#also my coworkers keep asking how i've been and i don't have the heart to tell them that i put in my 2 weeks

[dunmeshiminimumwage]

[ginnymoonbeam]

Ep 8 of The On1y One had so much, but now that I've cried over the word "home" I wanna go back to the scenes between the teachers, because it hit some queer realities we don't often get in BL.

First, Jenny Yang noticing Lin Bei Ting's rainbow mug and asking if he supports gay rights. That's not code for asking if he's gay - in plenty of places and times, just being an ally is controversial and something you might need to be careful about revealing in a conservative workplace. I take all of Jenny's comments and warnings at face value there: she's letting him know this is not a safe place to be public as an ally. Of course he is also actually gay, so the threat to him is much higher, which is why he immediately gives her the mug.

Then the later scene, getting more into a dynamic that we've already seen where Zhao Xi is friendly to the point of gentle flirtation with Jenny, and Lin Bei Ting is clearly unhappy. When we first saw this in ep 7, I wondered if I'd been wrong to read Zhao Xi and Lin Bei Ting as already a couple, but seeing it here and with the previous conversation in mind, I think they are. There's "we're not saying anything but people can draw their own conclusions" closeted and then there's seriously for-real closeted where you might opt to do things like casually flirt with a female coworker to keep up the appearance, and the latter is what I see happening in these scenes. They would absolutely lose their jobs at the school and probably would have their business targeted if people thought they were a couple. Lin Bei Ting understands what Zhao Xi is doing and why, but it sucks and feels bad. The little apologetic "here's your tea too" moment said so much, in how they both understand what's happening here and there's not much Zhao Xi can do in the moment, in public, to make it up to him.

All this happening in an episode where it seems like the whole world is gossiping about Jiang Tian and Sheng Wang moving into the dorms just makes my heart ache for the boys, and the threats they might face. I think the juxtaposition is deliberate and I think Zhao Xi is having some of the same thoughts as the teachers discuss the kids. My read is that he knows or guesses Jiang Tian is gay and has been shepherding him a little on that basis, standing by to give him guidance or just a gleam of hope, in the way that we elder queers do when we see young ones that don't have home and family support. We'll see where it all goes, but I really love the way the elders have been woven into the story so far.

[sensitive-neuvi-enthusiast]

You can count on me...you know?

♡♡-Request: Diluc, gn!reader, hurt/comfort; he walks in on you crying, you usually don't show negative emotions like this. He's here to comfort you!♡

☆☆-Warnings: crying, reader is upset, self-doubt, negative talking (by reader), mentions of anxiety, coworkers (he kinda likes you though)

Diluc wouldn't say he knew you well. From the two years you worked at Angel's Share, he never once saw you without a smile on your face. Making small talk with the customers, offering refills even if the patrons were less than civil. He didn't know how you did it, but he admired you for it. Diluc wasn't often expressive, but you could definitely tell when he more or less didn't like someone. Or couldn't be bothered to deal with certain troublesome matters. But you were different, and he had to admit, after much debating with his heart and mind, that he found that attractive. Had even started to feel things for you. Not that he'd ever tell you.

Which is why he was in stunned silence when he heard quiet sobbing come from the break room. Only you and him were scheduled to work today.

He didn't know what to do, but listening to your quiet sniffles had his heart twisting in pain. With as deep of a breath he could take, he knocked lightly on the door. He couldn't very well just barge in; you were vulnerable. The sound of tissues and the scraping of a chair caught his attention. Then, roughly three minutes later, the door cracked open.

Your usual bright eyes and even brighter smile were replaced. Tears stained your cheeks, and your eyes were puffy. "Diluc…I, I'll be out in a moment. I know my break is-"

"Are you okay?" He found himself asking, resisting the sudden urge to capture your tears with his gloved hand. You winced, the hold you had on the door growing more firm as you tried to calm yourself. Not wanting to unload all your issues onto your boss. "Y-Yeah, I'm fine, there's no need to worry." His brows furrowed; obviously, something was wrong. Something was bothering you, and he wanted to help. But he also knew that pressuring for an answer could possibly make it worse.

So, instead of asking, he simply nodded. "If you wish to keep your troubles to yourself, I won't insist. But…" He hesitated, shifting softly on his feet. "I'll be here if you need an ear. You can count on me.."

His eyes widened as soon as he saw fresh tears form in your eyes. Your body shaking slightly as you attempted to contain it. Immediately, he tried to apologize, "I'm sorry, I didn't mean -" the door flung all the way open. Your body rushes through and wraps your arms around his waist. He was frozen again for a second time. Only now, there was a hint of pink on his cheeks. You rested your head on his chest as you continued to sniffle into the fabric. "Thank you…I've been feeling so anxious lately. And have been pretty hard on myself…thinking I'm not good enough. That I haven't accomplished much."

There it was again, the painful twist of his heart. Slowly, his hand came up to pat your head softly. Afraid he wasn't being gentle enough.

"I don't know you well, and perhaps that's partially my fault. But what I do know is you change the lives of everyone you speak to. In positive ways. Including me." He heard your sniffles pause, your head craning up to look at him. "Really?" And it was in that moment, for certain, he would do his best to make you remember this.

He smiled, genuine,"Really."

Navigation

[ilovetheriddler]

lars x reader with a secret relationship please!!

I love this idea! I always love writing for Lars, I hope that you enjoy it!

Hidden Feelings.

(Ghostbusters Frozen Empire) Lars Pinfield x F!Reader.

Word Count: 746.

Contents: Frustration, kissing, affection, neck kissing and biting, just a bit of jealousy.

Realistically, Lars knew that there technically wouldn't be any real consequences if anyone found out about your relationship. You were both consenting adults, and while you were coworkers, there's nothing outright stating anywhere that you couldn't be together, but Lars still wanted to keep it a secret. And he was overall doing a fairly decent job of hiding it. However, sometimes, he couldn't help himself when you both were alone in the workshop.

He slowly approached you from behind and wrapped his arms around you. Burying his face in your neck and deeply inhaling the scent of your perfume.

"Mm... Good afternoon My love, how are you doing...?"

"Lars... Come on, you're the one who said that you wanted to keep this a secret, so you can't just keep being this affectionate with me. Anyone could walk in and see!"

"I'm aware... However, it's quite difficult to refrain from doing so when I have to see how other people look at you. It makes me just want to show everyone that you're already spoken for..."

He started to press soft, lingering kisses onto your neck, slowly working his way down to your shoulder as he unzipped the front of your uniform just enough to push it off of one of your shoulders. You let out a slightly surprised gasp as he bites down on your shoulder before gently running his tongue over the new mark.

"L-Lars! T-that's going to be visible, oh gosh... how am I supposed to explain that?!"

"Mm.... If you keep your uniform zipped up all the way, then no one other than me will see it, I assure you, my darling."

"It's the middle of summer! I can't keep it zipped up completely, I'd roast!"

Lars let out a slightly frustrated huff and pulled away from you, turning you around and pulling you over into the light a bit more so that he could get a better look at the mark he'd just left on your neck. He carefully inspected it before letting out a pondering hum.

"Well... you could always cover it up with makeup if you're that worried, however, with how hot it is and how much you'd most likely be sweating within a day I wouldn't count on it to hold up all day.... hmm...."

"I wouldn't have to hide it if you'd just let me tell people that we're dating, at the very least our coworkers! Why are you even so insistent about keeping this a secret?"

He looked a bit troubled by your question before he ultimately sighed and shifted his gaze away from yours.

"Alright... the truth is that I'm worried about what people will say about you..."

"Huh? About me...? What exactly do you mean?"

"I mean... I've been working as a Ghostbuster for a few years, you haven't. I'm worried that people will think that you got with me to get your current job instead of contributing it to your genuine efforts. And I don't want people to think that about you even for a moment!"

You were actually taken somewhat aback by Lars' reasons. He wasn't worried about himself. He was worried about how people might hypothetically treat you. It genuinely warmed your heart a little by how sweet the thought was, but also frustrated you that that was his reason for all this sneaking around.

"Lars, while I appreciate the thought, I have to ask.... who the hell would think that? None of our coworkers really would. I mean, would Lucky? Would Trevor? No. They wouldn't."

"... I suppose that's true.... but-"

"But nothing! I want people to know that I'm with you, that I love you, Lars... is that too much to ask?"

"...No... no, it's not."

He gently caressed your face before leaning down to have his lips meet yours in a sweet and gentle kiss. Your lips molded against his perfectly, and it was only cut too short by the sound of someone suddenly speaking up.

"Ha! I told you they had something going on! Now I believe that you owe me... hmm... how much was it again? Ah yes, 50 dollars!"

You both quickly pulled away from each other and glanced over to see Lucky and Trevor standing in the entryway to the workshop. Trevor reluctantly digging around in his pocket for some money. They had been suspicious that something might be going on and had a little bet going. And here, lars thought he was actually being sneaky.

[ezdotjpg]

ok but know I need you to Tell Me Things about the Zeldas. all of them. I am literally*bouncing*.

(I love how both your TP Link and Zelda have RBF. they have truly Had It)

HEHE sorry i held onto this ask until I had all the Zelda designs posted, and then I,,,forgot to do that lol.

some Bonus Zelda thoughts! some of this i've maybe said before idk:

ALTTP Zelda

her armor is more ceremonial than practical. While I didn't give this to every Queen Zelda, I liked the idea of the princess's pauldrons progressing to more plate armor in the queen's dress. That's also why I changed her color scheme to blue to differentiate from the princess' pink (exceptions for this being HW Zelda who wears red as queen, ST Zelda who still wears pink as queen and BOTW Zelda who wore blue as princess)

anyway. she's more of a scholar than a warrior but she still has killer aim with a bow

her pet project has been recovering, restoring, and filling in the gaps of the royal library and archive. Mage helps her out with this as he has a knack for stumbling upon forgotten ancient texts in his travels

A lot of ppl assume she's rather prim or austere but she's actually got a lot of whimsy and humor in her. It's why she and Mage get along so well :D

She lets Mage get away with a lot of shenanigans and keeps the royal guard from arresting his ass all the time

if mage is ur weird uncle she's like. ur cool aunt

Tetra

she's still sailing the seas with her crew!

she and Wake have had a bit of a falling out though, partially over disagreements about searching for New Hyrule, and have gone their separate ways for now. There's not any real animosity between them, just like,,,frustration. They'd still do anything for each other.

