#and added some adjustments ofc

[edwardwonghaupepelutivrusky4th]

okay i've answered my own question and i think i can say that the purple/pink that shows up when ember & wade's orange & blue mix, usually on wade when he's close enough to ember, IS additive color mixing!

i remembered that some physics site might have an interactive additive light toy, and:

turning down the green creates the orange (instead of yellow) and cerulean/azure (instead of cyan), and the combination of those colors Is a pinker/lighter magenta!

put that color against a screenshot:

it's the reflection of ember's light off wade: the brighter parts of her are yellow, and the brighter part of her reflection in him is an even brighter pink, closer to white, which lines up with the colors mixing additively, since yellow has more green light than orange, and this [combo of their colors] pink is the result of what would be white light with some of the green taken out. add it back in, and it's closer to white

i think it's really neat; love that for them

[shawolism]

can the editors, lighting ppl, whomever think about us photosensitive bitches when working on these kpop idol music videos

[lovrre]

Agreement Prt2

I wrote half of this to Need by pinegrove ♫

Art Donaldson x fem black reader

Prt1 here

Word count: 3k

Warnings: smuttt,unprotected sex, creampie,slight breeding kink if you squint. cursing (ofc) slightly domestic relationship (not with Art)and probably some other stuff.

Summary: Despite being engaged to one of the top and richest tennis players in the US, you feel unfulfilled. But everything changes when you transfer schools and meet Art Donaldson, who just can’t quit you.

Author note: I’m so glad I finished I was scared I wasn’t, but your comments gave gave me motivation. Thank you pookies 🫦 I like this one a lot more than the first one. Arts also very obsessed and in love in this one.

After twenty minutes, you finish your meal, alone. You decide to leave through a back exit to avoid the paparazzi waiting outside the hotel entrance. You stumble upon a narrow hallway and carefully make your way out, trying not to attract any attention. When you reach the entrance of the restaurant, you open the door and are greeted by a charming and seemingly empty establishment. The cozy yellow lighting, old pictures, and paintings on the walls, along with the white tablecloths and wooden woven chairs, remind you of an old Italian restaurant you and Art used to go to. You see moving in your peripheral and catch a glimpse of familiar golden locks.

You walk closer to see Art and Patrick sitting at a small square table with a vacant seat, you assume is reserved for you. Patrick with a full plate of food and Art without. "Patrick?" You question, your voice filled with suspicion as you creep towards the table. He looks back at the sound of your In voice, a smile forming on his face as he stands up, “What the hell are you doing here?” You ask, taken aback going in for a hug. Patrick returns it with a laugh before releasing from the hug slightly to look at Art.

“Ask him” You look between them confused. “I asked him to come here” Art states, adjusting in his seat. “Why?“ you ask clearly confused with the situation, “someone could see” you add your gripping the back of your chair almost afraid to sit down. “I bought the place out for an hour, it’s just us” Art reveals looking up at you. “You what?” you exclaim, a bit louder than you intended.

“I’ll explain everything in a minute, just sit” Art laughs, gesturing for you to sit down. You let out a sigh, reluctantly pulling out your chair. “Ok tell me what is going on” you say, slightly impatient. “We’ve got a plan for your marriage situation”, Patrick says, mixing his ice tea with his straw. “A plan?” you repeat, still confused. "Yes, a plan," Art confirms with a nod. Patrick takes a quick sip of his tea before opening a tan folder that he hadn't noticed before. “The private investigator dropped these off at the dorm the other day”, Patrick says, pushing the open folder towards you.

Inside were pictures of your fiancée , kissing all types of women. The worst part is, it was so obvious, he didn’t have a care in the world, every photo taken on different days in different settings. Outside, inside in the morning and at night, all different women.

You knew you shouldn't be upset, but you were, not because he was seeing other people behind your back, shit you were doing that same with Art, but it was the fact he acted holier than thou. That he continued to try and control you while actively putting your agreement at risk. “Wow…” you mutter.

Shuffling through the photos. “That’s not even all of them” Art says.

“Yeah… I accidentally left the other ones, but these are the most important ones. There’s also some paperwork underneath with names, time stamps and dates on stuff” Patrick ads. “How isn’t this everywhere?” You ask, furrowing your brow. “The investigator thinks he’s been paying them off,” Patrick says, taking a sip of his drink.

"Not that I don't want you here, but couldn't you just have faxed these over?" you ask, raising an eyebrow.

"Well, yeah... but then I'd miss the match," Patrick says with a grin, taking a bite of his food. "Plus, I would never miss an opportunity to help my best buds."

"Okay, so what are we doing with these?" you ask, holding up the pictures in confusion.

"We're going to spin it," Patrick replies, still chewing his food. "My plan," Art reminds him, "my bad," Patrick laughs, still chewing his food. You couldn’t help but smile, you’d missed the three of you together.

"We're going to spin it," Art repeats, making you smile wider. "Is this why you're training with my father?" you interject . Art nods in response. "Why didn't you tell me any of this last night?"

Art didn't say anything, a knowing smile spread across his face. Patrick looks between the two of you "freaks," he jokes, "Anyway... how do you plan on spinning it?" You ask, ignoring his comment.

“We lean into the infidelity, take a couple of photos of you crying, the two of you arguing, or something like that release them”, Art explains confidently.

“But… I don’t see how this stops us from getting married, it’ll just look like I got cheated on,” you say, scrunching your brow.

“We’re hoping this, plus me winning today, will be enough to persuade the media against him?”

“You believe you can win?”

“I do,” he nodded.

“Okay… I’m down.”

“Told you,” Patrick added, still drinking his tea.

“Are you especially thirsty or something today?” you ask, tilting your head slightly watching him slurp down his tea. A second one untouched, waiting for him.

“I am actually, thank you for noticing,” Patrick says with a big smile before taking another sip.
You notice Art's eyes drop to Patrick’s plate for a second time while you two are talking.

“You should eat.”

“What?” Patrick says, looking between the two of you who seemed to be having your own conversation. 

“No, I’m okay,” Art says, shaking his head.

“Mike had French toast for breakfast, I think you could have-“ you cut yourself off, looking down at Patrick’s plate. “Egg and sausage.”

“You guys aren’t talking about my food?” Patrick asks, slightly disturbed by your conversation.

“Patrick, I can buy you some more damn eggs,” you assure him as Art pulls the plate from under him.

“What just happened?” Patrick asked, looking around confused with no food in front of him.

Your phone rings, and you look down to see who it is. “It’s my Dad,” you inform, excusing yourself you answering the phone as you walk out of earshot.

The two of them watch your backside as you walk away. “She still looks good”, Patrick bites his lip, leaning over to Art.


“Careful, ” Art warns.


“What? you guys can joke about but I can’t?”


“Exactly”, Art laughs, plucking him on the head.

~~~~

With a dig, the elevator door opens, releasing you to your floor. You walk to your room, opening the door with your key card. Mike is packing stuff away in his duffle bag, getting ready to see your father. You don’t acknowledge him walking past him into the bedroom,leaving the door open. You sit on the edge of the bed carefully taking off your heals, you stand up and unzip the back of your dress with ease. The dress gracefully falls into a pile at your feet leaving you in only your underwear. You step over your dress and begin looking through your suitcase located in the closet. The sound of footsteps causes you to look up to see Mike in the doorway watching you.


“Where are you going?” Mike asked, leaning on the door frame slightly. You don’t answer right away looking for your dress under your neatly folded clothes. ���There’s a press meeting with Art Donaldson's team, My Dad thought it’d look good if I’d came ” you say, moving more clothes around. “You didn’t come to mine” Mike states still watching you search.

“You didn’t ask me to” you responded, pulling out a light pink dress from your suitcase. There’s a beat of silence as Mike watches your actions "and you need to change for this press meeting?” Mike asks, raising an eyebrow. "No, but I want to” you say, standing up. When you see mike's eyes roaming up and down your body, you suddenly remembered you were only in your underwear. 


“Can you turn around or something” you ask, scrunching your face up in disgust. “I’ve seen more than this” Mike chuckles before obliging and turning around. You roll your eyes by stepping into your dress. “I’m sorry for how I acted this morning, I’m just stressed,” he admits.

" Really?," you hum, pulling up the straps of your dress.

"I don't want to be that guy," Mike responds, still facing away.

"But you are constantly being that guy..." you mumble, but Mike hears you. 

"I won't anymore. I want this marriage to work y/n, I.”


You release a heavy sigh at his word. “You can turn around now ” You announce zipping up the side of your dress. Mike turns around and watches as you sit back on the edge of the bed putting on your heels. “You’re still going to that thing?” Mike asks with a confused expression. “What about that conversation gave off the vibe that I was no longer going?” You say pulling your stiletto over your heel.


Mike goes silently for a moment watching you walk toward the bathroom. “Like you need more makeup?” Mike scoffs. “Be honest with me are you fucking him?” He asks from behind you in the doorway while you remove a bit of smudged lipstick. “are you serious right now?” You ask staring at him through the reflection in the mirror. “I’m not a fucking idiot, I saw the way you looked at each other, and I get the feeling that’s wasn’t your first time meeting” 


“Only god knows what you’re doing at that college” you can’t stop your self from laughing. “I think you’re projecting” you say walking past him towards the door, picking up your purse on the way. “Where the fuck are you going?” Mike calls out, following you. 

You swing the door open and step out into the hallway. Mike trails behind and tries to grab your arm to pull you back inside. “DONT TOUCH ME!” You yell yanking your arm back. “C’mon Don’t make a scene” Mike says looking around. 


“You have some fucking nerve, you know that? Your friend Isabel came up here earlier looking for you, I’m guessing you guys have a lot of fun In Detroit” you say with a smile. “When were you in Detroit again…my birthday? You ask rhetorically, Mike goes silent for a moment before responding.
 "I don't know what you're talking about," he says, trying to keep his voice down. "You don't?" you question. "What about Sarah, Kim, Kate, Alex? Do you not know them either?" Mike opens his mouth, then closes it. "Yeah…" you drawl, 


"they meant nothing to me... I just needed to get it out of my system before fully committing. I want this to work, I want this to be real, y/n," Mike says, trying to corner against the door in a situation similar to the one you were in with Art last night.

"That's the dumbest shit I've ever heard," you respond, attempting to push past him. He grabs you again using his strength. You had forgotten how strong he actually was. “Last warning” you say looking up at Mike. he can tell by the look in your eyes you’re serious, he doesn’t know exactly what you’re going to do but something in his gut said don’t test it. “Let. Go” you repeat one more time before a voice interrupts you.

“Is everything ok?” Patrick asked from the end of the hallway. "Yeah, everything's fine," Mike reassured with a smile, gently releasing his grip on him. "We'll continue this conversation later," Mike says, forcing a tight-lipped smile as he presses the elevator button. "No, we won't," you smile back with a wave, as the elevator door chimes and he leaves. "Are you okay?" Patrick asks, walking up to you. "Yeah, he wasn’t going to hit me, he knows better," you laugh. "I was actually more concerned about you hitting him," Patrick jokes.

“I got the picture though” he smiles, showing you a camera and clicking through the images of your altercation with Mike.”These are good, you should take them now, I’ll call Art and tell him I’m on the way” you say, pulling out your phone.

“I’ll miss the game” Patrick states with a slight pout.

“Not if you hurry.”

~~~~~

"I won't keep you much longer, just a few more questions," the female interviewer says, holding the microphone up to Art. "Was the training for this upcoming match particularly challenging?" Before the interviewer could finish her sentence, Art was shaking his head. "Not necessarily, different for sure, but not harder."

"As of now, can you confirm or deny the rumor that you have started working with Olympic Coach Dylan Y\L\N?" the interviewer asked, lifting the mic slightly closer to his mouth. "Ummm," Art hesitates, accompanied by a smile. "I think I can. Yes, Dylan is my new coach."

"So you and your opponent today have trained under the same coach?" the interviewer asks, scrunching her brow. "Yes, we have," Art nods. "One more question, is there any special woman in Art Donaldson's life right now?" the interviewer asks with a smile. The sound of camera clicking intensifies, catching Art's attention. Intrigued, the interviewer turns around as well. "She is beautiful," Art says absentmindedly, staring in the direction where you're coming from. You give small waves to friends as you walk in. "That's your opponent's fiancé... and I guess also your trainer's daughter?" the interviewer says, looking confused and turning back to face Art.

"Really?" Art asks, faking shock with a dazed expression. "Yes," the interviewer nods. "I mean.. I meant what I said, She is beautiful," Art said with a laugh, causing the interviewer to join in. His eyes never leaving you. "Does your coach know you have a crush on his daughter?" the interviewer joked, chuckling. "He might now," Art says with a laugh before giving a quiet , "Nice meeting you," as he walks away out of frame.

A short while later, you find yourself reaching for a bottle of water from a nearby table, inserting one of those adorable green straws they had. Just as you're about to take a sip, a voice catches you off guard from behind. "There you are," Art says, a smile lighting up his face as he jogs towards you. As he approaches, you can't help but notice how close he gets, almost too close.

"You're not exactly great at keeping secrets, huh?" you chuckle, taking a step back. Art smirks, "Can't two friends have a conversation?" Peeking over your shoulder at the ongoing interviews, you reply with a straw in your mouth, "We're not even supposed to be friends. You're supposed to be my Dad's client, or from what I heard your crush." You laugh, recalling a question from one of the interviewers. "You're going to get us caught," you whisper quietly into the straw.

"I understand. I can't stand next to my trainer's daughter," Art nods, "Orrr, my opponents, fiancé, but maybe can I stand close to my crush?" Art asks.

 “I think you could, yeah” you nod trying to keep the smile on your face. “Crush it is,” Art says with a smile taking a step forward, yet still maintaining a slight distance. “Did you get the pictures?” Art asks his eyes falling down to your lips. “Yeah, we got them," you confirm with a nod, unable to hide your smile when you notice his lingering gaze. “So we’re in the clear?” his eyes still fixated on your lips, as if he's ready to pounce. "Not yet," you laugh, taking a step back. "We have to wait for them to go to press." Art throws his head back with a strained laugh, and you can't help but watch his Adam's apple bobs up and down. You hadn’t realized until that moment how much you wanted him, it was an all consuming need.

“Just one day," you murmur, unsure if you're speaking to Art or yourself. "Just one day," Art echoes, his eyes now fixed on your neck, his finger brushing your curls away. You watch as he exhales shakily, looking at the fading hickeys on your shoulder, barely hidden by makeup. "Just one day," you remind, removing his hand from your chest. "Just one day," Art repeats, tearing his gaze away to look back up at you. "Your car is here, Mr. Donaldson," a man in black approaches and announces.

“One minute” Art says, gesturing for another second. The man nods in acknowledgment and walks away. “Come with me?” Art asked. “I don’t think that’ll look good.” You alluded to the countless people with cameras surrounding you.

“I couldn’t care less” Art says, shaking his head slightly. “I’d kiss you right here, if you’d let me ” Arts words catch you off guard, and you take a deep breath to try to steady your heart beat. 

“This planning stuff is more for you than me, so you can feel more comfortable. And I’m perfectly fine doing it,’s just …” he trails of his eyes falling back down to your lip. "Alright, I'll come," you rush out, convincing yourself it's to prevent him from kissing you right then. But deep down you knew you just wanted to be near him. You follow closely behind.

Art swiftly enters the car before you lean up, capturing you with a kiss. Before you could even fully step inside, his hand gently grasped your cheek, drawing you closer to his lips as he guided you into the vehicle. Lost in the intensity of the moment, you surrender to the kiss. practically falling inside. The sound of the car door closing behind you brings you back to reality, but the kiss continues to deepen. Suddenly, the driver rolls up the partition, creating a sense of privacy.

A sense of responsibility tugs at you, and you reluctantly break the kiss when Art's hand starts to wander up your bare leg. "We can't," you whisper, "We don't even have a condom," you add, hoping the driver couldn’t overhear.


“You’re right” Art mumbles, sitting back against the seat trying to catch his breath. “ I lost myself for a second” Art laughs, attempting to slow his heartbreak. ”After the game I’ll come to your room” you nod, looking forward trying to gather yourself. “Don’t talk about that, talk about something else” Art says his voice coming out more strained. “Like what?” You turn around and ask. Your eyes landing on the strained erection in his pants. “Oh!” You say, snapping your head back forward. The familiar ache of your core comes back, and you have to bite the inside of your cheek in an attempt to control yourself.


Against your better judgment, you take another peak. His hard shaft still straining against the fabric, you could damn near see the veins on his dick. “Can I?” You ask in a voice barely above a whisper. “Y-yeah” Art replies with a nod agjusting in his seat. You rub your hand back and forth against the Arts bulge while listen as his breath becomes more and more ragged.


Art makes a low moan and that’s enough for you to begin unzipping his pants. Against his better judgment he stops you. “Are you sure?”

