#ah yes... this one was my favorite entry at the time

[foxclcves]

𝒍𝒂𝒄𝒉𝒓𝒚𝒎𝒐𝒔𝒆 (𝒇𝒓𝒂𝒈𝒎𝒆𝒏𝒕 02)

The bell tolled from the chapel, and he watched the procession from its steps, its architecture one that could have challenged him in age and fading color. The old bell at the very top looked black from where he stood under the ever persistent overcast sky, its low peal uneven and fading as its swinging slowed, and slower still. The one who rang it did not see the gathering of darkly clad visitors, walking with slow precision through patches of snow and sleeping grass, the landscape a canvas of grays, browns, and the bleak whiteness that would plague the land for months to come. Upon some shoulders, a small coffin of one dearly departed.

Sometimes, he would watch them be buried, when his reminder did not chide him so; a silver pocket watch, its finish and gleam as radiant as it had ever been, the only thing that had followed him all this time. When he was needed, it would let out a single chime, one only he could hear. But now it was silent, and he watched the plot in the earth awaiting its newcomer. He smiled with respite in mind, pulling into his lungs winter’s own breath. A satisfying plume of air followed.

He descended the stairs and ventured toward the gathering, weaving symmetrically between gravestones and mausoleums. He had been here before, and knew every marker and structure by heart. He remembered the chapel as it once was; a young couple decades old, its cemetery meeker. And how things had grown, how they changed. He witnessed plots filling, tombstones grounded, monuments built or brought in from elsewhere. People of all classes, ethnics, and economic background were carried here to lie to rest, and others continued to follow, all the same now. In the end, it was the ultimate equalizer, the common graveyard. Hallowed ground was the most peaceful he knew of. Disputes ceasing; hostility, ignorance, and misery quieted.

And yet, despite their silence, he would regale them on the newest and profound literature mortality continued to create, technologies and social movements. Despite what their stances on the now or then controversial would have been in life, they could not argue now. ‘Life goes on you see, despite your reservations,’ he would say with his chin tilted downward and his eyes on a carved name or two at a time, in a similar manner a school teacher would have when addressing a reluctant or resistant student. ‘But you are here, now. Worry not, worry not.’

His feet came to a stop at the end of the plot, the coffin having been lowered into it already. He noticed something like a flower, a rose perhaps, with an intricate border, carved into its top center. He acknowledged it with a nod. Hello, again. He glanced over the mournful gathered, hats removed and veils concealing faces. Such crowds, such faces and emotions, used to antagonize him. But now, he just kept his pleasant smile and stood among them as though he was among them. He knew this—grief, to be the greatest agony had to offer. But he also knew something that these sorrowful ones did not. A good decision was made, and they need not worry. Of course, he could not tell them that, even if he wanted to. They would have to rely on their own strength, use their own discretion toward their time, perhaps their faith if they were so inclined. His disposition was positive in spite of their current melancholy, he could not help it. Perhaps he had become desensitized, but mortality was strong even in weakness; humans, remarkably resilient, even in death.

And so he consoled them internally, still feeling what he could for a sleepless mother, a regretful father, the trembling and struggle of a friend, or perhaps lover, he could not tell. When all was said and done, all departed. The plot was filled, flowers and trinkets placed with care to frame the tombstone also engraved with the design the coffin possessed, and words were said, and words were unsaid; kept for a later time, likely.

The cemetery became silent, the occasional crow sounding off in the distance. He regarded the new grave with tender observation, for he would memorize it too; its shape and color, its inscriptions and dates. He stepped forward, placing one gloved hand on top of the tombstone.

The small crackling of fallen pine needles caught his attention, and he looked over his shoulder. A small, black form tread quietly toward him, and he straightened upon recognizing it to be a cat. One he knew very well, in fact. He stepped back, respectively, and pocketed his hands as the cat padded across the grave. In front of the tombstone, it dropped a small, lifeless rodent, and sat with its head lifted expectantly. He chuckled at the offering, despite being used to witnessing such a display.

The cat, by any none the wiser, had a normal appearance and size, even to those with their superstitions. Silent, he was; never mewed, hissed, or snarled no matter what turn of events might lie before him. But his eyes, oh, how peculiar they were; not one color but many at once, reminding one of the iridescent gleam oil possessed once spilled. No slits of pupils or whites were in those eyes, seemingly blind to the world. But when they fell upon you, it was hard to look away, whether you found yourself hypnotized or fearful. But they were not unseeing, and not piercing. They were hollow; reflective, like a mirror. Hence, his namesake: Hollow, ‘the grave robber’. He wondered what people saw when they looked into those eyes, as he was apparently immune to that unwavering gaze. Was it the future, or perhaps a glimpse into their inner most selves? Well, he didn’t quite know.

“Hello, old boy,” he greeted Hollow, who had left his prior spot and leaped up onto the shoulder of a stone angel nearby. “Hunting voles again, are we?”

Hollow continued to watch him quietly, ears inquisitive in his direction. The cat never blinked, of course; he saw everything, as was his niche, and blinking would only hinder him. The two of them were very much alike, he thought not for the first time; undying, prevailing through years and years and more, but the biggest difference was that humans could see Hollow: the strange black cat in the cemetery, its origins and purpose unknown. Such stories they came up with—bad luck, a witch nearby using the cat to spy on things, to determine which bones were most ripe to dig up, for spells or consumption. Or perhaps it was a creature you would not want to meet in the dead of night, as it might expand drastically in size, steal your soul or devour you entirely. Such overthinking, or was it? Perhaps Hollow did have an agenda unawares to him. Or perhaps Hollow spent his eternity digging rodents out of the resting places of many passed loved ones of the wary folk... or excessively licking his nether regions. As you do.

Well, they were right about one thing: Hollow’s primary caretaker was indeed a witch, and a very old one, too. Cranky and brash as she was, her magick was always well meaning and directed towards herbs, medicine, protection, and luck. He happened upon her once, but only from a distance, and he made a note to officially introduce himself at a later time, as he had received many a mouse and small rabbit that at this point, it was rude not to stop by for a spot of tea.

Hollow’s head jerked and his unfaltering stare focused on something, and without warning he lunged from his perch and took chase. He smirked and stepped forward again, clapping his hands slowly when the elusive feline vanished from sight. “Good show, sir. Never will I tolerate a word of you not doing your part. Good show.”

And then, there it was—dark red in his peripheral vision, like the color of leaves clutching still to frozen tree branches. Something swelled in his chest, but when he turned his head to find that the color vanished, he became completely still. His gaze remained on the slightest of slopes where he swore he saw warmth in a hibernating land. It had moved behind a crypt covered in thick, brown vines, its leaves twisted and shriveled. Turning from the new grave, he made his way toward the slope. Snow began to fall, once again.

He walked all around the crypt and peered inside, but he found nothing. A cardinal perhaps, he thought, soaring to a suitable tree. Or a red fox, happening on its way in search for food. But no, something wasn’t right. He could not see even Hollow now, and the grounds were vacant, not even a grave digger in sight. His eyes narrowed, and his feet carried him through the cemetery. Past meager headstones, past names washed away by the elements; persisting through grounds centuries old and paying no mind to what sort of creatures hid there. He passed through a small throng of trees, the wind picking up and whistling by his ears, frigidity not felt.

He came upon a lush trail of velvet and silk, draped and rippling atop the snow. This gave him pause and he inclined his head, eyes following the trail to its end. A woman was kneeling before an elaborate sculpture of two angels; soft in demeanor, reaching out to one another with open arms and arcing wings, but not quite touching. Her gown was impossibly long, its layers of dark green suiting the scenery she found herself in, or purposefully wandered into. Her hair, loose and curling down her back from a bowed head, caused him to reminisce of autumn, fleetingly. She was the one who nearly evaded his notice, and that did not sit well with him.

Curious, and acquainted with a strange familiarity and, stranger yet, dread, he approached her. Methodically, his head tilted to catch a glimpse of her profile, but her plentiful locks were too dense for him to do so. When the woman lifted her head, he stopped. In spite of himself and what he knew better, he wondered if she could hear his shoes crunching in the snow, if she was aware of his presence. She wouldn’t have been. If she were human.

The snowfall continued around them, consistent but subtle. The sky continued to be vacant of any hint of change or an oncoming blizzard; empty of any threat, or snidely keeping any reassurances to itself, if it had any to spare at all. The woman did not move for the longest time, nor did she speak, and he mused if she were deep in thought or if, like the angels before her, she had turn to stone before his very eyes. Frozen, preserved in whatever state her mind and body had created for her, and evergreen skirts soon to be buried under a new layer of snow.

And so deep in thought that he himself had become he almost didn’t notice that the woman let out a laugh. One that crept toward him, snaking its way into the ground and through the surrounding trees’ roots, it was deep, slow, and held no joy. It stunned him as it left the ground and shot up his heels, making his legs feel as though they had given way when they had in fact locked at the knees. If he had any inclination of leaving her to her thoughts, such an action was halted.

In a movement so gradual and fluid, the woman ascended to her feet, which were concealed under her gown. He noted now that she had no protection from the cold, not even a cloak. He could tell from the backs of her arms that her hands were laced together, or that her palms were near each other. Her head lifted to look at the angels fully. “I don’t pity them,” she said. “Such melancholy, to be captured within arm’s reach of your greatest confidante, but to never touch them or feel their breath upon your face. How tragic.”

And her voice, so deep and like warm honey, resonated within him. And yet, why could he not speak or look away? What was this sensation of dryness in his mouth and throat, the subtle aching in his chest? He could not even reach up to place his hand on it, his arms useless at his sides.

“I am familiar,” the woman spoke again, her voice softening into an almost murmur. Surely, she spoke to the angels, and not him. “Yes, and how I remember the feeling of being within arm’s reach, and having it all taken away. And having none to blame, but one.”

The pines around them seemed taller now, and their brittle canopies curved inward dizzyingly. Oh yes, he was all too familiar, but could not recall ever being a direct target. His legs had gone numb entirely, and his arms felt as though they had disintegrated. The faces of the angels—they were angels no longer. Like wax from a lit candle they melted, contorted; dainty hands turning into elongated talons, faces thinning, mouths becoming fangs that dripped.

After a moment, she chuckled. This time, the sound was heavy; charred, as smoke. "Do you pity me, or are you coming to terms with your own mortality, the one you’ve forgotten? If the former, I plead you to worry not. But if the latter, well... I will allow you a moment to console yourself. It can't be helped, after all."

His silence felt like an oath now, forced upon him, and he was stricken for reasons incomprehensible to him. The woman turned to face him, and her bodice revealed a massacre. Torn was evergreen satin and snow lace, ripped was flesh. Her rib cage gleamed crimson and ivory under the overcast sun, and wet blood glistened down nearly her entire front. Exposed lungs filled and emptied with shallow breath, shuddering with her mirth. Her heart was missing. Her smile widened, its corners tugging beyond her cheekbones as though by the plucking of strings. Her teeth, sharp like the dreaded Kludde of the wood. Her lips, red with the bloodied spittle coating her chin like a theater curtain.

“But you should know. The both of us,” she intoned, “We died a long time ago.”

[theresascove]

୧ ‧₊˚⋅ the nerd at the aquarium

🪼 aquarium worker!ellie williams x f!reader

you take your nephew to your city’s aquarium where you met her crouched next to your nephew after having run off in excitement

tw: not proofread, fluff, strangers to lovers, loser!ellie, modern!au, first kiss, holding hands

wc ✎ 1.3k • MASTERLIST • next part

Your sister handed him—your nephew—over, mouthing a thank you before leaving out the front door—heading into the car with her husband. With a four day trip, they needed someone to watch over their son. It was an easy set up, so you agreed and here you are now—your nephew held in your hands. He’s just over four years old, and honestly is really easy to babysit.

You set him down on the floor, crouching to hold onto his hands—eyes set on his, “hey, I got a fun plan for us today. Wanna hear?”

He was immediately a fan of the idea, no shocker there. Eyes sparkling at the idea of seeing the animals there. For you, it would be a field day—enjoying seeing the animals and spending time with him before coming back for bed. Your sister gave you money to use however you wish. The first payment was the entry tickets.

He had a grin on his face from where he sat in the backseat, feet kicking as he asked all sorts of questions. Unfortunately you only knew the answer to like three of them. You helped him out, walking with him towards the entrance where the spell of fish hit the both of you hard. His little nose scrunched and you were lying if you said yours didn’t either.

“Damn this smell,” you whisper, reaching into your bag for the tickets you printed earlier.

“Damn!”

“No,” you point at him, “nonono, don’t say that—especially around your mom.”

He moved on the second he saw what was behind the two front doors. If it weren’t for your hand holding onto his, he would’ve had ran away for sure.

“Oh my—yes I know but we gotta scan these tickets first, or else we’re like trespassing or some shit.”

“Shit?”

You smiled to the lady who scanned your tickets, avoiding the pointed look she gave you. It was fine.

“Don’t say that,” you walk him through, goosebumps appearing from the chill in the air once you were inside. The smell got worse, twenty times worse—but it was gorgeous inside. Dark and blue, light sea sounds playing from the speakers above. Your nephew was having a field day, jumping and dragging you towards the first thing.

“Buddy, buddy—that’s a cut out. We have to go up the stairs, can you come climb these with me?”

He does, but instead he jumps up each one. The start to the exhibits were general fish, smaller circular exhibits. He was captured by the sights, eyes darting around at each fish swimming by. You sit down to his height, looking at the exhibit before looking to him, “what fish is your favorite?”

“Nemo.”

Ah yeah, there lied the orange and black fish—swimming towards the bottom. He quickly moved onto the next, little feet moving fast and helping him reach the jellyfish. He kept putting his nose on each glass, and each time you reached a finger out to push him back just a little.

About forty minutes in, and what you had hoped wouldn’t happen did happen. It’s bound to—with an attention span so short and even shorter legs that keep him hidden in the crowds. He was lost. One second he was standing beside you, the next he ran back and through a gathered crowd.

“Shit,” you curse, spinning to stand and run in the direction he went. You shoved a little too roughly at a few people, but it was worth it to you in your mind. The calm orchestra music over the speakers was the opposite of how you felt, heart racing in your chest.

Turns out he thought each orange and black fish was a Nemo fish—because there he stood at another exhibit, staring at a larger orange fish. As you got closer, you saw the other figure beside him. Her eyes were just as bright as his, full of passion. Her hair was tied back, half-in-half—leaving bangs to hang in her face.

“Nemo,” he exclaimed, looking back to her.

She points lower, “that’s Nemo, but that—he’s a Butterflyfish.”

“Butterfly.”

Her attention shifts to you as you get closer, the light reflecting off the room brings attention to the details on her face—and wow…

“He yours?”

“Yes,” you back up, “well not mine, he’s my sister’s but I’m babysitting him, so mine sorta yeah.”

She has a comedic expression after listening to your terrible story, “uh huh, okay.”

It goes quiet for a second, filled with awkward silence. You sigh, “thank you for, keeping him here.”

She stands, and it brings attention to the name tag on her shirt, “no worries.”

“Oh shit you work here?”

“Shit!”

Your nephew repeats and, “Ellie,” as her name tag reads looks to you with the same pointed look the ticket scanning employee did. You wave her off.

“Well I wonder where he learned that.”

You cross your arms, “his mother.”

He gives you out, turning to point at you. Ellie huffs, “wow turns out he’s not on your side, a true opp.”

You grab a hold of his hand, crouching down again and resting your knees against the small step set in front of the aquarium for the kids.

“How long have you worked here?”

“Four years.”

“Damn, that’s a long—“

“Damn!”

Ellie laughs, and holy hell it’s glorious. You point at your nephew again, “please I beg don’t say that around your mom. It was a slip of the tongue.”

“How long is she gone?”

You shrug, “like four days, we’ll see.”

She hums, reaching back into her pocket, “well I have to go lead this like tour. It was nice to meet you both—but I gtg.”

It definitely wasn’t a coincidence when you showed up to the same aquarium a day later. There was a special guest exhibit too, you had a reason. It totally explained the way your eyes darted around looking for someone.

Turns out Ellie was at the exhibit, a stingray one. She was standing inside, explaining something to these parents. She did end up noticing you, eyes lighting up similarly to how they did the other day. Felt good to know she was also looking forward to seeing you again sometime.

“Ellie,” you call, and right after your nephew did.

“Elsa!”

You pick him up, “he’s leaning. How’s your shift?”

“It’s going, I’m glad to work a different section. Why’re you back?”

For you..?

“For the new exhibit, plus the discount—he loves this place too, it’s just fun.”

She nods, fidgeting with her name tag on her shit. For some reason everything in you just begged to be honest with her. Seems like she had the same idea, lips moving to speak just as you did.

“No you go,” you sound, adjusting your nephew on your hip.

“I, wow fuck. This is unprofessional as shit, but can I get your number?”

You smile and it brightens her face again, a shy grin appearing on hers.

“Yes, I’d love to.”

Turns out you’d be visiting the aquarium a lot more from now on. Your nephew tagged along often, but there were days you went alone—sitting in the larger exhibits after hours, Ellie rambling about random information on the animals swimming around behind the giant glass.

Took some time, but eventually your pinkies would connect—sliding to touch one another. Her rambling would eventually slow and her breathing would even out when she looked to see how you were looking at her.

She exhales, “what?”

“Nothing,” you say behind a smile, voice quieter than a whisper, “just want to kiss you.”

Her eyes flicker down, chest rising quicker as her mind fills with nerves of what’s to come. You’re doing the same, eyes focused on her as you inch closer. The sting music playing in the back growing louder when your lips connect. When they connect again, her fingers moves to encase yours, thumb rubbing softly over the back of your hand.

[arvandus]

A Cup of Affection (Part 1)

Pairing: Barbatos x f!reader

Content warnings: cisfem!reader; short-coded reader (or tall Barbatos, you pick!); reader's hair is able to be tucked behind the ear/brushed aside, but no further description provided; a lil’ steamy toward the end but no actual smut (that’ll be in part 2 *evil laugh*); reader loves sweets/sweet drinks; not proofread (watch me edit spelling/grammar errors later after this has been reblogged....)

**MINORS AND AGELESS BLOGS DO NOT FOLLOW OR INTERACT**

(divider credit goes to @benkeibear)

It was the worst thing he could have ever heard uttered from your lips.

“I think I’d actually prefer coffee today, if that’s okay.”

Barbatos stared at you dumfounded as if you’d grown a second head.  You flustered under his gaze, your fingers fidgeting and eyes dropping.

“I mean, if it’s not too much trouble,” you stuttered.  Your next words came out in a rush.  “Don’t get me wrong, I love your tea! It’s just... I used to drink it all the time back home, and I’m feel a little nostalgic for it.”

Ah, you were so cute when you got flustered... Barbatos could feel his resolve fracture just the slightest, and he tightened his mental control, like sealing a crack in a teacup.

Diavolo laughed.  “There’s no need to worry.  Barbatos’s coffee is just as divine as his tea. I’m sure it’ll be no trouble at all.  Besides, he just went to the market yesterday and restocked the kitchens.  Isn’t that right?”

Diavolo looked at him expectantly, innocence in his eyes, and yet Barbatos knew better.  The corners of Barbatos’s mouth quirked just the slightest in stiff acknowledgement as he made mental notes to increase the young lord’s workload for the next day or two....

“Yes, young master.  Although, had I known the coffee would be offered to guests, I would have purchased more of a selection.”

“I’m sure whatever you have is fine, Barbatos. I’m not very picky...” you reply encouragingly with a warm smile.

Barbatos stared at you for a moment and returned the expression with more warmth than he’d given the young prince.  “You’re very gracious, Y/N.”

Diavolo clapped his hands together excitedly.  “Lovely!  With all of this talk of coffee, I believe I’d like one as well. It’s been some time since I’ve enjoyed a cup.” 

How quickly one’s control over a situation can shift...

The butler bowed low.  “Of course, my lord.  I will prepare it immediately.” He straightened his stiff spine and stared at you, although he kept his gaze at the space between your eyes so as not to give away the heat he’d undoubtedly feel when looking directly into your dark pupils.  “Is it safe to assume you enjoy your coffee like you enjoy your tea?”

You giggled, the sound of it making Barbatos’s skin tingle.  “You mean more sugar and cream than coffee? Yes, please.”

Great. Just great.

