#and i know the only things of mine that are hung up in the hallway are my leather jacket; winter coat; one fleece and a scarf

[fingertipsmp3]

I love when people blame me for problems they created themselves. Like I know it seems like I would be to blame for this cupboard being the way it is, but I’m actually not

[glitteringdust]

Lucanis/Spite pining for Rook

Could be at any part of their romance.

Or at 1 am when that 13th cup of coffee hits

Why did you leave?

Spite's questioning had still not ceased. Lucanis ignored the demon, staring at the slow, orbiting Fade rocks in the distance. Trying to clear his head was hard when a Demon wouldn't shut up about his mistake. He takes a sip of the coffee in his hands, surprised at how cold it had become. A trick of the Fade or had he lost track of time? He had already lost track of what number cup this was, the exhaustion from the day was slowly creeping in. He needed to be in better control.

Rook was right there. You had her.

The infatuation Spite had for Rook had started right away— she was a shiny new toy, something new to play with. Lucanis figured the demon would grow bored of her eventually, but Spite hung on to every one of Rook's words and demanded to speak to her constantly. His attention was on Rook whenever she was in the same room.

He could not blame him, honestly. Rook was delightful to be around, and becoming the best part of his day. She was just… good. Everything felt good when she was there. So when she started flirting with him, he could not help himself. She was so close he could smell that unique scent of her.

Cherries…cinnamon…

He was so close to tasting her, but stopped himself at Spite's remark. He could not do this to her, could not bring her close to him if there was even one chance of hurting her. He was an abomination, a danger.

So he pulled away. He left. Keeping her safe was of utmost priority.

Rook is not afraid of us.

"She should be, Spite." He mutters aloud.

He heads back inside the dining hall, needing to start another pot of coffee if he is going to evade sleep a little longer. As it brews, he finds his mind wandering back to Rook.

What would it have been like? Sweet and intriguing, like he thought? Or would she have been more bold? She was a force of nature given form, after all. His kisses would have been fervent, as he pinned her against the wall. Tucked away in the dimly lit pantry, he would have shown her just how much he thought of her.

Maybe she would have taken his hand, and led him back to her room across the way. They'd risk the chance of being seen but he would not have cared. He can picture it now, the way the light of the main hall would make her curls a captivating navy blue. He should have kissed her…

…

…

He doesn't remember falling asleep, but jolts awake just outside the hallway leading to Rook's room.

"Lucanis?"

She's dressed down into sleep clothes, hair slightly damp as if she'd just bathed. "Is everything alright?"

"Ah, Rook. Yes. I am fine, only on a stroll."

Blue eyes examine him once over, a small frown forming, "You look tired, Lucanis. Why don't you get some rest? I can keep an eye on Spite."

Yes. Do it! Go to Rook.

"I do not wish to trouble you with that. Spite is mine to deal with."

"You can’t just avoid sleep forever. It would be no trouble at all." She looks at him with such softness, he wants to give in.

"I can handle this. Do not worry yourself."

The space between them is a hollow ache, close but not enough. A moment of weakness, Caterina would call it. To be an assassin, you must set aside emotion. To get the job done, there can be no hesitation, no doubt. Love is a weakness. It sets you up to lose.

He did not want to lose her.

He turns, heading out of the main hall and back to his own room. The air of the Fade was stale with each inhale, heavy.

How frustrating you are. She likes us, and you stay away?

"What is it with you? Why do you act as if you know her?" He snaps back.

You know her, so I do too. Rook is good.

It’s the least hostile thing Spite has said to him. The demon really means it. He cares for Rook in his own unconventional way.

He pours another cup of coffee.

[rainydayathogwarts]

heyy i’m the same anon who just sent the one abt james. i think i accidentally wrote spring instead of summer? i honestly don’t remember.. very sorry😭🙏

but also ngl spring could be cute with this prompt if it was like fake dating or smthn ("come on, you're my only option"). ok sorry for rambling! i love your work

only woman - James Potter

ʀᴀɪɴʏᴅᴀʏᴀᴛʜᴏɢᴡᴀʀᴛꜱ' 3ᴋ ᴄᴇʟᴇʙʀᴀᴛɪᴏɴ! summary: the first time you and james have a friendly conversation after your breakup leads to something more... (smut) wc: 1.6k+

James potter was not happy. No, not now, and not since an hour ago, when you’d cornered him with your beautiful smile — the one that made him fall in love with you in the first place. Sitting on the couch in the common room with his cock hard as a rock, James was forced to listen to the other marauders’ jokes while you insisted on hearing whatever gossip Lily had to tell you. James didn’t know how to pull you away from your shared group of friends, because since the two of you had broken up, you’d barely even been in the same room together.

It was only today that you decided you were ready for that next step in rekindling your friendship, calling out James’s name in the hallway as you caught up to him, hooking your arm through his and eagerly asking if he’d read the newest book in your shared favourite comic book series. James had engaged in your conversation with a wide smile, communicating how happy he was for things between you to finally be normal again.

But now, as he sat with a pillow over his lap, he was sure things would never go back to normal with you. He’d taken too many not-so-subtle glances down the front of your shirt, like he always did when he was your boyfriend. The only difference was that now, he couldn’t tug you closer to him by the hips, pressing desperate kisses against your lips until you were stripping your shirt off.

Your breakup was stupid, James now decided.

The both of you should have talked things out like adults instead of arguing and deciding on the spot that your relationship wouldn’t endure the inevitable long distance that would come due to your varying interests for further education. James remembers seeing your puffy face the day after the breakup, Lily leading you away from James and the rest of the marauders so you could have a somewhat peaceful breakfast. By not having an amicable breakup, you created tensions in the friend group. Awkwardness that had only begun healing two months after you’d separated. It took more than those two months for you to speak to each other, and nearly six full months after your breakup — today — you’d had your first friendly conversation.

And James was already regretting everything. He shouldn’t have broken up with you, he shouldn’t have spoken to you today, he shouldn’t have let his thoughts wander, because now he was stuck in this situation. This situation, with you glancing up at him from across the room with a friendly smile, though you had a mischievous glint in your eye he would recognise anywhere.

He had enough.

Abruptly standing, James grabbed his bag, which conveniently hung just in front of his hips, covering his unfortunate situation. “I think I’m going to go give Professor McGonagall the essay we started in class. I want to get her feedback on it.” James knew he didn’t have to direct any of his words to you for you to get the hint, his eyes having previously burned into you. And he stood correct, watching as you eagerly jumped up, grabbing your roll of parchment off the table. “I’ll come too! I just finished mine!” None of your friends suspected anything as you ran after James out of the common room, exchanging their gratefulness for your awakening friendship.

You hooked your arm through James’s as he led you out of the common room, though it wasn’t long before he was pulling you into a hidden room, its door wedged behind a statue. You called out your ex-boyfriend’s name and he spun to face you, a pleading look on his face. James dropped his book bag at his feet, and your eyes were instantly attracted to the bulge in his trousers. You suppressed the smile that so desperately wanted to make its way onto your face, instead raising your eyebrows at James, putting both hands on your hips. “This is what you dragged me out here for?” You sassed, and James immediately retorted with “You followed me.”

Huffing, you spun on the balls of your feet and reached for the door, but a hand on your wrist stopped you from leaving. You held your breath suddenly, feeling the warmth of James’s body radiate onto you. “James.” You uttered in a warning tone, but the man only shoved himself in the tight space between you and the door, forcing you to look at him. “Please. I don’t know what overtook me but I’m just- please.” Stepping away from James, you looked him up and down. He came closer to you, finally placing his hands on your hips, lowering his volume as he pleaded “You’re my only option.”

Offended, you slapped one of James’s hands off your body, scoffing “Why? ‘Cause no one else will take you?” But the boy only shook his head, saying “Because you're the only one I want.” Your breath hitched in your throat and your face immediately softened for James, putting a hand on his face. You almost forgot how loving and sweet James naturally was.

Okay, enough playing hard to get, you decided, finally pushing yourself up against James to press your lips against his in a passionate kiss. A grumble sounded in James chest as he brought a hand up to cup your face, the other one securely wrapping around your waist. You sighed into the kiss and James pushed his tongue past your lips and into your mouth with a desperation that had an intensity thickening in the room. You tripped backwards over James’ discarded bag, but his hold on you immediately tightened, and he dragged you over to the window nook, where you fell onto your back when the back of your legs hit its edge.

Gripping James’s belt, you messily undid it, gasping when his hands trailed under your skirt to tug your panties down. The second you released James from his boxers, sitting under his leaking cock, he broke the kiss to grab hold of himself, biting his bottom lip as he blindly tried to find your entrance. You hooked your leg over James’s hip, and almost immediately, you felt his tip probe your wet entrance, desperately pushing into you. You gasped, moaning when James slammed his lips back onto yours and you snaked a hand into his hair, tugging softly at his loose curls.

James wasn’t going to last long. You could tell by the way his thrusts were unusually short and desperate, fast instead of hard. James whined into the kiss, his hips barely pulling out of you every time before thrusting in again, balls-deep. You gasped as his tip grazed that spongy spot that never failed to make you lose yourself in pleasure, wrapping your arms over James’ shoulders to pull him closer to you. James averted his kisses to your neck, sucking eagerly on your skin and biting whenever particularly strong moans overtook him. “I love you.” He suddenly panted, hiding his face in the crook of your neck. “Fuck, haven’t had sex since you.” You moaned at James’s unexpected words, throwing your head back onto the thin cushions behind you. “Fuck James!”

“Tell me you’re mine.” He begged, his thrusts becoming sloppy as he lifted his head up to hover above yours, his lips barely grazing yours. "’M yours Jamie! No one can fuck me — oh my god — like you.” James moaned, letting his forehead drop against yours as he shut his eyes. “Fuck, you like when I fuck you like this?” He asked, trying to snap his hips into yours with more power. You hummed out an answer, barely able to form a coherent sentence when James brought his hand down to toy with your clit. “Just you.” You mumbled, bringing your hand up to push James’s face closer to yours, finally connecting your lips in a kiss again. You bit down on James’s bottom lip, unaware that immediately, the sting of your bite would have his hips stuttering to release his load of cum into you. You gasped loudly as James moaned your name, willing himself to give you a few more thrusts that finally pushed you over the edge.

James’s breath hitched in his throat when your nails harshly dug into his skin and your thighs tried clamping shut around his torso. He stared at you lovingly as you arched your back, eyes bracing shut and your mouth falling open to let out a string of high-pitched moans. James brushed a few hairs away from your eyes, smiling at you when you finally caught your breath and opened your eyes.

“Fuck, I better be the only woman you fuck for the rest of your life, Potter.” You panted, wincing slightly when he chuckled. James pulled out of you, a tint of blush on his cheeks. “So, uh… You’ll be mine again?” He asked sheepishly. You sat up, putting a hand on James’s bicep. “I’ll be yours again if we can talk about what broke us up in the first place.”

When you re-entered the common room, Lily, Remus and Sirius weren’t surprised to find you were both friends again, but they were more than shocked to find the hickeys on your neck, and to discover that James had decided he would follow you anywhere in the world if it meant you were happy. At least they also found out that you’d knocked some sense into him and said his career was just as important as yours.

Who knew, maybe you two were perfect for each other: one blinded by love and the other to provide them vision.

[misswynters]

Rooftop Cravings

Gwayne Hightower x reader (modern au)

[WARNING: making out/kissing, smoking, needy/desperate gwayne, implied sexual relations, worship?, extreme touching, not proofread

[synopsis: Gwayne calls you to the rooftop, needing you. Like a desperate man.

[note: uh i absolutely love freddie fox…he’s mine, the first pic is actually him (0-o)

Part of the Dragonblood: Southside Series

song inspiration: desert rose

The Hightower apartment complex stands tall and imposing in the heart of Chicago’s South Side. It’s a place where everyone knows everyone else’s business, and secrets are hard to keep. Tonight, the air is filled with the sounds of the city – sirens wailing in the distance, the murmur of late-night conversations, and the occasional blare of a car horn.

You move through the dimly lit hallways with purpose, your heart pounding in anticipation. Gwayne Hightower, the ever-charming and mischievous bad boy of the neighborhood, had slipped you a note earlier in the day – a secret rendezvous on the rooftop. The thrill of it all reminds you of scenes straight out of a TV show. Each apartment was a testament to wealth, with floor-to-ceiling windows offering sweeping views of the city that never slept. But Gwayne Hightower wasn’t interested in the views tonight. He was standing on the rooftop, the wind tugging at his clothes as he stared at his phone, desperation clawing at his chest.

He dialed the number, his fingers trembling slightly. The ring echoed in his ears, each second stretching into an eternity. When your voice finally came through, soft and curious, it was like a lifeline.

“Hello?” You answered with a question.

“Where are you?” His voice was rough, strained with an urgency he couldn’t hide. “I need to see you.”

There was a pause on the other end, and then you spoke again, concern lacing your words. “Gwayne, what’s going on? Are you okay?”

“No, I’m not,” he admitted, his breath hitching. “I’m on the rooftop of The Hightower. Please, come. I… I need you.”

The line went silent for a moment, and he could almost hear the wheels turning in your head. Then, with a resigned sigh, you agreed. “I’ll be there in ten minutes.”

Gwayne ended the call and shoved the phone into his pocket, pacing the rooftop as he tried to calm his racing heart. The city lights flickered below, but all he could think about was you. The way your smile lit up a room, the warmth of your touch, the sound of your laughter. He was consumed by thoughts of you, his need for you almost painful in its intensity.

The minutes dragged on, each one feeling like an hour. He ran a hand through his hair, frustration and longing blending into a potent mix that made it hard to breathe. When you reach the rooftop door, you push it open and step into the cool night air. Gwayne was waiting for you, leaning against the edge of the building with a cigarette dangling from his lips. He looks up as he heard you approach, his trademark smirk playing on his lips.

“You actually came,” he says, taking a drag from his cigarette and exhaling slowly, his back facing you.

You looked around the rooftop, adoring the city skyline. Seeing him at the edge, you walked over. “Gwayne, what’s wrong?”

He turned to face you, his eyes dark with unspoken emotions. “I’m sorry,” he slightly whined, his voice barely above a whisper. “I just… I can’t do this anymore. I can’t be without you.”

Gwayne's confession hung in the air between you, heavy and charged. The city below seemed to fade away, leaving just the two of you on this isolated rooftop. The cool night air mingled with the warmth of his breath on your skin, sending shivers down your spine.

Gwayne stubs out his cigarette and steps closer, closing the distance between you. “I’ve missed you,” he murmurs, his hands finding your waist and pulling you close.

"You don't have to be sorry," you whispered, your fingers brushing against his jaw. "I'm here now."

He closed his eyes, leaning into your touch as if it were the only thing anchoring him. "I've missed you so much," he said, his voice breaking slightly. "Every second without you feels like an eternity."

You pressed a gentle kiss to his lips, soft and reassuring. "I feel the same way."

He chuckles softly, his breath warm against your ear. “Shall we make the most of our time together then?”

You couldn’t even respond before Gwayne captures your lips in a searing kiss. It’s as if all the pent-up longing and passion you’ve been feeling spills out in that single moment. You wrap your arms around his neck, pulling him even closer as your fingers tangling in his hair deepening the kiss.

Gwayne's hands slid down to your waist, pulling you closer. His need for you was palpable, an almost physical force that drew you together. He kissed you again, slower this time but no less intense. Each brush of his lips against yours was a silent plea, a desperate need to be connected to you.

The world around you seemed to disappear, leaving only the two of you and the raw emotion that pulsed between you. Gwayne's hands roamed your back, pulling you even closer until there was no space left between you.

"I can't get enough of you," he murmured against your lips, his voice thick with desire.

You smiled against his mouth, your heart swelling with affection. "Then don't stop," you whispered, your words a gentle challenge.

Gwayne's response was immediate. He kissed you with renewed fervor, his hands exploring every inch of you. His touch was electrifying, each caress sending waves of pleasure through your body. You melted into him, giving yourself over to the intensity of the moment.

He guided you until your back pressed against the railing of the rooftop. The metal was cool against your skin, a stark contrast to the heat of his body. Gwayne's lips trailed down your neck, leaving a trail of fiery kisses in their wake. You tilted your head back, giving him better access as your fingers dug into his shoulders.

