#ah some of my comments were answered in the author's note too

[pomefioredove]

*ੈ✩‧₊˚ kudos and enemies to lovers

type of post: fic characters: rook additional info: romantic, reader is gender neutral, reader is yuu, this is ooc I just thought it was funny, rook writing rpf is morally questionable I KNOW. he's a freak author's note: the fanfiction site is made up

"completely ooc. vil would never say this"

Rook Hunt has been staring at the anonymous comment for hours.

He's come back to it five times, taking breaks only to rest his eyes when the harsh glare of the computer screen becomes too much.

It's not so uncommon for him to fall for so little; in just seven words, this anonymous hate had captured his full attention like a rabbit in a snare.

His gloved finger brushes over the enter key.

What to say? How could he possibly express himself in only a few hundred characters, in the comment section under a fanfiction of fifty thousand?

How he wishes they commented from an account... not only could he DM them, he may also have some idea of who they are. What sort of person would know Vil Schoenheit better than him?

No one. That's who.

"Dear Reader: I am sorry to hear you did not like my writing. However, I am inclined to believe I know Vil Schoenheit a modest amount better than you. Merci. -R"

Rook smiles. Eloquent, graceful, but firm. A gentleman like him would never start a fight.

Only finish it.

His curiosity finally put to rest, he responds to the other comments, thanking his usual commenters in detail.

When he scrolls back up to the top, there's something new:

"I sincerely doubt that. and fyi, you couldn't beg vil to be friends with neige"

Ohoho. Those are fighting words, he thinks. A smile creeps across Rook. Well, if it's a fight they want...

"Dear Reader: You doubt it? And how so? -R"

He refreshes the page again and again, hoping for an answer each time. This is the most stimulation he's had all week.

Now, who could this mysterious commentor be? A jealous fan, perhaps? A bitter critic?

Then:

"I was sitting next to him not two hours ago and he'd never say that"

Rook's smile widens. Of course. He should have guessed. The typing quirks, the misspelled words, even the voice in which each comment is written...

Now, he has you right where he wants you.

"Naughty naughty, Prefect. Does our Roi du Poison know you frequent the Vil Schoenheit x reader tag? or have you been keeping secrets again~?"

This time, he doesn't refresh. He knows you won't respond. Rook gets up from his desk and leaves his dorm, knowing just where to find you at this hour, and...

"Bonsoir, Trickster," he lets himself in your room.

As expected, there you are, looking beautifully flustered and vulnerable with your Crowley-approved phone in hand.

His smile sharpens. "Beautiful night, non?"

"I can explain,"

"Ah-ah," he tuts, sitting at the edge of your bed. "Do not be ashamed. I'm not a tattletale... not when I don't have to be."

His voice has a dangerous edge to it, and you give him a suspicious look. "What do you want?"

Rook lets the silence drag on, making you more and more impatient, more nervous, as if he were about to ask for something dangerous.

"Rescind your comments and leave a kudos on my work,"

You blink.

"...That's it?"

"Oui," he says. "...Unless you had something else in mind?"

You sigh. Now it's your turn to drag out the silence.

"...Let me edit your next fic,"

And, subsequently, it's Rook's turn to be surprised. He hadn't been expecting that. How... bold.

He smiles.

"...Ah... a tempting offer, I admit. I am working on something new. Perhaps we should discuss it over dinner?"

You think... and then: "I'm free Friday,"

"Then Friday it will be," Rook says, standing from your bed.

"Until then, mon petit critique~"

[sebscore]

please write about the gzd doing twitch streams! she would have the most entertaining ones i think. she react to different grill the grid videos and funny f1 videos too.

GLASS HALF FULL KINDA GAL

pairings: f1 grid x driver!reader 

warnings: swearing. drunk reader. 

author's note: someone asked for gzd to do some streaming! I know it's not twitch, but i'm quite happy with the way this turned out! X 

masterlist

• • • • • • •

''Hello, everyone! I am here again, gracing you with my presence!'' Y/N greeted the thousands of people tuning into her Instagram live. 

She waved at the camera. ''I hope everyone had a great day or is about to have a great day, depends on where you live,'' she grinned, ''I'm here to live out my influencer life and unbox a package that has been delivered to me.'' 

Y/N grabbed the box from next to her so it was more visible on the screen. ''My good friend, Daniel Ricciardo sent me a box of his new wine collection,'' she showed the large logo to everyone, holding the box close to the camera, ''and I'm gonna try it out now.'' 

The young driver opens the package and picks out one of the three identical wine bottles. ''So this is called 'DR3 the Third Cabernet Sauvignon' and it was made in the South of Australia.'' She read the label out loud, an impressed look on her face. 

Y/N held the wine bottle up in front of her phone as if she were a Youtuber showing their viewers the make-up product they were using. ''Very, very pretty.'' 

She took the corkscrew that she had quickly grasped before starting the live and easily opened the bottle. ''This isn't my first time at the rodeo, guys.'' Y/N chuckled as she saw fans commenting about how she opened the bottle with ease. 

''Okay, let's taste this baby!'' Filling her glass with wine, she was excited to try Daniel's new wine. 

The young woman made several comedic attempts at seeming like a professional wine expert; smelling the drink and spinning her glass around. 

''Cheers, everyone!'' She tapped her glass against the screen of her phone. 

Y/N took a big sip from the wine, letting out a big ''Ah'' at the end. ''I love this! Holy Moly, Danny Ric!'' She drank from her glass again, immediately filling it up again. ''I'm a fan!'' 

She glanced at the comments, seeing a certain Australian man camping in there. ''Danny! You're here! I just drank it, it's amazing!'' 

| danielricciardo that's some fine wine

| danielricciardo happy you like it 💙

| danielricciardo say hi to me, pls

| danielricciardo HI Y/N!!

''Hi, Daniel! I miss you, haven't seen you in a while.'' Y/N pouted, waving to the camera. ''You better be there in Melbourne! It won't be the same otherwise.'' She said, trying to come across as threatening. 

| danielricciardo will be there 😎

| danielricciardo miss you too 

| landonorris you're drinking again? 

Y/N rolled her eyes at the entrance of the Brit. ''Fuck off, Lando. People who have won a Grand Prix get to drink on a livestream.'' She teased him, a smirk on her face. 

| landonorris okay, that is mean 

| landonorris drink then i guess 

Before she knew it, her once full glass was empty again. ''Let's fill you up, eh?'' She cringed as the words left her mouth. ''Ew- that sounds disgusting. Forget I said that.'' 

''Dan, good thing you put three bottles in here- I'm really enjoying myself and these babies.'' The 'babies' being the wine bottles. 

| alex_albon a Y/N drunk live? don't want to miss that 

''Albono!'' She greeted Alex, excitedly. ''Where is Lily, though? I want her here.'' 

| alex_albon my presence isn't good enough for you? 😒

''No, your presence is not good enough.'' Y/N bluntly answered, grinning from ear to ear. 

She scratched her voice. ''Am I drinking this too fast? My glass is almost done and I refilled it like 2 minutes ago.'' The driver observed her glass, frowning when she saw it was almost empty again. 

| danielricciardo yes, you are drinking too fast

| landonorris no, you're not

| landonorris drink faster 

| landonorris I can drink way faster 😌

''Norris, are you challenging me?'' She raised her eyebrow at the camera as if she was looking at Lando in real life. ''Accepted, Rumple.'' 

| alex_albon this is a disaster waiting to happen

| lilymhe you look lonely, Y/N 😏💋

''Lily! My wife is here, guys!'' Y/N yells as soon as she saw Lily's comment. ''I do look lonely,'' she smirked, ''I bet you can fix that.'' 

| alex_albon STOP IT 

| alex_albon ENOUGH 

| lilymhe wait for me ❤️❤️❤️

''Alex, you stop it with the jealousy! Never let someone's boyfriend stop you from finding your wife, guys!'' She told the viewers as if she was a teacher telling her students about an important subject. 

Y/N took another big gulp from her wine, leaving it empty. ''Should I just drink from the bottle, cause I don't plan on stopping soon.'' She showed said bottle to the viewers as if they could talk back to her. 

''Oh, fuck it.'' She put her glass away and started drinking from the bottle itself. 

| danielricciardo CALM DOWN

| georgerussell63 You worry me sometimes. 

''Go away, Russell George!'' Y/N exclaimed, waving her hand at the camera. ''You only drink tea, you're not allowed to judge me.'' 

''I'm just joking, you can stay.'' The pretend annoyed look on her face was replaced for a genuine smile. ''As long as you don't judge me, you British tall glass of water.'' The driver quickly added with a teasing grin. 

| georgerussell63 I have to go.

| georgerussell63 I have to make tea 😉

| landonorris BYE GEORGE 👋👋👋👋

''Anyway,'' Y/N gave the camera a sassy look, ''we should turn this into a Q&A! If you have questions for me- please leave them in the comments!'' She loudly clapped her hands together, scaring herself at the loud sound. 

| user1 Y/N, are you drunk yet? 

''No, I'm not drunk,'' the woman answered, ''I have a very high alcohol tolerance!'' 

| landonorris she doesn't

| danielricciardo No, you really don't 

| pierregasly you were on the floor after one pastis 😅

''Shut up and when did Pierre get here?'' Y/N shook her head at her colleagues' comments. ''Gasly, you don't know what you're talking about.'' She dismissed his reply, despite knowing he's telling the truth. 

| user2 there's something behind you

Y/N's eyes widened at the comment, slowly looking behind her. ''Dude- fuck off! Don't say stuff like that! I don't have a ghost in my house!'' She put her hand on her heart, feeling the rapid beating underneath her palm. 

''It would be cool to have one, though.'' She thought deeply. ''Like, I would be less lonely and we could keep each other company… I hope they're like, cool, like not a serial killer, you know? Or a child- UGH! Please, don't let it be a child! I like kids, but I don't want to have one and especially not a ghost one.'' 

| landonorris who is youre favourite driver? 🤭

| georgerussell63 It is 'your', Lando. 

| alex_albon your* 

| landonorris don't you have drivers to hit? 

''My favourite driver? Well, Lando, that's an excellent question! My answer is Lewis Hamilton! My favourite McLaren driver of all time.'' She smiled evilly. 

| landonorris 😑

| danielricciardo excuse me

| danielricciardo that's my wine you are drinking 😤

''Danny, you're my second favourite! And my bottle is almost done so you can see that I'm really appreciating the wine.'' Y/N defended her answer, once again showing the bottle to the camera. 

| user3 How old are you? 

''I'm 23!'' She replied, excitedly. ''That's also the amount of brain cells Lando has, funny enough.'' 

| landonorris meanie 

| landonorris I don't want to be your friend anymore 😢

''Wait- we were friends to begin with? Oh, Lando…'' Y/N dramatically shook her head, sighing in feigned disappointment as if she were a teacher upset with her student. ''You have so much to learn about the real world.'' 

''Also, now that we're on the topic of the real world,'' she started off speaking about the new thought that had somehow found its way into her head, ''Pluto.'' 

''Like, I feel so bad for them. They were just chilling, you know? And then on one tragic day, they were just kicked out - as if they were nothing. I wonder how they're doing these days. I was heartbroken when I received the news. The solar system hasn't been the same without them.'' She bumped her fist on her chest and pointed at the sky, shouting Pluto out. 

| danielricciardo pls stop drinking

| danielricciardo you're doing it again

| user4 WHY IS SHE TALKING ABOUT PLUTO BEING KICKED OUT OF THE SOLAR SYSTEM HELP 

| user5 SHES SO DRUNK OMFG 

''That second bottle is looking very sexy right now, I can't lie.'' Y/N eyed the second bottle in the wine box, pursing her lips. 

| alex_albon Y/N NO! 

| pierregasly dude, you're on live 😂😂😂

| user6 DONT DRINK MORE 

''You know when you tell a child that they shouldn't do something, but it makes them want to do it even more? Yeah, that is what's happening right now.'' The driver chuckled, grabbing the bottle out of the box and opening it with the corkscrew. 

''I already know I'm going to regret this, but frankly, I don't give a shit.'' And with that she took a large gulp of the wine. 

| user7 do you want to become world champion this year? 

Y/N gave the camera a side-eye as she read the question out loud. ''I mean… isn't that kinda the point? HA! No, I'm just doing all of this for funsies.'' 

''But Max will probably win this year again… I'm gonna try to not let that happen, but that Red Bull… it's too good.'' She sighed, getting more real thinking about the season. 

''You know… maybe the real World Championship is the friends we made along the way.'' 

| charles_leclerc oh, you are really drunk 😂

| pierregasly I told you, charlito 

| zhouguanyu24 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

| landonorris someone needs to hack her account and stop this 

''Please, don't hack my account.'' Y/N said in a monotone voice. ''Am I acting bad or something? I'm just answering questions, Lando.'' 

| nicorosberg Hello, Y/N! 👋

''BRITNEY!'' The young woman exclaimed as she noticed the former driver's comment. ''You know how this shit works? Damn, what can't Nico Rosberg do?'' 

''You're still my favourite Monaco-based Youtuber, by the way.'' She winked at the camera, pretending it is the German she's winking at. ''I can't believe I have a World Champion watching my Instagram live.'' 

''You really are a legend for 2016, Brit.'' 

| nicorosberg Thank you! 

| danielricciardo I think it's time to log off, Y/N… 

| user8 NOT HER TALKING TO NICO LIKE THAT 😭😭

| user9 Y/N PLS TALK ABOUT BROCEDES WE KNOW YOU GOT THE TEA ☕️☕️

| user10 lewis and seb watching this : 👁👄👁

''Gentlemen, a short view back to the past-''

THE LIVE HAS ENDED

taglist :: @starsanova @missskid @missthem @rosesintj @evans-dejong @thehistoryone @dreamycloudsworld @alonsogirlie @muushmeg @topguncultleader @the-great-adventures-of-me @love13tter @xcharlottemikaelsonx @kiwisa @starkwlkr @nora_moon @princesselle2111 @valluvsu @thatsadsmallchild @babyyoda89 @milkbreadforlife @fxllfaiiry @hc-dutch @its-ash-not-grey @princessbetsy123 @mehrmonga @nyenye @screechingtrashkid @ahnneyong @holybatflapexpert @itsnotgray @beautycinders @rowansshit @uhhevie @revengze @nylaslife @majx00 @multi-universe21 @jaydensluv @isasalom @gentlemonsterjennie1 @appledashhh @breathinfive @lighttsoutlewis @champomiel @ooooohmicky @koufaxx @flannelforthetoads 

@mysticfalls01 @ghostcorazon @mango-bear @totally-random-person @youkissedareaderinthedark @phoenix-luv @hamilton-mount @calcaneous @aurora-maria @idkiwantchocolatee @anonymous-platypus1

[weepingwillowwonder]

Stolas x Reader ft. Asmodeus

CW: Suggestive content [🔞NO MINORS🔞], finger sucking, cheating, implied brat taming

"Oh darling, look at you..."

Stolas breathes out praises as you sit on the floor between his legs. His hand strokes the top of your head as you glance up at him with wide eyes, your cheek resting on his thigh. You fight the urge to look away as his hand trails along the side of your face and under your chin.

"Cute, right?" Asmodeus comments knowingly. He chuckles, watching you shift slightly under their gazes. If he felt you were uncomfortable in any way, he would have stopped things where they were and immediately asked Stolas to leave. Hell, if he didn't think you wanted this, he wouldn't have even offered this opportunity to Stolas in the first place. However. The way your thighs were pressed together and how you were leaning into the other for more, easily confirmed your enjoyment. He took a sip of his drink, eyeing the way your fingers twitched in your lap as you tried to keep them to yourself. "Mm...very, and I mean VERY, needy too. Might seem shy now, but the little thing gets naughty if you don't wear them out..."

Stolas takes note of the sudden pout on your lips and smooths his thumb over them. "Oh?" He responds to Asmodeus, listening, but keeping his attention on you. "Are you naughty, little one?" At his condescending tone, you feel tears prick at your eyes, suddenly overwhelmed at the attention. Your lips part for him and he slides his finger across your tongue, cooing softly at you as you moan around him. Holding still, you let him explore your mouth, pressing another finger past your lips and further back to see how much you can take of him. You eagerly start to lean into his fingers more, moving in time with his rhythm, and reach your hand up to hold onto his. Hardly realizing you closed your eyes, they flutter open when you hear Asmodeus call your name.

"I believe Stolas asked you a question." He says. You recognize the tone as both playful and with authority. It takes you a moment to respond. With your mouth being full at the moment, it made it difficult to speak, he knew that. The slick sound of your spit fills the room as the fingers slowly remove themselves from your mouth. Stolas looks at you expectantly.

"I'm not...naughty..." you answer quietly, looking away. "No?" Stolas questions teasingly with a raised eyebrow. He laughs softly to himself with a slight tilt of his head as he looks down at you. "No." You respond stubbornly, glancing back up challengly.

"Ah yes, and that," Asmodeus murmurs after a moment, leaning back in his chair. Stolas hums, in thought,  mimicing the other and leaning back into his seat. His elbow rests on the arm of the chair and his fist upon his cheek as he regards you. "Mm, I see... It's a good thing you have someone to put you in your place then, hm?" Your body lights up at his words, and the way Asmodeus laughs behind you. You roll your eyes, trying to hide your embarrassment and the creeping feeling of arousal. "I don't need anyone 'to put me in my place'." You retort, making air quotes with your fingers as you speak.

Stolas gives you a soft smile. "Oh, I never said you did." He gives you a moment to let that sink in. "Anyway," Stolas looks past you to Asmodeus. "I may be... interested in your proposition. I do have obligations at home, of course, but..." When he pauses, Asmodeus responds instead after some time. "Listen, I know things are complicated right now, what with the wife and kid and all. And there's absolutely no pressure. All I'm saying is," He shrugs before raising his drink in Stolas' direction. "...that I'm am willing to share. I'm sure they'd enjoy that very much." He motions to you. "And you might too. It'll help take the stress off things, ya know? Come by, have a little fun..." he trails off.

Stolas nods, then sighs, considering his words. He leans down close to you, noting the way you struggle to meet his eyes. "What do you think, darling?" The back of his hand brushes your cheek and trails down to your arm, goosebumps forming from his light touches. "...How would you like to spend some time with me?"

[darkficsyouneveraskedfor]

girl on fire 3

Warnings: this fic will include elements, some dark, such as cheating, neglect, noncon/dubcon, and other untagged triggers. Please take this into account before proceeding. It is up to curate your online consumption safely.

Summary: neglected, you find comfort in another home.

Characters: Jonathan Pine, Loki

Author’s Note: Please feel free to leave some feedback, reblog, and jump into my asks. I’m always happy to discuss with you and riff on idea. As always, you are cherished and adored! Stay safe, be kind, and treat yourself

“Chardonnay, simple but classic. Versatile,” Jonathan declares as he uncorks the bottle, “a fine match for this delectable looking salmon.” 

He’s plated the meal nicely and set the patio table for the dinner. It isn’t the one you planned but better than the one you’d been about to resign yourself too. He pours you a healthy glass and you can’t help but admire his profile. He’s younger and fairer, but does he ever remind you of your husband. It’s like a cruel joke. 

He fills his own glass and sits, his elbow close to yours as he leans it on the arm rest. He reaches for his wine and raises it, awaiting your cheers. You cling the crystal and try not to show how flustered his gaze makes you. You were prepared for your unloving husband but not an intent neighbour. 

“Thanks, this is all very nice,” you smile. How long since you did that? Genuinely. “You really didn’t have to humour me.” 

“Humour you? Not at all. I have to confess, it’s rather lonely. Hattie’s great fun when she’s not in pain but I’m afraid she’s been rather lethargic with all the sedation.” 

“She is? I didn’t think she’d had her surgery yet,” you perk up and take a cautious sip. The chardonnay is oaky and bold. It must be expensive. 

“Not as yet, no, she’s due soon,” he explains as he slices into the flaky salmon, “but I’m afraid she is not handling the pain.” He hums before he tastes the fish. He tastes it very deliberately, “that is perfectly cooked. You must have training, yes?” 

You laugh, not meaning too, but it’s a compliment you don’t expect. 

“Oh no, no, I... I worked at the deli in a grocery store, a long time ago, but I wouldn’t call it culinary school.” 

“Very long ago? You don’t seem that old,” he says, “not that I’m guessing your age. I am aware it’s rather uncourteous to mention it to a woman so I suppose I’ve already said too much.” 

“Thirty-three.” 

“Spry,” he comments with a grin. “I enjoyed thirty-three. And thirty-four. It was all rather merry until forty.” 

“Now I know I have a lot to look forward to,” you kid and take a more generous mouthful, “this wine...” 

“Ah, yes, I’m a bit of an enthusiast. Hattie only had cooking sherry when I moved in. I had to stock up for my stay though I admit I’ve found it rather glum to drink alone. I opened a single bottle of merlot and couldn’t finish.” 

“Mm, I... think I know what you mean,” you admit bittersweetly. 

“Yes, I’ve not seen the husband yet. Elusive? He must be busy.” 

“All the time. Eleven years... well, the flame gets dimmer,” you swirl the chardonnay and watch the golden cyclone, “I’m sure you don’t care. I’m boring. Tell me about you,” you put the glass down and pick up your fork, “when you’re not caring for elderly women, what do you get up to? It must be something exciting. Does your wife miss you?” 

“So many questions, I’m afraid I might disappoint,” he mulls his response as he chews. “I can’t help but repeat myself. Absolutely delicious.” 

“You’re not answering,” you goad. Your heart is fluttering. You can’t help it. He just seems so sophisticated. 