Barbatos’s smile remained firm, yet he could feel its fakeness in the way the muscles at the corner of his mouth cramped. He hoped you couldn’t see it.

With a bow he retreated. As soon as he was out of your line of sight, his mask vanished, transforming from smile to frown.

You wanted coffee.

There was only one, large, glaring problem.  The only coffee in the entire castle was Hell Coffee. 

It was Diavolo’s favorite, his enjoyment of the acidic, bitter taste a constant, warm reminder of Barbatos’s fatherly affection. He only requested it when he required reassurance after a particularly difficult day, when Barbatos’s honest feedback and praise on a job well done weren’t enough.  Barbatos had no need for any other type of coffee, especially since he himself was renowned for his teas and cakes.  No one ever, in their right mind, would request coffee when offered Barbatos’s tea.

With each step, the calm butler began to lose more and more of his composure until he nearly slammed the door open upon his entry to the kitchen.

The three Little Ds in the room startled at his entrance. One stirred a large, steaming stock pot, one washed the dishes, and the other was chopping vegetables.

Little D Two, who stirred the pot, saluted him.  “Hi, boss!”

Barbatos glared. “Out.”

The Little Ds wasted no time in rushing through the door. But before Number Two could make it, Barbatos’s sharp tone caught him.

“Not you, Number Two.  You stay.”

Number Two began to visibly shake, his small hand scratching at his head.  “A-Are you sure, boss? You look like you wanna be alone...”

Barbatos did not have to repeat himself; instead, he pinned the Little D with a stern look.

The Little D began to return to the center of the kitchen where Barbatos stood.

“Close the door,” Barbatos ordered. Little D obeyed and then returned to his side.

Barbatos put his hands on the kitchen island and stared down at its wooden, weathered surface.

“She wants coffee,” he muttered.

“What was that boss? I couldn’t hear ya...” Number Two replied, inching closer.

“I said she wants coffee.” Barbatos repeated as he looked up, his brow furrowed in frustration.

“Who does?” Number Two asked.

Barbatos clenched his jaw for a moment before averting his gaze and answering.  “Solomon’s apprentice.”

He’d hoped referring to you by your title would ease the wildness of his pulse, give him the much-needed distance between his head and his heart.

It did not.

Number Two perked up. “Well, that’s no big deal! We have coffee, don’t we?” He began shuffling through the cupboards. “Where is it, where is it. Ah, here it is!” He held it up in victory and placed it in front of Barbatos.

Barbatos glared daggers at it.

Why would anyone ever invent such a thing, anyway?

Hell indeed...

“We can’t use this,” he muttered.

“What?? Sure we can! It’s Hell Coffee, we make it all the-Ohhh.”

Number Two grew very still and Barbatos’s jaw clenched.

The silence stretched an uncomfortable length of time as Number Two fidgeted.  Finally, he drifted in front of the butler, hovering above the busy countertop.

“So, you, uhhh-”

“Shut up,” Barbatos ordered through clenched teeth.  “Not another word.”

But Number Two didn’t know the meaning of the word. “I mean,” he continued, “it can’t be that bad, right?? Some people like it bitter...”

“Well she doesn’t. You do recall how she takes her tea, do you not?”

Two fidgeted some more, his nervousness worsening. “Ah, right. Good point. But how bitter can it get, really?”

“I’d prefer not to find out,” Barbatos replied.  “No, this will not do. There must be another way.”

“Can’t we just drown it out with cream and sugar?” Number Two asked as he began rummaging through the fridge.

“The purpose of Hell Coffee is to communicate fondness, Number Two.  The magic of that cannot be undone so easily.”

‘There wouldn’t be enough sugar and cream in the entire Devildom to drown out that bitterness...’ Barbatos thought.

Panic curled his fingers into fists, his heart pounding wildly in his chest.  Time was wasting. He had to return to you soon or you and the young master begin to grow suspicious.

But then, Barbatos had an idea.  “Tell me, Number Two.  What are your feelings towards the apprentice?”

“Huh? My feelings? I mean, she’s nice and she helps me out once in a while...” The Little D answered distractedly as he continued to rummage through ingredients.

“Perfect,” Barbatos replied. “You will make it, then.”

There was a loud thump as Number Two hit his head on the inside of the fridge.  He popped out, his little black hand lifting his hat to rub a sore spot. “Me?!”

“Yes.”

“I can’t make Hell Coffee!”

“Why not?”

“I’ve never done it before!”

“It’s not difficult.”

“But what if it comes out awful? I don’t even think Hell Coffee is supposed to work on Little Ds!”

“All the better reason for you to be the one to make it. Come now. Diavolo requested a cup as well. I shall make the first, and then I will guide you through the steps so you may make the second.”

----

Diavolo talked, but you were having difficulty focusing on his words as you felt the minutes tick by.

Perhaps you’d made a mistake...

In all honesty, you weren’t sure what to expect. All you knew was that Hell Coffee was the only coffee available in the castle, a little nugget of knowledge that Lucifer had given to you when he’d told the story of Diavolo attempting to make him the coffee himself.

As soon as you learned that little tidbit of info, your mind immediately went to Barbatos. Sweet, handsome Barbatos.  Barbatos who’s presence made your skin hum, who’s soft smile and deep chuckle made your gut twist in the most lovely way.  Barbatos who’s eyes seemed to read you like a book every time you looked into them, and yet gave away nothing short of amusement in return.

He was such a tea enthusiast that you’d never questioned the lack of coffee on his elegant and detailed menu. But now the thought of Barbatos making you Hell Coffee wouldn’t leave your mind.

After all, how else were you supposed to find out how he felt about you? Ask him?  Like a normal person?? Definitely not; the very idea was laughable.  You’d rather take his rejection through small sips of coffee rather than hear the words uttered from his mouth.

Because that’s what you were certain would happen. The acidity would be mild, the beverage more sugar than coffee. It wasn’t like the royal butler harbored any feelings for you, right? Sure, there was respect and friendship, but that was it.

So then why.... why were you so nervous? Why did hope flutter in your chest like a trapped bird?

Silly.

Anxiety twisted deep in your stomach, crushing your appetite and making your small desserts taste like ash.

But a moment later, he appeared, an ornate silver tray in his steady gloved hands, with two delicate teacups of steaming dark liquid.  He set the tray down and began to prepare them to yours and Diavolo’s liking. The close proximity made the delicious scent tickle your nose, and you inhaled and let out a happy sigh.

Barbatos was unmoved, his eyes kept to the teacups as he handed Diavolo his beverage first, and then yours.

Diavolo thanked him with a happy smile and took the first sip and winced.  “Ah, as bitter as ever Barbatos.  Glad to know you haven’t tired of me yet.”

“An impossibility, young master,” he replied smoothly.

You watched the exchange as you carefully brought the beverage to your lips and sipped.

Your heart sank instantly, the sweet tang clinging to your tongue.  It crushed your hope, silenced the unspoken confessions and washed them away to a place where they’d be left to slowly die.

“And how do you like yours?” Barbatos inquired, his neutral smile hiding any emotions worth noticing.

Or, as you’d just now discovered, where none lurked.

He respected you it seemed, had some basic level of fondness since the coffee still tasted of coffee, of course.  But it lacked the sharp, bitter bite that you’d hoped for, the one you’d experienced whenever one of the brothers made you coffee at the house.

You forced a small smile even as you felt your disappointment coalesce in your throat like a stone.  “It’s delicious. Thank you, Barbatos.”

Barbatos gave a polite nod and his posture eased ever so slightly. His satisfaction of your reaction to your bland, sugary cup only drove the painful truth home further, a nail into your heart.

Barbatos didn’t love you.

----

Diavolo stared at the empty teacups in thought as Barbatos began clearing the table.  “She seemed... disappointed, didn’t she?”

Barbatos glanced at him and then averted his eyes.  “Did she?”

“She certainly left quickly enough after the coffee.”

“I’m sure she simply has many errands to run,” Barbatos replied.  “The brothers and Solomon keep her nearly as busy as me.”

Diavolo stared at him for a long moment, then let out a gentle hum.

Barbatos graced his unspoken need for further attention with a lengthy side-eye.  “Yes, young master?”

Diavolo’s mouth quirked up slightly at the corner.  “Nothing... I just... I was certain that her cup would have been more bitter.”

Barbatos straightened up, the tray of now used dishes in his hand, his own mouth quirking up in return.  “I’m sorry to disappoint.”

Diavolor raised a challenging eyebrow at him.  “You do know I can tell when someone is lying to me, Barbatos.  Even you.”

Barbatos’s smirk vanished as quickly as it came, his walls up instantly.  “I have not forgotten, my lord. As such, perhaps you should cease pursuing this topic.”

“Have it your way...” Diavolo muttered.

Barbatos bowed. “If you’ll excuse me...”

He turned towards the castle, his eyes downcast on the half-drank cup of coffee you’d left behind.  As he began to walk back, Diavolo’s quiet voice followed him.

“You’re making a mistake.”

----

Diavolo’s words lingered in Barbatos’s mind following him into the next day, and the day after that.  It haunted him endlessly, making its appearance at the most inopportune times.  While balancing the budget, monitoring Lord Diavolo’s progress on his pile of paperwork, while running errands... he was far too busy to be so, so.... distracted.

Barbatos whole-heartedly disagreed with the young prince’s assessment.  In fact, in all honesty, Barbatos hardly ever made any mistakes at all, at least not anymore. He was far too careful for such reckless behavior.  Which was why Barbatos had a million and one reasons not to confess his feelings to you.  Between Devildom politics, his duties, and your mortality just to name a few, the cons far outweighed the pros... or so he tried to tell himself.

Even so, he couldn’t deny how you watched him when you thought he wasn’t looking, or the way your smile brightened in his presence... or the way you always managed to find a reason to cross paths with him at least a couple times a week...

Barbatos shook his head to himself.  No.  Best not to go there...

And yet...

‘You’re making a mistake.’

----

The truth of those words didn’t fully solidify until he ran into you at the market a couple of weeks later. Barbatos had already noticed how he seemed to be crossing paths with you less than usual. He already suspected you were avoiding him, putting distance between your heart and him.  He’d accepted it, a consequence of his own choices.

That is, until he saw the look in your eyes; the way you couldn’t quite hide the hurt fast enough behind your smile, the way your lips curled in artificial joy at seeing him.  Your words were brief and cordial, but he could tell you were eager to disentangle from his presence.

He’d watched your retreating back with his breath lodged like spikes in his lungs, the longing to grab your wrist and pull you back to him making his fingers twitch.

Barbatos had hoped that preventing an impromptu confession with cursed coffee would have allowed him to keep you at arm’s length, to keep his affections for you separate from yours.

But this felt less like separation and every bit like entanglement.  You weren’t just drifting farther away from him like two separate objects with nothing but empty space between. It felt more like ripping, a tearing of intertangled roots. It was painful and left an ache in his chest where your presence had made a home.

Perhaps the young lord was right....

----

Even so, Barbatos was as stubborn as he was prideful.  He filled himself with distractions to ease the pain, waiting for time to work its magic and ease the empty longing for both of you.

Another two weeks passed before Diavolo took matters into his own hands.

The prince entered the kitchen to see every single surface filled with extravagant desserts and warm breads. Little D’s were at every counter and stove, while Barbatos stood at the island in the center with a piping bag in his hand, his brow furrowed in concentration.

“Are we having a celebration?” Diavolo asked jovially.

“No, young master,” Barbatos replied.

“Then what is the reason for the feast?”

“I have been making modifications to my recipes to perfect my menu.”

“You mean the menu you’ve already perfected three times this week?”  Diavolo crossed his arms and leaned against the doorframe.  “This wouldn’t have anything to do with one particular sorcerer’s apprentice, would it?”

Barbatos’s hand flexed on the piping bag and a large glob shot out onto the cake he was decorating.  He glanced briefly at Diavolo.  “Of course not.”

“Then I’m guessing that it’s just a coincidence that you’ve chosen her favorite color as your decorating inspiration....”

Barbatos blanched and his eyes looked up from his work to take in the state of the kitchen.

Damn it, he was right... cupcakes, cakes, tarts, danishes, marbled bread, muffins... everything he’d made was somehow tied back to you.  Colors, flavors, textures... it was as if he’d gotten lost in his thoughts and his hands had written out apologies in the form of desserts rather than letters.

“Perhaps we should talk about this...” Diavolo suggested.  His amber eyes took in the exhausted Little D’s.  “Okay, break time everyone!”

A roar of cheers erupted throughout the kitchen, and a swarm of dark little bodies vacated the space in record time.

“Young master, I’d appreciate it if you didn’t override my authority within the kitchen,” Barbatos chided as he eyed all of the unfinished work.

“My dear friend, work them any harder, and they’ll all go on strike, and then where will we be?”  Diavolo closed the door behind him and made himself comfortable against the island, a pastry in his hand.  Barbatos returned to piping the decoration onto the cake that was nearly complete.  “You should talk to her, Barbatos.”

Barbatos froze and finally let out a heavy sigh in defeat as he set the piping bag down. He braced his hands against the weathered edge of the counter. “I cannot.”

“Why not?”

“It is not so simple.”

“Isn’t it?”

Barbatos chuckled.  “I sometimes envy your youthful, reckless optimism...”

“You’ve been sulking ever since that day with the hell coffee.”

Barbatos scoffed and straightened his spine in reproach. “I do not sulk.”

“Like a teenager with a broken heart ,” Diavolo pressed with an arrogant tilt of his chin and mischief in his smile.

Barbatos narrowed his eyes.  “If you have enough time to watch me so closely, then perhaps you can explain to me why you’re still so behind on your work.”

“Maybe I’m too distracted watching you clean the castle top to bottom and baking enough sweets to satiate even Beel’s bottomless gut.”

His words got under the butler’s skin and so he started straightening up the space, gathering crumbs of dough and flour into piles, wiping up blotches of icing from the wood grain.  “It is work that must be done my lord, nothing more nothing less.” Then he muttered, “A teenager? Really? You do realize I’m far older than you.”

“Yes, and how many of those years have you been alone?”

“I am not alone, young master. I have you, I have the Little Ds...”

“You know what I mean. When was the last time you fell in love?”

Barbatos froze, his vision blurring. He blinked and it refocused.

Yes... how long had it been?

“Look,” Diavolo said, “all I’m saying is that perhaps this is one area that you’re a little bit... rusty in.”

Barbatos was silent for a long moment, before giving a soft sigh and turning to lean against the counter the same as Diavolo.  “My lack of a love life isn’t the issue.  I can’t afford to jeopardize your position as prince by allowing myself to become emotionally involved with a human. And not just any human, but Solomon’s apprentice.  Many demons still haven’t forgotten how he’d singlehandedly opposed the Devildom centuries ago. I am your most trusted confidant, and as such I must err on the side of caution in all of my dealings.”

Diavolo’s eyes widened.  “Is that why you’ve been doing this?”

“I am your butler first and foremost, young master. You will always be my top priority.”

Diavolo blew air out of his cheeks and leaned his head back to stare at the intricate ceiling.  “I see. I appreciate the concern, friend. However, I believe, in this instance, it’s important that you put a little more faith in me to be able to keep the nobles in line.  Regardless of their opinions, I am the law of this land, and my position is final. Besides, she’s already intricately tied up in Devildom affairs considering she has pacts with all of the brothers.”

“All the more reason to be cautious,” Barbatos replied.

“Screw that,” Diavolo scoffed.

Barbatos gasped.  “My lord!”

“After all you’ve done for me, what kind of a prince would I be if I let the fear of the masses take away your chance at happiness?” Diavolo said firmly.  “You deserve to be happy too, Barbatos.  Now please, for the love of my father, get out of this damn kitchen and go apologize to her.”

Barbatos stared at the prince with wide eyes, before bowing low. “Yes, young master.”

Before Barbatos crossed the threshold, Diavolo called out with a chuckle in his voice. “You should ask her for coffee when you get there...”

Barbatos gave a soft laugh.  He had a feeling he wouldn’t have to.

----

For all of the inspiration and reassurance Diavolo had provided, Barbatos could feel his resolve slip more and more the closer he got to the front door of the House of Lamentation.

Would you turn him away? Run away to your room and allow the brothers to host him instead?  What if you weren’t even home? What if you were with Solomon?

A sharp stab of jealousy reared its head and he forced it back down.

That certainly wouldn’t do him any good, now would it?

He walked up the steps and rang the doorbell as he held his breath.

A silent prayer of gratitude and dread echoed through his mind as you answered the door. You froze when you saw him, eyes wide, your breath caught in your chest.

“Barbatos,” you said dumbly.  “What are you doing here?”

You clamped your mouth shut as you realized how rude you sounded, and all Barbatos could think about was how cute you were...

“I...” he started, and then froze.  He couldn’t say the real reason for his arrival, not on the doorstep where anyone could hear.  “I came to inspect the House of Lamentation for any infestations.”

Your shoulder slumped slightly in disappointment.  “Oh. Okay, come in.”

He bowed graciously.  “Thank you.”

As he stepped into the large foyer, you fidgeted nervously.  He stared the gesture and fought the blush that threatened to creep across his pale cheeks.  “Where are the brothers?” he asked.

“They aren’t here right now. Diavolo called them to a student council meeting.”

Barbatos’s eyes widened.  “Oh. I see...”

He wasn’t sure whether he should thank him or punish him...

He stared down at you as his heart pounded wildly.  “So you are by yourself then?”

“For a little bit,” you replied with a small smile.  “I must admit the quiet is nice once in a while...”

Barbatos’s own lips curled gently.  “Then I promise I’ll be brief.”

“W-would you like some tea?” you asked expectantly.

Barbatos hesitated, Diavolo’s words once again coming alive in his mind.

Ask her for coffee.

But Barbatos forced the suggestion aside.

“Yes, tea would be lovely.”

“Okay, I’ll be right back.  Make yourself comfortable.” You retreated toward the kitchen, and Barbatos sat in a nearby chair.

----

Tea, tea, tea.....

You opened the cannister that sat on the counter and stared at it with wide eyes and an open mouth.

Empty.

No, that can’t be right... you always had tea.

With your brow furrowed, you rummaged through the lower pantry.

Nothing. Not a single tea bag.

No, no, no....

Dread started from your toes and crept up like invisible fingers brushing against sensitive skin.

You had hoped to make this as painless as possible; give Barbatos his tea, allow him to do his inspection, and then send him on his way.  But already things were going awry.

You hummed to yourself with a furrowed brow as you dug out any and all drink options.  Water, milk, juice, soda... none of those seemed suitable for Barbatos.

You went back to the cupboards, moving items around as you searched.  Your hand wrapped around a familiar bag and you pulled it out with trepidation.

 Coffee.

You stared at the bag of Hell Coffee with narrowed eyes as if it was the reason for the lack of tea within the kitchen.

No.  Absolutely fucking not. You’d already made that mistake once before and you’d regretted it ever since.

Panic filled your veins and you fought back the burning sensation in your eyes.

There had to be something....

Your eyes spotted the upper cabinet that was so often out of your reach. It often housed excess demonus when Lucifer’s own cabinets were full in his office.

Maybe... just maybe....

Who knows, maybe Lucifer had received some tea as a gift from Barbatos and put it up with the rest of the demonus?

You grabbed the stool that had become your best friend within the Devildom-sized kitchen and stepped up.

----

Barbatos sat and fiddled with his clothing, adjusting the uniform repeatedly. It felt awfully tight today, the house feeling particularly warm.

The minutes ticked by, time stretched, and Barbatos grew more and more restless. He checked the time.  The tall grandfather clock chimed its gong.

Finally, Barbatos got tired of waiting.  Perhaps you’d run out the back door, leaving him alone in the house...

He chuckled to himself.  You would never....

He stood up and made his way to the kitchen.  When he pushed through the double doors, he froze as he stared at the sight before him.

The kitchen was chaos, cupboards open and various contents spread out on the counter.

And you, you were on a stool, precariously balanced, as the upper half of your body vanished inside a high cabinet.

“No, no, this can’t be happening...” you muttered, unaware of Barbatos’s presence. He could hear the anxiety laced in your tone, the tension tight around your vocal chords. You were desperately searching for something.

It was almost comical, watching you stand on your tippy-toes, and it’d been so long since Barbatos saw you up close, that he paused to cherish the view. His eyes followed the curves and lines of your body, his lips slightly parted.

