#and today I’m leaving back to my apartment in SD

[thefearandnow]

.

[soursturniolo]

Hurtful Words • Nick Sturniolo

Synopsis: Nick and his boyfriend get into a fight the night before leaving for Boston. After some of the harsh words from Nick, his boyfriend is left hurt and uncertain of his place in his boyfriends life.

Pairing: Nick x male reader/character (no y/n but also no other name used, he/him pronouns)

Tags: angst, hurt, a bit of sunshine!reader x grumpy!nick, nick has a panic attack, comfort (happy ending because I guess I'm not 100% evil yet)

Nick had been extremely stressed all day. Nothing was going right, first he woke up late and missed his meeting. Then, he went to edit a video they had prefilmed to post while him, his brothers, and his boyfriend would be in Boston, just to discover the SD card was corrupted and nothing could be salvaged from it. Next, he developed a horrible headache as he was rushing to finish up packing for the flight tomorrow morning. Now, he was getting ready to film a replacement video with his brothers right as his cheerful boyfriend strode into his bedroom. Fuck , Nick thought to himself. He had forgotten his boyfriend was coming this early.

“Hey!” his boyfriend smiled as he made his way over to him, arms open for the usual hug they’d share. Most always, his boyfriends sunny disposition made him smile, but today it just made him irrationally angry.

“Hi,” Nick responds flatly, not meeting his partners eyes as he dodged the hug and affection being offered. If Nick had been looking up he would have seen the look of confusion and concern flash across the other man’s face as his arms lowered to the side upon seeing that Nick clearly didn’t want a hug.

The other man frowns as he takes in Nick’s disheveled appearance, hair sticking up from most likely stressful tugging, a clenched jaw and tense shoulders. Knowing Nick for almost a year now, he knows his boyfriend isn’t one to immediately talk out his feelings, so he doesn’t ask but quickly concludes it must have been quite a rough day for the brunette. Usually in these situations, they’ll cuddle and relax and watch some stupid TV show, so that’s what the man suggests. To which, Nick scoffs.

“I don’t have time to just lay around with you, I need to go do my job, I have so much shit I need to do before tomorrow,” Nick gripes, moving around to grab the camera and SD cards off his desk, stuffing them into a bag to take to the car where he’s sure his brothers are already waiting for him. In packing he’d lost track of time, looking at his phone to see its already 17 minutes past the time they said they’d meet in the garage.

His boyfriend nods in understanding, seeing the obvious stress practically pouring out of every pore of his boyfriend. He reaches out a hand, gently touching Nick’s arm, trying his best to sooth him.

“is there anything I can do to help?” he asks softly.

“Jesus Christ!” Nick exclaims, feeling overwhelmed by everything all at once, like his skin is on fire and every little thing makes his head pound even harder, yaking his arm away from the other man’s touch “yknow what actually, there is. Just leave me the fuck alone for two seconds!”

The man frowns slightly, taking a step back at Nick’s sudden outburst, wrapping his own arms around him, head cooking to the side minutely.

“we’ve been apart all day? I’m just trying to help, I’m sorry sweetheart,” he says softly, trying to give him a soft smile, which just makes Nick scoff and roll his eyes again. A deep frown paints his boyfriends face at the reaction, the man tightening his arms around himself, shoulders hunching in slightly.

“And you come in here all fucking smiles and hugs. you’re just happy all the fucking time. Just this fucking ray of sunshine. Some of us fucking aren’t. Maybe this just wasn’t a good idea.” Nick spits out, his words venom. Part of his brain is yelling at him to shut up seeing the hurt look spreading over his boyfriends face, but the angry voice overshadows that one, just wanting everyone to feel has horrible as he feels.

“What? What isn’t a good idea?” the man asks him, voice small, fearing the answer. Did Nick mean him coming to Boston along with his brothers to finally meet his parents? While he had been nervous about meeting his boyfriends parents at first, in the past few days he had become quite excited. Thinking of meeting his family, his family dog too. He had bought gifts for them all, even a chew toy for Trevor. Even today, the young man had found himself daydreaming at work, thinking of how well it all might go, imagining them all sitting around a table looking at photo albums and smiling as he learns more about the past of the man he so desperately wants a future with.

Nicks quick response has those hopes shattering, along with his heart.

“This. Us. I don’t know. I just need to fucking breathe. I’m leaving to film with Chris and Matt. Bye.” Nick half yells, voice strained as he stalks his way to the door, yanking it open and slamming it shut as he leaves, leaving a tearful man standing in the middle of the room wondering where it all went so wrong.

Nick was distracted the whole entire time they were filming, overcome with guilt and regret. He had been so harsh to his boyfriend, his number one supporter, next to his family of course. Flashes of the other man’s hurt face flicker in his mind, the timid and soft nature he had taken on as Nick raged at him, a shadow of the mans usually bright and bubbly demeanor. Even when he was short with him at first, instead of just leaving, his sweet boyfriend had still apologized and compassionately offered help. And what did Nick do to show his appreciation? Told him callously that maybe them dating had been a bad idea.

That wasn’t true in the slightest. They’d been together 7 months at this point, and it had been some of the happiest months of Nick’s life. He’d experienced a happiness that he never thought he’d get even remotely close to again, and this was how he repaid the man? Throwing his cheerful and sweet nature in his face as if it was something to be ashamed of? It made him sick to his stomach to recall how he’d behaved.

Noticing their brothers distraction, Matt and Chris suggested cutting the video short, under the guise of wanting to get on good nights sleep before their early flight home. The drive home was quick and quiet as Nick thought of all the ways he’d apologize to his sweet boyfriend who had a heart almost too good to be true.

The brothers quickly said goodnight and parted ways, Nick taking the stairs two at a time to get to his room so he could ask for the man’s forgiveness. Upon opening the door, he’s met with disappointment. He had left. Nick knew he shouldn’t be surprised though. As he pulls out his phone to call the man he knew he had hurt, a bag on his bed catches his eye, along with a note. He peaks in the bag, confused upon seeing four boxes wrapped in a plain purple wrapping paper, as he picks up the letter, recognizing the handwriting and feeling his heart clench painfully in his chest as he begins to read.

Nick,

I’m sorry, I never meant to upset you. I know I can be a lot, and I understand if it’s gotten too much to deal with. I was really looking forward to seeing Boston and meeting your family. But it’d be silly for me to tag along now, at this point. I had gotten some things for your parents, Justin, and Trevor. I was hoping you’d maybe give them to them for me?

Don’t worry, I’ll pay you back for my plane ticket if it’s too late to cancel it.

Thank you for the last 7 months, they meant the world to me. You did, too.

Nick feels tears gather in his eyes, beginning to stream down his face as he sits the letter down and quickly scrolls to his contact on his phone.

"please, pick up, pick up, pick up" he mutters, sniffling as he waits and hopes he'll answer. A shred of hope blooms upon hearing his call answered answer, the soft noise of a car engine in the back. Good, maybe his boyfriend hadn't made it home yet.

"baby?" Nick sniffles slightly, voice cracking. He hears the man on the other end of the line sniffle too, and he feels his heart crack a little more. he'd made his sweetheart cry.

"what do you need, nick?" the other man asks softly and tearfully.

"I need you. please turn around, I know you’re still in the car. I'm so sorry," Nick pleads.

"it's okay Nick," he sniffles, "just give those gifts to them, please?" he asks.

"no, I'm not," Nick cries, tears streaming down his face, one hand clutching his hair as the other clutches his phone against his ear, sagging against the wall and sliding down it into a heap on the floor, his chest feeling tighter and tighter.

"okay, I'll get them back from you when you guys get back home," he offers, which just makes Nick cry harder. He really fucked up this time.

"no, no you're supposed to give them to them, I want you to, I want you to turn around and come back here so I can tell you how fucking sorry I am and kiss you and watch a stupid movie with you and then we get up and we go to Boston tomorrow morning and you get to meet my family and see where I'm from and everything and they'll love you and your little gifts and your smile that can light up a room and they'll love you because I love you," he pleads over the phone, desolving into sobs on the phone.

the other man on the line tears up again at the sweet words and obvious remorse, and he wants to respond to them but Nick is spiraling in regret and sadness and he can hear that it's getting harder for him to breathe through his cries.

he turns the car around, beginning to take a shortcut back to the triplets house.

"Nick, I need you to breathe," the man says softly, hearing the loud cries through the speakers of his car.

"No, I'm not Nick, you never call me nick when we're alone, its always Nicky or sweetheart or babe," the brunette sobs, still feeling like his relationship is slipping through his fingers, and it's his own fault.

The man grips his steering wheel a little tighter, driving a little faster.

"I'm sorry sweetheart, I just need you to breathe for me, in your nose and out your mouth real slow for me okay? you know that box breathing technique I showed matt a few months ago?" he softly asks Nick.

"Yeah," Nick sniffles, breathing still shaking and disordered.

"Good baby, I'm going to count and I want you to breathe with me okay? I'm almost there but I need you to breathe for me until I get there, okay?" He asks softly.

As he continues to drive, he counts off and listens as Nick breathes with him, slight sniffles still present as he tries to focus on getting his breathing regulated with the knowledge that his boyfriend is coming back.

Nick doesn't even register the sound of his boyfriends car turning off or the sound of him using his house key to get in. his head jerks up to look up from his spot on the floor to see his boyfriend standing in his doorway. He quickly moves from his position on the floor, getting up and launching himself into his boyfriends arms.

"I'm so sorry, I didn't mean a fucking word I said," he sobs, wrapping his arms around his boyfriend tightly and burrowing his head into his neck, his tears wetting the skin. His boyfriend holds him just as snuggly in his arms, rubbing a soothing hand over his back as the other hand cups the back of his head softly.

"I know, its alright," the man sooths, but the words have an opposite affect on Nick, as the brunette pulls back quickly as he shakes his head.

"It's not alright! I was mean because I had a bad day and my head fucking hurts, and I hurt you. You didn't deserve that. I love you, and I love your personality and how loving and happy you are. It isnt something I or anyone should throw in your face. I should have talked to you, I should have thanked you for wanting to help me. I'm so sorry, ill be better, I'll get better at talking to you and communicating and not just blowing up at you for no reason," Nick sniffles, roughly wiping away his own tears.

"Okay, I forgive you," the other man offers softly, as he gently pulls Nick's hands away from the rough rubbing of his face.

"No! You shouldn't just forgive me, why are you being so nice right now?" Nick objects, confused by his boyfriends behavior as more tears make their way down his face.

The other man smiles softly and sadly, guiding his boyfriend over to the bed and sitting, pulling Nick down to sit right next to him. He gently guides Nicks head to rest on his shoulder as he wraps his arms around the man in a comforting embrace that Nick easily allows himself to be pulled into, the closeness easing the pain and regret in his heart.

"Let me ask you a couple things, okay? Maybe that'll help you understand why I'm forgiving you?" he offers, carding his fingers though Nick's hair softly, as he feels Nick nod and whisper is consent into his shoulder.

"Do you genuinely regret how you treated me?" A quick and firm nod from Nick.

"Do you see how hurtful your misplaced irritation can be?" Another firm nod and squeeze from Nick's arms around him is felt.

"Do you genuinely plan on working on communicating with me and being better in the future so this doesn't happen again?" Another nod and squeeze.

"Do you still love me and want to be with me, and want me to come to Boston with you?" This receives the fastest nod and squeeze of all the questions, making the man smile and turn to press a soft kiss to Nick's head.

"See. You acknowledged and took ownership of what you did wrong, you plan to work on being better, and I know you're genuinely sorry and regret hurting me the way you did. I trust you, so I trust what you say and the fact that this will not happen again. We will deal better the next time," he explains softly to the man in his arms.

"Okay. I promise I'll do better, I love you," Nick hoarsely whispers against his shoulder, cuddling more into the other man's side.

"I know, I love you too," Nick smiles wobbly as he hears those words and feels another kiss pressed against his head. He leans up, softly pressing his lips against the man's jaw, then his cheek, then thr corner of his mouth, smiling when we feels the skin move under his lips into a matching smile. Then, Nick presses their lips together in a soft and gentle kiss, trying to convey all the love and warmth he feels for the man in his embrace. His own ray of sunshine.

author's note: hey! i hope yall enjoyed! if you have any nick requests feel free to send em my way! im slowly but surely getting back into writing and i really want to write more for nick :)

no tag list on this post because I'm getting ready to redo my old tag list since most either aren't active anymore or have new usernames

[existslikepristin]

Sounds

Just my ultimate bias doing ultimate bias things. This is just the intro. There will be more to come. Thanks also to worldsover and EhBeeSeeDih for most excellent editing help!

Tags: TheLounge, Dreamcatcher, Gahyeon, Siyeon, Yoohyeon, other members all referenced, some unnamed male, lots of butt stuff, very light bondage, brief watersports (pee), various other kinks referenced, I just want everyone to know Gahyeon is the best human

Gahyeon observed the consistency of the lube that dripped, nice and slowly, from the fingertips of her black latex glove. She only wore the one, leaving her other hand bare. Besides the glove, all she wore was an oversized baggy tee shirt and a pair of panties that weren't her own. From behind her, the up-close-yet-distant sound of amateur porn moans reached her ears. It made her smile.

Not long after Gahyeon had revealed her desire to dominate to the rest of Dreamcatcher, she’d first been approached by Dami. Dami initially showed a similar interest in dominating others, but was equally interested in being a pet.

Gahyeon hesitated for some time, but eventually agreed to give it a try. It wasn’t much of a surprise that Dami made a pleasant, calm, obedient pet. Gahyeon never really had many ideas for commands to give to a panda, though, so perhaps her perspective was a bit skewed.

Some time later, the two got involved in a bit of role playing as well. Dami would be the prince, and Gahyeon would be one of a variety of higher-ranking royalty that Dami would then have to satisfy. Gahyeon would certainly never admit that this was one of her favorite roles to play in her escapades with her members. Mostly because it meant she received lots of massages from Dami’s delightfully delicate hands.

Dami was a grunter.

Gahyeon’s situations with Jiu and Handong were quite similar to each other in the sense that neither of them really expressed a major interest in being dominated.

Jiu was more of a standard, every day, give-and-take type of lover, but just happened to enjoy a bit of pain. Gahyeon was always happy to provide that little extra sadistic touch that would push Jiu over the edge of climax.

Jiu was a lip-biter.

Handong didn’t need a dom. She wanted somebody with a dick she could wreck herself with. Gahyeon had a growing collection of dildos and strap-ons to choose from. It was as simple as that between them.

Handong was a shouter.

Sua was, as expected, the most difficult to work with. She was a switch. But while domming, she was often excessively overpowering, demanding that her subs participate in her kinks, rather than compromising with them or catering to their desires. She had serious negotiation issues. All of which meant that Gahyeon was the go-to option when the other members wanted to be dominated.

Of course, Sua would reach out to Gahyeon to be dominated as well. But she was a bit of a back seat driver. Or a severe brat. Or uncooperative. It depended on the day. Gahyeon would often just suggest they do something less kinky. Of course, she wasn’t about to cut Sua out of her sex life entirely, given their friendship and Sua’s rocking body.

Sua was a screamer.

Yoohyeon, on the other hand, was quite the fun submissive. She was willing to try anything at least once, up to and including the most depraved acts Gahyeon could come up with. Once or twice, Gahyeon had even directed her to do some things sarcastically, but Yoohyeon complied immediately, no questions asked, resulting in both of them discovering some kinks that neither of them realized they had.

One of Gahyeon’s favorite aspects to domming Yoohyeon was her eagerness to be filmed. Gahyeon’s SD card case was an absolute treasure trove of videos. It didn’t matter if she was far from her members, because she could always count on some long-distance submission from Yoohyeon. And it never hurt to have something to watch when she just wanted to be alone and masturbate.

Yoohyeon was a moaner.

But as much fun as Gahyeon could have with those five women, Siyeon stood out from the pack as Gahyeon’s favorite. She had a hard time fully explaining the favoritism, but as far as she was concerned, it was undeniable.

Siyeon presented herself outwardly as confident, bold, even. Gahyeon expected in the beginning that Siyeon would have no interest at all in submitting to her, or anyone else for that matter. She quite literally wore the pants.

One hot summer night, however, Siyeon sheepishly asked Gahyeon to spank her. It seemed innocent enough, as far as sex acts went, but it escalated gradually. Over the course of several months, Siyeon’s outer shell melted away. She became Gahyeon’s clay to mold.

Everybody else let Gahyeon dominate them because she gave them what they wanted.

Siyeon begged Gahyeon to dominate her because she wanted to serve and please.

That wasn’t to say Siyeon wasn’t getting what she wanted out of the action of course. Just that what she wanted happened to be whatever Gahyeon wanted. It was the perfect match.

Siyeon was an instrument that Gahyeon knew exactly how to play.

The sexual activities of the members weren’t obvious to the average viewer, except some of the wild shit Sua would do, but that was easy to pass off as “girl group popularity-mandated gay bait.” Every once in a while though, Gahyeon would get the itch to break Siyeon’s façade down in public. The lightest brush of the fingertips, a sidelong glare, anything could be the trigger if Gahyeon did it with the proper intention.

She’d even gotten so bold once as to do it on live video, streaming to their fans with Jiu and Sua to either side. Siyeon nearly collapsed before Gahyeon let her go. That same night, Sua practically molested Siyeon, but Gahyeon was vindictively proud to see that it didn’t have the same effect.

Gahyeon watched as one last drop of lube fell from her fingers back into the bowl she'd poured it into for easy access. It was just viscous enough to stay on a surface, but wasn’t tacky. Rather, it was slick, as if there were no friction at all between her digits.

“How are you feeling, my wolf?”

“I-I’m excited, Gahyeon.”

Gahyeon preferred hearing her own name falling out of Siyeon’s mouth. The sound gave her a twisted sense of romance, as opposed to the supposedly traditional “Mistress” or “Ma’am.”

Gahyeon turned to look for the first time since getting lost in her thoughts. Siyeon was tied up, albeit only with the shirt and pants she had been wearing earlier in the day, rather than a rope. The knots that her sleeves formed were weak and could fall apart with the slightest force, but Siyeon was much too good of a girl for that. It wasn't her physical bonds that held her still.

There was a twinge of disappointment amidst Gahyeon’s glee at seeing that Siyeon was looking, entranced, back at her. She had, after all, dictated that Siyeon watch the video that was playing on her tablet.

“Just what do you think you’re doing?”

Siyeon gulped nervously, but Gahyeon could see the slightest, quivering smile touch the corners of her lips. “Sorry, Gahyeon. It’s just… I think I’m extra struck by your beauty today.”

Gahyeon smiled and placed her ungloved, unlubed hand on top of Siyeon’s head, stroking her hair softly. “Oh babe. You know flattery isn’t going to get you anywhere. It’s just going to get my fingers deeper inside you. And you'd better watch out, because you're getting close to the knuckles.”

Her gentle hair stroking turned into a rough grip, which she used to turn Siyeon's gaze away, back to the tablet.

"Don't you want to learn from this video, Siyeon? I made it just for you."

"Yes, I do."

"Then you should be watching. Look, or you're going to miss the best part."

Siyeon's eyes slowly refocused themselves onto the video. It was Yoohyeon, all but limp in a full-nelson-under-the-legs hold. Whoever was holding her up, slamming their cock repeatedly up her asshole, they weren't fully visible, but it was easy to guess their identity. Yoohyeon's eyes rolled up so far, they looked like they might do a full three-sixty at any moment. Anyone viewing the video might have been concerned for her well-being if not for her dopey smile.

"See, my wolf? She's such a good little slut. Keep watching and you might learn something."