“Yeah” you nod breathlessly, fumbling with his pants, pulling them down until his dick springs free. When you begin pumping his shaft, he takes in a sharp breath which causes you to smile. You savor the feeling of his heavy dick in your hand, trying to combat the thoughts of his thick long length inside you. When Art's hips buck into your hand, you fold. “I need you inside of me”, Art opens his mouth to protest and then closes, watching as you bunch up your dress around your waist, pull your panties to the side and straddle him. He grabs your waist with one hand and lines himself up with your entrance with the other. 


You sink onto him with a little too loudly of a moan and Art does the same. Opening his mouth for a sloppy kiss, he doesn’t wait for you to adjust to his size, moving you up and down his dick by your waist. ”shit I-“ Art groans out a wave of pleasure hitting him.
“-I can’t go back to condoms” he moaned, scrunching his brow in pleasure. You laugh and Art quickly retaliates by slamming you hard down on him. You let out a loud moan reflexively using your hand, trying to pull off slightly.

Art moves your hand out of the way, holding you down on him by your waist. “I’m serious”, Art grows leaning forward for another kiss while returning to his previous, rhythm. His words cause you to squeeze around him, and he lets out another low ground throwing his head back, breaking the kiss.



“I’m not going to last much longer” Art says breathlessly. “Just a little longer baby” you coo, leaving kisses on his Adam’s apple down his neck. “You drive me crazy, you know that” you moan feeling his pace fastest. “I do?” you feel Art smile against your cheek. You nod, falling into the crook of his neck enjoying the feeling of him fucking into you. “I want you to cum in me” you whisper, kissing the crook of his neck. “Fuck” Art groans, throwing his head back again. “You’re going to kill me” he states with a strained laugh.


You feel your release building so you decide to taunt him. ”you don’t want to fill me up?” You ask innocently, removing your head from the crook of his shoulder. Look down at him with lust, filled eyes. “Don’t” Art warns, his grip on your waist tightening, “you don’t want to give me a baby?” You huff out trying to keep your voice steady literally feeling him in your stomach. “Fuc- shit shit shitttt” Art moans holding you down onto him filling you up with his cum. His moans echoed through the car, the poor driver. 


“Fuck,” Art states after a minute. “Yea fuck,” you laugh, leaving a kiss on his cheek. “I think I might have a breeding kink”. Art laughs, “Me too,” you say with a smile, leaving another kiss on his head. You feel him twitch inside you, and knowing Art, you knew he would be ready for round two in a minute. You try to get off, but he holds you tighter, keeping you stationary. 

“I want it to stick” he smiles. Oh his smile, you rolled your eyes. You loved him, you knew it now, and you had a feeling he did too. You had been lying to yourself pretending you liked you didn’t care as much as he did. But at that moment you knew you never wanted anyone but him.



You glance out the window to see you were seconds away from the stadium, and then you notice your father standing on the sidewalk. “Oh my god! MY DAD HERE” you say, scurrying out of Art's lap. Art looks out the window, seeing your father standing on the sidewalk expectingly. “Shit” Art huffs, sitting up slightly, pulling up his pants, you take a wet rag next to the champagne and quickly wipe the inside of your leg. You quickly fix yourself before rushing to wipe off any remains of your lipstick off his mouth with your hand.

"Oh no, do I have lipstick on my mouth?" you ask frantically. "Nope, all clear," Art replies with a grin, planting a quick kiss on your lips. "Art," you warn, settling back in your seat. "My bad," Art chuckles, getting ready to exit the car. The car come to stop and your dad Yanks open the door.

"Hurry up, we're late. Mike's already inside," your Dad urges, When he sees you, his expression turns puzzled.

"We were heading in the same direction, so we decided to ride together," you explain before he can say anything. Your dad eyed you both suspiciously. "Alright, let's go," he says, ushering Art into the building. You wanted to say goodbye or wish him luck, and you could sense Art wanted to as well but it would be just too obvious.

You step out of the car, rummaging through your wallet. You tap on the driver's window, and he rolls it down. "Sorry about that," you apologize, handing him a 100 dollar bill before heading into the building.

Once inside the stadium you sit next to your Dad’s team which was now also partially Arts team and somehow also Mikes. Your phone buzzes and look down to see a familiar unsaved number.

“I think your Dad on to us”

“What did he say?” you text back anxiously your fingers moving fast on the keys.

“Nothing really, but i think he knows”

“Did he seem mad?”

“Not really”

“That’s good” you send, letting out a sigh you didn’t know you were holding in.

“Good luck :)” you add before stuffing your phone in your purse . Almost immediately your phone dings and you pull it back out.

“You gave me enough of that in the car ; )” you can’t help but smile at his corniness.

“You’re nasty.”

“Not as nasty as you” you’re about to laugh at his message when you hear a voice directly behind you. “You guys are actually freaks” Patrick says with a laugh jumping over the seat so he was directly next to you. “I applaud you guys for staying consistent at least” Patrick says lightly hitting you on the shoulder. “Can you mind your business” you say rolling your eyes, stuffing your phone in your purse.

“Actually I’ve been minding you two’s business all day with no pay by the way” Patrick adds. “So I think I’ve earned the right to be a little nosy” Patrick says making a pinching gesture.

“So you delivered the pictures?”

“Yes” he responded with a nod

“Thank you” you express your appreciation, turning your attention back to the court.

“Do you think he’s gonna win” Patrick asks leaning in slightly, curious to your answer.

"I hope so, but I don't know. I haven't seen him play in a while," you admit with a weak smile, the reality of the situation sinking in. "I really hope he does win," you mumble.

Author note : GUYS FEEL FREE TO COMMENT I LOVE READING COMMENTS

[rintarosluvr]

𝐌𝐎𝐎𝐍𝐒𝐓𝐑𝐔𝐂𝐊

Sylus x Reader

Topics : slice of life, college au on a beautiful island, banter, v cocky Sylus, loves teasing you, reader finds him annoying but has a soft spot for him (iykyk)

Note :

added some oc’s as friends, Y/n has no name ofc!! Sylus’ age is 23, mm idk how many parts yet so enjoy!!

Word count: 3k

Also first Sylus fic so pls be nice!!

Chap.1

"Where are you going?" you ask, glancing up at your roommate from your spot on the floor

Kaori adjusts the strap of her woven beach bag, her curly hair catching the light from the golden rays streaming through the window "Out with Mar and Davina. Why?"

You sigh, leaning back against the couch as the cool breeze from the open door drifts in, carrying the faint scent of salt and hibiscus

"Hoped you'd stay. I gotta work with Sylus on a project" you mumble, tracing a pattern on the edge of the colorful island rug beneath you

Kaori pauses, guilt flashing in her eyes "Oh, right. Sorry"

You wave her off with a small smile "Don't worry, it's fine. Enjoy yourself"

Her face brightens and she tosses you a grateful  smile "Thanks! I'll be back with snacks, promise!"

You watch as she steps out the door, the sound of her sandals fading as the warmth of the island afternoon settles around you

Nyx, your sleek black cat, saunters over with her tail curling high in the air before settling herself gracefully between your crossed legs

Her fur is warm from lounging in the sun and her golden eyes blink up at you lazily

"Hey" you mumble, running your fingers through her soft coat. She responds with a low, steady purr, the vibration soothing in the quiet room

Reaching for the book on the coffee table, you flip it open to the marked page, determined to get a head start on the project before Sylus arrives

Nyx adjusts herself, curling into a cozy ball, her rhythmic purring a comforting soundtrack as you begin to read

"Yeah, see you guys later" a voice calls out from outside, followed by a knock on the door moments later

"It's open!" you call back, shifting slightly as Nyx lets out a soft purr, still nestled in your lap

The door creaks open and Sylus steps in, his usual relaxed demeanor in place "You already started?" he asks, his eyes flicking to the book in your hands as he walks into the living room

You glance over your shoulder at him "I just opened it"

He nods setting two cups on the table, he gestures toward them "One's for you" he says casually before heading into the kitchen, disappearing out of sight

Curious, you glance at the drinks and grab the iced coffee, taking a tentative sip

The rich, creamy taste makes you pause, exactly how you like it. A small wave of surprise washes over you

"So" Sylus says, re-entering the room empty handed "You're the talk of the town"

"I am?" You arch a brow "And what did you go do in the kitchen?"

"Had to throw something away" he replies with a shrug before dropping onto the couch beside the one you're leaning against "Word is, you're dating someone"

Your confusion deepens "I'm not dating anyone"

He raises an eyebrow "So you're single?"

You narrow your eyes at him, suspicious of his tone "You already know the answer to that"

His grin widens, a casual confidence about him "Just confirming"

"Whatever, we need to start this project" you say, setting your iced coffee down and flipping open the book to the assigned section

Sylus chuckles, leaning back against the couch with a lazy grin "Alright, alright. No need to get bossy. I'm ready when you are"

You roll your eyes "Then pay attention for once"

He leans forward, resting his elbows on his knees, his gaze flicking to the pages in your book "I'm always paying attention" he says, his voice low and teasing

You shake your head, trying to ignore his tone, and focus on the task at hand "Sylus, I swear, if you mess this up..."

"Relax" he cuts you off "I've got this"

"Famous last words" you mutter under your breath, earning another soft laugh from him

2 hours later

"Y/n, we're back!" Leanne's voice carries through the door as it swings open, interrupting your thoughts

"Oh, hey Sylus" Vanessa says, stepping into view first, She raises an eyebrow, glancing between the two of you "Thought you'd be done by now"

"Me too" you mutter, shooting a glare at Sylus

For the past two hours, he's been driving you up the wall with his endless string of stupid questions and pointless tangents

Vanessa stifles a laugh, clearly catching the tension

Meanwhile, Leanne walks in, her arms weighed down with shopping bags that she promptly drops onto the kitchen table "Y'all making something?" she asks, curiosity lighting up her face

Sylus nods "Just working on a project" he says, like he hasn't been the sole reason for your slow progress

You sigh, rubbing your temples "More like wasting time"

Leanne chuckles, rifling through her bags. "Sounds productive"

Nyx rubs her head against Vanessa's leg, her soft purr drawing a smile from her, Vanessa bends down to scoop your cat into her arms, scratching behind her ears "Need our help?"

"No" "Yes"

You shoot Sylus a sharp look "We already have a concept. We just need to make it"

"Getting help doesn't hurt anyone" he counters, his tone annoyingly casual

"It will if we fail because of bad advice" you snap back, folding your arms

"Doubt it" he replies with a smirk, leaning back on the couch like he's enjoying the banter

Vanessa raises an eyebrow, her attention shifting between the two of you "Well, sounds like you've got this... or something close to it"

Leanne chuckles from the kitchen "Let me know if you change your minds. I'm great at helping"

"I honestly give up" you sigh, snapping the book shut with more force than necessary, You lean back against the couch, running a hand through your hair "We can try again tomorrow"

Sylus raises an eyebrow, clearly amused by your frustration "Giving up already? That's not like you"

You glare at him "I'm not giving up. I'm postponing so I don't strangle you"

Vanessa snickers, still cradling Nyx "Smart move. You'd never get the project done from jail"

Leanne chuckles, pulling out a snack from one of her shopping bags "I'm with Y/n. Take the night off, forcing yourself to finish it won't do any good"

Sylus shrugs and grabs his empty cup "Fine by me. Same time tomorrow?"

"Yeah, yeah," you mutter, already dreading it

"Night ladies" Sylus says, standing up like he hadn't spent the last few hours testing your patience

"Bye" Leanne says, barely glancing up as she starts unpacking her shopping bags

"See ya" Vanessa adds, settling into the armchair with Nyx still in her arms

Sylus lingers his gaze shifting to you, You sigh, already knowing what he's waiting for "See you tomorrow, Sylus"

He chuckles softly, giving you a look that's both smug and teasing before heading out the door

As soon as it closes, both girls their eyes are immediately on you

"He likes annoying you, you know that, right?" Leanne says, ripping open a bag of candy

Vanessa shakes her head with a smile "I'd say he actually likes her. It's kinda obvious"

You groan, sinking back against the couch "Please don't start"

Leanne pops a piece of candy into her mouth and smirks "Oh, we're starting. This is way more fun than those stupid rumors going around

You groan, trying to find an out "Isn't he dating some girl?" you ask, hoping it's true so they'll drop the subject

She shrugs "Those are just rumors. Haven't seen him around any woman the way he's around you"

"Don't say that" you mumble, heat creeping up your neck

Vanessa raises an eyebrow "He even left with his cup. He's got manners, at least"

"Bare minimum" you say flatly, refusing to give him any credit

She chuckles "Starting to think you don't like him, seeing how much he works on your nerves"

"It's true" you nod emphatically, your eyes following Nyx as she stretches, hops off Vanessa's lap, and pads out of the room, probably heading for her food

"Where's Kaori, by the way?" you ask, glancing between the two girls

"Something with her grandma" Leanne says, tossing another piece of candy into her mouth "She probably won't be home today"

You nod reaching for your phone on the table, opening your messages, you start typing out a quick text to check in with her.

The faint sound of waves crashing outside fills the room as the conversation drifts to other topics, but your thoughts linger

[The Next Day]

"Sup Y/n" a familiar voice calls out before an arm casually wraps over your shoulder

"Hey, Amari" you say, glancing at him as the two of you fall into step

"Heard you didn't get far with your project yesterday" he says, a teasing edge to his voice

You sigh, side eyeing him "He told you that?"

"He did" Amari replies with a chuckle "Just cut him some slack. He's cool, you know?''

You roll your eyes "You're his friend. Of course, you're gonna say that"

"I'm also your friend" he points out

"Right, so..." you hesitate, feigning nonchalance "Did he say anything else?"

Amari raises an eyebrow, clearly catching onto your tone "Nah, why? What's up?"

"Nothing, just asking" you shrug, brushing it off as you step into the classroom

He studies you for a second "Uh huh sure, nothing"

"Don't start acting like the girls now" you warn, narrowing your eyes at him

"Is it really that bad that we might think there's something going on between the two of you?" he asks as the two of you settle into seats at the back of the class

"The worst part is there's nothing going on, so you're all reaching for nothing" you say, shrugging as you pull your laptop out of your bag

"Where is he anyway?" you ask, not seeing Sylus, his usual spot empty

Amari leans back in his chair, looking unconcerned "Probably skipped. Nothing new, to be honest"

"To do what?" you ask, frowning

"Surfing with Eydis, I think" he answers with a shrug

You groan, slumping lower in your seat "Yeah, we're definitely not getting that project done" you mumble, sinking even further into the chair as frustration builds

Knocking on the door, you wait only a few seconds before it swings open

"Yo Y/n, Wassup! Would've loved to stay but I got plans, so I'll catch you later, yeah?" Eydis says, flashing a bright grin before pulling you into a quick hug and skateboard off down the street

You blink, momentarily caught off guard, but step inside the house

The sound of footsteps echoes from down the hall "What are you doing here?"

You suppress the urge to roll your eyes as Sylus's familiar voice greets you

Turning around, you find him leaning against the doorway, a towel slung low, way too low on his hips, his damp hair dripping onto his bare shoulders

"You didn't come to class today" you say bluntly, focusing hard on maintaining eye contact and not scanning his body

"Yeah. Missed me?" he asks, a lazy grin spreading across his face

"Definitely not" you reply, arms crossing over your chest "But being in class would've helped us with the project"

"So you're here to tutor me?" he teases, tilting his head slightly, his smirk widening

"No" you mutter, feeling your patience wane

He steps closer, studying you with a mix of curiosity and amusement "Something bothering you?"

You sigh, pinching the bridge of your nose "Just trying to have a serious conversation with you" You gesture vaguely at him "Can you please go put some clothes on?"