She's got 2 pistols and a cutlass and she knows how to use them

She could bench press Wake. easily.

She's brash and commands a lot of respect but she's also a lot of fun to be around. She's brutally honest and says what's on her mind.

I think she still feels a lot of confusion and frustration about the revelations about her lineage and the role King Daphnes seemed to force on her because of it. She doesn't want much to do with what the divine. She values the freedom sailing on the sea gives her.

TP Zelda

she's. so tired. a lot of the responsibility of rebuilding the kingdom has fallen squarely on her shoulders. She's holding shit together by a thread but by god is she holding it together.

Looks pretty cold and unapproachable but she has a kind heart. She cares deeply for the people of her kingdom. She would sacrifice a lot for them and already has.

Never relaxes. Works like 24/7. get this girl a hobby

Midzel canon. Midna also had a thing with Link but it wasn't a polycule more of a this is my girlfriend Midna and this is Midna's boyfriend Link kind of a situation. Anyway she misses Midna.

Wolf and Zelda are like. coworkers. They haven't really gotten any closer in the aftermath of everything. Wolf wants nothing to do with playing the role of the hero in a political sense like Zelda keeps asking him to. I don't think Zelda necessarily blames him for escaping that responsibility, but she Is frustrated she doesn't have that luxury.

MC Zelda

a little cutie!! very bubbly and extroverted and curious about the world. She spends a lot of time outside of the castle running around with Mini. The King is so glad she's safe after everything he still just lets her do whatever she wants lol

She used to be the one dragging Mini into shenanigans all the time but he's gained a lot of confidence over his quest and is less timid now. now they are equally engaging in shenanigans

Hangs out with Malon too!! The three of them are besties

I like to think she can also still see the minish even if she can't shrink down to their size. she thinks they're so cute. Maybe mini gives her a jabbernut so she can speak to them too :-)

She helps Mini build his fucked up little trash robots. She also pretties them up with paint

scolded by castle staff frequently for getting grass stains and dirt on her nice clothes lol. She probably isn't usually running around in her full princess garb though.

Like Mini, has mostly refused to process most of what happened to her and is just trying to enjoy life.

Prince Zel

I went back and forth about whether or not I wanted to go with naming him Sheik or not. I decided against it since this is the version of him that never had to become Sheik. He keeps Zelda as a legacy name and shortens it to Zel most of the time.

Pretty lonely in the castle without many friends his age. He desperately wants to be better friends with Mask but is mostly rebuffed.

Even though he doesn't have to become Sheik in this timeline, I think he has begun training with Impa. Just under a lot less duress

Still occasionally has prophetic visions but has become somewhat hesitant about sharing them. I think he understands a little more of what went on in other timelines than he lets on, but he doesn't know or put together all of it.

Often described as odd or intense or standoffish by ppl who meet him but he can be really chatty and lively under the right circumstances

HW Zelda

Her armor is also mostly ceremonial, even though she's definitely more of a warrior queen. She and War are both dressed to project 'peace time' and 'prosperity'. She has other sets of armor that are more suited for combat.

She and War are a lot alike, calculating and cunning, which is why they understand each other. It's also why they're often at each other's throats. They're not really above backstabbing each other, though has Queen she has a lot more leverage.

She's not exactly warm or particularly kind, but she does care about the safety of the Kingdom.

Also never relaxes and works like 24/7

Constantly dealing with a tense, power-hungry and antagonistic court looking to undermine her authority. She has her own private ambitions she's working towards.

ALBW Zelda

She's a really charming and fun person! very down to earth as Queen and a lot more willing to eschew tradition.

She comes across as carefree but she's been ruling Hyrule by herself since she was young and has been subject to a lot of pressure. She had to grow up pretty fast and is wiser than she seems at first glance. She has her court and the people's respect.

She and Mirror share an interest in fashion and the arts. They're,,, they're both theatre kids.

I don't have a lot of other headcanons abt her yet sorry but. i love her

ST Zelda

Has been crowned Queen at the ripe old age of 16 because the last time they appointed a chancellor he turned out to be a demon who stole her body. so

She does not feel ready to be Queen at all but she's doing her best. She's determined not to let anybody push her around again.

She's taken an interest in learning how to fight after the events of spirit tracks. She never wants to feel as helpless as she did then, trapped as a ghost outside her body. Also she really enjoyed hitting things with a giant sword in her big phantom armor. She's become a much better swordsman than Spirit ever was lol

She specifically requested her own suit of armor to mimic the phantom armor

she's pretty protective of Spirit

BOTW Zelda

I think she was conscious for all 103 of those years fighting ganon, even if it seems somewhat blurry and surreal to her now. She remembers it in fits and bursts. She often feels disconnected from her body.

She has no interest in reviving the monarchy or ruling over Hyrule again. However she does have an interest in rebuilding Hylian towns and helping all of Hyrule recover. She still feels like it's her responsibility, not because of her role as princess, but because of what she perceives as her own failure to avert tragedy.

she doesn't just blame herself though- she blames the gods and her father too.

Right now though she's mostly taking a break to get her bearings and recover from 103 years of endless fighting. She and Slate travelled around Hyrule for a while at first, and now she's settled in Hateno trying to figure out how to be normal again. Some rebuilding efforts have already started spearheaded by Hudson and she helps out with those.

SKSW Zelda

honestly not even she is sure what parts of her are herself and what parts are hylia. it's as disconcerting for her as it is for Loft. She's both frustrated that he looks at her differently now and understands completely why he does. She still wishes he wouldn't.

she remembers more about being the goddess than she necessarily lets on

she's really invested in the settlement on the surface and is basically its unofficial leader. she puts a lot of time and effort into making sure everything is going according to plan and that they have everything they need to keep living on the surface

she's protective of Loft and worries a lot for him. She blames herself for a lot of what he struggles with now and wants to make it better.

she's not the fun police though, she likes a death-defying loftwing stunt as much as the next person

she did become a knight after the events of skyward sword! They don't really wear the uniforms down on the surface much anymore though and it's become less of a formal order while everyone focuses on building and improving the village.

She's been working on her swordsmanship

I think she really loves music and singing

[x0x0josephinex0x0]

anniversaries | yunho

Happy holidays to anyone who celebrates! I just wanted to write something cute and fluffy and short, so I hope you enjoy. <3 Warnings: I tried to avoid gendered terms but there might be some accidents, there are pet names (love, honey), it's implied reader is kinda shorter than Yunho but no specific size parameters are mentioned.

You are a person who keeps track of dates. You know every birthday in your family, always have a plan for holidays, and make sure your coworkers feel admired and appreciated.

So it was a bit of a shock to see your boyfriend of not-quite-one year standing at your door with a little pink box wrapped up in gold ribbon, his eyes bright and excited and his cheeks flushed with the winter chill.

"Yunho!" you exclaimed, nonplussed, ushering him inside and closing the door against the cold. "What are you doing here?"

"Hi to you too," he teases, putting the cake box on the counter and extricating himself from his jacket. During the winter, Yunho is always wearing a soft, fluffy sweater -- a habit he adopted after learning that you couldn't resist burying your face in his chest when he had one on. Even now, you can't help but wrap your arms around his middle, running your hands up and down the soft fabric. "I have a gift for you. I thought I'd surprise you and drop it off."

"What's the occasion?" you ask him.

He grins. "Why don't we sit down first? I want snuggles."

You roll your eyes good-naturedly, cuddling up beside him on the couch in the living room. "What have you been up to today?" you ask him, putting one of your hands up against his cold cheek to try and warm him.

"Honestly, not that much," he says simply, leaning into your touch. "I was mostly thinking about you all day."

You laugh -- he's not usually this clingy.

Your relationship with Yunho began as a friendship that had gradually become something infinitely more. He could make you smile even on days when it was hard to get out of bed, and you also felt that he drew strength from your honesty and good humor. You could talk to him about anything. He was genuinely your very best friend. And that meant everything to you.

"Was there a reason I was on your mind today?" you ask him as he winds his arms around your waist.

"You're on my mind every day," he insists, "but today is special, yes."

"Why?"

"Because I had a very important conversation with Mingi last year that made me decide to shoot my shot."

"Really?" you ask, surprised. "I've never heard this story."

He chuckles. "Well, Mingi and I were hanging out, and we ended up talking about you like we always did because I was a miserable loser who was scared to ask you out --"

"Okay, but I was just as big of a loser as you," you remind him with a playful shove. "We were both just dancing around having that conversation, which in hindsight, is actually pretty funny --"

"Because it was really easy once we finally did it," Yunho laughs. "Yeah, I remember. But I'm telling you a story now, love."

"Sorry," you giggle, looking up at him with wide eyes and trying not to smile. Yunho thinks his heart might explode, so he continues.

"It's okay. But anyway, Mingi got fed up with me and told me if I didn't ask you out I would never even know what you might have said. The turning point was when he said, 'you either say something and maybe get rejected, or say nothing and never even have a chance.'"

You think back to the "DTR" conversation you'd had with Yunho all that time ago -- how he'd taken your hands in his and asked you if friendship was all you saw in him. You remember how his hands shook, how it was one of the few times that you'd seen him unsmiling, and you'd realized that he was as terrified as you. Somehow, that made it so much easier to confess. "Remind me to thank Mingi later," you murmur, turning toward Yunho and snuggling into him.

"It was very wise of him," Yunho agrees. "But anyway. That conversation happened a year ago today, so I wanted to celebrate." He squeezes you. "Go get the box."

Reluctantly, you untangle yourself from your boyfriend and grab the box from the counter, sitting down beside him. "Do I just open it?" you say, shaking it to see if you can hear anything from the box.

Yunho winces as you shake it. "Uh, my love," he says, his expression pained. "I don't think you should shake that."