"Gwayne," you moaned, the sound of his name on your lips spurring him on.

He pulled back slightly, his eyes locking onto yours. They were dark with desire, but there was something else there too- a vulnerability that tugged at your heart. "I love you," he said, his voice trembling with the weight of the words.

"I love you so much it scares me."

You reached up, cupping his face in your hands. "I love you too," you said, your voice steady and sure. "More than anything."

A shudder ran through Gwayne at your words, and he captured your lips in another searing kiss. There was a new urgency to his movements, a desperate need to show you just how much you meant to him. His hands slid under your shirt, the heat of his touch sending shivers through your body. Gwayne’s fingers deftly unbuttoning your shirt.

You gasped as his fingers brushed against your skin, your own hands finding their way under his shirt. The feel of his muscles beneath your fingertips was intoxicating, and you couldn't get enough. You needed to feel every inch of him, to remind yourself that this was real.

Gwayne pulled back just long enough to pull your shirt over your head, tossing it aside before doing the same with his own. The sight of his bare chest, illuminated by the city lights, took your breath away. He was beautiful, every inch of him a testament to strength and vulnerability.

He pressed you back against the railing, his hands exploring your now exposed skin. Each touch was a promise, each kiss a declaration of his love. You could feel his need for you, the way his body trembled with barely restrained desire.

"Please," he whispered, his voice raw with emotion. "I need you."

You nodded, your own desire mirrored in his eyes. "Mmmm," you hummed, your wordless expression, a vow.

Gwayne's eyes darkened at your words, and he kissed you with a passion that took your breath away. His hands moved to the waistband of your pants, his touch gentle but insistent. You helped him, the two of you working together to shed the last barriers between you.

When you were finally free of your clothes, Gwayne took a step back, his eyes raking over your body with a hunger that made your pulse race. He reached out, his hand cupping your cheek as he leaned in for another kiss. You stood there in your underwear and so did he. It was slightly cold tonight, so it was wise not to be fully naked out in the open.

"God, you're beautiful," he murmured against your lips.

You blushed, the intensity of his gaze making you feel exposed in the best possible way. "Says Mr. Handsome," you jokingly replied, your voice soft but full of conviction.

Gwayne's lips curved into a smile, and he kissed you again, his hands exploring your body with a reverence that made your heart ache. Each touch was a reminder of just how much he loved you, just how much he needed you.

The world seemed to fade away as you lost yourself in him. The city below, the stars above - none of it mattered. All that mattered was the way he made you feel, the way he showed you just how deeply he cared.

Without breaking the kiss, Gwayne's hands moved to your waist, slightly touching your nipples through your bra. His lips trailed down your neck, leaving a path of fire in their wake. When he reached your chest, he paused for a moment, his eyes dark with desire as he looked up at you.

"Is this okay?" he asked, his voice barely above a whisper.

You nodded, your breath coming in short, ragged gasps. "Yes, Gwayne. Please."

That was all the encouragement he needed. His mouth descended on your chest, kissing and sucking with a need that left you breathless. His hands cupped your breasts, kneading gently as his tongue flicked over your sensitive skin. The sensation was overwhelming, and you couldn't help the soft moans that escaped your lips.

Gwayne's neediness was palpable. He was everywhere at once, his hands, his mouth, his body pressing against yours.

He worshipped your chest with an almost frantic desperation, his kisses turning into gentle bites and sucks that left you trembling with desire.

"You're so perfect," he murmured against your skin. "So fucking perfect."

His words sent a shiver down your spine, and you tangled your fingers in his hair, pulling him closer. "I need you too," you breathed. "I always have."

He looked up at you, his eyes filled with a raw, unspoken emotion. "Then let's not waste any more time."

With that, he pulled you into another searing kiss, his hands never leaving your body. Up on the rooftop, under the moonlit sky, it felt like the world had narrowed down to just the two of you, lost in each other's arms.

You pull away from the kiss, both of you breathless. Gwayne’s eyes are dark with desire, but there’s also a softness there that you don’t see often. He brushes a strand of hair away from your face, his touch tender.

He leads you to a makeshift seating area – an old blanket spread out on the rooftop, surrounded by the twinkling lights of the city. You sit down together, the cool night air wrapping around you like a comforting blanket.

“Sometimes, I feel like this is the only place we can really be ourselves,” Gwayne admits, his voice raw and honest. “Away from all the bullshit.”

You nod, understanding all too well. Life in the Hightower complex is chaotic, full of drama and noise. Moments like this are rare, precious.

“What’s been going on with you?” you ask, wanting to share in his burdens, if only for a little while.

He sighs, running a hand through his hair. “Same old shit. Trying to keep my family together, keep everyone out of trouble. It’s exhausting.”

You lean against him, your head resting on his shoulder. For a moment, the world feels right. The noise and chaos fade away, leaving just the two of you and the city lights.

The morning sun filters through the cracked blinds of the huge apartment. You wake up to the sound of Gwayne moving around the kitchen, the smell of coffee filling the air. You stretch and sit up, rubbing the sleep from your eyes. Last night was absolute perfection and bliss. He treated you well, having the most loving and gentle sex you could’ve imagined. It was all you can think about.

Gwayne turns as you enter the kitchen, a smile spreading across his face. “Morning,” he says, handing you a cup of coffee.

“Morning,” you reply, taking the cup and savoring the warmth. “Thanks.”

He leans against the counter, watching you. “You should stay more often. I like waking up to you.”

You smile, feeling a warmth that has nothing to do with the coffee. “I like waking up here.”

Gwayne steps closer, his hand cupping your cheek. “Then stay with me, ___.”

You look into his eyes, seeing the sincerity there. It’s a big step, but one you’re willing to take. “Okay,” you say softly. He kisses you gently, sealing the promise. Gwayne traps you between the kitchen island and his arms, leaning down to match you height. You could feel him pressed against you, the only layer between the two of you was the thin underwear you both were wearing. He wanted another round.

[note: i keep adding more to my plate however, i was in NEED for this 😐, if you would like to be added to my taglist for all of my gwayne fics COMMENT!

taglist: @benjicotblckwood @spn-obession @beebeechaos @diannnnsss @thebenjiblackwoodexpress @maryldrsstuff

banner: @cafekitsune

[helloalycia]

𝐒𝐎𝐌𝐄𝐓𝐇𝐈𝐍𝐆 𝐒𝐏𝐄𝐂𝐈𝐀𝐋 [𝐓𝐇𝐑𝐄𝐄] — 𝐒𝐊𝐘𝐄 𝐑𝐈𝐋𝐄𝐘

one / two / masterlist / wattpad

summary: when someone asks you out, things get tense between you and Skye and you aren’t sure how to deal with it.

warning/s: the usual warnings that have come with this fic lol.

author's note: and here's the last part! this was a fun one to write, and it's always fun to write for naomi since there aren't many characters of hers i can write for!! (still salty terra nova was cancelled 😭). So yeah, hope you guys like it 🥰

Skye was recording some bits at a studio in the city and we were supposed to hang out after, but I didn't have much else to do and ended up arriving early. As she finished up, I hung around to let her finish, snooping around the building and chatting with some of the staff there.

As I was, I ended up getting caught in some conversation with one of the production assistants, Anna. It was always nice to get to know new people, but I didn't realise it was more than that until she started to flirt with me. Maybe she always was and I was too dumb to notice, but I was awkwardly flattered.

Still, she was interesting and we seemed to get on, getting lost in conversation for about ten minutes. Only when Skye finally finished in the studio and left to find me did the conversation end.

"There you are," she said with a smile when she saw me, before noticing Anna. "Oh, hello."

"You're Skye Riley," Anna noticed with an amazed smile, before glancing at me. "You know, I thought you were playing me when you said she was your friend."

I exhaled with amusement, shaking my head. "Not playing."

She gave me a surprised look before looking to Skye politely. "Sorry, how rude of me. I'm Anna. I work here. Big fan of your music."

"Nice to meet you, Anna," Skye greeted with an easygoing smile.

"You done?" I asked Skye, referring to her work.

"Done," she confirmed.

I nodded, before offering a friendly nod to Anna. "It was great meeting you, Anna. I should go. Skye and I have plans."

Anna nodded. "Of course, yeah, you mentioned..." She paused, hesitating as she glanced shyly at Skye before meeting my gaze. "Did you wanna, maybe, hang out some time?"

I raised an eyebrow, hoping my surprise wasn't too obvious. Skye swallowed awkwardly when she realised what was happening.

"Sorry, I'll give you guys a moment," she mumbled before leaving to wait down the hall.

I didn't know what to think as I looked back to Anna, seeing her waiting hopefully. "I– sure."

Anna breathed out, relieved, as she pulled out her phone. "Great. You wanna put your number in here and I'll text you so you have mine?"

I nodded, body working on autopilot as we exchanged numbers. It wasn't that she wasn't lovely – she really was – but I wasn't used to someone actually outright flirting with me like she had been. Plus, I was always awkward when it came to pretty girls.

"Got it," I said when my phone dinged with a text from her.

"Awesome," she said with a bright smile. "I'm expecting a message," she added jokingly.

"Sure," I said with a nervous smile.

She chuckled before straightening up. "Right, I'll let you go. See you soon, Y/N. Hopefully."

"See you," I said as I watched her leave, still surprised at how someone as pretty as her actually wanted a date with me. And so confidently too.

Shaking my head, I rejoined Skye who was lurking at the end of the hallway, watching the whole encounter as much as she tried to pretend she wasn't.

"Hey," she said when I stopped by her side. "Ready?"

I hummed as I fell onto step with her, the two of us going to the lift.

"So, who was that?" she asked whilst we waited inside. "You got a date?"

I shrugged, still replaying the encounter in my mind. "We just got to talking and I wasn't expecting her to be interested in me, but... yeah. She gave me her number."

Skye nodded, eyebrows raised slightly. "Cool... so are you interested?"

I glanced at her, unsure. "I don't know. I just wasn't expecting it. You know I get talking to people when I'm bored."

She smiled slightly. "Yeah, I do. It's so annoying how social you are sometimes."

I rolled my eyes playfully and continued, "I'm not sure if I'll text her."

She hummed, looking to the lift doors as they opened, and stepped out. Her lack of advice was disorienting me.

"Do you think I should?" I asked, falling back into step with her.

"What?" she asked, glancing over at me with an unreadable expression.

I quirked a brow, wondering if she was even listening. "Text her back?"

She nodded slowly. "Well, do you want to?"

I felt my cheeks grow warm as I looked away, smiling nervously. "I don't know."

"It can't hurt, can it? It might be nice."

I chewed on my lip, pondering her words. I wasn't even sure why I was overthinking it. It was just a date.

"Just take it easy though," she said nonchalantly as we walked out the building and down the street. "You don't wanna lead her on or anything."

"True," I agreed. "Might be worth a shot though. We did get on. The spark was there."

"Just don't get attached," she warned, glancing sideways at me. "You tend to do that."

It took a moment for her words to digest, and when they did, I grew offended. "What's that supposed to mean?"

"What? You do," she said lightheartedly, but it did nothing to put me at ease. Probably noticing my expression, she tried to amend her words. "Sorry, what I meant was– you go all in, y'know? I just don't want to see you get hurt."

I blinked, looking ahead. "Wow. Thanks."

"No, I didn't mean it as an insult," she said quickly, hand wrapping around my arm as if to get my attention. "I'm just looking out for you, Y/N."

I didn't know why her words stung, but they did. Was that seriously how she viewed me? As someone who got overly attached?

It made sense, in some way, especially after everything that happened with us. But it still hurt coming from her, probably because deep down I knew she was right. Except, the only person I'd ever gotten attached to was her. My mistake, I was well aware.

Suddenly, she stopped in front of me, facing me with a guilty frown on her lips. "I'm sorry. I didn't mean it. It wasn't nice of me to say."

I looked down. "Doesn't matter."

"It does," she said firmly, squeezing my arm. "Really. I'm so sorry."

A little embarrassed, the familiarity of the situation creeping in, I shook my head. "It's fine. Let's just go find somewhere to eat."

To my relief, she gave in and we both continued walking to find somewhere. Admittedly, the tension was still present on my side, my feelings stewing with each step. It was disheartening, knowing she thought of me like that, joke or not.

We ate in an awkward silence, and Skye made attempts at conversation but I couldn't force myself to entertain them.

"How's your burger?" she asked, nodding to my plate. "Food here's nice, isn't it?"

I hummed halfheartedly, picking at my fries.

She sighed softly, losing her smile. "Y/N, I didn't mean what I said before."

"It's fine," I told her once more.

Her eyes flickered between mine knowingly. "You're upset."

I merely shrugged, looking down to my plate, only making her sigh again.

"You should go out with her," she said, as if that was what I wanted to hear and would make up for what she'd said. It only made me feel worse.

I ignored her, instead responding, "Let's just talk about something else. How's your tour prep going?"

She frowned slightly, clearing her throat. "Erm, fine, I suppose... Not long left now. I'm just finalising outfits and..."

As she talked a little about it, my previous anger and hurt had long faded into disheartenment. It was frustrating to admit to myself, but Skye's reaction wasn't one I'd hoped for. I wanted her to tell me not to go out with Anna, that she didn't like the idea. And that's when I knew I was delusional.

And definitely not over my best friend.

After paying for our food, Skye and I left the restaurant, awkwardly lingering outside.

"I should go," I spoke before she could. "I've got some work to do."

She nodded, sensing my mood and not saying anything else. I hesitated, noticing the discomfort in her expression, before pulling her in for a hug. It wasnt her fault I was so conflicted – she couldn't have known anything about where my head was at and taking it out on her wasn't fair.

She returned my hug, relieved. "Talk later?"

I nodded as I pulled back, offering her a small smile, hopefully letting her know that I wasn't upset. At least, not at her.

She returned it, grateful, before squeezing my arm gently and letting me go. Meanwhile, I knew I needed to fix whatever was wrong with me before it got worse.

—

I did end up texting Anna back and we'd arranged a date a week later. Part of me thought it could be good to put myself back out there with someone lovely like Anna, but the other part of me also used it as a fast track to get over whatever feelings I had for Skye.

Despite our brief argument, Skye was supportive when I told her, being a typical best friend who wanted to know all the details when she could. I believed that if I played the part hard enough, it would feel real and I'd get over her. But no matter how much I tried, I just couldn't.

The date was great. Not a thing I could fault and yet I still returned home feeling deflated and hollow. Anna was the perfect date and we had a lovely time bowling, but all I could think about was Skye and how much I wanted it to be her. It was awful, from that perspective, and definitely made my scrambled head worse.

As I took a moment to collect myself on the couch as soon as I entered my apartment, my phone rang. Speaking of the devil...

"Hey, Skye," I answered tiredly.

"Is your date done? I wanna know everything!" she said excitedly.

I sighed, massaging my head. "Yes, but–"

"Awesome! I just finished some boring photo shoot and am on my way back, but I thought I may as well stop by yours, that cool?"

I scrunched my face up in disagreement, her face being the last I needed to see right now. "I'm actually kind of tired, Skye."

She laughed, sending shivers down my spine. "Oh, grow up, baby. See you soon!"

Before I could protest, she'd hung up, leaving me to drag out a long groan as I leaned back in irritation. So much for self-deprecating for the rest of the evening. 

By the time I'd gotten into my pyjamas and freshened up, there was a knock at my door. Reluctantly, I went to answer it, seeing Skye on the other side.

Her smile faded when she noticed my expression. "Oh, no, how did it go?"

I turned around, flopping down on the couch, face-first. "Average."

The door closed and she approached the couch. "No wow factor?"

I shook my head as she took a seat beside my head, resting her hand in my hair and stroking it gently which did nothing to help with my racing heart.

"It's okay," she said softly. "At least you tried."

I exhaled into the couch cushion before sitting up, facing her as I leaned against the back.

"What wasn't great?" she asked sympathetically, leaning her elbow on the back cushion and watching me carefully.

I shook my head, unable to hold her gaze and instead focusing on the loose thread from the cushion. "It was fine. Anna was lovely. But I just... yeah."