Sylus grins "Only because you begged for it" he says smugly, but his expression falters when your eye twitches ever so slightly

With a low chuckle, he finally retreats down the hall

"I wasn't begging!" you call out, narrowing your eyes at his retreating figure

"Whatever you say" Sylus replies, his voice carrying down the hall, laced with that infuriating smugness

You cross your arms, exhaling sharply as your eyes wander around the room

The vibe of the boys' house is the exact opposite of the cozy, organized space you and the girls share, chaotic and somehow... very them

Your gaze lands on a picture sitting on a cluttered shelf, It's of Sylus and two other guys, both of whom look like twins. They seem younger, maybe elementary age

For a brief moment, a ridiculous thought crosses your mind. Maybe they're his kids? You quickly shake the idea off

Sylus doesn't exactly scream "young dad" especially with no partner in the photo

"Gross" you whisper to yourself, frowning

Why were you even thinking about him like that or thinking about him at all for that matter

"So, if you aren't here to tutor me, why are you here?" his voice cuts through your thoughts, making you spin around

"To tell you to start showing up to class" you tell him

"You could have just texted me that" he says, strolling toward you

"I don't have your number" you counter

"You could've had it" he replies, stepping closer, a smirk playing on his lips

You instinctively take a step back "Nah"

"Kinda glad you don't" he says, his voice low, his smirk widening as you feel your back hit the wall

"You better not" you mutter, glaring at him but unable to ignore the way his presence seems to fill the room

"Do what exactly?" he asks, tilting his head, his tone mockingly innocent

"You know" you say, your voice barely above a whisper as the air between you grows heavier

"I don't" he says, leaning just slightly closer, his gaze locking with yours

"You better not kiss me" you warn, your voice firm despite the slight waver in it

Sylus raises an eyebrow "From what I rememb-"

You step closer, cutting him off by slapping your hand over his mouth "We were both drunk" you say quickly

He grabs your wrist, gently pulling your hand away "And you kissed me" he replies, emphasizing the word you

"And it won't happen again" you state firmly, meeting his gaze with as much resolve as you can muster

"There goes my dream" he says, sighing dramatically

"You're what?" you ask, baffled by his response "Whatever" you mutter, taking a step back and shaking your head "I told you what I needed to, so I'm leaving now"

"You sure? You don't wanna stay and relive the memories?" he teases, leaning casually against the wall

You glare at him one last time before turning on your heel "Absolutely not"

[5:29PM]

"Can you take table seven?" Leroy asks, his voice carrying over the soft hum of the restaurant

"Sure. They got their drinks already?" you ask, glancing at the small pile of empty glasses he's setting down on the counter

"Yeah, just need their food order" he nods, wiping his hands on a towel

"Okay" you say, grabbing your notepad and pen. With a quick nod in his direction, you head out toward table seven, weaving between the other occupied tables

The salty breeze from the ocean wafts in through the open windows, mingling with the faint aroma of freshly brewed coffee and pastries

Approaching table seven, you plaster on your customer service smile, ready to take their order

"Good afternoon. Are you ready to order?" you ask, your voice polite but faltering slightly as you notice Sylus sitting with your friends

"Hi, Y/n!" Davina greets you warmly, flashing a bright smile

"Hey, you're back?" you ask, surprised to see her

"Yeah, just arrived and bumped into them" she says, nodding toward Sylus and Amari, who are both looking far too comfortable

"Definitely against your will" you mumble under your breath, earning a small laugh from Davina

"She actually enjoys being around us" Amari says with a casual shrug, leaning back in his chair like he owns the place

You roll your eyes "Right. Your order?"

Sylus smirks, tapping the menu with his finger "Do you have patience on the menu? Because we're gonna need a little more time"

"Aren't you funny today?" you deadpan, already regretting walking over to their table

"For you? Always" Sylus replies, leaning forward slightly, clearly enjoying your annoyance

You narrow your eyes at him but turn your attention back to Davina, who's flipping through the menu "Do you know what you want, at least?" you ask her, hoping to move this along

"Hmm, I'll have the shrimp tacos" she says with a smile

"Great choice" you reply, jotting it down and purposely ignoring Sylus's lingering gaze "And you?" you ask Amari, pointedly skipping over Sylus for now

Amari grins "The jerk chicken platter. Oh, and a side of fries"

"Noted" you say, writing quickly. Finally, you glance at Sylus "And you?"

He rests his chin on his hand, pretending to think "What's the most complicated thing on the menu?"

You don't even blink "Water"

Davina snorts and Amari bursts out laughing, but Sylus just shakes his head, amused "Fine, I'll take the fish sandwich" he says, clearly enjoying the banter

"Coming right up" you mutter, spinning on your heel to head back to the kitchen, your patience hanging by a thread

"Could've told me Sylus was sitting at the table" you mutter as you hang the note up for the chefs

"Didn't know it got that bad" Leroy says, glancing at you "Thought you were cool with him now"

"Thought wrong" you sigh, pulling your hair into a low ponytail to distract yourself from the annoyance bubbling up

"My bad" he says, raising his hands in mock apology "Why, though? What's the issue?"

"He just loves to work on my nerves and he's way too smug. I hate it" you explain, crossing your arms as you lean against the counter

"Not your type?" he asks, his curiosity evident

You pause, groaning softly "He's hot, sure. Can't deny that. But his attitude? Definitely not it"

"I dunno" Leroy says with a small laugh, leaning his hip against the counter "I kinda thought his attitude would make you even more into him, won't lie"

You shoot him a sharp look "Why would you think that?" "Because you argue with him all the time but still stick around. Feels like some rom com tension to me" he teases

"Well, this isn't a movie," you say dryly "And trust me, I'd rather deal with anyone else's attitude than his"

"Sure, keep telling yourself that" he says, chuckling as he heads to the sink, leaving you to stew in his words

You chuckle and shove Leroy's shoulder playfully "You're annoying"

"You love it" he chuckles, grinning as he finishes wiping the counter

If you had been paying attention, you might have noticed Sylus's eyes lingering on you from across the room

To him, you looked effortlessly beautiful, the way you always did. It wasn't just the way your hair framed your face or the way you smiled when you teased Leroy, it was the way you carried yourself. You had a way of capturing his attention without even trying and it drove him crazy

But you didn't notice. Too wrapped up in the moment, you grabbed an empty tray and headed back out to the floor, completely unaware of the thoughts running through Sylus's mind

Chap.2 >

[oonajaeadira]

That Awoooo Inside You, Pt. 2

Fandom: The Wild Robot / Fink the Fox

Pairing: Fink <3s OFC fox Farrah

Rating: G all the way, don’t worry. This is keeping in the world and disgustingly wholesome. Prolly too clean for tumbles 😆

Warnings: None. It’s for cuteness and for heart.

Summary: After the events of The Wild Robot, a new resident joins the island. She’s a little withdrawn and Fink finds out why.

A/N: This chapter is mainly for @brandylyn because it means so much to me that she wants to read a simple story about a little yearning fox.

PART 1

For the past many mornings Fink had woken to an empty hut, the little heap of leaves near the door where Farrah preferred to sleep flattened and empty. As much as he knew he could just track her by scent, it wasn’t necessary anymore. He knew where she was.

And his heart sank a little. 

He’d been hoping for the day when he’d wake to find her still sleeping, at peace, or the night where she’d fall asleep before him, comfortable in her new home. But her ears always remained alert, feigning sleep into the night, and she was gone by first light.

Not that she wouldn’t come back to join him for meals or to play fast-as-the-wind with the possum kids. But he supposed she went to the cove in the morning for the same reason she slept near the door.

Hoping to catch a whiff of home.

There’d been two full moons since Farrah came to the island and she adjusted fast to their strange way of life. She wasn’t as hard driven by hunger as some of the other animals and gained from their talks that was because food had been more scarce where she was from and she was patient when it came to waiting for meals. Fish and shellfish had already been a big part of her diet. 

So she must have come from another island…but Fink couldn’t be sure. Anytime he’d ask more about it, she’d change the subject or go quiet. And she was very very good at being quiet. Probably had to learn that with fur like hers. It’s a wonder she made it to maturity without proper camouflage. Silence and speed would be her only options.

Except when she laughed. She laughed loud and high, almost a cry when she was really going. Farrah was easy to amuse and he made sure to do so whenever he had the chance. He wanted to see her happy and settled here. With him.

And he just liked to hear her laugh. Nobody laughed at his jokes like she did.

“That is the look of a lovelorn fox,” Paddler dryly declared one day, turning away to scrape away at a massive trunk with his crooked incisors. Fink had just cracked a joke at a squirrel’s expense–and not a clever one either, something about the size of nuts–and Farrah had laughed before bounding off after a butterfly. The beaver’s remark made Fink realize that he was wearing a dopey grin and he shook it off, but not before Paddler added, “Be direct. Build her a dam to show how you feel.”

“I’m not going to give her a dam.”

“But I’m telling you, fine fellow. We may be swimming among the trees as a pike in the waters of the river, yet the ladies still love a good bit of worked wood. You have that home–a good design, said because, as you will remember it is mine–but a little riverside palace of her own? Eh? What a treat.”

Fink rolled his eyes, playing cavalier. “It’s not like that. We’re–” over in the near clearing, Farrah’s fur sparkled white in the sinking sun, her head tilting side to side as she watched two butterflies dancing, trying to pick up on their whispers, quiet and still….and beautiful. “--friends.”

“Ha!” Paddler choked on a laugh. “You fool no one, sir. Just give her a treasure and be done with it. I’m telling you a dam always does the job, but I suppose you must do as your ilk do.” 

“Is that why there's no Mrs. Paddler?”

“Oh ho! I have had my salacious share of affairs, I assure you. My dams are well-given and wide spread. I am focusing on other projects at the moment,” he boasted with a grand gesture towards his gnarled tree, and turned back to his gnawing.

But Fink hadn’t let the beaver’s advice sift completely to the background and after a particularly good day of digging holes for grubs and laying in the sun-warmed grass, it was Farrah herself that completed the thought.

“Okay. You get to take one feature from any other animal and add it to your own. What are you stealing?” Fink rolled on his back, belly to the sun, black paws bent and hanging lazily.

“Uhhhhh,” she sighed. “Mayyyyybe racoon paws?”

He wrinkled his nose in disgust. “Ugh. Really? You’d lose your ability to run fast.”

“Yeah, but where am I gonna run here?” she smiled, teasing, and his tail twitched hopefully. “And I bet they’re useful for arranging bedding and…holding fish…and…oh! I bet urchins would be so much easier to crack open, no more getting spines in my jowls…”

“Wait!” He flipped to his stomach then, his claws digging in the dirt, eager to run, eager to share the idea that had just come to him, ready to bound and yip but controlling himself–she was skittish if he was too bouncy–”You like urchins??”

“Of course. Do they live here? I’ve never found any.”

“Come on. I gotta show you something,” and he took off running with the breeze at his back, which carried the information that she was following and keeping up with him as he made his way through the trees and down the sloping landscape to the shore. 

Running straight for the goose flats, he turned abruptly at the shoreline and went crashing though some bushes until they came to a bluff wall. But instead of coming to a halt, Fink took a leap, knowing which ledges were wide enough to hold him, and which led out to the sea. From there, he was able to round the corner to a small cove. With the tide out, it was a completely isolated beach, not even a sand bird or seagull.

“Welcome to the northern most point of the island,” he explained with a sweep of the paw. “When I don’t wanna dig clams to a soundtrack of honks, I come out here. The tide leaves little treats too. Cockles, a dead fish, sometimes an eel. Sometimes though–” he scanned the stretch of beach, his heart skipping at the sight of a dark little blob, “--there! Urchin!”

Dashing over, he sniffed at it and, finding it still fresh, held it down with one paw and expertly cracked its underside open with his teeth. Then he sat back high and proper, very proud of himself, and offered the feast to her with a flourish. “Madame.” Surely this would be it. This cove was his little secret, his treasure to give her. And serving up delicacies with humor? He just wanted to make her smile…

But Farrah had stopped nearby, distracted, her strange eyes–one light, one dark–searching the sea, her nose activated, taking in the air.

“Uh…Farrah?” Snapping to, she closed the distance, and Fink cocked his head. “Everything okay?”

“Oh, of course. I just caught a whiff of–” she fought off a glance to the sea. “It doesn’t matter. Oh wow! The urchins are huge here!”

“Yeah,” he chuckled nervously. “It’s a specialty here. You’re gonna love the recipe. This one’s for you. Dig in.” As she did, Fink turned fully toward the water and scanned the horizon, trying to see what had caught her attention but found no scents or sights out of the ordinary. “This place is a little secret of mine, but you’re welcome to it anytime.”

“It’s nice here. Quiet.” She licked her jowls, taking in the last morsels of the delicacy. He still hadn’t turned from the sea and just as he meant to ask what had pulled her attention, she surprised him by coming to sit beside him, not just near him, but right beside him, shoulder to shoulder, flank to flank. “Thank you.”

Success. He sat still, paralyzed, trying to keep his heartbeat from racing, his tail from twitching. She liked his gift, she liked his shared treasure, he could feel his paws wanting to happy tap in the sand and the springs of his hips wanting to leap in triumph.

But still he sat. Because she had finally come closer and he knew even a twitch would send her just out of reach again, no matter how badly he wanted to curl his tail around her–not only to warm her but to protect–his foxy instincts running high.

But still he kept sitting, as long as he could, watching her from the corner of his eye as she sniffed the wind and seemed to be relaxing around him.

Not long after that, she was gone in the mornings and he’d track her here to this cove and peek around the bluff wall to find her sitting in almost the same spot, looking out toward the sea. The first day he’d found her, he’d startled her and she ran off in a flash, not coming home until after dark.

After that he left her be and went back to the goose flats for breakfast. She’d join him soon enough and say nothing about it, smiling as if all was fine. But she never sat so close to him again and she still slept every night with perked ears near an escape route.

After a while though, he tried a different tactic. He came out into the cove and sat at the shore as she did–quiet and still–only still very far away. He’d let her pick up his scent before moving closer and sitting nearby, matching her gaze to the sea, and they would sit in silence for a short moment before she would perk up as if all was well and backtrack to the wall and therefore getting on with the day, nothing more about her alone time to be said.

Until today. Poking his head around the bluff he found Farrah on her feet, trotting up and down a short length of the shore, eyes on the far, far horizon…and then he noticed the smell.

Snow.

There was an iceberg far out to sea, not unusual for late spring on some years, but not altogether common either. They never came close and were often in and out of sight within a morning. This one was drifting further away and Fink watched as Farrah tracked it going, looked after it even when it was too far to be seen or smelled, finally sitting with a little sigh and sink of the head.

And then he understood.

One recent night they’d been looking up at the stars and Fink had pointed out The Great Crack in the Sky, his friend Roz had told him its name was Cassiopeia, whatever that means. That’s when she told him that in her home, they called that group of stars The Iceberg Edge. The elders of her pack used it to teach kits not to go out onto the ice when they saw the pattern of this constellation on the ground, because it meant the ice was breaking up and going out to sea. 

This is how she came here, she told him, caught on a piece of spring ice that broke away during a clutch of warm days. It drifted too far out to sea for anyone to hear her howling. When it was almost melted out from under her, she was lucky enough to swim to a piece of debris and huddle on it for a few days until there was an upset and she was in the water again and the next thing she knew she was waking up in the hut with a bear blocking the exit.

It seemed like yesterday and ages ago all together.

Once she noticed him sitting down the beach, this time he moved closer and sat quietly for a little bit before speaking slow and low.

“You…miss your home, huh.” As he expected, she only blinked down at the sand, and his ears fell to a droop. But she wasn’t running off or changing the subject. Maybe if she wasn’t ready to talk, she might be okay with listening. Fink swallowed, realizing he was about to say some things out loud for the first time. “I felt the same way when I came to this part of the island. My mom kicked me out pretty early and I was run off before I could really learn the ropes. It took me a long time to forgive her. I know now that it wasn’t her first choice, that there were too many males and not enough females so I guess she was afraid I’d get targeted. But I was pretty darn lonely for a long time.”

“What changed?”

His breath caught as she spoke up, but he managed to recover and answer. “I found friends. Really amazing friends. I hope that for you too. It seems like you’re off to a good start. Especially if you keep giving Pinktail a break from her spawn.”

At least she cracked half a smile before letting it fade again. “Friends don’t replace family.”

“No, not replace. But they can become another kind of family. I have proof.” He’d told her enough about Roz and Brightbill, and Thorn spent enough time in the hut that he knew she understood. “But I’d like to hear about your family…” and here he couldn’t help himself, his self-interests creeping in as he tested his chances, “...I assume you mean your mate and kits…”

Here Farrah gave him a look so sudden, so bewildered and distressed that he was about to ask her if he’d overstepped, but instead, that laugh of hers broke out, although not as loudly as usual. 

“I was talking about my mother and siblings. They were my whole world. They had to be. The food was scarce so the families were spread out and…well. Mate? That’s… I’m obviously nobody’s first choice, I mean, just look..” She stuck out her tongue and made a silly face, tilting her head from side to side. 

Fink could only blink, perplexed.

The breeze picked up, but the scent of snow was only a memory now, the water a flat line. Farrah’s nose pointed down to the sand again, her half smile diminishing by half again for a moment. Fink leaned forward, words starting to bubble up, words he thought he’d never get to say to another fox. But before he could say what he’d been holding down, she shook off the mood and feebly tried to make it a non-issue, abolishing the silence between them.

“Have I ever told you how my sister once head-butted an elephant seal?”

“Ah…no. Really?”

“Really!”

“Huh. What’s…an elephant seal?”

“It’s–oh! Sometimes I forget…of course you wouldn’t know...!” Then that laugh again, launching into the story, starting with an impression of the seal–although if it was a good impression or not, he couldn’t tell having never seen one. But he knew somehow by her laughter that it was. She was suddenly back to normal, comfortable to be herself when it was only the two of them in this little hidden cove.

No mate. She had no mate. This was good news. For him. But sad for her. That is, if she wanted one. What if she didn’t–? Wait. What did she mean by that? That nobody would choose her? Because of her fur? Because she was a runt? Maybe that made sense in a place where she would have to hide from predators, but she wouldn’t have to do that here. And even if it was necessary, he could protect her…probably. If she wanted that... Even so, she’d be okay. If he learned anything from Brightbill it was that sometimes the will to survive past nature’s plan for you makes you even more likely to outlive everyone else.