"Why?" you ask, suddenly worried. "Was it a kitten or something?"

Yunho laughs. "No," he says. "But it shouldn't be shaken. Just open it and you'll see."

So you open it. Inside is a small cake with very smeared frosting. You can tell what it used to say, though: "Happy Mingi Day." And you're laughing.

"I was thinking we could do something nice for Mingi every year on this day," Yunho muses, taking in the mess you've made inside the box. "Should we take him his favorite snacks?"

"Of course. But we should make a pact never to explain why we're so nice to him this one day out of the year," you muse. "It'll be hilarious if he never knows why."

Yunho beams. "I love you," he says, squishing you in a huge hug with his big sweater.

"I love you more," you say. Then suddenly you realize something.

"So it actually still took you three weeks to talk to me after you had the conversation with Mingi?!"

"Water under the bridge, honey."

[chaosheadspace]

For the writer asks, for Library Boys!

2. How'd you get the idea, what kicked this off?

24. How did you celebrate finishing?

25-27 I would love to hear some favorite lines, details, and lore

28. Write a summary for it but badly

Hi TJ, thank you so much for asking! I apologise beforehand, this is almost 2.5K :)

2. How'd you get the idea, what kicked this off?

Originally, @notallsandmen asked me if I would write another enemies to lovers fic after Ill-advised things. By that time I had written a library sex scene for @staroftheendless's smut prompts (yes, the very one where Hob has Dream against the shelf, at least part of that). And I just couldn't stop developing headcanons about them in this AU, how they'd look, what they'd be like, what their background looks like.

I am very much a pantser, and in the beginning the plot was clear to me up to where Dream loses Orpheus and Hob tries to console him. Everything after that was loose points I was trying to connect. I remember having written most of it up until that point and the last chapter and thinking, "not much left now, I think I can start posting". Lol.

Everything that happens between those two points came to me after that, all of Hob's backstory (I struggled with that, he's been kinda hazy in my head), the very thorough dip into the mental illness theme (the bulletpoint in my brain sounded something like "make Murphy feel better and figure out what it is exactly—and see where it took me, two fights, a sex scene and a whole chapter focused on it), Orpheus's journey. This is precisely why I don't like outlining—I do better without. The pacing might be shot to hell, but tbh I don't care about that very much, I care about having put down all I wanted you to see, all I wanted you to know about these two.

24. How did you celebrate finishing?

By taking a break, by finishing the blanket that came with the fic (lol) and by going "I don't think they're all that happy yet" and writing a bunch for the sequel. I'm also gonna commission some art from my Christmas money this year (don't know who yet, but I've got a few scenes I'd like to see).

25-27 I would love to hear some favorite lines, details, and lore

Biggest fun fact that hasn't found it's way into readers focus (hopefully "yet"), is that Matthew is Jessamy's younger brother. At the very start I had a plan about Hob and Murphy being oblivious about that and them getting into a big fight only for those two getting them back together via shenanigans. But then Murphy demanded therapy, and Orpheus demanded screen time, and Hob begged for backstory, and suddenly it didn't fit anymore, tone wise. I'm hoping to fit more Matthew into the sequel.

Favourite lines is rather…uh… I mean, it's 90K 😬

I loved writing them kiss, every single time.

The opening to chapter five holds a special place in my heart (the description of campus on the day of the summer festival), as does the poor philosophy faculty member that keeps calling the stacks for books (this is really not how it works lol). A lot of what happens in non-Dreamling plot is taken from my personal experience. A lot of it happened to me, or to my coworkers. The library I picture them working at is the library I did my apprenticeship in. (I also detest Gorgonzola.) There really are people every year accidentally ordering a cart full of bound journals because they thought they'd get single issues. I always loved doing those and brining them up personally to see the face of the person that ordered them. Was worth the three quarters of an hour of work before and after every time. What I did not include is the small railway system we had. There were little waggons to put the books into, and they'd bring the books upstairs via rails on the ceiling. It's one of the coolest things I've ever seen in my life.

I loved this part:

He can suddenly see right through the thick layer of animosity like glass, and underneath it is a beaten, bloody, hurt thing."

And this one, because it's my Murphy, condensed into a paragraph, in all his confusion and hurt and love:

It feels good to have someone's attention on him, regardless of the kind. Murphy sometimes thinks he shouldn't encourage Hob's temper like that, should maybe apologise, and on his most lonely, sleepless nights he fantasises guiltily about making amends and asking Hob out. But what would Hob gain from that? Murphy has failed at marriage, the most long-term emotional commitment there is. And there is also Orpheus. Murphy loves him more than anything, but he knows that most single people consider children from previous, failed marriages baggage. It's the last thing Murphy wants for Orpheus, to feel secondary because of a relationship.

I also loved writing Orpheus deciding to go with Calliope, just because of how raw it is, and how true it feels. As a patchwork family kid myself, while not having been in the exact situation, I feel very deeply about all of this, and exploring why someone would let their child go, and why someone would encourage them to go, helped me tremendously.

This part I love because it shows the security that Hob gives Murphy even back when they were on bad terms, and just how wrong Murphy is and how deep his self-deception goes:

He starts to taunt Hob again. It's easy, so easy to fall back into it, almost as if they never stopped. Murphy carefully sharpens his tongue again and tries it out on Hob's thick skin. It feels safe. Neither of them mentions the closet and the hugs and Murphy's tears, and he is grateful. It's not real. This is.

This part is a feeling I have very often about emotionally charged situations bc I'm shit at them (the "oh fuck, the jig is up" feeling):

This is it, he realises, this is going to resolve things one way or another. Suddenly Hob wishes Dream had called in sick for a day longer, or two, or had stopped him two days ago when he'd walked out of his office. He can't stand it. He can't face it, either. But he must.

I'm also very proud of this, because it's the turning point of the whole story and I think I executed it rather well. It's the most revised part of the whole story, and the one that took the longest, writing wise:

"Wait wait wait," Hob interrupts him and all blood leaves his face. "What's this about deserving? Did you—Have you used me to punish yourself because you don't think you deserve basic kindness?!" He is so tense that he feels his muscles might spring out of his skin, so angry that he thinks his blood might boil out of his ears. And then. And then all the tension melts out of Dream as he sees him getting angry, relief etched into his face and rimming his eyes with red, and something in Hob breaks. This is the part of Hob he is used to. This is the Hob he knows and is comfortable with. Shame and grief so profound it settles in his bones creeps up from his toes and into his heart. He doesn't want that. He wants, needs it to be different. "Oh love," he says, voice thick with sorrow, and sits down next to Morpheus on his kitchen bench, taking his hands into his own. "Oh darling, no."

I'm throwing this one in, too, because I think I was really fucking funny:

The only positive effect this information has on Hob is that it makes his erection wilt like a candle in front of a blowtorch.

I also loved doing the phone screenshots of their texts with the secret emoji story from the evening before that played out during the phone call chapter, but I don't think anyone picked up on that. It was fun regardless, a nice little easter egg.

I am skimming the story for this and am only on chapter 16. I think I have to reign myself in a bit. Chapter 16 is also kind of a companion chapter to ch13 (where they get their shit together) in terms of emotional intensity. While in chapter 13 they had to painfully try and pull themselves together, to be honest and open even if it hurt, chapter 16 is the culmination of the new start they made for themselves, a little bit of "what if we hadn't been like that from the start" but better, because of course they have been like that, and imo dropping a weight like that lets people fly higher. A tender start would have been sweet and nothing else, but here they're conscious of quite a few of each other's flaws, and know the other is earnestly trying to put the work in, and that makes it as delicious as an overripe peach eaten over the sink, sticky and ecstatic and glorious.

This:

The giggle Hob has been suppressing bubbles up his throat, and he moves quickly to tap his index finger to the soft wet redness. Scandalised, Murphy pulls his head back, smacking his lips. "Bah," he says, taken aback. "Who does that?" "I do," Hob says, still giggling. "Worked, didn't it?" "You," Murphy proclaims, swaying back to him and holding onto his hips, "are the worst." And then he licks a long, wet stripe up the side of Hob's face.

I just love their silly. They need the silly. Even if I forget, they demand it themselves.

All the house/home metaphors I did for Murphy's life, and the sea metaphors I did for his mental health journey.

Also proud that I managed to still keep them real and make them fight and make up and not have them be happy lovey doves all the time (which may seem surprising considering all I put them through, but still). I wanted to be conscious of making their relationship equal, to not have Hob carry Murphy's issues but have him lean on him, too (although he's certainly the stronger one of them, emotionally. Carrying wise, I mean.), to have them give and take in equal measure.

There was also a short snippet of Hob meeting Jessamy, that would originally go into chapter 20. But it didn't fit the tone, and the chapter did better what I wanted from it without it, so it got cut. Generally speaking, there's very little scenes that got cut. I don't care about pacing that much, and even less if a scene is necessary or not. If it's something I want to tell, I'm gonna include it. But there's a few that took the story in a direction that I didn't like, and that I wrote quite early on, that didn't fit the story as it progressed. (notably, for the sequel, Orpheus finding a dog while playing with his best friend and Hob and Murphy adopting it.)

This one, for me, is the best sentence from the recovery chapter:

He needs—no, he wants to take it into his own hands, so that his happiness stops being a thing that other people need to give him."

(I also asked notallsandmen if the sex scene at the end is over the top, and they told me that not only is Murphy on antidepressants, he's also in love, and at that point I threw caution out the window and decided they can as happy and as schmoopy as I want them to be.)

Chapter 22 was entirely unplanned. At one point I realised that while readers have an approximation of Murphy's past, Hob still has no idea what happened :D

I also loved doing the Christmas chapter. I put a lot of thought in what celebrations like this might look for Orpheus as a kid of two cultures. I think some traditions would have been quite important to Calliope, not because I picture her as particularly religious, but because I think she would have liked to keep them while living in England. And I think Murphy would have agreed with her, because he wanted her to be happy, and I don't think that he's got particularly happy memories associated with family celebrations until Calliope, and he might even have seen it as a way to break away from his own family and his own past, just like his marriage in general had been. So the abundance of greek Christmas traditions is very much on purpose.