Gahyeon let go of Siyeon's head, confident she'd follow instructions this time, and reached around to feel how ready she was. As expected from her favorite toy, and the hours of teasing Gahyeon had subjected her to up to this point, she was so wet that Gahyeon could have gone swimming inside her.

Her gloved hand dipped into the lube again, then made its way down the cleft of Siyeon's ass, coating the entirety. If she didn't already have very specific plans, Gahyeon would have considered using it as massage oil and kneading Siyeon’s beautiful butt cheeks until the bright red hand prints on them disappeared.

A series of moans came from the tablet speakers again, and Gahyeon smirked at what she knew was coming next, which was Yoohyeon.

"Eyes open, Siyeon. You really don't want to miss this."

Gahyeon watched Siyeon’s fingers wiggle beneath their impromptu bonds. Yoohyeon's moans shifted into a long, guttural shout, and a stream of pale yellow liquid shot out of her. Siyeon’s butt visibly clenched.

"What a fantastic slut she is, hm? Cumming so hard from her ass being used as a fuck hole that she can't even control herself, pissing all over like an idiot."

Even from behind her, Gahyeon could sense Siyeon’s devious smile forming. "Well that's rude to say about her," Siyeon said, risking life and limb.

Gahyeon responded with a series of powerful smacks, leaving the handprints already on Siyeon’s ass glowing red, as well as a haphazard smattering of lube. "Shut uuup," she whined, "She got fucked stupid and pissed herself. You know what I mean."

Siyeon turned back over her shoulder to show Gahyeon her smile. Fresh tears flowed from her eyes. "Yoohyeon's always a fool though," she managed to joke through the pain.

One last, full-motion spank made Siyeon’s smile briefly turn into a grimace.

"Is that what you're going to do to me too?"

Gahyeon resumed her steady lubrication of Siyeon’s entire backside. "Someday, maybe. But we have a long way to go before you'll be able to experience that level of pleasure without pain. And trust me, the inside of your ass is not the part of your body where you want to be feeling pain. We'll build you up to it."

There was minimal resistance against Gahyeon’s middle finger as it slipped fully into Siyeon’s butt. Siyeon hissed and her toes curled. Gahyeon kissed her neck, shushed into her ear, and used her ungloved hand to stroke from Siyeon’s breasts down to her clit and back.

After a moment of calming down, Siyeon whispered, "If anybody can get me there, Gahyeon, it's you."

Gahyeon struggled to hold back her cutesy giggle, even though she knew that it wouldn't make her seem like less of a dom to Siyeon. "We're going to do, at most, two fingers today. I don't want you masturbating with anything bigger than that on your own, okay? It might feel like you can do more, but we're not taking any chances. Understood?"

Siyeon’s shoulders flexed and toes spread as Gahyeon wiggled her inserted finger. "Y-yes Gahyeon," she stuttered.

"Good. Now, let's practice your safe word, shall we?"

Siyeon hesitated, but relented anyway. “Apricot…”

Gahyeon slowly removed her finger. “Perfect,” she said ever-so-softly, reveling in the goosebumps rising on Siyeon’s arms. “Was that okay? Nothing hurting?”

“It was perfect.” Siyeon used the same word Gahyeon had.

“Well then, let’s get started.”

[apenapaperandadoofus]

SKKSKSKS your new post gave me an idea! hear me out, ok so MC is a STRUGGLING college student. Anyway, the rfa (plus jihyun&saeran) finds out MC is opting to get a sugar daddy 😳 (MC's fellow broke friends says try it out lol!) And so, MC is meeting SD for lunch. Turns out it's a weird disaster. Which of them will be spying & ready to fite, or drag MC away before she even gets her ass to the seat? i feel like jumin will go 👁👄👁 with this whole thing. just curious how they'll react oop-

I love it and I love you lmao this is the best thing everrr, I had so much fun writing it ASKFBDJ

I’m going to save Jumin for last because I just loved writing his head cannon lmao

RFA + V and Saeran reacting to an MC that gets a sugar daddy/mommy:

Zen:

So Zen found out about your little sugar daddy plan

He was LIVID

He will cancel every single thing he has today

And he will go and spy on you

Zen will literally have everything he needs, he’ll have a disguise and he’ll be hiding in the bushes watching your date

If he sees your SD trying to touch you he will tackle him

And then he’ll grab your hand and lead you away, no matter how much you complain

When he brings you home he will sit you down and oh boy, get ready for the biggest lecture of your life

You see him BECOME your mother

He will talk with you for about an hour

“Y/N seriously! Why didn’t you tell any of us, we could have helped you, YOU LITERALLY ARE FRIENDS WITH TWO RICH ASSHOLE WHAT MORE COULD YOU ASK FOR?!”

But then Zen will calm down and sit next to you, his face a bit red

“I just...I’d like you to depend more on us...on me. I will do anything for you so please, promise me you won’t go dating old guys for money again?”

And how could you say no to those puppy eyes?

Zen will work hard so you don’t struggle so much alone

Yoosung:

He will be an angry boio

He’s like a mad chihuahua

When he figures out your plan he will drag Seven down with him to spy on you

Of course Seven will make fun of him, and he won’t help with shit lmao

But Yoosung will take it seriously

He will be watching you from the shadows, and you know what? He will try to even screw up your date

The next time you see him he will be all pouty and won’t talk to you for a while

He won’t even look at you

So Seven gives up and tells you that Yoosung found out about your sugar daddy adventure

You will come up to Yoosung and talk it out with him

“Sorry Y/N...it’s just...I got...mad! I could’ve helped you, you know? You don’t have to date gross guys like him to get money. The RFA is here for you! Also...I may have also gotten...a bit jealous. Just. Don’t do it again. Please...I’ll help you!”

Aw he’s so adorable so you agree

Now Yoosung won’t have to go and murder that guy

I mean, what, Yoosung and murder? WhaaaaAAAAA- he had everything planned who am I kidding pft

Jaehee:

Honestly, when hears you got a sugar mommy she’s a bit jealous and worried

But who is she to tell you what to do?

I mean don’t get her wrong, she wants to slap that woman for looking at you like that and for abusing your need for money

So she will slowly help you without you noticing

She will bake something so you can go an sell it at school

Or she’ll lend you some money

If she sees you struggling she will do everything she can so you don’t need to get a sugar mommy again!

One night, when you are finally able to have enough money for some other things, you invite her out to dinner to thank her for everything she helped you with

“Y/N...I have to tell you something. When you were, well struggling, I found out you saw a woman...older than you so she could give you money. And I- well...I’m not someone who should tell you who to date or not, but it just made me feel very strange inside. I wanted to be the one holding your hand, to help you go through that rough patch...”

You smile warmly at Jaehee and caress her cheek.

“Thank you Jaehee. Really, you helped me through so much. And now I want to repay you for it! So I bough you front row seats to one of Zen’s latest musicals!”

Jaehee squealed and gave you a hug

Then you spent such a great time during Zen’s performance

Saeyoung:

Ok he may have maybe read one of your text messages

And then maybe a few more

He didn’t mean to you know?!

But he found out you were struggling at college because it had become super expensive

The first thing he did was help you by paying some things secretly

But then he found out when you were meeting with your SD

And guess what? He freaking set up a double date

You were confused when your SD had brought a friend of his to he cafe, but it all clicked when you saw a very beautiful woman with long red hair and very familiar mischievous yellow eyes come in the restaurant.

You quickly stood up and grabbed the woman who had come in saying a quick sorry to the other men and then dragged her to the bathroom

Honestly Seven thought you would yell at him, but then you started laughing maniacally

“Se-SEVEN!! What in the-HOW?! This is the best thing ever-pftt HAHAHAH I CAN’T SEVEN WHAT THE HELL”

He of coursed, laughed along with you but then he cleared his throat and spoke in a high pitched voice

“My name is Samantha, thank you very much! You’re not the only one who can get a sugar daddy you know?” He winked and grabbed your hand, leading you to the table. “Now lets go get us some money! I can’t wait together a new baby! I just found one online and fell in love with it so I have to get it as soon as possible!”

The both of you spent the evening flirting and acting all cutesy the whole time

Although Seven would intervene if he saw your sugar daddy getting way too comfortable with you, or if he saw him trying to touch you somewhere else,

He will fight your SD tried anything on you

Apart from that you two end up buying tons of shit you don’t need lmao

V:

One day he saw you hanging out with a really old dude

He didn’t think anything of it, maybe he was your dad or something

But then he saw he was getting kind of flirty with you

Then he remembered that one night you had complained about how expensive your college tuition had become and how you were going to get a sugar daddy

Well Jihyun thought you were joking Y/N, HoNeY pLeAsE

He watched from the sidelines for a bit but then he felt sort of...jealous

So when the date was over and you waited outside for your taxi with your SD, V got on his car and called out for you

You will blush and get on the car with him, your SD was actually pretty confused since V had a very expensive car

While he’s driving V will give you a huge lecture

“Y/N, I know you are having problems but you can’t go and start dating a guy just because of money. I mean, who knows what he could’ve done to you, he could’ve abused your situation and everything. If you need help please tell me, and we’ll figure something out, but don’t go out with guys like that. They’re bad news.”

You’re heart warmed at the thought of V caring so much for you

He made you promise to be more truthful when you were having problems, and you had to reassure him that he shouldn’t worry, but V insisted

If he can he will get you to model for his pictures and pay you a very large amount of money, which you WILL have to take of Jihyun could become angry for the first time in ages

Saeran:

Oh no

Oh boy

He heard from your friend that you had found a sugar daddy

She wasn’t joking you actually found a goddamn sugar daddy

Saeran will be kinda shocked and sad

So he will hack into your phone (he’ll apologize later) and find out where you’re meeting the guy

As soon as he saw your SD getting kind of handsy, and you being a bit uncomfortable, he will run over and punch him I’m not kidding

He will be ready to fightttt

You’ll have to pull him away and apologize, dragging Saeran to your car and quickly driving out of here

“Saeran! What was that? Why did you punch him?!”

He just stayed quiet the whole time, and when you finally drove him to his home, he turned around and cupped your face in his hands, squishing

“You were clearly uncomfortable. Why didn’t you tell me about the college problems? You know I could’ve been more than happy to help you. That guy...he didn’t give off a good vibe. And he was starting to grab you and you looked like you didn’t want to be there and I just- I got mad. Because I don’t want to see you with another guy, and I don’t want to see you getting used for some money.”

Saeran was blushing, but he wouldn’t take back what he just said.

You were red too, and before you could reply Saeran quickly kissed your forehead and ran into his home

Of course later the RFA found out about your SD plan and they all nagged you lmao

Jumin:

He was eating at this very expensive restaurant, he just had a super important meeting and it had just finished

As he was about to leave he saw a very familiar face come in with this guy. A really old guy, who was smiling in a very creepy way.

Like you said, my dear anon, Jumin is just : 👁👄👁

You had sat in the table beside him, so he will try to hide by covering his face with the menu

Jumin was actually really confused as to why he was doing it, since if were any other person he would’ve awkwardly said hi and left as quickly as possible

But he wanted to stay...to see what you were doing, why you were going out with a guy that could be your dad

“Thank you for the meal Mr. Lee” He heard your sweet voice say.

The man, Mr. Lee laughed, -a really horrible laugh by the way- Jumin thought

. “Y/N, sweetheart, you know you can just call me Ju-won, I won’t mind.” The man’s almost hoarse voice said.

Ju-won Lee...Jumin thought the name was very familiar, but he was too busy looking at you two that he didn’t think much of it.

“Hehe, well alright!” You giggled and looked at the menu

“Y/N. How are those earrings I got you? Did you like them? They were the most expensive ones I could find, and I got them only for you.”

You slowly looked up and gave Mr. Lee a forced smile. “They were great Ju-won, thank you again!”

He got you..earrings?

Jumin figured out what was going on, and he felt as if the wind had been knocked out of his lungs

Later, when the both of you ordered some food, you asked Mr. Lee how his day was

Jumin was still in the same spot, overhearing everything you said

He didn’t know why he was feeling so conflicted, so mad. He hated seeing you with that man, he even felt a bit disappointed.

“Ah, well work was the same old, same old. The boss suddenly decided that he wanted to do yet another cat project. I honestly don’t know how he has that job, you know if it were me, I would make sure the company actually worked better. He does an awful job.”

“Ah. Umm, Ju-won, where is it that you work again?” You asked

“It’s a big company, I’m sure you’ve heard of it. It’s called C&R International, but honestly work is such a pain. If it weren’t for Chariman Han I would’ve gotten the executive director spot, but just because Jumin Han -I don’t know if you’ve heard of him, but the Chariman is his father- and just because of that he got the job! I’m sure they didn’t even have to interview him, that brat. And he thinks he’s so great just because of his father, psh I’d like to give him a piece of my mind.”

Jumin for the first time every, felt really mad. He was finally about to say something but then he heard you slam the menu down.

“Mr. Lee, I’m sorry if I sound kind of rude, but Ju- I mean, Mr. Han actually does an amazing job. C&R has grown so much because of him, and I’m sure that he’s one of the people that works the hardest. He probably got the job because he earned it, not just because of family connections, so please don’t spread false rumors.”

When he heard you say that...

Jumin couldn’t help but blush

Before Mr. Lee could even utter another word he stood up and walked over to your table.

Mr. Lee instantly stood up, his face filled with panic, and you looked up at him with a blush in your face

“Mr. Lee, how are you doing this evening? If you’d excuse me for a moment I have to talk with your date for a bit. I don’t think I’ll bring her back, but don’t worry I’ll pay for the food, that way you will save that bit of money. You will probably need it, since I don’t think you’ll be able to afford these sort of activities any time soon. If you think working at C&R is such a pain, then I suggest you leave the company. I want your things gone by Monday. Have a good night.”

Me. Lee’s mouth was wide open, and he looked ready to get on his knees and beg, but before anything came out of his mouth Jumin grabbed your hand and dragged you to the roof of the restaurant, where no one was around.

“Jumin what-” before you could say anything Jumin pinned you against the wall and kissed you

The kiss was rough, and when he pulled away you were left a panting mess.

“Y/N, why were you eating with him. Please explain to me why he bought you a pair of earrings, and why he was flirting with you the whole time. I don’t want you to lie to me.”

Oh shit he was mad

You looked up at Jumin, your face red and your lips swollen, but then when you saw his cold expression you looked down

“I’m sorry Jumin...it’s just....recently my college tuition went up. And I, I couldn’t pay it. I got as many jobs as I could, but it still wasn’t enough. And then Abby, the girl I met at one of my classes told me that she knew how I could get quick money, and she gave me the number of this guy, who was willing to pay a lot for a woman that went out with him, and I was just so desperate! I, I didn’t want to bother anyone and I didn’t know what to do and I just- I panicked Jumin!”

You bit your lip as tears slowly fell from your eyes, and Jumin’s cold expression slowly faded as he grabbed your chin so you would be looking up at him.

“Why didn’t you tell me? I could’ve helped you.” He whispered

“I-I didn’t want to. I-I know how you feel about people, especially women asking for money. I know you could’ve helped, but I didn’t want you to think I was friends with you just for that! I mean I like you Jumin, I really, really do, and if you suddenly felt, I don’t know, betrayed or hurt and if you ended up never speakingto me again I don’t know what I would’ve done, I didn’t want that to happen. I’m..I’m sorry. I know how you feel about this type of stuff, and I understand if you don’t want to be around me anymore...” you sniffed.

Both of you stood in complete silence, until Jumin slowly moved a strand of hair away from your face and smiled.

“Y/N. I would never, ever get mad at you because you asked me for help. I’m sorry for snapping at you. Honestly, I hated seeing you with that man. I don’t know how to describe it, but when I saw him there with you, I felt sort of mad, which was surprising since Indint do that often. And I realized hay I got angry because I don’t want you going on dates with other men because I want you to only go out with me. And I didn’t know why I felt that way. But when you defended me, it all started to make sense. The reason why I felt that way it’s because... I love you, Y/N”

Jumin kissed you, and after you both calmed down he got Driver Kim to give you a ride home.

If Mr. Lee had bought you anything Jumin made sure to buy them from you twice the amount, and then he may have gone and thrown away, or something, but you never saw them again.

Even though you insisted that it was alright, Jumin still helped you with your college fees, he was more than happy to!

And then a few days later, when you were both eating at his home, he asked you out.

Of course you said yes! And everyone in the RFA was honestly pretty jealous of your relationship lmao

Also when they found out you got a sugar daddy they teased you AND nagged you (multitasking lmao)

[booksimp]

Begin Again - Azriel - Part One

Synopsis: Azriel and Alora broke up six months ago. Alora still isn’t sure exactly why Azriel shut her out, and she can’t stand to be in the same room as him. With Nesta’s help, Alora has been avoiding Azriel at group events since the breakup. Inspired by “Into You” by Julia Michaels. 

 “So he’s gonna be there then?” I whisper into the phone, trying to keep my voice from breaking.

“Actually, the asshole’s already here. I’m sorry, Alora. He was supposed to be away for work until next week.” 

Nesta’s voice is hushed, her irritation obvious. I sigh, my breath creating a cloud of ice in the air around me. I stop walking and turn on my heel, heading back the way I’d come. I had been walking to Feyre and Rhysand’s baby shower, gift for their little one in hand. But Azriel, my ex-fiancee, has decided to make an unscheduled appearance. I scowl to myself and shove the wrapped parcel into my coat pocket. Rhys and Feyre are some of my dearest friends, and I was really looking forward to being there today. 

“It’s okay, Nesta. I’ll just give Feyre her gift later. Can you tell them I’m sorry, something just… came up?”.” 

I sigh again, hating that I have to miss their big day and even worse, lie to them about it. Though I’m sure they see right through it, since Feyre knows every dirty detail about the breakup. 

Nesta has been acting as my personal Azriel detector since he and I broke up six months ago. I’m beyond grateful for her help, but I know the responsibility of it is starting to wear on her patience. 

“You know you’ll have to be in the same room as him eventually, right?  You guys have a lot of friends in common.” Nesta says frankly. I flinch slightly, but I know better than to take her words personally. Nesta is nothing if not painfully forthright. 

“I know. I just can’t be in the same room as him and Mor right now. I can’t see how he looks at her.” I pause to shudder, flashing back to the night I’d found them dancing at Rita’s,  a mere six weeks after Azriel and I ended. She was all over him, and he was grinning like a fool. I hadn’t seen him smile like that for quite awhile. I suppose I should be happy he found his smile again, even if it wasn’t with me. 

“I’ve been thinking of moving back home to San Diego.” I blurt, as if getting it out faster will make it easier. Nesta is one of my best friends, but she still scares the shit out of me. I know she’ll like the idea of me leaving about as much as a bull loves the color red. 

For a few beats, Nesta is entirely silent. I chew my lip nervously, bouncing on the balls of my feet as I wait for my turn to use the crosswalk. I’ve lived in Chicago for three years now, since I moved here to pursue a career in publishing. I met Nesta and her sisters almost immediately. Soon after, they introduced me to their friends, and we’ve all been inseparable ever since.

“You’re not actually fucking serious, are you? You can’t just run away because that idiot broke your heart. This is your home.”  Nesta growls, and I hear a door shut from her end of the line. Oh shit, she really has something to say if she felt the need to find a more private venue. Nesta isn’t one to hide her outbursts. Seeing as I’m not in the mood to get my ass chewed and spit back out, I retreat. Strategically, of course. 

“I’ll let you get back to the baby shower. I have to go anyway.” 

Nesta snorts, and I can hear the scowl in her voice. 

“Okay, coward. We’ll talk tomorrow, I’m coming over.” 