He could certainly feel nature’s plan working on him and thought with a little grin that he would gladly give up a longer life for that plan to work out….

But Farrah was speaking, talking about her family, their annual rounds from point to point in their territory, how she and her sisters used to share everything and hide and pop out to scare their mother and she would do her very best to act frightened. And the nights dancing under the green light curtains! Had he ever seen the shifting lights in the night sky? He had to admit he hadn’t. So he put his wonderings aside and laid down in the sand, crossing his paws and listened, learned, and bathed in the light of her widening trust. They had all day until the tide came back in. And Fink had no need to be anywhere but here.

He hoped in time, she would feel the same.

___

PART 3

SERIES MASTERLIST

MAIN MASTERLIST

[naomijoestar]

heyy can i please request jobros reactions to their s/o doing on them that tiktok trend where the gf records their bf and tell him “if u make me laugh you’re getting some tonight” and as soon as the bf opens his mouth she bursts out laughing? (the reader being the gf recording and the jobros being the bf ofc)

Masterlist here <3

Hey anon! I’m sorry for making you wait so long, here is your request <3 I hope you like it, I’m not too sure about it so if you’d like anything specific added or fixed you can always private message me!

Mista version here <3

Characters: speedwagon, caeser, kakyoin, okuyasu, bucciarati, ermes, gyro

Jobros react to “if you make me laugh you’re getting some tonight”

Speedwagon

Speedwagon smirks the second you point the camera at him. “Alright, love, what’re you playin’ at this time?” he asks, leaning back with a grin. When you say, “If you make me laugh, you’re getting some tonight,” his eyes light up, and his smirk grows downright devilish

“Oh, you’ve set yourself up for failure, sweetheart,” he says, rubbing his hands together dramatically. “Let me tell ya—”

But before he can finish the sentence, you’re already giggling like a maniac, clutching your stomach and shaking the camera. He pauses mid-word, blinking at you. “What? I didn’t even start yet!”

When you finally manage to explain through your laughter that you wanted him to win, Speedwagon’s grin turns smug. “Oh, I see how it is,” he says, leaning in closer and lowering his voice. “Couldn’t resist me, huh? You know, you could’ve just skipped the game and told me straight-up.”

By the end of it, he’s tossing the camera aside (carefully) and pulling you into his lap, whispering with a playful tone, “You better not be teasin’ me, or I’ll be havin’ ya make all kinds of sounds all night.”

Caeser Zeppeli

The moment you say the words, Caesar’s lips curve into a self-assured smirk. “Oh, cara mia, you’ve made this far too easy for me,” he teases, leaning back and folding his arms like he’s already won

But as soon as he opens his mouth, you burst out laughing, your voice echoing in the room. Caesar freezes mid-word, his eyebrows shooting up in surprise. “Wait, wait—what did I even say?” he demands, but you’re too busy giggling to respond

When you finally catch your breath and admit you wanted to laugh, his smirk returns, this time even cockier. “Ah, so that’s how it is, hmm? You just couldn’t wait to reward me.” He steps closer, tilting your chin up with a finger as his voice drops. “You didn’t need to pretend, amore. All you had to do was ask.”

He ends up backing you against the wall, his breath warm against your ear. “But since you insisted on playing games…” He trails off with a sly grin, leaving the rest of the night entirely up to your imagination

Noriaki Kakyoin

Kakyoin raises an eyebrow at your challenge, his usual calm demeanor not faltering one bit. “If I make you laugh, I get what tonight?” he asks, his lips twitching into a small, amused smile

When you nod and repeat yourself, he adjusts his glasses, clearly amused but trying to look serious. “Well, I suppose I’ll give it a try,” he says smoothly

As soon as he opens his mouth to say something witty, though, you’re already doubled over with laughter. He pauses, blinking at you in confusion. “I… didn’t even get to the punchline.”

When you explain your true intentions, Kakyoin’s cheeks flush slightly, but he quickly recovers, giving you a knowing smirk. “So that’s how you’re playing it, huh?” he says, stepping closer. “You didn’t need to go through all this trouble, you know. I’m more than happy to oblige.”

His hand brushes against your cheek, his voice dipping lower. “But if you wanted me that badly, you might have to make up for teasing me first.”

Okuyasu Nijimura

Okuyasu lights up like a kid on christmas the second you tell him the challenge. “Wait, for real?!” he exclaims, practically bouncing in place. “Man, this is gonna be the easiest thing I’ve ever done!”

He opens his mouth, probably to say something ridiculous or do some over-the-top impersonation, but you immediately burst out laughing, cutting him off. He freezes, his expression a mix of confusion and excitement. “Huh?! Did I win already?”

When you finally explain that you wanted to laugh, his face lights up even more. “Ohhh, I get it now!” He scratches the back of his neck, his grin turning a little bashful but still full of mischief. “Man, you’re somethin’ else, huh?”

Before you can respond, he’s pulling you into a tight kiss, his huge hands resting around your waist. “You’re lucky I like you so much,” he mumbles, though his playful tone is impossible to miss. “Now, c’mon, let’s not waste any time. You did say tonight, right?”

Bruno Bucciarati

“If I make you laugh, I get what?” he asks, raising a single brow. When you repeat yourself, his lips curve into a small, knowing smile

“Very well,” he says smoothly, leaning forward slightly as if preparing to deliver a line. But the moment he opens his mouth, you’re already laughing, your voice breaking into the quiet room

He stops, tilting his head in mild confusion. “I didn’t even say anything yet,” he remarks, though the corners of his mouth are twitching upward

When you explain that you laughed on purpose, Bruno hums softly, his smile turning into something more mischievous. “Ah, I see. So you were planning this all along.”

He steps closer, his fingers brushing lightly along your jawline. “If you wanted to skip to the reward, you could’ve just said so,” he murmurs, his voice low and teasing. “But now that I know how easily you laugh, maybe I’ll have to keep you smiling all night.”

Ermes Costello

Her expression shifts instantly to one of amused challenge, her lips curling into a confident smirk. “Oh, that’s how we’re playing it?” She steps closer, tilting her head slightly. “Baby, I don’t even need to try.”

The second she opens her mouth—probably about to say something cheeky or roast you—you burst out laughing, not even giving her a chance. Ermes freezes mid-word, blinking in surprise. “Hold on. That’s it? I didn’t even say anything!”

When you explain through your giggles that you laughed on purpose, her smirk deepens into something downright wicked. “Oh, so that’s how you’re gonna play it, huh?” she teases, stepping even closer until her face is just inches from yours. “You wanted to skip to the good part, didn’t you?”

Ermes grabs your phone, sets it aside without breaking eye contact, and cups your face in her hands, her tone dropping to a playful growl. “You’re lucky I’m in a good mood tonight. But next time? I’m gonna make you laugh for real before you get anything.”

With that, she gives you a teasing kiss, leaving you both grinning like idiots

Gyro Zeppeli

Gyro’s grin stretches across his face before you even finish explaining the rules. “Oh, you’re gonna regret this one,” he says, cracking his knuckles like he’s preparing for a showdown

But the second he opens his mouth—probably to say something absurd—you’re already howling with laughter, your camera shaking as you try to keep it steady. Gyro pauses, his expression falling into mock offense. “What? You didn’t even let me finish! I had golden material, and you ruined it!”

When you finally manage to tell him you laughed on purpose, his grin returns, wider and more smug than ever. “Oh, I see how it is,” he says, stepping closer and slipping the phone out of your hand. “You just wanted me all to yourself, huh?”

Before you can respond, he pulls you against him, his lips brushing your ear as he whispers, “Next time, don’t even bother with the games. Just tell me what you want—and I’ll deliver.”

I hope you liked this! If you’d like anything tweaked or added don’t be shy to shoot me a message! :)

If you enjoyed this make sure to check out my other posts, and if you’d like anything specific written for a jjba character/squad you can request it if my requests are open!

[scorpioriesling]

Invisible String - Part 3

･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:* ✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:* ✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:* ✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:* ✧･ﾟ: *

Pairing(s): Eris x reader

Warning(s): angst ofc, comfort. Please be advised; future parts might not be suitable for all audiences. Proceed with caution.

Summary: You'd taken the nanny position for the royal family over a year ago, not expecting what would come of it or how close you'd grow to the child you cared for. Things became tough for Eris when his wife left him and his daughter, and he found it increasingly harder to raise Riley himself. He soon realizes, you've provided a lot more than the typical job description duties for his daughter... and maybe for him, too.

SR’s Note: I added in the advisory so that younger / uncomfortable readers won't begin the series without knowing or expecting potential risks in content to come. For those who enjoy or look forward to content as such -- get excited! Nonetheless, I hope readers will enjoy this series that came to me in a dream one night. (; Much love to all.

Tags: @cynthiesjmxazrielslover @talesofadragon @rcarbo1 @mandziaaa @lilah-asteria @a-frog-with-a-laptop @kitsunetori @dannul @velarisdusk @lamarmotta @paintedbyshadows @i-know-i-can (inbox me or comment if you'd like to be added!)

･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:* ✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:* ✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:* ✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:* ✧･ﾟ: *

You'd practically torn apart every drawer in your dresser and tossed out every hanger in your closet at this point. All those clothes you'd put away were for nothing; your room was a disaster. Yet, you could not find anything suitable enough for an outing with the Autumn heir and his daughter.

"The PINK one," the four year old chimed in for the hundredth time.

Her commentary was not necessarily helping, either.

"Riley, I'm not sure that the pink is my favorite," you say, and she scootches to the edge of your bed, hopping off and trotting over to your closet. She watches as you furiously flip through the remaining hangers, and her fist closes around a fistfull of marigold fabric.

"This!" She says, tugging on a rather simple milkmaid-style dress you hadn't worn in years, honestly. It was cute, it at least had some floral detailing on it.

You sighed, looking down at the beaming child. You'd done her hair first; half up, half down with a biiiig bow, just as she'd requested. A bow to match her fluffy gown and pretty flats, of course. She truly was the definition of Princess.

"I suppose-"

"Yay!" She twirled, her dress billowing out around her. She wafted toward the corner as you slid the dress on, adjusting it to fit before stepping out in front of the large mirror to inspect it in full. You'd barely laid your eyes on the full outfit before Riley bounded over to you, her mouth wide as she gasped.

"You look so pretty!" She said, wrapping her arms around your knee as her eyes met yours in the mirror. You smiled at her, leaning down to give her a hug.

"Thank you Riles! You look very pretty today too." You complimented, and she giggled, her fingers drifting through the ends of your curled hair. You decided on a few minimal jewelry pieces and flats, pushing your accessory drawer closed when a thin, marigold ribbon fell out. Riley noticed it, racing over and picing it up for you.

"We match?" She asked, extending the hair accessory to you on an outstretched hand. You took it from her; all you could do was agree, tying half your hair back and fastening it in a bow at the back.

"We better go find your dad," you suggest, straightening the last few imperfections of your dress before Riley's attention is caught at the doorway.

"Oh my -- Riley, you look wonderful!" Eris' voice compliments from your doorway, and she bounds over to him, getting caught in his arms in an instant. He kisses her cheek, both of them looking to you after a moment's pause. "You both do," he adds, quieter this time. You turn slightly, blushing at the compliment as you retrieve your purse from your bed and walk towards them.

"As do you, Vanserra." You brush past him with a wink, heading down the hallway with all the confidence in the world today it seemed. Riley's footsteps bounded behind you, the three of you on your merry way.

✧･ﾟ: *

You'd ridden to the Town Square on horseback; Riley with her dad, of course. When you'd gotten to the main district, he'd gotten off with Riley first, helping you next like a true gentleman. His hand lingered for a moment around your waist, the heat of his touch enough to send a thrill down your spine.

Stop it. You chastized yourself. You still work for him, you know.

Riley gasped, pointing toward the center of the streets, the crowds and vendors bustling with business this afternoon. "Daddy, look!" She squealed, pointing and hopping from foot to foot in anticipation. His hand held hers, beginning the trek through the busy streets. You accompanied her other side, sure to keep close to her just in case.

"Look! Daddy!" She shrieked in delight, and Eris scratched the back of his head, failing to recognize which vendor Riley was pointing out. You looked ahead, trying to decipher what might have her so intrigued. That’s when you saw it.

You leaned over, gently tapping his shoulder. He looked to you, and you placed your fingers atop your head, pointing down at Riley and then ahead. He looked forward, the realization dawning on him then.

“Oh! I see, the lady with the crowns?” He asked. Riley shrieked, jumping up and down as your trio continued on, making way toward the craft table. Eris looked to you, silently mouthing a thank you. You only nodded once, giving him a small smile in return.

Riley let go of her father’s hand, leaping toward the table full of play pretend crowns when she was close enough to see it fully. She oogled over them all — finding it hard to choose just one.

“Good morning, folks!” The older woman behind the table greeted, and you bowed your head in polite greeting as well.

“Hi, I like all these,” Riley said, and the lady chuckled.

“Well, aren’t you a little cutie,” she cooed, and Riley nodded.

“Actually, I’m a Princess.” The lady smiled at her, and Riley inspected a pink bedazzled one more closely.

“Oh, I bet you are, aren’t you!” She said. She seemed to only just now notice Eris, her eyes widening in pleasant surprise.

“Why, if it isn’t the High Lord's son himself! Oh, goodness,” She said, curtsying hastily. Eris smiled politely.

“No worries, ma’am. Good morning to you too. Lovely day today, isn’t it?” He said, and her eyes lit up.

“It isn’t isn’t it? Gosh, what a beautiful day-“

“Daddy, I want this one!” Riley thrust a golden crown with red gems glued to it into the air, and Eris stepped forward.

“Alright dear, alright.” He chuckled, fishing out a few coppers from his pocket. “How much for this one?” He asked. The old woman waved a hand, shaking her head.

“Nonsense; it’d be my honor to give one of my crafts to the Autumn Princess.” Riley beamed, putting her new crown on her head in delight.

“That’s very kind of you, but I insist.” He dropped a few coins, definitely more than the piece cost — and the lady gave him a gracious smile.

“Thank you!” Riley said, and the woman nodded to her.

“You’re teaching that one well, Eris!” She said, and Eris waved as you all made your way to the next table.

✧･ﾟ: *

You’d only made it by about five more tables when the face painting station came into view. Of course, that was next on the agenda, and of course, it had the longest line of children. Nonetheless; Riley patiently waited her turn, standing calmly between a few other rowdy kids while you and Eris watched from the fountain a few feet away.

“That’s all you, you know.” He said, your sidelong glances meeting for only a moment. “Her, manners, I mean. How well behaved she is. Her patience,” he explains. You clasp your hands together, his shoulder resting against the stone so close to the side of your face. You were grateful, anyway; he shielded the midday sun from your view.

“She doesn’t get that from you?”

He lets out a sharp laugh, looking at you incredulously. “Oh, absolutely not. Me, as a child… Gods, I wish there was a way I could repay my mother for how reckless I was.” He shook his head, and you bit your lip to hold back your giggle.

“You seem like you’ve got this-“ he gestures his hand in a circle, motioning to Riley who looks over and mistakes it as a wave. She waves, and both of you wave back at her, that little smile so contagious.

“It just seems like you’ve got this whole thing figured out already. Like, you’ve always got an answer for everything.” He scratches his chin, and your mouth tilts in a side smile at his words.

“Eris, truly, I don’t though. I mean, I don’t even have kids myself...yet.” You say, and he lets out a long breath. Your mind races, thinking of everything you know you shouldn’t in that moment.

“You want them someday, though?” He asks. Your expression must say something, because he quickly fumbles his words. “I’m sorry, that’s, um. That’s really personal, I didn’t mean. That.”

You look down at the pavement, more than the afternoon sun warming the skin on your cheeks. “Well,” you say, your eyes daring a glance at him only to realize his face is rather flushed as well. “Riley won’t need a nanny forever, right?”

Eris runs a hand through his hair, readjusting his position against the wall of the fountain. “No, no. I suppose she won’t.”

“Look! She’s almost done,” You say, watching as the artist cleans her brush in the water one last time. Eris tries to peer around people and get a look at what design she got, and you curl your fingers around the rather large muscle of his upper arm.

“Wait! Don’t look — what do you think she got?” You ask, and Eris’ gaze wavers between where your fingers hold tight to him and your eyes trained on his.

“I…. uh… I don’t know,” he says, failing to come up with a good guess. “Probably the pony; little girls love ponies, right?” You smirk, raising an eyebrow at him.

“I bet you one copper that she comes back with a bunny painted on her cheek.” You guess, and he shrugs.

“Alright, suit yourself. One copper it is, then.” Riley scooted back in her chair, bounding over to you with a wide smile on her face. Eris watched as your smile grew with every step his daughter took toward you two, a fluffy, pink bunny painted right on her cheek.

✧･ﾟ: *

Riley started getting a bit fussy after the late lunch the three of you had shared, indicating it was indeed her naptime. She refused to be carried by her father through the busy streets, preferring to walk between you two hand-in-hand instead.