That is, until you started to wobble...

You could feel the balance shift, felt the scrape of the wood beneath your feet give way to nothing.

That split second of panic, of knowing you were falling, was interrupted by strong hands and lean arms wrapping around your waist, catching your weight against a firm, tall body.

The impact of your body against Barbatos’s forced his own back against the closed lower cupboard, but he held firm, keeping your feet from touching the floor. Your arms were around his neck instantly, survival instinct forcing you against him as if he were a tree.

Time felt frozen for a moment as your heart pounded with adrenaline.

You knew immediately who’d caught you. After all, there was only one other person in the house with you.

Not to mention you could smell the scent of sugar clinging to his uniform, could smell the tea on his breath as his own heart pounded beneath yours.

You were torn between embarrassment and desire, your eyes closed as you clung to him.  But then you remembered the hell coffee from weeks ago, recalled that neutral smile he’d worn when you drank it, and your heart broke all over again.

Slowly you loosened your hold around his neck and pulled back just enough to look him in the eyes.

“I... thank you.”

His green eyes stared back, his skin flushed, although you were sure it was due to the haste in which he had to have moved to catch you. Barbatos held you for a moment longer than he needed to before slowly setting you down on unsteady legs.

“You’re welcome,” he replied.  Then his eyes looked up past your head at the kitchen behind you.  “Might I inquire as to what’s happening?”

You opened your mouth hoping to find a believable lie there, but there was none.  Only simple truth came forth, clumsy and blunt.  “We don’t have any tea.”

“Oh...” Barbatos looked down at you.  “So you’ve decided to reorganize your kitchen.”

The emotion pounding in your chest finally gained enough strength to work their way up your throat and brim your eyes with tears.

“I... I only have coffee. And, and water, and juice, and soda, and...”

Barbatos watched the panic overtake you and he took your hand in his, his thumb gently rubbing across the back of your hand.

“Coffee will be fine.”

What he had hoped would assuage your fear only seemed to heighten it, causing the tears to finally break loose, running wet tracks down your cheeks. You refused to look at him, instead focusing on the details of his uniform.

“B-but... I only have Hell Coffee....”

Realization dawned on Barbatos’s face, and then his expression softened.  “I see... then let us make some.”

He began to step to the side to go around you but you clutched his hand tightly, halting his retreat.  “No, you don’t understand. It’s...” Barbatos waited patiently as you found your words. Finally, your voice came through soft and timid.  “It’s going to be too bitter.”

A soft smile spread across his lips.  “I think in this case I am willing to make an exception.”

Confusion furrowed your brow as he led you over to the counter with your fingers intertwined.  “I... I don’t understand.... I thought...”

“Y/N, I have a confession to make... and an apology as well.”

A few minutes later and the sound of laughter is filling the kitchen with the scent of coffee in rich in the air.

“So you really bullied Number Two into making it??” you laughed.

Barbatos gave you a reproachful look.  “Bullying is a strong term, Y/N... but yes, I suppose I did.”

“Well now I know how Two feels about me, I guess...”

“And you know how I feel about you, too,” Barbatos replied with a small smile.

“Wellll,” you hummed, “Yes, but...” you stared at the two cups of fresh coffee sitting in front of each of you. “I still want to try it...”

It was Barbatos’s suggestion to make each other’s cup, to assuage any lingering doubts.

“Then let us proceed,” he replied.

With your eyes locked you both picked up your cups and took a tentative sip.

Sharp, deep bitterness greeted your tongue and your face soured.  Barbatos’s cup seemed to be no better, as he attempted to stifle a cough.

“Oh...” he mustered.  “Oh goodness, that’s...”

“Truly awful,” you replied with a chuckle.  “In the best way, of course.”

“It really is, isn’t it?” he laughed.  He took another sip and you watched in amusement as his winced.

You sipped yours again as well, and forced it down with your eyes squeezed shut.

“Do... do we have to finish the whole thing?” you asked.

“It’s customary to do so... not finishing it implies you’re unwilling to fully accept the other person’s affections.”

You frowned into your cup with a pout.  “Silly Devildom customs...” you forced another sip.  “Blegh.”

Barbatos grinned, his cheeks warm as he watched you.  “Perhaps, however...” he said, “we can call a truce.”

“Don’t toy with my emotions, Barbatos,” you teased.

His expression sobered from one of amusement to calm affection.  “I promise, never again.”

Your skin felt hot and you averted your eyes down into your cup.  His hand came forward, and you felt him tuck your hair behind your ear.

“I am truly sorry for deceiving you,” he said softly.  “It was a poor decision and one I’ll always regret.”

Your gaze returned to lock with his, and suddenly you’re keenly aware of his close proximity and of the emptiness of the large house.

Barbatos’s hand lingered gently on your jawline, his fingers tucked behind your ear.  His eyes flickered to your lips before returning to your eyes again.

Then he closed the distance and kissed you, his lips soft and tender against yours.  You melted into it, melted into him, your fingers twining into the jacket of his uniform.

He pulled away slightly and you stared at each other. Then he kissed you again, his lips firmer, more confident.  His hand went from your jaw to your waist, pulling you close against him as your arms wound around his neck.  The desire written into his touch, his lips, emboldened you to open your mouth slightly and swipe your tongue against his lips.  Barbatos’s lips curled into a smirk against yours, a deep chuckle vibrating in his chest. He acquiesced to your silent plea and opened his mouth, his tongue meeting yours.

Your body awakened at the warmth and taste of him, the acrid coffee still sharp on his tongue.  You pressed yourself harder against him, and his body pivoted until you were pinned between himself and the counter, your coffee cups long since forgotten and growing cold while your body grew hotter.

Finally, Barbatos broke the kiss, his forehead pressed against yours as his hands tightened on your hips.  “You’re going to make me behave improperly if you continue to torture me so.”

He was taller than you, much taller; you barely came up to his shoulder.  It made the buckle of his belt press against your stomach.

And below that...

Heat pooled in your core, desire heavy in your gaze.

“Oh no, not improper,” you teased, your hands on his hips in return as you looked up at him with pleading eyes.

Barbatos chuckled as he cupped your cheek. “What a troublemaker... however,” - he forced his body to separate from yours - “I would like to perhaps court you before repurposing your kitchen.”

You pouted your lip in disappointment, and Barbatos stared at the gesture with flushed cheeks.  His thumb came up and brushed against your protruding lower lip.  “Don’t do that,” he chided.

You grinned and playfully nibbled at his thumb, trapping it between your teeth.  His eyes darkened. He leaned in to kiss you again, but your words halted his approach just as his lips started to brush yours.

“How about dessert?” you asked against his mouth.  “Our coffee was so bitter, we deserve something sweet.”

Barbatos froze and gave a frustrated chuckle.  “Is this how it’s going to be from now on?”

You grinned.  “Maybe...”

“Hmm,” he hummed. Then he leaned closer to you until his lips brushed your ear.  “Sounds like fun...”

Your legs felt like jelly, your heart pounding so fiercely you were sure it was going to jump from your chest into his.

But then Barbatos pulled away, putting distance between you. “Fortunately for you, I happen to have a wide variety of desserts waiting in the kitchen at the castle. So,” he extended his hand to and bowed, “if you’ll accompany me...”

You smiled and took his hand. “I’d be happy to.”

“Wonderful. Let us take a shortcut.”

Barbatos opened a doorway out of thin air, and with your hand linked with his, guided you through.

Part 2 (link coming soon!)

[thewritetofreespeech]

Gale x Tav

words: 885 rating: T pairing: Gale x Tav summary: As in all things, it seems, you and Gale dance to the sound of your own music. tags: Fluff, Domestic Fluff, so much fluff, I hope you brushed your teeth today, You/Gale scenario, more gender neutral than the others

Ao3 - 1000 Night Series

---------------------------🟣----------------------------------

There were many things that you loved about Gale’s home. First, and most importantly, Gale was in it. Second to that was you liked all the ‘Gale-ish’ touches around the home. His books, of course. His propensity to collect shiny stones like a magpie under the guise of ‘research’ or some arcane activity, but in reality you think he just liked them. The wear spots in the kitchen counter where he stood to make meals, faded from constant use. But your favorite thing about the home, apart from Gale, was the view.

When he showed you visions of Waterdeep from his terrace on that first night they shared, you had been mesmerized by the view. Many a night your mind would drift back to that moment and think not just about being with Gale, but the memory of that view and how much you wished for it to be reality.

Now it was your. The view. The terrace. Gale. And just as you had told him that night, the reality was much better than the illusion.

Looking over the ocean. Listening to the waves brush against the sand. And, if you listened very closely, you could hear music & revelry from some of the bards and patrons at one the taverns down the road. Also enjoying the night air and peaceful moments left freely to them.

“What a brilliant scene.” you turned to look over your shoulder at Gale. Standing in the entry way. A soft, pleased smile on his face as he watched you watching the horizon. “The sunset isn’t bad either. What I would have given some time ago to make this vision a reality. I feel compelled to pinch myself.” You chuckled as you watched Gale move to take his place on his favorite spot. His eyes back on you once he was settled. “Enjoying the view, my love?”

“More the music.”

You tilted your head towards the faint sounds and Gale followed suit. Seeming to be straining to hear it, but eventually picking up on the notes drifting on the air. “Ah yes. Sounds like they’re having fun.” You agreed but said nothing as you continued to just listen. “Do you want wish to join them? I’m sure we could easily find which tavern all the commotion is at quickly with your tracking skills.”

The adventurer chuckled. “No. I don’t think so.” Though it did sound fun, you weren’t interested in joining. Just admiring. “It would be nice to dance though.”

“Oh, well that is a problem easily remedied.”

Gale stood up. A confident, cheeky smile on his lips as he offered you his hand. “Are you serious?” You asked in jovial disbelief.

“I’m no Wyll Ravengard,” he had clearly seen their Blade practicing his dance moves in an attempt to woe you, but for the sake of their friendship Gale elected not to acknowledge it, “but I can handle a simple box step.”

You grinned, then took his hand and let yourself be pulled into Gale’s arms. One hand linking your offered one together while the other rested at the small of your back. His eyes were completely fixed on you as they started to sway to the music.

The space on the terrace was small. Not a lot of room for anything dramatic in terms of footwork, but plenty of space for Gale’s simple box step. Your head rested on his chest. Lost in the movement and Gale’s scent, coupled with salt & jasmine that miraculously showed up on the windowsill potting plants after you mentioned once that you liked their fragrance. With your ear to his chest you could hear his heartbeat, along with a gentle hum of the music for a song that they can barely hear but Gale seemed to recognize.

You weren’t sure how long they were dancing for before you lifted her head from its spot and leaned up to kiss him. Their dancing stops, along with the music. Although, the music may have still been playing in the background, it simply didn’t matter anymore. Nothing mattered right now except you and Gale.

“It’s dark now.” You were confused for a moment after Gale’s announcement, but then realized that the sun had indeed finally sunk down past the waves. The sky not completely dark but a faded shade of lavender, bleeding into indigo as the lights from the other homes began to freckle the shoreline like stars. “Shall we go inside?”

“Not yet.” This moment felt precious. Like that moment in the Weave they shared and you first realized you had feelings for him. When he realized that you had feelings for him after you let your mind’s eye say what you couldn’t. When they realized they may both have feelings for each other. “Can we stay here a bit longer? Keep dancing?”

Gale smiled and was already starting to sway again when he told her, “Whatever you want my love.”

They dance until the sky & sea became a matching shade to darkness. Melding together like they soon would be. Neither one had to ask. It was clear they both knew where this was going. Still, the couple danced to the music and their own tune for a while longer. Holding to the moment for as long as they could while they held onto each other.

[nevernonline]

✧.* grow as we go; svt smau.

entry #22 end it all.

synopsis: over the past ten years you’ve fallen in love many times. one day someone happens to stumble across your journal sitting out on your nightstand and started posting your entries online. after all of your secrets are leaked it’s clear things would ever be the same again.

𐦍 paring: svt members x afab! reader.

𐦍 feat: non-idol! svt

𐦍 genre/s: reader is super angsty low-key, fluffy, sexual themes.

𐦍 content: swearing, bullying, crazy ex’s, mentions of sexual relations, some drinking& mary jane 🍃

word count: 5.7k (some texts in between writing as well)

masterlist ▸ 021 we're so back.  ▸ 023 signing off for now. (coming soon)

Y/N sat waiting for this moment for the past 24 hours, sitting around on Mingaho’s couch, his carpet in the living room, the floor of the shower, literally any spot you can name when he wasn’t at work or out with their friends. Which was a luxury she couldn't afford as of yet. 

Mimi hurt her deep and it wasn’t just her she was hurting anymore. It was everyone around her. Somehow y/n didn’t even care enough about her own wellbeing to do anything prior to the incidents with Minnie and her further threats towards her male counterparts. It hurt her to see the people she loved despite some bumps in the road hurting more than she was. 

Even though Mimi had single handedly been the issue in her life for many years she still couldn't figure out a way to hurt her back. Of course she could publicly embarrass her, call her family, fall in love with a boy that Mimi once wanted for herself, but it wouldn’t be enough, nothing would ever feel enough to get rid of her. Well, other than murder and y/n wasn’t ready to give up one weird fucked up version of prison to get the real one. Some part of her even wanted to just say fuck it and give Mimi friendship in hopes of all of this fading away even though she knew it none of it would be enough. 

Laying her forehead on the clean glass of Minghao’s coffee table, she took in a big ass sigh just waiting for the clock to hit 5:00pm when she’d finally be in her confrontational mode. Nipping (hopefully) all of this shit in the bud. 

“y/n?”

Mingaho walked through the arched threshold of his house, the secret house apparently nobody had been too other than her. Standing in front of her staining his coffee table momentarily with her makeup, just looking at her with his concerned eyes, somehow still as statuesque as ever. 

“Yes?” 

All she could come up with was a simple response, wiping her stain not so secretly with the sleeve of her gray sweatshirt. 

“I got you some food, come on.” 

“Does this food happen to start with a “W” and end with a ‘INE?’ Or anything involving a content higher than zero?” 

“Do the letters THC sound okay?” 

“Wow, yes three of my favorites.” 

Minghao led her into the kitchen, still holding a grip on her arm from his helping her off the floor. Sitting her down at his overly modern kitchen table, where he set her lunch complete with a napkin that had a knife, fork, and rolled up joint sitting on it like it was meant to be used for her to shovel the various dishes into her mouth. 

“A real Ramsay.” 

“I do take pride in my plating and table setting.” 

“Did you roll it yourself?” 

Minghao waved his fingers to her, catching a slight smile from the girl as she beamed at the hello kitty themed rolling paper he had ordered online. 

“Feeling okay?” 

“Despite everything, yeah. I’m just ready to get rid of her at least for a while.” 

“Still not going to tell me what you planned or?” 

“No, sir. Out of the question.” 

“Ah, come on, I can keep a secret.” 

“I used to think that, but you’re friends with Jun now, he’d still find out.” 

“No way.” 

“How do you think I knew you had a garden in the back of your place, he stalked you. He’s impressive.” 

“And not scary at all.” 

“He’s harmless.” 

The pair ate the rest of their meal in silence not knowing how to continue the conversations they had been having recently, both in the same frame of mind and their end goal in sight. Minghao couldn’t lie that Y/n keeping him in the dark about what her plan was wasn’t making him nervous, he had built up a protectiveness to her, something he’d never experienced with any of his other friends. He knew that she could handle herself, but it still didn’t ease his anxiety further. 

“Hey, what time is it?” 

Mingaho just looked up at her, unaware she had been trying to ask him a question as he was in his own head. 

“Oh, uh. 4:30.” 

“Alright. Hand me your lighter and let me get a hit in before I have to dress for revenge.” 

Mingaho just laughed, handing over the black electric lighter to her across the table, being careful to not touch her fingers and go back into his trance. 

He had been doing good the past few days, not intruding on her space with his feelings to much, keeping it just how she wanted it, just friends. Hopefully, for him that just meant until she got the whole Mimi thing handled. 

Y/n took a deep exhale and blew the smoke behind her to not get it into Minghao’s space. The pair's phones  lit up at the same time, letting them know it was time to meet up for hopefully the finale. 

Minnie and Y/n stepped outside of Mingyu’s black car, weirdly the perfect car for their bondess actions, not quite matching their casual outfits to their gut feelings. Minnie linked arms with y/n as they walked up to Mimi’s apartment, waiting for their meeting of the devil they both know. 

“Honestly, I’m surprised she lives here? I thought she had a good job?” 

“Last I heard she did? Some sort of social management or something?” 

“Perfect for her huh? Managing other people's lives.” 

“Yeah, but this.. Don't tell that truth.” 

“Maybe she was lying?” 

“Or y/n, maybe it’s a set up?” 

“No. I don’t think so. Her name is on the call box.” 

“This is becoming even more bizarre than I would’ve thought in the first place, ring the buzzer.” 

“Minnie, you ring the buzzer.” 

“Why would I ring the buzzer? You have longer fingers than me, less chance of being electrocuted or something, plus you have long sleeves you can wrap your hand in. They must protect you from that stuff too, right?”

“I don’t know? I’m scared to ring the buzzer. What if she puts some sort of magic powder on it and it turns me into a frog or something, I hate frogs.” 

“Why don’t we both ring the buzzer at the same time and then if there's a chance that she is some weird witch then we both turn into preferably not frogs but maybe cats or something?” 

“Well the witch thing is true. Okay, together.. Uh, ready?” 

“Sure.” 

Minnie and Y/n reached their pointer fingers together closer to the buzzer of apartment 4C that apparently belonged to their mutual enemy. When they made contact with the sticky silver knob they both jumped as the door unlocked, Mimi must have been waiting for their arrival right next to her intercom. 

“Okay.. Call me a snob or whatever y/n but this place is, uh-” 

“Not what you were expecting?” 

“Right.” 

“Me either.” 

The girls walked through the courtyard following the signs on the side of the bricks that would lead them to the staircase up to the fourth floor to find Mimi standing outside with her door cracked, watching them timidly walk towards her. 

“I see you guys have no respect for other people's time still, you’re ten minutes late.” 

Y/n looked down at her watch. 

“Actually, we’re right on time, see?” 

She shoved her electronic apple watch screen with the exact time running across. 

“My mistake, I guess. Want to come in or are we just going to talk out here? Maybe the best idea considering you guys probably have some insane plan to tie me up and poison me or something.” 

“Why would we waste prison time on you exactly?” 

“Touche, Minnie. Come on, let’s get this over with.” 

Minnie and Y/n gave each other a look of disbelief as they walked into her apartment, clothes strung around everywhere, a board with thumbtacks of documents, pictures of her dog, some weird excerpts from fashion magazines.  Her laptop plugged into a wall socket paused on a scene from 13 going on 30, dirty coffee mugs staining on her side table. Definitely not the place she assumed Mimi was living, especially since Y/n knew her parents were unbelievably well off. 

“You guys can just sit on the couch or at the desk, it doesn't matter. Just throw the clothes on the floor. They should be clean, but I’m not sure.” 

“Is this your apartment? Like, full time or?” 

“Yes, y/n. Laugh all you want, but this is my apartment.” 

“What happened to-” 

“To the luxury one? Well after my parents found out about some of the things I’ve done, they cut me off. Luckily my job had a way for me to find vacant places I could actually afford considering I spent all my money on clothes the entire time I was working for my dad, so I had no savings. That’s how.” 

“Sorry.” 

“Sorry? That’s all you guys can say is sorry? After you basically ruined my life? You’re both part of the reason I’m here right now.” 

“What the fuck? How are we responsible for this exactly?” 

“Well, Minnie. Since you so kindly asked. You know exactly why. Your parents told mine that I am a quote bully unquote to poor sad Y/n who gets everything she wants, so I blame you for that.” 

“You blame us for the way you obsessively have been trying to ruin y/n’s life for years?” 

“Ruin her life? Please, what life?” 

“What life? Are you like.. Doing well? On drugs? Hitting your vape pen a little too much and losing all your brain cells or?” 

