#and I’m a coward who doesn’t speak up

[insanechayne]

~ ~ ~

[cameronsprincess]

been thinking about your boyfriend owing rafe and he takes you as payment when your man can’t pay up…

CW: male receiving oral, praise, degradation, hair pulling, rafe forces your boyfriend to watch him throat fuck you.

daydreams 𓆩♡𓆪 main masterlist 𓆩♡𓆪 taglist form

you’d known your boyfriend fucked up the moment he came home two weeks ago. he’d looked terrified, and his all around vibe was just off.

but when you’d ask him what was wrong, he’d brush you off and say “nothing, all’s good.”

of course, you should’ve pressed harder, but you trusted him, you didn’t think he’d actually gotten himself into real trouble.

but oh how wrong you’d been.

you knew trouble was brewing when rafe cameron had arrived at you and your boyfriends shared apartment, demanding to see jake.

“he’s not home!” you’d lie, hoping rafe would leave and just deal with it later.

rafe would glare at you, his blue eyes dark, and void of any light at all.

“now sweetheart, why would you lie to me like that, huh?”

“i-i’m not lying… he isn’t here.”

rafe would push his way past you and into your apartment like he owned the place. “jake! i know you’re here, bud. come on out.”

you stand by the front door, frozen in fear and unsure of what to do in this situation. you should call the cops, tell them rafe broke in, but that wouldn’t work, he had pretty much the entire police force in his back pocket. you could try and catch him by surprise, find something that would easily take him down, but then there’s thoughts of how badly he’d harm you if you failed at knocking him out..

jake emerges from the bedroom, hands held up in surrender.

“i don’t have the money… yet. i swear, i’ll have it in two-”

rafe tsks, shaking his head at your boyfriend. “i told you, jake. you had two weeks, or i’d take something else from you.” he pauses, his head turning and cold blue eyes landing on your face before he faces jake once more, “didn’t i?”

you hear your boyfriend’s sharp intake of air, your eyes finding his from across the room. you tilt your head to the side, silently asking him what rafe means by “i’d take something else from you.”

“j-jake? what.. what does he mean by that?”

rafe breathes out a laugh, “oh, you didn’t tell her our deal? i don’t know why that doesn’t surprise me, you always were a fucking coward.”

once more, you eye your boyfriend suspiciously while shouting, “what the fuck does he mean, jake! what the fuck do you owe him?”

jake opens his mouth to speak, but rafe quickly cuts him off.

“he owes me two grand. but, he agreed to let me have… something else if he didn’t have my money in that time frame.”

your eyes find rafe’s, “what… what does he owe you?” you ask, though you’re sure you already know.. and you don’t like the thought.

rafe smiles, and you swear it’s the first real smile you’d ever seen on the cameron boy’s face.

“you.” he replies calmly.

your eyes nearly pop out of your skull, your mouth hangs open as you try and take in what’s been said. your boyfriend offered you up as payment if he couldn’t scrape together the two grand. why the fuck did he owe rafe two grand? what the fuck was happening?

“m-me?”

rafe takes two long strides toward you, his right hand reaching out to caress your cheek, “yes, you. and now, it’s time he pays up.”

rafe gently pushes the front door shut, locking it before he places his large hands on your hips. natural instinct has you backing away from his touch, but the look in his eyes has you crushing that thought quickly.

“jake here is gonna watch while his pretty girlfriend chokes on my cock,” he pauses, turning his head to look at your boyfriend who stands fuming across the room. “isn’t that right, jake?”

you barely hear it over the harsh sounds of his breathing, but jake mumbles a low and angry “yes.”

“good boy, see you’re learning.”

rafe turns to face you again, his eyes softening slightly. “now, you’re gonna be a good girl and get on your knees for me, right? no fighting?”

you glance at jake and then rafe again. jake had fucking offered you up like a fucking object, and as much as you didn’t want to do this, you wanted to see jake suffer the way he was making you suffer. though, was sucking rafe cameron’s cock really suffering? he was gorgeous.. he had this aura that drew women in, and even though he was a complete fucking dick, you wouldn’t mind doing this, right?

without giving it another thought, you slowly lower yourself to your knees, your eyes never leaving rafe’s in the process.

“such a good girl, aren’t you?” rafe praises, his large hands working his belt before working his zipper and button of his jeans next.

he drops his jeans, letting them pool around his ankles before he pulls his boxers down next. you eyes go wide at the sight in front of you. long, hard and thick, already dripping with precum, just waiting to have your lips wrapped around it. he was the biggest dick you’d ever seen in your life, and thoughts of him shoving it down your throat or into your pussy had your thighs slick with need, your clit throbbing.

rafe grips his thick shaft in his right hand, his left finding home on the back of your head. he slaps the swollen, dripping tip against the seam of your lips, prompting you to open up for him. you quickly obey, opening your mouth and allowing him to slowly push the tip inside.

the taste of his precum coats your tongue, a low hum of appreciation pulled from your throat. rafe smiles down at you, “your girl gets turned on by sucking dick, that’s hot, jake. why’ve you been hiding her from everyone else? didn’t you know sharing is caring?”

you hear a low growl come from your boyfriend, and you risk taking a peek at him from behind rafe’s tall frame. jake’s fists are balled by his sides, his chest heaving up and down as he keep his eyes on the back of rafe’s head.

rafe’s hand tightens in your hair, pulling your focus back on him. “don’t pay attention to him, pay attention to me. be a good girl, and suck my cock like the good little slut i know you are.”

you nod your head the best you can, placing your hands in your lap as you begin to push your head down, taking his long, thick length down your throat. his tip kisses the back of your throat, pulling a small gag from you before you slowly pull back, strings of spit now coating his dick and pulling with your lips.

you suck in a sharp breath through your nose before you begin bobbing your head up and down, licking and sucking every last inch of him. rafe groans, his hand tightening in your hair again and pushing himself all the way down your throat and holding you there.

tears blur your vision and you shift on your knees. rafe slowly drags your head back before ramming himself back down your throat.

the room is filled with your gurgling sounds and rafe’s grunts of pleasure and praises.

“taking my cock so well, i might just have to keep you for myself.”

rafe’s harsh thrusts grow sloppier, his dick twitching in your mouth before his salty, warm cum coats your tongue and throat.

he slowly slips himself from your mouth, his thumb rubbing your cheek softly as he says, “good girl.”

he quickly tucks himself back into his boxers, working his jeans up his legs and fastening his belt while he turns to face your boyfriend who is now red with anger. “next time you owe me money, i suggest you pay up, or else i’m taking that sweet cunt next.”

i really had no clue how to end that? lmaoooo. but rafe motherfucking cameron. what a man. tbh, i woulda left with him, fuck my sorry broke ass bf who offered me as payment. is that wrong of me to say? oh well.😌 it’s rafe cameron, its allowed.🖤 alsooooo, this came out a lot longer than i originally expected but oh well🫠

[daeniradraconis]

Age Is Just a Number…Right? - Luke Hughes

Summary: Luke. Age gap. Jack being a menace as usual, making sure you're not getting away that easy. Warning: Implied sexual situations, mature language, flirtation, age gap (6 years)

Note: Hey, lovelies! So, originally, this fic was all about Macklin Celebrini and Will Smith, but then I realized—Will is 19, and honestly, he’s just a baby to me. Even if he said he loves older woman. Boy go back to kinder garden. (Sorry Will, love you, I promise!) So, I decided to swap in the Hughes boys instead. I’ve gotta be honest, it gave me a bit of a headache. Now, this started as a quick, short fic. I swear, I had every intention of keeping it short. But, well… 7048 words later, here we are. I got hit with a ton of ideas and feelings, and the story just kind of... grew on me. You’ll probably notice the tone/style shifts halfway through, and I’m definitely sorry for that!

But hey, I hope you all enjoy it despite the wild ride! ❤️ For more fun: masterlist

The first thing you notice is warmth.

A heavy arm draped over your waist. The steady rise and fall of breath against the back of your neck. The scent of clean laundry, cologne, and something distinctly him clinging to the pillow beside you.

The second thing you notice—you are not in your own bed.

Your stomach flips as your brain reboots, sluggishly piecing together fragments of last night.

The blind date.

Luke.

His charming smile. The way his chestnut curls fell into his eyes when he laughed. The way he leaned in when you spoke, like you were the only person in the room. The teasing brush of his fingers against yours when he reached for his drink. The electricity that crackled between you when you finally caved—when he kissed you outside the bar, his hands firm at your waist, his body pressing into yours like he couldn’t help himself.

And then… more.

Your face burns as memory after memory floods in. His hands, his mouth, the way he whispered your name like it meant something.

Nope. Not thinking about that.

Carefully, you shift beneath the covers, untangling yourself from his hold. Luke stirs but doesn’t wake, his arm slipping away as you ease yourself upright.

That’s when it really hits you.

He looks so young.

His chestnut curls are a mess, his lips slightly parted, his entire face softened in sleep. He looks… peaceful. Innocent, almost.

A strange unease settles in your stomach.

Your gaze flickers around the unfamiliar room. It’s nice but lived-in—hockey gear shoved into the corner, a few discarded clothes on a chair. Your eyes land on the nightstand, where his wallet sits slightly open.

You don’t mean to snoop. You really don’t.

But something about last night nags at you.

Just a quick peek. Just to make sure.

Fingers trembling, you reach for it, flip it open.

And your heart stops.

Luke Hughes. Age: 21.

Twenty fucking one.

As in, young enough to still pull all-nighters for fun. As in, could still be in college.

And you? You are twenty-seven.

Oh. My. God.

Your hands fly to your phone as you furiously type out a message to your friend.

"WHAT THE HELL?! YOU SET ME UP WITH A 21-YEAR-OLD. I AM A GROWN WOMAN. I PAY FOR MY OWN HEALTH INSURANCE."

No response.

Coward.

Panic thrums in your veins as you stare at Luke—still peacefully asleep, completely unaware that you are having a full-blown identity crisis in his bed.

You need to leave. Now.

Right?

But for some reason, you hesitate.

Because Luke… Luke is the first guy in a long time who actually made you interested. Who made you laugh so hard you snorted into your drink. Who listened—really listened—when you talked, instead of just waiting for his turn to speak. And, well. The man or more like a boy, had managed to get you to orgasm. Twice!

Which, considering your track record, felt almost miraculous.

Your past partners had barely managed to get you there once—if at all.

And now you’re just supposed to sneak out of here like it never happened? Like he was just another bad decision?

Your stomach twists.

But then you glance at the wallet again. Twenty-one.

Yeah. You need to go.

Sliding out of bed as silently as possible, you scan the room for your clothes. Your shirt is on the floor, your jeans halfway under the bed. You grab them quickly, yanking them on with the precision of someone defusing a bomb. Bra? Found. Socks? One is missing, but you’ll live.

Once fully dressed, you tiptoe to the door. Your shoes. They’re outside the room. You remember kicking them off in the hallway.

One deep breath.

You ease the door open, peeking into the dimly lit living room.

Empty.

Good.

You take two careful steps out, eyes locked on your shoes near the front door. Almost there. Just a few more—

“Busted.”

You scream.

Not a blood-curdling horror movie scream, but a very real, very startled yelp that absolutely does not help you maintain any dignity in this situation.

Your body jolts like you’ve just been electrocuted, arms flailing wildly as you spin toward the voice.

There, sprawled across the couch, is a guy watching you like this is the best morning of his life.

Tall. Ridiculously handsome. Light brown hair, messy in a way that suggests he just woke up. Sharp cheekbones. Blue eyes filled with pure mischief.

And a smirk so unbearably smug that you immediately want to punch it off his face.

You clutch your chest, heart racing. “Jesus Christ, who the hell are you?!”

The guy grins wider. “Damn. Didn’t even recognize me? That hurts.”

“Am I supposed to?”You blink, still catching your breath.

His smirk falters for half a second before returning full force. “Oh, that’s good. That’s really good.” He tilts his head, studying you like you’re some kind of rare specimen. “You actually have no idea who I am, do you?”

“Why the hell would I?” Your frown deepens.

He lets out a dramatic sigh, like this is somehow the greatest tragedy to ever befall him.

“You’re telling me,” he starts, sitting up slightly, resting his arms on his knees, fully entertained, “that you came home with my brother, slept with him, and have no idea who we are?”

Your stomach drops.

Brother?

You knew Luke had brothers—he mentioned it—but you had no idea they were famous.

Your eyes flick toward the bedroom, then back to him. “You’re—wait, you’re one of Luke’s brothers?”

He snorts. “Wow. No recognition at all. That is humbling.”

“Should I recognize you?” You narrow your eyes at him.

“Oh, I don’t know.” He shrugs, mock-offended, but there’s a glint of amusement in his eyes. “I guess I’m only one of the most famous people in this city.”

You blink, a little thrown off. “…You’re a local weatherman?”

He chokes, eyes widening. “A what?!”

“You’re acting like I should know you,” you say, raising an eyebrow. “I don’t keep up with the news, but you definitely have the vibe of a guy who points at maps for a living.”

He definitely doesn’t. If anything, he looks more like a kooky stripper with an annoyingly fit body. But there’s no way you’re feeding his ego—this idiot would probably take it as a compliment.

For a split second, he just stares at you, his mouth hanging slightly open.

Then, as if the tension snaps, he howls—full-body laughter, throwing his head back and wiping a fake tear from his eye.

“Oh my God,” he wheezes, clutching his stomach. “This is the best thing that has ever happened to me.”

You cross your arms, trying to mask the irritation bubbling up. “Glad I could contribute to your morning entertainment.”

“No, you don’t get it,” he says between gasps for air, leaning forward with an infectious grin. “This is amazing. Incredible. I live for moments like this.”

You raise an eyebrow, your patience wearing thin. “Moments like what?” you snap, unable to hide the rising edge in your voice. Honestly, you’re just relieved Luke didn’t inherit Jack’s over-the-top, obnoxious personality. If he had, you probably would’ve bailed on this blind date five minutes in.

“Moments where I get to witness something so spectacularly awkward, so painfully embarrassing, that it will sustain me for weeks.”

You glare at him with pure annoyance. “I hate you already.”

He clutches his chest dramatically. “Ouch. That wounds me.”

“You’ll survive.”

“Oh, no doubt.” He smirks, and for a moment, it almost reminds you of Luke—though the two brothers couldn’t look more different. But that same confidante smile? It’s unmistakable. “Especially since I now have the upper hand in every conversation we ever have from here on out.”

“We’re never having another conversation after this!” You try to sound firm, but your voice cracks, betraying you.

He just grins wider, shaking his head like he’s heard that before. “That’s what you think.”

You exhale sharply, fed up with the entire exchange. “Look, I’m leaving. Forget you ever saw me.”

“Not a chance.” He leans back against the couch, thoroughly amused. “You’re trying to sneak out of my baby brother’s room like a damn criminal. This is gold.”

You scowl again. “I’m not sneaking out.” You fumble with your shoes, trying to get them on while defending yourself. Luckily, the hallway and living room are one open space, making your escape a bit less awkward.

“You literally just tiptoed past me like you’re starring in Mission Impossible.”

You groan. "I was trying not to wake him up." Rolling your eyes, you keep wrestling with your damn laces—of all times to betray you, it had to be now. Frustration bubbles up as you huff, "I need to go."

Jack cocks an eyebrow. "Why?"

You freeze mid-motion, exhaling hard through your nose. "...Just because."

"That's not an answer." His arms fold across his chest, his gaze pressing into you like he’s daring you to crack.

Your stomach twists. Heat rises to your face. You don’t want to say it, don’t want to give him the satisfaction—but the words rip out anyway.

“Because I just found out I slept with a 21-year-old, okay?! I’m 27. That’s a six-year difference! That’s a whole presidential term and a little extra! That’s a—”

You stop, realizing how ridiculous it sounds now that you're saying it.

Jack stares at you, blinking. There’s a long silence before you speak again, but his expression shows no understanding of the mental chaos you’re in.

You sigh and tug at your hair in frustration. “I wasn’t expecting this. I thought maybe he was older, and now… I just don’t know how to feel.”

Jack, for the first time, softens his teasing expression. But it’s clear he doesn’t quite get what you’re saying.

“Well,” he shrugs casually, “you’re still not leaving. You’re stuck here until Luke wakes up.”

“No, I’m not.” You shake your head, stubborn.

“Yes, you are!”

Before you can argue, you hear movement from the bedroom.

“Jack, why are you yelling?”

Shit.

You freeze.

Jack just grins wider.

You turn, and there he is—Luke, standing in the hallway, shirtless, hair an absolute mess, looking at you with adorable confusion.

Jack smirks. “Oh, you know. Just chatting with your date about how she was totally about to dip.”

“Wait. You’re leaving?” Luke’s voice is a mix of confusion and hurt, and suddenly, you feel a wave of guilt wash over you.

You shift awkwardly, caught in the middle of it all. “I just… didn’t want to wake you.”

Jack snickers. “Translation: she found out you’re barely legal and panicked.”

Luke’s eyes flick to his nightstand, where his wallet still sits open.

“…Wait. Is this about my age?" He sounds confused—adorably so. Too adorably.

You open your mouth, but Jack is already cackling.

“Oh, it absolutely is,” Jack says, shaking his head. “She took one look at that ID and nearly had a full-blown existential crisis.”

Your face flushes deep red. Jesus, you really can’t stand that blue-eyed bastard.

Luke blinks, then sighs, clearly frustrated a little bit. “So, last night was… amazing, but now it’s a problem because I’m 21?”

You shift uneasily. “It’s not a problem, exactly. It’s just…”

Jack grins mischievously. “Hilarious?”

You glare at him, a mix of embarrassment and irritation burning through you. “Not the word I was going for.”

Luke tilts his head, watching you closely. “Did it feel weird last night?”

Your face instantly flames. “LUKE.”

Jack cackles. “Ohhh my God, this is so good.”

Luke shrugs nonchalantly. “I’m just saying. You didn’t seem to mind my age when you were begging for—”

You lunge at him, quickly slapping a hand over his mouth. “Don’t. You. Dare.”

Jack, leaning in with barely contained joy, grins wider. “Oh, no, let’s hear it! This is the best! I live for this shit.”

You whip around, shooting daggers. “Do you really have to be here?”

Jack places a hand over his chest, feigning innocence. "Of course I do. I’m just the clueless bystander, watching your meltdown. It’s my duty as a brother. How else am I supposed to tease Lukey later?"

Luke licks his lips, glancing between you and Jack. “Wait… so you’re really freaking out over this?”

You sigh, your frustration starting to boil over. "I just… didn’t realize you were so young."

Jack snickers from the side, clearly enjoying himself. “Oh, no, I think she’s just overthinking it. But hey, it’s cute.”

Luke shoots him a glare. “Jack.”

Jack raises his hands, completely unbothered. “I’m just here to state the obvious.”

You groan, feeling a headache start to form at the base of your skull. "Can I just… go? Please?" The words come out sharper than you mean, but you’re too tired to care.

Luke looks at you, his gaze softening with that same sleepy affection from last night. You almost hate how it makes your chest ache. "You really want to leave?"

You pause for a long moment, considering.

And truthfully?

No.

You don’t.

Last night wasn’t just a fling—it was Luke.

Luke, who had you laughing through dinner, making you feel like you were the only person in the world. He treated you like you were someone worth admiring, someone worth cherishing. And when he kissed you, it felt like the first rainstorm after a drought, washing away everything but the two of you.

And now he’s standing there, messy-haired and sleepy-eyed, looking at you like he’s trying to figure out what’s going through your mind.

Jack, sensing the shift, leans back dramatically. “Ohhh, she’s thinking about it.”

You glare. “Shut up, Jack.”

Jack smirks like a little kid in the candy shop. “Nope.”

Luke lets out a heavy sigh, rubbing his face with both hands, his puppy like eyes softening as he looks at you. "Alright," he mutters, a playful smile tugging at his lips. "Let me make you breakfast before you decide I’m too young to function."

Jack perks up from the couch. “Oh, hell yeah. Stay. Luke makes a mean omelet.”

Luke shoots Jack a teasing glare, his eyes rolling in exasperation as he half-smirks. "Why are you even involved in this?" he says, clearly annoyed but with a playful edge, like he can’t decide if he should laugh or strangle his brother.

Jack shrugs dramatically. “Because I live for chaos.”

You hesitate for a moment, staring at Luke as you battle the urge to stay or run.

“…Fine. One omelet.”

Jack fist-pumps the air. “YES.”

Luke grins like he’s already won. “Good. Because I was going to make you stay anyway.”

—

You don’t know how you ended up here.

One second, you were committed to sneaking out like a thief in the night. The next?

You’re standing in Luke Hughes’ kitchen, watching him move around with annoying ease, pulling eggs and cheese out of the fridge like it’s the most natural thing in the world.

Jack, of course, is sitting at the kitchen island, grinning like the mischievous idiot he is.

“You look tense,” he observes, propping his chin in his hand and resting his elbows on his knees. “Regretting staying already?”

You shoot him a withering look. “I regret a lot of things. Letting you talk this morning is at the top of the list.”

Jack gasps dramatically, clutching his chest. “Ouch. And here I was, being such a warm and welcoming host.”

You roll your eyes. “You ambushed me.”

Jack shrugs casually, sipping his coffee. “Semantics.”

Luke, bless him, doesn’t engage. He simply smirks to himself as he cracks an egg into a pan, clearly used to Jack’s shenanigans. “Jack, are you actually gonna eat, or are you just here to be annoying?”

“Oh, I ate already. I’m just here for the show.”

You narrow your eyes at him, a smirk playing at the corner of your mouth. “Seriously, what’s your deal? You get some kind of thrill out of torturing me?”

He’s an asshole, but damn, he’s the kind of asshole that almost makes you laugh.

Jack flashes a devilish grin, clearly enjoying the chaos he's creating. "You're sharp. I like that. Smart women are way more fun to mess with." He leans back, arms crossed, his eyes twinkling with mischief as if he's already plotting his next move.

Luke huffs a laugh, the sound full of fond exasperation. He rolls his eyes, his messy hair falling into his face as he nudges Jack with his shoulder. “Just ignore him. He thrives on being a menace,” he says, shaking his head, but you can tell he's not actually mad.

Jack grins even wider, clearly proud of himself. “Yep. It’s what I do best,” he says, puffing out his chest like he’s just announced some kind of grand achievement.

You rest your elbows on the table, watching as Luke flips an omelet with impressive skill. “Okay, I’ll bite—how did you get so good at this?”

“Gotta learn some life skills when you live with Jack. Otherwise, you starve." He shoots his brother a pointed look, one that’s half annoyance, half fondness.

Jack scoffs, dramatically pressing a hand to his chest like he’s been wronged. "That’s unfair. I provide entertainment." His voice is teasing, but there’s a clear twinkle in his eye.

Luke snorts, barely stifling a laugh. "Entertainment doesn’t make up for the fact that you once tried to microwave a frozen pizza."

Your head snaps up at that, eyebrows shooting up in disbelief. "I’m sorry, what?"

Jack groans, cheeks flushing with a rare hint of embarrassment. "It was one time, and the oven took too long!" he mutters defensively, but you can see the red creeping up his neck.

Luke smirks, his eyes gleaming with mischief as he gestures vaguely toward the stove. "You almost burned the apartment down," he points out, no trace of sympathy in his voice.

Jack waves a dismissive hand. "That’s an exaggeration," he says, clearly attempting to downplay the incident, but his voice betrays the tiniest hint of guilt.

Luke shoots you a sly look, his eyes dancing with amusement as he leans in, like he’s about to let you in on a secret. “The microwave was smoking,” he adds, his voice dropping low, the tone almost playful—like he’s about to drop some juicy gossip.

Your jaw drops in disbelief. "Oh my God."

Luke, clearly pleased with the chaos he’s caused, gestures at Jack with the spatula like he’s just won some kind of victory. "See? This is why I learned how to cook."

Jack grins wide, unbothered. "And I get to reap the benefits, so really, we both win," he says with a cheeky shrug, as if his utter lack of skill somehow balances out Luke’s culinary expertise.

You laugh, shaking your head in disbelief. "I don’t know how you put up with him."

Luke smirks,"It’s a daily struggle," he says, voice deadpan, but the small curve of his lips gives away the amusement he’s trying to hide.

Jack grins, shaking his head slightly. “Oh, the betrayal. I’m crushed,” he says, his voice dripping with sarcasm, though the smirk gives him away.

Luke just rolls his eyes and slides the finished omelet onto a plate before setting it down in front of you.

You look down at it, genuinely impressed by how perfect it looks. Then, you glance back at Luke, a little taken aback. "Not gonna lie… this looks really good."

Luke’s grin widens, his eyes briefly locking with yours, the kind of connection that makes the moment feel charged. "Told you."

You pick up your fork, still a little skeptical, and take a bite. Holy hell.

Your eyes go wide in surprise. "Oh my God. This is actually amazing."

Jack leans in, looking smug...again. "See? I wasn’t lying." He gives you a little wink, clearly basking in the moment like he’s somehow been proven right.

Luke smirks, pleased by the compliment. “I take my breakfast very seriously.”

“Clearly. This might be the best decision I’ve made today.” You shake your head, chewing.

Jack gasps dramatically. “Wow. So staying was a better decision than leaving?”

You pause, realizing what you just admitted.

Jack grins like he’s just scored a win, and for a second, you seriously consider wiping that smug look off his face.

Luke’s smile, however, is filled with pure happiness, as if this moment is exactly what he’s been waiting for.

You sigh, stabbing your omelet. “I’m never gonna live this down, am I?”

Jack beams. “Absolutely not.”

Luke leans closer, his voice suddenly lower, more intimate. “I mean, I’m glad you stayed. It’s not every day I get a pretty girl in my kitchen, making my morning way more interesting.”

You freeze, fork halfway to your mouth. His words hang in the air, electric.

“Oh, so now I’m ��pretty,’ huh?” you tease, trying to maintain your composure, though your heart skips a beat.

Luke raises an eyebrow, a slow, confident smile curling on his lips. “Oh, I thought that was obvious.” His gaze flickers down to your lips, his voice dropping even lower. “You’ve been keeping me on my toes since I woke up.”

Your cheeks warm, but you force yourself to look away, focusing on your omelet. “Flattery won’t make me forget about you being 21.”

Luke’s grin widens, and he leans in a little closer, lowering his voice just enough that only you can hear. “Maybe not. But I think it’s a pretty good start.”

Jack, completely oblivious to the flirtation unfolding right under his nose, leans back on the kitchen island with a self-satisfied grin. “God, I can’t believe I’m witnessing this. I thought I was supposed to be the one who charmed the ladies.”

Luke snorts, rolling his eyes at his brother but keeping his focus on you. “Jack’s the type to talk about it. I’m the type to show it.”

Your breath catches in your throat. That was smooth. Really smooth.

You take another bite of your omelet, trying to hide the smile spreading across your face. “You sure you don’t just want me to stay for the food?”

Luke leans back, his gaze softening as he gently takes your left hand in his, his thumb slowly tracing circles over your knuckles. “I mean… if that’s your only reason for sticking around, I won’t complain,” he murmurs, a playful yet tender smile curving his lips. “But I like to think I’ve got more to offer than just my cooking skills.”

His words, along with the warmth in his eyes, wash over you like a wave, pulling you in deeper. You lock eyes with him, your breath catching as your pulse quickens. There’s something in the way he’s looking at you, something that makes it impossible to think straight.

Then Jack clears his throat loudly, and you break the spell, feeling a little embarrassed.

“Alright, alright,” Jack says, clearly enjoying the discomfort he’s just caused. “I’ll leave you two lovebirds alone so you can finish your breakfast in peace. No need to make me a third wheel.”

You roll your eyes, but Luke doesn’t seem to mind. He just shrugs, unfazed.

“Good idea. Go entertain yourself, Jack.”

Jack winks. “Don’t mind if I do.” He stands up and heads for the door, adding, “You two just make sure to keep it PG—some of us don’t need to see that much chemistry before our coffee kicks in.”

You watch as Jack exits, still grinning like the mischievous brat he is.

As the door clicks behind Jack, the quiet of the kitchen settles in, leaving just you and Luke alone, the lingering tension between you two impossible to ignore. Luke shifts, his hands still resting on your hands as he pulls you gently into his lap. Your heart beats a little faster at the sudden closeness, but you refuse to let the thrill of it distract you from the conversation you know needs to happen.

You take a deep breath, looking up into his eyes—eyes that are soft but hold that familiar spark of mischief, the kind that makes it hard to think straight. He tilts his head slightly, a playful smirk tugging at his lips as he runs his thumb over your hand, tracing slow circles. The warmth of his touch makes your breath hitch, but you bite your lip, determined to have this talk.

“Luke,” you start, your voice softer than you intended, “We need to talk about last night. About... us.”

Luke's expression changes, the playful gleam fading into something more intense. He doesn’t pull away, though. Instead, he tightens his grip on your waist, pulling you just a little closer, and his voice drops an octave. “I thought we were past talking. I thought we were just... enjoying each other.”

His words make your pulse quicken, but you hold firm. You need to address this.

“I’m serious,” you say, your voice steady, though your chest betrays you with its nervous flutter. “I need to know where this is going, Luke. You’re 21, I’m 27. That’s a six-year difference. I’ve been through more in my life. I want a family soon. I want stability. Not... something fleeting.”

Luke’s gaze darkens, and his thumb continues its slow, soothing motion over your skin, but there’s a new intensity in his eyes. He’s quiet for a moment, absorbing your words. The air feels thick with unspoken thoughts, the weight of what you’ve just said hanging between you.

“You think I don’t want the same things?” he asks, his voice steady but with a sharp edge, not defensive—more... thoughtful. “I’m not some kid just looking for a fling. I’ve thought this through. I’m looking for something real. I’ve spent too much time in meaningless situations to want that anymore. I went to our date because I was looking for something serious. And my friend told me you’d be looking for the same thing.”

He lets your words settle, his eyes never leaving yours. “After spending the night talking with you, I felt like I wasn’t just talking to someone who’s interesting—I felt like I was talking to someone who gets it. Someone who’s looking for the same kind of connection. I’m not here for something that’ll fizzle out in a few weeks. I’m here because... I think you might be the person I’ve been waiting for.”

His words hit you in a way you weren’t prepared for. You’re caught off guard, unsure how to respond, but something stirs inside you. Something warm, something you didn’t expect. You can feel the truth of what he’s saying in your chest, and for the first time, you start to question the assumptions you’d made.

“Yeah, but you’re still figuring things out,” you say, your voice shaky now, a trace of worry creeping in. “You’re just starting out in life. Maybe you don’t want the same kind of commitment I do. I need someone who’s already ready to settle down.”

Luke doesn’t hesitate. His fingers slide up to your jaw, his touch firm but tender, like he’s grounding you to the moment. His gaze holds yours, no longer playful, but filled with something deeper. Something real.

“I’m ready for that,” he murmurs, his voice soft but full of conviction. “I know what I want. And I want you. If you’re worried about my age, let me show you I’m more than just a number.”

His words are almost a whisper, but there’s a quiet confidence in them that sends a thrill through you. His lips are so close now, you can feel his breath on your skin as he leans in, his forehead resting against yours. “I’m not asking for a lifetime yet, but I’m asking for the chance to prove myself. To prove that I’m capable of giving you the kind of future you want.”

You close your eyes, your breath catching in your throat. He’s not backing down, and the sincerity in his words leaves you no room to doubt him. But still, you can’t help but voice the doubts that swirl in your mind.

“I don’t want to get hurt, Luke,” you whisper, finally letting yourself admit the fear you’ve been pushing down. “I’ve been through enough heartache. And if you don’t want the same things I do, if you’re not ready for it... I don’t know if I can take that risk.”

Luke leans in just a little more, his lips brushing against your cheek before he pulls back slightly, his hands cradling your face. He’s close enough that you can feel the warmth of his skin, the steadiness of his gaze. “I’m ready for you. Ready for everything that comes with it,” he says, his voice resolute. “I wouldn’t be here, sitting with you like this, if I wasn’t.”

You search his eyes for any sign of hesitation, but there’s none. What you see instead is determination—an unspoken promise that, for all his age, he knows what he wants and is willing to fight for it.

The air between you two shifts, the quiet between you no longer heavy with doubt, but filled with something new. Something that makes your pulse race.

“Okay,” you whisper, your voice barely audible. “Then show me.”

At that, his lips crash against yours, the kiss deep and slow, filled with all the unspoken things you’ve both been dancing around. His hands slide to your back, pulling you closer as the kiss deepens. Your hands find their way to his curls, tugging him in as if you can’t get close enough. The world around you fades away—there’s only the feeling of his mouth against yours, the pressure of his body against yours, the shared certainty that whatever this is, it’s more than just physical.

When you finally pull away, both breathless, Luke grins, his forehead resting against yours. 

Luke leans back a little bit, his eyes gleaming with that mischievous glint as he watches you, a teasing smile playing at the corners of his lips. "You know," he says casually, his voice thick with satisfaction, "I have to admit... I’ve never had a night quite like that. You really know how to use that beautiful mouth of yours."

You glance over at him, raising an eyebrow. "Oh? What do you mean?"

Luke shifts a little closer, his grin widening. "Well, I’ve had my fair share of nights, but... last night? You...You were next level. Honestly, I wasn’t expecting to be that blown away."

You feel your cheeks flush, a mix of embarrassment and flattery. "Really? Well, I kinda feel the same. I’ve never... finished two times in one night."

Luke’s eyes narrow in surprise. "What?! Baby, that wasn’t even that much. I think we can go for four or five next time." He winks, his tone playful, but there's a hint of challenge in his voice.

You laugh, trying to hide the blush creeping up your neck. "Is that so? You really think you can keep up?"

Luke smirks, leaning in just a little closer, his voice low and confident. "Oh, I’m definitely up for the challenge. You just wait."

You raise an eyebrow, a teasing smile forming on your lips. "Maybe this whole 'young boyfriend' thing isn’t such a bad idea after all... Good stamina and all that."

Luke grins, his eyes twinkling with mischief. "Told ya!" He leans in, planting a series of quick, soft kisses across your face and neck, each one sending a delightful shiver through your skin. You can't help but laugh at his actions, brushing your nose against his cheek as your giggles mix with his gentle kisses.

Just as you're starting to recover from his playful assault, a voice slices through the moment like an ice-cold splash of water.

"Can you drop the sex talk, guys?" Jack's voice rings out from the kitchen doorway, dripping with disgust but clearly amused by the whole situation. "I didn’t need to know this much about my little brother."

You freeze, eyes wide, before you turn to Luke, who looks utterly unfazed, that smug, victorious grin plastered across his face. It’s as if he’s just won some kind of prize, and he's wearing it like a badge of honor.

Embarrassment creeps up your neck, but before you can even process the awkwardness, you find yourself laughing. The tension dissolves in the shared amusement of the moment. Luke just shrugs casually, looking way too pleased with himself.

