#also this hope that things will just 'fall into place'

[ariahmichelle]

Fake It Till You Feel It- Part 2

Rafe Cameron x Reader Series

Series Masterlist Here

Summary: You see your ex with a new girl wrapped around him after he told you “wasn’t ready for a relationship” after you had slowly started to fall for him. The betrayal stings. Rafe Cameron is dealing with his own issue—Amelia, a girl who refuses to take the hint that he’s not interested. One night you impulsively pretend to be Rafe’s girlfriend to get her to back off. To your surprise, it works. You also notice Alex looking pissed. This starts to become an unspoken routine between you when either Alex or Amelia are around. Simple right? However, longer this goes on, the more the lines blur between what’s real and what’s not.

••••••••••••••••••••• ••••••••••••••••••••••

Part 3- An Unspoken Routine

The plan—if you could even call it that—hadn’t been discussed, hadn’t been put into words. But somehow, it had started to fall into place on its own.

The morning after Topper’s party, you half-expected to wake up with regret, wondering if you’d taken things too far by roping Rafe into your little act. But instead, you woke up to a text from him.

Rafe: Hope I was a good fake boyfriend last night. 10/10 performance, if I say so myself.

You snorted, shaking your head. Of course he’d find a way to be cocky about it.

You: Solid effort. But I’d give you an 8.5. You could’ve committed more.

A minute later, your phone vibrated again.

Rafe: Committed? I had my arm around you all night, babe. That’s Oscar-worthy.

You: Mm. A real method actor. Next time, try harder.

You hadn’t meant for there to be a next time. It was supposed to be a one-off thing—a moment of convenience, of mutual gain. But by the time another party rolled around a few days later, you and Rafe had already slipped into an unspoken rhythm.

Kelce’s house was packed, the music loud enough to make the walls vibrate, the air humid with the heat of too many bodies crammed into one space. You weren’t sure why you had come—maybe out of habit, maybe because you didn’t want Alex to think you were avoiding him. Either way, you found yourself sipping a drink by the pool, watching as groups of people played drunken games and swayed to the beat of whatever song was blasting through the speakers.

And then, like clockwork, Rafe appeared at your side.

“Your favourite person is here,” he murmured, nodding toward the patio entrance.

You followed his gaze, and sure enough—Alex had just walked in. And he wasn’t alone. The same girl from the last party clung to his arm, her manicured fingers gripping his bicep like she was staking a claim.

You swallowed down the brief sting in your chest and turned back to Rafe. “Great.”

He studied you for a moment, his expression unreadable. Then, with the same easy confidence he always carried, he leaned in slightly, lowering his voice. “Wanna piss him off?”

The answer should’ve been no. You should’ve just ignored Alex, let it roll off your shoulders, walked away and proven to yourself that you didn’t care.

But instead, you smirked.

“Obviously.”

Rafe’s eyes gleamed with something sharp and amused, and before you had time to overthink, he took your drink from your hand, setting it aside. Then, his fingers brushed against yours, his hand trailing up to your wrist before curling gently around it.

“Come on,” he murmured, tugging you toward the crowd.

You barely had time to process before he pulled you straight into the middle of the patio which had turned into a makeshift dance floor. People were already pressed together, moving to the beat, lost in the music and the warmth of the night. The moment you were in the crowd, Rafe’s hands found your waist, pulling you closer until your bodies were nearly flush.

It was dizzying—how easily he did this. Like he didn’t have to think twice about it, like it was the most natural thing in the world. And maybe it should’ve been weird, the way his grip on you tightened, the way your hands found his shoulders without hesitation. But it wasn’t.

It felt… easy.

“You sure about this?” he asked, his lips close to your ear, his voice low enough that it sent a shiver down your spine.

You nodded, fingers tightening slightly against the fabric of his shirt. “Go big or go home, right?”

Rafe chuckled, his breath warm against your skin. “That’s the spirit.”

And then, he moved.

The bass pulsed beneath your feet as you followed his lead, letting yourself sink into the rhythm. Rafe’s hands didn’t leave your waist, and when he guided you, it wasn’t hesitant—it was confident, smooth, like he knew exactly what he was doing. The distance between you shrank, and before long, there wasn’t any left at all.

You weren’t sure how much time passed before you felt a familiar gaze burning into you. You didn’t even have to look to know Alex was watching.

But you looked anyway.

And there he was, standing near the bar, his expression dark as his eyes locked onto the two of you. His jaw was clenched, his hand gripping the cup in his hand a little too tightly. The girl next to him was still talking, oblivious, but Alex wasn’t paying attention to her anymore.

A small, victorious smirk tugged at your lips.

And as if he could sense the shift, Rafe leaned down slightly, his voice just above a whisper. “Is he looking?”

You glanced up at him, ignoring the way your stomach flipped at the proximity. “Oh yeah.”

Rafe hummed, amused. “Good.”

Then, without warning, he dipped his head lower, brushing his nose against your temple before pressing a slow, lingering kiss just below your ear.

It was barely anything—a light, teasing touch. But it sent a jolt through you, your fingers instinctively tightening on his shoulders. You felt his lips curve into a smirk before he pulled back, and when you caught your breath and turned toward Alex again, you could practically see the irritation simmering beneath his carefully blank expression.

Rafe chuckled, clearly pleased with himself. “I think that did the trick.”

You exhaled, still a little breathless. “Yeah,” you muttered. “I think it did.”

After the song ended, you and Rafe finally pulled apart, and you made your way back to your friends, grabbing a drink on the way.

Brooke, Mia, and Paige wasted no time swarming you.

Brooke smirked. “So…what exactly is going on with you two?”

Mia leaned in, eyes narrowed. “Because that didn’t look fake to me.”

Paige sipped her drink, grinning. “Yeah, babe. That was convincing.”

You simply raised an eyebrow, smirking as you took a sip. “Wasn’t it?

Brooke gave you a look. “You’re having fun with this, aren’t you?

You smirked, shrugging. “Maybe.”

Mia gasped dramatically. “Oh my God. You like this.”

You rolled your eyes, setting your drink down. “It’s just a bit of fun.”

Brooke exchanged glances with the other girls before shaking her head. “Mm-hmm. We’ll see about that.”

You just laughed, shaking off their knowing stares.

Because right now, you were just having fun.

Later that night, after the party had died down and people had started to trickle out, you found yourself sitting on the front steps of Kelce’s house, nursing a fresh drink. Rafe was next to you, arms draped lazily over his knees as he stared out at the dark sky.

Neither of you had acknowledged what had happened inside. There was no need to.

Instead, Rafe took a sip of his beer before speaking. “You know… we could keep this up.”

You glanced at him. “What?”

“This,” he said, gesturing vaguely between you. “It works. You get what you want, I get Amelia off my back… everybody wins.”

You hesitated, chewing on your bottom lip. It was tempting—too tempting. It had felt good tonight, knowing you had gotten under Alex’s skin. And if you were being honest with yourself, it had also felt… nice, being close to Rafe.

But still. “And what happens if people actually start thinking we’re together?”

Rafe shrugged. “Then let ‘em.” He smirked. “Unless you think you’d get too attached.”

You rolled your eyes, shoving his shoulder. “Shut up.”

But despite your teasing, despite the sarcasm, you both knew the answer.

This wasn’t just a one-time thing anymore.

It was a routine now.

And something told you it wasn’t going to stay just a game for long.

————————————

Taglist:

@rafecameronsbaeee. @drewwhor

@wtfisastiles. @emmafitzzz

@yasmin-oviedo

[quitefawnish]

the prize of prey

knight!au, simon riley x reader, kyle garrick x reader, johnny mactavish x reader, brief soap x gaz, mentioned john price x reader

cw: noncon/dubcon, abuse of power

word count: 3.6k

synopsis: this is inspired by one of my classes actually, where we discussed how knights in the middle ages only had to court noble women, whereas any peasant woman was open to their desires, and they were in fact encouraged to do so. while this is disgusting as a concept, i am also disgusting, so ofc i wrote this..

Everyone in the kingdom knew to stay out of the way of the knights. It was a common sight to see a vendor being heckled by a group of knights while many people walked by without sparing a glance. So you were well aware of how fucked you were when a group of them approached you at the market.

They were in their casual wear but the scabbards at their hips spoke to their knight status. The first one that started the conversation had tanned skin and a crooked grin that caused the edges of his stark blue eyes to crinkle.

His brown hair was styled in a mohawk, with the hair on the sides of his head crudely shaven away, and by the nicks that were spread across his scalp, you guessed he did it himself.

“Well, hello there, bonnie,” he practically whispered in your ear.

His hands gripped your waist as he pulled himself to stand closer to you with his chest against your back.

You stiffened, turning your head slightly backwards to peer at him. You had seen the group of them wandering the market earlier and you had hoped that’s the last you would see of them. You were not so lucky.

The second one, to your relief, pulled Mohawk off of you.

“Don’t crowd her, ye git” He gave you a grin, acting as if his friend hadn’t just groped you a second ago, but you had to admit, he was so pretty, it almost worked.

He had brown skin and tight curls that were close-cropped to his head. His facial hair was neatly trimmed, and his brown eyes sparkled with a mirth you didn’t share.

“I’m Gaz” he said, then he pointed to Mohawk, “he’s Soap.”

“But ye can call me Johnny, if ye like,” Soap interrupted, wiggling his eyebrows at you.

Gaz just shot him a glare and then pointed to the last man who had just been observing this whole interaction, “and this is Ghost.”

Ghost was a hulking creature of man, and if he wasn’t intimidating enough, he had on a skull-painted balaclava. Through the gap in the fabric you could see just his pale skin and soulless dark brown eyes that were boring into your soul.

You introduced yourself as they all stared at you expectantly.

“‘s a pretty name fer a pretty lass” Soap practically cooed at you.

This made you tuck further in yourself, wishing you could just disappear on the spot, “I.. don’t think this is appropriate.”

Gaz cocked his head slightly, “And why is that?”

You swallowed thickly, “B-because I don’t think my husband would approve.”

It was a complete gamble, maybe these knights would leave you alone if they thought you had a man to protect you. Problem is, you were decidedly not married, and all you could do was hope they wouldn’t see through your bluff.

“Husband?” Soap made a show of looking around, “if ye’re married, then where is he?”

“A man shouldn’t leave his woman to fend for herself in such a dangerous place, especially not one as beautiful as you, someone might try to take advantage,” Gaz said in a worried tone, but it was ruined by the slight grin on his face.

“He.. he went home already, I told him I needed to get one last thing, and I would be right home,” your lie was falling apart as soon as it left your mouth.

“He should have waited, no sense in making your woman walk home alone,” Soap grumbled.

By now, they had almost backed you into a corner, both literally and figuratively, as they advanced forward, forcing you to inch back towards the fruit stand behind you.

“He-he knows the people in the community, they would never do anything to me,” you managed to stammer out.

“If this husband o’ yours is real, where’s your ring?” You were startled as Ghost finally spoke up, his voice deep and rumbling as he glared at you with accusing eyes.

You put your right hand up and looked at it, faking bewilderment, “Oh! I must have left it at home this morning.”

“Ah, right, sorry for pestering you, then,” Gaz said, bowing slightly for emphasis, the other two following suit.

You gave them a small, nervous curtsy in response and smiled awkwardly at the three of them, “It’s quite alright. If you’ll excuse me, I think I should head home now.”

You started to walk away when Soap put out an arm to stop you, “Aye, but it wouldnae be right of us to let a woman walk home by herself.”

Your heart plummeted to your feet and your eyes involuntarily widened with horror.

“I should be okay walking by myself, thank you for the offer, sirs,” you said as you attempted to shoulder past Soap.

He just moved closer to you, “It wouldnae be right,” he said in a darker tone, implying this wasn’t up for debate.

You looked between Gaz and Ghost, who had blocked your other exits, and it didn’t seem like they were willing to budge on this either. You swallowed nervously, “R-right, let’s go, then.”

When you made it to your house, you had half-hoped for them to bid you a good night and go on their way.

They, of course, insisted on meeting your so-called husband and giving him a good talk about respecting his wife. You were fairly certain that at this point it was like a game for them.

It was obvious from the start that they never believed you and they knew you knew that, but that didn’t stop them from continuing this ruse, they were having too much fun.

You opened the door to an empty and dark house, it being abundantly clear that no one had been in the place since you left that morning.

“O-oh, I don’t know where he went, he must have gone looking for me since I took so long,” you lied, but winced at your wavering tone.

“Lass, we would have run into him on the way,” Soap said, making you turn around to face the three of them.

“He knows some different paths, maybe he took one of those,” you continued lying, knowing that it was never going to convince them, but you needed to keep talking or you were going to cry.

Noticing the devastated look on your face, Gaz walked forward and took your face in his hands, “It’s alright, luv, we’re not going to hurt you.”

You were shaking so bad that your teeth were practically rattling out of your skull, “You’re not? You’re.. going to leave me alone?”

Soap just shook his head, tutting at you, “We didnae say that, just that we aren’t gonna hurt ye, in fact, you’ll probably like it.”

The grin on his face made your stomach churn, and you stepped back from Gaz’s hands, backing up until you hit your bed frame. It startled you as you stumbled back into the wood, and you looked back to see what you had run into before trying to steady yourself.

When you turned back around, Gaz and Soap were practically face-to-face with you, Ghost choosing to settle in a dark corner of the room, settling into a chair as it let out a big creak of stress under his weight.

You turned your gaze back to the two knights in front of you who both have matching looks in their eyes, a mix of lust and excitement, as they eye you up and down.

“P-please don’t” you managed to stutter out.

Soap just pressed a finger to your lips, “Shhh, you’re okay. We’re going to take good care of you.”

You tried to lean out of the way as Gaz’s lips came towards yours, squeezing your eyes shut as if you could pretend all of this wasn’t happening.

Rough hands gripped your head, pulling your face towards Gaz, who captured your lips in his. As your eyes flew open, you saw that it was both Gaz and Soap’s hands that were holding you steady. Gaz’s other hand settled on your waist, gripping at the soft flesh underneath the fabric of your dress.

He leaned into the kiss, being somewhat gentle, as if he didn’t want to scare you off just so soon. You gasped softly into his lips as you felt Soap’s tongue on your neck, licking a stripe from your neck up to your face, ending it with a wet kiss to the apple of your check.

Gaz pulled away, staring blatantly down at your body before he began to undo the strings at the back of your bodice.

You tried to pull away, muttering out a soft “no” in protest, but Gaz worked efficiently enough that he was able to pull the piece over your head before you could do much else. Soap grinned down at your body, the top half of your thin chemise having been revealed.

Your hardened nipples poked through the sheer clothing, your body having betrayed you in response to Gaz’s kiss. Soap seemed transfixed as he palmed at your breast through the material, cupping both hands underneath your nipples.

“So bonnie, and just for us to see, aye?” he asked.

You couldn’t even move your mouth to answer and you just remained rooted to the spot no matter how much you wished you could move, fight them off, anything.

Soap didn’t seem to mind your lack of response, carrying on fondling your tits. While Soap was transfixed, Gaz slipped off your skirts, leaving you now with one practically translucent layer, which he was now starting to pull off as well.

That was when you got the courage to move, attempting to cover your body while also trying to keep your chemise on. Instead of grabbing your arms like you thought they would, Soap simply pushed you backwards so you landed with an ‘oof’ on your bed.

You tried to scramble away, slipping over your sheets in your desperation but Soap yanked you back towards them, “Behave.”

You swallowed nervously and stopped trying to struggle away, actually finding yourself nodding to his command.

He grinned, “Good girl.”

His words sent shivers down your body, ending with a fluttering in your cunt.

“Told you we were gonna make you feel good, yeah?” Gaz said, positioning himself in the space between your legs, gripping your thighs open with an ease that betrayed just how strong he was compared to you.

“I don’t want this,” you surprised yourself when you said this, having been frozen in fear just moments before.

Soap, who was now positioned in the space above your head, smiled down at you, brushing your hair back against your scalp, “Dinnae say that just yet, think ye’ll like this next part.”

Knowing that your protests would fall on deaf, uncaring ears, you shut your mouth and looked back down at Gaz who had now pulled the bottom part of your chemise up to reveal your pussy to the night air. Once again, you tried desperately to have some remaining decency and pulled your dress back down, only for Soap to grab your hands and pull them back to your chest.

He held them in an X formation with one hand gripping around both of your wrists, “Och, dinnae be naughty, lass. Wouldnae want for Ghost to have to punish ye.”

Your eyes flicked over to the man who was sitting in the corner who was staring over at the three of you, and you noticed him lazily palming at a bulge in his pants. You swallowed nervously and shook your head, looking back at Soap, “I’ll be good, I promise.”

He seemed satisfied and nodded to Gaz, who had flipped the bottom half of your chemise up once again. He pressed gentle kisses to your inner thighs, trailing up until he reached your entrance. It was horrible because even though you wanted them to stop, you needed for Gaz to hurry up and put his mouth on your aching bud.

As if sensing your thoughts, he put his lips to your clit and sucked. You couldn’t stop the whimper that slipped from your lips as he did this, your face flushing at the realization of the obscene noise that you had made.

It only egged Gaz on more as he began to practically make out with your pussy, wet smacking sounds echoing around the room.

Soap, meanwhile, had shifted your hands to pin them above your head, therefore giving him unobstructed access to your tits. He latched his mouth to your right nipple, sucking through the fabric.

He used his free hand to grope at your other breast, practically kneading it like a cat. All you could do was whimper softly, your arms and legs both being restrained. It wasn’t long before you could feel a pressure building between your legs, feeling the pleasure crescendo until it hit its peak and your body started shaking uncontrollably.

You could dimly hear Soap praising you with his mouth still on your nipple with your ears ringing slightly.

As the wave overtook you, you couldn’t help but roll your eyes back into your head. Gaz unsucked with a loud popping noise, and as your sight returned to normal, you saw him grinning triumphantly between your legs.