“Come on, Minnie. Don’t tell me you actually think her leeching off other people and making them feel sorry for her to get them to hangout with her is actually having a life? Half of you guys are just her barking dogs because she’s too much of a pussy to call people out herself. Even now, you’re here with her fighting with me over a comment I made about y/n. Barking little dog. Seokmin too, just absolutely blind to the fact that she’s a shitty friend to him while he’s picking up all her broken pieces over and over again. She can’t even get a fucking boyfriend, all the boys she’s ever loved have fallen for her best friends over her, Me and Joshua, now you and Mingyu, I wonder who’s going to come and scoop Minghao up from under her considering she’s never going to give him wha-” 

“God can you stop being a fucking cunt for one second? What the fuck have I EVER done to you to make you say this shit about me? What? Tell your parents that you were recklessly drunk driving? You almost killed my father? You paralyzed a woman from the waist down? But, you left completely unscathed, no injuries aside from a little vomit and a paper cut sized gash on your hand because your vodka bottle shattered into the steering wheel as you drove into oncoming traffic? Tried for years to get Joshua to see that the type of person you are isn’t who he sees, that you were brainwashing him? Fuck. I even left and signed your stupid fucking note claiming I was doing all of this for attention, left my life, my friends, took time off of work, just because I needed you to stop trying to take it over and just wanted to give it to you so I never had to see you ever again. You think I actually want to sit here and look at how you’re living just so I can feel good about myself? No, it doesn’t make me feel good, Mimi. I don’t think this would make anyone feel good. But, unfortunately it’s karma. Karma for all those goddamn years of you poking and prodding and sticking daggers in my back until I finally bleed out completely and give you what you want. Well it’s fucking done, it’s over.” 

“What’s over, y/n? Huh. You think you’re actually going to win? Over me?” 

“Hah. I don’t care. Don’t you see that? I don’t fucking care anymore. I want you to get the fuck and stay the fuck away from me for a good long time. If you ever pull any of this shit again, you won’t just have a shitty apartment, you’ll have a shitty jail cell.” 

Y/n stood up now itching in closer to where Mimi was standing, leaving Minnie sitting with a shocked look on her face, almost proud. 

“What? Coming close to me so you can punch me or something?” 

“No. But, thanks for the idea.” 

Y/n took one last look into Mimi’s face before taking a deep breath in. 

“Stay the fuck out of my life. Leave my friends alone. Get a different hobby or you’ll get a very unfriendly visit from me accompanied by a few police officers coming to search your apartment and I’m sure you’ll love the new pretty set of silver jewelry they put on your wrists, matching cuffs are super in right now.” 

Y/n then pulled a twenty dollar bill out of her purse, walking away from standing in Mimi’s face, placing it under a thumbtack on her board. 

“Should get you a couple more trips to the laundry room, you could use it. Let’s go Minnie. Thanks for having us, Mimi. Your place is delightful.” 

Minnie got off the couch turning to follow y/n out, but turning back around just as quickly to look at Mimi feeling her rage build in her stomach. 

“Wait, I think I forgot something.” 

“What’s that?” 

Minnie lifted her right hand and laid a slap that could’ve been heard across town on Mimi’s cheek, making her gasp in pain. 

“Have a nice life, bitch.” 

Y/n and Minnie stayed nearly silent, running down the staircase from Mimi’s apartment and all through the courtyard back through the front doors and into Mingyu’s car. 

He wasn’t sure what they were thinking or even what they did, he just drove away without a word until the two girls made eye contact and started hysterically laughing, talking so loud in between their laughing breaths he couldn’t even make out a coherent sentence. 

“I cannot believe you did that, the delivery was SO good.” 

“What about you y/n? That speech, I mean that was cinema worthy, what the hell. I feel so proud of you after I finish laughing I might just cry? Also you tacking down the twenty dollars on the cork board was such a slap in the face.” 

“Oh my god, nothing like your actual slap in the face? I have so much adrenaline right now I feel like I could run a fucking marathon.” 

“Ew, no don’t do that. Let’s go get a drink at my place. Come on.” 

“Mingyu? Drink?” 

“Yes, of course. And I’ll need a full run down once the two of you stop laughing like two little girls, please.” 

“Shut up, you love us.” 

“Right.” 

Mingyu smiled at the pair just laughing and giggling in the rearview mirror. Pulling his car into the parking lot of Minnie’s apartment, very different scenery than the one they just were at. 

“Wow, you know I just realized I’ve never seen your new place yet?” 

“Oh my god, I totally forgot about that, it's really cute. I’m trying to convince this tall bitch to move in with me.” 

“And what’s holding you back, Gyu?” 

“Nothing actually, I was going to tell her yes, might as well do it now while you guys are still on your high.” 

Y/n stopped in her tracks and held Minnie's arm, prompting them to jump up and down and scream slightly. 

“Wow, who would’ve thought THE Minnie Pinnie would have a MAN living with her. And her boyfriend at that, so adult.” 

“Hate to break it to you y/n, but we are adults.” 

“Psh, I know. “ 

“Okay, so let’s go up to my apartment first, I can lend you some clothes especially since you literally just sat on Mimi’s dirty laundry and weirdly stained couch, and we can wash yours.” 

“Sounds good to me, thank you my princess.” 

“Anytime, King Y/n.” 

“King? Excuse.” 

“It just came to me. Mingyu, do you mind grabbing the ice bucket and some wine and bringing it up to the roof? We’ll come in a few minutes.” 

“On it.” 

Minnie dragged y/n through her apartment, room by room, showing her all the new things she acquired to decorate, even though some of them are partially out of boxes waiting for their time to be hung up on the newly painted white walls. 

“Here, this was actually meant to be your birthday gift, but obviously we got distracted. Open it, open it, open it.” 

“You didn’t have to get me anything?” 

“Are you kidding me? Of course I did, I haven’t missed an y/n gift giving experience in a decade, come on.” 

“If anything I should be the one buying you a gift.” 

“My gift was slapping that bitch, hard, hurry please, I have to pee.” 

“Okay, okay.” 

Y/n tore through the tissue paper inside the pink bag, grabbing a hold of a garment inside and pulling it out, a silk black mid length dress with a matching black knit shawl on top. Something she remembers pointing out to Minnie through a car window months ago. Months before Mimi had entered their life again. 

“Oh my god, you didn’t.” 

“Hello? Of course I did, have you met me? Try it on while I pee, be right back.” 

Y/n took this silk fabric between her fingers and placed it carefully on the back of Minnies desk chair, sliding out of her jeans and t shirt and into the soft buttery fabric of her new dress, pulling the shrug over her arms and shoulders twirling a little, already wishing for somewhere to wear it. 

“Oh wow, y/n” 

Y/n walked over to Minnie with outstretched arms, hugging her tightly as another thank you and confirmation that she loved her gift. 

“I’m sorry we fought, I’m really sorry for everything, especially that you got hurt. I love you, Min.” 

“I’m sorry too, but it's over now, we’re perfect. Can I do your hair just so we can see how it’ll look with the dress?” 

“Yeah, sure. What about, Gyu?” 

“Ah, he’s fine, he has beer and a phone he can entertain himself well for ten more minutes, sit down.” 

Y/n obliged and sat down at the desk once again, letting Minnie brush her hair into a ponytail, slipping bobby pins in it, she was totally blind to what had been happening to the back of her head, Minnie came to her side brushing her bangs back and pinning them too into a perfect slicked back bun, topped off with a large black scrunchie as a hair accessory. 

“Okay, go look.” 

Y/n stood in the mirror, taking a long look at herself, some sort of light came back into her eyes, she looked almost happy. 

“You made me look good, now please sweatpants.” 

“No, you’re wearing this, I just put in all that work.” 

“But, you’re in sweats?” 

“I’ll change too, like a cute cheers to us killing a vampire.” 

Y/n smiled as Minnie very pixie floated around her room and grabbed a cute outfit to toss on very quickly all the while handing Y/n a few lip glosses and eyeshadow pallets touch her makeup up, and in five minutes she came out looking like an angel. 

“Drink time?” 

“Please.” 

Minnie and Y/n walked back out the front door and up the single flight of stairs to the rooftop, little did y/n know lying behind the door to the sunset were the rest of her friends, here to makeup for her birthday one last time. 

“Can we be up here? Sounds like someone is having a party?” 

“Yes, y/n. You are.” 

“I am? I am what?” 

“Having a party stupid.” 

“You didn’t” 

“Like I said before, of course I did. Let’s celebrate, come on.” 

The two of them pushed open the door to a cheer of people, Mingyu smiling holding his glass of beer next to Wonwoo and Vernon who clapped as Y/n and Minnie ran through the door, Minghao sitting next to Jun, trying to push off his affectionate hug, Joshua, Jeonghan, and Seokmin huddling around each other next to the snacks cheersing the two girls who came outside. A few of y/n’s other various friends are smiling and taking sips of their cocktails.

“I must be really dense? You had this all planned?” 

“Duh. I can’t believe you didn’t catch on. Now go, my beautiful friend. Have some drinks, I’ll catch up with you in a bit.” 

“Fine.” 

Y/n was waved off as Minnie made her way over to Mingyu, jumping into his arms, waving to the boys he was sitting with. Y/n couldn’t help but smile seeing her friends so happy, she walked on her own looking over the city to the bar on the corner of the roof and grabbed the first clear cocktail she could get a hold of before turning around to find Seokmin smiling at her like a lost puppy. 

“Hi.” 

“Hello, lovely lady. How did it go with Mimi?” 

“Seokmin.” 

“Noo, no Seokmin, it’s over now I get to know what happened, that's the rule.” 

“Then can we make a deal? Let me finish at least three cocktails and THEN we can talk about Mimi, but a hint that it went perfectly.” 

“Good, come sit with us.” 

Seokmin picked up two more drinks and led Y/n over to a spot to sit in between himself and Jeonghan, she gladly nuzzled in between them, Joshua sitting across from her just smiling shyly, clearly not knowing how to insert himself again into a conversation after the one they had at her house, the tension was obvious but hopefully with the help of her friends he would get comfortable around her again while she made up her mind. 

“Happy Late Birthday, y/n. I missed you.” 

“Thank you, Hannie. I missed you too.” 

y/n wrapped her arm around him tightly after their hug letting it still rest around his shoulders, drinking away as he and Seokmin explained their crazy night out that somehow involved jumping off the pier after losing a bet with some girls at a bar. 

Y/n couldn’t help herself looking between Joshua and Minghao all night, almost like she was trying to force her eyes into making the decision for her. She knew in her gut what she actually wanted, but also wasn’t ready to hurt someone in the process. 

But, something about standing up for herself today made her realize a part of what Mimi was saying was true, maybe she did use people to make choices for her, maybe she was always too scared to admit how she felt because she was scared of the rejection that came with it, that’s why she chose to hide it away with pen and paper, obviously never thinking those things would come out. 

Her feelings for Joshua were nearly life long, she remembered when he didn’t feel like her friend anymore and moved himself into the painful crush category. Ever since fifth grade she couldn’t stop having feelings for him, all through high school, his stint with Mimi, even after he said and did terrible things to her, she did  them back so it was an even playing field. When she first lost her virginity, when she was seeing Mingyu, and even now. Joshua was so evident in her DNA from her childhood, it wasn’t really easy to shake him from her mind. 

Only one person had done it, Minghao. She didn’t always trust him or his intentions, which turned out to make sense once he had come clean, but she knew from the night he spent at her apartment, when he asked about her life, her photos. Even the simple things about him made her like him more, the way he’s always so engaged in her stories, never looking away from her eyes or her lips as she spoke, never using his phone when he’s with her only to take photos or show her a song that reminded him of her, writing down the movies she suggests just so he can understand her weird references she makes. He was a caretaker, someone who never questioned her, never made her feel less than, he always knew how to make her happy when she didn’t want to be. He fought for her, the same way she did for her friends. 

After her two drinks dried up and much of her conversations were lost on her picking her brain of how to make a choice between two worthy candidates, she got up to use the restroom, heading back down to Minnie’s place, on the way back out she ran into Minghao coming into the front door to pick up another case of beer to bring upstairs, he put it down and let her pass by, giving her hand a small squeeze and a smile without saying anything. Subtle but effective, he let her know he’d be right behind her on the way up. 

“Those are all for you I assume?” 

“No, you know I don’t drink beer. Mingyu is a little drunk so I offered to come down and grab it for him, I didn’t want him to get hurt.” 

“How very chivalrous of you.” 

Minghao put the case down and pulled a few out to pop into the cooler, grabbing a bottle of wine and an opener, waving y/n along to the otherside of the roof where only a few people were sitting and smoking. 

“Let’s share that birthday drink I owed you last time.” 

“Sounds perfect. I’m going to steal this blanket, hold on.” 

Y/n walked over to a couple sitting at a small table smoking a joint, holding hands lovingly watching the sunset. Minghao noticed her bright smile as she talked and waved to them while stealing the stray gray blanket from the open chair and skipping back over to Minghao covering them both up as she saw on the plush floor cushion. 

“That’s Mark, the guy I work for. I think I told you about him before. He’s super nice, he’s planning on proposing to her tonight. Maybe we’ll see it happen.” 

“That would be cute.” 

Minghao smiled at y/n’s eyes, lighting up talking about their proposal. He noticed they did that alot when she would talk about people being happy. It was one of the things he liked the most about her. 

“So, Swan.” 

“Yes, Mungbean?” 

“How was she?” 

“Ah, the subtle approach, I love it.” 

“Well, the place she's living in was sort of alarming at first. It’s totally fine, but not what I had expected, especially since last time I saw her she said she was living in some highrise just a few blocks over from here, actually. I guess it’s all she can afford because her parents cut her off for what she’s doing, she tried to blame me and Minnie, but we didn’t even say anything to them this time? Obviously, someone did.. Maybe Joshua or his mom? Not sure.” 

“Well, that’d be kind of silly for you guys to tattle on her like she's a child.” 

“Right. That’s exactly what I thought. Even if she does act like a child sometimes.” 

“What else happened? You guys just talked?” 

“I wouldn’t say it was talking, it was more of a shouting match at first. But it felt good to finally stick up for myself and not let someone else do it for me.” 

“So, she’s fine with it? Going to leave you alone?” 

“I threatened her with handcuffs.” 

“Kinky.” 

“No, the police kind. I said if she ever tried any shit ever again I would come over and her small world would become a small jail cell, something like that.” 

Minghao laughed, picturing y/n upset, yelling at the girl who made her life hell as he poured them both another glass of wine, halfway through their bottle and moment alone already. 

“Surprised she didn’t try to rip your hair out or something. So you guys really just went over to talk?” 

“ No, not exactly, we did have more of an elaborate plan, but we got side tracked. Oh! And I tacked a twenty dollar bill to her board and said she needs to use it to do laundry which turned her face so red I thought she was about to, but Minnie slapped her instead and we ran off.” 

“What?” 

“What?” 

“The last part again?” 

“I know, I was so shocked I knew Minnie was a feisty bitch but I did NOT expect the slap it was so perfect. We laughed the entire way back here about it.” 

Minghao laughed, picturing the two girls running away childlike after Minnie finally let their bully have it. It seemed like the type of thing he wished they had gotten on camera. 

“But, yeah, nothing more than that. Just a bunch of girls fighting and slapping each other, something weird people on the internet would pay a lot of money for I think.” 

“Too bad you wasted your twenty on her.” 

“I can spare it, I think. Plus, she did have a lot of dirty laundry.” 

“Do you feel better now? I mean, less stressed about it? Because I was worried about you today, you looked like you were going to scream at any second.” 

“Yes, so much better. Thank you for this and for dinner and for letting me stay at your place, it was so nice seeing where you actually live, I was beginning to think you were some type of woodland creature at night or something.” 

“A woodland creature?” 

“Yeah, just you never showed anyone where you lived before. I don’t know? It’s really beautiful though, you should have people over more often, it's so cozy.” 

“You could move in.” 

“What?” 

“No, I just mean. I know you were afraid in your apartment alone after a while and I have the space, I mean you could have an office and a bedroom all to yourself, I don’t mean like-” 

“Are you ever going to ask me out?” 

“What? I-” 

“No. I mean. I’d like to go out with you, I’d say yes. We’ve moved faster in all the other steps and we’ve never really been on an actual date, so.” 

“I didn’t think you wanted me to ask you out?” 

“I thought I was the oblivious one.” 

“Oh, I-” 

“I mean at my parents house when we went outside, I thought you almost did. But, you never actually said anything. And I like spending time with you, just alone. It doesn’t have to be anything amazing or special, just us hanging out, unless you want to do something fancy? You’re kind of fancy. I like that. We kind of were getting to the maybe dating part before your art show, but that went to shit and I was dumb and went on a date with Joshua, which I’m sorry about by the way, that's complicated, but I don’t have feelings for him anymore like that, I have feelings for you. So? I’m talking too much, right?” 

“You’re not no.” 

“So? Yes? Unless you don’t have feelings for me which then makes this incredibly weird and we can just be friends. At least think about it. I-” 

“Y/n.” 

“No, really just give it a few days. I’ve never asked anyone out before so this is weird, plus someone who’s my friends and friends with my friends, so.” 

Minghao took his hand and covered y/n’s mouth for a second just to get her attention back to him and stop her rambling so he can finally get a word in through her rant. 

“Hey.” 

“Y/n, I do like you. I thought that was obvious. I thought you just wanted to be friends.” 

“I thought you just wanted to be friends.” 

“I mean I like being your friend, but I’d like to go out with you. Thinking about staying your friend while I’ve liked you all this time and then watching you date someone else would probably kill me a little. So, yes I’d love to go on a date with you.” 

“Really?” 

“Yes, please.” 

MInghao took y/n's hand, holding it tightly while he set their glasses of wine down in front of them and pulled her in for a small kiss on her stained lips. 

“The music started, should we go dancing?” 

“Shouldn’t we plan our date?” 

“That’s up to you, Mr. Minghao. I expect it to be nothing less than fabulous.” 

“Wait, but you asked me out, shouldn't you be planning it?” 

“Is that how it works?” 

“Normally.”

“Okay, I will.” 

“Really, y/n. No, I can plan it.” 

“No. I’m planning. Now come on, let’s dance please.” 

Y/n pulled Minghao up from the ground, running with him to find the rest of their friends on the dance floor, never letting his hand fall from hers almost like a claim. 

Y/n and her friends spent the rest of the night, talking and laughing. Minnie told the story about the slap heard around the world to every separate group of people she talked to. 

When it was finally time to leave, y/n and Minghao hopped in a cab to his place. A place that someday, if things go right could be theirs together. 

When they finally shut the outside world away and got ready for bed, y/n glanced at the various mentions online from her friends, pictures, tweets, instagram posts, and some texts. But, one of them stuck out the most, a text from someone, an anonymous number she never had contacted before something that made her hair stand up on the nape of her neck. 

note: hi! hope u enjoy this final written chapter, the next (two?) lil insert(s) will just to be finishing up this story and then we will be onto the next which I hope you'll all enjoy just as much!! have a good weekend my angel bb's :')

taglist:@sun-daddy-yoriichi@hipsdofangirl@kissesfrmwonwoo@minhui896@wonwooz1@porridgesblog@jasssy051@soonyoungblr@saucegirlreads@musingsofananxiouspotato@young-adult-summer@punkhazardlaw@bibs-world@the-swageyama-tobiyolo@wonuulvr@woozixo@k-drama-adict@90s-belladonna@blaycke@dnylwoo@to-mi-yo, @nonononranghaee@bee-the-loser@mxnhoeuwu

[skitskatdacat63]

Tysm for the tags @fernando-jpg and @rubywritten !!!!

F1 Asks:

Who is your favorite driver?

Fernando and Seb! They come as a pair. Do not seperate :)

Do you have any other favorite drivers?

Yep! But mostly retired drivers </3 I love Mark and Jense! And then for current drivers, I like Oscar, and Max a bit as well(I can't help but feel loyal to him bcs he was my first fav)

Who is your least favorite driver?

I dislike being a hater on main but....#3 and #4. Also tbh I feel neutral to dislike about most current drivers, other than my 3 guys, so!

Do you pull for drivers or do you like teams as well?

I'm mostly driver motivated, I think I'd follow Fernando anywhere, and probably Oscar too. I like and support teams as well but mostly just because my guy is there! It's like, I love Aston, right? They support Fernando, they're willing to do so much for him, they love him, the vibe is really good. But if he decided to blow up Aston tomorrow, I'd be like "I'm right there with you!!"

If you like teams, what team do you pull for?