I also love any and all interactions between Hob and Orpheus.

This one, because it always makes me cry, even when rereading my own story:

“Hello, little sparrow.” He’s sure that his relief bleeds through into his tone, softening his voice to a sweet, velvety caress. Orpheus makes an indefinable sound at the endearment. “You've called every day for a week,” he says, unsure. “I did,” Murphy assents. “Thank you for speaking to me today. I missed you.”

Also loved reusing this one, even if it might be too sugary:

“D’you think it'll work out?” He finally says. “All of it?” Turning his head slightly, Murphy kisses Hob's temple, his cheek, his neck. “We try,” he says, gently. “We try and try, and sometimes that means we fail. But Hob, it also means that more often than not, we make it work.”

I also love the last chapter and the conclusion to bits, but sometimes I worry that it might feel like a haphazardly slapped on bandaid to some readers (which it it very much not. It's another testament to both of their stellar decision making, and it will come to bite them in the ass :D).

This turned into a very long and convoluted ramble, but I hope you enjoyed it nonetheless.

28. Write a summary for it but badly

I cannot decide, so you're getting all of them (yes, I crowdsourced):

Library 4.0: parkour edition

Dr. D. M. Olympiou's and R. Gadlings guide on how to regulate your behaviour in library spaces using real life negative examples, now with annex detailing the consequences for your private life

'In which library assistant Hob finds himself the prime subject of new subject librarian Dream Olympiou's study onwhether you're being checked out of the library or checked out at the library.' (courtesy of @sleepsonfutons)

Two insecure idiots fuck around and find out…that they’re actually really good together (courtesy of @edgedancer77)

Surrounded by idiots: The four types of human behaviour and how to effectively fumble all of them when it comes to your hot but asshole coworker (based on: Surrounded by Idiots: The Four Types of Human Behavior and How to Effectively Communicate with Each in Business (and in Life))

How to hatefuck your way into better mental health (courtesy of @reallyintoscience)

[madude21]

Over time

Suzanne loved being pregnant with her bosses baby. Not only was he a good lover but also a great boss. When she started at a tech company she never imagined she would have it so easy.

At first she was just a regular secatatary, taking calls, scheduling meetings, and all the boring paper work no one wanted to do. After awhile she was sick of it and went to her boss ,Jack, to ask for a more important position.

She never really thought anything of him until she saw how dirty he really was. One day, as she approached his corner office she saw that it was locked and started to head back to her desk. Bit before that she heard a muffled "AAAHHH" sound.

Fearing her boss was in trouble she unlocked the door to help him. When the door was opened she saw Jack rubbingone out to his computer."GET THE HELL OUT" he yelled.

She quickly shut the door and stated back to her desk. So many thoughts were going through her head as she tried to forget about what she saw. Not 5 minutes had passed before Jack called her back into his office.

"I'm sorry you had to see that Suzanne, I know it was wrong and I'll think twice before trying that again. But please can we keep this between us, my dad would kill me if he found out what I did at his company" he explained

"I think we should get you a new lock. I got into your office with just a paper clip" Suzanne said in a calm voice. "What, why are you thinking about the door Suzanne"

"You can call me Suzie, and I think you're dad is the least of your worries". He gulped "I'm done for ain't I?" He asked with fear in his voice. "Now ever since I started here you've treated me fair and I think we can reach a fair agreement"

Jack thought the worst as he started to worry about what Suzie was planning. "what did you have in mind?"he asked in a shaky voice. "I know there a new branch management position open, I would like to have it" Suzie said smirking. "Done, it's yours" Jack said hoping that it was all. "There is one other thing". Susie got up and walk towards Jack with malicious intent.

"I want you put a baby's in me" Susie demanded. "What did you say?" Jack wanted to make sure that this was real. "With all this work I've been doing I haven't been able to really live a social life and I want to become a mother before it's too late". Jack was astonished, he didn't really have a social life either because he grew up rich and was basically raised by tutors. "I... uh... don't know what to say". "Don't say anything, just sit there and look pretty" Suzie bent over and took her panties off and dropped on the floor infront of him. Jack's heart raced as he couldn't believe what was happening right now. "Are we really doing this, right here, right now?". Susie ignored his words and started to unbuckle his pants. Jack was in shock, he knew that this was wrong but he was afraid of what she might do if he stopped her.

"just relax and try to be quiet this time" she put her leg over his chair, as her wet pussy hovered over his cock, she guided his dick inside her. "mmnng" she moned softly as to not draw any attention. Jack was enjoying himself until "hnnng" he didn't last long. Susie felt his worm cum inside her "that's ok boss, I got what I wanted". She got off him, turned around and bent over to pick he panties up.

"I'm not done yet" jack grabbed her wrist, his cock was still hard and his confidence had grown. "I don't mind making sure I'm pregnant" she leaned on his desk and presented her cum filled pussy. "I'm gonna enjoy this" he whispered in her ear as he started ramming his hips against her ass. His dick reaching deep inside her. They didn't care how loud they were, they fucked each other all morning that day.

That was 9 months ago and now Suzie sat in her own office with her beautifully round belly. Jack had her office custom made so that their coworkers were deaf to the sounds of their "one on one meetings". Jack entered her office and locked the door "thought we could have some fun before the meeting. How's my son doing". "he has been causing some trouble in there, I think he wants his daddy". Suzie bent over on here chair, awaiting Jack's dick. "You shouldn't even be working being a week overdue, but I can't deny that ass" Jack began fucking her. Wrapping his hands around her plump baby bump and feeling and his son kicking much more than usual "he's really fussy today huh?". Jack turned Suzie so that he could get a better grip of her belly "not so rough today" Suzie begged."I'll try" Jack responded as he pulled her belly aggenst his hips.

They made love for 20 minutes before the pains began. "Aaagh" " are you alright?" "Yes it's nothing, just don't stop". Jack continued, he couldn't resist her jucy pussy as it was extra wet today. " oh god, unnnggg" Suzie's water broke and soked her carpet floor. "Was that the baby" jack asked, worried. "No I just camed" she lied.

"Are you sure, that's a lot of juice" "yeah I've been drinking a lot of liquids" Susie didn't want to miss this meeting, she had to be present not because she needed to but she wanted to see Jack get his promotion. "I'll be fine I can last an hour before the baby comes" she thought. " you go get ready for the meeting, I'm going to clean up this mess and" she was interrupted by a painful contraction. "Are you ok" jack asked "just Braxton hics, nothing to worry about. You go I'll see you at the meeting" she said rushing him out the door. "Please, I want to see Jack inherent the company, just stay in there for a little while"

At the meeting, she was lucky to be seated at the far side, away from Jack. The CEO and Jack's dad, the owner and founder, sat at the other end of the table. As the meeting began the time between her contractions grew smaller. "It's only an hour, I can make it" she said as she felt her baby pushing against her cervix. The meaning was like any other boring corporate meeting. They started by sharing quarterly reports and future contracts. She couldn't focus on anything they were saying as she tried so hard to stay silent.

"Finally it was time for Jack to receive his promotion. Jack's father got up to address the room "now on to more exciting news, I think it's time to welcome our new CFO Jack" everyone in the room started clapping and as they did Suzie was able to let out a small whimper of pain as she felt like pushing. As the noise died down Jack started to speak "I am very honored to have this position and I would like to thank my branch manager, this could have happened without you Suzanne and I would like to thank you for all your hard work". She stood up trying very hard not to scream "thank you all for supporting me... I know times been tough but together we can-mnngg-get through it". She sat down quick, and as she did another contraction hit her.

When the meeting was overly quickly waddled to her office. She knew that she wasn't going to make it to the hospital and laid on the floor to push. A couple of minutes I'd pass and she could feel her baby halfway up the birth canal. Suddenly Jack swung the door opened " I knew it, why didn't you tell me?". "Just shut up and help me deliver this baby,I'm so close" she said pushing her baby. "No son of mine is being born in an office" Jack stuff cheese fingers inside Suzie and started to push their son back. "NNOOO, STOP" Suzie cried out in vain. "now I'm going to carry you and you're going to keep your legs shut until we get to the hospital, understood? " Suzie nodded.

The trip to the hospital was excruciating. Jack would constantly stick his fingers inside Suzie to make sure his baby stayed inside. Every time Suzie pushed he pushed back. But right as they got into the parking lot Suzie was able to push her babies head out. "PLEASE JUST LET ME FINNISH" "NO, YOU BETTER START WAIT TILL THE DELIVERY ROOM" Jack pulled her up. It was hard to walk when there was a baby in between her legs. Jack manage to find a wheelchair and sat her down. When they got to the lobby Jack yelled for the doctor's help but in vain because with one final push his son was born.

[the-badger-mole]

The Other Woman: Part 4

Ursa had set out a plate of Zuko's favorite cookies. He'd always known it was juvenile, but he'd always appreciated the thought. Today was different. Now the gesture just seemed infantilizing.

"I'm so happy to see you!" Ursa was saying. "The house feels so empty during the day without Ikem and Kiyi here." She paused and sighed sadly. "Did your sister tell you that all the universities she's considering are hours away from here?"

Zuko winced. He had been present the day that Katara encouraged his youngest sister to take going to college as an opportunity to expand her horizons, both academically and physically. He hadn't added much to the conversation, feeling a bit disloyal to his mother, but he also didn't have the heart to push her to stay closer to home, as he knew Ursa would've wanted. He couldn't after seeing how Kiyi's eyes lit up at the thought of spending time in Ba Sing Se or the Southern Water Tribe. In hindsight, he was glad he hadn't tried to reign in his sister's dreams.

"Mom," Zuko said taking a deep breath. "We need to talk." Ursa froze halfway through filling Zuko's coffee cup. She found a smile a moment later, the consummate hostess, even after all these years since her divorce from his father had taken her far away from the social elite.

"That sounds serious," she said lightly. "I hope it's nothing bad?" Zuko took a breath and silently went over the speech he'd been practicing for the last three days.