Soap had already unlatched from your tit, the sheer fabric that covered it being almost translucent from the saliva. Now that you had finally relaxed, or rather, was too tired to move or try to struggle, Soap let go of your arms. You left them where they were hanging above your head as you tried to catch your breath.

At that moment, Ghost stood up from the chair, startling you, as you had almost forgotten he was there.

“My turn,” he said gruffly, which made both Gaz and Soap complain loudly.

“Och, but I’m achin’ LT,” Soap complained, almost whining as he gestured to his dick which was straining against his pants.

“‘ave Kyle take care o’ you” he said matter-of-factly.

Although you weren’t sure of their ranks within the knight’s guard, it was clear that these two readily deferred to him as Soap reluctantly slipped off the bed.

Ghost walked towards you, looking you up and down with almost calculating eyes. All you could do was whimper softly as he approached you, half paralyzed from fear.

His eyes softened slightly as he looked down at you, and although you flinched as he outstretched a hand, he simply stroked your cheek with a softness you didn’t know he was capable of.

“Poor thing, probably scared out o’ your mind.”

You nodded meekly, hoping maybe he would take mercy on you and leave you alone.

“Don’t worry, I’ll make you feel good, yeah?”

He then undressed his lower half which was littered in scars and which also freed his erect cock, one that looked like it could split you in half, precum glistening at the tip.

Your eyes widened at the sight of it, “I.. I don’t think it’s going to fit.”

He shook his head, “It’s gonna fit, don’t worry, ‘sides, my boys warmed you up for me, didn’t they?”

You looked over at Gaz and Soap, the former helping Soap out by stroking along his cock with spit-slicked hands, making Soap moan out words in a language you didn’t understand. You stopped looking when Ghost’s hands found your jaw and turned your face back to him.

“Asked you a question, love.”

You nodded, but your lower lip wobbled slightly.

That just seemed to egg him on more, and his eyes crinkled through the gap in his mask. He repositioned you so you were facedown on the bed, legs dangling off the side so your ass was level with his pelvis.

He pulled up your chemise, and once again, your pussy was exposed to the night air. He sucked in a breath at the sight of it, dragging one finger up through the folds and dipping it into your hole. You inhaled sharply at the intrusion, clenching slightly on his finger in shock.

He just laughed, “Careful you don’t squeeze like that while I’m inside, yeah? ‘fraid I’d never pull out.” You took the message and forced yourself to relax, knowing that it was happening either way and it was best just to make things easier on yourself.

You tried not to jump again when he dragged his tip down your pussy, gathering the come that had collected in between your folds. Then he pressed into your hole, it traitorously sucking him in with ease.

He was able to get it in a good amount of inches before your insides started to ache. Sure, maybe you’d had a couple of fingers in there before but nothing like this, certainly not this length or girth.

You whimpered softly as he pressed in further and he soothingly pet your hair as he paused for a moment.

“You’re okay, I know, I know” he said, soothingly, “Just a bit more, okay?” You nodded weakly, knowing that it wasn’t an option to back out now.

“Good girl” he murmured softly as he pressed inch by inch into you.

You whined pitifully as his pelvis pressed against your ass, his cock now fully inside you.

It hurt, but what was worse to you was that this hurt felt.. good. You hardly had a second to take all of him before he slowly pulled out again, and stupidly, you began to hope he was done.

Those dreams were dashed the second he slammed back into you, making you cry out in surprise. He continued this, rocking back and forth into you, his cock dragging in and out of your hole as you gripped the sheets beneath you for stability.

Then, he lowered himself on top of you, bending over at his hips to press himself against your back. All you could hear were his grunts and the sound of his balls slapping against your pussy as he pounded into you.

Even though tears were building up in your eyes, you could also feel pleasure building between your legs at the continuous thrusting. Your body tensed up as you felt another wave overtake you, the sensations making your legs shake uncontrollably underneath Ghost’s.

Your breathy moans earned an even faster pace, causing a slight staccato in your breathing.

Now that your orgasm had ended, the pleasure bordered on painful and with the increased thrusts, you whimpered softly, “It hurts.”

He pressed a kiss to the back of your head and through his panting he said, “I know, I know, just a little longer. ‘m almost there.”

You felt another wave building, this time it felt too intense, too painful, but you couldn’t stop it from overtaking you just as Ghost slowed above you, grunting in your ear as he finished inside you. You couldn’t breathe for a terrifying moment, your lungs drawing in no air as your vision darkened. The ringing in your ears grew louder as you lost sensation, and eventually, lost consciousness.

When you woke up what you assumed to be a few seconds later, Ghost had pulled out of you and you were laying on your back on the bed. You could feel his and your come dripping out of your pussy which was still fluttering around nothing.

He had pulled his pants up and redone his belt, now fully dressed again.

He looked over at you, “Lost you there for a second, that good, am I?”

You didn’t really know what to say in response, sure, he was good, but he also forced his way into your home and your body. You weren’t about to praise the man that violated you. Luckily, he didn’t seem to mind your lack of response, looking over to Soap and Gaz who had both finished, seeming both literally and figuratively.

Soap gave you a lopsided grin, “Put on quite a show, lass. Told ye we’d take care of ye.”

“Will you leave me be, now?” you asked bluntly. Now that they had all had their fair share, all you wanted was for them to leave so you could tend to yourself and lick your wounds.

Gaz raised an eyebrow, “Rid of you? Who said anything about that?”

Your heart sank, “I.. I just assumed that once you got what you wanted, you’d leave.”

Ghost shook his head as if you had said something egregiously stupid, “Don’t you get it? You are what we wanted, and we’re not letting you go that easily. From the moment we laid eyes on you, we had to have you.”

You looked between the three of them, this hadn’t been a spur of the moment thing, they had planned this. You knew all along that they knew you weren’t married, but you didn’t think they had planned this, all for them to take you like some unruly spoil of war at the end.

“You can’t do this, someone will wonder where I am,” you mustered the energy to sit up in bed, glaring at the three of them.

“Really? From the looks of it, you live alone, no one knows who you are, and we’re knights. It’s our duty to take things like you home, protect you, take care of you” Gaz said, taking on a more serious tone.

“Y-you can’t do this” you helplessly repeated.

“Oh, lass, we can, and we will. Dinnae worry your pretty little head about it. King John already said he would be very interested in meeting you, doubt he would be too happy if you refused,” Soap’s grin seemed almost malicious now in this lighting.

“It’s time to go home,” Ghost said, scooping you up from the bed.

You were unable to do anything but cry weakly into his shoulder as they brought you to their horses, knowing this would be the rest of your life and there was nothing you could do about it.

a/n: ah ok! first fic on this acct and actually, my first fic writing smut 🫣 so lmk what you guys think, maybe i can write a part two if you’re interested??

sword divider by @/sister-lucifer

[circeyoru]

Love Trial _ Part 5 *END*

[Sung Jinwoo x High School Ex-Lover!Reader]

Part 1 ― Part 2 ― Part 3 ― Part 4 ― Part 5 (here)

Your first meeting with the boy named Sung Jinwoo was like any other. You two lived close and you two went to the same highschool. The two of your parents got to know each other and naturally so did you two. Jinwoo and you did mostly everything together, you two even welcomed his little sister into the world and you became something like an honourary sibling in the Sung family. Your relationship with them and him was just so close.

Your romantic interest towards the teen named Sung Jinwoo was also like any other. A little rumour, a little gossip, and a little curiosity. You developed real romantic feelings for him. Though it seemed like nothing changed much, the title changed from close childhood friends to significant others. You thought that was enough. He did too. It was enough because you two had each other to share your happy and depressing moments without shame or fear of abandonment.

Your bond with the man named Sung Jinwoo was unlike any other. A bond like family, a bond like best friends, a bond like soulmates. You two completed each other and complimented each other. While Jinwoo was logical in all he did, you were emotional in all you did. Clashing perspectives brought you two closer than ever and broadened your horizons. Everyone thought the only thing missing between you two were the wedding vows that would seal the deal.

Found you when your heart was broke I filled your cup until it overflowed Took it so far to keep you close (keep you close) I was afraid to leave you on your own

The picture-perfect world fell when Jinwoo’s father went missing in a gate and his mother fell victim to the Eternal Slumber. His sister was still studying and so was he. By a stroke of luck, he awakened at the right time, but only as the lowest. Still, he gave up on his studies and worked as a Hunter for money to protect his remaining family. You were by his side, cheering him on.

You lost count of the times Jinwoo appeared to you in new wounds or bandages. At times, you were even called to the hospital to see him because he didn’t want to worry his younger sister. Your worry and concern was through the roof everytime the hospital or Hunters Association number rang your phone, your heart beat a million per second as your mind hoped for the news that your lover survived by some miracle or mercy of whatever higher being. You’d scold and warn him to be careful, that there were still people waiting for his return, not just you. He’d give you the same smile. Both of you knew, there was no way he’d give up his career as a Hunter.

I said I’d catch you if you fall And if they laugh, then fuck ‘em all (all) And then I got you off your knees Put you right back on your feet

“Why don’t I introduce you to a stronger Hunter as your lover?”

“You’re still with that guy?”

“Poor you… Having to deal with him.”

“You know you deserve more, right?”

“Shut it! Sung Jinwoo is my lover and that’s that!” You also lost count of the people talking directly or indirectly and even behind your back that you should abandon Jinwoo as a lover. Perhaps you could stay friends, but not lovers―was the message from all of them. Sung Jinwoo, the Weakest Hunter of All Mankind, that was his title. While you were successful and talented in what you did as an ordinary citizen, the only bad quality people poked fun at was the lover you took care of.

You never let Jinwoo hear any of these, and you never let him doubt himself. Even when he did, you reassured him and stayed by his side. You’ll use your hard earn salary to buy a dagger for him to raids and kill monsters with higher rewards, you’ll research and read articles with some information that would benefit him. You did all that you could as a citizen with a Hunter lover. Still, you thought that wasn’t enough.

Choi Jong-In once offered a place for your lover, seeing you struggle in trying to help. He knew who your lover was and he knew how much you cared. He wanted to repay your indifference to his high status and still stayed as a loyal friend. You declined, knowing Jinwoo was a righteous person, he wouldn’t take the backdoor for money. He wouldn’t stoop so low. Even if he did and the results were good, he still wouldn’t be entirely happy.

Just so you could take advantage of me

When you heard he survived a Double Dungeon, you dropped everything and rushed to the hospital. He slept on the bed so peaceful, ignorant of the turmoil he caused you. You sat by him, waiting for him to wake up. Your hand brushed through his hair, his peaceful expression was so familiar that it reminded you of those days when he had no responsibility but studying and forcing you to study.

Your voice cracked as you cried, never have you cried in public but only in front of Jinwoo. “Please… Wake up…”

Just him.

Tell me how’s it feel sittin’ up there? Feeling so high but too far away to hold me You know I’m the one who put you up there Name in the sky Does it ever get lonely? Thinking you could live without me Thinking you could live without me Baby, I’m the one who put you up there I don’t know why (yeah, I don’t know why)

When he woke up, there was no call from him nor a text. You only knew because a doctor was kind enough to give you a call and asked why you hadn’t been visiting after his wake. You went to the hospital only to see him working out and people staring. Jealousy and envy didn’t cross your mind, but you did smile as you saw him back on his feet. Still, a small voice in your mind questioned why he didn’t at least text you.

You thought that was just the one time.

The usual cafe dates and routine dinners at his place with his sisters were all gone. He stood you up and forgot about them all. Even his sister barely saw him around the house. His sister took a picture of him and showed it to you one time during dinner. You hardly recognized him. Taller, muscler, and more mature looking. Looked like he went through a second puberty.

But you asked if he was fine. His sister answered yes. That was all that mattered, as long as he was fine. Your heart was at ease. Like in the past when Jinwoo went to raids on days unend, you’ll wait for him as his loyal lover. Never overbearing, never too clingy, never too nosy.

Thinking you could live without me Live without me Baby, I’m the one who put you up there I don’t know why (I don’t know why, yeah yeah)

Finally, he approached you and you two reunited for what felt like forever. Jinwoo joked, saying it was his sister nagging him to see you and you laughed along with him. You told him you understood his busy Hunter life. So started his tale on raids and dungeons while you listened. You knew he was keeping something from you, you felt it, but you didn’t question it. 

A positive turn was in his life and he looked like he was in control of it all. He told you you didn’t need to waste money and time on helping him any longer. “It’s never a waste on you, Jinwoo.” You spoke to him softly with a warm smile as the breeze flowed through you two that night. “Well, you’ve told your side, my turn!”

Gave love ‘bout a hundred tries (hundred tries) Just running from the demons in your mind Then I took yours and made ‘em mine (made ‘em mine) I didn’t notice ‘cause my love was blind

You never knew he turned into an S-Rank. You only knew from Jong-In when he coincidentally found out. You felt… betrayed? In the dark? Untrusted? Surely, Jinwoo had his reasons to hide this from you. Surely…

Jinwoo said his Shadows would protect you, he placed guards on you for your protection. Precious soldiers that he didn’t have many. He said he’d be gone for a week to get something to cure his mother and he disappeared. Ironically, the soldiers he left spent more time with you and cared for you more than he did after his change. But you told yourself it was a sign of his love and affection to you. You told yourself that over and over again.

Said I’d catch you if you fall (fall) And if they laugh, then fuck ‘em all (all) And then I got you off your knees Put you right back on your feet Just so you can take advantage of me

When people went in search of Jinwoo, you warded them off and told them it was an invasion of privacy. Some even spread rumours that Jinwoo was a fake ranker and that he had done unsavoury things inside dungeons all along. You defended him and told them all off. No one understood his pain and suffering. No one saw his battered self that was barely clinging to life. No one was there when he was on the edge all his life. None of them but you.

Why are people only flocking to him when they have something to benefit them? It was sickening. Jinwoo deserved more. When he was weak, he was looked down on and mocked. When he is now strong, they claimed he was a fake. When would they see Jinwoo for who he was? He was so much more than his power. He was a person, just like them and you. He has feelings and emotions. He has a past and he has a right to his own life.

Tell me how’s it feel sittin’ up there? Feeling so high but too far away to hold me You know I’m the one who put you up there Name in the sky Does it ever get lonely?

His mother woke up and you were beyond ecstatic for the Sung family. You let them have their moment and you were asked to join in by his mother. You let the tears flow as you welcomed her back. You thought, now things would return back to the way they were.

You were wrong.

More and more, you saw Jinwoo with Cha Hae-In, the S-Rank before him. You saw them all chummy and smiles. You told yourself it was just because they were colleagues. Plus, Cha Hae-In was the only female S-Rank in the country, so it made sense. If all the S-Rank that interacted with her was a crush, then she’d have a harem by now. You surpressed the envy and jealousy within you, you were above it. You trust Jinwoo. You trust your love.

Thinking you could live without me Thinking you could live without me Baby, I’m the one who put you up there I don’t know why (yeah, I don’t know why) Thinking you could live without me Live without me Baby, I’m the one who put you up there I don’t know why, yeah

It was nothing. It was nothing. It was nothing. You lied and lied. Jinwoo’s smile was softer and wider towards Hae-In. Jinwoo’s time was spent with her and not you. It was nothing. It was nothing. It was nothing. You told yourself over and over. Please. Everything that you have done for him. Everything that you two have been through together. Doesn’t those times mean anything? Prove the negativity inside you wrong! Please, Jinwoo!

You don’t have to say just what you did I already know (I know) I had to go and find out from them So tell me how’s it feel (oh-whoa)

Your hands came up to your ears and applied pressure on them. “I’m sorry. Let’s break up. I’m sorry. Let’s break up. I’m sorry. Let’s break up. I’m sorry. Let’s break up. I’m sorry. Let’s break up. I’m sorry. Let’s break up.” It looped in your mind over and over again. Please shut up. Please stop it!

Third time’s a charm.

Your tears flowed in public and Jinwoo wasn’t even there to embrace you. You cried your heart out, you pleaded that it was all a nightmare. What did you lack? What did you do? What happened? In your friend’s arms, you begged for something over and over. Over… It was all over.

Now your heart was broken and you were but an empty shell. The Shadows that Jinwoo sent for your protection was all a painful reminder. They tried to comfort you when you were crying yourself to sleep, the knight Igris and the once destructive foe on Jeju Island Beru, both tried to soothe you. As much as you appreciated their kindness, you sent them all away and told them never to come to your side again. The Shadows mirrored their Lord and Master. You saw him in everything they did for you. Their presence by your side was too tortuous for you to bear.

Tell me how’s it feel sittin’ up there? Feeling so high but too far away to hold me You know I’m the one who put you up there Name in the sky Does it ever get lonely? Thinking you could live without me Thinking you could live without me Baby, I’m the one who put you up there I don’t know why (yeah, I don’t know why)

Anger and resentment. It was all so draining. You found yourself as an empty shell before the mirror. Your smile was gone and the life in your eyes and long been dulled over. You blinked and opened your eyes, this was your reality. You returned to bed and scrolled your phone, a name pinned to the top of your chat so it was more accessible to you anytime and anywhere. You unpinned it and blocked it.

You scrolled through the messages of comfort from your friends and colleagues; even your boss and manager sent you their regards and understanding. You chuckled bitterly. Instead of wallowing in sorrow and drowning yourself in anguish, you should really change things up a bit.

So when the light from outside blinded you and a second chance was given to you. You let go of that boy, that teen, and that man that was once your whole life.

⬧⬪⬧⬪⬧⬪⬧⬪⬧⬪⬧⬪⬧⬪⬧⬪⬧⬪⬧⬪⬧⬪⬧⬪⬧⬪⬧⬪⬧⬪⬧⬪⬧⬪⬧⬪⬧⬪⬧⬪⬧⬪⬧

The dream of you leaving, the sight of your cold gaze, the indifferent attitude you held towards him. It was all an endless nightmare for the Shadow Monarch. This was nothing compared to the war waged between him and the Monarchs to ensure humanity’s safety. He thought he could handle everything when he returned, that your innocent smile would greet him once high school started.

