#and it's better if it's rich who initiates it and proposes

[whoevenisjavier]

a prize i’d cheat to win

pairing: CEO harry castillo x exec. assistant f! reader

summary: you fuck your married boss during a late night at the office.

part 2 here

a/n: so… this is like… heavy cheating stuff. if that’s not your thing, then best to stop now

tags/warning: +18, mdni. harry castillo is 48, reader is 25. age gap. cheating. f!reader. partners dissing. oral sex (f! and m! receiving). unprotected piv. creampie.

w/c: 9k

Harry Castillo takes many things in life very seriously.

That’s an essential trait when you're sitting in the executive chair of one of the largest construction companies in the United States: being sharp, meticulous, and systematic is as mandatory as a contractual clause imposing penalties for breach.

But there are two things Harry is even more serious and methodical about.

The first: every single one of Harry’s suits is custom-made by the son of the same tailor who once dressed his father and grandfather. Even if a ready-to-wear suit fits him perfectly, it must go to the tailor, even if it’s just to add a single stitch to the inside pocket.

The second: his wife must receive a gift on every single occasion that concerns her or their relationship.

You keep a calendar on your computer solely for this purpose. Her birthday on June 17th, their first kiss anniversary, the day he asked her out, their official anniversary, the day he proposed, their wedding anniversary, Dalilah the Poodle’s birthday.

Yes, there's even an anniversary for the first time they slept together, on September 19th.

And on all these dates, a gift must be sent to her, signed from Harry. If not, she’ll make his life a living hell, and he’ll spiral into one of those gloomy funks for at least three days: always polite, but with short answers and a stone-cold expression. And you hate seeing him like that.

Despite your color-coded calendars and hyper-organized schedule, it did happen once, but only because you didn’t know there was an anniversary for the first time Harry said “I love you,” which didn’t happen until February 15th, 2020, even though he proposed back on October 28th, 2019. Ever since, you make sure that expensive gifts are sent either to their apartment or to her law office.

Today is the anniversary of their first fight, and you're at your desk choosing between a bouquet from The Bouqs Co. and a pair of sapphire Spinelli earrings. Or maybe both?

The elevator doors open and Harry steps out, immaculately dressed in a navy suit you bought last week. He's on the phone and looks stressed. You raise your hand to greet him, and the tension in his face softens into a small smile, which is his version of “good morning.”

He walks past you into his office, leaving the door open, which means he’ll be back in a moment to give you a proper hello.

Harry Castillo’s office is on the top floor of the Castillo Construction & Co. headquarters. Behind your desk, the company’s initials — CCC — are elegantly embossed in gold on the wall. The reception décor is all rich, dark wood — on the wall panels, desks, and on the frames of the chairs in the waiting area. Gold details on the picture frames, doorknobs, and desk edges offer a refined contrast.

It’s beautiful, but a bit dull, so last year, you convinced him to add two dragon trees near the elevator. They gave the space a touch of life, even if he insisted he didn’t like plants in the office.

In the end, he liked it. You know he did.

Being Harry’s executive assistant for the past four years, since you were a twenty-one-year-old fresh out of college, means you sometimes read him better than you read yourself. Your therapist says that’s not healthy, but you like knowing his routine, especially because you’re the one who plans it. You like being his emergency contact, having access to his passwords and bank accounts, being his legal proxy with signing authority.

So, personally, you think your therapist is mistaken.

Ten minutes later, as you confirm your choice of the Spinelli earrings with Harry’s personal shopper, your boss reemerges from his office.

He’s taken off the blazer, and his white shirt sleeves are rolled up, revealing his expensive watch and strong forearms.

“Good morning,” he says with a small smile, leaning casually against your desk. “Did you have a good weekend?”

And here comes the inevitable truth: you are terribly attracted to Harry, which cannot be healthy. Having feelings for your boss, who gives you tasks and commands, kills any remaining instinct for self-preservation.

But God, how could you not? Everything about him pulls you in. The physical traits, the personality, the mind. His strong arms, neatly trimmed beard and mustache, kind brown eyes, tailored clothes, manners, scent, intelligence.

Just the other day, Harry mentally calculated the average profit margin Castillo & Co. made over a five-year period because the financial report hadn’t included it, and then estimated the net return percentage; all in his head. It was the sexiest thing you’d ever seen.

You’ve lost count of how many times you’ve thought of him while with your boyfriend, fully aware of how wrong that is.

“Good morning, Harry.” That’s another privilege: calling him by his first name, while everyone else calls him Mr. Castillo. “I finished watching Russian Doll on Saturday.”

“Yeah? Did you like it?”

You nod, excited.

“Yes, it’s great. You have to finish it.”

Harry gives a quiet grunt.

“I know… But I get home and just crash,” he says, clearly disappointed with himself. You offer an empathetic smile. “I’ll try harder,” he adds, before shifting topics. “I have a meeting at eleven. Can you come with me?”

“Just a moment.”

You open your planner while Harry watches, and you try your best to focus on the color-coded blocks. You have a meeting with the finance team to review some items for Harry, but you can reschedule.

“I can go.”

“Thank God. I’ll need your notes.”

You tap your fingers against your forehead in a playful salute, and Harry smiles before turning to head back to his office. But before he does, he says:

“I like the outfit. Gray is my favorite color.”

He’s referring to your gray pencil skirt and matching halter-style silk blouse.

“Thank you. And I know.”

He smiles, taps his fingers lightly on your desk again, and heads back inside.

And now you can’t focus on anything else on your morning agenda.

The eleven o’clock meeting is at the headquarters of a partner company just a few minutes from Castillo & Co.’s office. Already in the building’s lobby, Harry walks calmly beside you as you head toward the elevator. You’re carrying the leather folder with your iPad and a notepad for Harry, who insists on handwritten notes.

“Did you see how many plants are in the lobby?” you ask as you both stop in front of the elevator, side by side. His security guard stands just behind you, discreet but alert.

“Don’t start,” Harry replies without taking his eyes off the elevator doors. It’s always curious how his expression changes when you’re in public. “You already put two plants on our floor.”

You find it incredibly endearing when he says “our floor.”

“It’s not enough. I’m still planning to sneak one into your office.”

The elevator doors slide open and you both step in. Harry presses the button for the twentieth floor, and you lean against the glass wall at the back of the elevator as he leans in to whisper:

“And then you’ll swing by HR to pick up your termination letter.”

By the time you reach the twentieth floor, where the meeting will take place, there’s still a slight smirk tugging at your lips.

The receptionist at the main desk takes one look at Harry and immediately stands, adopting a posture you’ve come to recognize as reserved only for partners and high-level associates. You yourself soften your voice and demeanor as part of this same executive persona.

You and Harry are led down a long, white hallway with the sterile atmosphere of a hospital (which you hate) until you reach the meeting room. Harry lets you enter first, his hand resting lightly at the small of your back to guide you in.

Inside the glass-walled boardroom, seated at an oval table, are five men and two women. All eyes turn to you, but quickly shift to Harry as he enters the room, already unbuttoning his jacket.

“Please, don’t get up,” Harry says right away, raising his hand palm-out as if to stop them from standing to greet him. Harry hates shaking hands with that many people. “Don’t mind me,” he adds, scanning the room for a free chair. Only one is available. “We’ll need one more chair. I brought my vice president with me.”

Harry is ridiculous. He always introduces you as his “vice president” in meetings like this because, for some reason, if he says “assistant,” the respect people show you is just surface-level, barely polite enough to keep Harry from getting angry. Bunch of assholes.

Someone quickly slips out to fetch an extra chair, but in the meantime, Harry’s hand returns to the small of your back, guiding you to the only available seat at the head of the table, all eyes in the room following the two of you.

Realizing what he’s doing, you whisper:

“Harry, I’m not—”

“Sit,” he cuts you off with just one word, and it leaves no room for argument.

You obey, sitting in the only chair, while Harry stands behind you. With no other option, you slide into your businesswoman persona, straighten your spine, lace your fingers on the table, and meet the stares of the executives around you.

Moments later, someone wheels in another chair for Harry, placing it beside you.

The room falls silent until Harry, now seated and relaxed, says simply:

“So?”

And the show begins.

The goal of the meeting is to convince Harry to invest in the revitalization of a hotel in Madrid, Spain, currently owned by a chain undergoing judicial reorganization. Their last hope is to reopen the hotel, which has been closed for the past ten years, and Harry’s investment would signal a vote of confidence, seen as there’s no guarantee of return for Castillo & Co.

The chain’s administrator, a short man in a tight suit, is in the middle of a PowerPoint presentation showing 3D renderings of the hotel lobby, complete with bronze detailing, when Harry lets out a dramatic sigh and raises his hand.

The man immediately falls silent.

“It’s a good presentation,” Harry says, and you pause your note-taking on the iPad. “But this isn’t what I came to see. Honestly, I’m not the one you should be showing pictures of architecture and interior design to.”

The silence is so tense you could hear a pin drop.

“So far, not a single reason has been presented to me that justifies why CCC should invest in the Madrid hotel,” Harry continues. “Has no one conducted a financial risk analysis? Or at the very least, looked at the average returns of similar hotel chains in the same area?”

“Mr. Castillo…”

“With all due respect, Mr. Edwards,” Harry cuts in again, “my question is simple: was such a study conducted?”

The administrator opens his mouth, likely to offer another flimsy excuse, but this time, one of the women at the table responds:

“Mr. Castillo, we will immediately arrange for a study addressing those questions.”

“You’re asking for more time?” Harry asks, his voice calm, not the slightest hint of aggression, yet somehow that calm makes it even more intimidating.

The woman, to her credit, is brave enough to admit:

“Yes, we are.”

You glance at Harry. He’s tapping his pen against the leather folder he hasn’t even opened. When he stops, it’s to let out a small sigh, as if being in that room is as irritating as a speck of dust in his eye.

“I started construction on a multi-business complex in Madrid last year, and had the bad luck of launching the first month of works right when construction costs in Spain hit a historic record. 117.6 points on the Eurostat index,” he sets the pen down and laces his fingers together, commanding the entire room with nothing but words. “Even with that spike, the real estate market in Madrid is growing,” he glances your way and says, “Miss?”

Of course you remember. You were the one who researched it.

“Seventeen-point-five percent increase last year alone, with a forecast of another four to five percent this year,” you say.

A flicker of pride crosses Harry’s face — but he stays impassive.

“Seventeen-point-five percent,” he repeats, whistling softly in admiration before turning his gaze back to the group. “That’s a lot. Could that offset the budget blowout we’ll likely face by the end of construction in three years? What I do know is that my contract with the buyers of the complex units includes ongoing monitoring of economic indicators and adjustment clauses, because the project team, who are very competent, accounted for all of that. And I only work with competent people.”

More silence.

Harry concludes:

“I expect a study of that level within one month. If you’re not able to deliver that, I kindly ask that you refrain from sending me any more investment proposals.”

Harry stands, and just like that, the meeting is over.

It’s past 7 p.m. when Harry steps out of his office and walks toward your desk.

Under the desk, you’ve already kicked off your heels, and your stocking-covered feet rest softly on the carpet. Your hair is tied up in a bun that probably looks tragic by now, but the kind smile Harry sends your way isn’t one of someone looking at a disaster.

Then again, his hair looks a little tousled too, like he’s run his fingers through it more times than he should’ve.

“What are you still doing here?” he asks, leaning on your desk. He sounds nothing like the man who tore through a room full of clowns earlier in the day.

“I need to go over the spreadsheet the finance team sent me.”

“They sent it late?”

“No. I’m reviewing it late,” you admit, lowering your voice to a whisper and leaning in like you’re telling him a secret. “But don’t tell my boss or he’ll fire me.”

Harry plays along, whispering back:

“A corporate scandal.”

The grin you flash him is ridiculous, and so is the flush that warms your cheeks.

“Still got a lot to do?” Harry asks. You nod regretfully. “Have you eaten?”

You shake your head.

“Alright. I’ll order dinner for both of us. The usual?”

The usual means the Lasagna della Mama Rosa from Piccola that he always gets on late nights like this.

“The usual. Thanks, Harry.”

He ignores your thanks, as always, and heads back to his office. Halfway there, still facing away from you, he asks:

“Want a ribeye? I’m about to beg for one.”

“Rare.”

You can practically hear him rolling his eyes.

“Obviously.”

Thirty minutes later, you go downstairs to pick up the food, paying with Harry’s card. When you return, you head straight into his office.

Harry is at his desk, eyes fixed on the screen. His tablet shows a few graphs, and beside it, his phone is on speaker. He’s talking to his wife, and you pretend not to hear as you walk to the lounge area in the corner of his office, where there’s a leather couch and a coffee table big enough to fit all the food he ordered.

You slip off your shoes before stepping onto the rug and kneel to unpack the takeout bags on the table.

“...because I told her we’d both go with them,” his wife says over the phone, sounding upset. “I can’t back out now.”

“The problem is that you confirmed without even asking me.”

“I thought, as your wife, I could make one tiny decision for the both of us.”

Your brows lift.

“That’s not the point,” Harry says, calm but clearly tired. “The point is you planned a two-week trip out of the country without consulting me. I can’t reschedule twenty meetings or delay fifty different deadlines tied to the 72 active builds I’m overseeing.”

You walk over to the minibar in the corner and grab two sparkling waters and a couple of glasses.

She fires back:

“You could at least try to spend more time with me.”

“You’re being irrational.”

“You drive me crazy!” she yells. “Always with your robotic tone, your charts, your stats. For God’s sake, can’t you be spontaneous for once in your life, Harry?”

You turn to Harry and start to gesture that you’ll leave him alone, but Harry points directly at the lounge area, more specifically, at the table, silently instructing you to go back and stay there.

“You knew who I was when you met me,” he says into the phone, still looking at you. “And I’m not saying that as an excuse for never changing. I’m saying that you need to think about my work before making impulsive decisions.”

She hangs up on him.

You quietly return to the seating area and sit down on the rug, feeling a bit awkward. Seconds later, Harry joins you, settling on the opposite side of the table.