+ HOWEVER! I am an RBR devotee. Like it's not even that much about the drivers, I like Max a lot, but I think I'll always keep my eye on RBR as long as I'm into F1. I just love the history of the team and their vibe. My fav team of all time will always be RBR 2009-2013, just so special to me 🥹 Not that I was actually around for it but, the way they evolved from a team that was mostly there to bring fun to the paddock to one of the most successful teams of all time, as well as being a fucking energy drink company in a sport full of car companies, is just so cool and inspiring to me. And I love the red bull golden boys so much(Seb and Max beloveds!!!) And I also have an addiction to red bull....But I got into them first so I have a special connection, even if I don't root for them all the time. Them and their aesthetic makes me happy :) they are F1 to me :)

How long have you been into F1

Probably over a year and half by now? I wish I could say I've been into it longer but unfortunately I am an American shjfkgkg

What got you into F1?

I've mentioned this several times before but. I read some oneshot in my prev fandom that was an F1 AU. And I was just like, enthralled. The first time I read it, I had to keep looking up stuff, and I kept going back to it. And then I went on the author's blog, and saw they talked about DTS and how to get into F1. So I tried watching DTS and it was alright I guess. But there happened to be an actual race that same weekend, so I tuned in, and was so into it!! Ah man there's nothing like that first race tbh. I knew only one driver, Max, and I rooted so hard for him and he won 🥹 it was just fun back then not knowing enough to be stressed and having pure focus on one guy. I'm happy where I'm at now, but that first race was cool :,)

Do you enjoy fanfic/rpf?

Yes of course >:) I think I probably looked at the ao3 page for F1 before even watching my first race actually, it's very habitual for me when joining a fandom. I draw rpf and write my own AU lore stuff, and meta and all that. And I think I check the ao3 page at least once a day 😭 its an essential part of my fandom experience

How do you view new fans?

Hmmmm sometimes I feel like an old person, even though I haven't even been here that long. I think F1 has such a learning curve and barrier to entry compared to most fandoms. Like you have to learn so much about racing and the drivers as well until you feel like you actually have a good grasp imo. So I guess it's weird for me to see new fans bcs im like, oh god was I like that back then 😭 I'm happy to see new fans ofc!! But it's also like, good luck on your learning journey 🫡

If you could take over as team principal for any team, who would it be and why?

I am not a good leader, I think we'd crash and burn if I took over a team 😭 they'd be like "Catie! What should we do???" and I'd have a nervous breakdown. Go back in time to be TP for McLaren and be like, be careful who you invite to your garage at the Miami gp LMFAO

Are your friends and family into F1 as well?

Yes! My brother was into F1 before me(what a bastard for not getting me into it earlier.) Which is hilarious though because I pay for the F1TV account that he leeches off of. Like, damn who's the real F1 fan 🥱 I got my dad into it last season, and it was a very gradual process. He's a huge Fernando fan though, which is really fun, and sometimes he's much more positive abt the sport than me hahaha. He likes Fernando bcs they're both old men, and getting to see Fernando succeed last year is what pulled him into the sport. Some of my irl friends know of F1 but I don't think they watch all the races.

Are you open to talking to other fans/friends?

Of course!!!!! I am always desperate to talk to new people, feel free to hit me up always :D I will talk about anything F1, Fernando, Seb, Vettonso, etc related whenever :) I remember I got an ask a while ago last yr that's like "are you open to being friends/mutuals w strangers." It's like, um, yeah??? Its a lot of fun to be on here, I love making connections

Hmmmm ive seen a lot of people do this already so don't mind if I tag you and you've done it already aahh. But I will tag @suzuki-ecstar @sansebastinae @boisinnot @astronomical-light @thatdemonbish

[wholesomefluffdaddy]

Wednesday's new court mandated therapist is having her keep a journal of her thoughts and feelings. Wednesday finds this to be a complete waste of time and decides instead to use it to record her observations of her unusual roommate Enid Sinclair. Wednesday POV.

——————————————

Entry 10

Current Moon Phase: Waxing Crescent 🌒

While the topic of packmates was brought up and it was confirmed that we are indeed packmates, Enid and I have yet to define it's parameters. I plan to discuss the matter with her prior to her accompanying me to my appointment. I shall have to remember to record our agreed upon definition upon my return as I have found my current affliction to cause me to forget things, along with temporarily losing my ability to converse in English.

-YourFavoriteFruitBat is now livestreaming-

"What's up my LGBTs! And by that I mean Lycans, Gorgons, Babes, and Transylvanian Transplants! Today I'm here with an update on Nevermore's hottest slowburn of the century: Wenid Watch! But seriously guys, we need to come up with a better ship name than that. Moving on! What's new with everyone's favorite golden retriever good girl and bad tempered black cat? Let's find out!"

"And while we're on the hunt for our clueless couple, our would-be werelovers, let's check in with chat. Scales_of_Sapphire says 'You're going to get a stake to the heart.' Hey, that's the price of journalism baby. Ston3dGaz3r says 'That's my ex' frowny face. Oof sorry Ajax but the people want what the people want! And it looks like we have time for one more-! Oh shit, my girl just texted me. Give me one minute chat… DIV! You can't send me these kind of pics during a livestream!"

"Chat if only you knew the kind of tail I was getting. Let's just say this fruit bat has a thing for sashimi if you know what I mean. Wait, hold on chat, I think we've spotted one half of our hapless duo. There she is, the one black cat you certainly don't want crossing your path, Wednesday Addams. What's she up to? Let's sneak over while still maintaining a safe distance. Goth girls like these could go off at any moment without the slightest warning and- Shit! Sorry! Almost didn't see you there Enid!"

"What are you doing Yoko?"

"Just showing the lovely people of Nevermore the latest drama around the quad. Isn't that right chat?"

"How do you have so many viewers right now?"

"Ah, well, you know how everyone loves the latest gossip."

"What gossip? Wait. Oh my god-! Did Cario and CC get back together?"

"Girl, who-? Nevermind. Hey, I saw Wednesday sulking off in the corner over-"

"Oh, she's not sulking. She's just waiting for her mate."

"…Her WHAT? Enid! Get back here! Chat, you heard that too, right? What in the-?"

"Hey Willa."

"Enid."

"Oh my god. Chat, are you seeing this!? Did these two actually find a map to navigate themselves out of denial? I don't believe it. I've got to get closer."

"I hope that was an adequate enough greeting."

"More than adequate, silly."

"I see. Dos besos. I shall commit it to memory."

"So what did you want to talk about? Don't you have your appointment soon?"

"Sí, I mean yes, that is precisely why I must discuss this with you. It was my assigned homework and I do not wish to return with it incomplete."

"Okay, so what's up?"

"Our… relationship. I must request your assistance in defining it."

"Oh!"

"What is it that you require of me?"

"Require of you?"

"Yes, what duties shall I be expected to complete?"

"Willa, I don't… I'm not expecting you to do anything other than being yourself. That's what I like most about you."

"…"

"…You want a checklist, don't you?"

"That would be greatly appreciated, yes."

"Okay, well, um, what do you think you need to do in our relationship? Maybe we could go from there?"

"Ah, yes, I assume that is as good a starting point as any. I believe I have a duty to protect you to the best of my abilities."

"Okay and?"

"And I should bring you sustenance, seeing as you have for me."

"Fair."

"And I shall continue to demonstrate my hunting prowess, perhaps with prey larger than the current ones I have been offering."

"Wait, you've been hunting?"

"Yes, I- Have the spiders really been so unsatisfactory?"

"That's why you've been bringing me spiders!?"

"I- I apologize if their size has been too meager, if you do not even consider them prey. I can-"

"Willa, I'm going to stop you right there."

"Yes, of course."

"Okay, so we don't have time to unpack all of that. Maybe that's something you can do at therapy today. Anyway! Wednes, why do you think you need to hunt for me?"

"I… Lo siento- I am deeply sorry for offending you, mi loba- Enid. I understand that you are perfectly capable of hunting greater prey than the pittance I foolishly deemed fit to bring you."

"Willa…"

"How may I make up for this egregious error on my part?"

"You don't."

"Pardon?"

"Wednes, you didn't make a mistake. I mean, you did, but not in a thoughtless or mean way."

"But I have incorrectly assumed-"

"Yeah, you tend to do that a lot without checking."

"Please, help me understand my misstep. I want to know exactly where my misplaced presumption lies so that I do not make it again."

"Okay so, uh, let's see… First of all, you don't have to hunt for me. And not because I think you're bad at it or because the 'prey' isn't big enough because, holy shit Willa, some of those spiders were massive! But that's not the point. I don't need you to hunt for me because I don't need it. I don't hunt."

"But the night of the Hunter's Moon-"

"That was like, uncontrollable instinct. I don't hunt. I don't need to. Everything I need I can just get here."

"I see."

"But I think that it was a very sweet gesture, you hunting for me and everything."

"Than I shall-"

"No more spiders! Willa, please, if you have to hunt for anything please let it be like chocolate or steak tartar or cute plushies."

"Noted. I find it fascinating that you are able to consume chocolate despite your canis lupus genetics."

"Yeah, well, I can't have as much of it the closer it gets to the full moon or I get really bad tummy aches."

"I shall keep that in mind, mon loup."

"Hey Willa? Can I ask you something?"

"But of course."

"Why do you keep doing that?"

"Doing what?"

"Speaking in different languages when you get flustered?"

"I beg your pardon?"

"No, no! Don't get upset! I think it's really cute!"

"Muy linda! Me insultas! Qué he hecho para merecer esto?"

"Willa I have no idea what you're saying but you look adorable."

"Adorable? Je suis tellement en colère que je ne peux même pas parler!"

"Aw, Wednes."

"Cosa fai? Liberami, lupa crudele!"

"Let's get you to your appointment, πουλάκι μο."

"…?"

"Wait."

"…!"

"You don't know Greek?"

"…"

"Really?"

"…"

"Well, maybe I could teach you some Greek words on the way and maybe you could teach me some words in… whatever language you slip into the most?"

"…I find your terms agreeable, mia lupa."

"Holy shit chat! Did you catch all of that? Wait, what do you mean I'm muted? Fuuuuuck!"

-YourFavoriteFruitBat has ended the livestream-

[tickety-boooo]

"Birthday Stars", a Good Omens fic

Rating: T, 2492 words, oneshot. Inspired by the glow-in-the-dark stars that are still clinging to my bedroom ceiling since childhood in a random pattern, as some have fallen away over the years. I bet the old putty has properly glued these remaining ones to the ceiling by now. (This is my first completed fanfic, like, ever! It just flowed out of my hands last night, so I hope you enjoy!)

“Good evening, Angel-” 

“Happy Birthday my dear!!”

Crowley opened the front door of his flat to find his love waiting earnestly for entry, his arms full of wrapped goodies, desserts, an unopened bottle of wine, and a balloon bobbing gently in the air above their heads, the string woven around Aziraphale’s fingers for safety. The only thing missing was someone standing off to the side with a confetti popper. Crowley’s eyes widened as he took in the display and a warm grin crept across his face. 

“Thank you, love. Please come in. Ah, here, let me take something.” He took the top couple of containers from the angel and turned towards his apartment’s small kitchen. “Y’can shove all that on the table there for now,” he pointed a thin pinky finger outward as his hands were also now full. 

“Yes of course! I’ve brought some hors d'oeuvres to snack on while dinner is cooking! And also some assorted desserts for later, little cakes and the like- Ooh as well as our favorite, delicious, Châteauneuf-du-Pape!” Aziraphale, after setting down his various items, held up the bottle under the low kitchen light to read the label, even though they both already knew when said wine was acquired. “1921, the finest!” They had shared a bottle or two in the past and thus it had become a part of their tradition, a welcomed guest at their special occasions. 

“Mm, wonderful decision~” Crowley hummed and pulled out a bottle opener from one of the kitchen drawers. He sidled up to the angel and wrapped his arms over Aziraphale’s shoulders, facing him. “You’re too sweet to me, you know that, Angel?” A humble smile sat on Crowley’s face as he admired his partner with loving eyes. He leaned in to plant a gentle kiss on Aziraphale’s cheek, who chortled lightly. “Oh, you’re worth being sweet to, dearest,” he sang, setting the bottle down on the counter beside them and holding Crowley close. Together they paused, savoring the moment in each other’s arms, warm and happy, each appreciating the other. 

Ding ding! Ding ding! A light alarm buzzed, pulling them out of the peace and alerting Crowley that the oven was preheated. “Ooh, time for the chicken!” He pulled away, but offered up the bottle opener to Aziraphale before placing a glass pan of food in the oven to cook. Aziraphale found two glasses in a cabinet and poured the wine, then went about setting up the charcuterie spread he had brought with him down in the sitting room. 

Crowley finished the dinner prep and grabbed both glasses of wine, holding one out to the angel when he re-entered the kitchen. Aziraphale paused and grabbed the balloon string and held it out to Crowley as a trade. “Swap you!” The balloon jolted down as Aziraphale pulled it, then floated back up in a squiggly motion. It read “Happy Birthday!” on one side and “You’re the best!” on the other. Together they clinked glasses and took a sip of the wine. 

“Mmm, perfect every time.” Crowley nodded in approval, and so did Aziraphale. 

_

For a while they sat and ate crackers and fruits and cheese spreads, and they talked about anything and everything, about how there’s a new bakery down the street from the bookshop, and how Crowley’s plants are doing well (the balloon currently tied around a vase on a side table), and how Aziraphale recently discovered what a “playlist” was (“All my favorite songs in a row! Simply wonderful!”).

“That would probably require you to update your…. personal computer system, Angel…” Crowley stated bluntly. That old thing. He didn’t see how the angel would upload his favorite music and burn a cd otherwise. Not that there was a player in the bookshop with which to listen to it, when Aziraphale was still in the age of the gramophone. 

“Yes but it works exactly the way I need it to for my financial records!” Aziraphale whined into his wine glass. “I very much don’t want to deal with all that again!” he huffed, air fogging up the inside of his glass momentarily. 

Crowley just snorted out a laugh. At least the Bentley played cassette tapes. 

_

They ate dinner. Chicken Marsala over linguine, cooked to perfection by the birthday demon. Knowing how much his angel loved culinary adventures, Crowley had worked over the years to improve his cooking skills. “Delicious, Crowley, my word!” The words navigated their way through a mouthful of food. Aziraphale gestured towards his plate with his fork. “Every time, you impress me even more. You should be a chef!” he said excitedly after swallowing.

“Oh Angel, I’m glad you’re enjoying it~” Crowley gave a big smile.  He was having a wonderful time watching his partner savor every bite he took, his face reactive to each flavor. “Actually it is quite good, isn’t it?” Crowley was proud of himself for this one. And he thought it paired well with the wine. 

After finishing their meal and tidying up the kitchen a bit, they sat down together on the sofa. They held hands, and Crowley nuzzled his head into the side of Aziraphale’s arm. They sat in silence for a moment. He could hear their separate, calm breathing. The angel occasionally rubbed a thumb against the demon’s hand gently. They rested like this until Aziraphale broke the silence. “So, birthday boy, would you like to open your gift?” He sat up and reached down next to his feet where he had hidden a wrapped present, which he handed to Crowley. (On the matter of birthdays, it becomes difficult to pinpoint when yours would be when you were created before time itself, or any idea of a calendar. The two of them had been alive for quite a few thousand years before they even considered celebrating a birthday for either of them. Aziraphale had once suggested they each pick a day they enjoyed for themselves to be their designated birthday. Why not? Humans will celebrate anything; celestial beings should be allowed to have a birthday party if they so wish!

Crowley never really picked a specific date, more so a time of year: early spring. He loved when nature suddenly stumbles awake from her long sleep and blooms overnight, green and colorful and fresh and beautiful. It made him feel hopeful, and peaceful too, like a new beginning. He made sure to celebrate as close to the spring equinox as he could every year since then.)

“A birthday present?” Crowley was surprised as he took the parcel in his hands. What could the angel have gotten him?

“Well I saw these in the window of a toy shop as I was walking about town one morning, and I rather thought you might enjoy them, so…” Aziraphale watched as Crowley ripped open the paper, revealing a package of glow-in-the-dark stars and planets. “Stars…” The old Starmaker gasped softly. Perhaps just a child’s toy, but this gift meant a lot to Crowley right now. It reminded him of his old job he loved, his artistic talent of designing nebulas and star systems, colors and shapes and elements mixing just right to form a beautiful sight. It reminded him of his very first meeting with Aziraphale so, so long ago, when they were two innocent angels yet unaware of what was in store for their lives. 

“Please. Please can we put these up now?” Crowley swiftly turned to look at Aziraphale. The angel read excitement, eagerness, and a hint of anxiety in the demon’s eyes, as he waited for his response.  “Y-yes of course we can! Where would you like to-“ Crowley was already off the sofa and helping Aziraphale up by the hand, leading him down the hallway to his bedroom. Crowley’s flat for a long time had had a cold atmosphere; he had decorations and furniture, sure, but it wasn’t as cozy as, say, Aziraphale’s bookshop. But ever since he and his angel began their latest stage in their friendship, Aziraphale has brought a sense of warmth into Crowley’s flat, with things like throw-pillows he found to compliment Crowley’s sofa, or a candle or two or three placed around the flat. A book forgotten for later lying on a side table. Hints of Aziraphale, tucked into the nooks and crannies. And now the stars, as well. 

Crowley dumped the package of stars and planets out on his bed. He sorted through them and picked a selection to stick to the ceiling. “Well, I can reach here if I do this…” he thought aloud before standing up on the bed and touching the ceiling with both hands, a goofy smile plastered on his face. 'He’s having fun, I’m so glad!' Aziraphale thought, and smiled back at his love. “Here, I’ll hand you bits of the putty to stick them on the ceiling.” 

They set about the task, Aziraphale spotting Crowley and handing him star after star with putty attached to the back, Crowley pressing them against the ceiling above the bed in what looked to be a random pattern from Aziraphale’s point of view. After a while, Crowley flopped down and bounced into a sitting position on the bed before standing on the floor once more. Together they hung the rest in various spots on the walls around his room. 

“If you leave your bedroom light on now for a while, they should be shining bright later when you go to sleep, dear.” 

“Let’s have dessert then, how about it?”

“Indeed!”

_

The rest of the evening was spent taste-testing the variety of desserts Aziraphale had brought with him. “So these are from that new bakery I was talking about earlier!” He gleefully pointed out and named every sweet, every cake and biscuit. Crowley let him lead the way, trying each one that Aziraphale put in front of him. Together they finished most of them, but sampled all of them, and they finished the wine. “Most splendid!” Aziraphale concluded, folding his napkin on the table, but he had missed a spot. “C’mere love, you’ve got some frosting, right here…” Crowley beckoned Aziraphale to lean over. His gentle hand snaked up to the angel’s face, wiping off a dab of cream with his finger. “Oh, thank you dear~” A cheeky look crossed Aziraphale’s face. He took Crowley’s wrist in his hand to hold his arm there, and he put the tip of Crowley’s finger between his lips and licked the frosting off with his tongue. Crowley simply blushed. 

“Ngk~… S’all right,” he managed to mumble. Aziraphale then slid his hand from Crowley’s wrist down to hold the demon’s hand and brought it to his lips, planting a slow, deliberate kiss on the top close to the knuckles. “Happy Birthday, love,” Aziraphale whispered, lips still close enough to caress Crowley’s skin. Crowley could feel the angel’s warm breath against his cold hand. 

He sat there, arm outstretched, red-faced, and heart-eyed, if that was possible. After a moment he remembered to speak. “Thank you very much for my gift, Aziraphale.” He looked him in the eyes. “You make every day special for me, but this evening was simply perfect.” He really meant it. Their arms lowered, but they still held hands at the table for a short while, sharing smiles and basking in the peaceful silence between them.

Crowley could feel fatigue setting in. It was late, and the wine had helped tire him out, along with the rich food they had consumed. It seemed Aziraphale felt the same, as he let go of Crowley’s hand and stretched, inhaling deeply before speaking. “I bet your stars are ready, if you’d like to look at them now?” he suggested. “Absolutely! Come with me, Angel.”

Back in the bedroom, Crowley gestured towards the bed. “Lie down, get comfortable,” he hummed. Aziraphale nodded and sat on the edge of the bed, pausing for a moment to untie and remove his shoes before putting his feet up. Meanwhile Crowley slinked around to the other side and snapped his fingers, shoes disappearing as he hopped onto the bed in one swift motion. The two of them fluffed a few pillows between them and lay back, eyes looking towards the ceiling. 