"It's about Katara," he said. Ursa's eyes widened, and two splotchy patches of red appeared on her cheeks.

"She's not pregnant, is she?" Ursa tried to keep her tone light, but there was something cold in her tone. Zuko realized with stunning certainty that she would not be happy to hear that Katara was pregnant.

"Mom-" Zuko sighed.

"You should insist on a paternity test," Ursa huffed, setting down the coffee pot and sweeping crumbs from the table, agitatedly. "Before you sign anything, you make sure you get a paternity test. Agni knows how many prominent young men have found themselves bound to supporting uppity little harlots for decades because they signed birth certificates before making sure the child was theirs." Zuko listened to his mother's rant in mounting horror. How had he not seen this hostility towards Katara for what it was? How had Katara taken so long to reach her breaking point?

"Mom, she's not pregnant," Zuko cut in before Ursa could get any further into her insinuations. Ursa visibly relaxed, which made Zuko dread saying what he had to say next. "She broke up with me."

"Oh!" Ursa, to her credit did try not to look too excited. "Well, I never thought she was the right fit for you, anyway. You'll move on in time, you'll see."

"That's just it, Mom," Zuko said as calmly as he could with his insides tumbling wildly inside of him. "Katara is the perfect woman for me. She's smart; she's kind; she's the most patient person I've ever met besides Uncle. She's so far out of my league, I was afraid to talk to her at first. Did you know that it took me almost a year to get the courage to ask her out?"

"Zuko-" Ursa blinked in surprise. She scrambled to find something to say. "I don't know why you would feel that way. You-you're a remarkable young man-"

"And she made sure to tell me that- to make me feel that every opportunity she got!" Zuko exclaimed. "She loved me! If I'm lucky, she still loves me! But I sat by and let her sit through levels of disrespect I wouldn't allow my coworkers to sit through! I ruined the best relationship I ever had because I was afraid of upsetting you!"

"Me!" Ursa gasped. "All I want- all I've ever wanted for you was the best!"

"Then why did you treat Katara so horribly?" Zuko demanded. "She was never anything but respectful to you! And she made me happy. What more could you possibly want from the woman I marry?"

"She isn't good enough for you!" Ursa insisted.

"Why?" Zuko slammed his hands on the table and stood, knocking his chair over "Why don't you think Katara is good enough for me, Mother?" His voice rang through the room. Ursa paled and sank into her chair.

"I feel dizzy," she gasped. Zuko rolled his eyes and got her a bottle of water from the refrigerator.

"All I want is a reason for why you don't like Katara," Zuko groaned.

"I don't like it when you yell," Ursa's voice quaked with unshed tears, and her hands shook as she opened the bottle. "It reminds me so much of your father." Zuko's jaw dropped at that.

"Are you seriously comparing me to him?"

"It's not that, my love," Ursa said hurriedly. "Not at all. It's just that when you were yelling, you reminded me of him. It-it took me back to..." She drew a shallow, shuddering breath.

"Fine, Mom," Zuko growled in frustration. "I won't yell. I just need to know what your problem is with Katara."

"She isn't good-"

"-good enough for me," Zuko interrupted. "So you've said. I want to know why, you think that. What specifically made you think that Katara isn't good enough for me? She's been kind and respectful to you, right?"

"She walked right out of here without saying anything to anyone the other night," Ursa reminded Zuko, defensively. "That's respectful?"

"She heard what you said about her," Zuko told her. "She heard what you said, and she heard me not say anything to you about it. That's why she left. She's always been respectful towards you, and Ikem. And Kiyi loves her. Uncle is furious at me for losing her! Even Azula thinks she's too good for me! Why are you the only one with a problem with her?"

"I'm-I'm sure she's a lovely girl," Ursa forced out. "But you, my son! You are going so many places. You have such a bright future ahead of you. Can you see her being the one to get you there? She is going to want her own career. She won't be there to support your ambitions. She'll put her own ahead of yours. Your children will end up being raised by strangers. Is that what you want?"

"I want her!" Zuko snapped. "I love Katara. And I-I know that I haven't done a good job of letting her know that- of letting you know that. I've wrecked everything with her for your feelings, Mom!"

"Are you blaming me for your break up?" Ursa sputtered indignantly.

"No!" Zuko paced the floor a few times, raking his hand through his hair. "I messed things up with her. I prioritized you over her."

"I'm your mother-"

"Yeah, and you abandoned me !" Zuko rounded on her hotly. "You abandoned me and Azula, and then you showed up ten years later with a new husband and child and wanted us to just play happy family. And, you know what? I was fine with that! I get why you left. I'm not blaming you for that. But Mom, I was an adult when you came back. I'm a grown man, and you still want me to be your little boy. I can't do that anymore. I'm ready for my own family! I want a family with Katara, but I made her take second place to you. I won't do that again. I don't know if she'll ever forgive me, but even if she doesn't, I'm not losing her for nothing.

"What are you talking about?" Ursa asked. Tears were streaming down her face and she had a napkin pressed to her mouth. Guilt lanced Zuko, but he shut his eyes and took a breath.

"I love you, Mom," he said. "But I can't make you the center of my world. I'll still come by to see you, but you can't claim my time for three nights a week anymore. No more last minute favors. No more begging me to come over to check for prowlers when you have a fully functional security system. No more speaking down about people I care about. I want you in my life, Mom. But not at the expense of everyone else."

"Zuko-" Ursa sobbed.

"This has to be the line." Zuko turned his eyes down to the table, with his fists clenched at his sides. "Katara was never a threat to you. I love you because you're my mom. I was hoping you two would get along. Did you know that she lost her mother as a child? I guess, I was hoping..." Zuko pinched his nose and let out a huff. "It doesn't matter what I was hoping. You have two choices now, Mom. Either you respect the fact that I'm a grown man with my own life- respect my time and space and my choice in who I want to spend my life with- or we can't be in each other's lives anymore."

"Zuko!" Usra looked as if she had been slapped in the face. She gaped up at her son in horror. Part of Zuko wanted to cave and apologize for hurting her feelings, but the larger part of him- the part that was still raw and hurting from losing the woman of his dreams- knew that this was for the best. He sighed and turned to leave.

"Good-bye, Mom."

Part 1, Part 2, Part 3, Part 4, Part 5

[diagonal-queen]

Hello there! It’s me Jack, back again, but with a request this time! How about, Kunikida with an outgoing, friendly fem!reader?

🫶

Jack!! it's good to see you again my love! i've been waiting for a kunikida ask dkjdkdjjkdjksjssjd i just love that dork. also lowkey he's really hot but imma stop talking rreal quick

Two of Two Kinds

♡ pairing: Doppo Kunikida x fem!Reader

♡ synopsis: You and Kunikida are just hangin' out honestly.

♡ wc: 1.1k

♡ cw: None!

note: This took too long to write I'm ( ；へ ：) I'm sorry Jack ily <3 Kunikida is surprisingly difficult to write for me, which is mean because I gave him my heart and this is what I get in return?? smh. Apologies for errors and I hope you enjoy x

"Hey, sorry! I'm back," you panted with a grin, as you latched back onto Kunikida's arm. Such a statement was definitely within your top recurring dialogue whenever you left the office to complete a job, very often running into somebody that you knew or were friends with. You'd pause what you were doing, tell whoever you were with (usually Kunikida, considering you two paired quite well in every way) to wait a moment, before scurrying off to greet whomever it was you'd noticed.

Kunikida always kept count of how often this happened. Today, you'd done it twice. That was unusually low.

Kunikida slightly stiffened when you grabbed onto him, but quickly you felt him relax. Back when you'd first started dating, he seemed uncomfortable when you were physically affectionate in public, but by now he was well used to it.

"Who was that?" He asked.

"An old friend I recognised from school. She began attending in our second year, and we worked on a couple projects together," you explained. "We didn't speak much outside of that, but I don't think she minded my presence while we were there."

If he had to guess, Kunikida would have confidently made the assumption that you were on good terms with everybody you went to high school with, including your teachers.

"You could rival Kenji with how popular you are around here." He remarked.

"Please- that kid's just too sweet. I could never be as well-liked as him," you answered, with a smile still on your face.

"That's something I've noticed about you, Y/N. You're too humble," he replied. "The people won't trust a detective who doesn't believe in their own abilities."

"Hey, I never said I wasn't a good detective!" You turned to Kunikida, folding your arms. "All I said was that I'm not as popular as Kenji. Do you think I'm a bad detective?"

"Of course not. You know what I'm saying."

"Clearly I don't if I'm asking!"

"You asked because you wanted to hear me say that you were a good detective, didn't you?" Kunikida raised an eyebrow at you. Not wanting to admit such a thing, you glanced to one side. "You are a good detective, and people enjoy your company. There's no need to be self-effacing, and it's pointless when you're alone with me especially." You furrowed your eyebrows, and he rolled his eyes. "There's no use in doing so when I'm already your partner, is what I'm saying."

"Ah, you're always so serious, Doppo," you heaved in exasperation. "But it's cute sometimes, makes me feel smart and it makes sure I don't have to do much overtime, so I can forgive you." The tall man let out a sigh.

"You should start trying to regulate your work time on your own. It won't help you in the future if you keep relying on me."

"But I can't help it! I can't help talking to my coworkers when I'm in the office! Though, I suppose it'd be nice to have Ranpo off my back occasionally..." You mused, before interlacing your fingers with his and giving his hand a squeeze.

"He is a stickler for the rules, yes," he agreed, with a nod.

You pursed your lips. "Actually, never mind. Talking to you and Dazai both at once is super fun. Besides, I know you secretly like helping me manage things, don't you?"

"Are you trying to make fun of me?" Kunikida asked, frowning at you.

"Is it working?" You gave him a mischievous grin, and he just bowed his head in defeat. Unlike Dazai, he didn't really mind when you teased him, because it never hindered his work. In fact, you only ever seemed interested in affecting your own schedule by having fun and using any excuse to spend time with your friends. Plus, he would seldom say it, but he found it much more endearing than he'd have liked to admit.