“Smells good,” he says as if he hadn’t just been in a fight.

“Mhm,” you hum, staring at the lasagna in front of you. The smell of melted cheese makes your stomach grumble, but before picking up your fork, you murmur, “I should’ve asked if I could come in. Sorry for overhearing.”

Harry hands you the container with your steak and opens a bottle of water, pouring it into both glasses.

“You know the passwords to my cards and accounts, the backup clouds for the entire Castillo company. My life’s in your hands. It’s not like I have anything to hide from you.”

It’s so satisfying to hear that. Your therapist is going to have a field day.

“You don’t, but maybe your wife wouldn’t love sharing her privacy with your assistant,” you say, mostly because it’s the right thing to say — not because you believe it.

He shuts that down quickly.

“What about your boyfriend?”

“What about him?”

Harry looks up as he takes a bite of lasagna. You pick up your utensils too.

“Is he okay sharing you with me?”

Your hands freeze mid-motion.

“He…” your voice cracks, so you try again. “He knows how much I value my work.”

“Of course.”

The steak is perfectly cooked, tender and rare. To escape the sudden tension, you put on a little show, leaning back dramatically on the plush Nina Magon rug as you chew a piece of meat.

“This is the best steak in the world,” you mumble with your eyes closed. “I’d work overtime every day if this was the reward.”

Harry lets out a low, amused laugh.

“That good, huh? You’d give up sleep for it?”

You hold up a thumbs-up. His laugh grows.

“You should come in later tomorrow,” he says as you sit back up. “That’s me speaking as your boss.”

“I have an eight a.m. meeting.”

“With who?”

“The marketing team.” You already regret it just thinking about it. “Your personal branding, actually. Someone from Forbes wants another interview.”

“Again?”

“Yes, Mr. Castillo. Again. That’s what happens when you’re running one of the world’s top construction firms at forty-eight.”

“Good line. You should pitch that as the interview opener.”

“I will.”

You eat in silence for a while. You take a moment to admire the New York skyline through the huge windows behind Harry’s desk. He likes to keep the lights dim when working late, and the atmosphere feels perfect. The basil lingering in the ragu, the scent of grilled meat, the view of the sprawling city.

Harry sitting across from you. The two of you sharing dinner, like so many times before, and for a moment, it feels like this could be your actual life.

“I can take care of things if you want to go on that trip,” you say, because apparently, your brain-to-mouth filter breaks down when you’re full.

“I know you can.”

“Why not take a vacation?”

“Because I don’t want to,” he says, and you don’t flinch. You’re used to those answers. “I don’t want to travel with the people involved. She knows that. And I have responsibilities.”

“Got it,” you say, leaning back on one hand. Harry watches you. You notice his rolled-up sleeves, the open collar of his shirt, and decide to confess: “I really get it. My boyfriend wants us to go to Bora Bora at the end of the year with two other couples. I can’t stand them.”

“Really? Why?”

“They go to bed at eight. Their idea of being ‘naughty’ is drinking one glass of wine with dinner. Can you imagine that in Bora Bora?”

“Definitely not. Waste of money.”

You snap your fingers and point at him.

“Exactly what I said!”

“You’d like Bora Bora. Rum, sun, and all the shrimp you can eat,” he says, raising his eyebrows. “Might be worth leaving the friends behind and going with your boyfriend.”

“My boyfriend also goes to bed at eight.”

Harry’s face says it all, and so does his smile. He finishes his last bite, scoots back on the rug with his water in hand, and leans against the couch. You do the same, sitting beside him, both of you stretched out in that familiar silence of people who’ve just eaten well.

“Do you two live together?” Harry asks. You shake your head. “How long have you been together?”

You do the math.

“Three years and two months.”

“Has he proposed?”

Straight to the point, as always. Instead of answering, you say:

“Can I grab a ginger ale?”

“You don’t have to ask.”

You walk over to the minibar, grab the can, and come back, fully aware of Harry’s eyes following you the whole time. As you crack open the can, you answer:

“He proposed at the beginning of the year, but I said no. For now.”

“Can I ask why?”

You shrug.

“I’m not really sure. I think a proposal should make you excited about the future, but I didn’t feel that. I felt trapped.”

“I see.” Harry studies your face like he’s searching for something. “I don’t think I felt excited about the future either when I proposed.”

“You love your wife.”

“Do you love your boyfriend?” he returns.

“I do.”

“Okay, but?”

“There’s no but,” you say. “I love him. I love our routine. It’s comfortable.”

Harry is silent, but his expression says he doesn’t buy it.

“Harry.”

“I didn’t say anything.”

“You didn’t have to,” you reply, shifting to face him. “I love him, but I don’t think I’ve ever been in love with him. No butterflies, no excitement, no stomach-flipping moments.”

“That’s anxiety, not love. Love should be calm.”

“Maybe.”

Silence again. You look out the window. He looks at you.

“I was going to file for divorce last year,” he says suddenly, and it feels like a punch in the stomach. “My therapist told me to wait six months, so I wouldn’t do it in the heat of the moment.”

You’re speechless. He unclasps his watch, slowly continuing.

“I know there’s something wrong with my marriage when I’d rather stay here than go home. I should want to get home to see her. But I don’t. And I know that’s not fair to her either.”

He sets the watch down on the coffee table, next to the empty containers, and rubs his wrist. The hands on the dial show 8:20 p.m.

“I’m sorry,” you whisper.

“Not your fault.”

As he says this, Harry crosses his left arm over his chest to press his right shoulder, wincing slightly.

“Your shoulder okay?”, you ask.

“Pulled something at the gym this morning. Been bothering me all day.”

Before you can even think through the consequences, you offer:

“Want me to press on it a bit? Maybe it’s just tension.”

“Isn’t that a bit outside your job description?”

“I won’t tell anyone.”

Harry smirks and shifts, turning his back to you and giving you space to move closer.

There’s something different about today. You’ve never touched Harry like this before. At most, there were brief handshakes or polite taps on his arm, but now you’re kneeling behind him, pressing your fingers into his shoulder in what feels like the most intimate gesture of your life.

His muscles are rock solid.

“Jesus, Harry. I’m booking you a session with your massage therapist.”

Harry leans forward slightly as you apply more pressure on the tight traps and neck tendon, and for a second, your mind slips to a criminal thought: what he must look like under that shirt.

“Please,” he says, replying to your earlier comment. Then he grabs your hand and places it exactly where it hurts. “Harder, please.”

You press. He lets out a satisfied murmur, and without thinking, your fingers slide under his shirt where it’s already unbuttoned. Warm skin meets your touch, and you feel him stiffen just a little.

“This okay?” you ask.

“Yeah. Keep going.”

You hold one shoulder steady and massage with the other hand under the shirt for a few more minutes.

“If I gave you a raise,” Harry says, “would you become my full-time massage therapist?”

“I don’t even know what I’m doing.”

“And it still feels fucking incredible.”

He never swears around you. Or anyone. Hearing him say that makes the moment feel even more charged. Strangely, it encourages you. You press harder, still behind him, both hands now working the tension from his shoulders.

Then Harry reaches back and takes your left hand. His thumb brushes lightly over your ring finger, and your breath catches.

“There should be an engagement ring here.”

“Maybe.”

“If you get married, would you still work with me?”

“Yeah. I have Stockholm Syndrome,” you say, shifting your position and stretching one leg beside his body. He lets go of your hand, and you go back to massaging, now reaching the base of his neck. Goosebumps rise under your touch. “I could never live without you barking twenty report requests a day.”

“I’m not that bad. I’m nice to you.”

“You are.”

God. His scent is going to kill you.

“You know what the finance team says about us?” Harry starts. You hum, prompting him to go on. “They say you and I are having an affair.”

“Marketing, too. Pretty much the whole company.”

“What? Why?”

Maybe because you turn into a puddle around him.

“Because you pay me more than anyone else,” you say simply. “And I get privileges and people notice. Of course they’re going to think we’re sleeping together.”

“You don’t care?”

“Maybe I’d care if I worked on one of the lower floors. But here? Not a chance. Let them envy me.”

Harry chuckles, shoulders shaking, and rests a hand on your shin, right over the tights. That touch is new too, and, once again, you freeze.

“I know you pay me well because I’m indispensable,” you continue. “Which is very satisfying.”

“So when we stay late working together—”

“Yes,” you answer before he finishes. “They probably think I’m bent over your desk.”

Harry turns to look at his desk. For one second, you both know exactly what the other is imagining.

“Interesting,” he says slowly. “Has anyone ever said anything to you?”

“No. No one’s crazy enough to say anything to the boss’s supposed mistress,” you joke, but the line falls a bit flat, so you quickly add, “According to their little narrative, I mean.”

The awkward moment is cut short by a notification sound from Harry’s computer. You both look toward his desk, and he groans:

“I hope that’s the report from the Chinese investors. They’re three days late.”

He starts to stand, wincing again because of his shoulder, but you place a hand on his arm and get up:

“I’ll check it. Stay put, old man. Even standing up seems like a challenge for you right now.”

“You just got a 10% pay cut.”

You make a “blah blah blah” gesture with your hand and head to his desk, settling into the chair that’s more like a plush couch. On the screen, there’s an open chart, but you quickly move to his inbox.

The latest email is from someone named Yijun, and there’s an attachment.

“You got it,” you say. “Want me to reply?”

“Acknowledge receipt and say I’ll get back once I’ve reviewed the data.”

You begin typing the reply, carefully channeling your best Harry Castillo voice.

Through your peripheral vision, you catch Harry leaving the floor and settling into the leather couch with a satisfied murmur.

“Best regards,” you read aloud, finishing the email. “Harry Castillo, CEO of Castillo & Co Construction. Sent. Done.”

As you minimize the email window, another one pops up. It’s a pre-filled PDF titled “divorce agreement.” You shrink that window as if it had burned your fingers, only to reveal Harry’s personal inbox behind it.

The last message is from his lawyer. You catch a glimpse of the words “as requested,” “speak with her,” “assets,” and “properties” before closing everything immediately.

There’s a knot in your throat as you stand and silently walk back to the lounge area while Harry watches you. He’s left space beside him on the couch, and you settle there, folding your left leg underneath you.

You’re so close that your knee grazes his thigh.

“I sent it,” you say.

“Thanks. You can head home. I’ll stay a little longer.”

“Avoiding your wife?” He doesn’t answer, and honestly, silence is the wiser choice. But you’re not wise. “Can I ask you something?”

“I might not answer.”

“Fair.” You hesitate. “Swear you won’t fire me?” He still says nothing, and you let out a breath, trusting that you won’t be jobless tomorrow. “Is it true you had a thing with the finance manager?”

Harry’s response is a look of disbelief, as if you just told him the strategy department was considering investing in a country undergoing an economic collapse.

“Where’d you hear that?”

“People talk.”

He rolls his eyes.

“Right. And people also say you and I are having an affair, but that’s not true, is it?” If anyone else had used that tone, you’d probably shrink in your seat. But this is Harry. His stress never goes beyond sarcasm—at least with you. “Of course it’s not true. You really think I’m the kind of boss who sleeps with an employee?”

That silences you, and you’re not even sure where this sudden wave of disappointment comes from. It makes you painfully aware of your place in the company. Despite the trust, the passwords, the confidences, in the end, you’re the executive assistant. Nothing more.

“I don’t” you say finally.

He laughs, incredulous.

“Why do you sound disappointed?” he asks. And at this point, you don’t even know what to say, so you start putting on your heels instead, but Harry is faster. “No, no… Hold on.”

“Do you need anything else?” you ask politely, your left foot already in the shoe.

Harry freezes, eyes locked on you, and you freeze too.

“I have my morals,” he says.

“I know that,” you shake your head slightly, as if trying to hear him better. “Sorry, what do you mean by that?”

“I mean I have my morals, and that’s why I’ve never tried anything in here with the one person who makes me want to, especially because she’s my fucking assistant.”

God. You freeze, heart racing. Your mind latches onto the tense of the verb.

“Makes? Present tense?”

His quiet laugh is almost bitter.

“Unfortunately,” he says, settling back into the couch. “My father raised me right. I have morals, I respect my wife, and I care about my reputation.”

You drop the shoe again and turn to him. Your question is clear, firm:

“Even on nights like this one?”

He says your name like a prayer, rubbing his face with one hand.

“Don’t do this.”

That quiet, simple plea brings you crashing back to reality for the thousandth time. You whisper an apology just as softly, pick up your heels again, and before you can put them on, the leather cushions shift beneath you.

That’s the only warning you get before Harry is close behind you, his hand gently gathering your hair and moving it over your right shoulder to expose your neck.

“I have my morals,” he repeats, coming closer. “Don’t you?”

You think of your boyfriend, and how sweet he is to you. Your mind conjures up images of happy moments, trips, dinners, gifts, and you know you can’t just shove those into a box and lock it away for a few hours. That’s not how it works.

But the way your stomach knots with Harry’s closeness shrinks all those memories down like a sheet of paper folded over and over. They’re still there, but small. Insignificant.

“I do,” you say, because it’s true. “But I can live with that.”

“I don’t know if I can,” Harry murmurs the way he always does when something matters, as if tasting the words.

“If you’re just going to feel guilty—”

“I’m not talking about guilt,” Harry interrupts. And then his hand is on your stomach, pulling you back toward him with one decisive motion that makes you gasp. “I’m saying having you just once wouldn’t be enough.”

“Well, it’s going to have to be.”

At the very first touch of Harry’s lips on your neck, your entire body feels like it’s catching fire, every nerve alive with want, your hands clenched tightly on your thighs. It’s as if every hair on your body is standing on end.

“Did you forget I’m the one giving orders here?” he says. “Once isn’t enough.”

“Is that a command?” you challenge.

Harry’s mouth trails down to your throat, leaving open, wet kisses on your sensitive skin.

His fingers glide lightly to your breasts, the tips barely grazing your nipple through the silk of your blouse. The friction of the fabric makes you arch into his touch so slow and torturous it nearly drives you mad.

