#although he touches mc like once a month maybe

[aussie-roadkill]

Also! if you don’t know what Generation Loss is I am about to advertise

Generation Loss is a horror project by Twitch Streamer RanbooLive. It’s been brewing ever since 2021 and is finally about to become a reality. It’s currently the most technically produced and expensive Twitch production to date

It began as a simple analog horror concept- what happens to the person who finds those haunted tapes? How does it change their life now that they’ve seen something they weren’t meant to? It’s gone through a lot of change since then and is now going to premier this month as a live show, Generation Loss: The Social Experiments.

The show will take place over three days, May 24th, 26th, and 28th at 6pm est and can be viewed on twitch.tv/ranboolive!

Here is the official twitter account (been posting teasers every day)

And if you’d like to get a feel, the official youtube account

I am super hyped for this, it’s not what Ranboo initially had planned for the series, but they’ve put their all into it. They didn’t want to create Generation Loss unless it was exactly how they envisioned it, and so wrote the Social Experiments as an introduction, something to get started and gain a following/funding for the series so he can later produce the original vision rest assured you don’t need any prior knowledge to what the series is/was going to be to enjoy this show :>

[peachylynnie]

sick

word count: 1.8k

synopsis: in which sylus sneaks into your apartment and finds you sick. yet, you're not resting. why?

contains: sylus x mc!reader (they're not dating but sylus is pining and reader is confused), reader is implied to be in college, slightly obsessive sylus, mentions of violence and sickness, suggestive themes, cussing, and fluff.

a/n: i got sick yesterday. what better way to rest than to write about sylus? do NOT copy or steal my work. sylus WOULD NOT endorse plagiarism :)

you don't want to admit it. you really don't. but you're sick. there's no denying that with how short of breath you are, how nauseous you feel, and the goddamn soreness in the back of your throat that didn't go away with the first sip of water.

"shit…" you mumble as you sluggishly move to empty the dishwasher as your roommate asked. it's bad enough that you were sick, but you were also stressed out of your mind. midterms have been kicking your ass this semester. big assignments have been piling up on your already heavy shoulders. in essence, this was a burnout month, and all that lack of sleep and unparalleled stress had finally caught up to you. in the form of a cold, that is.

"of all the times," you grumble as you struggle to stack the dishes in the cabinet. "why now…" indeed, this was a terrible time to get sick. how were you to complete all your tasks while feeling absolutely miserable? you glance at the microwave clock in desperation. 10:00 PM, it read. although you meant to sigh a breath of relief, you let out a painful cough. maybe you could finish an assignment or two by midnight. that way, you can focus on studying tomorrow, you thought to yourself.

you sniff as you return to the dishwasher to unload the rest of the dishes. as much as you were happy for your roommate leaving for the weekend to finally see her family, you couldn't help but feel resentful. why were you here struggling to do the dishes while she got to have fun? shaking your head at your bitter thoughts, you bend down, trying to grab the utensils from the dishwasher. keyword: trying.

the sudden pair of strong arms that wrapped around you prevented you from doing so. normally, you would've swiftly elbowed the person behind you and turned around to land a hard blow that would have them seeing stars. instead, you exhale shakily. you recognize the mysterious backhugger's scent. the scent of sweet wine and sharp citrus. sylus.

how the hell did he get in? you don’t remember giving him a spare key when you told him your address. you look behind you, angling your head to meet his garnet eyes. "i did not give you my address just so you can sneak in like this," you say, trying your best not to sound like you're dying.

unfortunately, the nasal tone of your voice does not go unnoticed by sylus. instead of offering his usual quips, sylus furrows his brows and unclasps his right arm from your waist. you try not to flinch at the chill of his slender fingers touching your forehead. he frowns. "you're sick."

you immediately avert your gaze. "i'm not sick," you mutter as you try to bend down once more to grab the stupid utensils from the dishwasher. sylus doesn't let go. this time, he spins you around with his left arm, making sure that he can see you properly.

"you're burning up, sweetie." sylus says as flips the hand on your forehead for good measure. "you're sick and you know it."

you roll your eyes, squirming to get out of his grip. you did not want sylus to see you like this. a sick, miserable mess incapable of doing something as simple as emptying the dishwasher. you had an image to uphold after all. being vulnerable with someone like him could mean getting hurt again. last time you were vulnerable with someone… well, let's say you learned your lesson.

weakly, you push at sylus' arm around your waist with your small hands. you try not to think about how minuscule they looked next to sylus' deliciously veiny forearms. great, you're sick, and your mind decides to lust after sylus' arms. you shiver at your thoughts and attempt to push sylus' grip away once more. normally, escaping sylus' hold would be a reasonable task for you. after all, your sparring sessions with him prepared you to get out of sticky situations. but you were sick and exhausted out of your mind. all you could manage was a feeble squirm.

sylus' gaze moves from his hand on your forehead to your eyes. your half-lidded baggy eyes. his frown deepens. you looked extremely fatigued. your face was noticeably pale, and your intake of breath was short. not to mention, sylus could see the slight wince of pain whenever you tried to swallow your saliva. sylus sighs as he removes his hand on your forehead and replaces it with his own. you were neglecting yourself again.

under normal circumstances, you would've shied away from sylus' physical advancements. his hand on the small of your back? an immediate flinch and glare, signaling him to stop. a tap on the crown of your head? a swift jerk of your neck and avoidance of eye contact. instead—again, you blame it on your exhaustion—you tiredly close your eyes, relishing in sylus' cool forehead against your heated one. no resistance to be shown.

you don't see it, but sylus' sharp eyes soften at the sight of you accepting his touch. even with the eye bags and ghastly skin, you looked ethereal. like an angel sent from heaven to save him from his own solitary hell. as much as he wants to savor this moment of you finally giving into his touch, sylus knows what he must do. you're unwell and unrested. you need to be in bed immediately.

"you should be in bed, sweetie." sylus murmurs as he pulls away from your forehead. you try not to sulk at the loss of the soothing chill of his skin. though, not without feeling conflicted because why you would even sulk about him? for god's sake, he was a criminal. he's taken countless lives. not to mention, he choked you upon meeting you, called you a disappointment, and tried to alter you after three straight days of relentless attempts at a forced resonation… just thinking about him drives you nuts and being driven nuts is the last thing you want right now.

"i'm fine, sylus." it was your turn to pull away, trying to put as much distance between you two as his firm grip around your waist would allow. "besides, nothing a little old tea can't fix."

with that, you turn to face the dishwasher and reach for the utensils for the umpteenth time of the night. sylus sighs and pinches his nose bridge with his free hand. as much as he admired your stubbornness, he could not help but resent it at times like these. times when you were in desperate need of a break. before you can grab the utensils, you feel yourself get lifted off the ground effortlessly.

sylus' arm on your waist had moved to your shoulder, and his other arm was hooked under your thighs. he had you in bridal style in less than a second. your eyes widen, realizing the sudden change in positions. "what are you doing?!" you cough painfully. "put me down!"

you do your best to escape sylus' new grip on you by kicking your legs and squirming uncontrollably, but it was hopeless. you were weakened due to your sickness, and sylus was determined to make sure you looked only at him instead of the goddamn dishwasher. one more look at it, and he swears he's gonna break it with his evol.

quickly and confidently, sylus exits the kitchen with you in his arms and arrives at what he guesses is your shared bedroom with your roommate. he tries not to get distracted by the fact that this is his first time in your room. god, the entire space smelled so much like you, he wanted to become one with it and watch you forever and ever. dismissing his intrusive thoughts, sylus gently places you down on your bed and starts to cover you in your blanket.

"wait, sylus," you start, trying to get up. "i have to empty the dishwasher. i have homework, too." sylus tuts as he shakes his head, his messy silver locks following suit. although he doesn't respond, sylus continues to spread out your blanket. you furrow your eyebrows at his strange behavior. "sylus…" you whine. you actually whined. something you never thought you would do, especially in front of sylus. you could feel his intense gaze prick at you like little needles. you avoid his gaze, hoping to hide your flustered state.

adorable. that's what you are. incredibly adorable to the point sylus wants to grab your chin and force you to look at him as he coaxes more and more of your pretty whines out of you.

trying to fight his indecent thoughts, sylus locks eyes with you, a firm yet pleading look on his face. "you need to rest, sweetie," he leans in to adjust your pillow. "you won't get anything done in this state." you try to protest again, but sylus beats you to it. "rest. i'll take care of everything."

well, fuck. how can you say no when sylus, in all of his gorgeous glory, is centimeters from your face, telling you that he will take care of everything and asking you to do the one thing you've been longing to do for a very long time? besides, you felt sleepy ever since sylus took you in his arms. just this once. just this once, you'll allow yourself to be vulnerable with him. so that you can rest, of course. totally not because sylus had a way of comforting you so sweetly and breaking your defensive walls so charmingly.

your labored breathing slows as you cautiously nod. "fine," you yawn. "the utensils go in the very left drawer of the island while the pots and pans go in the stove oven, and…" you can feel sleep beckoning for you as you continue to list instructions. sylus can't help the grin that appears on his face as he watches your cute blinks grow in intervals.

"noted, sweetie." he caresses a stray hair strand out of your face. "i'll make sure everything is back where they belong." like you to him. though, he doesn't say that part out loud. maybe another day. when you are no longer wary of him and are willing to acknowledge his very obvious affection for you. deep in his fantasy, sylus almost misses your cute snores. he chuckles, taking this chance to admire you now that you've fallen asleep.

you truly were an angel. the way your eyebrows furrowed here and there in your sleep. the way your plump lips parted at times. the way your button nose twitched sporadically. oh, sylus loved it all. he could watch you sleep forever. but he had a better task at hand: to take care of you. he assured you that he would take care of everything. and sylus is a man of his words. carefully to not wake you, sylus cups your face with his right hand. closing his eyes, he places a delicate kiss on your forehead.

"rest well, sweetie. i'll see you soon."

[inlovewithl3vi]

ive honestly been thinking about an MC who hates touhing people if they Arent comfortable with them like even holding someones hand they imeadiatly wie their hands or an MC who hates bugs so much they would a Void their room for months if there was a single spider in there once (did I Write that correct idk English ain't my First language)

Oh my gosh I love this! Personally I don’t like touching people so I definitely enjoy headcannons of a MC who doesn’t like touching.

I feel like Asmo should hate this too. His love language is physical touch so although he will respect your wishes of not being touched, he is gonna pout whenever you avoid his hugs or push his hand away when he reaches out towards you.

I feel like that type of MC would get along with Levi. (although I might be a little biased since I love him) he definitely understands that you don’t enjoy touching people, especially if you don’t trust them. He feels the same way and won’t bother you about it.

And I also hate bugs soooo much 😭 I’ve genuinely made someone come to my apartment to get rid of a spider so many times.

I imagine MC would call over Lucifer at first. And he would get rid of it and assure you that there’s no more bugs. He might even let you stay with him till you feel better (only maybe though)

But after the second time he’s probably not gonna bother getting up from his work. Of course he still cares about you, but he’s too busy.

Though your perfect solution would be going to Satan. He’s not afraid and can get rid of it, only slightly making fun of how scared you are. And don’t worry his room is always open for you to stay till you feel better.

Except don’t let him find out that Lucifer refused to help you. Because he will make sure Lucifer never hears the end of it. Every time you need his help he’ll subtlety hint to Lucifer that you trust him more. (You don’t, you trust them all equally you just needed that bug out of your room)

[danieyells]

I can also see Romeo straight up setting a glory hole, tying your knees to your chest and shoving your ass in a hole. Basically renting the mc by the 15 minutes and bc he hates the mess and it would be annoying to send someone to clean every few hours so he is strict about condoms, tho if someone paid a few hundred dollars he might look the other way

Re: Sold by Sinostra(Frostheim edition) mini headcanons because i guess i have to give these a name i can remember

Oooh absolutely. Just shove them in a box so he doesn't have to look at them crying and being a disgusting hole, plus less mess! Although as far as cleaning goes i imagine a lot of it is just like. One of his goons comes in with a hose and sprays them down. Or there's some sort of anomaly that he sends in that cleans all the mess up, like an akaname. But I think 'if you don't want to use a condom you'd better pay a lot more' would also be very in character, no matter what you're allowed to do to the pc. Mortkranken has medicine if you have problems.

And since @jadeleechsupportgroup and @dewstickynotes said who they wanted next. . .

Sinostra! As you can see I've got ADHD that's so bad that it took me damn near a month to do something as small as this, so please do not stay up all night waiting on it lol. maybe Hotarubi next since you both also said Haku.

romeo got two since he's the catalyst for this scenario--or maybe just because i had two distinct things in my head for him. i don't remember what my initial idea for taiga was which is bothering me.

As Romeo is the one selling you, the opportunities are plentiful. But if he likes you a lot, he'll treat you very well. You feel more like an oiran the way you're pampered and dressed and only sold to people Romeo doesn't think will treat you too crudely. Not to speak of the price he sells your body for--as if you're a luxury good, not an indebted whore! He dresses you himself, making you up to his standard with makeup and skin treatments. After you're bathed(whether by yourself or a trusted underling) you sit at his feet in the VIP room, bare naked, like a pet, until he's ready to tend to you. He complains about how much of his time you're taking up, but he seems to enjoy treating you like a doll. "See? This isn't so bad, right? You'll be able to pay me back in no time this way!" After an hour of sitting nude at his feet, Romeo finally acknowledges you, stroking your head. His underlings bring a selection of clothing he must have ordered them to retrieve, and he stands you up as he decides what to put you in. An expensive-looking box of make up is placed on the table, but he turns your head to face his mocking expression before you can see the branding. "It would certainly have been better if you'd only paid what you owed, but you've done a good job so far of making the money back. Of course, I'm pricing you at far more than you're worth--so how about you say 'from the bottom of my heart, thank you for making me worth something, Romeo' for me?"