I roll my eyes and pocket my cell phone. If there was ever a way to describe Nesta, its ‘Tough love’. I walk the three blocks to my apartment in a huff, trudging through ankle deep snow all the while. I take my frustration out on fluffy piles of snow, kicking at them as I walk. By the time I’m locking the door behind me, my socks are soaked and I’m shivering despite my massive winter coat. You can take the girl out of California, but you can’t take California out of the girl. 

I take a burning hot shower, dress in my warmest pajamas, and I’m curled up in bed in no time. I’m halfway through White Christmas when a text pings on my phone. 

Azriel: Nesta says you’re moving back to SD. Can we talk? 

Instantly, I’m cold as death beneath my plethora of fluffy Christmas blankets. That all too familiar pang in my chest returns in full force, so insistent that I can’t seem to catch my breath. Without meaning to, I’d read the text in his voice. I haven’t heard his voice in months, but it haunts me, a ghost I can never exorcise. I hear it in my dreams, in crowded rooms, in the harmony of some of our favorite songs. A second text pops up. 

Azriel: Please, Alora. I know that you’re seeing this. You can’t keep shutting me out. I’m sorry, okay?

I scoff indignantly, my vision going red. I can’t shut him out? Him? I spent months trying to get him to talk to me, to tell me what was so obviously eating him up inside. Instead of letting me in, he pushed me as far from him as possible.  And then, there was The Mor Incident. I knew he’d had a massive crush on her in college, but I thought it was long over. How naive of me. 

For weeks after I moved out, Azriel tried to contact me everyday. He would text and call constantly, and ask our friends to get me to talk to him. At first, I was too hurt to respond.I needed my own time and space for a while. And when I saw him with Mor, I decided he’d never get a response from me. I knew what I needed to know.  If anyone deserves to be iced out, it's the man who proposed to me and changed his mind about it like he was changing his order at starbucks. 

Azriel: Talk to me. What can I do? 

I grind my teeth and explode up out of my bed, too angry to even sit still. I pace my bedroom, my stomps probably heard by my downstairs neighbor. What can he do? For shit’s sake, if only he’d asked himself that question six months ago. A deluge of memories flood through my mind, dragging me beneath their frigid depths. Our one sided battles, where I begged and pleaded for him to let me in, and he refused. The nights he slept on the couch, or at Cassian’s. But the one that hurts the most, is the last one.

“Jesus christ, just talk to me! Please, Az. I just need you to talk to me.” I plead, tears running freely down my cheeks. 

Azriel keeps his back to me as he hurls clothes into a duffel bag, the muscles of his shoulders tensed to the point of breaking. 

“There’s nothing to talk about, Lora.”

His voice, that deep, melodic voice I love so much, is empty. Devoid of all feeling, all the love that used to shine through in every word he spoke to me. My chest feels like he’s cracked it open, and scraped me empty. Stolen all the warmth, all the joy. The fireplace crackles nearby, and yet I don’t feel a lick of its flame.

“There’s everything to talk about! I don’t even know why you’re leaving. You’ve been in  pain, but you won’t tell me why. You won’t let me help.” I’m yelling now, but he still hasn’t so much as looked my way. A dark, heartrending thought creeps in.

“ Are-are you leaving me?” The question comes out in a broken whisper. I can hear the heartbreak in my own voice, and he curses under his breath. 

Finally, he turns to face me. His face is nearly as empty as his voice, save for the deep purple circles beneath his eyes. Those gorgeous, hazel eyes that are filled with a nameless agony he refuses to share with me. His hair is more tousled than usual, his shirt wrinkled, shoulders slumped. He looks like a man defeated. 

“Fuck baby, of course I’m not leaving you. I just- I need some time. To clear my head.” 

His eyes finally meet mine for a second, and he reaches for me. His fingers barely brush my cheek before he yanks them away, fisting them at his side.

I’m close on his heels as he storms into the living room, towards the front door. 

“But you are, Az. You’re choosing to leave instead of talk to me. We’re supposed to be partners, remember? We're getting married, Az .” I’m desperate now, my voice climbing an octave for every step he takes away from me. 

He stops with his hand on the doorknob, looking over his shoulder at me. But he refuses to meet my gaze again. Like he can’t bear to look at me. 

“Maybe we shouldn’t.” 

His words hit me like a punch to the stomach, and all the breath leaves my body. A trembling begins in my hands. I feel untethered, like a boat abandoned at sea. 

“You don’t want to get married?” I rasp, hugging my arms around myself. Cold is seeping into my bones, my chest. I don’t think I’ll ever be warm again. 

Azriel struggles for words a few moments longer, a battle raging in the eyes I love most. He turns to me again and I see the tears building in them. I search his face for an explanation, silently begging him. Stay. Please stay. His voice is thick with emotion when he speaks. 

“We can talk about it later. I’m gonna stay with Cassian tonight.” 

He turns towards the door once more, but I can’t stop myself from asking the question that's been buzzing in my head for weeks. 

“Is that really where you’re going, Az?”My voice is clipped, cold to my own ears. He pauses, confusion clear on his face. 

“Are you sure there’s not someone else you’re seeing when you ‘go to Cassian’s’ ?” I demand, placing a hand on the dining table to my right.

 If he gives me the answer I’m expecting, I may well need the support. Azriel’s face goes blank with shock, and he leans back against the door, not able to stand on his own. 

“Jesus, Lor. I’m not fucking cheating on you.” He spits out, as he hoists the duffel bag over his shoulder. 

My relief is short lived.

He wrenches the front door open, and the ancient thing groans like it might very well come off its hinges. In that moment, something snaps inside me. 

“If you walk out that door, you might as well be leaving me. If you walk out right now, we’re done.” 

I expect the words to finally wake him up, to reach where he’s hidden himself away, and bring my Azriel back. The Azriel that planned a picnic for our first date, or ran through the ER with me in his arms when my appendix burst. The Azriel that asked me to marry him, then made love to me under the stars. 

But wherever that Az is, he’s far, far away.  

“I need to go. I’m sorry, Lor” 

After a moment of hesitation, he walks out the door. The sound of it closing like that of the lid of a coffin, sealing me inside.  Alone.

 I stay up all night, waiting for him to come back. Praying that he comes back. I lay alone in our bed, the sheets suddenly frigid and too abundant. All the extra leg room is a slap in the face. I watch the flames in the fireplace dying as the sun rises. Until all that’s left of that once roaring fire are embers. I watch until those too burn out, and go cold. 

I blink, the sound of another message breaking me free of the torturous cycle of  memories. I wipe traitorous tears from my cheeks and retrieve my phone from where I discarded it. 

Nesta: Hey, I might’ve let slip to Elain that you were thinking of moving home. And of course she told Lucien, who told Azriel. Apparently, he wasn’t pleased. I’m sorry, Lor. 

I sigh, type a quick reply and check the time. 9:58pm. Jesus, today has felt like a lifetime. I look around my apartment, at how dark and empty it's become as night has fallen. When I moved in, a week after Az left, I couldn't bring myself to decorate it. Because that would mean that this is home now, and not the house Azriel and I bought together. It would mean that the beautiful victorian in the suburbs was as gone as the life we could’ve lived in it. So, six months later, boxes sit in the corners. The walls are bare, the fireplace unlit even on the coldest of nights. And every night since has been glacial. Suddenly, the loneliness is nearly suffocating. I can’t spend another night just staring at the solitary wasteland my life has become.

All of my friends are together already, and he’s there. So going out alone it is. 

I blast music as I get ready in a rush, effectively drowning out every unwanted thought. I go a little heavy on the eyeliner, hopefully concealing any evidence of tears. I slip into my newest dress, gifted to me by Feyre on my birthday. It's the perfect balance of elegant and sexy. A lovely slip of wine colored silk, skin tight and just the right amount of revealing. Looking at myself in the mirror, I smile for the first time all night. 

Half an hour later, I’m shooting whiskey at Rita’s, scouring the dance floor for my next conquest. Probably not the healthiest coping mechanism, but I digress. The vast room is dark, the only lights being flashing rainbows of color timed to the music. Thick smoke snakes around the dancers, thanks to a mixture of incense and hidden fog machines. The scent of patchouli, sweat, and alcohol tickles my nose. Peculiarly enough, it's not a bad combination. 

As I’m scanning the crowd, nursing a glass of scotch, a pair of unusual green eyes catch my gaze. He’s easily six feet tall, dark haired, and moderately handsome. He’s sitting with his friends, but no longer paying attention to the conversation. Instead, his eyes are shamelessly undressing me, lingering on my exposed legs. When he eventually meets my eyes again, I give him a slow, inviting smile. It only takes him a few moments to cross the bar, and sit on the stool beside mine. 

“What’s a beautiful woman like you doing alone on a saturday night?” 

I barely restrain an eye roll at his creative opening line. Instead, I lean closer and give him an obvious lookover. He’s definitely fit, his tight black shirt revealing a broad chest and toned abdomen. But I can’t help but note the lack of tattoos and scars. Once I’m done comparing him to Azriel, I meet his eager eyes again. 

“I’m not exactly alone now, am I?” 

The man smirks, and places a hand on my thigh. 

The next morning, I hurry my house guest out the door as soon as he wakes up. He tries to get my number, but I carefully maneuver my way out of that one. The sex was good, but not that good. 

I shower and dress, then scarf down a quick breakfast. As I’m drinking my second cup of coffee, I finally look around at my sad excuse of an apartment. It's not that the actual space isn’t nice. The hardwood floors are new and shiny looking, the walls a neutral gray, the countertops a gleaming marble. But like last night, it's overwhelmingly empty. 

I take a deep breath and decide today is the day. Hesitantly, I walk to the closest box and start cutting away the packing tape. Each stroke of the scissors is like another nail in the coffin of my old life. I ignore the tears that burn in my eyes and keep cutting. With my heart racing and eyes closed, I reach my hand in and grab the first object I touch. I take three deep breaths in an effort to center myself, and look down at what’s in my hand. 

“Oh for fucks sake.” I exclaim, my heart squeezing painfully. 

The cellophane wrapped bundle of blank wedding invitations glimmers in the morning sunlight, like the fangs of a poisonous snake. Beautiful, but deadly. With a cry, I hurl the invitations across the room. They land with a satisfying thunk against the far wall. I plop down next to the box, letting my head fall into my hands. The wound in my chest is raw and throbbing, an ever present pain. 

Of course it had to be the wedding invitations. It couldn’t be something easy, like a throw pillow or a bunch of CD’s. 

I lean my head back against the wall, and let my eyes fall closed. Would this ever stop hurting? Would there come a day where I wake up, and I don’t reach for him? 

 I’m staring at the box like the dangerous, wicked thing it is when a knock at the door rescues me from my own pity party. 

“Thank fuck.” I mutter to myself, eagerly jumping to my feet and practically running to the door. Nesta had said she’d be coming over today, and I thank my lucky stars at her timing. At least this way, I won’t have to unpack my old life alone. Nesta will help me. I’ll cry, she’ll make me laugh, and we’ll get drunk. Very drunk, knowing us. Maybe we’ll call Elain and Feyre. They’ll spend the night, and tomorrow will be easier. I’ll start looking at apartments in San Diego. As I’m opening the door, I take my first easy breath in days. 

“Thank god, Nes I need-” 

But it isn’t Nesta on the other side of the door. It's Azriel. 

“Hey, Lora. Can I come in?”

[sapphicautistic]

dont rb but idk why u would

My sisters' situations are so fucked you guys.  Sister R is living in a van belonging to her abuser, except last night she spent $110ish from her donation post to get two nights at a cheap hotel because sleeping in a van with a cat and your sister in midwinter northern Michigan is too much sometimes.

And I hate that I wish she hadn't done that, because she still needs to raise over $1000 to get the camper that is the only plan she thinks is workable, and I don't think the donation posts I'm making are going to get much more traction. 

She's actively being stalked by two different abusers and fighting to get full custody of her 4yo from one of them. She's not gonna get it, but she refuses to try to get an apartment in michigan (we can't find one anyway tho) because she believes she will and she'll be able to take that camper to where our other sister lives. 

But at least she has a gfm going and she might be able to get her shit solved.

My current project is figuring out how to save my sister M who is homeless too and in desperate need of surgery, part of her small intestine is dead and she has endo which is making tissue grow between her organs and is adhering her ureter to her spine. She's in constant agony especially when moving and/or not lying down. She's lost at least half her body weight because she can't keep food down and she's nauseated constantly. 

She quit her job in the fall because she just literally couldn't do it anymore and she asked me for help today with her unemployment appeal and I had to break the news to her that in south dakota, you can't get medical unemployment without a doctor signing off FIRST. She kind of quit in a panic over her pain and didn't really plan well. So no money can come from there.  

Anyway her fucking surgeon from her last surgery told us immediately after the surgery that she wasn't able to remove the tissue between M's spine and ureter because she's not a urologist - BUT SHE FUCKING LEFT THAT OUT OF THE NOTES, presumably to look good, and only mentioned in the notes for the followup visit that "M says she was told there was still tissue connected to her ureter" and I'm like Bitch!!! you told her!!! I was there!!! 

So her disability appeal is going to be hard to pull together because the doctors she's been seeing including her gp do not say much of anything in their notes, her GP fucking says "she can work with flexible time off for endo flares" which is insane, she literally cries getting into the car because the pain is so horrific, a "flare" can only be solved with SURGERY which is turning out to be a bitch to get - she gave up on the good kind & has been trying for a year to get just the basic ablation and kept being put off bc covid.

Mayo clinic is supposed to call on Tuesday and tell her if they'll take her, but there are lots of problems including - M is on Michigan medicaid (which they do take) because she was homeless in michigan for the last couple months BUT if she stays in sd where she currently is she'll lose her Mich medicaid. And she can't get on SD medicaid because she has no income or children. AND she can't stay where she is anyway because she has a trauma history with the person she's staying with and she’s literally actively being retraumatised. 

She can't get back to Michigan though because the car ride from Mich to SD nearly killed her and she has to return her car anyway because she can't make payments on it. 

Meanwhile I'm in California and have a one bedroom apartment with someone very allergic to the cat M has had for her entire life (he's a v old cat) and M probably couldn't do that long plane trip anyway even if we had $ for it which we don't. 

I really wish our mother were still alive, I just have no idea what to do. M is unlikely to get on disability because her doctors fucking suck. She has no income - and no insurance unless she goes back to Mich.

Mayo clinic better fucking take her because it's been so long since her last surgery that the next one will be extremely complex and I don't trust anyone else to do it - plus they do excision which slows regrowth better than ablation. 

But yeah I have no idea what to fucking do. I almost want her to come here and leave her cat with a sister, but she's literally suicidal and losing her one constant source of comfort might actually kill her. Not to mention the logistical problems.

I keep thinking about how literally all of this would be solvable if even one of us were middle class. Or if this country had just basic functional medical care. Jesus fucking Christ I hate capitalism.

[prettytoxicrevolver]

Damage | Jack Avery

Warnings? Angst? Idk this isn’t good I’m sorry 

Requested? Yes! I hope you like it and if you want a part 2 pls let me know! 

Summary: Jack and you have been best friends since kindergarten. You two grow up together and eventually you become the photographer for his band Why Don’t We. During your job, you and Jacks bandmate Daniel get together. After a long time of dating though, Daniel gets jealous when fans continue to ship you and Jack and Jack’s feelings can’t help but resurface.

Word Count: 2,308 (it’s a long one with a lot of exposition) 

Part Two is here

Five Years Old 

“Jack! Come downstairs for your playdate!” Jack comes barreling down the stairs, nearly ramming straight into his mom and she laughs lightly. 

“Momma who's coming over?” He asks and she squats down to talk to him. 

“Momma's best friend has a daughter your age and we think you guys will be best friends.'' Just as she finishes talking, the doorbell rings and Jack goes running again. His mom takes off after him to catch up just as he's opening the door. 

"Hi Jack! Did you get taIIer?" (y/n)'s mom greets Jack warmly and he smiles. 

Jack's mom greets (y/n)'s mom and the two get caught up just long enough for Jack to stare curiously at the other girl. Before the two can get too antsy and run off, (y/n)’s mom introduces (y/n). 

“Jack, this is (y/n), (y/n), this is Jack,” The two wave shyly at each other and the two moms smile fondly at the sight. 

“Why don’t you two go play outside while we catch up?” 

Jack turns around and speeds off, (y/n) close in tow. He swings open the backdoor and straight for the giant play set in the back. The two run around, playing a sort of chase, up and down the slide, before getting tired and settling on the swings. 

“What’s your favorite color?” Jack asks.

“Pink!” (y/n) exclaims. “What about you?” 

“Green.” 

The two go back and forth like this and by the end, they’ve decided they’re best friends. When (y/n)’s mom comes to get her a few hours later, she protests, insisting she never wants to leave. The two hug tightly and part with the promise that you'll be over again soon. 

12 Years Old 

"(y/n)! Jack is here!" (y/n)'s mom yells up the stairs. 

Before she can respond, her childhood best friend comes barging into the room. He plops onto her bed, instantly relaxing and she turns from her spot at her desk to look at him. 

"What's up?" She asks.

"How am I supposed to ask Anna to the dance?"  He sighs dramatically and she smiles. She  stands up and lays down next to Jack. 

"Just ask her. She obviously likes you." She responds and he rolls his eyes.

The first school dance of the year was this friday and Jack had been freaking out about asking his crush to go with him for weeks. (y/n) had been trying to convince him forever but he insisted she was going to say no. 

"What if she says no?"

"Then you're sad for a bit and then you get up and party at the dance with me." That cracks a smile and the two are back to their normal activities. 

16 Years Old 

“What do you think we'll be doing ten years from now?” (y/n) asks Jack as she rolls over on his bed to face him. 

“I'll be a famous singer and you'll be a photographer. We'll travel the world together and live out our best lives.” She smiles, and Jack turns back around to continue working on his new song. 

As he works, she takes a few Polaroids of him and judges which ones to keep, add to her portfolio and which ones to give to Jack. Just as she sits back down, Jack's mom comes in and knocks on the door. 

“Dinners ready! (y/n) are you staying the night?” She asks and (y/n) looks over at Jack who nods and she copies the action. 

“Sounds good,” His mom says before disappearing again. 

Ever since Jack and (y/n) hit middle school years, they ended up sleeping over at each others houses. Their moms decided that they trusted the other enough for sleepovers, and soon they became a regularity. 

"We'll always be friends right?" (y/n) asks once the two are settled for bed after dinner.

"Always." He smiles and it goes straight to her heart. 

Present Day

"What do you guys have going on today?" (y/n) asks as the boys gather in the living room to leave.

"Meetings, interviews, more meetings." Daniel says while sitting down next to you and pecking your cheek. "You?" 

"A photoshoot and that's it.'' She tells him and he nods.

"Have fun my love." He says kissing her and standing up again. Jack comes up and kisses the top of (y/n)'s head and tells her to have a good day before leaving with the rest of the guys.

3 years ago (y/n)'s best friend had joined a band and ever since they've taken off. Millions of followers, several eps, an album, and another tour coming up here you were. Her best friend had traveled the world and she fell in love with his band mate. Life seemed perfect.

Ever since Jack had taken off in his career (y/n) hasn't been far behind. At the beginning of the band's career she had taken all of their photos. Overtime other artists and influencers have reached out to her and asked her to take photos for their own profiles. She had begun to take off with Jack by her side. 

That was also how she met Daniel. (y/n) first started staying with the band shortly after they all moved to LA and she picked up a few photography jobs. Daniel and her hit it off right away and three years later they were here. Taking on the world by storm.

The boys seemed to have never ending meeting that was starting to take a toll. Zach looked like he was going fall asleep, Daniel wouldn't stop tapping his pen on the table, Jonah was doodling, Corbyn was on his phone like he was still in high school, and Jack was daydreaming. They were usually better than this in meetings, but it felt like they had been going in circles for days. 