“If only you actually followed my orders,” Harry murmurs.

“Of course I do.”

“Yeah?” He kisses the corner of your mouth, pausing just to say, “Then get on your knees for me.”

You shift on the couch to face him, and suddenly, it all feels terrifyingly real. The weight of what you’re doing crashes into you like a slap across the face, because he’s right there, wedding ring on his finger and lips still flushed red.

But unfortunately, it’s not enough to make you stop.

“I want a kiss first.”

Harry parts his legs, giving you space, and you rest one knee between them on the couch, moving in closer to sit on his thigh. You run your fingers along his cheeks, his beard, the collar of his perfectly white shirt. It’s the first time you’ve touched him like this, and you’re certain your gaze gives away more than you want, because there’s a softness in the way Harry pulls you closer.

You’ve caught yourself wondering what kissing him would be like, even during office hours. You’ve seen him kiss his wife before, but it was always just polite pecks, the kind of affection acceptable under New York’s high-society scrutiny.

But nothing could have prepared you for how naturally your lips fit together, or how good it feels. It’s even better than you imagined, just like the rush of doing something so wrong, yet so irresistible, precisely because it’s forbidden, and everything you’ve secretly wanted.

Harry’s hands slide to your waist, deepening the kiss, and yours go straight to his hair, already messier now. The moment his tongue touches yours is the same moment his hands slip beneath your skirt, lifting the fabric as they go.

He finds the lace tops of your stockings, held in place by a garter belt. His hands go straight to your ass, gripping tightly as if it’s instinct.

The curse he whispers makes you smile.

“Take off the skirt and blouse. Get on your knees,” he says, cupping your face and pressing one more kiss to your lips. Then, with a whisper: “Please.”

Hearing this man plead is a dream come true, which is exactly why you nod right away and walk toward his office door.

You close it. Lock it. And as you return to him, you unzip the skirt and slip off your blouse, leaving it behind in your path. The air conditioning makes your nipples hard and sends chills across your skin, but Harry’s gaze, now seated deep into the couch with legs parted, more than makes up for the cold.

Next goes the skirt, and now you’re standing before him in just your stockings, panties, and garter belt.

His lips part as he draws in a deep, appreciative breath, eyes trailing slowly up your body. It’s almost as if he’s touching you with his stare. His hand goes to his tie, loosening it as you sink to your knees.

With your hands resting on your thighs, you watch as he pulls the tie off (the one you bought last month) and undoes the top buttons of his shirt. Next comes the belt and then the button on his pants. Harry leans forward slightly, legs still open, and pulls himself free from his boxers.

Despite the curiosity and heat flooding through you, you keep your eyes locked on his until your tongue brushes the tip of his hard cock. Harry exhales sharply, eyes fluttering shut, and there’s a quiet power in watching a man like him unravel — even just a little.

That alone is enough to make you take him fully into your mouth, lips closing around his thick shaft, sinking him deep.

It earns you a low, guttural curse.

Harry gathers your hair in one hand, holding it tight at the base of your neck. You have one hand on his thigh, the other stroking what your mouth can’t reach, and for a few minute, you lose yourself in the weight of him on your tongue, in his taste, his scent, the sounds he makes just for you.

And then just one question slices through the haze:

“What would your boyfriend think, seeing you like this?” Harry asks, his voice so polite it almost clashes with what you’re doing. He pulls your head back, letting his cock slip from your mouth, dragging the tip across your lips like he’s marking you. “On your knees for your boss. Do you suck his cock this well too?”

You narrow your eyes.

There’s probably an unspoken rule about not mentioning spouses or partners during moments like this. The act is already betrayal enough.

But if Harry wants to play that game, you won’t back down.

You rise slightly on your knees, aligning yourself so he can press his cock between your breasts, and you reach for his mouth to whisper:

“And do you get this hard when it’s your wife sucking your cock? Because if you did, you’d probably want to be home right now.”

Harry smiles against your lips and kisses you again as you climb onto his lap, and he remains silent.

“Let’s go all the way,” you say, because you’re far too wet to let this go to waste. “Right?”

“Right,” Harry answers without hesitation. “No turning back.”

“Do you want to?”

He slips his hand into your panties and finds so much wetness that his fingers glide immediately. His answer comes when he lifts the same fingers to his mouth, eyes locked on yours.

That makes you rush to unclip the garter belt and slide off your panties, tossing them aside. Harry gets the message and starts striping off his pants and shirt. And suddenly you’re on your back with Harry’s heavy and sturdy body on yours, skin on skin.

Harry rolls down your stockings in one smooth, hurried motion. You wrap your thighs around his hips.

“I don’t have a condom,” he says, and God, if eyes could beg, his would be on their knees. “It’s not like a married man needs to carry one around.”

“I printed your test results last week. And I don’t have sex without a condom…” you begin—and then add, “…with my boyfriend.”

He gets it.

“Can I?”

“You can.”

Harry doesn’t even glance down as he guides himself inside you, keeping his eyes on your face, your mouth, his own opening bit by bit while sinking into the wetness. When he’s fully buried, you have to shift your hips to adjust to his thick length.

“Just a second,” you whisper, wrapping your arms around his shoulders. He nods, and you take the moment to ask, “Had you imagined this before?”

“I don’t know how to answer that without sounding like a pervert.”

You run your thumb across his eyebrow, studying his features in the dim light of the office.

“Would it make you feel better if I told you I’ve imagined you while fucking my boyfriend?”

Harry raises an eyebrow.

“I want details.”

“Earlier that day you and I were at a meeting. You did some absurd calculation in your head, and it made me wet. So I went home and…”

“Fucked him while thinking about me,” he finishes, smiling. “Filthy mouth.”

When you keep staring at him, silently asking for his turn, Harry sighs.

“Of course I’ve imagined it. Every time we stay late together, or when you wear that damn red dress and walk into my office, and especially when you put arrogant assholes in their place. You drive me insane.”

You reach between your bodies, your fingers trailing along where you’re joined, circling the base of Harry’s cock. He jerks his hips reflexively, breathing out a soft moan.

“And…” you press.

“And sometimes I dream about you and wake up so fucking hard that…” Harry begins to move his hips slowly when you give him a nod. The thrust is deep, slow, excruciating, and he fills you entirely. You almost miss his next words:

“…I wake my wife up and fuck her.”

“While thinking of me.”

Harry grips your hips and covers your mouth with his:

“While thinking of you.”

Your mouths open into a kiss that matches the way he fucks you: raw, urgent, drenched in tension. Every thrust hits something deep inside you, something you’re not sure anyone else ever will again. You cling to his shoulders, resisting the urge to claw at him, lifting your hips to match his rhythm.

You’re soaked, so much it’s nearly embarrassing, and you’re certain Harry’s lap is drenched with it too. As his movements grow more erratic, you slide a hand between your legs.

Harry catches your wrist, guiding it back to his shoulder.

“No, no… You’re gonna come on my mouth later.”

Well. Okay.

Harry shifts to sit back on the couch, one foot planted on the floor, the other tucked under his leg. He pulls you into his lap again, and this new angle makes him reach deeper, every little shift filling you completely. When he's about to come, he grips your waist tightly to keep you still and thrusts harder, driven by your moans, his mouth open against the space between your breasts."

“Can I come inside?” Harry asks, holding you firmly.

“Please.”

He groans, wrapping his arms around you, and just a few more thrusts later he’s pulsing inside you, breathing heavily against your skin. The warmth floods you in a way that makes you throb for your own release.

“Harry, I need to—”

“I know.”

You’re not sure how it happens so quickly, but in the next second he’s back on the couch, and you’re straddling his face. Then it’s his mouth, his lips on your aching clit.

You grip his hair and glance down, meeting his gaze. Your whimper turns into a moan as he drags his tongue along your folds, tasting both of you, and returns to sucking that overstimulated spot.

“Stick your tongue out,” you beg. “Please—”

He does, and you immediately grind against it, whispering Harry’s name over and over like a prayer.

It hits you like an earthquake. So sudden, so intense that your whole body trembles on top of him, and for a split second, it feels like you forget how to breathe. When you come back to yourself, you’re sitting on his chest, and Harry’s wiping his beard with the palm of his hand, a crooked little smirk on his red lips.

You look down at him and say:

“We’re going to hell.”

He wraps his arms around you and sits up, keeping you in his lap.

“I’m an atheist,” he says, kissing your shoulder. “So… okay.”

“Okay.”

“And now?”

“Now,” you say slowly, cupping his face and making him look at you again. “This never happened. We go back to our lives like nothing ever did.”

Harry sighs your name.

“You say a lot of smart things. That’s not one of them.”

You pinch his cheek, offering no reply, and slip off his lap to gather your clothes from the floor. Your stockings, panties, skirt, and blouse. When you return to the couch, Harry’s already pulled on his boxers and pants, so you sit next to him to do the same.

The entire process of getting dressed again is done in silence, and you’re not sure what you feel: shame, guilt, some strange sense of calm… The only thing that doesn’t hit you is regret — and that makes you feel guilty too.

As you’re slipping on your heels, Harry says:

“It’s only nine-forty.”

“Hm?”

“We still have two hours and twenty minutes before the night’s over. And I’ve got an empty apartment about twenty minutes from here.”

You look up at him, and he adds:

“If tomorrow we’re going to pretend this never happened, we might as well make the most of it tonight.”

You know it’s a terrible excuse. You know that tomorrow neither of you will be able to pretend this didn’t happen. You don’t know what comes next, and the ring on Harry’s finger sits like a weight in your gut, but you’re not a good person.

You lied to Harry. Your morals are bent, and even though you’re fully aware of the circumstances, they don’t stop you.

Nothing could stop you from getting what you want. And right now? You know exactly what you want.

“I’ll wait for you in the garage,” you tell him.

[nymphia-tarot]

Your first date with them 🌸 [PAC]

pile 1 ----> pile 2

pile 3 ----> pile 4

Paid readings ($2.99)

🌸 meditate on the pics and pick whichever one calls to you the most. you might feel drawn to more than one pile, which means you may have messages in other piles for you as well! if you don't feel particularly drawn to any pile, the messages in this reading might not be intended for you. since this is a general reading, take what resonates! 🌸

🌸 Pile 1:

I'm getting that this date is something that was a long-awaited thing. Like you or your person might have been planning or dreaming of this for quite a while. You might have met this person at a very crucial time of your life, almost as if the stars aligned perfectly at that moment, and they've been fairly impactful to you. Maybe you met them at school/uni or somewhere relevant to your educational field. This is a person that has been overall pretty important to you in your life, for maybe some sort of karmic lesson, and your connection has been fated to occur.

Pile 1, this is someone you're carefully considering as a serious option. And I feel like the date is a way for you to determine the course of your future with them. A lot of individuals who picked this pile are independent thinkers with a discerning judgement on people. Lots of sapiosexuals too. You want someone to match you at your level and it seems like the date between you two will be a very stimulating experience. The two of you will have a lot of deep conversations and get to know each other better at an intellectual and philosophical level.

There's a good chance of this relationship ending up in marriage for a lot of you. A proposal or offer from your partner. However, I feel like the future of the relationship isn't really that good? Like you're both very fine people but after a while the initial passion and spark would just die down, making the relationship feel very stagnant. Some of you might even stay and do your best to make it work even though it really isn't working. I'm also getting the possibility of cheating for some? If the worst happens, I feel like the best thing to do is to let go and give yourself freedom.

🌸 Pile 2:

Maybe a lot of yall in pile 2 have a tendency to get lowkey delusional when it comes to matters of love. Like getting infatuated and idealising the other party, mostly living in fantasy and maybe you guys read way too much love tarot. I'm seeing a lot of you guys won't really go in with a clear head for this date overall. Hampered intuition, reading too much into lines, limerence, etc. When you actually do get to date your person I'm seeing that it'll finally ground you and make you see them for who they really are and evaluate your own feelings and the future of this relationship from a more realistic lens.

Maybe a lot of you guys' partner here is rich or at least financially stable or abundant. They may even have generational wealth. You guys are going to get spoilt on your date though. Lavished materially, lowkey sugar daddy/mommy vibes, etc. You guys might go to a really fancy place and enjoy a luxurious date with them. However, there's a chance there's a sort of power imbalance in the end, like maybe they're someone who is on a more powerful position systematically or in any other way, they have power over you. I'm getting it's mostly financially though for most of you guys.

Overall, you might end up feeling disillusioned from your previous notions and expectations in this date and they might feel restricted or caged in some way by how you view them. It's like they'll realise that the idea you have of them in your mind does not represent who they are. You might even end up having conflicting views/mentalities.

🌸 Pile 3:

I feel like this is a connection thats mostly fueled by physical attraction/lust which is passionate, fiery and can be all-consuming. You might have been in a bit of a slump before the date occurs and I'm getting that one or both you felt unfulfilled by the current situation of your relationship/where you stand with each other. Maybe the relationship you guys have is something that's a bit unconventional so it can get tough.

It seems like the date will end up in heartbreak for one or both you in some way. I'm getting a serious breach of trust and breaking a promise or vow you had made to each other. It can either end in a break up or continuing to nurture a tattered/unfulfilling relationship. For most of you the one who betrayed the other is your partner in this relationship. Maybe you've wanted to be official with them for a while only to have the devastating realisation that it's not feasible to happen.

After this date, your feelings for your person might dull down or even fade completely. You might get your joys shattered and end up deciding that happiness for you doesn't lie here. As for your person, I'm ngl they seem very physically-driven. They might be trapping you in some way in this relationship in a way that isn't healthy. Like, even if you're unhappy, your person doesn't see it and continues to thrive and take and take while keeping you constrained, not letting you break free of unhealthy cycles. Their feelings for you are mostly lust.