Oh no no no I don’t know what moved me You know that you are everything that I’ve ever wanted Hey, before you bring the hammer down on me Give me a chance you know you’re all I’ll ever need

Yet all he met was the horrifying realization that you had all your memories of the past intact and made an effort to separate the reunion between the two of you. You weren’t in the same neighbourhood, you weren’t in the same school, you weren’t in the same grade. Nothing of the past was the same when it concerned you. The chance he thought he had was nonexistent from the beginning. It was all wishful thinking on his part.

Oh! Don’t look at me like that Not again! I’ll change it! I swear that I’ll repent! Show me a bit of mercy, stay the execution please If just this once forget these deeds of mine

You spared him nothing, not even hatred, when he was finally in the same school as you. College was the only way the two of you could meet, as it was hard to justify him changing schools or neighbourhoods to his parents. It was something his patience needed to bear for his mistakes. He dug his own grave after all. 

So carefully form the perfect crime Build my defense and plan my tight alibi But even so it seems you can’t be fooled Even with all my tricks, I’m falling No no no!

He built himself a reputation―became a track star that even other schools would pay attention to. All in hopes of gaining even a mini bit of attention from you, but in return, you merely ignored it all and stayed far away from athletic news or anything related to it. Yes, he met Cha Hae-In. And yes, he helped her when she was in need, but that kindness he received, he wished it from you. Don’t give up on him or his love for you!

So now you’ll pass the verdict for crimes of passion How bad are the charges they’re going to list? Down and pleading after my final remarks By powers here you gave the sentence and I was guilty

Though, as popular as he was, you held your own fame. In the academic side, you used your past memories to your advantage and was dubbed as a genius. You won awards and was praised by your peers, even looked up to by the younger ones. As if to show him you didn’t need him in your life, you were blooming with success and happiness in your time without him.

Oh no no no! This verdict is the worst I don’t know what I’d do if ever that you’d leave me If that’s so well then at least I’ll go out by your hand Throw me away into the darkness let me fall

Talk of you and Choi Jong-In as a couple was all over campus. It irked him and made his chest tight as if a giant was crashing him in its grasp. He saw the two of you together. In this life, you were closer to Jong-in more so than the last, the title of childhood friend, best friend, and now boyfriend, all belonged to the former fire mage. He was nothing in your life, just the one that broke your heart in the past.

Oh Jesus! The evidence is clear I’m to blame it looks like I won’t talk out again But on the other hand there’s much worse a fate than to be trapped Here by your side at least I’m close to you

His Shadows pointed him toward where you were and his legs brought him to you. His loyal Shadows aimed and aided in his quest to return to your side and prove his fault. Even his Shadows bore the fate of their Master of being shunned by you, they knew you more as they were tasked with your safety, even before Hae-In was in the picture. They would have stopped their Master if they knew the reckless move he’d make that day. Even they knew that their Master would one day learn to regret it.

Now, they have to help their Master no matter what. They much preferred you over that woman. You were the only one by their Master’s time and time again, through his weakest and strongest. You never let him go until he was the one that said so. You had been in his world for the longest and you should have. They wondered how their Master couldn’t understand that. This loyalty, this devotion, this love, was not something that could be thrown away so easily.

Because their loyalty was set in stone to belong to Jinwoo when he commanded them to join his army. Yours was special and unique. A priceless treasure that should have been revered, appreciated, and maybe hidden away from the world. That was what Jinwoo should have done without mistake!

My stupid flaws and mistakes I make That one mistake, I thought no way I could lose But now I see that you’re not coming back Though I may kick and scream it’s all a waste You won’t be hearing me

With Jong-In by your side, Jinwoo’s place appeared to have been taken. The shock that the rumour of you two being a couple stunned him. This must have been what you felt when you saw him with Hae-In in the past. His Shadows was enraged that it wasn’t their Master who was by your side, that it wasn’t their Master that held your hand. Jinwoo could only watch Jong-In drag you away and you spearing him an uninterested glance, he could only wish for your gaze on him once more.

What kind of perfect love crime would make us both cry? So far is the distance between you and I The one who gave love, and one that can’t get enough Let’s tie our fates and reach an ending together here at last

Give him a chance, just one chance, to correct the wrongs. At least let him atone like the criminal he was. The victim needs their justice and he’ll serve it. Please, don’t let him off the hook so easily. 

Like his prayer was heard by whatever god there was, you gave him what he wanted and he took it. He didn’t care if your schedule and his clashed where he couldn’t catch you. He’ll use his powers to his advantage. He’ll have a Shadow in his lecture and record everything so he could still know what was going on, meanwhile, he’d be with you in your lecture so that he could stay by your side.

He’d listen to everything you’d share, even make friends with your friends so they could lend him a helping hand. He’d show you that you were the only one on his mind to court, not anyone else and especially not Cha Hae-In. He’d swap his electives so that he was attending the same class as you, he’d go wherever you were, even if you were going to a literature book club or an idle stroll. He’d be there. Whatever you do, just let him into your life.

You’re suddenly interested in a band? He has concert tickets and he could even give you a ride on Kaisel to get there. You wanted to try a restaurant but your friends are too busy to hang out? He can fill in and pay for your meals, even eat what you dislike so there’s no waste! You’re very into an Otome game? He’ll… grudgingly study it and give you the best tips to get what you want!

No matter is too big or insignificant when it involves you. Jinwoo would smile and provide you with absolutely everything.

Pass the verdict for crimes of passion Let’s hear all the charges you’re going to list I’ll repent it by spending my life with you I’ll see it through we’ll be together ‘till death do us―

You, being the same as you were, slowly started to cave and let Jinwoo near you. Even smiling and joking like the past. You knew Jinwoo knew his efforts were paying off and at some point, you and Jong-In had ended your little joke as each other’s significant other. Of course, Jong-In was immediately crowded with proposals and confessions, then you and Jinwoo would laugh and tease the flustered guy.

Somehow, Jinwoo fit into your group and became an honourary member even though he was in a different department. Jong-In, who was once wary of Jinwoo because of his Shadows, also warmed up to the outsider. You were the odd one out since you were the only one that appeared to have bad blood with Jinwoo still. 

“I am sorry for what I did.” Jinwoo said one day when you told him you couldn’t let go of the fear that history might repeat itself. “It was wrong of me.”

Those words had an effect on you, an effect you thought would have been long buried the day your heart was broken. Your mind raced, debating whether you should open your heart again and let him have your weakness. Love is a double-edged sword. It could protect and care, but it could also destroy and harm. 

Will you give Jinwoo that sword?

Here’s the secret from trying passion I’m glad that you taught me the life I should live Faking crying you lay down the penalty

“I guess you leave me no choice.” You hummed and spun on your heel, hiding a goofy smile that would give away your joy and relief. If you’re giving away the key to your heart, you might has well hold his. “We’ll only be a trial couple. Just so I could see the Shadows again.”

Jinwoo smiled and laughed with you, “Alright. Whatever you say, Love.”

You smiled slyly and gave the sentence

And laughing you said That I was guilty

“And that was the hardest trial of My Liege and your father.” Beru finished his tale with a claw raised in the air. “Remember, Young Lord, your mother is the only person you can never cross!”

“Ohh. Mommy is scary…” Your son, Suho, nodded in agreement to Beru’s warning. “But Daddy was wrong first! If it was me, I will punch and kick! And push Daddy out of the house so it’s just me and Mommy here!”

“Our Liege did deserve at least that much.” Bellion chimed in with a solemn nod.

Igris sighed, as he slowly backed into the kitchen, what was about to happen next would not be pleasant.

Behind the three of them was an enraged Jinwoo who had just returned home from work and you covering your giggles with both hands. Jinwoo had picked you up from your workplace and the two of you went for a little shopping since the three strongest Shadows of Jinwoo was watching your son. Though, the scene you two returned to was not good, at least, for Jinwoo who was the man of the house.

Jinwoo cleared his throat loudly and the three on the floor slowly turned their heads to the front door. The imposing father crossed his arms with a hard glare and the smiling mother―that was you―laughed aloud like no tomorrow. Jinwoo’s tried his best to maintain a stoic and angered expression, but your laughter and shaking grip on him was breaking his character. “Beloved… Please…”

“Haha, alright, I’ll go check up on Igris who’s the only good Shadow who wouldn’t gossip behind your back.” You chuckled and went into the kitchen, sure enough, there was Igris doing the cooking preparations. He gave you a courteous nod that you returned, “You guys are never letting Jinwoo down what that mistake, huh.”

Igris nodded again.

You giggled like a child, “Hehe.”

This peaceful and joyful time was the ending of your little love story. The mixture of screams and laughter from your son and the embarrassed scolding from Jinwoo, then there was you enjoying everything with a smile. Never would you imagine this sort of life back with Jinwoo.

~Song Use Credit~ (don't tell me you guys didn’t notice...)

Reader’s POV Song: {Without Me} by Halsey

Jinwoo’s POV Song: {Love Trial} English Cover

Base by Will Stetson Supplementary by JubyPhonic (give both a listen if you haven’t heard them before~~)

Note: And this is the last part! Honestly, when I first read the request, I genuinely thought it was going to be the one part with the song reference. But noooo, ideas just kept popping up more and more… So, oh well, a series it is~ The ending feels more like a recap to me, but I was determined to put the song in!!! 

Also a little trivia, Reader’s/your past and POV was written like so last minute before this upload. Don’t like why, but it felt so right to put it there. I realized Reader’s POV on what happened kind of was never detailedly mentioned but Jinwoo’s was. But then I didn’t want to separate the posts, so I just mushed it into one (else it’ll be a part 6 as the end).

Anyways~~ Thanks for reading and waiting for this series’ updates~ We're at the end of the road. See you in the other stories!!

Happy Valentine’s Day guys~ Hope this would brighten your day or give you a smile. My chocolate gift to you~

𝕮𝖎𝖗𝖈𝖊 𝖄.

Taglist: @rozuburedo @ariseverdark @skylar896 @o-qi-shisme @my-arietta @mydearestbeloved @the-dumber-scaramouche @mochinon-yah @waka-babe @ditmemay1234 @mangooes @cottonbeeeeeeee @gurlie919 @j1yuji @knucklesdeepmingi @amayakurusu13 @rjasmin2021 @needsleep3000 @backgroundcharactera @mushy-mushroom04 @sxftiebee @tanspostsblog @izaquix078 @lilliana-14 @simpforskz143148

[muqingslover]

[ Caleb canonically doing MC's laundry has set something off in my brain so here I am. Also, happy Valentine's day ! here's a longer one as a treat from me ;) I've been posting kinda of non-stop haha ] if you saw me post this before no you didn't

This has happened before. In fact, it had happened a few too many times for his sanity's sake. Whenever Caleb offered to do your laundry to be helpful he always had to deal with the strain in his pants that he pretended wasn't there by covering his lap with a magazine and thinking about literally anything else besides that tantalizing piece of fabric. He's been a good man, or at least he's always tried to be one for you. But was it really his fault if the situation was presented to him with a quite literally adorable little red bow?

Still, he has an admiring amount of self-restraint and for days he told himself he should give them back to you. Every time you two met he kept waiting for the moment to return it, clutching the fabric in his pocket, but all he received were reasons not to. Or perhaps, he just saw what he wanted to see. That's how a week turned into months and then the tortuous years without contact that drove him to the brink of insanity. Fighting back the urge to find you again and do everything his mind has fantasized about countless times was one of the hardest battles he ever faced, and that was saying something.

"Fuck..." He exhaled shakily. His head hit the wall behind him and he spread his legs further on the chair of his private quarters, keeping a firm hand wrapped around the base of his cock. It started after he found the old pair of panties that he had so carefully stored away and now all his mind had to offer were twisted fantasies. Caleb was in biiig trouble— He had to leave in less than fifteen minutes for a meeting and there were security officers constantly passing by his door, but he was past the stage that a simple cold shower and mental math equations would make the issue go away. The images of how the fabric would've adorned your curves in all the right places were soon followed by the memories of how sometimes he'd get a sneak peek when you bent over in front of him and gods that was the sexiest thing he's ever seen.

His metallic hand clutched the delicate fabric tighter as he trapped the lace between his teeth to force down another low groan when his palm began moving up and down again and the faint smell of your soap made his mind feel fuzzy. He was so sensitive that it ached to be touched— He was sure if this was your hand he'd have come on the spot the second your fingers brushed against him. Hell, if you breathed a bit too closely to his cock he'd fall apart like the pathetic man he is and he can only picture how your beautiful face would look covered with his cum. Can you blame him though? He's never even considered doing this with anyone else, nor will he ever do that, and his busy military life didn't leave much space for his own...moments.

He released the lace from his teeth and pressed the red fabric against his swollen tip, accidentally letting out a strained moan that was a bit too loud as his eyes rolled back into his head. He decided to quickly shut himself up by pushing his dog tag into his mouth to bite down on the metal, otherwise everyone outside his room would know just what the colonel was doing. Caleb imagined that the wet line his precum had made was because of your arousal for him instead. The way it would seep through the thin fabric and mark your pussy for him in such a filthy way. The way he'd lick along the damp spot and enjoy each and every sound that he'd surely drag out of your throat while he had your thighs around his head.

His hips jerked as he thrusted himself into his hand, into your panties, into you. The room filled with his barely contained ragged breathing as he hoped your pussy would be as much of a slippery mess as his cock was right now when he pushed past your slit, stretching you open so good yet so agonizingly slow. His grasp around his length was tight when the friction of the thin fabric against his dripping cock sent him over the edge and he came so hard his body twitched non-stop. His dog tag slipped from his lips, dangling around his neck again as he slumped back against the chair after his strength left his body momentarily.

His eyes landed on the red panties that were now coated in his thick, white cum and Caleb raised his hand to bring the messy cloth to his lips. He pushed his tongue out and licked along right at the middle where your soaked cunt would be, tasting his own release and wishing it was yours. It was a shame he had gotten such a pretty and precious thing dirty but, not to worry, he's always been good at cleaning up.

[rafeysdeer]

hiii I really love ur writing I eat it up everytimee ❤️❤️❤️😍😍😛

I was wondering if I could request a Jason Todd like thingy where reader is new to Gotham and she doesnt know her boyfriend (jason) is red hood or who he is really . And one night he just passes out straight in bed without even thinking about his suit and helmet and reader wakes up to this masked man in her bed and is like screaming and being like “wtf who the hell are you” “my bf is huge and he’ll fuck you up” and calling Jason and stuff and he’s just like tf?

Ik this request is like all over the place but I just randomly had this cute idea and I thought you’d eat it up 😍

thankkk uu ❤️❤️❤️

rough night (aka civil!reader x vigilante bf jason)

civil!reader x jason todd

prompt: where jason still keeps being a vigilante a secret from you, and you continue to be clueless that your boyfriend is red hood, until one rough night he forgets something a little important.

a/n: omg hi! i'm so happy with your request, sorry that it take so long, but here it is, i love how your mind work btw, hope you like it, i actually don't think my writing is good on this one, but the prompt is amazing! feel free to send requests!

It was a particularly calm night, at least for you, who had already done your bedtime routine, and were curled up in the couch with your favorite book, waiting for your boyfriend.

You watched on the news that there was a chasing, but this is Gotham, there is always a chasing on the news, you may not have lived here for long, but you are used to the special way of the city, fights, deaths and crimes that flooded the city on an ordinary weekday.

As much as you enjoyed waiting for your boyfriend to get home, so you could go to bed with him, he was pretty late today, and it was already late night, sleep was starting to overtake you, the book slowly becoming less interesting and more hazy, finally making you decide it was time to go to bed.

Now, even though Gotham is a dangerous city, and more than anything, unexpected, you definitely didn't expect that on a cool tuesday night you would walk into your room in your pretty pajamas and comfortable robe and find a huge vigilante lying on your bed, comfortable, as if he lived there his whole life.

And no one can blame you that your first reaction was to scream, scream for your life, while the book falls from your hand, you were in complete shock, the vigilante waking up confused as he looks around and finds you wrapped in your pink robe looking absolutely terrified.

"Who are you? What are you doing in my apartment? How did you get into my fucking apartment?" she said frantically as tears began to well up in your eyes as you grabbed the closest thing to you, to defend yourself, which turned out to be the lamp on your nightstand.

And the man lying in your bed looks just as confused as you do, even more, his head tilted to the side, you can't see through the intimidating red helmet, but you're sure if you could, you'd see a huge question mark hanging on his face.

"What do you mean who the hell am I? Have you lost your mind, honey?" And it wasn't until his voice came out modified by the modulator that Jason realized he was still in his full uniform, including his helmet, which explained his girlfriend's complete panic upon seeing him.

"Look, my boyfriend is going to be here any minute, and he's huge and he's going to beat the hell out of you, so please leave."

The words might have been intended to be threatening, but they lost their effect almost instantly when he knew that the boyfriend she was referring to was the one lying on the bed being threatened at that moment, and also by the tears he desperately wanted to wipe from your face.

And, as Gotham is the city of the unexpected, the unexpected happens, and the huge vigilante lying on your bed starts laughing, but not a threatening laugh, or a shy little giggle, he starts to really laugh, the kind of laugh that you throw your head back for laughing so hard, while slowly removing the helmet from his head.

And when your beloved boyfriend reveals himself, the lamp in your hand slowly lowers as your lips part in pure shock.

"Jason? What the hell is going on right now?"

She said while still holding the lamp, and looked at him more confused than ever, and the once scary and threatening vigilante stands up and wraps you in a hug, while you remain in complete shock.

"Did you have any intention to tell me about this at some point?"

Your mind, still recovering from the shock, manages to elaborate and ask, while you return the hug, as tight as you can, still shaking from finding out that your boyfriend is the fucking Red Hood.

"Honey, I'm so sorry, I swear I was going to tell you, I just didn't know if you were going to be ready to hear it, and if you would still be with me after you found out."

"If you would still see me the same way, you would love me the same way"

And now your shock is for a completely different reason, as you pull away from his embrace softly, your brows furrowed in pure indignation.