"Last two things," The execs say and an audible sigh can be heard around the room. "Your opener and your photographer. Who do you want?" 

"Wait, we can bring a photographer with us?" Daniel perks up and Jack does the  same. 

"Whoever you want." 

The boys come home that day more excited than ever. (y/n) had just gotten home from her shoot and was flipping through the photos she had taken when they came practically crashing through the front door. The loud noise causes her to jump, and she spins around to see them bounding through the door. 

“(y/n)!!” Jack and Daniel both yell at the same time and she sits up quickly. 

“What’s up?” She asks confused as to what the big commotion has been about. 

“You free for the next few months?” Jack asks.

Once the boys settle enough to explain that they would pay (y/n) to tour with them and take their pictures she practically has the same reaction as they did. She had been wanting to do a tour with an artist for as long as she could remember and now to have this opportunity especially with her best friends was a dream come true. 

We work out the details and (y/n) leaves the house practically screaming inside and out. This was everything to her and she couldn’t believe this was actually going to happen. She was also so excited to travel with her best friends and essentially make great memories for months. 

Two Months Later

“Do you have your laptop?” (y/n)’s mom asks, frantically turning around to look around her near empty apartment. 

“In my backpack,” She tells her. 

“Your chargers? Enough film? Your SD cards? Did you pack enough socks?” She asks and (y/n) sighs. 

“Ma,” She says and her mom smiles. “I got it.” 

“Okay baby I love you,” She says and (y/n) hugs her mom tight and promises to call as much as possible. Just as they let go, (y/n) hears the shrill beep from the boys car and grabs her bags. 

She heads down to the car, where Daniel and Jack meet her. They grab her bags and put them into the trunk before climbing back into the car and diving head first into a summer they would never forget. 

“Are you serious?” She asks. 

“Dead. Come on!” Corbyn begs (y/n) and she rolls her eyes but holds her camera up regardless. 

Her and the boys were stuck in the airport for at least another half an hour and came up with the brilliant idea to snap some photos while they waited for the plane. Corbyn grips his favorite pillow in his arms, offering a pleading look towards (y/n) as he insists it’ll be a perfect photo for his instagram. She relents finally, and kneels down, getting the perfect angle and snaps shot after shot. 

“Flight 247 to Las Vegas now boarding,” The overhead speaker announces and Corbyn and (y/n) spring up. 

Corbyn grabs his stuff and she follows, running over to where she left hers to find it gone. Her heart drops for a second before she hears a whistle. She snaps her head to the side, seeing Jack raising her backpack in his hand and she smiles gratefully before running over with Corbyn just behind her.

“Gonna need this to start the best summer ever,” Jack says, handing the backpack over with a wink and (y/n) sighs. 

When we land in Las Vegas, we head to the hotel first, dropping off our suitcases and getting everything settled. While (y/n) would get her own room, the rest of the boys had to share one way or another. But they were always on the same floor and ran around to hang out with each other in one room. 

“(y/n)! My beautiful!” Daniel yells walking into your room. “Wanna explore?” 

“Would love to.” 

Daniel and (y/n) head out together with a quick message to the groupchat where they would be. They decide to catch an Uber to the venue and dinner somewhere close considering they haven’t eaten since before they had taken off in Los angeles. 

Just as they get to the venue, Daniel takes her hand, carefully intertwining their fingers and leads her around the place. She can’t help it, and takes out her phone and snaps a couple of photos as Daniel walks in front of her and when he hears the familiar click of a camera, he turns around. 

“Oh come on,” Daniel jokes and (y/n) smiles sheepishly. 

“I can’t help it! You look great and the lighting is unique.” 

She gestures for Daniel to move and she plops down, snapping a few photos. When Daniel has had enough, he moves towards the girl and pretends to come at her like he’s gonna tackle her. She falls back and Daniel ends up hovering over her, a wide smile plastered across his perfect features. 

He leans down, placing a light kiss on her lips and (y/n) reciprocates by leaning up to deepen it. Just as she goes to reach her arms around Daniels neck, someone clears their throat. The two separate and Daniel rolls over to sit down next to her. 

“Am I interrupting?” Jack asks walking over. 

“A little,” Daniel says and (y/n) rolls her eyes. She raises a hand and Jack helps her up. 

“What were you guys doing?” He asks once she’s standing. 

“Oh I was just taking some photos of Daniel,” (y/n) explains gesturing to the scene around her and Jack nods. Over the years he had gotten used to spontaneous photoshoots and could practically spot a perfect picture spot as well as she could. 

“By the way, the fans are obsessed with our photos on instagram,” Jack mentions and Daniel tilts his head to the side. By now he’s moved so he has an arm around (y/n)’s waist and is staring curiously at the younger boy. 

“Corbyn wanted to use my camera so I let him take a few photos of me and Jack,” (y/n) explains looking at Daniel. “How bad are the comments though?” 

“Well,” 

For the past three months, every time Jack and (y/n) posted a picture together on either one's social media the fans went nuts. They “shipped” Jack and (y/n) like crazy and blatantly ignored (y/n)’s current relationship with Daniel. Some fans really just had no boundaries and Daniel was honestly getting tired, (y/n) was hoping to do damage control, and Jack was hoping his secret crush of 13 years wouldn’t get out. 

“Come on man, did you really have to post the photos? You know how bad the fans have been,” Daniel complains and you turn in his arms. 

“Woah, it’s not Jack’s fault they have no boundaries,” (y/n) says defending her best friend. 

“And you can’t tell me what I can and can’t post,” Jack snaps back. 

“Jack chill,” (y/n) says fully stepping out of Daniels arms to get in between the two boys. 

“What’s your damage?” Daniel asks and Jack takes a step forward causing you to take one back. 

“I think you know exactly what my damage is. Don’t act like you didn’t ask for this.” 

“You had your chance man. Don’t act all high and mighty now,” Daniel says and Jack rolls his eyes. 

“You’re one to talk,” He declares and pushes past Daniel and storms off. (y/n) stares at where Jack walks off for a second, shocked at the random argument that occured before turning towards her boyfriend. 

“What the hell was that?” She asks. 

“Something you don’t want to get into,” He responds before walking away. 

(y/n) stands there for a moment, unsure of what to do or even who to choose. What was that argument even about?

[the-entertaining-spacemans-club]

Insulting Romance

A/N: Let’s kick this blog revival off with a holiday appropriate shitfic eh? It’s an old one from the depths of my google doc hell, and it’s involving a mixed up ship mess from a very old dead multi-fandom roleplay forum.  Characters involved: Dean (SPN Canon), Sam (SPN Canon), Maebh (SPN OC), Deadpool (Marvel Canon), Fives (Star Wars Canon), SD-630 (Star Wars OC). Warnings: none, there’s mild threats of bodily harm and sexual jokes but nothing actually happens.

“Hey, you ready to go yet? Sam is freaking out being alone with Maebh.” His voice echoed up the stairs with mild annoyance etching his words.

“I don't get it, isn't this weird earth holiday all about couples? Shouldn't he not want you there? Why am I being dragged along?” Her questions barely preceded her down the stairs as she asked them in rapid succession.

“It is, it’s a dumb ‘earth holiday’ but Sam likes her and I'm just in it for the free lunch and to keep him from being… Well, Sammy.” Shrugging he leaned against the lobby wall and occupied himself with his obsolete car keys oblivious to being watched from the stairwell.

“Doesn't explain why I'm going… I don't want to be stuck in some pink plastered café surrounded by grotesque displays of adoration and happy couples.” She made a fake puking sound as she came into view to emphasize her point.

“You jealous? That's cute coming from little miss ‘let me introduce your face to my fist’. C’mon, we’ll cash in on a free lunch, make fun of all the happy couples, and then go drown our loneliness at the bar. It’ll be fun.” Alerted by the proximity of her voice he looked up in time to provide a lop sided convincing grin before ducking to avoid the boot thrown at his face.

“I'm not jealous!” Closing the distance between them she grabbed her boot and stepped back to sit on the steps to put it back on. “I just like to keep my food in my stomach where it belongs. Republic Clones and Jedi are bad enough on their own, Republic Clones and Jedi in love, out in public, on a romantic holiday? Throw me to a sarlacc please.” She couldn’t have rolled her eyes any harder as she let her thoughts stray to the blonde Jedi that had stepped in and shoved her out of the picture with a certain clone captain that she had since been avoiding.

“Uh huh… Either way, let’s go, I'm starving.” With that he opened the door and stepped out of the apartment complex into the sunny streets of the island's main town.

“Still never answered me. Don't you have any other friends you could drag along to this torture?” Catching up to him she nudged him playfully.

“None that are single, and I'm sure Jett would just love if I invited Teal along.” Rolling his eyes and dragging out Jett’s name unfavorably he continued, “Which leaves Maebh, who’s already there, and, oh look, you. So can you lighten up just a little and have fun for a change? Or are you programmed to not have fun?” 

“I'm a stormtrooper not a droid, I am perfectly capable of having fun.” With an almost growl like reply she nearly shoved him into a wall as they walked.

“Right, prove it then short stack.” Stopping at a door covered in hearts he grinned and opened it to a cacophony of slow soulful music, giggling chatter, and a familiar red masked mercenary singing along to Frank Sinatra’s The Way You Look Tonight. 

“Damn, Wade outdid himself this time…” Ignoring the jab at her height, or lack there of standing next to the 6’ giant beside her, she scanned the crowded diner until she spotted the date they were crashing. “Look, there’s Sam and Maebh, so glad they took the corner booth, no one has to see me here with you on this puke worthy holiday.” 

“See you with me? I’m the embarrassing one? Didn’t you wreck your chances with a certain clone by being the embarrassing one?” Swaggering along beside her he nodded and grinned at each person that looked up at the pair of them with expressions of confusion or shock. 

“I did not! He was a pushover and that saber wielding witch used her damn dirty jedi mind tricks on him I know it.” She hissed as she slid into the booth seat opposite Sam and Maebh before narrowing her eyes at him for additional confirmation that he was being an idiot in her opinion. “You really know how to treat a lady don’t you?”

“A lady? Where?” He slid into the booth seat and immediately doubled over to rub his shin under the table. “Dude, ow.” His previous grin was replaced by a look of shocked indignation as he glared at his brother sitting across from, ignoring the muffled chuckling coming from both women at the table.

“That's not a very clever pick up line, no wonder you're single.” The blonde managed between her stifled laughs.

“I'm single. You're single. Coincidence? I think not.” he leaned over closer to her smiling broadly with a wink.

“Ok, if you are going to start that right now, you two are going to have to find your own table.” Sam coughed drawing their attention back to the collective group.

“Hey, you asked me to be here, I wasn't going to suffer alone. Besides, I figured maybe you could tell me, you ever danced with her?” His usual cocky grin secured in place as he asked.

“No… Why?” Sam, as well as Maebh and SD, stared at him with mixed looks of confusion and worry.

“I just figured someone that’s hot as hell, had to have danced with the devil a time or two.” The trio of groans were accompanied by howling laughter from the next table over, garnering their attention to see who was listening in on their conversation.

“Oi, Fives, unless you want to eat blaster bolts and leave your date with the check, act like this entire table doesn’t exist. Got it?” SD glared between Sam and Maebh at the clone trooper sitting behind them.

“Don't be like that SD, I'm sure your date wouldn't enjoy you taking time away from him to kick my ass today. I think it’s kinda sweet you found someone to share this earth holiday with.” Fives smiled while draping his arm over his own dates shoulder smirking back at her.

“My date?!” the rest of his words fell on deaf ears as her eye twitched in aggravation. “Move your ass Dean, I'm going to make him eat those words.” 

“Ouch, shot down by the droid captain herself. Knew you didn't have a heart SD.” With a wink he turned back to his table and continued to focus on his date.

“I really hope you got health insurance Fives, cause you're going to need an entire hospital to help you when I'm done with you!” Trying to physically push Dean out of the way she was determined to at the very least punch the clone in the face a few times if not outright stab him.

“Hey, if you were a droid, at least you'd be a HOT-obot. Can I just call you Optimus Fine?” Wiggling his eyebrows in a jesting manner he tried to defuse the situation before SD really did get up to start a fight with Fives.

“Wow Dean, and I thought we would be the ‘gross cute couple’ present. That was just, wow man.” Sam shook his head as Deadpool sauntered over with a tray of drinks in hand to take their order.

“So what can I get the barbershop quartet of murder and mayhem today?” Setting down the tray, he handed a beer to Dean, a glass of water to Sam, and a soda to either SD and Maebh. Tucking the now empty tray under his arm he smoothed out his apron. It was a baby pink thing with red hearts printed across that worked better than Dean's latest pick up line as both women at the table started laughing, even Sam and Dean couldn't help but chuckle.

“We all know you don't do menus, so what's the special today?” Maebh asked after composing herself.

“I'm glad you asked! Today we've got every assortment of pasta you could imagine, I highly recommend the spaghetti to share,” even with his hood on, his eyebrows raising suggestively did not go unnoticed, “as well as all the usual dishes. I focused more on the desserts than the entrees. Sundaes, giant brownies, cheesecakes, basically anything you can imagine is being whipped up!” 

“I don't know what ‘the usual dishes’ are… I'm assuming Earth food?” SD asked with one brow quirked displaying her obvious confusion at everything being said.

“Do you have Alfredo in that ‘every assortment’ of pastas? Been awhile since I had a good Alfredo. You'd probably like it SD, it’s just noodles and sauce.” Maebh gave her order and offered her suggestion to SD.

“Actually that sounds pretty good, make that two please.” Sam chimed in before Deadpool had a chance to answer. Without bothering to verbally confirm their order, he pulled a notepad from his apron pocket and jotted down before looking at Dean and SD.

“I don't even know what pasta is in the first place…”

“You wouldn't like Alfredo, it’s basically vegetarian. You’ll want something with red sauce, more meat.” Dean interjected knowing that someone with a love for carnage like the captain sitting beside him would not be a fan of anything even remotely vegetarian. 

“So the spaghetti to share for the killer couple, got it!” Deadpool didn't give them time to reject his choice for them before he skirted away from their table shouting towards the kitchen “I NEED TWO GREENS PEACE PLATES AND ONE LADY AND THE TRAMP!” 

“Oh hell, he better bring that out on separate plates I swear.” Dean sighed as he took a drink of his beer, grateful the mercenary always magically knew what everyone wanted to drink at least.

“Don't count on it.” Sam chuckled from his side of the table.

“While we're waiting, I got another question for you.” The second the words were out of Dean's mouth Maebh hung her head knowing no good was going to come from his statement.

“Uh, what?” Already not looking forward to whatever stupid thing he was about to say.

“Is that a mirror in your pocket?” With one brow raised and his shit eating grin back in place he waited for her answer.

“No?” Looking down at her pants oblivious to the punch line she wondered why he would have asked that.

“Because I can practically see myself in them.” His other brow raised as he mimicked Deadpool earlier suggestive eyebrow wiggle.

“You'd have better luck seducing her blaster man!” Fives chimed in between laughs.

“Both of you can shut your mouths right now!” She hissed as it dawned on her what he said. “I only came along because you sounded so pathetic and desperate when you asked. This isn't a date, we are not involved romantically or casually, cut it out Dean.” 

“Oh come on, lighten up!” Playfully nudging her shoulder trying to get her out of the sour mood she was in he added, “I just like to stay on top of things. Want to be one of them?” 

“You're going to get stabbed-” Sam started up before Maebh interjected.

“Or shot.”

“Yes, or shot, and ruin the day for everyone here. I'm sorry he's like this SD. He's never had a woman actually say yes to spending Valentine's Day with him and it's clearly gotten to his head.” Sam explained trying to justify his brother's behavior and lower the tension. 

“How sad, makes sense though.” She didn't elaborate and even looked out the window when she caught the confused look on Dean's face.

“How the hell?” He asked looking from SD to Sam and Maebh completely bewildered.

“Because on a scale from one to ten, you're a one, and I'm the nine you need.” A slight smirk crept across her face as she refrained from looking back at him in a poor attempt to keep from laughing. Maebh cracked up though at her retaliation and in turn she couldn't help but start laughing as well.

“Oh! The stormtrooper thinks she's got jokes! That's pretty cute coming from someone who must've sat in a pile of sugar.” He almost started laughing when she scooted over in the seat to see if he was being serious or not. “Because you've got a pretty sweet ass.” 

“Tell me something I didn't know Darth Obvious.” With an amused snort she picked up her soda before noticing Deadpool coming back towards them with a tray of food. “Oh good, at least if your mouth is full you can't make anymore dumb jokes.”

“I got something that could fill your mouth.” He muttered quietly as he watched her start choking on her drink. 

“What the kark!” Having nearly snorted out her drink through her nose she had to take a moment to get her breath back as Deadpool set out their plates.

“Alfredo for you, Alfredo for you, and please wait until you're back at your own place before you start choking on things that are hard to swallow SD, my other patrons don't need to see that.” Setting down their large shared plate of spaghetti he made a quick exit away from their table to go check on other lunch dates before SD could retaliate amidst the rest of their table laughing heartily. 

Still coughing on her drink she could only glare at him as he walked off before she could reply or at least throw a knife at him. She knew it wouldn't have done any real damage to him, but it would have made her feel better that even he had gotten a jab in at her expense. 

“Hey, calm down, you'll want to save your energy for tonight after all.” Dean grinned as Sam and Maebh groaned. 

“Can you at least keep it clean so I can keep my food down?” Sam pleaded as he took a bite of his food and mumbled about how good it was, to which Maebh mumbled back around a bite herself. 

“I make no promises, it's hard to keep it clean when you've got a health hazard sitting next to you.” 

“Hey Dean?” The almost innocent nature of her question was concerning all on its own.

“Yeah?” Watching her nervously he had a nagging thought in the back of his mind to get out of the way but he stayed sitting anyways.

“You dropped something.” Looking past him at the floor beside their booth she kept up the casual tone and calm façade.

“What?” Following her gaze he didn't see anything and became confused. “No I didn't?”

“Yeah, you did…” taking advantage of him leaning towards the floor, she shoved him out of the seat before adding “your standards.” While he flailed futility to try and keep himself from falling, she took a bite of the weird mess of food sitting before her and grinned. “At least your taste in food isn't terrible.”

“You just called yourself low standard, you know that right?” He asked as he got back into his seat.

“I never said mine were great either.” She muttered as they continued to eat their meals with minimal conversation. 

When their plates were mostly empty, and after a short battle for the last meatball, Deadpool came back around with drink refills. “And what can I get you all to satisfy your sweet tooth? Brownies? Ice cream? Both? Cake? Pie? -”

Almost simultaneously SD and Dean's faces lit up at the mention of pie as they perked up and asked “Pie?” Gaining them a chuckle from Sam and Maebh who both knew Dean loved pie more than any other food except maybe burgers. Looking from Deadpool to one another skeptically they spoke up at the same time again.

“You actually know what pie is?!”

“Pie is an Earth food?!”

“If I hadn't already met God, I'd think he was real now. A woman after my own heart.” He wiped away a fake tear as Deadpool took the moment to throw a handful of candy hearts in the air above them bringing both out of their shock to glare up at him in annoyance as the hard candies pelted them mercilessly. 

“What the kark Deadpool! What are these things?” SD hissed as she picked one up and saw that it had words on it. “Cutie Pie? Is this some kind of joke?” 

“The only joke here is that you might have actually found someone SD.” Fives piped up after being silent for too long. “Ouch! Those things hurt!” He ducked down before she could throw another one at the back of his head.