“Ready?” “Mhmm~!”

Crowley clapped twice and the room was dark. The clap echoed into the silence as they gasped audibly. The off-green-yellow color of the stars shone throughout the room, giving off enough light for the two of them to see each other decently well, actually. “Wow, those work fantastically! Ooh I hoped they would, I didn’t know what to expect from a toy shop,” Aziraphale said gleefully. He turned and could see a wide, excited smile from the demon, like a child in a candy store, eyes full of wonder. “I love it Angel, thank you!!” Crowley rolled over suddenly and kissed Aziraphale, his hands pulling him into an embrace. Aziraphale was surprised for a split second, but immediately relaxed into the kiss, his hand reaching up to cup Crowley’s jaw. They kissed each other again and again. It was warm and slow and sleepy and neither of them really wanted to stop.  Eventually they did, and were entangled in a comfortable cuddle, Crowley’s head lying on Aziraphale’s chest. He spoke softly, “Didj’you notice what I did with the stars, Angel?” He raised a lazy arm, pointing at one cluster of stars. Aziraphale hummed in question. “I placed them like a sky map!”  Aziraphale wasn’t as familiar with constellation placement as Crowley was, but he could recognize a few. “Oh, that’s Orion there, isn’t it?” His arm was now raised up and pointing to the ceiling like Crowley’s.

“Yes, and there’s Cygnus, Ursa Major, Ophiuchus, Cassiopeia…” he continued on, pointing around the room as he went. “There weren’t enough to do all the constellations, unfortunately… Oh but over here, this one’s my favorite, Centaurus.” “Alpha Centauri…” Aziraphale spoke thoughtfully. He spotted the two recognizable stars, stuck on the ceiling as close as they could get, almost overlapping. “When viewed from Earth they appear to be one single star.” Crowley groggily shared his knowledge and dropped his arm back down, Aziraphale’s following suit. “We should visit someday, it really is quite breathtaking up close, you know.”

“It’s a date, then, dear~” the angel nodded, and reached his free hand up to run his fingers slowly and repetitively through Crowley’s slightly disheveled hair. The motion was soothing to Crowley, and he hummed softly as it started to hypnotize him towards sleep. He yawned and closed his eyes.  “We shall have to get you another set of stars so that you may finish your sky map, alright?” Aziraphale spoke once again, but the demon didn’t respond; the pull of sleep had already taken him. Closing his eyes, Aziraphale smiled to himself, pleased to have chosen such an impactful gift for his partner. He slowly slipped into his own sleep as he thought about how much Crowley had enjoyed his birthday evening together with the angel. 

[hackedxy0x]

My top 10 favorite shows (take two)

A couple of years ago, I posted a 'top 10 favorite shows' list right here on Tumblr. Recently scrolled through it again and was very much surprised by how DIFFERENT it was from my current one. A lot of new entries, a lot of new faves (and I have a LOT of faves). So I thought it might be fun to share my latest top 10 for anyone listening in the void. And hey, maybe you walk away with a few recommendations if our tastes are similar. You should note that these are ranked by how much I love them and nit by how good they objectively are.

Gonna drop my old list at the end if anyone's curious too. If not, let's get going.

10. Arcane

Arcane is, simply put, an amazing show. The animation is absolutely stunning, probably one of the best animated pieces of media I've seen in my life and I'm looking forward to seeing more from this studio. It's incredible how the writers managed to take a few game characters and turn them into layered and interesting individuals whose story captures you without fail. My favorite part of it has to be Silco's relationship with Jinx. Really pulled at my heartstrings. The show used to be in my top 5 (maybe a slight bias considering I made the list right after I was done with the show), but with so many new entries on the list, some shows had to go down. Still very much excited for the new season coming out in a few months.

9. Killing Eve

Ah, how the mighty have fallen. This show used to be in second place, but I'm pretty sure that was before the last season came out and ruined everything. Well, the last season wasn't as much to blame (even though it wasn't half as good as the rest of the show) as much as the horror that was the last episode. If I could delete that mess from my head, I would. Anyway, with that little rant being done, the rest of Killing Eve was absolutely incredible and it would've stayed in top 5 for sure. It has amazing humor, emotion, messiness, amazing characters, sapphic tension... For those of you who don't know, Killing Eve features a sort of cat and mouse game between an MI6 agent with a fascination for female killers and, you've guessed it, a badass female assassin. I couldn't not put it in top 10 even after witnessing the last episode.

8. Fleabag

Fleabag's "This is a love story" from s2e1 and her self-depricating monologue from s1e1 still ring around my head. Fleabag may be a mini-series, but it sure packs a punch. A dark comedy filled with British Humour . Fleabag (and yes, that's the protagonist) is both awful and relatable. And if you love morally grey characters, you're in for a treat. Because Fleabag is very much grey. Empty, apathetic, lonely, filled with love, a mess. You constantly wonder what she'll do next, is she going to reach a new low or heal. Another bonus, the hot priest. This one didn't drop much from the previous list, a consistent good. (Fun fact: Fleabag was written by the same person who wrote season 1 of Killing Eve).

7. Gravity Falls

And now we have one of the best cartoons in cartoon history (around the same spot on the list too). Gravity Falls is a classic. One of the cartoons that shaped the modern cartoon blueprint (along with other amazing cartoons, such as Adventure Time, Regular Show, AWOG...). Only two season and it still left such an impact. A cast of lovable characters, an engaging plot that doesn't miss, the funny jokes that are just the kind of kid friendly (baaaarely) that even the adults could enjoy. Just had to put it in my top 10.

6. The Mentalist

A blast from the plast. And a new entry even though it shouldn't have been since I've seen this show a long time ago, but it slipped my mind when making the original list. Rewatched it in the meantime, so here we are. This was the show you watched when tv shows were something that was still mostly for, well, the tv. I used to love getting my daily fix of it when I was younger. Crime shows were very popular (and still are), but Mentalist really did it like no other. The Mentalist was about a fake ex psychic Patrick Jane who joins the cops as a consultant so he can get revenge on Red John, a serial killer who murdered his family. Sounds glum, but a lot of the show consists of silly, murderer-of-the-week formatted episodes. But the star of the show definitely was Jane's slow burning quest to catch Red John. All the clues, the intrigue, the suffering. Not to mention that Jane was an absolute legend. (Shoutout to Cho).

5. What We Do In The Shadows

Another new entry! (Actually, all of the shows in top 5 are new entries except for num 1). What We Do In The Shadows is absolutely hilarious. A mockumentary about a bunch of vampire roomates who get up to all kinds of trouble. A simple, but effective concept based on an existing movie. This show got recommended to me along with OFMD, and it really captured my heart. The humour is silly, a lot of gags about sex and weird shit, but the acting is what really sells it. Ever member of the cast has prefect comedic timing, accent, expressions and a way of delivering a phrase that will have you in stiches. A great pick-me-up show.

4. Bungou Stray Dogs

The first and only anime on the list. I was actually debating if I should place it on spot number 3 instead, but let's leave it here for now. I f-ing adore bsd. I was reluctant about starting it because I thought it was too long, but, finally, it was seeing Nikolai's badass as fuck villain design that made me watch the show. And now I'm drowning in manga hell. How can an update be so short, yet so insane? The show progressively becomes more insane and senseless, with a cast of characters so likable that you're happy that their plot armor is close to unbreakable. The author sure loves to watch them suffer though. Did I mention that the characters are named after real life authors? And that everyone has a sexy rival and trauma? Yeah, good stuff.

3. Merlin

In a land of myth... An entry that should've been old considering when the show came out, but I've only seen it after creating my original list. Did it air on the telly when I was a kid? Maybe, can't really remember. A plot summary. Merlin is a young lad who was born with magic. He goes to Camelot for some reasonn, a place known for having a king who kills people for doing magic. He becomes a servant for a royal prat, prince Arthur. A once and future king who is supposedly Merlin's destiny. Watch as magical hijinks turn into ANGST, OH PLEASE NO. Another show I avoided due to its length, but those out of context videos on YouTube really wore me down with their charm. Not to mention that one "Are they gay?" video featuring Merthur, so I had to judge it for myself. Verdict: up to the viewer to decide the nature of that particular relationship (ship the shit out of the though).

2. Interview With The Vampire

I will NEVER stop screaming about how good this show is! It's so underrated that it pisses me off. Why isn't it mainstream, why isn't it drowning in awards? I'm trying to think of a bad moment from the show and I just can't. The writing, the casting, the acting, the directing, the scenary... High quality stuff. And this is just the kinda show where it's just so obviously a passion project where everyone involved is highly invested in the plot and knows their stuff. This show makes you feel 50 different emotions at once and, somehow, the cast manages to handle that perfectly. Just give them the awards already! One of my favorite things about the show is the use of the unreliable narrator. You never know how much of what's being said in the interview is credible. Anyway, I'm riding the high of the new season, but this is one of the rare shows that almost reached my number 1.

1. Hannibal

How do I describe Hannibal other than a masterpiece. A consistent number 1 on my list. This show combines everything I ever might want in a show. It's funny, it's dark, romanting, eldritch horror-like, smart, poetic etc etc. The finale of season 2 is one of the best episodes I've seen in my life, if not the best. Every plot point wrapped up, every character dealt with. It's kinda funny how the more you watch the show, the funnier ir becomes. Give me a billion cannibal puns, give me Will shaking like a wet dog. It really made me appreciate consumption as a love language.

-----

Anyway, that's all folks. Link to my previous list:

https://www.tumblr.com/hackedxy0x/669381723127185408/my-top-10-favorite-shows?source=share

[twoidiotwriters1]

The Curse of Oenone (Leo Valdez xFem!Oc)

A/N: Yes I'm still using the gifset shut up -Danny Words: 2,811 Series' Masterlist Previous Chapter // Next Chapter Listen to: ''Til Kingdom Come' -by Coldplay

LIX: I Wanna Go Home

"What are we looking at?"

"Ah, Señor Zhang, you know how you're always saying, 'Leo, you are the only true genius among demigods'?"

"I'm pretty sure I never said that."

"Well, turns out there are other true geniuses! Because one of them must have made that work of art down there."

When the eery-looking boy taps away in the Archimedes sphere, all Ara sees is her favorite person on Earth, and the closer they get to fighting Gaea, the more Ara wastes her time staring at him.

"It's a stone circle," Frank raises a brow. "Probably the foundation of an old shrine."

"No, it's more than that," Piper studies it carefully. "Look at the ridges and grooves carved around the rim."

"Like the teeth of a gear," Jason points out.

"And those concentric rings." Hazel adds. "The pattern reminds me of Pasiphaë's pendant: the symbol of the Labyrinth."

"Huh." Leo frowns. "Well, I hadn't thought of that. But think mechanical. Frank, Hazel... where did we see concentric circles like that before?"

"The laboratory under Rome—"

"The Archimedes lock on the door," Hazel nods. "It had rings within rings."

"You're telling me that's a massive stone lock? It's, like, fifty feet in diameter." Percy scoffs in disbelief.

"Leo might be right," Annabeth shrugs. "In ancient times, the temple of Asclepius was like the General Hospital of Greece. Everybody came here for the best healing. Aboveground, it was the size of a major city, but supposedly the real action happened belowground. That's where the high priests had their intensive-care super-magical-type compound, accessed by a secret passage."

"So, if that big round thing is the lock, how do we get the key?" Percy asks.

"Way ahead of you, Aquaman."

"Okay, do not call me Aquaman. That's even worse than water boy."

"You gotta give me something, man, you don't let me call you Nemo!"

"My name is Percy."

"Boys, focus," Ara presses.

Leo shifts his attention to Jason, Piper, and her. "You guys remember the giant Archimedes grabber arm I told you I was building?"

"I thought you were kidding," Jason frowns.

"Oh, my friend, I never kid about giant grabber arms!" Leo rubs his palms excitedly. "It's time to go fishing for prizes!"

While Leo and Jason open the entry to the secret palace, Piper pulls her away from the group. For a moment, Ara feels a wild desperation, because she isn't ready to say goodbye and others can see it.

"You okay? I'm getting big waves of 'Help me!' from you, and I was standing pretty far away."

Ara watches how Leo works from a distance. "He treats machines in a kind, gentle way—they need care as much as us... He'll be sorely missed in camp."

Piper tries to get a real answer. "Ara, what's the matter?"

"Take a wild guess," she turns to her with frustration. "Jason is at risk of dying too. How do you feel about that?"

"I don't need to think of Jason to understand it," Piper responds dejectedly. "I'm scared for Leo too—even if he pretends to be okay, he's dreading it as much as us... I can try and make him reconsider."

Ara gives her a dry smile. "And what about me? Are you going to try and charmspeak me too?"

Piper looks like she might cry, but her face sets determinately. "If that's what my General orders me to do."

"This is my order, McLean," Ara squares her shoulders. "We can't fail, so make sure we stick to the plan."

Piper hugs her. "Ara..."

"It's opening!" Leo calls to them. "Piper, Ara, get ready!"

"Idiot mode," Ara kills the flames on her shoulder, groaning as they walk through the empty corridor. "I would've never thought of that."

"I do the absurd thinking for you," Leo winks, looking just as beaten. "I don't know why Hazel was so worried, it was easy."

"Yeah, right," Jason scowls at his ruined T-shirt. 

"At least now we're seeing a doctor," Piper says. "He can fix us up."

"If he's a nice doctor—but maybe he's the father of apathetic medics," Ara jokes.

"Sometimes I wish you used your inner voice," Jason grumbles.

Piper knocks on the door gently. "Dr Asclepius?"

The guy behind the desk reminds Ara so much of her father—Paul, not the other idiot—that it softens her. He's got the hair, and smiles in the same playful yet calming manner her dad does, Ara almost expects him to start talking to Leo in Spanish.

"Hello!"

"Doctor." Piper smiles. "We'd be so grateful for your help. We need the physician's cure." Six months ago the girl had to lean on Ara to get her charmspeak working, now she's pouring it out of her effortlessly. 

Asclepius presses a hand to his chest. "Oh, my dear, I would be delighted to help."

"You would?" Piper pulls herself out of the shock promptly. "I mean, of course you would!"

"Come in! Come in!"

The tug of nostalgia grows stronger when they enter his office: it reminds her of the infirmary in the camp. It's crazy, she's been away for only two months, but it comes down on her just now, as she's reaching the end of her trip—being so close yet so far from home is pure torture.

"Please, sit!" There are only two chairs, so Leo and Ara remain standing behind Jason and Piper. "So, I can't tell you how nice it is to actually talk with patients. The last few thousand years, the paperwork has got out of control. Rush, rush, rush. Fill in forms. Deal with red tape. Not to mention the giant alabaster guardian who kills everyone in the waiting room. It takes all the fun out of medicine!"

"Yeah, Hygeia is kind of a downer," Leo replies.

"My real daughter Hygeia isn't like that, I assure you," Asclepius chuckles. "She's quite nice. At any rate, you did well reprogramming the statue. You have a surgeon's hands."

"Leo with a scalpel?" Jason gets goosebumps. "Don't encourage him."

The doctor laughs openly. "Now, what seems to be the trouble?" He scans Jason. "Hmm... Imperial gold sword wound, but that's healed nicely. No cancer, no heart problems. Watch that mole on your left foot, but I'm sure it's benign."

Jason's eyes widen. "How did you—"

"Oh, of course! You're a bit short-sighted! Simple fix." He draws out a case and scribbles something on a notepad before handing it to the boy. "Keep the prescription for future reference, but these lenses should work. Try them on."

"Wait," Leo smirks. "Jason is short-sighted?"

"I—I have had a little trouble seeing stuff from a distance lately, I thought I was just tired." He puts on the glasses and blinks a few times. "Wow. Yeah. That's better."

"You look very distinguished," Piper smiles.

"Your transformation to nerd has been completed," Ara pipes in.

Leo snickers. "I'd go for contacts—glowing orange ones with cat's-eye pupils. Those would be cool."

"Glasses are fine," Jason glares at them. "Thanks, uh, Dr Asclepius, but that's not why we came."

"No? Well, let's see then..." He turns to Piper. "You seem fine, my dear. Broken arm when you were six. Fell off a horse?"

"How could you possibly know that?" Piper breathes in awe.

"Vegetarian diet—No problem, just make sure you're getting enough iron and protein. Hmm... a little weak in the left shoulder. I assume you got hit with something heavy about a month ago?"

"A sandbag in Rome. That's amazing."

"Alternate ice and a hot pack if it bothers you," Asclepius looks up at the person behind her, which happens to be Ara. His smile falters like he's reading something nonsensical. "Who are you?"

"Arae Jackson..." she voices reluctantly.

"The daughter of Olympus! That explains it," the doctor chuckles but still looks slightly tense. "You'll be fine."

"Cool," Ara tries to push her sarcasm to its lowest level. "That'll help me sleep at night."

"You sleep? Even better!" The doctor moves to Leo. "And you... Oh, my—Oh, I see..." The god's happy demeanor deflates as if there's nothing left to do.

"What?" Jason demands. "What's wrong with Leo?"

"Hey, doc," Leo clears his throat. "We came for the physician's cure. Can you help us? I've got some Pylosian mint here and a very nice yellow daisy..."

"Hold it," Piper interrupts. "Is there something wrong with Leo? Because he's planning to do something crazy, and if that won't help him—"

"Seriously, guys," Leo presses. "I'm fine, except for the fact that Gaia's destroying the world tomorrow, so I'm a bit bummed out about it. Let's focus."

"So this daisy was picked by my father, Apollo?" Asclepius continues. Ara has to admire his determination to maintain Leo's dignity.

"Yep—He sends hugs and kisses."

"I do hope Dad comes through this war all right," he glances at Ara. "You should too. Now, the only missing ingredient is the heartbeat of the chained god."

"I have it," Piper says. "At least... I can summon the makhai."

"Excellent. Just a moment, dear—Spike, are you ready?" The doctor asks to his staff.

Leo can't help snorting. "Your snake's name is Spike?" The python spreads its deathly-looking crown with a hiss. "My bad," he squeaks. "Of course your name is Spike."

"He's a little grumpy," Asclepius explains. "People are always confusing my staff with the staff of Hermes, which has two snakes, obviously. Over the centuries, people have called Hermes's staff the symbol of medicine, when of course it should be my staff. Spike feels slighted. George and Martha get all the attention."

"Unacceptable," Ara retorts plainly.

"Pylosian mint—certainty of death," the god lists the ingredients on his desk. "The curse of Delos—anchoring that which cannot be anchored. Now the final ingredient: the heartbeat of the chained god—chaos, violence and fear of mortality—My dear, you may release the makhai."

Wind surrounds Piper before it slides across the desk, carrying screams with it, and landing directly into Spike's mouth. The python then swallows the rest of the ingredients.

"Won't the poison hurt him?" Jason asks with curiosity.

"No, no," Asclepius brushes it off. "Wait and see."

Spike regurgitates a glass tube containing a dark reddish liquid that looks like thick blood, it's fragile, thin, and unassumingly small. "Lovely," Ara gulps, feeling sick. "That's it?"

"The physician's cure." Asclepius picks up the vial and blinks in confusion. "Wait... why did I agree to make this?"

"Because we need it to save the world. It's very important. You're the only one who can help us." Piper says, reaching out for it.

"Of course," Asclepius smiles again. "I forgot. But you must be careful. Hades hates it when I raise people from the dead. The last time I gave someone this potion, the Lord of the Underworld complained to Zeus, and I was killed by a lightning bolt. BOOM!"

Ara makes a face. "I know how that feels..."

Leo tilts his head. "You look pretty good for a dead guy."

"Oh, I got better. That was part of the compromise. You see, when Zeus killed me, my father Apollo got very upset. He couldn't take out his anger on Zeus directly; the king of the gods was much too powerful. So Apollo took revenge on the makers of lightning bolts instead. He killed some of the Elder Cyclopes. For that, Zeus punished Apollo... quite severely. Finally, to make peace, Zeus agreed to make me a god of medicine, with the understanding that I wouldn't bring anyone else back to life. And yet here I am... giving you the cure."

"Because you realize how important this is," Piper insists when the god's eyes lose focus. "You're willing to make an exception."