On the other hand, Romeo could want you all for himself if he likes you in a different way. For you to be handled by the filth out there when you ought to be his. . .in the end he wouldn't be able to take it. Once your fate was sealed he would tell you he needs to gauge how much you're worth. He knows most of the auction room customers who're out to purchase other humans are out for sex--so he'll have to evaluate your body and your performance. "Do well, or you'll be here even longer." But this 'evaluation process' seems to take quite a while. He examined your body like you were a dog at a show, and you blew him and cockwarmed him while he worked, sitting idly by when he didn't want you to touch him. When his underlings frustrated him, he threw you down and used you until he wasn't so angry anymore. You knew he punched walls and slammed tables, but you somehow didn't expect the spankings or the rough pounding. Somehow you got scolded over the bruises he gave you. "I've made a decision." He announced after his workday seemed to be over and he'd finished counting the casino's profits. "I think you'd pay off your debt to me better personally. So you'll be my property, for me to do with as I see fit, until I've decided you've paid me back. I tell you what to do, and you say 'yes, sir' or 'yes, Fico'. Got it? No backtalk, no bitching, and no questions! . . .If we're alone, I'll even let you say 'yes, Romeo.'" He talks as he leads you through the halls and to a room--his bedroom, by the looks of it. He sits in a similarly fancy chair to the one in the VIP room, and gestures to his feet, where it seems you'll be sitting more often for a while, then lifts your chin with the tip of his shoe. "Why don't you you start with showing me how thankful you are that I'm not making you a common whore, used by the rodents outside? I think that's worth a little worship, don't you?"

You'd think Taiga wouldn't remember you well enough to get you out of this, but the way he coos "here, kitty, kitty" at you to beckon you to the bars of your cage to pet you says otherwise, as does the way he asks, more to Romeo than you, "what's my little kitty cat doing in a cage, huh?" But the cold and empty look in his eyes also tells you something important--he is hungry, and the tight grip on the back of your neck when you try and back away doesn't inspire much hope that he doesn't intend to use you to solve that. His underlings pay Romeo, and Taiga unlocks your cage himself before he parades you through the casino, despite your state of undress, to bring you all the way back to his room where his goons take their places guarding outside the door and you are shoved onto his bed and easily held down with a single hand against your chest. "You really wandered into some deep shit with your debt like that, huh! Lulu would've had you in there forever if I didn't come along and save ya! Y'know how literally you'd've been fucked if not for me?" He laughs, moving away from you to open the curtain to his torture room. "So, what should we play with today, little stray kitty? Then again, I'm gettin' pretty hungry. . . ." He takes up and admires a rather nasty looking knife. "But if I ate you right now, I wouldn't be getting my money's worth. . .you get what I mean? You weren't cheap, so you're gonna have to entertain me a little, kitten." He puts it away, retrieving his pistol and aiming it towards the ceiling. "I got an idea! How 'bout I be the cat today. . .and you be a little mouse. And all you gotta do is get off this ship before I catch you. . .I won't even have my mooks stop you from runnin' and hidin'. I'll give you a head start, too! Between that and how hungry I am, you can get out of here, right? Oh, but if I catch you. . .you cost a real pretty penny, like a real purebred kitten. . .so let's hope I can get as many meals outta you as you were worth." A click. A bang. Shattering glass and a pop and sparks before the room is shrouded in darkness. The doors slam open, Taiga's underlings bursting in in alarm at the gunshot. Your opportunity for freedom is marked only by Taiga's voice. "You've got 30 seconds."

"Vice Captain, this could easily be prosecuted as unlawful imprisonment under Article 220 of the Penal Code." Ritsu explains, gesturing towards you in your cage. "As far as this contract goes, the consent towards confinement has been retracted. I must advise that you return their clothing and allow them to leave the room." It's surprisingly easy to convince Romeo to yield under threat of law--although Ritsu only requires that you're released and ignores any other occupied cages in the room. As for your debt, Ritsu has already prepared a contract for you, allowing him to pay it off for you, subsequently making him your creditor. As you work with and are frequently paid by Ritsu, part of these paychecks will simply be withheld. . .it's a very thoroughly written contract, which you sign as it will keep you out of Romeo's 'private office'. An NDA is also procured for further discussion of this particular incident. "It would have been preferable if you had informed me of this debt of yours beforehand." Ritsu sighs in some disappointment, walking you back to his office. "For you to be burdened by such a debt reflects poorly on me as well, you know. So long as you and I continue our working relationship and you do well on your missions, I'm certain you'll be able to repay me in time. Now then, as for the fee for negotiations. . . ."

[short-black-diamond]

a maybe obey me request:

the reader is asexual and has gradually gotten along with all of the brothers except Asmo, due to a fear of how overtly affectionate/sexual the demon can be. it’s gotten to the point where the brothers devise a plan to make the reader spend some time with asmo and form a friendship; or if not an understanding that even though he’s a lot, asmo does care in his own way

Ohhhhhh I know that feeling too well my love. I hope that nobody's touching you without your consent, and if they do, call me, I'll kill them nice and slow. <3

I just can't live with the fact that some ppl ignore boundaries and so however they please like bitch can you maybe not touch me?

Your name is MC and you're a sheep in this fic

---

"Don't worry, I'm here."

The brothers felt bad for Asmo.

I mean, sure, Asmodeus was sometimes overly affectionate on purpose, but it seemed that whenever he wanted to hug MC or pat their shoulder or just touch them platonically in any way, the sheep just...looked at him with a frown and a raised hand, muttering a soft:

"Please don't do that."

And Asmodeus always pouts cutely as you walk away, and while you do, you let out a sigh of relief. You knew that Asmo couldn't really...ground his affections and desires because of his position, but he could at least tone it down with the verbal affections.

You nearly had a stroke whenever Asmodeus flirted with you, because it'd always sound sweet and you'd think he was being innocent just this once, before he ruins the mood and builds up your guard around him even stronger when he scooches closer to you with a smirk. Of course, you go away right away before he has a chance to do anything else.

...

"I feel bad for Asmo,", Levi mumbles as he fixates his orange eyes on the screen in his phone, thinking back to the time when Asmodeus tried hugging you after a compliment you gave him, but he instead crashed against the wall as you ran away.

"Me too.", Mammon mumbles as he counts a few coins he found on the way from the school to the house of Lementation. He thought back to that one time where you were forced to sit next to Asmo, who couldn't help but lean into your neck and smell at your fragrance, and you pushed him away with a disgusted face.

Of course, Asmodeus couldn't be mad at you, how would he? He already came to terms with the fact that there were some people in this world that didn't need all that body contact and pleasure, just a small high-five and fist-bump being enough for them to count as physical touch.

"Well, we certainly need a plan.", Satan speaks up as he holds up a book. "I've read that handholding is pretty popular amongst asexual people, because there are many ways to hold hands; interlacing the fingers with each other, rubbing the thumb on the other person's back of their hand, and holding pinkies.", he listed, and Leviathan blushed at the thought of holding hands with someone.

Lucifer nodded. "That's actually a good idea, but how would you like MC and Asmodeus to hold hands when MC quite literally despises Asmodeus' touch?", the eldest brother asked.

Satan raised his hands before he lowered it with a frown. "I-...don't know."

"What if they go to that scary place from the human world?", Beel asked through a stuffed mouth and Lucifer had marks in his temple as he asked Beel to swallow his food before he said something.

Beel ate up his sandwich, before he spoke about his idea. "Since October is slowly pulling up in the human world, they already have decorations for halloween...although it's like, two months too early... but still. I once went with my friends and it was rather scary..", the avatar of gluttony mumbled before he bit into the next closest burger.

Lucifer looked up in thought. "That might actually work...mammon, challenge Asmodeus and MC to go there, I'm sure Asmodeus would accept.", he ordered, and Mammon nodded.

No need to throw tantrums when he wanted MC and Asmo to get closer platonically right? Also he was glad that he didn't have to go to that spookhouse.

...

"A spookhouse? Sounds neat.", you shrugged as you looked at Mammon.

"Eh? Isn't that for younger kids?", Asmodeus asked before he looked at his nails.

"Beel and his friends went there too!", Mammon exclaimed, and for once, Asmodeus didn't hear a lie from Mammon's mouth.

"Is that a bet or something?", the avatar of lust asked, voice laced with suspisciousness towards his elder brother.

Mammon sighed in exasperation before whispering something into Asmodeus' ear. After a moment, the two composed themselves again and Asmodeus acdepted.

...

"AHH!", the blonde screamed in fear as another skeleton fell from the ceiling and nearly right on top of him. you just stood next to him, your hands in your pockets.

'Beel, why didn't you keep the spookhouse to yourself? And why is Asmodeus of all brothers here with me today?', you thought as you watched him close his eyes tightly as he hugged himself.

Now, you felt bad for Asmodeus as well. He really looked like he didn't enjoy it here, and for once, you let your guard down.

"Hey.", you spoke gently after you sat down next to him. He held his ears shut, his legs close to his chest and you didn't like the way his clothes got dirty from all the dust and dirt on the ground.

You slowly put your hand on his shoulder, and he flinched. But you pressed down, and Asmo finally opened his eyes as he had tears in his eyes.

"wanna leave?", you asked, and Asmo nodded. You stood up before reaching out your hand. Asmo looked at you with a face full of unsureness, and the question lingered in the air.

'are you really okay with that?', his eyes asked.

you opened your hand more in yes.

And he slowly brought up his hand, giving you the chance to pull back, but he got the message after your hand held his and helped him stand up.

"Let's get the heck outta here.", you said, and Asmo nodded as he wiped away his tears.

'Holding hands like this...is not so bad.', you and Asmo thought, and for once, his dirty mind was completely gone, instead having a calm and warm and comforting feeling in his stomach when he looked at your hand which was holding his tightly.

so tightly, as if to say: "Don't worry, I'm here."

And with holding his hand tightly, you and Asmodeus went home.

---

bruh I think I kinds messed it up? But I dunno, btw are you okay with handholding? Because i did and i played with the thought of maybe holding pinkies but then it wouldn't be as dramatic you know?

Anyways, I hope you liked it, and if not, tell me and I'll try to do better next time!

Read you in the next post!

[jerzwriter]

One Summer Night...

Book:                   Open Heart (Post Series)

Pairing:                Tobias Carrick x F!MC (Casey), Samantha Carrick

Rating:                 Teen +

Category:            Fluff/Romance

Warnings: Slightly suggestive, but nothing explicit

Summary:   The lights are out in Boston in the middle of a heatwave, and no one is sleeping, but it is a night full of sweet memories for Tobias & Casey... once they cool off.

Words: 725

A/N: Day 6 of @creativepromptsforwriting 's 30-Day Writing Challenge: Write about a blackout. I mean, I only went 125 words over my goal, not bad... not bad at all. :) Also participating in @choicesjanuarychallenge Day 2 - Night

Tobias & Casey Masterlist 30-Day Challenge Masterlist

It was twelve-thirty in the morning, and Casey lay awake in her bed. The thin, white nightgown she selected when she got into bed hours ago clung uncomfortably to her body. She considered yanking it off and sleeping in nothing at all. Her husband certainly wouldn’t complain. But having a two-year-old underfoot made her think better of it, especially on a night like this when no one was going to sleep. She grimaced as a bead of sweat collected atop her chest and slowly trailed down the side of her breast, finding a new home in a crease in her armpit. She had had enough.

Tobias snickered when he returned to their pitch-black room, crawling into bed beside her naked body.  

“I knew that nightgown never stood a chance,” he smirked. 

She could just see the look on his face, although her eyes were shut tight. His finger trailed delicately from the top of her thigh over her swollen abdomen and nearly reached the curve of her breast when she swatted his hand away.

“Touch me again, and you die, Dr. Carrick.”

“Damn,” he laughed. “The nightgown didn’t stand a chance, and maybe I don’t either.”

“Nah, you’re safe,” Casey chuckled wearily. “After all, if I kill you, I’ll be stuck taking care of not one but two rugrats on my own.”

“Not to mention you’d be in jail.”

“I’m not going to jail, babe. My attorney will make sure I have a jury of my peers. No woman would convict me when I explain that my husband was attempting to caress my sweaty, 7-month pregnant self in a blackout during a heatwave.”

“No lie,” he shivvered. “In fact, they may resurrect me, just to sentence me to death… more painfully this time.”

“You’re spot on,” she laughed. “How is Sammy?”

“Back to sleep… for now. But I gave her more cold water to cool down, so she’s bound to be up for a potty run soon.”

“Mmmh. I’ll get her next time,” Casey offered.

“Like hell, you will. You’ll be sleeping one way or another, princess.  Momma needs her rest.”

“It’s too hot to sleep. What is the temperature anyway?”

Tobias snuck a peek at his phone. “92 degrees at 2:45 AM. God, what I wouldn’t give for a Boston winter right now.”

“Me too,” Casey moaned.

“I told you I should have bought a generator. I’m getting one tomorrow.”

“But…”

“No buts! It’s bad enough that my wife and daughter can’t sleep, but now, I can’t even touch you? This is where I draw the line.”

Casey reached over and patted his head with a laugh. “I’m glad your priorities are in order, dear.”

“Always.”