"I'm sure that the two of you are taking years off my life," he told you. Kunikida's stern tone may have fooled a stranger, but by now you knew when he was and wasn't being serious. He simply wanted to maintain a public image was all; not that he could do so very effectively with you clinging to him.

"C'mon, now, don't be like that!" You grinned, taking his hand. "I'm just messing with you. Surely you're used to it by now?"

"You'd think that, but usually I expect you to be more well-behaved." He replied, his tone blunt, though you could sense the irony with which he spoke.

You tutted, and nudged him. Kunikida let out a small chuckle.

"You're so mean sometimes, Doppo..." You whined, jokingly. "Sometimes I wonder if you love me at all."

"Hm? Of course I do, darling," he replied, leaning over and placing a kiss on the crown of your head. "If you're going to ignore anything I say, don't let it be that."

"Aw, that's adorable, babe," you said, cheeks red due to surprise from the sudden display of affection. "Hey, you know what? Since we're already out here, let's go get lunch. We haven't been out to eat together in a while. And you're being so cute now that I can't help but wanna go on a date."

"We only have fifteen minutes before we're supposed to be back at the office," he replied, glancing at his watch.

"So we'll make it quick! In and out. Okay?" You asked, eagerly.

Kunikida wanted to object to that, but he didn't. He'd gotten used to adapting his schedule to fit your spontaneity into his day. Most of all, like everyone else, he simply couldn't refuse that smile.

"...alright. Fine, but on the condition that you don't mention this to anyone," he answered, his voice taut. You glanced at him with a naughty smile.

"I'm gonna tell literally everybody about this."

Kunikida looked at you, mischief glimmering in your eyes, and let out another exhale.

"Oh, but if we're free on the weekend or something, can we go on an actual date? One that lasts longer than fifteen minutes?" You asked.

"If you have a friend who owns a restaurant in Yokohama and you can get us a discount, that'd be helpful." You giggled at his reply, before considering the suggestion.

"...actually, I think I might." Kunikida gave you an amused smile.

"That doesn't surprise me at all."

stop the original ver. of this got so dark so quick for absolutely no reason and i just couldn't have that now could i?? no.

taglist~ ♡ @gettinshiggywithit, @fedyushka, @flower-of-darkness

and of course tagging @jackofanon who requested this piece!

[mintchocodevi]

Dance - Atsushi x Reader

A/N: The title doesn't really fit the theme for the story but it's the title of the song I was listening too when I got the inspiration to write this. I'm also playing around with how I enjoy formatting posts so forgive me if my stuff looks slightly different from fic to fic. 'DANCE' - Yumi from the Album LOST

Summary: You're leaving the agency in search of better opportunities in America. You might not come back, are you okay with that? More importantly, is Atsushi okay with that?

Characters: Atushi, Gender Neutral Reader, Dazai

Warnings: Angst and feels mostly, you two have feelings for each other but neither of you knows till the very end, Not beta read

"I'll be leaving for America in three days." Atsushi felt his fingers freeze, hovering over the keyboard in front of him as he looked at you from the back of the room. You had requested from Yukichi to gather everyone in the main room of the Agency to make an announcement.

"I know this is sudden and last minute but, this has been very hard for me to come to terms with. I've enjoyed my time with you all very, very much! So please, if it's not too much to ask of everyone here could you all see me off?"

You were standing at the front of the room with tears in the corners of your eyes, your heart heavy from the words you had spoken. You had been a loyal worker of the Armed Detective Agency for a while now and to be leaving so many people you loved and cherished behind was like having your crystal heart thrown to the floor and shattered into pieces. You looked over all your comrades faces, fearing anger and resentment for your last minute departure announcement but was met with bright smiles and kind faces. Multiple people came up to hug you and try to calm your tears. You were bombarded with questions on top of multiple people trying to console you. Honestly, it was very fitting, and a tiny bit of it warmed your broken heart.

"I don't know how long I'll be gone truthfully. I'll do my best to keep in touch but, I don't think I'll be able to visit. I'll miss you all very much honestly!" A somber chuckle left your lips as a few of the more childish ability users pouted and whined about your abrupt leaving.

However, not everyone came up and offered condolences or empty threats as a way of trying to get you to definitely stay in touch. Atsushi had found himself frozen in time at his desk, hands still glued to the same position they had frozen in the moment the first sentence left your lips. His golden eyes glued to your teary eyed face whilst hoping that in a split second you would laugh, say this was some kind of sick prank. Yet, what right did he have to feel this way? As far as he knew the two of you were nothing more than friends. Hell, it was possible he didn't even have the right to call you that either. Even so, he didn't want to see you go, he didn't want you to leave.

"You're going to finish your report before the day is over right?" Atushi was startled out of his thoughts by Dazai leaning over and pestering him about his work.

With a nervous chuckle he gave a weary nod of his head and did his best to focus back on the report that was due. Despite how much the little were-tiger did his best to hide his feelings from everyone, even himself, there was no hiding it from Dazai's watchful eye. The brunette watched Atsushi continue his work with a small grimace before his calculating eyes looked back up at you at the front of the room, still receiving comfort from his coworkers. Eventually, you had to part ways, bowing in respect to everyone and explaining you had to finish up packing before your leave this week. Dazai took seat in the roller chair beside Atsushi, watching the pale haired boy stare at your retreating form like a lost puppy wishing for its master to come back.

"Why don't you just tell them?" Dazai inquired with a bored look. The question definitely caught Atsushi's attention as he turned back to face his higher up.

"T-Tell them what exactly," Atsushi stuttered anxiously, "there's nothing else to say that hasn't already been said by others!"

Though he knew that was a lie. Dazai knew, and Atsushi himself knew too. It's not that he didn't want to tell you, but that he didn't feel he had the right. You were like the sun, the brightest smile in the room, the kindest person that could make anyone's bad day better. You were like the first dewy morning of spring, the beauty after a rainstorm! And Atsushi, was... He didn't think he could compare himself to anything as beautiful and romantic as your very being was. With a heavy sigh and a deep furrow in his brow Atsushi did his best to focus on the report in front of him, trying to tune out Dazai and whatever plan or possibly reaction he was hoping to get.

"There's nothing to tell, end of story."

Atsushi's last sentence left his lips in a whisper. Dazai couldn't help but stare at Atsushi, the poor kid practically wore his heart on sleeve in his eyes and it was plain as day to see. This kid was in love with you, and at the idea of you leaving he was boring torn apart.

Little did they know you were just as distraught. Granted, this had been tearing at you from the beginning. You had been offered a scholarship over seas at an American school in order to further pursue the career field you actually wanted to work in. It wasn't that you hated your work for the Armed Detective Agency but it definitely had not been your first choice. They took you in and gave you a job so that way you could earn some kind of income while finish up your education locally. All of your coworkers were kind and caring, some a bit more eccentric than others but it just added to their lovely personality! Though, you could definitely live without the danger, dealing with the Port Mafia on more than one occasion had solidified that being a portion of the job you hated. Yet, even when it was a situation most people would see as hopeless to escape from, you held at hope.

"No matter what, I promise to always save you!" Those had been Atsushi's words the first time he ever saved you, and without fail, he followed through on each time. It felt silly, falling in love with the man who promised to rescue you every time, but he'd always try and make it up to you! On days you both had off and he had some extra spending money he'd try to take you for food or sweets. When there was no extra cash to be had he'd still come and check up on you, make sure you were recovering from any possible injuries.

Honestly, those days he came to visit your house had to be the best. He'd come knocking at your door, clearly anxious to be at someone's real house instead of the apartments offered by the agency considering you still lived with your parents while working and in school. You'd have a bandage wrapped around your leg or arm from a deep cut or fractured bone from being roughhoused by the villain's who had captured you. The moment you open the door Atsushi is in full panic mode, ushering and helping you get back to your bedroom so you can properly rest and heal. It's a bit embarrassing, when one of his arms comes up and around your waist to hold you against him when he tries to help you take pressure off your injured leg or when his hands delicately press into your upper back to push you toward your room to rest. His touch is so warm, calming and gentle. After he manages to coerce you back into bed he makes sure to get you anything you ask for like a maid at your beck and call and it's so cute it often makes you laugh and giggle.

Reminiscing about those days, his warm touch, those gentle yet worried eyes. The reality of your situation, that you're leaving, possibly never to see him again, has you breaking down the minute your back in your now boxed up bedroom. You want more memories of him, of being with him, of him caring for you. When you're unable to keep the dam back much longer, you crumple into the side of your bed and sob.

The next two days is spent avoiding the agency as a whole. You focus on cleaning, packing, spending time with your parents and making sure people have your phone number and possible socials to keep up with you on. You know some of this information falls on deaf ears, some friendships just simply aren't meant to last no matter how much you wish they could. You decide that, since you don't know if you'll even have time to visit you cross off some minor bucket list items. You cook your parents their favorite meal and pamper them as a 'thank you' for taking care of you and raising you all these years. You buy little gifts for everyone at the Armed Detective Agency as thanks for allowing you to work there and as a small sort of apology for constantly being a rescue case for them. However, you aren't able to give them out until the third day. You had one last bucket list item in mind just before departing and you figured it was now or never.

The gentle rain seemed to match the atmosphere within many peoples hearts today. The sky was full of gray clouds, and the port in town busy with workers and many other people and families showing up and readying for departure. Atsushi was a little confused and curious as to why he was the first to show up to the harbor where your cruise was departing. He double checked his phone to make sure the time was right and he hadn't accidentally fucked up. This would be about the 17th time since he looked at his phone now, considering he would rather die and rot in the sewers than miss your departure but he still wasn't sure. Poor boy was far too worried that the world would punish him today and the clock on his phone would jump three hours from the time it actually was. When he looked back up and saw your form, bundled up in a large trench coat and gloves to fend off the cold air and rain that was sprinkling about, he couldn't help but find you adorable. Upon sight of him you raised your hand excitedly and waved, signaling him for him to come over and join you whilst workers behind you began to take your luggage and load it onto the ship.