🌸 Pile 4:

The dynamic/relationship between you two might be kinda slow-moving and the lowkey. Maybe you both took a long time to ask each other out finally and was in a sort of stalemate before deciding to go "screw it, you only live once" and shooting your shots. Since it feels like something that happens more haphazardly and on impulse, the date might be slightly awkward for you guys. One or both of you may stumble over your words a lot or kinda not know what to do. This feels kinda frustrating yet adorable from an outside perspective and there might be a lot of internal cursing involved lol.

However, once you actually get through it, you'll realise it really wasn't that bad and overall end up quite fulfilled and happy. At the end, the date might actually go pretty well despite the initial awkwardness once you get the hang of it. If you guys do continue with your relationship, it might actually lead to a lot of growth and development for both of you. I'm also sensing that there's a lot of travel involved? Maybe you guys are from different cultures or cities, etc.

You might be the more composed and rational one during this date and be lowkey analysing everything. Virgo vibes. You might end up intimidating your person a bit lol. Your person on the other hand is full of anxiety and nervousness and it might be more visible on their end lol.

[cuntycheol]

To You (C.SC)

Summary: Silence has always been a long-term paying guest between you and your husband. It took a cohabitation and more, to turn things around for Seungcheol and you, to figure out your true feelings.

Themes: romance, fluff, smutty, old money Seungcheol cuz he's your rich, cold but tender husband and you're his smart wifey, scenes of a firebreakout(please skip if you're triggered), some nice scenes of Singapore, and the first smut happens already (virgin!couple, slight inexperiences, orals, vanilla!) Cheol's very warm please I love him so much we'll save the real Cheol monstercock for the future ;3

WC: 7.7K

Playlist: Seventeen's (To You, All My Love, Falling for You SDSMSN, Darling), By My Side by Junny, Better Siopaolo , Alina Baraz (Floating, Alone with you, if you let me) I.M Flower-ed, Bibi Step

feel free to arrange them sowwy they're a lil mis arranged

A/N: helloo carats!! Had to make my first post about my man Cheol(thank u to my man) with the good ol' husband!au. It's evident im in my "oh husband cheol feelings" where we loving him real good! I've been impatient so I posted it a bit earlier than expected :D my comfort loving carats, this is based off All My Love and To You lyrics <3 I hope you enjoy this piece of writing as much as I enjoyed writing this! Happy Cheol Day you living legend coupranghae btches :")

Updated: mini sequel here <3

Life was divided into four distinct categories, after one whole month of your brand new status as Mrs. Choi, or Mr. Choi Seungcheol's wife:

Breakfasts with and for Seungcheol because he confessed he anticipates what you offer in the am

Touring the exquisite royalty of the mansion built by his great grandparents(specially the crimson paints)

Spending time with Seungcheol's Mom since she adores you more than her son!

Dinner n Slumber, where you sleep with a wall that separates you from your husband.

You don't exactly think it'd change; however you do expect it to. Everyday, you wake up in your own room, without the warmth of your husband because neither of you are exactly ready to sleep on the same bed together, and neither of you can sacrifice your comfort on the couch. Therefore a shared decision convinces your elders to grant your marriage the gift of time, a chance to understand one another before embracing a shared room and shared life. All credit to Seungcheol's mom, who chose you to be her son's perfect match, a decade ago. She envisioned you as the one to be her son's beacon of illumination in his life, and the way your personality coincides with his. Who knew you'd be repaid for your kindness of tagging along with your grandfather to meet his ailing friend, (Seungcheol's grandfather) with a coerced, arranged marriage to their youngest grandson. It was on you to navigate this relationship towards love and the more easier it sounds, the harder it gets.

Your husband's honesty shines through, expressing that his family holds the utmost importance in his heart, and he could never deny his mother's wishes. Although he initially declined the marriage proposal, the elders' persuasion led him to reluctantly agree. Absolute zero differences in both of your situations. Despite the arranged marriage, he promises to ensure your comfort and well-being. Polite knocks on your door in the morning signify his presence, seeking breakfast if you're up for the task, and he would either leave a note saying "ThankYou" or he would leave a fresh flower on the dining table as a small gesture of appreciation for your efforts in preparing breakfast, letting your pride swell with all this generosity, although you'd wish he says it with his own mouth, overcoming those barriers. Considerate compliments follow whether you're dressed in your best, try some new hairstyles, or ofcourse, after enjoying your delightful meals, was one thing that made you hopeful about this relationship.

It's evident he lacks communication, since he only speaks to you at mornings and occasionally on texts, whenever he's late. He possesses no punctuality but you're quick to realize he has a pattern in timings of when he wakes up, when he returns, when he sleeps. Throughout the day, you don't exactly see him. At nights you barely sit with him. He's either in his room or on his laptop. Nothing, among you two, seems like you're in a bond with the youngest heir of this luxurious business.

"Don't forget, the dinner's scheduled tonight" you chime, while he was leaving. He nods and drives his way out for another busy day.

Marrying a business tycoon of "old money" and serving him great breakfasts, were the last thing you expected  in your simple life, where you were focused on academic and personal glowups, and rarely had any serious past relationships, or have slept with anyone.

You just believed better things await for you, and if those better things were in the shape of a young handsome husband, who were you to complain.

✿══✿══╡°˖✧✿✧˖°╞══✿════✿

"So! Have you decided a honeymoon destination?" Seungcheol's sister-in-law questions, at a calm family dinner. Seungcheol takes a sip from the drink, "I'm positively considering Greece or Bali, or maybe Fiji.  We haven't played rock papers scissors yet to choose one destination" earning a small chuckle from everyone, Seungcheol continues to feast on the delicious dinner you had prepared. A variety of topics continue to be discussed and that was the only response Seungcheol ever said throughout dinner.

While the family members took their departure, after another hour of dessert sessions, you thought about his remark, if there's any depth to it. The honeymoon idea and what he has said so far, made you a bit ecstatic.

Seungcheol's seated on the couch, of the lounge upstairs, sipping his usual coffee. you lean towards the railings of the top floor, where yours and Seungcheol's bedrooms neighbored. He looks at you, with tender eyes, yet a cold expression. "So, about the whole honeymoon thing, are you-"

"Oh "don't worry about it," Seungcheol's dismissively remarks, taking another sip of his coffee. "Family dinners are meant for prying into things we wouldn't discuss on a typical morning," he explains. "And Honestly, I don't see the need for a honeymoon." Your heart sinks at his response, disappointment clouding your expression. "But I thought we could at least look at brochures together? Atleast discuss this thoroughly" you respond, trying to mask your disappointment with a glimmer of hope that he might consider it.

Seungcheol lets out a weary sigh, his tone becoming more serious. "You don't have to give in to everything my family demands. They can be nosy, but they'll eventually drop the topic after a few days." He glances down at his laptop, signaling that the matter is closed.

You can't help but feel a pang of hurt as Seungcheol's words crush your hopeful expectations. The thought of a romantic getaway had brought some solace, but now it seems like a distant dream.

"But Seungcheol," you protest softly, trying to keep your emotions without losing your temper, "it's just that a honeymoon could be a chance for us to spend some quality time together, away from only meeting on breakfasts, away from the hustle of daily life, away from being silent everyday, and both of us make an effort, to get to know each other better" He glances up from his laptop, his expression stoic, but you can sense a hint of frustration in his eyes. "I understand your perspective," he replies calmly, "but I'm not sure a honeymoon is the right way to achieve that. We can spend time together here, without the pressure of a fancy trip. We're not close enough nor we're a match to be doing this in the first place"

at this moment, you find yourself getting defensive...

"It's not about a fancy trip, Seungcheol. It's about creating memories, experiencing new things together, and building a connection outside of this huge mansion... where we live in distant bedrooms" you gesture around you, emphasizing the splendor of the place that seems to distance you both from the real world.

His eyes widen momentarily at your words, and you see a flash of emotion that he quickly hides. "It's not that," he retorts yet defensively, "I just think this honeymoon is an unnecessary pressure, and we should be honest about our feelings and not pretend."

You take a step back, hurt and anger welling up inside you. "So, all this time, we were just a pretense? You're quite audacious to say we're incompatible, considering the amount of time you spend with me. Count the days we ever went out? That's right. Zero" you scoff, "you know what, let's just forget this. Forget I ever asked you anything. Thankyou, for lightening my evening, Good Night" Before he could utter a response or rephrase everything, you stomp your way into your bedroom, hiding your face in your palms, feeling a bit guilty of losing your cool already when it hadn't been a while.

Seungcheol stood there, a mix of regret and realization washing over him. He knew he had made a mistake, once again, with his poorly chosen words to convey his thoughts. The truth was, he had never really learned how to express himself properly; heck he couldn't even say a proper "you're so pretty, I think I have started to find some meaning into this relationship?" to the woman he's been living with, in the same house. Unfortunately words often tumbled out of his mouth without a second thought, and he rarely considered how they might sound or how they could impact the other person. As a result, he found himself remaining silent at critical moments, fearing that his words might only cause more harm than good.

The argument with you had brought this flaw to the forefront of his mind. He recognized that his lack of effective communication had hurt you, leaving you disappointed and disheartened. He raises his fist to knock at your door, wishing he could take back his words and find a way to bridge the growing distance between the two of you, yet again, he retreats.

The same gesture was for you standing in front of your door, trying to atleast add a subtle apology, but an instant realization made you stomp your foot dramatically and jump into the warm bed.

-------------------------------------------------------

The next day, you refuse to make any breakfast, or contribute to the daily household activities like you usually do. You sulk in your room, either pacing back and forth, ordering your meal,coffee and everything upstairs.

It angered you how much you like Seungcheol. How deep of an infatuation you've developed towards him, in such a short time, finding glimpses of someone beneath the surface that you want to know better. Yet, the argument hangs heavy in the air, making you doubt whether your budding emotions stand a chance. You journal everything; how much of an asshole he is to not communicate properly, how many layers are there to him, and the only time you two talk, is for an arguement? Everything frustrated you. You hear Seungcheol in the distant, and as much as you were cross with him, you want to look at him, and admire his presence. Although its the first ever arguement you two share, the typical wife in you, expects flowers and apologies first from your husband.

Seungcheol, on the other hand, would often glance upstairs, or at your door. He would expect to see your charming face, he silently admires. Only to slump his shoulders and leave for work everyday.

✿══✿══╡°˖✧✿✧˖°╞══✿════✿

Two days pass by, and midnights strike, as you sit alone in your room, the argument with Seungcheol still fresh in your mind, you try to calm your emotions, occassionally collecting your thoughts in process of reading. Lost in your contemplation, you fail to notice the faint smell of burning wires in the air. The faulty switch connected to the lamp had been giving you trouble for a while, but you hadn't paid much attention to it, thinking it was a minor inconvenience, and indeed the most minor issues ignite major disasters.

Suddenly, a small spark ignites near the switch, and within seconds, the flames start to spread rapidly. Second situation of the night escalating this quick. Panic sets in as you realize the danger you're in.

Your heart races as you rush to the door, only to find that it's jammed, likely due to the fire's heat warping the frame. Fear grips you, knowing you're trapped. With no time to waste, you quickly grab your phone and dial the emergency number. Your voice trembles as you explain the situation and your exact location in the house. You yell out Seungcheol's name, as loud as possible, but unable to do so with the smoke rising.

Soon it starts to fill the room, making it hard to breathe. You look around for something to cover your mouth and nose, finding a nearby cloth to protect yourself as you wait for help to arrive. With all your remaining strength, you fan the rising smoke outside the door, to trigger the smoke alarms.

Seungcheol, who was now downstairs fetching a glass of wine trying to prompt an apology for the day he gathers his courage to, smells the smoke and hears the faint crackling of flames; soon he's shaken by the fire alarms sensing smoke. Panic overtakes him as he realizes this leads to your room. As he rushes upstairs, he hears faint bangings from your room, which stops. He calls out your name, but there's no response. Fear for your safety drives him to take action.

Seungcheol approaches the door, with all his force, he breaks it open. only to find the room engulfed in flames. Your figure is barely visible through the dense smoke. He rushes towards your feeble helpless frame, ignoring the scorching heat and billowing smoke. He finds you near window, trying to escape the inferno. With tears in his eyes, he wraps you in his arms and guides you towards the window, with the flames slowly engulfing the entrance door of your room.

In a span of a few minutes, sirens grows louder, and moments later, paramedics and fire brigades arrive, rushing to extinguish the flames and rescue both of you. They break through the main gates, helping you and Seungcheol escape to safety.

"Please check on her! She was unconcious and barely breathing I'm -I Plea-" Seungcheol fails to form a proper sentence.

"Please calm down sir, we're checking on her, and we'll assisst you. You are...?"

"Her husband! Please hurry and check on her god damnit!!" He yells in frustration hoping you're safe.

Soon, you were able to breathe on your own, and slowly you flutter your eyes open, chest heaving from the sudden attack of the horrific accident. Before it could escalate any further, you were given appropriate medications to trigger your drowsiness.

In the aftermath tranquility of this burning situation, Seungcheol stand outside, watching as firefighters work tirelessly to put out the remaining flames. Grateful to have survived the terrifying ordeal, he holds onto your numb hands, finaly letting his tears slip his eyes. He was so grateful to stop a major tragedy, and you're safe, with him.

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The morning sunlight gently seeps through the curtains as you feel it, only to be met with haunting flashbacks of the previous night's terrifying fire, your hopeless voice calling your husband's name, beneath your vision. You shot your eyes open and sit up, heart pounding in your chest as the vivid memories replay in your mind, leaving you trembling with fear. Tears stream down your cheeks as the trauma overwhelms you, and you find it hard to catch your breath.

Seungcheol's immediately awaken by your distress, pulling you into his arms. " I'm here y/n calm down shush..." he whispers tenderly, stroking your head, trying to comfort your trembling body as best as he can. He embraces you tightly in his arms, allowing you to cry and release the floodgates of emotions open from the harrowing experience.

He listens to your trembling sobs, his heartbeats a steady rhythm against your ear, and he continues to stroke your arms and back, comforting you through the turmoil. As you find consolation in his warmth, your clenched fists loosen their grip on the fabric of his shirt, his touch brings a sense of safety and reassurance that you desperately need in this moment. You look at him through your red eyes, as he smiles at you endearingly.