She hummed in understanding. "Sorry."

All I could do was shrug.

After a moment, she lifted her arm out, extending it. "Come here."

I hesitated, unsure if this was the best next move. But I felt like crap and Skye was my best friend first and foremost. So, I crawled over to her and let her pull me in for a hug against her chest. She stroked my hair again, kissing the top of my head and making me sigh with comfort.

"You wanna talk about it?" she asked, voice mumbled as her lips were still pressed to the top of my head.

I shook my head gently.

"Alright." She continued to stroke my hair soothingly. "Wanna get your mind off it? We could watch a movie."

I swallowed thickly, not in the mood for anything right now.

"Or I can leave and give you some space," she continued, seeming to notice my mood.

As much as I hadn't wanted her here, I now didn't want her to leave. Shaking my head, I sat upright. "No, you can stay. We'll watch something."

She searched my eyes with a hint of concern. "You sure?"

I nodded, rubbing my face with my hands. "Yeah. I just need to pee. Pick a film, I'll be back."

She nodded and I got up to go to the bathroom, using it as a chance to splash some cold water on my face too. I sighed deeply, pushing away my conflicted thoughts for the time being and returning to the couch.

As I took a seat, I noticed some snacks on the table, but the weirdest assortment of them. There were cookies, some carrot sticks, hummus and a bowl of nuts.

"Er... what is this?" I asked Skye with confusion, glancing over at her as she returned from the kitchen with two glasses of juice.

"It's all I could find," she answered, before shooting me a disapproving look. "You really need to go shopping."

I cracked a small smile as she set the glasses on the table and took a seat beside me.

"Hey, there's that smile!" she exclaimed with a satisfactory gun.

I rolled my eyes lightheartedly, stifling my smile, and instead distracted myself with eating some carrot sticks. She grabbed a handful of nuts and got comfortable, pulling her legs up on the couch.

"Thanks," I said softly, gratefully.

"You don't need to thank me," she retorted, glancing at me, but I couldn't look at her without feeling strange.

I leaned back and got comfortable, and Skye started up a film on the TV. It was easy enough to settle in and the film was a well-needed distraction from everything. But naturally, I was falling asleep halfway through it. It didn't help that it was late, I was already pretty tired and Skye was extremely comfortable.

By the time the film ended, I was half out of it, in that weird in between state of awake but asleep. My eyes were closed and I was barely paying attention until Skye sighed from beside me.

"That wasn't that bad, y'know," she decided. "I thought it would be worse given the ratings."

I hummed quietly, acknowledging her words but not really listening.

"You didn't even watch it, did you?"

"I did," I mumbled as convincingly as I could.

She chuckled, her shoulders moving and waking me up in the process. "Liar."

A yawn escaped my lips as I forced myself to sit upright, off her shoulder. She was watching me with amusement.

"Comfy?" she teased.

Too sleepy to care, I answered, "I'd apologise, but it's kind of expected if you let me lay on you."

She laughed wholeheartedly, brightening up the whole night for a moment. "You're lucky I find you comfy too."

I sighed tiredly, sitting on my side and leaning on my elbow, propped up against the back of the couch.

"You feel any better?" she asked, and I looked up at her through my eyelashes.

"A bit," I mumbled. "Thanks."

"Stop thanking me," she said with a soft smile, making me scrunch my face slightly.

"Sorry."

She rolled her eyes playfully, stifling a laugh, and I yawned again as I watched her. It could have been my fatigue-induced state, or the fact that I was hopelessly in love with my best friend, but I couldn't stop admiring how beautiful she looked before me. No makeup, messy hair, sparkling brown eyes, cute smile.

It was wrong of me to stare, wrong of my eyes to trace the arch of her brows, the slope of her nose, the curve of her lips... I'd imagined kissing her many times before, but I'd never wanted to actually do it as much as I did now.

She smiled, oblivious to my daydreams, and mimicked my pose, leaning on her elbow on the back of the couch, way too close to my expression. "Whatcha thinking, huh?" she asked playfully.

My breath hitched as my eyes lowered to her lips, only inches from mine. Time stood still. All it would take is a second, but could I?

No, I couldn't. I couldn't ruin everything because of a silly desire.

Swallowing thickly, I moved back and looked away, acting as nonchalant as I could. "Just tired."

She fell quiet as she sat up straight, and I wondered if she knew what I'd wanted to do. Maybe I'd messed it up anyway. It certainly hadn't helped with my conflicted thoughts.

"I should go," she realised. "You should sleep."

I nodded, unsure what to say, and then I saw her making a move to clear up the snacks on the coffee table.

"it's fine, I'll sort it," I said awkwardly, standing up.

She glanced at me. "You sure?"

I couldn't meet her eyes, too hot with shame. "Yeah."

"Okay," she said softly, before going to the door to pull on her shoes.

I lingered awkwardly until she opened the door, glancing at me briefly.

"Goodnight," she said.

"Night," I muttered.

She left and I closed the door behind her, releasing a deep breath. How had I messed things up so easily? All I could hope was I hadn't made her uncomfortable, but it was impossible. Even staring had overstepped, and it was just like she'd said to me a year ago – it was written all over my face. How utterly embarrassing.

—

That evening haunted me long after, it replaying in my mind over and over like a bad dream. So much that I couldn't bring it in myself to face Skye, not whilst my thoughts were a jumbled mess.

Two weeks passed and I kept our contact to the bare minimum whilst I tried to figure my feelings out. I wasn't sure if I could be her friend anymore, as much as I wanted to be. But it wasn't fair on her if I still had feelings for her.

She messaged me, but I kept my responses vague. My only relief was that she was leaving for her tour in a week, so maybe it would be easier not seeing her as much. Maybe it would've been easier to stop being her friend if I distanced myself long enough.

But it was stupid to think that, not when we'd just reconciled and I thought she wouldn't notice my absence.

I was at my apartment one afternoon when I got an unexpected visit from her. As soon as I opened the door, I raised my brows with surprise.

"Skye? What are you doing here?"

Her eyes met mine sternly. "You're avoiding me."

"What?"

She pushed past me gently to let herself in, leaving me no choice but to close the door after her and spin around.

"At first, I thought you were still upset because of your date with Anna," she started, making me wince, "but then you kept being distance and I just– I don't know what I've done!"

I sighed, feeling stupid for thinking I could get away with it. "You haven't–"

"Don't bullshit me," she snapped, fixing me with a glare. "I'm not stupid."

Her hurt expression forced me to look away, the guilt sinking in.

She took a deep breath before asking in a gentler tone, "What is it? Talk to me."

I tensed my jaw uncomfortably. "Nothing."

"Stop lying," she ordered, before taking my chin and turning my face towards her. Worried eyes found mine. "What is it?"

I pulled back in a knee-jerk reaction, feeling a lump form in my throat. "Don't."

She frowned, confused. "What? Did I do something wrong?"

I sighed deeply, avoiding her gaze. "I can't do this... I'm sorry."

"Do what?"

I swallowed thickly, struggling to find the courage but knowing it needed to be done. "I can't be friends with you anymore."

She paused, taken aback, and her voice broke my heart when she finally spoke. "What? What are you talking about?"

I shook my head, looking down at the floor.

"What?" she repeated, growing impatient, and it only made the whole situation worse.

"I can't..."

"Look at me."

I forced myself to look up, the guilt pressing on my chest when I saw her wounded expression.

"What the hell are you saying?" she asked carefully, searching my gaze. "Is this because of what happened the night of your date? The last time I was here?"

I grimaced at her bluntness, making her tense her jaw. So she'd noticed then.

"It is," she realised.

"You were fucking right, okay?" I spoke abruptly. "A year ago, when we argued and you– you said what you did."

"I was fucking high all the time," she interrupted angrily. "I didn't mean any of it."

"But you did," I retorted, frowning, forcing myself to hold her stare otherwise this was all for nothing. "Deep down, a part of you did and, fuck, it hurt so much because you were right, okay? I– I was fucking in love with you. And I know it was foolish of me, but it was true."

Her eyes widened slightly, stunned, but I couldn't seem to stop now that I'd started.

"It was horrible and it ruined everything and that's why I can't be friends with you. Because I thought I was over it but I'm fucking not, okay? And– and the other night, I didn't mean to make things weird. But my head is a mess and I don't know what to do because all I wanted to do was fucking kiss you, and I know that's wrong, it is. And I'm sorry, but I can't keep being friends with you and put you in this position again. Especially not now."

I was shaking by the time I'd finished, heart racing too fast for me to keep track of. After almost a decade, I'd finally told her the truth. And it didn't feel any more liberating than it should have.

She swallowed hard, looking down with furrowed brows as if trying to digest my admission. I'd been so focused on getting it out of me that I hadn't even had time to anticipate how she could react.

"You were in love with me?" she finally spoke, looking to me with questioning eyes. "You're in love with me?"

I almost scoffed, eyes watering. "Like you didn't know? You said it yourself, Skye..."

She frowned regretfully. "What I said to you that day was awful. It wasn't fair of me. And yes, maybe I did know, but it– I wasn't uncomfortable... I..." She hesitated, before admitting, "I was in love with you too. I just– you deserved better than me. You still do."

I blinked back my tears as I studied her closely, with confusion. There was no way that was true. How could she have thought such a thing?

She stepped forward, slowly lifting her hand to touch my face, gauging my reaction. When I didn't push her away or step back, she cupped my cheek, thumb stroking my cheekbone, and my whole body felt like it was on fire.

"I wanted you to kiss me," she said softly, eyes flickering between mine. "Last time, I– I thought you were going to."

I blinked, taken aback. "What?"

She frowned, looking down momentarily as she said, "I didn't want you to go on that fucking date. But I wasn't going to be selfish and stop you. I just– I care about you a lot, Y/N. You mean the world to me. You always have."

Rendered speechless, I didn't know what to think or say. She'd reacted in a way that I'd never anticipated – never dreamed of – nor thought was possible.

Her dark eyes found mine once more, too close to be anything but a blur of golden flecks.

"I don't want to be friends either," she murmured, before pressing her lips to mine.

My eyes widened with surprise and then she tugged me closer and I instinctively relaxed into her, eyes fluttering close. Her lips were warm and tasted like berries, moving against mine in a perfect rhythm. My hands fell to her hips, goosebumps dancing all over my skin, and I couldn't seem to remember a single thing prior to this.

When we pulled apart for air, every part of my body felt aflame. My lips were tingling and she was still so close, too close for me to find words.

"Maybe things would've been different if I'd been honest in the first place," she spoke softly, breath tickling my lips, only reminding me of the feeling of hers against them.

I didn't know what to say, too stunned by the truth of her feelings.

"I missed you," she admitted, hand lowering from my cheek and to my chest. "It was only two weeks, but I thought I'd ruined everything."

"I'm sorry," I managed to get out, not intending to hurt her.

She shook her head. "Don't be," she assured me, before hugging me tightly.

I let out a quiet breath and wrapped my arms around her, sinking into her embrace. It was still a lot to accept – that she'd loved me too. That she did, even now.

"You haven't said much," she noticed, pulling back with a stifled concern.

"It's just a surprise," I shared, not wanting her to second guess anything. "I really thought... I thought you only ever saw me as a friend. Still trying to process it."

She smiled a little, understanding. "Yeah... I wanted to tell you sooner. Years ago. I almost did. Many times. But everything got bad and it just..." She sighed regretfully. "I didn't want to pull you down with me. That version of me wasn't good enough for you."

I frowned, looking between her eyes. "That's not true."

"It is," she said knowingly. "But it's okay. I want to be better than that girl."

"You are," I said sincerely, taking her hand in mine and squeezing it gently.

Her eyes twinkled as she smiled hopefully. "I hope so. For your sake."

I couldn't help but smile too, touched by how much she cared.

"My tour kicks off at the end of the week, but I'd really like to take you out on a proper date before then," she said, taking my other hand in hers.

"It can wait," I reassured her, "I know it's full on for the next few days–"

"No, no, just one," she cut me off eagerly, squeezing my hands. "Before I have to go and won't see you for ages."

I stifled the urge to laugh. "Okay, but if it's too much, Skye, I can wait until–"

Before I could finish, she leaned forward and kissed me, surprising me for the second time. I was too taken aback to react, and then she pulled away and I felt my cheeks heating up with embarrassment.

"That's got to be my new favourite way of shutting you up," she said with a satisfied grin.

I groaned quietly, flustered, and she laughed at my dismay. I suppose there could have been worse ways.

[babyboy555777]

New York~New assistant-Rafe Cameron PT:1

Summary: You were hired for one of the biggest businessmen in New York to be his assistant.

CW: bit of angst in this chapter. Leading up to the rest of the story. (did not proofread)

You straightened your now messed up hair as you walked into the tall lit up building. The wind gusted through the doors as someone else had stepped in behind you making your hair fly slightly to the front of your face. "Damn it." you mutter to yourself.

You quickly fixed your hair again walking away from the door and towards the elevator. You stepped into the crowded small space taking a deep breath getting light head by all the expensive perfumes and cologne mixing around in the tight space shared by others.

As the elevator dinged at the top floor you stepped off looking around lost. You looked at each door all looking the same looking for a specific name. As you made it to the last door on the hall you let out a sigh of relief seeing "Cameron" on a gold plaque screwed into the heavy wooden door.

You softly brought your hand up and knocked hearing it as it echoed through the empty hallway. "Come in!" A voice yelled behind the door. You slowly open the door walking in to see a tall lean but muscular man looking out the window as he spoke on the phone.

His buzzed hair fit him perfectly. His jaw was smooth yet sharp all at the same time. His hand clung to his phone angrily, making his veins a bit more visible on his on the back of his hand. His bicep twitched with each word he yelled out.

"I told you for the last time, I'm not doing that shit! Look I made my deal and if we can't agree then so sorry I will not be doing business with you go... go look somewhere else." He hung up the phone throwing it on the desk as if he didn't care if it broke.

He sighed holding his head in his hands. He rubbed over through his prickly hair. Soon he shot his cold blue eyes at you making a chill run down your spine. "And you are?" He cocked a brow moving closer to you.

You stood frozen and stiff but managed to speak. "I'm y/n, y/n y/l/n. I'm your new assist that was hired Friday." He nodded his head at you looking you up and down in your business outfit. You looked comfortable and very put together. He clicked his tongue walking back to his desk without another glance.

"Sit." He gestured to the char in front of him yet still not looking at you. You took the command and slowly sunk into the chair placing your purse beside you. Mr. Cameron flipped through papers his hands caressing each corner. You bit your bottom lip at the sight but soon shook your head trying to suppress the thoughts that flew into your mind.

"So, Miss y/l/n" He looked up at you with his blue eyes, once again making you shiver. You nodded your head at him. "Your office is right beside mine. Anything I need done you will do, or else you will be fired. Got it?" You nodded your head once again.

He leaned back in his chair, his muscles flexing with his movements. "You speak, or no?" He chuckled lightly. "I'm sorry. I was just letting you speak Mr. Cameron." He shook his head.

"You can speak when I've told or asked you something. As long as you don't interrupt me, unless it's important, then we are fine." You nodded your head again but stuttered out the words. "Y-yes sir."

He looked you up and down again before letting out a huff. "Like I said office is next door. On your desk you have one of these phones." he pointed to the sleek black phone connected with a cord.

"Blue button is connected to me and me only. It will ding letting you know if I'm on the line. If it is so important and cannot wait you will hit the blue button again."

He sat up a bit moving closer to his desk. "Now on your desk are a few papers. One contains my email and password along with varies other things I might need you to log into at certain times. You also have a new email; one used for here and here only. I can log into your email if I have suspicions of anything that goes against the work rules, which you can also find on your desk."

"If I do find anything I have the choice of a warning and talking to you about a rule being broken, or I can go ahead and fire you. I keep close watches on everyone here and nothing flies by me got it?"

You nodded your head. "I got it."

"Your first week I'll go easy on you. You are still figuring this all out and I don't need my work ruined by your stupid mistakes." Your face went slightly pink as he spoke. So much going on and it felt like no matter what you did your job was at a risk.

His voice was so stern, meaning that he did not play with his business. He was so serious, and it made you weak in the knees. "If I need you, I'll call you in. For now, you can go to your office."