“So I think it's obvious they want pie, but can we get a Sunday please?” Maebh interjected before SD and Fives started up again.

“Of course! All the toppings?” He asked, looking at Sam and Maebh ignoring SD and Dean shaking candy hearts out of their shirts.

“Yeah? Sam?” She asked not sure if he had any allergies she should be considerate of.

“Anything you want, I'm not a big dessert person anyways.” Seeing the slightly dejected look at his words he quickly added “I'll still have a few bites though.” 

“HEY SLADE I NEED A BANANA BOAT AND A COUPLE SLICES OF YOUR GRANDMA'S BLUE RIBBON!” He shouted as he started down the row of booths to take other dessert orders and shower more unknowing patrons with hard sugary treats.

“Seriously though, what are these things?” SD asked the rest of the table as she picked a few more up to read them. Pulling a disgusted face at one that read 'soul mates’ before flicking it away from her.

“They're candy with silly messages printed on them,” Maebh answered as she picked a few up to read as well. “Though there's some X-rated ones mixed in… not surprising coming from Deadpool though.” 

“Hey, SD…” Dean held out a heart that clearly Deadpool had somehow managed to make and mix into the regular cutesy ones that read ‘nice ass’. 

With a grin she picked through the ones on the table and held one up in reply 'eat me’. Of course she had meant it in a 'go fuck yourself’ kind if way not knowing it was intentionally one of the dirty ones mixed in.

“If you insist, we'll need that pie to go though.” Leaning closer to her he held out another ‘lets bang!’.

“I may not have a heart, but know a few other ways to get blood pumping.” She grinned as she spoke up enough for Fives to hear. The resounding sputtering of a drink was all the response she needed to start laughing her ass off. For additional effect, added for Sam and Maebh's benefit, while pushing Dean out of the booth she tacked on a “Sorry to have to bail on you guys early, but I can think of better places to enjoy a slice of pie among other things.”

“Wait, seriously?” Stunned by what was going on he didn't really have the mental capacity to object or question her as she flagged down Deadpool and dragged him along. 

“What just happened?” Maebh asked Sam, equally confused.

“Dean just met his match is what just happened.” He chuckled as he leaned back into the booth seat to relax.

[endingscenery]

Snapshot! | Mark Lee

mark lee x reader

genre: fluff

summary: mark tends to hide from the camera but after a few glasses of wine, you find that when tipsy, he suddenly is more than happy to be in your photos and also be the one taking them

words:  1.8K+

a/n: this was loosely based off of my own experience with my tipsy camera shy friends

Crouching in front of the row of grape vines, you adjusted your camera’s focus and aperture settings, aiming to capture the exact image you desired.

“Yo, that came out really nice,” Mark comments, leaning over your shoulder to get a better look at your camera’s screen.

Twisting your body to face him, you offer him a childish grin.

“It would be better if you were in it,” you tease whilst trying to not-so-subtly throw him a hint.

He only shakes his head in response, making you frown. Despite being a professional photographer and practically having a camera strapped around your neck 24/7, Mark still has managed to escape nearly every photo you try taking of him, leaving you with either blurry images or ones where he looks like he’s running scared which you then delete at his request. With that being said, you still had some nice ones of him, but they were mostly from the rare occasion he didn’t notice you sneaking around with your camera or when he had given in to your persistence and allowed you to take one of him. He always ends up liking the photos you take, so you can’t help but roll your eyes at the times where he tries to hide from the camera. But then again, you have to admit, you yourself don’t like being in photos that much either; happier to be the one behind the camera than in front of it. It was just at times like these, when you could picture a shot with him in it that would look oh so beautiful, you just wished he would be a little less camera shy. You love all the photos you have of him.

“We should probably start heading to the winery soon though, or we won't have much time for the gardens,” Mark reminds you, standing up from his bent position, leaning over your shoulder, and stretching his arms out over his head.

You nod, glancing at your watch. If you headed down to the winery now for wine tasting, you would still be able to spend another couple of hours in the wine region before heading further up north to the botanic gardens for your picnic and more photo taking.

“I'll drive us there,” Mark announces. “You'll be driving us to the garden and also back home, so it's only fair.”

“It's only a short distance from here though,” you chuckle despite agreeing with his suggestion anyway.

Out of the two of you, Mark was more of a lightweight and since your main purpose of today was to take photos to build up your portfolio, you volunteered to drive after the wine tasting and planned to only test a few selected wines while Mark could knock himself out. You just prayed nothing out of the ordinary would happen.

❁❁❁

In total, Mark had tried about thirteen different wines, the last three being quite strong ones, whilst you sampled about five. The wine guide indicated that the amount you drank was roughly equal to one glass of wine which makes you start to worry about how much Mark drank. You pay for the bottles of wine Mark and you decide to take home, thanking the cashier and picking up the paper bag from the counter before turning around to find Mark is no longer behind you. Eyebrows furrowed in confusion, you turn around, scanning the area to find he is no longer inside. Poking your head out through the exit door, you exhale a sigh of relief at seeing his figure in the distance, hands in his pockets as he admires a water fountain not too far away. Smiling, you open your camera, stepping outside into the summer sun whilst turning the lens to zoom onto his figure and catch the photo. After checking the shot and being satisfied with the outcome, you make your way over towards Mark.

“It’s quite pretty,” he comments and you nod in response.

You fiddle with the camera settings, adjusting the lighting before sneaking another shot of Mark. The shutter clicks and you prepare yourself for his protests, but none come your way. Confused, you look up at him only to find him still smiling, unusually unbothered by the camera which makes you question him a little bit.

“Come on, let’s look around some more before we drive go to the gardens,” Mark brightens, grabbing your wrist and leading you around the winery.

“Hey, this would look so nice as a photo!” Mark exclaims.

You arrived back at the pavilion by the winery’s entrance, pillars covered in grapevines with marbled floor tilings reflecting the sun’s rays of light. You hold up your camera, looking through the viewfinder and taking a few shots before Mark’s head blocks your view. His eyes crinkle at the sides as he smiles, and his lips are spread out in laughter. You take a photo wanting to capture this look and this sheer happiness forever.

“Take some nice ones of me too,” he giggles.

You raise your eyebrows at him at first, but decide to comply with his wishes, happy he is finally allowing you to take photos of him. And not only that, but he’s allowing you to take natural, happy, carefree ones as well. It was too good of an opportunity to pass up.

“Okay, I’ve got a lot of good ones,” you smile. “Let’s keep exploring.”

As you continue to walk around the area, Mark goes on about how much he loves the sunshine, how pretty the winery is, and mostly how he thinks he might be a little bit tipsy. You merely laugh at this, since he most definitely is tipsy, but you don’t complain. You seem to have found that tipsy Mark loves photos and actually encourages you to take them of himself and you plan to now use that to your advantage before he goes back to his normal camera shy self. A slight guilt rushes over you but you push it aside as you look back at the photos on your camera. They are truly gorgeous, encapsulating Mark’s playful and childish aura, as well as his boyish charm. You know that once you show him these photos he will be thankful you took them and as you see him look back at you, his lips turned upwards in a wide grin and you see the pure happiness radiating off of him, you don’t regret capturing these moments either.

❁❁❁

“You should stand in front of there!” Mark yells enthusiastically and you look to see where his fingers are pointing.

Ahead of you is an old Victorian style building with rose bushes lined in a garden area in front of it.

“Me?” You question and he nods excitedly.

As you start to head over to the building you hear the lilt of Mark’s voice as he chuckles.

“Give me your camera first,” he smiles, amused at the dumbfounded expression on your face and you are sure he can see the blush tinting your cheeks.

Unwrapping the camera and its strap from your neck, you quickly check the settings and hand it over to him. You’re at a loss of what to do once you do step in front of the building and Mark holds up the camera. You take the photos, not model for goodness sakes! You’re saved when Mark starts to direct you in what to do and you do your best to follow while watching him move around, trying different angles as he takes shot after shot. It makes you wonder why he doesn’t take photos more often and why he seems so confident to manoeuvre you into different poses. You decide you’ll have to ask him later as he calls you to another spot he found that looks nice.

❁❁❁

The two of you finally reach your apartment after the long drive and the long day, ready to wind down for the evening with some take away and video games. Mark sets up your living room and sorts through your games while you plug your camera’s SD card into your computer, wanting to transfer the photos before you forget.

“Are you looking at the photos from today?” Mark asks, glancing back at you.

You nod in response. “I’m just transferring them first for now.”

“Oh, can I look at them?”

You motion for him to come over and so he does, squeezing himself into the spot on the couch beside you. Turning the screen towards him, he scrolls the mouse over to your photos, skimming through the shots, admiring them and praising them.

“Wait, when did you take this?”

“I couldn’t find you once I paid for the wine tasting and then I saw you outside so I took a photo,” you shrug.

Mark skips to the next photo to find the multiple ones you took of him.

“I will say, you really seem to like photos when you’re tipsy,” you laugh and you notice Mark’s cheeks begin to turn a gentle rose pink colour.

“I see you took that to your advantage.”

Grinning at him, you push his shoulder. “Come on, they’re really nice though aren’t they?”

You watch as he looks closely at them, and he nods.

“They really are. Perhaps I should let you take more photos of me if they come out like this.”

“Really?”

The way your eyes light up makes Mark laugh. You look so innocent.

“Yeah,” he nods. “Just, don’t go too crazy with photos.”

Promising you won’t, Mark nods at the response and continues looking through the photos, reaching the ones of you.

“Wow, these actually came out so nice,” you praise him and his eyes widen in shock.

“Did they?”

Immediately sitting up straighter and looking your direction, Mark nearly knocks the laptop off your leg, earning him a scowl from you to which he quickly apologises for.

“Yes they do Mark, to be honest I’m kind of surprised. I never knew you were good at photography too.” 

He simply shrugs. “You know though, you always complain I don’t like being in your photos, but you too don’t seem to like photos. You hypocrite.”

Laughing, you can’t help but shrug back at him too. “I know I am, I can’t really argue with that.”

You place the laptop onto the living room table, and lean back into the couch.

“So,” Mark starts, a mischievous grin on his face. “If I allow you to take more photos of me, does that mean I can take more of you too.”

You think about it, before letting out a sigh.

“Okay it’s a deal.”

Mark smiles at your response, making you smile too. Without you realising, he grabs his phone from his pocket quickly and takes a photo of you, making you blush and hide your face behind one of the couch pillows.

“You said I could,” Mark giggles in response and you know he’s right.

“At least I know what to do if I want many photos of you now though.”

“And what is that, exactly,” Mark enquires, slightly nervous.

He watches as you stand up from the couch making your way over to the kitchen countertop. You reach inside the paper bag sitting atop the marbled surface and pull out a bottle of wine.

“Get you tipsy of course!”

[yandere-society]

Could you please do a reverse idol au where the Reader is an idol and they are her sasaeng fans and they finally get to see & talk to her at a fanmeet (also she calls them cute and accidentally brushes her hand against theirs if that's okay) for Taehyung, Jin and Yoongi please. Thank you

Reaction to Meeting You at a Fansign

Admin: @nomnomsik 🎉

Trigger warnings: unhealthy obsession, yandere-themes, stalking, and unhealthy daydreaming. 

A/N: Gender neutral as always. Also, this is just food for thought, but a fansign is what we typically think, the idol goes to sign your album, you talk to them, hold hands, etc, etc. But a fanmeet is different than a fansign. It’s like their Musters, the ones they have in Japan and such. It’s a concert, but more personal and they have their skits. They’re quite different!

Taehyung

Taehyung could not stop moving, waiting in line like all the rest of the fans for his chance to have a one on one conversation with you at your fansign. He remembered how loudly he shouted with joy when his number was drawn, a confirmation sent to him afterward that said he could go to the fansign.

Taehyung had three weeks to prepare before he would meet you, brainstorming questions on what to ask as well as what he would say. He contemplated memorizing a script but pouted instead when he realized how unnatural that would be. The worst thing he could do was to make you think negatively of him.

 “Ahhhh,” Taehyung whined. “Why does this have to be so difficult? Why can’t it be love at first sight…” He had sighed, rolling around in his bed as he pouted unhappily. 

Now, with your album in his hands, he was two spots away until it was his turn. He was jittery, unable to resist the large smile on his face and the thought of holding hands while he talked to you or the intense eye contact. 

“Next person please.” The staffer spoke, ushering Taehyung forward who quickly kneeled down to meet you, almost like an excited puppy to see its owner. 

“Hello,” You smiled, accepting his album and signing it near the page he had bookmarked. Taehyung replied back happily, his eyes sparkling as he finally, finally, talked to his idol. As you placed the marker down, you outstretched your hand like you did to all your fans, Taehyung immediately reciprocating and holding onto it.

He played around with your hand, swaying your arm back and forth as he vibrantly chatted away, asking you all sorts of questions about your personal taste with compliments sprinkled in. 

“You said your name was Taehyung, right?” You smiled, to which he excitedly nodded up and down. “Well Taehyung, I think you’re very cute. You seem more excited about my job than I am.” You joked, only causing Taehyung to heat up with embarrassment. 

Did he annoy you? Oh god, what if you thought he was annoying. You seemed to notice how Taehyung’s smile wavered, suddenly realizing how your comment could have seemed insensitive, especially to a dedicated fan. 

“Oh my gosh, I’m so sorry,” You quickly apologized. “That was supposed to be a compliment. I know I sound really sarcastic no matter what I say, but yeah…” 

It was then that the staffer alerted Taehyung his time was up, the man quickly handing his letter over to you and giving your hand a squeeze before leaving. As he exited the building which held your fansign, he was breathless, completely winded. 

You thought he was cute? You complimented his appearance? Was this a dream? With his cheeks tinted pink, Taehyung smiled to himself, a grin spreading on his face. He touched his features, whispering to himself.

“She liked how I look… Am I… actually cute…?” 

Jin

So many goddamn peasants everywhere.

Being the wonderful and spoiled brat he was, Kim Seokjin, heir of his father’s company got the tickets for the fansign, his family being a sponsor for your agency. 

Jin didn’t need preparation for the fansign, he was going to wing it like he did everything in life with his gorgeous looks. A lasting impression on you is ten times more effective than anything that were to come out from his mouth. Why words when he has looks?

So Jin stood impatiently in line, arms crossed as he side-glared everyone that passed him. He gave several eye-rolls to the people that whispered about his bad attitude, completely oblivious to who he was. 

Jin was only the second person in line. 

When the first person finally finished their little chitchat with you, Jin proudly stepped forward, sleekly dressed and hair styled by his stylist at home. He made sure to spray his favorite and expensive cologne on his suit, knowing how spraying alcohol on his face would only dry his skin and age him faster, his only fear in life. 

“Good morning.” You called to him, as he kneeled to meet at eye-level. Jin nodded shyly, handing over his album that he had tightly clutched to his chest. “What’s your name?” 

“K-Kim Seokjin…” Jin replied, keeping eye-contact as you nodded and wrote his name as well as signing his album. When you finished and closed his album, you looked up at him, marker still in your hand as you awaited his question. Jin cleared his throat, getting embarrassed as he shamelessly stuck out his hand. 

“Oh!” You realized, placing your marker down and locking fingers with his. “Sorry about that.” You gave a sheepish smile to which he only nodded. “It’s been a while since I’ve done a fansign. I forgot, oops.” You giggled, swaying your arms back and forth. 

Jin could barely get all of his questions in, being a stuttering and flustered mess throughout it. His two minutes were up in a flash as he was kindly instructed to move on and proceed to the exit. 

“Jin, try to relax more.” You had teased him. “Although I find you cute when you’re flustered, it’s okay. Relax next time.” You waved to him as he quietly left, until breaking into a fast sprint until he was outside. His cheeks were red as he let out several curses outside, stomping on the concrete. 

“I can’t believe…! I’m not cute. I’m handsome. HANDSOME!! Not… whatever.”

Yoongi 

“Ahh, where’s my camera? Camera? Oh, oh, oh! Here. Here it is.”

Yoongi scrambled in his room, remembering just as he was about to close the door to his apartment, his camera. Picking up the thousand dollar DSLR, he checked the SD card and picked up his assortment of lenses before sprinting out the door. 

He kept a continuous smile on his face as he traveled to the building the fansign was taking place. It was only 6 am, but he waited outside the building, one of the first people in line. In the matter of a few hours, the line went across the block, waiting for doors to open at 8 am. 

When Yoongi’s papers were checked and scanned, he was let in, his feet immediately sprinting to the center of the room and setting up his camera. 

Being a fansite was a competitive job, but one that he loved doing. Seeing you printed out on clean, glossy paper did wonders to his heart, his fingers over tracing over you. Ah, those banners too.

Yoongi didn’t mind not being first in line. As long as he got video footage, and most importantly, the best shot, that’s all that mattered to him. When you finally walked in and took your seat, all your fans cheered, including Yoongi as he was surrounded by other fansites who were seething with jealously at his view. 

It relieved him greatly that security didn’t find him suspicious or familiar. After all, he was the fan that conveniently bumped into you last night and followed, camera in hand. Bless those surgical masks.

As the fansign neared its end, Yoongi began to pack up his things as he saw staff cleaning up in the back and the way you restlessly moved and talked. His heart sped up, the thought of you unable to rest because of him. It was him that made you stay up at night. 

As all the fans waved outside as you unloaded the gifts and your belongings into your van, you spotted the small boy waving at you. You squinted, not remembering his face. He had certainly not come up to you today. Odd. 

But Yoongi didn’t need to, he already had the plans written on your schedule for the month.

He would be seeing you again tonight. And in a much more personal setting. 

[my-one-true-l]

Could u write Near #3 & #5, with his S/O for the prompt meme 🦋

Here you are, my dear Anon. Sorry for the wait. 

I thought you were better than that

The walls of the SPK Headquarters were painted white, deliberate in their starkness to promote deduction and limit distractions. It was the perfect camouflage for Near who could arguably fade into the background, never to be noticed and none would be the wiser, so when his face burned with a crimson that only true rage can bring forth, he easily had their attention.

“I thought you were better than that. Do you have any idea how many people you’ve put in danger?” He took a deep breath and exhaled slowly, his face fading to fuchsia. He was beginning to understand Mello better. If everything made him feel like this, it was no wonder he was a ticking time bomb.

“How would I know it was this big of a deal?”

“I told you it was a monumental deal when you proposed posting your photography online. There was a reason I asked you not to.”

“I didn’t know that you and Mello were in the background of the photos I took that day.” They frowned at him before shrugging off his anger. “It’s not like I did it on purpose.”

“It doesn’t matter if you did it on purpose. You may not have acted with malicious intent, but your negligence is just as detrimental.” He pinched the bridge of his nose, trying to hold back the headache that was threatening him. “I ask very little of you. Keep the location of HQ a secret and to never disclose anyone’s identity connected with this investigation and that includes Mello. It’s bad enough that you posted your photos after I specifically asked you not to, but to not even check them before doing so.”

They turned to him, words snarling from their lips. “Your investigation?  You know what, Near, my life doesn’t revolve around your work. It’s bad enough I’m practically a prisoner in this relationship, but how am I supposed to get known for my photography if I can’t put it out there?”

“I suppose that’s true.” He was not fond of the conclusion he was coming to, but he saw no other choice. “I need you to delete the photos you have taken since we’ve been together and leave the SD card you are currently using so it can be properly disposed of and then I want you to collect your belongings and leave. Your clearance will be revoked as soon as you go. I wish you all the best in your future endeavors.”

“Future endeavors? You sound like you’re firing me, not breaking up with me. Do you even have a heart? Do you care about anything other than your cases?”

“Being someone that just put the lives of several people in danger for your career, I think you can understand.”