"Relax, Jack. It’s called maturity," you reply with a wink, and Luke chuckles, pressing another kiss to your cheek.

Jack groans dramatically, rolling his eyes. "You two are gross. And seriously, for the future, we need some rules. These walls are way too thin. I do not need to hear you two in action. Thank God I wasn’t home yesterday."

You let out a horrified gasp, hiding your face in Luke’s neck. "Jesus, Jack," you mumble, half laughing, half mortified.

Luke just keeps laughing, clearly entertained by the situation. "You heard nothing. Just a couple of adults figuring things out," he teases.

Jack mutters something under his breath before calling out with a playful, exaggerated gag. "God, I need to vomit. You two are so disgusting."

"Guess this means you're sticking around, huh?" Luke whispers against your mouth, his voice low and warm, sending another wave of heat through you.

You nod, content, leaning into him with a soft smile. "Guess so," you murmur, brushing your lips against his in return.

Jack, clearly fed up with the display, huffs dramatically and walks away with an exaggerated sigh. "You two are the worst."

As he exits, you look up at Luke, feeling that warmth in your chest—the comfort, the excitement, all mixed together. You can get used to mornings like this, even if it means dealing with Jack’s teasing. Or, you think with a smirk, maybe you’ll just strangle him in his sleep. Problem solved.

Luke catches the glint in your eye and chuckles, clearly knowing exactly what you’re thinking.

“Careful,” he says with a playful smirk, “I’d hate to lose my new favourite person just because you can’t handle my brother.”

You laugh, pulling him in for one last kiss.

Part 2

[stevieschrodinger]

Part One Two Three

Robin sucks on her drink through her straw, “why, exactly, are we here?”

Steve sighs into his own drink.

Robin looks around the yard from her perch on a lawn chair, “I can’t help but notice, Steven, that we are very clearly the oldest people here.”

Steve watches Eddie balefully. He’s trying and failing to light the grill. It’s almost embarrassing to watch; Steve can’t seem to look away.

“Steven, I am drinking something that was mixed together in bowl. I’m drinking it out of a red solo cup. I haven’t touched one of these in a decade. I require an explanation.”

“I don’t have one.”

“That is a lie. Your pants will catch fire and then you can use them to help that moron to light the grill.”

They watch for a little longer.

“Fucks sake Steve just go and do it for him. This tastes like paint thinner; I’ll need to eat some bread at some point or I’ll go into kidney failure.”

Steve gets up and lights the grill for Eddie. He’s wearing another butchered tee shirt and some black board shorts. He’s so pale, and all of his bony bits are on show. Elbows. Wrists. Ankles.

His hair is gathered up into a messy bun on top of his head.

He still has a smear of make up on one eyelid where it hasn’t washed off properly.

Steve knows exactly what he sounds like when he comes.

“Thanks man,” Eddie’s blushing. He’s rubbing the back of his neck. It reveals Eddie’s pale ribs. His dark hairy armpit-

Steve runs away before he does something stupid.

“Okay, so, step by step, no gory details please, what exactly happened last night, because I know damn well you didn’t spend the entire forty five minutes I was waiting hanging around in a gross bathroom.”

Steve sighs, rubs his forehead, then goes and gets them both refills.

“Coward,” Robin calls after his retreating back.

He’s refilling their cups with an honest to fucking god soup ladle out of the kitchen – avoiding the fly that has met it’s sticky end in what is, no doubt, highly toxic punch – when it happens.

“Hey man,” Steve is being addressed by an actual pimply teenager.

“Hey.”

“Nice car,” he sounds weirdly angry about it.

“Uhhh...thanks,” because Steve doesn’t know what the fuck else to say to a dude wearing a dungeons and dragons tee shirt over flaming basketball shorts. He has nothing on his feet. Outside. Steve represses a shudder.

“Look, you clearly have money, or whatever, and probably a fancy job and you’re like, forty-”

“Hey-”

“- or whatever, but this thing with Eddie, can you make it fast please? Dragging it out isn’t fair on him.”

Steve blinks. He’s getting a shovel talk from someone who probably doesn’t know what a VHS is.

Steve can remember playing video games with no save; if you were going to do it, you had to play the whole damn thing in one go. Steve didn’t have a mobile phone until he was fifteen. Steve is not going to take this.

“This ‘thing’ I have with Eddie is none of your business. Eddie can speak for himself-”

“No Eddie cannot speak for himself, because Eddie is the nicest guy I know and Eddie already thinks he’s in love. Don’t think I don’t see what this is for you, Eddie’s just another thing to play with until you get bored. Look at this place, look at us. Now look at you and you’re fancy friend over there,” the kid gestures and, yeah, alright, the difference is pretty obvious, “you wouldn’t be caught dead here, slumming it, if you weren't getting something out of it. Now hurry it along, Eddie only writes good stuff when he’s heartbroken. Which is a lot, by the way. We all know how this goes.”

“What’s wrong with your face?”

“I just got a shovel talk from a kid who probably shouldn’t even be drinking yet.”

“Ouch,” Robin takes her drink back, “how does that feel?”

Steve shrugs, “not sure, actually.”

Across the yard, Steve watches as Eddie gesticulates wildly and hisses angrily at the pimply face DnDer. He catches Steve watching. Eddie grabs the kid by the arm and drags him away.

“The burgers are burning,” Robin idly points out.

Steve sighs, he loves this polo, grease stains are a bastard, and the chances of finding an apron in this place are none existent.

At least Robin comes with him. She half unwraps some cheese and generally pretends to busy herself, slicing buns and stacking paper plates.

“So, last night?”

“Right,” Steve sighs through his nose, shuffling some onions around on the flat plate. “So I was just going to you know, get him.”

“Get your man tiger,” Robin purrs.

It shouldn’t be funny, but it kind of is. Steve laughs.

“But he just...grabbed my hand. And he said ‘Steve! Come and meet the guys!’ So I...did.”

“He introduced you to his friends,” Robin raises that lethal eyebrow.

“Yeah.”

“And you went along with it?”

“Well I kind of...he didn’t let go of my hand so I kind of…”

Both of Robins eyebrows are now in the stratosphere. She appears to spend a few minutes digesting that, “and then you got invited to...this.”

Steve’s already dug half a hole, and he still apparently has the shovel in his hand, so he keeps going, “he was just so happy to see me,” Steve admits, quietly.

“Who is that?”

“Who?”

Robin grabs Steve by the hair and forcibly turns his whole head, “that.”

There’s a blonde girl talking to Eddie. She’s wearing a white tank top and daisy dukes, “no idea.”

“Come on, high time you introduced me.”

Steve really tries, but he cant hide the fact that he is delighted by this turn of events, “why, Robin Buckley! Oh how the tables have turned-”

“Shut the fuck up. I’m going to make her cry.”

Part Five

[wannabanauthor]

I feel like Season 1 Buck would have been absolute menace if he met Tommy.

Buck is a natural flirt, and Tommy didn’t come out until after he left the 118, so I know that they would have had a hot and messy fling.

I’m betting it would have taken them a week at most before they started hooking up. Maybe Buck promises to stop stealing the engine for sex if Tommy gives him a helping hand. And Tommy benefits because he gets to hook up with a hot guy.

But real life emotions and feelings arise, and they both don’t know how to handle it. Tommy starts getting jealous because Buck is a huge flirt, and Buck is realizing that sex with Tommy isn’t just sex anymore. It’s something more, and he doesn’t know what he’s feeling. He’s straight but enjoys sex with a guy.

Tensions arise, and maybe they get in a fight after working on a stressful call. Tempers flare, and it becomes a yelling match that the entire station is witness to. And they’re not even speaking to each other at the end of the shift.

Buck decides to yield first and drives to Tommy’s house that same night.

When Tommy answers the door, Buck is too distracted by how good Tommy looks in civilian clothes to have a proper conversation.

He just walks inside staring at Tommy and kisses him passionately. They don’t talk, not really. They use their mouths for other more pleasurable things.

It’s different this time. There’s a tinge of desperation and the fact that they don’t want to talk about what’s really bothering them.

Once they’ve thoroughly exhausted themselves, Buck is on his side facing Tommy while Tommy is on his back staring at the ceiling. Buck strokes Tommy’s face, and when Tommy looks at him, Buck pulls him closer and kisses him so tenderly.

They don’t know what to say to each other, so they just kiss, reveling in how good it feels to kiss just for the sake of kissing.

Buck’s gone by the time Tommy wakes up, and Tommy doesn’t bother to reach out.

During their next shift together, they avoid each other as much as possible. The rest of the team already expected this since their fight, so it’s not awkward.

Bobby takes notice, but he can’t figure out exactly what it is. One day he calls Tommy into his office and notifies him of a transfer opportunity. Tommy accepts without hesitation, but it only worries Bobby more.

Word gets around, and Buck is the last one to find out. He’s hurt, really hurt, but he can’t say anything on shift. Afterwards, he drives straight to Tommy’s house and confronts him.

It’s awkward when Tommy opens his door to Buck looking so defeated and miserable.

“So you weren’t going to tell me?” Buck asks.

Tommy rubs his own face, clearly not ready for this conversation.

“It would have been nice to find out from you rather than our coworkers,” Buck continues. “Is it because of me?”

Tommy is too guarded to properly have this conversation.

“It’s not about you, Buck,” he says and his face is blank.

Buck looks crestfallen. “Fine, I get it. We were just having fun, right?”

“I can’t do this with you right now,” Tommy says. Yes, he’s a coward. But it’s better to be a coward than to be a gay guy who’s falling hard for his young himbo coworker/fuck buddy.

Buck nods, and there’s a mixture of hurt and anger on his face. “Okay,” he replies, feeling super defeated and deflated. “Do what’s best for you. Maybe you’ll find whatever it is you’re looking for there. I want you to be happy, even if it’s away from me.”

Buck leaves after that, and Tommy breaks down crying in his kitchen.

Buck’s tears don’t even wait for him to get into his Jeep. Everything is blurry by the time he starts it up, but he wipe his eyes and drives off.

That night he’s in bed staring at the ceiling of his loft, wondering if he made a mistake in letting Tommy go.

Sadly, Tommy is wondering if he also made a mistake of letting Buck go.

To be continued…

I’m exhausted, and my eyes are closing, and I have no more ideas on how to continue this idea for a happy ending at the moment, so it’ll have to wait until tomorrow or later. Good night.

[darkficsyouneveraskedfor]

In a Place Like This 2

Warnings: non/dubcon, mentions of crime, and other dark elements. My username actually says you never asked for any of this.

My warnings are not exhaustive but be aware this is a dark fic and may include potentially triggering topics. Please use your common sense when consuming content. I am not responsible for your decisions.

Character: mob! Frank Castle

Part of the mob drabbles au

Summary: your efforts to be left alone find you in bad company.

As usual, I would appreciate any and all feedback. I’m happy to once more go on this adventure with all of you! Thank you in advance for your comments and for reblogging ❤️

The chime of your cell phone wakes you. You reach over blindly, head under your pillow, neck twisted, body strewn over the mattress. You silence it and fold your arm over the pillow. Just a few more minutes. 

It starts again. You snarl and drag it off the chest beside your bed. You roll over and bring the phone to shine in your face. Two-fucking-AM. You’re not scheduled until seven. What’s this noise about? 

“What is it, Alfie?” You answer without courtesy. 

“Get down here, now.” 

“I’m not on schedule--” 

“I don’t give a shit,” he snips, a quake beneath his agitation. “I need you here, now.” 

Fuck. He hangs up before you can argue. This better not be him cowering behind the counter as a bunch of teenagers make a mess again. He sure talks a big game for a coward. Well, that’s what happens when you pay people to put up with you. 

You sit up and stretch. You are fucking wiped. Still, you’re no one to say no to money. You know if you don’t show up, Alfie will try to take your apron. 

You dress in the dark. You only flip on the bathroom light and put yourself together. When you leave, your eyelids are still drooping. You force them open as you head on onto the street. You have to be alert, especially this time of night. 

You have one hand around your brass knuckles as you stroll down to the station. You catch the line to the stop closest to the diner and climb up to ground level. You rub your forehead and yawn as you swing open the door. 

You enter to silence. Even at half-past two, that’s odd. You look around at the empty diner. There’s only one guest sat. He’s face is streaked red. His hands stained a similar shade. It’s that jackass. Castle. 

Alfie hisses at you through the kitchen window and beckons you back. Your eyes meet the sole patron’s gaze but he doesn’t move or speak. You scowl and head back to meet Alfie. The door flaps shut behind you. 

“He asked for you,” he wrings his hands like a greedy mouse. “I offered him coffee. He only said your name.” 

You smile wryly. What in the hell does he want? You look around the kitchen. Vinny does days and at night he has Paulie working the grill. The man can hardly light a burner with how fucking high he is. You tut and push your shoulders straight. 

“Right,” you march over to the sink and grab a cloth. You wet it as Alfie shuffles back to the window to peek out. “Stop gawking.” 

“Do you know who that is?” He asks. 

“Yep and he’s just like the rest of them,” you sneer and leave your purse on the counter. You march out to the table and hold out the cloth, “Clean yourself up before you stain my table.” 

Castle tweaks his head as his dark eyes meet yours. He gives a sort of sway as he accepts the cloth. You shake your head. 

“Get up,” you demand. 

He snorts. 

“I’m serious. You’re making mess.” You strut away back to the window and snap your fingers above the ledge, “Alf, a garbage bag.” 

You wait and take the black plastic, then turn and snatch a cloth from under the counter. You return to the table, wipe the seat, then cover it with the bag. He continues to wipe his face as he chuckles. 

“You sure don’t stop. Even at the crack of dawn, you’re fiery,” he shakes his head. 

“What do you want?” You ask tersely. 

“Ain’t got a menu yet?” 

You huff and stomp away. You come back and slap down a menu. He’s amused. 

“Coffee, tea, juice, to get you started?” 

He holds the cloth out to you. There’s still crimson in the creases of his hands and along his hairline. You take it with a dull glare. 

“Hope I didn’t interrupt your beauty sleep. If I did, gotta say, can’t tell,” he winks. 

You don’t flinch. His brows rise and he clucks. “I’ll take coffee. Black.” 

“Coming right up.” 

You twist on your heel and go behind the counter. You toss the cloth in the window. Alfie jumps back and hides. Goddamn, you’re really the one dealing with this bullshit. Right now?! 

You fill a mug from the machine. You don’t care if it’s stale. You return to Castle’s table and set it down. 

“You know, I’m feeling like a full stack. Been a while since I had pancakes. Oh, and with that apple syrup.” He taps the menu. You reach to fold it up and he catches the other end. You pause in a tug of war. “And I’d like to enjoy it with you sitting across from me. A sweet face to go with a sweet plate.” 

You scoff. Really? You blink and yank the menu free of his grasp. 

Not what you need. You go to the window and put in the order. Alfie yells at Paulie who only slurs in return. You’ll be lucky to get anything. 

You almost regret punching him in the face. Even if it was unintentional, it felt good. You tap your heel as you crane to see through the window. What the hell is Paulie doing? You didn’t ask for bacon. 

You storm through and across the kitchen. You snip at Alfie as he watches cluelessly. 

“Damnit it, Alf. You wanna hire someone who isn’t on crank?” You shove Paulie away from the grill. 

You pull out the pancake mix and take the scoop. You go to work making three large flapjacks. Alfie mutters by the window as Paulie pulls out a smoke. 

“Do that outside,” you warn. 

The pancakes bubble and you flip them. The perfect brown. Wonderful. You’re working as owner, waitress, and cook. You pile up the plate and grab a wrapped bunch of cutlery and the apple syrup on your way out.  

You bring it to the table and place it all in front of Castle. You gesture to the caddy on the other side of the table. “Powdered sugar and maple there.” 

He smirks at you, “you forgettin’ something, sugar?” 

You roll your eyes and sigh. You pull out the chair across from him and sit. “I know who you are, Castle. You don’t need to keep this up.” 

He guffaws as he drizzles the syrup, “oh, I know. But I wanna know who you are.” 

[suhkusa]

Osamu feels the text before he actually gets the chance to read it.

“What the fuck—” there’s a sudden hand on his shoulder.

“‘Samu, what the fuck did you do?”

Osamu is taken aback, but retorts. If anyone asks, Atsumu started it. 

“What the fuck do you mean?” One of Osamu’s hands grabs his brother's wrist, trying to pull his grip off.

Atsumu’s eyes are glaring into his own, “You know what you did,”

“If this is about Y/N, you had your chance and you fucked it up,”

Atsumu is pushing his twin into a nearby wall when he says, “That tweet was a lie, I was planning on fixing things with her. Why did you get in the way?”

“I got in the way? It wasn’t just the tweet, Atsumu. You know damn well. You started this with your stupid— truce,” Osamu’s pushing back. But his brother has always been the more athletic one.

“What truce?” a voice cuts through, and it’s yours.

The two of them freeze, still in their awkward position.

You’re stepping closer before you’re nudging Atsumu off Osamu. Osamu looked at his twin, and his facial expression definitely changed.

Atsumu really hasn’t seen you in a while, huh?

“What truce?” you repeat, but you sound more desperate, more demanding.

“It- It’s-�� Atsumu begins to try to explain it, but it’s like the words don’t want to come out.

“Seriously? Am I just like a game to the two of you?” your voice is getting loud, but it’s straining. Like you’re hurt?

“I’m tired of this whiplash that both of you give me. You want me and then you don’t. You’re my friend and then you’re not. Can the two of you make up your mind?”

Osamu’s heart is shattering in his own chest. He never realized the weight of his actions until now. And as he glances at Atsumu beside him, he can tell he’s going through the same epiphany.

“I’ve tried, I really tried. You guys distanced yourselves from me after high school and for what? Some quick fucks and attention from girls?”

“You don’t know shit, Y/N,” Atsumu is the first one out of the two to finally speak. 

“What? What could I possibly not know?”

“That we both fucking like you!”

Osamu feels his own eyes widen along with yours. The shocked reaction doesn’t stop his brother.

“We’ve both liked you for god who knows how long, and we forced ourselves to try and stop,” he looks to Osamu, “but we both know how that went,”

“Stop criticizing me— and ‘Samu, for that matter, when you don’t know how it feels to give up someone you love for someone else that you love,” 

Osamu is still silent. He feels like he should say something, but he doesn’t. He can’t. His twin brother has said enough.

And in the end, Osamu still never got to confess.

Everything is silent. Atsumu is angry, you’re sad. Osamu doesn’t know what he is. Maybe conflicted?

It feels like everything just got way more complicated than it needed to be. Atsumu’s face drops before he runs a hand over his face and through his hair. He sighs before walking off. Osamu doesn’t know where Atsumu’s going. He doesn’t really care either.

His eyes then meet yours. Yours are glossed over. Like you want to cry, but you hold it back. He wants to reach out to you. 

But Osamu Miya is a coward. And he doesn’t say a word as you stalk off in the opposite direction.

BOTH AIN’T SH!T — EPIPHANY

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NOTES.

surprise!!! you get to choose your twin lol

congrats on finishing main story!

© all writings belongs to suhkusa 2024. do not repost or change.

[verdantwyrm]

hello, i saw your post about how people should not censor out or analyse Jimmy for the fear that it’d look like excusing his actions, and honestly i agree. Particularly, what you said stood out to me, I think I will remember it from here on:

“Trying to constantly make out the fact that rapists are faceless monsters that have never been people completely ignores the fact that most of them are people we know and people we care about.”

ngl does kinda make me teary, very based take I haven’t seen anyone make yet. I’m a CSA and incest survivor, it’s easy to say rapists are horrible people and should die, but it’s more complex than that, especially if you grew up with them and care about them.

I wanted to share that post so bad, but I’m a coward reblogging hot takes in this fandom. Just know I screenshotted that post for personal keepings because it was so based.

There’s also one interpretation of Anya that I haven’t seen yet: the non-angry. It is understandable that people may feel empowerment drawing Anya killing Jimmy. My interpretation of her (because I’m projecting hard lmao), she may not be angry or killing Jimmy in her mind. “I don’t want revenge, I just want peace” type of thing. My version of Anya is just someone who doesn’t seek revenge towards Jimmy or berating Curly for not doing her justice; just someone who wants safety, a peace of mind. It’s kinda weird when I see art of Anya lowkey guiltripping a post-crash Curly, it just feels off. Anya doesn’t seem the kind to be vengeful anyway.

Sometimes I think something’s wrong with me for not feeling angry at my abusers just as others seem to be, but I remind myself that responses to trauma can be varying. Nothing’s wrong with the revenge interpretations, more power to those who feel empowered by it, but I would like to see the non-angry interpretation someday, especially on a soft-hearted character like Anya.

Hi Anon! Thank you so much for your question! And more importantly, from one survivor to another, I know more than most about how it feels to have someone you trusted or someone you were supposed to trust have them go and do something as awful as rape or assault, and it's true because that happens a lot. It's a part of grooming victims, so constantly trying to make out these people as faceless monsters who emerge to only do bad is detrimental to the fact that they can, will be and are the people you hold closest sometimes.

And I'm honestly just as teary-eyed thinking about how that resonates with people because it's a very uncomfortable truth that not a lot of people want to reckon with or even understand and completely ignore. I was much like you when it came to opinions like this, "fandom discourse" as people may say, and I was terrified of reblogging it or even making a suggestion towards it in fear of it being a bad take or one that doesn't even make sense, but after years of writing and reading, it's helped me a ton to grasp themes, nuance, metaphors- the like. That's why I post my own analysis: because I know and understand how much it means to have someone speak on such an overlooked thing. When you don't have someone doing that, or anyone to even bounce your ideas off of, you start to feel like you're stretching it or simply going mad.

I actually really, really dislike the interpretation that Anya is angry, resentful or has any revenge towards Curly, or that she has to be this, hysterical mad woman sent out to kill or hurt Jimmy. I don't believe she's either of this. Anya deserves peace, and I think it's extremely important to understand just how similar she is to Curly.

They're both victims to the same man, they both believe in the best of people (although to their own detriment in a way) they want to find peace, and fulfilment in their career and life. They're so alike in such delicate and intimate ways, that trying to constantly paint Curly as this great, horrible oppressor over her does way more harm than good.

I've mentioned in a couple of posts now that Curly's good heart and his kindness aren't inherently a bad thing, and that's because it isn't a bad thing. It was because Jimmy was so ready to abuse him every time he showed "weakness" and the fact that Pony Express probably had already been exploiting it for a very long time, that made It as catastrophic as it was. And that's not his fault, that's not Anya's either.

Curly’s biggest weakness is his forgiving nature. We all talk about how Anya is a victim of Jimmy, and she absolutely is, but so is Curly. His first immediate response Jimmy's reaction to Anya announcing her pregnancy is met with immense fear and anxiety with the added soundtrack of what could be equivalent to the sound of Curly's heart racing.

He is beyond terrified, and when he does finally get to Jimmy, he immediately fawns and freezes. He makes absolutely no mention of Anya or anyone else because all that mattered in that panicked situation was easing Jimmy down and resolving the situation. Curly was and has been a victim of Jimmy's abuse for a very long time on an emotional and mental aspect that clouded his judgements and perceptions in the scenario which devolved into physical abuse very quickly once Jimmy got his chance. It is also true that Curly had a responsibility to protect Anya as a crew mate and Captain but he failed due to bias towards his abusers, and his kind and forgiving nature of simply wanting to see the good in Jimmy, which is a manifest of his trauma and being a victim, also definitely something that Jimmy himself has instilled into Curly.

And like you say, it is perfectly fine to interpret her this way, but it feels very... out of character. This is the same character that so reverently believes that our worst moments don't make us monsters, and I don't think it's insane to apply this sentiment to Curly too, because his worst moment was simply being too forgiving to someone who deserved it the least- which is its own trauma response.

Again, so sorry for the long response, I've been sitting on this ask for a while simply because I wanted to answer the best I could, and I have a lot of feelings about Curly and Anya and how they're reflections of each other in being victims. Thank you so much for sending in an ask! ╰(*´︶`*)╯

[peoniesnro]

In Another Universe

#12. RUINED and DESTROYED

Synopsis – When you are just another iteration of Park Jimin’s girlfriend in a different universe.

Park Jimin × Reader

Genre – parallel universe / kind of fantasy/ strangers to ??/ SMUT/ maybe romance/ angst/ fluff /Infidelity

Warnings- Language/SMUT- Making out/ Dirty talks/Public sex (I have done it in the end dear freinds) /Unportected sex/ Pussy slaps/ Cumming inside/Rough sex/ Word 'slut'/ Oral (m.recieving)/ Angst / INFIDELITY

Word count- 22k (╥﹏╥)

a/n- My fingers slipped and I accidentally wrote too much. Then I tried to reduce the word count and ended up writing some more. So, here we are. I give up. (Thankyou for reading babies❤️)

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“Okay, I really don’t get it.” Taehyung furrows his brows before raising them in question. “You cheat on your girlfriend with someone who exactly looks like her?” He blinks at Jimin’s face. “I mean, what’s the fucking logic in that?” His mouth falls open in a perfect 'O' of disbelief.

Jimin sighs heavily. Throws his head up searching for answers he usually finds in the ceiling. This time, though, he finds none. This is not how he expected this conversation to happen. When he said he’d talk to Taehyung and there’d be no problems, he had really believed it. Except that there are so many problems now. Currently, Jimin is standing in the middle of Hoseok’s office room. This is neither the way nor the place he wishes to have this conversation. He desperately needs his genius of a best friend to shut the fuck up right now. He doesn’t.

“I mean I’m the worst person here- we all know that- but you know what’s wrong with me. I have fucking commitment issues.” Taehyung gestures at himself before continuing. “I can’t stick to one person. I mean it’s bad as it sounds but what I don’t get is what’s your reasons Jimin? Like it’s understandable if you’re looking for different tastes. That’s not the case here though. They’re literally the same person. Carbon copies. Why would you choose her when you can fucking buy a brothel for yourself.” Shakes his head.

Jimin cringes visibly at the sound of it. Just a taste? What’s wrong with his best friend? That’s not how Jimin regards you at all. How dare Taehyung would assume that. Yet, before he can say anything a second voice interrupts him. “For fucks sake, Kim Taehyung, is that the problem here? This stupid fucker here is cheating on his girlfriend and you’re wondering why he’s not doing it with multiple women?” Seokjin’s voice booms through Hoseok’s office. Everyone inside winces at the sound. Seokjin is the last person Jimin wants to be here.

That sure was a hell of a surprise when he was confronted by Seokjin instead of Taehyung this morning. Jimin was too stunned to speak at first. Then his older friend has dragged his ass inside Hoseok’s office. Where Taehyung and Hoseok were waiting patiently for them with guilty faces. In the end, it turned out that it has nothing to do with Hoseok, but it had everything to do with dear Taehyung. Jimin badly wanted to smack his best friend right across the head when he heard how Taehyung had accidentally spilled the secret for Seokjin, because he thought Seokjin knows- as Taehyung claims. See, Taehyung is a genius. Jimin can’t even bring himself to wonder why on the fucking earth Taehyung thought Seokjin would be taking part of such sordid matter. Why would Taehyung ever think Seokjin would know when he, Jimin’s fucking best friend didn’t.

Doesn’t matter now, however. Taehyung had made the entire thing worse in ten folds when Jimin returned to his workplace. Maybe if he hadn’t avoided coming here yesterday like a coward, this might’ve not happened. The thing is though, he felt like he couldn’t. So, he had paid an unannounced visit to his parents after he woke up in a hotel room. Bed empty and you not being anywhere in his sight. He simply didn’t want to talk about it with anybody even though it’s just Taehyung. But now here he is.

“That’s not what I asked Hyung. I asked him why he chose his girlfriend’s twin sister out of many other─” Taehyung starts with a very serious face, only to get thrown off guard when Seokjin yells through top of his lungs again.

“YEAH? And that’s the problem here? It’s fucking worse that he’s doing it with her but that’s not the damn problem Taehyung! He. Is. Fucking. Cheating. That’s the problem here.” Seokjin points at Jimin. Taehyung shuts his mouth immediately. Even takes a step back. Jimin feels his patience wearing thin. Why do his friends treat him like a kid. He’s a grown adult who can do whatever he wants.

“For fucks sake Hyung, can you please not do this. I really have work to do.” Jimin glares at Seokjin. He only scoffs.

“You do? Now you’re a responsible CEO? But if I can recall correctly, you decided to run away with your miss─”

“Oh my god Jin. This is not that much of a problem. Nothing happened.” Hoseok decides to bring the attention to him for Jimin’s pleasure. Yet it’s a very foolish idea on Hoseok’s part it seems. The moment those words leave his lips, Jin’s head snaps to Hoseok at lightning speed. His glare sharp enough to burn the entire universe down to ash.

“Yeah? You think so? Nothing happened? Not a problem? What the fuck are you thinking Jung Hoseok? This is all half your fault?” Seokjin nearly stands up from Hoseok’s chair where he’s been seated at. Hoseok almost takes a step back as if Seokjin might hit him. Jimin think that might be the case after all. Seokjin looks feral. Is going berserk. Jimin feels like a kid getting scolded by their father. Taehyung and Hoseok are his innocent siblings.

“Wh-what? How’s this my fault? What did I do?” Hoseok questions in genuine curiosity. Offended. Again, a foolish idea.

“You have to ask that.” Seokjin scoffs loudly. Tilts his head to the side. Pokes the inside of his cheek with his tongue. Takes a moment to compose himself before turning his attention back to Hoseok, who looks bewildered. “You, my stupid friend, is the one who knew what’s going on from the very beginning. You apparently knew it wasn’t Liya but his sister who was in the cottage and also knew your asshole friend is fucking her. You decided to keep quiet you little…” Jin swallows whatever he wanted to say. This time gets to his feet. Leans forward for more emphasis and points a finger at Hoseok. “And guess what, we can forget that part. Can forget it ever happened because it could’ve ended there, and you decided to bring her here? For what Hobi? You wanted to be the fucking hero of a pathetic love story?” Levels Hoseok with a pointed look.

Hoseok gapes back at Seokjin for a minute. And when Jimin thinks Hoseok is not about to answer that question, he does. “No. I- I just- I don’t know Hyung. Maybe I wanted him to realize that he doesn’t have to be fucking obliged to someone for the rest of his life. So, sue me Hyung, for caring.” Hoseok returns the pointed look Seokjin is giving to him.

Jimin wants to laugh. Hard. This situation is ridiculous. What the fuck is his friends are talking about. He knows that they all care, but this is just too much.

“Can you guys just not make fucking decisions for me. And don’t talk like I’m not here. I can fucking hear you.” Jimin obstructs the staring competition that is going on inside the room. They both turn their heads toward Jimin. Taehyung just stands next to Jimin. Apparently, resigned to himself after Seokjin yells at him.

“What? You’re blaming me for bringing her here?” Hoseok is the one who questions, however. And that’s not the case at all. Jimin could never blame Hoseok for that. Even though he feels like conned. Like Hoseok had conspired behind him. And he certainly feels annoyed at the fact that Hoseok tried to control his life. See now, he loves his friends dearly, but if they think they have a say in his life, then they are just as wrong as Liya. Yet, Jimin can’t blame Hoseok for bringing you back to his life. No, that’s the best thing Hoseok has ever done. So, he remains silent. “See, he wants that.” Hoseok says to Jin at Jimin’s silence in the end.

“Course he wants that.” Seokjin plops back into his seat. “So, what now? What do you want Jimin to do now that your genius of a plan worked because your idea of caring means helping your best friend fucking cheating on his girlfriend. Okay, fine. Now he is happily doing that, what’s your next step Hobi? Want him to break up with Liya?” Asks mockingly.

There they go again. Jimin scowls in irritation. Apparently, his request hasn’t reached his friends’ brains.

“Well, why can’t he?” Hoseok shows his hands inside his pant pockets. Jimin wants to punch him in the face.

“Oh, she’d definitely take that very well. She’d just sit there and wish Jimin good luck.” Jin sneers.

“Why? What would she do?” Taehyung perks up back again.

“What do you think she would do Tae? Do you guys really think she’d just back away?” Jin rubs his face in frustration. This conversation needs to end now.

“No one’s breaking up with anyone. Just drop the damn topic guys. Just mind your own fucking business, will you? I can make decisions for myself verry well.” Jimin doesn’t let Jin answer Taehyung’s question. Says in a stern voice. His CEO voice. Almost leaves the scene when Jin and Hoseok both scoff at the same time.

“You’ve been doing it very well, lately.” Jin is the one who speaks in the end. “Okay, what’s your plan Jimin? Keep going on? Keep cheating on your girlfriend with her twin sister?” Asks Jimin. Well, Jimin has no answer for that. Why his friends can’t let it go. “And then what’s you gonna do when Liya eventually and inevitably finds out? What do you think will happen then?” Keeps questioning and fuck Jimin has no answer for a single one. Gladly, though, before Jin can add something more to his never-ending list of questions, Taehyung offers his two cents.

“Okay, but really, what’s the worst Liya can do? Threat Jimin? Kill Jimin? It’d be an ugly breakup and that’s it.” He innocently gapes at the three of them. An awful silence falls down before Taehyung starts again. “I mean she would yell at Jimin. She’d hate him but clearly, she wouldn’t do anything else right? She- uh she won’t….” Looks expectantly at Jimin.

“Of course, she won’t.”

“Fucking yes she will.” Jimin and Jin say at the same time. Jimin being the one to deny while Jin being the one to acclaim. Jimin snaps his head toward Jin. Questioning him.

“What’s that supposed to mean Hyung?”

“You know what Jimin. You all little shit heads know. I really don’t want to voice this out Jimin, but Liya is a snake and she’s gonna bite in revenge.” Turns his attention to Hoseok. “I don’t know what you were thinking Hobi but if you ever thought that your stupid games are gonna work, you’re the most stupid person I’ve ever seen. This is not a fucking drama.” Gets to his feet. Appears to be done with this stupid conversation slash fight but apparently is not. Walks toward Jimin. But looks at all three of them when he starts again. “Whether it’s you break up or keep cheating on her, that’s only going to end one-way Jimin. Only one way. She’s going to make the mighty Kim pull out from the company. You know she’s his princess, he’s gonna do anything she says and when that happens─” He stops for moment. Takes a deep breath. “─that shit is going to destabilize the damn stock values and look forward for that power vacuum Mr. Park.”

Everything goes into a deep silence. Jimin inhales a shaky breath. Jin isn’t just pointing out anything new. Jimin already knew. He isn’t an idiot even though he has his fair share of stupid moments. After what feels like a year in a void, Taehyung chuckles. Humorless.

“Oh, c’mon, she won’t walk that far now. Besides, we’re a valuable asset. Kim isn’t a stupid to just ruin business over private matters.”