You rose up from the chair grabbing your bag. You pulled down your skirt down as it rode up from the chair. Rafe watched your hands slide down your hips making him clear his throat and turn his head.

"Okay thank you." you said, and he gave a small smile in return before looked back to his papers on his desk. You quickly left his office closing the door softly behind you. You walked to the office right next to him looking at the sliver plaque that was plastered with your first and last name.

You let out a sigh of relief before opening the door and stepping in. You looked around the office. It was simple as small. A silver desk pairs with a sleek black chair with silver accents.

There was two flat computers side by side on the desk paired with a wireless mouse and keyboard. You laid your bag on the floor desk before looking over the view of the city.

You felt like you were in a movie looking over the city. The bight early sun shining through the window. Everyone below looked so small as if you could step on them from here. You could see the wind gusting through the tress off the city streets and people quickly pacing.

The sound of ringing echoed through office. You looked over the phone flashing red. Mr. Cameron's voice came through. "I need you to go to the faculty lounge and grab me some coffee."

You pressed the button answering back. "What would you like in it?" You grabbed a pen off your desk and a sticky note waiting to write it down. "Just black." he replied back, and the red light turned off.

You blinked a few times at the phone. "Okay then." you muttered to yourself getting up and heading down the hall. You found the lounge quickly and stepped in looking around for the coffee machine.

"Espresso machine?" You sighed looking at all the pods laying in the small metal basket. "For Cameron?" A voice spoke behind you. You nodded your head at the man who had his hands shoved into his pockets.

He slicked back his short black hair and stepped closer. "He has his own separated from the rest with his name." He opened the cabinet above you pulling down a similar basket with the name "Cameron" labeled on it.

"Thank you." you let out a sigh of relief grabbing one of the pods and popping it into the machine and grabbing a one-use cup and slipping it under the spout.

"No problem." The man smiled at you. "Are you his new assistant?" You nodded your head watching him lean against the counter. "Don't worry he'll be easy on you. He usually is with any of his assistances."

You cocked your head a bit. "Can I ask why?" He chuckled. "Because he knows he's hard to work with." You grabbed the cup slipping the lid on it. You nodded your head thinking of his words. Hard to work with.

"Thank you for your help. I appreciate it." You smiled gentle at him and walked out without saying another word.

You knocked on the wooden door once again. He yelled through the door to come in. "You don't have to knock you just come in. Got it." He said in a stern voice.

"Yes sir. I'm sorry." He looked up from his desk. "9 minutes." You looked at him confused for a moment before speaking up. "Excuse me?" He cleared his throat. "It takes 2 minutes to get from your office and down the hall. Takes 2 minutes to prep the coffee pod and cup. And then takes 2 to get back here. 6 minutes is how long it should be."

Your face went red out of embarrassment. "I couldn't figure out what coffee you wanted. I was aware you had yours separated from the rest. A guy same in and help and then..." He interrupted your words.

"What guy." He scoffed his words. "I'm not sure. He was a taller man with slick back hair."

"Kody? Stay away from him he'll get in the way of your work." He paused. "He talks to damn much." his last words leaving his mouth quietly. "I'm sorry." You place the coffee on his desk and backed up.

"You can go now." You nodded your head left the office. Thoughts flew your head. "Mad over the time coffee arrives to his desk. What a prick" you thought to yourself before walking back into your office.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

You had finally made it to the end of the day. Letting out a deep sigh you pushed yourself back into your chair quietly thanking god the day has come to an end.

Rafe's words were a lie. "Your first week I'll go easy on you." What a literal fucking lie. You sighed pushing back into your desk chair throwing your head back waiting for your last few papers to print.

Rafe's voice rang through the speaker phone. "My office now." He said in a stern deep voice. Your eyes rolled into the back of your head already aggravated with him from today.

You quickly got up making your way to the big office at the end of the hallway, opening the door and stepping in. "Yes sir?" Your voice rang through the big room. He turned in his chair nodding his head telling you to sit.

He had his eyes locked on your body as you moved to the chair in front of him. He cleared his throat before speaking. "I'll be honest right here right now. I want you."

Your face goes bright red. "Ex..excuse me?" He chuckled getting up from his seat walking over to your chair. He leaned down close to your face. "I want you. I want to taste you." His voice was husky and raw and it made all the hairs on your body stand.

He leaned in closer to your neck right below your ear. "And if you don't let me...I'll fucking fire you." Your eyes went wide. You couldn't even afford to lose this job. This, right now, was all you had.

"What." you said breathless as his lips brushed against your neck. "You heard me." You'd be lying if you said you weren't even a little bit turned on. You bit your lip trying to hold yourself back.

Rafe trailed one of his hands up and down your thigh. "Ever since you walked in, I knew I wanted you." He chuckled pulling back from your neck looking you in the eyes. "I worked you to death so I could fuck the stress right out of you."

"Holy shit, I'm about to fuck my boss."

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

(Maybe I should proofread holy shat😭)

[xmads-omensx]

PART 2

Word Count: 1,764

Pairing: Noah Sebastian X Reader

Content Warnings: swearing, fake dating, enemies to lovers, mentions of sex

Tags: @shayeanna-ashlie @alwaysfightforwhoyouare @supersquirrel1996 @dontwantthemoney @tosoundlessdarkistare @collisionofyourkissmakesitsohard @klutzy-kay24 @heyyoplayer @lacy1986 @collidewiththesav @kenjipepsi1 @follow-me-down-to-wonderland @chey-h @thisbicc @fadingangelwisp @heyyoplayer @dsireland86 @missduffsblog @overmydeadbodysblog @dominuslunae @littlebear423 @blade-dressed-in-red @rumoured-whispers @kait16xo @eclipseeetop @xxkittenkissesxx @theanarchymuse95 @blackveilomens @lilgarbitch @lil-garbitch

Tour had been going relatively smoothly, if we ignore the obvious.

From an outside perspective, it looked like Noah and I were an old married couple. Constantly bickering, never happy, always pissed at eachother.

Which is exactly what we were.

This whole fake dating business was proving to be becoming increasingly more difficult as the tour continued.

Much to Noah and I’s dismay, Alex was very interested in getting to know the rest of the band and crew and had been asking everybody questions about Noah and I’s relationship.

Before tour started, we had all hung out as a group in order to debrief on the details of mine and Noah’s relationship. How we had met, how long we had been together, what our first date was, that kind of thing.

Since Noah and I couldn’t look at eachother without wanting to tear each other’s heads off, the details were mostly left up to the rest of the group.

Matt had decided that we met through work, which was true.

Nicholas had decided that our first date was at a local coffee shop near one of the venues on tour.

Jolly and Folio were more interested in our hypothetical sex life. They came up with our wildest sex stories “just in case anyone asked” which was alarming to listen to. Especially when they went into very graphic detail about positions and their frame-by-frame retelling of these hypothetical scenarios.

Noah was completely repulsed and had stood up to leave the room, presumably to head back up to his bedroom.

Luckily for us, nobody had asked those kinds of questions, so we never had to go through at painful experience every again.

We had, however, been asked about how we met and things like that, so being prepared wasn’t the worst thing in the world.

Alex had been put in charge of booking the hotel rooms so that we could take something off of Matt’s plate, and obviously he had booked for Noah and I to share a room at every single stop. Every. Single. One.

Noah hated it just as much as I did and that was about the only thing that the two of us could agree on.

When tour started, wed had to make a conscious effort to act like a couple. Going from sitting on opposite sides of the sofa, to next to eachother was a challenge, and having to cuddle up together due to the lack of space was even more difficult.

Sometimes, I felt him begin to relax beside me, pulling my body closer to his. But the majority of the time, his body was stiff and rigid, which was probably more uncomfortable for him than it was for me.

We argued constantly about who was in the way, who was taking up more space, who snored louder, the list went on and on and on until Matt snapped.

“Fucking quit it you two!” He had yelled in the hallway of the hotel as we retreated to our rooms after the sixth show of the tour. “Save it for when tour ends so the rest of us don’t have to deal with it.”

The rest of the guys nodded in agreement before heading to their respective rooms. Alana even shot me an apologetic glance as she followed Josh into their own room, leaving Noah and I alone in the hallway. The air around us crackled with energy as we stared at eachother.

“You just had to go and make that much of a fuss didn’t you? You cant fucking help yourself.” Noah scoffed, shaking his head angrily.

I took our room key from my back pocket and swiped it across the door handle, waiting for the click telling us that the door was unlocked.

The room was silent, but the tension from the hallway remained.

Noah huffed from behind me, before retreating into the bathroom. I could hear the shower turn on and Noah’s clothes hit the floor with a soft thud.

I walked over to my side of the bed and sat down with a sigh.

This tour was rapidly becoming the most exhausting tour that I had ever been involved in since starting working for Bad Omens.

Trying to keep up the persona of Noah’s girlfriend, whilst working for him was incredibly difficult without Noah’s constant nagging, but with it was unbearable.

The sound of the water from inside the bathroom provided the perfect white noise as I lay back on the bed and closed my eyes before drifting off to sleep.

It was the only time that I was able to seek the peace that I so desperately craved.

Then the water cut off.

The bathroom door opened, steam drifting into the main bedroom as Noah walked in wearing only a white hotel towel wrapped around his toned waist.

My eyes were barely open as I watched him walk towards his suitcase and pull out a clean pair of boxers.

I couldn’t deny the weight of my eyelids anymore, so I allowed them to flutter closed and send me back off to sleep.

The bed dipped beside me as Noah climbed into bed, pulling the covers over himself before pulling them out from underneath me and wrapping them around my much smaller frame.

Warm hands travelled up the back of my shirt, making me flinch slightly as the clasp of my bra came undone, spindly fingers pulling the straps down my shoulders from beneath my t-shirt.

I wriggled my bra the rest of the way off, leaving me in my shirt, jeans and socks.

Those same hands made their way to the front of my jeans, unbuttoning them before pulling them down my legs and pulling my socks off.

I heard them land on the floor with a soft thud.

Noah didn’t say anything as he came back up and placed his head on the pillow beside mine, wriggling around to get himself comfortable.

It wasn’t abnormal for neither of us to speak when we returned to our room as we were often both too tired to argue with eachother.

I remained curled up in the same position, in a state between sleep and consciousness, whilst Noah was struggling to get comfortable beside me.

“Quit it.” I mumbled quietly, becoming frustrated by his harsh, jerking movements.

He stilled, sighing, before settling on sleeping on his side, facing my back.

Sleep claimed me relatively quickly afterwards, or at least I thought it had.

Those warm hands crept their way up my sides once again. I couldn’t tell if I was awake or dreaming.

Those hands travelled across to my stomach, with heavy arms coming to rest on my hips. A warm back pressing against my own.

Too tired to move away from him, I snuggled back into the chest and arms that now engulfed me.

“Stop wriggling.” I tired voice murmured from behind me, making me giggle. He laughed quietly.

“Sorry.” I whispered back.

I could feel Noah’s face inch closer to the back of my neck. His nose nudging at my hair, moving it to one side before placing a chaste kiss on the back of my neck, making me shudder.

“What are you doing?” I whispered groggily.

“Shhh… I’m getting comfortable.” Noah mumbled.

“But you’ve never done this before.” I replied quietly.

“Fine.” He snapped, pulling away from my body completely, leaving me cold.

“No.” I said louder than I had intended, reaching to grab his arm and pull it back around me, but he was much too strong, even in his half asleep state and resisted my feeble attempt with ease.

“Y/N I’m doing what you asked.” He snapped.

“That’s not what I meant. I was just curious.” I replied.

“Go to sleep.” He replied, angrily flipping to lie on his opposite side, now facing away from me.

I lay on my back, staring up at the ceiling for what felt like an eternity, unable to fall back asleep.

Without thinking, I rolled over, now facing Noah’s broad back, his Jesus tattoo staring at me as I reached up and wrapped my arm around his waist.

He flinched before grabbing my hand in his own and lacing our fingers together.

Butterflies erupted in my stomach at the contact. We had never been this close before.

“Noah.”  I whispered.

“Shh…” He replied.

“I need to ask you something.” I pushed.

“What?” He whispered back, sleep lacing his voice.

“Why do you hate me?” I asked in a hushed voice.

He didn’t reply for a moment.

“I don’t hate you, Y/N.” He whispered in answer.

“But I thought you did.” I mumbled.

“I don’t. Now go to sleep.” He said.

I closed my eyes, still unable to go to sleep. Instead, I began gently tracing circles on his hand that was intertwined with mine with my thumb, hoping that the motion would be enough to make me sleepy, but it didn’t help.

Noah huffed loudly, sounding frustrated, before flipping over to face me, releasing my hand and using his own to grab my waist and pull me impossibly close to him.

“I don’t hate you.” Noah started, staring right into my eyes with his own chocolate brown eyes. “I could never hate you. I pushed you away because I’m scared. No, fuck that, I’m terrified. I’m terrified because if I tell you how I really feel, you’ll push me away and never want to see me, or work with Bad Omens again, which would suck because you’re amazing at your job.”

“I- I- I don’t understand.” I whispered back.

“This might help.” Noah said defiantly before removing his hand from my waist and cupping my cheek, pulling me closer and placing his soft lips against my own.

It didn’t register what was happening in my brain until I felt his tongue swipe my bottom lip, making me moan. He slipped his tongue into my mouth, claiming me before pulling away.

“I pushed you away because I am a massive fucking idiot who is massively fucking in love with you.” Noah whispered, his face only millimetres away from my own.

I didn’t know how to respond.

Reaching up, I traced my finger against his soft cheek before placing a light peck on his soft lips.

I pulled back to see a soft smile on his face.

Instead of speaking, I snuggled closer to him, nestling my head beneath his chin and drifting off into the best night sleep that I had had in a very long time.

And waking up to Noah’s sleepy, soft smile was even better.

[bookloover35]

Loud And Proud/ Patrick Hocksetter x fem reader.

It was one of those gray, dreary mornings at Derry High. The halls were filled with students bustling around, cramming for tests, whispering gossip, or just trying to make it to their next class without being late. But you, you were trying to avoid another run-in with Greta Bowie.

Adjusting your flannel over your band tee, you walked down the hallway, your ripped jeans hugging your curves, combat boots thudding softly against the linoleum floor. You weren't exactly one to shy away from attention, but the way Greta and her cronies stared at you today was starting to wear you down.

Greta leaned against a locker, smirking as she looked you up and down. "So, where's your boyfriend, rock star? Oh, that's right. You don't have one."

You clenched your fists, resisting the urge to snap back. You knew Patrick wasn't everyone's favorite person, and honestly, that suited him just fine. But the fact that he chose you—you, of all people—still seemed to piss off Greta to no end.

"Yeah, right," Greta sneered, flicking her perfectly styled hair over her shoulder. "As if Patrick Hockstetter would ever go for someone like you."

Before you could respond, the sound of heavy boots echoed through the hallway. Patrick's dark figure emerged from behind a cluster of students, his trademark leather jacket making him stand out. His eyes found yours instantly, that familiar smirk playing on his lips.

"Oh, hey, babe." He sauntered over, sliding an arm around your waist like it was the most natural thing in the world. You felt your heart do a little flip, and the doubtful look on Greta's face only made it sweeter.

Greta scoffed, crossing her arms. "This is a joke, right? There's no way you're actually with her."

Patrick turned slowly to face her, his smirk dropping into something sharper, darker. The entire hallway seemed to go quiet.

"You know," he started, his voice carrying through the corridor, "I'm really sick of your mouth, Greta." His arm tightened around your waist, pulling you closer. "If you think this is some kind of joke, maybe it's time I set the record straight."

Before you could react, Patrick cupped your face with his free hand and, in front of what felt like the entire school, kissed you—deep and slow. The world seemed to spin as you melted into him, your hands gripping the front of his shirt . It wasn't like he was ever shy about showing affection, but doing it in front of everyone like this? It was bold, even for Patrick.

When he finally pulled back, he turned to look at Greta, whose mouth hung open in shock. "Yeah, that's right," he said, raising his voice even louder. "I'm in love with her. And if you've got a problem with it, that's your problem, not mine."