“I manage several hotels for a luxury chain. Though I am looking into slowing down. I’ve invested in the brand so I have a cushion. I tire of all this running around,” he says forlornly, “I didn’t realise it until I arrived here. Hattie, bless her, she’s helped me realise how much I’ve missed out on,” he shifts and sits straighter, “so to your point, no, I’ve not a wife to miss me.” 

You laugh, “I’m sorry. I’m so nosy. It’s just... this place, well, we have gossips but it’s always the same stories.” 

“I’m flattered, truly. I’m truly not very exciting.” 

“Look who you’re talking to,” you scoff. 

“I’d counter and say I find you rather interesting,” he insists, “I wonder how any man could keep away from you.” 

“Oh, you really know what to say,” you giggle. 

“The truth is always the best policy,” he winks, “a woman who cooks like this, she must be something special.” 

Your cheeks burn and bulb and you smile even deeper. There’s an edge to your delight. The nagging voice in the back of your head; he isn’t your husband, though not for your own negligence. You wish he was Loki. You have yearned for your husband to look at you, to speak to you like this.  

It’s fine. It’s nothing. He knows you’re married. It’s only dinner. You’re not going to do anything.  

❤️‍🔥

“I’ve some sorbet in the freezer, would you like some dessert?” Jonathan asks as you empty your glass. The third. Like everything else, he is generous with the bottle. 

“I’d love dessert,” you preen and set the glass down, cupping your chin in your hand as you lean in to marvel at him. You angle your foot to touch his leg, “but I’m not in the mood for sorbet.” 

He tilts his head and his blue eyes flash. He takes a breath and you sense his reluctance. Oh no. Why did you do that? Why did you say that? It’s the wine. 

“Ah,” he reaches to touch your knee, squeezing, “I am entirely flattered but... you are married.” 

“Oh god,” you pull back and cover your face, “please, forget that happened. I’m drunk.” 

“It’s rather fine. It is a rather strong vintage,” he removes his hand, “please do not be embarrassed.” 

“How can I not be?” You whine. 

“Truly, I... I would. I cannot say I invited you in without the whim and yet... you are married.” 

“I know,” you whimper. 

“And I wouldn’t want to put you in such a compromised position.” 

You nod and gulp, hiding still behind your fingers, “I’m so sorry.” 

“Please, I should be. I’ve been... misleading. I must admit I would leap at the chance and yet I find it difficult knowing that it would be only a fleeting deceit.” 

“Ugh, please, I’ll go,” you sit up and grip the edge of the table, about to stand. He catches your arm, and holds you there. 

“Darling, you are one of the most immaculate woman I’ve met. That man, whoever he is, is a fool. I’ve not met him and even I know it,” he trails his hand down your arm and takes yours, raising it to kiss your knuckles, “please, know I do not reject you out of repulsion, only out of consideration. I wouldn’t dare put you in that position.” 

“I...” the touch of his lips makes you tingle. You tear your hand away and get to your feet, “I have to go.” 

“Darling--” 

“No, you’re so sweet,” your voice quavers, “but I can’t... I can’t hear lies from another man. I understand, okay? Please, just forget this all.” 

You clamour around his seat and across the deck. You take the two steps to even ground and wobble to the gate. You leave it open as you barrel through and across the street. You slow as you approach your house, the moonlight high above its peak. You stop short as Loki’s car sits in the driveway. 

What timing he has. 

[ryomens-vixen]

Snakebites

Contains: Angst, NSFW, aftercare, hurt feelings, drug use, alcohol use. If I'm missing any lmk

Author's note: This is based on a dream I had of Gojo recently so don't hurt me in the comments ❤

Word count: it's a joke at this point pookie. ����🏾‍��️

"She made me want to plan out my last days on earth here with her.."

"And on that day..."

"Where I, Satoru Gojo—"

"I thought to myself man I screwed up big time..–"

"I was right, but I had someone waiting for me.. That was until I didn't."

"I knew Nanami would survive anything, I could survive anything."

"Yet even in what everyone thought would be my final moments, even after, you still chose him."

"Am I.. Not enough?”

“Ah— Na- nami…Daddy~”

“C'mon what the hell does he have that I don't?”

“Fuck.. So good to me”

“Goddamn it…”

Long after the Shibuya Incident, Everyone did their absolute best to go back to the way things used to be, some celebrated, some mourned over comrades, some even found their way back into the arms of another. Shoko and Meimei were reunited with their boys Nanami, Suguru, and Satoru who had given everyone the biggest heart attack of their lives, next to Nanami. It was long before the incident was forgotten about by the public. But for those that gave it their all, fought until their last breath… was more than just a memory. 

The air around both of you was thick and hit with desire accompanied by the sounds of skin slapping, hoarse groans followed by heavy moaning. 

Your bodies glistening with sweat— what round was it again? Three? Maybe four? You couldn't remember all you could think about was how Nanami was absolutely incredible in bed. 

Bullying your g spot for another tantalizing orgasm. You're sitting on top of him back against his chest, legs over his own, your left arm reaching behind Nanami’s neck as both of you watched his cock piston in and out of your warm wet hole at a pace you couldn't be bothered to match.

The way Nanami made such passionate love to your body was a sight to behold. 

Sometimes he wished he could just set up a few cameras at different angles to capture these moments together. Maybe he'd keep them to himself or maybe he'd show them off to someone whom he knows that craves your love and affection. 

But none of that matters right now, All he cares about is getting another orgasm out of you and burying his seed in that sweet pussy of yours. 

The way his hips moved uncontrollably you'd think he's trying to put a baby in you.. He would if you weren't on the pill that is. 

That way nobody would have you, not even Satoru or Suguru. Yeah Nanami knew you were playing the field, but he couldn't help himself. He couldn't help being a little selfish- he just wanted to keep you barefoot and pregnant. 

Pumping his thick Two toned cock in and out of your squelching pussy, mounting you with your knees pressed towards your chest, body folded in half. Sweat drips from his nose, feverishly pounding into you with the wildest expression you’ve ever seen on him, determined to make you cum. 

“Nan..ami.. T- Too Much—”  You were so overstimulated each time the head of his cock kissed your cervix sending a tingling sensation from your pussy up to the spine. 

“You can take it baby, You can take it~ Take it for Daddy, Good- fuckin- Girl-” he emphasized with each thrust. 

Meanwhile your phone on the other side of the room kept lighting up with message, after message from a certain someone. 

You'll have to answer later, too busy getting the best cock of your life. 

◦•●◉✿ 𝐺𝑜𝑗𝑜'𝑠 𝑃𝑜𝑣✿◉●•◦

[Future Wifey]

Hey, can we talk? - 3:47 pm. 

Are you free tonight, maybe tomorrow? - 4:15 pm. 

Look I just want to fuckin know what's going on between us I'm not getting any younger, y/n! - 4:30 pm. 

I'm sorry it's just.. I don't like sharing you with anyone. I just want what we used to have. - 5:00 pm. 

Hey, answer the phone. - 5:25 pm. 

Are you fucking him? Seriously?! - 5:26 pm. 

Y/N answer the goddamn phone.. -5:30 pm.

 The more your phone buzzed with Satoru's constant calls and text messages the more Nanami fucked into you. 

It was like a fun game to him, if he called, Nanami would keep fucking you into yet another orgasm, if he sends a text he'll switch positions either way you're getting taken straight to pound town and he doesn't plan on stopping until you're an incoherent mess in his arms. 

What orgasm were you on? Your 5th? 6th? Even Nanami lost count and was so addicted to your gushing wet pussy it's almost like his hips  wouldn't allow him to stop even if he wanted to.

TooMuchTooMuchTooM-much D-addy! Ah! The way you dug crescent moons into Nanami's back was so rewarding to him. Leaving scratch marks that drew blood was enough to make him cum. 

He was a mess himself bear hugging you as he fucked into you, thrusts becoming sloppy and more off beat by the minute. SoFuckinGood so fuckin- fuck fuck fuck- c'mon cum for daddy. Cum baby. Cum. With a few more thrusts the both of you were a moaning, groaning, quivering mess. Your pussy feels full and warm with Nanami's cum leaking out. 

While Nanami laid on top of you showing no signs of moving anytime soon. His cock still too sensitive to be pulled out, was still buried deep inside of you. Your breaths mixed together once your lips found each other in an embrace. 

Why don't you spend the night.. Just the two of us? Before Nanami could even get an answer out of you he heard snoring. With a smile on his face he proceeded to gently pull out of you after planting a small kiss on the nape of your neck. 

He's such a sweet man running a nice hot both for you after fucking you to sleep. Nanami was always the best at giving aftercare. 

◦•●◉✿ 𝑆𝑢𝑔𝑢𝑟𝑢’𝑠 𝑃𝑜v ✿◉●•◦

Suguru had finally come back to his shared apartment with his long time best friend Satoru. After opening the door his nose was met with the smell of weed. There's no way Satoru lit one up without him; they always smoked together especially after a long day of Sorcery. Well, actually that was before the incident , but now Suguru has retired along with nanami. 

Satoru on the other hand wasn't quite given the option to retire as the strongest the higher ups needed him and his power and so did his clan. But Suguru didn't expect to come home to a complete and utter mess. 

Satoru sprawled out on the couch an empty bottle of sake on the coffee table, half of a blunt in his mouth, his blindfold covering his puffy red eyes as he had been crying earlier after receiving not one call or text from you in the past hour or two. 

Suguru didn't say a word to him, just quietly sat next to him giving him a pat on the thigh. 

He hadn't a clue what could be going on with satoru today, but if it had him like this then he was too afraid to even ask. He just sat there with him in silence, but took the blunt from his lips to smoke it himself. He also had a rough day.. Satoru wasn't the only one trying to get in contact with you. 

Tag list: @blkkizzat @honeeslust @biscuitsngravie @littlemochabunni @halosdiary @halobuns @gojos-thot-patrol-main @oreo-creampie @callm3senpaii

[queengiuliettafirstlady]

Dreams of Love

Dreams of Love

Fandom: Ikemen Villains

Pairing:  Alfons Sylvatica x MC

Part of : Kinktober hosted by @xxsycamore

Prompt : 1.  Porn Actors AU  |  Anonymous Sex/One-night Stand &

 2. Gloryholes  |  Handjobs/Fingering & 24.  Facesitting  |  Deepthroating from @xxsycamore list

Tag: Old lovers, Gloryholes, Anonymous sex, Mention of bisexuality, Oral, male receiving, Deepthroating, Mirror Masturbation, Cockdrunk, Cockworship, Come swallowing Minors DNI!!

Word Count : 3.035

Author’s Note: An evening like any others turn into so much more when Roger decide to invite Alfons to visit a certain inn, unaware of the pain and pleasure they would both find withing walls that have countless stories to told, enough to coaxe the ephemeral phantom in a night of bittersweet affection he would have never expected to find so pleasant. 😏

Side note : The MC is not the one in the game but an old lover of his possesed by a curse too.

Tag list

@kissmetwicekissmedeadly @aquagirl1978 @nightghoul381

@writingwhimsey @fang-and-feather @moonstruckmelancholic

@wistfulwanderingone @rjthirsty @ike-garden2024

@jollibeeshappiness @starzyquee @lichtluv             

@maeko-kun @rkmaru

You can find me on AO3 as QueenJuliet 😊

Thank you for everyone who will like, reblog, or comment please be gentle with me english is not my first language so please do not leave rude comments I apologise for eventual errors I hope you will like it 😊

Of all the places Alfons expected Roger to bring him in, when he had more mirthfully announced he was going to show him something he would have surely liked, a seemingly innocuous room in an otherwise pretty dull street of an anonymous inn was the last thing he would have ever expected.

“Oh my, don't tell me you brought me to visit a one night stand of yours.”

“Ahahah as it could be, you know I don’t want strings attached when I partake in it, plus I won’t be so irresponsible as to not tell them beforehand.”

“Your morals are really admirable.”

“Morals as if.” 

Roger let out a scornful chuckle.

“I merely didn’t want to be bothered by some who seek serious lovers.” 

“I am mostly perplexed. I have to say from the setting, what are we up to if I may ?”

“In one minute you will discover it.” 

With rapid steps he reached for a door knocking twice then turned the doorknob once in each direction and after a while a voice from inside asked him to identify themselves with nicknames.

For that night alone Roger would have been known as the Hunter and Alfons as the Mirror.

“You really couldn't think of more fitting names, don’t you?”

“Aahahhaha what are you complaining about, old chap ? You haven’t a shed of faith in your friend.”

“Ah I would never dare to suggest something so unbecoming of a gentleman.” 

Their banter though got interrupted as the door finally opened, an hooked man hushed them to get inside before closing it behind their back, the room was shed in light to the point of being garish as it shone and flickered sultrily over the golden decorations of the polished wooden furniture caressing the scarlet brocades of the upholstery, people of all social classes continue to come and go from the huge flight of steps covered in the same  thick reddish carpet of the floor they were in, muffling their movements as they clumsily made their way toward the exit with smiles from lecherous to blissful betraying the nature of their business in the upstairs rooms.

“What our gentlemen may be interested in to satisfy their desires ?”

The velvety voice of the masked man was low and clear enough to make them focus back on the matter at hand, shame not lingering in him as he waited for their answers.

“I really like the sight of a beautiful woman crying in pleasure.”

“As Mister Hunter desires, please come this way.”

A short man dressed in a brown cape led him away from his sight, Alfons smiled faking annoyance at the enthusiastic smirk Roger offered him as they ducked in an hallway.

“What about you, Mister Mirror, how would you like to find pleasure within our humble walls?”

“I am not of great expectations but I would like you to show me something I have never seen before, as long as it piques my curiosity I am up for anything.”

“I see your request is indeed a peculiar one but fear not. We have the right solution, we guarantee to find something that would entertain you and keep you satisfied as well.”

Alfons raised his eyebrow at the prompt answer, following the scarlet caped man as he led him further away from the entrance and deeper in the maze like hallways of the inn.

Lascivious moans and guttural groans melted and mixed together in a melody of lust resonating through the little space of the corridor, noises of headboard hitting against walls and skin being slapped muffled by the much louder mewls of both pain and pleasure swirling in the air in a cacophony not new to his ear but that in the darkness of the inn, barely lightened by the flame flickering on the candlesticks mounted on the walls elicited in him a sort of curiosity toward the kind of pleasure he would have found behind the door his escort most kindly indicated to him.

“Here you will find something to satisfy even the most demanding taste, but if by any chance anything should bore you I beg you to roam the rooms as you like. I wish you a very pleasant evening.”

Pleasant indeed was the prospect of it, a light smirk curling his lips at the sight of the utterly banal walls if not for a particular hole cut in the lower half of the one facing the door, walking closer he noticed it to have been covered around the edges with velvet certainly to make it more pleasurable for the clients of the inn.

It was since his young adult years he didn’t see a glory hole like that, its sight awoke memories of his nocturnal prowling and of all the pleasure he learnt to give and receive honing his skill at every given occasion. 

A smirk playing on his lips as he leisurely waltzed to look at it, humming in delight as his gloved fingers ascertained the thickness of the wall, it would have been awkward if it had feel in the middle of the act and yet once the same thing happened to him, luckily the guy on the other side wasn’t so prude and so they fucked the night away or else he would have been pretty annoyed at the prospect to find another playmate to entertain himself with.

How many memories he had of that time Alfons reflected bitterly, Roger's penchant for remembering old times must have rubbed off on him a bothersome nuisance he would have done his best to give up … even though a part of him didn’t want to forget his own memories, messy as they were.

A heavy sigh escaped his lips as he regained his composure in the blink of an eye, his carefree smile once more in his place as he shot a glance at the seemingly innocuous hole in the wall.

If that was the game then he would have most devotedly partaken in it like the impenitent hedonist he was, with movements too refined for such a place he took off his coat and waistcoat draping them on an empty armchair before undoing his cravat that haplessly fell on top of them along his gloves.

Alfons knew exactly what to do and yet a primal curiosity brought him to peer in the opening on the wall, nothing out of the ordinary caught his eyes except for the scarlet bed at the center of the room and the soft fuzzy carpet placed right under the hole,waiting for someone to show up without making a move was useless and so with any further ado he unbuckled his pants, showing them off along his undergarments.

The fresh air of the room hit his cock who laid flaccid in his hand, he had not the whole evening to expect for something to excite him and so he started stroking it, thankfully there was a mirror next to the coat hanger he used to get aroused by the lewd action of watching himself caress his dick.

A smirk on his lips as he met the gaze of his reflection in the mirror, there was in his grey eyes a speck of sadness latching onto his smile but he soon looked away from it, focusing on the way his hand slide up and down his shaft, brushing over his glans, all the while his other hand went to cup his balls squeezing them enough to make a bead of precum spill from its orifice skillfully smeared from his thumb all around his tip, scraping his short nails over the light blue veins stretching all around his length, he could have  almost cum from a sight like that, and it wouldn’t have even been anything new to him, but as much as he hated making pleasure wait he had to.

Reluctantly he pulled away from the mirror, shooting  a last sultry glance to his fully erect manhood  standing proud and throbbing between his legs, lewd and shameless alike his owner.

He took a deep breath before guiding it in the hole waiting for what seemed like an eternity, the frizzy air making him shiver as his member throbbed painfully against the hardness of the wood begging to be touched again.

If there was something Alfons hated in the world aside hard labour was having his pleasure postponed or worse denied, he gritted his teeth pushing against the wall hoping for someone, anyone to do something and brush away his boredom along the dark thoughts that otherwise threatened to swim freely in his mind stealing the little fun he could have had if they had not spoiled it for him.

His wait was rewarded generously the moment he felt a pair of lips kiss the base of his dick close to his balls, heat rushed in his cheeks robbing him of all coherent thoughts, there was only one woman in all London that begin her blowjobs like that, he knew her at the point forgetting was never an option, nor for his body nor for his heart racing madly in his chest.

An husky growl escaped his lips as her velvety tongue swirled around his base, her soft hands cradled his balls in her hand, moulding and squeezing them lightly as she scraped her teeth on his length.

“Damnation.” 

A curse slipped through his gritted teeth as he pushed against the wood, it was not even a whole minute and he already felt on the verge of cumming like an inexperienced teen, such was the effect she had on him, her and only her.

A soft chuckle escaped her lips, tingling like a fairy and as much as ephemeral he almost thought to have dreamed, but he soon had to return to reality when he felt her long fingers indolent stroking his cock up and down, torturing him as she raked her nails through the bush of dark curls concealing his balls the same she shamelessly traced the outline of with her index digit followed in tow by the warm wetness of her tongue and softness of her lips as she entertained herself sucking them one at time welcomed into her warm mouth robbing a growl of dissatisfaction from his lips as she pulled away resuming her idle massage switching from his testicles to the engorged glans of his penis, tickling it with her soft thumb.

A groan erupted from his throat as she finally engorged his tip in her mouth, her tongue ran flat over his frenulum over and over again before flickering swiftly over his orifice pushing him closer to the limit, he so hoped she would have been merciful enough to grant him and take responsibility for the what she had aroused … but it seem he was wrong, a whimper of dissatisfaction dissimulated in an heavy sigh escaped his lips as he felt some drop of precum rolling down his shaft tickling its sensitive skin.

Alfons gritted his teeth, clawing the smooth surface of the wood enough to leave signs that were by far the only ones, almost as he had run a thousand miles he painted heavily, he tried to regain as much air as he could breathing through his mouth as he leaned his head against the wall feeling sweat trickling down his torso clinging his shirt to his skin, making him hyper aware of the state he was in as he faced the wall, his pants unbuttoned pooled at his feet along his drawers, his butt naked alike his aching legs, except for his calves still cladded in socks hold up by garthers, and shoes, a most comical sight he hoped no one would have been subject to look at but he knew deep down that even if someone saw he wouldn't have minded.

He muttered under his breath an incorrect string of words as he pushed against the wall, begging for her to do something, anything, but make him wait so long for his release … but after all he shouldn't have been one to talk since he often did the same to her, pushing her close to a climax only to withdraw when she least expected it leaving them both unsatisfied until she took matter into her own hands, riding him until dawn.

What was a dream and what reality ?

Alfons didn't know anymore, he knew nothing in that moment but the painful throbbing of his shaft between his legs, his tip scraping against the hardness of the wood at each thrust of his, each minute of having his pleasure denied brought him closer to madness, gnawing at his impeccable facade of gentleman.

“More.” 

His words a plea he wasn’t sure she heard but luckily for him she did, a low growl rumbled out of his throat at the familiar velvet of her tongue licking down his cock avidly polishing it from the beads of precum that stained it, rewarding him plenty for the wait he had to endure for her to finally make a move, as she wasn’t bold enough to do it on her own without needing any encouragement.

A shameless groan of pleasure echoed in the room as she engulfed her mouth around his member, it was big enough to hit the back of her throat but she didn’t seemed to mind as she begin to bob her head up and down taking delight in caressing the raven curls above his dick sultrily sliding her index finger all the way up to his bellybutton, caressed with he daresay reverence, her own way to thank him for his existence, a moment of tenderness that was enough to move him to the core, wetting his grey eyes he was for once grateful she couldn’t see … but thinking twice he preferred if she saw remembering the passionate way she poured her love into him at each thrust and kiss she offered him when she senses he needed it.

Moment she decided to boost pulling him out and kissing its tip before engulfing it back all the way in her warm mouth.

“Lustful siren.”

A string of curse escaped his lips as he felt her sticky saliva coating his member pooling right on his tip her sinful tongue didn’t stopped swirling lasciviously on, her soft lips fluttering like a butterfly along his shaft tickling its sensitive skin all the while her skillful fingers cradled his balls, stroking them up and down in time with the movements of her head.