They picked up their camera and removed the card, tossing it at Near’s feet before grabbing their back pack.

“And you know what? I thought you were better than that.”

I wish I could say I hate you

“I don’t understand.” Near sat on the edge of the bed, one leg pulled up to his chest. He rested his arm against his knee, twirling anxious fingers around his platinum locks. “I thought you were happy here, happy with me.”

“I didn’t mean for this to happen.” They opened the dresser drawer and started stuffing their clothes into their duffle bag.  “I just think it’s better if I wasn’t staying here. Not while I try to figure things out.”

“If you loved me, you wouldn’t need to figure anything out. You would already know the answers.”

“I do love you.” They zipped the bag, dropping it on the floor before sitting down next to him on the bed. “I just think I might have feelings for him, too.”

“I don’t want you to leave.” He cast his eyes to the floor. It was easier than watching them pack, knowing there was a good chance they wouldn’t be coming back.

“I don’t think it’s fair to stay here. It’s not fair to you, it’s not fair to me.”

“Are you going to stay with him?”

“No, I’m going to a friend’s for a while. I promise I will not see him, not while we’re apart, not until I figure this out.”

“This hurts.” Lifting his eyes to them, he glared straight into them. “You’re hurting me.”

“I don’t mean to. I’m trying to do the opposite.” They rested their hand on his shoulder just to have him pull away. “I understand if you hate me, but I’m trying to do what’s best for you.”

“I wish I could say I hate you, but it would be a lie.” His bottom lip quivered, but he refused to give into pain he felt welling up from the pit of his stomach. He had spent so much of his life pushing down his feelings that this should have been easy, but it was harder than anything he had to do.

“I’m sorry, Nate. I really am.”

They stood up and grabbed their coat, draping it over their arm before picking up their bag to head out. Taking one last look around the room, they noticed their stuffed rabbit sitting in the chair in the corner, but they decided to leave it behind. They had taken away enough things Near loved today.

[wosoimagines]

A Day With You - Emily Sonnett/Reader

I’m using the same prompt that “With You” was written with, but I’m changing it up. This is not the same as “With You.”

prompt: Can you do a fluffy Emily Sonnett imagine where she and the reader are just being soft? Or any fluffy baby of the team imagines? It could be anything, it’s a fluff kind of day.

warnings: None

words: 1609

(Y/N) POV

I grinned as Emily handed me the plates back. I took them from her and leaned against the counter. I played with the plates a little.

“What?”

“You know where the plates go, Em,” I said. Emily moved to take the plates from me.

“Then I’ll put them up,” Emily said. She opened the cabinet before putting the plates in the cabinet. I smiled at her as I moved closer to Emily. “You don’t have to do anything today, right? Since you had your photoshoot yesterday.”

“I have to edit photos,” I shrugged. I would have to get that done before midnight. I had started editing my photos yesterday but I had fallen asleep before I could finish. “Thank you, by the way. For moving me to my bed.”

“I know you were just staying up to work on your photos to stay busy while you waited for me to get in,” Emily shrugged. I grinned and grabbed a hold of her waist as I pulled myself closer to her. “So, what do you want to do today?”

“I can only spend until lunch with you,” I said. Emily started to whine. “No, I have to do work. I can eat lunch with you, but then I have to come back here and finish. I had some fun taking pictures for the Trail Blazers yesterday, and I would appreciate it if they gave me another call.”

Emily groaned, but she knew that I had a point. I would take any calls I could get from professional teams even though I primarily worked with the Thorns or Timbers, but I couldn’t just work with them. When I had gotten a call from the Trail Blazers asking if I could work with them for their media day, I immediately told them I would. If I could get to work with them more, then it definitely wouldn’t hurt.

“I wanna spend time with you,” Emily complained.

“We can spend time together,” I pointed out. Emily still pouted at me. I couldn’t help but smile at her because it was adorable. “I just have to work after lunch. What do you want to do until then?”

“The zoo.”

“No,” I groaned. Emily loved going to the zoo and it was fun, but it did get tiring if we went too often. “We went two weeks ago. That’s too close for me, Emily.”

“What about that museum?” Emily asked. Going to museums with Emily could be tricky. If she didn’t want to go then I wouldn’t stay for long if I dragged her with me. Emily couldn’t behave for long if we were going somewhere she didn’t want to go. “You’ve been dying to go.”

“I went with a couple of friends,” I admitted. Emily looked disappointed and I wasn’t sure if that was because she wanted to go or she wanted me to go with her. “It’s just, I know you didn’t really want to go and my friends decided to go, so I went with them.”

“It’s fine,” Emily sighed. We were both at a loss. I wanted Emily to decide what we would do today since I was only going to get to spend half a day with her. “What about walking around? I know that you love to walk around and take pictures. We could just take pictures around Portland today.”

“I don’t know.”

“Come on, (Y/N),” Emily begged. I rarely let anyone use my cameras because they’re expensive and I couldn’t afford to let someone else break one. “I’ll be careful, babe. Just this once? Please?”

I groaned when Emily added a pout. I was a sucker for her when she pouted. Who wouldn’t say yes to anything Emily Sonnett asked when she pouted? I ran a hand through my hair.

“You have to keep the strap around your neck,” I started to lay out my rules for Emily if she was going to use my camera. “You always have to keep a hand on it. Don’t let it knock into many things.”

Emily listened to the few rules that I had for her before she pushed past me to run to my office. Emily knew where I kept my cameras. I didn’t run, but I did follow Emily to my office. I knew that Emily would be excited to use one of the cameras, but she didn’t know which one to use or the lens to go with it. 

Emily was bouncing with excitement when I entered the office. I chuckled at her because she looked like a kid in a candy store. I walked over to the cabinet that Emily was staring into. I opened the cabinet before pulling out a couple of cameras and put the lens on them.

“Can you grab my bag?”

Emily nodded and I watched as she walked over to the closet. I set the cameras down before closing the cabinet. Emily joined my side again and she had my backpack. I smiled at her before putting the cameras inside.

I pulled the bag onto my back. Emily grinned and took my hand. I grinned as I let her drag me out of my apartment. We headed for Emily’s car. It only took Emily a minute before she had her phone plugged in and was singing and dancing to her Spotify playlist.

It didn’t take us long to get into Portland or for Emily to find a place to park her car for the morning. However, before we got out, Emily held her hand out to me. I shook my head at her, but I gave her the camera. Emily gave me a quick kiss before she got out of her car. I followed her out.

“Come on, (Y/N),” Emily said as she moved to the sidewalk. I pulled my camera around my neck after I shut the car door. “I wanna take pictures.”

I laughed at Emily, but she looked adorable. She was excited to take pictures with me which was a little surprising. I knew that Emily loved it when I used her in a photoshoot, but I didn’t realize that she wanted to be behind the camera. That was how we spent our morning. Walking around Portland and taking pictures of the places and people we walked by.

Lunch went relatively smooth as well. Emily had been recognized by a couple of people, but that didn’t surprise me. Emily was always getting recognized by people in Portland. It was part of playing for a city that loved their soccer team. We always seemed to run into Thorns fans when we went out.

Once we had gotten back to my apartment Emily followed me like a puppy to my office. I put the cameras up, but I pulled the sd cards out. I knew that I wouldn’t just need to edit the pictures from my shoot yesterday, but also some from the ones I took today. I also figured that Emily would want me to edit her pictures as well.

“Can you show me?”

I looked at the defender in confusion. I wasn’t entirely sure what she meant. Emily motioned to my computer.

“Can you show me how to edit photos?” Emily asked. I was a little surprised by that. “I think it's cool.”

I sat down at the desk before grabbing my laptop so that Emily could use it since I would use the desktop computer. Emily grabbed a hold of my laptop and the sd card that came out of the camera she used. I pulled up some of the pictures from my shoot yesterday before running Emily through the basics of how to edit photos.

“You got it?”

“Yeah,” Emily nodded. I smiled as she started to leave my office. Emily stopped and turned to look back at me. “Can you teach me more later?”

“Yeah, of course,” I said. I smiled at her and she grinned. “I never realized that you wanted to get behind the camera.”

“Not like you do, but I think it’s fun.”

I turned back to the computer once Emily left my office. I would be sure to check out her pictures later to see what she would do with them. I had no doubt in my mind that Emily could do some cool stuff with her pictures. But for now, I had to edit. Of course, when I started to edit my pictures, hours could go by and I wouldn’t even notice.

It surprised me when my phone went off and I saw that Emily had tagged me in something. Of course, it was on Instagram. I shook my head as I picked my phone up and opened the app. I was surprised to see that it was a picture of myself. I was very impressed with the picture because I didn’t have my camera to my face and it had been nicely edited. I scrolled through the pictures to see what Emily had done today, and they were really good. I scrolled a little farther to read the caption.

Seeing that smile on your face is worth the world to me. I know that we don’t always spend as much time together as I wish we could, but thanks for spending your free time with me. Also, thank you for actually letting me use your camera and teaching me the basics of photoshop. I’m going to hold you to teach me how to use photoshop like you do.

I smiled before liking the picture. I wouldn’t trade my free days with Emily Sonnett for anything in the world. Nothing was going to stop me from loving Emily Sonnett.

[colbybrocksmolder]

The Wilderness – Colby Brock x Reader 4/4

PART 3

The next few days played out very similarly. Elton called everyone together once a day for a small competition. You’d won a scavenger hunt and you didn’t think the mud wrestling was worth any prize, so you sat that one out. People kept asking why you guys looked so clean and happy. Colby always said you guys just packed a lot of clothes and you liked camping, not wanting to share your secret lake. You guys continued to enjoy clean clothes, bathing in the lake, and plenty of food. You’d even busted out the smore supplies and playing cards last night.

The competition was down to 4 teams and Colby was worried Sam and Kat were going to throw in the towel soon.

“You okay?” Colby asked Kat, offering her a protein bar.

She shrugged her shoulders. “I think I just want to sleep in my own bed.” She half smiled.

“Do you want one of our sleeping bags? I know Y/n wouldn’t mind.” He offered.

“No.” She laughed. “I mean I miss my apartment with my bed and my shower and my tv and my phone and my microwave and postmates and…”

“I get it.” Colby laughed. “How long do you think you’re staying?”

“I’m only staying for Sam.” She smiled. “It’s up to him.”

“Kat, Sam wanted to leave yesterday.” Colby laughed.

“Really?” She asked, shock evident in her voice.

“Sam!” Colby called. You and him were sat by the water, talking. You both walked back when you heard Colby call for Sam.

“What’s up?”

“Not that I want you guys to leave, because I definitely want you to stay…but you’ve both said you’re only staying for the other person and you both seem miserable.” Colby laughed.

“You don’t want to stay?” Sam asked Kat, sitting down next on her on the bin.

“I wanted to go home yesterday!” She laughed.

“So did I!” Sam joined in laughing.

“Awww, we’re going to be all alone.” You pouted, sitting on Colby’s lap.

“Don’t pretend like you’re going to be sad.” Sam teased. “You’re just going to walk around naked more often.”

“He’s not wrong.” Colby laughed.

“Do we even want to stay today?” Kat asked, looking at Sam.

“I’m out, dude. I want to ask Elton if we’re allowed to give them our supplies, but after that I want to go home and play Minecraft.” Sam laughed.

“I’m taking a bath and getting my nails done.” Kat said, looking at the one nail she had busted in half.

“Hey, Elton. This is Sam. I have a question.” Sam said into the walkie talkie, walking back out to the fire.

“What’s your question, young Samuel?” Elton replied.

“If someone were to hypothetically quit, they can give their supplies to another team, right? Technically it’s still considered trading goods?” Sam asked.

“Yup. Make sure to pack and bring back anything they aren’t going to use to the RV so it’s easier to clean up at the end of the competition, but you can definitely give them your food and flashlights and stuff.” Elton answered. “I know it’s going to take missing his flight or a lightning strike to get Colby to quit, so is it safe to assume you and Kat are going home?”

Sam laughed. “Yes. We’re tapping out.”

“I won’t announce it until you drag your stuff down here.” Elton laughed. “Do you need any help?”

“No, I think we’re good. We’ll be down there in a bit.” Sam answered.

“If you open that tote, we can put our snacks and stuff in it.” Kat said, pointing to the bin you were sitting on.

You hopped up, moving to help Sam pack everything up.

“Do you guys want the pillows?” Sam asked.

“I’m fine with what we’ve got.” Colby answered. “Y/n?”

“No, I’m good. Thank you, though.” You smiled at Sam, helping him pack the rest of the inside of the tent into the totes.

They ended up leaving an extra flashlight, the alarm clock, some snacks, and some toiletries. You got everything else packed back into the two bins and the both of you walked them to the RV. When you got back to your campsite, it looked weird without the second tent.

“I wonder why Elton hasn’t announced it yet.” Colby wondered aloud, holding your walkie talkie in his hand.

“He hasn’t announced our daily challenge thing either. Maybe he’ll do it at the same time.” You said, not thinking too much of it. “Let’s record a diary entry.”

“I’ll grab the camera.” Colby said, ducking into the tent and coming out with a blanket and the camera. “Can you grab the smore stuff?” Colby asked, shaking the blanket out to lay flat.

“Of course.” You smiled, grabbing the Ziplock baggie with the smore ingredients.

Colby turned the camera on. “Hey, guys. We’ve got a bit of a sad announcement this time around.” He sighed, turning to look at you.

“Sam and Kat decided to go home.” You said, leaning your head on Colby’s shoulder.

“I don’t blame them. They were kind of done with this whole thing yesterday.” Colby explained. “So, to cheer myself up, I’m going to make smores and cuddle with my beautiful girlfriend.”

You looked at him, surprised he just said it on camera. You placed your hand on his cheek, guiding his lips to yours. “That sounds like a great plan.”

“I agree.” He smiled at you, turning back to the camera. “I don’t know if Elton has anything planned for today since there’s only three teams left, but we’ll update you guys in a bit.” He turned the camera off and started making a smore.

About an hour later, you heard the announcement. “Hey teams! Looks like we’re down to three! I need everyone to meet down at the RV in about an hour! See you then!”

When you made it down to the RV, you noticed a big table set up with chairs surrounding it. “Ooo, what’s going on today?” You asked, Colby standing behind you with his arms around your shoulders.

“We brought our batteries and SD cards, by the way.” Colby said, pulling them out of his pocket.

“Sweet!” Elton said, grabbing them and running inside to exchange them. “And today is going to be a bit different.” Elton answered.

“Hey, hey!” JC called, walking towards you holding hands with Chelsey. “Who left?”

“Sam and Kat.” Colby answered in a sad voice.

“No way!” Chelsey said. “I thought they’d stay as long as you did.”

“I think we actually enjoy this more than them.” You laughed.

“Definitely.” Colby agreed.

Crawford and Franny joined the group. “HOW THE FUCK DO YOU GUYS NOT LOOK LIKE YOU’VE BEEN SLEEPING IN THE WOODS FOR 5 DAYS?!” Crawford practically yelled.

“They won’t tell us.” JC laughed.

“Your hair isn’t even greasy!” Crawford continued.

“Dry shampoo, brother.” Colby snarked back, making you laugh.

“One whole tote was dedicated to things to keep us camera ready.” You joked.

“You’ll find out everyone’s secrets when you watch the videos.” Elton laughed, walking to the table. “Okay! Today is going to be a little different. I’ve got Chinese food for us to share and I want to just talk. I want to hear your thoughts and your funny stories. I want this to be a camp-wide diary entry. Talk about how you’re feeling, if you’re enjoying this, if you’ve learned anything.”

“Fuck yes.” You said, letting your head fall back against Colby’s shoulder. “I could destroy some sesame chicken right now.”

“Lucky for you, its on today’s menu.” Elton said.

The 7 of you sat around the table, loading up your plates with food.

“Okay, First, I want to hear how everyone is doing. Physically, mentally, etc.” Elton instructed. The camera men were in different spots to catch everyone’s parts of the conversations.

“I’m great.” You said, shrugging your shoulders. “Seriously. I am loving getting to spend this time with Colby. It’s been great to hang out with Sam and Kat and get to talk without someone recording us or needing to leave to record something else.” You added.

“I agree.” Colby said, leaning over to kiss your cheek. “I mean, I ended up getting a vacation and a girlfriend in one fell swoop. AND I plan on getting that 10 grand.” He smiled at you.

“I wondered if you two were official.” JC said, reaching over to fist bump Colby. “Congrats, guys. You two seem to be really good together.”

The rest of the group all said their congratulations.

“I think we’re doing pretty good.” Chelsey chimed in on Elton’s question. “I’m terrified I’m going to start my period, but other than that I think we’ve enjoyed the break.”

“God, men have it so easy.” Elton replied, laughing.

“I think we’ve got a few days left in us.” JC added.

Crawford and Franny looked at each other. “We’re ready to go home soon.” Franny laughed. “Honestly, I’m just bored at this point. I didn’t realize how many things I use to pass the time until they were all 2 hours away.”

Crawford nodded his head. “I agree. It’s mostly little things I miss. We’ve talked and we want to stick it out a bit more, though.”

“That’s kind of why Kat wanted to go home. She just missed her normal everyday stuff.” Colby added.

“What is one thing you’ve learned out here?” Elton asked, shoving fried rice in his mouth.

“I think I need to remember it’s okay to unplug for a bit.” Crawford said.

“Same.” Franny added.

“I think I just needed a reminder that the world isn’t going to end if I’m not there to answer every text and every email.” JC said.

Chelsey nodded, leaning into JC. “I think it’s been good to realize that not everything is dire. We’re so used to having instant access to everyone and everything in our lives.”

“All good things.” Elton said, looking at you and Colby.

“I think I forget that taking a moment for myself isn’t wasting time.” You said, your chest heavy with emotion. “I think I’d convinced myself that it was lazy to take a day to sleep in or to argue to push a deadline back for my mental health.” You paused, taking a deep breath.

“Hey.” Colby said, pulling you into his arms. “You’re okay.”

You let him comfort you for a second, taking a few more deep breaths. “If I could honestly tell the people watching your series anything, it’s that you matter. And that doesn’t just mean to other people. You’ve gotta realize you matter to you. Ignoring stress and bad sleep patterns and your own need to rest and heal…You’re only going to make things worse.”

“I fully fucking agree with that.” JC said from across the table, reaching his hand out to hold yours for a second.

“Me too.” Colby said, his arm still around you. “I didn’t even know you felt that way which means you’re pretty good at hiding it.” He smiled at you sadly. “You were spot on with ignoring the problems because you don’t think you’re worth the time it takes to fix them. I do that all the time. I gotta get better at that.”

“We’ll help each other.” You smiled at him, pressing a quick kiss to his lips.

“It’s been years since I’ve cried while eating Chinese food.” Elton joked.

“That an old habit of yours?” you laughed.

“You don’t want to know.” Elton said, putting on a dramatic face. “In all honesty, though. That’s probably the best thing you could take back from this experience. Burn out is a real thing and it’s not just related to work.”

You guys talked for about an hour, laughing and telling funny stories. When you got back to your camp you went and mixed some of the sports mix with a gallon of water and put half your tampons in a Ziplock baggie. You added a trash bag and a pack of baby wipes to the Ziplock before walking back out of your tent.

“Do you know where JC and Chelsey are camped?” You asked, intent on giving her the supplies.

“I don’t, but Elton does.” He answered, looking at what was in your hands. “You’re quickly becoming the best human I know.” He said, pulling you into his arms. “Let’s ask Elton over the walkie talkie.

“Hey Elton, can you tell us where JC and Chelsey are camped? We have some supplies we want to give them.” Colby said after switching the batteries.

“You’re giving them supplies?” Elton asked.

“Don’t ask.” Colby laughed.