The crowd that had gathered to watch burst into whispers, some of the kids cheering, others just staring in disbelief. Greta's face turned beet red, and with a huff, she stormed off, her entourage scrambling to follow her.

Patrick just grinned, looking down at you with a rare softness in his eyes. "Let them talk, babe," he murmured, his thumb brushing across your cheek. "They can think whatever they want. I don't care."

You couldn't help the smile that spread across your lips as you leaned up to kiss him again, this time not caring who saw. You weren't just some secret, hidden away from the world. You were his, and he was yours—and he had just shouted it from the rooftops.

And in Derry High, that was more than enough to shut them all up.

The End

[deafsignifcantother]

the newest guest

♥ summary: ur alastor's pookie bear but like in an admiration way not a purely romantic way. "gaze softens as soon as it lands on you" - @urfriendlywriter ♥ relationship: alastor x gender neutral deaf reader ♥ word count: 1.7 ♥ notes: reader is stone deaf, attached alastor but like in a friendly way and not a yandere way, reader doesn't usually wake up early, alastor doodling

Whether it's the early morning or late at night, the red sky is the same. You and Alastor sit on his balcony, your ankles crossed from under the tea table, and he is copying your position. In his hand is a red mug. He has on his tight red suit while his red ears face forward.

"Now, I can't directly claim the hotel as mine, but I very much do my best to keep it running smoothly," he signs. He finds himself incapable of pushing down the feeling of mischief when he makes eye contact with you. You make him all the more astounded. You're staring at him as if he's an angel. Why are you staring at him with such admiration? It's frightening. His smile grows while the radio static tickles your skin more and more.

You sign to him, "You're doing a good job."

"Yes, I certainly am." He stares at you patiently while your eyes look around for what seems like the 100th time. Every time you look at the city, you notice something different. He doesn't know what you're looking for, but his eyes never follow; he just keeps staring at you.

When you don't turn to look at him again, he taps his nails against the table until your attention goes to him again. His smile grows. "Will you grant me the pleasure of knowing why you're here, my dear?"

"I want to see what it's like in here," your eyes glance at the windows and the bright lights on the roof. "And maybe I feel a little motivated to be good." He hears your throat make a soft, laugh-like noise as you continue, "You don't seem to be here for the same reason."

"Correct" is the only response. When you examine his face closer, you notice how sharp the ends of his teeth are and the multiple shades of red in his eyes. You nod, waiting for him to add anything else. He just stares at you with his usual wide eyes and dangerous smile.

.

He walks you back to your room as a gentleman should. He lets you lock your arms together as you two walk. Neither of you sign; you both just bask in peace. He always wondered what it would be like to live in silence.

The hallways last forever, and only a few doors are decorated. You both land at your doorstep and when you enter your room, he pushes you in before you can shut the door. The gust of wind his fast body produces brushes your cheek.

Okay, welcome in.

His eyes scan the room as if he hadn't been there before.

"This room is absolutely boring!" He signs with wide eyes as he turns and looks around the room. "What happened to the things I put up?"

He refers to the human skulls he had hung up on the walls and the long stream of bloody handprints, his handprints. Perhaps it was a form of affection, but you did not want it staining your walls.

You give him an eye roll while you shrug off your shoes. He watches you as you walk to the bed unmistakably. Being in your room offers pure relaxation and comfort, especially after he wakes you up at 5AM to have tea with him on the balcony. Before you can sit on the bed, the floor beneath you vibrates.

With a silent snap of his fingers, the bland, unaccustomed bed was replaced by a huge, fluffy-looking queen-size bed.

You glance back at him before switching your gaze to the new furniture. Since when could he do that?

He just stands idly in the middle of the room, creating new decor to impress you. What would his new little darling like next? A chair by the fireplace? A shelf for little trinkets, not human skulls this time?

You sit on the bed and see what the mattress and sheets feel like. Alastor hears the sound of your hums. His toothy smile widens. In the calm, radiating light of your room, his eyes can almost be mistaken for pink.

His mic taps the floor as the bed shakes, trying to grab your attention. Your eyes meet as he twirls the mic and signs with his other hand.

"Enjoying yourself?"

"It's comfortable, thank you."

His smile becomes close-lipped before he bows to you. "It's a joy to pleasure you, sweetheart."

"Of course." 

There's a slight pause. You wait for Alastor to continue, but he doesn't. He just stares with that familiar look in his eyes. With a tiny bit of shyness, you break the eye contact.

It's awful to think about him this way. He's giving you the world, apparent, but is it because he pities you? You think about that every single day while in the hotel. Your impulsive thoughts always tell you these people are only here for you because they pity you.

Is he going out of his way to make you feel better for that reason? And how does that make you feel?

"Anyway," he looks around the room for a final time. "What are our plans for today?"

"Our?" The sign is flighty. With the sign comes the tired look in your eyes; your body calls for you to sleep. A million thoughts go through his head. He stares, and you shrink while his eyes burn into you. It's how he looked at you when you first entered the hotel. Your eyes flickered around the room, taking in every detail as quickly as possible. You counted the number of people in the room while counting them in your head. How many people would you have to teach some sign to? Who has five fingers? Who looks like they'd learn the fastest? By the sight of you, Charlie brought you into a hug, and Alastor appeared behind you just as quickly. He held his microphone behind his back with his crossed arms. Who was this little one? Your eyes flickered up to his tall form. His eyes were burning into you.

He still stares at you this way.

"Yes, our! Would you not wish to spend your day with me?" His head tilts as his eyelids drop. Maybe him knowing sign meant that you are stuck with him.

You give him a small smile. "We do so many things all the time, how about we stay in here for just a little while before going out again."

"Absolutely!" He spins his cane with one hand while he signs. He taps is on the ground, removing his grip, his cane remaining in its place even when he lets go. "Such a brilliant idea, what should we do? Maybe a little game of rummy?" He summons a table with cards and sits at it, all the while you remain sitting on your bed with that same small smile.

"It's early."

"Yes indeed! It is much too early for a game of rummy, maybe that should be postponed into our later evening. Let me see? What could we possible do in this little room of yours?" He was about to snap his fingers to conjure something until you clapped at him, waving your hands, "nothing like that! Can we laze, or something?"

"Ah, a good 'break', as to say."

You turn away from him, hoping he'd catch your hint by laying down on the bed. It is impressively comfortable, more than you would have suspected, especially considering he most likely did it to his liking rather than assuming yours. Surrounded by the comfort of the untouched pillows, you close your eyes, waiting for him to startle you into opening them again.

But he doesn't.

He watches you from his place. Look at you, so tired, it's so cute. It doesn't deter him from his plans on waking you up to hang out with him tomorrow morning as well, but it is a bit charming to see. You feel safe enough in his presence to close your eyes around him. Why are you so comfortable? He teleports closer to you, trying his best to hide the close distance as he leans a bit closer. Your lashes flutter a bit.

Of course you knew how close he was. He is always blissfully unaware of his much his static tickles your skin. How funny would it be if you spring up and wrap your hands around him (obviously you wouldn't, but the impulse is amusing enough to entertain).

You remain there with eyes close, complete alert of what his next steps might be. He doesn't bother you, doesn't try and move you or interact with your space at all. Within no time, he is gone.

Well, he thinks to himself, the little fawn does need rest after all.

And one might remain vigilant and wary of any ulterior motives or hidden agendas behind the kindness being displayed. Wariness and relief are your main emotions when it comes to his patience with you. What does he get out of being so nice to you, is it because you are a guest? Avoiding harm is good, and you do experience his pestering as much as everybody else, but at least it's tolerable. He must appreciate that greatly. His larger scheme is entirely hotel-oriented, of course, but where does that place you?

Close to him, you assume. Perhaps he just likes to exercise his knowledge of ASL.

.

His sits in the lobby with a pen in his hand, drawing small figures on the pamphlet he's been trying to design. Charlie has come up with an amazing idea; handing out pamphlets! He has said that he will be the one to come up with a fantastical way of alluring people to the hotel, despite his teasing display of the hotel from his commercial. He does love expressing his creative side.

His behavior is a bit different than before you had arrived. The other guests, Vaggie and Husk in particular, took extreme notice in the fact that he's decided to spend his free time in the lobby rather than off in who-knows. He's waiting for your appearance. Everybody can sense it, even though he never glances at the stairs or even offers a twitch of his ears at the footsteps around him. He'll know when you arrive. He always does.

So when you finally land yourself at the top of the stairs, looking down at the lobby, staring at his tilted down head and his bouncing feet from the cushioned chair, you smile to yourself when he lifts his head. His concentrated gaze softens as soon as it lands on you. Within no time, he's folding the paper into his pocket and promptly pops up behind you, wrapping an arm around yours and leads you down the flight.

How excited he is to spend the rest of the day with you. It's cute.

[slippinmickeys]

The Unseelie Court (9/16)

Scully sat in her car with the key still in the ignition, though she’d cut the engine when she pulled into her parking spot. Anxiety sat low in her gut like a weighted ball of putty. She felt other things too, including a listlessness that was hard to overcome. 

She’d left the office at the end of the day after a long afternoon of silence with occasional bursts of Mulder asking if she was okay, if she wanted to talk. With a request for space thrown over her shoulder, she’d hustled out of the office without meeting his eye and was now sitting in the small garage of her building dreading facing the emptiness and quiet of her apartment where she’d have nothing but time and space to think. 

As she reached for the car door handle, her phone rang. 

Expecting Mulder, she looked at the display with surprise and apprehension. It was a call from Adrian County. She clicked on with a truncated, if professional greeting. 

“Agent Scully, hi. This is Deputy Avery down in Adrian County.”

“What can I do for you, Deputy?” She tipped herself out of her car and slung her bag over her shoulder, tilting the phone to her ear as she approached the elevator and pressed the call button. 

“I wanted to let you know,” Avery said. “We’re closing the Daly Carmichael case.”

“That’s surprising,” she said. There was a crackle of static as she stepped through the elevator doors. 

“With no definitive cause of death, there’s not really any evidence of a crime.”

“I know basic labs didn’t show anything, but I’m still waiting on the full toxicology blood work from Richmond.”

“I mentioned that. I also brought up some of the more…” he paused, searching for the right words. “Well, the weird shit you and I saw at the Carmichael Estate. Despite all that, the Sheriff is shutting the investigation down. I don’t think I’m the only one involved that thinks that’s the wrong call, but it isn’t mine to make. Anyway. I wanted to let you know.”

The beige of the hallway outside her apartment went gray and back to beige with the flickering of an overhead light. 

“I appreciate that, Deputy.” Any other day, she might have put up a fight. 

“And listen,” she could hear the rustle of clothing through the line as the deputy likely moved his phone to his other ear. “If you’re ever back in Adrian County…or even if you’re not…call me. I’d like to pick your brain and…I don’t know, maybe take you out some time.”

So, not all the way gay then, Scully thought vaguely, pulling out her key ring. It wasn’t the first time she’d been asked out by a local after a field investigation. 

“I’m afraid my life doesn’t seem to be conducive to relationships at present, Deputy Avery,” she said, thinking of Mulder. 

“Ah,” Avery said, and she could hear his grin through the phone line, “can’t blame a guy for trying.” 

Scully hung up and opened her door, stepped through into the empty silence. 

***

Mulder lay drowsily on the couch still dressed in his work clothes, unable to face the prospect of spending a night in sheets that still smelled like Scully without her in them. Though he had removed his jacket and tie, he didn’t have the energy to do much more than kick off his shoes when he got home. 

He was determined to respect the boundaries she’d hastily set when she left the office, though he half-hoped his phone would ring. He was still considering what to order for dinner when a wave of exhaustion swept over him. Rather than fight it, he let his eyelids meet, drifting off to sleep being a better option than sitting around worrying about Scully worrying.

Almost immediately, he found himself in the glade again—the fairy hollow from the beach—fully aware that he was dreaming. In front of him was the willow tree with the broken crown slashed into its bark, but there was someone on the other side of the tree—a presence he could feel but couldn’t see. At his feet were a small pile of coins, wild faces on front and back. 

He took a step to walk around the tree, but then so did the person on the other side. And then he caught a whiff of her scent.

“Scully?” he called out.

Another step, and this time he caught a glimpse of her before she took another step around the tree, away from him. 

“Scully, wait.” 

One more step and suddenly from his other side, she was there, directly before him. She wore not a stitch of clothing, though on her head sat a crooked tiara. Her eyes, when she raised them to meet his, were two different colors. 

He woke up with a start, a burning pain on his chest once again that he wondered vaguely about until he heard the knocking on his door. The sensation had faded by the time he had tripped over to it and fully roused to consciousness. 

Scully stood in the hallway, still in her own work clothes, looking vaguely nauseous.

“Hey,” he said, his eyes flitting briefly down to hers, ensuring himself they were both still Sargasso blue. 

“Can we talk?” she said, and he nodded, lifting his arm so she could walk under it. 

A talk. The dream had filled him with unease, but now he was downright edgy. He’d been girding his loins for this moment from the first time she’d invited him to her bed, but it didn’t mean he had to like it. It didn’t mean he was going to make it easy.

She took a few steps into the room, but didn’t attempt to sit or get comfortable, instead choosing to hover, eyeing him like she didn’t want him to get too close. Like if he got close, she couldn’t do what she was about to do. 

He’d already had an argument with her in his head about how they were grown ups and how it wasn’t like they’d tripped and fallen into each other. They’d chosen to start sleeping together, soberly, perhaps not without reservations, but without pretense. He was fully prepared to tell her that he wanted this, wanted more than this if she did, but that he’d take whatever his pathetic heart could get. 

So it was something of a surprise when she walked forward and pressed herself into him, her arms wrapping around him and holding him tight. After only a moment, his arms came around her, too. 

“Is this…are we…talking?” 

“No,” she said, her voice muffled from where she was pressed into him. “I thought I needed you to talk me out of this…feeling I have right now, but I think I just need you to hold me.”

He squeezed her more tightly and rubbed his hand over the soft material of her blouse, his fingers skimming over her piano key ribs. “I can do that.”

After a minute, she pulled back to look in his eyes. “Thank you,” she said, and shook her head like she was fighting off a sneeze. “God, this day has been…”

She stepped away from him, a restless energy radiating off of her. Finally she looked at him, really looked at him. 

“Mulder, you look like you have indigestion.” 

“This day has been weird for me too,” he said defensively, thinking of his search for information on Aeon Greene, the whole thing with Skinner’s assistant, his dream. “And honestly, I thought you were about to break up with me.” 

“I didn’t realize we were going steady.”

“You know what I mean. Stop being prickly.”

“I’m sorry,” she said graciously. “Today with Arlene was…Jesus Christ, so embarrassing. I wanted to sink through the floor the whole afternoon. But I realized tonight after a not-great dream that I’m so sick of being… I know what people say. About us. But after years of living and projecting virtuous hauteur, who actually gives a damn if they’re right? I half think we should just declare our relationship to Skinner and let him sort it out. It’s not like you’re my superior.”

“You had a dream?” he said, a tumbleweed of intrigue cartwheeling through his mind.

“I just told you I want to come out to our boss and you’re asking about my dream?”

“I am, yeah.”

“I fell asleep on the couch,” she shrugged, misunderstanding what he was asking.

“Tell me about what happened in it,” he said, remembering his own dream; the tree, the tiara. Eyes that were hers but weren’t.

“I was in the grove,” she said. “The one from the Carmichael Estate, I think. You were there too, but you were hiding from me.” A chill ran up Mulder’s spine. “When you finally showed yourself to me, you had this symbol burned into your chest, like a…like a brand,” she went on. “And your eyes. They were heterochromatic, like our victim’s. It was…unsettling.”

“If you think that was unsettling…” Mulder said, fixing her with a look. “I had the same dream.”

“What?” 

“Tonight. Just now. I had fallen asleep on the couch.”

Scully took a few more steps into his apartment. 

“There were a few minor differences, but…same dream.” Mulder rubbed his hand over his chest where he’d felt the burning sensation. 

“It’s not unusual to have dreams of a similar nature when you spend a lot of time with someone,” she started, “especially when we were just—”

She was trying rationalize the supernatural. Of course she was.