“Really Tae? You think that naively? Dude, listen to me close, okay? We’re a valuable asset as long as we have him. The king of this world. Have him pull out and we. Are. Done.” Jin grits his teeth. Nobody says anything else for another long moment. Jimin knows there’s nothing he can say to defend the situation. Hoseok knows that too. Taehyung does too but the guy always sticks to the better part. Always finds a way to work it out. Is one of those people who thinks there’s a solution to every problem.

“Well, then we have this new launch. You know people are already crazy about it. We can make ourselves self-sufficient. I mean it would take time but….”

“You’re not seeing it Tae. Sure, we do have the new launch but that’s fucking months ahead. And in any case if you’ve forgotten, Kim is the fucking main sponsor. If he pulls out that one, do you think we’d have enough time to find a new one?” Jin rubs his face again. He’s a little red. None of these are new information for Jimin. He’s the CEO for fucks sake. He knew all. He knew what could go wrong in the end. There’s a reason for him saying to you that he can’t just break up with Liya. He would be responsible for more than broken heart if he does that. Yet, in the very end, Jimin doesn’t know what to do. And he’s glad when Hoseok raises the same question.

“So, what? You want to use Jimin as a fucking leverage for the rest of his life?”

“No- what? No for the sake of fuck.” Jin looks taken aback. Jimin feels a headache emerging. This is a complete mess. And the headache quickly turns into a throb in his head when Jin turns to him. “Nobody asked you make yourself a fucking pawn Jimin. Nobody ever did. And if you wanted an out from your pain-in-the ass relationship, you could’ve done it way before and the reason should’ve not been Li. Now bro, this is too late. You can’t fucking play around like a college student. So, maybe just fucking grow up and do the right thing.” He takes a step toward Jimin. Presses a finger to Jimin’s chest. “Figure your shit Jimin. There’s thousands of people on your hand.” Jimin just gulps harshly when Jin turns around. This time he actually walks toward the door. For Jimin’s great relief.

A relief that lived very short since Jin stops right as he opens the door. Not because he has something else to say but clearly there’s someone outside the door. Jin curses lowly which follows by a quick apology. Then he steps away to make way for the newcomer. And Jimin’s heart sinks to the pit of his stomach when you walks in. Your head is low as you bow to Jin. You don’t look at anyone. Mood somber and painful. You heard. Oh, fuck you heard. Jimin gapes at you with wide eyes when you meekly look at him.

“Can we talk please?”

……………………………………

You heard. Of course, you did. You didn’t mean to eavesdrop, but who could blame you for having perfectly fine two ears that work well. It was a complete accident. You didn’t even hear the whole conversation. It was just the last bit and you’re glad. It would’ve been a great heart ache if you heard everything. The bit you heard was enough to let you know that Jin was so against your sordid affair. As he should be. It seems Jin is the only normal person here. And so did you heard Jin asking Jimin to do the right thing. That 'right thing' meant Liya. Jin wanted Jimin to end things with you.

You felt as if it was hard to breathe while you stood there outside the door. Fear getting a tight grip over your heart that it physically hurt. You know Jin was right. You know what you and Jimin do is wrong. But you can’t get yourself to care. No, not now. Suddenly, the limited time you worried about wasn’t your priority anymore. Not being able to spend that time with the person you want is your new priority. Morality be damned. Everything else will be damned. You don’t want Jimin to make that decision. Hence, your terrified stare at Jimin’s face now after guys left you alone with him.

What if he ends it now?

What if he tells you that he finally got his senses back?

What if….

What if…

What if….

“Lil, I─”

“I only have a year.” You blurt out. You surprise even yourself with how quickly and suddenly the words spill out. You don’t care about that part, but you need to bide your time. Have your chances. How selfish. Desperate. And definitely stupid. But you want Jimin in a sickening way. Jimin closes his mouth instantly. Brows furrowing and expression morphing into something confused.

“What?”

“I only have a year Jimin.” You start to retell everything that happened yesterday for a second time that day. So fast that you find it hard to breathe. And when you finally stop talking like a crackhead, you’re gasping for air and Jimin is gaping at you. His expression is void of any emotions. This is one of those rare moments where you can’t read him. Your pulse is thundering, and you can feel your chin start to wobble. You desperately need Jimin to say something. And he really comes close to doing so and put you out of your misery when the door suddenly opens. Startling both of you. It’s Hoseok who interrupts this serious situation. Apparently, has a good reason, however.

“Sorry to interrupt but the mighty Kim is here and unfortunately, I don’t think you can avoid his ugly face this time boss.” He states to Jimin. Despite his effort to make the situation looks easy with his words, the tension in the room remains the same.

This is not a good time for Jimin to leave you. Maybe he can give you a simple answer like ‘it’s okay’. Maybe he can just hug you before he leave. He doesn't do either. Just nods to Hoseok.

“I’ll text you.” Says. Hands you your phone before leaving you with a Hoseok who has an empathetic look on his face.

………………………………

You had waited your whole damn life for that text. Okay, maybe you’re being a little extra but that’s how it had felt. A whole lifetime until you received the text.

Meet me at 8 PM. I’ll pick you up at Jungkook’s.

You replied to it with a simple okay. And now you can’t wait to run home. You feel nervous. There’s a whole damn battle happening inside your stomach. The anticipation is killing you. It had been that way ever since you received the text. There are two ways that this meet up can go. You’re afraid of the bad way. Yet, the best you can do for yourself now is to get the thing done as soon as possible. You haven’t seen Jimin for the entire day. It’s fairly late now. You can retire for the day in couple more minutes. All you have to do is bring Hoseok, a last cup of coffee. The moron isn’t listening to your advice not to drink coffee at night. That shit is going to mess up with his sleep. Yet, you can’t do anything about that in the end. Guess, you’ll have to listen to the boss.

You rush to his office with the cup of coffee in your hand. The faster you take it to him, faster you can go home. There’s a sense of relief building inside you even at the thought. You come really close to Hoseok’s outer office when a sudden voice interrupts you. The relief which has been building up inside you vanish instantly.

Fuck, no.

You turn around feeling annoyed to find Jin just casually stands there.

God, no.

Not now. You’re in a rush. You can’t have this unavoidable but can be delayed talk now. Maybe the next or after that day. Anytime but now.

“C-can we do this later Jin. I’m in a─”

“Do what later?” He stalks toward you slowly. Cooly. You expect him to look pissed. Annoyed. Disgusted. But he looks nothing sort of that. Just a calm look on his face. You sigh heavily. Why does he have to act like that? There’s no reason to be smug. You know your faults.

“Oh, c’mon, I know you’re here to lecture me about- uh- you know this whole thing and to tell me how wrong that is... stuff. But can you do it later?”

Jin chuckles softly at that. His eyes glinting. “Why would you think that I have to do that?” Asks with a soft smile. You just gape at his face. Not finding any other reason for Jin to wanting to approach you. It surely can’t be business related. “You’re a grown woman Li. Why the hell I would have to teach you the right and wrong.” Explains further at your dumbfound state.

Oh, that feels a lot like sarcasm. It feels like Jin is making fun of you. Pointing out how much of an evil person you are to choose the wrong when you know it’s wrong. Then he surprises you with his next words.

“No, Li, that’s not my business. Maybe, Jimin is my business but you’re not.” Another chuckle escapes him. “I’m not a crazy rich dad who’s going to pay you a billion to stay away from my son. God, I have my own problems going on. I just want to know if we are cool. Like you’re not mad at me, right?”

“Huh?” You’re truly and utterly surprised. Those words are not expected at all.  “Why- why would I be mad at you?”

“I’m sure you heard me yelling at Jimin and asking him to do- you know, the right thing. I think it must sound as if I’m asking him to toss you aside. I want you to know that’s not what I meant. You’re a good person and you don’t deserve to be treated like someone’s possession—used and tossed aside just because I or anyone else says so. Want you to know that I’m- uh- it’s not like that I have something against you. But what’s wrong is wrong and I’ll say it because I’m not Taehyung or Hoseok.”

“I know that, Jin. I mean, I understand it... uh...” You shrug, seemingly at a loss for words. Why does Jin would ever think he’d have to make amends with you when you’re just no one. Jin and you are not that close. It can be understandable if this is Hoseok. Even Taehyung would be fine. Why Jin? “Why are you worried about us not being cool anyway? It’s not like─”

“Don’t hurt my feelings now saying we’re not close. Because we are. I prefer you to make me coffee every day than drinking that nasty one my secretary makes; don’t tell her I told you that. But─” He sighs. Square his shoulders. “We are kind of friends Li. Like I don’t want you to think I have anything personal with you. Or I disrespect you. It’s just that what you’re doing is wrong. But I’m not going to lecture you about it. So, just know that I’m not the bad guy, okay?”

You take a moment at that. What Jin says makes perfect sense. Jin is the guy who won’t eat your food when you asked him not to. He’s the good guy. You know it. So, you simply nod. There’s no reason of having a beef with this sweet guy. Not that you ever thought that way. Simply because you knew he’s telling the truth. And the fact that he thinks that he has to tell you this in person touches your heart oddly. “I know. We’re cool, old man.” You give him a soft smile. He scrunches up his face.

“No, don’t do that. I didn’t give you any privileges to do that. Besides, I look way younger than you people. I mean c’mon I can hear your knee cracking when you sit down.” He gesture at your poor knees. You gasp, feigning offense.

“They do not crack.” You raise your leg to flex your knee. Just prove him your point. “See. Works silky smooth.” Jin snorts.

“Yeah, let’s think so.” You try to argue but he continue before you can. “So, we’re cool right?”

“We are.”

“Fine. And hey, I know I said I’m not gonna lecture you but uh... maybe don’t put yourself in this mess. Sure, you know how ruthless they can be. They are your family, after all.”

No, you don’t.

You just smile at that. Jin’s amused expression changed into a serious one. You know he means good. And it’s really nice of him to think about you too. It’s just too bad that you are already in this mess. You can’t find a way out. Jin nods in response. Mumble something about it being over then and almost turn around when you stop him. You don’t know why you ever thought to meddle with other people’s businesses.

“Um Jin?”

He turns back to you at your call.

“I know I called you an old man but trust me, you’re not too old for J. I like to ship two Js.” A giddy smile creeps on your face at the look on Jin’s face. He looks mortified.

“That’s- we- that was a one-time thing.” He stammers. Hoseok told you Jin knows the complete truth. That’s the only thing you were able to get out from your boss’s mouth. He was adamant that the rest of it was none of your business. And you guess that by the complete truth, Hoseok means that Jin knows it was you who were at the cottage. The one who had to hear J blatantly stating that she got Jin’s dick wet. It kind of feels liberating to be able to talk freely now. No secrets. Expect the part that you’re not really Liya’s sister.

“Sure, let’s think so.” You throw his own words at him. “But if you decide it wasn’t a one-time-thing, her birthday is coming.” Add before turning around and walking to Hoseok’s office. The coffee must be cold now, but your boss would have to do with it. You’re already running late.

………………………………….

Jungkook was late. Too late. When he sorted out his own head and decided he needed to hurry up, it was already too late. You were already drowning in the mess Jimin created. And here he is sitting on his couch, having to watch you fussing around. Stressing out about an outfit to wear to a- not a date as you claim. But then again, you’re worrying too much. Too fucking much for Jungkook’s liking. In fact, he hates this. You told him that this meetup might happen so Jimin can end things with you. Which Jungkook finds good. That’s how it should be. And it’s not entirely about jealousy. He’s jealous yes. There’s a monster roaring inside him to see you all worked up over a stupid outfit. But above that, Jungkook is scared.

See now, he might be too late already. But you told him that it was physical. You don’t love Jimin. And that leaves Jungkook with hope. He has this weird competitive side to him. He doesn’t like to lose. You’re not a prize to win. No. You’re too precious for being played to satiate his competitive ego. That’s not it. Simply, Jungkook doesn’t want to lose you. He might be sitting here watching you change ten outfits within ten seconds. Without having a say about your life. Yet, he still can try. There’s no such thing called ‘too late’. He can still very well try. Unless you’re not already in love with Jimin. That’s what scare Jungkook. If you don’t care about Jimin in any non- sexual way, why would you be so worried about this.

“How about this one?” Jungkook snaps out of his trail of thoughts at your voice. Raises his head to find you in a white dress this time. Short. Puffy- long sleeves. A low neckline. There’s a delicate necklace sitting on your neck. The dress hugs your godly curves perfectly. Then there’s your hair. Instead of putting it down, you had opted for a ponytail. Said something about a ponytail being the most casual hairstyle a girl can use without screaming overdoing it. But there are two strands of hair falling into your face. A deliberate action.

 You apparently want to appear casual. But not so casual at the same time. You had budged Jungkook for more than an hour saying how you want to look beautiful- which you haven’t said in exact words- but not looking like you’ve put in effort to it. Jungkook knows exactly what you’re doing. You want to impress Jimin but at the same time you don’t want Jimin to know that. Because you believe Jimin is going to toss you aside. Yet still you want to impress him.

And you’re doing a damn great job at it. You look God damn beautiful in that. Jungkook feels a vein in his forehead throbs. In annoyance. That monster inside him roars loudly. He doesn’t want you to look this beautiful. Especially, when that motherfucker is playing you like you’re a tennis ball. Why would Jimin get to decide whether he wants you or not. Why would you give the jerk such kind of power.

“Why are you worrying so much Noona? You just look fine in anything.” Jungkook grumbles. To which you sigh.

“I’m not worrying.”

“You said this isn’t a date.”

“It isn’t.”

“Then why thinking too much?”

You don’t answer that. Just close your mouth which you open to counter back. Just shrug. And Jungkook feels bad. You look adorable. It’s not your fault that he feels annoyed to see you doll up to see another man. He gets up from the couch slowly. Stalks to you. You just watch him approach and offer him a tiny smile as he grabs your shoulders.

“You’re fucking stunning Noona. You don’t have to stress so much.” He gives you a smile of assurance. Shakes you a little. “Besides, this isn’t a date. This is just you two meeting to talk about- uh- whatever happening and… if Jimin is about end things, just do it before him. He can’t just play you like that.” Adds for the sake of himself than you. He needs reassurance here. You roll your eyes. Snort.

“Wow… such a good advice Jungkook.” You grin. Jungkook loves that smile. “It’s not that I’m worried about that.” You start slowly. Your smile drops. “It’s just uh- I don’t know Kookie. I don’t even know why I’m worried.” Your sigh in resign. Jungkook mirrors your actions. It seems like he won’t get that reassurance. He would have to sit here in his empty apartment, imagining how it might be going. Praying selfishly that it would go the way he wants. But he can’t do anything about it. He can’t press you too much. When he asked you to stay with him. Not to move out. He promised you to be on your side. Said he’ll be fine with you despite what you do. And he is fine. You don’t disgust him. If anything, you make him forget to breathe.

Especially when you look like this. Even though it’s not for him, it’s not like he can’t appreciate it. He roams his eyes over your delicate features. You have applied a pink creamy lipstick to your perfect lips. It goes too well for you. It makes your lips look more luscious. Inviting. Your eyes sparkle under the dim light of his living room. The faint blush in your cheeks make you look hot and bothered. Not to mention that God damn eyeliner. In hindsight, you look like an art. Seductive. Deserves to be praised and appreciated. Worshipped. He would do that. Worships you like a goddess. How unfair the opportunity is, however, is in someone else’s hands. Someone who doesn’t deserve it.

Well, life isn’t fair anyway. He would just have to let you go for now. And wait. He’ll wait. Wait with you or for you. Either way he will stick to his promise, and he’ll keep trying. There’s no ‘too late’ s or ‘giving up’ s in Jungkook’s vocabulary. He drops his hands from your shoulders. Bring one hand to squeeze your cheeks. It’s not foreign for both of you. He’s always been touchy. He knows you’re comfortable. Now, he just wants to distract himself from your luscious lips. Hence, his playful squeeze to your cheeks.

But fuck! Bad idea! Wrong move.

It makes you pout. Those lips looks even more inviting now. Jungkook wants to accept that invitation. What would happen if he just presses his lips to yours. Kiss you hard till you can’t breathe. Ruin that lipstick. He wants to ruin that lipstick. Oh, this is bad. So bad.

He was sexually attracted to you from the very first day he saw you. Since the day he thought you were Liya. Could’ve actually fucked you despite knowing you were with Jimin in that time, if you ever gave a so much of a sign to him. You didn’t. That, however, didn’t make his life easy. You are hot. Undeniably and undoubtedly. No healthy man would be able to resist. Then Jungkook is not just attracted to you that way. There’s no denying that he likes you. More than in a way friend should. And it makes his situation more pathetic. He doesn't want to ruin anything. You see him as a friend, and God, it’s hard to be the Jungkook you expect him to be. He does it somehow.

“I think you have more than enough reason to be worried. That’s fine. And for the hundredth time Noona, you look effortlessly beautiful. So, stop fussing and go get this shit done.” Jungkook lets your cheeks go. You take a minute but eventually nod with a grin.

“Yeah.” You give a firm nod. “It’s not like I’m going to meet my boyfriend. It’s not like I’m about to breakup. It’s just a complicated situation but what’s the worst that can happen right? I mean, the sex is good but if Jimin thinks he doesn’t want this, then Imma gonna find me a new man. Thanks for the moral support Kookie.” Pat his arm before you turn around.

At least Jungkook got the reassurance he needed, eventually. Even though you lost the sparks in your eyes when you say that. Jungkook would believe your words. And he would keep trying. A woman like you worth a good fight.

………………………………….

Despite what you told you Jungkook, you’re nervous as hell. See now, you don’t really know why it’s hard to let Jimin go. Just like you told Jungkook and yourself, whatever happening between Jimin and you is just sex. Yet, you can’t let Jimin go. You’re afraid Jimin will say those words the moment you enter his black Élite. You don’t want Jimin to go. You don’t know a reason and you don’t care to find one now. All you want is to keep going. Hell, even your palms are sweaty as you throw a nervous glance at the man at the driving seat. In his effortless glory. He is still in his work clothes minus the tie and the coat. Yet, looks stunning.

“You, okay?” Jimin breaks the awful silence that has been filling the air since you got inside. He hasn’t started the car yet. You’re still parking near Kim’s.

“Y-yeah. I- uh… I’m good.” You try to smile. Fail. Your smile probably looks like a sneer.

“I’m sorry, I couldn’t meet you sooner. Had a bunch of work.”

“That’s fine Park. I know you have work.”

“Okay.” Jimin nods. Why’s it so uncomfortable? Why are you being awkward around each other? Another pause. Silence. Nobody says anything. Like you’re strangers. You absolutely hate feeling this way. If Jimin really is going to end this, he needs to do it faster before you explode. Or you need to start the conversation. This isn’t going anywhere this way. You curl your fists. Take a deep breath. Almost open your mouth at the same time Jimin does. He beats you up to it by a millisecond.  “No, but seriously Lil, are you okay?” Asks before you can ask him anything else. It takes you by surprise that you remain silent for a moment. Just gaping at Jimin’s face until he raises a brow in question. Well, there’s nothing you’ll gain from beating around the bush anymore.

“You gonna do as Jin said?” You blurt out before you can overthink and cower again. It’s Jimin’s time to be surprised. Only for a fractured second. Then a small smile grazed his lips. His eyes instantly started to sparkle. Amusement. You know that look. That doesn’t ease your nerves, though. If anything, it makes you irritated. What’s so funny in this situation. Especially, when you feel like throwing up.

“I have something for you.” And to worsen the situation, Jimin doesn’t answer you either. You give him an annoyed but curious look as he starts to rummage through the center console. Pulls out a small box from there. His small smile widen into a full-blown grin while he thrusts the box into your hand. You don’t take it. Just look at it with skeptical eyes. What the fuck is this man doing?

“What is it?” You question. Eyeing the box as if it would contain drugs. It’s black. Matte. Has a golden butterfly carved into the lid. There’s a capital E under it. Looks beautiful. Expensive. Doesn’t make any sense to you.

“Go on Spring Roll. Look for yourself.” Jimin shows the box into your hand. Forcefully. His eyes are still glinting. Leaking lights from the restaurant makes them even more beautiful. Ethereal. You keep your gaze on him for minute, enjoying the sight before paying attention to the box in your hand. If he wants you to find out yourself, then you might as well do so. So, you slowly open it. Carefully. Still confused. Skeptical. Brows furrowed as the elegant box lid slowly opens. An instant and quick gasp leaves your mouth. There’s two crystal clear earrings. Like two rain drops. Delicate. Beautiful. Something that requires a skillful hand to create.

It takes your frozen and surprised brain time to register it. Then it suddenly hits. You’ve seen them before. Months ago. At a luxurious shopping mole. This was too expensive for you to at least consider buying it. And Jimin offered to buy it and called you homeless. You whip your head toward him. Eyes wide in surprise. In disbelief. He sure didn’t buy you the exact same pair.

“J-Jimin.” You whisper. Jimin’s bites his bottom lip.

“You like it Spring Roll?”

“Isn’t this uh- that day from the mall…”

“It is. Don’t tell me you don’t like it anymore because I had to start a mini protest until they found me the exact pair I wanted. It was sold out.” He gives you a look. That piece of information makes it worse for you. Why would he walk that length to buy you an expensive pair of earrings.

“B-but why? Jimin, you didn’t have to─”

“I know Lil. I wanted to.” You try to protest but he shuts you off by leaning forward. Coming closer to your face until you feel his breath on your face. “And don’t start complaining. Don’t talk about how expensive it is. Don’t refuse. Don’t go talking about how you don’t want my gifts because…” Pause for a moment to stare at you teasingly. “If you do, I’m really gonna get you down, bend you over the hood and fuck you out in the open where every patron inside the restaurant can see us, till you accept it. I’m not joking baby.” His voice drops an octave down as he finishes it. You stare at him dumbly. Throat suddenly dry. You’re baffled.

“Oh, wow.” You manage to mumble softly in the end. Still very stunned. Jimin really doesn’t look like he’s joking.

“So… you gonna accept it?” Asks without withdrawing from your personal space. You take your time in answering that.

“Mm.. it’s not like I have an option. I mean...” You tilt your head, so your mouth is hovering over his. “The threat is tempting Park. I’m only accepting this because I don’t want Mrs. Kim to see me. The poor woman will have a heart attack. So, yeah, I am. But can I still know why?” You don’t withdraw either. Jimin is visibly buzzing with amusement at this rate. He loves this game of teasing, it seems.

“Why?”

“Mhm. Why are you bringing me gifts?”

“No reason. Just wanted to.” His voice is a low murmur now. His eyes drops to your lips. And your heart skips a beat. Park Jimin will always have this effect on you. No matter how many times he does this. Even now you’re dying to feel his lips on yours. Excitement vibrates through your body. All your previous worries pushed behind your head. Temporarily. It’ll come back to the front when this is over. Now, however, you’re starting to get lost on this magnetic force of a man. His pull being too strong for you to think straight.

But in the end, it seems, you don’t have to delay the talk after all. Just as you think he is about to give you that highly anticipated kiss, Jimin starts speaking again. “And I wanted to apologize. You overheard us earlier. I don’t want you to think that we’re talking behind your back. Because we’re not. And baby, this is my life. I know it’s fucked up and I’m a coward to do this to both of us. But as long as you want me, I’m not gonna let you go. Jin will have to work with it. So, do you still want me?”

You thought the surprises were over. Hell, you feel like your heart is swelling like a balloon. It’s getting damn emotional. You avert your gaze down from his face. Not being able to look at him. You force yourself to talk steadily. Not wanting to appear desperate. Yet you can’t hide the way your entire body relaxes. Relief washing over you. “Of course, I want you Jimin.” You say as he brings his hand to your chin. Forcing you to look at him before that kiss finally lands on your lips. Not a hard and deep one. Just a sensual one. You don’t know what you are doing here.

“And Lil?” He calls you at the very moment he stops kissing you. Takes your hand in his. “About you having a year…. We will work on that. We have year. That’s a long time and I promise we’d figure it out.” Squeezes your hand. “Who knows whether you’d decide that you don’t want to be here anymore. Who knows if you grow to hate me and this world.” Chuckles softly. You find comfort in that. “So, let’s see where we go. What we want and if we both want the same thing in the end, I promise you I’m gonna turn the world upside down to find a way.” Your throat is starting to clog. See, what the hell are you two doing here. Exchanging gifts. Panicking about breaking ups when you’re really not in a relationship. Giving promises. Thinking about a damn future. “Until then Spring Roll, let’s just live in this moment. Okay?”

This is not normal. You are the other woman. You need to fuck and get done. That’s how casual relationships work. You and Jimin might be losing your minds. And he makes it worse again. Just after you nod in agreement to worry about your long-time problems later. To accept his promise just like his gift. Jimin softly smiles at you.

“Let’s go then.”

“Where?”

“There’s something I want to show you.”

This is not normal at all.

……………………………………

You gaze in awe at thousands of tiny lights twinkling in the distance. From the hill where you are right now, the city looks like a distant world that is a part of a fairy tale. Not something that is real. Your heart is thumping against your rib cage madly. This is stupid really. Cliché. Cheeky. Something a sweet couple in a stupid romance movie would do. Which means you shouldn’t be doing this. You’re not a couple and certainly not from a movie. Then what the hell are you doing here. Sitting on Jimin’s car hood. Sipping beer. Inhaling fresh air and enjoying a fairy scenery. Nothing about this is normal. Jimin bending you over his car hood fucking you to the next week is normal. He taking you to his favorite place isn’t. Yet you can’t help but express your gratitude over the sweet act.

“It’s so fucking beautiful.” You breathe out. Enchanted by the vision.

“It is, isn’t it? I came here often back then.” Jimin sips from his beer can. You’re sitting on the hood with your legs crossed while Jimin just leaning against it. You watch him carefully as he avert his gaze to you.

“You don’t anymore?”

“Well, I grew up.”

You scrunch up your nose in displeasure. “That’s a lame excuse Park.” Jimin chuckles. You both shift your attention back to the city sparkling in distance. You’re not really alone here. There are a few other vehicles on halt. Few other couples- surely lovers, people who are not in a messed up, wrong, and pathetic situation like you- leaning against their vehicles. Enjoying their date night. A single streetlamp provides light to the surrounding. Adding beauty to the scenery. This is nice. Sweet. Too sweet, in fact.

You can’t keep the little voice in your head suppressed. You’re thinking too much. Maybe this is just fine. Everything is just fine. You need to enjoy the moment. You only have a year after all. In any case, if you can’t find a way or you decide you want to go back, these moments will be the only memories of your time together. You shouldn’t waste it like this. Lost in your head. Maybe everything don’t need to have clear reasons. Maybe Jimin himself is enough reason. For everything. Because he is him. Park Jimin. Your dirty little secret. Your sin. A man you found from another world. Your poison and your antidote. He is enough reasons.

“Want to come here with me often then? It’s good to have company than being alone.” Jimin’s sudden voice brings you back to the earth. You slowly turn your head to him. He isn’t looking at you. Just occasionally sipping at his beer and eyes glued forward. He looks ethereal as always. There’s more black roots in his hair now. You wonder how he would look with black hair. Will a year be enough to know everything about Park Jimin? To see various versions of him. “Hm?” Jimin hums in question again when you don’t answer. You blink. Forcing yourself to focus.

“You want to come here with me often?” Reply with another question. Jimin nods. You’re not surprised at his question anymore. He gave you a pair of expensive earrings after all. “Why not then. This nice, beautiful. As long as you’d buy me food on our way back. Do you know I’m hungry Park?” You finally manage to ease your head up. Ease your nerves. Relax and enjoy the moment.

“Oh yeah? Is your stomach grumbling?” Jimin widen his eyes in mock concern. “Let me check.” Gives you no time to prepare before he is leaning his head against your lap. Ear pressing into your stomach. A loud giggle erupts through your throat after a loud gasp.

“Really Park?” You ask through your giggles. Leaning back to give him enough room.

“Oh, my poor Spring Roll is so hungry.” Jimin mumbles sadly. Dramatic. “What do you want to eat princess?” Asks but doesn’t make any efforts to get away from you.

“Something unhealthy.” You say without a beat.

“Mhm, like a cheeseburger with extra cheese.”

“And chips.”

“And chips.” Jimin finally straightens up. “You wanna leave now?”. Asks. Eyes watching you with genuine concern now. You shake your head, though.

“No ─” You cup your tummy with both of your hands. As if it’s your most prized possession. Take a moment. “My tummy says she can wait few more hours.” Say very seriously that both of you burst out laughing. Well, when you think about it, you laugh more when you’re with Jimin. He does too. You’re happy, aren’t you? Insanely happy. You take a swig from your own beer cane to calm down from laughing. Take a deep breath after. “Park?” Call him in the end. Jimin raises his brow in question. “Thank you.” You whisper. You feel like he deserved to be thanked. It’s Jimin’s time to be confused now. So, you opt to provide an explanation. “I was nervous and worried. I don’t know why but I was. Now I really feel relaxed so, thank you for that.” Shrug. Don’t want to appear so sentimental now. Think Jimin will tease you. He doesn’t.

“I’m glad.” Mutters instead. You nod in acknowledgement. Oh, how relaxed you really feel now. How nice it would be if you could stay in this moment forever. You tilt your head up, fixing your eyes upon the starry sky instead of the city lights. Let your mind wander through different possibilities and scenarios. About your insane life. Isn’t it ridiculous that you’re stargazing in a world you don’t belong in?

“You know what Park,” You start suddenly. Without any prior thoughts. It just popped on your head while you’re watching the stars. You can see Jimin is mirroring you through your peripherals. “We’re not looking at the same sky when I’m in my world.” You don’t know why you said that. You did and suddenly the air turns heavy. You regret your words immediately. It feels depressing. It’s already out now, so, you turn to look at Jimin again. He has a serious expression on his face now.

“That- uh- I never thought about it that way. It’s strange, isn’t it?” He voices out after a long beat. It really is strange.

“It is. Sorry, I shouldn’t have start talking about─”

“But do you know what I always think when I look at the sky?” Jimin interrupts your apology. You don’t ask him what. Just wait for him to continue. “You came from a star.” He answers his own question. Your heart doesn’t skip a beat, it stops altogether. A shaky breath leaving your lips. Jimin always surprises you. You can’t learn a way to not to be surprised. That’s so unexpected. And you’re getting emotional again. Why would he say that?

“I- I- uh─” You stutter on your words. Not knowing what to say.

“What? You are. You came from a star.” He says so casually. Matter of factly. Holy fuck, he makes you feel so damn special. Like you’re the only woman exist. You don’t want to feel this way. It’s so good but scary as hell at the same time. So, you’re glad when an unexpected voice interrupts you from nowhere. Slightly startling you.

“Hey, I’m sorry but can you take a picture of me and my boyfriend?” You turn around to look at a petite girl with a polaroid camera in her hands. She holds it toward you when you finally pay attention to her. You look past her to see the said boyfriend there. The girl looks at you expectedly.

“Oh,” You give a quick glance to Jimin. He gives you a soft smile. “Yeah, sure. Gimme.”

She mumbles to you a quick thank you as you start to take their pictures which quickly turns into a well-planned photo shoot. You must have ended up taking pictures for more than half an hour and are grumpy as hell when you return back to Jimin. He looks happy, though. A wide smile on his face.

“For fucks sake!” You curse under your breath as Jimin stretches his arm to catch you. You gracefully fall into his arms. “I’m sorry that took so long.” You mutter an apology to his chest.

“It’s okay, you’re a good photographer.” He rubs his hand on your back soothingly. You click your tongue in annoyance when that same voice come behind you for a second time. You really have to bunch your fists in Jimin’s shirt to hide your annoyance. You can hit her if she’s bothering you again for one more picture.

“Excuse me, do you want me to take a picture of you too?” But she surprises you. You just turn your head to look at her while staying in Jimin’s hold. “Yours and your boyfriend’s?” She adds. Here’s a second person who misunderstood you and Jimin. Because it’s easy to do so. You definitely look like a couple. Your eyes widen. You almost shake your head in denial and declining her offer, when you’re suddenly turned around in Jimin’s hand. Facing the camera.

“Why not. Thank You.” Jimin says aloud as you snap your head toward him. Brows knitted in confusion and seriously questioning his life decisions. Jimin just stare back at you with his eyes glinting and smiling wide. Beautiful. You really want to protest but your heart is back to beating madly. Especially when Jimin holds from your jaw to turn your head forward. Then he hides his face in your neck, arms circling around your figure protectively. You stare at the girl in front of you with the camera raised to her eye. Still surprised. It takes you a second to register what’s really happening. To adjust your face to the photo. Your photo face. Your gentle smile. Or at least you try to do so. Just to fail. You can’t help the laugh that escapes you. Not even when you bite on to your lower lip. Jimin simply follows you. And you’re certain that you ruin three perfect shots.

Only that you don’t. Not at all. She hands you the three polaroids. It wasn’t ruined. It’s perfect if anything. Perfect in the way Jimin is looking at you in the first. All the while you’re furrowing at him. Makes Jimin burst out in laughter at that one. It’s perfect how you are so surprised when Jimin is hiding his face in your neck. Above all it’s perfect how genuine you both look while you’re crackling with laughter. They would’ve looked better if you have pulled your photo face on. But this way, they are real. It’s real you and Jimin frozen there.

“Perfect. I’m keeping all the three.” Jimin snatches the one in your hand. Pockets them immediately.

“No what? That’s no fair.” You try to grab his arm as he walks away. Ready to leave this place.

“How come? You didn’t want to take them.” Jimin easily avoids you as he opens the car door.

“No but... You gonna give me one or else I’m gonna kick your rich ass so hard. You hear me?” You get into the car as well. Glaring at Jimin. He’s grinning from ear to ear.

Isn’t this perfect?

……………………………………

You turn to face the window as far as the passenger seat permits.

“I’m not giving you my milkshake, Park. You could’ve ordered one.”  You grumble as you’re stuffing your mouth. All the while trying your best to protect your large milkshake.

“Well, I didn’t.” Jimin leans over the center console. There’s no space for you to turn now. Yet you try your best to keep the cup away from his grabby hands.

“And how’s that my fault?”

“You made me order coffee. At this hour.”

“I did no such thing. I’m gonna bite you if you─” Your threat instantly drops dead when Jimin snatches your cup of milkshake from your hand swiftly. “Yah!” You scream as he opens the car door in light speed. How the fuck does he move that fast?

“Too bad princess.” He leaves the car promptly. Leaving you blinking at the now- empty spot. Only until you register what happens, though. When it does your entire body goes rigid. Brain switches to full-on massacre mode.

“Yah, Park Jimin!” You open the passenger door as well. Abandon your burger. Poke your head out first. Looking at the Jimin who just stands there few feet away from you. Looking smug. “You gonna regret it you know. No one’s messing with my food. You’re dead.” You’re very serious here. Jimin looks adorable, yes. Still, you’re not going to give away your food. Even though he’s the one who paid. Who cares.