“Yeah, they’re closer to me than you if you just want to walk back up here.” Elton answered.

“I’ll be back.” You said, heading back down the path.

“As if.” Colby laughed, grabbing the flashlight and the walkie talkie. “Come here.” He said, grabbing your hand.

“Thank you.” You smiled over at him.

When you got to the RV, Elton pointed to where JC and Chelsey were camped. You could see the tent up the hill. “I’m gonna go by myself, okay?” you said, letting go of Colby’s hand.

“Be safe!” he called. “Watch where you’re walking!”

Elton and Colby watched you start your short hike up the hill. “You guys are kind of perfect together.” Elton said, looking over at Colby.

“I mean, I’m not going to argue with you.” Colby laughed, leaning against the RV. “But what makes you say that?”

“I know the only reason Sam and Kat stayed out here so long is because you guys helped them. Hell, Corey and Andrea would have quit day one if you hadn’t set their camp up for them. And here she is giving to another team when there’s 10 thousand dollars on the line.” Elton explained. “You’ve both got very giving hearts. You both know that people are always more important than things. You’re both just really good people.”

Colby smiled over at Elton. “You really think all that highly of me?”

“What do you mean?” Elton yelled, knocking Colby’s shoulder with his. “of course, I do.”

“Thanks.” Colby said, bumping his shoulder back into Elton’s. “I think I sometimes forget what got Sam and I started on this whole thing. It’s hard to breathe constant kindness through all the LA smog.” He joked, bitterly.

“Well I think a pretty good reminder for you just walked up that hill.” Elton nodded towards you.

“You’ve got that right, Uncle Elton.” Colby replied, seeing that you had just gotten to the tent.

“Chelsey?” You called. “JC?”

“Yo!” JC replied, crawling out of the tent. “What’s up?”

“I brought these for Chelsey.” You said, seeing her crawl out of the tent after JC.

“Whoa, why?” She asked, realizing you’d have to have hiked back to your camp and then all the way back.

“Girl, I am not about to let you suffer having a period in the woods with no supplies.” You laughed, handing her the bag. “There’s tampons, baby wipes, a few trash bags…” You pointed out different things in the bag. “And this will make sure you don’t get dehydrated as hell. It’s got electrolytes and shit in it.”

“Seriously?” JC asked, dumbfounded. “Can we give you anything for it?”

“Nope. We’ve got more than we need.” You answered, waving and walking back towards the RV.

“Thank you!” Chelsey called, running and pulling you into a hug. “Seriously, you’re so sweet.”

“No problem.” You laughed, hugging her back. “Really.”

When you got back to the RV the sun had completely gone down. “You ready?” you asked Colby.

“I am.” He answered, reaching out for your hand.

“Have a good night, guys!” Elton called, going back in his RV.

Colby clicked the flashlight on and lead the way back to your camp. “You did a very nice thing.” He said about halfway back to camp.

“It wasn’t a big deal.” You shrugged. “We still have more than we need.”

“That’s not the point.” Colby laughed. “Just wait until the series comes out. I guarantee you JC and Chelsey are going to talk about what you did in their diary entry and the comments are going to be filled with people thinking you’re crazy for helping the competition.”

“Think about it this way.” You said. “Would you want to win because one of your friends had to quit because of something you don’t even have to struggle with?”

“Not at all.” He answered, stopping in the middle of the trail to pull you against him. “It doesn’t mean what you did wasn’t a very nice and kind thing.” He leaned down and connected your lips.

When you broke the kiss, you laid your head against Colby’s chest. “I know we’ve been friends for a while, but we’ve been dating for less than a week.” You said, slipping your fingers under the back of Colby’s shirt to rest against his skin. “I know it’s way to early to ACTUALLY say what I’m thinking…So I’m just going to say I could really love you one day.”

Colby laughed, pressing a kiss to the top of your head. “I could really love you one day, too.”

Crawford and Franny quit the next night. And you had to wait three whole days to get the final walkie talkie announcement.

“Ladies and gentlemen, I’d like to announce that the 9th team has officially quit, and Y/n and Colby are our official winners!” You heard Elton scream into the walkie talkie at about 5 in the morning.

Colby grabbed the walkie talkie, replying. “Did you really have to wake us up for that? Also, if we’re the only ones left why did you say that like you were announcing it to the entire camp?” he laughed.

“Get dressed and head down here, guys.” Elton’s laugh could be heard through the speaker.

You grabbed the camera to record your ‘reactions’.

You yawned, looking over at Colby. “I think we just won.” You said, rubbing the sleep out of your eyes.

Colby sleepily nodded, kissing your forehead. “I think we did.”

“I need to pee.” You laughed.

“Elton can wait.” Colby said, looking at the camera. “We’ve got priorities.”

You turned the camera off and started getting ready.

“It’s kind of chilly out.” Colby said, peeking out of the tent. “Wear this.” He chucked you one of his hoodies.

“Thanks, babe.” You smiled, pulling it over your shirt.

You finished getting ready and made the trek back to the RV. By the time you got there, the sun had fully risen.

“CONGRATS!” Elton yelled, hugging both of you. JC and Chelsey were still there and they both congratulated you guys.

“Thank you.” You both said, your arms linked and your hands in your hoodie pockets.

“So, as you know…You get 10 thousand dollars to split and you get to pick a charity that I’ll donate another 10 thousand dollars to.” Elton said, two stacks of cash in his hands.

You leaned up to whisper in Colby’s ear. “For Sparta, right?” You asked, knowing that Elton was working his ass off on a charity all by himself.

“Oh, fuck yeah.” Colby said, kissing your forehead.

“What?” Elton asked, looking back and forth between the two of you.

“We’re giving the charity money to your charity.” Colby said, seeing Elton’s mouth drop open a bit. “You don’t get enough media attention or credit for the work you’re doing and 10 grand is a lot of money.”

“Are you fucking kidding me?” Elton asked.

“This is no joking matter.” You laughed.

“You know you don’t have to do that.” Elton said, making sure you knew.

“We want to, Elton!” you promised.

He pulled the both of you into another hug, handing you the other stack of bills. “Thank you.” He said, shaking his head like he still couldn’t believe it. “I honestly didn’t expect that.”

“With this one, you should have.” Colby teased, elbowing you.

“Do you guys know what you’re doing with your money?” He asked, remembering everything was still being filmed.

“I don’t know, actually.” Colby said, looking over at you.

“I hadn’t thought about it.” You shrugged your shoulders. “If it’s anything fun or crazy, we’ll make sure to film it for you.” You laughed.

“One last thing!” Elton remembered. “Do you want to tell Chelsey and JC why you were always so clean?” He busted out laughing before he even got the whole word out.

“Oh, yeah.” You chuckled.

“We found a lake.” Colby said, shrugging his shoulders. “It was a long ass hike every day to get down here, but it was totally worth it.”

“I KNEW it!” JC yelled, Chelsey laughing at him.

The cameras were turned off and JC and Chelsey walked back to their camp to pack up.

“Are you heading back down in the RV right away?” Colby asked Elton.

“No, actually. I won’t leave until tomorrow afternoon.” Elton replied.

Colby looked over at you. “Want to spend one last day up here?”

“As long as that means we get to go back to sleep for a few hours.” You laughed, wrapping your arms around Colby.

“Oh, for sure.” He replied, pulling his sleeves down to cover his hands and wrapping his arms around you. “Elton, do you mind if we stay and ride back with you tomorrow?”

“Not at all.” Elton shook his head. “We may come take a swim up by you in a little bit.”

“Sounds good to me.” Colby said, asking Elton to keep your cash prize in the RV for the night.

When you climbed back in your tent and stripped down, Colby pulled you to lay against his side. “I’m going to miss this.”

“I’ll miss it a little, too.” You said, dragging your fingers up and down Colby’s bare side. “But home is going to be a new adventure too. We get to do everything together for the first time.”

Colby smiled. “That’s very true.”

“And we’ve got 10 grand stashed away now. Maybe in a few months, You, me, Sam, and Kat can take a little trip.” You suggested.

“Another little break from the crazy.” Colby agreed.

“Exactly.” You said, snuggling further into Colby’s chest.

“I know you said it’s too early to say what I’m thinking, but I just want to reiterate that I am really going to fucking love you one day.” Colby kissed the top of your head.

You laughed, pressing a kiss to Colby’s neck before laying your head back down. “Well one day, I’m going to argue that I love you more.”

[rayraywrites]

Title: Maybe things happen.

Chapter 3: Cooking Games (Day 2- Swap)

Characters: Miyuki Kazuya, Kuramochi Youichi, Sawamura Eijun (minor)

Relationship: Miyuki Kazuya x Kuramochi Youichi

Rating: General Audiences

Total Word Count: 2654

AO3

Event: @daiyarpwk2020​

Clicking on another video he focussed in on the same face that he’d been gazing at for hours. He laughed softly at the same lame intro he’d been hearing in each video. The same dorky glasses and apron. He gulped silently at each intense look shot at the camera when concentration was required. His smile grew as each successful cook was greeted with a brilliant grin.

“Welcome back to home plate kitchen.” The man shot a smirk at the camera before continuing, “I’m your favourite catcher, Miyuki, here to share another recipe.” 

Youichi barely focussed on the actual meal, simply watching the ease at which the man moved around his kitchen and the mastery of his art. He wasn’t a mess in the kitchen, but watching this chef easily switch between different styles and types of recipes each video and make successful food each time, it rankled a bit. Yet he was fascinated. 

But what drew him even more was the moments of silliness that would pepper throughout the videos. When Miyuki would sometimes attempt to lift a hot pan off the stove without mitts and then whip his hand back. The incredulous look on the man’s face coupled with rapidly shoving his burning hand under cold water pulled raucous laughter out of his mouth. He especially enjoyed when Miyuki’s housemate, Sawamura, would appear in the frame to pull silly faces that wouldn’t be seen until editing. The captions insulting Sawamura were particularly amusing for him. 

He had spent a couple days watching Miyuki’s videos, realistically he was binging them. It had been a lark, having seen a comment under one of his own videos about a week ago. 

gamer_goose35: you know what would be great? thechefcatcher and Mochi making a video together! They have the same type of humour! Plus think of the video options!

Youichi had been curious, having not heard about “thechefcatcher” before, so he looked the other youtuber up. That led to days of listening to the same sarcastic laughter, the snarky side comments at every recipe, and gazing at the talented movements that attracted him first. 

When he finally glanced at the clock on his laptop he saw that it was approaching three am. With a slightly hysterical laugh, Youichi closed the lid and placed it aside. He’d deal with his new strange obsession another time. Right now he needed to sleep. Tomorrow, well later that same day, he had plans to shoot two new videos. He needed the sleep. Getting under the covers, he tried to convince himself to fall asleep. But each time he closed his eyes, all he saw were Miyuki’s eyes blinking back at him. He spent much of the night tossing and turning, restlessly attempting to fall asleep.

--

Clicking on the email icon, Kazuya began deleting all the trash that filled his inbox. Switching between his calendar and an email from another cooking channel who reached out to him for a collab, he sent off a couple days that would fit his schedule. Switching to his social media, Kazuya sent out the usual morning tweet that his followers were expecting. Nabe had recommended that he start interacting more with his fans, and disagreeing with his manager was something Kazuya had quickly learnt wasn’t a smart decision.

@thechef_catcher: good morning. But also what constitutes a “good” morning. We’re all waking up much too early and having to go to work and slog our way through the day. So really...just morning. (6:37 AM)

There, that would keep Nabe off his back, for at least a couple days. Sliding off his bed, Kazuya winced slightly as his foot hit the ground a bit too hard. Waiting for the jarring feeling in his ankle to subside before trying to stand again, he glared down at the floor. Finally feeling up to standing up again, Kazuya moved towards his closet, changing into his usual jogging outfit. With it being the off season, he could usually find Sawamura hovering around the kitchen. Sure enough the pitcher was still there, ready for their morning run. 

As normal, Kazuya put in earbuds, drowning out Sawamura’s inane chatter so early in the morning and stepped outside of their apartment. He had thrown in a small heating pad into his bag before leaving the house, in case his ankle started acting up again. Running their usual route, Kazuya let himself sink into the music and the monotonous sound of his feet pounding on the pavement. By the time they rounded back to the apartment Kazuya could feel the sweat running down his neck. With a shaky grin he nodded his head back at the street, telling Sawamura to keep going. Heading back inside, Kazuya went straight for a shower, changed into his outfit for the day, grabbed his computer and headed towards the kitchen.

Today’s video was going to be about Sanuki Udon. He had spent a couple weeks working with the local udon shop alongside the chefs to perfect his technique. He had already filmed his first failed attempts a while back, following recipes online. Setting the cameras up, he prepped the kitchen before picking up his phone. Texting Sawamura that he would be busy for the next hour or so, Kazuya got started. Slipping his branded apron over his head, he switched the camera on and began speaking.

“Ohayo everyone! Welcome back to home plate kitchen. Your friendly neighbourhood catcher is here!” He said the words with an awkward smile, hating that Sawamura had convinced him to start his videos with such a cheesy introduction. Even if it worked as his fans took to the puns and silly intro, he hated it, but he carried on. 

Seven years ago Kazuya would never have considered that his days would be littered with recording himself cooking, editing videos, and becoming as unathletic and baseball oriented as he had. But another bad collision at home plate, and a shattered ankle had ended his career. Six months after he managed to walk on his ankle safely, he was still just sitting around his home and moping. It had been Sawamura’s suggestion to start the channel, something to do for fun while he figured out what to do with his career now. Kazuya had been uninterested at first, putting in very little effort and just cooking whatever came to mind. But the fact that people seemed to enjoy it and Sawamura kept crowing about how the channel kept growing made him start to give it a bit more attention. But even moreso, he started to enjoy it a bit more. There was something oddly enjoyable about just talking to a camera for a couple of hours and cooking food. And with Sawamura living with him, he wasn’t just cooking for himself. 

It was kind of nice. 

“Alright, with a completed dish, I think we’ve completed all nine innings, and it’s time for this video to wrap-up!” He placed the completed Sanuki udon onto the front of his counter. With the recording complete it was time for editing. Luckily with experience and time he’d managed to get better at editing. Moving back to his room with the camera SD cards he settled down at his desk. The video wouldn’t be released for another week or so, but Kazuya wanted to complete editing so that he’d have the rest of the day free. As he was fiddling with the font for the side text explaining each step he completed, he heard the extra chair in the room being dragged to sit beside him. Turning his head slightly he smirked at Sawamura who settled into the chair with a loud thump! Reaching over and ruffling the pitcher’s hair, he turned back to his computer. 

“How was your run, Sawamura?” 

“You missed out on the cutest dog Miyuki-senpai! It was adorable, with its tail wagging everywhere!” 

He couldn’t help but laugh at how Sawamura sounded like he’d seen the cutest thing on the planet. “Ah, so you met your family member, how lovely!” The affronted look on Sawamura’s face was worth all the hits his shoulder received.

“Stupid Miyuki, you’re just sad you missed out on the dog.” Sawamura’s countenance suddenly brightened as another brilliant idea came, “this Sawamura will make sure to take a photo for next time!”

Smiling to himself, Kazuya couldn’t help the sigh that escaped his lips. Sawamura never ceased to amuse him, but even moreso, he was a bright light in his life. He was still the most eye-catching sunflower Kazuya had ever seen. And fully bloomed. “Sure...whatever you say Bakamura.” 

“Idiot Miyuki....” Sawamura had switched to looking at his phone, muttering threats under his breath as he often did around Kazuya. 

Out of the corner of his eye Kazuya watched as Sawamura continued scrolling on his phone, becoming comfortable in the chair. Giving his full focus back to his video, Kazuya ignored his desk partner for about thirty minutes until a loud shout made him almost jump. Turning and glaring at Sawamura, Kazuya waited impatiently for an explanation. 

“Miyuki! Mochi uploaded another video! It’s a cooking video!” Sawamura’s voice was loud as ever, but laced with astonishment.

He felt the joy course through his body, excitement filling his veins at the news. Both of them had gotten hooked onto @gamermaimer’s videos a few years back. Sawamura enjoyed the commentary while Mochi played the game, but Kazuya had become enthralled with the gamer’s voice. There was something soothing about it, but he also felt something from the grainy sounds. And then, last year they’d received a face reveal, Kazuya had been floored. He hadn’t expected to find spiked green hair, eyeliner, and a lip piercing as attractive as he had. 

“Give me ten minutes, I should be ready to watch.” He tried to nonchalantly speak, but he knew Sawamura was aware of his crush. The number of times Sawamura had recommended that he contact Mochi to collab was high, but every time he looked at the differences in their video styles, Kazuya hesitated. But cooking? Maybe there was a chance here. They sat down to watch the video.

“Hey maimers! Obviously this isn’t my usual set up, but I’ve been inspired. One of you folks recommended a channel for me to watch and maybe collab with.” 

They both laughed when Mochi fumbled with his phone to read off the channel, but then froze when he said the name.

“Oh what was it...here we go! thechefcatcher! I’ve spent the past few days watching....”

Kazuya felt his breath catch in his throat, disbelief pouring out of him. But when he turned towards Sawamura, the same surprise was on the pitcher’s face. 

What.

--

Youichi was nervous releasing the video. He had struggled through the cook, even if he had picked a fairly straightforward dish to make. Baking was not his forte though and the roof would probably always have that strange orange-coloured splotch on it from his first attempt. But embarrassing himself for a video was not a big deal, he’d done it before. It was the fact that he’d called out his new obsession, he’d mentioned the youtuber who’d been living in his dreams. The tweet he’d posted had Miyuki tagged and for a normally brash person, Youichi was feeling uneasy about that decision.

The notification that @thechef_catcher liked and retweeted his tweet gave him heart palpitations. Deciding to take the plunge, he DM-ed Miyuki. 

@gamermaimer: hi

@thechef_catcher: hey

@gamermaimer: so...uh you watched my video...

@thechef_catcher: why else would I have rt your tweet? 

He stared blankly at his phone. What was that? He laughed in spite of himself, hysterically. 

@gamermaimer: yeah well. What did you think?

He meant about the offer of a collab at the end of the video. He meant the proposal of trying something new for both of them. What Miyuki responded with though?

@thechef_catcher: well you absolutely failed at every step so I’m amazed you managed to get any cake onto that table. 

@thechef_catcher: Geez Mochi, it’s almost like you bought a replacement cake to pretend you succeeded.

Somehow he wasn’t surprised to see that Miyuki’s personality was as twisted as it was. But it took two to tango.

@gamermaimer: well, if I sucked so bad, maybe you ought to come fix me?

He waited and the reply took more time to arrive compared to the last but it still came. He anxiously tapped the message notification. 

@thechef_catcher: perhaps I will.

He let out a sigh and his shoulders relaxed. Their conversation continued, figuring out dates and times that would work for both their schedules. They agreed that the first video would be with him in Miyuki’s kitchen. He asked if Sawamura would be there, and received a teasing response. So when Miyuki asked what video they would do for his channel, Youichi proffered the only realistic response.

@gamermaimer: well of course we have to play a video game.

It was only later, when he went to go follow Miyuki on twitter as well, that Youichi realized something. He shouted angrily, throwing his phone down onto the ground. Petulantly he whined to himself, “the idiot’s already following me.”

–– 

The day of filming was awkward. He arrived early, not by much, but early enough that it was obvious. He had already sent out the customary tweet announcing his “secret” plans for a video.

@gamermaimer: well sometimes you get lucky with your videos. Other times you meet a moron and make a stupid decision (10:34 AM)

Sawamura was there, hovering in the dining room. Fiddling with a camera setting even with Miyuki telling him to stop touching the camera every five seconds. Youichi blinked confusedly at both of them. They were fidgety and uncomfortable. Because of him?