He was close so very close to a climax he tried to push away to enjoy as much as he can the sweet sensation of her warm mouth engulfing his cock to the fullest, and yet for as much as he did his best to grit his teeth still his jaw unclenched at the overwhelming pleasure letting out such erotic guttural groans he was sure she could hear from her soft giggles reverberating through his skin seeping into him warming him heart, because even if he had never admitted it she was one of the few that managed to get under his skin and gain a semblance of affection from a man closed off to any kind of deep human connection.

Like a lightning during a summer storm his climax washed over him robbing low groans that tumbled from his lips as he pressed his forehead against the wall clawing on it, grateful for her movements as she helped him ride out his orgasms eagerly continuing to bob her head up and down in time with each twitch of his cock spurting thick ropes of cum in her mouth, that judging by her satisfied moans she most avidly swallowed like it was the most delicious meal in the world.

“My dove.” 

His voice a whisper as he leaned his forehead to the wall, his heart beating of his own accord in his chest with a mix of lust and he daresay affection he held for her even though he wasn’t sure it was really her the one who gifted him that mindblowing orgasm that night but his doubts got cleared soon enough as he heard a voice he would have recognized amidst thousands.

“Alfons Sylvatica.” 

His raspy breath melting into a groan as he clawed on the wood wishing for it to dissolve, if just that once he wanted to meet her and have sex like they did in the old days before she left, he knew her missions brought her all over Europe but with her as he never did before he wished they wouldn’t have been cursed, then they could have been free living the life they wanted, together in an comfortable house like a normal middle class couple.

He sighed heavily, bittersweet desire he knew to be destined to remain a dream, an illusion not less unreal than the ones they showed and entranced people with. 

“Meet me at The beautiful swan tavern this saturday and you may find yourself in for a treat.”

Her seductive voice ever charming, only one able to put a spell on him, the ephemeral phantom no man or woman was ever able to get close to, except his too kind for his own good employer, she alone could make him envision dreams  far more vivid than the ones he gifted others ever were. 

“I will be there.”

“See you, Mirror. Don't let me down.”

There was something strangely forlorn in her tone, and even if he knew that she would have loved him regardless if he showed there or not his heart begged him to let himself feel love, be it for a fleeting instant, with her, intoxicated as he was he listened to it, his voice way too sweeter for his liking as he murmured longingly. 

“I won’t, my dove.”

After a tug on his cock she pulled back from the hole reluctantly he tucked it back in with shaking hands riding on the euphoria that encounter brought him, clinging to him like a stubborn puppy even after he slumped on his bed at the castle admiring the sun rising up from his slumber behind the mountains, his lips curled, for once, in an honest smile.

[orion4ever]

Cove Holden x mc? Cove gets heatstroke when surfing with mc, and mc and cliff take care of him? Thanks 😊

Author’s note: I actually got heatstroke once while at a flea market , I had to sit down on the concrete lmao! I kept the step ambiguous enough, it could either be Step 2 or 3 depending on what you want! ^^

late note: i got this request so wrong 😦, I thought it said mc gets heatstroke..Whoops! Thats my mistake

Pairing: MC x Cove Holden

🐚

He starts noticing instantly if you start showing signs of suffering a heat stroke.

Leaves you alone when you wave it off as the sun just making sluggish.

If you look like you’re about to pass out then expect Cove to guide you to a chair and give you some of his cold water.

He gets so worried about you and thought it was something more serious :(

Luckily both him and his father are both very sweet.

It was the hottest day of summer, at a more populated beach there was a surfing competition where you and Cove would be competing.

The two of you were very excited about it, you had been practicing together every day that you could and were confident that you would OBLITERATE every surfer there!

Cliff had been the first to volunteer to drive the two of you out of town to the beach in the neighboring town to compete.

You all sat in the car, Cove tapped his fingers on his thigh as he looked out the window.

You leaned on your side of the car and stared out the window too.

Cliff was keeping his eyes on the road but decided to start a conversation.

“So, you two excited?” He asked with an easy smile, already knowing the answer. Cove turned away from the window and gave a half excited nervous smile.

“Yeah. It’s going to be great” he said with a chuckle. “This would be the first time I will be surfing with other surfers though. What if I do badly” He asked, rubbing his nape.

“Don’t be so down on yourself, we’ve been practicing every day. Even if we aren’t as good, we made an effort!” You had encouraged, giving him a pat on the shoulder.

“You basically live in the ocean” You had added with a chuckle.

“Hey.” He said with a raised brow.

“MC is right, Son. What matters in the end is that you have fun.” Cliff added, peering into the rearview mirror to look at Cove.

“I guess you two are right. I am feeling a bit better about this.” Cove had said, now with a more sure smile.

That's the spirit, Bud. And perfect timing too. We’re here.” Cliff finished, now pulling into the beach parking lot and finding a spot.

The three of you filed out of the car and stood around. Cliff pulled out the beach bag your moms had prepared for them. (knowing him, he’d probably sit on the sand and forget to pack sunscreen)

“Okay, guys. Let’s put on some screen and Zinc…?” He questioned the last thing when noticing a small new packet of Zinc Surfer Sunscreen.

Before Cove could comment or protest, his dad squeezed a good chunk of it in his hands and covered Cove’s nose and cheeks with it.

“Ah-“ he said startled but accepted his fate of being properly sun-screened.

When Cliff was done he motioned for you to take the zinc and sunscreen so that you could apply your own.

You shook your head. “Nah. It's good. It’s even that sunny today.” You protested. “I barely wear sunscreen or ‘Zinc’ anyway.” You continued, you didn’t like how either of those felt on your face.

“I dunno…” Cliff said a little hesitantly.

“Mr.Holden, I promise I will be fine.” You tried and reassured with a laugh.

“Well okay then. You know what works for you. Tell me if you wanna reconsider later though, okay?” Cliff caved in.

“Of course! Now come on, we got a surfing competition to win.”

-

It had been three hours of the surfing competition. You and Cove were able to get first place in your age category and were rewarded with a humble-sized trophy.

Since the three of you drove out here, you may as well enjoy this new beach until it was time to go home.

While you and Cove talked, you began to feel a little lightheaded and your vision began to feel like you were spinning. You began to fan your face a little, maybe thinking that your surf suit was making it feel hotter.

“MC, are you ok?” Cove asked, noticing your behavior change.

“Yeah... I think the sun is making me sluggish or maybe I am just tired from the competition..?” You questioned.

“Do you want to sit down?” Cove asked.

“Nah. I am good. Let’s keep going, I think they’re giving out hotdogs over there.!

-

The sun was trying to boil you alive today.

Maybe this was the sun’s revenge on you, for not heeding your neighbor’s warning and putting sunscreen on.

You swayed and held your head, you felt so dizzy and nauseous. You decided that you needed a break and flopped onto the warm sand.

“MC?! A-are you ok?” Cove asked, turning around to see you helplessly lying on the ground.

“Ughhhh…” you groaned, feeling Cove’s arms on yours and hoisting you up as best as he could before he put you on his back for a piggyback ride.

“It’s fine, it’s fine! Let’s go get my dad” He tried and reassure you but you could hear the panic in his voice.

He carried you to where his dad had set up base, sitting on a towel that he had placed under an abandoned umbrella. When Cliff felt eyes on him he turned to Cove jogging towards him with you on his back and instantly got up.

“What's wrong?” He said, worried. He moved out of the way so that Cove could lay you on the towel. “I think they got heatstroke..”

Cliff got right into the action. “Cove stay here with them. I am getting a bucket of ice and water.” He instructed before quickly sprinting off to whatever lifeguard tower he could find.

Cove sat next to you and used the corner of the tower to wipe the sweat from your forehead. “Were you feeling sick earlier?” He asked, earning a slight nod from you.

“It's ok. We will uh get you something cold to drink, maybe you should unzip the top part of your surf suit.” Cove suggested.

You agreed and shed off the top layer of the suit, leaving you in your swim top/bare chest. Cliff had made his entrance again, this time with three bottles in a bucket of ice and a towel.

“I got the stuff- and good job. They need as much cold air as they can get.” He commended Cove before kneeling next to you and opening a cold bottle of water. “Here, make sure to take big gulps,” Cliff said, leaning you on the beach bag so that you could properly rehydrate.

It was just you sipping as much water as you could while Cove drenched the towel in the ice water and placed it on the back of your neck, after a while you felt much better.

Cliff had joked that the sun was trying to turn you to ash while Cove kept asking if it was you not wearing the sunscreen or if it was you not getting enough cold water in your system.

You felt better but you felt even more better knowing you had amazing guys around to help you.

[suchalonelysunflower]

Villain

Sinners and Saints - Chapter 2

Pairing: Mafia! Ashton Irwin x Fem! Hemmings! Reader

Summary: Who’s afraid of the big bad wolf? After seemingly accept to help her, Ashton would not make it easy for the reader to find his good graces.

Warnings: Violence, swearing, blood, guns, threats, kidnapping, murder, mentions of abuse, injury. Some grammar mistakes (English is not my first language I’m sorry)

Word count: 5.9k

Author’s Note: I’m keeping it, and if you don’t like AU’s don’t read them 🤷🏼‍♀️ Thank you all for the support with the first chapter, it means a lot 🩷 And remember to reblog, comment and like the post if you enjoyed it ❤️ Hope you like it and happy reading 🌻✨🦋

Series Masterlist

“Careful, angel” You could hear the smile in his voice dripping with condescending sarcasm “We don’t want you to get hurt”

Still, you kicked and fought and bit and yelled “fire” hoping anyone could hear and come and help, but the music was too loud and you were at least ninety percent sure the walls were soundproof. You could not see anything besides the darkness of the velvet inside of the - you guessed - bag over your head. Your heels dug into the ground as the minions Ashton probably hired from the slums tried to drag you away.

“Get the fuck away from me!”

“Motherfuck-!” One of them yelled after you sunk your teeth deep into his hand. You smiled at the faintest taste of blood that lingered on your tongue. If you were going down, at least they’d know you fought back.

Ashton rolled his eyes with a sigh “You know,” He said “You used to be fun”

“Fun?!” You yelled turning your head toward where you thought he was, still dragging your feet as two pairs of arms dragged you “I would show you fun, you sick son of a-”

“Ah-ah better be careful with your next words, angel” Ashton tutted. You felt his breath next to your ear, goosebumps jumping up on your skin as he leaned down and whispered “We both know you like it”

At that point, you were hoping you had a bag over your head so that he would miss the way your cheeks flamed up at his proximity. But if you had to guess, he probably wore a devilish smirk right now, and oh, how you wanted the satisfaction to erase it completely.

“GODFUCK-” You smiled as you heard Ashton’s groan in pain after you kneeled him near his crotch.

“Oops”

Soon, your wrists were grabbed by one of his hands, pulling you closer to him. You could feel his heartbeat next to yours as he took off the covering of your face.

Hazel, angry eyes were staring right at yours, you didn’t dare look away. You couldn’t. His gaze scanned your face, lingering a second too long on your lips before his stare found yours again, looking back with something hidden in them, something that made your breath get caught up in your lungs the second you noticed the soft caressing of his thumb against the skin of your wrist. It was a challenge, it had to be. You knew Ashton’s tricks too well to fall for them so easily. But having him so close made you realize exactly why it seemed so thoughtless to give it all away.

“Why do you have to be so difficult?” He asked, words like velvet coming out of his mouth.

“I don’t know,” You answered, staring back at him with anger “Why do you have to be such an asshole?”

Ashton chuckled, “Ouch, and I thought we were getting along”

Suddenly, you felt someone yank you from his grasp and carry you over their shoulders to the exit. You kicked and screamed, but all was fruitless as you were thrown inside a car where they tied up your wrists and ankles, and covered your face with another blindfold.

“Believe me, angel. I had no intentions of tying you up this soon” Ashton’s voice came floating as you felt the seat next to you dip under his weight. You scoffed in annoyance.

“Bite me, Irwin”

“Don’t threaten me with a good time, love” He said “And try and keep quiet, alright? Don’t make me gag you… Unless you want to”

The car started moving, and just like that, you were completely at his mercy.

*

During the whole car ride, you were completely silent and still. You didn’t even give him the satisfaction of breathing hard, and you knew you were driving him crazy. Well, if the consistent sound of tapping his fingers on his knee told you anything, that is. You had to repress a smile at that.

Ashton liked the chase and fight. You noticed it the second you saw that glint in his eyes. One does not get the name Lucifer by playing fair and liking it.

“Turn over here,” He told the driver “Take the next exit and then straight home”

You rolled your eyes. Of course, he didn’t want you to know where he lived or how to get there, it was all part of the protocol your father used with all of his associates as well. How many times have the driver picked you up from school and a random man was sitting at the back with a bag over his head and his hands bound with tape if anything?

But you’ve already sold your life to the devil. You promised everything he requested to save Luke from whatever hellhole he was caught up with. You trusted him despite yourself because no one else would’ve helped you due to the nature of your last name. Ashton knew this. He knew that you weren’t going to betray him, you couldn’t even if you wanted to while your brother was nowhere to be found. So what was all this circus? Was it just to humiliate you further?

“Someone’s awfully quiet over there” He taunted. You said nothing “Aww, cat’s got your tongue, angel?”

You kicked what you hoped was his seat and heard him laugh quietly. Your cheeks burn red as you bite your tongue from ever answering him. There will be nothing left to say until he starts helping you with the search.

Sometime later, the car came to a halt. You heard how Ashton’s men got out of the vehicle, feeling how it got lighter once they did. You were still sitting in place, not moving unless moved to become more of an inconvenience for anyone because they knew that if they tried to touch you, some of the bruises you left on them might become worse.

That’s until you felt a familiar grasp on your arm.

You tried to hit him once again, but Ashton was pulling you from a distance of a few steps ahead of you. He took you up some stairs and you heard a big door closing behind you. Suddenly, the light came through.

“Now, listen,” Ashton said as your eyes adjusted to the light and the new environment “I don’t want any funny business here, you got it?”

Your head was reeling too hard to even speak. Your eyes started to look around, familiarizing yourself with this new threat. The two of you were standing in a grand entrance lobby, the main staircase not too far behind in the room. There were guards on each door, some even waiting with firearms in their hands, ready to draw. The marble floors decorated the room with elegance, nothing you wouldn’t expect from someone in this line of business.

But what really impressed you was the size of this mansion. Of course, you had your fair share of them, coming from a big, important family, it was nothing new. But knowing that Ashton lived there alone… it sure felt lonely.

Yet, you barely had time to ponder on that as Ashton grabbed you by the arm again and dragged you up the stairs.

“You are never to leave this room, understood?”

“What?”

He opened up a door, practically throwing you inside and making you lose your footage.

“This door stays unlocked for me at all times” He sternly ordered “Don’t get in my way, don’t bother me, and don’t come looking for me. If you do, somebody better be dead or I’ll make sure they will be”

Ashton slammed the door after that, leaving you completely alone.

Immediately, you ran to the door, but when you opened it you found two guards standing with their broad backs facing you, both of them with guns.

You groaned and slammed the door shut. Falling to your knees as you desperately and angrily wiped away the tears that could not stop falling. You cursed Ashton’s name over and over again, hitting the ground until your knuckles were scraped and started to bleed a little bit. By then, almost all of your anger was contained and you were left feeling numb once again.

You stood up and cradled your hands with each other, looking around the green sage-painted room. The door of the bathroom was opened, so you went in to clean up the dirt and blood from your hands and fingertips. You noticed it had a bathtub; and towels; and the cabinet was filled with ibuprofen, bandages, and a first aid kit.

You looked back into the room and also noticed how the sheets were new, and the blankets over them were placed perfectly aligned with the pillows. You rummaged through the closet and found different outfits mostly consisting of sweatpants, hoodies, workout clothes, and a set of pajamas. The realization that Ashton got someone to get the room ready for you while you were driving to his house caught you by surprise.

Still, a cage was still a cage no matter how fancy it seemed.

The next thing you did was try to get to the windows, but as you suspected they were nailed shut and made with bulletproof glass.

“Smart,” You thought “You win this round, Irwin”

Suddenly, the antics of the day caught up with you as you let yourself fall into the sheets and the bed. You didn’t know how or when, but when you woke up, you were tucked underneath the blankets.

*

The next morning Ashton woke up with a major headache. His mouth was dry and his hair was sticking out in various directions. He got out of bed with a groan and with the everyday motivation coming from the smell of coffee coming from the kitchen.

But his thoughts are quickly scrambled by loud knocks at the door.

“Fuck… What?!” He shouted, rubbing his eyes, still trying to wake up.

“Sir?” One of his bodyguards talked through the other side of the door “I- uh. I’m afraid something’s happened… eh, with the guest. She- she’s not in her room, sir”

“WHAT?!

Immediately, Ashton was out of bed and putting on his sweatpants, grabbing the gun that slept next to him on his bedside table. He opened the door and put the front sight up against the guard’s neck and under his chin, making the man gulp when he saw the anger in his boss’ eyes.

“Say that again” He demanded.

“Th-the- the maid went to give her br-br-breakfast but the girl was not-”

Ashton rolled his eyes and murmured a “Fucking idiot,” before he went up to check up on the room across the hall.

Empty.

“Shit,” He cursed, punching the door frame and turning toward his crew “I want eyes on every fucking room in this house. The pool. The garden. The fucking sheds! Not a single rock left untouched! That’s Y/N Hemmings we’re talking about!”

“And if we find her?”

“When you find her you bring her to me. I’ll deal with her”

The men scurried quickly, leaving Ashton shirtless and alone in the hall. He cursed out loud and headed toward his office to check the cameras. Surely, if his idiot guards could not handle you, you still mustn't've gone too far-

Ashton backtracked a little bit, turning toward the door of the office and opening it completely. You almost laughed at his face when he saw you sitting there in front of his computer. But you quickly decided to ignore it and just go back to work. He has you trapped, but that does not mean you owe him any interactions.

“What the fuck are you doing?” He asked.

You noticed how his chest was rising and falling with anger he tried to keep at bay. The scars that adorned his skin seemed to come alive at that. His eyes were trained on you, waiting for an explanation.

“Starting the investigation” You shrugged.

“How did you-?”

“Please, I still remember your mum’s birthday. You’re the type of man who would use that as his password. I didn’t need to try that hard”

Ashton saw red at your comment. He slammed the gun to the desk and grabbed you by the arm, surely leaving bruises as he dragged you out.

You started to fight, punching him wherever you could. But he suddenly stopped and grabbed your other wrist with his hand, twisting it a little bit, just enough to make you complain and to stop your attempts to hurt him.

In his eyes, you could see the reason why people say he’s the angel of death. There was nothing but anger and hatred as he looked at you. It scared you for a moment, but it wasn’t going to make you run away.

“You said you would help me” You spat at him.

“I never said I would make it my priority”

“You motherfuck-” You cursed him out, trying to escape his grasp but it was useless. Yesterday he might’ve been playing a little bit, but now he was showing you his real strength.

Ashton shoved you back into your room, not even looking as he said “Change of plans, since you want to be a brat, you’ll be treated as one”

Then, he slammed the door and you heard the lock being put on.

You ran up to it, banging on it and fiddling with the knob to no avail. You cursed out his name and yelled at him, demanding to be let out.

“WE HAD A DEAL!” You’d shout until your voice gave out, but it all fell on deaf ears.

What have you gotten into?

*

Hours later, while you’re trying your best to pick the lock of the windows, the door opens.

“That’s not going to work, you know?” A kind voice said, “Believe me, I’ve tried”

You turned around to find the blond girl from the bar. She was smiling at you, leaning against the door frame. But the way she smiled… It seemed too familiar. Then, it hit you.

“Lauren,” You breathed her name, she laughed.

“About time you remember me!” Lauren said, walking into the room and sitting over the bed, patting the spot next to her “I almost thought you forgot about me”

“It’s not that,” You said, complying and sitting beside her “It’s just- wow, you were so little the last time we saw each other. And now…”

“I know, right? The glow-up did me good” She joked “And so it did to you. When you gave me your name yesterday, I must admit it took me a while. But when I noticed how my brother started to act…”

You rolled your eyes at her comment about Ashton “So being her prisoner is special treatment?”

“Having him agree to help you is special treatment. You know how he is”

But that was the thing, you didn’t. You’ve known of him, of his reputation, of his deeds. But Ashton Irwin was a complete stranger to you. Whoever that person at the end of the hall was, he was far away from the boy you used to know.

“Are you-?” You cleared your throat, not knowing how to ask the question.

“In the family business?” Lauren finished for you “No, I’m only working at the bar and as Ashton's assistant for a few months. Took a sabbatical from uni. Harry is also going there but he’s more applied to his studies” She laughed “Ashton never wanted us involved, even made us change our last name for a while so we don’t get connected to him or all of this.”

“I’m glad,” You smiled. “I would’ve done the same thing if I had younger siblings. My brother’s did try it with me, though. But, you know” You looked at her, and something flashed in her eyes “You look a lot like her”

“I know,” Lauren smiled at you, putting her hand over yours “And, I haven’t said it yet, but I truly am sorry about your brothers. It’s a shitty situation”

“Tell me about it,”

“But I know if anyone is going to find Luke, it’s Ashton” She assured you “And, don’t tell him this? But I did have a little girl crush on Luke way back when. So I really do hope you’ll find him”

You laughed at that, promising to keep quiet “Be honest with me, Lauren. Am I doing the right thing by trusting Ashton?”

She sighed “If I’m being honest, I would tell you that you already know never to trust anyone in this line of work. But as someone who knows Ash, and knows everything he’s been through and done… He’s a good guy, Y/N. Or at least better than the rest”

You nodded, understanding what she meant. Yet, your heart was still doubting. Still worried you made the wrong choice by coming to him.

“Oh, and before I forget,” Lauren said, getting up and handing you an old cellphone, “Ash told me to give you this”

“What for?”