"Are you kidding me right now? Jason I would love you and be with you even if you were the fucking Batman."

And a comforting smile appears on your face, as you, on your tiptoes, hold his face in your hands as if he was the most precious thing in the world, and for you, he was.

"Jay, I love you regardless of any of this, if you're a secret vigilante at night, your secrets or anything else, because I love you for who you are and I need you to know that."

And now the bright tears in your eyes were for a completely different reason, you just didn't expect him to think that way, when right there in front of you is the man you loved the most in the world.

"God, what did I do to deserve someone like you?" he murmurs into your hair as you're wrapped around each other, you guiding him towards the comfortable bed.

"I ask myself that every day, Jay."

And now, with no secrets and curled up comfortably in each other, as it should be, he whispers to you.

"About that Batman thing, we need to talk."

[shalfeis]

hsr characters as your pets, namely cats. I hope you enjoy it. I apologize for the possible ooc.

reader x dan heng, caelus, phainon (separately)

Dan Heng

A very calm and non-confrontational cat. Gets along well with other pets, if they are in your house.

Not picky about food, but still prefers your cooking. If you feed him something delicious, you can hear him purring softly.

Unlike many other cats, he is not afraid of water. On the contrary, he willingly goes into the water if it is cool or warm. He calmly waits until all the spa treatments are completed, which makes your job much easier.

He's not the most talkative, affectionate and active cat in the world, but he always responds when you call him. He always listens attentively to you when you're talking enthusiastically. And at night he likes to lie down on your feet, warm them and purr softly.

If you're sad, in pain, or crying, he'll try to comfort you by rubbing against you, purring, and snuggling up to you. Needless to say, it more than helps?

You often lose some small things, such as keys, and somehow he always finds them and brings them to you. You don't understand how he does it, but it's still very nice.

As for outsiders, he doesn't particularly like them coming. He reacts calmly to them, but always stays away. For example, he's sitting on the couch and watching a new person in your house.

It is not strongly attached to its habitat, it is more attached to its owner, that is, to you. He'll miss the old house, of course, but he's also not against moving. He even shows interest in his new place of residence.

He loves you very much, just like you love him. You thank everyone you can for getting such a good friend and pet.

Caelus

And this is not a cat, but a disaster. Unlike Dan Heng, he is very active and constantly gets into some strange situations. He definitely has a talent for it.

He's certainly not picky about food, he'll eat anything you give him. Sometimes it seems to you that he has a black hole instead of a stomach, because how the hell does he fit so much and he's still hungry??

He's not afraid of water either, but you should be patient, because you won't be able to do spa treatments in peace. As already mentioned, he's very active, so you need to keep him occupied so that he doesn't think to leave the bath in the middle of the procedure. That already was, and you were ready to kill him.

Very talkative. It doesn't matter if you're busy with something or not, he'll say whatever he thinks. But if he's quiet and you can't hear him, then this can only mean two options. First, he's done something wrong and is trying to cover up the crime. The second one, he's not feeling well.

He is also very playful. You have a lot of different toys at home. But for some reason, the box and the packages are his favorites.

This kid is like ginger cats, you'll never guess what came into his head. At first he may purr and caress, and the next moment he wakes up in him the desire to bite you. Or he suddenly attacks you from around the corner when you least expect it.

Nevertheless, at night he likes to lie down next to you and purr like a tractor. And loudly. But somehow it's like white noise to you, and it's hard to fall asleep without it.

He immediately notices when you feel bad. He may not be very good at comforting, but the fact that he's trying to cheer you up, albeit clumsily, makes you feel better.

If Dan Heng is the one who finds your lost things, then Caelus is the one who gets your things lost. You find them in the most unexpected places. How did he even manage to hide the TV remote in the cupboard??

He is interested in every new visitor to your house. He won't be as affectionate and talkative with them as he is with you, but he won't stay away either. He will look at a person with interest and, for example, touch him with his paw or, if he likes a person, play with him.

Wherever you go, he will always be curious. He will actively explore new territory and get to know the world around him. He looks so cute in those moments, he's like a child.

Even though he's a walking disaster and often gets on your nerves, he's still very attached to you and loves you very much. He's not perfect, but that's why you love him.

Phainon

And here we are, have the perfect balance. Quite calm, but quite playful at the same time. Gets along well with other pets. And he doesn't give you any problems.

He's not picky about food, but like Dan Heng, he prefers your cooking more. He purrs softly if the food is really delicious.

He is very willing to go into the water. You can tell by his whole appearance that he enjoys spa treatments. That's why he always smells delicious and his coat is shiny.

As already mentioned, although he's calm, he doesn't mind playing either. You have several toys that he likes to play with.

He's a walking anti-stress guy, not a cat. It's enough for him to meow a couple of times, purr and settle on your feet, and your stress and fatigue go away instantly. At night, you sleep soundly with him in your arms. He purrs softly so as not to wake you up, and warms you up. Dream.

He's your little helper. He finds lost items even before you realize that you've lost something somewhere in the house, and brings them to you. You're very interested in how he does it. Or he calls you when you ask for it. For example, if you ask him to call you when the water starts to boil, he will actually call you. Sometimes it seems to you that there is a person in the body of a cat next to you, and not an ordinary cat.

When you're working, he either sits next to you or on your lap, waiting for you to finish your work. Needless to say, how does it add motivation to finish everything as quickly as possible?

Not to say that he's against strangers in your home. He won't shy away from them, but he won't fawn over them either. His affection belongs only to you. He will sit next to you and calmly look at the guest.

The change of location scares him a little, but he tries not to show it. While you're around, he's exploring a new area with interest and caution. He looks so cute that you can't resist taking a few photos.

Anyway, you have a whole photo album with him. He's too photogenic and handsome, there's nothing you can do about it. And it doesn't look like he's against it.

He's very attached to you and loves you very much. You feel the same way, so there's an idyll in your house. You don't even need a boyfriend with a cat like that.

[atlabeth]

something about her

masterlist

pairing: spencer reid x fem gideon!reader

summary: you’re reminded why you’re really here while spencer does some unwanted self reflection.

a/n: things have been a little too fun and fluffy around these parts so i had to fix it. it’s easy to forget you’re still dealing w a stalker when you’re busy living in denial <3 enjoy the mess! this whole thing is in spencer's pov bc this all got soooo far away from me

title from the song by stephen sanchez

wc: 5.3k

warning(s): things start to ramp up! stalking, anxiety, lowkey panic attacks, angst, hurt/comfort, r almost has a panic attack, alcohol/mentions of alcoholism, the usual. but more bonding!!

Spencer can’t sleep. 

He’s tried every trick in the book. Counting sheep, counting to one hundred, counting to one hundred backwards, going through the alphabet, going through the alphabet backwards, methods with actual scientific research backing them—none of it works. He’s stared at the ceiling for most of the night. 

He feels like a hypocrite most of all, preaching the importance of adequate sleep when he’ll be lucky to get five hours. But it looks like you barely sleep as is. He probably should keep preaching to you. 

There’s a myriad of reasons to explain it. His hyperactive brain has been responsible for many restless nights. He’s still in unfamiliar territory, and he hasn’t gotten used to sleeping on this bed yet. Lest he forget, he’s your first and only line of protection here from your stalker. That’s enough to keep anyone awake, even FBI. 

But then there’s also… you in general. 

Spencer can’t say he tries not to think about you, because this past week it’s felt like the only thing he’s thought about. 

It’s practically impossible, even before you were shoved into this house together. You have a way of tunneling your way into a person’s mind and refusing to leave—especially his. 

Again, it’s easy enough to pass off. You’re the only ones here, and the time you’re not spending alone you’re spending with each other. Your only choice beyond isolation is to talk to Spencer, and it seems you’re slowly moving past preferring it over him. 

But he doesn’t think he can just pass this off.

He can’t get your smile out of his head. Your moments of levity are so few and far between that it makes them shine bright as the sun. Spencer has learned he loves how you look when you’re happy. He just wishes it wasn’t such a rarity.

Gideon’s lecture rings in his ears. He really had two jobs—keep you safe, and don’t fall for you. Hopefully he only fails the one. 

It’s not like he has to worry about it, though. You might not hate him as much anymore, but you still don’t really like him. As much as it bums him out, it’s for the best. It means that in a week or two, when the team has caught the unsub and all this is over, you can both go your separate ways and you’ll never have to see Spencer again. 

That bums him out even more, though. 

He lets out a long sigh. He doesn’t know why he’s surprised. JJ, Elle, now you—Morgan would say he really knew how to pick ‘em. Girls who didn’t like him back. 

Just then his phone rings, jolting him out what could have been a convincing play for sleep if not for his thoughts, and he groans a little. Spencer fumbles around for it without lifting his head from the pillow, only turning slightly so he can flick it open and place it against his ear. 

“Gideon, why are you calling this early?” he mumbles. 

“I hope you’re treating her well.”

The gravelly voice through the speaker is a shock, and Spencer doesn’t really process it. His brain still hasn’t turned on. 

“Gideon?” he asks again. 

“I know you ran away. Trying to protect her like you have any right.” 

His blood goes cold as the words finally register. 

This is their unsub. This— this is your stalker. 

“What do you want?” he asks, unable to keep the sharp edge out of his words. 

“You’ve hurt her the same way he has,” the voice continues. “He’s ruined our lives and you don’t care.”

Spencer’s mind is simultaneously blank and running wild. He knows he should try to profile him or talk to him to get something out of him but— but all he feels is anger. 

“What do you want?” he repeats, louder this time. 

“Think about your priorities, Agent Reid. I’ll be watching.” 

The disconnected tone blares in his ear before he can say anything else, and Spencer stares down at his phone in confused annoyance. 

What kind of bullshit game is this guy trying to play with you? 

First he stalks you for a month—possibly months— then sends pictures of you to your door, then forces you into hiding and now he’s just mocking you like this? 

If Gideon is the goal, this bastard is doing a great job of dragging you along. 

Spencer’s heart jumps into his throat all of a sudden. You. 

He grabs his gun off his bedside table then lunges to the door with all the athleticism of a newborn baby giraffe, nearly tripping in his haste to get out into the hallway. He slams your door open once he gets to your room, and the relief that floods through his body when you shoot up from your previously sleeping position is almost dangerous. 

“Spencer?” you grumble, still completely out of it as you rub your eyes. “What the fuck are you doing?” 

You’re alive. You’re okay. You’re still here. 

He opens his mouth to respond, still kind of out of breath, when his phone rings again. Spencer takes it out and is already pressing it to his ear. 

“What the hell do you want from her?” he barks. The absolute nerve of your stalker to call back—

“Reid, it’s me.”

It’s Gideon’s voice that comes out of the speaker this time, and Spencer feels the wave of red hot rage boiling in his stomach crash against a wall of confusion. 

“I—” He swallows deeply, his eyes flicking over to your befuddled expression momentarily before he feels himself flush bright red and look away. “I’m so sorry, sir. I thought you were someone else.” 

“You got a call?”

His blood runs cold. “You mean you got one too?”

Gideon curses and he hears him move around. Pacing in his bedroom, if Spencer knew anything about him. “Tell me my daughter is safe.”

“She— she is,” he stammers. “I’m with her right now.”

“Spencer, what the fuck is going on?” You’re sitting up now, much more aware than you were fifteen seconds ago. “Why do you have your gun— why are you talking to my dad?”

“Do a perimeter check,” Gideon demands. “If he’s there—”

“I know.” Spencer looks back at you and sighs. “You should talk to her.”

“I know,” Gideon echoes. “Let her stay on the line with me while you figure things out.”

He nods and takes the phone from his ear. “Gideon wants to talk with you.”

You’re standing up now, a dumbfounded expression on your face. “Hold on, you still haven’t answered me! What is going on?”

“I got a call from our guy,” he says. Your eyes widen and he can see your chest still. His heart clenches at the sight. “Gideon did too.”

“What?” you breathe. “Wh— what did he want?”

“To scare you.” Spencer holds up his gun. “Can you hide in the closet while I do a perimeter check?”

You scoff. Your demeanor is still shaken, but the fire is more prominent. He’s started to admire that about you. “Spencer, I am not hiding in the closet.”

“Then lock yourself in the bathroom again!” he exclaims. He doesn’t mean for the outburst, but he can’t help it. “Just— I can’t focus if I’m worried about you, and right now the only thing I can think of is how worried I am about you, so I need to know you’re safe while I do this.”

You stare at him, and Spencer stares right back, if a little frantic. He feels his chest rise and fall from the force, a stark contrast to your still body—similar to the panic he knows is in his eyes to the steely cool of yours. 

“I’m not letting you potentially face an insane stalker by yourself,” you finally say. 

Spencer huffs. “I am an FBI agent. I’ve faced worse things than insane stalkers.”

“We’ve been together this whole time,” you insist. “We— we can do this together too.” 

He looks at you again—he can tell you’re not going to move on this. Spencer eventually sighs and holds the phone back up to his ear. 

“I’m assuming you heard that?” 

“Let her go with you,” Gideon says. “It’s riskier for her to be on her own than outside with you. But stay on the line, and stay alert. Nothing can happen to her—do you understand?” 

“I won’t let anything happen to her,” he says. “I meant what I said.” 

“...Good.” 

Spencer holds the phone out to you again, and your lip curls. 

“I’m not—” 

“Come on,” he interrupts, gesturing with his head into the hallway. 

Your annoyance melts into acknowledgement when you realize he’s not blowing you off again, and you nod as you take the phone. Spencer wraps both hands around his gun as he starts moving, you matching his pace as you follow him. 

“Yeah, Dad,” he hears you say behind him. “I’m here.” 

This is what he meant by you needing to stay behind. He’s worried about you more than anything, yes, but he also can’t help but listen. Spencer has very keen ears, to everyone’s simultaneous disdain and appreciation on the team—it makes him a very good asset in the field, but also a very good asset when it comes time for office gossip. 

“No, nothing’s happened yet. Yes— yes, I’m okay, I promise. Spencer’s done an annoyingly good job of keeping me safe.” 

Once Spencer reaches the door, he peers through the peephole to make sure their unsub isn’t embarrassingly obvious. It’s clear, and he turns to face you and raises a hand, then places his finger on his lips. 

“Uh— I have to go dark for a sec,” you say. “We’re checking the perimeter. Don’t worry, I’ll scream if anyone tries to kill me. Be back soon.” 

You pull the phone away from your ear and nod at Spencer, and he holds his breath before he opens the door. 

The frigid air hits both of you at once, and he hears then sees your sharp exhale of breath. It’s been a while since either of you have been outside, but it’s good to know he hasn’t been missing superb weather. 

“Stay close and stay quiet,” Spencer whispers. “I’m your only line of defense out here.” 

He expects you to shoot back with some remark, but you merely nod in response. Spencer hopes he hides the shock he feels before he turns away and starts walking. 

Dawn isn’t for a few more hours—the only real light source is the moon high in the night sky. It doesn't exactly help his nerves to be doing all this in the dark, but part of him is almost thankful to be doing this. Spencer doesn’t know how to deal with you or any of the emotions you stir inside of him or the sleepless nights you cause because he can’t stop thinking of you—but he knows how to do his job, and he knows how to do it damn well. 

He just wishes it didn’t have to come with the unfortunate side effect of you being in immense danger. 

But Spencer does his best to push those thoughts to the back of his mind—right now, he has to have one focus. 

And he does. The two of you stick close to the side of the house, his eyes darting all over as he tries to dig out any details, any possible sign that the unsub was here. The ground is still a thin layer of mud from the storm last night, so it should be easy to find footprints. Spencer’s Converse aren’t doing a great job at keeping him upright—slipping in front of you is too embarrassing for him to even think about. 

All of a sudden, he stops, his arm shooting out in front of you. You don’t realize it for a second and you run into him, your hand wrapping around his arm on instinct to steady yourself. If he wasn’t so shocked at what he was looking at, he would have been bright red over it. 

“What the h—” 

“Footprints,” he whispers.  “Th— they’re almost gone, but—” 

“He was here?” you interrupt. Fear spikes in your voice and your grip tightens on his arm. 

“Last night, maybe.” Spencer swallows the doubt in his throat. It doesn’t matter what he thinks, how he feels—he’s not going to make you feel worse. “The rain probably washed most of them away.” 

“Spencer—”

“I am surprised these are still here, though,” he continues. “The rainfall was really heavy. I wouldn’t expect them to stay in mud like this—” 

“Spencer, look where we are!” you exclaim, gesturing hard with your other hand. He realizes that you’ve let go of his arm by now, but he pushes it out of his head and looks. 

“The window to your room,” he says. The blinds are closed and the lock is in place—he’s made sure every night—but there are small enough gaps between the shutters. 

“He was watching us last night!” Your breathing is starting to come heavier and faster now. “We talked about all that shit and he was just here watching and we didn’t even fucking know!” 

You’re on the edge of hyperventilating. Spencer has got to get you down or else you’re going to have a full blown panic attack out here. 

“Hey, hey— look at me.” He says your name and that, if anything else, gets you to listen and meet his eyes. They’re filled with an unbridled fear he hasn’t seen in you until now. “Don’t think about him. Don’t think about any of this. He’s not here.” 

“He was watching us—” 

“And we’ll figure out what to do next. But you have to stay calm. You can’t let him win.” 

You’re still harried, your chest rising and falling rapidly as your eyes dart all around. Spencer says your name softly, tucks his gun into its holster, then takes your hands in his, hoping that it gives you something to focus that isn’t the rest of this. 

“Just look at me,” he says softly. 

You suck in another shaky breath, but you’re not as frantic as before. You at least look him in the eye, and you don’t wrench your hands out of his grasp. Progress, if nothing else. 

“Breathe with me.” 

You nod—still panicked, but better. Spencer breathes in deep and you do the same, following as he counts up and down with his fingers. It takes a few rounds, but eventually, he’s gotten you off the edge. 

Spencer says your name again, just as soft as before. You’re still breathing slowly in and out. 