He brushed her hair, stuck to her forehead with sweat, off her face. 

“No, no, no… this won’t do,” he said as he shot out of bed.

“Where are you going?”

“I’ve got an idea.”

Five minutes later, he led Casey into their candlelit bathroom and helped her settle into a tub of cool water. Once she was comfortable, he slipped an inflatable pillow behind her neck. 

“Now, close your eyes. I’ll watch over you so you can get some rest.”

“Mmmh,” she sighed. “This does feel nice. But why aren’t you trying to cop a feel now that I’m not sweaty, Dr. Carrick.”

“Hey, don’t tempt me there, lady,” he laughed, sticking a hand in the water and rubbing her belly. “I did this to you twice, and I’m not afraid to do it to you again.”

“You can’t get me pregnant while I’m pregnant, Tobias!” She laughed. “I think the heat’s gotten to you, too!”

With that, they heard a loud hum, and the bathroom light flickered back on. 

“Oh, praise God and all things holy, we have power!” Tobias yelled. “With any luck, the house will be cooled off in an hour, then maybe we’ll all get some sleep.”

It was two-thirty in the morning. Casey, wearing her favorite blue pajamas, was fast asleep with little Samantha clinging to her side. Tobias moved Sammy’s teddy bear to the side and turned off the light, smiling brightly as he slipped under the sheets with his girls.   He was going to be tired tomorrow, that he knew for sure, but he would still be a very happy man. Especially after the generator he just ordered was delivered.

Permatags: @a-crepusculo @animesuck3r @annoyingmillenialnewbie @crazy-loca-blog @differenttyphoonwerewolf @doriopenheart @fayeswiftie @genevievemd @gryffindordaughterofathena @inlocusmads @jamespotterthefirst @jennieausten @kingliam2019 @liaromancewriter @lucy-268 @onikalover @openheartforeverinmyheart @potionsprefect @quixoticdreamer16 @rookiemartin @secretaryunpaid @socalwriterbee @tessa-liam @trappedinfanfiction @jerzwriter-reblogs-asks

Tagging others separately.

[duskwoodgirl4life]

Once again a massive thank you to @ophiume for this amazing idea

Chapter 1

10 years ago an accident would change the life of MC, knowing that the people responsible for what happened still walked free. Would MC ever be able to turn her life around? Just maybe with the help from a police detective Jack Donfort.

Jennifer is 5 minutes older than her twin sister MC who she loves to remind her whenever possible. Jennifer and MC were busy getting ready for the pine glade festival. It was going to be an amazing weekend.

This time MC would be attending the festival alone as her sister was helping her dad out at the aurora her brother Samuel promised he would try and make it but his police work would take up most of the day.

When MC arrived at the festival she stood taking in all her surroundings, there were hotdog stands, cotton candy, souvenirs, games and music. MC went to get a drink and went to check out the live music she stood watching for a few minutes then decided to have a look round.

MC was having so much fun she looked at her watch noticing that it was time for the fireworks display. She started to make her way over to the other field walking along the edge of the road.

As she was walking out of nowhere a speeding car had lost control and crashed into her. MC went crashing to the ground hitting her head as she fell. The two women that had been driving the car panicked and buried MC in a shallow grave. Luckily a passerby heard MC's calls for help rushing over; he helped get the dirt off MC and called an ambulance.

The ambulance arrived and started treating MC for her injuries, when MC got to the hospital the doctors discovered that she had fractured her spine in 3 places, a fractured right pelvis and a fractured skull on the right side.

The doctors rushed MC to surgery where she would undergo many operations to fix the damage caused by the accident. The surgery was a success but MC was not out of the woods just yet. The next 24 hours would be the most crucial if she made it through the night then MC had a chance of walking up.

MC had been in a coma for 2 years when she started to wake up, Jennifer, Samuel,Michael and Iris, were all by her bedside. The doctors came over and ran some tests making sure MC was okay.

MC spent another few months in hospital going through physical therapy. It was a painful process but MC did it and she learned to walk again.

It was coming up to the 10th anniversary of MCs accident. For the most part she was doing okay but was still plagued by that night. She would wake up in the middle of the night from the same nightmare.

MC had gotten a job working at the aurora with her dad, it kept her busy and mind off the accident. One day her attention was captured by a tall dark haired man with ocean blue eyes.

MC: hi, what can I get for you?

Jake: I'll have a whiskey on the rocks

MC: Sure no problem, I've not seen you in here before?

Jake: I don't get to go out much with my job my name's Jake

MC: nice to meet you Jake, you can call MC

Jake: it's lovely to meet you MC

They both hit it off and became good friends although Jake had developed feelings for MC but didn't know how to say anything. MC had developed feelings for Jake but she kept pushing them away. The fear of having someone get close to her scared her so kept Jake at a distance.

Jake knew the story about what had happened that night to MC, he never pushed her to do anything she felt uncomfortable with which MC was so grateful for. Jake had started coming into the bar a lot more just so he could spend time with MC.

One night while he was sitting at the bar he watched her working, her long black hair flowing down her back touching her skin.

Jake's POV

I find myself coming into the bar every night just so I get to see MC, I sit watching her the way she moves, her smile is perfect she is perfection.

I would like to ask her out on a date but I do not want to push her, she's only told me a little bit about that night. I could look it up in her records but I decided not to. I want her to be able to tell me the full story in her own time.

I have not felt like this about anyone before. Is this what true love really feels like? Am I Jake Dunfort really falling in love?

[genevievemd]

Everything Has Changed

June 27, 2020

Book: Open Heart: Second Year (Post 2.20) Pairing: Ethan Ramsey x F!MC (Genevieve McClure) Word Count: 1699 Rating: G (or E for everyone lol) Category: Fluff, Ethan POV Trope(s): and they were in the office

A/N: Now that her second year is over, Ethan realizes its time to make their relationship official, AKA Ethan finally asks Gen on a real date. Prequel to Begin Again

Warnings: none

A/N: I meant to have this finished for June 27th, as that is the anniversary of their first date but then life and writer’s block happened. But we’re here now. So enjoy the fluff. 

Also for clarification on the Saraland Timeline. The attack happens the first week of November, like 3 ish weeks after Gen’s 27th birthday. And the Hopeful Heart’s Gala is the end of January. 

It’s been six months since the Hopeful Heart’s Gala, almost eight since the botched assassination attempt on Senator Ferrugia. In all of those months, Ethan has been with Genevieve – either secretly or out in the open. But not officially. 

Despite his promise after the gala to finally ask her out, and take her on a real date, he hadn’t. He’s pushed it back, set it aside, even forgotten about it. Until now. 

Now, the hospital was saved and running, almost, normally, Ethan has put the team back together, and Genevieve…

Genevieve was staying. Only a few days away from beginning her third and final year of residency. 

This was the perfect moment to make things official with her, make them real. Take them out of the perpetual limbo Ethan has kept them in. But once again, he finds himself hesitating. 

Not out of fear that it isn’t the right thing, but, rather, nerves that he won’t get it right. That the object of his every desire, the woman he’s falling in love with, the one who’s meant more to him than any other person on Earth, no longer feels the same for him. 

That he’s waited too long and she’s ready to move on with her life. 

Although, the logical and sensible part of him says otherwise. That the proof that she felt the same, was right there in front of him. She’d woken up in his bed that morning, was out getting their lunch now, and had all but promised to leave with him with him again that evening. 

Genevieve, by all evidence, was in and not out. Just as he was. 

So, now, all Ethan had to do was ask that silly little question. 

He continues to pace around his office, face scrunched in frustration. Thinking of all the ways to ask her out, and more importantly, what the best one was. 

“Oh, you look incredibly frustrated. Let me guess, a case? No, our new boss?” Harper Emery appears in the doorway, dressed in blue scrubs with a file in her hand. 

“No, not a case or Leland.” Ethan looks at her quickly, then at the clock on the wall. 

Gen would be back any minute with their lunch, and if he didn’t come up with a solution before then, she’d surely pick up on his vexation. 

“Oh.” Understanding crosses Harper’s face, followed by a smirk as she walks to the conference table. “It’s about a certain resident we both know.” 

“No, why would you…” The instinct to lie, to protect the sanctity of what he and Gen share rises quickly. 

But there was no need for that now. 

Ethan signs, sinking into the chair beside Harper, “Yes, it’s about Dr. McClure.” 

“Can I help?” 

“I don’t… is this something we can discuss? Given our history.” 

“Well, we’re still friends, first and foremost.” She offers him a reassuring smile, reaching over to touch his forearm. “And, despite the gossip around here, there are no lingering feelings between us. So, yes. If you’d like a soundboard, I’m willing to listen.” 

“Thank you.” He sighs again, pinching the bridge of his nose. “I’m trying to think of the best way to ask G on a date.” 

“What do you mean?” 

“You know exactly what I mean.: 

“Wait..” Harper sits up straight, looking at him like he’s the village idiot. And maybe he is. “Are you telling me you haven’t asked her on a proper date yet? Not after the gala? Nevermind the fact that you’ve been together since Bobby and Daniel’s funerals.” 

“We haven’t! That’s not –” 

“Subtly has never been your strong suit, Ethan. Not a single person in this hospital was surprised when you kissed Genevieve on the dance floor.” 

“Right. Well, in that cased, no. I haven’t” He drops his head in on hand, fingers digging into his temples. “I wanted to, believe me, but there was so much going on – the hospital, her potentially having to leave Boston – I didn't want our relationship to hinder her choices. So I waited, and now that things are settled and she’s staying and about to begin her third year, I thought it was finally time to make things official.” 

“I see.” Harper smiles again, eyebrow raised in amusement. “So, you were pacing around your office trying to decide how to best ask her on a proper and official first date.” 

“Yes. She deserves nothing but the best, and I want it to be perfect and meaningful. And appropriate.” 

“Just ask her.” 

I was his turn to be dumbfounded, eyes wide. “I can’t –” 

“Yes, you can. Just ask her, Ethan. She’ll say yes, we both know that. You two are completely smitten, dare I say, in love even.” 

Ethan feels his cheeks flush, the tips of his ears burn with embarrassment. Although, what was there to be embarrassed about?

He wasn’t ashamed of his feelings like he had been a year ago. He was proud.

Proud of himself for dealing with the demon and shadows of his past, for opening his heart. And most of all, proud to be the man such a radiant and kind soul had chosen to give her heart to. 

Women like Genevieve were rare, like shooting stars. Their beauty bright it eclipses everything around it. But if you blink, take one wrong step, you miss it completely. 

And Ethan would be damned if he allowed his Rookie to escape his grasp because of his own volition. 

“Lunch delivery for Dr. Ramsey.” Genevieve appears in the doorway, their lunch in her hands. 

Despite the fact that he knew she was due to arrive, it almost felt as though he’d manifested her presence with the mere thought of her. 

“Am I interrupting something?” Her pretty green eyes flicker between himself and Harper, continuing to stand by the sliding door. 

“Not at all.” Dr Emery stands, patting Ethan on the shoulder before walking to the door. “Have a nice lunch you two.”

“Thank you.” Gen returns their colleague’s smile, waiting until she leaves to meet Ethan at the table. 

“Let’s have dinner.” He blurts out, quietly chastising himself for sounding like a blubbering, prepubescent teen. 

Harper had been right to tease him. Ethan couldn’t even wait for Gen to sit down fully, or for them to even begin eating before asking her. He’s a complete and utter fool around Genevieve, when talking about Genevieve. 

Hell, even thinking about her makes his stomach do somersaults like he’s a teenager in the hallway of his high school, catching a glimpse of his crush as she walks by. 

But even back then, he never reacted this way to a crush, or his high school sweetheart. Proving for the umpteenth time, that the woman beside him, had him feeling things he’s never felt before. 

If Ethan believed in such things as soulmates or fate, he would contend that Genevieve Rose McClure was his soulmate.

“I’m always down for dinner with you, when?” She seems completely unaware of the gymnastics his internal organs are doing, happily unpacking their lunch as if nothing is wrong. 

Of course, she’s right. There isn’t anything wrong, aside from his lack of commitment. Which it seems his heart and mind are determined to change without ceremony. 

“Tonight.” 

“Okay. I was already planning to come over anyway.” She looks over at him, her smile so enchanting he wonders how he could have gone so long without properly making her his. 

“No, Rookie, I meant…” His mouth suddenly feels dry, full of cotton. As if the next sentence is the most important one he’s ever spoken. 

Ethan reaches for her hand, lacing their fingers together. “I meant dinner, as in a real date. In public, at a nice restaurant.” 

“Are you serious?” Her face melts into something hopeful, reminding him that he had no reason to fear her loosing interest. 

She was still waiting for him to make the next move, still holding her beautiful heart in her hands waiting for him to take it. 

“I’m serious. It’s high time I show you off to the world.” 

“So, like this would be a real, official, legit first date?” 

“Yes.” 

Gen leaps from her chair, her screech of joy causing him to laugh, “Oh my god, what am I going to wear? This is a momentous occasion! Where are we going?” 

“Duexave. It’s a French restaurant, is that okay? I made a reservation for 8.” 

“Oh my god!” 

“So, I take that as a yes?” 

“Duh!” Gen sinks back in her chair, leaning forward as her hands hold his cheeks. So gently, it makes his heart skip a beat. “A real date.” 

“A real date, G.” He mimics her movements, but only to pull her the rest of the way needed to bring their lips together. 

He’ll never get over the way it feels to kiss her. Like he’s connecting with the other piece of his heart. 

“I need to find a dress!” Genevieve pulls away, far sooner then he’d like, once again rising from the chair. “I have to call my sister.” 