“Communication, emergencies. You name it. It only has his number on it, but I snuck mine before he could notice” She gave you a wink “Talk to you later, okay?”

“Hey, Lauren?” You called for her before she left “Thank you. Thank you for everything”

The girl smiled and closed the door, leaving you alone with your thoughts and that old phone in your hands. So you decided to test it.

Me: Couldn’t you have found one phone from this generation?

Ashton: They can easily be tracked. You know that.

Ashton: So, sorry if you wanted games installed.

Me: Are you going to let me out so I can continue with the investigation?

Ashton: Are you going to be a good girl for me and do as I tell you to?

The redness of your cheeks went up to your ears. Groaning as you read that message.

Me: Fuck you, Irwin.

Ashton: Still with that attitude, angel? Too bad, I was going to ask you what you wanted for dinner. Guess the chef will skip that request, then.

Me: I will be caught dead before having dinner with you.

Ashton: Good. We can finally benefit each other, then.

You threw the phone against the wall, denting it a little bit with no damage done to the phone. This was going to be a long day.

*

It was 2 AM when the sound of the door banging against the wall woke you up.

“Get up,” Ashton’s voice rang through your head as you sat up “We’re leaving”

“What?”

He was standing in the middle of the room dressed in an all-black suit, his hair was pushed back, leaving just a wild stand of honey-colored curls to fall upon his forehead. To anyone else, it would seem he was headed to a party, but you knew that could not be the case. He scoffed, already annoyed.

“Are you deaf?” He asked, cocking his gun without even meeting your eyes “I said get up, we’re leaving. Now”

“I’m not going anywhere with you”

Finally, he looked up at you, refusing to accept the challenge that you presented to him.

“I don’t think you understand, angel-”

“Don’t call me-”

But before you could finish your sentence, he took two long strides to your bed and put the gun right up your forehead, fingertips on the trigger.

“When I say you jump, you ask how high. If I tell you to move, you move. This isn’t daddy’s little playground where you can make the rules, princess. I’m in charge here. You work for me. You belong to me. Understood?”

You said nothing, staring directly at him with all the hatred you felt for him at that moment. His hazel eyes mirrored yours, feeling nothing but disgust under his gaze. Yet, you knew he was serious.

“I don’t like to repeat myself, angel. But for you I’ll make an exception” He said gravely “Understood?”

“Yes,” You said through gritted teeth.

Ashton put away his gun, snapping his fingers. Never taking his eyes off you as a maid brought a change of clothes into the room. It was a long-sleeved, black cotton shirt; a pair of black cargo pants; a multipurpose belt; and a can of pepper spray.

“What’s this?” You asked, picking up the tiny can.

“You’re going to blend in with my security team”

“Then shouldn’t I be carrying a gun as well?”

Ashton laughed, “Nice try, angel”

“Irwin, I’m serious! How am I supposed to protect myself with just this?!”

“Then I guess we’ll figure it out,” He said, sparing one last look at you. “I expect you to be downstairs in five minutes”

“What if-”

“Try me. Just once and you’ll see what I’m capable of”

He left the room, leaving you alone huffing and rolling your eyes at the image of him that once was there. But, having no other option, you did as you told.

Downstairs, a couple more guards were standing with Ashton at the door. You noticed a black Range Rover ready to go just outside. One of the guards came toward you, a bag in his hand. You stopped him.

“Is that really necessary?” Ashton raised his brow, and you rolled your eyes “It’s the middle of the night, Irwin. It’s not like I would see much anyway”

The guard looked back at his boss, shrugging. Ashton looked back at you, eyes hard as steel. He didn’t say a word, just turned around and started walking to the car. For a moment, you smiled to yourself for that small victory.

You sat in the back in the middle of two guards, Ashton went up the passenger seat. You frowned. It was not normal for someone that important in this line of work to be in such plain sight. But then again, the glass and the whole car were bulletproof, and the windows were tinted black. And, to top it all off, everyone knew not to fuck up with Lucifer himself if they weren’t ready to face the consequences firsthand. After all, only a fool would try to kill death.

“One of the alarms went off at the club,” Ashton said before you could ask him “Someone tried to break into the offices, killing one of mine.”

That answers the way he was dressed, although you guessed that no matter the occasion, he would dress the part. Still, it didn’t seem like a big deal to wake all of you up in the middle of the night. You’ve walked the hidden halls of the club before, you knew they were well-guarded and with the right security system installed. Ashton surely had the right people to take care of all that. Unless…

“Lauren?” You asked, letting the worry slip in your words.

Ashton barely moved his head, you assumed that hearing the name of his sister come from you must’ve surprised him a bit.

“She’s fine,” He said, dryly “I don’t- She doesn’t work there unless I’m with her”

You nodded. Smart choice from him. Yet, that doesn’t explain why you had to come at this time. But when asked about it, Ashton just gave you the silent treatment until you got there.

Once you were parked, Ashton went out of the car almost immediately, leaving you and his men to follow him.

“Call Clifford,” He ordered to the group of men standing at the door “I don’t care if you have to drag him out of his bed, remind him of the favors he owes me” He turned to another guard “You. I want the list of names of the people that came in yesterday and tonight. I want a background check on their families as well. As for you…”

“Sir, everything was accounted for. Nothing was stolen. Our team is looking for hidden mics and cameras as we speak”

“I don’t fucking care if they took anything or not” He spat “I want to know, how the fuck did they manage to get in the first place?!”

“Sir-”

“No, you listen here” Ashton threatened, just inches away from that man’s face “I’m going in there, and you better pray to your pitiful god that we don’t find anything. If I do, if I even hear about someone who did, you bet your little sorry ass that there will be hell to pay. Starting with you. Don’t make me the villain just because you don’t know how to do your job. Don’t play with me because you will find me, and that will be the last thing you do”

You stood there, shivering. If that was because of the chilly wind or Ashton’s words, you didn’t know, nor were you particularly excited to find out either. Seeing him angry was nothing new to you by now, but it was entirely different seeing his anger aimed at someone else.

Ashton dismissed his men, turning back on his heel and walking up to you. The two men that were by your side rapidly scurried away, leaving you on your own with the devil.

“Anything you want to tell me, angel?” He asked, eyes set on yours.

“What?” You scoffed “You think I had anything to do with this?”

“All I know is that you randomly appeared at my door less than 36 hours ago with some sob, pathetic story, asking for help. And now people have tried to break in”

You couldn’t help but let out a breathy, insincere laugh. Yet, Ashton remained as serious as ever.

“You’re kidding,” You stated “I’ve broken all ties with my family. You know this. Why else would I ask for your help?”

“Because all Hemmings lie, angel,” Ashton said, taking a step closer to you “That’s all they do. And don’t think for a second I believe every word that comes out of your mouth just because you come here with sad eyes, demanding help. I’ve taken a risk by even considering helping you-”

“Then why did you? Why did you say you were going to do it?”

You asked out of genuine curiosity. If helping you was “such a huge risk” for Ashton, then why did he even accept it in the first place? Still, he gave you nothing with his silence.

His eyes were dark, familiar to the boy you once knew, but at the same time so far away from the memory you once held. It was impossible to get a read on him, to know what he was thinking at any given time. He was just standing there, merely a whisper away from you, yet so distant. He was a man with no conscience, no soul, and no mercy.

“I didn’t lie to you,” You told him after a while “I just want to find my brother”

Ashton contemplated you for a moment “And if I refuse to offer any help?”

“Then I will find someone who will” You lied, knowing that no one but him would be able to help you. But hoping Ashton would believe it enough not to question it “You tell me to go and I’ll leave, right? So I’ll be out of your hair if you’re so scared that I might do something”

Your intention was never to walk away, but you knew exactly what buttons to push to get a reaction out of him. And, sure enough, you didn’t walk even one step before his hand grabbed you by the wrist and turned your body around, chest colliding with his, face to face.

He held your wrist at the level of his eye, watching intently over you, trying to decide whether or not to believe you.

“You’re getting on my last nerve, angel,” He said, quietly but with a hint of a threat lacing his words.

Your eyes shifted due to his proximity, going from that hazel color of his eyes to the pinkness of his lips. You caught yourself at the last second, focusing on the chain that hung from his neck over his chest. But the smirk he gave you let you know that he caught you staring.

“Like anything you see, angel?”

You rolled your eyes “You’re impossible, Irwin”

“Maybe,” He said, a smile present in his voice as he lowered his head and whispered in your ear “But as you said, I’m your only hope”

“I didn’t-”

“SIR!” A man yelled behind you. Both turned toward him “We found something-!”

Suddenly, all you could hear was the sound of a gunshot followed by the thud the guard’s body made when it hit the floor.

Ashton turned around quickly, pushing you behind him as he tried to grab his gun from his pocket. It all happened so quickly, that you didn’t even notice the second shot being fired until Ashton groaned and grabbed the side of his arm.

You acted quickly, grabbing Ashton’s gun from his pocket as you started to fire it in the direction where you assumed the shooter was. You pulled Ashton from the back of his collar, awkwardly maneuvering him to safety while you kept shooting until you hit the back of a building. You pushed Ashton against the wall, watching briefly as he sunk to the ground while you tried to focus.

Most of your body was hidden behind that brick wall, but your periphery gave you enough balance to locate the threat. You watched a shadow run from the roof of the club to the alleyway beside it. The guns from both your parts kept shooting bullets in your direction, neither of them hitting the target.

The shadow then jumped on the hood of a car onto the passenger seat. The sound of the tires burning against the floor hurt your ears, and the headlights lit up as they sped away. And, just like that, they were gone.

Your ears kept ringing while you tried to stabilize your breathing. The beating of your heart was going ten thousand miles per hour as the reality of what just happened sunk in. But, what the hell happened?

“What happened?” You whispered to no one in particular “We were just-”

The dryness of your throat forced you to keep quiet. The truth was, you never experienced cross-fire before. You knew how to shoot a gun because your brothers taught you against your mother’s wishes. You knew the basic steps you needed to follow in case there was a shooting. Yet, this was the first time you shot someone - or against someone - and the fact that you couldn’t tell if the shaking of your hands came from fear or adrenaline disturbed you a little.

“Angel,”

You blinked, seemingly being pulled back to earth with his voice.

Ashton was sitting next to you, panting as his hand covered the side of his upper arm. He looked up at you, but the hatred you once saw in his eyes was now replaced by some sort of mischievous gleam. He was grinning at you.

“Well done,” Was all he said before a hiss escaped his lips.

“Oh my god, Ash” You kneeled by his side “I’m sorry, I-”

“It’s fine,” He said, trying to move “I’m fine, the bullet didn’t even - fuck. It didn’t even hit, barely grazed me-”

You rolled your eyes, grabbing the buttons of his jacket and opening them to slide it off.

“Take a guy out for a drink first” He joked as you started to open up his shirt “Although, I can’t say that I mind-”

“For fuck’s sake, Ash. I’m trying to see where the bullet hit you!”

From your position, you couldn’t just shrug off his sleeve. So you grabbed his shoulder and pulled him from the wall, accidentally letting go too early and leaving his head to bounce off the wall by the effect.

“I told you, I’m fi-fiaaagh- The fuck is wrong with you?!”

“Sorry,” You cringed, trying to locate his wound “I can’t see it properly…”

Ashton then swiftly pulled you from your hips into his lap, sitting you properly before he raised his arm and bent it with his hand behind his head.

“Better?” He asked, breathing in deeply from the pain.

You stared at him, perplexed by his actions. But then you shook your head and located the wound, trying your hardest to ignore that you were sitting in Ashton Iriwin’s lap.

His other hand danced over the side of your knee, never touching it, but barely grazing it with his fingertips. His eyes were set on every move you made, never leaving your face. When you noticed it, he smiled at the slight blush that covered your cheeks.

“So,” You said, calmly “Are you going to give me a proper gun now, Irwin?”

“I’ll consider it”

“What? I basically saved your life!”

“You have a poor technique” He shrugged “I can give you some proper points later”

“Proper points?”

Ashton then grabbed his gun from beside you, took out the bullets, and pointed it at you.

“You see this?” He said, “This is how you grabbed the gun, one misfire and you’d be out a finger, angel. You’re lucky my guns are well-calibrated. But we’ll go over that later”

“Sure,” You said, giving him a small laugh in disbelief “Well, you’re lucky that bullet barely left a cut. We- You should go disinfect it before it catches anything”

“I’ll survive then,” Ashton said, lowering his arm and letting it rest on your bent ankle. caressing the skin.

“For now, Irwin”

“Ash,” He said.

“Huh?”

“Earlier you called me “Ash” It’s the first time that I’ve heard it”

“Well, I thought you were dying, so…”

You gave him a small smile that he returned, his fingers still touching your skin as his eyes never left yours.

“We should-” You stammered “We should head back, see if anyone else is injured?”

“So that you could call Peter, “Pete” if he got himself a boo-boo?” You groaned as you rolled your eyes and got off his lap, starting to walk toward the club “I was joking!”

*

Soon, you and Ashton and a couple of guys from his security team were scuttering the roof from where the shadow started to shoot. There was nothing there that could lead them to anything or anyone. It was completely deserted.

“And you’re sure you’ve watched someone run-”

“Yes!” You repeated for the thousandth time, giving them a walkthrough “I saw them appear over here, and then run toward the alleyway. They jumped and got into a car, someone was already waiting there”

Ashton hummed, “We’re going to review the footage, and see if we can trace the license plate or the type of car they were using. That would narrow the list”

“A lot of enemies, Iriwn?”

Ashton shook his head “I don’t think I have anything to do with this, angel”

“What do you mean?”

He walked over to you where the shadow allegedly started shooting. He turned you around and pointed to the two guards that were marking where the two of you had stood before the shooting.

“Tell me when you see it,” He whispered to you.

You scoffed. There was nothing left to see. The man who was supposed to be Ashton is with his back exposed to the shooter while the one representing you was barely in sight. They could’ve easily-

And then it hit you.

They could’ve easily shot Ashton in the back of his neck. But they didn’t.

Ashton was not their target.

You were.

[dudumax4ever]

Love in The Fast Lane

fanfic ⭐️

Lando Norris

authors note- i hope u all love it, this took me forever lol but it’s very cute

warnings - none. kissing ig? but very normal other wise( unlike my other fics)

Please note this if you like it! if u can leave a comment that would be nice too!

Enjoy!

There you sat in a cozy little bookstore on a rainy afternoon. The shelves are lined with old novels and the air is filled with the scent of coffee and vanilla. You came here to do some silent reading by yourself, but little did you know that fate had something else in store for you that day. You have always found your close friend, Lando Norris to be pretty attractive. But in your fear of ruining your relationship as friends you never acted on it.

You entered the library at around 6 in the evening. The sky was absolutely pouring and the smell of rain filled your senses. Upon entering the library, you shake the rain off your umbrella and spot Lando sitting near a window.

"Hey Lando! can I join you here?"

"Sure y/n! I would love that" he says politely.

Lando had always been a gentleman. It's one of the reasons you found him to be such a good friend and also the reason you were sort of crushing on him. "Thanks Lan. So what are you doing here in the Library?" "I honestly don't know, I've never been much of a reader, I guess I was bored." " Nice, I'm going to go fetch a book, see you in a minute". Lando nods at you. You get up and go to the romance section of the library. Romance books are your favorite kind of books to read. While searching around for a book you zone out and start thinking about Lando. The ways his eyes change color depending on the weather, the ways his eyes shut when he's smiling too much, or the way his smile can melt hearts and disarm the toughest individuals. Suddenly you realize your thoughts are going somewhere else, so you gather yourself grab a good book and walk back to where Lando was sitting.

"So, what book did you pick out y/n?" Lando inquired. "Oh, just some random romance book I spotted, I think I might issue it" you answered him cheerfully." Daydreaming about someone?" Lando joked. " What? No!" you answered with an exasperated expression on your face. " Relax, I'm only joking! But now I'm curious y/n" " Lando, I swear to God, I will kill you today and _I'm_ _not_ joking."

"So, what book did you pick out y/n?" Lando inquired. "Oh, just some random romance book I spotted, I think I might issue it" you answered him cheerfully." Daydreaming about someone?" Lando joked. "What? No!" you answered with an exasperated expression on your face. " Relax, I'm only joking! But now I'm curious y/n" " Lando, I swear to God, I will kill you today and _I'm_ _not_ joking." Lando looked at you with an amused look on his face. Oh my God. You could kiss him. You looked into his eyes for a second. He looked directly into yours. As you gazed into Lando's eyes, the world around you melted away. His piercing blue irises held you captive, their warmth and kindness enveloping you like a gentle embrace. you felt lost in their depths, drowning in the intensity of his gaze, your heart fluttering like a hummingbird's wings. Suddenly you felt your gaze lingering too long, and your cheeks flushed with sudden shyness. You snapped your eyes back to reality, breaking the spell, and pretended to study the nearby bookshelf instead. His eyes were etched deep into your memory.

You pull out a little book in which you were writing the points to a small romance story that you planned on releasing in Wattpad. "Hey, what's so captivating?" Lando asks, peeking over your shoulder.

You jump, startled, and try to compose yourself. "Oh, just writing a scene for my book."

Lando's eyes scan the page, and his eyebrows rise. "Ah, I see. And what's this I see? Am I the inspiration for the dashing hero?"

You feel your face flush, and you try to play it cool. "No way Norris."

Lando chuckles and leans against the desk, his eyes sparkling with amusement. "And what's this romantic gesture the hero is making? 'Lando's eyes held you captive, his gaze burning with intensity"

You laugh, feeling a bit self-conscious. "Well, I might have gotten a little carried away."

Lando grins mischievously. "I think it's great. But don't you think it's a bit...cheesy?"

You laugh, and he joins in, his deep voice rumbling. Together, you laugh so hard that tears prick at the corners of your eyes.

As you wipe your eyes, Lando asks, "So, does the heroine get her happily ever after?"

You smile slyly. "You'll have to wait and see."

Lando raises an eyebrow, still chuckling. "I'm on the edge of my seat."

You both continue laughing, the tension between you palpable, but in a good way.

You sit on the couch, Lando beside you, the tension between you increasing with each passing moment. Your laughter from earlier still lingers in the air, but now it's mixed with a nervous energy. You both know that the conversation is about to take a turn.

Lando turns to face you, his eyes locking onto yours. "Hey, can I ask you something?" he says, his voice low and husky.

Your heart skips a beat. "What is it?" you reply, trying to sound casual despite the butterflies in your stomach.

Lando hesitates, his eyes searching yours. "Do you...feel it too?" he asks finally, his voice barely above a whisper.

You know exactly what he's talking about. The flutter in your chest when he's near, the way your skin tingles when he touches you, the way you can't seem to tear your eyes away from his.

You take a deep breath and let your guard down. "Yes, I feel it too," you admit, your voice barely above a whisper.

Lando's eyes light up with hope, and he leans in closer. "I've been trying to ignore it, to tell myself it's just friendship, but I can't deny it anymore," he says, his voice filled with emotion.

Your heart races as you realize that you're both on the same page. "I've been feeling the same way," you admit, your voice shaking slightly.

Lando's face inches closer, his breath mingling with yours. "I'm so glad I'm not alone in this," he whispers, his eyes burning with intensity.

You feel like you're drowning in his gaze, but in a good way. You know that you're both crossing a line, but you can't help it.

"I'm glad too," you whisper back, your heart pounding in your chest.

Lando's eyes drop to your lips, and you know what's coming next. Your heart skips a beat as he leans in, his lips brushing against yours in a soft, gentle kiss.

The world around you melts away, leaving only the two of you, lost in the moment. You feel like you're home, like you've finally found what you've been searching for.

As you pull back, gasping for air, Lando takes your hand in his. "I've been wanting to do that for so long," he admits, his eyes shining with happiness.

You smile, feeling like you're floating on air. "Me too," you reply, your voice barely above a whisper.

Lando's thumb strokes your hand, sending shivers down your spine. "I was afraid of ruining our friendship," he admits, his eyes filled with vulnerability.

You squeeze his hand, feeling a deep connection. "I was afraid too," you reply, your voice filled with emotion.

You both sit there in silence for a moment, hands entwined, hearts beating as one. You know that this is just the beginning of something special, something that could change your life forever.

Finally, Lando speaks up, his voice filled with excitement. "So, what do we do now?" he asks, his eyes sparkling with hope.

You smile, feeling a sense of joy and freedom. "We take a chance on each other," you reply.

Lando grins, his eyes shining with happiness. "I like the sound of that," he says, leaning in for another kiss.

As your lips meet, you know that this is just the beginning.

part 2 at request in comments

[s-creations]

Snapshot #2 (Yellow, Purple, Red, Green Short Stories Series)

Small moments collected together to share more of their story.

(Short stories involving all the characters that are just here to add more to the series.)

Fandom: Super Mario & Related Fandoms Rating: Teen and Up Audiences Relationships: Luigi & Mario (Nintendo), Waluigi & Wario (Nintendo) Warnings/Additional Tags: Short stories involving more day to day lives, trying not to make anything to serious, if you have ideas you can message me!

((Author's Note:

First Off: THE BIGGEST HEADACHE OF MY CAREER HAS ENDED FOR THIS YEAR! I'm officially on a break and I'm going to enjoy myself! I can't even begin to tell you how much this past work year has been so draining.

Second: There are a few prompts for this chapter that were given to me by some wonderful fans…and I don't remember who they are. So! If you recognize a prompt from below and you know you sent that into me, message me on here or on my Tumblr! I'll update as I get names.

Third: Beyond this chapter, there are two more long one shots before the end of the 2nd Season. After that, I'm giving myself some time to work on Season 3 and (hopefully) be better prepared to post more regularly for that new season. But we'll see how it goes.