“How do you feel?” 

“Better,” you murmur. “I—” 

You’re interrupted by the phone you both forgot was in your hand, Gideon’s voice muddled as it comes from the receiver. You rip your hands out of Spencer’s as you come back into yourself, shaking your head and blinking a few times while you take a few steps away from him. 

“I’m here, Dad,” you say. “We— we’re okay. No, nothing happened.” 

Spencer blinks too. He looks down at his hands, then glances at you, then shakes his head. He walks back over to the footprint and crouches down, trying to keep his mind clear. He commits every detail he can to memory, doing his best to ignore the conversation with your dad in the background. 

Well, he tunes in a little. He can’t help it—he wants to make sure you’re okay. 

“We found a footprint outside my room,” you’re saying. “Spencer thinks it’s your guy. I have no idea. Yes, we are. You don’t have to be so pushy.” You sigh and he feels your gaze on him. “Spencer, we have to finish this up. Dad wants us back inside.” 

He clears his throat as he nods a few times. “Let me get a picture of this first.” 

You hand him the phone and Spencer snaps some photos from a few different angles, hoping forensics will be able to get anything out of it. He hears Gideon’s voice again and he holds it to his ear once more. 

“Gideon?” 

“Reid, get her back inside,” he says. “We can’t take any unnecessary risks.” 

“We haven’t finished securing the perimeter,” he says. 

“Then finish it and get back inside!” he exclaims. “You have proof that he was there—” 

“We don’t know it’s him,” Spencer interrupts. 

“We know there was somebody there!” Gideon shoots back. “I’m not risking her, and from what I’ve heard, you don’t want to either.” 

Spencer feels his cheeks warm as he looks back at you, and he pulls his gun back out of its holster. “Come on. We have to finish this up.” 

“That’s what I said,” you mutter, but you follow him without further protest. 

The rest of the check goes by quickly without any other distractions or surprises, and soon enough you’re back inside. While Spencer chats with Gideon, updating him in a calmer manner on everything with the phone call and the footprint, you’re ruffling through the cabinets. 

Eventually, he sees you pull out a bottle of clear liquid from the corner of his eye. He frowns and realizes that it’s vodka. 

“It’s 4:29 in the morning,” Spencer says, cutting off Gideon almost absentmindedly as you pop the bottle open. 

“And we found out that this place isn’t nearly as safe as anyone thought,” you respond sharply. “I think that warrants some drinking.” 

“That means that you should have a clear mind,” he says. “Alcohol impairs your brain’s communication pathways, as well as your judgment and coordination.” 

“I’ve gotten drunk before, genius,” you mutter as you search for a glass. You end up choosing a the mug you used for coffee the other morning then start pouring. “Enough to know it’s what I need right now.” 

“It can also cause mood swings,” Spencer says. “I think that’s the last thing you need right now.”

You roll your eyes, not even bothering to look back at him as you finish pouring a concerning amount of liquor into the mug. 

“What is going on over there?” Gideon asks. Spencer remembers he’s holding the phone and he puts it back to his ear. 

“I think your daughter is an alcoholic,” he comments. 

“I’m not an alcoholic,” you say sharply. “I just can’t focus on all this right now.” 

“It’s best if she gets some sleep,” Gideon says. “All of this is likely terrifying to her, no matter how hard she tries to hide it.” 

Spencer’s mind flashes back to your near panic attack—your wide eyes full of fear and harried breathing that only made you hyperventilate more when you realized you couldn’t control it. It’s too easy to think of you as some untouchable being from the way you interact with him, bothered by nothing and no one. 

The mask cracks on rare occasion. It makes you seem frighteningly real. 

“You’re right,” Spencer nods. You sip your drink without flinching. He doesn’t think he can even call it a drink if it’s just straight liquor. “We could all use some sleep.” 

“Just make sure she’s safe,” he says. “Make sure the whole place is secure. We’re not—” 

“Taking risks,” he finishes. “Believe me, I know.” 

Gideon is silent for a second, and Spencer takes the time to look at you. The bags under your eyes are even more prominent, and there’s a haunted glint in your eyes as you stare at the wall. You shiver ever so slightly, the outside chill still lingering on your skin. You’ve got pajama pants on but just a plain tee. You didn’t have time to put a sweatshirt on before he pulled you outside in the mania of it all. 

You really are beautiful—but you’re so damn tired. 

Spencer realizes that all he wants to do is give you some respite. 

“I’ll call you back later, then,” Gideon says. “To check in.” 

“Okay.” Spencer’s throat bobs as he averts his eyes from you. “Get some rest too, Gideon.” 

The other end hangs up without a response. Spencer stares down at the phone for a few seconds then sighs before he tucks it back into his pocket. 

“What’d he want?” you ask. 

“I can’t believe you’re drinking vodka out of a coffee mug at four in the morning.”

You frown. “You don’t get to judge me.” 

“It’s not good for you.” 

“None of this is good for me,” you enunciate. “What did my dad want?”

“I’m serious,” Spencer continues. “Drinking on an empty stomach can lead to low blood sugar— drinking at this hour is going to completely disrupt your circadian rhythm.” 

“You know what else has disrupted my circadian rhythm?” you ask mockingly. ���Being here. Having a stalker. Finding out that said stalker was also here, watching us. I think that’s a little worse for me than the alcohol.” 

Spencer stares at you, and as you’re prone to do, you stare back. Eventually, he shakes his head and looks away, deciding to quit while he’s ahead. 

“He wants you to get some sleep,” he says. “Wants us both to.” 

You scoff and shake your head, downing much more vodka than you should in one go. Again, you don’t flinch—for a schoolteacher, you handle your liquor very well. “Like I’d get to sleep after this.” 

“It’s important,” Spencer insists. “You’ve gotten— what? Three hours of sleep?” 

“Well, all this excitement has woken me up,” you say. 

“Well, I’m tired,” Spencer says. “So I guess I’ll see you in a few hours.” 

He starts to walk to his room, figuring that you need time to cool off, when—

“Wait.” 

Your voice is oddly strangled, and Spencer stops in his tracks. 

“I—” you stop and sigh, your tongue darting out to wet your lips. “I don’t want to be alone right now.” 

“Our rooms are close to each other,” he says. “I’ll be able to hear if you yell.” 

You rub your eyes as you let out another haggard sigh. “I can’t stand to be in that room, Spencer. Not knowing that— that he was right there.” 

Spencer can’t look away from you. Your eyes glint with tears you’re trying to hold back, but you’re laid bare in a way he knows you hate. 

You’re being pushed to your limits against your will, and it kills him that he can’t do anything to help you. Honestly, sometimes he feels useless being stuck here while the rest of the team is out there actively working to help you. All he can do is stand around here and annoy you. 

Except you want him there. For the first time since all of this has started, you want him there. 

It’s the only thing he can do for you right now. How can he refuse? 

“Okay,” he says softly, and he nods. “Okay. We can share my room tonight.” 

The tension in your shoulders fades ever so slightly, and you—thankfully—set the mug down. “Keep your gun close.” 

“I’m not sure you want me shooting when I’m sleep deprived,” Spencer says. 

Your lips twitch just so, and Spencer’s heart skips a beat. He can’t help it. 

He should have known he was in too deep the moment he stepped into this house with you. 

-

“Very cozy,” you say. 

“It’s the same as your room,” Spencer responds. 

You shrug. “It’s messy. Makes it feel like home.” 

He feels his face flush. “I haven’t really been focused on keeping things clean.” 

“Relax.” You sit down on the bed. “I’m not judging you.” 

“Good.” Spencer glances at you as he moves his bag off of your side of the bed. “Because that would be very rude after the generosity I’ve shown you.” 

You laugh and Spencer finds himself smiling at the sound of it. He’s glad he’s turned away, and he’s glad he manages to push it away by the time he’s turned back around. 

You’re wearing a sweatshirt and sweatpants now, and it’s strange to see you look so… soft. Every part of you is so sharp, some of it jagged—sometimes you harden around him, sometimes you mellow. He’s a bit tired of the back and forth. 

Maybe that’s what makes him speak up. 

“I’m tired of us always being at odds.” 

Your eyebrows rise and you look at him. “Really?” 

Spencer nods, his will bolstered. “Really. We have a nice talk one night, and I feel like we’ve had a breakthrough, and then you go back to hating me the next morning. I’m— I’m sick of it.” 

He expects you to shoot back with some mocking comment like you always do, making fun of him for wanting more than what little you give him. But instead, you lay back against the pillows and shrug. 

“Okay.” 

He blinks. “Really?” 

“Really,” you nod. “I’m too tired to want to fight right now.” 

“You’re the one that always tries to fight me.” 

“Aren’t you fighting me right now?” 

Spencer shakes his head. “You’re unbelievable.” 

You chuckle. “Still fighting.” 

He stares at you. As usual, you stare back, but this time you can’t fully bite back your smile. For some reason, that gets Spencer to break. He smiles too, and he settles down on the bed next to you. There’s a pillow buffer between you, but it’s still a lot closer than he’s used to. 

Well, he did hold your hands earlier, but that’s because he was bringing you down from a panic attack. That doesn’t mean anything. 

“What a day,” he mutters. 

“And it hasn’t even started yet,” you muse. “I don’t know how you do this kind of shit every day.” 

“I’m not really the target of any of this,” he says. “I usually stay behind the scenes. I’m good with geographical profiles, not chasing down unsubs.” 

You look over at him. “You haven’t really talked about anything you do for the BAU.” 

Spencer shrugs. “I thought it would be a sore subject.” 

You pause. “You’re… probably right.” 

“I figured.” He chuckles, then glances over at you. “But you already know enough about me. You said you would talk about your job. Teaching, and your kids, and all that.” 

Your eyebrows rise. “You actually care?”

Spencer gives you a look. “I thought we were past that part in our friendship.”

“We’re not friends.”

He shrugs. “Whatever you say.”

You roll your eyes, but you go on anyway. “I’m a highschool teacher in Fairfax. You know Mount Vernon High?” 

Spencer nods. “I know the name of every high school in Virginia.” 

“Of course you do,” you huff. “But that’s besides the point. I did my student teacher hours there, and they offered me a full time position. I took it, so I guess I’ve been there since senior year.” You purse your lips. “It’s a little depressing when you look at it like that.” 

“Then don’t look at it like that,” he say. “You said you loved your job.” 

“I do!” You smile again, a bit lighter this time. “My teachers were a huge part of my life, especially in high school.” The lightness fades some, but he notices how you try to hide it. “If I could help even one kid the same way my teachers helped me, then I would have done something with my life.” 

“That’s very noble of you,” Spencer says. “I don’t think I ever would have guessed you were a teacher.” 

“Oh, please,” you say. “You’re a profiler. You’d figure it out.” 

“You wouldn’t know I work with the FBI at first glance.” 

“Well, I’m not a profiler. Besides,” you tip a shoulder, “I have the ulterior motive of wanting to introduce kids to the wonders of physics.” 

Spencer’s eyes light up. “You’re a physics teacher?” 

“I teach a load of science classes, but I carry the banner for AP physics.” You huff a laugh. “You’re probably the only one that doesn’t sound lame to.” 

“I love physics!” he exclaims. “I’ve got a PhD in engineering, remember?” 

You smile— no, you actually grin at him, and he can’t believe he finally broke through the barrier with science. 

“Trust me, I’d love to talk physics with you, boy genius, but—” you’re interrupted with a yawn, and Spencer resists the urge to do the same— “but I think I’m actually about to fall asleep.”  

Spencer shakes his head with a small laugh. He realizes that he’s relaxed while you’ve been talking, limbs looser and fully laying back against the pillows. 

“This was actually part of my master plan to get you to rest,” he says. “Talking science always works with the team.” 

He sees you smile out of his peripherals as you lay fully down, can feel every shift of your body against the mattress while you try to find a good position. 

“It wasn’t you,” you say. “It was the vodka.” 

 “Of course,” he agrees. 

Silence falls over the room as the two of you settle in. You take off your sweatshirt, a slight shiver running through you once you’re back in your tank top. Spencer removes his glasses, and he blinks a few times to adjust to the blurriness.

The bed is big enough for you to both have your own space,, and you’re both careful to keep your backs to each other. The silence is comfortable despite the previous animosity. Maybe all it really did take was for him to start talking science. 

Eventually, though—

“Thank you, Spencer.” Your voice is little more than a whisper, but it cuts through the silence like a knife. “I— I know you don’t like me. So it means a lot that you still do all this for me.” 

He’s quiet for a moment, taking your words in. The mingled sounds of your breathing are really the only things filling the room, and he can feel your weight against the mattress. It’s all oddly intimate. 

“You’re wrong.” He’s almost surprised at the sound of his own voice. “I do like you.” 

Your shock shows through the silence. Spencer takes his chance. 

“You’re going through something no one should ever have to experience, and you’re doing it with someone you think stole your life from you.” Spencer shifts ever so slightly. His hands feel inexplicably clammy. “It was unfair of me to take Gideon’s side so often.” 

“Still.” Your words are muffled as you speak half into the mattress. “We have more important things to worry about. It was unfair of me to spend so much time giving you shit. You— you didn’t even know I existed until a month ago.” 

“But now I do.” He pauses. “And I’m glad I do. So you can start looking forward instead of always looking back.” 

Again, silence. It lasts so long Spencer wonders if you’ve fallen asleep. Your breathing is thankfully steady (a side of him is always focused on your breathing just to make sure) and you don’t shift much, so he wouldn’t be surprised. You were exhausted—

“Spencer?” 

His eyes open. He didn’t even realize they had closed. You sound half-asleep, your voice nothing more than a whisper. He wishes more than anything he knew what was going through your mind right now. 

“Yeah?” 

“I’m glad you’re here.” 

His heart stutters so blatantly he’s sure you can hear it. Spencer honestly doesn’t know what to say—his mouth is so dry he doesn’t know if he can say anything. 

Spencer thought you hated him. You thought Spencer hated you. 

It’s ironic. 

“Me too,” he eventually manages. 

But there’s no response. You must’ve already fallen asleep again, just conscious enough to say a few words. The rude awakening mixed with the fear and alcohol couldn’t have done you much good. 

Spencer swallows the doubt in his throat and closes his eyes again, trying not to focus on you. It’s practically impossible. 

He’s glad, at least, that you’re able to sleep. You deserve to rest more than anyone. 

Eventually, the sound of your breathing lulls Spencer to sleep. 

You were the one thing he didn’t have on his list.

[katescorner]

BAKED WITH LOVE — tendou satori x reader

some would call it a cliche. tendou calls it fate. after all, what were the odds a paris chocolatier would fall for a baker?

"i'm in love," tendou said with a dreamy sigh.

"you're dramatic," his coworker replied.

but he could only shake his head. you worked in the shop across from his, which meant that every so often he caught glimpses of you. it also meant his coworkers never heard the end of it about you, but that's beside the point.

"if you're so in love, why don't you ever go over there? strike a conversation?"

it's a question that came up every shift, but tendou was a lot . . . shyer than people thought. what if you rejected him? or worse—what if you said yes?

he doesn't realize he's staring until you send him a small wave, laughing when he turns a shade of red matching his hair.

he tries to busy himself, too embarrassed to look your way anymore until the end of day was nearing.

tendou doesn't know if it was the effect valentine's day had on him or all the love and affection he'd witnessed today or perhaps his coworkers' words ringing loudly in his ear. but he glanced across the street once more. he watched you welcome a customer in and greet another goodbye. you had an apron tied around your front; it was decorated in red hearts, and suddenly his mind was racing with ideas.

he only hoped he could catch you before you left.

he'd never worked so fast. whipping up a batch of chocolates for customers to buy because it was something he was paid to do was one thing. but it was another thing to be pouring his effort into creating chocolate for someone he cares about.

"finally worked up the courage to head to the bakery?"

"something like that," he responds, taking a deep breath and heading to where you work. he's through the door before he realizes he has no idea what he plans to tell you.

"i work across the street. i'm a chocolatier," he says sheepishly when you stare at him brightly, welcoming him in. "my name is—"

"satori," you cut in with a smile. "right? your coworkers come here a lot during their lunch break . . . lots of whispers about something regarding you and me?"

he doesn't know how deeper he can flush—both from the fact that you know his name and that his coworkers yap about him. he's stumbles over his words to mask his feelings. "i-i made you—here," he pushes a box your way, "it's chocolate!"

he wants the earth to open up and swallow him whole in the moment you freeze, before you have the chance to say anything.

"i . . ."

"please reject me quickly!"

your eyes widen, and you place a quick hand over the chocolate box almost protectively much to his surpise. "who said anything about rejecting you?"

tendou looks blankly at you; it's almost amusing.

"i . . . i was going to say i made you something too."

you bring out a small cupcake from behind the counter—red velvet with cream cheese frosting, decorated with pink hearts. it had just finished cooling after coming out of the oven.

"i was going to ask you . . ." you feel small under his gaze.

"do you want to have dinner with me tonight?" tendou asks.

"yes."

series masterlist link

[hiraizyo]

two worlds apart.

pairing: manon bannerman x female reader

synopsis — being a daughter to a duke and duchess, manon knew she had little to no say as to who she would end up with. that didn’t stop her from seeking out others, specifically you, the daughter of a barman, whom she had become completely enthralled by. the only problem? you were of different social status to manon, and oh, what a scandal it would be if anyone were to find out.

tags — fluff, angst, suggestive, slight nsfw, forbidden love, royalty!au, lady!manon, commoner!yn, secret relationship

now playing: astronomy, conan gray

a/n: icl i don’t understand how i haven’t written for manon before like i have SOOO MANY ideas for her 😔😔 there is somewhat of an attempt at old english to fit the time period but the language is still kind of modern fyi. i hope you enjoy, sorry for any typos or spelling mistakes !