“Scully, I swear to God—”

She stopped talking and gave him a long look, and then wilted with apprehensive capitulation. 

“But fairies? Really?” She was practically whining, but he was so elated not to have to fight her, he gave an inch.

“Some kind of hibernian or Celtic-based magic at the very least.”

She slouched and shuffled over to his couch, suddenly exhausted. He was tempted to join her, maybe rub her feet, offer up a massage that could lead to something more, but he was suddenly wired. The symbol on the tree, the broken crown, intrigued him. 

He leaned down and pressed a chaste kiss to her cheek. She looked depleted. Emotionally done in. 

“I’m going to hop on the computer for a while,” he said, reaching up and grabbing the Aztec blanket, laying it over her lap. “Why don’t you, you know, pretend not to sleep.”

“Mulder, they closed the case,” she said, slumping back against the pillows.

He straightened, his energy flagging a little. 

“They what?” 

“Adrian County. They closed the case. Deputy Avery called me this evening.” Her eyes were droopy. 

He considered this for a moment. “Well, we could open a new one. Make it federal.”

Scully looked skeptical, but didn’t put up a fight, and he smiled at her one more time then slid into his desk chair and fired up his computer. 

[generalluxun]

Bee Sisters: Second Chapter(Rest)

This is me going back through an old fic of mine I foolishly migrated to AO# all at once long ago(so it was on the new page once, as opposed for each chapter) it represents my long-ago hopes for the interactions of the two sisters. If you're interested you can grab the rest of the fic on AO3 rather than wait for me to get around to posting another chapter here ^^ This Chapter takes place after an initial outreach where Zoé make a (terrible) birthday cake for Chloe- who had been trying to hide the fact it was her birthday, because she 'hates' them. Chapter below the cut.

Zoé heard her sister’s approach not so much by the sounds she made, but by the way the normal sounds of the hotel died at her approach.  The maids who had been studiously ignoring Zoé’s presence all found excuses to be out of the hallway, leaving a surprisingly blissful stillness behind.

“You make a lousy window dressing you know.”

Zoé raised her head from her knees.  She was curled up on the ledge, Paris continued it’s way below her, unaware of the exhausted teen watching it with unfocused eyes.  “Hi Chloé.” The barely whispered words did more than a shout to dent the smug superiority and self satisfaction on her sister’s face.

Chloé hesitated, wrongfooted briefly but rallied and plowed on, ”Mother wants you to know tickets to Le Miserables came in from an investor.  Since theaters are your… thing… you are expected to attend for the family to show gratitude.”

Zoé shifted slightly, one hand playing with the laces on her shoe, ”Okay Chloé.” she mumbled in response.

Another dent.  Zoé wasn’t even in the frame of mind to enjoy it.  A small war was waged across her sister’s face then with a shift of her hips and a crossing of her arms,”Okay, you’re being weirder than normal today.  What gives?”

Zoé managed the smallest of smiles at that,”I’m just tired.”

Chloé rolled her eyes,” Then go to your room and take a nap like all little girls. ”she waggled her finger at Zoé,”Stop taking up space in the hallway, you’ll offend the guests.”

Zoé let out a small laugh, which seemed to confuse her sister, ”Not that kind of tired; just out of energy, feeling… lonely?”

Chloé hmphed, "Isn't that why you've got your little band of tacky friends?" Chloé turned her back, "Go hang out with them, just don't bring them in here or we'll lose business."

"It's not like that." Zoé rushed the words out before her sister could leave.  Her efforts were rewarded with a pause and a slow look back over the shoulder.

Zoé continued, "Back in New York I only had one friend.  We hung out when we could, but it wasn't that often.". She uncurled and turned herself on the windowsill to face Chloé,"I love my friends here but it takes a lot of energy sometimes." Zoé raised her eyes to meet Chloé's, "Haven't you ever just felt alone in a crowd?  Everyone's paying attention to everyone, but nobody's paying attention to anyone.  Keeping up can be so exhausting." Zoé put her hands on the sill, lifting and shuffling herself a bit as she dropped her gaze again, ”Does that make sense?”

Zoé looked up again in the silence that followed.  Chloé’s back was still turned, deep blue eyes were focused on Zoé, calculations going on behind them.  With a flick, Chloé's phone was out.  She keyed it open and began walking away as she talked.

Zoé pulled her feet back up and dropped her head to her knees again.  She wrapped her arms around her legs this time and let out a long breath.  It had been worth a try.

“-en have him turn on the sirens, this is an EMERGENCY Sabrina.”  A firm grip wrapped around Zoé’s wrist and yanked her clear off the sill.  She stumbled a few steps, pulled along by her sister without a glance back.  A door opened down the hall and Chloé shoved Zoé sideways behind a decorative column against the wall, pinning her there with an elbow.

“What’re you mff?.” Chloé’s hand clamped over Zoé’s mouth, her older sister’s eyes followed some unknown person then she pulled Zoé back out, ushering her further down the hall.

Without warning Chloé stopped again beside an open door, ”Aha, perfect!” she yanked Zoé to her, then with unexpected strength lifted and tossed her into a laundry bin.  Zoé’s landing was cushioned by bath towels, and she was too surprised to even make noise.  She poked her head up, blinking in confusion as Chloé grabbed the side of the cart, ”Stay down!” she hissed, pushing on Zoé’s head then taking off, pushing the cart ahead of her.

Zoé stayed down as the cart kareened through the halls, onto an elevator, then back out again.  She could see her sister’s face over the edge of the cart, a surprisingly serious expression and focus present.

Down another hall, through some doors and, ”Okay, get out now.”  Chloé walked away from the cart.

Zoé emerged, still slightly rattled, and looked around her sister’s suite, ”What was that all about?” she asked her sister’s back.

Chloé crossed over to her bedroom, calling back, ”Well OBVIOUSLY you couldn’t be seen coming up here.”

Zoé straightened her beanie and jacket, that sounded like Chloé, so what was the rest of this?, ”But *why* am I here?`` She followed after her sister and was rewarded with a face full of plastic-wrapped clothing for her troubles.

“I don’t like being questioned.  Put that on.”  Chloé vanished back into her room.

Zoé examined the package she was holding.  A freshly laundered robe, folded and sealed by the hotel’s laundry, ”But this is-”

“YOU CAN ALWAYS LEAVE!” the shout echoed back at her from the other room.

Zoé looked back down at the robe.  She could leave, but she’d spent so long trying to get to just this spot.  Maybe she could tough it out a little bit longer.  She unwrapped the robe and changed.  It was the softest of white silks, with a fur lining.  The smooth fabric felt cool to the touch as she pulled it on, but warmed quickly against her skin.  The fur tickled a little when she moved, but added one more small layer of warmth; gratefully so since as Zoé pulled it on she realized it was remarkably… short.  A knock at the door interrupted her concern.  ”Chloé there’s someone here?”  There was only so much bravery Zoé had on hand at the moment.  She shuffled sideways to put the table and flowers between her and the door.

“Good good.”  Chloé stormed down the stairs from her room, ”Go out and wait on the balcony.”  she made a shooing motion and didn’t even look in Zoé’s direction.  She didn’t have to, Zoé beat a hasty retreat from whatever pair of eyes might be on the other side of the door.

The balcony was an immediate bubble of solitude.  The sounds of the city went on below, but up here she seemed untouchable.  Zoé’s thoughts strayed to the safe in the corner, then sadly to the incidents that followed that discovery.  She shook her head to chase away the melancholy.  Zoé strayed to the balustrade and peered down.  With a small laugh to herself she realized she owed Chloé one thing at least, she was too confused to feel lonely right now.

The afternoon sun warmed both the robe and her skin.   Zoé let the warmth sustain her until her reverie was broken by a thump at the balcony door followed by an unladylike curse closer and a frustrated gasp closer still.  Zoé turned to see Chloé with what must’ve been an armful of odds and ends, the largest of which was a basin of water that now occupied the foot of one of the deck chairs.

“Sabrina usually does this part.” Chloé fumed, then she turned to Zoé and stabbed a finger at the chair, ”Sit!”

Zoé walked over but paused to protest,”Chloé, you really need to explain what all this-”

“SIT!”

Zoé sat reflexively, blinking.

Chloé picked up a jar from the small assortment of odds and ends, ”Close your eyes and lay back.”

Zoé complied, it seemed safest at this point.

After another moment she felt Chloé’s fingers on her face, and the spread of something warm and wet across her skin, ”If your beautician ever applies a cold mask, fire them.  They’ve got body heat for a reason and someone who doesn’t know how to warm up a cream should have their license revoked anyway.”

“I’ve never had a beautician.” Zoé assumed it was safe to talk.

“That much is obvious.”  Chloé’s fingers moved across Zoé’s face from forehead down across her cheeks, nose, and following the curve of her jawline.  There was something oddly soothing about the competence and precision of her touch.  Zoé let out a long slow breath.

“Open your mouth.” Chloé instructed, even as she laid two cool disks… cucumbers?  Over Zoé’s eyes.

At this point Zoé’s compliance was a given.

“Lemon First.” Chloé popped a small chocolate into Zoé’s mouth and true to word the small confection had a crisp lemony tart in the center.  It washed away the chocolate flavor and left her mouth feeling light and astringent.

“Honey next.” a second chocolate, filled instead with a thin sweet honey liquor that coated the roof of her mouth.  As it dissolved Zoé felt Chloé hook first one foot then the other with a hand, depositing Zoé’s bare feet into the tub of warm steaming water in front of the chair.  A tingling in her skin told her it wasn’t just water.

“Mint last.” One more small mouthful, ”Suck on this one, do not chew.”

Zoé wiggled her toes in the water.  The chocolate was dark, but not harshly so, and the mint was infused rather than all in the center.  There were no more instructions.  Zoé didn’t know what to do with her hands.  She fidgeted slightly, adjusted the hem of the robe.  She began to anticipate some new onslaught.  Slowly she reached up, and lifted one of the cucumber slices to peek out.

Chloé sat in another of the deck chairs, magazine in hand and a small stack beside her, reading quietly.  She didn’t look up when Zoé peeked, didn’t seem even remotely connected to everything that had just transpired, she was just there.

Zoé laid back down.  She folded her hands across her stomach and let out another long breath.  The chocolate was dissolving slowly but surely, spreading a cooling sensation through her mouth and nose.  The tingling in the water had died down to a comforting warmth, and the sun continued to add its own warmth and soon the airy nature of the robe made sense.  The slightest breeze could blow over and through, taking just a little heat with it to keep the whole from being too much.  Paris rumbled below but the rumbling inside of Zoé died away.  She was separate, but she was not alone.

The light through the cucumber slices was different, the water was cooler, and none of her limbs wanted to respond right away.  These were the signs Zoé had fallen asleep.  Slowly slipping back into her own body she sat up, the slices falling away.

Her sister looked up from the magazine she was reading.  The stack beside her had shifted considerably.  Zoé tried to stifle a yawn but gave up and just let it take her.  She stretched expansively, arching and curving her back while the yawn held her and then collapsing back into a relaxed slouch, ”That was amazing.”  she lifted one foot out of the water and wiggled her toes in the air.

Chloé closed the magazine, ”Of course it was.  You can take the rest of the cream and bath salts.  Sabrina knows the name of the chocolatier.”  Chloé flicked the magazine.  Zoé could see the discomfort rising in her sister’s eyes already.

“Why don’t we hang out more often?” she asked before all the walls could be built back up.  She reached up to try and find the edge of the face mask to begin peeling.

She got the words out in time.  Chloé hesitated, caught between peace and reality, ”Your friends are tacky,” she decided on,”*You* are tacky.”

Zoé laughed, ”I clean up good, I swear.”  slowly she peeled the mask off.  It felt absolutely wonderful as it came away.

She had Chloé on the ropes.  Her older sister shifted uncomfortably in her chair, then seemed to reach some internal choice, ”Fine, next week.  There’s a ball being held by one of daddy’s donors.  It’s a *masquerade* ball.”

It was a start, ”We could coordinate colors, like paired harlequins.” Zoé grinned.  She reached up to touch her bangs, ”I’ll find a way to hide my hair, that would be too easy.”

Disdain warred with excitement in Chloé’s gaze.  Finally,”Then I suppose yellow and black are out of the question then as well.” she replied with an unused sort of smile that didn’t quite seem to know how to rest on her face.

Zoe smiled easily back,“We’ll figure something out.”

[httpchrryslvs]

| Betty.

- i don't know anything but i know i miss you.

[warnings: a bit sad, a little angsty, just teenage love that i will never have, not proofread]

[a/n: i tried to do it in a sort of 2nd pov? i think it ended up pretty good? so... i might also try to write another miguel story? but i'm trying to figure out if it should be smut or angsty ]

All your life, you and Miles have been the best of friends. You were neighbors, classmates, play pals. You guys were never not together, whether it be skating or even going to his Uncle Aaron’s. When you got accepted into Visions Academy, Miles strived to get accepted just so the two of you can be together. His parents supported him in his decision thinking that it would be a great opportunity for him to learn more.

“‘I love you, dad.’” You mimicked Miles’ voice before laughing loudly. You guys were sitting in the cafeteria, surrounded by other students eating lunch. You could barely eat anything since you’ve been laughing at Miles the whole time.

“Yeah, yeah. Tease me all you want.” He groaned and slammed his head on the table. A few looks of concern came your way at the commotion. You stifle a laugh and rub Miles’ back.

“Don’t be so hard on yourself, Morales. It’s the first day of classes! Everything’s hectic, everything’s hard!” You told him with a smile. Miles groaned at the statement and propped his arm up and resting his head on it. He attempted to grab a fry from your plate before you smacked his hand. “Hey, I bought you your lunch. Don’t waste it.” You were quick to scold him and gave his tray a light shove. You took a sip of your Diet Coke Zero before continuing to eat your fries and bacon cheeseburger. “But your fries look way tastier!” He protested and made another move for your tray.

“Miles, I bought the exact same thing for you.”

“Well, stolen food is still better.”

You rolled your eyes. “How’s your first day? Hopefully not as eventful as mine.” Miles asked before popping more fries in his mouth.

“Well, I was late for the first class, then I went to grab some stuff from my locker but clearly underestimated how much time I need to go to the Physics Classroom which was on the other side of the building,” You sighed and grabbed fries from his tray and munched on them.

“Then I tripped going up the stairs, but some guy named Harry helped me up.” You finished and drank from your cup. Miles laughed at your story and his eyes lit up.

“Oh yeah, Uncle Aaron’s been asking about you! He told us to drop by sometime.”

You let out a laugh and shook your head. “I can’t make time this week, Miles. It’s only the first day and I have a lot of things to finish.”

He groaned and realized he had to finish things as well, especially the essay assigned by their physics teacher.

-

“Hey, Miles. Did you meet your Uncle Aaron last night? You didn’t text after you said you left your dorm.” You were quick to approach him in the hallway. “Wait, did you just grow a couple of inches? We were at about the same height yesterday? Or am I hallucinating?” You fired question after question and you failed to notice how each question agitated Miles.

“Look, I-I don’t know either, okay? Stop asking so many questions!” He stopped and yelled. The whole hallway became quiet as they gawked at the pair of you. You were stunned and hurt. “I-I was just worried, Miles. I didn’t mean to-” Before you could even finish your sentence, he bolted out the hallway and left you there. Other students stared at you before resuming whatever they were doing. You sighed and went back to class before you could overthink what was happening.

-

In the past days, it was revealed that Peter Parker was the man behind the mask of Spider-Man. Unfortunately, he passed due to the earthquake that day Miles stopped talking to you. For the past few days, you haven’t heard much from him, only knowing that he hung around a blond girl named, ‘Gwanda.’ His parents reached out to you hoping you knew what was going on with Miles since he hasn’t been talking to them either. They told you that his Uncle Aaron passed and the new Spider-Man was probably the one that killed him.

You figured you’d reach out to him by going to his dorm. You knew his roommate, Ganke, from your chemistry class and asked him where their dorm was. Later on that day, you knocked on the door, seeing a shadow moving around the room. You knocked gently and called out. With no response, you just talked. “Hey, Miles. It’s me. I-I know you’re probably busy there but I hope you can hear me. Something-Something happened to your Uncle Aaron,” You choked back a sob as tears began to form in your eyes. “I think it’d be best if your family told you about that.” You took a shaky breath.