Fourth: This chapter was supposed to be up yesterday. But work got in the way. Sorry.

Anyway, enjoy!))

1. E. Gadd

Mario faltered when, upon opening the front door, found a large, heavy looking box before him. Just barely able to make out Wario’s feet sticking out from the other side. 

“Um, good morning?” Mario called out.

“Are you going to move or do I need to just hand this over.”

“Oh, ah, right, sorry.”

The hero shuffled to the side, allowing Wario to rather uncomfortably waddle his way in. Both wincing at how heavy said item sounded as it was dropped onto the floor. 

“What in Grambi’s name did you buy?” Wario panted out as he wiped his brow. 

“Nothing! Where did you even find it?”

“On your front step.”

“Well…does it have a name on it?”

There were a few moments spent on searching the box over. Wario letting out a cry of triumph. “Got it! It’s for…Luigi. With your name kind of scribbled on here kind of last minute feel. You know? Like, you were an extreme afterthought.”

“Sure. Does it say who it’s from?”

“Nope, nothing that I’m seeing.” 

Mario frowned in confusion. “We weren’t expecting anything…” 

They both looked up upon hearing footsteps on the stairs. Finding Luigi walking down with his own look of confusion on his face, eyes focused on the box. 

“What did we get?”

 “Don’t know. But it’s technically for you.” Wario answered.

“Me?”

“Well, Mario’s name is on here too. But I think it’s mainly for you.”

Making his way further down, Luigi looked the box over before opening it slowly. Just in case there was something dangerous waiting inside. But removing the lid revealed it to be nothing more than a large and very strange looking screen. One that had numerous wires and tubes of multiple strange looking liquids contained inside. All connected together in a rather convoluted set up that made all present absolutely confused. 

“Why does it smell like oil and…coffee beans?” Wario cautiously commented as he sniffed the air.

“Can we get it out of there?” Luigi asked. 

“Yeah, hold on. Let me take care of this.”

Mario and Luigi moved back slightly as Wario reached into the box. Both watched on as the contraption was shifted over to the kitchen table. A quiet sigh of relief sounded as the table took the weight of it all easily. 

As Wario caught his breath once more, Mario plucked off a folded piece of paper that had been taped to the bottom of the screen. Opening it to read, “Dear brothers (specifically Luigi).”

Wario let out a weak chuckle at that.

Ignoring the sound, Mario continued on, “Considering what you’ve experienced, I figured it would be best to stay connected. And, as letters would take far too long to spread information, I’ve taken it upon myself to build this wonderful contraption! When you’re able to, hit the large red button on the side.”

All three nervously eyed said button.

“I-Is it signed?” Luigi asked.

“No, and that’s all we have for instructions.”

“Don’t suppose your Bean boyfriend made this?” Wario suggested.

“No,” Luigi shook his head, “we exchange letters only.”

All so wound up, the three jumped when Polterpup happily phased through the ceiling. Practically dancing around the contraption in joy. Looking back towards Luigi expectedly after a few moments.

“W-Well, Polterpup s-seems to think it’s o-okay.”

“They’re also a ghost,” Wario frowned, “I don’t think explosions will harm them like it’ll harm us if this thing explodes.”

“Still…” Cautiously, Luigi reached past the spectral pup to push said button.

The contraption let out the most horrendous noise. All living beings scrambling away, even back into the living room, hands over their ears while Polterpup remained sitting on the chair. As the noise grew and the ground even began to shake, Wario collected the twins close to shield them with his body as best he could. 

It was unclear how long they waited. But as the horrible sound reached its peak, there was a small ‘ding!’ and it fell quiet once more.

They didn’t move.

Polterpup began to bark happily.

It was still tensely quiet. 

“Wait, wait, wait- ah! Stupid tubes… Polterpup! Wonderful to see you again!”

“Wait a minute.” Wario grumbled. 

“Is that…” Mario raised a brow.

Luigi wiggled out of Wario’s hold to run back into the kitchen. On the screen was Professor Elvin Gadd. Strange glasses turned away from the eager Polterpup to Luigi, who was standing in the doorway with a smile on his face.

“Professor!” Luigi beamed as he claimed the seat in front of the screen once Polterpup moved.

“Luigi, my boy! Wonderful to see you again. How are you?”

“I’m…I’m good. Did you make this?”

“Yes! One of my better inventions. A one way visual communicator so that we can check in better. I call it the ‘Social Networking Ecto-System.”

“Could you put your name on your invention next time.” Wario said as he and Mario walked in.

“I did! My logo is on the front. Right on top of the screen.”

All eyes went up to where E. Gadd was pointing. Sure enough, embossed on the screen frame, was a very abstract image of the professor. Only recognizable by the wide swirling glasses and the swirl of hair. 

“I said ‘name’, not logo. How were we supposed to know that was you? It barely looks like you!” Wario argued back.

“But I did put my brand on it.”

As Wario groaned, Mario pulled another chair over to sit in front of the screen as well. “Uh, hey professor. We weren’t expecting to hear from you so soon. Especially like this. Is everything okay?”

“Fine! Everything is fine. I just realized that I had no easy way to contact you all. And with that whole Boo situation, a quick way to connect would be best for all parties.”

“So you made some sort of combination of garbage?” Wario asked. Shooting Mario a challenging glare when the hero turned to stare him down. 

“Well, one works with what one has. Innovation is the mother of necessity and what not.”

“Maybe we should tell everyone about cell phones.” Luigi whispered to Mario, who nodded.

“Either way, I would suggest setting this up somewhere that won’t disrupt your normal state of being.”

“I’m…sure we’ll figure something out.” Luigi replied while peering around the area he could see from his seat.

“Hey, professor, could we ask you something?” Mario quickly voiced. 

“Of course!”

“You’re…human, correct?”

Gadd still before letting out a hearty laugh. “Yes, yes I am! Apology for the delay there, I really had to think about it for a moment. You spend enough years here you tend to forget what you are.”

“And spend that entire time alone.” Wario stated in a low tone.

“So, you came from Earth as well.” said Mario after casually hitting the larger brother in the stomach.

“Indeed I did.”

“Do you remember how you got here?”

“Oh, it probably wasn’t much different from your experience. I was a younger ghost hunter. Trying my hand at unique, untouched potential. A few years into my work I found a building in a rather interesting place.”

“Interesting how?” Luigi asked. 

“Well, first off, it was deep underground. I found an altar of some kind with that familiar green pipe in the center of it all. I’d never seen a set up as such before. With how thick the surrounding walls were, it was pretty clear the area was supposed to be sealed away forever.”

The twins shared a look, but didn’t interrupt. 

“My equipment pulled me towards said pipe. There was a huge surge of energy coming from it. In hindsight, I should have been a bit more careful.” 

“You fell in.” Mario started weakly.

“Fell, pushed, pulled, overall it doesn’t matter. All I truly remember was standing in the ruins for one moment and the next second I was this world. And I’ve been here ever since.”

“Has anyone else known that you’re here?” Wario asked. 

“Oh, plenty of people! While I may enjoy my solitude and working with ghosts, I do need to interact with others. This is just the only time people of significance were aware of me. Met a few big personalities in my time. Oh the adventures I’ve had.”

It fell quiet as E. Gadd happily reminisced on his past outings. The other three thinking over what they’d just been told. 

“Well, anyway, I’ve eaten up enough of your time!” E. Gadd said with a smile, “Make sure you put this up somewhere you can easily get to it but it’s out of the way. Hopefully I can meet that other brother, seem to be missing him constantly. Call me if you need anything!”

“Of course.”

“Thank you, Professor.”

“Don’t do anything crazy out there.”

The screen went blank and the three remained still for a few moments.

Wario eventually clapped his hands, “Welp, you two have fun figuring out where to put that monstrosity.”

“You aren’t going to help?”

“Sorry, Mini-Me. This is a you two issue.”

“Wario-”

“Have fun!”

“Wait, why did you even come over! Why are you here!?”

+_+_+_+_+_+

2. Sick Day

“Just let me die.” Waluigi grumbled out, staring up at the ceiling without actually looking at it. His face was flushed, hair matted to his head from sweat. He barely flinched as a hand half-heartedly landed on his shoulder. 

“Shut up,” Wario said, voice cracking, “It’s not that bad.”

The eldest brother sounded horrible, broken and sore. The normal deep bags under his eyes now a darker color. Said eyes unfocused as he stared at basically nothing. 

Waluigi gave a weak growl, “Get your hand offa me…”

“No…”

“You’re making me hot…”

“Deal with it.”

“You absolute-” Waluigi flinched when Wario’s hand now landed on his face.

“Don’t curse.”

“You-”

“Don’t do it.”

Letting out a small sigh, Peach placed the tray down to step between the brothers. “Enough you two. At least you have energy to fight each other.”

All she received in return were muted and stuffed moans. Both retreat back to their bed, hiding under the thick blanket covering them. With them now just glaring at different parts of the medical wing. Again, not fully taking in what they were looking at. 

At least they were going to be quiet for a while.

Picking the tray back up, Peach made her way to the last occupied bed. Mario was snoring softly, cheeks a deep red, his limbs sprawled out and hanging off the bed. The blanket was bunched up at the foot.

Pulling up a chair, Peach placed the tray on the bedside table. She focused on the small pile of half-frozen cloths stacked there. Picking one up and placing it on Mario’s heated skin. Almost instantly, the ice melted away and chilled water poured out. Mario let out a small whine as his eyes slowly opened.

“I didn’t mean to wake you.” Peach whispered gently as she placed another cloth on his chest. 

“It’s fine…” Mario muttered weakly, eyes trying to focus on the princess. 

“Have you been sleeping okay?”

“...Yeah?”

Peach laughed softly, “You sure about that?”

“I mean… I think I’ve been sleeping…”

“I’ll see if we have anything that could help you.”

Weakly shaking his head, Mario replied back with, “It all just burns up…”

“Oh dear, well, we’ll still try and figure something out. How about we schedule another ice bath for you?” Peach smiled softly, gently replacing the towels with one of the frozen ones. 

“...How’s Luigi?”

“He’s fine. A little worried about all of you. But he’s fine.”

“...You’d tell me if he wasn’t, right?”

“Of course I would. I’d never lie about something like that. But I need you to relax, okay? You’re all in safe hands.” 

That seemed to ease whatever worry that was gripping Mario. His shoulders relaxed as he sank back into the bed. Aware that was all she would be gettin out of the ill hero, Peach replaced the towels one final time in silence. This time, the ice didn’t melt away instantly. A sign Peach took that the fever had been calmed for the time being.

After passing a few requests to the medical Toads, Peach departed from the room. She was not surprised to find Luigi sitting on the bench outside. 

The princess was struck with an uncomfortable feeling of deja vu at the scene. 

“Hello, Luigi.” Peach said softly as to not startle the other. 

The younger twin looked up upon hearing his name. Place the green cap back onto his head as he stands. “H-How are they?”

“Just fine. Wario and Waluigi even had a strange little fight.”

“That’s good…”

Moving slowly to allow the other a chance to pull away, Peach hooked her arm around one of Luigi’s. Offering a warm smile to the other. “I’m feeling a little peckish. Would you care to join me for lunch? We’ll check on everyone afterwards. What do you say?”

“Oh, s-sure, that sounds wonderful,” Luigi smiled back, “Thank you.”

“Of course, you know I enjoy your company.”

Still arm in arm, they made their way towards the dining hall. Peach happily listens to Luigi’s latest additions to the brother’s house. 

+_+_+_+_+_+

3. Puppy Eyes

Waluigi frowned as he allowed Luigi’s words to settle into his brain. Even then, he couldn’t really seem to gasp what had been asked of him.

Maneuvering out of his rather strange position around his latest contraption, Waluigi casted a pointed look at Luigi. Who was looking back hopeful.

“I’m sorry… You want me to what?” 

“Teach me what you know about machines…and what not. I know a little. I mean, enough to impress E. Gadd. And I’ve tried to lean on my own. But I learn better, especially something like this, when I can work with my hands.” As if to emphasize his point, Luigi flapped said appendages. 

“Okay…and?”

“Well, you’re the only one I know who works with machines all day.”

“Not all day.”

“Either way, I figured I could ask you to teach me all you know?”

Waluigi let out a heavy sigh, crossing his arms. “Look, I’m not just dinking around in here. It’s not repairing someones’ toaster kind of thing. These are heavy pieces of machinery and my creations that I’m working with. Even Wario doesn’t get the pleasure of working on these beauties…usually.”

“The point is, I can’t work on my own stuff while teaching and worrying about keeping you safe. Learn how I did. Take small things apart, put them back together, and pray that they work again.”

The smug smirk he’d planned on sending Luigi’s way instantly fell through. Because Waluigi was not prepared to be met with wide eyes staring back at him. A weird feeling falling over the taller of the two as the air changed to one of…pity?

“What…are you doing?”

The pressure seemed to grow heavier as Luigi stepped forward. Was Waluigi feeling…bad for saying ‘no’? 

“Stop it. I told you I wouldn’t and that’s not going to change.”

Panic grew as the younger tilted his head ever so slightly because it felt as if Waluigi was losing. Losing what? What was he losing? Why did he feel bad? What was happening!?

“I don’t know what this is, but I don’t like it! Would you just stop! What are you doing!?”

Grambi above, were Luigi’s eyes sparkling!?

“Fuck, fine, alright! Just- stop it! I’ll show you! Just stop! Stop with whatever this is!”

Immediately, the moment those words were said, Luigi’s face dropped. Returning to the regular smile that Waluigi was used to. Which just threw the other into a giant loop of confusion.

“Thank you,” Luigi beamed, “Shall we get started?”

“Not until you explain to me what the hell that was all about!”

“What do you mean?”

“That…That weird look you were giving me!”

“Are you feeling okay Waluigi?”

“I- What- You- Just-” Waluigi let out a sharp huff to center himself before continuing again. “What was with the face.”

“What face?”

“You-” Another huff, “Big eyes, head tilted, the heavy air of pleading want that crawled into my soul and made me feel horrible…”

Luigi gave nothing away. Merely looking concerned as he slowly reached out to pick up a wrench. “So…are we going to-”

Waluigi yanked the wrench out of the younger’s hand and pointed it at him. “Fine, keep your secrets. I’ll worm it out of you soon enough.”

“I just wanted to know what you know.”

“...Stand over there and don’t touch anything.”

As the hours passed, Luigi eventually made it over to stand next to Waluigi. To being able to ask questions. To being able to work with the tools and equipment under Waluigi's supervision. 

He will never admit it…but Waluigi did enjoy his time. It was fun to share what he knew with someone else.

_____________________________

The hero’s front door opened with Luigi peering out. Beaming when he realizes it was Wario standing on the other side. 

“Hey Wario! What can I help you with?”

“I’m actually here to see Mario.”

“He’s at the castle right now. But you can wait here until he gets back if you want.”

“You sure?”

“Absolutely! You actually have good timing. I was about to play some games.”

“Games…by yourself?” Wario looked at Luigi with a look of confusion as he walked in.

“Yeah! Come on, I’ll show you.”

Entering the living room, Wario found a strange contraption hooked up to the television. The screen showing some rather pixelated racing cars moving across it. 

“What is this?” Wario asked as Luigi plopped down onto the ground in front of the couch. 

“Video games.”

“What kind of games? Not board games?”

“Nope, video games! They're really fun. You can either play by yourself or…with a friend?” Luigi held up a second controller out towards the other with a small smile.

Wario frowned softly, looking a little wary. “Where did you even find this?”

“E. Gadd found it on one of his exploits. The shop owner said they’d found it in a trash heap and the professor was able to fix it. It’s from Earth, if that makes you feel better.”

“Your Earth?”

“I…would think so. E. Gadd is looking into it, saying if it’s more than the Green Pipe can transfer things over here. Anyway, he shipped it over as soon as he could. So…do you wanna play?”

“Mmm…I don’t know.”

“Please? I’m really bored playing by myself.”

“Well… You’ve been playing longer than I have and-”

Wario tensed when looking back to Luigi. To find wide eyes staring back at him. An uncomfortable feeling settling into his stomach. As if he’d done something so wrong. Even though he hadn’t even straight said no!

“I mean, I’m sure Mario would…be…”

Luigi slouched down, somehow making himself seem so small. That wrong feeling grew stronger as Wario was practically stared down with shining eyes. 

“Okay, maybe one game?” The older brother quickly said. Unable to hold back the sigh of relief when Luigi’s face, rather quickly, dropped to his normal smile.

“You’ll have fun, promise!” said Luigi, holding the controller back up. 

“Is…your face… What was that?”

“What was what?”

“You! Your eyes got really big and shiny and I felt terrible and…am I going insane?”

“Maybe it was your guilt of not spending time with me.”

Wario gave Luigi a look of shock as the younger just smirked back. It was the only note that showed Luigi knew what he’d done. Before Wairo could question further, Luigi shook the controller with a raised brow. To which Wario huffed and grabbed it. Plopping down next to Luigi and focusing on the screen. 

“Only one game.”

“If you say so.”

They played until Mario arrived back home a few hours later. Who found Wario huddled on the ground in defeat with Luigi beaming as the screen showed his player holding the #1 trophy. 

“...Luigi never loses games.” Mario stated calmly as he headed for the kitchen.

“Well I know that now!” Wario sharply shot back.

_____________________________

“No.”

“But Mario-”

“Absolutely not.”

“It’s not that expensive.”

“That’s not the point.”

“It’s a treat.”

“And you’ve already had enough sugar for the day! I’m not getting you more.”

“This is better than any tennis match.” Wario whispered to Waluigi as they watched with fascination as the twin’s argued. 

Waluigi chuckled before replying with, “It’s nice to see them squabble like brothers, to be honest.”

Their attention was promptly pulled back to the twins as Luigi let out a dramatic groan. Interest going further when said twin pulled out the unfortunately familiar face. Wide eyes and tilted head that had broken them down so easily before. The pair watched inraptured as they waited for Mario’s response. Surely he wouldn’t last that long. Mario practically gave everything to his little brother already, so this would end so much faster. 

To their surprise, Mario landed a direct poke to Luigi’s forehead. The younger almost falling out of his chair in response. Quickly balancing himself before he actually did, going back to glare at Mario once more. Who had just gone back to his drink.

Luigi let out a huff of annoyance before he walked away into the crowd.

“So dramatic.” Mario mumbled with a small smile. His calm demeanor was broken when Wario and Waluigi leaned over the table. Both looking a little frantic as they stared the older twin down. “What-”

“How did you do that?” Wario hissed out.

“Do what!? Jeez, back up a little bit, will you?”

“How did you resist that stupid face?” Waluigi asked this time.

“Stupid face- You mean the ‘Puppy Dog Eyes’? What are you two- Oooh…” Mario’s confusion turned to a wide, knowing smirk. Easily leaning back into his chair while the other two tensely watched him. “You two were hit by it?”

“Don’t act superior” Wario frowned, “What did you do to avoid being unaffected by it?” 

Mario slowly sipped his drink, prolonging the quiet suffering before he answered with, “Luigi’s my brother. I’ve lived with him for 26 years. You don’t think I haven’t built up an immunity to it? It doesn’t bother me anymore.”

Waluigi leaned forward, uncaring as he pushed Wario’s cap over his eyes. “How do we do that? How do we get to the point of being able to ignore it?”

The smirk grew on Mario’s face.

“You don’t. Enjoy your suffering.”

+_+_+_+_+_+

4. Love Letters

The front door was forcefully kicked open. Followed by Wario calling out an eager, “Food time!”

“I swear if you break our door again!” Mario called out from the kitchen. Unable to pull away from the sink as he was pouring the pasta water out.

“I’ll just get you a new one. You worry too much.” Was the more than casual reply as Wario claimed a seat by the kitchen table. Only to let out a pained gruff of noise when Waluigi smacked the back of his head.

“Stop being an idiot,” Waluigi sniped out before asking Mario, “Where’s the sprout?”

“Upstairs, can you get him?” Mario requested as he poured the now water free pasta with homemade red sauce. 

“Yeah,” Wario unhelpfully added, “go make yourself useful.”

He let out a yelp as his chair was rather easily pushed over. Wario crashed to the ground as Waluigi made his way over to the stairs. Ignoring the out cries from both brothers remaining in the kitchen as he walked up. Heading for the room at the end of the hallway. The door was already open, Waluigi fully planning on casually strolling his way in with a loud call of Luigi’s name.

Only to pause when he entered the door frame. 

Luigi was sitting at his desk, which was half hidden by tools and pieces of numerous projects. But he wasn’t paying attention to those. Instead, blue eyes were slowly scrolling over the words on the paper he was holding. A small smile on his face with a dust of blush on his cheeks. Clearly caught in his own little world.

Stepping back around the door and leaning against the hallway wall, Waluigi gently knocked on the door frame. There was a familiar squeak of surprise followed by something being slammed and another heavy object landing on the floor.

“You okay up there?” Mario called out.

“Luigi’s just freaking out, we’re okay.” Waluigi shouted back and covered up Luigi’s quiet ‘Yeah!’ reply. The tallest brother casually strolled back in to find Luigi leaning over a small wooden box. The flushed now a deeper red from embarrassment. Part of his project laying on the floor now. 

“I’m here to bring you down for dinner.”

“Um, thanks.” Luigi whispered back. Slowly moving to sit up with the box now pressed to his chest. 

“Am I allowed to be an inquiring br- …and ask what that is?”

“You’ll laugh.”

“Doubtful.”

Letting out a slightly annoyed huff, Luigi placed the box back down onto the table. Opening it to reveal it was filled with letters. All curled at the top and bottom. The ‘outside’ edges holding the torn seal of the Royal BeanBean Kingdom. Waluigi ignored the main writing and he instead flickered down to the bottom to find a very cursive signature of ‘Peasley’.