"Yes... At any rate, the potion must be administered as soon as possible after death. It can be injected or poured into the mouth. And there is only enough for one person. Do you understand me?" He looks pointedly at Leo.

"We understand," Piper glances at the boy with concern. "Are you sure you don't want to come with us, Asclepius? Your guardian is out of commission. You'd be really helpful aboard the Argo II."

"The Argo... back when I was a demigod, I sailed on the original ship, you know," he smiles. "Ah, to be a carefree adventurer again!"

"Yeah..." Jason lowers his gaze and pouts. "Carefree."

"But, alas, I cannot. Zeus will already be quite angry with me for helping you. Besides, the guardian will reprogram itself soon. You should leave. Best wishes, demigods. And, if you see my father again, please... give him my regrets."

This is a haven she'll miss, but she must face the world no matter how much it stresses her out—it is what she asked for, after all. Ara doesn't want to leave, but the reason she wants to stay is ridiculous.

"Birdy?" Leo tugs her hand. "Time to go."

The girl clears her throat and nods, turning around quickly. "Gods, I miss my parents."

"So where are you putting that?" Percy asks. "It has to be close to you when you die, so where are you keeping it?"

"Festus," Ara and Leo reply.

"We've been working on something... Leo did, since we started building the ship," Ara glances at the boy, still grumpy about it. "The blueprints never made much sense because they were two machines combined."

Annabeth raises a brow. "You're trusting Festus will work perfectly on its first try?"

"All my machines work on their first try, Chase, don't insult me," Leo scoffs.

No one speaks against it, all they know is they've been talking to Nike and Apollo, and their plan is solid enough to give them a glimmer of hope. That is all they'll get while handling two prophecies at once.

"Okay, then!" Leo claps, bringing them out of their stupor. "Athens tomorrow morning, gang. Be ready to fight some giants."

"Yeah..." Frank heaves a sigh. "I know I'll sleep well."

***

Leo sets the cure in place. "That'll do."

He traces the outline of Festus's open panel with reverence and Ara's heart tightens at the scene. Leo spent months perfecting the ship, and now they'll have to say goodbye to it... It's meant to be, but that doesn't mean it hurts less.

"Stop staring like that," Leo mumbles. "You make me feel like a wounded animal."

Ara looks away. "I know we didn't have a blast here... but I love this spanking hot war machine."

Leo scans the room wistfully. "We had our first kiss here, remember?"

All she can do is nod. Leo stands and hugs her loosely, leaning his head on her shoulder. Ara takes a shaky breath. "Such clumsy and unromantic first kiss—"

"Shut up." Leo scolds her. "You don't get to decide what it was. It's my first kiss. Mine." He shakes his head and steps back slightly. "I've heard all of your stories—even the ones you probably don't want me to know, and they tell me that inside this immaculate Barbie, there is a human girl who doesn't care about perfection. Why do you torture yourself like this?"

"That Ara isn't good enough," she scowls. "I'm better this way."

Leo frowns. "Do you know how much I love you just the way you are?"

"Do you know how long it took me to become the Ara that you know?" She asks back. "Nothing comes naturally, Leo. I don't wake up and simply exist—it's a full-time job..." Her voice dies a little, her words reminding her of what Eros hissed at Nico.

"Love is no game! It is no flowery softness! It is hard work—a quest that never ends. It demands everything from you—especially the truth. Only then does it yield rewards."

Ara's voice quivers. "I know you love me, Leo... I don't think I've done a good job loving you, that's all."

The boy cradles her face so she looks at him. "You warned me of the risks, and I fell in love anyway. You didn't trick me into being here, and I'll never regret it."

"I'm sorry," she sulks. "I focused on being a leader and I pushed our relationship aside, I should've—"

"Look at me," he insists, holding her firmly. "I dare you to say we weren't happy."

Ara tears up. "I thought I had more than enough to get by and then... I met you. I laughed and loved so much—life was beautiful for a moment. I was so lucky."

Leo's hands are shaking, but he manages a crooked smile. "Honestly, I still can't believe my luck either. My girlfriend is the hottest girl to ever live—" He lowers his gaze a moment when his voice breaks, unable to hide his true feelings. "Gods, Ara..." he takes a shaky breath. "I used to be so lonely."

Festus interrupts and Leo responds without looking up. "Yeah, buddy, it's time." The dragon creaks again and the boy chuckles weakly. "Yes, she'll wait for us. Won't you, doll?"

Ara pouts and nods, Leo wipes the tears from her face tenderly. "I've been waiting on you my whole life, and I'd like to say there is no pressure, but..."

Leo smirks. "I love a challenge."

Ara grins through the tears, then glances at the cure in Festus's panel. "So this is really happening, huh?"

"Too late to change plans," the boy nods, also staring at the vial.

"You can sleep in my cabin tonight."

"PUT SOME CLOTHES ON!" Bufford hollers.

They burst out laughing. "Don't worry, son," Leo tells the small table as he closes the access panel. He then holds Ara's hand and pulls her out of the engine room. "We'll save that part for when I get back."

Next Chapter –>

Taglist.

@siriuslysirius1107 @ask-giggles1303 @im-planning-something-look @bandshirts-andbooks @coolninjapaper @thewaterlily @whenisthefall @1randomcomic @you-bloody-shank @sunflowergraves @owlalex44 @taylordaughter @typicalsolangelolover @writingmia @espressopatronum454 @slytherinnqueen @orbitingpolaris @obxstiles @ellipsisspelled @thepixiechicksh @ebony-reine-vibes

[giggly-squiggily]

Hello, Squig! I hope you are well!

Let this ask serve as a blank entry for your headcanon to drabble event. Write whatever YOU want to write for whoever YOU wish to write for. I'll be happy knowing you enjoyed writing the drabble that comes out of this.

I hope you have a lovely day!

*points* YOU! *brings you a plate of your favorite desserts* You are amazing and I treasure you now. Thank you so, so much! Gang- we're writing Lee!Nozel tonight!

Credit to the lovely @duckymcdoorknob- this was one the fabulous headcanons she shared with me in this post and I couldn't get it out of my head alkjrjkarjej Thank you friend for feeding my endless brain rot about these characters :3

“I’m not ticklish.”

“Really?” Rill blinked, amazed. He had been in a playful mood this afternoon- waiting for Julius and Marx to arrive left him bored and restless. In an effort to entertain himself, he decided to see if any of his fellow captain’s were ticklish.

“Yes, really. Now- unhand me.” Nozel was like a stone, unmoved and unfazed by Rill’s sudden attack. If anything, he seemed irritated, but that was his normal. “Go bother someone else.”

“Since when?” Yami, who had already been ambushed with little to no reaction, grinned around his cigarette. “Last time I checked, you were pretty bad, birdy.”

“Shut your mouth, foreigner.”

“Make me, princess.”

“Enough of that.” Fuegoleon raised a hand before Nozel could raise his grimoire. “There’s no need to fight-” He paused then, brows furrowing. “What do you mean ‘last time you checked?’”

“I mean what I said. Last time I checked, eagle man here was pretty ticklish.” Yami got up from his seat, slowly making his way around the table towards them. “I can prove it too.”

“Do you wish to die this evening?” Nozel bristled, leaning away from the approaching man. “I’ll fill your blood with so much mercury-”

“Scary. Fuego, grab him.”

“Very well.”

“Traitor-” Nozel hissed when hands grabbed his shoulders. Yami was upon him in seconds, immediately going for the ribs. “Stop that this instant-”

“Wow, no way!” Rill was grinning, eyes shining as he watched Nozel’s calm composure begin to crumble, hands batting at Yami’s as he struggled to fight down the giggles. “Nozel really IS ticklish!”

“Come on, don’t fight it.” Yami adjusted his moves, one hand tapping along his highest rib while the other kneaded his waist, looking for a weak spot. “Don’t make me push past my limits, birdy.”

“I to-old you to st-op! I’m not t-ticklish!” Nozel grunted out, his voice cracking as he set his jaw. Behind him, Fuegoleon cleared his throat.

“Hips, Yami.”

“Ah.” Yami did just so.

“You son of a-AH! Aheahhhahhahahahaa!” Nozel couldn’t finish the sentence as loud, beautiful laughter spilled over his lips, his worst spot being squeezed with reckless abandon. “Yohoohoohu dahhahahamn ohooohohoohafs, geheheheheht the heheheheehell ohooohohohoff mehehehehheehe!”

“PFFT- holy crap! That’s amazing!” Jack busted out laughing, absolutely delighted at the sight. Charlotte was struggling to keep a smile off her face while Dorothy cheered them on, giggling just as much. William had his entire body turned away, shoulders shaking with soft snorts.

“Best captain meeting ever.” Rill sighed, already planning his next painting as he leaned into his hand.

Send me a headcanon and I'll write a dabble for it!

[teramancers-devlog]

Type/A : Cosmic Type/B : Dark Diet: Unknown Avg. Height: 3’6"/ 106cm

"Yet another of the Teraforms that originate from the cosmos. Xatalite are rarely seen, but every few decades sightings are reported. One of the more enigmatic aspects of Xatalites is the weapon they wield, which somehow holds the ability to suspend antimatter in the shape of a blade of sorts. It is unknown how said weapon functions, and it is likely to remain so for years to come.”- Dr. Neil Ayerg

"Ah yes Xatalite! I've experienced a firsthand encounter with one of these creatures! Years ago when I was a little girl, I witnessed a Xatalite floating in the night sky on a camping trip with my father. This incident was what sparked my interest in the strange and mysterious aspects of our world! " - Anne Dromeda

This guy's entry has been a long time coming considering he was one of the first couple dudes I designed, and the earliest sprite that's still being used. This guy has also been one of my favorites to draw since he's got angry little short man energy.

[ittlebitz]

10 QL People That I Want Carnally

I was tagged by @sunshinesanctuary

Thank you, bebe, this was fun! I know the original call is for 10, but I never saw a limit I didn't want to challenge. Whatever, whatever, I do what I want. So, in no particular order:

1. Inspector M - Manner of Death (Great Sapol)

Look at him. LOOK. AT. HIM. Absolutely adorable and also hot as hell. He can slap those cuffs on me any time he pleases. If he stands still long enough I will most definitely climb him like a tree (and that goes double for Great himself tbh).

2. Jang Jaeyoung - Semantic Error (Park Seoham)

Yeah, yeah, he's cocky and a bit of a slacker, but he is also smart, talented, and let's be real, a grade A simp. Don't get me started on that lip piercing...

3. Choi Jun - Jun & Jun (Ki Hyun Woo)

Like, they gave me this man's bare back within the first 30 seconds of the first episode, was I not supposed to get thirsty?

4. Yi Phayak Chatdecha Chen - Naughty Babe (Max Kornthas)

Ah, Hia Yi. Wealthy, handsome, super overprotective of his beloved. Bit of a control freak but not ashamed of giving up control in the bedroom. Love that for him (me).

5. Phaya - The Sign (Billy Patchanon)

Look, I am a simple woman. I just want him to put his hand around my throat, pin me, and call me a good girl. I don't think that's asking for too much.

6. Patts - La Pluie (Pee Peerawich)

My beloved. He was just so good, you know? He has a good job and loves animals. He dresses nicely and charms the parents. And then a total lover in between the sheets. Let the rain come down.

7. Payu - Love In The Air (Boss Chaikamon)

I'm pretty sure this man was singularly responsible for the meltdown of several of my brain cells. His looks, his demeanor, his dominance, his *gestures vaguely* everything, you know?

8. Jeng Kittiphong - Step By Step (Man Trisanu)

I know for a fact that I was not the only one who had their brain short circuit during this scene. I am willing to hold a towel for him and even help him wipe down after working out. I am also willing to work him out (wink wonk).

9. Fighter - Why R U (Zee Pruk)

Oh my god but he was so cute. The hot guy everybody wanted who had no idea how to act when he had a crush on a pretty boy. You just KNOW he kisses like an absolute dream. Also, when he was crying during the breakup scene I was ready to fly to Thailand and start throwing hands, I don't even care.

10. Bai Zongyi - Kiseki: Dear To Me (Taro Lin)

My guilty pleasure entry. Yes, I know he's a young'un and I should be ashamed but he has those giant yaoi paws (that scene where he is holding both of Zherui's hands with just one of his absolutely makes my teeth sweat) and obviously likes manhandling his crush/lover at any given opportunity. Plus he is a professional baker? Sign me UP.

11. Pisaeng- Be My Favorite (Gawin Caskey)

This is a guy who will cherish you with everything he has and will be a romantic sap about it. (I knew Gawin would be on this list, I just had to determine which role I chose...honestly he could have been on here multiple times)

12. Maya - Laws of Attraction (Silvy Pavida)

She can sing, she can dance, she can be a double agent performing espionage, and she is sooooooo hot it almost hurts to look at her. All I am saying is she can step on me and I will thank her profusely.

13. Neur - Cutie Pie (Tutor Koraphat)

This man showed up fully intending to Cause Problems On Purpose and ended up simping for the quiet, shy, devout member of the friend group he inserted himself into, and we were all of us better for it. Satu. 🙏

14. Babe - Pit Babe (Pavel Phoom)

He's the top (ha!) racer, an alpha, and also 100% babygirl. One smirk from him and I am on my knees. Don't worry about me, though, I'm doing just fine. (I will say that I never thought I would see omegaverse on my screen and yet here we are in this year of our lord)

15. Vegas Theerapanyakul - KinnPorsche (Bible Wichapas)

My problematic meow meow. He's a gangster. He's a killer. He's a sadist into whips, chains, and torture, not necessarily in that order. He's got a bit of a case of little brother syndrome. And I adore him, faults and all.

Aaaaannnddd okay! So, I could likely absolutely keep going, but I think I am going to tap out while I still have at least some dignity left after exposing myself as the thirsty bitch that I am. I've lost track of who all has already done this, so I am not tagging anyone in particular. If you decide to do this, tag me and let me know so we can thirst together!

[nevernonline]

✧.* grow as we go; svt smau.

entry #6 quit!

synopsis: over the past ten years you’ve fallen in love many times. one day someone happens to stumble across your journal sitting out on your nightstand and started posting your entries online. after all of your secrets are leaked it’s clear things would ever be the same again.

𐦍 paring: svt members x afab! reader.

𐦍 feat: non-idol! svt, (g)-idle minnie&soyeon, oc’s

𐦍 genre/s: reader is super angsty low-key, fluffy, sexual themes.

𐦍 content: swearing, bullying, crazy ex’s, mentions of sexual , reader talks about parental death, sexual relations, some drinking& mary jane 🍃

word count: 2.8k

masterlist ▸ 5. 005. chronic memory keeper ▸ 007. snake in the grass

Stepping into her kitchen was the most relaxing feeling ever, it had been a while since y/n had the chance to dine in with a recipe she carefully put together or found on pinterest and craft something nice. Spending hours on end not thinking about her own problems and just focusing on a hobby she enjoys. 

After her overly embarrassing text messages hinting to Minghao that she slightly hoped he was single had her desperately wishing they wouldn’t come back to bite her in the ass. 

Cleaning out the insides of the chicken and placing them in a bowl saved for her next soup stock, she massages pads of butter or seasoning onto it’s skin and placed it in her hot oven, before moving onto the thinly silenced potatoes and root vegetables she had prepped that morning, boiling and simmering them. 

A chime from her doorbell stole her away from her stress free time in the kitchen. She was excited to see Minghao but it wasn’t him who was waiting at her threshold. opening it to reveal a small package, wrapped in brown paper and tied with a matching twine bow. 

No note was attached on the outer side revealing who may have left the wrapped item for her to find. So she decided to ignore it, just for now at least and get back to preparing her meal for a friend. 

An hour had passed since the last time someone was ringing the doorbell and left waiting for her to quickly wash her hands. 

“Y/n?” 

Minghao. 

“Sorry, one second I just need to wash my hands.” 

She yelled, leaving the water running and rushing herself to the guest bathroom next to the door, making sure she looked alright and didn’t miss an out of place hair or swipe of flour on her face. 

Opening her front door, she revealed Mingaho standing with a paper bag in his hand as well as a bouquet of her favorite flowers, Hydrangeas swinging to his side. 

She looked him up and down forgetting she invited him here and still not inviting him in. He was dressed in a perfectly ripped pair of jeans and matching long denim coat, underneath she caught a glimpse of a white button down top missing the clasps of the top three buttons revealing his chest. He looked incredible. 

“Can I come in?” 

“Oh, shit. Sorry. Yes, please.” 

“This is for you, some wine and snacks for after dinner. I picked them up from the chinese market near my gallery.” 

“That’s so thoughtful of you, thank you. The flowers are beautiful, how did you know I liked hydrangeas?” 

“I saw on Seokmin’s instagram that he took you to a flower farm last year, I just assumed.” 

“Ah. Well you assumed right, they’re really gorgeous.” 

“What are you making? It smells so good.” 

“Roast chicken and root veggies, with some wild rice and my mom’s very special, very secret recipe sauce. 

Minghao was amazed watching y/n move around the kitchen with ease, seemingly like she was dancing around the marble floor. 

“I have to admit, I really thought you were joking when you told me you could cook. I almost expected you to order food and make it look like you were the chef.” 

“Ouch. That hurts my pride a little bit. Actually, my dad was a chef. He used to own a restaurant. I spent a lot of time there as a kid helping him.” 

“Was? What happened if you don’t mind me asking?” 

“He passed away when I was a teenager. It’s a long story.” 

“I’m sorry.” 

“Don’t be. It’s okay, I miss him, but cooking helps me feel close to him.” 

“Now I’m very sorry I ever doubted your skill.” 

Your laugh made Minghao happy, he knew he probably struck a chord in you but it was nice that even when you were sad you could still find humor in anything. 

“Need my help with anything?” 

“Just for you to either open that bottle of wine or make me a cocktail, dealer's choice.” 

“Got it.” 

Y/n’s dining partner strode off to the chrome bar cart and twiddled his fingers around the various bottles of liquor, some full and some half empty, giving him an indication of the things she chose for herself. 

“Here you are, chef.” 

“Wow, thank you bartender. What is it?” 

“Try it and find out.” 

Y/n took a sip from the slightly pink cocktail glass, swishing it in her mouth for dramatic effect. 

“Okay, so.. Gin, Campari, a splash of grapefruit bitters, and lemon?” 

“Wow, are you like a weird super taster or something? What the fuck.” 

“No, just a girl who loves gin old fashioneds.” 

“You are one surprising specimen.” 

“Shut up. Come on, let's eat.” 

After basically finishing every edible thing on the plate, Minghao offered to clean up for you as a thank you for the efforts of you cooking him one of the best dinners he’s had the pleasure of eating. 

Y/n switched into her role as bartender and opened a beautiful bottle of red wine for the pair to sip on as their night continued on. 

“Thank you for cleaning. I’m sorry again about the whole weird ass texts I was sending you. I was way too drunk to be alone with my thoughts and access to the internet.” 

“I told you it’s alright. I actually found it sort of cute.” 

“Cute? Maybe you are crazier than I thought you were.” 

“No, come on. You know you’re cute. Everyone tells you all the time, I agree with them.” 

“Shut up, THE Xu Minghao thinks I’M cute? I’m so flattered.” 

Minghao playfully slapped y/n’s hand off of her chest, knocking the red liquid around in her cup, causing it to fall onto the white fabric of her pants. 

“Shit. I’m so sorry.” 

“It’s ok, I can just go throw them in the wash. One second.” 

Y/n departed into her room, changing into a pair of pink pajama bottoms, not removing her corseted tank top in the process, fleeing quickly into the laundry room at the end of the hall to wash the stain out. 

Minghao in the meantime caught a glimpse of the twine wrapped package on her coffee table and went over to see what it could possibly be. In the time he spent inspecting it he didn’t notice his female counterpart entering back into the room. 

“Someone left that for me at my door. Weird right?” 

“Yeah, sort of. Should we open it?” 

“I’m kind of scared to be honest.” 

“Okay, I have an idea.” 

“I’m not sure how I feel about that.” 

“Trust me?” 

“Maybe.” 

Minghao stepped back to the now familiar bar cart and grabbed a bottle of whiskey that had been left unopened until this night, placing two shot glasses in front of them both. 

“What does taking shots have to do with us opening the package?” 