“Miles, I don’t know anything but I know I miss you. I miss how we hang out and laugh at each other’s jokes. How we listen to each other’s music,” You heard a faint shuffle before you continued, “and how you make me the happiest person when we’re together. This is probably going to be the shittiest way I confess but I like you, Miles. I always have. You’re my best friend and I was always afraid I’d lose you if I said anything.” You leaned your head against the door.

“I know you feel pressured from your family and maybe even from me. But your family and I push you to do your best because we know you can do it. You are special, Miles. You have this spark inside of you and it is amazing. Just keep doing you and we’ll support you. We’re here for you, Miles.” A tear ran down your face and you were quick to wipe it away. You sniffed as you tried to hold back your tears. “We don’t have to talk soon. Take your time, okay? I’ll wait for you.”

-

Later on, you found yourself walking around Brooklyn to clear your head. The earthquake caused by the Fisk Tower got you shaken and felt the need to take a breather. You still haven’t heard from Miles. You looked at your phone for any new notifications and the picture of you and Miles on your middle school graduation looked back at you.

“It isn’t safe for young people to be out at night.” A voice pretending to be gruff and deep informing you. You looked up with a gasp. “Y-You’re that new Spider-Man! The one that just took down Fisk right?”

He let out a nervous laugh before continuing his deep voice. “T-That’s me!” You raised an eyebrow and observed his figure. You circled around him as he stood still. “Look, you have to get home before you-”

“Miles?” The lens of his mask grew wide.

“W-What?”

“You remind me of my friend, Miles. He does this stupid deep voice thing when he makes fun of some older guys that annoy us.”

“O-Oh…”

“Unless…” You put a hand on your chin as you began to think.

“How about I just get you home before something bad happens to you?”

-

The new Spider-Man swung you back at the Visions Academy. To say the experience was terrifying was an understatement. You were clinging to him like a baby koala. He made sure to gently land on the rooftop of the building and set you down just as gentle. He stood on the ledge, ready to leave and bid you a farewell, you cut him off.

“I know it’s you, Miles. I can smell your ‘unique’ cologne that I gifted you last Christmas.” You told him. You slowly approached him until you were on the ledge. You leaned against it as he sat down.

“Is that why you were avoiding us?” You asked him softly and looked at him. He took his mask off and looked down at the busy street below.

“Yeah. I was…trying to figure things out. I didn’t know who to talk to…” You let out a sigh and looked out at the city. The bright lights lit the city up like stars in the night sky. The wind was cold and you shivered through your thin sweater.

“I-I heard everything from earlier…about how you miss me and that you’ll support me and all of that..” You were thankful that it was dark as your face heated up. “And how you like me.” Miles finished and looked at you. “I-I meant what I said, Miles. It’s up to you but I understand if you don’t want to talk or be friends anymore after that-” You rambled nervously. Miles chuckled and wrapped an arm around your shoulder. “Don’t worry. I like you too.” Your face flushed red again as you hid your face in your hands. Miles laughed and gently tugged your hands out of your face. He got down the ledge and stood beside you, leaning against the ledge.

“How about a movie date at my place?” He suggested.

“How about we go to the Arts Museum then we watch a movie? Like Back to the Future?”

“Only if you buy pizza.”

“As long as you buy some ice cream.”

“Deal.”

[blehblehbleh735]

Personality 🩵

Chris stifled a yawn as he padded down the hallway, bleary-eyed and only half awake. The morning sun was already filtering through the blinds, casting stripes of golden light onto the hardwood floor. As he made his way into the living room, though, he stopped in his tracks.

There she was, leaning over the coffee table with a coffee mug in one hand, a pen in the other, scribbling something in her pink, sticker-covered planner.

Chris blinked a couple of times to make sure he wasn’t seeing things, but no—she was definitely wearing his favorite sweatshirt, the one with a subtle logo on the chest and a hole in the left cuff. Except now, it looked completely different.

The hem of the oversized hoodie hung just past her mid-thigh, and somehow, she’d managed to tuck the fabric at her waist so that it had a cute, cropped shape. Her hair was styled in her usual soft waves, a pastel pink bow clipped to one side, matching her cozy socks.

And, as always, she’d accessorized: a delicate bracelet on one wrist and a small chain necklace with a charm he’d given her on their last anniversary. His hoodie wasn’t just an old favorite anymore—it looked like it belonged to her.

Chris didn’t know whether to laugh, sigh, or tease her.“Morning, fashion thief,” he said, trying to keep a straight face as he leaned against the doorframe.

She looked up with a mischievous grin. “Oh, hi! You’re up early,” she replied, not missing a beat. “And what do you mean, thief? I don’t see your name on it.”

Chris raised an eyebrow and walked over, flopping onto the couch next to her.

“I don’t need my name on it—it’s mine. You’ve got an entire closet. How’d you end up in my stuff?”

She shrugged, brushing it off casually but with a little smirk tugging at her lips. “It’s comfy, plus it goes with my vibe.” She tugged at the hoodie with both hands, making it cinch at her waist in a way that made Chris’s heart flip a little. “Besides, it needed a little personality. You know—feminine touch.”

Chris chuckled, shaking his head. “You’re lucky it looks good on you,” he said, trying to sound unaffected.

“Lucky?” She leaned closer, tilting her head in mock suspicion. “Are you saying you wouldn’t wear it if it was pink and had bows on it?”

Chris rolled his eyes but couldn’t hold back a laugh. “I mean, I might. For the right person, maybe.” He pulled the hood over her head, tugging it lightly to mess up her hair.

She laughed, smoothing out her hair as she fixed him with a playful glare. “Alright, since you seem so attached to it, maybe I’ll just keep it forever.”

“Oh, really?” Chris leaned in, challenging her with a raised eyebrow. “You think you can pull off my style all the time?”

“Please,” she said, scoffing playfully. “I make your style look good. Honestly, you should be paying me for the upgrade.” She struck a dramatic pose, as if she were on a runway, making him laugh even harder.

Chris watched her for a moment, admiring how effortlessly she brought her own style to everything—even his old sweatshirt. There was something special about seeing her blend her world with his, making his things her own. And honestly, he loved it.

Chris grinned as she kept playfully twirling in his sweatshirt, striking overly dramatic poses that were so far from his usual laid-back style that he couldn’t help but laugh. She looked like a cute, rebellious version of herself, and he could see just how much fun she was having.

“Alright, Miss Fashionista,” he said, scooting closer on the couch and narrowing his eyes. “If you’re so good at making my clothes look ‘better,’ then I dare you to style a full outfit—head to toe—in my clothes.” She stopped mid-pose, an eyebrow raised. “Oh, you don’t think I’d do it?”

“Oh, I think you would,” Chris replied, a teasing spark in his eye. “I just don’t think you’d be able to pull off an entire outfit.”

“Challenge accepted.” She set down her coffee mug and folded her arms confidently, tilting her chin up. “Get ready, because I’m about to turn ‘grunge casual’ into something fabulous.” Chris leaned back, arms crossed, thoroughly entertained.

“Go for it. My closet is all yours.”A few minutes later, Chris was still lounging on the couch when he heard her rustling around in his bedroom. His closet wasn’t exactly a treasure trove of options—hoodies, oversized tees, a couple of flannels, and a few beanies—but he had a feeling she could make even the simplest pieces look good.

After some rummaging and the occasional giggle, she finally emerged.

Chris’s eyes widened as he took in the sight of her, now fully decked out in an outfit that was unmistakably his, but with a twist only she could pull off.

She’d layered one of his favorite oversized flannels over a plain white tee, which she’d tucked into a pair of shorts she’d found in his drawer (or maybe they were boxers—it was hard to tell).

She’d rolled the sleeves just slightly and even added a pair of mismatched socks to the look, one knee-high and one scrunched down to her ankle. A chain necklace he’d forgotten he even owned hung loosely around her neck, and she’d topped it all off with one of his beanies pulled snugly over her curls, though her pink bow still peeked out from underneath.

She stood in front of him, hands on her hips, giving a sassy little twirl. “What do you think? Rocking the Chris Sturniolo brand or what?”

Chris couldn’t help but laugh, shaking his head in disbelief. “I don’t even look that good in my own clothes,” he admitted, gesturing for her to do a spin. She obliged, grinning as she gave him a little twirl before flopping onto the couch beside him.

“You’re not so bad yourself,” she teased, nudging him with her elbow. “But see? This,” she gestured down at the outfit, “is what happens when you add a little personality.”

Chris shrugged, trying to play it cool even though he couldn’t help but be captivated by how cute she looked. “Yeah, alright, you got me. You actually make my clothes look like they belong on someone famous.”

She feigned offense, placing a hand on her chest. “Chris! Are you saying you’re not famous?”

“Oh, come on, you know what I mean,” he laughed, trying to hide how his cheeks were probably turning red.

“But seriously, you’re killing it. I think I might just let you keep this one,” he added, tugging at the hem of the flannel she was wearing.

“Oh, that’s so generous of you,” she said sarcastically. “But you know what? I think I might just have to keep all of these,” she teased, winking.

He shook his head, though his grin stayed plastered on his face.

“Fine, take ‘em all,” he said, pretending to sigh. “But on one condition.”

“Oh yeah? What’s that?”

“You have to wear this exact outfit next time we go out,” he said, his expression suddenly serious. “Like, full on, head-to-toe Chris Sturniolo.”

She gasped dramatically, playing along. “Are you asking me to step out in public like this? I don’t know if the world is ready.”

“Oh, I’m serious. The world needs to see this masterpiece.”She rolled her eyes, leaning back into the couch with a playful grin.

“No way. That would ruin my reputation and my ego. No offense but only you can go out in public and look hot as fuck dressed like Christopher Sturniolo.”

For a few quiet moments, they sat together in comfortable silence, her head on his shoulder as they both scrolled through their phones. Chris caught himself sneaking glances at her every now and then, still not quite over how she could take anything of his and make it look amazing.

Then she sighed, looking up at him with that mischievous sparkle back in her eyes. “You know,” she said, biting back a smile, “if you’re that into my style, maybe next time you should try wearing something of mine.”

Chris’s eyebrows shot up, and he immediately started to protest, but she just laughed, already planning out what she could make him wear.

[hanjisungs-bigtittyg0thgf]

Kinktober Day 17: Marking with Seonghwa

Trigger warnings: none?

Content warnings: a little biting and marking (clearly), hardly an actual story i’m probably gonna come back to this one later and rewrite it

Summary: Your new husband can’t help himself on the honeymoon.

Word count: 0.9k

A/N: hi all 🥰 after much consideration, i’ve decided to repost my kinktober 2022 stories. i had a great time writing these a couple years ago and want to share them again now that it’s been a while and i’ve had time to fall in love with them again. i hope you all enjoy! and by all means, feel free to send a message or comment here if you’d like to be part of the new tag list!

Tags: @bahng-chrizz

Smut below the cut

“Hwa-” You giggled his name as he attacked your neck with kisses. “Can’t you wait until we’re back in the room? There’s cameras in here.” You pretended to struggle against him before ultimately giving in and letting him hold you from behind.

“Who cares? I’m not doing anything bad, just being affectionate with my wife.” He emphasized the last word and your smile grew wider as butterflies took flight in your stomach. You were finally married to the love of your life. You’d been married less than twenty-four hours so it still didn’t feel real and nothing was able to burst the bubble of marital bliss that surrounded the two of you. The only reason you weren’t still laid up in bed and were instead on your way back to the room was because you had to eat.

“Mm well your wife thinks you need to hold your horses.” You teased, watching the number change just before the elevator dinged. “This is our floor, surely you can wait until we’re behind closed doors.” You laughed quietly and took his hand, leading him off the elevator and into the hallway.

You managed to get down the hallway without issue but as soon as you reached the door and had to pause to get your room key out, his arms were around your waist again. You gasped quietly when he nipped at your skin, pushing the door open and lightly swatting his hand. “Stop trying to make me horny in public.” You whisper yelled at him, tugging him into the room.

He chuckled softly as the door closed behind him and took your things from you, placing them on the desk before turning back to face you. “That wasn’t my intention, my love. However, if that’s what happened, I’d be more than happy to resolve the issue for you.” He teased, stepping closer with every step back you took until your legs met the bed and you toppled over onto the mattress.

“Please do.” You murmured, looking up at him with a grin. You held your arms open for him and he quickly crawled over you, slotting himself between your legs. For a moment, everything was still as though time was frozen. He looked down at you with nothing but pure adoration in his eyes as you wrapped your arms around his neck, fingers tangling in his hair. “I love you.” You whispered, taking note of the way his eyes sparkled. You loved when he looked at you like you hung the stars.

“I love you more.” He whispered back before catching your lips in a slow, passionate kiss.

It didn’t take long for things to devolve and soon his lips were on your neck. He mouthed over the mark he’d left the previous night and you let out a soft sigh. “I still can’t believe you did that.” You laughed breathlessly, tipping your head back to allow him better access.

“What, that I made sure everyone knows you’re all mine?” He hummed against your skin, clearly unapologetic.

“Mm maybe I should return the favor then. Don’t you think it’d compliment the claw marks I left last night?” You teased and he suppressed a snort before pulling back to look down at you.

“I would love to wear your marks, darling.” He whispered, watching you for a moment before flipping the two of you over so you were straddling his waist. “Why don’t you give me some?”

You didn’t have to be told twice. You eagerly leaned down and pecked his lips before moving to press your lips against his jaw. He’d forgotten to shave that morning so his slight stubble scratched against your skin but it only turned you on further. You shivered when he let out a sigh close to your ear and moved lower on his neck, your kisses growing messy.

You were becoming more frantic with each open-mouthed kiss until you settled over his pulse point at last. You sucked on his skin as his hands, which had previously been on your hips, slipped underneath your shirt. You hummed and sucked harder, appreciating the way he couldn’t seem to hold still beneath you. You loved knowing how much of an effect you had on him.

You pulled back for a moment to admire the light red spot on his neck and he took the opportunity to remove your top. You allowed him to toss it aside before ducking back down to continue your work. Your teeth grazed the mark and his breath hitched. You couldn’t stop the satisfied hum you let out as you sucked harshly on his skin.

He started to relax when you showed no signs of attempting to bite him and that’s when you decided to strike. You sank your teeth into his skin and he let out a shocked moan, jolting under your touch. You sucked on his neck at the same time and were delighted to feel him getting hard under you. You fucking loved getting him worked up like this. You’d known for a while he liked to be bitten but you were always careful to do it when he least expected it.

You slowly eased up, releasing your bite on him and licking over the mark before pulling back. It was now bright red and would certainly darken in just a short while. “So pretty…” You sighed as you admired your work before lazily shifting your gaze to his face. “I wonder how many more you can take before you lose yourself and have to put me in my place.” You mused playfully and he smirked back at you. “I don’t think you know what you’re getting yourself into. I won’t break so easily. I think you'll be the one losing your cool, honey.” He was mocking you? Guess I’ll just have to prove him wrong.

[officialstrawhat]

Rose of Dressrosa- Chapter 7

I love this chapter!!! Enjoy!

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Summary:

After King Riku is dethroned, Doflamingo takes you under his wing and asks you to follow only one strict rule, "do not leave the palace alone". However, your sense of adventure is too great.

Law had only one thing in mind... Revenge. And you seemed like the best way to do that.

Warnings: Betrayal, angst, fighting.

Gif is not mine. Not Edited!

Word Count: 1.6K

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

As darkness blanketed the world, a renewed sense of purpose drove you. You packed what little you could carry: a few outfits, an extra pair of shoes, and your well-worn “Tales of Grand Adventures” book, safely tucked away in your bag.

You took one last look around your bedroom, then, with a deep breath, headed to the door. But as you opened it, there stood Viola.

You wished you could say you were surprised, but a part of you knew this would happen.

"I know what you're planning to do," she hissed, stepping towards you. "Are you insane?"

“Please, don’t try to stop me.” You tried to slip past her, but she blocked the doorway, her arm stretched firmly across the frame.