“That…is a lot of letters. You two have only been together for about, what, a month?”

“Close, we’re a few days away.”

Waluigi stalked further into the room to sit at the edge of the bed. “Still, this is so…charming.”

“You can say cute.”

“Thank Grambi, because this absolutely is cute. Adorable even,” Waluigi smiled hearing the other laugh, “So…weird question. You don’t have to answer but…you and Mario kind of suggested that you haven’t been successful in relationship endeavors in the past.”

Luigi didn’t reply right away. Instead reaching into the box to grab the top most letter. Running his thumbs over the crisp parchment. 

“I mean, that’s not an incorrect statement,” he stared slowly, “Even with how…different this place is, it’s far more accepting. I can show interest in anything and no one cares. That’s not how it’s like on Earth. There are a lot of questions and comments that are given, even more so when it’s not asked for. Since I wasn’t one who was the ‘normal’ or ‘typical’ male, there were labels on me. A lot of labels.” 

“I’ll be honest, and I’m not sure if you’re aware, but I’m a bit naive. Worse so when I was younger. I was the dating joke for a lot of people. I mean, I was a joke in general. But it became a ‘game’ to who could drag me along the longest. It’s…hard to trust people. Mario had to rescue me off the side of the road too many times. Now, I have a connection with a charming guy? A guy who’s a prince? Peasley is sweet and king and he’s so genuine. Everything he does so far is so…perfect. And it’s hard to believe he really likes me sometimes.”

“I’m just waiting for the rug to be pulled out from underneath my feet again. Then, I feel bad for assuming that Peasley would do anything like this.”

Waluigi sighed softly, reaching out to gently grip Luigi’s shoulder. “How do you feel about him?”

Luigi answered almost immediately, “I like him, I really do…”

“Then you do what you feel comfortable with. And, for what it’s worth, I’m pretty sure Peasley likes you. I’m not going to say it’s all going to be roses. You know better than anyone here how hurtful it can be when you’re lied to. But you shouldn’t focus on the possible future. Just focus on the now and enjoy it.”

“Yeah, okay… Thanks Waluigi.” Luigi smiled back.

“Whatever. Just know that if Peasley does have the actual audacity to hurt you, you have a whole ass kingdom behind you. With someone who’s knowledgeable with hiding things.” Waluigi’s face was impassive as Luigi stared him down.

“...You scare me sometimes.”

“That sounds like a you issue. Come on, let’s go eat.”

[mariamariquinha]

Bossa Nova (Benny ‘Borracho’ Magalon x f!reader) - Seven

Six | Eight

Summary: The science of it all. 

Word count: 8.033.

Warnings: Bad words, SMUT (it came woohoo), unprotected p in v sex, oral sex (f! receiving), mention of drug crimes and other things related. Benny being a goofy horny man. 

Author’s Note: If you ask me what happened here, I don’t know how to answer. Just… Accept it. *whispering* Shh-shh… It’s okay. Nothing to worry here, okay?

Again, using other character’s gif. Don’t mind me. It’s not my fault he just appeared for, like, 5 seconds.

MINORS DO NOT INTERACT!

Join my taglist! Don’t forget to reblog, comment and like! As always, I would love to know what you’re all thinking! ❤

****

You put in Kojak's food, blinking hard a few times to shake off the hangover headache so you could see how much you were putting in. He moved his mouth little by little, taking each grain inside, and you stood there watching him do this until the food was finished.

On the clock, it was still early – too early. You already knew that you were going to have a preliminary hearing with another case you were working on before going to the station, but the version of you from the previous day had probably forgotten about that and your hungover face wasn't going to help much. Well, your self from the day before had forgotten a lot of things along the way, and you knew better than to think about it at least for the sake of what you would say in court.

When you got into the car and looked out onto your porch, the first thing you remembered was the last thing you slept with thinking about the night before; both involved Benny.

****

“Where were you?”

You looked up from where you were taking off your heels, seeing Henderson standing in the doorway of your lab.

“Had to be in court. What’s up?”

“I needed a copy of Brown's technical reports. Emma said you signed them.”

“Yeah, I did,” Took you a beat to come to your senses and understand why he was asking. “Ah, fuck, I forgot to send the copies to you. Nick told me you would take care of it and I forgot. Give me two minutes, I'll send it to you.”

“I'm going to have a visit at the prosecutor's office now. Can you leave a copy on my desk?”

“I can, I’m sorry.”

“You’re good.”

As soon as his back was turned, you leaned back in your chair and rested your head, grunting in discomfort as you closed your eyes tightly.

“Get your fucking shit together.”

****

There was no one in the office when you arrived. Well, no one but Mathias. You were already entering the place, well accustomed to the layout and being in or out of there, so when you saw him, you just froze into place for a second too long for him to take notice of your presence.

“... Where’s Nick?” You asked, eyeing him suspiciously.

Walsh had both hands inside his pants pockets, standing behind the desk where they seemed to have been working on some case stuff.

“He and the others are on their way. What are you doing here?”

You hid your desire to scoff for the sake of good neighborly behavior – he also wasn’t being directly arrogant, so you could pretend there was some friendly professional interaction between you two.

“I came to deliver a report to Henderson.”

“About what?”

“Travis Brown.”

“Uh,” But he didn’t demand to see it, which was considerably weird. As soon as the words came out of your mouth, he averted his attention to the things splayed out in front of him.

You walked deeper in the room and placed the file below Gus’s keyboard, just in case.

“What do you have a degree in?” He asked, stopping you dead in your tracks on your way out of the office. When you turned around, he wasn’t looking at you. “Computer science?”

“Criminal Forensics,” Just then he gave you the privilege of a glance. “But I'm an audiovisual expert. Postgraduate. Why?”

“I need you to tell me what you think of these photos.”

You looked around as if you were waiting for someone to show up and stop you, or at least tell you that he couldn't do that, but he could. Fuck, he was inside Nick's office, spying on things about the case, and all you could remember was Emma saying that you had to keep 'cooperating'.

You approached cautiously. You didn't get too close to him, nor did you dare touch him in the photos, and you only gave him a side-eye to ask him to move away to give you wider access to what you were seeing. He gave in, even though any distance still made it feel like he was too close.

“It's an analog camera,” You said, more to yourself than to him. “These photos were developed, not printed. It still has silver halides in some spots.”

“What does this mean?”

“Whoever did this was in a hurry.”

“Who was in a hurry?”

It certainly wasn't the hangover, because there was no other explanation for Nick having used such a harsh tone for no reason other than Mathias' presence. Still, you thought it was up to you too and walked away from the table and the photos, crossing your arms defensively as you saw him approaching with Benny, Connors and Z in his trail.

Benny gave you a brief look before sending eyes to Mathias.

“You guys were late and your agent conveniently happened to be here. I just asked for some clarification,” He said.

“Henderson asked for a copy of Brown's report,” You hushed to add.

O'Brien maintained a long silence in the room as he sucked his teeth, which you couldn't tell if it was good or bad.

“Next time you wait for us,” He said then, turning to you. “So? Keep going.”

Between Mathias, Nick and everyone else, each one looked at you with expectant looks, which made you hesitate. Clearing your throat, you uncrossed your arms and leaned on the table again, pointing to some photos.

“I was saying they are analog photos, not traceable. This, this and… this one, to be more exact, still has clear signs of silver halides, which means that whoever did this didn't make a good fix at the time of development.”

“Which means they did the whole process in a hurry,” Walsh added.

“Yes. But it doesn't make much sense, because the pattern in the photos doesn't follow the stains. Like, we have the same occasions, but not all of the ones in the same occasion have the stains. It takes a long time to do this, so whoever took them must have been interrupted or, as I said, was in a hurry.”

It was the first time that day that you started to really think and it made you even a little sick. Still, you could see the way Nick didn't say anything while Z discussed the possibilities with Connors and Mathias, which made you suspicious of something.

Looking back at the photos, they looked familiar. Not just anyone had access to such specific cameras in that century, so to speak, and it seemed unlikely that his memory was just a coincidence. The material was similar: similar suspects, the focus of light, the quality.

“Two years ago Homicide worked on a similar case,” You mentioned, so everyone turned their attention to you again. “Mid investigation, some similar pics started to come up.”

They all waited for you to elaborate. You rolled your eyes.

“The dead guy was involved with a drug trafficking ring.”

“It could be the same person,” Z was the one complementing.

“Maybe,” You shrugged. “It’s hard to say. No one really could find who sent this, nor who killed who, so they ended up filing the case. I would have to compare the precedence.”

“And how long would it take?” Mathias asked, but before you could open your mouth to say something, Nick cut you off.

“Take as much time as you need.”

“... What?”

“If you're right, this murder could help us tie together some information we're investigating. You compare the photos, Z talk to Homicide.”

“Wait, we don’t want to know who’s sending this?” And, listen, you weren’t one to agree with Walsh, but he has a point.

“It will come with time.”

Which was a pretty lame excuse, so you hoped Walsh was as dumb as you thought he was to go along with it.

****

“Busy?”

You looked over your shoulder and saw Magalon standing in the narrow hall of the file room, leaning casually on a shelf with a can of ginger ale in hand.

“Erm… Kind of,” You scratched the back of your neck before giving your back a stretch. “Don't tell me I forgot to send someone another report.”

“No, you’re safe,” He waved you off before gesturing with the can. “I brought you this. I figured you were going to be a little out of orbit.”

But he didn't verbally mention the previous night's date, which gave you a mental breather to deal with what to say or how to say anything. You accepted with a sigh, opening the can and taking a long sip. He watched you closely for a while, doing as much as raising his eyebrows when you leaned back on a shelf and cleaned your mouth with the back of your hand.

“Thanks.”

“Anytime. What are you doing here, by the way?”

“I came to get the file on that case,” And you wanted to add that you thought it was weird of Nick to use that poor excuse earlier on, but you thought better of it. Whatever he wanted, the less you knew the best.

“Successfully?”

“Of course not…” You huffed in annoyance after another sip. “Jimmy just threw me some numbers and said it was around here. How am I supposed to know with a ton of stuff around here? Not to mention that the person who cataloged the evidence was that intern who left after a month.”

“Marty?”

“Marty, that dude,” You gestured in the air lazily. “I’ve been here for the last 15 minutes.”

“Well, you have me. Let’s find it.”

“Really? Don’t you have other things to do?”

“Besides being on the evidence floor looking for a poorly cataloged box with you? No, not really.”

You suppressed a smile at that, even though you obviously didn't believe what he said. Taking another sip of the drink for confidence, you mentioned the numbers that Jimmy had given you on a tiny piece of paper, and Benny began to inspect the infinite layers of boxes with you.

With help, it didn't take more than ten minutes. For some very plausible reason, there were actually two different boxes of the same case but in separate places; by the end, he was carrying them both to another room so you could inspect its contents.

“Didn't you say it's only been two years since the case?” He asked while eyeing you open a box and finding a lot of sawdust inside it.

“Yes, but I think the floor was renovated later. This is… horrible, my God. That’s why everyone hates the government.”

The two of you were quiet as you worked. You waited for him to leave or, what, do something else, but Benny pulled up a chair and sat nearby, scanning the evidence you were laying out on the table as you looked for the photos you wanted. This didn't distract you from your objective, in any way: despite his presence making your mind balance between your date and your work, you preferred to protect yourself more to avoid another fiasco like the one you caused that night.

If it was a fiasco, per se. He was curiously quiet about it since then for you to be sure of anything.

“How do you feel about Seahawks x Rams?” He broke the silence abruptly.

When you raised your eyes in surprise to look at him, he was still poking through the evidence packages, so you blinked a few times before going back to rummage through the box.

“... The game?”

“Mm-hm.”

“I don’t know, maybe I’ll watch.”

“Maybe?”

This time he was looking at you when you risked looking back at him.

“Yeah, like… There's this Cold Case stuff. There's a lot of material, I'll probably have to take work home.”

“Ah,” He frowned, even if he was nodding along. “Well, it will be on Sunday. Would it be a problem if you were gone for a few hours before working?”

“Who wants to know that?”

Benny couldn’t help himself and chuckled at your suspicious tone, placing the package with some crime scene photos on the table and leaning back, arms crossed as he looked you over with his head tilted to the side. You stared in waiting; him, in contemplation.

“I do. I have tickets for the game and maybe we could do something this weekend.”

“We could?”

“If you want to.”

You were skeptical about that prospect in the beginning, but since you woke up that morning, there wasn’t a single part of you that regretted being with him that night (aside from the drunk part). You wanted to keep that facade, to say it was good but it was better to not repeat it again; the problem was something else. As much as you wanted to say you would be impulsive to accept another date with him like you did when you accepted the first, it would be a lie.

You could weigh the pros and cons and still want to go out with him.

“How do you know I like the Rams?” You decided to go along with the game, cocking a hip and arching an eyebrow. He had a grin on his face at that.

“I'm a detective, remember?”

“Oh, so you investigated me?”

“I wouldn’t say investigate. Your Instagram is very much public,” He crossed his arms over his chest. “You and daddy watching one of their games, jerseys and all.”

You felt caught, almost defensive as if someone had caught you with your hand in the candy jar. Of course it was it, you dumb.

Still, you didn’t give him that – with a condescendent nod, you went back to the box and ignored him.  

“So?”

“Nothing,” You said. “I mean, you have a good eye.”

“Do I now.”

“Of course. How many people would make the effort to look at my public profile on the internet to invite me to something?” You were teasing him now. “I’ve heard that this is more than most single gentlemen do these days. Did you know that there are people who say 'I don't know, what do you want to do?' instead of making plans?”

“So is it a yes?”

It was that look again, the one that had you assuming that sometimes you couldn't look him in the eye for long. Benny wasn’t close enough but you felt like he was staring down at your mouth and then up into your eyes, putting you in a greenhouse that gradually warmed you.

Perhaps, in reality, that was the Magalon's trick – that stare.

He presented himself in full but focused on what he had best, on the way of observing, on actions, on contact, on closeness. Even the way he talked, bringing up the right things at the right times, drawing smiles and twitches in you like you're a teenager, like you haven't already been through this several times already. It was dangerous because it seemed strategic, this way of making you melt patiently and calmly. You felt stupid for starting to rant, that wasn't charming or cute at all.

God, did you want to be charming and cute for him now?

“Seahawks x Rams?” You turned to the box for the third time. “Seems fine to me.”

“Let's see how you do without your alcohol.”

Before you could say something else, you saw Jimmy coming into view with Tony by his side. At the same time, fortunately, you found what you were looking for and could avoid any second thoughts on why you two were alone in that room. You raised a package for him to see.

“Aren’t you my lucky charm.”

****

It would be a hot day and the stadium offered a more relaxed feel, so you didn't want to be overdressed. With the same jersey that also seemed to have sunk into the mess of clothes you had, forgotten like a high school letter, you had to wash the piece that smelled musty and risked giving it a touch more perfume as soon as you put it on.

You had cleaned the house in the morning and changed the bedding.

“You never know, right?” That's what you said to Kojak while deciding on the sofa's decor.

When Benny came to pick you up and gave you a lingering kiss (not on the mouth, but on the corner of it) and let his hand rest on your back a little longer than necessary, you felt like maybe you knew, that perhaps you could see if you still had it.

It was a smooth ride to the stadium, quiet enough but not uncomfortable. You talked a little about the case, nothing more than the new development, and no one shared too many concerns about it – even if you wanted to ask things, you tried not to babble about work stuff.

You didn’t have to wait in line for the tickets, but you got there early anyway, so you two jumped at the chance to find your seats first thing and grab some snacks.

“Wow, I haven't been here in a while. Don’t mind me if I get a little over the edge here, ‘kay?” You sipped on your soda (just to be sure) and he adjusted himself on his seat, arm resting lazily behind your back.

“Oh no, don’t worry. I’m more of a Seahawks myself, tho, so you shouldn’t mind if I get a little over the edge.”

“Ha, your bad then, detective. We’ll see who’s in better shape here.”

Things got more interesting during the game. At the beginning, you two were cooled off, trying to keep the composure so as to not provoke each other so much – it didn’t last until the end of the first half. Although he was more controlled, now and then he would side eye you, or just curse under his breath. You were quite the opposite: screaming, cursing, getting up, sitting down, slapping his arm when a pass was poorly made or something else.

With all that commotion, you just dared to really look at the smug Benny’s face when you sat down five minutes before the end of the game, defeated by the Rams' tragedy. He was in a mix of amusement and teasing and self-assurance, nibbling on his potato chips while taking in the way you were visibly energetic and agitated.

“What a bad shape you’re in, huh?” He said with a sarcastic tone.  

“Oh, shut up. Can’t believe I let you do this to me,” You lowered in your seat in frustration. “Ballard's photos put me in a better mood than that and we're talking about purple sofas from the 80s.”

“Nah, it wasn’t all that bad. You always seem so tense, that at least let you vent some stuff outta you.”

You waited for the commotion from the other fans to calm down before leaving the stadium. On the way, you heard other complaints and murmurs from the people around you, which made your blood cool down from your rant. His hand was placed in your back the whole time, reassuring his presence and helping you make your way out of the crowd.

“Hey, if you're from here why do you prefer the Seahawks over the Rams? It's like blasphemy, you know?”

You were already in the car when you asked, which was supposed to be just a question to fill in the silence. It was just when you slipped your seatbelt on and looked up at him that you noticed he was leaning all the way over to reach something in the backseat.

His shirt lifted a little. From there, you can see a happy trail, as well as some skin, and if you looked up (like you did), you would see his neck tattoo more exposed and closer.

“... It’s just been a family tradition since then.”

He sat back down and you honestly hadn't heard a thing before that. The two of you looked at each other for a moment and you looked like an idiot for sure.

“What.”

“... What were you… you know, looking for? Back there.”

“Ah, that left door tends to get stuck a little. Sometimes I have to open and close it again from the inside.”

“Oh.”

“But what were you looking for here in the front? Could feel you staring into my soul for a minute here.”

Caught. Again. And this time you couldn’t even say it was just you looking at anything, but it would make no sense – yeah, you were fucking staring at him while he did that shit, why wouldn’t you? He was just… there, right? And he was hot, you could… just… stare. A little.

“... It's not like you weren't looking at my ass every time I got up during the game,” You found your save with your arms crossed, which made him laugh.

“You have a point. Who am I to call you out, right?”

“Right.”

You hoped he wouldn't see the insistent smile that wanted to come out of your mouth, disguised with your face turned towards the window.

****

“Oh, hey buddy,” With two taps in the glass, Benny bent down to take a good look at Kojak, who was keen to make his appearances for him.

As his back was turned, distracted by Kojak in the aquarium, you sat down on the couch and took off your shoes. As soon as you adjusted yourself comfortably in the cushions, Benny made his way to you, sitting right next to you with a groan.

“How long have you had him?” You felt him slipping his arm on the back of the couch, fingers brushing your shoulder.

“Erm… A year and a half, tops. Got him in an open-air fair.”

“He’s very charming. I don't know if I could take care of one of these on my own,” He turned to you, back, straightened up.

“Yes, it takes a little work, but it's easier than a dog. He doesn't demand a lot of attention.”

You knew the conversation couldn't continue there, but suddenly inviting Benny into your house seemed like a bad idea. Not because you didn't want to or anything like that, it was just the feeling of being trapped in an expectation and not knowing how to proceed from there. With Lennon it was easier; as if you needed more proof that Benny was definitely not Lennon.

“I think he liked me,” He said when you averted your eyes to look at Kojak from afar, which made you roll your eyes and look at him one more time, smiling this time.

“Of course.”

“And he looks smart just like his name.”

“Well, I chose Kojak because he is majestic, charming… This type of thing. Not because he’s smart. Like Telly.”

“Do you think Telly Savalas was charming?” He turned fully to you, seeing the small teasing grin on your lips.

“I would give it a try.”

“On Savalas?” Benny pressed.

“Well, sure. We’re here, aren’t we?”

“You really think you're cute, don't you?”

“What? It's a well proven point,” You shrugged coily. “I wouldn’t go out with Telly if he wasn’t charming, it’s the same with you. Cops are generally a huge red flag.”

“Are we now.”

“Mm-hm. I need to be careful with you.”

You two were quiet, staring at each other until someone broke down. The silence lasted, lasted, lasted… As if you were studying each other under the clear light reflected on the room's white curtains. He looked good that way too, with his face more visible.

You hoped you were at least presentable from that angle, too.

“It’s a big house,” He broke the silence, even if not the stare, gesturing to the air while rubbing his knee gently on yours. “How do you manage?”

“This looks like a continuation of your personal investigation of me, detective.”

“It is,” He grinned. “Besides, you're interesting. I like to know you.”

“Really?”

“Yes.”

“Would you be disappointed if you knew there wasn't much to see?”

“Tell me and I'll find out.”

That was the downside of being who you were or going through what you went through: the insecurity. No tidying up, no… decorating of any kind could replace the fact that Benny wasn't easily distracted and was focused on you. Not your clothes or why the hell was your mother's tennis racket on the kitchen counter because you were supposed to stop by her house to return it and forgot. He was there, sitting beside you, asking why you named your fish that and… how the fuck did you manage your house.

Great question.

“I had someone who helped before. When I started living alone, I couldn't afford this service anymore, so it's just me doing what I can,” You rubbed the back of your neck, not quite elaborating on proper names or details about it. “But I barely stay here because of work.”

“I see you. Although my place isn’t as tidy as yours, I can’t say I use more than the same plate and cutlery.”

“Do you live in a house too?”

“Apartment. Studio, if you go over these titles and shit.”

“Ah. I’ve been planning on something like that for me.”

“Studios?”

“Yeah. This house is too big for me and lil Kojak dude over there. Although I love how relaxing it is, it’s too much,” And too expensive, you could add. Benny hummed.