"Swing me!" She shouted, skipping along as she gripped your fingers in hers. Eris looked to you and sighed, but you only shrugged.

"Alright dear, but only a few times, we're nearly to the horses-"

"Okay, Daddy, okay!" She said, rearing back and preparing to be swung off her feet.

"One, two, three!" Eris counted, lifting her in time with you off her little feet, sending her flying into the air a few inches as she squealed in delight. When her feet hit the ground once more, she laughed with joy, asking again and again for the same thing.

You watched as the little girl fell asleep soundly against her father's chest, drifting off with the rocking atop the horse as you'd made the trek home. It made you happy to see Eris getting to do these little things, even if it was just carrying his daughter inside and lying her down for her nap. You'd taken to the kitchen, noticing the darkening sky and decided to prep for the evening meal as you'd be cooking for one extra this evening.

"I didn't realize how much went into what you do."

You didn't need to look to know he'd come into the kitchen, his voice only a few feet away. You continued to pull out the various pots and pans needed, closing the cabinets with care to not wake Riley.

"I'm not sure what you mean," you say, walking toward the fridge in search of the vegetables. Eris stalks over to the island, leaning against it as he watches you pull things out.

"I just meant. Well, I don't get to spend as much time with her as I'd like." He says, and you stand, shutting the refrigerator door behind you. You walk over and stand beside him, laying out the veggies on the countertop before you.

"I see," You say. He was talking about his daughter, you knew that. A soft rumbling sounds from outside, and you glance behind you. The sky outside the window has indeed darkened; you hoped the thunder would only enhance her slumber, not stir her from it.

You bent over, reaching in the cabinet for a cutting board and placing it on the island. Eris went quiet next to you, and you risked a glance at him. Your face fell when you noticed his downcast eyes, so full of light and love just hours ago now replaced with something darker.

"What's... what has you so upset-"

"I'm the only parent she has left," he says harshly, his hands bracing the edge of the marble. "I barely know a thing about my own kid, and I don't get to see her often because of my damned job, my position in this court that I'd give up in an instant if I knew she'd be safe-" he stops, the last word broken by a crack in his voice. His knuckles had gone white against the counter, and your eyes had widened at his outburst.

You reached out a timid hand in comfort, but pulled back as the image of last time flashed through your mind. The way he freaked out when you put your hand on his arm, just trying to be there for him...

You weren't sure what he wanted from you.

"Eris... I don't know what to say." You couldn't think of what to do, shaking your head slowly as your hands hung limply at your sides. "I'm... I'm really sorry, about today, if I stepped on your toes by going with you guys, I know how important your time is with her, I just-"

His head turns, looking to you in that moment. You hadn't realized how close you stood to one another, his intense gaze feeling like fire as he scanned your face. You couldn't read him -- his eyes watered, and he looked... frustrated? Confused? What was it?

"Look, I'm sorry, I'll just leave you alone-"

"Please don't," he whispered, his eyes falling to your hands as a tear ran down his cheek. "Please. Don't leave."

Your heart throbbed, pins prickling the backs of your own eyes. In that moment, you reached both of your hands out, not caring the repercussions of your actions as you slid your arms around Eris' ribs, pulling him into you and holding tight. He breathed deep, his torso shuddering as you fought back your own tears while running your fingers up and down his back. His hands gripped your waist, his strong arms enveloping you as he allowed himself to finally relax against your touch, finally accepting a bit of the comfort you so desperately had been trying to offer him.

"Eris," you said quietly, the rainfall the only other sound in the room over the quiet sounds of your combined breaths. "You have to understand that you are a good father." His fingers flex around your waist, holding you tighter as he takes in your words.

"Riley talks about you all day long," you continue. "She waits everyday for you to come home, and I really think you don't give yourself enough credit for all of the things you do for her each and every day." You say.

"She knows your work is... not, well. Normal," you say, and he nods against your shoulder. "I think everyone knows that you do a lot, and you've been through so much," you chuckle humorlessly, pressing your cheek against his chest. "The main thing we care about, honestly, is that you come home safe every night."

He pulls back slowly, his hand sliding from your waist to brush a piece of hair from your forehead. You hadn't realized it'd stuck to your cheek -- a stream of wet from the corner of your eye was proof of that. His fingers remained lightly cupping your cheek, his thumb brushing across your skin as he continued to hold you against him.

"You truly are a Queen." Eris says, his soft smile drawing a little chuckle from you. "Beautiful inside and out."

Your cheeks are ablaze from his words, your breathing unsteady as his fingers pull you closer, his lips mere inches from yours. You can see every caramel hue in his irises, every light freckle dusting the bridge of his nose when-

A sharp crack sounds behind you, the room illuminating with the bolt of lightning that flashes across the sky. You flinch, embarassed as the moment passes and you're left in darkness again. You realize you'd clung tighter to Eris, and he'd done the same; both of you releasing your hold on the other at the same time.

He clears his throat, running a hand through his hair as he lets out a short laugh. "Uh, well," he chuckles, gesturing to the spread of forgotten vegetables on the countertop before you. "This is another thing I am not proficient at." He shrugs, and you nod, wiping your palms on the skirt of your dress.

"Oh! Right, um, well. I'd be happy to show you, if you'd like. I thought for dinner tonight, we'd do traditional autumn stew?"

✧･ﾟ: *

The rest of that night was nice... for the most part.

Dinner was nice. The three of you enjoying it together was nice. Riley insisted on having movie night afterwards, so Eris set up the projector and the three of you snuggled together in the living area under a mound of blankets and pillows to watch Moana... which was nice. You'd even fallen asleep there, and to wake up using Eris' arm as a pillow... well, you'd be lying if you said that wasn't nice, too.

What was not so nice, was the morning after.

You'd woken up first, enoying the sight around you in the dim light but eventually you made your way to the kitchen for some tea. The first light of morning hadn't risen yet, which meant you had some time before Riley would wake up to prepare a meal for her... and her father, too. You were pondering what to make when footsteps behind you had you whirling around in the dark, squinting to make out the figure before you.

"Don't worry -- it's just me," Eris whispered, and you rubbed your eyes, taking him in more clearly. He was already fully dressed, not in his usual attire or how he would dress when spending time at home, either. He was in his armor, the various straps and ties secured across his chest and arms making your eyes widen and forcing you to wake up quickly.

"Where are you going?" You asked, and he stepped closer, his voice a hushed whisper.

"I recieved word that I would be needed this week for correspondence in a few of the other courts," he says, and your heart lurches. "I am hoping to be back sooner, but-"

"Wait. You're leaving for an entire week?" You squeak, and he nods gravely. You shudder, but you feel his fingers wrap around yours as he brings your hand to his lips.

"I promise, I will try to be back sooner." He says, pressing a gentle kiss to the back of your hand. You shake your head, your mind racing with a million dark thoughts you wished you weren't having this early in the morning.

"What about Riley?"

He sighs, dropping your hand and scratching his chin. "Last time I had to leave like this, you remember she didn't handle the goodbye well-"

"So you think leaving without saying anything is better?" You ask, your frown evident. His head drops between his shoulders, and his hands lightly hold onto your shoulders.

"Y/N, you know it kills me to leave like this," he says, his eyes pleading in the dim morning light. "I can't go through that again with her." He says, and you sigh. It was horrendous last time, her wailing and sobbing as he left for his mission lasted days when she was told what wsa happening. You still felt the guilt in your gut by not telling her what was going on though.

Your fingers found his, your gaze firmly holding his. "I'm telling her today after you've gone. She at least deserves to understand what's happening." He nods, pulling you in quickly to his chest. Your heart skips a beat, the anticipation, fear, and something else all mixed together like the bubbling water of the Cauldron inside of you.

"One week. I'll see you then," he says against your hair, releasing you as he quietly makes his way to and out of the front door.

✧･ﾟ: *

That whole week was Hell.

Riley asked at least once a day when her father would come home, and you felt worse and worse when you couldn't give her a straight answer as you weren't entirely sure yourself as to when he'd return. Honestly, it made you sick not knowing exactly what was going on either, and having to put on a brave face every morning was beginning to weigh on you more than you liked to admit. You truly wished you didn't care so much -- but the tethers around your heart pulled everytime you imagined the worst, thinking of what could be happening to Eris-

"Y/N is sad." Riley stands near the end of the kitchen counter, her limp beagle dangling from her fingers. Her tired eyes were swollen and red, and you lift your head from your hands on the counter at the sound of her voice. You glance toward the clock. 9 pm.

"Riley, honey, I put you in bed an hour ago-"

"But Y/N is sad too." She walks softly toward you, the braid you'd done in her hair now slightly mussed from the tossing and turning she'd likely done in her bed before she'd woken up. She approaches, wrapping her arms around your thigh and pressing her cheek to your exposed skin. Tears threaten the corners of your eyes, all of the emotions hitting you in full today. It was the seventh day Eris hadn't come back, and you were both feeling the weight of his absence it seemed.

You bend down, kneeling before her to engulf her in your arms in a proper hug. She shakes lightly against you, and you can't help the single tear that slips free, dripping onto her soft hair. Her fingers grip onto your silky pajamas, clutching you tightly.

"I miss daddy so much," she mumbles into your shoulder. Your hand runs over her little back, trying to provide her comfort while keeping your own tears at bay.

You take a shaky breath, your voice broken as more quiet tears fall down your cheeks. "I know sweetheart. I miss him too."

✧･ﾟ: *

Riley ended up drifting off in your lap, and you'd opted to carry her to your room. The distance from the kitchen was shorter, and in an effort to not stir her again, you laid her in your plush blankets, tucking her in and watching as she snuggled into the warm blankets with contentment. You left the lamp on in case she woke up, but closed the door this time; Gods forbid you had another emotional breakdown and woke her once more.

You retreated to the living room, reaching for a few blankets in the dark room when the creak of the side door sent a chill down your spine.

Were you hearing things?

You froze in place, every drop of blood in your body turning to ice when you heard it swing shut.

Definitely not hearing things. Someone was in the house.

Your head spun, cheeks ablaze and palms clamming up all at once. This hadn't happened before, or yet, anyway. Eris had touched on this issue when you first started working here, but what had he said about intruders? You couldn't remember.

The pit forming in your stomach grew as your mind raced, trying to think of any escape, any plan, any action to get Riley out of here before you both met your end. Gods, what had he said when you were hired, anyway? Something about his swords, in his room, maybe? Those were all the way down the hall -- you'd never make it in time.

You took a silent step toward the foyer, then another. The intruder would be in the kitchen soon, and you wouldn't waste any precious seconds you had to save Riley. You had to move, now.

Passing the small entryway table, you contemplated the vase atop it for a moment. Honestly, it would only wake Riley and alert the intruder of her presence. Maybe he would just take you and leave, if you could be quiet enough. You had a better shot defending yourself with your fists anyway -- the glass decoration would simply shatter anyway.

You rounded the corner, sucking in a breath as you heard a low moan coming from the kitchen. Your heartbeat faltered, an invisible pull like a magnet drawing you closer. You squinted in the dark, trying to make out any shapes or forms through the dim lighting.

Another low groan, only this time you recognized it. Your clenched fist loosened, and you took a few quick steps toward the small faelight to flick it on, revealing the horrific scene before you.

"Eris?"

✧･ﾟ: *

You worked quickly, trotting around the master washroom with supplies as your mind seemed to fog over. You felt as though this was a silent film, and you were a puppet; nothing was real, you couldn't hear, or think, or register what was going on before you-

"Y/N, please-"

"I'm working on it," you say absentmindedly, your fingers shaking as you begin soaking the rag clutched in your hand with cleaning solution. Eris' eyes widen, and he stares at you silently.

Only when the rag is practically dripping do you look up at him, barely able to look him in the eye before muttering, "this is going to hurt like Hell." He nods, and you quickly press the rag into his abdomen, his muscles immediately tensing around the area. He sucks in a sharp breath, the following few are ragged as he white-knucke grips the counter behind him.

"Gods, Y/N-"

"Hold still." You command, your tone lacking warmth as you move to press against the long gash, attempting to stop the blood free flowing from it. He groans again but you keep going, readjustign the cloth until you've wiped most of the blood away and the wound is clean for the most part.

You retreat to the medicine cabinet, grabbing a jar of salve and some large bandage wrap from it before standing before Eris once more. You gather some of the cool jelly on your fingers, making to apply it but Eris' hand grips your shoulder in an instant, and you break from whatever panic mode you were in and look up at him.

"Wait," he whispres, pain lacing his voice as his brows knit atop his forehead. You blink, realizing that in your momentary panic-ridden attempt to help him, you were not providing what he may have needed most and not gotten much of this past week.

Your eyes dropped, and your fingers lightly wrapped around his, your thumb running over his long digits. "I'm almost done, I promise," You say, with a lot more compassion this time. His eyes meet yours, and you fight against the stinging behind yours as you move toward him, your fingers brushing over the marred skin. His fingers tighten on your shoulder, a pained gasp coming out of him again.

"Shh, it's alright," you say quietly, working as quick as you can. "Almost done, I promise," You cap the salve, tearing open the bandage wrap before aligning it over his wound. His forhead finds your shoulder, his head resting on it as the muscles around his knife wound continue to retract at your touch. You lightly wind your arms around him, securing the wrap around his midsection and completely covering up his injury. It's then that you feel the warmth of his hands on you; his hands that had been holding onto you this whole time, but now had he relaxed a little, his heat had begun to return.

You stepped an inch closer, the familiar lump in your throat from earlier returning as every word you ached to say raced through your mind. Your arms found their way around his neck, and he squeezed you tighter when he felt you holding him. You threaded one hand through his hair, softly running your fingers through it while the other traced up and down lightly across his exposed back.

"You really scared me," you whispered. A small drop of water landed on his shoulder, but you didn't care. You'd allowed yourself to be vulnerable earlier in front of Riley, and it is healthy to show that you can't be happy all of the time, and that's okay; maybe Eris needed to see that too.

He nodded against your shoulder, his head turning as his nose brushed the dip of your neck. His fingers rested on your lower back, holding firm as the two of you sat in comfortable silence, a million unsaid thoughts unshared between the two of you.

"I'm sorry." He said quietly after a few minutes, his lips brushing against your skin with the action. Your body tingled, it itched, you burned inside, just wishing things could be different. You pulled back an inch, moving to look up at him through your wet lashes. He shook his head slowly at you, his thumb brushing over the tear trails down your cheeks.

"Please don't cry," he says. You chuckle, sniffling a little before unwrapping your arms from him. His hands catch yours, keeping you close to him before you can go to far.

"I hate leaving for so long." He said, his eyes dropping as he thought about how and what to say. "I don't like to be away like that."

You swallowed thickly, nodding with the effort. "Riley missed you. A lot. She asked about you every day..." you trailed off, looking to the side. He nodded, his hand letting go of yours and moving to cup your cheek, guiding you to look up at him again.

"I miss Riley, always," he said. "But, I also miss you."

Your heart seized, your chest caving at his words. You opened your mouth to answer, but nothing came out. How, in this worls, would you be able to say everything you wanted to, in just this moment?

You couldn't. You knew you wouldn't be able to. Not in just one moment like this. In the dim lighting of his master bath, just the two of you alone in the quiet -- he looked devastating, a few strands of his short hair brushing against his forehead as he gazed down at you. His gaze, his eyes, burning into yours with desire; you only hoped you coveyed every ounce of love you had in your body with a stare like that alone.

So, you did what felt right.

You pressed up onto the balls of your feet, his left hand on your hip balancing you as your lips finally met his. Every nerve ending in your body was ablaze, the feeling of those pillow soft lips on yours sending your mind into a state of bliss. His hand threaded through your hair, the other snaking around your lower back to press you closer against him.

You pulled back, just for a moment to make sure this was what he wanted as well. You barely had time to blink before his hands pulled you back in, his lips moving against yours with even more desire, more passion, the need only growing.

Your hands rested on his chest, fingertips pressing in slightly when he skated his tongue across your bottom lip. You allowed him in, surprising him when you swiped your tongue across his, the desire to explore every inch of his mouth one you'd been ashamed you'd had for months -- until now. He groaned, his grip on your waist tightening before his hand slid a bit lower, tracing the curve of your ass under his palm.

When you finally pulled back, gazing up at him with a small smile, you felt the heat between the two of you becoming rather warm in the small room. Whether it was eminating from him or it was how hot you felt inside, you couldn't be sure.

"You should... we should... it's late," you fumbled, chewing on your lower lip nervously. He nodded, loosening his grip on you a little but continued to pin you with his intense gaze.

"We should sleep," he agreed. You nodded, turning toward the door and making to leave but his fingers threaded lightly through yours. Your cheeks heated, and you looked to him as he smirked over your reaction.

"I..." you looked to his torso once more, and gasped. "Oh! I'm sorry, uh. Yeah, um. I can, help you. Get to bed, if that's. What. You, need." You stumbled out, and he chuckled lowly. You laughed nervously, and he pulled you against him once more. You squeaked at the feeling of his fingers gripping your hips, his lips pressing a small kiss just beneath your ear before his words sent a chill down your spine, despite the room's warm temperature.