He laughs again, watching her practically bounce to the doorway. 

“So, lunch is over then?” Ethan raises an eyebrow, smirking. 

“Yes. I need to properly prepare for our date! Oh my god, we’re going on a real date.” Gen looks at him from the doorway, smiling wider than he’s ever seen her smile before. 

It makes him regret waiting so long to ask her out. All he’s wanted for longer than he’d care to admit, is make her happy. And now, it’s so clear that the only thing he really needed to do, was commit. Give her his heart like she’d given him. 

Their gazes stay locked for a minute longer before she’s rushing back to him, hands on his cheeks as she kisses him three times in quick succession. “It’s gonna be the best night ever.” 

“I think so, too.” 

He watches her leave the office, then spins around in his chair. His cheeks hurting from the smile still on his face. He’s never been more excited for a date in his entire life. 

Tonight, would be the beginning to the rest of their lives.

A/N: And then they have the best first date ever. And then 10 months later they’re engaged. And two years later their married af. 

(Tagging Separately) 

@openheartfanfics​ @choicesficwriterscreations​

[demonicheadcanons]

The Obey Me Brothers Reaction to MC Breaking Down Over Schoolwork

(Initial ask contains an ableist slur and so cannot be posted. Please, in future, refrain from using slurs in any asks sent in!! It has since been added to my rules and I will straight up delete asks with slurs in them. Thank you <3)

AN: Apologies for taking so long to get to this one, its been in my inbox for a while. I’m sorry you were feeling that way, its really difficult getting adjusted to everything again, I work in a school and a lot of the students and teachers alike are definitely really struggling. Best wishes <3

I think I’m usually okay at not letting slip that Levi is my favourite boy, but you can tell here ;u; Sorry

Lucifer

He realises all too late that things are probably tough. Initially Lucifer is distant, and whilst he notices how tired you look sometimes at RAD, he decides to ignore it - you were probably distressed because you had been pulled into the Devildom out of nowhere, you’d just have to adapt because nothing else could be done. In his mind it was pointless worrying about it.

However, as he begins to pay more and more attention to you, he realises its more than that. You frown in class, your grades jump around and you don’t leave your room regularly, probably too busy focusing on studying. The few times you’ve accepted his offer of help, you seem to be on edge.

He decides one night to check in on you, and he hears a harsh thud from a few paces down the hall. He throws the door open without knocking, convincing himself that he was just worried you might be hurt because they needed you for the exchange programme and it would be a pain replacing you now, months into the whole endeavour.

You whirl around, arm still raised, your grip tight on your textbook. He looks about and sees other books scattered about, the room a mess.

Lucifer makes a low growling noise in the back of his throat, raising a hand to press against his temples before he freezes, finally taking in the look on your face. Your eyes are wide, having been essentially caught by the one person you really, really wouldn’t want to see you right now. You lower your arm slowly as he approaches, taking your face in his hands before you can duck away from him.

His tone and expression are impossible to place as he silently examines you, gloved hands wiping across your cheeks to get rid of any traces of your tears. You don’t have the time to process any of it before he pulls you against his chest, wrapping his arms carefully around your shoulders.

Lucifer is silent, almost eerily so, and he holds you there without moving until you either push him away or until you stop sniffling and drop the book. Even when he does speak again, he’s quiet, deep in thought as he looks around the room and tells you simply to head over to his - he’ll bring you something to eat shortly, get some rest in the meantime. You mumble something about a test, and he waves a hand. He’ll bring the textbook, its fine, go rest.

It takes him a half hour to get to his room, carrying a tray with some tea and snacks. Your textbook is tucked under one arm, and he gently invites you to eat before he starts talking things out. He asks if classes are too difficult, asks if there’s anything in particular you’re struggling with. He makes a lot of offers - Luci is a busy guy, but he can free up a time slot if you want to study with him, or he can get you a tutor, or you can simply text him your concerns and he’ll respond as soon as he’s available. His advice is simple and realistic.

Once you’re done eating and drinking, he opens the textbook and goes over the things that are most likely to be on the test. He gives tips, explains the things that confuse you in a clear and concise manner. He’s a good teacher, and he’s a lot more patient than you’ve seen him before.

Overall, Lucifer is a quiet comfort, but a determined one. He works to make things easier for you in the background, marking out important parts of the textbook so you know what to focus on, and offering a hand whenever you need it. Also, when you get back to your room later, your books are neatly organised on your desk.

[Other brothers under the read more]

Mammon

Mammon randomly pops into your room quite often, making excuses about how he’s absolutely entitled to because he’s in charge of taking care of you. On this particular evening, you have absolutely no warning as per usual and he doesn’t bother knocking, because this boy only has good manners when it benefits him.

He freezes instantly, and he’s over to you in a second before you can throw whatever’s in your hand. His grip is careful but tight on your wrist and he squeezes until you let it go, tossing whatever it was onto your bed without looking and wrapping you up in his arms. You might feel trapped for a second, but he has this fear that you’re Going To Get Hurt and so he just holds onto you until you settle and start sobbing against his chest. (Mammon is panicking too much to think about it, and he’ll definitely apologise after and try not to do it again if he scared you.)

He pulls you over to the bed and sits you down, a hand smoothing through your hair. His grip remains on you at all times, and you can feel his hands shaking when he asks what’s wrong, MC? Did something happen?

Mammon listens carefully, swallowing and smoothing a hand over your hair when you tell him its because the work here is just too damn hard and you can’t do it, you can’t, you can’t remember all the dates for the history or recall the right Latin to say for this one course and its not like it matters anyway because you’re human, why would you need this?

He mumbles back “I know, I know,” and runs his hands down your arms, back, along your hair. Wherever he can to comfort you, wherever makes your breathing slow back to a normal pace and takes away the hiccups left from sobbing. He doesn’t force you to look at him, almost doesn’t want you to as he bites back sniffles and sobs and wipes his face against his sleeve because crying right now won’t fix anything for you.

When you’re both calmer again, he starts rambling about something or other to take your mind off it. Mammon isn’t one to offer any immediate solutions, and rather tries to distract you with stories until you fall asleep and he can lay you down and march straight to Lucifer and demand he talk to Diavolo about this, as fearless as if he were defending Belphie or Levi for accidentally breaking something.

You’re assigned a tutor, and have tutoring sessions with each of the brothers for things they’re good at, with Lucifer and Satan covering any areas the others don’t particularly excel in. Mammon himself helps you with maths, and although he isn’t always the best at explaining it, his presence along is comforting and helps makes working through a little easier, and he’s good for taking your mind away from any stress so that you can focus without worry holding you back.

Leviathan

He had just wanted to get something back that he loaned you, a book or DVD. He can’t remember what it was the second he hears a crash and throws open your door, and finds you in a ball on the floor, the room a mess around you. You don’t even look up as the door opens, and the two of you stay in place for a few moments.

Levi doesn’t know what to do, doesn’t know where to start, but he can do one thing. Quietly and carefully, he tiptoes around your room and starts putting things back where they belong. He tidies your desk, faintly organises whatever notes he finds by subject and piles them up together. He doesn’t touch you, because he’s worried you wouldn’t want him to right now, that he might scare you, and so he just tidies until the room looks a little more normal again.

When you finally look up, he’s sitting a few feet in front of you, headphones on as he stares at his D.D.D., either playing a game or watching a video or scrolling through Wikis as he waits patiently for you to start the conversation or ask for whatever comforts you need. You move over to sit beside him, and he blushes but takes off his headphones and holds an arm out so you can rest against his shoulder.

He lets you watch whatever is on his phone for a beat before asking in a hushed voice if you need anything, if something was wrong, or if someone (maybe him?) upset you. When you tell him it’s about schoolwork, he sighs and pulls you closer without thinking about it. He hands you his D.D.D. and puts his headphones on you, tells you to stay there for a bit and keep watching until he gets back.

Levi returns a few minutes later with Satan in tow, each of them carrying a bag with their own textbooks in them. Levi kneels down to take back his D.D.D. and headphones and to help you up, and tells you you’re all going to start studying together in the library. If you’d be okay with it, he means... he could use the help too, and maybe it wouldn’t feel so bad if you were there. Not for any reason in particular!

Study sessions are added to your schedule after that. Even on days where Satan is off doing something else, Levi will tutor you on whatever he finds easiest - usually history, and oftentimes its history involving the navy. His shyness melts away into confidence as he talks about all the things he’s done, about how he was appointed head thousands of years ago and he thinks he’s yet to let Diavolo down.

After study sessions you go and get a drink together, something like bubble tea or smoothies or whatever, and then play games together to relax and let the info sink in instead of obsessing over it. If you ever start to get stressed out again, Levi gently puts his headphones on you and the two of you wait it out together, and he smiles at you every time you take the headphones off and take a deep breath, ready to keep working. He’s proud.

Satan

Satan is observant enough to notice ahead of time that something is about to happen. You seem horribly stressed and unfocused in your classes one day in particular, and he decides to stop by your room the second he gets home to find out what was wrong.

He knocks and waits for a while, but you don’t answer, and he was sure he heard noise before but now your room is deathly silent. He carefully creaks the door open a bit to call in and see if you’re there, and hears paper crumpling against the door. Deciding to investigate, he opens it a little more and slides in through the gap.

The room is a mess of books and paper and pillows, and you’re at your desk, hands clamped hard over your ears. You’re making some kind of whimpering noise every now and then, and Satan starts to piece things together as he gathers up books in one arm and smooths out paper. He taps you on the back before moving back a pace or two, just in case.

You freeze before turning around to look at him, seeming almost guilty, and he doesn’t really get why you’d feel that way but he holds up your books and clears his throat. “Do you want some help?”

Satan is more practical than emotional and, whilst he isn’t sure what kind of comfort he can offer you right now, he knows he can help with the work, help make it easier. He pulls a chair over beside you, motioning for you to scoot over, and leans against you as he opens the first book and asks where you were struggling. He keeps a constant connection between the two of you, either has his leg against yours or his entire side against you so that you know he’s there, so that you’re permanently aware of his presence.

He doesn’t look at you too often, not when you can see him do it. Even then, there’s no judgement in his gaze, just his brows furrowing slightly out of concern until your breathing in alright and you start to smile in little bursts again. He smiles then as well, scribbling down some notes for you.

After that, Satan regularly pulls you aside after class and asks if you want to come out with him to a cafe or to the library, or he’ll call you to his room in the house and ask if you’ll let him teach you this set of notes so that he can remember it better. He’s subtle, never really brings up what happened and never asks you about it because he’s already got it all figured out in his mind. Instead, he just works on moving on from it and making sure it doesn’t happen again, and if it does, he’ll be ready to be there for you again.

Asmodeus

Asmo had decided to visit your room because you weren’t responding to his messages asking if you wanted to go out shopping with him. Majolish had new season wear and he absolutely needed to go get first pickings at it, and he wanted you there by his side.

He knocks but opens your door immediately after anyway, not giving you time to do much more than turn to face the door, bringing the pillow you were about to throw up over your face instead so he can’t read too much of your expression. He sees the tears, anyway, and without thinking walks over to you and holds your face in his hands.

His voice is laced with concern as he asks what’s wrong, and he immediately looks like he’s going to cry as well, but he just did his makeup and he’s not going to risk ruining it right now. Instead he moves over to the bed and pulls you down onto his lap, holding you tight against his chest. He keeps asking, every few moments, if something was wrong and if there’s anything he can do, and his eyes dart around the room to try to piece it all together. Your books were still out on your desk, pillows a mess around the room, and you... You were curled up against him, shaking and choking down sobs.

Asmo pouts and holds you in silence until you calm down and start talking to him, start telling him what was wrong, what subject you’d been struggling with over the past hour and you were still stuck on the same damn page and not making any progress and the test was only a few days away and everyone was expecting so much from you, you who never even asked to be here. Obviously you weren’t good enough for this, obviously they should’ve chosen someone better-

Asmo cuts you off there, pushes against your shoulders until he can see your expression and cup your face in his hands. He’s not having you put yourself down because you’re struggling with work that the centuries-old demons also had a hard time with, not on his watch, and he tells you just as much. When he’s done half-scolding you, his expression softens and he offers whatever help he can. He’s sure he can rope Satan or Lucifer into helping out, and if not he can charm the examiners into giving you a better score... he keeps going until some of his silly advice gets you to snort out a little laugh, and then he relaxes.

He lays back and pulls you down with him, sighing as he instructs you to take a nap, and then after you two can go out shopping and you’ll figure everything out as you strip Majolish bare of its new wonderful outfits. And Asmo keeps to his word. As you’re trying things on he talks through the stall walls, proposing different ideas to you whilst simultaneously boosting your confidence as he compliments you and finds the perfect outfits for you.

Asmo makes it clear that if ever you should need a distraction, just give him a call - there’s always something better to do than reading over textbooks, and he’ll throw in study sessions so long as you’re there to spend time with him. Anything to make you feel better.

Beelzebub

Beel was in the kitchen, clearing out the fridge as usual when he heard a muffled thud against the wall. He pauses, turning to look in that direction, and realises that its the wall attached to your room.

He’s outside your door in no time, and taps nervously against it with his fingertips before opening the door slightly and calling in to ask if you were okay, and could he come in please? He hesitates when you don’t respond, but decides to head in anyway, because you might be hurt and any embarrassments he’s sure the two of you could live with, but with an injury there was no guarantee, not for a human.