"Seungcheol- I...I'm so sorry" you sniff, gripping his hand, "I never knew that faulty switch would bring this huge mess upon us. You must be the one affected the most. I'm so sorry you had to go through this because of me. I should've let you known" you sob.

He gently wipes your tears, resting your head back on his shoulders "as long as you're safe, I'm at peace. It is my fault that I'm so...uh..quite unapproachable? But I went through hell when I saw you. I was sick worried. I'm sorry I should've protected you better. I should've run a new repair scheme as soon as you moved in. It was my insensitivity to let the most minor things slide" he slowly lies down, with you close to him. He smelled nothing like how the entire house did. He smelled sweet and strong. Everything indeed happens for a reason, as you sense how you're into the man, who rarely touches you, holding you dear.

Throughout the day, your husband Seungcheol stayed by your side, enveloping you in comforting embraces. He ordered breakfast to be delivered to his room, encouraging you to take small steps towards regaining your strength and energy to get on your feet. He offered the support you needed to gather the courage to move on your own and freshen up with a soothing shower.

While you were in the shower, he quietly left the room, allowing you some privacy to release the pent-up emotions that had been bottled up inside you. As the water washed away your tears, the conversations from two nights ago still loomed heavily, unresolved between you both. Yet, amidst the silence and uncertainty, there were his tender gazes - soft and caring. They were like ice on a sunburn, cooling your worries and offering a glimpse of hope. Though words may not have been spoken, his presence spoke volumes, showing that he was there for you in this trying time. You peer outside the window, to see the iron gates glistening with the fog, pitch black sky and the time's almost 11.

Once again, your husband returns into his room, after confirming you've changed, and he smiles at you, approaching with a plate of fruits and berries of all kinds. He was unsure of what your favorite fruit was. He felt unfortunate, of how unaware he is of your preferences. He hands you a bowl of strawberries, and elegantly peels an orange, handing the fruit to you.

"I'm sorry about the previous night" he begins. It catches you off-guard, yet you figure out you're the listener now. "I'm not the best with words, and I do realize I've hurt you-or even worse, left you disheartened. Yet again, I'm at a loss of what should I say, except that let's go on with the honeymoon plans. It may not be the best time right now, but whenever you're sure of doing this, tell me every detail about it; everything you desire for. We'll discuss it." he lifts his eyes towards you, with a subtle smile.

"I thought about everything, and upon contemplation, I realize I do want to give us a chance" you couldn't contain the bubbling happiness, and immediately hug him "thankyou so so so much Seungcheol. I'm glad you get my point" he was frozen at this sudden gesture, yet didn't fail to chuckle. Although he smiled discreetly knowing how wife-coded you are. "Let's begin as friends? Married friends? We'll know each other little by little" you suggest. "Sure, whatever you suggest" he smiles, shaking your hand.

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Amidst the haunting shadows of the accident's aftermath, and quite some insomnias later, time became your ally, gently coaxing you out of the horrors that had shaken your world. However you found an unexpected haven of love and affection with your husband. In your head, this friendship has escalated rapidly. A realization dawned upon you - the past may have shaped your paths, but the present had the power to rewrite destinies. Over time you had found solace in cohabitation with your husband, late-night conversations about life's intricacies, you delved into shared preferences, whispered dreams, cherished birthdays, and bittersweet memories of childhood. And everyday you discover new sides of him. Soon, you call him "husband" essentially finding pride and power in doing so. He was surprised at first, yet now he loves being called nicknames like "Cheol" or "Cheollie".

In Seungcheol, you found everything you admired in a man - daring, possessive, with a stunning face and a strong physique. He loved to be in shape, and encouraged you to stay fit, though romance wasn't his forte, he never faltered in taking care of necessities. While you weren't sure if you brightened his world, he became your epiphany. His struggles with eye contact and occasional mindless words unveiled the emotions he guarded, making you grateful for the accident that brought you together; without it, you might have given up on him. Now, you cherished the connection that had grown, exploring the depths of both your hearts.

Seungcheol realized soon that the collision of your worlds had a purpose, unveiling the potential for love and connection he hadn't dared to imagine. He slowly felt a major change in himself. Slowly, a transformation took place within him. Moments that were once filled with hesitation and distance, now became opportunities for seeking your attention, for his eyes to meet yours. He longed to be closer to you, finding comfort in watching you sleep peacefully at night and waking up to your smile each morning.

However, amidst this newfound affection, he couldn't decipher where his heart truly lay. Your mother's loving gestures and his sister-in-law's respectful fondness were easy to understand, but when it came to your feelings, he was left uncertain. Did you like him back? Would you ever be able to reciprocate his love? The questions lingered, leaving him vulnerable to the unknown, anxiously awaiting the day he could unravel the mysteries of your heart. It's an endless marathon in his mind.

It took him 4 days to gather his courage and ask you for coffee. You laugh and obviously agreed to accompany him to the city's famous coffee spot. Like the man he was, he memorizes your order and pulls into a drive thru.

Seungcheol drives to a spot he usually stops by, to ease his frustrations; Parks. Laughter of children, romantic couples sharing pda, and a bridge that separates cherry blossoms from the playground, you're immediately in love with this scenario. Both of you share some laughter, and enjoy your coffees and croissants, while the petals of the blossoms shed upon you. The look of love you two exchanged was long; to leave your coffees cold and croissants dry. Both of your worlds revolved around each other, only for Kkuma's barks to bring you back in reality, being greeted by Seungcheol's brother and his wife. Your delightful evening ends with a comfortable dinner and living your best chances of being Kkuma's mother, something your two month marriage with Seungcheol lacked.

Soon enough, you persuaded Seungcheol to shift houses permanently. Despite your old room being perfectly repaired, the trauma of sleeping alone had left a lasting impact. Bonus was Kkuma finally moving in with you and Seungcheol. Understanding your perspective, Seungcheol readily accepted to have you in his room in this house, and the new one seeking, welcoming the idea without hesitation.

Within a mere three days, you both found yourselves settling into your new furnished apartment, which, wasn't expansive, it rather held the essence of a cozy aesthetic. With only one guest room upstairs and a spacious bedroom, you had insisted on sharing the same space, declining any notions of personal separation. He made sure to double check every single thing, to disapprove any mishaps.

"Cheol, this is beautiful! I-I love it!! Thankyou so much, husband!" To him it's no new information, but his cheeks flushed shades of cherries. You were too busy exploring your new house, and he couldn't help but adore every inch of your ecstacy.

"Any time, wife" he replies after clearing his throat, and containing his ecstacy.

You poured your gratitudes to Seungcheol the entire day and actively joined hands with you, playfully engaging in household tasks, cherishing every moment as you transformed the apartment into your shared abode, a place that signified the start of your new world together.  Nothing changed in terms of routine, however, you two communicate often,and now there were sparks of mischief from Seungcheol, indicating that silence was no more a welcoming guest. And now Kkuma being an addition, you enjoyed being indoors and outdoors with her. It wasn't often both of you enjoy going out often unless its something such as icecream dates or coffee, or some relaxing walks, because neither of you go anywhere out of your comfort zone; except for a business trip or grocery shopping, however the joy of turning down people who ask for your status, was thrilling. You felt a sense of superiority.

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The next evening he returns home a little earlier than expected, searching for an important flash drive in his drawer. It seemed you were in shower, considering how loud you were singing. He smiles, hearing your soft voice echoing in the room, and suddenly the door knob twisting open. Seungcheol quickly slides open the closet door and gets inside.

It was foolish of him to hide instead of leave, but he thought maybe his presence would freak you out. He slowly opens a little to take notes of the surrounding and was taken aback, seeing you in a towel, and your hair wrapped. He gulps, seeing your glistening body smell like lavender, spreading in the room.

Seeing you in this new light, he couldn't help but feel a surge of desire mixed with love. He had never viewed you with such intense admiration before. Tempted to touch and hold you, he controlled his impulses, knowing it was too soon for his hands to explore your curves yet this is the most skin he's seen of you.

You lie down on the bed, laughing and smiling to everything that went in your beautiful mind. Soon you dial your best friend and start off a conversation. Seungcheol senses this was a grave mistake, because phonecalls are obviously long. He had no choice but to stay inside until you're distracted. He facepalms himself, and slowly leans towards the side. You put the phone on speaker while you do your post shower rituals, moisturizing yourself in view of the full length mirror.

"Is Seungcheol home right now? Or should I say your husband" your friend teases you

"Good lord, no he's not. Infact a business trip awaits his presence"

"Tch that's sad. No wonder why you're calling me and not him"

"My man's busy. Sometimes I just hope come early one day and catch me like this? My mind goes places whenever I get out of shower and think of him coming in without notice" you smile coyly "darling you're on my to-do list tonight" you chuckle. Seungcheol could only smirk, after hearing your fantasies.

"Honey you're too inexperienced for this" she retorts

"Inexperienced my foot, I miss my husband already.... and safe to say I actually love him" you sigh.

"Have you told him about your feelings? Have you told him you've never been laid and are deprived" Seungcheol closely listens to everything, occasionally holding his laughter.

"No" you pout again, falling on your back, unaware of seungcheol who was shamelessly hearing you, while admiring your raised chest, that was swollen out off the unknown feelings of you, from him.

"I want to. Everytime I look at him, I want to tell him  'oh Cheollie I love you' " you laugh with your friend, "I'm seriously in love with him and it scares me how quick and sudden it all was. And now its- he's giving me mixed signals. Sometimes he's distant, and sometimes he makes me the most lucky woman ever. I want to tell him I love him, I just don't know when or how" you continue

"Dont say anything. Just go on your honeymoon, and sit on his face, the 2nd hour. Afterall actions speak louder than words"  both of you laugh heartily. Seungcheol breathes out a laugh yet onto it, knowing it's over if he's caught.

"Tell me about it" you sigh.

"Seriously! Talk with him and confess! Since when did you become such a big pussy"

"Honey I'm the one with the pussy"

"Goddamn, you- seriously- talk to him. What if he s involved in someone else the time you say the words"

You went silent, the thought just made you sit back up, nd think about it. Could he really have someone else?

"I...highly doubt that. My mother-in-law said he's never really had a serious relationship, since he was focused on training back then"

"Honey its not written on your face that you've never had a man, it aint written on his face that he may have a potential girlfriend before you. What you'll be doing then?" Your friend continues "I hope he's not doing this out of sympathy, considering that whole incident"

Again you felt numb all over, it would've killed you inside out if the signs of Seungcheol's empathy and love was all out of sympathy. However you shake your thoughts, and put a heavy heart on your words, "Then what I'm the one who married him, and I get to choose if I stay or take the other way"

Seungcheol gulped, knowing time is definitely ticking and if he still don't do anything, he'll surely regret.

"Atta girl!"

Suddenly Kkuma runs out from underneath your bed and into the bathroom, and you chase her. "Ahhhhh kkuma stop you frenzy lil- I'll call back later" you chase your daughter, and Seungcheol seeks this as a perfect opportunity to escape.

"Kkuma!!!! That's your dad's favorite shampooo aaa!" You exclaim. Seungcheol takes this opportunity to sprint out of the room, laughing a little at your banter. The smile plastered on his face was priceless. His chest heaved with happiness, ego swollen with pride, heart relieved and thrilled with all the revelations. If he knew anything as a businessman, it was to have a plan. He needs to be prepared for everything beforehand and time was a precious investment. And it was finally time he need to make his first move.

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"Are you interested in accompanying me to this business trip?" Seungcheol asks, out of the blue during breakfast.

"Well, I don't see exactly why wouldn't I" you raise your brows "thought I'd say no"

"Hey hey, it's not that! I just wondered if you'd be up for some adventure, that's all."

"Adventure, huh?" you reply, pretending to ponder dramatically. "Hmm, only if you promise to bring some fun into this 'business' trip."

He smirks, tapping his fingers on the table. "Deal! I'll make sure it's the most adventurous business trip you've ever been on" you're aware of your husband's antics, and it's evident he's brewing something.

You laugh, finding his playful demeanor contagious. "Alright then, you've got yourself a travel buddy. But you better keep your promise, Mr. Businessman."

Seungcheol winks, flashing you a charismatic smile. "Oh, don't you worry, Mrs. Businesswoman. It'll be an unforgettable journey" Kkuma barks in excitement

"Exactly Kkuma" he cheers.

You couldn't help but smile, at how domestic life has turned ever since the coast is clear between you two. The idea of being overseas with Seungcheol sparked a new imagination for you.

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Whoever said travelling is easy, it never is.

After hours of a tiring flight, you found yourself in Singapore, the astonishing city of tourism. The sights were indeed beautiful, with city skyscrapers and landscapes that mesmerized you. The fresh air was a welcome change, adding a touch of excitement to this trip. Your husband, with his penchant for luxury, had chosen a hotel room at a height, providing a stunning view of the city and the rivers below."It must be even more beautiful at night," you thought, taking in the scenery.

Seungcheol's voice broke through your thoughts, and you turned to see him leaning against the doorway, arms crossed, looking incredibly attractive in his white shirt.

"Like what you see?" he teased, clearly enjoying the attention he was receiving.

"Sure I do," you replied with a nervous smile, trying to contain your admiration for him.

"I'll shower first then! I'll be heading out soon, so please order lunch for me as well," he said, scrunching his nose playfully before disappearing into the bathroom.

Following his request, you ordered lunch and kept yourself busy taking pictures of the breathtaking views from your room. Lost in the beauty of the city, you were interrupted by the doorbell, and to your surprise, there stood Seungcheol, clad only in sweatpants, with the towel hanging around his shoulders. You tried your best to keep composure "Oop! Quite a timing, lunch is here" you tried to maintain eye contact but it was hard; both for your eyes to keep to his face, and for his nipples to remain soft in the chilly air of the A/C. It was thrilling and embarassing, considering you now know what he is inside that white shirt he always wears.