“What’s going to happen when Doflamingo comes back and finds out you’re gone?” she challenged, her eyes fierce. “Do you have any idea what you’re risking?”

You avoided her gaze, not wanting to think about the consequences. It was the only way you could go through with this plan.

When you remained silent, Viola continued, “Do you not understand the situation you're in? Do you not understand the danger that comes with going against Doflamingo? I can’t always protect you.”

Anger flared in your chest, and your fists clenched. You didn’t need protection; you were old enough to make your own choices. “Why do you even care? You’re always in my business. You try to act like a sister to me, but you’re not! You’re just a sad woman with no family of her own!” The words escaped before you could stop them, and regret washed over you instantly.

Viola’s expression hardened, and after a moment she stepped aside. “Do whatever you want,” she said coldly. “I won’t fight you anymore.”

“Viola…” Tears pricked your eyes as you watched her step into the shadows of the hallway.

She paused, glancing back with a trace of sadness. “I hope you find whatever you’re looking for.”

Her words stung but you deserved it. Viola was one of the few people in Doflamingo's circle you actually trusted. But you couldn’t let yourself think about that now. You took a steadying breath and moved past her. Law was waiting for you, and there was no turning back.

Her words hit deep, but you knew you’d earned her ire. Viola was one of the few people in Doflamingo’s circle you trusted, maybe the only one. And you just rebuked her goodwill. But you couldn’t let yourself dwell on that now. Taking a steadying breath, you moved past into the hallway moving in the opposite direction of the dark-haired woman. Youre leaving this place and  Law was waiting, and there was no turning back.

OoOoOo  

The moon hung low in the sky, casting a silver glow over the abandoned tower. Shadows danced among the cracked stones as you finally reached the top, your heart racing with a mixture of anticipation and anxiety. Law stood there, silhouetted against the moonlight, waiting just as he’d promised.

“How’d you make it up here alone?” you asked, moving closer.

He smirked “I have my ways. So, you're taking my offer,” he said, glancing at the bag slung over your shoulder.

“I am.” You took a steadying breath. “I want to come with you.”

Law’s gaze sharpened, a glint of something unreadable flickering in his eyes. “Are you sure?”

“More than ever. I can’t stay hidden in Dressrosa forever.” Saying it aloud made you feel free, lighter even.

Law took a step closer, his face inches from yours, his expression intense. “Then let’s not waste any time.”

His tattooed hands lifted to frame your face, fingers gentle against your skin. You felt your heart stutter. Was he going to kiss you? You closed your eyes, waiting for his lips to meet yours. But the warmth never came.

“Room.”

Your eyes flew open, a faint blue shield forming around the top of the tower.

“Law… what are you doing?” Your voice trembled as you instinctively took a step back.

“Sorry,” he murmured, his tone disturbingly calm. “I needed you to trust me. I need to know what Doflamingo is planning.”

Realization hit you like a punch to the gut. “You never planned to take me with you.”

A flicker of regret crossed his face, but it vanished quickly. “I did what I had to. Too much is at stake to stop now,” he said quietly, his gaze hardening. “ Now stand still, and this won’t hurt.”

He moved closer, and you reacted instinctively. With a swift motion, you tipped your soil bracelets, spilling their contents as you raised your hand. Vines surged from the rooftop, forming a thick wall of ivy between you and him, bristling with sharp thorns.

He stopped, eyeing the wall with faint amusement. “Impressive.” With a quick toss of a coin, he called, “Shambles.”

A powerful tug wrenched at you, and suddenly your surroundings shifted. His blade was already coming down as you dove, rolling over the stony roof just in time to evade his strike. He closed the distance, sword flashing toward you, but a thick vine shot up to intercept, absorbing the blow. Drawing on every ounce of your strength, you unleashed an onslaught of thorny vines to drive him back.

He spun, deflecting your attacks, but they kept coming. One vine whipped around, catching his arm, he cursed as he stumbled back.

“I didn’t think you actually knew how to fight,” he said, slashing through the plants.

Anger flared in your chest. “You’re just some scumbag after the crown. And if you think you can use me to get it, you’re wrong!”

He took a step back, his voice soft, almost as if speaking to himself. “Believe what you want. But I will defeat Doflamigo.”

You were done listening. It was time to end this. “Opituna! Infest!” you shouted, and out of the scattered soil a massive cactus tree rose, growing limbs as sharp as razors. 

“Is that all you’ve got?” he mocked, then he realized what you had done. The mountain of cacti moved as though it had legs and arms. It looked down at him with a faceless head and with its prickly arm swung now at him with a powerful blow. 

Law’s eyes widened as he dodged, the cactus claw narrowly missing him. But his momentary distraction allowed you to bolt toward the blue shield. You beat against it, frustration mounting as the barrier held firm.

“Nice trick.” His voice was close behind. You turned to see him, breathing heavily. You were satisfied that his good-looking face was scratched and bloodied. With a renewed burst of energy, Law charged, swinging his sword.

You ducked, twisting your wrist to send another wave of roots surging toward his legs. He leapt over them, but his split-second shift in focus was all you needed. You called forth a burst of flowers, petals sharp and luminous, exploding into a shower of color that filled the air between you. He hesitated, momentarily blinded, and you seized the moment. You lunged, summoning thick vines to surge forward and ensnare him. They wrapped around his arms and legs, binding him and lifting him up.

“It’s over,” you said, voice shaking with both exhaustion and defiance.

But Law wasn’t finished. With a grunt, he sliced through the vines with a precise stroke freeing one hand. “Shambles.”

Your vision blurred as the familiar pull took you. In an instant, you found yourself ensnared in your own vines, suspended in midair.

“You were saying?” he asked, breathing heavily.

When you freed yourself Law surged forward, pressing his hand against your back. Pain exploded through your chest as a cube materialized, and you collapsed to the ground, gasping for air.

What… just happened?

Footsteps neared, and Law knelt beside you, casually moving strands of hair from your face as he picked up the cube. 

“W-what” you managed to voice.

“It’s your heart,” he said coolly, watching your horrified expression.

Weakly, you reached out, but he pulled the cube away. “I think I’ll hold onto it.”

“Fuck you!” you rasped out. “Give it back!”

He smirked, squeezing the cube lightly. The pain was immediate, sharp, and overwhelming. 

“I’ll give it back—when you do something for me.” He tsked at your defiance. “Now, is Doflamingo on this island?”

“Go to hell!” you spat.

Another squeeze, and you screamed, pain burning your throat.

“Is he here on this island?” he repeated, tone icy.

This time, you weakly shook your head, relieved as the pain stopped.

Law nodded thoughtfully. “What does he want with Punk Hazard?”

“What…?”

He squeezed again, the agony quick and searing. “My crew tells me some of Doflamingo’s lackeys are sniffing around there. It’s been abandoned for years—why is he suddenly interested?”

“I don’t know,” you gasped. “He doesn’t tell me anything about his business.”

He studied you, brow furrowing. “Then why does he keep you around?”

“Is this interrogation over?” you managed to say viciously, eyes narrowing “If you don't mind I'd like to go.”

Law stood, releasing his shield with a flick of his hand. “You can go,” he said. “But this isn’t over. You’re going back to the palace and finding out what I need to know” He tucked your heart into his jacket pocket, smirking down at you. “I’ll hold onto this until you do. See ya ‘round Y/N”

With that, he turned and walked away as his room dematerialized, leaving you alone in the dark atop the tower, the weight of his betrayal pressing down on you like an anchor as you lost consciousness.

[riordanness]

mi amor — [p.jackson]

pairing: percy jackson x reader

wordcount: 1.7K

warnings: there’s no happy ending (and there’s not gonna be a part two)

“y/n!”

I turned, hearing my name called out. My eyes fixed on Simon, my prom date. I’d had a crush on him for about a month, I think. He was super nice, and we hung out at lunch sometimes.

Anyway, he’d asked me to go to the prom with him a few days again. I was thrilled, of course, since prom was the day after tomorrow, and I’d been a little worried I wouldn’t have a date. There was nothing more embarrassing then not having a date to prom.

“What’s up?” I said, as Simon began walking next to me in the hallway. We squeezed past a couple making out against a locker, and I stopped at my locker, twisting the combination lock. I pulled open the door, digging through my copybooks.

Simon hesitated, looking everywhere but me. “Well, y/n, the thing is…” He trailed off, rubbing the back of his neck and gazing down the hallway.

I frowned. “What is it? You can tell me.”

He finally locked eyes with me. They were a deep brown, almost black, the same colour as his hair. Dark, dark brown. “I can’t go to prom with you,” he whispered.

My vision tunnelled. “What?” I stammered. “But- but, why?” My books spilled to the floor.

“I only asked you so that the girl I like would get jealous.” Simon shrugged. “And hey, it worked. Alicia and I are each other’s dates.”

I swallowed, trying to keep a straight face. “Um… okay.” My voice sounded small, even to me. “That’s… that’s great, I guess. I’m happy for you.”

Simon cracked a grin. “Thanks. No hard feelings?”

I nodded, my gaze dropping to the floor in front of me. I heard Simon walk away; I heard the bell ring for class. I stood stock-still for who knows how long, until the entire corridor was empty. Then, my knees gave way, and I slid to the ground, my head in my hands.

I was crushed. I didn’t even care about the fact that now I didn’t have a date to prom, but I’d been used! Simon hadn’t even liked me at all; I was just a tool to get with the girl he actually liked. I’d never had anything like this happen to me before. It hurt.

I couldn’t help it; I began to cry. Silent sobs shook my body. I kept my face buried in my hands, unable to do anything else.

I took a shaky breath, my ribs aching. I felt a hand on my shoulder, causing me to glance up hurriedly. I wiped my tears with the back of my hands, blinking them away.

The hand belonged to someone I did not want to see right now. Sea green eyes were staring down into mine, twinkling with his usual mischievous expression.

“What’s wrong, mi amor?” Percy Jackson asked, kneeling on the ground in front of me.

I pushed his arm away. “Go away, Percy.”

He moved his hand, but didn’t leave. “Are you… crying?”

My jaw tightened. “Yes. And it’s none of your freaking business, okay? Just—“ My voice broke. “Just leave me alone. I’m fine.”

I turned my head away. This was just perfect. Percy and I had been rivals for forever. Our families had never gotten along, so Percy and I are just kind of automatically got into it, too. This was all I needed; Percy finding me like this. He’d almost certainly use it against me.

Percys eyes narrowed. “Okay. No need to be rude, darling.”

“Don’t call me that,” I snapped.

He raised his hands in defence as he rose. “Okay, okay! Fine. Bye, mi amor.” He turned and headed down the hallway. I didn’t even wonder why he wasn’t in class yet. What I was wondering was the definition ‘mi amor’ was. I was too lazy to google it. I’d just ask my best friend later.

Knowing Percy, it was just yet another way to get on my nerves without seeming the least bit cruel or vindictive to outsiders.

“You look terrible,” my best friend, Annabeth Chase, commented when I slid next to her in class. She’d saved me a seat, even though the class was over halfway through by the time I finally turned up. I guess I’d just run out of tears.

I shrugged. “Simon dumped me. Turns out, he was just using me to get with Alicia.”

Annabeth’s eyes widened. “Oh… I’m sorry.”

I made a face. “Thanks, Beth. It’s okay. I’m okay. It’s totally fine.” I turned my eyes to the blackboard, then dropped them to the worksheet in front of me. “Literally none of this makes any sense.”

Annabeth rolled her eyes. “It’s just maths. It’s not actually that hard if you know what you’re doing.”

I looked at her. “Well… yeah. But I don’t know what I’m doing.”

She chuckled. “Okay. True. Do you want help or just the answers?”

I rubbed the spaces between my eyes and nose. “Today, just the answers. I can’t deal with math today.”

Annabeth studied me. “Did anything else happen? You seem really tense.” Her voice took on a different tone. “Did something happen with… Percy?”

I glared at her. “First, yes. How’d you know? Second, not in the way you think, at all.”

Annabeth smirked. “You know you’re hopelessly in love with each other.”

I shoved her. “You’re literally his prom date, Beth. And, uh, hell to the no. I hate him.”

“People change!” Annabeth said, before I hit her again.

“Okay, sorry,” she squeaked. “Are you gonna tell me what happened?”

“Are you gonna stop teasing me as if I like Percy?” I countered, slamming my palm on the desk.

“Quiet!” The teacher hissed. I jumped, and slumped down in my seat, looking embarrassed.

Annabeth waited. I looked at her and sighed. “Fine. He found me after Simon did it. I was crying in the locker area, and um, he asked if I was okay.”

Annabeth raised her eyebrows. “See?” she whispered fiercely, waving her hand about. “He’s totally in love with you, too!”

I gave her the most withering look I could. “Annabeth, respectfully please shut the hell up.”

She tried to hide her smile, and promptly failed. “Fine. Okay.”

I sighed. “Oh, by the way, I’ve been meaning to ask you. What does ‘mi amor’ mean?”

Annabeth gave me a sideways glance. “Why…?” she asked slowly. “Has someone called you that?”

“Yeah,” I groaned. “Percy freaking Jackson, that’s who. Do you know what it means? I’m honestly just too lazy to look it up.”

“Yeah,” Annabeth said, still talking slow. “I do know.”

I raised my eyebrows at her expectantly. “And…?”

Annabeth hesitated. “It means ‘my love’ in Spanish.”

I stared at her. “Um, are you sure?”

She nodded.

I waved my hand in a dismissive gesture. “Well, he always calls me darling and sweetheart in a teasing, flippant way, anyway, so I guess it’s just another name he’s adding to his collection.” I rolled my eyes. “Lucky me.”

Annabeth grinned wide. “Sure, sure. Teasing, and flippant.” Her voice took on the same tone as before, her slow, teasing one.

I narrowed my eyes at her in warning. “Absolutely not, Annabeth. I hate him, I always have. I don’t like him even as a person, let alone as anything more than that.”

She shrugged. “Okay. As you wish.”

The bell rang, signalling the end of class. Only one more class, and I could go home. Hopefully we didn’t get any homework. I suddenly remembered what class I had next. Science, with Mrs K. She always gave us homework, and it was usually projects with other people. I hated those more than anything.

“Good luck,” Annabeth said, reading my expression. “I’ll text you those math notes tonight.”

I gave her the thumbs up, and headed to my class. Our school always had a seven minute break between classes, because our hallways were pretty long and confusing. So, as usual, kids milled about, chatting and texting and making out. I wove my way through, switching books at my locker, and weaving my way to the science lab.

On the way, I got sidetracked because a kid had spilled milk all over the floor, and the duty teachers were freaking out, and not letting any kids walk around it. So, I had to go all the way outside and to the other entrance to the lab.

Of course, that made me late. I apologised to Mrs K, and quickly told her why I wasn’t on time.

“That’s fine, y/n,” she said graciously. She was actually a lovely lady, but she always gave us way too much homework, and always wanted us to ‘cooperate with each other’. “Just go find a seat. I think there’s one available next to Percy.”

Oh, great, I thought. Sure enough, almost all the seats were full, except for two: one beside the class clown, who always put his gum on people jackets, and Percy. For once, I preferred Percy.

I dumped my books on the desk and slid next to him on the bench. In the lab, the desks were joint as in all the other classrooms, but the chairs weren’t separated. They were small benches that were basically just a wide chair.

I sat right on the edge, as far from Percy as possible. I stacked my books and pencil case like a wall between us on the desk.

Percy shot me a playful glance. “Hey,” he said. I ignored him.

Throughout the lesson, he tried relentlessly to get my attention; poking me, whispering in my ear, writing little notes and sliding them under my arm, knocking his shoe against mine. I wilfully ignored all of his attempts.

Finally, class was coming to a close. Then, unfortunately, Mrs K decided to announce that, yes, we did indeed have homework.

Even worse, it was a group project. Partners, and we were not going to be allowed to choose our partners. Mrs K, had, in fact, already chosen them, and there was to be absolutely no changing or swapping or complaining.

I crossed my fingers. Please, I thought, please just don’t be Percy. Anyone but him.

“y/n y/l/n, and Percy Jackson.”

I slumped forward on the desk, resting my forehead on the cold wood, and squeezing my eyes shut in frustration. “Could this day get any worse?” I muttered to myself.