"Maybe, you should just stay in here with me tonight."

Your backbone straightened at his suggestion, and he huffed a laugh once more. Your eyes met his, and a small smile played on your lips as you answered back.

"My bed is taken for the night, anyway. What's the harm?"

✧･ﾟ: *

[figueroths]

okay so this is long and likely impacted by my poor memory but I wrote a lot of it down friday night so it’s still somewhat accurate!! but here are my favorite things that went down during gauntlet at the garden (which is still so crazy to not only play msg but sell it out!!)

she’s already famous but still worth mentioning: the brennan murph kiss

lou genuinely in distress about the pyrotechnics because brennan repeatedly chose violence hitting them without warning

siobhan rolling a giant dice for world’s biggest box of doom marked out on the floor plus getting the front audience to get their luck all over it

luck failing and rowan having to help out with the roll anyway!

getting to do a re-roll chant

business dragon as thee recurring bit from jump

telling wealth by nail beds + siobhan’s unnoticed callback to this mid-show

oil tycoon family money energy

kug having friends in the 80s who called themselves business dragons

kug ranking his friends without hesitation

sofia ranking a new rat in the crew as her number one and kug being soooo offended because he put sofia as his number one

the new rat’s name is parker and he has a car but they can’t use it because it doesn’t work and emily running with it saying of course she assumed he had a car because his name is parker and brennan adding that if it did work they’d call him driver and then doing cute little chin hands or smth like that

murph having his starstruck hair 🥰

siobhan looking so good in the yellow outfit and just not having these monster’s bullshit

ally trying to cast fireball on a dragon and then arguing can it be dream sparkles - successfully!

emily looking like a snack and at some point referring to herself as one - oh because calroy asked what kind of food they were

defeating junkmother by befriending her

lou jumping in when brennan had more than one character tell sofia that she reminds them of someone and being like “who reminds you of someone is it me???? is it me????”

the lighting being off when they swapped places post-intermission and then murph decided to play to the crowd and the whole group got in on an impromptu battle royal where lou hit murph with a stone cold stunner - brennan letting them go on (including siobhan with a steel chair) only to be like “and now im being told you need to be in your seats for them to adjust the lighting”

gilear being there at all

gilear dying immediately (yogurt related ofc)

audience participation on rolling for support

nat 20 roll to get ayda (i got a nat 20 on that roll but didn’t even think to screenshot it 😔)

ayda saying she’s gay as hell

ayda being there to protect her paramour’s father 🥺

ayda saving gilear’s ass from getting roasted

ally calling themself out about including pete’s medical bracelet in the character design for it to specifically be carrying testosterone but it doesn’t come in pill form so pete was just walking around with an empty medical bracelet that whole campaign (but now it has adhd meds I think)

wally showing up to shit talk staten island

zac getting the third highest roll on initiative during one fight and then getting the crowd to chant “third highest roll”

kalvaxus getting applauded for ending a crypto bro’s life (literally)

kalvaxus getting polymorphed into a rat and gilear then claiming the mantle of the chosen one and beating the shit out of him

P90X dvds and anachronisms

plug

coronitas on the staten island ferry

making plans they will Not be keeping about hanging out more and living healthier lifestyles

pete giving gilear jaeger from a flask

pete saying plug and gilear have a similar energy

genuinely just the delighted cheers at every gay thing and there were so many gay things

parker the rival rat doing the baby dance correctly but kalvaxus as a dirty little rat does it all wrong and they all start kinda doing it

murph living out his wrestling dreams and doing a heel turn just for the fun of getting booed

there was a shoutout to the two crew but I forgot now if it was murph or emily who rolled it (I think murph but with no confidence behind this thought)

grenade arm sofie!!!!!!!!!

K2 mention

ricky fail flirting with esther

kug magically communicating with the cockroaches across town but everyone starts treating it like a phone call so sofia has her ear pressed up against his chest and then when she asks for visuals (again this is not a phone call) brennan asks how does that work and someone (ally??) said “like teletubbies” agdjsks

emily genuinely sharing staten island facts

back to gilear dying immediately - kingston revivifying him (or a similar spell), someone else also did something I think but I forget because then sofia said she’s giving him a makeover and then proceeded to do semipermanent makeup with the most insane eyebrows

lou wasting his turn doing a bit with gilear just for kalvaxus to have a legendary action next

the kalvaxus battle starting with pete casting a cantrip during a handshake (shocking grasp) for FIVE points of damage ally why are you like this (never change)

junkmother letting ricky get away with a weak reason he counts as discarded (something like he discards his legs when he doesn’t work out enough lmao) while the party attempted to endear themselves to her but not before saying she can tell he’s the fitness expert because that was a stretch

so many closeups of emily like whoever handled the screens you’re so me

brennan (idr which npc) saying quangle and emily laughing through her own joke about pelvic floors pretending sofia heard him say kegel lmfaooo

kug getting charmed into thinking he’s doing audience participation for the nutcracker while tin soldiers try to kill him

all of it! it was all such a great experience and they are so talented and giving and I just had a lot of fun 💕🌸

[batfluffs]

Hi Bat ! First of all, your 3d model are really amazing an cute !!

I was wondering if you had any tips on making hair for 3d model or in general ? I'm struggling a lot with them 🥲

I wish you an amazing end of the year ! 🔆

hiya mobi! thank you so so much, i appreciate it! <3 big post incoming hahaha

here is my process on how i do hair in blockbench, i'm not sure if you use it as well but it might be helpful in blender or other programs too if you're doing low poly ^^

duplicate the head of the character, move it upwards above the head a little, then delete the faces on the bottom (we're going to give them a bowl cut essentially 😱)

adjust and shorten the bowl cut so that the bottom edges sit just above the ear!

start extruding the basic shapes of the hair using the bottom edges! we'll block it all out first then adjust the minor details later (ex. waves, curls, etc).

i mentally separate the hair into two halves--the front pieces and the back pieces.

since i'm giving this model long hair, all of the back pieces are extruded together into a big connected portion rather than separate strands.

for the front pieces, i extruded the longer hair strands on the sides and then the bangs.

i added a middle part and did minor details like making the bangs frame the face better & adjusting the vertices of different hair strands by moving them up or down to make the hair look more natural instead of rectangular.

some other tips/hairstyles that i can think of using the base hair above (picture examples are in order):

scraggly: you can take the edges anywhere on the hair, extrude them, and make them pointy!

wavy/curly: you can add loop cuts to existing faces on the hair and alternate moving them inward and outward!

braids: you can follow the same steps for wavy hair with making loop cuts and resizing them to look like big braid chunks!

hair buns, spiky hair, etc: i would just create a separate mesh/geometry of those pieces and move them to where you'd like them to be rather than trying to extrude parts of the actual hair bc it's a nightmare to try to do from my experience :')

i hope you find this helpful!! hair can be temperamental to model sometimes, but once you get the hang of what shapes work well, it gets easier!! and ofc if you have another other questions im always more than happy to answer! <3

[igotlovestruck]

LIPS OF AN ANGEL | MM19

↳ TYPE: ig au (written scenario will follow!)

↳ PAIRING: mason mount x fem! wolff! reader

↳ DETAILS AND WARNINGS: angst (more to be added on the main fic!)

↳ AUTHOR’S NOTE: here you go! 😵‍💫 after months omg, i’ve finally had the energy to do this after several revisions n all hahahaha pls wait for the main fic as i’m still writing it, but here’s a lil preview! enjoy <3

↳ TAGGED: @i83andrew @pleasantducktimetravel

—.

fcgossips

liked by user1, user2, user3 and others

fcgossips [sent anonymously]

mason mount spotted with model lia mendes last night in london!

it seems as though mason mount has found himself back to the dating game amidst the breakup rumors with toto wolff’s daughter, y/n wolff. it was reported that the pair has separated ways 4 months ago after y/n deleted all posts and unfollowed the football star; although there was no confirmation happened between the two parties.

we wish mason and his current partner the best 💗

view all 492 comments

user4 that looks so much like y/n lol

user5 i went y/n DOOP as soon as i saw her lmao

user6 *she cuz she’s a freaking PERSON and no she doesn’t look anything like y/n!

user7 seems like mason has a type 🤭

user8 convincing myself that l*a is his getaway car

user9 leave them alone, pretty sure mason wouldn’t appreciate the things yall call her gf

user10 lmao i was thinking the same thing!

—

masonmount

liked by cmpulisic, declanrice, liamendes and others

masonmount recents.

view all 2,829 comments

liamendes meu amor 💗

— ❤️ by masonmount

masonmount 💗

user11 omg no way (i mean this in a very nice and genuine way)

user12 ... so it’s really over with y/n huh?

user13 y/n dupe

—

ynwolff

liked by yourbffsig, susie_wolff, yourmomsig and others

ynwolff life lately

view all 2,793 comments

yourbffsig girl i miss u get tf up 😮‍💨

ynwolff lmao visit me at my new place <3

yourbffsig omw 🏃🏻‍♀️

ynwolff come fast before i go back to work this week !?

yourmomsig my beautiful daughter ❤️ all you do is sleep, sweetie 😂

ynwolff been sleeping a lot lately to avoid reality and recent news, ma 🤭 miss you <3

susie_wolff glad you’ve adjusted to the new place, that bed looks comfortable! enjoy 😍

ynwolff thank you for helping me move in, susie 😙 (and jackie too, pls tell him to sleepover sometimes!)

user14 not y/n posting minutes after mason confirmed his relationship 😭

user15 she’s unbothered lmao

user16 stop associating him with her, they’re over ffs

user17 user16 no, yall should stop associating him with her <3

user18 some girls are mourning over y/n and mason’s breakup and here she is sleeping most of the time 😂 welcome back to ig luv 💞

user19 ofc u announce ur return to ig by posting pics of u sleeping 😭 missed u here queen :)

ynwolff it’s all i’ve been doing the past few months <3 jk hahaha

user20 will we be seeing you back in the paddock? 😭

ynwolff hmm maybe 😉

[kowwpow]

~can’t sleep headcanons~

A/N: I’ve been sleeping crappy the past three nights and tn I extra doubly can’t sleep, so ofc I’m writing this at 4 am 🤩 (I apologize in advance for any mistakes made—)

Characters: Akutagawa, Fyodor, Dazai, Ranpo

TWs ⚠️ reader cries, bc I cried(Fyodor, Dazai), Nicknames (Myshka)(Fyodor) (Belladonna, Donna)(Dazai), GN!Reader

Man, being tired is rough—

Akutagawa Ryūnosuke

Akutagawa most likely wouldn’t notice right away

whether that be because he is asleep, out of the house, or just busy in general

but he would come home one day to you laying face down on your shared bed, spread out like a star fish

he’d raise an eyebrow at you before checking if you were awake

once he confirmed that you were, he would question why you were up so late

and in your tired state, you would unintentionally retort back with unusual hostility in your tone

“[Name], why is it that you are awake at two in the morning.”

“Why are you just coming home from work at two in the morning.”

His mouth would instantly shut, not used to your annoyance

you would almost immediately apologize with a distraught expression on your face and he would immediately understand

seeing the reason for your stress, he quickly dismissed your earlier words

he would be quick in showering himself before slipping into bed with you and wrapping his arms around you

he didn’t really like physically affection often, he had a tough guy facade to hold up. But he guessed he could make an exception for you

Fyodor Dostoevsky

This man doesn’t sleep much either, so he doesn’t bother scolding you for it

he is likely the only one to actually be helpful about it

he would be working away at his desk in your guys’ room, and he would hear the rustling of sheets behind him

he would turn in his chair to look back at you with a blank expression

Fyodor had heard your struggles to sleep during previous nights, but tonight, you finally seemed to have had enough

he got up when he heard you angrily adjust your pillow, and made his way to the bedside before crouching down beside you

he saw the angry expression you bore on your face and blew on your face to wake you up

your teary eyes opened to glare at him and he realized just how frustrated you were

he reached out to wipe those tears before they could fall as he spoke in a quiet voice

”Now, now, Myshka, what’s with the tears?”

“‘m s’tired… but I can’t sleep no matter how hard I try-!”

Fyodor would hum in understanding, you were just exhausted

he stood back up all the way and figured he had some time to spare

he pulled you up and made his way to the kitchen with you tiredly clinging to his arm

”Let’s have a glass of milk, that should help.”

Dazai Osamu

He’s probably dead asleep beside you, and therefore won’t be of much help

there is also a good chance that he is the reason for your lack of sleep

this man will be sprawled all over you. And I mean all over you

he would have one leg thrown over yours, he would have his arm(s) wrapped around you in some way

he just has to be touching you

he also moves around a lot

which you normally don’t mind, but adding that to already not being able to sleep, geez you were frustrated

dont get me wrong, he is perfectly capable of being still and to himself in his sleep

he just doesn’t want to-

he can’t help wanting to be in constant contact with his precious Belladonna all night

but when you nudge him awake with tears ready to fall from your eyes, he instantly throws his wants out the window

he’d frown and wipe your tears away before asking what was wrong

“Oh ‘Donna— why are you crying?”

“I can’t- sleep, and you’re movin’ around s’much and it’s not helping..”

You didn’t mean to make it sound like it was his fault (even though it kinda was-)

but I’m your exhausted state, you couldn’t control it

instantly filled him as he pressed a kiss to your forehead

“I’m sorry ‘Donna… I’ll be still, I promise”

Ranpo Edogawa

Just like Dazai, he is likely the reason you cannot sleep in the first place

I headcanon that he is also a super restless sleeper in the sense that he moves a whole bunch

and maybe even kicks

so imagine you’re tired, and almost falling off the bed because he is taking all the space

deciding that you had enough, you grabbed your pillow and a spare blanket and trudged over towards the couch before plopping your tired self right down on it

you closed your eyes with a huff when you tucked yourself in, and began to drift off when you felt a weight on you

you opened your eyes to see Ranpo looking down at you

there was concern in his eyes, despite the unserious-ness of his statement

”[Name]? Why’d you leave? The world’s best detective needs his cuddle buddy.”

You quickly explained the reason of his absence and he nodded

you waited for a few seconds for him to leave, but he just stayed on top of you and made himself comfortable

“I guess I’ll just sleep on top of you then!”

His weight was actually kinda nice, and he was making an effort to be as still as possible

you eventually were pulled to sleep with the sound of your lover’s soft breathing in your ears

A/N: these were fun to write 🥰

but they took an hour—

n e ways

it is now almost five in the morning so I might as well just be up for the rest of the day 😃

Reblogs with tags are appreciated!

[riiwrites]

Can I request dazai confessing his feelings to reader and reader doesn’t believe he’s being serious? Thank you 💕

seriously. - d. osamu

a/n : ofc anon! tysm for your request! <3 i apologise if it isn’t good writing. this is my first full fic but I really do hope you enjoy it 💗

genre : fluff

warnings : none

wc : 1k

If you had to describe Dazai Osamu with a few words, it certainly wouldn’t be earnest.

He just wasn’t known to be that serious kind of man, you knew that of course. You’ve been working alongside him for as long as you can remember and all you seemed to get from him was just incompetent behaviour.

You have never once in your whole life of working at the agency seen Dazai be or at least try to be serious, at least not with you.

His way of communicating with you would always end up with him initiating a flirty gesture or phrasing something poetic about your ethereal beauty. Although you didn’t mind it, a part of you wondered if what he was saying was actually true.

“You’re oblivious, you know that right?” Ranpo said, eating away and interrupting your rant about the whole situation between you and Dazai.

“He is in love with you.” He continued.

“He may not act serious but trust me, the eyes don’t lie.”

He wasn’t wrong, he’s Ranpo. He was never wrong and with the way Dazai looked at you when he thought you weren’t was truly something.

But still, you just couldn’t believe it, you couldn’t believe Dazai would actually be serious about loving you, it was all just fun and games after all, right?

It was quite a lonely night for you back at the agency. Everyone had clocked out for the night and you were filling in some leftover paperwork that had to be done for the week and then you’d be finished.

As you were too zoned in on the sound of your own pencil scribbling the paper you didn’t seem to hear the tiny creak of the door behind you slowly opening up.

Dazai slowly peaked through the door, spotting you and entered your working space, being gentle with his movements as to not get your attention just yet.

He slowly stepped forward— practically tiptoeing his way towards you from behind, eventually placing his hands on your shoulder before whispering.

“Whatcha doing, Bella?~”

It took a quick second for your heart to skip a beat when you heard that specific nickname only one person called you. You snapped out of your focus before swiftly turning around to him with a sigh of relief when you can confirm it’s just him.

“Dazai..”

You let out another exhale of relief. “You scared me there.”

You added on with a small smile to your face, a pink hue slightly tinting your cheeks as you tried to adjust yourself from the sudden change of scenery in-front of you as you hadn’t moved out of your chair for what seemed like hours.