++ inspired by this ask. i apologize for taking so long, i’m also kissing the brick gently… before throwing it </3

manon’s laughter was bright and full of life, her giggles like music to your ears as her fingers tangled with yours and pulled you along with her. the wind whipped past your face, cold air of the nightlife briskly kissing your skin while your legs carried you in urgency, trying to keep up with the ghanaian woman. her curls bounced as she ran, much further ahead of you, the only thing keeping you attached to her was the grip she had on you.

it wasn’t just the sight of manon that had your heart racing, but also the adrenaline rushing through your veins from sneaking out into the night, your only chance of being able to see her.

you had lost count of how many times you’d done this before, though now you were much better skilled than when you and manon first began your relationship. you knew when to leave the house, which route was best to take for your shared secret place, how to be discreet with your stares when out in public.

“darling,” you called out, smiling at her. “why are you making such haste?”

manon looked back briefly. “why are you not?” she countered, flashing you a teasing grin.

a couple more steps was taken before manon stopped, her breathing heavy, as was yours. she yanked you down with her to the ground, falling back together on the grass in a fit of laughter, facing the starry sky.

“this is our one night together before i am to leave for the countryside.” she turned to face you, staring at your side. “i wish for it to be special.”

propping yourself on your elbow, you were slightly leaning over manon, looking down at her. “every moment spent together is special, my darling.”

she shuffled closer so that she was tucked below your arm, her smile soft and dashing. manon reached out to caress your cheek, thumb grazing over the cheekbone and leaned up to press her lips against yours in a sweet kiss.

the kiss was short lived, and when yours eyes fluttered open once again, nothing would have prepared you for the sight that resided in front of you.

you grinned, “have i ever told you how utterly gorgeous you are?” gripping onto her hand that rested on your cheek, you placed a kiss against it.

“you flatter me, ms. yn.” manon replied, her voice teasing, yet at the same time knowing.

“but it is true!” you declared, arching a brow at her. manon hummed as you continued. “i believe even the gods weep at your beauty.”

manon let out a loud laugh, though her heart stuttered in her chest. she couldn’t contain the smile that was battling to break free, her teeth grazing the soft flesh of her bottom lip.

“oh hush,” she tittered, and dragged her finger down from your nose until it reached your lips, tapping it twice. “you ought to put that mouth of yours to better use.”

you eyes danced over the soft features of her face, gazing from her dilated pupils to the curve of her nose, from the corner of her mouth to her exposed neck. you smiled gently, leaning forward, close enough that she felt your breath on her.

“as you wish, my lady.”

silencing manon with another kiss, your hand found its way to the small of her back while hers cupped your cheek once again. she kissed you back with vigor, her tongue dipping inside your mouth. you moaned as she let out a breathless sigh, your kisses traveling across her jaw and down to her neck. she leaned back, allowing you to have better access, and pulled on your hair tightly when she felt your teeth nip her skin.

you planted open mouth kisses across her collarbones, while your hand traveled lower, quickly and messily pushing the frills of her dress away. dipping your hand between her legs, slick wetness coated your fingers. the cream coloured material was quickly bunched in your tight grip as you moved to positioned yourself between her now bent knees, kissing the inside of her thighs, traveling to where she needed you most. the last thing you had seen before going beneath her dress was manon’s head thrown back, her gasps echoing around you as she lost herself in the ecstasy.

a while later, after manon had calmed down from her post orgasm bliss, she watched as you resurfaced, licking your lips clean. you hung above her, arm on either side of her and harshly kissed her for the third time. her fingers trailed over the back of your neck, pulling you down until your body pressed against hers.

when you’d finally separated from one another, you shuffled around, laying sideways, and settled to rest your head in her lap, silently counting the stars. manon sat up and leaned back on her hands, facing upwards with her eyes closed as she basked in the moment with you, a warmth encompassing her.

the cool temperature of the night provided great relief to the heat of your skin. it was quiet, the only sound being howls hooting from nearby trees.

“for how long will you be gone?”

manon looked down at you, regretfully. “i am not certain, a week or two.” she announced, moving her one hand from the grass to rake through your hair. “father has business to take care of, but he still wants the family to be together.”

you nodded, leaning into her touch. a soft exhale left you from the soothing sensation of her nails against your scalp. “i must confess a week away from you is too torturous for one to bear.”

“surely your heart can take it.” manon teased, her lips curved into a smile. she twirled a few strands of your hair around her finger.

“it cannot,” you uttered, staring at her longingly. “my heart calls your name.”

manon’s breath hitched in her throat. it wasn’t out of the ordinary for you shower her with romantic words, but each time you did, she could feel herself falling deeper and deeper.

“as does mine,” she admitted, her smile widening. her voice then lowered into a whisper, “i will be back before you know it.”

you looked up at her, wetting your lips with a swipe of your tongue. “i love you, more than you will ever know.”

the warmth that engulfed manon was unlike any other as she repeated the words back to you. your hand traveled up to where hers was, linking your fingers together and squeezed. your eyes shone with affection as manon squeezed back, a silent promise that you’d be together once again.

the days without manon had proven to be difficult. they were slow, almost lacking life. you busied yourself with helping your mother around the house, taking care of your younger brother, and assisted your father at his bar. though it was frowned upon for a woman to be seen working, you endured the strange looks of the many lords and other men that occupied the place.

you kept careful watch of how long it’d been since manon left. seven nights had passed already, and you ached for her more than ever. the longest you’d been apart was three days, courtesy of the ghanaian’s lack of free time and the many balls she had to attend.

it was nightfall and you found yourself sitting at the window seat, a forgotten book in hand. the glass showed your reflection, but your eyes were on the moon above. the only thing that brought you comfort was knowing that somewhere, out there, manon was staring too.

with a sigh, you shut the book closed and shoved it back into the bookcase between the others. you walked into the chambers of your room, and with a heavy heart, willed yourself to fall asleep.

the following day, you repeated everything that you’d been doing from the start of the week. the only difference was a letter had been delivered to you once you reached home later that night. the stamp of the bannerman seal was on the flap of the envelope. you peeled apart the sealing wax, opening it hastily, taking out the piece of paper with rushed hands. manon’s handwriting was neat, only three words present.

nightfall. bannerman manor.

— m.

your eyes glistened with unshed tears. finally, after so long, you’d be able to see her.

it wasn’t long before you were out the house, sneakily closing the door and ventured out into the night. though you were confused as to why manon requested you at her place, it didn’t stop you from taking the journey.

carefully, you trudged along the outskirts of the manor, attentive as to not get caught by the surrounding guards. it was dark, so dark that you had to squint your eyes tightly in order to see.

manon was close by, she’d snuck passed the servants of the manor, quiet as a mouse. once near the gates, she quickly caught sight of you from the silhouette of your movements and the crunching of leaves beneath your feet. slowly, manon approached you from behind, tapping your shoulder.

you jumped from fight, a gasp escaping you. you turned around, with widened eyes and a fearful heart that you’d been caught. manon clamped a hand over your mouth to keep you quiet, her own eyes shining with mischief. she then glanced around to be sure no one had heard you.

you sighed in relief, shoulders slumping forward. with a delicate touch, you peeled manon’s hand away from your mouth, a short, breathless laugh of nervousness leaving you. she tangled your fingers together, and turned to walk back in the direction she’d come from. you knitted your eyebrows together, out of both confusion and fear, but manon only placed a finger against her lips, telling you to be silent.

she took one last look to be sure that no one was around to see you and her, and pulled you along with her. you followed meekly, almost stumbling over your own feet.

the inside of the manor had you looking around in astonishment, the tall walls and intricate designs of white and gold were beautiful. you’d never seen anything like, the pure admiration on your face caused manon to giggle, finding your shock humorous.

soon, you’d made your way to her room.

the door shut behind her, and manon leaned her back against it, beaming at you. still with panic in set in your body, your frightened voice was heard in the dimly lit room, a candle burning in the corner.

“what is this?” you hissed, “why are we here?”

“is that how you greet someone you’ve missed dearly?” manon tilted her head to the side, a fire dancing about in her eyes.

you blinked, “no, but this is far too dangerous!” gesturing to the door, you hinted at what lurked behind it. “what if someone had seen us?”

manon paid no mind to your frantic state. she took prolonged, deliberate steps toward you, a smirk set in place. when she finally reached you, her pointer finger ran along the edge of your jaw, almost as if she was taunting you.

“kiss me.”

your voice shook, “manon—”

“i saw you today,” she flicked her gaze up to your eyes. “with a girl awfully close to you.” manon quickly retracted her finger, like she had been burned, and it felt as if her hand was never there at all. “is that what you do when i’m not here? entertain others?”

as you took in her words, you noticed the tinge of aggression. they had a sharp bite to them, and the way manon’s body was rigid told you all that you needed to know.

she was jealous.

it was a sight you liked far too much for you to admit.

you stepped closer, head dipping down. “i belong to you entirely.”

manon’s eyes connected with yours, her stare so intense that it had your insides tingling. her voice was husky, “is that so?”

“i swear it.” you mumbled, leaning in further. your hand gripped her waist, the layer of fabric being on the only thing keeping you from feeling your skin against hers.

manon tilted her head up to meet your lips in a featherlight kiss, her lips barely brushing against yours. you pulled away, your other hand sweeping your knuckles across her cheek.

“i dreamt of you while you were away.” you confessed, the tenderness in your voice a stark contrast to the tension between you and manon.

she tugged you closer by your neck, “now there is no need to dream any longer.”

whatever else you wanted to say was stuffed down as manon pressed a rough kiss to your lips. you stumbled back from the force, furrowing your eyebrows as you kissed her passionately.

she trailed her hand down to your ribcage, holding it tightly. her other hand held was placed on your ribcage as well, as she pushed you back until you collided with the dresser in her room. the wooden furniture knocked against the wall, the sound loud and rattled around the room.

manon’s lips were bruised by the time she moved her attention to your neck, while you fought with every bit of strength left in you not to rip the back strings of her dress, desperate to feel her. a soft moan slipped out your mouth as manon littered kisses over your skin, feeling your throat bob up and down you as swallowed. your hands made a mess of her curls, bringing her back up to connect your lips once again, teeth harshly clashing against one another.

unbeknownst to you and manon, her lady’s maid stood behind the door, listening in. a hand covered her mouth, the impure sounds she’d heard frightening her.

two days came and went.

that morning, manon felt as if something dark was lingering in the air, awaiting her presence. it wasn’t until she’d been called in to her father’s study when the ball finally dropped.

“tell me it is not true.” her father said, back turned to her.

the last thing manon expected when she stepped into the room was for him to bring you up. now, standing with her head down, eyes trained to the floor, she shuddered at the coldness in her father’s voice.

“it is merely a fantasy of hers.” manon replied. her hands were shaking, so she gripped them together and hid them behind her back.

her father turned around to face, his stare was hard. “you mean to call your lady’s maid a liar?”

“no!” she shrieked, tone fearful. “i-i only meant that perhaps she was… mistaken.”

manon watched as her father chuckled bitterly, and she felt a chill run down her spine. she turned her head to the side, not being able to hold her fathers dark gaze.

“mistaken? i hardly think so.” he commented, and manon felt as if she’d been cut with a blade.

she gulped down her nerves. “you take her word over mine, father?”

“your word means nothing!” he bellowed out. his face contorted into one of anger, pointing a finger at her. “if she is correct in her claims, we cannot have you bring shame upon this family, manon.”

manon had half a mind to find her lady’s maid and strip her of her job, but she stayed rooted to her spot, unable to move.

silence hung heavy in the air, it weighed on her body like a rock.

the scrapping of a chair’s legs rang in manon’s ears. her father sat down at his desk, his hands folded together. he took in a deep breath, and shut his eyes, but manon could tell this was nowhere near the end of their conversation.

“so, which is it?” he asked, and waved his hand out. slowly, his words left his mouth, falling like acid rain on manon’s skin. “tell me, or i shall have your lover slayed before your eyes.”

“you can’t!” she gasped. manon’s knees began to feel weak, she stumbled towards the desk, gripping onto the dark brown table. her eyes pleaded with him, tears threatening to fall.

manon’s father was rarely a cruel man, but as she looked into his eyes, they had an icy glare in them. her father stared at her menacingly, and she choked on her breath, feeling as if her airflow was being constricted.

“you can’t…” she whimpered brokenly, her voice lost in her throat. “please, father!”

tears leaked from her eyes, wetting her cheeks. she swiped her tongue over her lip, tasting the saltiness. as she silently begged him, her father never wavered, his jaw tense and locked.

the reality of the situation dawned on her.

manon had your life in her hands.

as if threatening you was not enough, her father’s voice was heard again, ripping all of her happiness from her brittle hands.

“you will marry lord martin’s son, and you will do so without any argument. he is a fine, suitable man, and this is the last i ever hear of that girl.”

the loud and heavy stomping of the dark brown horse was nothing compared to beating of manon’s heart. it was harsh against her ribcage, feeling as it would jump out at any moment.

cold wind whipped against her cheeks, blowing past her ears as it whistled around her. she yanked on the ropes, instructing the stallion to go faster, hooves hitting hard on the ground.

you were soon in manon’s vision, your back facing her as you took in the fresh air of the night. she slowed down the horse until it trotted your way, and she quickly dismounted it, tying the rope around a tree.

“my love.” you called upon seeing her, reaching to wrap your arms around her once she was close.

manon mustered up a smile and placed a gentle kiss on your lips, her fingers intertwining with yours. she gazed up at you, though you could tell there was something wrong, the crease in her eyebrows evident of that.

“what is that matter?” you asked, cupping her cheek softly.

manon shook her head and attempted to smile again, “nothing to fret about.” she replied, taking her hands in yours and kissed your knuckles.

her hands were smooth in comparison to your rough and dirty ones. you chuckled lightly, easily being able to see through her.

“you take me for a fool?” you quipped, raising a brow. manon sighed and leaned her head against your shoulder, falling into you.

“no.” she murmured, her lips touching your skin caused goosebumps to arise.

you ran a hand over her head, all the way down to back of her neck and rested your hand there. manon could feel the agony in her heart, knowing she had to tell you of her fathers plan to have her wed lord martin’s son. her breath hitched in her throat.

“yn, i—” she began, stopping herself.

it was difficult to hear with her head stuffed into your neck, so you placed both hands on her forearms and pulled her away. the tears that gathered below her eyes alarmed you, curiosity now settling in your chest.

“what is it?” you asked her.

manon breathed shakily, her eyes meeting with yours.

slowly and with deep sadness, she opened her mouth to speak, then closed it again. manon couldn’t bare to break the news to you, but she knew she would have to eventually.

“i am to be married in three weeks.”

what?

your eyes widened, body going stiff.

manon sensed the stillness of your movements, taking in a sharp breath and shuddered. she hastily grabbed at your hands, her eyes frantic.

“my father, he—” she said, pausing at the fear she felt after the night in the office. “he hreatened to have you killed. i couldn’t let you die!”

shaking off the stunned feeling, you swallowed heavily and pulled up one of manon’s hands to press it against your chest. beneath her palm, manon could feel your heart beating. it was steady, a reminder that you were still alive and breathing. you needed to calm her down.

“shh, hey, it’s alright.” you whispered, trying to derail the situation. “i am here, i’m alive.”

you brows were knitted together as you stared deep in manon’s eyes. tears freely rolled down her cheeks, no longer being able to contain her emotions, sanity quickly slipping away.

“i don’t want to leave you.” she whimpered, her voice cracking.

at her vulnerable state, your own tears began to well in your eyes. you blinked them away, trying to stay strong for the both of you, but it was difficult when you felt as if you were being ripped apart.

you hushed her once again when she began to murmur under her breath, a mess of words and syllables that sounded foreign to your years.

it was a rare sight to see manon so defeated.

you took in a gasped breath, your voice lost. manon was quick to pull you against her, wrapping her arms around your midsection, holding you close to her as her mind ran a mile a minute, swirling with thoughts of how your relationship would survive.

she wasn’t thinking clearly, her judgement clouded by heartbeat and the unfairness of having to marry someone she did not love.

manon wouldn’t let this be the end.

she pulled away quick, her words falling out in a tumble. “we will run away— together! we can find a place, somewhere we can be free.”

her eyes were hopeful. it broke your heart even further to deny her of her solutions.

you shook your head violently, “no.” the shake in your voice contrasted with the somewhat firm answer. manon stared at you in disbelief, her eyes held a hint of betrayal.

you cupped her cheeks, “there is nothing i desire more than to have you, and i did. for a little while.” you admitted softly, pressing your foreheads against one another. “but i cannot ask you to break your family’s heart over me.”

manon was no longer feeling that sadness, instead she was angry, livid, at how easy it was for you to give the relationship up. her breathing quickened, putting some distance between you and her, her hand gesturing around the air.

she narrowed her eyes, “so instead we should suffer?”

“it is the sensible thing to do.” you told her, now finding the strength to harden your voice.

you knew from the very start of your relationship it would end at some point. after all, it was against social norms for someone of manon’s prestige to be with you, and it was even worse for it to be two women. and though it broke your heart to do this, you couldn’t let manon suffer the repercussions of going against her father.

“but i love you!” she shouted, vision blurry. “i love you, and i want— i want us to be together.”

your heart broke further from the desperation in her voice, seeing manon visually spiraling, clawing at the remnants of what once was.

you took a step towards her, pressing your lips against hers in an earth-shattering kiss. your brows furrowed together as you poured every ounce of emotion into the kiss. manon grasped her hands to your waist, her grip tight, fingers digging into your sides.

she breathed heavily, tear stained cheeks glistening in the moonlight as your own tears finally fell.

you hugged her close, setting your chin atop her head. “i know it is hard, but you must—” manon’s head vigorously shook in your chest. “you must do this, okay?”

manon let out a sob, the sound caused for your heart to shatter even more.

“my darling.” you mumbled, “my beautiful, beautiful manon.” pressing another kiss to her lips, you placed her hand over your chest once again. “you will forever be here.”

the cry that left manon was so strong it could shake the world. her lips quivered, shoulders slumping forward.

“my heart calls your name.” she told you brokenly, the words like a chant that reminded you you’d always have these memories to look back on.