You curse lowly as you hurriedly get out of the car. Regretting the decision you made to remove your shoes. Yet you don’t have enough time to pull on your sneakers when your milkshake is in a threat. So, you ignore the way how rough the asphalt on the parking lot of the fast-food restaurant where you brought your food- feels under your bare feet. Just squint your eyes threateningly. For a minute. And you’re sprinting toward a grinning Park Jimin. He breaks into a run at the same time you do, though. It’s too bad he has shoes for added leverage. Not that you’ll give up though. You’ll run over ice and fire barefoot if what it means to take your milkshake back. That is your plan. And so do you nearly come succeeding before a sharp gravel stop you mid- running. You have stepped on it squarely. A sharp sting courses through your sole as you abruptly stop. Wincing. A yelp leaving your mouth as you fight for your balance. Jimin halts immediately as well.

“Lil?” Turns around quickly to run back to you. It’s impressive how he reaches you so fast. Playful expression completely changed into a one of concern. “What happened?”

You stop hopping on one leg while clutching the other for your life. “Fuck, I stepped on this shit.” Grumble as you kick the gravel away. Just like that Jimin’s concerned expression changes back into an amused one. His teasing voice echoing around. Making fun of you for your death threat which ended up in you hobbling on one leg. You pout at him. “It’s your fault.” Complaint. Eyeing your milkshake which is still in Jimin’s possession. Brain planning on ways to snatch it away. How bad that Jimin can read you too well. Even before you could properly stretch your hand Jimin puts the straw in his mouth. Draws a long gulp that you’re certain the entire drink is gone. You whine loudly as you place your forehead in his chest. “Not fair.”

Jimin curls his free hand around your figure, holding you close. Chuckles. Ruffles your hair a bit before he brings the cup down to your lips. “Want me to buy you a new one?” Questions softly as you wrap your lips around the straw. You shake your head. Lips stretching into a smile. You take the drink from his hand. Straightening up and turning around. Jimin warps his hands around you. Hiding his nose in your hair.

“You’re mean”

“You’re cute when you’re mad.”

You huff. It’s not that you’re really mad at him. You would’ve shared the drink with him anyway. It’s more fun this way though. You blindly raise the cup to him again. “I like this.” You let out a breath. A relaxed one. Because you really do like this.

“Like what?” Jimin rubs his hand over your tummy. Takes another swig.

“Being reckless.”

“How?”

“Like how I’m drinking a milkshake, barefoot, with the CEO of RUN, in a parking lot of a fast-food restaurant, as if we are ten years old.” Jimin laughs at that. The vibration of his body reverberating through you. Making your smile wider. “What else?” He questions. Places a soft kiss in your hair. You take a minute to think.

“Mmm, like boarding a random bus and travelling without knowing where we are going.” He hums in acknowledgement. So, you continue. “Like eating extra cheese, cheeseburgers late at night when I know I’d regret this soon.” You pause to snort. Jimin uses that pause to plant a soft kiss into your ear. Hums again. This time though, that hum makes you slightly shiver. Probably because it’s a whisper in your ear. Or the way he’s mindlessly nibbling on your ear. You take a breath. Contemplating what you should say next. Feel playful. Decide you want to play with fire. Jimin is fire. And you love pouring gasoline on him.

“Like making out with you on a public lane or giving you footjobs out in the open.” It works. A mischievous smile creeps on your lips as you feel Jimin goes rigid. “Or... like allowing you to finger me outside a convenience store while all our friends were just inside.” Jimin’s grip suddenly tighten on you. Your smile grows into a grin. Easy. He might be the one who always play but isn’t it amazing how you can fluster a man like Park Jimin just with your words. See, he makes you feel special.

“Yeah, you like that?” Oh, you know that voice. It’s low and dangerous. Enough to make you shiver. You nod. Turn your head to catch his lips. “I like it a lot, Park.” Whisper against his after you pull away. Who can blame you for not being able to get enough of Park Jimin. It’s not playing with fire anymore. You’re slowly starting to get riled up.  “Want to be reckless then? I have an idea.” Mumbles in your ear. And you have to close your eyes at the shiver that runs down your spine. A spark of fire igniting inside your stomach.

“Idea?” You smile. He reciprocates. Nods. “Your ideas are dangerous Park Jimin.”

“But your sweet cunt loves them.” Jimin purrs before turning you around to face him fully and kissing you hard.

Well, you love those ideas too.

……………………………

“Holy fuck, are you serious?” You shriek in mortification. Eyes wide as you take the sight of an aged wall of a neighborhood park. Small. Closed. Vacated. Except for the patrolling guards. And Park Jimin, being the idiot he is, wants you to climb over the wall and trespass. To add more to the ridiculous picture, he’s going to fuck you after.

What the actual fuck?

“Very, princess. C’mon” He holds his hand for you. You take it yet make no movements to go near the wall. He must be kidding you. He’s a darn CEO. Old. Matured. Or he is supposed to be mature. Taking a random bus to Namiseom Island is another thing. This? This is far too risky. You’ll end up in jail. And his face will be on every platform. His career will be ruined. Liya will kill you both. His friends won’t look at his face again. Still, though, he doesn’t care. “Lil?” He tugs gently from your hand. Inspects your mortified expression for moment. His expression softens “Hey!” Turns around to face you fully. Cups your cheek. “I’ve been here before. I won’t take you to a place that’s gonna harm you. But if you really don’t want to, it’s okay baby.” Gently tucks a strand of hair behind your ear. Smiles.

You inhale sharply. You know. Of course, you know he won’t. And he’s giving you full control. You’re completely allowed to say yes or no. To tell the truth, you’re nervous as hell. Your heart is beating violently, and your stomach is churning awfully. There’s goosebumps on your skin. This is risky. How humiliating it’d be to get caught. Yet, with everything, you can’t ignore the tingle in your lower abdomen. Can’t ignore the way your clit pulses. Maybe there’s an exhibitionist in you. Or it’s simply the adrenaline rush. Paired with Park Jimin. Whatever the reason, this is too compelling. Tempting. Besides, you’re with Park Jimin, aren’t you?

“Why the hell you’ve been here before this late anyway? Were you dealing drugs before RUN happened?” You sigh as you make your way toward the decaying wall. Jimin’s eyes sparkle at your agreement. He comes up behind you, placing his hand on your waist.

“Highschool. Taehyung was a bad influence.” He explains the reason.

“You knew each other that long?”

“Mhm. Lucky me.” Jimin chuckles before making you walk even closer to the wall. “Gonna lift you up, okay? Think you can make it? Jump to the other side?” Gives a reassuring squeeze to your waist. You nod in confidence. The wall isn’t that high. So, you grab the edge of the wall fairly easily once Jimin lifts you up. Putting your weight on your hands with the help of Jimin to climb up. You make sure to sit on the edge before jumping to other side. It’s a bit of a collide when your feet hit the floor. You can’t remember the last time you climbed a wall. You have. As a kid. This feels like you’re doing it after a lifetime. Your adult body hasn’t been trained to jump from walls. Yet, it isn’t something hard. Even easier for Jimin, it seems. Despite his suit pants and designer shoes he jumps to your side swiftly after you.

You eye him eagerly. Not believing you’re actually doing this. You’ve climbed over a wall to enter a closed park. And he is going to fuck you here. Excitement builds up inside your stomach. Replacing all the nervousness you felt earlier. It’s becoming pure desire slowly. Jimin smirks at your state. Nothing happened yet. Nothing besides the initiation of sex. But here you are trembling with anticipation. Jimin intensifies it by slowly walking to you. You stay rooted to your spot as he grabs your hips. “Sure, you wanna do this baby?” Drags his palms from your hips to your ass cheeks. Squeezes them gently. Repeatedly. Until a low moan erupts from you. You hum in answer with a nod. Chase his lips needily when he deny you of the pleasure. Steps away from you for much of your dismay. Takes your hand in his, however. “Let’s go then. Gonna make my pretty slut forget her name, hm?” Mumbles as he starts to walk forward. You just follow him. Too excited to even being able to talk.

He doesn’t take it much further. Only until you spot the first bench. Everything is quiet and still as Jimin takes a seat and makes you straddle him. Your dress bunching up. You put your hands on his shoulders. This is a very familiar place to you now. Park Jimin’s lap. You’ve seen how he looks at you when you make yourself home in his lap before. Not that it makes it older. No. Your tummy is fluttering violently as you nudge your nose against him. Your cunt clenching around nothing while he just soothingly rubs your sides. There’s no light in the park. Only the moon and the distance streetlamps give you the gentle light to make each other’s features. And that is quite enough to see the lust in his eyes. Droopy and heavy. Enough to see the sparkle.

The wind ruffles your hair and soothes your burning skin. It’s weird. To be in this position here. But at the same time, it’s relieving. You’re the one who pull him into a kiss first. Your patience is running thin with every passing second. Jimin willingly gives into you. Allowing you to have control of the kiss. Tongues dancing together. He guides you gently to adjust your hips to slot your aching cunt over his already hardened bulge. Then into a slow grinding. Just builds the tension slowly. Working you into a brainless frenzy within few minutes. You pick up the speed. Deepen the kiss. Make it messy and moan into his mouth. And lastly pull away breathless.

“Fuck!” Jimin pants. Immediately seek purchase in your neck and jaw. You align your head to give him what he’s looking for. Moaning his name when he starts to suck new purple marks into your skin. It’s a low and subtle moan. Yet in the chilly night air it sounds so loud that you involuntarily bite on his shoulder to muffle your noises. You know there’s no one around. Except for some security guard who’s probably nodding off somewhere. You’re safe for the most parts. But the thought that you’re out in the open. Under the sky. No four walls to keep your privacy and above all, the knowledge that there’s still a risk even though it’s low, riles you to no end. Gets you panties drenched in seconds. Brain blank with pure raw desire.

“J-Jimin…”

“Hm, princess?”

“Wanna suck you off.” You whine. Pressing your mouth into his ear. Peppering kisses to his cheek. Then jaw. Nuzzling your nose into his skin and drinking up his scent. He smells good. So good. Nothing unfamiliar. But something that always makes your arousal worsen. You bury your face in his neck. Jimin gives you a light spank. Then rubs the sting away. Groans when you attack his pulse point. Hips bucking up to yours.

“Fucking hell, baby, you want that. How bad do you want that?” Touches you everywhere he can reach. Your back. Ass. Thighs. You pull away to look at his face.

“So, fucking bad.” Give him the puppy eyes, unnecessarily. Jimin won’t say no. You know he can’t say no. He curses again. Nods. Gives you a searing kiss before you start to climb down from his lap. Taking your sweet time kneeling in front of him. Keeping your eyes locked with his. Slowly start to play the game where you have control. You start it by pressing soft kisses to his visible bulge over his pants. Gets him clenching his jaw hard. Hand coming to rest in your hair. Yet, he doesn’t control your movements.

“Baby, you sure, you can- fuck- isn’t your knees- holy fuck Lil.” You interrupt his question by rubbing your face on his bulge. You know it’s involuntary how his hips jerk up seeking more friction. And so do you know what he was about to ask. Because hell yes, your knees hurt on the gravel road. Another reckless decision that you’ll regret the coming morning. But in the end, you don’t care. Jimin sounds magical above you. So, you ignore the sting. Just proceed to undo his pants. Hurriedly. Want to tease him but are too afraid to bide your time. What if someone comes and you don’t get to do this here.

“I’m fine.” Mutter quickly as you pull down his pants. He raises his hips in aid. Just enough to free his throbbing cock. Leaking pre cum already. Jimin hisses the moment the cool air hits him. You take a moment to be in awe. Appreciate. Licking your lips in anticipation.

“Take it in baby, make a mess hm? Make it wet and nice so, I can slide into your tight hole easily.” Jimin tangles his fingers in your hair again. He is getting impatient. You like it when that happens to him. When he can’t control himself. He brings you closer to his twitching cock. Holds his length upright with his free hand. Waits with hooded eyes watching intently down at you. You give him another simple nod before wrapping your lips around him. You both moan at the same time. You fall into action right away. Swirling your tongue around the leaking tip and tasting the pre cum. Moaning and whimpering at the taste. Jimin keeps a tight grip on your hair. Not controlling. Just keeping it there. Hips thrusting up ever so gently. “Deeper baby. Go fucking deep. I know you can. Fucking hell, Lil.” Grunts and groans.

And you live for those sounds. Who are you to decline his demands. You do exactly as you’re asked for. Going deeper and deeper till he hits the back of your throat. “Yes, fuck. You’re so good princess. Your mouth feels like heaven.” Jimin praises you as you try to adjust to the size and control your gagging. Slowly start to bob your head up and down. Drooling over his thick cock and making the mess he asked you to make. Sounds of slurping fill the night air with occasional gags you try to control and Jimin’s heavenly moans. You pick up your speed with every bob, dragging your tongue along his soft shaft. Tracing the veins. Curling it around his tip every time you go there. Play with his balls. Putting Jimin into a haze.

“That’s it baby, shit, I’m close, Lil.” His grip on your hair tightens. He doesn’t have to voice that he’s close. You can feel his thighs tense. Feel his cock twitch in your throat. You moan around him in acknowledgment. Whole body filling with determination to pull him over the edge in a way he’d never forget. Determination to taste his cum on your tongue. You pick up your speed. Only that his words aren’t a phrase, it’s a warning.

Just as you think he’s about to shoot those hot seeds into the warmth of your mouth, he pulls your head up with your hair. Fast and rough that your scalp stings. His cock slips out of your mouth, connecting to your lips with a trail of saliva that breaks soon as he raises your head to look at him. You wince in pain. Jimin lets go of your hair immediately. His chest heaving. Face flushed red and mouth agape. Is fighting for breath. “Sorry, I’m sorry baby. Was so close.” He rolls his head back. Then look back at you. You look at him with questioning eyes. He reads you well. “No. Not like that Lil. Want to fuck you. C’mon baby.” Bends down to help you to your wobbly feet. “On my lap.” Taps his muscular thighs. You whine in complaint but relents. Reluctantly. Ready to straddle him again. But this time he stops you. Turns you around and pulls you onto his lap, smoothly.

“Jimin.” You gasp softly as he drags your body closer to him. Back pressed against his chest. Makes you bend your legs. Your shoe soles on his knees. Just like the day he fingered you outside that convenience store. You think that’s his plan when he plays with the hem of your dress.

“Want you to cum before me baby.” He breathes in your ear. Pulls your dress up, baring your lower half to the cool air. Spreads your legs. You moan at the sensation of cool air turning your hot slick covered panties cool. Which turns into a broken tangled noise in your throat when Jimin palms your cunt. Cupping your heat tightly. Drags a finger through your slit. Smears the wetness across your cute lacy panty, ruining it. You buck into his hand gracefully. “Feel good slut? Do you like this?” Jimin teases. Keeps his ministration going. You let your head fall back into his shoulder. Closing your eyes.

“Yes, Jimin. Need more.”

“You always need more minx.” He chuckles. Yet gives you what you want. Pushes your panty to the side. Touches your drenched folds bare. Gathering the wetness in his fingers to bring them to your aching clit. Drawing figure eights at an agonizingly slow pace. You know he plays. Know he’d tease you no matter what. Disregarding the place. Just how you like it. So, you allow him. Just moaning and crying for more. Dripping a river that you stain his pants. Till you can’t anymore and desperate like a bitch in heat. The warmth of his fingers and the contrast in the night air creating a heavenly friction on your heated cunt.

“Pleasepleaseplase, oh Jimin fuck, more.” You buck into his hands like you’ve lost your mind. No, scratch that. You have lost your mind. You want his hot, hard cock. Want him to fuck you senseless. Are so glad when he relents at your first beg. His hand disappear from your cunt instantly. Your panty falling back to its place. You whimper while he brings his own cock in his hand. Stroking slowly.

“More? You want more slut? Want me to fuck you on this bench? Out in the open?” Adjusts on you in his lap so, he can rub his hard cock on your slit. Over your panties. You mewl desperately. Wanting the damn fabric to vanish. Wanting to feel his cock on your bare pussy.

“Yes, yes, yes please. Want you to fuck me like the slut I am. Holy fuck Jimin.” You turn your head down to see his cock rubbing against your slick folds. Making you almost cry at the desperation.

“Oh, I’m gonna do that baby. Gonna fuck you till you scream. But don’t you want me to play then? You love it when I play.” Jimin taunts. In your ear. You don’t know what to say. Brain hazy and a mush. Words fail you as you only whimper in return. Jimin is enjoying this. You know he is. A law chuckle rumble in his chest as proof. He takes your whimper as a yes to whatever he wants to do. And so, he does what he wants. In a second, he pushes your panties to the side again. Nudges his cock head against your folds. You sigh in relief at the contact. But then instead of dragging his cock down toward your entrance he just lets the fabric fall into its place again. Making it keep his cock pressed between your nether lips, comfortably. Your clit pulse at the sensation. More and more arousals seeping out from your needy and empty hole. You can feel his cock throbs as well.

“Fuck, Jimin.” You thrust your hips upward slowly. Making his cock drag against your slit. Making Jimin groan.

“Oh, yes. Keep doing that.” He coaches while bringing his hand to hold his cock in place. You keep rocking your hips up and down to make him rub against you. And you have no idea when you stop moving and Jimin starts it. All you know is every nudge of his dick head against your throbbing clit makes you sob. Both of your essence creating a mess inside your lacy underwear. So, you have no idea how long you goes at it. Just rubbing his cock in your slit like horny rabbits. Not even the cold night air could calm your hot skin anymore. You’re long gone.

“That’s enough. J-Jimin. Please that’s enough. Inside me please.”

Jimin is long gone too. He doesn’t complain. Doesn’t tease. Nods. You make space between your bodies by raising your hips up. Enough for him place his hard cock against your entrance. And you sink down. Taking him easily at how wet you are after all the teasing. You both groan in relief after he is fully sheathed inside you.

“So tight baby. Sh-shit so tight.” Jimin wraps a tight arm around your torso. Gives you a minute to adjust. “Make space princess. Gonna rail your cute cunt.” Mumbles as he pulls the neckline of your dress down. Together with your bra. Making your nipples pebble. “Is this fine?” Asks as he gives a light slap to one of your tits. Makes it bounce. You nod violently.

“Yes. Please move. Can’t take it anymore.”

“Got you princess.” He soothes you. Delivers another slap to your other tit as well. Then finally gives you what you want. Strating as a slow but heavenly thrust. You make space for him the best you could. Allowing him to pick up his speed. He does. Slowly but surely building up his pace. Turning it into a brutal plunging to your hole. Drags the neckline of your dress the furthest he can. Keeping your soft mounds out in the open. Occasionally squeezing and slapping them in between his harsh movements. Brings his free hand to your clit. Shifting between pinching and circling.

“Fuck yes baby. So, fucking good for me. Look at you my pretty slut. Getting fucked out in the open. Imagine someone walking in baby. They’d see how much of a fucking slut you are for me baby. You’d like that, don’t you?” Jimin picks up the speed of circling your clit. You don’t think it’s possible to feel more aroused. More heated. Yet you do. His words shooting straight to your core. Making your clit pulse and walls clenching around him hard. Yet you fail to answer him again. Jimin groans at how tight you get. Presses a kiss to you ear at the same time his hand withdraws from your cunt. You don’t get to mourn the loss, however. His hand lands back on your clit harshly. Slap. Light. But enough to make your back arch in pleasurable pain.

“Fuck!” You choke. Jimin starts rubbing your clit again. Soothing the pain. “Asked you a question baby. Answer me.” Commands. “Would you like that?” Repeats.

“Yes. I do. Fu-fuck J-Jimin. Baby yes.” You sputter, not knowing what you’re talking about. “D-do that again, J-Jimin, holy fuck do that again. Please.” Cry out so hard it should be humiliating. You don’t bring yourself to care, however. And Jimin doesn’t think that way either.

“Fuckfuckfuck, you want me to slap your cunt baby? What a slut you are?” Grunts while he does as you ask. Another slap lands on your aching clit. Making you whimper but taking you dangerously close to the edge. “You’re so damn perfect Lil. Such a good slut for me.” Slap. “Take it like that.” Slap. “My pretty slut. Is this what you wanted?” Slap. His cock drills into your spasming walls relentlessly.

“That’s a good slut. Ah keep squeezing me baby. Keep dripping for me.” Lands another slap to your clit. And just like that everything dissolves into pleasure. Your eyes rolling back as you go rigid in his hold. Crying out his name repeatedly as your intense orgasm washes over you. “Jesus. Fucking hell Lil. God baby.” Jimin moans. Trying to fuck you through your orgasm. To keep thrusting inside your tight walls. “Oh fuck, too tight. Gonna cum baby. Gonna fucking- where do you─” Jimin’s words breaks into strangled noises as you try to relax and let him keep using your spent cunt to his pleasure. He is losing the precision of his rhythm. You know he’s too close. Clenching his jaw tightly and fingers digging into your flesh bruising. “Where d-do you want me Lil? Want me to pull out.” He hides his face in your neck. Teeth lightly scraping your shoulder.

“No. Please no. Inside. Jimin inside. Fill me up.” You wail. Feeling a feral desire to have him cum inside you. To feel the otherworldly sensation of his hot cum shooting inside your walls.

“Fuck. Yes, Lil. Again. Do it again baby. Beg for my cum.”

You jump into action without any hesitation. “Please baby please. Cum inside me, hm? Want it so bad. I need you to cum inside me. J-Jimin please.” And that’s all it take. Jimin’s teeth sink it your shoulder, muffling his cry of your name as he stills his hips. Pushing your hips down to press against his. You shiver at the sensation of rope after rope of hot seeds spilling inside you. It’s heavenly. Everything about Jimin is heavenly to you.

Jimin keeps his face hidden in your neck. His bruising grip on your body lightning but his hands never leaving. Instead, he starts to rub your tummy soothingly. You wait there in blissful silence. Finally starting to feel the cold air on your heated skin again. Senses coming back to your mind as you feel Jimin starting to soften inside you. It’s getting cold now. Yet he is warm against you. You both are covered in sweat. Sticky. Yet you can’t complain about him holding you so close. It’s so good. Jimin and this moment. Crazy. Unbelievable. But yet so good.

Jimin is the one who proceeds to make a move first. Raises his head from your shoulder. Breathing slowly calmed down. “You good baby?” Asks tenderly. You just nod. “Yeah? Can you move?” Again, you don’t give a verbal answer but raise your hips, so he slips out of you. Jimin fixes your underwear into its place. You wince at the drenched feeling. It’s only getting worse as his cum has started to seep out of you. You open your mouth lazily to complain when a sudden sound of dry leaf crunching reaches your ears. Undoubtedly footsteps. You both snap your heads to where the sound came from. Eyes wide and suddenly alerted. Your gazes falling on a white spot in the close distance. Moving. A torch. Patrolling guards.

You suck in a sharp breath. Your brain starts blaring alarms. Jimin curses aloud, immediately pulling your neckline up. Makes you stand up. He does the same. Starting to fix his pants. Your legs are a little shaky but there’s nothing you can do about it now. You look at Jimin with wide panicked eyes. The beam of light getting closer to you. You both look like shit. There’s a hard stain of both of your cum on Jimin’s pant. And you know that his cum will start to leak down through your thighs soon. There would be no more humiliation than getting caught in this state.

No. This can’t be happening right now.

“What would we do?” You whisper yell in your shaky voice. Jimin looks around you frantically. The light is coming closer and closer. You feel your heart beating in your throat. Faer turning your blood into water. You clutch Jimin’s hand for emotional support. “Jimin.” Call him frantically. It feels like you’re about to get hunted down by a predator. Jimin turns his attention to you. For a moment he looks like he doesn’t know what to do. Then it disappears. A small smirk displays on his mouth. You merge your eyebrows in confusion. Jimin’s smirk widens into an amused smile before he bends down. Plants a soft peck on your lips. Pulls away to stare at your scared eyes.

“We run princess.” States slowly. That’s the only warning you get before he takes your hand in his. Turns around and start running at the same time when you hear a loud gasp behind you. Beam of white light directly lands on you. Showing you the path ahead.

“Yah! What the hell are you doing here you little pricks? Stop right there!” A loud voice booms across. You wince in horror. But you’re already on the run. Through the lane you walked inside. Jimin’s hand clutching yours protectively. This is ridiculous. Just like how it was to drag Jimin inside a random bus. Who can complain though. You wanted to be reckless. Stupid. And this is exactly what you wanted. The rush of adrenaline as you run away from a yelling man. Wind sweeping past your face. You don’t even care about the wetness dripping down your legs. You let Jimin guide you. And you run.

A wide grin appears on your face.

……………………………

You had plans for J’s birthday. Or Jungkook did. A surprise. You were supposed to help him with planning. That’s not what’s happening apparently. It turns out that your surprise really wasn’t a surprise when J had called Jungkook. To tell him to stop planning her surprise birthday party. You had snorted so hard when a somber looking Jungkook broke the news to you. Had comforted him saying it was fine. And her reason was that Jin was giving you all this fancy dinner at a fancy restaurant where broken college students like you could never afford to go. So, of course, J would choose Jin’s invitation above all. You’re more than surprised at the fact that Jin actually had taken your words seriously. It’s good. Really.

Only that Jungkook isn’t happy. He huffs as you stand in the entryway to the lavish restaurant. Five fucking stars. You bump into his side. “Oh, c’mon Kook, no need to look like a grumpy old dad. This is good for your pocket.” You reason with him as you did all day long. Ever since the day J asked him not to throw a party for her. Jungkook clicks his tongue.

“She’s a bitch to turn me down.” He pouts hard. You know he isn’t truly mad at J. Maybe he’s feeling insecure. Jealous. You’re not sure.

“She didn’t turn you down. Besides, you’re here, aren’t you Jungkook. You should be happy she’s getting a fancy dinner.”

“I am.” He purses his lips. “This is ridiculous though. I mean J and Jin? Since when?” Jungkook turns to look at you with wide doe eyes. Lights of the restaurant reflect in them. You roll your eyes.

“You were so observant of me, but you didn’t know your best friend fucked Jin at the cottage? Way to go Jungkook.” Jungkook gasps loudly at your words. Now looking at you with his mouth hanging open too.

“And she didn’t tell me?” Questions with disbelief.

“Have you asked her? Oh, c’mon, let’s go inside, can we? Don’t act like a jealous boyfriend.” You hook your arm with his. Starting to walk forward, dragging him with you. He asks some more questions about how on earth he would’ve missed it. You ignore them. Smile to the pretty hostess. Tell her about your reservation and keep dragging Jungkook as you follow her lead. Your table is a corner one. Secluded. Private. Large. Enough to fit all of your friends. It’s mostly empty as you arrive, however. Seems you’re early. It’s just J, Jin, Yoongi, and your dear boss Hoseok there. They all raise their heads to acknowledge you as you approach the table. J gets to her feet immediately. She looks elated. Pretty. A little tiara on her head. And you’re definitely not surprised to see her hair pink. That’s just J.

You let go of Jungkook’s arm to hug J. “Happy birthday baby!” You squeal as she hug you back tightly, practically squeezing the life out of you.

“Thank you.” She pats your back. Slightly pulling away from you, grinning. Opens her mouth to tell you something only for it to turn into a surprised yelp. And she isn’t the only one who yelp. You yelp as well when something collides with your back, plunging you forward to plaster with a wide-eyed J. It takes your brain two good minutes to realize what collided with your back is Jungkook’s chest. He wraps his arms around you and holds you and J at the same time. Sandwiching you between himself and J.

“What the fuck?”

“Jungkook.” You and J exclaim at the same time. Annoyed and irritated.

“Happy birthday traitor. I do not wish to touch you at this time, so, this is how I’m gonna wish you a happy birthday. Using Noona as my shield.” Jungkook ignores your yelps as he states in a calm voice. You groan.

“For fucks sake Jungkook!” J whine, trying to wriggle herself free. Making it worse for you. Jungkook doesn’t even budge. You and J both start to complain. Halfway starting to giggle as well.

“Are you serious Kid.” Jin butts in too. Jungkook turns his head to throw a glare at the older guy.

“Yes, very. What’s your problem?” He asks Jin in a low growl as you do your best to free your hands at least. Until you realize it’s a lost game and give up. Accept your fate. Just look over J’s shoulder to wave at your boss. Who looks frustrated sitting next to a bored Yoongi.

“What is this? Everyone has a date?” Yoongi is the one who speaks first though. There’s no proper greetings will be exchanged between you, considering Jungkook would never let go you or J. J is still struggling while Jungkook is at a staring competition with Jin. Who looks taken aback. “And you didn’t tell me to bring one?” Yoongi gives an incredulous look to Hoseok. He rolls his eyes.

“As if you have someone to bring.”

“Of course, I do.” Yoongi gasps. Which Hoseok completely ignored as he pays his attention to you.

“Would you mind letting my assistant go Jungkook. I want her alive please.” Talks to Jungkook instead. In vain. Jungkook dramatically explains how he’s not going to allow these men steal all of his friends. You are really making up your mind to eat your dinner while being squeezed between two people when a voice behind you saves you.

“Okay, what did we miss? Why’s Jungkook trying to kill those two?” You recognize Yoona’s voice. Jungkook’s grip loosens on you as he tries to turn around. Both you and J sigh in relief. You immediately step away from Jungkook. Not wanting to risk it again. Nearly turn around to face Yoona and Namjoon when Yoongi lets out a groan.

“See, you prick, everyone has a date!” He levels his cousin with a pointed look. You catch a faint glimpse of Hoseok flipping Yoongi off as you turn around. Grinning brightly. Eyes landing firstly on Namjoon who is crushing J in a tight hug. Then your eyes dart to someone who has arrived now. Taehyung and Seoyeon. Taehyung in his always cheery mood as he shows Namjoon away to take his chance to hug J. You chuckle softly to yourself before letting your eyes wander behind Seoyeon who stands beside Taehyung. And like that, the wide grin that has been adorning your face drops to the floor. Instantly. Not even a sign of a faint smile is left on your face.

Blonde man is the first one who you notice. He should’ve been a reason to even deepen your grin. That would’ve been the case, if it isn’t for the woman, you notice next. Casually leaning against Park Jimin. Her arm hooked with his. A faint smile on her lips. Glowing. Elegant.

You didn’t know Liya was coming.

How come no one has warned you. You feel your heart sink to the pit of your stomach. Creating a void in its place. A strange sensation clouding over you. You can’t help but turn around to look at Hoseok. In question. You don’t know why you expect he should’ve been the one to warn you. It’s not his responsibility. If anything, it’s Jimin’s. Yet Hoseok gives you a surprised look. Shrugs. Shakes his head. That tells you one thing. He didn’t know that either. So, you turn back to newly arrived guests. Jin is now on his feet greeting everyone. Your eyes land on Jimin. He looks abashed. As if he would like to be anywhere else than here. Troubled. Your eyes meet for a second. Only for a second as you turn your gaze away immediately.

This is not good at all. You really don’t wish to be in the vicinity of Kim Liya at all. With people or alone. But above all, you don’t wish to be in her presence when she’s with Park Jimin. Her boyfriend. The man who fucks you behind her back. How ridiculous. You have no right to feel any remorse at this moment. Yet here you are. You hate to be in the same room as Kim Liya when you feel your insides twist uncomfortably at the sight of them. A feeling you can’t quite explain. It’s uncomfortable. Makes you want to run away. That shitty feeling only intensifies as you assess Liya. The way she looks. You think it’s amazing how she looks that gorgeous when you and she are the same person.

Jungkook snaps you out of your misery by placing his hand on the small of your back. “Noona? You, okay?” Mumbles. You nod. Forcing yourself to snap your eyes away from Liya. Away from Jimin. To pull on a smile. You can’t appear moody all of a sudden. It’s true that most people here know about your pathetic situation. Yet, there are people who don’t, and you wish to keep it that way. Besides, you need to act indifferent in front of Liya. So, you just allow Jungkook to guide you towards a chair. Next to Hoseok. And you’re so grateful for Taehyung when he beats Liya to the chair right across from you. It would’ve been fun to look at her face directly throughout the entire night.

You don’t want that at all. Yet, the thing is though, it’s quite hard to keep your gaze focused on anywhere else than the said woman. Or the man sitting next to her. You feel irritated. Partially at yourself for feeling this way. Partially at Jimin for what reasons, you don’t know. It’s such a shame how a great night turns into a full-on torture. The food must taste heavenly considering how your friends react after your table is full of a feast. You don’t feel that, however. Every bite you take turns into ashes in your mouth. You find it impossible to keep up with the conversation that is flowing around.

You’re getting heavily distracted every time you catch a glimpse of Jimin. He sits on the other side of the table from you. To your left. You can see him in your peripherals easily. Not to mention the amount of time you turn your head too. He locks his eyes with you more than hundred times. Something clearly written on them. The gut twisting, irritated feeling you’re getting, however, makes you turn away immediately without trying to read him. You’re mad at him. He should’ve texted you. Told you that Liya would be here. You don’t know what you’d have done if you knew but it feels like Jimin ignored you.

And to add more to your irritation, you hate the way Hoseok, Jin, and Taehyung glance at you occasionally. As if they’re afraid you’re a bomb about to explode. Tonight is going to be great for you.

“Noona, you want to leave?” Jungkook whispers in your ear. You bite back your annoyance as you pay your attention to the man sitting with you instead of the man sitting with another woman. No, you’re the other woman. Jimin is with his woman.

Fuck you need to stop.

You can’t stop.

“No, Kook, I’m fine.” You stab at your food as your eyes wander back to the couple back again. Liya laughs at something Seoyeon tells her. Damn, she looks so fine even when she cracks up with laughter. Then she turns to Jimin. Probably to recite the same story. Her sweet lips grazed over Jimin’s ear. It hurts your hand how hard you clench your fingers around your fork. You want to scream. Pull Liya away from Jimin. What the fuck? Why would you want to do that now? You know who you are. Know your place. You’re the secret. You have no right to feel this way. This is immature of you, really.

You need to put your shit together.

Only if it’s that easy. Because it isn’t. Entire dinner feels like a dream to you. You offer so many fake smiles and laughs. Opinions about things you have no single idea of. And by the time you’re finished with dinner and Hoseok is obviously doing a shitty job at conversing with you, you want nothing but to disappear. Jungkook has his hand on your thigh. Talking with Namjoon.

“Hey guys!” J suddenly perks in. Has been mumbling with Jin all the time. Everyone turns their head to look at her. You think she’s about to deliver a thank you speech. Good. Since you can leave after that. “Want to hit a club? I don’t want the night to end.” And like that all your eager hopes are crumbled into dust. J looks elated. Excited. Is giddy like a schoolgirl. Maybe you can excuse yourself. The table breaks into a messy conversation where everyone is trying to decide what to do next.

