew on his face. “Anything for you, my love”. Before you knew it, you were flipped over and placed on all fours. Taeyong slammed back inside of you, making you cry out.

“Fuckkkk just like that!” You grabbed onto your headboard for dear life, partially to stop it from banging against the wall. Kaylee was only a few doors down.

Taeyong let out a guttural groan, loving the way your walls squeezed his dick. He had a vice grip on your hips, pounding his lower body into yours. “Shit, feels so good baby. You’re so wet.” Your arousal was dripping all over your thighs and his dick, making it nice and easy for Taeyong to piston in and out of you. The obscene noises of pleasure and skin on skin caught up to you, and you were ready to burst any second now.

“Baby I’m gonna cum” you whined, toes curling in preparation for your orgasm. Taeyong reached around to play with your clit, rubbing it in small, tight circles. You couldn’t hold on anymore, and allowed your high to wash over you.

“Oh good girl, I’m right behind you baby” Taeyong praised. He sloppily thrusted into you a few more times before blowing his load inside of you. You whined at the overstimulating feeling, enjoying the sound of taeyong riding out his own high.

He finally pulled out of you, and you both collapsed onto the bed side by side. You caught your breath, and turned to face him. He was already staring at you with sleepy, satisfied eyes. “I love you Tae, thank you. For everything.”

Taeyong caressed your hip. “I love you more baby. Now, let’s go see where Kaylee wants to eat for breakfast before we go to the zoo!”

The end ❤️

[slavicviking]

My Cabin in The Woods

@steddiemicrofic January prompt: hole| wc: 404| G | cw: none | tags: pre-Season 4 AU

“This is the Swiss cheese of houses.” Steve blinks. “What?” “You know, because of all the holes?” Eddie waves his arms around the cabin. “Dude, at this point there’s more holes than not-holes.” Munson might have a point, all things considered. Hopper’s cabin has seen better days surely and coming here would be unbearably uncomfortable if not for the beating sun outside. As another sunny August day comes to an end, it provides a nice shelter from the sun while, ironically, the holes in the wooden walls bring in some of colder air from the outside. “What even happened here?” Eddie wonders out loud, running his fingers along some scratch marks on the wall. “Dunno. Maybe a bear got in.” Eddie bristles at that. “There are no bears in Indiana.” Steve only shrugs in response. He actually doesn’t know what happened to the cabin, not fully. It had to do with the giant flesh-eating monster from a month ago, Steve’s sure, but he doesn’t know the exact details and he can’t exactly say as much to a completely oblivious Eddie. Steve envies him, really. “How do you even know of this place?” Getting more anxious by the second from all the pressing question, Steve walks up to Eddie and ropes his arms around his middle from behind. Eddie startles slightly but relaxes when Steve presses a warm kiss to his neck. “Aren’t there more fun things we could be doing?” “Mm. I guess you’re making a compelling argument,” Eddie murmurs, eyes closed and a smile playing on his lips. Their lips just about closing the little distance there was between them, a loud crash sends both boys springing away from each other. A wave of panic doesn’t manage to make itself home in Steve’s tense insides before a familiar group of kids show themselves. “Dude.” Dustin snorts and echoes. “Dude.” “What are you guys doing here?” Steve questions, eyes following the messy movements of the boys. They managed to surround him already. Mike glares at him. “It’s our base, Harrington.” “What? No, it’s not,” Steve furrows his brow. Surely he would have noticed. Those kids are incapable of keeping a place clean. “Uh, yes it is.” “Who’s that?” Lucas jumps in, peering at Eddie with wide eyes. “None of your business. Now scram,” Steve waves his hands, turning towards the sound of laughter. Eddie giggles. “What are you laughing for?” "Nothing. You're just cute."