There are books everywhere, the room as messy as he’s ever seen it, and you’re... nowhere to be seen. Not until he hears a sniffle and rounds the corner into the dining room section, and finds you curled up in a ball against the wall, face against your knees. He’s quick to back away, worried that he’ll upset you more, but then Beel kneels down a few paces in front of you and leans forward to tap your arm.

You flinch and look up immediately, pulling your knees closer to your chest until you realise its him, and then you just look guilty. Beel’s chest hurts, he feels horrible - what happened to make you feel like this? Could he help, or should he go get someone else? He asks just as much, voice somewhat broken over the questions as he hesitates. He doesn’t get this anxious often, but right now you remind him of Belphie a few thousand years ago, and he doesn’t know what to do with that.

He pushes the thought away and slides closer, sitting against the wall beside you. His presence might not help, and he waits for you to tell him to leave, but after a while you press against his side and he opens his arms to you and holds you as tight as he can until you feel a little bit okay again. And then he asks, again, what’s wrong, and he waits for you to tell him, shaking but as patient as can be. You open up to him slowly, and he listens.

Beel doesn’t know how to help, doesn’t think he’d be a good tutor for you, doesn’t know how to relieve the stress really. But, he promises his arms are always there if you want a warm hug, and... he is sure that there is some resolution to be found, but for now you should just do your best and that’s all anyone could expect from you, and if anyone doesn’t like that then... he’ll be your bodyguard, ready to defend you at any moment. He was good at that, sometimes.

Beel smiles at you and gives you the warmest smile he can manage before tucking your head back against his shoulder or chest. He tells you to rest for a little while, and then you can try working again later. Whilst you’re asleep, he pulls out his D.D.D. and messages Belphie asking for advice, and then Lucifer. By the time you wake up, he’s got a few tips from the brothers and a tutoring timetable is being organised by Lucifer for the two of you, so that you wouldn’t be alone.

Belphegor

Belphie doesn’t know why he was on his way to your room, and he stops thinking about it the second he throws the door open and sees you crying. He’s too tired to put the pieces together as he looks around, too tired to really take in the room, but he’s on high alert when he runs over and wraps you in his arms, looking around properly to see if anyone was there, if anyone had hurt you.

You can hear him growling in the back of his throat until he slowly relaxes, shoulders lowering as he takes in how messy your room is. It must’ve been you, he decides, holding you closer to him. A demon would’ve left this place in a horrible state. But nothing was torn, just scattered around.

He’s more awake when he pulls you over to the bed and immediately lays down with you on his chest. He doesn’t get what’s wrong yet, but he’ll figure it out. He wills his powers, his sin’s influence, over you until you’re drowsy and fall asleep, still sniffling occasionally, and then he starts to work things out.

By the time you wake up, Belphie apologises for how disorientated you might feel. He probably should’ve talked to you first before making you fall asleep. He smiles sheepishly at you, but the concern in his eyes is only thinly veiled, and you can see through to it.

“So, school, huh?” he asks, lopsided smile almost teasing. He wants to make you smile, or laugh if he’s lucky. Instead you make a frustrated noise and press your face into his chest again, and he pats your head to comfort you. You hear him swallow before he pushes against your shoulders to get you to look at him again.

He’s not hiding so much when he asks what’s wrong, and he listens as you stumble through an explanation before sighing and asking if you want to take another nap. He grins when you glare at him, before adjusting you both so you’re sitting up again. “Let’s get to work, then. What subject is first?”

Belphie isn’t the best at a lot of the work, and he’s missed a lot of classes, but he’s a decent help and he keeps your stress down by cracking jokes and patting your head when you do well. He’s a comforting presence, and if you get overwhelmed again he leans his elbows against the desk, head in hands, and suggests you take another nap with him because he could really use one right now. He laughs when you swat at him and tell him to focus, and then looks at you and tells you that you can come to him if you need help, anytime. Don’t wake him up if he’s deep asleep, though - get Mammon or someone stupid to do that, he jokes, just in case he lashes out.

In future, Belphie will tap on your door when he knows you’re studying and, although he often falls asleep at your desk or just immediately heads over to your bed to nap, he gives off a comforting aura that makes the work a bit bearable for longer.

[rinharu-purple]

Thoughts on S2 CH 26-29

Not gonna lie, I'm low key jealous about Kiro x MC intimacy since the last chapter. First MC touching his lips and now them being lovey dovey in a bed of spring flowers, but also how MC plays with his armband. I just love it!

All the scenes shown before changing to MC x Gavin scene deserve a separate post so I'm just going to leave it at the fact that they've shown the Ferris Wheel at the end of them all. (I still have a draft laying around somewhere about the importance of the Ferris Wheel in Gavin and MC's relationship.)

Also yet another Gavin and MC are getting lost in each other's eyes scene as I mentioned here. I think it's officially a Gavin trademark now alongside hugging MC from behind.

Also why does Gavin look so hot in here?🔥🔥🔥 I feel like we will miss him a lot in the coming weeks/months. Although, there is a new Gavin karma coming soon?

MCs dress in Victor's karma is slaying! I agree with Cheri by all means 💞 Too bad we can't see her face completely. :/

Do the writers hate Lucien so much? Everyone gets a fairly nice karma except for Lucien. Give this man a break will ya? It's on my wishlist 2022 so please give Lucien a happy scene for once. 😇

I believe in 2022 PG is going to give each LI around his birthday a lovey dovey Main story card with MC. It was like that for Victor, it's like this for Kiro, so my eyes are on Gavin aaaand maybe Shaw if we are lucky.

But please PLEASE not a 12 y/o thing like holding hands for Gavs PG, you should know Gavin stans by now, our intimacy requires more than that 😉 As Gavs is disappearing again, how about a bone breaking heart to heart embrace when he's back? Preferably on MCs balcony at midnight, followed by yet another waltz in the air at midnight💕 Who knows maybe his final scene from the PV is also from MCs balcony?

All things aside... Another reset? Come on PG! Is this supposed to be a warning that the end is near? Which would make sense considering how much dynamic the game has lost and also other otome games like L&N are topping MLQC in terms of popularity.

OK this is probably just me, but don't the letters on Shaw’s bracelet kinda look like NW... You know... As in New World or New weapons? Just me? Okay 😔

[diavolosthots]

Hi, hope this comes out right, been looking forward to making a request. So, I was hoping for hurt and comfort scenario where a reader is oddly reminded of their families passing, and is obviously not good at pretending they're fine and Lucifer or Satan calls their bluff, and offers mc a shoulder to cry on. Sorry for the weird ask, it's been rough.

Hey babes im so sorry it took so long for me to get this. Wherever you are, if you're still around, I hope you're doing okay ❤

Warning: mentions of death

A Good Book (SATAN X GN!READER)

The Devildom was so pretty, or at least, it was to you. The endless night sky that never once seemed to falter, filled with millions of stars that you didn’t recognize, filled you with a sense of comfort. Odd flowers native to the area brought curiosity to your mind, and even the animals that some might deem as creepy gave you a feeling of joy. The Devildom, although meant for sinners only, was beautiful, and maybe, just maybe, you would prefer it over heaven. Diavolo does well in keeping it up right and of course, even with most of its citizens being demons, the general public does a great job at helping out with that. If someone had told you that hell would be like this, you may have called them crazy, but maybe they just want you to think it’s bad because it’s, well, hell. You’re not supposed to enjoy it, after all. 

Truthfully, under different circumstances, you may not have enjoyed it as much, but the darkness and change of scenery actually gave you time to forget about things going on in your regular life, and the friendships you have formed along the way also allowed you to think of new things, different things. A smile crept across your face as you recalled the many shenanigans that you and the brothers have come up with over the past few months and your heart ached at the thought of you potentially having to leave this place. “I love it here….” it was spoken more so to yourself, but it held power outside of yourself. You did love it here and you loved everyone you meet here. Still, today you couldn’t shake off the feeling of sadness. Everything reminded you of them and it took everything inside you to hold it together for the rest of your day at RAD, up until the point where you would be back at the House of Lamentation, at which point you would allow yourself to break down. 

And you did! You made it all the way to the house, but right as you were about to enter through the door, a yellow butterfly flew past you. “Butterfly…” which caused you to break down immediately. Thankfully, the brothers were nowhere near you at the moment and you managed to run up the stairs and into your room, where you threw yourself on your bed and cried. A stupid butterfly just had to come and ruin it, didn’t it? Where did it even come from? You didn’t know. Did the Devildom even have butterflies? You’ve never seen one before… it made you sad. It reminded you on that day where they passed and you hated how every time you saw a butterfly, it brought back that memory. Butterflies…. “Little Angels..” is what they used to call them although you found it hard to believe. 

“(Y/N)? Are you in there? I took your potions book by accident.” Satan. You wanted to tell him to just go away but you didn’t actually have a reason for him to leave. If you yelled at him to go away, he’d be worried and confused and maybe even slightly agitated, wondering what he had done. If you didn’t say anything, there’s a chance he’d open the door anyway just to leave the book in your room. There was no way out so you quickly wiped whatever is left of the tears and looked at yourself in the reflection of your phone, smiling softly before clearing your throat before calling out to him. “Yeah I’m here. Just place it on the dresser.” Maybe if you opened your phone and pretended to scroll through Devilgram, it wouldn’t be so bad… or so obvious. The door opened and Satan walked in, smiling softly at you as he held up the book, “My bad… I thought I took mine but when I checked my bag, I had two, so I figured this one is yours.” The smile you had put on while looking at yourself was still on and you nodded at him, “it happens… no big deal.” And you hoped that, with those words, he would leave again.

“What are you doing?” Of course not. As a matter of fact, he shut the door and walked into your room and your body screamed to just run. You can’t sit up now, can you? Your throat is suddenly feeling tight and you forced yourself to sit up, showing him your phone and how you were just scrolling through Devilgram. “Just…. A bit of social media.” “You sound sad.” Okay, way to go being blunt Satan. His statement caught you off guard and you kind of looked at him dumbfounded for a moment. Had he figured it out already? By just looking at you? That’s impossible, “what?” You laughed. It sounded hollow but you laughed, “don’t be ridiculous! I’m just… tired. RAD has been kicking my ass.” He looked at you like you were just…. Dumb. Like you took him for a fool. “Lies. I know a liar when I see one. What’s wrong?” 

Something about being caught just made you feel anxious. It made you stiffen and blink a few too many times and your lip is quivering again and your hand is shaking, you can feel it, and if you don’t pause and look away you’ll cry again and…. “Hey… what’s wrong?” The second time he asks, you actually cry. You can feel the tears roll down your cheeks and your vision is becoming blurry. Your hands move up to your face to hide as you sobbed, shaking your head and silently praying that he would just leave. Satan, however, didn’t. He was confused, for sure, and part of him was scared that he had indirectly done something to you that made you so emotional in his presence. “(Y/N)... talk to me…” He reached a hand out, carefully, to place on your back, rubbing over it. “I-I….” but you couldn’t even get a word out. His touch was strangely comforting and you quickly leaned into it, throwing yourself at him until your arms wrapped around his waist and his own were forced to wrap around yours too. 

“(Y/N)....” “I…. they’re dead… I’ll never see them again….. I still can’t believe it…” He’s confused on who you mean but right now it also feels like a sin to interrupt your talking so he stays silent, just rubbing over your back instead and pulling you closer against him. “They died… shortly before I came here… and… I didn’t…. I didn’t get to say goodbye, not really….” Your tears and hurt are silently breaking his heart and he wishes he could actually take it away from you; you don’t deserve this. “A-and… I hoped… the Devildom would… would take my mind off it…” you are sobbing harder now, moving your hands underneath his jacket and clinging to the back of his sweater, “b-but then I…. I saw that stupid butterfly….. And I couldn’t…” It’s all because of a stupid butterfly. You really did blame everything on it. 

Satan’s lips attached to your head gently while one of his arms moved up to push your head further into his chest, his fingers raking through your hair tenderly as he did so. “Sshh…” He won’t tell you it’s okay. He knows it’s not. He also knows better than to attempt and make it okay. There’s not much he can say or do here, but he will try anyway, because somewhere in his mind, he felt similar when Lucifer lost Lilith. “I won’t tell you it’ll be okay… although I hope for you it will be… but, a good book once said that butterflies are little helpers from G… the man upstairs,” Sorry (Y/N), he can’t bring himself to say that name, “and if you whisper a wish to it, it will go up to heaven and ask for it to come true.” Obviously he doesn’t believe that, but there is a sense of comfort coming from that saying, even for him.

You sniffled, trying to calm yourself enough to listen to him. It made sense. Somewhere in your mind, it made sense. You nodded, still crying but you wanted him to know that you were listening, “thank you…” but please don’t let go. You didn’t add the last part, but seeing as he didn’t let go, you take it as him understanding that you need a little more time. Satan was warm and oddly comforting, and you wanted to just be held by him for a little bit longer, to get lost in him a little bit more, 

Like a good book. 

[parisa-kh]

Here For You (AU series)

Chapter 1. A Revelation

Book: Open heart

Paring: Ethan Ramsey x F!MC (Haley Rochester) x M!OC (Alexander Solace)

Word count: 1845

Rating: T

Category: angst

Warnings: mentions of domestic violence

Series premise: Near the end of her intern year, Haley's marriage is about to fall apart. How is it gonna affect her relationship with Dr. Ramsey?

Chapter premise: After an awful night at home, Haley has to face her colleagues, or more specifically, Ethan.