“We can leave if you want to. I’m fine.” You turn your head toward Jungkook to find him giving you a soft smile. You sigh heavily. If you want to leave, then Jungkook will follow you. Which seems very unfair to you. He shouldn’t be missing out on his best friend’s birthday because you feel shitty to see your secret fuck buddy lives his life with his girlfriend. What is wrong with you? Maybe hitting a club would be good for you. A drink or two would help you to clear your mind. So, you shake your head. Let Jungkook knows that you don’t want to miss out at all. And apparently, everybody else on the table decide the same thing.

………………………

J chose a club that is within walking distance of the restaurant where you had dinner. And just five minutes into clubbing, you’re regretting it greatly. You shouldn’t have come. Then you wouldn't have to keep looking at Jimin and Liya. You sit in your booth. Eyes boring holes on to Liya’s head. She’s standing near the bar with Seoyeon. Jimin being nowhere in your sight. That’s really good. A short lapse of relaxation for you. Liya has been clinging to Jimin like a leech. And how your blood was boiling.

Now though, since she is alone and the man in question who makes you feel this irritated, has disappeared you need to take your eyes away from Liya. Yet you find yourself unable to do that. You annoyingly take into notice about every single detail about Kim Liya. The way her hair is longer than yours. The way she has applied her makeup. Yours is bold. Maybe you shouldn’t have done a bold look. Her dress. It’s fancy and long. Doesn’t quite fit for a club but she wasn’t prepared to come here. It was an addition to the plans. The way she dressed perfectly suits for a fancy ass restaurant. You look at your dress. Short. Black. Flared. Strappy. It definitely suits a club. Damn, you shouldn’t have worn this to the restaurant. Jungkook had whistled when he saw you. Had told you that you are the human version of hot. But maybe he lied.

“Careful now, I might think you’re jealous of her.” A sudden voice next to your ear gets you jump on your seat. A loud curse spilling through your mouth as you turn to catch the intruder. Frowning. Your eyes find a smug looking Yoongi. Gracefully sitting next to you in your booth. Hell, you haven’t even noticed him arriving.

“What the fuck, Yoongi.” You huff in annoyance. Not paying attention to his earlier words.

“Sorry for startling but you need to learn how to do poker face better than that, woman. Jesus, you’re burning with jealousy.” Yoongi chuckles softly. Leaning against the back rest. Crosses his arms. You deepen your frown.

“Sorry, what? What are you talking about?” Yoongi doesn’t answer but point his finger at Liya. You follow his finger. Scoff. “Really? You’re telling me that I’m jealous of my own sister? Please Yoongi, I’d rather be jealous over that poor woman over there.” You point at a woman who’s evidently on a fight with a man who you assume to be her boyfriend. It looks steamy. Probably leading to a breakup. Yoongi laughs softly. Looks at where you are pointing at briefly.

“Well, that’s not your face and your actions say. You’ve been ogling your sister and her boyfriend for the entire night. And glaring like you want to murder them with just your eyes.” That’s not true. You want to laugh. Yoongi doesn’t let you. “And we’re at a club Li Li, there’s plenty of fun things happening but here you are, staring at your sister like she’s offended you in hundred ways possible.” Shows you a gummy smile. In another time, you would’ve found that adorable. Now, though, you’re annoyed at this man. What is he even talking about. Jealous? That’s not the case at all. You’re not jealous. Right? It’s just that Liya makes you uneasy.

“Oh, c’mon, why would I be jealous of her now? Business? I don’t give a fuck about business Yoongi. Success? I─”

“Maybe, him.” Yoongi cuts you off by pointing at someone else. This time as you follow his lead you meet with the man who’s been not around for a while. Park Jimin. With Taehyung. And his eyes are already at you. You don’t know how long he’s been there. Eyeing you. You’ve caught plenty of times Jimin staring at you. He looks like he’s having the worst night of his life. You haven’t seen him smile let alone laugh at least one time tonight. He’s tense. For some reason, that realization makes you relieved in a sickening way. You really feel relaxed. Boring into Jimin’s eyes from such a distance between you. How odd.

You get so enthralled by Jimin’s eyes that you almost forget that Yoongi had initiated something. Had pointed the cause of your jealousy- which you’re not- is Park Jimin. Which is quite dangerous. And you only come back to the earth and to your senses when you catch the sight of the woman who waltz toward him. Delicately. Her long hair flowing around her. Like that, insufferable, gut-wrenching sensation consume you whole again. You click your tongue in annoyance. “You should think about what you’re talking about Yoongi. That’s really outrageous of you. Accusing me of─”

“I’m not accusing Li. My stupid cousin doesn’t know how to keep secrets from me.”

You snap your head toward Yoongi so hard that you’re certain you break your neck. “What? What the hell? Hoseok told you?” Your eyes instantly start to roam over the club for any hint of your so-called stupid boss. “I’m gonna fucking cut him into little pieces and…” You grit your teeth hard. Hard enough that your jaw hurts.

“It’s not really his fault. I know how to make him talk.” Yoongi provides excuses for his cousin. You scoff.

“Oh, yeah? So, then it’s your fault?” You turn back to him. Shoot a glare. “What’s your point then Yoongi? Now, what to do you want from this shit?” You’re thoroughly annoyed, you can actually strangle this man to death. Yoongi’s eyes widen as he shakes his head slightly.

“Nothing. I want nothing. Why would I want anything from you when I barely even know you?”

“Then what’s the point of bringing this on? Why would you press Hoseok to tell you something that won’t affect you at all?”

“Because I love making my cousin suffer and tea is tea Li.” Yoongi shrugs. Nonchalant. The nerve of this guy to bring up this conversation like this when your brain is frying.

“Good. No this is great. Let’s start a fucking club with all the people who know I’m fucking my sister’s boyfriend and─ fuck, who doesn’t know it at this rate? Do you think Namjoon knows too? Yoona? J? Fucking hell, I think Liya might know too”

“I don’t think so.” Yoongi turns back to the two people in the far corner of the club. You force yourself not to follow his line of vision. “I’m the only one who heard it from Hobi. I can assure you he’s good at keeping secrets. It’s just he’s not good at keeping them from me. I know the guy too damn well.”

“He told Jungkook too.”

“He didn’t. He just told him you’re with Jimin and Jungkook put two and two together.”  You throw a skeptical glance at Yoongi. He knows that too? Is he and Hoseok just cousins or are they fucking married? He’s right, though. You know that’s what happened. A heavy sigh leaves your mouth. You don’t know what you’re doing. Feeling riled up. Sitting in a club. Having this conversation with Yoongi out of all the people. What’s wrong with your life. “And if you are planning on keeping it a secret, you shouldn’t visibly show how jealousy you are.” Yoongi adds. You groan loudly.

“I’m not jealous Yoongi… I just─” You don’t know what to say. It’s hard to explain what you’re feeling. And Yoongi makes it even harder with the small smirk he gives you. You try to rake your brain for suitable words. Feeling frustrated. That’s when Jungkook’s voice interrupts you. You turn your head upward to look at him. Grateful for the distraction. Even more appreciative when he shows you a pack of cigarettes.

“Wanna have a smoke Noona?” He shakes the pack. You jump to your feet without a beat of hesitation. “You wanna join too, Hyung?” Jungkook asks Yoongi too. For your pleasure he shakes his head. Says that he’s not in a mood. Gives you a soft smile. Enough to melt your irritation slightly. So, you return the smile before you sigh.

“Well, welcome to the family, Yoongi.” Mumble before you allow Jungkook to lead you away. Explaining to him that Yoongi knows too. Yoongi just chuckle as he waves you off.

……………………….

There’s a smoking area inside the club. But of course, Jungkook brought you to the dark alleyway behind the club. Having CEO friends’ privileges. You’re glad though. It’s refreshing to be outside. Away from the blaring music of the club and Liya’s hovering presence. You lean against the wall next to Jungkook. Your head resting against his upper arm as you share a one cigarette as always.

“You’re on edge Noona.” Jungkook blows out a puff of smoke. Brings the cigarette to your lips. You don’t raise your head as you wrap your lips around it.

“I don’t like Liya. “Simply state a half truth.

“Yeah? Why is that? Because you feel guilty?”

“Maybe yeah. I don’t know. It can be that. She makes me nervous.” You’re not being completely honest or dishonest. Because you don’t know what’s the uncomfortable feeling for yourself either. It’s not jealousy, though. It’s not. Why would you be jealous? Then it should be the guilt. Not being able to look her in the eye. Jungkook sighs. Not a heavy one. Takes another puff.

“Then you don’t have to do this Noona. You can always stop it.” Says as he exhale. You chuckle. Get comfortable in your position.

“It’s not easy as it sounds.”

“Why not? If it’s just sex, you can always just end it. He’s not the only man alive. I’m pretty sure, there’s plenty of men who can make you cum better than Park Jimin.”

That’s exactly the thing. It’s not just sex now, is it? Only if you can find words to describe it the way you want. “It is sex, yes but I’m enjoying it Kookie. It’s not about good orgasms. He kinda make me feel fucking special.” You fix your eyes upon a distant streetlamp. You can feel Jungkook tenses as you speak. “You see, I’m not a person who had the best kind of life. It’s not bad either but I’m from a middle-class family. I had everything and had nothing at the same time. You know like my parents brought me a phone, but I had to budge them for weeks kind of life.” You tug from Jungkook’s hand for another puff before continuing. “My sister was the rebel. She didn’t want to get a degree or work hard for her life. So, she got married early because she thought college is a waste of money. And my parents thought it was their fault. They were disappointed, heartbroken, and there was I, who thought it was now my duty to fulfil the things my sister couldn’t. I know it’s silly, but I did.”

You finally raise your head to look at Jungkook’s face. He’s expressionless. Still tense. Yet is listening to you intensely. You take that as your cue to keep going. “I’m not saying my life is bad. But it isn’t good either. I feel like I never had a life. I have a best friend who loves me, a good family, I’ve dated, I drink, smoke, and hell I go to clubs. But I don’t think I have ever enjoyed anything. I always wanted to balance it out, control it. It was uh…” You avert your gaze to your heel clad feet. “Dull.” Start playing with an old cigarette but someone had left there. “But this─” Raise your head to look around you. Gesture to your surroundings with your both hands. “Is exhilarating Jungkook. I never had a friend group. It was just Key and me. Now look at me, I’m surrounded by people whom I never thought would take notice of me at all. I’m in love with this life. And Jimin is a huge part of it. I know it’s very wrong and I’m a bitch, but I think… uh… maybe I love the thrill.” You perk up. Suddenly feeling like you’ve found an answer for the math problem you’ve been stuck at for hours. “Yes. I love the fucking thrill. Doing something dangerous. I feel like living.” Look at Jungkook expectantly. He still looks emotionless.

“So, that’s it. You’re ruining yourself because you love the thrill?” Questions with a strained voice. It’s weird. You blink at his face. “Then will you end it if you’ve ever found something more thrilling than that? If you found someone who makes you feel special, better than him?” Adds. You become motionless. Will you? You honestly don’t know. Will there be anyone who will do it better than Park Jimin?

“I… will…” You shrug. Jungkook is waiting for your answer. “But now since I only got nearly a year I think, maybe I can live this life and then leave it behind.” You rumble. Starting to become uncertain again.

“So, you would leave?”

“What else I can do?”

“You were panicked and so worried about leaving before.”

“I still am Jungkook. It hurts to think that I have an end date to this life. And it’s not only about Jimin. It’s about everything. I mean I don’t think I’d ever find a hot, tattooed, pierced, buff housemate, who’ll share his cigarette with me.” You nudge him with your shoulder. That finally got Jungkook’s stony face to crack. A small chuckle escapes his pink lips. “But a year is a long time apparently, and I’m trying to live this life to the fullest. And I’d like to pretend what I’m doing is fine.” He nods finally. Brings the cigarette back to your mouth.

“But will you consider it if I ask you to stay in the end. Like you did with Jimin? Am I important enough for you to consider it?” He watches how you suctioned your cheeks to take a long drag. You stop it midway through to look at him surprised. He looks serious back again. You don’t know an answer to it. Jungkook isn’t Park Jimin. Yet he is very important to you. He is your comfort person. You’ve become really attached to each other. You take the cigarette to your hand. Your expression softening.

“Course you are important. Very.” You offer him a soft smile as his entire demeanor changed into something bright. His Bambi eyes sparkling. He bites on to his bottom lip to contain the smile that is threatening to spill. And you feel relaxed too. Your earlier discomfort disappears. See, Jungkook is your comfort person.  Jungkook opens his mouth to say something, but his moment get ruined as the back door opens suddenly.

You both turn your head toward the newcomer. You half expecting to see Hoseok or Taehyung for no reason. But your smile falters at the not expected sight of Jimin there. The relaxed feeling you felt pops out like a bubble. That uncomfortable feeling settles back inside you. You know you’re not being reasonable, but you really feel mad at him. Childish. Jimin’s eyes flicker between you and Jungkook. You think he looks pissed for a moment. Then he changes it into a calm one quickly. He can’t be mad at you. Despite his words saying he’d be jealous, and you’d be his, he can’t hold the same words toward Jungkook. You live with Jungkook. Just like Jimin lives with Liya. And you have no reason to feel any resentment toward Jimin or Liya. You do, however.

“What are you doing?” Jimin’s voice sounds strange to you at this moment. He looks like he’s battling an invisible battle. Trying hard to keep a fire from blaring. You hold the cigarette in front of his face. Forcing yourself to act normal because being mad at Jimin is embarrassing.

“Smoking. What does it look like?” Fuck, you fail miserably. Resentment and malice pour off with each word. Jimin clenches his jaw. His calm exterior starting to break down.

“Can we talk?” Yet he’s doing it better than you. Manages to ask it in a normal voice. Not without gritting his teeth or sounding bitter.

“I don’t want to.” You’re making it worse. You need to act like an adult. Not a jealousy bitch- because you’re not. What’s wrong with you. You take a step back, away from Jimin and press yourself against Jungkook. And finally, Jimin fails too. You visibly notice the fire inside his eyes.

“I’m not asking.” Jimin takes a step toward you. Your heart skips a beat. He looks dangerous. A wild combination for angelic looking Park Jimin. You love that look. But you’re mad at him. You open your mouth to ask him to fuck off. Jungkook beats you up to it, however.

“I think she said she doesn’t want to Mr. Park.” Jungkook grabs your wrist instantly. Pulls you back at the same time he steps between you and Jimin. Everything falls into a deafening silence. Everything goes still. So quiet that you can hear the music very clearly now. Your irritation replaces with a sudden panic as Jimin looks dead in the eye with Jungkook. Jungkook does the same. They both look like two bulls ready to fight till death. Waiting for starting signal. Even the sight is enough for your mouth to go dry. This is not good. You step away from Jungkook abruptly. Drop the cigarette in your hand to the floor. Step on it.

“I need to use the bathroom.” Walk around the two men who stop their glaring competition to pay you attention. “I’m fine Kookie.” Reassure Jungkook before opening the door and disappear behind it, knowing very well that Jimin would follow you.

……………………………..

He does. You only get to make it halfway toward the bathrooms when you are yanked back with a rough grip on your upper arm.

“You’re moving out.” Jimin shouts as he turns your around. You feel a ringing in your ears. All the frustration and anger you've felt the whole night explode at his tone. Fucking authoritative. Demanding. As if he owns you.

“Like hell I would.”

“Who the hell does he think he is?”

“I don’t know. Maybe my friend. Let me go, Park.” You try to wriggle your arm free. Clenching your teeth. You’re standing in a corridor leading to the bathrooms. Mostly empty save for the two people who walk past you without giving a fuck about what’s happening.

“Why the fuck are you mad at me, Lil?”  He pulls you toward him. Eyes boring into yours. Hell, what’s your answer now?

“Why the fuck are you mad at me?” So, you answer him with a question.

“Because I’m fucking jealous.” Jimin’s grip tighten so hard that you whimper. He brings his face closer to you. So close that his nose nudges against yours. “I’m fucking jealous Spring Roll.” He lowers his voice. It turns into a grumble. You blink at him in surprise. Reveling in his warmth. Can smell alcohol on him. Your heart starts to hammer inside your chest. He got you speechless. Dumfounded. Park Jimin is always annoying when he is honest. When he admits. Oh, how freely he admits that. “I told you I’d be jealous Lil. Told you I’m gonna be fucking annoying to you. Told you I won’t be sharing you, in any. Fucking. Way.” He manhandles you roughly. You don’t even realize what’s happening until you’re pressed against a wall. Jimin’s bruising grip never leaves you. He brushes his lips over yours.

“I’m mad because I couldn’t be the one to sit next to you whole night. I’m mad because Jungkook had his hands on you every fucking time I look at you. And you didn’t even look at me. I’m fucking mad you stepped toward Jungkook instead of me Lil.” His hand finally leaves your arm. Just to cup your cheeks. “Don’t do that, dammit.” You suck in a sharp breath when presses his lips hard against you. It’s fleeting kiss. Bites your lower lip gently. Pulls away too fast for your liking. Making you fruitlessly chase his lips. Wanting more. He doesn’t give it you. “Don’t fucking chose someone else.” Presses his lips hard to yours again. “I understand that you live with him and he’s a good friend and all that shit but don’t walk to him.” Another kiss. Then another. Starts pressing fleeting kisses to your lips like he’s gone mad. “You’re mine, princess. You agreed to be mine. And fuck baby, you look so damn good.” Lets go of your cheeks too. “You have no idea how bad I wanted to rip this damn dress off you.”

Wraps his arms around your body and finally gives into a deeper kiss. Rough and bruising. Tongue pushing past your lips harshly. Shifts between nibbling and sucking. Gets you breathless. You pull away from him with a struggle. Jimin doesn’t let you go far, however. Presses his lips against you the moment you suck in a short breath. Not enough. Your lungs are screaming for oxygen. At the same time, you can feel the fire inside your stomach. Making you curl your hands around his neck. Pull from his hair as you kiss him tenderly. His soft lips work seamlessly against yours. Slotting perfectly. He drags his tongue across your teeth as you press your body tight against him. Wanting more friction. Arousal is already starting to seep out and your nipples grazing your bra uncomfortably. You groan into the kiss. This time managing to escape his lips and panting for much needed air.

Jimin uses the opportunity to bury his face in your neck. His arms drops to your ass. Pushes you harder onto him. Peppers your neck with wet kisses. Trailing them toward your shoulder and teething at the thing strap of your dress. You let your head fall back, hitting the wall behind you. How fascinating it is that your moods are changing faster than thunder. Gone is the irritation and anger you felt mere seconds ago. Desire replacing it. And you’re at ease all of a sudden in Jimin’s arms. You don’t worry about finding the reasons for your irritation anymore. What does it matter, anyway? Despite everything, Jimin is here, isn’t he? Despite everything he was mad and jealous that he couldn’t be with you. He wanted to talk. He followed you. That is just enough for you. Weird how that makes you content but all that matters is the feeling. So, you give into that feeling willingly. The comfort of Park Jimin.

Jimin’s hands wander over your ass cheeks. Squeezing your soft flesh while he grinds his hips onto your body. Letting you feel the evidence of his arousal. Hard against your stomach.

“Jimin..” You call him breathlessly. He drops one of his hands from your ass to your thigh in response to that. Hikes up your dress as he rubs and touches your sensitive skin. Hooks his hand under your thigh to lift your leg up. Place it on his waist. Grinds hard.

“Are you wet?” Jimin purrs in your ear. You stare at him with lustful eyes. Nod. “Yeah? Shall I check?” Doesn’t wait for you to finish nodding as his hands sneak under your dress. Two fingers dragging along your slit. Over your panties. Hums in approval at the wetness he finds there. “Shit baby, you’re always fucking wet for me.”

“Yes, like you’re always hard for me.” You make your point by bucking your hips onto him. You both chuckle in unison. Oh, you’re not mad at all. It’s all past. Your laughter dies down when Jimin presses his finger to your clit. You moan softly before pulling him into another kiss. Starting to fall back into a senseless state. Head spinning. Everything around you dissipate in that state. Leaving you and Jimin alone in your own world. His hand working over your wet slit relentlessly as you grind against his hard cock. It’s just you two. Nothing else. His lips on yours. You close your eyes to delve deeper into that. Clinging to Jimin for your dear life. Deeper and deeper. Losing your minds on each other─

“WHAT THE FUCK!”

You snap your eyes open at the sound that suddenly blares over the loud music. Lips still on Jimin’s. He is the one who pulls away first. Both of your heads turn to catch the person who interrupted you. Breathless. It takes your lust induced brain a split second to realize what’s happening. When it does, Jimin has already dropped your leg down to the floor. Withdraws from you so fast as if you’ve burnt him. His eyes wide. Skin turns pale. You’re sure you don’t look anything different. Your stomach sinks as you feel your legs buckle.

“L-Liya!” Jimin stutters uncomfortably. Painfully rooted to his spot and gaping at Liya like she’s a ghost. Liya takes a step forward. Then stops. You watch stupidly how her face changes from disbelief to anger in a fractured second. She opens and closes her mouth like a fish. Says nothing as she turns around. Storms away. “Fuck! No, Liya!” Jimin calls after her in vain as Liya disappears from your view in a heartbeat.

To you it feels like things are happening in slow motion as Jimin turns to look at you. Hastily. It’s a quick glance. Then he breaks into a sprint. Following Liya. Disappearing after her. Leaving you to stand in a corridor leading to a bathroom. Alone. He follows Liya. Like he should.

……………………………

You stand there, rooted to the floor, with no idea how long it has been. Your heart is beating in your ears. Your sight blur. Your head is spinning. To say you’re shocked is an understatement. It’s a mixture of shock, guilt, fear, shame, and sadness. And above all you feel utterly stupid.

You can’t believe that you’ve allowed yourself to do something stupid like that. To get carried away. You were in an open corridor for fucks sake. How could you have let that happen. You steady yourself by pressing your hand to the wall. Your legs are shaking badly. Your mind races, replaying everything you could have done to avoid this. But every stupid mistake you made led you to this. Now you’re standing here while people walk past you here and there. You can’t stay here forever, though. You can’t hide away. It happened. It’s already too late. The very thing you feared the most has happened.

Now there’s no good that will come by just standing here. You take a step forward. Slow. Feeling like your feet are suddenly heavy. You can’t move them freely. Then another. One by one. Yet it doesn’t really feel like moving to you. It’s like your body is leaving without you. And with every step you take, your heart comes close to exploding. You turns around the corner to meet with the flashing lights. People going on with their happy, exciting night. Nothing has changed. Everyone is oblivion to the inner turmoil you’re feeling. World is going on normally. You can’t really hear any sounds, though. Can’t see anyone else either. It’s all blurry and sounds are hazy. Still, you manage to drag your heavy feet forward. Slowly nearing your booth.

You don’t know what you expect really. To have Jimin already gone or waiting for you. But when your eyes finally land on the figures next to your booth you realize that it would’ve been much better if they’ve left. It would have caused you a great heart ache to think, Jimin once again chose Liya, but that would’ve been much better than this. You can’t face them. Absolutely cannot. So, you freeze. Just few feet away from them. Everybody is there. Liya is standing near Jimin. You can’t hear what they are talking about. But you know Liya is yelling at Jimin, who’s trying to calm her down, if his raised palms are anything to go by. Liya points a finger at him. Says something animatedly. Looks like she’s on the verge of crying. You feel your heart twist.

You can’t walk there like nothing happened. You’re oh so fucking ashamed. You’re the one who caused this ruckus. Their relationship is crumbling and you’re the reason. How can you walk there like nothing happened. You need to hide away. Wait till they leave. That’s exactly what you’re trying to do. Nearly succeeds at it when Liya’s eyes averts away from Jimin. Landing directly on you. Jimin turns around to check what she’s looking at too. So, does everybody else. And it all happen so fast. You don’t even get to take a proper breath before Liya strides past Jimin. He tries to catch her in vain. She’s too quick. Is standing before you with a burning glare. Her glorious face twisted ugly in anger. She only says two words.

“You bitch!”

And her palm hits your cheek with a loud smack.

For the initial shocking period, you feel nothing. Then there comes the sting. And the loud music that had been a white noise in your ears comes all clear to you. Sounds of people talking becomes all clear and noisy. You turn your head back to Liya. Slowly. Eyes starting to prick with tears. Due to the embarrassment. The shame. Humiliation. Liya has slapped you in a club full of people. You don’t dare to look around you, but you know people are watching. Seeing. Talking. Mumbling. This is drama here. You want the floor to split up and swallow you as a whole.

Unfortunately, though, that isn’t an option for you. Liya yells something else that doesn’t reach your ears as you look back at her. Then she nearly lunges at you again. This time though, Jimin drags her back. His hands tightly wraps around her to keep her in place.

“Enough Liya. That’s fucking enough!” His voice booms through the hundreds of other noises. A pair of hands do the same to you as well. Drags your limp body a step back.

“Are you fucking kidding me?” You recognize that voice to be Jungkook’s. Then as you look down you recognize his tattooed hand as well. Encircled around your middle. You feel like dreaming. Liya tries to escape Jimin’s grip. Ready to attack you like a sow who lost her cub. What a slip in Liya’s demeanor. She always stays calm. At least in front of people. In your eyes she always looked matured. The power woman. CEO. Now, however, she is going berserk. Well, she just found her boyfriend’s hand inside another woman’s dress. Fair. You don’t even realize that you’re surrounded by people. Seoyeon reaches Liya as well. Trying to aid Jimin. You don’t hear what they are saying. You only catch glimpses of your friends. Saying million different things. It all comes down to you one minute and then vanishes.

“Have it with your motherfucking boyfriend crazy woman.”  Jungkook bellows from behind you. Still keeping you close. You don’t know to whom or for what he’s replying. Your hazy eyes catch J reaching you.

“Are you okay?”

Your ears ring.

“Dude, we can’t do this here.”

Your ears ring.

“Press is going to have field day.”

Nothing.

“Take her away you idiot.”

Rings. Nothing.

“Calm down please.”

Nothing. Nothing. Nothing.

“We’re leaving Noona.” Nothing. A shake. “Hey! Baby, let’s go.” You zero your eyes on Jungkook. “Let’s leave, okay?” You nod. Without knowing what you’re agreeing to. Your eyes wander back to Jimin as Jungkook starts to half walk and half drag you away. Liya is calmer now. Jimin has his arms around her still. Around her. Not you. Someone else is taking you away. Jimin is staying with Liya. Like he should. Everything is a mess. Utter chaos. You finally notice how troubled and furious everyone look. You caused that.

You ruined everything. J’s birthday. This night. Liya. Maybe your friendship with these people. So much more than you can even fathom. You ruined it all. Above all, you ruined you and Jimin.

Fuck, you ruined it. All because you were so stupid. Wasn’t thinking straight. You try to keep your eyes on him as long as you can. And at the right time Jungkook drags you through a door, Jimin lifts his head to look at you. Eyes emotionless.

I just can’t go and break up with Liya.

He made it clear from the first day. If it ever come to this kind of situation, he’s going to choose Liya. Because you are the other woman. See, you’ve done it. Even before it starts properly, you have ruined it.

That’s what happened.

RUINED and DESTROYED.

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a/n- Leave a note if you enjoyed this one!

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Taglist - @chimmy-licious @graydolan12 @smoljimjim @likemeforme @sugas-baby-girl @canarystwin @jkayy @floboo6 @sunshinenmidnight @fiddlebiddls @unlikelycheesecakeenthusiast @mar-lo-pap @angelicsmilesworld @jimincrystal @datspjm @shakes0peare @butterymin @angellekookie @futuristicenemychaos @minijagiya @anumita-2007 @joulekanitz

[sapphiresaphics]

I’m blocked from responding to this person (mostly because I’ve been extremely critical of their “criticism” of the show and they’re a coward), but I’d like to use these screenshots of their post dissecting an interview with Amanda Overton to show how their biases and hatred blind them to what’s really going on around them. So here we go!

———

———

^^^ What’s FASCINATING to me about this piece of the interview is that it confirms what the writers have been saying all along: That both season 1 and 2 were written at the same time and that season 2 was completed before season 1 aired. All of the relevant plot points regarding Caitlyn and Vi’a journey were crafted as early as season 1! Additionally this confirms that a lot of the stuff people liked about season 1 was from Amanda, who stayed on for season 2. That really blows the “they had 9 writers! So of course season 1 was better” nonsense out of the water. No, fam, Amanda was brought on to FIX THE MISTAKES of the people who were originally writing it. You like season 1’s writing BECAUSE of her.

Additionally saying she’s “admitting the only reason they bothered with themes of police brutality is so it would be juicy drama” is a GROSS over simplification of the entire show. Police brutality snd the duality of the two cities was always going to be part of the show, that setup just gave the dynamic between Vi and Caitlyn a lot to work with. They didn’t start with the lesbian shipping snd work backwards you numbscull.

———

———

^^^ It is telling that this person DOESN’T think that actions speak louder than words. They’re demanding words. As if Caitlyn saying “I’m sorry” would change anything realistically. That’s why Amanda confirms something else that those of us with a brain knew all along, that Caitlyn is using her actions to make up for what she knew she was doing wrong all along. She can’t take back her mistakes, but she can start to atone for them.

And it’s SO WEIRD that this person doesn’t believe that’s good enough.

Oh and they make light of her actions by reducing the crimes of Jinx too. “By letting one person go as a personal favor to her girlfriend” really minimizes that Jinx is literal A TERRORIST WHO BLEW UP MULTIPLE BUILDINGS AND KILLED SCORES OF PEOPLE. It’s also not a favor for Vi, it’s a conscious choice to let her hatred go for herself! Jesus Christ are you an idiot?

Oh also she defends a whole city and potentially saves the lives of thousands of citizens and loses an eye in the process, but yeah sure… guess that’s not good enough atonement!

———

———

^^^ Finally this part about the sesbian lex scene is really telling to me. This person is not gay, are they? Because frankly this sounds like something a homophobic person would say. If you’re not gay and you’ve never had to experience the frustration with how much your sexuality is censored by media and people around you, you wouldn’t understand why Amanda wanted the sex scene to be “more” than the STRAIGHT sex scene between Jayce and Mel. Because frankly it’s not fair that it’s okay to show that but not show a lesbian couple doing the exact same thing. And the fact that it’s been confirmed Amanda had to fight just to keep in lines like “you’re hot, cupcake” back in season 1, it’s pretty clear to ME what she’s talking about here in this interview.

I’m not surprised a straight person doesn’t understand the importance and significance of what she says here.

[keen-li]

What you need | 04

Synopsis: everybody needs, but how do you define need? Do you even know what you need.

Genre: best friends au, angst, fluff, smut, slow burn.

Jungkook x fem reader.

Wc: 3.5k

Warning: not proof read.

Prev | next

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You can be mad at Jungkook for many reasons, but not for when he tells the truth. It’s not that you’re really mad at him; you’re mad at the fact that he was right. The truth is a huge pill to swallow, and you’ve got the smallest throat in the world.

Jungkook calls you stubborn, but you call yourself strong-willed—strong-willed to avoid the truth and advice, especially from Jungkook. He dishes out honesty quite well; every one of your friends does.

Like in any other friendship, your stubbornness tends to cause you and Jungkook to butt heads. But he’s learned to navigate around it, and one way is to let you be. Talking to you while you’re in a mood never gets anywhere. That’s what he did last night, and the guilt ate him raw.

He’ll wait for you to talk to him, and wait he will. But it’s never for long.

“You don’t have the chocolate ones?” Your gaze avoids him as you ask. You've been avoiding eye contact all morning, and it's been difficult considering you've been bumping into him while trying to make breakfast—a breakfast he would have gladly made for you.

Childish is what you assume Jungkook is thinking, but he should be well aware of how childish you are. In addition to being childish, you have an intense fear of confrontation. You’d rather hide than tend to an issue of importance; it’s easier.

Jungkook doesn't see it that way. He prefers to deal with things as they arise, especially when it comes to a dispute between you both. But that’s not to say he’s perfect; he can be a coward too, though he leans toward not letting it show.

Your body is turned away from him but still standing close, wanting to feel his warmth—something to remind you that he doesn’t completely hate you for lashing out. He gets you; he hopes you know it.

Jungkook’s eyes scan his kitchen shelves in search of that chocolate cereal you love. He got it for when you come over. He’s not a huge fan of it; they always stay on the same shelf, the one above where he stands. “They’re here.” He leans over to reach the top shelf where they were in plain sight. Contemplating whether you actually didn’t know or you wanted to fill the awkward air between the two of you, he hands the box to you.

You mumble a little thank you as he hands it to you. His hand lingers on the box a second longer as he considers being the one to start talking. He’s waiting for you, sure, but he’s also aware of how hard it is for you to address even the most minuscule of conflicts.

Your night was cold, like your recent previous nights. Even though Jungkook made sure you had the thickest blanket he owned, it wouldn’t be fair to blame it on the weather because it’s warm outside, even at night. Blaming his air conditioner wouldn’t be fair either; Jungkook gives you all the freedom to turn it up or down.

Maybe it’s the fact that you went to sleep ‘mad’ at Jungkook or yourself. The line is very blurry when it comes to who gets the blame. That’s your thought process.

You know Jungkook, and you’re well aware he won’t talk to you unless you speak to him first. You’re sure he feels bad in some way, and you feel bad for it. He shouldn’t feel bad; he was right. Why the heck are you even blaming him?

So, after a large gulp down the rock, you decide to break the awkward and painful silence. “Are you mad?” It comes out as a whisper, and he barely hears it.

Jungkook is quick to hear the mumbling from you but can't quite comprehend the sound. "Huh?” He turns to you, faced away from him, which adds to his confusion. Are you talking to him or not?

“I’m asking if you’re upset?” You try to make it louder, but it’s just as low as before. Why do you get so timid? You hate confrontation so much.

Jungkook chuckles, and for a moment, you feel like he’s mocking you, but it’s far from his intention. You’re just amusing when you behave like this. “Y/N, I can’t hear you,” he states in a volume you should try to emulate.

“Don’t tell me you can’t look at me.” He turns back to his breakfast, which he abandoned to attend to you. “And when I tell you you’re like a baby, you want to disagree?” He smiles to himself. One thing Jungkook is never going to do is force you to do something.

“I’m not,” you try to argue as you finally turn to him, but he doesn’t do

the same this time, too focused on his food. A smirk lines his lips perfectly, and faint dimples adorn his cheeks. Is he relishing in this?

“Look at how you were cowering away like I was gonna bite you.” He spreads butter on his toast, unlike you, who prefers not to have bread in toast form for breakfast.

The air thins, and you feel more relaxed to just speak. In exchange for anxiety, sadness sets in. You pout.

“Sorry,” you mumble. He’s aware of what you mean, and it’s funny how quickly and shyly you say it.

“Don’t apologize,” he shakes his head at you. Once the silence sinks in again, Jungkook decides to help you. “Tell me. What did you want to say?” His soft voice ushers you on, along with his relaxed body turned toward you.

“I was asking if you’re upset.” You lean against his counter and bite down on your lower lip—an act to hide from Jungkook's gaze?