“Relaxing, huh.”

“Mm-hm.”

“Curious, because you seem a little tense to me,” The teasing made your face heat up instantly. “What is it? Are we taking larger steps or something?”

“No! No, that’s not… it. It’s just…” You. It’s just you, Benny. “I never brought anyone here after the divorce. When I first thought about this possibility, I just didn't imagine it would be you.”

“And is it bad?”

“Bad? No, not at all. It’s just different. I’m willing to keep going, I don’t have a problem with that.”

“Mm,” He hummed one more time, measuring your face for any signs of a lie. There wasn’t of course – you wouldn’t let him in if you didn’t want to. “And what is it you do to relax here, then?”

“Why you ask?”

“We can take that tension away.”

“That’s really nice of you.”

“And is that one of the red flags?”

You laughed at that, and it was really intimidating (hot) the way he kept staring at you without even squirming or averting his gaze.

“... I usually lie on the floor.”

Benny didn't react right away, he just stared at you. When you didn't elaborate, he blinked a few times and shrugged.

“Just that?”

“With music.”

“Music.”

“Mm-hm.”

“And how does it work?”

You opened and closed your mouth, unsure of what to say.

“I just lay, you know? Belly up, stuff like that.”

It would be stupid. You wanted to do everything, absolutely everything, and if he left right then and there you would regret it completely. That sounded so strange, so pathetic – you sounded like that. If you kept pulling back too much, you'd end up overthinking it and drift away into a complicated place that had always permeated your life since Theodore left. Definitely not what you wanted.

You wanted Benny. He seemed to want you too. There shouldn't be any complications.

“That side of the carpet is fluffier,” Your hand pointed to a corner of the room that was right next to an almost empty bookcase, practically a corridor between the furniture and the sofa.

“Let’s start with it, then.”

You lay down first but he didn't take long to accompany you. With his keys and wallet placed on the lamp table, Benny curled up right next to you, his arm touching yours as well as the rest of his body.

“What kind of music do you like?” He asked quietly after a long beat of silence, but you didn’t look at him, eyes fixed on the ceiling.

“Anything. I’m not one to go around music for sexy times, but-”

“Who said anything about sexy times?”

“Stop it,” You burst out a giggle at his teasing, just then looking at him. That opening made him scoot closer, which was nice. “What I’m trying to say is that I listen to whatever I feel like listening at the moment.”

“And the first thing that came to your mind was sexy times,” He tsked, faking disappointment. “I feel like I’m being used.”

“Are you now.”

“I should’ve been suspicious when you didn't even offer me a glass of water.”

“Ah, well, I don’t think you’re gonna need it now. Maybe after.”

Benny raised his eyebrows and smiled openly at you.

“Now you’re relaxing,” He stated and it sounded fair. You didn’t feel so trapped in something else after a few minutes of it with him.

“I guess I am.”

The silence remained for a few more moments.

“Do you know what Benicio means?” You asked. He locked his gaze on you, grinned.

“Good kisser.”

“I’m sure that’s not it,” Your laughter was genuine, one he replicated.

“I needed to try,” A pause. “But my mother used to say it was something about being a blessed man.”

“Interesting.”

“Only if you're blessed to have a good kiss.”

Ha. The fucker had a good point – he was a good kisser. And you didn’t need alcohol or anything to prove that, although you still didn’t kiss him in sobriety, you were willing to jump on that cliff first thing. You accepted with satisfaction, propping yourself up on one arm and leaning towards him for a peck. With a hand on his face, touching chin and cheek, you saw the way his eyes got more attentive, at the same time one of his hands held your hip.

“Do you feel better?” He asked softly.

“A little.”

“We’re doing well for now, so let’s keep going if that’s okay” The answer made him tighten your hip in confirmation, probably urging you to continue.

“You’re being too nice,” You huffed. “Not at all what I thought.”

“What did you think?”

“Ah, you know… You're very sure of yourself. And there’s your team and everybody knows how they are.”

You thought you had killed the most pleasant mood when you said that (maybe you had relaxed too much), but Benny didn't seem bothered by it, just… contemplative. There was no stupidity in stating the obvious and you never hid what you really thought of them in any other situation. It wasn't like imagining Nick or Z doing something like that, being patient or stopping the drunken kiss of a first date out of caution.

“I get it,” He nodded, palm smoothing your side. “I'm not going to say I'm a saint, but it's not like we're trying to prove otherwise.”

“I don't think anyone thinks about that when they're already in the middle of it, you know? I know you think I'm an asshole too.”

“Fair, but maybe we’re all just dancing around each other because we’re stuck to this. I like you, just as much as I believe you liked me. I wouldn’t be here if you didn’t. Maybe we should put a rock under it and show ourselves outside work. Otherwise it will be just a waste of time and we both know we’re now allowed such privilege.”

You nodded at it, biting your bottom lip in thought. He eventually sat up and you did the same, both of you sitting side by side facing each other.

“For example, you said I make you nervous because I’m self assured.”

“Something like that.”

He didn't have a critical eye, nor pity or judgmental – at best, considerate.

“You made me nervous too.”

The confession confused and surprised you at the same time. The overall context of it was actually confusing. You were on a second date having this kind of conversation, anyone would back off right away. Benny planted both feet on it, fearlessly.

“You’re also very self confident. Not everyone has the courage to fight Nick like you do, for example.”

“At work it's different,” You averted his gaze to look at his chest, a little unconvinced by his words.

“Why?”

“I feel comfortable when I know the answers to things. The work, the… Science of things has solutions in books, they are palpable. If I have that attitude there, it's because I have the stability to trust things that I have full knowledge of.”

He kept silent.

“Now this, what we're doing, is like playing in the dark. You are being attracted to someone and no one explains exactly why and I shouldn’t, because I know the shit I’ve been through. I hate it, but in the end I’m a woman and I care if Mathias Walsh finds out I’m fucking with someone at Major Crimes. It’s like losing credibility even if it’s ridiculous.”

Benny eyed you for a moment too long.

“He’ll never know about this. And you know why?” You shook your head. “Because he’s dumb and because I’m sure he knows I didn’t like him way before he caused that scene. He won’t try to mess with me or you for the time being.”

“Sounds a lot like self assurance to me, detective,” You teased, fingers playing with the lapel of his shirt.

“I know. That’s why I’m with Major Crimes.”

Benny was smiling when you lifted your head to look at him again.

“And with all due respect, science has a pretty obvious explanation for this boner I'm having right now,” He waggled his eyebrows.

“Oh my God,” As if it were the easiest thing in the world, you both laughed once more, his chest heaving in reaction. “This has to be one of the worst ways I've ever heard someone say they're turned on.”

“I’m horny, that’s not the same thing.”

“Do you want to discuss this? Because as far as I know it is the same thing.”

“Agree to disagree, baby,” He adjusted himself to get more comfortable, an arm crossing over your legs so he can be closer. “You’re turned on just for the moment. Horny is something progressive.”

His tone got more sultry, seductive, and this subtle change in behavior began to take more form when his touch gently strode through the material of your jersey until it reached the hem, coming into contact with your skin.

“For example, when I saw you in that blue dress… Or when I saw your tattoo for the first time… That part got me really excited, curious even. I had practically just shut my mouth saying what a good girl you were and then you come up to me like this, hiding these things from everyone.”

“I wasn’t hiding. No one asked.”

“So I'm going to ask now. Can I see it?”

Yes. Absolutely.

Instead of responding with words, you got up and knelt beside him, watching intently as Benny waited for what you were going to do. There was a hint of confidence in you, a courtesy in the way he seemed so interested and focused on whatever you had to offer. You touched the first button and he didn't react. Not that you were teasing him, but one by one, with every inch of skin revealed, he seemed more agitated, flexing his fingers and keeping his eyes fixed on your newly revealed chest.

It wasn't until you slid the shirt off your shoulders and let it fall to the floor that you could see something different about him – in his gaze, which became darker and visibly greedy.

“Nice lace,” He murmured.

“I thought you wanted to see the tattoo.”

“Aren’t you full of surprises,” You snorted at it, not letting the way he licked his lips pass by your eyes. “Come closer, would you?”

And you did, enough for him to put both hands on either side of your hips with eagerness. The way he led you made you lose your balance a little and lean on his shoulder, but there were no excuses – you didn't even want them. Benny didn't care too much either, lost in his own mission. His nose lightly brushed beneath your breast, enough to make you shiver, and it didn’t go unnoticed by him the way your nipple peaked through the fabric.

He pressed a gentle kiss there, right over the top. Your fingers squeezed his shoulder harder.

In denim shorts that didn't do much justice in covering your leg, he had an easy time accessing almost the entire length of the tattoo – your hand automatically went to the back of his neck as his face came close to your skin, another wave of shivers running through your entire body when you felt Benny's breath hovering there.

“Just like I imagined,” A murmur slipped off his mouth, you could sense both lips touching the top of the tattoo while he spoke. “Soft, sensible. Couldn’t stop thinking about how it would be.”

“Seems like you spent too much time thinking about me,” The teasing made him nip the area and you yelped.

“I almost went crazy.”

“What’s next then?”

“You ride me,” He practically growled, eye to eye, not hiding a single part of his lust gaze from you. “Slowly. I want to feel every inch of my cock entering you, gatita.”

When you went for another kiss, Benny insisted on being responsible for prolonging it, taking his hand from your waist to the back of your thigh. It started subtle, unobtrusive, slow. Nobody there was in a hurry. Soon, between a single pause for breath, he took the initiative again and led one of your legs across his waist, which you obliged. With a more open and intense kiss, you felt the warmth building in your belly because suddenly everything became very very clear – the bulge of his jeans in your clothed crotch, his fingers smoothing over your back and sometimes playing with the clasp of your bra.

Among other things, Benny was a stout, broad man. You felt his waist against yours as your legs tried to fit more comfortably around him and it felt good, comforting, exciting. A sigh came out of your mouth when, tentatively, you swayed your hips for friction. He pulled his head back for a moment, smiled at the reaction.

“Goddamn,” Benny whispered against your lips, grinding softly into you. “You really are relaxed.”

“Told you it works,” You held the side of his face, stunned by that numb expression of desire, the dilated pupils. Surely your lips were just as plump from the kiss as he was. “But I don't think I mentioned that your self-assurance is hot as fuck.”

“So just let go of the reins, babe. You don't have to worry about anything.”

The path to your room was almost domestic; you both got up and you looked at Kojak like he was a son witnessing something he shouldn't have as a kid. When you took Benny's hand, he accompanied you patiently, close but unhurriedly following your footsteps.

Your bed was high, tidy, big enough for the two of you. Still, after he let you lead him closer to the mattress, it felt small enough. There the reservations ran out and he didn't hesitate to take off his shirt, which left your mouth watering. He was built like a man, with soft spots and strong muscles, and soon that happy trail wasn’t just a peek, but all there, for you. You ran your nails there, then squeezed around his biceps, shoulders, down to the belly again and he groaned at the sensation, getting a hold in your forearms to stop your movements.

“Lay down,” A soft order, but still an order. You obliged, of course.

Just when you were ready to adjust yourself in the bed, he surprised you by grasping both your ankles and pulling you sharply closer to where he was standing at the foot of the bed, making you gasp. In fact, you almost laughed at the gesture, heartened by the way he didn't say anything else as he took off your shorts.

That just didn't happen because he was serious, determined, running the palms of his hands over your thighs before kneeling on the floor.

Oh. Oh, okay.

“Benny,” You called but he didn’t hear, so you pressed. “Benny.”

The firmer tone caught his attention. With that, you managed to reach up to grab a pillow and throw it in his direction.

“See? Such a good girl.”

Before you could respond or even notice the moment he placed the pillow below his knees and your legs over his shoulders, Benny had you swallowing the words when he gave a single lick in your core. Not that your panties weren't already wet enough to give any indication of just how turned on you were, but that contact was succinct enough to make you whine.

It had been a while since anyone had elicited such a reaction in that regard. You couldn't think of anyone, or any other time as Benny teased his tongue through the material of your panties, but you were sure it felt like a new sensation, like the last time you felt it was a lifetime ago.

He continued maneuvering with his mouth there for a while longer – when you felt a slightly chilly air from the room, you noticed that he had pulled the fabric to the side and you didn’t even have the time to be self-conscious before his mouth was on you again.

Everything about his movements was calm and diligent, from the tongue to the discreet suck he gave your clit. You could certainly expect something from the way he kissed, but this meant so much more. Your body squirmed on the sheet, tempted to pull more and more against his face just to have more of the friction of his goatee in that area. He didn’t let you hold back – he grabbed your hips with full hands and pulled you even closer, groaning when you circled your hips over his face. Your fingers went into his hair, pulling hard, and the room was filled with sighs of pleasure from both parties.

That first orgasm hitted you hard. Your pussy clenched around nothing and if you weren’t so out of orbit, you would feel a little embarrassed by the way he clearly was watching it. After a moment to recover, you propped yourself up on your elbows and glared at him. Benny was standing straighter, his entire torso visible as well as his face partially covered by your arousal. It really was a vision.

“You’re delicious, you know that?” His voice was rough, something you’ve never heard before – but weren’t complaining either.

If there had been any inhibition there, any… fear, which was very unlikely, it was gone after that, like something had clicked in both of your heads. He licked his lips and gathered the arousal wetting his lips with the tip of two of his fingers, licking them as if it was the most natural thing to do. You watched it in awe, and when he started to unfasten his belt, you tried to be equally quick and efficient, even if not very graceful, and got rid of the rest of your garments until you were laying there, stark naked, watching his cock sprung free from it’s confines at his boxers.

It was the second time your mouth watered that day.

You tilted your head in the direction of the headboard, already positioning yourself for him. Benny sat up, spread his legs, let himself invite you to crawl across the bed and reach his body. He was more blunt when he pulled you into a heated kiss, full of tongue and teeth, and held your neck securely to deliver nibbles and kisses to your chin at the same time that you settled back into his lap, this time feeling a heavy, hard cock resting against your belly.

“Condom,” He stopped for a bit to ask, hand holding the back of your neck to get a better look of your dazzled face. “Fuck, it’s on my wallet.”

“Hold on,” You leaned over the bedside table, opening one of the drawers lamely and pulling a box of them out of it.

When you ripped the thing open and pulled one out, Benny was looking at you with curiosity.

“What?”

“A box?”

“I'm a control freak, have you forgotten?” You threw the box somewhere before spitting in your hand to take hold of his cock. “Now shut the fuck up and keep going.”

“You’re unbelievable,” He hissed when you started pumping him, not wasting any other second to slap your hand away and put the condom on. Benny braced himself, hands massaging your thighs and eyes going straight to where you almost connected. “Dive in, ma. Use me.”

At first, it was a stretching feeling, which bothered you a little but only because of the lack of habit. Benny had enough to be considered a good boyfriend dick but the guy was still packing. With just a little care, you ended up sitting up all the way and the sigh you gave had a mixture of pleasure and victory. He, on the other hand, groaned loud enough and dug his fingertips into the flesh of your legs.

Slow, you remembered, so that was how you started. Your hips moved in a circular motion at first, testing his reactions, and soon that wasn't enough. As you started bouncing on him, one of your hands had to grip the headboard to keep the rhythm, and Benny held your hair-tangled head in his fingers to kiss you, while the other hand stuck to your back.

It didn't take long for you to start panting, one anchoring on the other to not interrupt those motions, like a singular type of dance with the contact of sweaty skin and urgent hands. You understood why he wanted you to slow down – the feeling was indescribable. He hit you in all the right places, conducted sex even if you were the one on top, which prolonged the sensation of pleasure and escalated meteorically with each time your clit brushed against his pubic hair.

Not a smartass word came out of anyone's mouth. He buried his face in the junction of your neck and shoulder, still holding your head, and began to gradually increase the movements. His cunning fingers went straight to your clit, already throbbing with pleasure, and you moaned loudly as you started to feel a second orgasm coming. His left bicep would probably be scarred with your nails pressing so hard there, the incessant movement and impending orgasm making you oblivious to your surroundings.

You came first, throwing your head back and trying, not so successfully, to catch your own breath because Benny kept pounding inside of you without a break. When he came, filling the condom with his cum, he didn’t give a single fuck and pepper your sweat neck with kisses, chests brushing and touching for being so close.

Just like that, you two came down from your high – with him stroking your hair and placing a single lingering kiss on your shoulder, while you hugged him back, in genuine tune. There was calm silence, your own breathings coming in tune with your pounding hearts, and no one wanted to go away.

****

“I think I’ve heard something about needing to check something-something. Was it your Alexa?” He asked as soon as you handed him a cup of water.

“Probably. But I’m pretty sure it wasn’t something-something.”

“I can’t multitask like that,” Benny winked at you, drowning the water in one single gulp. “Maybe you should check on him.”

“Already did. He’s fine.”

“So you can come back to bed?”

“You really don’t want me to get Ballard out of my ass, huh?” You teased, even though you were already crawling back to his lap.

“You can always say you were busy,” He used his grip to keep you close to his body, hands splayed out on your thighs. “Scientific field research.”

“Oh yeah? On what? All your bodily fluids during sex?”

“Would that be a bad idea?”

No. No, it definitely wouldn’t be a bad idea.

****

No pressure tags:

@cheesybadgers

@thesandbeneathmytoes

@nerdyreaderpapi

@thoroughlymodernminutia

@the-hinky-panda​ 

@mysoulisasunflower​

[journalenjoysbooks]

Language and Identity in Himawari House

Before I start, here are the specifics of my copy:

Becker, Harmony. Himawari House. First Second, 2021.

ISBN 978-1-250-23557-2

Okay, now let's get into this!

I picked up Himawari House by Harmony Becker on a Barnes and Noble trip, and started reading it in a cafe later that day. I don’t think the cover summary adequately prepared me for the amount of depth and heartbreak I would encounter. I read the whole thing in one sitting, and I almost started crying (again, in public at the cafe) because of how bittersweet the ending was. 

Now that I’m revisiting it as I write this review, I see how each of the three main characters interacts with the idea of diasporas. Each one is different, and yet easy to understand and relate to. 

Himawari House is about Nao and her experience returning to Japan after her family to the US when she was a child. She stays in a “sharehouse” with two other girls: Hyejung from Korea and Tina from Singapore, and two boys from Japan: Shinichi and Masaki, who are brothers. The book spans Nao’s yearlong stay in Japan, and we get to see the group grow closer as they celebrate events from each of their different cultures. Each of them deals with different struggles in Japan, ranging from fitting into confronting the high expectations and tension placed on them by their families. 

Before I get too far into this, I wanted to comment on the brief author’s note in the back of the book, titled “On The Use of Accents In This Book”. 

I will admit that I was confused over the inclusion of accents in the book, but once I got to the author’s note, I can firmly say that I feel the decision was justified. Becker is right in that not only is it proof of being able to speak multiple languages, but that accents should be accompanied by a sense of pride because a bit of home is in an individual’s speech. I think this idea connects really well to the rest of the novel, specifically Nao’s struggle to try and fit back into Japan. 

In general, I really enjoyed the way that language is handled in this book. When characters speak Japanese or Korean, the English translation will be below. I personally enjoyed analyzing the difference in languages, but when characters encountered a word they didn’t know, the translation was blurred out to show their confusion. I thought this was clever, as it forces the audience to employ some of the same strategies that the characters might need to use, like filling in the blank, asking for clarification, etc. 

For Nao, this confusion plays into her struggles with her identity. When she first returns to Japan, she is visually nervous and feels like she doesn’t belong anymore. She has trouble understanding what the people around her are asking, and doesn’t know some little social cues, like putting luggage up above her on the train. There’s a few times where we flash back to Nao’s youth, and while I normally don’t really care for flashbacks, I think these are well done and really drive home the disconnection she feels. Nao herself feels a lot of confusion about her own identity, and this is compounded by other’s responses to her. 

When a customer at the store asks her a question, Nao is unable to answer, and is called “gaijin”. When her coworker tries to comfort her about the situation, Nao asks her what she thinks. She responds by saying “Ah, well, you know…I can’t say your Japanese, but I can’t really say you’re gaijin, either. Well, you were born here, right? But you were raised in America and, uh, even though your Japanese isn’t fluent, you, uh…” (Becker 215). This answer only serves to compound Nao’s worry that she’s only an outsider to the place she was born and is trying to be a part of. 

On page 216, Nao imagines herself as a child, wearing clothing too big for her, and stuck outside of a temple. This is a great artistic decision on Becker’s part, as Nao feels a lot like a lost child trying to figure out her identity. Her expression in the first panel is one of sadness as she stares up at the closed doors. The closed doors here further cement her view of herself as an outsider, both in that she is literally stuck outside, and that presumably there is something inside she cannot attain. If we think of this as a temple, which would have a multitude of traditions and culture associated with it, we can tell that Nao feels foreign in a place that she wants to consider her home. For this reason, I felt that Nao had a really interesting relationship with diaspora. Even after returning home, it takes a lot of time for her to feel more like she belongs, and only after she gets some help from Masaki.

Speaking of Masaki, I thought it would be great to bring him up, as in a way he’s a great foil for Nao. When the Himawari house residents are all hanging out, they tend to speak mostly in English. Masaki comes off as pretty quiet and cold for a good chunk of the story, but we learn later that it’s because he isn’t very fluent in English, and is hesitant to join conversations because of it. He has been socially isolated from many of his housemates because of this, as they had thought he was simply very cold and aloof. Masaki is isolated on a smaller scale than Nao, as he does not really have a deep, identity related crisis, but he still misses out on social interactions.  