“What doesn’t it have to do with the package? It’s brown, similar to the wrapping. It’s sealed, maybe because you don’t like it or it’s not something you’re sure of. And it’s interesting. So we take two shots, then we open it, then regardless of what it is, we play a game. The game selfishly is for me to get to know you deeper. I feel like I’ve spent so much time with you and I don’t know that much about you, other than what was exposed. So, you in?” 

“Yes.” 

Y/n and Minghao cheered to their now growing connection and he placed the small package in her lap, holding onto her knee, getting the feeling that she needed moral support based on mutual gut feelings. 

“Okay.” 

“I’m sure it’s not bad.” 

As y/ns hands ripped apart the brown paper and untied the rope around the mysterious box, it revealed a soft purple journal, now torn apart, pages basically falling out from end to end all over the couch between them. 

“My journal.” 

Her voice shifted, she was no longer happy or full of anticipation, she was confused and slightly disappointed as her precious and private life fell out in front of her, photos, entries, and shards of her life. 

“Oh, y/n. I-” 

“No. Don’t say sorry, please.” 

“Why the fuck do people care? Just like why am I someone's target? Especially if it’s someone I know, what is so bad that you can’t just fucking talk to me about it? Sorry, I don’t know if that makes sense at all, but I just don’t get it.” 

“I think some people are just scared of genuine conflict, so instead of asking they make things about themselves and take the other person's feelings out of the equation to feed their own.” 

“Why give it back now? Am I expected to just ignore my privacy being invaded and be like well it’s over good? This makes me feel even more uneasy.” 

“Maybe they left you a clue or something by giving this back?” 

Minghao collected the various contents that were left as ashes for you, feeding you more alcohol and not talking while he did so. 

“y/n? Here.” 

A small envelope, matching the shade of purple of the cover of your journal was tapped inside the cover, inside a typed note. 

‘Just because it comes back to you, doesn’t mean it’ll always stay the same. See you soon. Xo.’

“What the fuck does that even mean?” 

“I guess they’re trying to tell you more will come out? And that they have no purpose for keeping the evidence anymore.” 

“Can we.. maybe, just for the rest of the night ignore this? I cannot focus on this anymore and it’s ruining my chance to have fun with you.” 

“Please. Let me distract you.” 

“Do you want to change? Or need clothes? I know Seokmin and Joshua left some stuff here in case they ever stayed over.” 

“They wouldn’t mind?” 

“No, of course not. I’ll be right back.” 

Y/n ran back into her room, gathering various styles of t-shirts and sweatpants to make Minghao more comfortable. 

“Here, there's some options. I know you care a lot about your style, so pick what you want.” 

Mingaho grabbed a black t-shirt with a logo from Joshua’s coffee shop on the front and an odd pair of Seokmin’s disney character pajama pants, just to make the air go back to it’s lighthearted space. 

“Oh my god, you look amazing.” 

“ I just wanted you to smile.” 

“Mission accomplished, Mickyhao.” 

“That is an awful nickname.” 

“Shut up, don’t be a dick.” 

“Got it. Okay, so let’s play a little game, y/n. I’ll ask you some questions, if you don’t want to answer you can drink and you can do the same for me. Got it?” 

“Got it. You go first.” 

“Okay, so what stops you from going after the things you want?” 

“Hmm, I’m shy, I guess? I don’t want to risk changing how things already are any more than they have changed on their own. I think confessions and love declarations are unnerving, I could ruin something good just for a single chance. Not knowing shit freaks me out.” 

“So you’re a control freak, got it.” 

“No. Not a control freak, just a loser.” 

“That’s accurate.” 

“You’re stupid. Okay, Minghao. What made you want to pursue art?” 

“I guess it was just always something I was good at? I loved being able to tell the truth about stuff without having to say it outloud, people can perceive anything they want, but I know how I truly feel and nobody can take it away from me. The truth, I mean.” 

“How are you so certain that its the truth?” 

“Well, it's my truth.” 

“Touche” 

“Why didn’t you tell Minnie about Seungcheol? Were you ever going to?” 

“Yikes. I guess, I didn’t feel like it was important. We hooked up way before they ever dated, he was just helping me out with something that scared me, which I didn’t think was a big deal. I knew she liked him, but she told me she’d never confess. I guess I didn’t think it was as big of a problem until it was. Does that make sense?” 

“Yeah it does, how did it happen?” 

“No, no, no. One question at a time. How did it happen for you?” 

“My virginity? I was at a party, junior year before college and I met a girl. She was nice, really pretty, and she seemed to enjoy my company. I guess I just asked her if she wanted to fuck and she agreed, but after she told me she had a boyfriend and that was that.” 

“So she cheated on her boyfriend just to fuck you? Alright, good for you I guess. Bad for the boyfriend.” 

“Have you ever cheated on someone?” 

“Me? God no. I haven’t even had the chance to be with anyone that seriously considers sleeping around cheating. I don’t think I could do that. Why? Have you?” 

“Nope, but I guess I’ve been the person someone used to cheat, so it feels sort of like cheating.” 

“Since we seem to be two overly honest people for this game, want to drink just for fun as well?” 

“Please. Cheers.” 

“Okay y/n, I have a question.” 

“Yes?” 

“What was it about Joshua or Mingyu that attracted you to them?” 

“With Shua it was how kind he was, everyone knows it and can see that. It just sort of radiates around him. I mean he’s beautiful, they both are. In such different ways. I’ll probably always view him as that first boy I loved, he’s really special to me. As for Mingyu, I guess I never knew why at first. He was just my hot friend that I hooked up with sometimes, but the more and more we hung out the more I realized how smart he was and how intriguing his character is.” 

“Do you still have feelings for them?” 

“I’m not sure what my feelings are for anyone at this moment, no.” 

“What about me?” 

“What about you?” 

“Would you ever consider me the way you consider them?” 

“Can I take a shot?” 

“Sure, but you still have to answer the question. Come on.” 

“Yeah, I would. I like getting to know you, I appreciate how fiercely committed you are to riding for the people you love. I like that you’re artistic like me, that we can laugh about wild stuff, but also be honest and talk about anything and everything in between. You’ve really made me happy even in the short time of knowing you. And to say that I’d have to think about considering you is silly, because I definitely already have. Seokmin and Jun think I have a crush on you.” 

“You don’t?” 

“Nobody needs to know.” 

“I do.” 

“You do what? Need to know if I like you?” 

“No, like you.” 

“Wait.” 

“A lot actually. More than I ever considered I would. I think you’re actually a really spectacular person despite everything.” 

“Oh. Thank you.” 

“Can I kiss you?” 

“Yeah. You can.” 

The smell of whiskey on Minghao’s breath made the hair on Y/N’s arms stand up as she fell into his touch, the kiss exploded into more and more touching and exploration of the pair's bodies. And continued on through the night, more than once. 

The next morning y/n woke up with a headache, checking the clock on her phone revealing it was almost time for Joshua to come and whisk her away from her new found bliss in bed next to Minghao. 

“Going somewhere?” 

“What?” 

“You have a suitcase in the corner and you keep checking your phone, is everything alright? I wasn’t that bad was I?” 

“No, but I’m going to see my mom this weekend with Joshua, I almost forgot. He’s on his way.” 

“Oh, shit. I’m sorry.” 

“Stop apologizing. I’ll just shower quickly and sneak out. You can stay as long as you need, I have an extra key in the blue jar next to my door, just lock it up for me?” 

“Sure, but come here quickly.” 

Minghao pulled y/n in for a long sweet kiss, before she ran into the warm water of her shower. 

Minghao propped himself up in her bed, collecting himself before making an attempt at a small getaway. Coming face to face with the unlocking door of the same apartment he spent his night in before. 

“Y/n, hey can I- Oh, Minghao. Hey.” 

“Joshua, Hi. Sorry I was just leaving.” 

“Without saying goodbye?” 

“What?” 

“To y/n, she’s in the shower, you’re just leaving?” 

“I don’t need to explain myself to you, for your information we already said a very thorough goodbye. Have fun on your trip, take care of her.” 

“Hah. Alright.” 

“I’m serious. Make sure she knows I’ll miss her.” 

“I’ll be sure to do that.” 

Minghao grabbed his jacket and slid out of her front door, looking behind him before walking away from y/n already feeling jealous she’d be spending her weekend with Joshua and not him, but he had things he couldn't tell her. Not yet.

"Oh, Joshua. I didn't think you were coming yet. Sorry, let me just grab my stuff."

"No it's fine, I just wanted to grab some snacks, hope that's okay?"

"Of course, take whatever you want. Give my five?"

"I saw your overnight guest on his way out."

"Yeah, he stayed over. I made him dinner, we just got drunk I didn't want him to have to drive home like that. Unsafe, you know."

"Right, well I'll meet you in the car."

"No need, I'm ready. I cannot wait to have the Boston Creme Pie from Boi's, I'm literally salivating thinking about it."

"We should go when we get into town and order an entire one."

"I see why we're friends now. Come on."

Joshua grabbed y/ns luggage, waiting for her to lock up her apartment and the pair headed to his car waiting outside.

bonus:

note/s: y/n love triangle era starting fr. srry this took a second and is a lil chaotic, I've been a lil busy. but!! I already have the next part on hand and will be posting v soon, some shit will be going down at minghaos show, but I didn't tell u that. xoxoxo. ily.

taglist:  @sun-daddy-yoriichi,@hipsdofangirl @kissesfrmwonwoo, @minhui896, @wonwooz1, porridgesblog,, jasssy051, @soonyoungblr, @saucegirlreads, @musingsofananxiouspotato, @young-adult-summer, @punkhazardlaw, @bibs-world @the-swageyama-tobiyolo @wonuulvr @woozixo

[ladytauria]

20 questions for fic writers

tagged by @zeroducks-2! thank you <3

How many works do you have on AO3?

90 total, with 8 of them for my original fiction pseud.

What’s your total A03 word count?

266,163. however, i like to subtract 2 of the original works i wrote, 'cause most of the writing is no longer canon to the project it was written for xD so, 198,925. still impressive!

What fandoms do you write for?

whatever fandom i'm obsessed with at the moment.

in the past, that's been super robot monkey team hyper force go!; how to train your dragon; ghost hunt; percy jackson & the olympians; legend of zelda; and ducktales (2017). there are a few other fandoms but those works never left my drafts xD

currently, it's DCU, & mostly bats at that <3

What are your top five fics by kudos?

in a diner at midnight (1,161 kudos) -> first story in my reverse robins series, as well as the first batfic i ever published lol. Tim catches Jason stealing the Batmobile's tires after he was sent back to the car, and does what any good Robin would: laugh his ass off and then buy him dinner.

you know just what i need (1,158 kudos) -> Tim is an omega. Jason is an alpha. Jason likes him, but he knows he blew his chances at being with Tim years ago. That changes, after he finds out that Tim has experienced a string of rejections, as he prefers to dominate alphas in bed. Jason is... entirely unopposed to this.

early confrontations (814) -> another part of the reverse robins series. When Jason finds out that Tim might be alive and operating as the Red Hood, he decides the best course of action is to break into his apartment.

inquiring minds (794) -> the only non-DC fic on this list. Ducktales (2017). Penumbra wants to know how Donald didn't burn up in Earth's atmosphere.

held together (792) -> another part of the reverse robins series. After Bruce accuses Jason of killing Garzonas, he goes to Tim for comfort.

Do you respond to comments? Why or why not?

There for a while I was only responding if someone had a question, but now I do try to respond more, even if just to say thank you, or send back a heart emoji in return xD

What’s the fic you wrote with the angstiest ending?

Hmmm. I don't write a lot of unhappy endings xD But "empty promises" is probably the angstiest ending I've written. Maybe "twenty to one."

What’s the fic you wrote with the happiest ending?

Hmm…

Edit: I didn’t realize I forgot to finish answering this one!! Most of my fics end happily so I’m not sure which one has the happiest 🤔 I will have to look through and edit again with a proper answer lmao

Do you get hate on your fic?

Not in a while. Only once on AO3. Twice on FFN. Some people weren't very happy I wrote genderfluid Link :) And then prior to that-- I mean. It was hate, I guess, but it was more funny than anything else. Guest account was upset at the length of my oneshot collection entries and started advertising for a date, lmao. Ah, trolls.

Do you write smut?

Yes. Usually with feelings, and on occasion, with plot.

Do you write crossovers?

Hmm, I have had a conversation about crossing over my first fandom with DC, but idk if that will ever actually leave my drafts ^^;

That said, I do like the idea of writing fusions?

Have you ever had a fic stolen?

Not that I know of.

Have you ever had a fic translated?

No.

Have you ever co-written a fic?

Not in a very long time! And the two I was co-writing never did get finished, lol.

What‘s your all-time favourite ship?

I hop fandoms and multi-ship too much to have an "all-time" favorite ship. But currently I vibe hardest with JayTim.

What’s the WIP you want to finish but doubt you ever will?

Hmm...

So I tend to either plod along at WIPs until they're either finished or I've moved fandoms xD Every now and then I will scrap one, but for the most part, there's a pretty good chance of me finishing the fics I start.

That said...

I don't know exactly what the problem is, but I've been having a really difficult time working on the tenderest of touches. Stray!Tim x Hood!Jason teaming up to kill the Joker, and as they're waiting for their plans to come to fruition, they end up having lots of ill-advised kinky sex... which slowly causes their feelings for each other to deepen and reveal themselves.

There are also some identity shenanigans, as Jason never learned Tim's secret ID and Tim has no idea that Hood is his dead first crush :)

What’s your writing strengths?

I think I'm good at conveying emotion. I also think I do alright with dialogue :) And, hm, metaphors / imagery?

What’s your writing weaknesses?

Character voice. Not so much in dialogue, but in the prose? I tend to stick to 3rd Person Limited, and I feel like my personal writing voice tends to come out too strong & overwhelm the character's.

Endings. Sometimes I find the right one, but other times I meander for a while, or just. Decide to stop it at a certain point, which can be a little abrupt.

Juggling more than so many characters. This one hasn't shown up so much in DC fics because I don't think I've really written much with more than 3 characters, but that's about my limit. After that I end up forgetting people / certain characters end up kind of disappearing.

Thoughts on writing dialogue in another language for a fic?

A word here or two, yes. A couple of lines, maybe. But any more than that... not likely?

First fandom you wrote for?

Super Robot Monkey Team Hyper Force Go! An old Disney cartoon from the early 00s. It was... mecha-anime adjacent, centering around a human and his five cybernetic monkey teammates trying to stop their planet from being (destroyed? ruined? corrupted?) by the Skeleton King.

Favourite fic you’ve ever written?

Hmm...

Okay, actually my favorite fic I've written hasn't been posted yet. I was persuaded to make it longer and--well. I had ideas, so. That's what I'm doing :)

But of the ones I have posted...

It's a toss-up. Because like... I have two that I genuinely enjoy re-reading because (at least for the moment xD) I have no complaints. And then there are two I'm just. Genuinely proud of the concept and the outcome, even if there are areas I might want to fix, I think I did a good job anyway.

And then there's one that I'm genuinely just proud of finishing bc of how much trouble I had with it xD

Anyway. Um.

I'm gonna go with the two i enjoy re-reading the most---

drape me in your warmth // patience is a virtue (rewarded by sin)

no pressure tagging... @paprikadotmp4 // @kieran-granola // @generatorcat // @disniq // @enak-s // @glaciya

[palettepainter]

Incorrect cousin quotes!!

With all the cousin designs I have posted, time to make some quotes with them!

Liv/Zee/Penny/Lazer/Raph - me

Rand - @rottedbrainz

Gabe - @posies-and-bundles

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Lazer, trying their first ever cup of coffee: I am ENERGY! Rand, an avid coffee drinker, on their twelfth cup of the day: Someone slap me awake or I am literally going to fall into a coma in ten seconds.

.

Raph: I think Lazer is in trouble. Rand: Alright. Struggling to give a fuck, if I’m honest.

.

Raph: Thought I was meowing back at my cat for the past hour, but it was just me and Lazer meowing at each other from different rooms in the house.

.

Zee: Why did you kidnap Liv!?!?! Rand: Ah- um- well- the reason for that is, uhh... Zoot: Sometimes, we must work together towards a common goal. Zee: NOT TO KIDNAP PEOPLE!

.

*when a child starts crying in public* Zee: *tries to make the child laugh* Liv: *tries to play a game with the child to make them calm down* Raph: *gives detailed instructions to the parents* Lazer: *cries with the child* Penny: *ignores the child* Zoot: *is the reason why the child is crying*

.

Zee : *sighs* I have no friends... Rand: Rand: *coughs* Bitch, what am I? A roach?!

.

Rand: Alright, listen up you little shits. Rand: Not you Liv. You’re an angel and we’re thrilled you’re here.

.

Rand, opening a Capri Sun: Guess I'll drink my sorrows away.

.

Penny: What if people had food names and food had people names? Lazer: Hey, spaghetti, we’re having Penny for dinner. Gabe: What is wrong with you people? Raph: Shut up, chocolate.

.

Penny: So, what, now I'm just supposed to do anything Raph does? I mean, what if they jumped off a cliff? Gabe: If Raph were to jump off a cliff, they would've done their due diligence regarding the height of the cliff, the depth of the water, and the angle of entry, so yes. If you see Raph jump off a cliff, by all means, jump off a cliff. Lazer: You jump off a cliff! Gabe: Gladly, provided Raph did first.

.

Raph: What’s it like being tall? Liv: Is it nice? Gabe: Can you reach comfortably for the cupboards? Penny: We live in constant fear of the short ones who, in my experience, will climb four chairs, two boxes, a small coffee table, and six oddly placed stools to get what they want.

.

Gabe: Christmas is cancelled. Penny: You can't cancel a holiday. Gabe: Keep it up, Penny, and you'll lose New Year's too. Penny: What does that mean? Gabe: Raph, take New Year's away from Penny.

.

Liv: Aww, what's your dog's name? Rand: Spartacus. Liv, yelling to Gabe: TRY SPARTACUS! Gabe, on the computer: DIDN'T WORK! Rand: Liv: What's your favorite number?

.

Rand: Which way did Liv go? Gabe: Well, based on the direction of the wind, the broken sticks in the corner, and the slight disturbance in the dirt, I'd guess they went left. Rand: You could really figure it out from that? Gabe: No, you idiot, Liv sent me a text. See?

.

Penny: Astrology is fun because i can pretend that all of my behaviors are just a result of being a Gemini and not symptoms of mental illness. Zee: Being a Gemini is a mental illness. That’s not hate it’s just a fact.

.

Liv: Try not to roll your eyes at me. Gabe: I don't have pupils.

.

Lazer: I can’t tell if you’re a genius or just incredibly arrogant. Rand: Well, on a good day, I’m both

.

Lazer: Okay. Hypothetically speaking, how mad would you be if I burned a hot pocket so badly it could probably fall off a ten-story building and be completely fine? Rand: Lazer, what did you do? Lazer: Take a guess.

.

Raph: Make no mistake. Not only am I party rocking, but I am also in the house tonight. Penny: But are you shuffling? Raph: Everyday. Gabe: What language are you two speaking??

.

Gabe: Who wants to make fifty bucks? Raph: How? Gabe: I need someone to take the fall. Raph: What did you do? Gabe: I can't tell you. Yes or no, no questions asked. Penny, from the other room: Oh my god. Gabe: ... Penny: OH MY GOD! Raph: Make it a hundred. Gabe: Deal.

.

Raph: Regular soda is too sweet! Penny: Diet soda has a weird after taste! Raph: No! Ugh, oh my god. Diet soda is THE BEST! It doesn't have sugar! It's SPICY! Penny: It has other weird stuff in it! I'll take REGULAR sugar in my REGULAR soda! Raph: It's SO SWEET like it's a dessert though! Diet feels more like a drink! Penny: I'm going to physically attack you. Raph: Which is better, Gabe? Gabe: Oh, I usually drink water! Penny: Wha- NO! Raph: DISGUSTING!

.

Liv: So when are we gonna tell them? Zee: Just give them a minute. Gabe: *Pulling on a door that clearly says push*

.

Liv: Do you guys want to see a butterfly? Zee: Ooh, yes please! Gabe, with their laptop open: I'm not going to stop working to look at a stupid bug! Liv: It's not a bug though... Gabe: ... Zee: ... Gabe: Well I still don't want to see. Zee, realizing: Please don't throw- Liv: Whee! *throws a stick of butter*