“Aw, my apologies Y/N! Just wanted to check up on you, you’ve been glued to that desk for the past few hours y’know~” he teased, basically confirming that theory as he took his hands off your shoulders and walked over next to you, propping himself up to sit on the desk you were currently working at.

“Well, i guess I’ve just been pretty busy.” You replied, spinning back around in your chair to take a look at him once again, scratching the back of your head sheepishly.

“Why don’t you come on a walk with me? Clear that pretty little head of yours?”

He had that mischievous wide smirk on his face that you had always noticed. You would constantly take note of the tiniest things about his features that you just absolutely adored about him. The pink hue on your face became more visible as he spoke, word after word it made your face practically glow with pink. After a few seconds of contemplating wherever or not to say yes to his suggestion, you sighed as you look back at your paperwork and then back at him with a slight smile before replying.

“Sure then, let’s go.”

The walk was beyond peaceful surprisingly enough. Dazai was walking alongside you with his two hands behind his head, taking small glances at your expression as you looked up at the stars, seeming so in awe with them.

“You like them?”

He leaned forward with a smile as he tried to get a more clear look of your facial features, taking every little detail in. There was a long pause before your answer as you nodded slowly, admiring it all.

“Yeah, they’re beautiful.” You said in response.

Dazai took in how soft your voice was, how gentle your facial expressions were as you stare in admiration at the sparkling dots in the sky. He took a sharp breath before saying something else in reply.

“You’re breathtaking, you know that right?

You paused for a moment, still staring at the midnight sky as you then turned to him with a playful smirk, rolling your eyes to his flirting.

“Thank you, Dazai.” You replied sarcastically, expecting another one of his flirtatious and foolish remarks.

“No, Y/N listen to me.”

He took his hands off his head and stood in-front of you, taking your hands into his own whilst staring at you with such a fond expression.

“You are- absolutely breathtaking.” He repeated his words once more, waiting for a response.

You took a few seconds again, confused as to what was happening and thinking it was just Dazai playing tricks on you once again.

“I- thank—“ you tried but before you could’ve even gave a response back, he just blurts it out within an instant.

“I love you, Y/N.”

There was a long silence shared amongst the two of you, the only thing heard was the wind bristling against the trees and a few cars bypassing. You were the one to first break the silence, not by speaking, but by literally laughing.

Dazai stood there stunned for a moment, letting go of your hands with a look of confusion riddled across his face as you hugged your chest, laughing hysterically.

“Oh- ahah! Oh Dazai you are- so remarkably funny!” You gasped out in between laughs, absolutely losing yourself.

“W-what..? Y/N what are you talking about?” He asked, a look of concern also struck on his face.

There was suddenly another long pause when you eventually stopped laughing as soon as he said that. Your sudden wide eyes shot up to look at his sort of hurt expression and you tilt your head.

“You- were joking were you not?”

“No?”

Well now you looked like a complete fool.

You took a few steps back, processing this and just refused to believe it.

“I don’t believe you.”

“Y/N I’m serious.”

God, even just the word ‘serious’ rolling off his tongue felt so wrong but oh, just the way he looked at you with that genuine expression had you weak in the knees and second guessing everything for a moment.

“Do you not see the way I look at you? God, Y/N I’m so in love with you I’ve never been more serious in my life.”

He stared at you with his beautiful brown eyes piercing through you like bullets, not breaking any eye contact whatsoever. You felt a cold shiver run down you, although it could’ve been the gust of wind, you didn’t give it a second thought before responding.

“Seriously?”

“Seriously.”

He replied within an instant, seeming so sure about that.

“You own my heart L/N.”

That statement sure was bold and you absolutely adored it, you adored him.

You took a step forward, taking his hands into your own and smiling down at the sight, intertwining your fingers with his and gave him a soft smile as you tilted your head up.

“You own my heart too Osamu.”

Once you replied, Dazai had to take a breather, letting go of the breath he had currently held in for about a whole minute of waiting for you to reply with something not so negative.

“Whew! Y/N don’t leave me on a hanger like that ever again- that was seriously wounding.”

He said, chuckling nervously but smoothly covered it up with a composed expression on his face.

He’s secretly dying on the inside though.

He moved his hand forward pulling you closer to him, embracing you tightly and wrapping his arms around you fully, looking up at the sky like you had done. Once you pulled away from the tight embrace you looked up at the brunettes face as if you were analysing something about him. he glanced right back at you.

“What?” He asked, quirking his eyebrow up in question.

“I think that’s the first time I’ve ever seen you be so serious..” You admitted.

“What?!" He gasped dramatically, placing his hand on his heart, acting as if you’ve wounded him.

“Absurd! I’ve been serious more times than you can even count!”

He huffs. You cocked your eyebrow up at him in response.

“I mean, if that’s what helps you sleep at night.”

You began to smirk and glanced back up at the stars. He then let out a dramatic exhale before returning the same smirk you had on your face.

“Don’t make me take back my words, dear!"

There it was again. The same unserious mischievous scheming bastard of a man who somehow stole your precious heart.

Who knew a man like him could actually be so serious?

Damn, you owed Ranpo so much money.

main page ❤︎︎ want to be added to my taglist?

[beiasluv]

cillian murphy and his ‘daughter-figure’

a/n: i can never make myself write for people in real life with a romantic interest, sorry 😩 but i won’t deny to reading allat. no proof reads :)

enjoy!

cillian had taken you under his wings (awh) a long, long time ago

thankfully, christopher nolan approve of your acting and accepted you for a movie, allowing you to meet him for the first time

becoming the youngest constant actress to be featured in nolan’s multiverse

several years later, you are, once again, walking on the red carpet with your on screen ‘father figure’

oppenhiemer ofc

walking along the red carpet, camera flashed at you and your drop-dead gorgeous outfit for the event. making sure to look around to catch every news headlines, you see flo and emily waving at you. wasting no time, you rushed to your favorite girlies.

“hii,” flo and emily enveloped you into her embraces and kisses.

“my darling, y/n, how’ve you been?”

giggling about the latest girl talk, complimenting flo on her haircut and outfit, and a little bit sprinkle of girls touch up, a third hand wrapped around your shoulders and you turned around to see those set of blue eyes.

“cill!”

“hello, darling,” without a second thought, cillian smiled and wrapped his arms around your waist. not too tight but not too insecure, just the perfect spot.

liked by florencepugh, roberdowneyjr, and others

yourinsta thank you. xoxo

cillian is just a sweet soul in general

he could get protective if you were rubbed off in a wrong way

if the interviewer ask weird questions, he won’t hesitate to throw hands

he also loves going out with you just for bonding purposes

movies, restaurants, or just going out with his kids

his wife definitely adores you

his kids definitely see you as their sister

a 100 percent some photo booths sessions with him

“ok, pose now!” you looked at the camera while making a serious face, which cillian mirrored. a funny face and a silly face precedes.

“how do you click this ancient photobooth? cill!”

liked by ynnumberonefan, florencepugh, and others

yourinsta thanks for paying for mi lunch ;)

jessepas NO WAY y/n convinced cillian to do photo booths with her

kanHK trust me! cillian def convinced her 😭

gagahi imagine getting your lunch payed by emily, rdj, cillian, matt, and JOHN?

ynwifie Y/N pleaseeee i can pay for your lunchhh

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you are feeding cillian fans with post and pictures. (come on, we are starving)

dancing to tiktoks with cillian in the background smiling <3

you can never do interviews with cillian and never laugh

it. is. impossible.

he’s just very funny in private and ‘the’ dead face humor

“three, two, one, rolling!”

“hello- cillian,” chuckling as you see cillian staring off into the distance again.

“oh- hello,” he smiled. “i am cillian murphy.”

“and i am y/n l/n, and we are here for…”

what is your favorite scene with cillian?

“are we talking about oppenheimer or just everything?” you chuckled and took a swift glance at cillian who was grinning at you.

“just in anything, anything that comes to your mind”

“wow…” poking your tongue a little bit out while you were thinking. “i…don’t know…not- not because i don’t have one but it is a journey back, you know?” smiling at the interviewer.

“we take a long way back,” cillian added while he looked over to you. “i remember meeting her when she was just a little kid in the batman trilogy.”

“i- i was young, yes,” letting out a soft laugh, you thought again.

“um…I honestly don’t know which one to pick,” you chuckled. “i’ll say my favorite one is in inception, it just amazes me how cillian delivers his emotional, tear-jerking scenes, and we got to do a lot of amazing, humorous stunts.”

“cillian doesn’t take compliments very well, does he?”

the comment made you look over to your fellow actor and saw him smiling at you and shaking his head. you laughed and adjusted your position in the chair, “irish people doesn’t take it very well, he will just turn invisible if you keep complimenting him.”

are you going to go watch barbie?

cillian smiled and glanced slowly at you, “ask her.”

“a 100% will do. as a matter of fact, i already went to watch it,” you said proudly and giggled.

“oh really? how was it?”

“it was really, really good. i wasn’t expecting to cry but…you can ask him,” you pointed at cillian who couldn’t hold his chuckle in any longer.

“so you two went to watch it together? wow-”

“yes,” cillian smiled sheepishly. “a lovely movie, made y/n cried, very touching,” cillian chuckled.

“no spoilers but- the ending scene was super tear jerking but the end credits made me confused whether I should laugh or cry,” you laughed at your memories of going to watch barbie with cillian.

what do you have each other on the phone as?

“this is going to be so embarrassing,” you fake groaned and chuckled, while digging for your phone in your dress.

“also girls, this dress has pockets. amazing,” cillian and the interviewer gained a few chuckles. you fished out your phone and unlocking it with a few swipes, and opened the contact app, scrolling to the ‘c’ sections.

“i…have him as ‘cilly shelby’,” cillian went wide eyes and look at the screen of your phone.

cillian grinned and leaned back on his chair, “i saved her as y/n and a smiley face emoji.”

“aw what? that is so nice, i feel so bad now”

one thing about the person next to you?

“cillian, cillian, cillian. i would say he is very caring and an astonishing actor, performer,” you says while putting your hands to your heart.

“no- you are”

“irish modesty, people,” you faked rolled your eyes at him, while mockingly patting him.

“he’s great, just a very supportive…i wouldn’t say brother but i don’t wanna say father figure as well, even though we played a lot of father-daughter roles together,” you laughed at your own response, fixing your hair.

biting your lips, you pondered, “ah, i would say an…‘uncle figure’.”

“what?” cillian chuckled

“it’s someone you can have fun with and someone who you can look after to, for me,” you smiled while cillian cooed his response and gave you a side hug.

“that was very sweet,” he smiled. “i would say y/n is very sweet and brave soul, just someone who you meet and brightens your day.”

cillian cleared his throat and switched his crossing leg, “well, i have two boys but bonding with her will always be special to me, like the daughter i never had.”

“thank you christopher nolan for giving me a daughter,” he chuckled and gave you another side hug.

“aw, i’m going to cry”

last but definitely not the least. a random question from the audience, what is the hottest thing a man can wear?

laughters filled the room, rolling back in your chair, “wow, that was random.”

“i know right?” the interviewer chuckles and wiped a fake tears.

“i think we should ask the man,” you pointed your fingers at cillian and he shifted in his chair.

“wow…that really caught me off-guard,” cillian cleared his throat. “i would say a nice suit or a silk shirt.”

“definitely a black silk,” you added, gaining chuckles from cillian and the crews.

“for me…wow, it’s going to be really weird. I like men who wear watches, like the leather straps one,” you chuckled and hid your face in your palms.

“i definitely rubbed it on her, sorry,” cillian smiled and hid his watch as he crossed his arms.

“hey- yeah- maybe he did…ooo, ah, another thing is properly a teacher glasses, i don’t know man, it’s hot.”

“noted, guys, you’re welcome,” the interviewer says to the camera, cutting off the interview session.

if you like my work, feel free to like or reblog; if not, critiques are appreciated. today’s a great day to take care of yourself 🤍 lots of love.

[hivemuthur]

What was that? - Ch. 2.

viktorxfemale!OFC mature! (for now, I will mark later chapters as explicit when the time comes

friends to lovers, co-workers, sexual tension up to the wazoo, pinning and banter that got me frustrated when I was writing it, attempt at humour, some angst and a slow burn with a happy ending and a classic Viktor for once

Ch.1. | Ch.3. | Ch.4. | Ch.5. | Ch.6. | Ch.7. | Ch.8. | Ch.9. | Ch.10. | Ch.11. | Ch.12. | Ch.13. | Ch.14. | Ch.15.

word count: 3,4K

tag: #what was that

summary: Renly's absent from work, presumably dealing with the aftermath of her break-up, while Jayce and Viktor try to figure out how to make themselves useful. Obviously, Viktor fails, and only Jayce proves useful.

author’s note: Beta reader: @rennethen. This is an expository chapter, but the feels are there.

Cross-posted on AO3

—

“Do you know when she will come back?” Jayce shouted over the workbench, where Viktor was currently cutting metal parts for a cast brace, sprinkling sparks around and making insufferable noise.

“I believe she will do as she pleases,” he responded, voice slightly louder over the cutting machine humming down. “But initially, I think we should give her some time,” Viktor said, putting down the metal saw. “It wasn’t pretty, Jayce,” he finally added seeing a pending expression on his friend’s face.

Jayce leaned against the workbench, tapping his fingers rhythmically against the surface. "So, he was after Hextech all this time, eh? Ah, I should have been there,” he lost himself in thought for a second, his expression changing into one of anger.

„A punch would do him good." He straightened, mimicking an exaggerated swing with his fist. "Why didn’t you whack him?"

Viktor paused his work, one brow arching as he glanced up at Jayce. “Violence is not my forte, though I admit, it wouldn’t be out of place.”

Jayce smirked, though his shoulders remained tense. “That bad? What exactly happened?”

Setting his tools down with deliberate care, Viktor leaned lightly on his cane. His expression didn’t shift, but there was a sharpness in his voice. “Not much. He came upset, fabricated a lot of accusations to make her feel small, which, as you know, is very difficult even for someone of a bright mind… not to mention someone… well, like John.”

Jayce let out a low whistle, shaking his head. “Well… did you tell her that? Do you think we should visit?”

Viktor tilted his head, an almost imperceptible sigh slipping through his lips. “That is not my forte either, Jayce.”

Jayce folded his arms, raising an eyebrow. “What is your forte then, Viktor?”

Viktor’s lips twitched into the ghost of a smirk as he adjusted the collar of his vest. “I like to think of myself as an anchor you emotional fools can come back to when needed. A constant secure structure for your safety and stability.”

Jayce chuckled, a low, warm sound that filled the quiet of the lab. “You are not as constant as you would like to be either, my friend.”

Viktor narrowed his eyes, his voice carrying a playful edge. “Is that so?”

Jayce didn’t answer directly, instead offering a smile that was half-teasing, half-knowing. Viktor’s gaze lingered on him for a moment before returning to his work.

The silence stretched, comfortable but charged, until Viktor broke it. “On a happier note, I hope, how are things progressing with the beautiful councillor?” It was a private joke now, how both Viktor and Renly always inserted the word beautiful when mentioning Mel.

Jayce brightened, leaning back against the workbench with a lopsided grin. “Good, I think.” He rubbed the back of his neck, his grin faltering slightly as his expression softened. “She’s not what we thought at the beginning. There’s more to her than she lets on. And it’s… impressive and… exciting.”

Viktor’s gaze sharpened; his expression thoughtful. “I think I know the type.”

Jayce frowned slightly, tilting his head. “Viktor?”

“That is all I have to say on that matter,” Viktor replied smoothly, his tone deliberately light as he turned back to his tools.

Jayce didn’t press further, though his curiosity lingered. Instead, he pushed off the workbench and stretched. “Alright. I think I’m going to go and see Renly. Remind her that some men are decent.”

Viktor raised a sceptical brow. “And the shining example would be… you?”

Jayce’s lips curved into the faintest smirk, his golden-brown eyes flicking toward his friend with measured patience. “Of course not, but...,” he said in a draughty tone.

„But I thought I might dangle a picture of you in front of her nose and see if that would lure her back in.”

The suggestion made Viktor pause, one hand stilling on the wrench he’d been adjusting. He turned slightly; his brow furrowed as he adjusted the weight of his cane. “And what was that you were trying to do? Make her come back or ignite a need to see the world and never set foot in this lab again?” he let out with a tiny bit of relief, that he was able to produce a quick, dismissive comeback.

Jayce laughed, loud and hearty, the sound bouncing off the walls of the now quiet lab. Viktor winced faintly at the volume, though he didn’t comment. He clapped Viktor on the shoulder—a habit that Viktor found equal parts endearing and irritating. “Oh, Viktor, you poor, oblivious soul. So cunning, so smart, yet... so blind.”

Viktor’s head tilted just slightly, his sharp gaze narrowing in a way that made him seem even more inquisitive. “Blind to what, exactly?” His tone was measured, deliberately devoid of emotion, but the faint crease in his forehead betrayed his curiosity.