"Sure, Thanks. Heard my phone ring" he walks over to the side table for his phone "I'll be quick" he chuckles knowing the effect he had on you. You swore you felt tingles everywhere, and bury your face in your hands, hiding the flusters of your red face and feels. Unbeknownst to you, Seungcheol could see your flustered reactions through the reflection of the window; full enough to capture the city's highlights. He knew he has unlocked a new level.

"Sure this journey will be unforgettable"

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While Seungcheol's been busy attending meetings and chats with his clients, you took this opportunity to explore the city's famous landmarks, enjoying some street shows, and a visit to art galleries and ice cream parlors. The times he's available, he shines as usual; enjoying different flavors, mingling with the dancers, and spending like anything on ferris wheel rides, and to exquisite places you've either seen on searches, or never heard of it.

"So Mrs Businesswoman how are you enjoying your stay so far?" He inquires, leaning rowards the railings of the bridge.

"Amazing, you really know how to explore, Mr Dora" you smile. "How long is your business work though?"

"Why is it? Don't you like it here?" He frowns

"No no, it's that you must be tired commuting back and forth, just making sure you don't get sick"

"Don't worry, besides, weren't you the one to be enthusiastic about a honeymoon" he looks up at the starry sky. An instant realization came to you

"Ooh.... I-damn you sneaky lil I should've known why would you ask me to accompany you all of a sudden" you squint at him "I'm not complaining though. You have quite an elite taste" you smile

"Then lets go get dinner and we'll chill on some champagne later" the idea sounds wonderful already. Seungcheol holds your hand, and your heartbeat accelerated at this gesture

"You don't mind...this do you?" He asks, eyes glistening with innocence as if he doesn't tease you every morning.

"No, Honey" you smile. Despite Seungcheol's occasional flirty tactics, you realized that he had eyes only for you.

The next hour after a delicious dinner, you were in shower, and decided to make him suffer twice the time he does, so you come out in slippers, and a piece of towel barely covering your body, just enough to enhance your curves. Your husband who was pouring champagnes, turns around, to his absolute shock, he was foaming, eye-fucking you. You instantly knew you hit the bullseye.

"Forgot my toner here" you smile innocently, and unintentionally fulfilling your fantasies. Whatever was hard, was definitely not because of the temperature. Soon you return in just an oversized shirt and some shorts, that has been your usual night-fit. He hands you your glass, looking a bit horny. There was silence. Quite a sexually tempting one. Lights were dim, the view was spectacular.

It's when he realized he's had enough and pulls you on top of him, your lingerie-less body hitting his hard chest

"God..Seungcheol what is-"

"I'm I hav- Oh god I don't know how to say this" he contemplates, as you see his soft lips between his teeth

"What the hell you're the one to pull me on you" you roll your eyes

"Sorry I'm I-"

"Never mind" you hold his face and attach your lips with his. To be frank, you've had tolerated enough and it's time you do sit on his face.

The synchronization of your lips moving with his, was very perfect for a first time. You kept on kissing and kissing, exploring every inch of his mouth until he pushes you for a catch of breath. You flutter your eyes open and smile, slowly transcending to a laugh

"God you're so...menacing" he speaks "about time you finally do what you said to your frien-" he stops knowing he said a little too much. You look at him in shock "does that mean you-"

"Sorry" he nervously says. You squint your eyes at him again, very suspiciously "how much did you listen"

"Everything" he confessed "it was unintentional, you were busy on the call and I came for something then I forgot common sense. Sorry" he apologizes. You knew the cat had been out of the box, you were unable to notice it. You sigh, after a quick contemplation

"Well, it's no secret anymore. Here I'll say it fir-" he puts a finger on your lip, switching positions, where he is on top of you now. It earned a small squeak from you, yet you felt your core getting a bit wet by how attractive that was. His leg rested between yours.

"Let me" he stares in your soul. You gulped, kind of getting wet by how his built is hovering on you.

"Y/N, I'm foolishly, in fucking love with you" the sudden profanity made you grin a little harder, all while he strokes a loose strand off your face "honestly. I can't believe it took me this long to express my..sheer love for you, y/n. Back then, i would've died without you but now I...would die for you. I can't imagine a world without you, so if you please let me be yours forever?"

"I hated every inch of air I shared with you then, and how we were just bonded without sharing a hello" you smile, cupping his face "I never imagined I'd find every moment with you, so profound. Every minute with you was magical, and it only concludes how destined we are for each other"

"I love you Seungcheol"

"I love you too..."

With that, he took the "action speak louder than words" a little too serious. His lips wrestle for dominance with yours, and the thigh that was calm, started stirring up a storm between your legs, as he continuously grinds on you. You pull onto the hem of his shirt, and he immediately does, while his hands explore your body inside your shirt. He slowly makes his way from your lips to your neck. Everything felt so ecstatic; it was your new high. You clenched onto the soft pillows for dear life, when Seungcheol slides himself into your oversized shirt, his lips between the valley of your perky breasts, craving his attention. He admires every inch of your perfectly created body.

"Stop...teasing" you moan. He feigned ignorance, continuing to play with your sensations. He pulls you up by your back, and swiftly removes the shirt and throws it on the floor. "There's no stopping me tonight y/n," is the last thing he says before pinching your nipples, and making the best use of his mouth on them. He enjoys hearing the profanities escape your lips, and how your voice changes upon pleasure.

You push him by his shoulders and get down on him, sliding the waistband of his shorts down to his knees, his dick springing high on your face. You gaze at his length before mindlessly taking every inch in your hands. "You..you..do..nt hhhave to ddoo t-ohhh" he groans. "You don't tell me what to do...."

"Such a brat" he smirks, letting you rule his excitement. He felt his high, once you slowly took him in your mouth, taking in as much as you could without gagging (yet) it's a matter of time he shifts from a thread of "oh ffuckk" "you're doing it so good" to "I'm gonna cum" and it's when you stop. You hastily take your shorts off and slowly grind on him. Seungcheol was panting manic. He was a mess. The entire room reeked of lust and his musky scent overshadowing, with his sweat. It proved how much of an authority you held on him

"Slide all the way up to my face beautiful I don't bite"

That's all you needed for your dripping core to slide on his nose, to his mouth. His tongue did wonders. You were sure you wouldn't last long considering this is your first oral ever, and sure you didn't, his tongue toyed with your nerves, and used every "shits" "fucks" "oh cheol" as his drive to go deeper in your cunt. "I'll cum I'm cumming I-" you release on his lips, and like a man, he devours it all.

"Delicious"

"You...you sound like cand..candy crush for god's sake" you breathily chuckle, and he follows, slowly getting up, to position himself on you.

"Then allow me to...'smash' " he presses a tender kiss on your forehead, before entering your core. You squeezed his hand, asking him to be gentle and burying your face in his neck, fingers in his back. It felt so...weird the first few minutes, but as he slowly moves, the funky feeling, the pain, it all vanishes. It's all when you realize you're actually getting laid. The sounds you've never considered you'd make, were too loud, way too unholy. Seungcheol was holding your leg, and was going slow till you adjust to him. His low groans and breathy moans turned you on even further, where you move your head to face him and slap his arm

"Giv...give me e...every..thing, husband. Take me all the way up" you breathe out. It's when he increases his pace, once he received your green signal. The slow slaps, were now louder and faster. Your bed was also giving up on concealing it's squeaks. He holds you in his arms, and continues thrusting in you.

Nothing else in the world mattered but the pressure you felt in between your legs and your delicious heat wrapping around him, engulfing him in until he bottomed out. His head falling into the crock of your neck, whispering sweet nothings against it while he started to fuck you slowly.

“Y-You feel so good, so w-warm.” Seungcheol kissed you, feverishly, swallowing your moans. His soft lips whimpering against yours. “I want to be inside you forever.” His hips moving against yours slowly, making sure you could feel all of him inside you. His hands never leave from your back and pushed you against him, chests heaving against one another’s. You arched your back, gripping the blankets underneath you. "Oh Seungcheo...god....cheol..." you breathe. He continued tinting your neck with his masterwork, and swiftly positions you on all fours. The joy you felt by the way he dominated you, and messed with your fucked out state, was bringing you heaven. You go low, arms stretching towards the headboard, while he grabs them, locking them behind your back, and even going hard.

There was no stopping him, all while the whole city from your foggy windows witness you making love witb your husband.

"Look at yourself, love" he turns your head to the mirror on the right "look at us..mmm..." he moans in your ear his hand snaking in between your bodies searching for the little bud of pleasure. You scream in pure ecstscy.

He turns you around, so swiftly,  with his thumb hovering over it, the suspense had you withering, begging for him to touch you the only way he knew how. You whimpered feeling the ghost of his touch, your fingers tweaking at your nipple, sending a rush of pleasure through your body. "C..ch..chheoll..., mmm, I-I need to cum.” You pressed your chest into his back, turning your head all the way up, watching as his face contorted into pure bliss, his thrusts getting sloppier, his connected thumb with your clit and rubbing slow figure eight, constrasting the speed of his thrusts. You gasped raising your hips rocking against his hips and hand, feeling the sweet coil start to build up "im..fucking serious oh....my..."

"Release all on me, love" he demands amidst moans "Cum with me. Savour every drop of it" and it's all you needed to finally finish on him. He groaned finding your free hand and interlocking your fingers with his. You clenched around him. He was pumping as well, and you felt all warmth being filled inside you. Every thing about this was so surreal, so new, so perfect. You breathe as if you had run a marathon; a marathon of lust. Seungcheol hugs you, and stays inside you, caressing your head, showering you with compliments that you were brave and did well for your first time. The sense of encouragement brought tears to your eyes as you bury your face in his chest. He caressed your back with tender touches, and slowly lays you on your back, plopping down next to you.

"You're officially all mine" he kisses your shoulder. You hold his hand tightly, "you're mine as well, babe"

For the first time, you felt real comfort, real love, and an unimaginable intimate experience with your husband. And a shower too.

Seungcheol's heart hadn’t stopped palpitating since. His stomach erupted into butterflies whenever he had held you close throughout the immoral escapades the two of you had engaged in all night. He never wanted to let you go and now as he looked down into your glittering eyes with the heat of the golden sun rays hitting your sensitive bodies.

"Wake up husband"

"I think I want to sleep all day tonight" he shuffles closer to you.

"Oh who knew it would hard to wake my husband up from his slumber"

"Blaming on your irresistable charm" he squeezes your butt under covers.

"Owh! I'll need my own room again if you do th.." his hands cup your clothed core

"Hmmm...you were saying?"

"You.." you fail to form sentences once he starts rubbing your core, slow dense circles.

"Hands to yoursel..f or I'll bite" you whisper

"Oh, my damsel in distress" his voice is contagiously attractive;waste no time as he goes down on you undercovers.

═════════════════════

"We're really leaving Singapore as lovers" he chimes, an ear-to-ear grin fixed on, enhancing his dimples.

"Yeah if it weren't you to have the same traits as you family, you nosy lil witch" you exhale, standing in front of the fountains, almost nearing the airport

"I'm always nosy about everything" he smirks

"Honesty is not always the best policy Mr Choi"

He pulls you dangerously close "You have no idea, Mrs Choi"

"You need a haircut"

"All I'll ever need is...you" he holds onto you like a sloth on a branch, as you two harmonize in a melodious laugh.

It is you, he wants to tell everything to. He'll express his love for you, while he holds your hands in his.

And if there's eternal love, Seungcheol is that person for you.

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Thenkyoui for reading!! Stay bias wrecked by him <3

[amyhayanora]

KHOC WEEK 2024 Day 2 - Past

the things for my OCs are now the only ones I do, so, off with the annual @khoc-week appointment.😂

The protagonist of this post should have been Aspis, my little Anguis kid, but since Aspis is deeply connected to another character, it's probably better that I start with some headcanons I have about the Foretellers. Between those and the designs, at this point they feel a bit like OCs too. even tried to do a Nomura-esque version for the occasion.

The assumption is that the Foretellers were one of the many attempts on the chessboard of the Master of Masters to face the Darkness. He gathered under his protection a group of lonely and desperate kids, with a tormented past, acting in the grey area more than out of affection. He bet on them. He sought out children who possessed specific flaws of distinct deadly sins, trained them, and made them his apprentices on a journey designed to make them overcome their "sin" and use it as a virtue that will be essential to their future "roles." For example…

Gula, who lived on the streets as a feral child, has known hunger, and food is also how MoM attracted him. Gula suffered from bulimia and nervous hunger for years, before managing to direct his anxiety towards logic and study, becoming an analytical boy "hungry" for knowledge.

Ava, sold away by her once rich family fell in disgrace, wanted EVERYTHING back. everything she had lost, or that she wanted but could no longer afford. Mom was the one who has bought her, she's too young to understand the extent of the family tragedy. that's why she later was the perfect one for the task of choosing any wielder she desires or attracts her eye, without limits, collecting the Dandelion.

Aced has always used his muscles to win easily, alone, without effort and without ever really try to improving himself, until carelessness cost him his tribe and an eye… he is now a loyal follower and uses his strength to defend the group, the arm of the law under Ira.

Ira, balances strength in combat and intelligence, which are also the qualities of his union. stubborn and rebellious, as an angry teenager he ran away from home, losing his path. He was the first one found by Mom, and he owes him his life. He learned to control his anger because of him, obtaining determination, willpower and the courage that made him choose as Leader.

Luxu carried the burden of being an unwanted child, the result of an affair, from an early age he felt cursed by that because of a big birthmark on one eye that vaguely resembles an X. shy, insecure and reserved, people pleaser, until life with his apprentice companions brought out his mischievous and creative personality. His being a people pleaser made him incredibly attentive to the behavior of the people around him and the ideal candidate to infiltrate among people and live their lives, one after the other.

Finally, Invi.

like all the other foretellers, her name is more of a title. Her real name is Nivea, and she was isolated from her village because white hair was considered a bad omen. The resentment of having to survive alone, with a little brother to support, he too with lighter hair than was welcome, soon turned into Envy, gnawing at her insides every time Nivea stopped to observe the normality of other families, lurking and hating everyone but her brother Aspis.