“mine too,” a sob now ripped from your throat. “it always will.”

you fell into one another, once again desperately holding onto each other for dear life. your rough hands were gripped tightly, and she squeezed her arms to press your closer against her.

it hurt to let her go, but you had to, for her own safety and yours.

you needed to.

your breathing went shallow, almost as if the sharp edges of your broken heart were scraping against your lungs. the physical pain was evident on your face, tears never ending.

“now, leave.” you announced, looking up at the starry sky. “if you stay any longer… i may never let you go.”

manon bit down her lip so hard it drew blood, the effort it took to let you go was the most difficult thing she’d ever done.

she made quick work of untying the rope and mounting the animal, riding off into the dark night, a piece of her being left with you. as you watched manon ride away on her horse, you felt yourself finally crumble, succumbing to the deep pressure on your heart and the pain that raked through your body.

another cry left you, looking up at the stars, reminding yourself that even if you once had manon, it was doomed from the start.

the harsh truth felt like a slap to the face.

you and manon, no matter how much you tried, would always be two worlds apart.

so likeeee will i be forgiven for this or 🧍

[c4tluver02]

Maple Syrup Kisses

warnings: the use of "y/n" LOL but besides that none! flufffff :3

wk: 1k

summery: you and Steve have your first date and your first kiss. you truly are infatuated with him but its okay because Steve would argue he's even more infatuated with you.

・゜✭・✽・✫・゜・。..・。.・゜✭・✽・.・。.・✭・✽・.・.・。.・

When Steve asked you out on a date it was a no-brainer. How could you turn down such an amazing person like him? His big eyes, kind smile, perfect hair of course, he’s everything you need and more. Although now your room is a mess from how many outfits you tried on and you're sitting by the window trying to peek to see if he's here. It was your first date with him and you needed it to go perfect. 

Steve had also done his own stressing. Making sure his hair is sitting perfectly and nothing was out of place. Before you he had started to give up hope on finding “the one”. Was it him? Did he do something wrong? It was all starting to go to his head. Until he spotted you and simply couldn't resist saying hi. He can't believe now he's driving to your house to pick you up.

You finally see Steve pull into your driveway right at the time he said he'd pick you up. You take a look at yourself once more in the mirror double checking everything looks right. You then hear the knock on the door and walk over and open it.

“Hi pretty girl” Steve says looking at you with the world's biggest smile on his face. Thinking how you got all dolled up just for him. How did he get so lucky to go on a date with you?

“Hi Stevie.” You say in a more sincere tone, feeling the spotlight of Steve's look. “You look really pretty too.” 

Steve flushes as the complement. “Pretty huh?” He smiles, “Never been called pretty before” There is a quiet tone connected with his words. 

Your heart melts at his soft voice. You know a bit about Steve's past relationships, it breaks your heart he wasn't treated in the way he deserves. But now youre here and things will change. 

“Well you're extremely pretty so get used to it!” You say kissing his cheek and grabbing Steve's hand as he walks you to his car. 

You and Steve haven't had your first kiss yet, and well this is the first date after all. You'd secretly hope he decides to kiss you today. The excitement of it already erupts your belly in butterflies. 

Steve is all smiles, he wonders if he looks as happy as he feels. You start to look through his tapes trying to pick out some music as you drive to your destination. But you suddenly remember you dont even know where Steve is taking you.

“So are you gonna tell me where we are going?” You flash him your best puppy dog eyes in hopes of getting the information. 

“Nope, it's a surprise. But I know you’ll love it.” He says smiling devilishly, as he puts his hand on your thigh. 

You roll your eyes playfully at him finally deciding on Queen for your music. Despite it being the first date he’s yelling the lyrics and all you can do is fall into a pit off giggles. And although he's driving he just can't stop looking at you. Your laugh is the best sound he's ever heard and he only wants to hear it more. If him singing Queen at a crazy volume means he can see you laugh then he would do it all day no problem. 

Once you guys make it to the restaurant you immediately fall in love with the decor. It is very you and it makes your heart all fuzzy that Steve knows you this well already. You got waffles and Steve got pancakes but you both ended up sharing each other's food. It was crazy how smooth the conversation flowed. As if you two fit perfectly together. It was something Steve could only dream about. 

After a perfect meal and fighting with Steve about the bill, you losing that fight, Steve drives you back home. You are already planning your next date in your head. The ideas make you excited all over again for the next time you see him which will probably be very soon. Who could blame you? You just had an amazing date with an amazing person. How could you not be thinking about him more?

Once Steve pulled into your driveway you sighed, not wanting to get out of the car. The thought of just sitting in Steve's car and talking the day away sounded like a perfect date in itself. However, Steve has work tonight and you have homework. It was just gonna have to be the end of the night for you two. 

“I had an amazing time with you Steve. Thank you for all of this.” You say eyes burning with pure happiness.  

Steve smiled “Of course baby anytime. Maybe we can start planning for our next date, hm?” He says, unable to hold eye contact as he can't help but look at your lips.

“I would like that” You blush feeling our face immediately heat up at the pet name.

“Can I kiss you?” Steve says quickly, as if it's all one word and he simply couldn't wait to ask it. 

“Please do” It comes out rushed when you say it. Steve's lips are immediately on yours and it's like two puzzle pieces connecting. It is a perfect fit. 

You can't help but smile like an idiot and Steve notices making him laugh. 

“What? What's so funny?” You ask curious but unable to stop gleaming at what just happened. 

“You taste like maple syrup!” He says a laugh coming out with the sentence. You can't help but giggle with him. 

“I'll call you tonight after your shift? Then we can talk about our next date.” You say as your hands play with the hair on the nape of his neck. Steve's doe eyes look deeply into your own. 

“Okay baby.” It's simple. It comes out soft just like him and he's perfect. It's all you can think about, he's all you can think about. Completely infiltrating your brain. 

You finally let go of him about to get out of the car until he pulls your arm back a bit. 

“One more kiss?” He says almost pouting. As if the thought of you saying no to it would kill him right then and there. 

“Okay one more kiss.” It comes out silly and sweet as you kneel into the seat to kiss him.

When you pull back you decide it's probably time for you to go inside. “Thank you again Steve.”

“Thank you y/n” You're not sure what he's thanking you for, you haven't done much but you just smile at him. Something you feel you haven't stopped doing since he picked up. You walk up to your front door making sure to wave a final goodbye before going inside. He waved back just as enthusiastically if not more. 

You can't wait to start planning your next date but all Steve can think about is you calling him later tonight.

[crazybiscuit]

Uptown Girl

Pairing: Remus Lupin x Reader Summary: You, an out of touch rich pureblood, recently moved to England for yet another engagement prospect. Unfortunately, things don't go to plan as you somehow find yourself constantly running into a werewolf, who has developed a valid reason to dislike you. Warnings: This is going to be a long fic and the reader will be a bit of a bitch at first. The story will definitely contain violence, excessive use of alcohol, smut and mentions of death. This chapter doesn't have any graphic content though. On side note, this is set in 1983 and sadly, Lily (my wife... 😔) and James are dead. So Sirius is in Azkaban and Peter is "dead". Word Count:  2287 Credits: @saradika-graphics thank you for the divider! A/N: Let's pretend I didn't mean to post this yesterday... London was an actual nightmare to map out in my brain and I'm fully aware the title doesn't make total sense considering uptown and downtown is a mostly American concept but I figured it fit the context of the story. So for our sake, Remus will live in East London, closer to the Thames, and you, my dear Readers will live in West London, more North of the city. On a side note, fuck JKR and her disgusting beliefs. Also, to anyone struggling, whether it be personal life or political climate, I hope you're doing alright. Writing is my current escapism and I hope I can help someone else in the process. On another note, chapter 2 should be posted on the 28th!

 

“When is that damned exterminator going to get here?” your father’s gruff voice was muffled by his handkerchief he held to his nose as he walked into the parlour.

“We should’ve just called the ministry,” the woman sat next to you snapped, her head sticking out of the window taking advantage of the fresh air, “No one would’ve ever cared about our little problem. But no, you had the brilliant idea to hire some random man you found in a pub.”

You brushed your damp hair, trying your best to ignore the foul stench emitting from beneath the floor, “There’s nothing small about our problem, so I’d much rather keep this discreet myself.”

You should’ve known better than to oppose your poor, dear mother, as she grasped her chest as if he couldn’t breathe, “Discreet! I don’t care how discreet we are dealing with this! This man will fail to help us, screw up and we will have to call the ministry anyways. Hell! He’s probably a fraud and planning to rob us. Do you have any idea how much worse that will be! People will think we are fouls who can’t maintain our estate.”

You didn’t bother hiding the way you rolled your eyes as you glanced back out to the cloudy sky, which caused mother to rant about disrespect to the old man, now sitting in his recliner.

The fall wind was a welcome guest as you began to carefully style your hair, turning your attention to your faint reflection in the window. The bundimun infestation might have stalled the redecorating efforts of this old dirty hole of townhouse, but it was certainly not going to stop you from looking your best.

“It’s lucky Josephine is still in France. I'm beginning to doubt any amount of magic can revive this place.”

“Enough complaining,” your father cut in, as he cast another scouring charm in an attempt to lessen the smell, “We all know this isn't ideal, but you should be grateful we even found this estate for you.”

You felt slightly annoyed as you finished your hair, frowning at him through the glass reflection. Your hand dropped dejectedly as you glanced back with a sigh. He was right, despite every one of your arrangements falling through due to the war, your parents had still managed to find you a respectable match, “I know, I know… I'm sorry. This is all just frustrating.”

Your parents shared a look but remained silent. However, this didn’t last long as your mother suddenly stood up, “I feel like I might faint.” 

Your father let out an exasperated sigh at her theatrics.

“I am sorry, dear, but I cannot do this anymore. You'll have to deal with the exterminator yourself, I'm going out for lunch with Y/N–”

Before your father could protest in annoyance, you interrupted, “Actually, I still need to finish my makeup, so you can go with Papa.”

They put very little effort into arguing and quickly vanished from the house. The silence would've been appreciated if it weren’t for the disturbing smell surrounding you and you found yourself tilting your head back as you leaned against the window sill. Even upside down, the townhouses that lined the street bored you, and you decided to stare at the sea of grey clouds slowly drifting across the sky instead.

You figured, much to your annoyance, that it would likely rain again today. Your attention snapped to the street when you heard the crunching of the colourful leaves beneath someone’s shoes. You flipped over to get a proper look of the man coming up the street and your interest peaked. He stood out against the pristine houses, his dark clothes seemingly worn from years of wear on his tall, though lanky figure, and he seemed handsome enough even from the second floor.

You quickly grabbed your wand and summoned your silk robe, slipping it over your nightgown. He must’ve been the man your father hired, and with that thought, you grabbed your perfume bottle to apply some.

By the time the doorbell rang, you had grabbed your lipstick and you carefully applied it as you looked at yourself in the mirror against the wall. The bell rang a second time and you sighed, quickly wiping off the colour that was out of place. You smoothen out your silk robe before heading to the front door, opening it and finding yourself faced with a man’s hand frozen midair, ready to knock.

“Oh, sorry,” your eyes snapped up to the face that spoke and you met the man’s slightly startled hazel eyes. He was taller than you expected when you saw him outside and his light brown hair was messy but still made him look rather charming. He seemed a few years older, likely in his mid or late 20s. But what truly caught your eyes were the scars scattered across his face, neck, hands. Any bit of skin you could see was littered with scars, “Hi, you hired pest control..?”

His deep voice snapped you out of your daze and you noted the faint Welsh accent as you stepped aside, opening the door wider for him, “Right… come in.”

The man took notice of your outfit and nonchalant demeanor, but remained professional as he followed you in. His expression remained steady despite the familiar pungent smell filling the house. He awkwardly adjusted his bag on his shoulder. Your father hadn’t told him the exact issue, only promising to pay him nicely, and Remus hadn’t exactly allowed himself the privilege of worrying about the oddity of the situation. However, you did notice his stance relaxed as he recognized the infestation he was handling, “Bundimuns?”

“Unfortunately, that is correct,” you sighed, looking back as you opened the door to the area where the test was the most prominent. You noted his slight hesitancy to walk in as he observed the half-decorated house, “Our house warming party is in a few days and we need this issue to be solved quickly so we can finish the renovations.”

“Right…,” Remus tried his best to hide his expression of confusion and disbelief as he stared at the loud decor scattered around the room, “This seems like it would’ve been easier to report to the ministry.”

“Probably,” you agreed, making your way to the open balcony, “We’ll take our chances though. I’d rather only have one person know about this than deal with official records of the infestation.”

That confused the poor man, who had set his old messenger bag down on one of the uncovered powder blue sofas, but he wasn’t about to push for more answers. Rich, purebloods were always preoccupied with reputation, he knew that very well.

You leaned against the cold, metal railing as you watched him digging through his bag for his notebook, “How long will this take you?”

His gaze met yours for a split second before going back to flipping through the yellowed pages, “It’ll take two or three hours. This is a pretty serious infestation and this building is a lot bigger than it seemed outside…” 

It was clear he had questions but it didn’t seem like he was going to ask. You figured you’d explain the situation to prevent any rumours to spread (though you doubted his words would actually reach any important ears), “This house was built before the ban on extension charms for houses. We have ministry approval to keep it that way.”

Remus smiled a little apologetically, finding the page he was looking for, “Sorry, I didn’t mean to sound accusatory. It really isn’t any of my business, so I wasn’t going to ask.”

His passiveness was mildly surprising but you brushed it off. It was nice not having to worry about him talking and clearly he needed the money, so you figured he'd stay quiet. You finally moved and sat at the table on the balcony as he began to read the most effective spells to get rid of the secretions and creatures.

It was fairly cold outside but you figured you should keep an eye on him. To entertain yourself for the next few hours, you figured you should write to your sister and friends back in France. You flicked your hawthorne wand, summoning your quill, paper and other supplies wordlessly.

The two of you worked on your separate tasks quietly, barely interacting for over an hour. You had lost interest in watching him as he cleaned the house out of the green menaces, using spells you had never heard off, and only headed back inside due to the charming British weather. Rain was always such a nuisance.

You carried your stack of letters with you as you walked back into the house. The smell, though still lingering, had mostly vanished from the house, which was a relief, “I'm going to be upstairs. I trust you won’t steal anything. Though I doubt he’d even be able to identify the actual valuable objects.”

The last part was mumbled under your breath but with the context, it was easy for the brunette to infer it was likely an insult. Remus watched you disappear to the third floor, “What?”

“Feel free to ask the house elves for help. They’re in the basement. They’ve been trying their best to deal with the acid,” with that, you shut your bedroom door, completely missing the man’s expression of disbelief and mild offense.

Another hour passed and Remus had done everything in his power to avoid you as he finished up the rest of the house. This would’ve worked wonders if he didn’t have to worry about getting rid of the last few bundimuns in the house, which conveniently were hidden behind the double doors leading to your room.

He sighed. He was never skilled in divination but something in his gut was telling that you were trouble, but he needed the money and he wasn’t about to half-ass his job because of some spoiled brat. So he knocked.

You opened the door and he immediately took note of your outfit change. You were no longer in your silk robe and pajamas, instead dressed in a simple but classy turtleneck and skirt, “I need to charm this room then I’m done…”

You hummed, letting him in as you walked back to your four poster bed, tying the stack of at least 15 letters together so that your owl could carry it. This gave Remus at least a few minutes of peace as he finished up, but it seemed you sensed he was about done as you spoke up, “You know, I know a potion maker in Saint-Brieuc, who is very skilled at Scar-Diminishing Serums.” 

“I beg your pardon?” his Welsh accent seemed deeper now that you’d upset him. The unprompted comment caught the man off guard and he scoffed, unable to believe anyone could be this insensitive.

“I’ve used them a few times and they work wonders. Great way to boost confidence and better your appearance,” you paused, sensing he was upset, much to your confusion, “Don’t get me wrong, you’re fairly handsome, but I think it would definitely hel–”

He suddenly got up after casting one last spell, “I’m done.”

His voice, though composed, made it obvious he was pissed. You hesitated slightly, trying to figure out what you did as you followed him down to the first floor, “No need to be so upset, I was just trying to give you advice.”

He interrupts, surprisingly calm for someone getting insulted every other line, “Well, I kindly reject it, thank you.”

He stopped in front of the front door, almost considering leaving without payment, not wanting anything from you. Before you could protest, he opened the door and your mother let out a yelp, not expecting to see the stranger.

“Oh! Remy, was it?” your father smiled, glad to see the exterminator.

“Remus.”

It finally occurred to you that you had never even introduced yourself or asked for his name.

“Right, right! You must’ve finished! Y/N, did you pay him yet? I left the galleons on the table in the office,” he kept rambling, walking past Remus and you to get the money. Your mother smiled nervously, looking at the man, who she had already predetermined as creepy and untrustworthy, and tried her best to maintain a polite demeanor.

Unfortunately for her, she did a terrible job and her expression visibly relaxed when your father came back to save her from the conversation, “Here’s the 10 Galleons we originally agreed upon, and I figured you could get an extra 5 for–”

“Actually the 10 will suffice,” Remus forced a smile. He wasn’t stupid. It was clear you and your family were hoping to buy his favor to avoid any bad mouthing, and he wasn’t going to do that. Hell, he didn’t even want to talk about you to anyone (not that he really had anyone left), but it was a matter of principle.

You parents were stumped. They had rarely, if ever, met someone so quick to deny their money, “Sir, we insist–”

Remus had stepped out, taking the 10 Galleons, cutting off your mother with a thigh smile, “Honestly, I’m good.”

Your father, in a desperate attempt to get some sort of upperhand spoke words that made your  jaw drop, “Well then, please consider joining us for our solstice party on the 21st.”

Your mother’s expression mirrored yours and you knew they would argue about this later. Remus’s eyes met yours and something awoke in him, a slight sense of amusement he hadn’t felt since Hogwarts. He looked back at your father, adjusting his old bag on his shoulder, and smiled slightly, “I’ll think about it.”