I think one of the reasons Masaki is interesting is because of the development he goes through. Masaki asks Nao to teach him English, and through this they grow closer. As his English improves, he is still hesitant to join conversations, even to a point where when everyone is speaking Japanese he remains silent, saying “I can’t change that fast. Everyone’s gonna be annoying and make a big deal.” (203) Once he does warm up more to Nao, he gives her some insight as to her identity. When Nao asks if he thinks she’s an outsider, he responds “That’s not something for others to decide, is it? You can decide that yourself. If you want to be here, isn’t that enough?” (226). By doing so, he greatly improves Nao’s outlook. 

I really don’t want to spoil a ton, because I think that there’s so many elements to Nao and the other character’s stories, but I should bring up Hyejung and Tina, because they’ve both got some interesting backstories.At first, they both seemed like pretty ordinary side characters, but as I kept reading I found myself wanting to know more of their stories. 

Part of the reason Hyejung left Korea was to get away from her parents. She had been feeling disillusioned, as she had been studying hard her whole life but never actually had a goal to reach for. 

For the earlier portion of the novel, Hyejung is extremely alienated from her family, but it’s very touching to see her friends try and fill this void by caring for her. I think that in Hyejung’s story specifically there was a big emphasis on food and its connection to home. When Hyejung is missing home, she tends to make more korean food, as that’s something that can tie her back, and is accomplishable from Japan. When her mom comes to see her after a year of no contact and a tearful reunion, the house is filled with food as her mother cooks. Hyejung’s story feels extremely satisfying, as while we don’t see it completely resolved of conflict, there has been some release of narrative tension (again, I don’t want to spoil how because I think the moment was really touching). Part of this release comes from her reconnecting with her family, and therefore part of her identity. 

I think Tina is the character that I really wanted more of. I felt that her story didn’t really resolve as much as I would have liked to see, but there definitely was an improvement. Tina works long shifts and deals with a lot of rude/creepy customers. There’s a pretty interesting plot point that involves her and Shinichi, but I would say that one of Tina’s big themes is loneliness. She idolizes a singer that she really enjoys, as his words bring her a lot of comfort. At first, I was really confused as to why the focus was on her and this musical artist so much, but I realize now that the point was to emphasize her loneliness, as this was one of the only ways she could find comfort in Japan. I think my favorite part of Tina’s story was when she called her mother after seeing Hyejung reunited with her own mother. The conversation started slowly, but when Nao comes home later, Tina and her mother are chatting away on the phone in Singlish, which I thought was a great inclusion. 

Overall, I really enjoyed this book! I’ve reread it several times during the course of writing this review, and feel like I’m always taking in new details. Harmony Becker did an excellent job here, and I’ll definitely be keeping an eye out for any other books she authors. 

[10holmes]

As an aspiring ao3 writer, a question about audience engagement.

How do you recommend to answer fan comments? Do you thank only, or also give hints/misleads on the plot? Do you answer all of them, or only the ones you find interesting? If someone asks about further details on some point, do you explain it (so long it's not spoilers, of course!!), like your perceived backstory for some events? If it's interesting information, would you leave it as a simple comment answer, or would you add it to the story later/leave it as a note so more people can read it?

ANy tips in general, in regards of how to manage comments?

Thanks!! I really like your writings! 💖💖💖

Oooh this is such a good ask! Thanks anon 💕

I can only speak from my personal perspective so don't take it as the ultimate truth bc I also see other writers do the exact opposite.

First of all, it is important to ask yourself what these comments and what you're writing mean to you. There are often posts about how writing at the root is for you. So, if you then were to get comments that's great but as you are not writing to receive comments you would thus simply let those comments stand or pick and choose what comments to reply to.

My take is differently. While I certainly write as a form of self-indulgence to see a story come to life that's in my head, I also consider my writing a gift to the fandom and other fans and am really looking forward to any kind of comments and feedback and engagement.

Therefore, every comment I receive - whether it's a simple emoji or a sentence and especially if it's a super long and extensive almost analysis of a chapter - will definitely always receive a comment from me in return (it may just take a while when I'm currently busy).

I know authors that don't reply back, maybe to not dilude the comment count on a fic if people were to use that as a measurement for whether to read a fic or not.

But I think every reader that took a second or even minutes out of their day to comment on what I've written, deserves a reply. So I, personally, don't pick and choose.

Now on to the manner of reply. That depends on the type of comment. But every reply always somehow shows my thanks and appreciation to the reader for engaging with my story.

More extensive ones are naturally the most interesting ones because some of them may analyse the chapter in detail or guess at follow-up events or talk about the characterization and some even offer food for thought about what I wrote.

Often, readers will comment on whatever happened in the chapter and express their emotions on it and I will then also empathize with them and will maybe give detail as to why I've written it that way or what sparked the idea and I sometimes also give a little teaser as to what might follow or ominously hint at how it may be of importance later on. Though of course we should always beware of not spoilering our dear readers.

If they make speculations and offer alternatives or guess as to what happens next or why things happen, I always tell them that I love their thoughts and musings and actually sometimes a comment is sooo good, maybe it even gives me inspiration and an idea how to go on or it offers a take I hadn't even considered and I will then incorporate that into my fic and thank them for the great inspiration and also mention that they had a helping hand in creating this story.

I always love when that happens because I get writers block way too often and then in my deepest despair I get some new comments or revisit old ones and something just clicks. So, it shows again the power readers and comments can hold and why I will always reply to each and every one of them and treasure them.

And as a little addendum, often you have the same readers repeatedly commenting on your story with every update and if they are back again and again I then also engage more extensively with their comments as well. It's a really nice feeling seeing the notifications and going "Ah they're back again!" and you're already looking forward to their thoughts. Sometimes that even starts a thread of conversation below one initial comment, like a little chat. It's awesome.

So, how to sum this up?

- Receiving comments is amazing because

- Writing comments is hard and can take time and doesn't come as naturally and easy as hitting the kudos button

- So by replying you can show your appreciation.

- It is up to you how detailed you make your reply, whether you simply thank them or give further hints and explanations. It's highly individual and depending on the comment and commenter.

- But at the end of the day it will always be you who decides whether you have the time and energy and will to reply

- and a recent survey also showed that readers don't necessarily want/need a reply in return, so they won't be mad if you don't reply.

Hope I could give you some ideas and worthwhile answers to your questions and now I wish you lots of inspiration and motivation and no or only short struggles with writer's blocks on your writing journey 💪🏼❤️ And I'm looking forward to someday reading your stories and engaging with them and you in the comments 💕🙏🏼

[arlecchno]

YES OMG THE POISONED DREAMS SERIES (from what ive read so far) IS SO SCRUMPTIOUS - the print copies have art in them and im just so obsessed teehee . summers fic and MA over the past few months have been the things i looked forward to in the then - futures . cova is srsly taking all of our hearts hostage w that blessed fic LOL its also real fun that the reader in fic has a hydro vision (this doesnt count as spoilers right ?) because ive always personally envisioned (haha) myself with one too . cova also has other works w alhaitham in it that are like kinda sorta connected to summers fic , my favorite being this one , i love the fic description LMAO

dude ive done so much random bullshit because i used to have SO MUCH extra free time on my hands ??? and , honestly dude ive really been wanting to get back into writing on a regular basis but i have such terrible commitment issues with my personal projects its insane . also if you dont mind could you share some of your a/n that you find particularly silly ? i honestly live for memey authors notes

ive also taken that quiz ! multiple times actually (and many others) LMFAO , it was a different answer every time but its mainly a tie between ei and albedo . which is . heavily ironic . because all my close friends call me a scara kinnie which is like . ah yes another artificial human and then throw a creator of one at me like ??????? atp ive just come to embrace that i might be a little artificially flavored in the brain (/hj) . ive also been called a cyno kinnie sometimes because of the terrible puns i make (they laugh anyways though so i mean ..) anyways yeah so if you wanna assign me a genshin character too feel free to i guess , its honestly fun for me to see people assign me a genshin character they think im similar to .

heres …. a spoon i accidentally drew while trying to draw a fish

- jellyfish

i've only read the summers fic until chap 4 (currently reading chapter 5) and it's so good. the mc and alhaitham's dynamic is so funny HAHA i keep laughing every time they have their stupid banters especially in the middle of fighting/interrogating people.

mc having a hydro vision is actually so nice too!! in chapter 4 at the part where they were sitting by the water and mc was playing around with the water by morphing them into dolphins and such was a nice addition to them. having a hydro vision sounds so fun and honestly i kinda want it too now LMAO

i'll also be sure to check out the other fic you've linked! cova's work with the summers fic is truly good and they're hella good at writing, so i'm not gonna miss the chance to not read their other works 🥹

and wow!!! i think you'll do a great job at writing again, and if you ever decide to get back to it, i would drop everything to read your work. no really, you're good at drawing, you make poems, you like solving out stuff, you make your own games— what can't you do???? you have such amazing skills and talents, i'd drop on my knees to see more of your work 😵‍💫

i won't deny that writing is such a big commitment and it takes such a huge effort to get back on your feet, and that's okay!! i think it's really neat that you have your own personal projects, i would say that's a total win!!!! hehe

google docs has this section where it lets you add comments in the words you've highlighted and i took every opportunity to make the silliest ones in some lines i've written for ma (would we consider this as proper annotations? i don't think i would...), here are some of them

i like adding my own author comments in my google docs because personally— it feels like a wattpad comment section, except that it's only visible to you, y'know? pretty silly, exactly, but i like annotating my own work for some reason... i think i'm just hella weird

i kinda see how you'd be an albedo kinnie, actually. well, one, you're pretty artistic, but also, i have a feeling you're kind of a quiet and reserved person irl. i hope i'm not wrong because then i'd be a total fool HAHAHA but anyways... hm... cyno kinnie... you know i can't disagree to that when you've already slipped in a pun on your first paragraph 😔 ngl i giggled when i first read it so... another win for you?

thank you for the spoon jellyfish haha it's so silly that it made my day 😭

[gvenevera]

Searching for Levi by Blessende

Eren Jaeger has three secrets that no one knows about. A. There is a parallel world to ours, a world better known as 'Titan'. B. He has been a peacekeeper between the two worlds since the age of fifteen. C. He is married to the greatest prick in the history of the two civilizations (both literally and figuratively).

[If you were an SNK fan in the early years of the fandom, you might have stumbled upon a fanfiction titled “Searching for Levi.” Written by Blessende in 2014 and published on FFnet, the story was one of the best of its time - a mix of drama, sci-fi, and romance. However, shortly after the story was concluded, the author decided to take their whole account down for personal reasons. Today, there are only traces of the work left online and the series, once spanning more than a hundred chapters, a dozen one-shot side stories, and playlists, now merely exists in memory, but always, in our hearts.]

[treysimp]

i’m sick as a dog rn (i think it’s just a cold but it’s got me DOWN) and was wondering if you could do headcanons of either the second or third years taking care of a sick reader 😭

Aww! Me too lovely! Self-indulgence coming right up! 🛎🍳

Taking Care of You When You're Sick 🤧(GN!Reader/Octavinelle: Azul, Floyd, Jade)

Rating: G

Tags: Reader’s body not described nor are pronouns used, fluff, reader has a cold, Floyd says something suggestive but nothing actually happens haha, implied pining.

Words: 2k

Author’s notes: I ended up writing a short story rather than headcanons, whoops? Snipped it to just the Octotrio due to the length, haha. I just came down with a cold too, (as if just having recovered from surgery wasn't enough lol) so we can both project onto some cute fish boys to drown our sorrows together. 😖

Want more TWST? Here’s my masterlist!

Azul Ashengrotto:

He has no idea what to do (affectionate). Azul will notice your absence from daily activities fairly quickly. He had the schedules memorized of the more ah... let's call them 'notable' students, and that includes you. Grim had been attending classes, but if anyone asked him where you were he would just say something about him 'not being your babysitter'. This was technically correct because you were in fact, Grim's babysitter, but it wasn't worth the breath one would waste arguing with him.

By overhearing the conversation between some of your socially impaired first-year groupies, it appeared you were sick. This bothered him greatly. Humans were much more susceptible to disease than mermen and pathetic as it was, he felt a tinge of charity pull at his heart upon hearing that you were ill. He supposed that he could visit.

Armed with a ‘how to take care of a sick human’ article on his phone, a reusable bag, and a full wallet, he raided Sam’s shop for all of the things that are supposed to make even the frailest of humans feel better. He debated calling in Jade and Floyd for their assistance in taking care of you, but he decided the snide comments of the twins weren’t worth the possible benefits. If you want a job done right, you have to do it yourself after all. Armed with soup, tissues, multiple types of medicine, and hot and cold patches, Azul makes his way to Ramshackle.

He knocks, but no response. He supposed he should have guessed as much, it’s not like the ghosts would answer and Grim is doing whatever that fiery tanuki does on the daily.

“Prefect?” He called, pushing on the doorknob to find it unlocked. With a shrug he traipses inside, scanning around the lounge, the bathroom, and the kitchen. It was beaten to hell, but there was a charm to the small things you had littered around the place to make it feel like home. A tied rag potholder here, a stained apron there, he felt a small smile spread across his face. Cute. Terribly kitsch and with no sense of room appeal, but cute.

A floorboard creaked upstairs, and he figured that was where you might be. Azul headed up the stairs and softly called your name, hearing a loud ‘BWUH’ come behind a door that he assumed was yours. Knocking softly, he called out to you again.

“May I come in?” He asked, plastering on his proper salesman face. You so owed him for this display of goodwill.

“A-Azul? Uh, yeah.” You called, voice audibly hoarse and nasally.

Azul swept into your room and set down his bag of goods, sweeping over your room curiously for information. It was the cleanest room in the whole house, but that was like saying that you got second place out of three entries. There were your books and schoolwork, some knickknacks and souvenirs that your friends had undoubtedly given you, but it was otherwise quite bare. As to be expected, he supposed. After a moment of silence, his eyes finally fell on you. Your eyes were red and glassy, your lips chapped, and you were covered in goosebumps. He felt his heart skip a beat.

Wait, what…?

Azul slapped his hand to his chest instinctually, surprised at the sudden feeling that was washing over him. On the other hand, you looked at him with ever-increasing skepticism.

“How can I help you Azul?” You rasp, eyes flicking between his face and the bag that he had dropped on your floor. Azul looked a little flushed. Was it hot in here? Your fever was making it difficult to tell.

“I just ah…” Azul began, his pulse fluttering as he looked for a good explanation. “I just wanted to…”

Your brow was raised amusedly. How often did anyone get to see Azul of all people be at a loss for words?

“I just wanted to make sure that someone had thought to take care of you… since you’re alone here, and all.” He finished, the flush on his cheekbones darkening. He thought back to the times that his family had taken care of him when he was sick, and also the times that they hadn’t. The times that he was alone. And you, you were always that alone, weren’t you?

“Please allow me to help you… on the house.” He finished, eyes looking anywhere but at you.

“I see.” You say. You eye his bag, his expression, the way his hair was windswept in an uncharacteristic way, “Thank you, Azul.”

“You’re… very welcome.”

Floyd Leech:

He has no idea what to do (insult). Azul had returned from Ramshackle earlier that day in an uncharacteristically spacey mood, and he had a suspicion that it had something to do with you. Telling Jade that he was heading out, he walked to the decrepit building. Opening the door without knocking, he saw that one of Azul’s bags was on the table. Huh.

Rifling through the contents, he found supplies for human colds. Putting two and two together, his face curled into a smirk.

“Azul is making shrimp scampi, huh?” He giggled, cracking himself up with his joke. The soup was chicken noodle, but you had to work with the material you were given. Waltzing his way upstairs to your room, he slammed the door open, which woke you up with a start.

“W-what? Floyd?” You yelled, holding your blanket to your chest in surprise.

There was a slight sliver of skin exposed from the buttons of your pajama top had come loose. Floyd’s eyes flicked to your slipping collar and then back to your face, giggling while he strode forward, flopping to a seat next to you.

“Shrimpy, what is it about you, huh?” He asks, getting dangerously close to your face as his eyes scan for any microexpression that might give away your secret.

“You’re just so… different, aren’t you?” He asked, trailing a finger down the line between your ribs. You frowned and slapped his hand away.

“Floyd, I’m too tired for your weird teasing, okay? Get away, I don’t want to get you sick too.” You chide, trying to push him to his feet and off of your bed with your germy self.

Floyd clicked his tongue, “Aww, don’t be like that. Idiots don’t get colds you know? I’ll be fine.” He said with a grin, the low light sparkling off of his pointed teeth.

You frowned. You highly doubted that but you also knew so little about mermen that he might be right? Ugh, why was everything so confusing?

“Aww, your face is so cute.” Floyd cooed, squishing your cheeks like dough. “Should I sleep here with you? Will that make you feel better?” He asked, getting uncomfortably close again.

“Flowyed, stut upf.” You whined, words muffled by Floyd’s vice grip on your face.

“Fish are cold-blooded, you know? I’d be like an ice pack for your feverish ‘Lil head.” He continued, seemingly convincing himself more than you about why this was such a good idea.

“If you’re really good, we can snuggle naked?”

“FLOYD!”

“Fine, fine, you’re no fun,” Floyd sighed, finally standing up and walking towards your hall. He looked over his shoulder at you as he was closing the door, a mischievous sparkle in his eye.

“I’ll come to sleep with you when you’re well instead. Later!” He cackled, slamming the door shut to shield himself from the pillow you had tried to lob directly at your face.

Feeling even warmer than you had a minute ago, you collapsed in a huff and yelled into your pillow in frustration.

This freaking eel was going to kill you.

Jade Leech:

Something was apparently in the air today, because both Azul and Floyd had gone to visit the Ramshackle Prefect. Jade had to admit that he was quite fond of them, their naïveté about the world they had found themself in was quite entertaining to watch, especially as it pertained to non-humans such as himself. One day they had taken multiple hours to quiz him about merpeople, their food, their culture, and even their anatomy. Jade had offered a “demonstration” on the anatomy portion, but they had sadly refused his kindness. A pity.

Both Azul and his brother had returned with significant mood changes. Azul had returned in a strangely introspective mood, staring dazedly out the windows with his brows knit in thought and then locking himself in his office for the last few hours, clearly wrapped up in some sort of project.

On the other hand, while Floyd was similarly distracted, he seemed quite frustrated. He was being fairly active on campus, running around in search of stimulation. Jade recognized this as being one of Floyd’s many coping mechanisms when he was actively trying to distract himself. How very interesting.

Walking up to Ramshackle, Jade was distracted by the thought of how the gloomy and decrepit building could be well utilized as a greenhouse for some tricky plants he had hoped to cultivate. He filed away that thought for later, perhaps the Prefect would be willing to trade him some growing space in one of the spare rooms at a later date. He would just need to think of something that they wanted enough to give it to him. Well, he was here anyway, might as well try and find out.

Entering the charming hovel of the entryway, Jade notices the Prefect’s shoes discarded next to the doorway. He certainly did not trust the floor enough to do the same.

Walking up the stairs, Jade decided that the best bet would be simply to beeline to the Prefect. He had brought his mushroom risotto along with him, thinking that you might appreciate a home-cooked meal when you were ill. The feedback he had received upon serving it in the cafeteria was quite positive from the other humans, so he was about 70% sure this particular species of fungi was not lethal to your species. Well, the ones from here at least. That is what the other 30% is for.

Rapping his knuckles lightly on the door, he heard a quiet ‘come in’ from inside the room. Jade turned the knob and let himself inside, holding up the thermos with risotto in one hand and one with peppermint tea in another.

“I apologize for the intrusion.”

“Jade?” You ask, “Wow, I think I’ve had more visitors from Octinavelle today than when you all tried to steal this place.” You graveled, weak cough shaking your body as you laugh.

Jade gives you a warm, genuine smile. His face crumples into a melodic laugh, a real one, and he covers his face to stifle the sound.

“Well, the location is still quite ideal if you ever change your mind.” He says, stepping forward to place the food he brought on your nightstand. “Food and drink, I get the feeling that you might not make some otherwise.”

You look wide-eyed at the two containers, carefully picking them up and unscrewing the caps to see the contents. Through your stuffed-up nose you could smell a hint of mint, and the risotto looked decadently buttery.

You looked to Jade, and he motioned to the attached cutlery. Taking a wary bite, your mouth was met with something both delicious, hearty, and oddly familiar. Had you had this before? Your heart skipped a beat at how tender this moment felt. Jade’s eyes looked lidded and fond while tears threatened to well up in the corners of your eyes.

“I-I really needed this, I think.” You say, your ‘D’s sounded like ‘B’s due to your stuffy nose. “Thank you very much, Jade.”

Jade nods, looking pleased. You continue eating your fill and then allow Jade to gather his dishes, promising that he will come again soon with another dish. You were fairly excited at the prospect.

Jade pauses for a moment at the door, seemingly in thought. He returns to your side, but before you can question him, you feel a warm peck at your forehead.

“Feel better.”

Jade leaves as fast as he came in. You sit there flustered and confused.

Is this just a merman thing or what?

Pray for me! I hate phlegm with my entire body, I want to die and to kill at the same time. Why hast mine own body forsaken me?

What did you think? suggestions, feedback? LMK!

Love you, reader!

Requested Tags:

@certe-cose, @readinganas, @yandere-kou, @daeda21, @sideofblog, @buckketboy, @kxhyuns, @aikochan4859, @kumiko-desu, @destinationdesignation, @star-gods, @fragmentedstarlight, @sarahyumiko2, @sappyisyourpappy, @sunnyseaside, @bunntsu, @rebel-faes-writing, @stillserene, @witch-waycult, @fr0llo, @bluesylveon2, @dari-kun, @kit4kat256, @riddle-simp, @fightmecowardlmao, @lovelynai, @chillywinterbreeze, @venniin, @acherrytart, @naniky,