MoM saved both, proposing a deal to Nivea: he would take care of them, they would have a roof over their heads, education, a future, as long as she studied under him.

With no other real choice, the children accept out of desperation.

Nivea and Aspis initially lived together, but as they grow older she is forced to uphold her end of the bargain, spending more and more time at the clocktower. Aspis and Nivea's relationship is ruined irreparably, as Invi begins to enjoy her studies and the company of her peers, spending less and less time with her brother "for a higher purpose".

On the other hand, Aspis, who has always remained silent about a subtle hostility from the inhabitants of Daybreak Town due to his bad temper and sharp tongue, is left almost alone. His only wish was not to be a burden to his sister, who therefore always believed everything was fine and let him go without regrets. Aspis is full of resentment towards Mom, blaming him for brainwashing his sister, now obsessed by Light and darkness, when she clearly only wanted a better life for them.

Aspis and Invi do not hate each other, but the lack of communication makes it difficult to make peace, they will miss their chance before the War.

Aspis eventually made some friends along the way, that made his loneliness bearable. he is in a sort of trio with Lupe and Leonna, and a little girl who for some reason adores him like a big brother, Velcia (she's @alchemist-of-thebes 's oc). he'll never admit it, but he would die for her.😂

concluding this post with some old foretellers art dump xD

[my-usernames-posts]

Why I will never get over Tian and Phupha

And no, its not because its outside the usual university/office context. (well yes it adds to the reason but hear me out).

Classic Thai BL is how a rich boy with issues meets poor boy with a big heart who gives him confidence to open his heart again. Jealous ex, old girl crush, second lead, poorly shown confusion about ones sexuality…. But this one? Almost none of it.

Well poor boy rich boy yes & no. Tian is a rich boy who is having a tough time coping with the prospect of death. He was not heartbroken from an ex…. he was genuinely frustrated from having no goals, a comfortable life with little room to aspire for more, no clue of his interests. And then he knows he might just die one day before he even gets to 30. Then one fine day Torfun’s unfortunate death saves his life. He feels burdended with guilt. A horrible guilt to live with. There was this young woman, with hopes, dreams, a desire to do good for the village kids. Because of his parents connections & wealth he not only cuts the line but also gets to prolong a life he was living aimlessly. Unhappily.

But now for the first time in his life, guilt it may be, drives him to actually do something. The near death experience pushes him to try something new & seek something in this second life that was bestowed upon him. Also notice how it’s not poor boy teaches rich boy there is so much to live for. Tian finds a reason to keep going by himself. Phupha was a sweet bonus on the side that made out worthwhile for him to stick around in a remote place (and as a city kid let me tell you living in such remote places semi permanently is hard for us. It’s a 360 degree lifestyle change)

And idk if it is Tian or Mix but he has this firm yet gentle feminine charatcter about him. He is just a little bratty with Phupa to get his attention. He doesn’t wait like the princess to be pursued, he initiates. But when hints are thrown at him he shows he picks on them and still plays just a little hard to get.

Also Phupha. Earth just does it so well as a reserved masculine lead 😂 but even then, him caring for Tian seems more of a protective instinct. It feels like at first he had this prejudice knowing who Tian is, that he wouldn’t be able to bear hardships. However at the same time he’s hit with the fact just how attractive he finds this man. Sure he must have given up on dating after being heartbroken losing his father…. But think about it. He’s near the border. Few colleagues & families in the village. There was Torfun. He knew she liked him. Although not explicit he was probably gay & could not afford to come out in such a tight knit village where many don’t understand it. They may not be homophobic, but they also may not understand what being gay is. And they keep telling him to get a “wife”. Then comes this man who is attractive, sassy AND into him? Phupha may not be this brooding masculine guy after all he might just be unaware of how to flirt confidently. Especially with a man.

Leaving aside the manufactured conflict which could’ve been done so much better…. Phupha is such a shy character. He doesn’t show much affection in public. And in Our Skyy 2 it is clear just how insecure he feels seeing Tian has moved & changed his lifestyle to suit him but he’s barely done that much of a lifestyle change for him. And the difference in social class makes it hard for him to see Tian’s parents. He must have worked so hard to get that diamond & plan the proposal w his parents🥹

And I love how genuine the ending feels. Tian gives his life abroad a chance & ultimately decides he wants to go teach in that village. Phupha knows he likes his job & sets Tian free saying he’ll wait for him but doesn’t expect him to return. It was not a real compromise on careers or dreams, but a natural draw they had towards each other & the place & its community.

[am-i-the-asshole-official]

AITA for refusing to be a surrogate mother for my ex?

IDK if the phrasing is ok, english is not my first language and I have a headache.

This was years back but I dreamt about it a couple of nights ago so it might still bother me.

My ex(25M) and me(25F) had a 2y relationship, we had known each other since middle school but became close and dated until college.

Those 2 years were nice and lovely, I have many good memories and wish him the best.

The last months were very rough, we were having problems and we weren't communicating, I won't go deeper into that.

I didn't know he was planning to propose because marriage was not talked often or at all for that matter. So, when I cut him off, in person, well it was obviously not nice. We still talked but he was very hurt.

A year or so later he told me he wanted to talk to me in private but I kinda had a feeling so I told him whatever he wanted to say my partner would know because we talk about everything.

He was hesitant but accepted.

He revealed he had been having health issues, doctors told him he had just a few years left. What he had exactly he didn't reveal.

He told me before that, yk, dying, he wanted to have a kid but not with anyone, it had to be me. (!?!?!?)

I was... Shocked and also very worried about him, but also what?

He hurried to clarify he would pay for in-vitro procedures so he was not asking for sex, he would pay and cover any expenses, I did not have to be the kid's parent, actually that it was better if they didn't learn about me at all. Nothing would be asked of me a side from lending my uterus and an ovary.

I have to clarify he was/is very dear to me, so I was not through the initial shock of learning he would die soon.

My reaction was probably a bit intense and fucked up. I asked the following:

Why would you ask to have a kid knowing you'll be gone soon??

What will happen to our kid when you pass?

Who will take care of them?

He told me it was almost all planned, his family would take care of the kid he just wanted to experience paternity and leave "a piece of myself" behind.

I thought it was bogus.

Why make that to a kid?

I understand having a kid is a big cornerstone for lots of people but if you know your life is ending why leave a kid behind on purpose? IDK it felt wrong.

It was already WILD for him to ask me, an ex, already in a relationship and a kid, to give him a baby just out of the blue without further explanations than "I'm going to die soon".

I told him I could not answer right away , I had to talk about this with my partner. I was already leaning heavily on denying as it all felt wrong.

When talking over this with my partner I noticed I was very concerned about this not even existing kid and I would not be able to keep myself away knowing they would be orphaned prematurely. So the answer was obvious.

When meeting again I tried to be very polite, I made it clear I didn't agree with his plan and I was not going to partake in it cause I felt it was unfair for the kid.

He was clearly hurt, tried to push a bit(not violence tho) to make me understand what he was going through and how this could be beneficial for his mental health.

It all ended there, he didn't take it well and was very disappointed.

Some additional info that could be relevant, we're now on our 30's, last time I talked to him it was 2 years ago and he seemed fine but almost never answers my messages checking up on him.

Him or his family are not rich nor am I so the concern of his elderly parents having to care for the kid was also a big factor.

He was never too big on having kids when we dated, so this came very out of the blue.

So, AITA for not giving my ex a kid knowing he would die young?

What are these acronyms?

[ailoda]

Okay so I had my biggest marvel phase a couple of years ago (my Loki obsession was insane 🙂↕️) BUT my dash has been full with Bucky stuff recently, and here I thought, who better to tell me all about the hype and convince me to start stanning him than you babe!! Soo… Any takes or fics to initiate me?👀 Any lore I should know besides the basic Steve bromance stuff? I’m all ears😌🫶🏻

Love ya💗

AGH, hello lovely! so nice to see your notif pop up in my feed as always, and thank you for coming to see a professional ;)❤️ buckle up buttercup, because this one might be a long one!

i’ll start with lore just in case you’re not too familiar: i’m not too sure on your knowledge of bucky as a whole (i imagine you have a brief idea if you’ve watched the mcu films?), but for most fics a general idea is fine. just in case you require an overview:

if we’re going with mcu bucky, then james buchanan “bucky” barnes started out as steve rogers’ bestie in the 40s. he fought in wwii (badass sniper), but fell off a train (classic). instead of dying, he got scooped up by hydra (moustache man’s nasty ass groupies), brainwashed, and turned into the winter soldier—an elite assassin with a metal arm (‘cause he lost his during his wobble off the train) and no memories of his former life. he spends decades like this, being popped out of cryo like a sad, murderous, ptsd-ridden crumpet whenever hydra need him. long story short, his boyf steve eventually helps him break free in a love-conquers-all-moment, but his very understandable and evident trauma doesn’t vanish overnight. his mcu arc (until marvel destroy it) is all about reclaiming his autonomy, his memory, and his morality while dealing with a world that still sees him as a weapon.

tldr: he’s a lil human disaster just trying his best 🥹

my proposal for why i think you should read for bucky:

*ahem*what to say to entice you into the world of bucky barnes fics?? with the amazing writers in the fandom, he’s like a walking trope buffet with the emotional baggage to back it up. you’ve got the angst of a bionic (anti/super)hero, the moral complexity of a charming lad who’s been tortured and brainwashed into killing people but still somehow retained his sassy side, and the enduring appeal of a man who’s been through literal hell, thawed, emotionally gutted, and still comes out the other side with a boatload of guilt—so whatever you’re looking for, there’s plenty of material to work with 😂 plus, the fandom has a tendency to treat him like our own patron saint of pain and fluff, so reading for him means you get the full range of his many layers: pre/post-war domesticity? post-war angst? avengers tower bullshit? soft moments with a cat he didn’t ask for but would most definitely die for? all a resounding TICK. basically a swiss army knife of a character that this fandom has managed to cultivate into a multifaceted, deeply rich person with so many different ways he can be written.

recommendations: BOY where do i start?? for people, @aquaticmercy is my holy grail for bucky across canon and au fics—such a diverse range of well-written, emotionally varied fics that you can’t go wrong. @pellucid-constellations is also a really strong and compelling writer for bucky, with some of my favourite series’ being from them! but i do have a page for my favourite marvel writers, as there’s so many to name—a lot of whom write excellent bucky fics.

my bucky library is my biggest character library, so i’d probably just refer you there for my (many) recommendations. my marvel favourites have a lot of my top bucky fics, so that would be another place i’d direct you to (i’m truly sentimentally attached to them). but my love for bucky fics started with 1940s!bucky, so any of the ones listed in that bit of my library are excellent starting points too!

hopefully this helps, and that i’ve convinced you to start ;) probs overkill but it should give you enough places to start the journey 🥰

aimee x

p.s. i PROMISE i’ll get round to answering your messages. my brain is a lil fried so please excuse the tardiness 🫶

[justinspoliticalcorner]

David Lurie at Public Notice:

For months, Trump campaign operatives have said they want their candidate to “stick to his economic policies.” Trump supporters have repeated that shibboleth even more lately as their candidate continues to shed the GOP’s typically large and reliable large polling advantage on economic issues.  Trump held a 12 point polling advantage over Biden on “the economy” in 2020 and had a lead of as high as 22 percent only months ago, but his lead over Harris on the economy may now only be five or six points and is likely still shrinking.    Contrary to the received wisdom, Trump’s problem is not that he speaks too little about his economic policies — it’s that his policies would be undeniably bad for the economy and for working Americans. And the more voters learn about what Trump is planning to do, the worse it is for him. 

This intractable problem stands to become even more serious for Trump as voters learn more about Vice President Harris’s policies, which actually speak to the concerns and needs of working people and families. Trump has been a clear and constant exponent of his economic program, which can be boiled down to three proposals. First, impose massive, and hugely inflationary, tariffs on imported goods, which will hit consumers directly in the pocketbook. Second, massively cut taxes, again, for the wealthy. And, finally, the mass round up of and deportation of immigrants, including those playing crucial roles in the growing economy. Trump never hesitates to advocate this three pronged “economic policy” during his rallies, and as he did (over and over) yesterday during a two hour “speech” before the Detroit Economic Club. The problem is that — outside of the xenophobes who constitute his hardcore base and the mega-wealthy bankrolling his super PACs — Trump’s proposals hardly resonate as a prescription for making the American economy better for most Americans.

These are not new ideas, and they have already been political failures. Trump’s sole major economic legislative “success” during his presidency was passing a historically regressive tax cut bill that increased income inequality while ballooning the deficit. To the chagrin of the GOP, which was used to reaping political benefits from tax cuts, the public smelled a rat and punished Republicans at the polls in the 2018 midterms for Trump’s giveaway to the rich. For many months of the current campaign, the politically problematic nature of Trump’s economic “program” was obscured by the focus on inflation. But as inflation has receded, Republicans increasingly have had to face the question of whether an economic policy that is substantially comprised of strategies that have failed politically before can be made into a winner by the “populist” Trump ticket. While it may have escaped the notice of the mainstream press, the weakness of Trump’s economic policy proposals was on full display during the recent vice presidential debate between Tim Walz and JD Vance. Instead of defending the actual MAGA agenda during the debate, Vance sounded more like the champion of government intervention on behalf of the disenfranchised he claimed to be before his cynical conversion to the Trump cult.

[...]

Trump wants to peddle hate, not discuss economic policy

The economic policy problem for the Trump campaign made evident by Vance’s debate performance is only becoming more obvious as we approach the final weeks of the campaign and the candidates spend more and more time in the industrial Midwest, which has been a singular focus of the Biden administration’s infrastructure and industrial development initiatives.