He furrows his brows in confusion. His breakfast can wait. He walks to you and stops when his feet hit yours. Placing his hands on his hips, he asks, “Upset with who? You?” His body towers over you, and you feel his soft eyes analyze your features.

When you nod, he smiles and moves in to wrap his arms around you. “Awh, bunny,” he coos, taking your face into his palms.

“I’m not mad at you; if anything, I’m more upset with myself.”

“Why would you be mad at yourself? I was wrong.” Your voice is soft and regretful. The last person on this earth you’d want to argue with is Jungkook, and you hate it when you do. “I shouldn’t have been so quick to get mad.”

“Yeah, but I should’ve phrased myself better.” He looks down at you, and when you realize just how close you are, you scoot away a bit. Jungkook catches it and slowly lets you go. Awkwardness sets in, but this time it’s in a different form—a form bearing the image of your ex.

You’re comfortable with Jungkook, and you’ll say that a million times, but something about being so close to him makes you think about being with Yunho. Yunho had always been the person you ran to when you weren’t okay (while you were together), and he’d hold you just like that. His loving eyes looking down at you, his warmth keeping you closer to him on colder or lonely days. But since you broke up, Jungkook has been the one to be there for you like always. Maybe it’s because you can’t get Yunho out of your head; you’ve been missing him of late, and it’s messing with your mind. You haven’t been able to go back to the way you were; that’s probably the reason. You just hope Jungkook can realize that.

You hope you get your act together soon. You'd hate to see Yunho on the face of every man who cares about you, especially on Jungkook's.

“You’re entitled to your feelings; don’t ever apologize for that.” Jungkook, now feeling a shift in warmth, turns to his now cold toast. If he puts it back in the toaster, it’ll go back to being warm, right?

“So, you’re not mad?”

He shakes his head. “But I am mad that you make me buy those for you.” His tone and the air around you shift back to playful, and the smile on his face makes you smile as well.

You giggle. “And you’re cute for it.”

“You’re gonna have to pay me back one day for how much I’ve spent.”

You place your hand on your heart in feigned patriotism to your words. “And I’ll give you back every penny.”

Jungkook laughs, knowing he wouldn’t take them anyway. He enjoys buying them for you.

Life really knows how to bring you back to reality, and it does seem to enjoy seeing you unhappy.

“If you won’t make it, it’s fine,” you speak to Jungkook through your phone. The call has lasted longer than it should because he can’t stop apologizing. “Jungkook, if you can’t make it, it’s fine. It’s not that big of a deal.” Your eyes recognize the words on your paper, but you aren't paying them any mind.

“Are you saying lunch with me is not that big of a deal, Y/L/N?”

Ever since you two started eating lunch together, you’ve never missed a day, but today is different. Jungkook informed you he had some extra work that would overlap with your planned schedule, so you would be having lunch by yourself. And that’s fine.

You don’t mind at all; it’s not like it’s on purpose. Of course,

you do enjoy eating lunch with him, and you are sad about not having him around for the lunch you might not eat. But it’s life, and sooner or later, you two will be consumed with responsibilities that you won’t be able to hang out at all. You don’t like the thought of it, but you have to acknowledge the possibility.

You had a taste of it when you were in a relationship with Yunho. You and Jungkook didn’t hang out as much, and your teasing was reduced to respect your relationship. It’s only a matter of time before Jungkook gets a girlfriend, and you have to spend less time together. A girlfriend to share things with—or you will get a boyfriend, or at least a fling.

It may seem like you’re bad friends, but it’s not that way. Even if either of you were in a relationship, you’d still hang out and call each other; that wouldn’t change. It’s not like you’re only friends when you’re both single. But it’s obvious that when one is in a relationship, their time will be cut down compared to when they were single. And that’s okay; it’s not something you fret over, like you and Jungkook will stop being friends. Never.

Jungkook definitely understood and respected your relationship when you were with Yunho, and you still found time to hang out. Besides, all this applies to Willoe and Jimin as well. Even though it seems like you’re paired off, you’re all still friends in the same way.

You do tend to wonder what it’ll be like when Jungkook gets a girlfriend, though. Over your years of friendship, he has had some flings and situationships, but he’s never had a relationship that involved him being emotionally attached. He’s not a player in any sort of way; he wouldn’t toy with a girl’s heart. He just never made an emotional commitment to them, which he made known to them. He always made it clear that he wasn’t into relationships. Maybe he’s non-committal? He’s never really taken the time to sit down and think about it. But he’s well aware that, for some reason, he’s not looking for a relationship, and lately, even sexual relationships haven’t been on his mind.

You chuckle. “You know that’s not what I mean.”

Playing with the pen in your hand, you contemplate even going for lunch. You do have work too, though it’s something that can wait. Plus, you don’t feel hungry anyway. This was one of the reasons you liked going for lunch with Jungkook. Apart from getting to hang out with him, it kept you eating. If Jungkook is there, you are forced to eat and not get distracted. Because eating alone will lead you to have unwarranted thoughts about Yunho, and you’d end up losing your appetite. You won’t deny how your lunches are the only time you eat a proper meal. At home, when you’re alone, all you eat is snacks.

“I know,” you aren’t able to see it, but on the other side, an angry and short Isabel signals for Jungkook to get off the phone. He furrows his brows at her. “Anyway, I’ll call you later. Sorry for not being able to make it.”

There he goes again. You smile. In the background, you can hear a female voice call his name in a warning tone, and by his rushed words, you can tell he’s on borrowed time. He would’ve ended this call long ago, but he enjoys dragging them out.

“Cut the call, Jungkook.” You want him to as well, and he can’t help but pout at how everyone wants him to end his call.

“I will. Don’t forget to eat your lunch.”

“I will.”

You won’t.

Soon the line beeps, and you’re left with his contact to look at and the candid picture of him you took. You doubt he's aware of its existence. If he saw it, he'd make you delete it and put a 'better one.' But it's cute, and you like it.

The smile you have on your face is wiped off when you’re met with Hoseok’s looming figure. Now, when you look at it, why is his figure more noticeable now?

“Not going for lunch?” he asks in a tone you can’t decipher the intention behind.

You start to arrange the papers on your desk for no reason and in no particular order. “No.”

“Why?” he shoots back immediately.

You sigh as you look at him. You did want to hurl back a snarky comment, but you’re running low on energy. “Not hungry.”

“Shame.” He says, and you prepare yourself for what he wants to say. “The boss wanted to have lunch with you, but since you’re not hungry, I’ll tell—”

“When did I say I wasn’t hungry?” He’s about

to argue, and you see it on his face, but you step in before he can say anything.

“He wants to have lunch with me for real?” You stand and eye him skeptically.

Hoseok nods, not much enthusiasm behind it.

You stare at him with an I-hope-you-aren’t-lying look.

Hoseok loves to mess with you, but the good thing about him is that he knows when not to.

“Go see for yourself.”

Your stomach fills with butterflies of nervousness as you walk, your previous worries forgotten. You turn to give Hoseok a last look, and he shrugs.

It would be a big deal for you if your boss wanted to have lunch with you. This means a lot.

Who are you kidding? You’re starving.

“Again?” you groan.

Jungkook pulls at his lip before he speaks. “I know.” He sighs. “There’s a lot of work here for some reason.” He explains.

It’s been several days, and the weekend approaches, yet you two still haven’t been able to have lunch together. It’s life; you accept that, but it’s still such a bummer. Plus, you’ve been meaning to talk to Jungkook about something—maybe tell him why you and Yunho actually broke up.

You’ve been reflecting on it, and maybe after you talk to him about it, you’ll stop thinking about Yunho.

“It's alright,” you say with a sad pout. Jungkook can feel it through the phone, and it breaks his heart. “Wanted to talk to you,” you say, and Jungkook shifts his feet that were stationary on the cement floors of the workshop.

The air shifts, and concern grows at your tone. “About?” he waits for your answer, which he already knows.

“Yunho.” It’s through a heavy heart and a sour throat that you’re even able to say his name. “But since you’re busy, it’s fine; we can talk when you’re free.”

“Yeah, sure.” He is worried, but there’s nothing much he can do in this moment, and he knows it’s not something that can be talked about on the phone, especially when you’re both at work. So, he makes an internal promise to make time for you.

“Talk to you later,” you say, your voice far from okay.

“I haven’t seen her in a week and some days,” Jungkook informs, his mind still in thought. “Plus, I don’t think it’s the best time to tell her; it seems like she’s still hung up on him.”

Of course, you are; it’s only been what? A month?

“Yeah, Willoe was talking to her yesterday, and I think I heard her crying.” He follows up, explaining that he hasn’t had the time to call you yet.

Jungkook’s heart physically drops, and his friend can clearly see that.

“Must not be easy keeping that secret from her.” Jungkook leans back into his couch, clearly disturbed.

It’s definitely hard keeping anything from you, but this, especially, has taken a toll on him. A whole month? He never thought he’d keep something from you for this long. Does he even want to tell you? Keeping it is killing him, but the thought of you knowing and seeing what it might do to you kills him even more. To make it worse, it’s been more evident lately that you’ve been thinking about the bastard. He can tell when you do.

You space out and just forget everything around you. And that sad look on your face isn’t missed by him. He wants to do everything in his power to make you feel better, but there’s only so much he can do. Plus, Isabel has him doing extra hours at work, which has just made your time spent together less. He can only imagine how alone you’ve felt.

He knows you’ve got Willoe and Jimin, but for some reason, you’ve all been busy. Jimin is trying to get down on a project he’s on, Willoe is out on a work trip, and he himself is working overtime. He knows you’ve been busy too, especially with trying to get your promotion. You’re only able to call each other on the phone. And sometimes those calls aren’t guaranteed because when he’s heading home from work, you’re asleep.

Or ignoring him. He chuckles; he knows you’d never seriously ignore him.

“It pisses me off every time I think about it, man.” Jungkook positions the camera so Jimin can see him. “Did I tell you I fucking punched him?” Jungkook smiles at the memory.

Jimin raises his brows in shock. “Seriously?” Jimin laughs at the thought. “You should’ve told me so that I could get my fair share too.”

Jungkook laughs. He takes a drink of his beer.

And with that, he’s reminded of the weighty task ahead—telling you about taking a swing at your ex-boyfriend. If he had to break the news to someone else that their boyfriend was cheating, it would be straightforward. But with you, it feels like a heavy stone lodged in his chest. The thought of seeing the pain in your eyes causes him physical anguish. Over the years, you’ve become someone incredibly special to him, and the idea of you suffering cuts deeper than he ever expected. He’s never cared for anyone the way he cares for you.

“You’re gonna tell her, though?” Jungkook scoffs, trying to mask his uncertainty as he sees his blond friend raise an eyebrow at him.

“I will,” he replies, but the conviction in his voice falters. Jimin can see right through him, and that gnawing doubt eats away at Jungkook. He knows he has your best interests at heart, but the last thing he wants to do is hurt you further. The thought of you finding out about Yunho’s betrayal sends a chill down his spine.

Jimin shakes his head, concern etched across his face. “I feel so bad for her,” he says, knowing he’d never voice that sentiment to you directly, aware of how much you despise pity. “She said she’s taking a break from dating, so I hope that helps her.”

Jungkook hums in agreement, but the relief is fleeting. “Don’t tell Willoe, though,” he says, his voice dropping as if speaking the name might summon trouble.

“Really?” Jimin’s tone rises, incredulous.

Jungkook shoots him a warning glare, and Jimin rolls his eyes in response. “Fine, I won’t tell her.”

“Don’t. If she knows, then Y/N will automatically find out,” Jungkook insists, the urgency in his voice palpable.

Jimin nods, understanding the gravity of the situation. “Gotta go now,” he says, glancing at his watch. Jungkook’s attention drifts to his phone, where a message from work blinks at him.

“Hey, they need me at work,” he mutters, the words feeling heavy on his tongue.

“Alright, it was nice talking to you,” Jimin replies, but Jungkook can hear the underlying concern.

Jungkook pauses, feeling the sincerity of the moment weigh down on him. “So sincere, gross,” he retorts, trying to lighten the mood, but it falls flat.

“Just say it back,” Jimin presses, his tone teasing but his eyes serious.

“Fine. It was nice chilling with you too, Jimin.” He cringes at the words, the smug smile on Jimin’s face only amplifying his discomfort.

“Love you,” Jimin says, half-joking, but the sentiment hangs in the air like an unspoken truth.

“Don’t push it,” Jungkook replies, though the words feel hollow. Jimin laughs, but Jungkook knows he would never say it back. “But if I were Y/N, you would’ve said it back,” Jimin teases, and Jungkook’s heart sinks further.

“Yeah, but you’re not.”

As he leans back into his couch, a storm of thoughts churns in his mind. He contemplates the idea of telling you, but the fear grips him. You’ve gone a month without knowing the truth—what could a little more time do? He wrestles with the notion that he should wait until you’re more healed, but each passing moment feels like a betrayal in itself. The longer he holds back, the more he feels he’s complicit in Yunho’s deceit.

What if you never truly heal? What if you deserve to know the truth now? The internal conflict rages within him. He knows he has to make a decision soon, but right now, he can’t shake the feeling that revealing the truth would only add to your pain.

The clock ticks in the background, and Jungkook knows he can’t ignore this forever. The question lingers: when is the right time to shatter your world and reveal the truth?

---------------------------------------

a/n: writing this chapter has been a rollercoaster for me, from the lack of motivation and inspiration to the elephant in the room which is the fact that this was supposed to be 20k words long. sigh. from 20k to 3k

I had so much written and in a way I loved but I don't know what happened and the file got lost. and because of that I lost a lot of motivation and just wanted to be over with the chapter.

sorry for the shitty chapter, the following will be better. please don't let this chapter or the previous be your impression of this series. it's gonna get better. love y'all and thanks for the support and patience. (if you were even waiting lol)

Tagged: @jksusawife@mother2monsters@gimeow

[bunnysnuff]

Jilted.

Pairing: Galinda Upland x reader. Fiyero Tiggular x Galinda Upland (briefly)

Trigger warnings: one sided love at first.

Request.

The gilded ballroom glittered as the early evening light caught the crystal chandeliers. The hum of conversation filled the room as couples danced and champagne glasses clinked, but you only had eyes for her. Glinda, poised and radiant in a gown of pale pink, looked every inch the bride-to-be. Yet, there was a shadow behind her sparkling smile, a hollowness in her eyes that had grown more pronounced over the past weeks.

You stood by the balcony doors, half-hidden in the velvet curtains. From here, you saw everything. The way Glinda stole fleeting glances at Fiyero, only to find his attention elsewhere. The way he avoided her attempts to talk, brushing off her concerns with easy charm. And worst of all, the way she pretended it didn’t hurt.

You couldn't bear it anymore. She deserved more than this—more than being strung along by a man who didn’t seem to care.

So, as the party swirled on without you, you cornered Fiyero.

“Can we talk?” you asked, your voice low but firm.

He raised an eyebrow, already looking annoyed. “What is it, Y/N? Can’t this wait?”

“No,” you said sharply, stepping closer. “It can’t.”

He sighed, running a hand through his hair. “Fine. What’s so important?”

You didn’t mince words. “Call off the engagement.”

Fiyero blinked, startled, then laughed humorlessly. “Excuse me?”

“You heard me,” you said, crossing your arms. “You don’t love her, Fiyero. Not really. And she knows it. She deserves better than this charade, and you know that too.”

His face hardened. “You don’t know what you’re talking about.”

“I know exactly what I’m talking about,” you shot back. “I’ve seen how you look at her—or how you don’t. She’s breaking her heart trying to make this work, and you’re too much of a coward to admit it’s over.”

For a moment, he didn’t respond. Then, with a heavy sigh, he said, “Maybe you’re right. But what am I supposed to do? Break her heart now? In front of everyone?”

You softened, just a little. “Better now than later. The longer you wait, the worse it’ll hurt her. Let her go, Fiyero. Let her find someone who will love her the way she deserves.”

Fiyero didn’t answer. But the next day, the engagement was off.

—

Glinda didn’t speak to you for days after. She holed herself up in her rooms, refusing visitors, and you didn’t blame her. Still, you left her flowers every morning—soft pink roses, her favorite—and a note reminding her that you were there.

When she finally emerged, her eyes were red-rimmed but resolute. She found you in the garden, tending to the lilies, and sat beside you without a word.

“Hi,” you said softly, not looking up from your work.

“Hi,” she replied, her voice trembling.

For a long moment, neither of you spoke. Then, she said, “It was you, wasn’t it? You’re the reason he ended it.”

You froze, guilt rising in your chest. “Glinda, I—”

“Don’t,” she interrupted, placing a hand on your arm. “Don’t apologize.”

You looked at her, surprised.

“You were right,” she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper. “I knew it was over long before he did. I just didn’t want to face it.”

Her hand lingered on your arm, and you turned to face her fully. “You deserve better,” you said, your voice breaking. “Someone who sees you for the incredible person you are and doesn’t let you go.”

Her eyes searched yours, and for the first time in weeks, you saw a glimmer of hope. “Do you mean that?”

“Every word,” you whispered.

The kiss came softly, hesitantly, as though testing the waters. But when she leaned into you, her hand curling around the back of your neck, it felt like the beginning of something new—something real.

For the first time in a long time, Glinda’s smile reached her eyes.

And this time, it was for you.

[starkeygirlposts]

Goosebumps in my Sleeve II

Welcome back for part 2! I hope you enjoy! Please read the excerpt at the end! Summary: You've been dating Rafe Cameron for 3 years, and one day Ward and your mom tell you they're getting married. Pairings: Rafe Cameron x fem!reader Trigger warnings: forced pregnancy, stepcest, drugs, pregnancy, noncon, swearing, p in v sex, fingering, unprotected sex, creampie, domestic violence, idk what else lol 18+ mdni water dividers by @plum98 heart dividers by @bunnysrph PREVIOUS PART

Your hands are trembling as you quietly tell him “I don’t trust you, Rafe."

You can’t meet his eyes, so the two of you are silent for a while, feeling his footsteps approach you before seeing him before you. You feel his fingertips graze your chin as he grips it in his thumb and tilts your head up.

His brow is furrowed, his head cocked to the side with one eye squinting in confusion when he repeats what you’d just told him. “You don’t trust me?” You wonder how it’s so hard for him to believe.

You laugh humorless, “Why would I trust you?! What have you shown to me in the last year that warrants my trust? You can hurt me, ignore me, treat me like shit, but you will not do the same to a baby.” You’re seething, eyes burning holes into his now, fire deep in your belly at the thought of him abandoning his child like he did you. A child who you knew would seek his approval their entire life, just like Rafe does with Ward. The idea makes you sick.

You’ve let him do as he pleased for a year. Allowed your “relationship” or lack there of to abide by his rules, allowed him into your bed and your heart without any recourse. You were done now. This changed everything.

Before he could open his mouth to speak, you sneer, “Big, bad Rafe Cameron who’s so afraid of his daddy, he lets his words scare him into ghosting his girlfriend. Why the fuck would I trust you? I don’t believe that ‘you’ll make this okay’, when you left me to pick up the pieces that night without even bothering to try and fight for us!" The corners of your mouth are upturned in disgust as you finally make eye contact with him, embarrassment and shame at the forefront of your mind as you imagine yourself on all the nights you’ve laid on your bed and allowed him to use your body to the point that his seed stuck inside of you to create another human being. Another Rafe. It didn't even make sense…you were on top of your pills, took them at the same time every day. You’re shaking now, teeth bared and eyes glossy, anger bubbling from your middle up to your mouth. You take his silence as encouragement to continue.

“You’re a coward.” You finally tell him, jerking your chin out of his grasp before slapping his hand away, all the while holding his line of sight. “You’re weak and you’re pathetic. You’re a poor excuse for a man and if you think I can trust you after all of this, you’re wrong.” You finally say, rising and stepping around him and heading toward the door to hold it open so he can kindly get the fuck out.

But just as you gain a foot in front of him, you feel his hand grip the back of your neck, hurling you around to face him as he tilts your head up to hover his lips over yours.

He finally opens his mouth to murmur. “You done?” You shove at his chest, but he doesn’t budge, chest now leaning into yours, not letting up on his grip on you. His eyes bore into yours and you swear you see a smirk across his mouth. “I’m looking past this little tantrum you’re having right now because I’m still not even sure I’m not hallucinating right now, but don’t think I won’t remember this shit.” He tells you and now you know you see a smirk on his face. His eyes soften cunningly when he says “You don’t think I’m weak when I’m balls deep inside your cunt, or down your throat.” His finger traces down your chin down to the hollow of your throat before you swat it away.

"Was I not enough? Only now that I’ve got this…thing growing inside of me, you suddenly care? Now you’re going to be big brother of the year, huh? Now you’re gonna step it up and make it all okay!” You snort, "You get high instead of dealing with your problems…is standing up to daddy too scary? Afraid he’ll cut you off? Was that so much worse than losing me?” You’re spitting your words, the back of your neck still in a vice grip as he runs his nose down your cheek, inhaling as his skin sweeps over yours. It’s intimate, more intimate than he is with you when he slides inside you. You think he’s trying to break you, intimidate you even. You feel his hot breath next to your ear as he takes the lobe into his mouth, gently sucking before whispering,

"It’s not my fault your mom’s a whore who couldn’t stand on her own two feet for more than five minutes.” He slurs at you and you almost laugh at his poor attempt at hurting you with words.

You shove your entire body against him and this time he does stumble back. You watch him as his hair flops in his eyes, glazed from the drugs and alcohol as he wipes the corner of his mouth with his thumb and smiles at you like he’s amused. “Screw you. You think I don’t hate my fucking mother for this? Maybe I should ask you to kill her for me just like you killed someone for him. I wonder if I’m important enough, though.” You scoff and mutter under your breath, “And I’m supposed to "trust" you to take care of me when it’s only going against what daddy wants?” You look up and meet his gaze, him watching you and you wonder if that did it.

It’s you not believing in him to protect you that sets him off.

"Would you rather have been shipped off to California? I made a choice, baby. Fucking in secret wasn’t as bad as not fucking at all.” Your nose wrinkles at his grotesque depiction of your union. He’s approaching you now, and you allow his hand to come up and cup the side of your face. You can’t help but soften when he touches you this way. He looks into your eyes and even though his pupils are blown black, you still see the lonely boy you love there. “You really think no one knows? When you’re moaning my name and my hand is between your legs instead over your mouth, you really think no one hears you? Wake up silly girl,” he taps your temple with two fingers before you wince at his insensitive words. "They know, sweetheart. They just don’t care enough about you to let it change anything.”

You're silent, teeth gnawing at the inside of your cheeks as you process what he says. Your eyes well up with tears as you stare back at him wordlessly. You have nothing left to say. What do you say to that? You’ve fought your fight here. But as always, he knows just how to plunge the knife where it hurts deepest. He watches you almost in wonder, waiting for your rebuttal before you blink and the tears drip down your cheeks in streams. Your lids stay closed and you can’t help the sobs that escape your mouth as you start to cry.

It wasn’t always this way, or so you think. You think your mom must have put your wants and needs, even your happiness above hers at one point. But after your dad, did it all change then? Or was it really always this way and you were you too blind to see it? Too good of a daughter to think the person you loved most in this world didn’t love you just as much in return. His words have you shuffling through your memories like a file cabinet to wonder and question everything in your life.

“No no no no no no,” He starts stuttering, blubbering even before pulling you to his chest, the back of your head cradled in his palm as the monster who maims you also reels you in for consolation. You can’t help the crying mess you’ve become now, and maybe hormones are to blame but it isn’t where your mind is going right now. “Shit, shiiiiit, I - fuck - it was too far. I know it was too far. But you know I’m the one who cares about you here baby. You know that don’t you?" He rambles, arm wrapping around your middle and rocking you back and forth. “Come on, don’t cry. I’m - I’m sorry, okay? Just don’t cry. Shit, I’m fucking sorry baby I didn’t mean - ” He’s begging but he doesn’t take back his words - how could he when everything he said is nothing but true? You cut him off by whispering to him to "please shut up".

You sniffle, using his sleeve to stop your nose from dripping, breathing in the scent of his deodorant and laundry detergent. Your hand comes up to cup over his bicep, and you mumble against his sleeve, “Show me you’re the one who cares.” So he pulls his head to you from the side of your temple, craning his neck to look down at you, your eyes blinking softly and he’s so fucking sorry for making you cry, especially now that you’ve got his kid inside you, so he loosens and kisses away the tears on cheeks before kissing your lips and telling you again that he’s going to make it okay.

His hands come up to cradle the crook of where your jaw meets your ears, his thumbs pressing massagingly there, causing your knees to buckle but he keeps you upright, one hand snaking down to sneak under your shirt and upwards until the flat of his palm rests over your warm tit, your skin on fire while his thumb and side of his pointer finger grips your nipple just tight enough to make you whimper and you’re sure you’re going to cry again, but not because you feel sad. No, right now you feel electrified, on fire with desire for the only person who truly knows you inside and out.

“Please touch me, Rafe.” You mewl and he breaks his lips from yours to chuckle, telling you “I’am touching you, pretty girl.” As his entire hand cups your boob, pulling you closer to him. His mouth resumes against yours, his tongue slotting in between your lips to caress yours, swallowing all of your whines and humming against you.

Your hands come to rest on his forearms, squeezing enough so you hope he understands that you need more.

“Touch me.” You mumble again, grabbing his hand from under your shirt. He groans into your mouth, pulling away and looking down to watch you as you guide his hand lower, past your belly button and down to the elastic band of your night shorts. His thumb teases against the fabric as he looks back up to your eyes, and he looks like a child who’s just been given the toy that's been on his wish list. His feet shuffle him closer to you as he grinds his hips against you, and you can feel the hardness of him against your belly, his eyes never leaving yours.

“You’re such a slut for my cock aren’t you baby? Should’ve known you couldn’t stay away from me. They’re so fucking stupid.” He chuckles to himself and you roll your eyes, bucking your hips up and into him, hoping he’ll take the bait. He does, his hand slipping into your shorts and panties, his index finger sweeping through your folds and you shudder. Goosebumps prick at your skin, your eyes closing and you whimper his name. The cold metal of his ring kisses your clit and you cry out, your hands fisting into his shirt and clutching him closer to you. You tilt your head up to his, his eyes scanning your face hoping to memorize you like this.

He can’t help the swell in his chest as he looks at you in adoration. The way your brows furrow in frustration at not being able to cry out louder at the pleasure he’s bringing you. The way your mouth hangs open to let quiet whines and mewls escape, chasing your release. The way you stare back at him with a glaze over your pupils, so cock hungry and needy. How is it possible that he’s procreated with someone so fucking perfect?

“Hope our baby looks just like you. Can’t be hard to share the love I have for you with a kid who looks just like their momma.” Your eyes open and look into his, your mouth parting in a moan when you weakly tell him to stop it.

“Why? S’true. Kid’ll be cursed if it comes out looking like me.” He mumbles. You keep watching his eyes as he uses his pointer and ring finger to spread you and slide his middle finger into your heat. You can’t help the gasp and whine that exits your mouth and you bite your lip to stifle your sigh.

“Mmm, Rafe…baby would be so lucky to look like you. Stop punishing y - your - self.” He’s stealing breath from you as he picks up the pace, adding his pointer finger now and circling your clit with his thumb. His pressure is firm as he coaxes your orgasm from you and your mouth hangs open with his name and cry spilling from you as he watches with his own mouth hung open as if he’s coaxing the sounds you're making before he brings his lips back to yours to swallow your voice.

You tremble in his arms as he picks you up easily, palms cupping both ass cheeks as he walks you to the bed and rests you down, using his knees to straddle over you. He mumbles against your lips something about why your clothes are still on and you don’t bother responding, your hands clumsily helping his to tug your shorts and panties down your legs and off your feet, his hands pushing your top up all the way over your chest and tugs it off your head and throws it to the mounting pile on the floor. His hands find their way to the backs of your thighs, spreading you out before him, knees bent back to the sides of your chest as he licks a stripe down between the valley of your breasts, over your belly button and down between your folds where he sucks your clit into his mouth and you see stars. Your vision is suddenly glittery and you grip his wrist, sitting up on both elbows as you look down at him. Your other hand comes to grip a handful of hair at the top of his head, your nails tracing his bangs back before gripping tightly. He groans in pain but sucks you anyway and the sensation is too much. You start whining, louder than you mean to and he taps your thigh to get you to snap back, to which you do and you mumble a ‘sorry’. Your clit pops from his mouth as he draws his face back before sliding 2 fingers back inside you, his eyes flicking to yours briefly before putting his mouth back on you. His tongue ravishes your cunt, flicking and nibbling and sucking and before you know what’s happening you feel like you’re peeing and his mouth is off of you, your head snapping back up to look down at him and he’s just watching you spray him with cum. He slowly drags his eyes over you and up to yours before sliding his fingers out of you and tearing his pants open and pulling his cock out. He’s inside you before you even know what’s happening, his hands on the backs of your knees and he’s telling you how good of a girl you are.

“Holy fuck, baby, just fucking squirted for me…you have any idea how lucky I am? My girl made a mess all over me. So fucking hot baby.” He’s rambling while dragging his cock in and out of you, the squelching sound of your pussy making you wince in embarrassment. He lowers his face down to yours and asks you if you can hear how well you’re taking him.

“Hear yourself baby? Pussy���s taking me so well. Making such pretty noises f’me.” His lips are hovering over yours, brows furrowed in determination as he fucks you ruthlessly. You can feel the tip of his cock kissing your cervix over and over and it’s entirely too much and you tell him he’s too deep.

“Y’too deep, Rafe. Feel you in my belly.” You whine and he chuckles, without humor, lowering his lips to yours. His breath is hot on your mouth and you open your eyes to find him watching you.

“You feel me in there sweet girl?” His hand comes over to put pressure on the exact spot the tip of his cock keeps touching and you swear you’re going to pass out.

“Oh my godddd” You whisper, voice pitched high and quiet, gritting through your teeth.

His other hand leaves your knee to grip your jaw in his hand, your lips puckering like a fish. His eyes bore holes into yours when he says "If I didn’t already know you were cookin’ a baby in here, I’d fuck you until you were pregnant.”

You grit your teeth tighter, clenching your molars as he fucks you fast and deep, the wet sounds of his balls slapping your ass becoming more and more frequent before he tells you “I fucking love you baby, making me a daddy. So fucking proud of you.” You whimper in reply as you gush around him, fluid spilling from you and coating his dick before he stills buried all the way inside you, slotted against that high spot of your cervix and his cum shoots hot spurts inside your walls.

“Think s’a good thing you’re already knocked up.” He says against your lips, cupping your cheek and then resting his temple against yours, peppering your neck with sloppy kisses.

The next morning you wake up, Rafe is still next to you. You feel his arm around you, tracing gentle circles between your shoulder blades as you let your eyes adjust to the daylight. You don’t immediately react, but as you come to, your eyes widen and you withdraw from him and out of bed. He’s awake, looking at you and you stare at him incredulously.

“What the fuck Rafe? What if someone came in here?” You whisper yell, scouring the ground for your clothes.

He stays quiet, all the while watching you move around your room nervously until you still your movements, still naked and you look back at him. He’s naked too, which he wasn’t fully when you were fucking, so you know he must have stayed awake longer than you last night and knowingly shed himself of clothing before climbing into bed with you to stay.

“What are you still doing here?” You ask, picking up your pajamas from the floor and putting them back on.

“You’re really fucking pregnant.” He says and you can't help but snort, irritated at his presence if you're honest and even more irritated with his idiocy.

“Did you think I was kidding? Do you even remember last night?” You ask, huffing as you pull your shirt over your head. Only then does he sit up and pull the covers off to sit on the edge of the bed. “C’mere.” He says, holding his arms out for you. You roll your eyes and begrudgingly obey, standing between his spread legs. You’re thankful his boxers are still on. The chivalry.

His hands wrap around the backs of your thighs, squeezing gently before allowing them to wrap around the front of your legs and skate up to your middle. He drags the satin of your pajama shirt up with his hands as they rake up your stomach and when it’s fully exposed, he just watches you. His eyes are trained on your flat stomach and you teeter on the balls of your feet, huffing in annoyance as his eyes flash to yours quickly before returning to your belly. He leans forward, turning his head to press his cheek to your skin as his hands wrap around your back to drag you closer to him. He hugs you like this, face pressed to your stomach and you can’t help but sigh and bring your own hands up to cradle his head to you. You stay like that for what feels like eternity before you feel his breath on your skin.

“Nothing I can say is going to change any of this. You were right I was afraid of my dad. I probably always will be afraid of him. But I’m more afraid of becoming him. I am weak, I am a coward…but I want to be better. I’m so sorry for ever letting you go.” His voice is quiet, but you can hear him perfectly and when you hear the wet sniffle, your hands clutch his head tighter, fingers running soothingly through his hair. “Promise I’m gonna be a good dad.” Your hands drag his head to tilt up and look at you so you can tell him “I know.” leaning down to kiss the top of his head.

“Swear baby, I’m gonna find a way for us to get out of here. Gonna make you my wife. Gonna buy you a house, gonna be better.” He sniffles and you smile and nod, knowing hoping he would make good on his word this time.

——

THREE MONTHS LATER

You hear thumping coming from underneath your feet as you sip on the tea you just brewed. All is quiet tonight, Ward and your mom having gone to bed an hour ago and Wheezie in her room probably drawing x’s and o’s all over her J-14 magazines. You’d also tucked in for the night but when the turning in your stomach started to bubble into acid reflux, you knew that the ginger tea your doctor had recommended would help.

“Not letting you out until you calm down, okay?” He says calmly but loud enough for you to hear, and your feet follow his voice to the spiral staircase that leads down to the wine cellar. You hesitate there before hearing Sarah's voice, muffled but shout “Screw you!” Your feet carry you down the first few steps, trying to be quiet and not spill your overflowing cup of tea. The back of his head is what you see first, his north face jacket hugging his torso as he says “I’m trying to be civil here, and you’re freaking out right now - “ His head whips around to you just as your feet touch the bottom, and your eyes are blown wide as you search his for an explanation.

“Who - who’s in there?” You timidly say, setting the cup of tea down on the closest end table. You already know the answer to your question, but you want him to answer anyway. “It’s Sarah” he tells you, stepping closer to you before you blink wildly “Sarah - why is Sarah in there? Is she locked in there? Why is she locked in there?” You stutter, trying to step around him but his hands come up to grip your upper arms, chasing your face with his until you meet his eyes. “Hey, hey, hey baby she’s locked in there because sometimes you have to make the hard choice. I got the cross. I got it for us and - and s - sh - she knows.” He finally tells you all of it and you get it. “You got it?” You whisper, dismayed. You’re not sure if you’re elated, mortified, or both. You go with the latter. You know how volatile Rafe is when he wants something. You start to wonder how he acquired it after all of this time and back and forth, and you are absolutely terrified of the answer.