A/N: This is my first fanfiction, and I am so excited to share it with you guys. English is not my first language, so I apologize in advance if there are mistakes or typos. A special thanks to @utterlyinevitable for editing and commenting and for her great suggestions. You're the best! <3

She stood in front of the mirror, looking at her reflection, eyes filled with sadness and color drained from her face. Her eyes fell on the bruises on her jaw and neck. Touching them with her fingertips, she remembered the events of the previous night. It was new, she was getting used to his irrational and sometimes aggressive behavior, but last night he crossed a line that wasn't easy to come back from.

He wasn't always like that. Once he was this sweet, loving man who supported her through everything and did everything he could to see her smile. She didn't know when exactly things started to change. Maybe it was when they moved to Boston for her to learn from her medical hero. Things were great at first, they were happily married, enjoying the second year of their relationship, living in their bubble happy and carefree.

Starting her job at Edenbrook, Haley used to talk about the Dr. Ramsey a lot. She called him a "handsome jerk" when she told Alex about her first day. As time went by, Haley started to like and admire his mentor, enthusiastically telling stories in which Dr. Ramsey had the leading role. Then she got busier as the top intern, and her workload and the amount of time she spent with Ethan started to take their toll. So when Alex met Ethan at a hospital party, the insane jealousy found its way into their relationship. Haley never expected such a misunderstanding and such reactions from Alex. It wasn't like him at all, but you never know someone fully until you go through thick and thin together, she thought.

Maybe it was the first test in their relationship, only months after getting married, and despite the horror she went through last night, she was still hopeful about working things out. Nonetheless, there was a little voice inside her head Haley couldn't ignore despite her greatest efforts, telling her they rushed into the marriage, maybe it was too soon, maybe she didn't know him like she thought she did.

The sound of the front door pulled Haley out of her thoughts, making her look back into the mirror, trying to find a way to cover the bruises. Using foundation and concealer didn't seem enough.

"I can wear a turtleneck in the spring, right? It's still not that warm."

Opening the drawer to take out her blouse, she was startled by his voice coming from their bedroom door:

"Haley?"

She looked at his reflection in the mirror, his face contorted with pain and regret. He came closer to hug her from behind, but she didn't let him:

"Stay away from me!" ‏She yelled, tears welling up in her eyes. She lowered her voice. "Alex, just ... give me some time, I can't... I can't look at you or be near you right now. Just leave me alone, please."

Swallowing the lump in her throat, she averted her eyes from him. His hands froze in the middle of the way, realizing it was not at all the time to apologize for how he screwed up. He nodded in understanding and left the room without a word.

Haley let out a breath she didn't know she was holding, hastily got ready to go to the hospital. Edenbrook was her happy place. Her friends were there, her job, her patients, and Ethan.

Although Ethan Ramsey was easily the grumpiest man she'd ever met, after almost a year they had established kind of a close friendship, especially now that they were secretly working together to find a cure to save Naveen. However, today she wasn't willing to be seen by anyone, especially Ethan with those sharp piercing eyes. One wrong movement was enough for him to see the bruises, and then a very awkward conversation would ensue.

Everything went well until the evening.

She had successfully avoided her friends and Ethan altogether, but her last patient of the day was in such an awful condition that she couldn't keep it together anymore. All the sorrow and anger accumulated from the night before, together with seeing her patient on their death bed made it really hard to keep it together. Haley fled to the stairwell, trying to subside the panic that was rising in her chest, making it difficult for her to breathe. She stood near the window, trying to calm herself down, tears running down her face. Just when she was loosening her collar to breathe a little easier, she heard Ethan's concerned voice from behind her,

"Dr. Rochester? Are you alright?"

Before she was able to answer, his eyes fell on the bruises on her neck that she had tried to cover all day. His eyes widened and the worry on his face doubled, and a shadow of anger darkened his expression. Before he knew what he was doing, his hand reached out to her neck, stopping an inch away,

"What the hell happened to you?!"

Haley swallowed, staring back at him, not knowing what to say. At this moment, all she wanted to do was to pour everything out and cry for hours in her attending's arms that felt like the safest place. Haley knew Ethan had a kind heart. He would have protected her and helped her in every possible way. Torn between the need to confide in him and the urge to respect the privacy of her family life, she heard Ethan's voice again, getting more and more restless by the second. "Haley! Talk to me…For god's sake, did someone try to choke you?!"

Lying to Ethan wasn't easy. Especially when he was standing only a few inches away, demanding answers. She was already tired, and the heady scent of his cologne was making her dizzy.

"We, uh...my husband and I had a little fight... we'll be fine. There is nothing to worry about."

Her attempt to sound indifferent didn't fool Ethan. He was outraged, unknowingly raising his voice, "Your husband did this to you?!"

Trying to calm himself, he took a deep breath which wasn't helpful. He pinched the bridge of his nose.

"And you're telling me it's fine?? Haley, this is not fine! He... he..." Ethan was at a loss for words. "He cannot do this to you!"

Haley looked down at her feet, her voice barely audible.

"I know how it looks, but we are going to work on it...I know what you're thinking, but I just...I don't want my marriage to fall apart." She looked up at him. "And please, Dr. Ramsey, stop shouting. People are gonna hear you!"

"I know I'm overstepping my boundaries, but this..." mentioning her bruises, "this doesn't look like fine or something that's ever going to be fine. It's concerning, to say the least." He pleaded, or better say, argued.

Ethan didn't know if he was more sad or angry. The sight of her battered and bruised was breaking his heart. The thought of someone laying their hands on her was driving him crazy.

"I appreciate your concern, really." She said." But right now, what I need from you is not to judge… if you want to help, just... stay here with me for a second."

His expression softened at her request. "Alright... if that's what you want."

When they sat down together, Haley suddenly put her head on his shoulder and started to cry, releasing the sorrow she had been trying to suppress all day. Ethan ran his hands up and down her arms, trying to calm her down. "It's Ok Rookie... let it out."

The rest of the day was uneventful. Ethan, however, watched Haley like a Hawk, waiting for any signs of sadness or discomfort to give her reassurance with a subtle smile, give her a cup of coffee, or send her to rest in an on-call room, whatever he could do to make her feel better. But she didn't show anything.

After their encounter in the stairwell, Haley was feeling much better. Her heart was lighter and warmer at the thought of the man who was there for her, sitting right across the table in the diagnostic office. She wasn't alone. She knew that. At least inside the walls of the hospital she was safe and sound. She wasn't ready to think about what was going to happen when she got home, for which she was grateful that she was on-call for the night. She could focus on doing what she loved and help the man she admired the most to save his mentor's life.

Around midnight, Ethan and Haley were sitting together on the sofa, hovering over the medical journals on the coffee table. They were working in silence when Haley's phone vibrated with an incoming text. Her face fell when she looked at it. Ethan could feel anxiety radiating from her. Feeling Ethan's attentive gaze, Haley looked up at him and explained in a sarcastic tone.

"It's Alex, begging for forgiveness." She rolled her eyes.

Ethan tore his gaze from Haley and put down a magazine he was holding. Something was bothering him.

"Can I ask you something? You're free not to answer if you're not comfortable."

"You want to ask about the fight, don't you?" Haley asked nervously.

God, she knew him so well, he thought. No matter how much he tried to keep his guard up, Haley always found her way in, getting to know him better than anyone. He chose his words carefully.

"I just want to know… what went so horribly wrong… to make you fight like this, to make him…." He trailed off, unable to finish his sentence.

"You really wanna know?" Haley looked at him with surprise. Was he asking out of curiosity, or did he care that much about her? To shatter his stoic facade and ask something so personal. Her dark brown eyes stared into his blue ones as if trying to find her answer in them.

"Yes. I wanna know, I… I need to know."

His heart was aching for the young woman in front of him -so innocent and kind, so brilliant and once full of life. What was happening to her was so unfair. He had noticed the changes in her behavior, how she was losing the spark in her eyes day after day, how she was no longer the stubborn intern who annoyed him the most but at the same time made his days brighter. He needed to know.

"He wants kids; I said no." Haley shifted uncomfortably in her seat. She could feel the warmth of Ethan's body. They were sitting too close for the revelation that was about to come. Would he even want to hear the answer if he knew what it was? Would their friendship survive it? What if Ethan goes back to being the stone-cold Dr. Rmsey again? Was she going to lose him now that she needed him the most?

Haley hung her head for a moment, then looked at him mournfully. "He thinks you're the reason."

‏

[ariendiel]

Hi! Do you have any headcanons for Lucas x Henrik x Marisol together? I love your headcanons so much, and your blog is beautiful, it’s one of my favourites!

Thank you, Iris, that means a lot! 💙 And of course I'll write you some headcanons, and I think this might the first without MC in the mix, which makes it a fun new challenge

Henrik x Lucas x Marisol Sandwich Headcanons

Can we just imagine Lurik is a couple already for this one? With them inviting Marisol to join? I can see Lucas and Marisol being a couple too, but I think I prefer it this way... especially for pride month

Who wouldn't want to invite Marisol along to spice up thing in the bedroom a bit? I feel like she's almost more relaxed when there are no strings attached, so she would be happy to join in – especially with such a hot couple as Lurik

Lucas would be quite preoccupied with Henrik, which means he'd enjoy it all the more when Marisol starts touching him. Yes, Lucas feels like he always should be giving, but that doesn't mean he's not in need of attention too

Henrik would feel a bit giggly at first, unable to avoid feeling almost ticklish with anticipation. Yes, he's experienced, but every time he's naked with a new person he just finds it so... exciting

Once he finds his aloof confidence again though he's just as energetic and eager as always.

Imagining Marisol trying to deal with his puppy energy though. She'd definitely let Lucas handle him mostly while she enjoys watching and touching herself. Maybe she'll help Lucas tie the Swede up and fondle him a bit when he's helpless

Marisol having Henrik eat her out while Lucas f*cks Henrik is a given.

Hair pulling. So much hair pulling. I don't know, but I think more than one person involved here would be so into it, just saying

Henrik is big into receiving aftercare, and Lucas is a big softie after getting laid so there would be cuddles. Not sure if Marisol would stay though, although I do think she tends to soften up after sex too... After going to pee and taking care of those sensible matters of course

This threesome would only happen once, to avoid Marisol getting attached, but it'd be such a good night

Friendships and relationships headcanons masterpost

[asmolemmeeatyouout]

The boys with Autistic! MC! part two ! SFW

(Bc I’m self indulgent and like 5 ppl wanted it so yesyesyes)

(Had my first proper spoonie day in a while today so imma finish this after what 4 months? Whoopsie. Sorry if any of the points overlap I’ve not re read my last post, please shoot me an ask if you want anything clarified/expanded on !)

Lucifer:

Has to stop his brothers from constantly bothering you when you’re overwhelmed (they’re just worried)

You very quickly learn his office is the safest place to be when overwhelmed due to the dim lighting and the brother deterring curse on his doorway

He has a record player and SO much classical music for when you need background noise

This leads to impromptu slow dancing when you insist he needs a break and there’s music playing

If you have your own records, the *smoother ones will end up mixed in with his

*smoother as in less staccato /distracting because he is most likely working

Very much enjoys spending time in silence with you, he finds it comfortng to just exist with someone without having anything needed of him

Especially if you’re both doing your own thing, like you just being in the room with him (playing a game or reading or smthn) while he does his paperwork is so soothing to him

Mammon:

Have you seen his horns? They’re so smooth and shinyyy, a+++ stimming material

He loves head pats so he’ll willingly put his head in your lap when you watch movies

he’s very proud of his demon form but also kind of shy so it’ll take some coaxing to get him to let you touch his horns but when he sees how content it makes you? It’s his new favourite hobby letting you play with his hair and horns during movies

(That said they’re very sensitive (like him) so be gentle)

He WILL adopt your love language and mannerisms:

if you bump people he will start knocking into you constantly, (wrists, hips, shoulders, head, any and all on random repeat)

if you like to collect and give things to people he will a. Hoard them in a little shrine (that he Denys. having) and b. Start looking for things he can give you back

If you rub textures you like you’ll find him stroking your arms/face/jumper right back (sometimes with his face, but only ever in private because he feels vulnerable using such a soft form of affection)

Levithian:

You cannot tell me this man isn’t autistic

Communication is SO! EASY!

Then even If you don’t understand you can just ask. You can just ask and he’ll tell you. None of this ‘figure it out yourself’ nt bullshit

Our baby has anxiety anyway so he’s probably ‘over’ explained it before you can say anything

(Over explained in the sense of nt, personally I love it when ppl get really detailed)

In that case he gets embarrassed about how much he’s talking so it’s your turn to reassure him that he’s not boring you

The solace you get in realising you like all of his autistic traits soothes your own insecurities

That being said your anxiety (if you have it) is matchy matchy so don’t expect him to talk to the cashier for you

He’s very chill with you being non verbal because either he’s absorbed in his own game/anime/show or it means there’s more room for him to talk about his interests

That being said if your special interests/ hyperfixations don’t line up on any given day? The bickering over who’s turn it is to infodump gets intense (this is the one source of all your arguments)

All the other brothers are kind of terrified/jealous of your relationship, especially when they see you talking about a shared special interest because you talk rapid fire and very in-depth. to them it’s almost like you’re talking in code or another language because they know all the individual words but what the everloving fuck are you on about

Asmodeus:

Has specific outfits he wears when he wants you to hug him (which is always). They’re made out of the softest material, or any clothing of his you’ve expressed a texture interest in.