"H-hey.. I'm not like, some how late am I?" Atsushi brought one of his hands up to nervously scratch the back of his head before sighing in relief when you shook your head.

"No, in fact your early," you couldn't contain the blush that rose to your cheeks, "I-I wanted you here a bit early..."

"O-Oh! Really..?" Atsushi blushed just as bright as you did.

The two of you stood in an awkward silence between each other. Everyone else around you seemed to pay no mind, other cruise ship passengers looking around and struggling to figure out where they needed to go, families sharing hugs and kisses to those departing and wishing for safe travels. Time was ticking away, you only had so much time alone with him but now, presented with the opportunity, your heart felt like it was about to explode.

"I hope you have fun, in America," Atsushi suddenly said.

"Have a safe trip." He reached out to awkwardly pat you on the shoulder, unsure of what else to say or do.

Was, that really all he had to say to you? You've been crying about your feelings and this boy for months. He cared so deeply for you, to promise such a thing as to rescue you every time, to visit you so often and make sure you were healing. To baby you, be a maid for you while you healed and yet, here you were leaving him and everything behind and all he had to say was 'be safe'?

"I love you."

Your heart seemed to be moving faster than your brain was now. Looking up at Atsushi in tears, the boy had no idea what to say to you. His golden iris were blown wide with surprise as he tried to let the words sink in before feeling panicked upon recognition of your tears. You threw your arms around him in a tight and quick hug, barely lasting a second, before you furiously wiped at your cheeks and moved past him. The sounds of Dazai cheering and calling out to the two of you was nothing but mumbled garbage in Atsushi's ears. His heart and brain were racing against one another right now and he was stuck at a stand still. Does he confess now? Would it be easier for you to move on if he just kept his mouth shut and watched you leave? Would it be easier for him? It was already hard enough, pretending that he didn't already love you, but maybe that difficulty would fade the moment you left. He could pretend that you were never there to begin with.

"You know, they say distance makes the heart grow fonder." Hearing Dazai's crystal clear voice cut through the fuzzy background noise of his brain snapped him back to reality.

Atsushi hadn't realized he put himself on autopilot as everyone else from the agency gathered to give you their last good-byes. You continued to cry the whole time while hugging everyone and handing out their little gifts, muttering apologies for always causing everyone stress despite their pleas and promises you weren't. As Atsushi checked back into reality, the final horn on the ship resounded, the port walkway empty except for you and all your coworkers. You gave one final teary wave good bye as you made you way up the ramp to the main deck.

'Distance makes the heart grow fonder' Dazai had said. Yeah right, with enough time it would be like you were never there. He would forget about you, forget his feelings, and focus on keeping the city safe once again.

Right?

Or...

Would he look at the clock, expecting you to come in with your dazzling smile at eight in the morning with drinks to perk everyone up? Would he still feel his heart flutter every time he looked at all the sticky notes he saved that you had left on his work desk after he'd rescue you each time? Would he ever forget the comforting scent of your bedroom he had become so familiar with every time he went to visit you?

Would he remember his promise to always save you, just like you always remembered?

"No!" Atsushi suddenly felt very panicked when he saw the boat moving and taking off. It wasn't moving very fast, but he knew that there was no stopping it now.

His coworkers jumped the moment Atsushi yelled and watched in bewilderment as the young man ran after the boat, calling for your name as loud as he could. He had to tell you, he couldn't hide his feelings, he couldn't run from them anymore, not when he was about to lose you possibly for good! He continued to run down the length of the port as best as could, the rain causing him to slip mid-pursuit and land face first into the concrete, but he couldn't give up, not now damn it! He placed his hands flat against the concrete beneath him and pushed himself up, giving another loud yell of your name till he could finally see your familiar face running out to the railing to see the commotion going on. You needed something better, something more beautiful than a boring, simple 'I love you too'.

"No matter what! I promise to always save you! Even if I have to swim across the ocean to get to you!"

[kuzure-collapse]

confessing too late prompt?

since some of my friends found love this year, but we've graduated, so they might never see their lovers again

---

A and B are graduating school and moving in different directions in life. Or only A is, and B is still around for another year.

Or A and B are coworkers and A is leaving for another position (far away or even at a different company). either way, they're probably never gonna have another encounter

And they both know that

spice it up and make them former rivals/enemies (i like that trope too much). they've been stubbornly hiding their feelings for each other and now that this moment's here, there's conflict in their hearts.

Do I say something, or do I keep quiet and save my pride? Can't get the feeling off their chest. the realization hits them, sudden regret for the words unsaid

all those times they fantasized about holding hands, kissing each other, holding them close. something that could've been if only one made a move

instead, they wasted all that time scoffing and teasing, jumping to conclusions at all the hints of reciprocation and accidental flirts

or thinking the other was interested in someone else. bringing up other people to get their minds off each other.

and finally, when A is packing their things or something, B watches from a distance, gathering the courage to approach. step by step, and suddenly, they're running (cue the cliche 'stop them at the airport scene')

or it doesn't have to be that dramatic. it could be a slow walk towards a packing A, a longing look, and a responding glance from A, wondering why B looks so down

or it could be at a party to celebrate seeing A off/celebrate the end of a year. and they end up in a room alone together, away from the rest of the noise. or sitting in one's room after the party's over and they've helped to clean up

or walking out together into the night, when thoughts are most intimate

the hype has died down and they're talking about how much time has passed, how things have changed, how they're gonna miss all their friends

and the conversation ends up going into vulnerable territory. they've never seen the other like this before, so exposed and melancholy

how they regret not doing certain things, not meeting certain people. not falling in love (or something like that)

and that catches B's attention.

swallowing, throat bobbing, heart shaking, everything going warm. hands in fists, clenching and unclenching in their pockets, chewing their lip

A notices, glancing up and down innocently. they're also feeling conflicted. surprised by B's genuine look of longing and sadness. moving towards new opportunities, but having to leave something behind.

"I have to tell you something" or even omit that outright and get straight to it.

"I like you." something as simple as that.

A looks up, confused. Defeated chuckling, "Is this a joke?"

the fact that A doesn't take it seriously hurts B. Has B been that horrible?

"No."

A is surprised by the genuine look of sadness on B's face. "For how long?"

"A while." or however long you want.

A smiles and starts to tear up, taking B's hand delicately into theirs. "I feel the same."

elation wells in B's heart before being replaced by that same regret.

idk where I'm going with this lol

or instead of asking if it's a joke, A says, "No you don't" you don't like me. that's not possible. i can't fathom being loved, much less by someone as good as you.

"don't be so cruel," A adds, voice cracking. you know the type of character who hates themselves so much they can't accept affection? the type that nothing good ever happens to, so they stop hoping.

"what do you mean?" B asks, hurt. "what makes you say that?"

A making any excuse. "You like someone else" even if it doesn't make sense and the clues are all there. making all kinds of nonsensical theories.

"I've been trying to get rid of these feelings. don't bring them back. I thought i'd be able to move on once i left." A is shedding tears, not even looking at B.

soft first kiss scene owo?

[illarian-rambling]

*in the most elegant, immaculate handwriting imaginable*

Dear Elsind,

I saw your column, and am in fact rather in need of advice. I’ve tried asking my good friend Amelia, but she just laughs uproariously every time I do, so I’ve given up on getting a straight answer from her.

I recently got a new coworker at my workplace, and he’s… very attractive, to say the least. His name is Merry, and he’s absolutely lovely. We’ve become fast friends, and I’ll admit I’m developing a bit of a crush on him. Luckily, the place I work is very unbothered by workplace relationships, but I have a lot of other problems.

First of all, I believe I may have mentioned I’m married in front of him. While my husbands wouldn’t mind me seeing him as well, I know a lot of pirates (oh, yes, context: I am a pirate) are very disapproving of polyamory and I don’t know how he’d react. I’m also asexual, and I’m not sure how he’d react to that either, since my people (I’m a siren) are generally stereotyped as seductive and expected to behave in a very certain way.

That being said, I keep feeling like he’s flirting with me. By pirate standards, he’s absolutely not. But he’s consistently started dressing more colourfully and elegantly and going out of his way to ask me what I think of his outfit. He’s also given me a few small trinkets he found at the market. Both of these are significant signifiers of flirting in my culture, and even though I know he couldn’t possibly know my cultural signifiers of flirting, I can’t help but feel like it means something.

Any advice you have would be welcome. If he is flirting with me, I’d love to see where it goes - he’s really a wonderful man (and I’ll admit I might have been dressing up for him a bit too). But if he isn’t interested, I’d hate to make him uncomfortable having to work on the same ship as me every day, especially since I outrank him (I’d never pressure him into anything, and Amelia would kill me if I did, but I can’t be sure he knows that). I’m not certain how best to proceed.

Much thanks,

Malcolm Lee

*In passibly legible cursive, hearts dotting all the I's*

Thanks so much for writing in, Malcolm!

This is a delicate situation you've found yourself in, but also, I think, a great opportunity. You're right - even in such a relaxed environment, coworker relationships can be tough. It gets messy when rank factors in, and if you ever break up, then you're just stuck seeing them everyday anyways.

But things are looking up for you! It would be quite the coincidence if Merry out of nowhere started engaging in siren flirting behaviors (I'm assuming your word for siren is different from mine, as the siren flirting I'm familiar with involves quite a few more human sacrifices). However, if I was a strapping pirate trying to show interest in my siren shipmate, I would read up on how sirens flirt and try to get him to take the hint. It's a really caring thing to do and a total green flag, in my opinion. Of course, yes, it could be a coincidence, but that's the boring answer!

As for the polyamory and asexuality, that's a conversation you're going to have to have up front with him. Make sure, if he is interested in seeing you, that he understands the possible risks involved. Also, definitely introduce him to your husbands. I don't know your exact situation, but all the polycules I've seen work best when every member is on friendly terms with the others. Asexuality is also something to talk about right off the bat. Make sure he's aware of your boundaries, especially when he might assume otherwise due to racial stereotypes. I can relate to you there - changelings are frequently assumed to be promiscuous due to a tendency to wear attractive faces as a social shield and a history of sexual exploitation. In my relationships, though I'm not asexual, I do have some strict boundaries when it comes to intimacy, and I find it best to be clear about these from the get-go. It's a good way to establish trust early on and also to use as a litmus test for your partner's respect for you. If your Merry is truly a worthwhile lover, he'll understand.