NEXT PART

CHAPTER 2 DOWN! Have half of chapter 3 written. Thinking this will be longer than I originally thought! Not complaining! Please interact! I will NOT add you to the tag list if you are only commenting to add to the list.

Please repost, and leave a comment so I know you like the story!

Is everyone happy with the direction this story is heading in? My request box is open! I am willing to put anything into the story!

See y’all soon!

TAGLIST:

@kiiyomei @carrerascameron @mariaenchanted @slumnit @lillell467 @ijustwanttoreadlols @droppedyourhnd @maybankslover @a-library-ofmy-own @sublimepenguinpeach-blog @namelesslosers @ILOVETOSLAYSLAYSLAY

[webbluvrsugar]

through and through. S.R fanfiction. CHAPTER ONE.

➠ fanfic masterlist ৎ୭

content warning: angst, lowkey mean Spencer, female reader, no use of y/n.

You knew that no matter how much Hotch begged for your help on a case, coming back was a mistake.

You figured it out when you’ve just walked into the BAU and Spencer’s eyes met yours, a flick of disappointment and hurt was pretty evident in the brunette’s eyes and honestly, you wanted to quit that mission right there, you wanted to leave and tell Hotch that you wouldn’t be able to do it — but that would’ve made you even more of a coward than you already are.

You didn’t need any introductions to team, they already knew who you were, the point was.. why were you here? That’s what Spencer asked himself. Were you here to work on a case, would you be gone after? Were you here to you with his heart just to leave to another state entirely? Again?

Whatever it was, he didn’t want to know, in fact, he didn’t want anything to do with you from the moment you walked in that room, he even gave up on his usual cup of coffee because you two were not about to have this conversation, you were not just going to come back here after all those months with no contact and then act like nothing happened, that was not happening because it did, something did happen and he suddenly feels like a fool for leaving all those voicemails when you came to the BAU with just a phone call from Hotch.

Turns out you didn’t change your number like he thought.

It’s clear why Hotch wanted you back on the team, you’ve always been a great addition to it and, with a harder case in hands, he should’ve expected it. He just didn’t think that you returning back would affect him so much, he can’t think, he can’t do his own job as profiler correctly because all he can think about is you — and maybe that is exactly why you two should’ve never gotten with each other, you’d end up hurting yourself or the team. Foolish as it seems, he still hoped it was different.

And now, as you investigate the house of another missing girl, he’s trying hard to avoid you, but you don’t make it easier for him.

You approach him slowly at first, pretending to look for clues, that is until, you actually talk to him. “Spencer, I —“ you try to speak, instead of running away this time, he interrupts you.

“You found a new lead?” He asks, you shake your head.

“No I just wanted to..”

“Then we don’t need to talk at all.” He tries not to come off as rude, but he does.

You should stay quiet and accept it that he doesn’t want to talk now and won’t want to talk soon but that voice in your head… “Spencer, I’m trying to explain, I want to apologise to you.”

You could’ve sworn he saw red from the harshness he closed the girl’s drawer. “I don’t want any apologies from you, this is not the time nor the place for you to start amends with people you lost — a little girl is missing and we need to focus on that.” He scrolls through the bottom drawers now. “And don’t talk to me about what you wish you had done because it’s not what you did.”

To an extent, his words are fair, but the fairness of them still doesn’t help to ease the pain you felt when he spoke like that to you, because it’s not the Spencer you know. It’s the Spencer you’ve seen talking to an unsub — because that’s what you feel like, he’s talking and treating you like you’re some kind of perp and.. that’s not the Spencer you know, it will always be the Spencer you love but not the one you know.

And it hurts to see that he doesn’t even want to look and you when you leave the girl’s house and meet back with team.

Sure, you have a new lead now but.. you’re forced to deal with a broken heart.

You wonder if this is what he felt when you left.

[zoolitsky-fandom]

MORE HEADCANONS BECAUSE I’M ALL POWERFUL

Please don’t get upset if you disagree with any of these!! This is just how I see the characters ^^ More context about the headcanons under the cut!

Nami

Transfem lesbian!!

Basically married to Vivi (who isn’t pictured but she gives me demigirl bisexual energy with a preference to girls)

CHUBBY BECAUSE I SAY SO!!!!! 🧡🧡🧡

And she’s still beautiful and wonderful and Sanji still simps for her. Chubby people are gorgeous

She’s technically pale but tanned a bit from being outside so much

Aaand bandaid because she’s literally just a normal girl and is susceptible to minor injuries unlike the other weird built different ppl on the crew (aside from Usopp)

sPEAKING OF USOPP!!! She’s absolute besties with him like they talk about everything and anything and gossip and all that jazz. They’re so special to me.

I’m not sure if bipolar fits entirely, but there’s definitely something with her mood swings and the intensity of her emotions. If this is insensitive at all please inform me

Chopper

Agender aroace reindeer fella??? SiGN ME UP

Both male and female reindeers have antlers so I used that to my advantage because gender silly

I think Chopper uses they/he/it, but slightly prefers to be referred to by their name rather than pronouns

Chopper has attachment issues, but I couldn’t find anything other than avoidant attachment disorder (which doesn’t seem entirely fitting). But it definitely gets very attached to others when it trusts them and has a hard time moving on.

Also I just like to draw Chopper more reindeer-like than Chopper’s canon design but aside from that I don’t really make too many design changes? Just… floofy Chopper… 🩷🩷🩷

Usopp

Panromantic asexual!!

Down bad for Sanji (he has terrible taste /j)

I had a revelation after drawing this so Usopp isn’t actually cis lol- they’re a demiboy but in a genderfluid kind of way, some days he feels more masculine and other days they feel more androgynous

I have very mixed feelings about the hair highlights,, I lowkey might not keep them but it was an experiment

FRECKLES!!! USOPP HAS FRECKLES PASS IT ON PASS IT ON!!!! 💛💛💛 Bandaid like Nami because!! They’re literally just a normal teenager!!!

Usopp has anxiety and borderline personality disorder because the feelings of superiority and inferiority? The constant fear? Being immune to Perona’s ghosts from dealing with mental illness their entire life???

Luffy

Asexual grayromantic

If he had a partner it would be gay regardless of his own gender expression (I’m projecting because I feel gay when I’m attracted to anyone)

Genderfluid, some days they prefer different pronouns but most of the time they use all at once (also is this ironic bc Luffy can’t swim but is swimming in fluid pronouns)

King of the pronouns!!! King of the genders!!! Will steal your pronouns and gender!!! Watch out!!!

I gave her vitiligo on a whim to be 100% honest, but I feel like it’s very fitting and also very fun to draw ❤️❤️❤️

I only did a headshot here because I have another post with a bunch of other drawings of this Luffy

I feel like I don’t need to explain but Luffy is very very AuDHD to me

He has so much energy and is easily distracted and gets really focused on things and likes to talk about anything and everything

Sanji

Bisexual-est guy on the planet (loves all boobs /hj)

Down bad for Usopp (they have great taste)

Demiboy but in an interchangeable kinda bigender way, he’s just both enby and male at the same time

Darker roots!! Sanji’s body hair is always notably darker than his blonde hair so I decided on darker roots

CURLY/WAVY FLUFFY HAIR SANJI SUPREMACY 💙💙💙

Depression—WHICH THEY ALL OBVIOUSLY HAVE BUT

Depression in the sense it’s the reason he smokes. It’s a kind of coping mechanism.

It makes them dazed enough that they don’t have to fully feel their own despair

GIVE HIM HEALTH PROBLEMS ODA YOU COWARD. I KNOW HE’S UNREASONABLY BUILT DIFFERENT BUT LIKE

Imagine Sanji wheezing and struggling to breathe after a fight!! Emotional scene with Chopper trying to convince them to stop smoking!!

Robin

Pansexual

Married to Franky 💜💜💜

Intersex demigirl! Like- the whole being called a monster/demon her whole life and trying to find someone who accepts her is such a good (unintentional) metaphor for the gender discovery experience,,

GIVE ROBIN THEIR MELANIN BACK!!! I don’t care if it wasn’t their original colors… neither were the blue eyes but I’m giving both to them because they deserve it!!

I wanted to give Robin more of a curly hair texture but I was concerned it would start to not really resemble her. I might play around with it another time though and see if I can achieve something still recognizable

PTSD

Do I even have to explain that-

They are traumatized and get flashbacks and night terrors

Franky

Bisexual

Married to Robin 🩵🩵🩵

TRANSMASC. I AM THE BIGGEST BELIEVER OF TRANS FRANKY.

He was abandoned by his birth parents, he has a name he doesn’t use anymore, calls everyone bro regardless of gender, HE LITERALLY REBUILT HIS ENTIRE BODY-

Even though Franky’s a cyborg I gave him visible top surgery scars. I think he would show them off with pride and doesn’t necessarily need/want to be seen as a cis man. He’s just a man who once had boobs yk?

The underside of his hair is an even brighter blue because silly!!

ADHD—he hyperfixates like a madman and is also very loud and passionate. Also idk if this is an actual ADHD thing but like he’s super empathetic and cries easily? I’m like that too so idk lol

Zoro

Demihomoromantic asexual

Hopelessly, dare I say pathetically, in love with Luffy. I want to clarify that this doesn’t make Zoro less gay and this doesn’t make Luffy less genderfluid.

Also as much as I adore trans Zoro, I think the fact that he’s a cisgender feminist is important. So I headcanon him as cis.

FLUFFY HAIR ZORO FLUFFY HAIR ZORO FLUFFY HAIR ZORO 💚💚💚

I can’t decide whether or not I like the striped hair,, I’m still on the fence about it lol

Covered in scars because he’s done so much training and fighting, I know they kind of look like something else but they aren’t, don’t worry

Idk why but I always give him a dark green undershirt

Autistic!! He has a narrow range of emotions, makes nonverbal grunts, super into swords, he’s blunt, follows routine, etc.

Aaaand that’s all of them! Phew! Thank you so much for reading 💖

Reblogs, asks, and comments are super appreciated!!

[teshadraws]

Pokemon Mystery Dungeon: Seekers of Soul

[Chapter 65]

<< First | < Previous | Next >

AO3 Link

-

Team Scarlet joins Team Shellshock for their latest mission, and Nia picks up a few new skills.

-

(Quick reminder of all the members on Team Shellshock!)

_____________________________________________________________

Just as planned, Team Scarlet meets up with Team Shellshock in the psychics’ quarters at dawn.

Nia yawns and shuffles closer to Xander’s warmth as Tobias and Avery set up their teleportation coordinates with the abra behind the counter, who is accompanied today by a little green jelly Pokemon. A solosis, Nia thinks through hazy, sleepy thoughts.

The abra seems to be sick, speaking with a throaty voice and sniffling every few seconds. Nia makes sure to keep her distance, not wanting a repeat of her illness from before. Still, she feels a bit bad for them—their narrow eyes are drooping with fatigue, and the solosis keeps shooting them concerned looks. August surely lets sick Pokemon take days off to recover, so the abra probably insisted on coming in to work.

Well, not much Nia can do, unfortunately. She knows firsthand how stubborn some people can be about their health.

Samir is standing close to Nia’s other side, shifting restlessly on their hooves. Kry and Felix are joking about something across the room, far too awake for the early hour.

Finally, everything seems to be worked out for today’s joint mission. Tobias stands on Nia’s other side, a welcome wave of heat in the morning air, and Avery steps into place by Xander, a hair closer than they strictly need to be.

Once everyone is brushing up against each other, physical contact made, the abra and solosis hem the group in on either side. The solosis glows a faint yellow as they start to use their psychic powers, but the abra seems to be struggling, purple energy flickering in and out of existence around them as sweat beads on their forehead.

Nia exchanges a worried look with Avery.

Avery shifts. “Minerva, are you—”

Before they can finish speaking, Nia feels it. The tingle running through her fur. Then, all at once, her vision is a flash of light and her stomach flips as a feeling of weightlessness overtakes her and—

She lands on cold, dewy grass and stumbles with nausea. Oh, she’s gonna barf.

Nia takes a deep breath and keeps a firm grip on Tobias’ arm as she regains her bearings.

“’S wrong with her?” She hears Kry ask.

“She’s a fighting type,” Avery says. The kirlia moves closer to rub Nia’s back. “That doesn’t mesh well with psychic energy. Especially since Minerva is sick and couldn’t make the transport as smooth as usual.”

Nia squints open her eyes as her stomach starts to settle. Ugh. She’s never going to get used to teleportation.

Still, it is useful. Looks like they’re already almost to the dungeon, if the forest around them is any indication. They’re in the thick of it, lush greens and muddy browns interrupted only by streaks of white frost and the occasional glimpse of gray stone. Overhead, a cloudy sky is visible through half-bare branches. Looks like it’s going to rain later today.

Nia shivers as a gust of wind blows by.

“I’m okay,” Nia assures. “Thanks.”

Tobias nods as she releases him. A moment later, Avery steps back to give her some space.

“It looks like they still got us to the right place,” Tobias says, looking around. “So which way to the dungeon? You think the victreebel outlaw is hiding in there, right?”

Xander nods. “Right. I don’t see any other reason for him to be hanging around this area so consistently. Chances are he’s evading capture in one of the deeper levels.”

“Coward,” Kry snorts, cracking her knuckles. She looks to Avery. “Which way, Ave?”

Avery hums, closing their eyes. Nia feels a gentle ripple of psychic energy pass over her, much less nauseating than the teleportation. Is the kirlia using some kind of ability to track the outlaw? Or are they just sensing the dungeon itself? Nia knows psychic types are the ones most sensitive to shifts in energy like that.

Nia doesn’t want to interrupt to ask, and Avery starts walking with their usual grace as soon as they open their eyes, despite the tricky roots and foliage underfoot. “This way. It’s not far.”

Kry and Xander follow instantly, while Felix falls back, looking at Samir.

“Wanna start your first lesson?” The wartortle asks, arms crossed behind his head.

Nia blinks. “You know the whistle language too?”

“The important stuff, yeah! We all do. Watch this. Hey, Kry!” Felix whistles a short trio of notes in a distinct pattern, ending with a click.

Kry cackles. “Back at ya, buddy. Remind me to kick your tail extra hard later.”

“What did you say?” Nia asks.

 “Something unfit for innocent ears.” Farther ahead, Tobias snorts. “I see you only retained the most important information.”

“Of course! It’s extra fun to curse out enemies when they can’t understand you.”

Nia giggles. Samir looks uncertainly between them, as if unsure of whether they’re allowed to be so lighthearted while on a mission.

Luckily, the skiddo loosens up as Avery leads the group through the cool, damp forest and Felix teaches them some actually useful phrases. The wartortle starts with a refresher over the basics that Nia discovered with Samir and Junie the night before, and she finds that it helps to be able to practice with someone more experienced out loud.

Still, the language is tricky. With so few “notes” to work with, it’s easy to mix up the phrases as they get more numerous and complex. For example, two quick, sharp whistles signifies to be on guard, or that something needs attention. Two whistles with a longer pause in the middle is more of a check-in on your party. Yes is an easy enough answer to that question if all is well, but the more detailed responses only add more complexity. “Injured” is a high-to-low No with a click of the tongue at the end. “Stuck” is a click, a sharp whistle, and another click, as if the sound itself is trapped between the two noises. And so on.

It's fascinating, and Felix is a surprisingly good teacher, patient and clear as he bookends Samir and Nia’s mess-ups with his usual levity, but it’s still a lot to take in, especially as they cross into the border of the mystery dungeon proper.

Nia shudders as the now-familiar charge enters the air, prickly and unnerving. In what seems like a blink, the “walls” of the dungeon crowd in around them. What was frosty but open forest is suddenly close walls of towering roots and stone, slick with frozen condensation. Trees tower high overhead, dark and clawlike against the bright white of the sky. As always, it all feel mildly claustrophobic, their group corralled into a narrow hallway that stretches on in front of them before branching off.

Felix seems to take their entrance as his cue, because he falls back to cover the rear of the group without hesitation. Xander takes the lead of their combined party, the luxio’s relaxed posture tensing into something more alert. Kry lurks close behind him, prowling like she’s ready to attack at any moment. Avery slows down to join Nia, Tobias, and Samir in the middle.

“This is our usual formation,” the kirlia explains. “But until we find out where everyone works best, feel free to claim a space anywhere.”

Nia, who is usually comfortable just following Tobias through dungeons and making sure any charges are sandwiched safely between them, exchanges a hesitant look with Samir. Tobias, unsurprisingly, moves past them to take the spot right behind Kry, probably itching to prove himself. After a moment, Samir hesitantly follows, settling behind Tobias and in front of Avery.

Nia decides to take the place behind Avery, joining Felix in the back of the group. The wartortle gives her a bright grin and a friendly twitch of his fluffy ears.

And then they tackle the dungeon in earnest.

The group has to pause periodically to handle the ferals that start to appear. While Xander’s team works together fluidly, clearly old pros, it’s an adjustment for Nia to traverse a mystery dungeon with not only one new teammate, but another team entirely. With the rescue mission involving the crew of the Aqua Jet, Nia and Tobias had handled most of the fighting, with little interference aside from Cordelia and Beck’s protective outbursts.

Here, everyone is a battler. Xander and Kry clear the way easily when a tangela and gloom attack, Kry grabbing the tangela by the vine and slamming it into the stone and root walls of the hallway. Xander uses a flash of dazzling electricity to stun the gloom before knocking it aside with a heavy paw. Tobias leaps forward to finish it with an ember attack, and Xander gives the charmander a nod of thanks for the support.

When a tan and black-striped crocodile tries to sneak up from behind, Felix blasts it with a powerful jet of water so it goes tumbling out of sight down the hall. Nia, who hadn’t been listening for sneak-attacks at all until that point, makes a mental note to keep her ears as vigilant as her eyes.

When they cross an open room from one hall to another, the ground covered with frosty grass and housing a single tall, near-leafless tree, it’s up to Nia, Samir, and Avery in the middle of the group to fend off a sandslash and little grassy chipmunk. Nia vaguely remembers Samir’s strategy in their fight against the steelix, and makes sure to give the goat plenty of space as they go for the sandslash with a volley of razor leaves.

Nia instead takes on the chipmunk, dodging its sharp teeth and white eyes and giving it a kick square to the chest to send it stumbling backwards. Avery takes that opportunity to encircle it with a glow of indigo energy, then sends it flying into the wall. There, it slides to the ground, unconscious.

Samir is busy fending off the sandslash’s dagger-like claws with careful parries of their horns, so Nia jumps into that fight with a blast of aura to send the sandslash staggering and give the skiddo some breathing room. Samir doesn’t hesitate to send another barrage of leaves at the sandslash, and the spiky creature staggers back before falling unconscious.

“Yes!” Nia turns to Samir with a hand raised for a high-five, before faltering. Oh. Right.

Samir looks at her, bewildered, but hesitantly taps her palm with a horn. Nia laughs.

The first floor of the dungeon is surprisingly painless, but their two teams do start to trip over each other once they get deeper into the dungeon. Nia gets nicked by Felix’s water gun when she jumps into battle expecting Tobias to be at her side, and she has to take a few minutes to assure Felix—who is rambling apologies and near tears—that she’s really all right.

Tobias and Kry both go for an opponent with their usual brand of aggression, and crash into each other when the feral dodges unexpectedly. While the two of them snarl insults at each other, Samir jumps in to help and nearly slices Xander to ribbons with their razor leaf attack.

Avery is the only one who manages to weave around everyone without issue, so they take out the feral with a quick flash of fairy energy.

After that mess of a battle, Xander stops to analyze their party with sharp golden eyes.

“All right, clearly it’s time to re-order. Kry, join Felix at the tail of the group. Tobias, Samir, you two take point in front of me. Nia, you and Avery hold down the middle.”

Nia doesn’t know why she’s surprised by the sudden show of authority. Xander is the leader of Team Shellshock, after all. It makes sense that he’d give out commands, and it’s not like he’s saying anything with a tone of arrogance. His voice has the sort of calm confidence to it that says the luxio knows what he’s doing and that he expects his word to be followed. She supposes she’s just used to her and Tobias’ way of working, which tends to be more of a question-and-response conversation.

Samir doesn’t look surprised by Xander’s style of leading, and follows the order without issue.

Tobias, on the other hand, narrows his eyes. “You’re putting me in the lead?”

Xander looks at him sharply, as if irritated that Tobias is being contrary, before registering the open suspicion on the charmander’s face. The luxio takes a deep breath.

“I’d like you to lead because I know you do so for your own team, so I can trust your judgement. And I can tell you’re itching to battle anyways.”

“Why put Samir in second, though?” Nia asks, fully trusting Xander’s knowledge but curious to know the logic behind it.

“Samir has a powerful razor leaf attack at their disposal, but it’s volatile in the middle of a group considering how widespread it is. In this formation, if any leaves do go wide during battle, then Tobias won’t take nearly as much damage from a grass type attack.”

Nia can tell Tobias’ hackles are slowly lowering, but he still asks, “And you or Kry aren’t leading us because..?”

Xander smiles. “Kry isn’t leading because, quite frankly, she will go out of her way to fight everything she sees.”

Kry, who had been passing by Nia on her way to the back of the group, sends a very human and very rude hand gesture over her shoulder. Huh. Nia wonders where she learned that from.

“I’d prefer to stand back,” Xander continues. “Because I want to see how you two fight and act as a team. I’ll be right behind you as backup. Sound good?”

Tobias stares at Xander with a furrowed brow for a moment longer, as if to make sure he isn’t playing a prank, before wordlessly passing by the luxio and skiddo to take point.

Nia isn’t sure if she’s more surprised by Tobias agreeing to the reassignment, or by Kry going along with it. The fraxure clearly isn’t thrilled about getting taken out of the action, but she joins Felix as requested. The wartortle snickers and elbows her as she joins him, and she pushes him back so hard he almost stumbles into the wall.

Xander looks over everyone’s places again, then nods to Tobias. “We’re good.”

Tobias straightens up, nodding in return before leading the group down the next hall.

Xander’s strategizing proves itself as soon as they run into the next few groups of ferals. Tobias doesn’t go out of his way to pick fights, but his usual aggressive combat style works well as the first line of defense. Samir, with only Tobias to watch out for, can clearly focus better and use their leaves more precisely as they fight. When a little green cat does slip through their wall of attacks, Xander doesn’t hesitate to pounce, slamming the smaller cat down to give it a shock and knock it out.

Felix and Kry are clearly used to working together already, and do so effortlessly. When a Pokemon tries to sneak up on the group from behind, Felix knows when to fall back and let Kry lunge forward, and when to step in to help her out, resulting in a near-flawless battle and a fist bump between the two ‘mon by the end of it.

And Nia is delighted to find that she and Avery continue to work well together, too. Nia is the frontal attack, getting in the face of a phanpy who rolls right past the front of their group to avert its momentum with her aura staff, sending it veering into the wall. From there, Avery picks it up with their psychic energy to finish it.

It only takes a few battles for all of them to find an easy synergy, smoothly traversing hall after hall and mowing down ferals in the process.

It’s going so well five floors in that Avery decides to start teaching on the go, apparently unworried about making noise and calling out lessons for Samir’s new language between and sometimes even during battles. When a feral approaches, Avery uses the sharp whistle-whistle code to alert everyone, and at the kirlia’s behest, Samir and Nia echo them. After each fight, they take turns asking for a check-in, and everyone whistles a low-to-high Yes in response.

Well, until Xander answers with a woozy No instead, after a sneak-attack from a dugtrio.

“Dodge would be another useful command,” Avery says, almost guilty, as they kneel to offer an oran berry to their partner. The luxio is fine, if a bit bruised, but his tense frame relaxes as soon as Avery puts a hand on his back.

The rest of them wait while Xander crunches into a few of the small blue berries, Kry and Tobias keeping watch. The mystery dungeon shifts around them like a slow-moving optical illusion, a living, breathing maze of roots and stone and trees, but no ferals jump out.

Nia takes the chance to rest, and sits on a nearby stone. “What’s dodge, then?”

“Oh, I got that one!” Felix says, stretching his sides. He straightens up and whistles once, sharp and loud and low. It almost sounds like the word “move,” if you strain for it.

Samir hesitates, but then tries the word themself. It takes a try or two of them blowing air through their cheeks, but then they get a wobbly version of it down. Nia brightens, giving them a congratulatory clap. Then she tries it herself.

The two of them are still trying to get it nailed down, Felix coaching them by squishing his own cheeks to show how to mold the sound, when Xander gets back to his feet. Everyone turns to look as the luxio shakes out his fur, standing tall once again.

“Sorry for the detour,” he says, smiling with something like embarrassment. “We ready to keep moving? Or do we need a food break?”

“We’re only on floor seven, right?” Tobias asks, frowning. “Do we know how deep this dungeon goes?”

“It’s not very large, actually,” Avery says, getting back to their feet and reorganizing the satchel looped around their delicate shoulders. “Only a few more floors.”

Nia blinks. “Really? This is a C-rank mission though, right?”

“Doesn’t mean the dungeon is C-rank,” Kry says, stretching her arms. “Just means the outlaw we’re hunting is C-rank levels of danger.”

Oh. Nia supposes makes sense. The Pokemon they’ve been fighting haven’t felt much stronger than the Pokemon they usually fight, which she’s been grateful for, but she forgot that they’re here for a specific target.

“I’m good,” Tobias says. He looks first at Nia, then Samir. “You two?”

“Good!” Nia chirps, giving him a thumbs-up. She doesn’t want to actually barf when they reach the outlaw. She can eat when they get back.

Samir nods as well.

Xander smiles. “Good. In that case, let’s keep moving. The outlaw will likely be hiding near the end of the dungeon. Keep your eyes open.”

The others nod. Felix gives Xander a joking salute, and Nia bites back a laugh.

“Tobias, I’m going to take point again, if that works for you.”

Tobias stiffens, distress crossing his face for an instant before he stuffs it away again. “I can handle it.”

“I know you can,” the luxio says, voice calm. “But we’ll need your fire against the outlaw. I’d rather keep you back a bit so you’re at full strength.”

Tobias’ mouth twists, as if he doesn’t believe that that’s the full reason, but he grudgingly nods, falling back behind the luxio.

Nia goes to Tobias’ side as everyone else prepares to get moving again. “Hey. Remember that they’re responsible for us in this dungeon, since they’re the upper-level team. I’m sure he’s not pulling you back because he doesn’t believe in you.”

Tobias shrugs, clearly not buying it. “I guess.”

“Really! You did awesome as leader,” Nia assures, giving him a smile.

Tobias glances at her, and finally the quiet upset on his face fades a bit. He gives her a faint smile in return. “Thanks.”

Nia gives his arm a squeeze, then retreats back to her position in the middle of the group, behind Avery and in front of Kry.

And they continue on.

The remaining floors aren’t much tougher than the previous ones, but the air of the group is notably more quiet and tense as everyone pays closer attention to their surroundings. Nia keeps her ears perked and her eyes moving almost constantly before realizing—

“Um. Hey, Avery?”

“Mhm?”

“Uh. What does a victreebel look like?”

Behind her, Kry barks a laugh. Nia’s ears burn. She can’t believe she forgot to ask this beforehand.

Avery glances over their shoulder with an amused look. “Well, you know he’s a grass type. Otherwise, he’s large, taller than all of us, and shaped a bit like a sitrus berry. Bright yellow, with darker spots and leaves for arms, and his mouth is on the top of his head.”

“On top of his head?” Nia echoes, aghast.

“Yeah, victreebel are weird ones,” Kry says. “They like to bury themselves in the ground to  ambush enemies.”

“Don’t let him grab you with his vine, either,” Felix adds, sounding mildly unnerved. “Seriously. Victreebel have lethal acids in their stomach and while I like to think most ‘mon wouldn’t go that far, he could potentially, uh. Eat you?”

“Eat me?!” Nia shrieks, a little louder than she means to. She stops on the spot to give Felix a horrified look.

“We won’t let him eat you!” Felix assures, hands out.

“If he does, I’ll kick his tail extra hard,” Kry offers with a smirk, as if that helps.

“Thanks,” Nia says weakly, only half-listening. They faced a known murderer in Kaleido’s prison less than a week ago who was much higher than C-rank, but something about the idea of this victreebel outlaw being able to eat Pokemon is so much more alarming.

Nia is suddenly very, very aware that she took it for granted that Pokemon society is basically vegetarian. Every giant, toothy-mawed Pokemon she’s ever met flashes through her mind.

“S-So how do you avoid it ambushing you?” Nia asks, voice hushed in the tense air. “If it likes to hide itself?”

“You stay vigilant,” Xander answers from the front of the pack, one of his large ears swiveled backwards to listen. “Which is easier with seven pairs of eyes, rather than four. You’ll be fine, Nia. We won’t let anything happen to you.”

Nia swallows down shame for needing to be babied, but nods, relieved all the same.

“Just put those big ears and nose to use,” Kry adds.

Nia blinks, glancing over her shoulder. “My nose?”

Kry tears her eyes away from their surroundings to give Nia an unimpressed look. “You’re a riolu. You don’t use your nose?”

“Um. I usually try to block out smells, actually. They’re a bit, uh. Overwhelming.”

Kry abandons her surveillance to stare at Nia, as if genuinely shocked that the answer to her question was Yes. “You’re a riolu,” she says again, in disbelief.

“Who was once human,” Avery reminds gently, stepping over a root crawling across the path. “I’m guessing humans are more like my species in that their sense of smell is rather unremarkable, correct?”

Nia nods. “Y-Yeah. Like, we can smell! But it’s nothing like a dog’s nose. I spent so long just trying to get used to this body that I guess it feels difficult to try changing how I use it at this point.”

“Makes sense,” Felix says.

“It would be helpful if we could train you to track in the future,” Tobias says, glancing back at her. “It definitely has its uses in the field.”

Nia sighs, vaguely recalling that they’ve had this conversation before. “I know, I know. How exactly do you train your nose, though?”

Xander hums. “It’s really just like training any other part of your body. You practice.” The luxio stops, looking back thoughtfully. “Actually, victreebel have a very distinct scent. Right, Ave?”

The kirlia perks up. “Oh! Yes, you’re right! The acids in their stomach smell overwhelmingly sweet, somewhat like honey. Are you suggesting..?”

Xander smirks. “Well, if we’re talking training, this is a prime opportunity. What do you think, Nia? Want to give your nose a workout?”

Nia blinks, looking around as she’s put on the spot. She doesn’t really want to—she would much rather practice first in a more secluded area with something less, uh…important on the line. But then her gaze lands on Samir, who has clearly been so nervous but so brave about approaching them to join as a team, about meeting new people, about learning a whole new language, and—

“I can try,” tumbles from Nia’s mouth. She’s not sure who’s more surprised by that—her or Tobias.

“That’s the spirit!” Felix cheers, nudging her forward.

She stumbles over her own paws, but slides past everyone to reach the front of the group. Xander steps aside for her too, and she looks at him with pinned ears, nervous. “I-I’m leading?”

“You can do it,” Xander assures her, all confidence. “I’ll be right behind you.”

The luxio does as he says and stations himself second in line, which helps alleviate some of her worry. Still, it’s rare for Nia to take the lead in a dungeon. Rare as in she can’t even recall if she’s done it before, aside from the one time she entered a dungeon alone, chasing after Tobias before they even became partners.

That feels like so long ago. They’ve done so much since then. She’s done so much since then.

She’s gotta be braver now than she was then, right?

Nia takes a deep breath to calm her nerves, shaking out her arms. Then she nods and takes the lead, feeling the gaze of her friends on her back. “S-So I just…pick a direction and go?”

“Use your nose, dummy!” Kry jeers.

“Shut your mouth, dummy!” Tobias growls back. “Give her a sec!”

Nia closes her eyes to block out the squabbling, listening first for anything abnormal. Aside from Avery hushing the argument, Nia can only hear the wind through the trees and the distant cries of feral Pokemon. But nothing unusual.

Her nose. She needs to use her nose. Usually, Nia tries to block out most of the information that comes with taking a deep breath, since it’s so overwhelming. Like squinting against a bright cacophony of colors, or putting on sunglasses so her eyes don’t burn. But this time, she takes a long breath through her nose and tries to understand what she’s smelling.

Some of it’s familiar. The sharp bite of frost, the earthy scent of the forest, Tobias and Xander’s comforting scents close by. But then there’s also the sour tang of something she realizes is probably the scent of a feral, likely one that passed through this very hall not too long ago. But nothing sweet.

“Nothing,” Nia reports, wrinkling her nose and blowing air out of her nostrils as if to clear out all the scents.

“Then we keep moving,” Xander says. “Do you feel comfortable leading?”

Nia glances back at Tobias and Samir. Tobias gives her a nod, as if to say she can do this, and Samir glances at him before doing the same. Right. She’s just leading them through the dungeon. No big deal.

Nia tries not to feel wholly responsible for the lives following behind her, and instead marches forward with a swagger she doesn’t feel, down the hall and to a nearly-empty room. There, a feral toedscool jolts awake from where it’d been sleeping in the corner.

She nearly freezes when it runs at her with an angry cry, but she manages to dodge at the last second. Tobias and Samir burst past Xander, and make quick work of the ‘mon with a burst of fire and a volley of leaves.

Nia, panting, stares at the downed feral, heart pounding.

“You good?” Tobias asks, hushed as he comes closer.

Nia nods, swallowing. She is. She just needs to stop freaking herself out and get her head in the game. It’s no big deal—she has her teammates behind her.

Oh.

Nia blinks, then looks up at Tobias, who is watching her with a furrowed brow, and then at Samir, who is squinting at the downed toedscool as if to make sure it’s really knocked out. Behind the two of them, Xander gives her an encouraging, knowing smile.

Right. She has all of them behind her. Just because she’s leading their steps doesn’t mean she’s suddenly alone. Quite the opposite, actually.

“I’m good,” Nia says, meaning it this time. She pushes herself to her feet and brushes off her fur, offering a smile. “Sorry. Got in my own head for a minute there.”

Tobias reaches out to knock his knuckles against her forehead. “Well, get out of it. You’ll have plenty of time to overthink later.”

Nia snorts and bats his hand away, turning back to the empty room. There are two hallways they could take, other than the one they came from, but she isn’t sure which one to follow.

Oh, right! The whole reason she’s in the lead at all. Nia closes her eyes again and takes a deep breath, both thrilled and alarmed when, beneath the strangely musky scent of the toedscool, she catches a hint of something…sweet.

Brow furrowed, she steps closer to one hallway and sniffs a few times, not sure if she imagined the scent. But then, when she steps closer to the other, she smells it again: something almost like honey. Like a whisper of it on the breeze.

“I…I think I smell something?” Nia says, looking back at Xander. “Something sweet, right?”

The luxio nods with an encouraging smile. “Is it stronger on one path than the other?”

“It’s really faint, but I think so?”