Jayce leaned in closer, lowering his voice as though preparing to divulge a great secret. “Blind to the fact that the one thing you fear the most has already happened.”

The air between them stilled, the weight of Jayce’s words lingering like the ghost of static electricity in the lab. Viktor straightened, his posture rigid, but his fingers fidgeted slightly with the edge of his vest pocket.

“I’m certain your dramatics have a point, Jayce. Why not get to it?” Viktor finally said, his voice tight.

Jayce shook his head, a small, knowing smile tugging at his lips. “Oh, it’s not a riddle, my friend. You’re just refusing to see the answer staring you in the face.”

For a brief moment, Viktor considered deflecting again—perhaps retreating into his work or changing the subject altogether—but instead, he adjusted his stance, leaning slightly onto his cane. “And what is this supposed answer?”

Jayce tilted his head, meeting Viktor’s gaze with a rare softness. “That this situation might prove itself advantageous to you?” he said, still in the mood to play around. Yet, his friend’s eyes, already glaring daggers in his direction caused him to back down. “You care, Viktor. More than you’re willing to admit. About Renly.”

Viktor’s breath hitched, so faintly it was nearly imperceptible, and he cast his eyes downward, toward the intricate lines of the wrench in his hands. “Caring for colleagues is hardly unusual,” he said carefully, his voice deliberately measured, as if trying to convince himself as much as Jayce.

Jayce chuckled. “Caring for colleagues doesn’t make you remember every word they say, or somehow predict their outrageous schedule with uncanny accuracy or…” He gestured vaguely, grinning. “...make you glare daggers at anyone who suggested what I just did or flirts with them.”

Viktor opened his mouth to respond, but no words came. His grip on the wrench tightened ever so slightly.

Jayce took a step back, his grin widening. “Just something to think about.”

With that, Jayce turned on his heel and walked toward the door, leaving Viktor alone in the now-still lab. Viktor remained frozen, his mind a quiet storm of rational arguments and irrational emotions.

His gaze drifted, settling on the corner of the room Renly used when she worked. The faintest ghost of her voice seemed to linger there; her laughter embedded in the walls like a soft echo. He scolded himself silently. Jayce’s words were nonsense, after all. They had to be.

***

Renly was feeling better. She even had her first meal in three days today. She was also contemplating taking a shower, though thinking about anything else felt easier than focusing on self-care—like why she hadn’t noticed John’s motives, or what it was within her that needed to change desperately so this situation would never happen again. Of course, she contemplated forsaking men altogether. For about two days, she was dead set on it. But then she thought of people like Jayce, Ekko, and Professor Heimerdinger, deciding it wasn’t entirely fair. Though, admittedly, including Heimerdinger in the 'men' category felt a bit strange.

She also thought about John though, which made this internal battle very hard. At first, she allowed herself to reminisce about the good parts of him—only to pivot moments later, plotting how to secure him a prime spot in hell.

Shame dominated her feelings—she had let herself be played, all because she hadn’t been paying attention. And recognizing her own guilt within it was the bitter pill to swallow. John, sadly, had been right—she had been dismissive. She had let him pursue her because it felt validating. He showered her with love and affection from the day one and she just dipped her toes in it, never submerged fully. He was her escape, her distraction. And truthfully, all those invitations she mentioned during the fight – they were a lie. She hadn’t actually invited him; she had just let him linger around her. So, upon reflection, she was stupid to not suspect anything when he stuck around, kept offering himself without getting anything in return. Of course, he wanted something else.

Her thoughts often wandered to Viktor—more than once, perhaps three times, perhaps more. She caught herself imagining him, quietly disappearing into his lab during her quarrel with John. What Viktor must think of her now—she didn’t even want to imagine.

She analysed his behaviour over the past few weeks, trying to determine if anything had changed. Perhaps he’d been in the lab more often lately—but then again, they both worked so much that it was hard to tell. Had he been unusually patient with her? There had been something unspoken in the way he looked at her the last time they spoke. Or perhaps she was imagining things—twisting fleeting moments into meanings that weren’t there.

And then she thought of the sound he had made under her touch. How flustered he’d seemed. Or had he just been embarrassed? She was definitely imagining things. She couldn’t stop her thoughts from drifting, and so she sat on the windowsill of her small apartment, reliving the moment when her fingers had made Viktor’s cheeks flush. She wondered what else might draw that sound from him. It was so pretty.

Her fantasy was interrupted by the sharp ring of the doorbell. Gods, get a hold of yourself, woman.

She opened the door without checking who it was first and immediately felt mortified when she saw Jayce’s relieved face.

"It will forever be on my list of life failures, to open a door for you in the sorry state I’m in right now." She stood awkwardly, arms crossed, posture slightly slumped, her gaze lingering on the doorway as she moved aside to let him in.

"I’ve seen worse, and over smaller disasters," came the smirk, followed by a raised eyebrow. "So if I were you, I’d reserve a precious spot on your list for something that actually counts." Leaning casually against the doorframe, his hands slid into his pockets, the grin tugging at the corner of his lips. He did regard Renly’s sorry state though and had to admit that it was the first time she presented herself so sadly. Dark circles under her eyes, face slightly red, she clearly had been crying not long ago. Also, had she lost some weight?

“Have you been eating?” Jayce broke his role for a moment to show true concern.

"I am not dying, Jayce Tallis!" She rolled her eyes with a small laugh, her voice light yet carrying a hint of exhaustion. „I’m just a bit... down.” Renly let the silence fall between them, though not for very long.

"Well then, welcome to my lair of doom. Make yourself at home. What can I do for you?" She gestured toward the cluttered apartment with a vague, resigned motion, her tone soft but weary.

"You can tell me what I can do for you." He stepped inside, eyes scanning the room with an amused yet curious look. "Also, Viktor says hi." He shrugged off his jacket with a relaxed gesture, tossing it carelessly over the back of a nearby chair. His casualness returned, matching his usual demeanour.

"Is that really what Viktor says: ‘hi’?”, she almost laughed, but the truth was, the mention of Viktor made her feel uncomfortable, given what she had been thinking about just minutes ago. “He reached out to you and said: ‘Say hi to Renly from me?’" She raised an eyebrow, her lips quirking into a playful yet sceptical smile, folding her arms tightly across her chest as she leaned against the doorframe.

"Well… no." He hesitated, a brief pause in his words before continuing, his voice softening. "But he was worried about you."

He took a small step forward, eyes meeting hers, the teasing tone giving way to something more sincere. His gaze lingered, offering a silent acknowledgment of her being very brave in that moment, facing Jayce at what he thought was her worst.

"I’m sure he is," she let out a half-sigh, half-laugh, shifting as she paced a little, shaking her head. "That can only mean you two talked about me, and what’s much worse, about what happened, and decided an intervention was needed?" She stopped mid-step, her gaze narrowing slightly, arms still folded. Her expression was a mix of exasperation and amusement as she looked him over.

"It’s not an intervention, it’s a peace offering." With a sly grin, he reached into his jacket and pulled out a small bag, dramatically presenting her favourite chocolate with a bow and an exaggerated flourish.

"I, Jayce Tallis, of House Tallis, bid myself to apologize in the name of men and commit to this case until you, Reynard Huxley of Zaun, reconsider forsaking all representatives of the male species." He held the chocolate up like a knight offering a token of peace, his expression absurdly proud.

"I’ve been there two days ago," she chuckled softly, as she plucked the gift from Jayce’s hands. "Now I’m thinking I could give you and Viktor a pass. And maybe Heimerdinger." She raised an eyebrow, as this was still the subject of an internal debate she had been having earlier.

"He counts as men?" His voice dropped into a teasing tone as he tilted his head slightly, genuinely curious.

"You know, I haven’t figured it out myself either," she shrugged nonchalantly, as she as she beckoned Jayce into her kitchen, chocolate already being consumed.

In the span of about two hours, she told Jayce about her week of grieving and denying reality, adding that she was close to fine now, each time his expression grew weary. He did his best to make her feel better about herself, even though some of the things he said, she knew were not true. For example, that it wasn’t her fault at all.

When the topic exhausted itself, Jayce took a stroll around her living room, admiring all the dinky lights she had put up to avoid the greater evil – The Big Light. They joked about the times they studied together and drank illegal amounts of coffee in her tiny kitchen.

“So…,” he started, she knew the question looming behind this entry. “Are we going to see you at work anytime soon, you think?”

“Ah, yes, that,” she sighed. It really wasn’t about getting her life back; she was starting to miss it. She also had a massive backlog of ideas built up. But the thought of Viktor giving her a lecture on how she had endangered the lives’ work of her friends had been making her sick for a few days now.

“I’m worried Viktor is cross with me,” she said, her voice tinged with expectation .

“That’s what you are worried about?” Jayce laughed at her. He outright laughed at her. "I’m sure he misses you. I almost managed to choke it out of him the other day."

“Now that, I will never believe,” she allowed herself a chuckle. "But really, don’t you think it was a little too close?"

"Eh, maybe. We’ll just be more careful in the future, is all." Jayce gave her a reassuring smile.

"How? Am I to be assisted by a chaperone on my future dates now?" Renly raised her eyebrows, amused by the thought of Jayce and Viktor interviewing her potential future love interests.

“Aha!” he exclaimed. "If you’re already thinking about future dates, it means you’re going to be all right."

 She caressed the soft blanket hanging over her sofa chair. “You know, it’s either that or I finally get a cat.”

"And what will this poor cat do when you spend three nights in a row at work?" Jayce retorted, returning to the argument he always used whenever Renly mentioned the cat.

"Well, maybe I’ll take it with me? I’m sure a cat would be thrilled by all the things to break in the lab," a playful challenge in her voice.

"Oh, now you’re just trying to win the bet. This is not fair play; I will not allow it!" Jayce jumped up from his seat, referring to a bet they made a while ago: would Viktor ever truly lose it over something.

She let Jayce out late in the evening, thanking him and making a promise she would do her best to show up at the lab the following day. His visit did actually help. Well, now she had to have that shower.

***

The hum of the lab was the only sound, a constant presence that had almost become a part of him. Viktor glanced over the hextech notes, a delicate shift of gears and power running through his hands, yet his focus drifted, lost in the mechanical precision of his work. It wasn’t that the project was any less important—on the contrary, it was more critical than ever—but the silence of the room felt oppressive in ways it hadn’t before.

He couldn’t remember the last time he’d worked without hearing the familiar background of a song—something light-hearted and silly, something that made the walls of his lab feel less like a tomb. It had been almost a week now, hadn't it? The thought crept in without warning, lingering like an uncomfortable itch. He hadn’t realized it at first, but now the stillness felt sharper, colder. Renly’s absence was like a subtle ache in his chest, one that he tried to ignore but couldn’t shake.

He glanced over at the radio on the counter, its dusty dial untouched for days. A soft sigh escaped him before he could stop it. He didn’t want to admit it—didn’t want to face the fact that her absence had carved an unexpected emptiness in him. But the silence was too much. It was too heavy.

With a brief motion, Viktor turned the dial. The static buzzed, then the soft crackle of a late-night radio song started playing. He hadn’t asked for it, hadn’t asked for any of it, but the song was there, filling the room with its slow paced, almost mocking familiarity. It was as if Renly herself had been there, humming along. He felt a strange lump in his throat, and for a fleeting moment, he allowed himself to close his eyes, leaning against the counter.

His fingers tightened slightly on the edge of the lab table, but he couldn’t stop the small, frustrated sigh that slipped through. It was easier, wasn’t it? To keep himself busy with work, to bury the longing under layers of equations and experiments. Easier than admitting to himself how much he missed the interruptions, the banter, the warmth she brought into this cold place.

Renly had made everything feel less clinical, less sterile. She had forced him to confront the things he preferred to ignore, and in some twisted way, she had made him feel alive in ways he hadn’t realized he was missing.

He stood there, eyes closed, letting the song play out. It wasn’t just the singing he missed, it was all the weird sounds and expressions she made, her easy presence in the lab, the way she seemed to exist in the chaos he created without ever being overwhelmed by it. Her absence wasn’t just silence. It was a reminder of everything he couldn’t fix, everything he couldn’t change.

When the song ended, he didn’t turn the radio off. Instead, he stood still for a moment longer, staring at the machinery in front of him, as though it could offer him answers. But of course, it didn’t. He knew it wouldn’t.

“Get back to work,” he muttered to himself desperate for distraction, shaking his head as he turned back to the machine, the faint strains of the next song filling the space around him.

[ashwii]

How did you render that Shadow piece? It’s so coollll

UHHHhh I can show off my wips of it off if that helps 🤔

Everything starts off with the base sketch: Draw your sad wet cat however clean or messy you like. And use reference, ofc.

After the sketch, I add in some textures to the background. Usually, I use a cloud brush for that, which helps make everything look all messy ang grungy uwu. THEN, any background details are added, like the building's lights on the left + the little sparks/embers around the bottom

After all that, I move on to the base colors of the character. I usually go ahead and airbrush in some simple color hues on wherever the lights or shadows are gonna hit, but a lot of people keep more simple with solid base colors before moving into lights later. Then, I put a clipping layer on my base colors and scribble in some lights and shadows. Nothing too clean rn, clean up is for later -- just getting my main color comp down uwu.

Next comes clean up :D. This is like.. the hardest part to ever describe, but it's just painting over what you already have there, blend your colors, add or take away texture... stuff like that sdosdfn like you're sculpting :D. And then lastly I always finish off with doing some color adjustments; that usually involves adding more contrast and upping the saturation of the drawing lol.

AND BAM, THE SAD WET CAT IS NOW REAL. go forth and take him as u please uwu

[taintedcigs]

how do you think stevie would act around shy and inexperienced reader? like would he tease her about being shy or? <3

omg if u were dating/friends he totally would!!!!😭 he’s such a lil shit i love him💗 idk if this is what u wanted but!!! also this turned dirty so quick im sawrry😔 warnings: nothing much but kinda smut (it is insinuated)!!! but rlly not, 18+ ofc as all my other works<3

ೄྀ࿐ ˊˎ-

“How does this look?” You hummed, exiting the fitting room as you looked at the mirror.

Tip-toeing as you adjust the emerald dress that fit you perfectly, your curves were showing and your breasts were squeezed tight together.

You fidgeted with the hem of the dress nervously, your usual clothes didn’t fit you this well, and the dress was a little too revealing, avoiding eye contact as you awaited Steve’s input anxiously.

Your head cocked toward Steve’s direction when he didn’t answer, he was leaning against the wall, mouth agape as he looked at you dumbfoundedly.

Your mind reveled before you could help it, the idea that Steve thought you looked ridiculous was planted in your head now and you wanted to disappear.

“Holy shit,” He murmured, gaze lingering on you as he traced your curves, trying to memorize every part of you, gulping as he shook his head in disbelief.

The thought of Steve not liking it made you frown. “W–what?” You stuttered, looking down on your dress again shyly.

“You have no fucking idea how insane you make me, baby.” He whispered as he inched closer to you, hands itching as they grabbed onto your hips, making you squeal.

“Steve!” You chided, giggling.

“You look perfect, honey.” He added, planting soft kisses on your exposed skin.

“So perfect,” He muttered and now you were sure you could feel the heat on your cheeks.

“Drivin’ me crazy.” He groaned as he planted a sloppy kiss on your lips and you mewled.

“We’re in public, Stevie.” You warned, but it wasn’t convincing at all.

“So?” He shrugged, causing you to look around.

“So… you can’t do all of… this.” You murmured, voice growing quieter and quieter.

A smug smirk appeared on his lips, “What can’t I do, princess?” He mocked, pouting.

Before you could answer his hands travelled from your hips to your ass quickly, giving it a quick squeeze causing you to yelp, “Steve!” You lightly slapped his shoulder, causing him to chuckle.

You bit your lower lip, nervously tucking a strand of hair behind your ear as you rubbed your thighs together out of need, Steve took notice of that quickly and tilted his head slightly.

“My perfect girl, mhmm.” He whispered in your ear as his fingers ghosted over your thighs which were trembling at this point.

You gasped softly when he did so, cheeks growing hotter with each of his movements. “Some—someone is going to see.” You stuttered, cocking your head to see if anyone else was there, and Steve took this as an opportunity to give your neck sloppy kisses.

You mewled under his touch and Steve chuckled darkly, “Stevie!” You breathed, warning him again and he faced you.

His gaze was intense and yours was so innocent that he felt bad for teasing you this much, he gave you a warm smile as he pulled his hand away.

You whined. “I’m just teasin’ honey,” He winked, causing you to let out a nervous giggle as you felt your cheeks heating up, for the 100th time.

“So… what do you think?” You asked with the biggest smile on your face as you gave Steve a twirl, causing his eyes to widen.

He admired you with a look of sheer awe in his eyes, you were gorgeous, so fucking gorgeous.

And you looked angelic in that tight dress, making Steve dizzy.

“Perfect, honey.” He said, gaze never wavering from you.

“You are totally getting that dress.” His eyes darkened with lust.

“And when we get home, I’m gonna fuck you in it.”