Ultimately, I think you should go for it! To me, it seems like he's trying to be subtle, but he's definitely interested in you. Maybe ask him out for a late-night picnic on the deck (I don't know anything about ships) and spill your heart there. I wish you luck, whatever you decide to do!

Ever your friend,

Elsind Cavernsight

(From this ask game)

[threadsun]

Me: I don't think we talk about yandere Joseph enough

Also me: Aren't you a writer, fuckin let loose

So! Picture it with me, you are the barista at some local cafe near a film set. Because of all the high class actors and their respective followers coming in and out you're pretty used to the weird shit these people order. So imagine your surprise when mister "Thesis long order" Laurent walks in with his coworker who just orders "Uh, gee, I don't know. Whatever you get, I guess?"

You make Jean's order first so he doesn't bitch and then make your favorite drink for his friend. Your fingers brush each other as you hand him the drink and you think you see him blush before taking a sip "Woah, this is really good. Thank you" You try to tell him it's just your job but the way he says it just...does something to you. People rarely thank you here anyway but that one sounded so genuine, so real

After that Joseph becomes a regular, usually picking up Jean's abomination along with something to keep him going as well. He never orders for himself though, always trusting you with his morning coffee. There's something kind of intimate about it, all the trust he holds in you, all the time he tries to spend with you even though you can tell he's both busy and exhausted. In this town of fake complements and latter climbers he's so refreshing, so charming, you jokingly tell him if you didn't have a boyfriend you'd have asked him out by now

"...Boyfriend?" The way he says it sends chills up your spine, he was so chipper a few seconds ago but now he looks like he just found out his dog died. You tell him not to worry, he's not the jealous type so hanging out with guy friends is fine "Right, yeah, um...sorry I have to go" And like that he's gone

Joseph still shows up the next day but something's off about him. He looks...guilty? You figure it's because now that he knows you're taken he feels bad about trying to covertly flirt with you everyday so you brush it off. That night you're supposed to be picked up by your boyfriend so you two can go on your date but he's running late, like, an hour late, he's not answering his phone either

After waiting out for about thirty minutes Joseph walks by the cafe "Oh, hey, are you ok? You're usually gone by now, aren't you? I mean, I have to walk by here every night to get back to my place and I've never seen you out here before" You tell him you're just waiting on your boyfriend but it's already been half an hour, so, fuck it. You'll just talk to him tomorrow

"Oh, well I'm sorry to hear that. Want me to walk you home again?" Joseph had walked you home a few nights already seeing how dangerous these streets can get at night, so you take him up on his offer. You two walk to your apartment building but once you get closer you start to hear sirens. You and Joseph pick up the pace, running until you see it, there are cop cars outside of your apartment building

You walk up to the cops and ask what happened, they tell you there was a potential homicide in the building earlier that night and that you can't go in until they've collected enough evidence. You're heart drops onto the concert and shatters when you hear your boyfriend's name fall from their lips

You don't remember much after that, just the warmth of Joseph's hands on your shoulders as he walked you to his apartment. Over the next week you stay with Joseph, both because your apartment was now littered with cops and awful memories, that and you don't think you can be alone right now. Joseph is as kind as ever, letting you stay rent free while you take some time off work to grieve

After a few months, life gets better. The scars on your heart will never heal fully but they're made easier to deal with, especially with Joseph around. He's so sweet, even helping you fully move into his place after you tell him you don't think you can go back to that apartment building again, he even makes your coffee now, exactly how you like it, always saying "I learned from the best"

It's so domestic, you don't even bat an eye when he wraps his arms around your waist while you're cooking, leaning in and giving you a kiss on the cheek while you ask him about his day. Everything is about as perfect as it could be with a mending heart, that is until you start being in charge of laundry. Joseph had a pesky habit of throwing his clothes off before going to bed so you have to really look for some of them, and that's when you find it, one of his shirts covered in old dried blood

Oughhhhhhh this is so good!!! Yandere Joseph is very underappreciated >:3c

[thgfanfictionlibrary]

Do you know of any fics which have Katniss and Jo as best friends, this will more than likely be a modern au but there could be canon ones aswell, I just want to see their chaotic friendship where they "hate" each other but are also really defensive with the other. Pls and thankyou

Hello @gingerbread-is-good!

Sorry this took me a while to get to but I've complied a list here and will be adding this to future masterlists topics as I too love this dynamic! Hope these are new to you and happy reading!

A Change of Heart-WinterWednesday (ao3) Summary: Post-Mockingjay One-Shot. "Now, here I am, watching my beautiful husband with Johanna's precious son, and all I can think of is that it should be our child. Peeta should get to experience this joy every single day. And I should be selfless enough to give it to him…"

Acceptable Payment: A Date With Katniss Everdeen-rEckLeSsLy.cOnFIneD (ff) Summary: "That Katniss was currently aware of, she needed to do two things: First, she needed to inform Johanna about everything that was Peeta Mellark. Second, she needed her help to make sure that she was most beautiful version of herself she had ever been for this New Year's Party." [Modern AU. Everlark.]

At the Peak-maddmaddworld (ao3) Summary: Katniss Everdeen moved to Summit County to work with her mentor and study the geology of the Rocky Mountains. She never expected to meet a sweet, shy snowboard instructor who would turn her first winter in Colorado upside down.

Mellark Orchards-mrspeetamellark (ao3) Summary: After breaking up with her long-time fiancé, veterinarian Katniss Everdeen decides to move to a small town in Pennsylvania and start over again. She meets a sexy, blonde farmer at a local orchard and feels instantly drawn to him. She knows, however, that she needs time to heal from her failed engagement before she starts dating again. Will Farmer Peeta help Katniss mend her broken heart? Will the two become romantically involved?

Office Affairs-Pagedancer87 (ao3) Summary: AU-Modern Everlark. Story done for birthday prompt for @everlarkbirthdaydrabbles on Tumblr for the prompt: fluffy coworker everlark

Pure As A Little Lamb-LemonLuvGirl (ao3) Summary: In response to an anonymous tumblr ask for a drabble with a promt for: “Katniss rooms with Johanna and while Johanna is looking for something in Katniss' room, she sees the used condom in the trash and calls up the gang (Finnick, Annie, Gale, and Peeta (even though unbeknownst to the rest of them it was Peeta she has been sleeping with) to figure out who Katniss had over the prior night.”

Rebound Girl-Diana_Flynn (ao3) Summary: Katniss Everdeen only goes for only one type of man. It doesn’t matter how tall he is, the color of his hair, or even his personality. What she wants is the man fresh out of a relationship. She likes being that temporary girl the guy uses to lick the wounds of his bruised heart. Too bad Peeta Mellark changes everything for her.

Secret More-than-Friends-JHsgf82 (ao3) Summary: Katniss and Peeta are the "single friends" of their friend group. Everyone keeps trying to fix them up with someone else-what they don't know is that Katniss and Peeta are secretly dating.

The One-burkygirl (ao3) Summary: Peeta is Katniss’s best friend and almost everything in her life revolves around him. When thoughts of Peeta start invading her dreams, Katniss must decide whether just being friends is enough.

Unpleasant Surprises-msdisdain (ao3) Summary: Johanna Mason and Finnick O'Dair (Irish for purposes of this modern AU) conspire to get their best friends, Peeta Mellark and Katniss Everdeen, to admit they have feelings for one another. Jo and Finn, however, may not be working with the most current information.

As always, if you have any questions, comments, or suggestions feel free to send me an ask!

-E

[cyanidas]

BIG News: I'm trying to make some really huge changes, and I'll need your help.

Before I grant any details, I gotta preface everything with the reality of our situation; Jay, the sole breadwinner, has been a victim of yet another "new hire surprise fire". He was booted without warning, written or verbal, about two weeks ago.

Evidently this is very common in the production wood/metalworking industry, otherwise this wouldn't have happened so many fucking times, because he's a great person with amazing work ethic and that's not just my bias talking - most of his coworkers have felt the exact same way as me across every company he's worked for.

Of course, THAT DAY we wasted no time in reaching out to contacts and applying for mountains of positions on Indeed, on company websites, and the state hiring portal. Nobody has contacted him back. ONE hiring agency gave him a "maybe". Even I have applied to several places for myself, with not so much as a rejection.

Seeing the trauma this caused him first hand was my final fucking straw.

I'm sick to death of suffering this tragedy. I'm sick to death of hearing the love of my life, my Fiancé, cry because of how he was fired. And I'm sick to death of coming here or crawling to my friends and family for money they don't have because we're legitimately hopeless for it.

I don't have the heart to continually beg for cash. It was never something I've been good at or proud of doing, and it kills me inside to DM people for commissions I don't even have the time nor energy to do. I'm sick of this. All of this. I need it all to stop.

So of course, I want to nip this in the goddamn bud.

I met a very sweet vendor in Iowa who gave me a load of resources on how to get started selling my art on actual things I get to see and hold for myself and hand to people in person, namely conventions. It's a hell of a risk but I need this to work. I'm so exhausted from asking for money so please help me make this be the last time I ever need to come here for help.

More details will come, because I'm also tired of making plans and leaping forward without having anything to show for it. When I actually have these products designed, that's when I'm going to show you guys everything I've made, with as much detail on my thinking and planning as I can get out there (because lord knows the internet has taken advantage of people's generosity before).

When that time comes, please *please* give me your support. It would legitimately be world-changing for us.

I just wanted to get this out here asap so people would know what I'm going through and, hopefully plan along with me. I don't just want this to happen, I *need* this to *succeed*. I don't have any other option. Right now, I'm busting my ass on product designs (literally because this chair hurts!!), and Jay can attest to that.

I plan on having *something* to show for all my hard work by next week, and soon after, a Kickstarter to make it a reality. Keep an eye out!!