Finds it so amusing when you come rushing over to rub your face against his chest bc mmmmm softsoftsoft

Likes to text you in the morning to see how you’re feeling (and how sensory sensitive you are because god forbid his outfit with chains and jangles stops him from seeing you)

Understands better than Anyone that affection and love can be shown in a whole barrage of ways not just physically

Figures out how you show affection faster than any of the other brothers

Immediately starts reciprocating it (partly bc he’s selfishly trying to make you love him most)

Satan:

Will learn about your special interests so he can engage you on the topic

Is the ONLY person in the house you can talk about any special interest with, no matter how niche because he loves learning (although he does prefer the *academic* side of them rather than pop culture but he will listen to both)

*academic* as in something involving learning about something or crafting or *how* to do something, not just like, maths

You’re pretty much the only person who can keep up with him in terms of knowledge and enthusiasm (even if it’s only for very specific things) and thus you become the person he talks to about his interests

Originally kind of annoyed by how absentminded you are (because you forget several dates) but once you get settled into a routine he starts to find it cute how habitual you are, and then realises it could work to his advantage.

He then schedules a date into your weekly routine (or biweekly depending on your energy levels) so you start to get upset if it’s missed bc it’s part of your routine. (Satan is ridiculously smart and is very much willing to manipulate your routine to his (and yours) advantage, he is a demon after all)

Beelzebub:

Gives the best squishes. He’s just so big he can literally envelope you (in other news he is terrified of hurting you so he’s very nervous at first, he’s used to huggin ppl very gently bc he is a muscle mountain)

Maybe don’t use chew stims around him (unless he’s eating) because seeing you use them will either make him hungry, or he’ll ask to see it and oops it’s been swallowed hope you didn’t want that back (he’s very apologetic he really didn’t mean to but it was in his mouth and chewed before he could think)

Literally the kindest man in the universe, if you have issues with shame or *guilt* (especially if it creeps outta nowhere or it relates to not being able to do something) he will a. Reassure you and give you cuddles until you feel okay (or one on one bonding time if you’re too touch sensitive) then b. Go help with whatever task was too much so you don’t have to worry

Belphagor:

Have I mentioned the stuffies? This boy definitely has a stash of soft toys that all have names and personalities. This originally stemmed from the fact he was locked alone in an attic for a year, he needed some form of company or he was gonna go crazy, and sleeping alone is meh in his opinion. But then he became attached and after you showed him yours? And you weren’t ashamed of your teddy bears or how much you loved them he confided in you about his. (And you had a tea party)

Problems sleeping ? (Me too bud it’s 3.44 am lol) nonononno baby boy has got you, just snuggle up to him and you’ll be snoozing in no time (I HC that being around belphagor just makes you a little sleepy and the longer you’re there the stronger the urge to sleep gets)

You’re at rad (or out in public and can’t leave) and get overstimmed? Belphie has got you! He keeps sunglasses on him so he can secretly sleep when he’s not supposed to. Also (imo) he’s the king of hoodies, both his main outfits have a hood (and you can’t convince me he doesn’t wear one of them over his uniform as soon as lucifer dips), my boy will slip his hoodie on you and wrap you in a hug to get you away from the noise/sights

(I am now too tired to write anymore, hope yall enjoyed!)

[jerzwriter]

Three Times

Book:                   Open Heart (Book 1/ Post Series)

Pairing:                Ethan Ramsey x F!MC (Kaycee MacClennan)

Rating:                 Teen

Category:            Fluff

Summary:           Three times Ethan said I love you, and once he even used the words.  Based on a reader request for a drabble where Ethan tells Kaycee he loves her. I decided to do three little drabbles, each marking a different phase of their relationship and lives.

Words:                 1200

    @choices-november2022 – Day 20 – I love you

CHARACTERS BELONG TO PIXELBERRY STUDIOS.

Everything was surreal. Just this morning, Kaycee didn’t know what her future would hold; now, here she was, surrounded by friends and colleagues celebrating her victory. It was all a bit overwhelming if she were to be truthful, but these were the people who never left her side, and she was not about to turn them away.

“I’m not gonna lie,” Bryce stated dramatically. “When Luis Martinez walked in? I thought your goose was cooked.”

“I still can’t believe he was here to thank you!” Sienna breathed with relief.

“Kaycee, did you know he was coming?” Maureen asked.

“Hey, give her space,” Elijah insisted, “the important question is where are we going to celebrate!”

Although her head was spinning, she kept smiling no matter how fast the questions and statements came her way. Then, almost instinctively, she looked up toward the skylights in the atrium, and that’s where she spotted him.

Ethan looked so handsome. More relaxed than she had seen him in months. Leaning over the rail on the staircase landing, he wore a tender, almost ethereal look as he gazed her way. He nodded in response to her gentle smile and wave, then he turned to proceed up the stairs. There was no need to interrupt her celebration with friends, and unbeknownst to Kaycee, Harper was already waiting to speak to him in her office.

“Kaycee! I want to know why you didn’t deck Declan!” Another resident teased to a chorus of laughter, “I lost $20 on that!”

“Uh, sorry,” she blushed, “maybe next time… now if you’ll excuse me a moment….”

Without another word, she raced up the stairs attempting to catch an oblivious Ethan.

“Ethan! Ethan!” She hollered after him, catching his attention just before he stepped into a waiting elevator.

“Thank heaven I caught you,” she beamed as she neared. 

“I’m right here,” he smiled. “I assumed you’d want to be with your friends.”

“I do. But I’d also like to be with you. Ethan,” she whispered, gently touching his wrist. “Did, did you… were you responsible for Luis showing up?”

He didn’t answer at first, shifting uncomfortably as he looked past her shoulder, and that was all the confirmation that she needed.  

“I… I can’t believe you did that for me,” she spoke with a voice full of emotion.

“You acted in Tereasa’s best interest because you genuinely cared about her. You’re a talented doctor who will help countless people throughout your career. There was no way I would allow you to go down if I could help it.”

Her features softened, and she gulped as she squeezed his wrist tighter. “Things weren’t looking good, if he hadn’t come… I don’t know how to repay you. I… I’ll never forget this,” she smiled with tears glistening.

“If doing the right thing wasn’t reward enough, seeing the look on your face right now is.”

They stood in comfortable silence, staring a little too intensely and for too long, then Ethan broke the spell. 

“Well, uh. I’m sure your friends are waiting for you….”

“Oh, yeah. Will you come by Donahue’s to help celebrate?”

“I wouldn’t miss it for the world.”

~~~~~

Ethan was racing around their apartment, becoming increasingly frantic.

“Kaycee, do you know where the car keys are?”

“They were on the counter a moment ago!” She yelled from Emma’s room, emerging with their daughter in one arm and a stacked diaper bag in the other. 

It was the first day they would both be back to work since Emma was born, and everything that could go wrong did.

“Well, they’re not here anymore.”

“I’m sure they just…” she looked to the side and saw where they had fallen onto a stool. “Here you go,” she smiled brightly, even though Ethan could see how nervous she was in her eyes.

Reaching over, he caressed her cheek gently. “Everything is going to be fine, Kaycee. You know that, right?”

“Theoretically,” she chuckled. 

“Before you know it, the day will be over, and the three of us will be sitting on that couch, snuggled up together.”

Her shoulders dropped visibly as her tension released, a genuine smile on her face. “I can’t wait.”

Taking a few steps forward, he closed the distance between them, and held his wife and baby daughter in his arms. 

“It’s practically a miracle that this is my life, Kaycee. And it’s all because of you.”

“Ethan,” she demurred. “It’s not only….”

“Yes,” he said, silencing her with a gentle kiss. “It is, and I only hope you know how much I love you and how grateful I am to you. Every minute, of every day.”

“Ethan,” she cooed, embracing him tighter as Emma babbled in her arms. “I love you, too. And it will be all right because we’re doing this together.”

“Exactly,” he smiled. “Now, we probably should get going.”

“Yep, let’s get this day over with so we can get home to that couch.”  

Ethan smiled brightly, “There is nothing I want more.”

~~~~~ 

“Kaycee!” Ethan exclaimed as he entered the kitchen. “What are you doing?”

She turned around slowly, but not by design, wearing a sheepish expression when she finally met his eyes. Aging wasn’t always easy, and while they tended to be in good health, neither was quite what they used to be. But after Kaycee’s operation last week, the doctor insisted she take it easy, and Ethan stayed home to ensure she complied. But waking him just to get her a cup of coffee seemed silly, so she tried… even though she knew she shouldn’t.

“I just didn’t want to wake you, dear. I know you haven’t been sleeping well, and I just wanted….”

“Sweetheart, if you fall again, it could lead to irreparable damage. You know that even if Dr. Sweeney hadn’t gone out of his way to emphasize it.”

“Ethan,” she sighed. “I just hate being a burden, being a bother….”

“A burden?” he challenged. “A bother? Do you think you could ever be either of those things to me?”

“I don’t know,” she smiled, “you always said I was a colossal pain in the ass.”

“And I meant it,” he grinned. “But you’re my colossal pain in the ass, and it will never be a burden to care for you. It’s a privilege. Now, let’s get you back to bed, and then I’ll happily make you a cup of coffee. But no more stunts like this young lady, do you understand?”

“Young lady,” she chuckled, “that ship sailed a long time ago, I’m afraid.”

“Well, you’ll always be younger than me. So young lady it is. Now, can we get you back into bed? Or are you going to make this old man carry you?”

“No,” she smiled, taking his arm. “I wouldn’t want to do that.”

“Good, because we don’t need poor Emma coming here and finding both of us on the floor!”

“Oh, heaven forbid!” Kasey laughed as they returned slowly down the hall.

“But it would have been your fault,” he chided.

“It would not; you’re the one who insisted on carrying me,” Casey’s voice trailed. 

“And you’re the one who wasn’t following the doctor’s orders.”

“We’re squabbling,” she laughed. 

“I know. I’m happy to see you feeling better.”

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[perriewinklenerdie]

Follow my steps (Ethan Ramsey x MC)

Pairing: Ethan Ramsey x Claire Herondale

Word count: 3,8 k

Summary: OH3 Chapter 12/13 added content. Claire gets fed up with the way Ethan’s been treating her lately. She gives him one last chance to make things right, at Boston Opera House - for old time’s sake.

Warnings: It’s angst time.

A/N: I don’t even know what’s going on lately. I wanted angst and here it is. My girl C really is running thin on her patience for her man’s bullshit (and so am I).

Are you okay? was the first message he received from her that day. He left shortly after he revealed his departure from the team, so her concern really should be no surprise. Still, he sighed deeply, silenced his phone and turned it screen side down, then went back to cooking, unsure what his answer would be.

Minutes dragged by, yet somehow turned into hours and before he knew it, the sun was racing towards the horizon. Almost completely consumed by it. He reached for his phone, planning on heading to his living room and rest his mind after he spent what felt like ages of grueling research into his options. His face twisted into a frown at the sight of his screen. Immediately after, blood drained from his face.

Ethan, please let me know you’re in one piece.

A simple ‘I’m fine’ would be enough. Seriously, I’m getting worried.

He battled with his brain, still uncertain what to tell her. She had enough on her plate with the team and the Boards, she didn’t need his problems to be added onto the already enormous pile. He replied with the only thing he could think of in that moment, resenting himself for letting her worry about him for so long.

I’m okay.

By the time he sat down on the couch and some ridiculous show was playing in the background – Claire was the one that introduced him to it, and he would never admit it, but he enjoyed their debates about it – a new message was waiting for him.

Oh, thank god.

Followed shortly after by a longer one, contents of which made him feel a pit opening in his stomach.

So, want to share with class why you went radio silent for the whole day, instead of, I don’t know, letting your girlfriend know that you’re not dead so she could worry a bit less?

He had no answer to that. How was he supposed to tell her that he was terrified of what was to come and that it could possibly be fatal for him? How was he supposed to say that he didn’t want her to be even associated with the case, because he cared about her too much to risk her getting affected by it too?

In the end, he didn’t reply. And she didn’t say anything else. An impasse, of his own doing, that he had no idea how to end. He knew he had to do something – she was a very patient woman, much more patient than him, but even she had her limits. And this? This wasn’t the first time he’s pushed her away in a similar manner.

Although he was aware of that, he still refused to call her. It was getting late, she was probably studying or getting ready for bed. She needed her rest, the next week was incredibly important for her future as a doctor.

That’s what he told himself for the next two days. Every time he felt a tingle in his hand to contact her, he reminded himself of her commitments and pushed the thought down. Despite that, every single time his phone made even the smallest sound, he threw himself towards it, hoping that it was her.

It wasn’t. Two days of no contact between them.

Realizing how long it’s been made him think of their conversation a few months back. They were sitting in the exact same place he currently occupied, close to each other. His hand holding hers with certainty.

They promised each other no more secrets. No more pushing each other away. And honest conversation. All of which were his ideas. He whispered all of them with deep sense of urgency, in a fever-like state that surprised her. She nodded her head eagerly, muttering words of affirmation, then let him pull her onto him, their lips meeting again and again in a soft reassurance.

He’s broken the rules he wanted them so much to have. And not even once. No wonder she didn’t try to get in touch with him – he’s given her every indication that he didn’t want to talk about it, and she pushed only until a certain point was reached.

“I can take a hint, you know.” She once joked, poking his ribs when they walked out of the patient’s room, their initial consult being far from ideal. He smiled sadly at the memory, his chest aching from her absence.

As though he called her with his thoughts, his phone announced an incoming message. He planned what he would say, what he would do once he saw her – and what he would not do in the future. He hated when they didn’t talk to each other, and he hated the thought of losing her even more.