“Hey! Hey idiots!” They both turned to him; Miyuki put down the pots he was randomly holding, Sawamura looked up from the camera. “What the hell is going on? Some explanation for your bizarre behaviour would be wonderful, please.” The last few words came out sarcastic, and he knew the look on his face matched his tone. For some reason being around both of them was easy. In the way most collabs never were; he felt at home with them. So he skipped past politeness and jumped straight into insults. “I realize that you’re both morons, but if we could at least get the video started?”

Miyuki seemingly calmed down at that, chuckling hesitantly even as he gazed at Sawamura with a lost look. But it was Sawamura seemingly snapping out of whatever funk he was in that finally set things normal. “Mochi!”

Youichi turned to face Sawamura expectantly, but the excitement seemed to have rapidly fizzled out before Sawamura exhaled deeply, you could see the air! He laughed to himself.

“Can I get a photo with you? I’ve...We’ve been watching you play for three years now!” 

He hadn’t expected that. Glancing at Miyuki, Youichi was stunned to see the usually calm face turning bright red before the chef looked down at the counter. Throwing his head back, Youichi let himself laugh freely, ignoring the squawks from Sawamura. Wiping tears from the corner of his eyes, he laughed softly one more time before replying. “Sure. Sure. But only if I get an autograph from you,” he nodded at Sawamura and then softly, “and your phone number.” He stared at Miyuki, waiting for acknowledgement. Miyuki nodded stiffly, but his eyes had only shifted from the counter to glare at Sawamura.

“I don’t exactly have three years as a credential...but is 48 hours of no sleep from binging your channel good enough?” He laughed at the stunned look on Miyuki’s face. “So, what do you say....my friendly neighbourhood catcher?” 

But rather than the huffy noise he expected, Miyuki still managed to surprise him. A smirk and, “well...I think you mean a maimer don’t you, Youichi?”

He grinned.

[xxew-pineapplezxx]

Them being Needy ~Hyung Line

Hehehe there’s light smut

Seokjin

You and Jin were walking around at a store. You were shopping for a birthday gift for your mom and he begged to tag along. You knew that he wanted to be apart of your life as much as possible so of course you didn’t tell him no.

He stood behind you as you looked at a few necklaces. Not paying attention he bumped into you but grabbed your waist so that you wouldn’t fall over.

“Hey kid!” You started turning back to look at him. “Pay attention!”

Jin laughed shaking his head. “Sorry about that. I didn’t mean to bump you.”

You turned back around looking at the jewelry in front of you. You could feel him pushing closer to you, his hips on your bum. You were going to say something but just decided to ignore him. There was no reason blaming him for something that could be innocent.

But all innocents went away when you could feel him slowly growing behind you. You again looked back up at him seeing a different look in his eyes then the last time you looked. He leaned down towards your ear a slight smile on his lips.

“How would you feel if we get out of here and went for a little fun?” He whispered for only you to hear. You shake your head, your cheeks growing hot and red.

“We are in public, Jin. You need to get it together!” You snap looking back at him with a straight face. He only smiled standing up straight but pushing closer to you. You weren’t going to cause a scene and embarrass him but you really wanted too.

“Jin, can you please just wait until we get home?”

“I can wait for us to get to the car at the max.” You sighed knowing you were going to lose this battle. But you guys were still going to be in public so there really wasn’t a way for you guys to have “Fun”

“Jin, you need to wait until we get home. Then it’s fair game.”

“Why can’t we just go in the family bathroom and make a family!?”

You couldn’t help but start to laugh. The way he was acting was very much amusing, but you weren’t in the mood at the moment to get in trouble. Especially since the bodyguards are there and sneaking away would be the hardest thing to do.

“We can make a family all night when we get home, okay?” He pouted moving away from you.

“Just know, it’s your fault I have a boner. And also your fault for being so damn sexy!”

You laughed again shaking your head as you walked away. It was going to be a long day.

Yoongi

You ended up talking Yoongi into having a game night with a few of your friends. Of course he was excited about it… not. It took you up to three weeks to convince him, most of the time he telling you he’d think about it. Now you guys were getting ready for the game night and you were excited.

You walked past the room heading for the living room. You glanced in there but then backtracked seeing Yoongi standing with his back to the door. You couldn’t help but chuckle which made him look back at the door.

“Hey what are you doing?” He asked trying to cover himself. You shrug your shoulders walking into the room.

“What are you doing?” You returned the question. You know exactly what he was doing, but you were just going to play dumb.

He smirked at you standing up and walking toward you still covering himself. “You want to help me? I have a little...problem.”

You looked down at his hands slightly covering himself before laughing and walking away. He was going to have to fix that himself, you had a party to get ready for.

After a few minutes later, Yoongi finally came out and helped you get ready. You heard a knock on the door and squealed running back to the room.

“Answer the door I need to get ready.”

Yoongi’s shook his head and did as told, greeting the guest and taking them to the living room. You quickly got ready and then went out greeting everyone.

Time passed by and you were now sitting at the table playing a couples game. You sat on Yoongi’s lap, arguing your point as far as one of the game rules. You leaned forward making Yoongi grab your hips and pull you closer to himself. This made you laugh and look back at him. But his eyes were focused on your bum.

“So, Y/n,” Your friend said clapping her hands. “ Do you and Yoongi know when your going to get married?”

“That’s a great question,” You turned back to look at Yoongi. “What do you think?” Yoongi never looked up at you. He just kept looking down at you. He made a face and this made you stand up grabbing his arm. “Excuse us.”

You stood and dragged him back into the room. When you closed the door you turned around and ended up getting attacked on the lips by him. You pushed away, laughing as you turned your head.

“What the hell is wrong with you?”

“I think we should send your friends home and have a game night with just us…” You couldn’t help but laugh at his cuteness.

“I’m going to go back out there before they start thinking the worst. You stay here, cool down and then we can finish this conversation when everyone leaves.”

Yoongi made a face as you walked out of the room, blowing a kiss towards him and closing the door behind yourself.

After a bunch of convincing that you both are okay, you guys finished out the night, Yoongi sulking the rest of the whole time..

Hoseok

You danced around listening to all different types of music as you cleaned the house. Today was one of the normal clean the whole house days and you couldn’t wait any longer for Hoseok to show up and help. You started by yourself and at the rate you were cleaning, was planning on ending it by yourself too.

You heard the code for your door be punched in and then unlock. A smile appeared on your face just as your loving boyfriend walked through the door.

“Hey cutie.” You said walking over and getting on your tippy toes to plant a kiss on his lips. He held you close to his body, lingering kiss a little longer.

“Well someone missed me,” You teased.

He chuckled pulling you even closer.” Today was really hectic. So I just couldn’t wait to get home to my amazingly beautiful girl.” He winked then leaned down and kissed you once more.

You giggled pulling away. “Hobs, stop.” You told him moving out of his reach. “I’m nasty and sweaty and I was laying on the bathroom floor. Last thing you want is to hug and kiss all on a nasty girl.”

“Your still amazing, Y/n. I don’t give a damn about where you were laying. I want you.”

You raised a brow looking at him with a slight smirk. He usually expressed himself pretty well when it came to needs but was a little more polite when it came too...sexual needs.

“You want me, huh?” You questioned. He nodded, making a face at you stating the obvious. “Well, I need to finish cleaning up the hou-“

“You help me, I’ll help you hands down.” He quickly spoke wanting you to come to his need. You weren’t opposed to helping him. In fact, a little break wouldn’t hurt anyone.

“Are you willing to let me shower first?”

“We can both start in the shower. I’ve been dancing all day so I know I need one.” You nodded your head taking off your cleaning apron.

“Fine, but I cleaned that bathroom,” You started, walking towards the room. ”No messing that shit up!”

“Yes ma’am,” He smiles wide as you eyed him. His cuteness always got him his way. Really just him in general. You loved him and didn’t mind helping him out.

“Let’s do this!”

Namjoon

“Joon-bug,” You whined sitting beside Namjoon with your legs on his lap. Right now you two were in his studio working on some beats. You loved to watch him get creative and push himself to be great. This was one of the many reasons you loved him.

He stopped the music looking over at you. “What’s wrong?”

“Aren’t you tired? Can we go get something to eat?”

“I am tired,” He said leaning back against his chair. He placed a hand on your leg and slowly increased his high going to your thigh. “But I also want to get this beat completed so I can keep working on songs for my mixtape.”

“Why do we make a tape?” You asked, brow raised slightly.

He chuckled shaking his head. “Do you know how dangerous that could be?”

“We can wear masks and do it at my place so we won’t get interrupted…” Though this was tempting, Namjoon knew it wasn’t going to turn out well.

“People hack into people’s shit all the time. What makes you think we’re not going to get exposed?I’ve done a Vlive in your room a few times.”

“After we do it, we can change me room up!” You said moving to straddle his lap.” Or we can change it up before we get dirty.”

Namjoon went silent as if he was thinking about it. Well he was considering, but he knew it would be very very risky.

“So, your willing to change your whole entire room just to make a freaking tape?” You nodded smirking at him and you even winked.

“I was waiting for a change up. I guess this would be the best thing to do so that we can switch it up.” You slowly started moving on his lap, giving a slight lap dance. “ Come one, Joon…”

He sighed, leaning back. “ I think we should go to a hotel instead of doing it in your room.” You smiled wide clapping your hands together. “ I also think we should record it on something that can’t really be hacked. Put it on an sd card that we can only know of. But lastly, we need to keep it safe ,babe. No one can know at all!”

Your raised brow, a slight smile itching on the corner of your lips.”So this is a yes?”

Joon leaned up and pecked you’re lips softly a few times. Your smile grew before you threw your arms around his neck.

“This is about to be fucking hot!”

[welcometophu]

Extra: Sisters in Change

Taking a short break from the main storyline to offer this side story!

===

Sisters in Change Mac & Cass

Mac catches up with Cass just outside the back door. She teleports from the step to just in front of Cass, who stops abruptly, rocking back on her heels. Her jaw is set tightly, the muscle twitching. “You didn’t have to follow me,” Cass snaps.

“I’m not coming out here to yell at you,” Mac says quietly. She puts both hands up, trying to show that she’s not carrying any weapons other than words. She doesn’t want to argue, not this time, not like when she first found out that Cass had any idea about SD. She’s got a better idea what they were arguing about than she did before, after all. “How much did you actually know about SD before today?”

“And if I don’t want to talk about it?” Cass tosses her head, ponytail swinging. Her arms are crossed, her head slightly tilted. Mac thinks she’s ready to run, but it’s hard to imagine Cass running away from anything.

Punching her in the face and stalking off angrily? Mac can imagine that. She keeps her hands up just in case she needs to protect herself.

“Then I guess we don’t talk about it,” Mac agrees. It’s a lie, of course, but she’s had negotiation training, so she can start from the point of concession. They don’t have to stay there. “I don’t think we should let it fester, though. You know it’s going to come up again, with everyone else. This is going to be one of those known secrets soon enough, and you’re going to need to decide if you’re going to keep doing what you’ve been doing. And I’m probably the only person you know from the other side who can give you any perspective to help you make that decision.”

Cass looks back at the house, her lips pursed thinly. She reaches into her pocket and slips her phone into her hand. She goes as far as to unlock it before she stops, staring at it.

“Dax has a meet today, right?” Mac asks gently. She knows Dax and Nate left early to go back to PHU for the day for a home track meet. They woke her up talking in the hall, and she’d never quite managed to go back to sleep. Besides. Someone was snoring and she couldn’t quite manage to tune it out, not in a place like this which has her inner soldier on high alert.

Cass shoves her phone back in her pocket. “Yes,” she says sharply. “He’s with Nate.”

“He’s at a meet,” Mac replies, because while Nate’s his teammate, it’s not about that.

Cass rolls her eyes. “Whatever. They run together all the time.”

“Nate’s not all bad.”

The look Cass gives her is dark and angry, brows furrowed and gaze narrowed. “I know,” she says, clipping each word. “He fed me. He listened to me. He’s good. I get it. I’m not jealous.”

She’s jealous. But maybe this isn’t the time to call her on it, since Cass is also using it to avoid talking about SD.

Mac touches Cass’s arm, waiting until Cass’s expression eases before she asks, “May I?” When Cass nods, Mac teleports them both to a bench sitting under a tree, off to one side behind the house. There’s a small plaque on the bench—for cats on sunny days—and she hopes that the cats of both Clan and feline variety forgive them for using it.

Cass sits when Mac does, her knees together and hands folded. “So we’re not yelling at each other,” she says.

Mac turns to straddle the bench, facing Cass. “And we’re not lying to each other, either. Nothing omitted,” she says, nodding as Cass does. “My stepfather is Delwin Palmer,” Mac continues. “He’s ex-military, but still highly involved with the Sigma Delta project, both in a leadership role and as a government liaison. For a time he was both my boss and my dad.”

Cass nods. One hand comes up, motions for Mac to continue.

“Your father is Ramsey Ferris. He’s in procurement. For SD.” Mac remembers Ferris all too well, and until that moment when her dad had mentioned meeting Cass, she’d never put two and two together. “I was still pretty young when I met him the first time. I’d already been recruited, of course. I was in training. I knew I was going into the military. And he’d just recruited Scott Harrington, a Giver of Pain who was right about my age. Your father hand-selected my partner.” She gives it a beat, then adds, “Who died about five years later.”

Cass looks down at her clasped hands. “I’m sorry.”

“It’s not your fault. The fact that he died isn’t your fault, or your father’s fault,” Mac admits. She sits carefully next to Cass, balancing to keep herself from leaning too close. “It’s my dad’s fault, because I think he knew what he was sending us into for an assignment. Or I think he knew more than he said he did, anyway. Not the point here.”

It would be easy to get swallowed by memories of Scott. It’s been years, and the pain’s still fresh when Mac reaches into that place in heart. It’s better to just leave it there.

“The point is, you’re a source for your dad, aren’t you?” Mac can’t be positive, but it makes sense with everything she’s seen over the years. The intense fascination Cass shows in anyone Talented. The way she watches and interacts. And the way she holds herself just a little bit apart. “You find Talented people and you let your father know about them. And sometimes he’s able to recruit them.”

Cass tugs her ponytail free from the tie, combs her fingers through her hair. She sits upright, calmly pulling it all neatly back and tying it up again except for a few strands that escape, frizzing around her face. “I’m going to stop,” she says quietly. “I was already going to stop. I’m going on a trip this summer, to find my sister. With Dax and Nate, and I don’t even really know how it came up, but it did. And when my dad finds out what I’m doing—that I’m looking for Minnie—he’s going to disown me. So it won’t matter if I keep being the good daughter or not. I don’t even know if I’ll be back here. He might throw me out, and stop paying for PHU. He might try to—I don’t know. He might try to blackmail me. Tell me I have to find him more people if I want to stay at school. It’s just been so….” Her head drops, shoulders slumped. “God, I hate this. I hate that I’m a part of it.”

Mac can’t remember ever seeing Cass like this. She’s always a fighter, standing there with a chip on her shoulder or a bright smile like armor. She feels defeated now. Mac reaches across the space, covers Cass’s tightly clasped hands with one of her own. “Does Dax know?”

Cass flinches. “Do you really think he’d be with me if he did?” she asks tightly. “And yes, I’m aware that if this is going to be one of those open secrets our house is so fond of, I’d better find a way to tell him. Which I will. When he’s back after the meet.” She seems to curl around herself even more tightly. “I’m not going to let it fester. And telling him means telling Nate, I know. They really are… they’ve become good friends while they’ve run together. I’m not jealous of him like I think he’s going to steal Dax away from me. I’m secure in our relationship. I’m just not used to not coming first,” she admits softly.

Mac doesn’t think that Nate comes first for Dax. She can’t imagine Dax prioritizing anyone over Cass, since he hasn’t before. But she can imagine that Cass sees less attention as not being first. “Do you think letting him in to the parts of you that you held back will help?” Mac asks. She tries to be gentle, but even she’s been able to see it from the outside. As close as Cass and Dax were, Cass always had that wall around her. That sense that there was something that she was never letting anyone touch.

Mac just knows what it was now.

Cass shrugs.

“Okay.” Mac exhales roughly, patting Cass’s hands. “We need to make some kind of a plan.”

Cass looks up, brow furrowing. “What kind of a plan?”

“The kind of plan that determines where we go next, how we keep you from getting in trouble for this, and how we can make sure everyone involved stays safe,” Mac says firmly. “I was part of the SD program. I know what they did in terms of the military action, and the kinds of resources they had at their disposal. I know how they deployed us, and how they were working with us both overseas and domestically. I paid enough attention to know things about SD that Dad doesn’t think I know. And I’m guessing you know more than your dad thinks, too.”

“He didn’t tell me who you were,” Cass says. She slowly pulls her hands back, straightens her back. “In case you think he did.”

“I didn’t. You were as surprised as everyone else when that came out,” Mac says. “But you knew I was Talented. You just didn’t know how.”

Cass nods. “Exactly. That’s how it works. And he knew I knew you, so he must have—he must have guessed.”

Guessed isn’t the word Mac would use for it. In fact, she’d place a bet that Cass is in her sorority on purpose. But that’s a discussion for another time when Cass is ready to hear just how manipulative SD can be.

Mac’s tempted to ask Cass about other people who are hiding Talents in plain sight, but that would be wrong and rude. Outing them would be very wrong, even if they might need the help in whatever this fight is they’re starting into with the Shadows and the Dreamscape.

At least she can be fairly certain none of them are Dreamwalkers.

Unless one of them is whoever Nikita started out reacting to.

Mac covers her face with one hand. “Sera dropped that like a bomb,” she mutters, trying to work through it by speaking aloud. “She’s told them that yes, there’s a government conspiracy and that they know more about Talent than they’re saying. Which impacts everything we’re doing, possibly, so yes, it probably needed to be said.”

“You didn’t have to tell them it’s your stepfather,” Cass points out, a hint of her usual sharp lack of tact slipping into her voice.

Mac shrugs. “In the end, yeah, I did. They’d figure it out soon enough, and this way, if I can get them into the data they want, they know how we’re doing it. And the risks involved.”

“Do you think they need that?”

“I think Sera thinks they need that,” Mac says slowly. “I think we need to cooperate, Cass. You should talk to the people you’ve sniffed out, see if any of them are willing to help out if you think they can help. More importantly, you need to promise them some privacy. Help them avoid being drafted.” She hesitates before asking carefully, “How many of them have you already told your father about?”

Cass catches her lower lip in her teeth, looks away. “All of them. Just the basic information—their name, that they’re Talented, that they aren’t out about it. I have a list on a secure server. I add information as I get it. I… I spend a lot of time watching people. And some people still are under the radar. I get the feeling that some people are Talented and don’t even know it yet. Like—” She stops abruptly, shakes her head. “I need to stop doing the wrong thing,” she mutters.

“Can you erase the file?”

Cass nods, then shakes her head. “I can, but it’s probably backed up somewhere.”

“If we tell Sera about it, she might be able to dig her way in and scrub it completely.” Mac hooks her arm in Cass’s, and tugs her up as she starts to stand. “We’re going to go talk to her about it now, and we’re going to go make a difference. We’ll start by scrubbing records, and that’ll give Sera access to a secure SD space to dig for more information. We may belong to something wrong, but we have a chance now to fix it.” She slides her arm free from Cass, and offers her hand instead. “Sisters?”

Cass takes her hand, then pulls Mac in close, wrapping her arms around. “Sisters,” Cass murmurs against the side of Mac’s head.

It’s a good sign. In the end, maybe they’ll come out of this okay.