“Then we follow it,” Xander says with a decisive wave of his tail. “Lead on, Nia. Just remember to keep smelling as you go—I don’t want us tripping over the outlaw, and it should be obvious when it starts to get stronger.”

Nia nods, resisting the urge to salute like Felix had earlier, and turns back to the hall the sweet scent had come from, cautiously walking down its path. The scent strengthens ever so slightly, but nothing close to “obvious” like Xander had said.

When they reach the next open room, the crumbling stone stairs at its center explains the question on her mind.

“I’m smelling him from the next floor?” Nia asks, shocked.

“You are,” Xander confirms, seeming pleased as he looks at the top of the stairs. “Good work, Nia. You’re a natural.”

Nia flushes under her fur, pleased relief unfolding in her chest.

Xander’s mouth drops open the slightest bit, and after a moment Nia realizes she’s seen the gesture before, in housecats. Is he…scenting the air?

“Wait, can you smell him too?” Nia asks.

Kry snorts. Felix punches her arm.

“Ah, yeah,” Xander says, sheepish, as his ears fold back. “I’ve got a strong sense of smell, too. Just wanted to make sure he wasn’t waiting right near where we’d pop up. We should be all right if you want to keep leading, but I can hop in front if you’re worried.”

Nia blinks, unsure how to take that sudden revelation. Well…she supposes she has a willing teacher on hand if she needs help with tracking in the future? “Um…if you’re pretty sure he’s not right up ahead, I guess I can stay in the lead?”

Xander nods. “Do that, then. I’ll keep an eye on the trail too so we don’t stumble over him unexpectedly, but this is the perfect opportunity to get you started on tracking.”

Nia takes a deep breath, then leads the group up the set of cold stone stairs. She braces herself as her foot hits the top step, but the sudden warp to a new floor, in a new room, is still as jarring as ever. Her stomach flips like a pancake.

She glances back to make sure everyone is with her, then sniffs the air to find the scent again.

Xander was right—the victreebel isn’t waiting for them in this room, or even on this floor. There’s a clear scent trail she can follow as the smell gets stronger and stronger, almost like following a line of paint across the ground. Except instead of seeing it, it just becomes more and more obvious to her nose where the paint leads and where it doesn’t. She gets more and more comfortable with closing her eyes and relying on her ears and nose than she’s used to doing, and some part of her feels oddly…thrilled by it.

It took her a while to get used to this body, and even now she’s usually fairly neutral about it. But something about this process feels…instinctive, almost. And fun! Like rediscovering her aura for the first time. It’s not something she ever could’ve done as a human, and it almost feels like a superpower.

Once or twice she loses the trail, usually when it crosses through a puddle or a patch of frost or a particularly strong feral scent, as if the line of paint has been wiped away. But each time, Xander is quick to find it by scenting the air himself, showing her how to do the same with her own nose, and setting her back on the right path.

It’s two floors deeper into the dungeon that the scent becomes nearly unbearable, cloying the air to a nauseating degree. It’s so strong that it decimates the path she’d been following entirely, as if instead of a line of paint on the ground the entire floor had been painted.

“Well, he’s definitely here,” Xander says, quiet, his own muzzle wrinkled with distaste. “Nia, I’ll take lead again.”

Nia gladly lets him do so, falling back to walk behind Avery. She rubs her nose as she tries to put her “blinders” back up to block out some of the sweet stench.

“I need your duller senses of smell now,” Xander tosses over his shoulder with an amused look. “Nia and I are overwhelmed up here. Let me know if you smell him, and keep an eye out.”

Kry rolls her eyes, but everyone nods, falling back into formation as they follow the luxio.

It’s unusually quiet on this floor, and Nia doesn’t know if that’s because the outlaw scared off all the ferals, or if he really is out here eating other Pokemon. Surely not, right? Like, he’s a criminal, but a petty one. Nia’s pretty sure cannibalism would get you put much higher on the guild’s priority list than a simple thief.

Regardless, their group is silent and tense as they traverse the halls, scanning every rustle overhead and every shift of stone in the walls. The sweet scent of rotten honey permeates the air.

They pass through an open room with a single tree growing from the side of the stony walls, surprisingly large and still with a great deal of leaves on its branches.

It’s here that Samir stops in their tracks.

Avery, behind them, stops as well. “Samir?”

Samir’s brow is furrowed, their gaze locked onto the tree. A breeze rustles through the leaves and then—

Samir whistles two piercing, short notes, jumping back. Everyone but Nia and Tobias, still unfamiliar with the whistle language, leaps away as well, just as a vine lashes out almost too quick to see, slamming into the hard ground where they’d been standing a moment before. Nia yelps and staggers away, heart pounding.

“Found ya!” Kry growls, racing forward to tackle the trunk of the tree, sending it shaking. “Come out, coward!”

A giant creature, bright yellow and almost pear-shaped, drops from the boughs of the tree and lunges at Kry with a guttural scream, slashing with the leaves at its sides. Kry grins and neatly dodges each attack, before swinging around to slam the creature with her tail.

The creature goes flying closer to the middle of the room, tumbling over once before righting itself. Finally, Nia gets a good luck at it.

It’s the victreebel outlaw they’ve been searching for. He almost looks like a pitcher plant, a bright yellow color with darker speckles. Large, sharp leaves are held at his sides and cover the top of his head, which is indeed an open mouth. Acid slips between his teeth and drips to scorch the grass, right above panicked, darting eyes. The long vine he attacked with before stems from the top of his head, and it lashes now like the tail of an angry cat.

“Keep your distance!” Xander calls. “Ave, slow him down. Kry, act as cover. Felix, ice moves. Team Scarlet, long-range attacks only.”

Nia nods, watching as the victreebel is surrounded by Avery’s distinct indigo energy. The outlaw shrieks in pain as Avery uses some kind of psychic move, but he manages to lash out with his vine, making the kirlia dodge and lose focus.

Unfortunately for the victreebel, there’s a storm of attacks waiting in the wings. Xander launches a dazzling electric move that locks the outlaw in place with a cry of pain, and Felix follows immediately after with a gust of icy wind that coats the grass type in frost. Samir’s razor leaf attack and Tobias’ flames follow shortly after, swamping him.

Nia waits, almost expecting the victreebel to fall unconscious in record time. However, the moment the attacks have a gap, the outlaw screeches again and spins, spitting a shower of acid.

“Take cover!” Xander yells.

Nia hurries to do so, tripping over herself as she backs out of range. The acid splashes at her feet, the grass beneath sizzling and withering to nothing. Yikes.

The victreebel takes advantage of the moment to retreat, and uses his vine to swing back up into the tree. A moment later, Nia sees the faint glow of a move at work.

“He’s healing,” Avery warns.

Nia looks around, glad that everyone seems to have been able to dodge the dangerous attack.

“Want me to shake him out again?” Kry calls.

“No,” Xander says. “He’s expecting that. Let me—”

Before he can finish, the victreebel’s vine is shooting out from the leaves again, wrapping around Tobias’ ankle and yanking his feet out from under him with a shout. In a flash, he’s pulled through the air towards the tree.

“Tobias!” Nia yells, heart dropping. The outlaw must be trying to take out the biggest type threat first.

She bolts after her partner before she can think about it, pouring her energy into a quick attack and leaping up to grab onto him. The two of them, light as they are, are whipped through the air and into the tangle of leaves and branches.

The outlaw looks surprised to have reeled in Nia as well, and Tobias takes the instant of hesitation to blast him with a flame burst. The outlaw shrieks, flinging Tobias aside as Nia loses her grip. The charmander gasps, tumbling out of the branches to fall the (thankfully) short distance to the ground below.

Nia snags a branch with her arm and latches the rest of her body around it like a koala, getting her bearings. Okay, she’s in the tree. With the dangerous criminal. The dangerous criminal who is still recovering from Tobias’ attack, eyes squeezed shut and embers smoldering away at his leaves.

Ugh. She needs to get him back out in the open, doesn’t she? She’s in literally the perfect position to do so.

Nia takes a breath, pushing herself up to balance carefully on the branch, then makes the short leap to the branch the victreebel is resting on. The outlaw whips around to face her. Before he can do a thing, she reels back, aura staff forming in her hands. He looked pretty light when Kry hit him earlier, right?

“Batter up!”

Nia slams the grass type with her aura, sending him flying out of the tree with a shriek.

Nia hurries to follow, dropping carefully to the ground below. Tobias, who had apparently been climbing back up to help her, is halfway up the tree trunk, holding on with his claws.

“Oh. Uh. Nice hit?”

“Thanks!”

The two of them dart back into the fight, where the victreebel is once again trying to flee. This time, Avery catches them in a bubble of psychic energy. When the victreebel tries to swipe at the kirlia with his vine, Kry steps in front to intercept, letting it wrap around her arm with a feral grin.

“Someone cut this guy loose. I’m tired of him playing yo-yo.”

Nia doesn’t even have time to consider what the fraxure is asking before Samir sends a razor leaf attack at the vine, severing it. The victreebel shrieks and reels back.

Nia gasps, hand coming up over her mouth. Did she—did they just cut off one of the outlaw’s limbs?! She glances at the others, but no one looks as horrified as she feels. Even Avery, usually the most sympathetic to Nia’s soft heart, doesn’t wince.

Okay. Okay, maybe that means that wasn’t as serious as Nia is thinking it is. The victreebel doesn’t bleed from the remnants of its vine, or go into shock. Instead, it simply goes on the offensive once again, sending another wave of acid around itself in a sludgy, dangerous mess.

Later. She can ask about the vine thing later, when she’s not dodging puddles of bone-melting goo.

The victreebel is apparently tired of dealing with their long-range strategy now that he has nothing to fight back with, because he launches himself directly at Felix next. One of the victreebel’s leaves glows a bright green as he swings it around, slicing into Felix’s shell with a super-effective hit.

The wartortle is sent rolling back with a pained cry. Nia’s stomach jumps.

Still, she’s surprised by the sheer panic in Xander’s voice as he shouts, “Felix!”

She looks over to see the luxio full-body tackle the victreebel with a snarl, distance strategy apparently out the window. The two roll until Xander comes out on top, slamming his paws down to pin the light grass type in place. There’s an instant where Xander’s fur lifts with crackling electricity, his gold eyes alight with fury. Then, in a flash of lighting, the victreebel is struck. The outlaw screeches, locking up as light blinds Nia.

When the stars behind her eyelids start to fade, Nia squints an eye open. The victreebel is out completely, fried to a black crisp. His crumpled leaves twitch.

And just like that, the fight is over.

“Whoa!” Kry laughs. “A bit overkill, Xan.”

The sentiment echoes Nia’s own thoughts, and even Tobias and Samir seem shocked, whether by the sheer display of power or by how ruthlessly the luxio attacked their enemy, she can’t tell.

“Felix!” Xander cries, ignoring Kry and bolting to the wartortle’s side.

The water type groans and sits up slowly, wincing. He chuckles and pushes Xander’s probing muzzle away. “‘M fine, you big worrywart. Calm down.”

“You’re sure?” Xander asks, scanning Felix’s body again and again, lingering around his shell. “That leaf blade looked strong.”

“Let me see,” Avery says, moving to kneel beside Felix. They feel at the edge of the wartortle’s shell, where the attack must’ve landed.

Felix hisses a breath, wincing.

“Toughen up!” Kry calls. “You’ve taken worse than that.”

The fraxure has wandered over to the victreebel and is nudging at him with a foot. The outlaw twitches again, which Nia really hopes means he’s alive and not just working the last bits of electricity out of his system.

Xander is…actually kind of terrifying when he wants to be.

“Felix!” Xander hisses, catching Nia’s attention again. The luxio is keeping the wartortle on the ground with a heavy paw, ears pinned back. “Stay down and let Avery check you over, for Raikou’s sake!”

“I must defend my honor!” Felix groans dramatically, throwing back his head. “Kry has challenged my toughness! As a wartortle, such a slight cannot stand!”

Avery goes back to feeling around the injury, and Felix yelps, facade broken. Xander sighs, once again looking more like a tired parent and less like a raging ball of lightning.

“He’s been through worse?” Nia asks Kry.

“Yeah,” Kry says, walking over. She has the short remnant of the victreebel’s vine slung over her shoulder, and is using it to drag the crispy outlaw behind her. “Nearly got his shell split in half by a nasty leaf blade a couple years ago. Xander gets all fussy when Felix takes a hard grass type hit now.”

“His shell almost split?” Nia asks absently, still staring at the outlaw.

“Yup,” Kry says, popping the “p.” “Like a chestnut. He tried to laugh it off, then passed out as soon as he stood up while Avery worked on teleporting us out. He’s still got the scar if you’re looking for it.”

“Felix, don’t—!”

They all look over to find Felix sitting up to eat the sitrus berry that Avery handed him. Xander looks a moment away from tackling him back to the ground, fur bristled.

“Ugh.” Kry rolls her eyes. Nia looks at her, questioning.

“I know Xander can’t help being a bit of a dad with the cubs and all, but those two have been teammates for almost a decade now. He should know Felix can handle himself. He needs to stop getting his tail in such a twist over every little hit.”

“I don’t know,” Nia says thoughtfully. “I think it’s kind of sweet that he cares so much.”

Kry snorts. “We all care. He’s just the only one working himself into a frenzy over it.”

Nia is thinking about how to respond to that when she finally notices Samir, standing nearby and watching Xander fret over his teammate. The skiddo’s expression is a complicated mix of emotions. They look…pained.

Before Nia can step forward to make sure they’re all right, Tobias beats her to it.

“Hey,” Tobias says, nudging the skiddo. Samir jumps, looking at the charmander almost guiltily. “Good awareness back there. You spotted the outlaw before any of us did.”

Samir seems surprised by the compliment. But then they nod, opening their mouth to say something before letting their breath out in frustration. Finally, they mouth, Thank you.

Tobias mutters something embarrassed in response, clearly feeling as awkward about the exchange as Samir is. Nia, on the other hand, can’t help a soft smile.

Before she can decide whether or not to go join them, she’s distracted by Felix rocking to his feet, sitrus berry finished. Xander stands too, weaving around the wartortle as if to catch him if he drops. 

“I’m fine! Don’t get your fur in a tangle.” Felix does a spin to prove it, then nearly falls over. But it does look more like it’s just from the wartortle being clumsy rather than from his injury.

Avery simply gives the wartortle a fond look and an affectionate pat on the cheek before walking over to Nia and Kry.

“The outlaw is all right?” Avery asks, peering past Kry.

Kry waves a dismissive hand. “He’ll live ‘til we get back to the guild.”

“Kry.”

“Seriously, he’s fine!”

“Kry, we can’t have Xander going to jail for murder.”

“Look, he’s breathing! I think! He’ll be fine!”

Avery sighs and crouches to make sure the outlaw is indeed still alive.

Nia is reminded of her earlier horror, and she can’t stop her eyes from jumping back to the victreebel’s severed vine. “U-Um. His vine. That’s not like…losing a limb, is it?”

Tobias, who had been walking over to Nia, raises a brow. A moment later, Felix and Xander join them, Samir on their heels.

“No, it’s not,” Avery confirms with an apologetic look. “I didn’t think how that would appear to you. Grass types are connected to the plant life growing on their body, and it may sting a bit if suddenly severed, but his vine will regrow fairly quickly.”

Oh, thank God. Nia finally relaxes, some of the nausea in her gut settling.

“Jeez, even Kry isn’t that ruthless,” Felix says, clearly teasing. “Usually, at least.”

“If I were ruthless, you’d be missing a few limbs yourself.”

“Yeah, yeah,” Felix says. Then he turns to Nia and Tobias with bright eyes. “Last hits aside, that was awesome! You two have been holding out on us in training. You’re seriously strong!”

Nia cracks a shy smile. “Thanks, Felix.”

Tobias looks away. “I didn’t do that much.”

“What?! Yeah you did! Seriously, I wish we always had a fire type like you with us. You’re great with your flames. Attacking even as you’re getting dragged into a tree? Your lung control must be crazy!”

Tobias flushes, looking down to kick at the frosted ground as if it holds the secrets of the universe. Nia smiles, watching him with a sad sort of fondness. She wonders how often anyone compliments him for his fire. Especially in the Haven.

“Great, the fire type can use his fire,” Kry says as she sits on the outlaw’s back, making the poor guy oof a breath of air. “I’m more impressed with you two.”

The fraxure’s claw points right at her and Samir.

“U-Us?”

“Yes, you. Thought you’d wimp out on us, Riolu, not pull that little stunt in the tree. And you, little leaf? Sharp reflexes.”

“Um. Thank you?” Nia manages. “I think?”

“That was just as much an insult as it was a compliment,” Tobias grumbles, giving Kry a dirty look. The fraxure smirks in return.

“She’s right, though,” Xander says, still standing a bit closer to Felix than is probably necessary. He’s finally managed to tear his eyes away from his partner, though. “You did well.”

“Thank you!” Nia says. “So did you. That attack at the end was…”

“Strong,” Tobias finishes, crossing his arms. “But if you could’ve done that the whole time, why didn’t you just do it from the start?”

“That move depleted my energy completely. I’m going to be feeling it tonight, and my electricity won’t be back to full charge until tomorrow. I try not to use a thunder attack unless I really need to.”

“Or until you get all overprotective,” Felix teases, nudging his friend.

Xander coughs. “Right. Or that. Regardless, mission accomplished. Good work, team.”

Nia finally relaxes at those words.

Before they return to the guild, Avery calls for an injury check, but aside from Felix, the rest of them made it out with only minor scrapes and bruises. So in a matter of minutes, they’re rounding up the outlaw and pulling out their badges for a teleportation back to the guild.

When the usual flash of light fades, Nia keeps her eyes closed until the nausea passes.

“Wait, why are we out here?” Kry asks.

Nia forces her eyes open, only now registering the quiet rustle of the leaves overhead and the open, breezy scent of the forest. They’re…somewhere outside of the guild? Don’t they usually warp in directly to the psychics’ quarters?

Avery hums, looking concerned. “Minerva was clearlyfeeling unwell this morning. It’s likely that the psychic wing is either short-staffed or Minerva’s illness is making their teleportation more inaccurate. I’ll check in on them when we get back.”

“More walking it is,” Felix sighs, not sounding all that put out. “Ah, well. Good reminder of how lucky we are to have the teleportation system in the first place.”

“True,” Xander says, flicking his tail and stepping through the brush. “Come on, it’s not far to the nearest entrance.”

“You say that, but you don’t have to carry this stupid lump,” Kry grumbles, hefting the unconscious body of the victreebel overhead with a grunt.

“Think of it as an extra workout,” Xander says, tone light. “And I can take over if you get too tired.”

Kry growls in a way that says he will not be taking over, regardless of how she feels.

“This is actually kind of convenient,” Nia says, looking at Samir. “We haven’t gotten to show you all the entrances to the guild yet, right?”

Samir shakes their head, then tilts it in question.

“The guild has multiple tunnels running underneath it,” Xander explains, leading them through the undergrowth. “All of which lead out into the forest. The entrances are hidden, but all of the guildmembers are shown where they are.”

Samir’s eyes widen as they straighten up and look around with more purpose than before, as if to catalogue where they are so they can find their way back in the future.

Nia laughs. “Don’t worry, I still get lost all the time, even here.”

Tobias snorts and flicks her leg with his tail. “Which doesn’t mean you should encourage Samir to do the same.”

Team Shellshock points out the notable landmarks on their way to the nearest entrance. Nia takes a few mental notes herself, having forgotten most of them since her initial introduction to the guild.

Finally, they arrive at a small cave hidden away beside a creek bed, behind a curtain of lichen and moss. Xander takes the lead and slips inside, and the rest of them follow into the darkness as it slopes downward into cool, damp earth.

Nia is about to block out the loamy scent of the soil in her usual fashion, before deciding to take a deep, purposeful breath of the scent instead. Tobias and the others were right. Her nose is an advantage, and she should start trying to use it.

Beneath the smell of the earth, she detects the scents of her friends as well as fainter hints of other guildmembers she’s met and passed by before. She even thinks she catches Abana’s trail in particular, the hippo’s scent reminding her somehow of a sandy beach.

Nia keeps her eyes cracked open as they walk, even as she tries to identify the overwhelming variety of scents she comes across. While they have Tobias’ tail flame to light the way initially, soon the darkness starts to lift on its own. Then, their surroundings brighten significantly as familiar glowing blue crystals start littering the walls and ceiling of the large tunnel.

Their group makes small talk as they near the guild, light and relaxed, until Xander suddenly stops at the head of the pack. Nia and Avery, who had been chatting right behind him, nearly bump into his legs.

“Xander?” Avery asks, the rest of the group falling silent.

“Shh,” Xander murmurs, staring ahead with a serious expression and pricked ears.

“What is it?” Nia murmurs.

Xander’s focus doesn’t waver. “I thought I heard…”

Nia frowns, straining her ears and swiveling them in the same direction. It takes a moment, but then she hears it too: high voices that definitely shouldn’t be down here in the tunnels.

“And you’re sure we can find our way back?” Laine asks. The shinx cub sounds uncertain.

“If we get lost, Xander’s gonna be so upset,” Leor adds. “A-And Arlo, and Junie, and—"

“They won’t be upset because they won’t know!” Asher responds. The zorua is the loudest of them all, sounding almost cocky. “C’mon, don’t you get bored stuck in the nursery all day? I wanna explore this giant forest!”

“Yeah!” Luca cheers. “He’s right! C’mon, we’re more than strong enough to go outside by ourselves by now. Don’t be such cubs about it.”

Xander’s expression darkens, and he bounds forward down the tunnels. As soon as he rounds the corner, he’s met with startled shrieks.

The rest of their party follows quickly, and sure enough there’s the three shinx cubs, cowering in front of Xander, whose fur is lifted along his spine. Asher is the only one still standing tall, glaring up at the older ‘mon.

“You know you’re not supposed to be down here alone,” Xander is saying. “And you’re certainly not supposed to leave the guild.”

“We weren’t gonna!” Luca says.

Xander stares his brother down, twitching an ear. “You want to try that again?”

Luca shrinks back.

“That’s such a stupid rule!” Asher says brazenly. He morphs into a little green monkey with a sprout atop its head, reminding Nia of August somehow. As if he could intimidate Xander by echoing the appearance of the guildmaster.

Xander is clearly unimpressed by the display, muzzle wrinkling with the hint of a snarl for just an instant before he regains his cool with a deep breath. “It’s a rule meant to keep my siblings safe. How old are you?”

Asher falters. “…Twelve.”

“And do you know how old my siblings are?”

Asher glances back at the smaller shinx cubs. “Eight, right? But that’s not that much younger than me!”

“It’s young enough that they’re going to look to you to lead them. Are you prepared to bear that responsibility?”

Asher’s bravado stumbles for the first time. “Um. W-Well…"

“If one of them gets hurt and you’re lost a mile away from the guild, do you know what to do in that kind of situation? If you stumble into a mystery dungeon, do you know how to fight your way out?”

Asher swallows, ears falling. He morphs back into his zorua form with a flash of light, fluffy tail lowering. “…No.”

Xander sighs, then directs his stern look across all four kids evenly. “I know you feel cooped up in the guild, and I’m sorry about that. I’ll try to make more time to take you outside to explore.”

The cubs perk up at that.

“But,” Xander continues, stern. “Rules are there for a reason. This one is there to keep you safe, especially when the world is so dangerous right now.It’s okay to question rules if they don’t make sense or if you’re unhappy with them, and hopefully you’ll get an answer that explains things. But you have to understand why a rule is there before you even think about breaking it. All right?”

The three shinx cubs nod with murmured agreements, properly chastised. Asher glances at them as if he’s seeing them for the first time, and Nia catches the zorua glancing down to where his paw rests next to Luca’s, almost twice its size.

Finally, after a few moments of heavy silence, Xander softens. He leans down to lick each of the shinx cubs on the head, then gives Asher a gentle brush of his paw as he passes. “Come on, let’s get you all back to Arlo. I’m sure he’s worried sick. Asher’s father too, if he’s around.”

“Actually, Junie was watching us since we were supposed to be playing together,” Laine says, looking contrite all over again.

Oh boy. Nia can only imagine how the little rookidee is handling all this.

“Then you’ll be apologizing to her first,” Xander says simply, flicking his tail for them to follow.

The kids do, trudging behind the luxio. They cast a few curious glances behind themselves at the rest of the party, looking torn between embarrassment at getting in trouble and curiosity about how their mission went, especially once they see Kry carrying the unconscious victreebel. That’s when they start muttering to each other with renewed excitement, and Nia has to stifle a laugh.

She hopes they got the message, but it looks like that won’t keep them down for long. Well, the shinx cubs, at least. Asher still looks rather put out, trailing along with his head low and a thoughtful frown on his face.

Their crew of eleven—twelve, counting the outlaw—files out of the tunnels and onto the mission floor where the bulletin boards are posted. There aren’t any other teams present at the moment, which explains how the cubs snuck through undetected, but as they start climbing the spiral staircase leading up into the Lexym Tree, a blur of blue and black nearly flies straight into Xander’s face, backpedaling just in time with a squawk.

It's Junie, flapping frantically in place with wide eyes and panting breaths. “Oh, hey guys! Back already, huh? Everyone in one piece? Great. Awesome. You want to help me with a little something?”

Nia holds up a hand. “Jun—”

“I lost the kids,” Junie blurts. “Like, your kids, dude. We were playing hide and seek and they were supposed to stay on the nursery floor but I can’t find them anywhere. Or Asher! I should’ve guessed they were going to be little gremlins about it when they were whispering to each other but—”

Xander, clearly amused but trying to keep a stern expression, steps aside to reveal the group of kids.

Luca is in the front, ears pinned back. “Uh. We’re here. Sorry, Junie.”

The rookidee cuts herself off, beak hanging open. Then, she sighs with relief, landing heavily on the nearest step. “Oh, thank God.”

“We caught them trying to sneak out of the tunnels into the forest,” Xander says, giving all four cubs another scolding look. “Which I will be telling Arlo about. And Asher’s father.”

Luca and Asher wince. Laine and Leor shrink back and shuffle their paws.

Junie groans. “I know I’m a cool rebellious role model, kids, but you’re not supposed to disobey me! Do you know how upset Arlo and Fidel would be if I lost you?! Arlo’s a giant dragon! He could eat me in one bite!”

“Arlo wouldn’t eat you,” Laine protests quietly, head tilted in confusion.

“But he could! Look at me, I’m bite-sized!”

“Regardless,” Xander interrupts. “You four will be apologizing to everyone you worried. And then you will not whine or argue with whatever punishment Arlo and Fidel see fit to give you.”

All four cubs mutter a reluctant agreement.

Xander sighs. “Well, go on then. Apologize to Junie.”

The shinx cubs murmur a seemingly genuine chorus of, “Sorry, Junie.” Asher mumbles his own apology a moment later, looking embarrassed as his ears fold back.

Junie snorts. “Thanks, I guess. Just don’t do it again under my watch. Good luck with the rest of your apology tour.”

And with that, Junie flutters up and over Xander to perch on Nia’s shoulder.

“Well, I guess I’ll be taking the criminals back to the nursery floor,” Xander says. He looks back at his teammates, farther down the staircase. “You can go ahead and drop off the outlaw. I’ll catch up in a bit.”

Kry pushes past him without hesitation, hefting the victreebel over her head. Felix gives Xander another joking salute before following her, ruffling the fur on Laine’s head as he passes. Avery waits a beat longer, looking at Xander questioningly.

The luxio gives them a tired smile. “I’m fine, Ave. Go ahead. I’ll be right behind you.”

The kirlia relents and heads up the staircase as well, whispering something about checking on Minerva, the sick abra from this morning.

Finally, Xander turns back to Team Scarlet. “It was good working with you all today.” His gaze settles first on Nia, then Tobias and Samir. “All of you. You work well together.”

Nia beams, and Samir and Tobias shift in place, muttering a quiet thanks.

With that said, Xander turns to herd the four cubs up the stairs back to the nursery floor, already laying into them again about how bad an idea it was to try sneaking out. Winter’s coming, after all. They could get lost and freeze to death overnight, or stumble into a mystery dungeon, or come across an outlaw, or—

Junie laughs as Xander’s voice fades away. “Kinda glad he’s being so hard on them, actually. I was gonna start losing feathers from the stress.”

“Understandable,” Nia says, giving Junie a pat with her finger. “Have you eaten yet?”

Junie perks up. “Nope! Food time?”

“Food time,” Tobias agrees, taking the lead up the stairs.

___________________________________________________________

That evening, the rain that had been hanging heavy over their heads the entire day finally arrives, coming down in stinging cold sheets. Thankfully, they’re all back in Team Scarlet’s quarters by then. Junie is tweeting short melodies from the human world for Tobias to imitate on his guitar, and Samir is practicing their whistle words. Nia, exhausted as usual after a mission, is skimming through a book near the gray light of the window.

As soon as the first drops of rain patter against the wooden sill, Nia hears the distant drumming of August using his powers. Right on cue, the roots and branches making up the frame of the window in their room start to wind shut, creaking like old rope until the opening is much smaller than before, easy enough to cover with the leaf-sewn blind installed overhead. After doing so, the room is dimly lit, and Nia can only see by the faint light bleeding through the blind and Tobias’ tail flame.

Samir’s mouth twists. They squint and lean closer to try reading the book in front of them, then glance at Tobias and his tail flame before looking away just as quickly.

Nia laughs under her breath. “Samir, you can use Tobias’ tail flame to read. I do it all the time.”

Tobias gives Nia a dry look, but doesn’t argue, his eyes sliding shut as he continues to play.

Samir hesitates, but then flips the book shut and picks it up with delicate teeth. They move over and lie down again close to Tobias, flipping the book back open to resume their studies.

Nia smiles, tempted to go over and join them.

But she has something else on her mind suddenly, after watching the tree obey August’s orders like that. She’d marveled at it briefly before, the rillaboom’s power and command over nature, but now she can’t help thinking about how it actually works. Does he tap into the energy of the tree itself?

Will’s words from their last meeting come to mind.

“Have you ever tried? Tried tapping into the life energy outside of other beings? Plants. The dimensional border. It would be fascinating to learn how deep your aura powers go.”

Nia never tried interacting with aura aside from other Pokemon because she simply didn’t think it was an option. Sure, if aura is life energy, then it makes sense that anything alive should have its own form of aura, but tapping into the life energy of the world itself doesn’t seem like something Nia should be able to do. That kind of power would be a lot of responsibility, wouldn’t it? It feels like something only gods should have access to.

Then again, Pokemon are constantly interacting with that energy anyways, in how they use their moves. So maybe it isn’t as big of a deal as she’s making it out to be?

Nia glances at the others from her place in shadow near the window. She can’t very well read now, and she is tired from the day. She’s sure Junie is going to call her over any minute now, but...

Nia closes her eyes and places a hand against the wooden wall of the room. She gathers her energy, like she does before reading the aura of another Pokemon. Then she holds her breath, and tentatively reaches out to the tree.

She’s stunned when she realizes there is something there, reaching back. It’s not a concentrated, bright ball of aura and color like Tobias, or Junie or Samir. Not a soul, necessarily, but still life. It’s fainter. Quieter. Something she has to actively look for or risk missing entirely.

But Nia feels like she can almost…follow it. Like a network of rivers. Like she can dive into that lifeforce and see where it goes.

So she does. She tries to focus her consciousness into her aura, and sends it into that strange tangle of roadways, millions and millions of strands of energy threaded together, splitting and converging again and again. Are those the individual roots of the tree? Its branches? Or maybe something much smaller, like the veins of a leaf? Its atoms, even?

Nia has no way to ground herself, so she picks a thread at random and follows it, feeling the pathway usher her down an endless road, through uncountable connections, through a web too large for her to comprehend. She thinks she notices something like a soul on the edge of her periphery a few times, bright colors in large concentrations of life energy, but she doesn’t investigate until she brushes by something familiar, a burst of indigo aura that feels like a serene night sky—

Avery?

Nia cuts the connection, startled, and blinks in the dim light, her breathing a little heavy. Did she—? No, that couldn’t have been Avery. The kirlia is all the way down the hall in Team Shellshock’s quarters, and Nia has never reached her aura nearly that far before, let alone so effortlessly.

Except…her aura wasn’t connected to her on its own this time, was it? She was riding the lifeforce of the tree, coasting along its aura like a surfer on a wave. So could she have really..?

“Nia! You good?”

Junie’s voice snaps Nia from her thoughts, and she whips her head up, blinking at the rookidee across the room. Junie is staring at Nia with a confused little smile, head tilted. Tobias has stopped playing and Samir has stopped reading, the two of them also watching Nia with a touch of concern.

Oh. Right. She supposes it is weird for her to be sitting here in the dark with her eyes closed.

Nia forces a laugh, sitting up and grabbing her book to move over to the warm glow of Tobias’ tail flame. There, she sits against their bed, close to the charmander’s side. “Sorry. Tired, I guess.”

She doesn’t know why she says that. She doesn’t know why she doesn’t feel excited about this discovery. Maybe because she’s still in disbelief that she could be right.

“Well, at least nod off over here where it’s warm,” Junie teases. “Toby, play us a lullaby.”

“I’m not your personal minstrel,” Tobias grumbles. Still, he starts plucking away at a softer melody than before.

Nia tilts her head back and closes her eyes, hugging her book close with one arm. With the other, she places a hand on the wooden floor, too curious to resist. Once again, she reaches out with her aura, and leaps into the quiet, gentle lifeforce of the wood.

This time, she picks a direction with purpose. Tracks the vibrations of the specific aura she’s looking for like a spider feeling the vibrations of prey caught in its web. Tracks it like the scent trail in the mystery dungeon.

Just as Nia suspects, she brushes up against a blaze of bright orange energy, Junie’s familiar silhouette lighting up behind her eyes. No contact needed. And she’s done that before, but something about the way she doesn’t feel drained at all, something about how she accidentally connected to someone rooms and rooms away, feels…big.

In a world like this where nature is so present, where life energy weaves through the very fabric of reality so consistently, how far could Nia reach? Could she reach Maggie, up on the top floor? Or Fliss, at the flying outpost? Beck and Hazel, in Afon’s Cap?

Could she affect that lifeforce somehow, like Xerneas and Yveltal can?

Nia abruptly cuts off her aura and grounds herself back in the physical world. She focuses on Tobias’ playing and the heat radiating from his skin. Focuses on Junie’s chipper comments and the sound of Samir flipping a page as they read. Focuses on the smell of the rain and the feeling of rough wood grain against her hand.

Nia’s heart pounds. Her stomach churns.

She’s suddenly reminded of that fight with the seviper, outside of Ghatha. When Nia's aura grew in power and she felt like it was too much for her to control. When she’d handled her aura like a live bomb, terrified of it destroying everything and everyone around her.

For reasons she can't quite explain, Nia feels that same fear now.