Instead of her words, like he expected, the screen greeted him with a single picture she sent him. Two tickets, for an evening show at Boston Opera House. A clear invitation, an olive branch that she should not have been pushed to extend – she didn’t do anything wrong. He looked closer at the photo, zooming in on the time the show was supposed to start.

Two hours. He had two hours to get himself together. Two hours until he’d see her again.

Heart pounding, he jumped up from his seat and began preparations, dialing another phone number and giving clear instructions to the person on the receiving end of the call.

~

He doesn’t think there’s ever been a time he was this nervous when stepping into the Opera building. And it was a different kind of nervous, a kind he never wanted to experience again. He was used to the anticipation that came with every date they ever had, the good kind of nervousness that stemmed from his inability to wait until he saw her. This, however, was torture in its purest form, and he admitted to himself with a pang of guilt that he subjected himself to it on his own.

His hands were full. Full of flowers that the florist somehow managed to put together when he called frantically two hours ago – he left a hefty tip with a grateful nod. His fingers traced the stems of the white roses, shaking nervously. From time to time, he tugged on the collar of his shirt, restlessly, the uncertainty of what was to come making his breathing labored.

“Nice tux.” She called out, waiting patiently for him to face her. It didn’t take long – her voice made him turn around haphazardly, his eyes drinking in her face and then widening when he noticed the dress she was wearing. Suddenly, he couldn’t see anything else but the way the fabric hugged her in the classiest way.

“Are you trying to kill me?” he breathed out, his brain short circuiting. Her lips curled in a subtle smile. She touched the pearl necklace he once gave her in wonder.

“Haven’t decided yet.”

Ethan took a step towards her, extending the bouquet slightly with an uneasy look. Her eyes fell towards the flowers and, for a moment, he thought he could see her gaze softening. She took the roses from him, the scent reaching her in waves.

“Thank you.” she muttered without looking up at him. Despite her being just mere centimeters away from him, he could still feel the chasm between them – and he felt like the space was suffocating him.

“It’s not nearly enough.” He tried again. Claire hummed, not disagreeing with his words. She reached into her purse, taking two tickets out and handing him one of them. He accepted it gratefully, combing his mind for something that would start a conversation between them. The silence was killing him.

He looked closer at the ticket and noticed something was off. “You didn’t book our booth?”

The corners of her lips shot up slightly at ‘our’. “No, I got us seats in the booth on the other side. I needed…” she hesitated, avoiding his searching gaze. “A change of perspective.”

His mouth opened and closed. She rarely said anything without thinking it through, so the choice of words she used made him feel unease all over again. Claire finally looked up at him, giving him a teasing smirk.

“Before you say anything, I didn’t go bankrupt because of those.” She nodded towards the tickets in their hands. “I have more than enough money to spend on things I want.”

“That resident salary is treating you that well, huh?” he tried joking and it worked. She gave him a laugh, shaking her head.

“A resident that’s also on the Diagnostic Team. And you’re clearly forgetting what my family does for a living.”

“Did you just flex your family muscle on me?” Ethan grinned, taking another step towards her. She nodded, challenging him with her stare. “Are you trying to impress me?”

“That’s your job tonight, babe.” Claire shot back, walking around him swiftly. He froze in place, turning towards her like a sunflower towards the sun – always following where she went. Her hips swayed from side to side alluringly as she walked, and he couldn’t look away. Suddenly, she stopped to look over her shoulder, smirking at the look he was giving her. “Are you coming or not?”

~

The lights from the stage illuminated her face just enough for him to see her features. Since they sat down and the show has started, he’s spent a total of maybe five minutes watching what was happening on stage. Remaining time was occupied by her, on the forefront of his mind and right before his eyes. Her cheeks were reddened slightly – something he noticed when a particularly bright light shone on her face.

They’ve done it countless of times before. Dates. He never got used to nerves that accompanied them, and he hoped he never would. It was a part of the allure that made it all the more exciting. Claire’s always made him feel nervous, since the first day he’s met her. Three years later, he still felt the same spark that ran through him when he first touched her hand.

He turned to her again, unable to ignore the pang that hit him every time he saw her stopping herself from reaching for him. She may have been the one that organized their evening, giving him a chance to make things right between them, but it didn’t mean she was going to ignore what was obviously there.  

She’d never make him talk if he wasn’t ready to do so. Their relationship was built on mutual respect. They recognized when the other needed to talk and when they needed some time to gather their thoughts. Through the time they’ve known each other, they learned to find those cues and signs.

That’s how Claire knew that Ethan wasn’t really ready to tell her what exactly happened, hence why she stuck to texts instead of calls or visits. His lack of any contact, however, hurt her – more so when his previous behaviors similar to this were taken into consideration.

In light of this, her hesitation to initiate any sort of contact between them made perfect sense. All he had to do was let her know that he was okay, however relative it was to say in his current situation, and none of this would be happening. All he had to do was let her in, even if only a little – she’s never asked for anything more. And yet, he couldn’t even give her that, not immediately at least.

It became clear to him that he needed to let her know how much he trusts her. When she said she knew him. When she said she understood him – better than anyone, he added with a grin. When she said she’s falling for him. He trusted all of those words, but his actions didn’t support it. He could see it in her eyes when their gazes crossed earlier that evening. She thought he still sheltered himself from her, and him disappearing, again, was the proof that spoke the loudest.

Slowly, he reached for her hand. A soft brush of his finger against hers, testing the waters to see if she would flinch, if she would push him away or avoid him. When she did none of those things, he carefully covered her hand with his, only to, after a moment, lace their fingers together. Ethan gave her a squeeze, unable to bring himself to look away from the way their hands fit together like two pieces of the same puzzle. She squeezed his hand lightly, still refusing to look him in the eye.

Music swelled around them, tugging on their emotions until it was difficult to breathe. He noticed how her face twisted gently, revealing more of her feelings to him than he’s seen the entire evening. The characters on the stage have separated, each singing their hearts out about the feeling of loss – Claire couldn’t have known that, but the pain in their voices was enough to bring her to the edge of tears by the time the break in the show began.

Before Ethan could say anything, she excused herself breathlessly and walked out of the booth, leaving him alone to his thoughts. And he’s been alone with them for quite some time now.

He began reflecting on the first time he took her to see an opera. The similarity of the situation was striking – he suddenly knew why she suggested this out of every place they could go to. Her thoughtfulness really shouldn’t surprise him, yet he was always amazed with how well she knew what needed to be done. Oftentimes, she neglected her own needs to accommodate others, which left not much space for her in it all. That’s what became one of Ethan’s priorities early on in their relationship – make sure she remembered about herself.

She was taking care of him too, sometimes even unknowingly. Making him take breaks in the middle of the day. Bringing him coffee when he was stuck in meetings and couldn’t walk out of the room for even a second – the whole Board by now knew about their relationship from their first-hand observations, sending him meaningful looks when she left the room.

One thing that spoke more of her feelings for him than anything else was how she persistently stayed by his side through it all. His world was quite literally falling apart, and she was the one holding it in place. She told him that she knew how it felt to risk losing something you’ve worked for, how it felt to come so close to having everything slip away and that she was going to help him in any way she could.

Claire told him all of that when he broke the protocol – yet here they were again. If there was one person between the two of them that had a pattern of behavior, it was him – running away when things got too complicated. Or, as it stood right now, when he didn’t want her to get impacted by his problems. She’s told him that she wants to be impacted, that she wants to help him, because she cares about him. She’s by his side because she cares about him. And he told her he knew and understood her concern, but clearly, he didn’t register it enough, if he was in the exact same position right now. It’s as though he hasn’t learned a thing.

Perhaps she was getting tired of it. If he continued to act the way he’s been acting up until this point, she’d surely be pushed enough to leave him – and he couldn’t imagine a fate worse than that for himself.

It was the last time I let myself run, he thought to himself, cursing for even allowing it to get to this point. Where was his brain when he even considered it a viable option? In what universe would that behavior be okay? Her resolve and persistence became even more striking to him – he knew that he most likely didn’t deserve her.

She was still here, though, so he must have done something right. But one good deed wasn’t enough to make up for letting her down, time and time again. Ethan didn’t need her to tell him that what he was doing was unacceptable – he’s realized it on his own.

It’s never happening again.

Claire walked back into the booth, leaning against the wall to watch him. He was perfectly aware of what she could see in his posture. His nervousness in the way he played with the edge of his jacket. She’s been gone a moment too long and he was a second away from standing up from his seat to go after her.

Ethan turned around at the sound of her steps, refraining from saying anything until she was seated. His hand itched to reach for her, to feel her skin again. He got the permission to do just that, when their gazes finally crossed and she nodded gently. Letting out a shaky sigh of relief, he laced their fingers together, feeling the soft fabric of her dress under his skin.

“I’m sorry.” He muttered, raising their joined hands to kiss her wrist. Claire guided the movement, pressing her palm to his cheek. The gesture ensured their eyes didn’t stray from one another and allowed them a moment of clarity.

“Aren’t you tired of running?” her words were laced with emotions so much, it felt like a mental blow to both of them. It was a simple question that he already knew the answer to. Nothing was more obvious to him.

“I am.”

She held his gaze, silent for a moment, then placed her second hand on his shoulder. “Don’t do it again.” she whispered, a hint of a tear shining in her eyes. “We’ve talked about it before, Ethan. I’m tired of going in circles with you.”

“I know.” He brushed the tear away, bringing her closer to rest his forehead against hers. “You don’t deserve this.”

“No, I don’t.” Claire agreed, nodding her head. She leaned away, lowering their hands and resting them in her lap. “You can tell me anything, in your own time. I’m the last person to judge, because I know that some things need that time. But I would never cut you out the way you just did, especially if I knew that you were worried.”

Ethan lowered his head in shame, finding no words to defend his dense behavior. He knew she was right – his behavior left a lot to be desired. Claire continued.

“It tells me that you don’t view me as your equal. You don’t trust me enough to confide in me. Every time something happens, it’s always the same story.” She sighed, falling deeper into her seat. Her hand was still in his, allowing him that form of contact. “I need transparency here, Ethan. We have rules, that you came up with, that you break every time things get tough.”

He winced at the vulnerable edge in her voice. More than ever before, he felt as though the ground was about to be pulled from beneath him.

“You can’t be in a relationship only a little. Or only on weekends. You’re either in it for good, and you take everything that comes with it, the easy and the difficult, or there’s nothing left to say.”

And there it was.

Ethan’s eyes widened. A hand wrapped around his heart and squeezed, making him feel lightheaded. If he ever had gotten a wake-up call before, this one was the loudest one. And the most devastating.

“Claire, wait.” He said, his voice strained when she tried to pull her hand out of his hold. She glanced at their hands, then up at him, her eyes glassy. Ethan breathed out heavily, pleading with his whole being for her to stay where she was. “You’re right. I haven’t been fair towards you.”

“That’s saying it mildly.”

“I know I don’t say it enough, but you’re my person. I trust you more than anyone else, even if I’m utterly useless at expressing it.” He gave her fingers a tender squeeze, his eyes finding hers urgently. “I’m an asshole for making you worry, and an even bigger one for keeping you in the dark. You deserve better, and lately, I’ve been messing up.”

“Can’t say I disagree.” She mused, tilting her head slightly. “Is there a reason for that?”

“I don’t know.” Ethan’s thumb traced her ring finger “It’s as though there is this outside force that’s making me do all those idiotic things, and before I realize what’s going on, everything’s already going to hell.”

“Sounds like you need to work on your impulse control.” Claire said, a tiny grin appearing on her face.

“You’re my impulse control.”

He cupped her cheek with his free hand, stroking the line of her cheekbone softly. She leaned in, just a fraction of a centimeter. Her gaze was a mix of feelings Ethan couldn’t describe – it made him feel a bit more at ease and at the edge of his seat, all at the same time.

“I’m sorry, Claire.” He muttered, voice low and thick, overcame with emotions. Claire nodded her head, a sigh filling the space between them. Her eyes, even though they were growing softer just a moment ago, were now hardened and serious.

“Don’t ever do that to me, ever again.”

“Of course. I know.”

“No, I don’t think you do.” She cleared her throat, straightening her posture. “If you don’t start treating me like your equal here, I will leave you. There’s only so much I can take, Ethan, and I draw the line at this.” Ethan’s entire body froze at a very real perspective of her walking away. The feeling of ground disappearing from beneath him came back, twice as strong. He shook his head, words rushing through his head. “And that would suck, because I don’t want to leave you.”

“I can’t lose you, Claire.”

“Then don’t lose me. Don’t push me away.” She breathed out, at last, squeezing his hand tightly. The atmosphere between them was heavy and it became difficult to breathe. Ethan knew they were not out of the woods, but he felt a bit less nervous when she cracked a smile. “Do I need to tie you down so you’d stop running?”

“You already did.” he mused, waiting for her permission, then leaning in to kissing her cheek softly.

They missed the second part of the show. He leaned close to rest his chin on her shoulder, his arm wrapped around her waist to keep her by his side – she wrapped her hand around his forearm in return. Voice low and quiet, he finally began telling her everything, sparing nothing. Once the show ends, he’ll follow her lead – after all, he’s never gotten lost with her by his side.

Notes

Am I above dissing PB in a fic, of all places? Hell no, I’m not. 

Opera because C is clever like that - and we love throwbacks to better times. 

PB is making Ethan act like an angsty teen. And don’t get me started on the ‘prying’ bit. Ma’am, it’s not prying, it’s called caring about your husband boyfriend because something is clearly going on and it seems as though he’s covering someone else’s ass and taking a fall for it. It’s called *concern*.

Thank you for reading! <3

Tagging separately