[the-letterbox-archives]

is it just me or does it seem like horror/thriller/angst/whump/etc writers (and writers that have any tragic stuff in general) are always forced to be compelled to compete with one another? like “oh my characters backstory is so tragic” “my story is absolutely riddled with angst” “i won’t let them have a happy moment ever” and things like that. that’s not a dig on any writers at all, more so an environment i’ve noticed where creatives are vying for constant tragedy and the ‘best’ tragedy, yknow?

i have a few problems with this;

1; it means that writers are discouraged from writing with nuance and thereby sacrificing each stories uniqueness. a story of nothing but tragedy is just a letdown, and if a writer feels compelled to aspire to that, their creative freedom is killed for the sake of the competition. not every story is a no-nonsense tragedy; and placing higher value on tragic art devalues other incredibly beautiful art.

2; it makes writers feel like they need to have their writing be so tragic it hurts too much, and that is a very isolated mindset. they can’t share their stories, because what if they’re not scary enough? not dark enough? not tragic enough?

3; it denies the narrative and characters any chance at happiness, should the writer succeed (if that were hypothetically possible) in making their story dark and horrible enough. and i may be an outlier here, but i love fluff and i want the characters i grow attached to to survive a multitude of experiences, not only because it will make them appear more fleshed out, but because it makes for a better story overall, as variety does.

that all leads to writing that hasn’t reached its full potential and writers who feel like they must compete to have their craft and stories be taken seriously. i’m speaking from a casual writing and small scale indie writer perspective, but i believe this divide also exists in classical literature and has for so long. i think the message i’m trying to say is something i should learn myself: your writing does not need to bleed darkness and tragedy at every perceivable opportunity. it should be yours, created with both the good and bad, and that beautiful nuance we are capable of. don’t let yourself fall to a fictional competition.

this may mean nothing aha, but i hope you enjoyed the rant!

[fierceawakening]

FML

Me: Hi, nice to meet you! Young shelter resident, 30s maybe, uses a walker: Hi, I really really really really really need housing, I'm pretty medically effed up and I'm scared. Me: ...That's very understandable. Unfortunately, it's a slow and tough process to get housing and I can't promise it'll be fast. Me: The more documentation you can give me of what's going on with you and how long, the more likely it is I can speed things up, but by that I mean go from "near stationary" to "glacial." Her: Shit. Me: Yes. Me, not aloud, attempting telepathy: And Trump is president now. I can't actually SAY this but please hear me I AM THINKING IT AT YOU SUPER LOUD. Me: Let me put in for your birth certificate. Her: Um I might be able to get something from my sister saying I was homeless before. Me: I hope that will count. We might need something more official, but let me try. Me: Can you give me anything from your doctor about your medical needs? If they're sufficiently severe I can TRY to use that as leverage too. Her: I don't have a PCP, I just go to the hospital when my sugar gets bad. Also the neuropathy makes me a fall risk. Me: Can someone with some letters after their name write that down? Her: I can give you stuff from the hospital? (She does. It documents she has diabetes well enough but doesn't really say "dude she keeps ending up here wtf" or sum up what she needs.) Birth Certificate Guys: Me: *contacts the hospital* Hosp SW: We can send you docs from her stay but we're unwilling to sum anything up for you. She needs a PCP for that. Me: Okay, cool. (Thinks: fuck, not cool.) Housing Guys: Good news. We're cool with the letter from her sister even though it's not from a doctor or therapist or Official Person. Birth Certificate Guys: Her: So now that you have that from my sister you're giving me a voucher right? Me: That's not how that works. Now we can start putting in for some places, but a voucher of your own is gonna take a LONG ass time. Her: I'm super disappointed! Me: I understand. Her: You should have WARNED ME. Me: I totally did. Her: Dude... do you at least have my birth certificate? Me: Let me check. Her: *sigh* Fine. Birth Certificate Guys: Me: *sends for it again to make sure* Me: *goes to type up that I did this* Me: *notices a note from another CM who she saw before I got in* Note: Client indicates she wants to switch case managers. Client says that current case manager is not doing anything.

[siancore]

Richonne | 1k words | Rated T

A/N: Written for the @richonneevents Richonne Valentine’s Day Bingo - Square Fill: Meet-cute.

There was an excitement in the air, Rick thought, as he and Judith walked hand-in-hand up to the front of the little girl's new school. The excitement certainly outweighed the nerves, he surmised, as he listened to his daughter chatting away happily as they reached the front steps.

Any nerves that she might have been feeling were masked by her curious nature.

She was so brave, considering what they had been through as a family. Carl was, too. Rick was always amazed by his children. They showed this innate resilience, even when Rick thought he was falling apart. His children kept him going.

He loved them so much. He really, truly hoped that the new start in his hometown would be good for them. That they would settle in and find happiness there. That they could start the first days of the rest of their lives. He was already so happy that they were there together, and knew in his soul that things would only get better.

Judith gave him a nice long hug goodbye, and then made her way over to the other student waiting for her. He watched Judith greet her assigned 'buddy', gave her a wave, and watched her head inside the school building before turning to leave. Just then, he was stopped in his tracks by the sight of the most beautiful woman he had ever seen.

He was struck by how beautiful she was. Actually, beautiful was not adequate to describe her. She was stunning; breathtaking. She stole Rick's breath away for a moment as he took her in.

Her light, white coat was set striking against her lovely dark skin. Long braids cascaded down her shoulders and back, framing her face prettily.

She was standing there with one hand over her heart and the other waving to a little boy who was skipping over to his friends.

"Have the best day, Peanut!" she called out before blowing a kiss.

"You, too, Mama," the child replied quickly before continuing to laugh and joke with his friends.

Not only was Rick taken by her beauty, but he also felt a sense of concern grow for her because the beautiful stranger remained in place, staring off at her son, with fondness but also with some sadness. Rick noticed it for what it was.

"First time he declined a hug from his Mama, eh?" asked Rick as he placed both hands in his pockets.

"Excuse me?" said the stunning stranger as she turned to face Rick.

"Your son," said Rick, gesturing to where the boy was now playing boisterously with his friends. "You looked a little sad just now. Thought it might be the first time he didn't want a hug at mornin' drop-off."

"Oh," said the lady, a small smile gracing her lips as she stepped closer to Rick. "Yeah, Andre's been wanting hugs less and less these past few weeks."

She let out a sigh then and crossed her arms over her front self-soothingly.

"Your little girl," she said. "She looked pretty happy for a morning drop-off hug."

"Yeah, my Judith," he replied a smile crossing his lips. "It's her first day o' school. She's actin' pretty brave, and she most definitely is, but she ain't ready to give up the drop-off hugs just yet."

"How exciting! She's adorable," the lady said with a smile. "And I am so jealous of you right now."

Rick let out a laugh and smiled at her joke.

"I'm Michonne, by the way," she added.

"Rick," he replied. "Pleasure to meet you, Michonne."

"Likewise," she supplied, and her bright smile made Rick weak in his knees; he placed his hands to his hips to try and maintain balance.

"You all just arrive in town?"

"Yeah," Rick drawled. "Me, Judith, and my teenager, Carl."

He tracked her gorgeous eyes as they looked at his left hand, maybe searching for any sign of a wedding band, or lack thereof, he hoped.

"Lovely," said Michonne in earnest. "Is Carl too big for hugs?"

"He still gives 'em when he feels like it."

"Any advice for a single mom with a growing boy?"

Rick's lips turned up into a smile at that very pertinent piece of information, as well as the adorable and hopeful look on Michonne's face.

“I might have,” he offered. “But as a single dad, I’m still figuring out a lot of this stuff myself.”

“Noted,” said Michonne with a bright beam.

A moment of quiet passed between them as they took in each other’s appearance. Rick inadvertently smoothed down his clothes before reaching up and running his hand through his curls. Michonne watched him before clearing her throat.

"Well, Rick, it's been nice to chat with you," said Michonne. "Oh, and welcome to King County.”

"Thank you," said Rick. "Was nice to chat with you, too. Oh, and it's more of a 'welcome back' for me. Hometown boy comin’ home.”

"Oh," said Michonne with a nod of her head and a crooked but attractive smile. "Guess that messes with my plans, then."

Rick returned the crooked smile and asked, "What plans?"

“I was planning on offering to show you around town," said Michonne with a shrug of her shoulder; she then added, rather flirtatiously, "Y'know, show you the sights and points of interest and whatnot."

"Hey, I'm keen," said Rick, his smile so wide that it almost hurt. "I'm more than happy for you to lead me around town like I ain't ever been here before."

Michonne let out a little amused laugh at that. It sounded like the sweetest song.

"Come to think of it," Rick added, as he leaned in conspiratorially. "It's been ages since I’ve lived here. So, you should just go on and keep that plan of yours. I know I just met you, but I'd follow anywhere you wanted to lead me to."

Michonne let out a glorious laugh then as she placed one hand to Rick's forearm, and the other to her lips to stifle the laugh as other nosy parents glanced their way.

"You're funny, Rick," she said while withdrawing her hand after a beat. "Funny and charming.”

"Don't know about all o' that," he replied. "But you sure do bring something out in me."

Michonne bit her lip and then dipped her head, looking up at him through her long lashes; Rick almost fell over. They stood staring at one another for a moment. A beep coming from Michonne's wristwatch broke the reverie between them.

"Darn it, I have to go," said Michonne, looking like she really did not want to leave.

"Yeah," said Rick, not moving an inch. "Me, too."

They held one another's gaze a little while longer before Rick added, "See you back here for after-school pick-up?"

Michonne smiled bright and wide before saying, "I sure do hope so."|

[momotonescreaming]

Ooh 11 + bucktommy? ♥️♥️♥️

Janai!!! Hello!! A little bit late, and it's mostly just vibes but I hope you enjoy! 💜💜💜

11. Toothpaste Kisses From the soft fic prompt meme

Moving in with Tommy changed everything but also nothing at all.

Like sure, he was in a house now, instead of a loft. With a garage and a lawn and even a garden instead of a few potted plants on a balcony. But there was still place for his industrial inspired furniture amongst Tommy's more cozy and vintage stylings. His cookbooks on the bookcase next to Tommy's novels and mechanic's manuals. And of course he got to take over Tommy's kitchen with his fancy appliances. His things settling home, Tommy carving out a place for them.

It wasn't just Tommy's place, it was his now too. He went to work, to the gym, and back home as normal. He went on dates with Tommy as normal. Except now, he got to come home to Tommy every day. They got to live their lives in tandem, entwining together. Their schedules and routines and quirks slotting together. It was so different and not different at all.

That might be Buck's favourite part, them going through their routines together. The way it feels so seamless, and the way he knows just how much work it took them to get there. The effort required to make it feel effortless.

Tommy likes to make himself a cup of tea and read his book before bed. Shift work depending, of course, but it helps him wind down for the day. Buck thinks it's cute, calls his boyfriend an old man because he knows Tommy is going to tease him right back in a way that just feels right. He loves the way it's part of his routine now too. Tommy making them both a hot drink before bed, as he reads his book and Buck goes down another internet deep dive. He's not afraid to admit just how nice it is.

They asleep together, limbs entangled, breaths falling in sync. It feels normal. It feels right.

They wake up together, and Buck goes through the same morning routine he went through at the loft. Except now, Tommy's there. All the time now, and not just when he stayed the night. It still makes him kind of giddy, waking up in Tommy's embrace, kissing slow and sweet and arguing about taking turns making each other breakfast.

It's a Saturday, and they're both on a 48 off, and Buck couldn't be happier. He made them omelettes for breakfast, apron tied over his bare chest. Clad only in sleep pants and thick socks, prepping his fancy ingredients while Tommy sleepily made them coffee.

Tommy offered to clean up, do the dishes while Buck showered, and it just felt natural.

He's near done with his shower when the door to the ensuite opens, Buck shamelessly stealing Tommy's nice black pepper and ginger body wash so he can smell just that little bit more like his boyfriend. Tommy, who locks eyes with him through the shower door and Buck swears he can see him raise an eyebrow through the steam and the water. Like he knows.

Buck just laughs, enjoying the scent of black pepper body wash rising through the steam, watching as Tommy settles into place at the sink. He kind of likes it, that he gets the casual intimacy of just existing together. That they can hang out in the bathroom together, shouting to try and talk over the water. That he can be naked, comfortable and open as Tommy brushes his teeth.

Turning the shower off, Buck feels rinsed and clean and refreshed. Noise from the water echoing in his ears, fading out as the steam settles. He grabs his towel and dries himself off, tying it around waist and easing into place at the sink next to Tommy.

"Looking good, babe," He says, wrapping an arm around Tommy's waist, his sleep shirt soft and his body warm underneath his hand. Pressing himself close, not caring that he's still sort of damp as he leans in to kiss Tommy's cheek. His stubble scratches against his lips in such a way that he still sort of really likes, and Buck can feel Tommy smile.

Toothbrush still in his mouth, Tommy raises his eyebrow again and mumbles out a response that Buck thinks is supposed to be oh yeah? but mostly comes out as a bubble of toothpaste foam.

Buck pulls a face as he keeps himself plastered to Tommy's side, laughing as Tommy takes the brush out of his mouth to he can press a toothpaste-y kiss to his cheek.

He smells of spearmint, and black pepper and Tommy. He smells an awful lot like home.

[rocknrolldecadence]

Hi, it's me again! This time i would like to request something smutty for Axl, again. Like Axl blindfolds the reader (preferably with his bandana) and goes down on her till she gets overstimulated and can't think of anything else except from him, and then fucks her. Please include again some soft hand holding, oh and some praise kink. If you don't feel comfortable doing it it's okay, thank you!!

˖⁺‧₊˚ ˚₊‧⁺˖✮-------------------✮˖⁺‧₊˚ ˚₊‧⁺˖

appetite for destruction

after a show, you and axl just can’t get enough of each other.

warnings: smut, sensory deprivation

a/n: sorry it’s been so long guys!!! lack of motivation and writers block is a horrible combo. hope you guys like this!!!!!! (also this is exactly 900 words. isn’t that cool?)

“you looked so good tonight, babe.”

axl’s words penetrated your heart and your mind as you both scrambled to get into your hotel room. guns n roses had just played at saskatchewan place earlier on, and instead of going out to party with the other members of the band, axl only wanted to do one thing. spend some quality time with you.

his skin was still sweaty from the two hour show he had played, but you didn’t care. those two hours had been agonising for you - watching your boyfriend sing and dance just metres in front of you and absorbing his stage presence that just commanded respect and not being able to do anything about it. you had crossed your legs and hoped for the best, but that didn’t do much for you. you prayed that no one noticed the subtle action, as you knew if someone did, you might never hear the end of it.

you kissed axl with fervour, now lost in the heat of the moment. he returned your passion easily. he guided you over to the bed, letting you fall onto it with a soft ‘thump!’. the loss of contact made you whine, and you turned onto your stomach to watch your boyfriend draw the curtains, the minimal light coming in from the moon and city lights now cut off.

“c’mere.” you said, looking at the silhouette just a few steps in front of you.

axl didn’t say anything back, instead moving to turn on one of the bedside lamps. you could see him again now. sure, the light was dim, but you liked that. it provided an intimate ambiance that a brighter light wouldn’t be able to give you. and it made axl look even more incredible. the understated yellow glow made his features look more soft, more warm. he almost looked vulnerable.

he came and sat beside you, his tender gaze stopping your thoughts in their tracks. you sat up and he leaned in to kiss you. this time though, it was a lot more gentle. the desperation of before was now replaced with something more affectionate and slow. the room with was quiet, the smack of his lips meeting yours the only sound.

disappointment hit you again when he pulled away. you looked at him with sad eyes, but those feelings were taken over by curiosity when your boyfriend asked you, “can i try something?”

“what is it?”

axl took off his blue bandana. you quickly realised where this was headed, blush rising to your cheeks. he tied it round the back of your head with ease, your eyes now covered.

“what do you think?” he asked.

“it’s… new. i like it. what are you gonna do now?”

“you’ll see.”

wow. that was hot. then, before you could think, axl was undressing you. you didn’t say anything, looking forward to what was to come. the slow drag of his fingertips on your skin as he removed your underwear was infuriatingly slow, but you continued to be silent with anticipation. you trusted him to make you feel amazing.

it started with small licks taken at the most annoying, leisurely pace you’d ever experienced. the sensation was welcome by you of course, but you couldn’t help but wish for more in your head.

axl continued at the same speed, occasionally breaking to whisper how you ‘taste so damn good’ and ‘are just fucking breathtaking’ - compliments that made you see stars. it was that which caused your first of many orgasms, and as your high crashed down over you, you felt like you’d reached a whole other dimension.

and that carried on for ages. axl, with his tongue, bringing you to worlds you didn’t even know existed. you didn’t remember exactly when he gripped onto your hand, but it helped ground you after so many orgasms. if you could’ve strung together coherent sentences, you probably would’ve begged for mercy, but you were so lost in the feeling to even think about anything but him. and he revelled in it. you couldn’t see his shit-eating grin, but you could feel it, as the corners of his mouth progressed farther and farther upwards on his cheeks the more time he spent between your thighs.

and then he stopped. you felt a mix of relief and disappointment as his lips departed from your skin. he untied the bandana, and as you looked at him for the first time in god knows how long, you were stunned. he was just beautiful. with his little smirk and his lips coated in the aftermath of your overstimulation, and the way he looked at you with both overwhelming lust and complete adoration. he should be photographed and shown in a museum, you thought. that was just how gorgeous he was.

“well?” he asked, his smirk telling you he already knew your answer.

“fuck… that was… jesus, axl, it was brilliant.”

he laughed. a cocky, but endearing laugh. it was just as beautiful as him.

“i’m glad. you ready for more?”

your eyes widened. more? you weren’t sure you could handle even the thought of more, let alone the action.

but the way your boyfriend looked you, the way the dim yellow light shone on him… you couldn’t help but want it.