As Greg Sargent has detailed, Vance and Trump have been doubling down on their opposition to the hundreds of billions of dollars in tax credits, loans, and grants resulting from Biden/Harris initiatives, including the Inflation Reduction Act. Large portions of those funds are headed to the industrial Midwest, where thousands of new jobs are being created in clean energy manufacturing. Economic development of this sort is particularly crucial to the future of the Michigan-centered US automotive industry, which — as Trump himself acknowledges — is at risk of ceding electric automobile manufacturing (the undisputed future of the industry) to China. The Detroit News revealed that some people seen wearing “Auto Workers for Trump” shirts behind Vance at a recent Michigan rally were not autoworkers. That episode served as a reminder of when Trump — a staunch opponent of organized labor who has boasted during recent speeches about stiffing employees who worked for him — held an event at a non-union plant during the UAW strike before non-union workers holding signs reading “union members for Trump.”

The economy, which the Republicans have historically led on, has been chipped away at by the Harris/Walz ticket.

[fanficsfreeideas]

Wings of Rebellion

Redeem/Heaven Alastor Day 1 Taking Over Heaven

The corridors of Heaven shimmered with a timeless, otherworldly radiance, every arch and floor bathed in a divine glow that whispered of ancient serenity and harmonious unity.

Yet for Alastor, this infinite calm was an unbearable prison. Born amid the clamor of chaos and thriving in pandemonium, the endless, pristine peace suffocated him with its sterile monotony.

He stood confidently in the heart of paradise as he surveyed his newfound home. Dressed in a sharply tailored blue suit, his signature grin gleamed mischievously as if daring the heavens themselves.

“Ah, well,” his voice crackled like an antique radio finally finding its signal. “When I first heard that Heaven was ‘blissful,’ I never imagined it would be so damn literal.”

His words rippled through the gathering of angels, whose faces strained with unease. They had come to welcome a soul into paradise, yet here stood a redeemed sinner whose very presence challenged everything considered sacred.

There was something unsettling about this newcomer that even the bravest among them couldn’t shake; perhaps it was the unsettling gleam in his eyes or the way his shadow seemed to move independently.

Stepping forward with measured grace, Gabriel held his golden trumpet gently in one hand. “Alastor,” he intoned resolutely, “we welcome you to Heaven. Your soul has been weighed and found worthy of redemption.”

A mischievous, almost dangerous smile spread across Alastor’s face. “Well, isn’t this a delightful twist! And here I was, set to sing and dance my way into earning my wings. Surely, not even a tap routine was in the cards?” His chuckle rang out, both charming and disconcerting in its underlying promise of chaos.

Gabriel’s expression remained stern and unwavering as he continued, “However, you must now abide by the laws of Heaven. Your past is forgiven, yet we shall watch you closely.”

“Oh, of course, of course!” Alastor replied with a dismissive wave of his hand, his tone light as if the laws of Heaven were mere suggestions. But even as he spoke, his mind raced with subversive possibilities.

They presumed that forgiveness could erase the weight of his former life, a stroke of the pen and a nod of the head. Yet, Alastor vowed inwardly not to let them forget his true nature. If they refused to embrace the full complexity of who he was, he would remind them slowly, not through overt might but with an intoxicating blend of charm, wit, and clever stratagem.

In just a few fleeting weeks, Alastor’s beguiling presence ignited a revolution in the meticulously ordered realm of Heaven. At first, his changes were subtle, a few jazzy interludes woven into the celestial symphonies, a splash of spontaneity here and there.

Soon, he began hosting soirées reminiscent of the “Roaring Twenties,” complete with lively Charleston rhythms and evenings steeped in the flair of a “Vaudevillian Delight.”

The angels, initially hesitant and steeped in ancient decorum, soon found themselves irresistibly drawn to his magnetic charisma. His rich, contagious laughter infused new life into their timeless routines, and his innovative ideas painted the heavens with vibrant strokes that even the most conservative among them could not ignore.

Yet Alastor's ambitions stretched far beyond throwing parties. As he lounged on a cloud and sipped a heavenly cocktail one evening, he mused aloud, “If I want to truly reign over Heaven, I must inspire desire among its inhabitants. And who better to lead them than one who has mastered the art of both chaos and order?”

His subtle revolution continued to unfold. He proposed new methods to manage the flow of incoming souls, streamlining the process and eliminating delays at the pearly gates.

He introduced reforms to the outdated hierarchy, inviting lower-ranking angels to participate in decision-making processes that had long been the privilege of only the most exalted.

His boldest, most unorthodox move was the establishment of a “Voice of the People” council, a forum where the ‘winners’ themselves could voice their concerns and offer suggestions, creating a more dynamic Heaven.

From afar, Gabriel and Michael watched with a mix of awe and trepidation as Alastor’s influence steadily eclipsed the old order. Michael’s grip tightened on his gleaming sword as he murmured, “He’s consolidating power, piece by piece. We must act before his charm brings more than just merriment.”

Gabriel’s gentle voice wavered with uncertainty, “What are we to do? Banish him? He hasn’t transgressed any laws; in fact, his changes have improved Heaven in many ways. The others hold him in high regard.”

“They fear him, and rightly so,” Michael countered grimly.

Alastor’s ascent, which he theatrically dubbed his “coronation,” unfolded not as a hostile takeover but as a transformation borne of unanimous admiration. Swayed by his visionary charisma, the angels collectively elected him as the new steward of Heaven.

With an extravagant, theatrical bow, he proclaimed, “Ladies and gentlemen of the divine, I am humbled to accept this magnificent honor. Together, we shall transform Heaven into a sanctuary that truly celebrates new life!”

To Michael’s astonishment, Alastor delivered on that promise.

Under his ingenious leadership, Heaven blossomed into a vibrant existence. The once-staid, predictable paradise was overhauled with festivities celebrating life, creativity, and spontaneous joy.

Souls found renewed meaning in their eternal afterlife as they engaged in artistic projects, collaborative endeavors, and jubilant celebrations that resonated with the colors of existence.

Even the solemn angels, whose duties had long been defined by ceremonial rituals, learned to laugh heartily, dance freely, and embrace the beautiful unpredictability of life.

The transformation was undeniable; even Michael, once staunchly skeptical of Alastor’s unconventional methods, conceded one day to Gabriel as he observed Alastor teaching a group of cherubs the energetic steps of swing dance. “He’s... not what I expected,” Michael admitted softly.

Gabriel, his eyes twinkling with cautious hope, replied, “No, but perhaps he is exactly what we needed.”

Alastor surveyed his transformed kingdom with pride and a tinge of mischief. Heaven, while always a beacon of perfection, had evolved into something richer, a living, breathing testament to the vibrancy of existence.

“They believed they could redeem me,” he mused with a lingering chuckle and a smile widening with the certitude of his vision, “but little did they know, it is I who will be the one to redeem them.”

[an-inspired-eternity]

Shuffle AU Summary

These are the groups of my PRSK Unit Shuffle AU! They each loosely correspond to the genre of the groups in official PRSK, but naturally with more of their own styles and spins.

Different group set-ups means different dynamics, and while some canon dynamics remain (or are even strengthened), not every one will take the same form, if they remain at all.

Under the cut, I will send their logos and give some additional info as needed! Note that I have.. more developed for some of these guys than others.

First, Juvenile/Glory! J/G is a kind of a rock band (I am not in this kind of music scene, bear with me a little bit sghfdfh), initially formed by Airi and Ichika, Airi ends up dragging Ena and later Akito into playing/performing with them.

Airi meets Ichika at Miyajou, and ends up befriending the somewhat shy girl. She learns of how Ichika once had a dream of being in a band with her childhood friends, but explains they all drifted apart so she never got the chance. 

Upon hearing this, Airi proposes the two form a band together, it might not be with her childhood friends, but this is better than nothing right? To get more numbers, Airi ends up inviting her long-time friend Ena, who bitches and moans but ultimately agrees to at least try (even if she laments having to change her classes and sleep schedule.) 

It’s during their first practice sessions that something changes- the group suddenly find themselves the ability to access a new world- their SEKAI, a underground metro type areas with shop stalls- and gorgeous wall art that stuns Ena, it inspires her to keep up with the occasional art piece. 

The three are doing well, but they find something’s.. missing, in their band, particularly vocally- not that any of them were bad singers, it just felt like there was a kind of sound missing from them that none of them could fulfill. That’s when Airi had the suggestion for Ena to invite her brother to sing with them.

Ena, once again, bitches and moans at the idea of having to work with her brother, but Airi is stubborn and insistent, so she eventually gives in and asks Akito. Akito also bitches and moans, but once again, Airi is relentless, so he offers to try. That’s when things begin to click together for the group. Akito had experience with music but had ultimately not gotten as far as he did here than he did with canon due to being less invested in Rad Weekend and also having never met Toya. The two siblings bicker a lot at first, but end up finding they enjoy having something to do together that their dad can’t ruin.

(Akito was technically to their SEKAI first but ala those dream visits in the main story prologues, and only properly got introduced to it later from Ena and/or Airi bringing him.)

J/G’s main vocaloids, Miku not withstanding, are Rin and Meiko! Intentionally pulling from VBS here, I don’t have much in mind for the J/G vocaloids at this time, although I do think Akito’s relationship with the Kagamines here is similar to that of canon Akito with the VBS Kagamines, something Ena is very entertained by.

Second up we have SWEET SYNDROME! SS is a idol group, half composed of newcomers and half composed of veterans- starting as a pair with Emu and Honami, they ended up taking Mafuyu and Shizuku in, forming a proper group.

Emu and Mafuyu met as young children, when Mafuyu got lost on a trip with her mom to PXL. Emu found the lost Mafuyu on her own, and with the help of her older family members, she helped Mafuyu to reunite with her mother.

Mafuyu’s mom was angry at first, for Mafuyu wandering off- but realized the one who had found her was the daughter of the rich and highly influential family that ran the park. Thinking that this would be good both for her own image, as well as the family being a possible good influence for her daughter, she allowed the two to remain friends.

Mafuyu ended up being entered into many child pageants at a young age, a early exposure to stardom. Once she got older, her mother began working to get Mafuyu into a idol agency, where Mafuyu could gain fame as a beautiful and elegant young lady, just how her mother raised her. Mafuyu lost sight of what who her true self and tastes were, molded by her mom to be the perfect girl her agency would want.

Emu and Mafuyu had grown a little apart during all of this, but Emu still treasured her friendship with Mafuyu, and as Mafuyu became an idol- she admired her. Less familiar with the darkness happening backstage, Emu had begun training and auditioning to become an idol in hopes of maybe getting to make people smile just like her dear friend- maybe even getting to do so together, too!

It wasn’t easy, she found she wasn’t what a lot of people were searching for. But she kept trying! And trying! And eventually while she was practicing during a break period at school, she was approached by her classmate Honami, who asked about what she was doing, and upon being told, if she could join too. Thus the two girls had become a pair.

Honami’s help had been deeply needed, as with the two now working together, they decided to start their own group- albeit a small one not capable of much. But word got to Mafuyu, and Emu explained what she had wanted- to sing and dance for people to make them smile just like her! And something stirred in Mafuyu, feelings the girl thought herself incapable of still having.

That was the key to their SEKAI- a museum that framed idols in a bit of a dark view, like they were only something to stare at and admire with no free choice of their own. Emu didn’t like it, she didn’t agree with that idea of what being an idol meant. Idols are supposed to make people happy, and that includes other idols! 

It’s this thought process that helps them additionally reach Mafuyu’s school friend and felllow idol Shizuku. Shizuku had been close to giving up on being a idol herself due to the pressure and how unliked she felt for being “too perfect”, but the positivity of Emu and Honami had encouraged her to not give up, and thus Shizuku becomes the third member of SWEET SYNDROME.

Mafuyu’s mother was their biggest opponent, holding a growing distaste for the way the youngest Otori child had never seemed to grow out of her childish demeanor, but where she “failed”, her older siblings grew into mature responsible adults, people who could be good influence to her daughter and maybe send their youngest sister onto their respectable path instead.

But the group made their attempt, an effort to please Mafuyu’s mom in order to allow Mafuyu to work with them. She was very hesitant to allow Mafuyu to join, given her less than great feelings towards Emu- but her view of Shizuku and Honami, two more “mature and responsible” figures in the group, softened her resolve, and ultimately lead to her agreeing to the group’s formation.

SS’ main and only starting virtual singer is Miku. A quiet and somewhat odd version of the Virtual Singer, who clung to Mafuyu’s side a lot, but otherwise mostly kept to herself at first- occasionally leaving the main area of the museum to sit alone on the stage and sing to herself.

Third on the roster we have Spring CIRCUIT! A live show/street music group.. and also admittedly the one I’ve developed the least. The group was formed, a bit shakily, by Nene and Kohane, having witnessed one of Shiho and Haruka’s performances. It’s also something of a second chance, for Nene and Haruka. 

Haruka, after quitting ASRUN, found she had missed singing, and ended up looking into alternative activities she could enjoy- and found the similar-but-different-enough world of live shows. Through this as well, she met a classmate from Miyajou, Shiho, who had been doing solo shows on her own. They realized they had similar interests (plushies lmao) and something of a friendship and partnership formed.

Kohane, like in canon, was a bit of a drifter, not quite having any activity she could commit herself to, and Nene had been fearful to return to being on stage in any capacity since the incident from when she was in younger- going as far to deny her childhood best friend’s offer to join the more private group he’d formed.

But fate ended up bringing these two together, having been out on errands when they came across a venue mid live-show, with Shiho and Haruka performing on stage. It sparked something in them both- Kohane a urge to try singing and live shows, and Nene a urge to sing again- even if not in a play. 

Shiho was quick to bounce and go on her way- not one for small talk, but Nene and Kohane had the chance to talk with Haruka, in which the pair both came to her about their newfound inspiration- and also subsequently realized they both had been inspired. 

Haruka had given them a light warning about Shiho’s distant cold and demeanor, explaining she’s nicer than she appears, but that she has to warm up to you first. Past that however, Haruka was willing to work with and train them- and it was at this moment their SEKAI appeared- a large expansive arcade within it was a chill Miku and a strong aura’d but otherwise very polite Luka- who had a taste for photography that she and Kohane were quick to bond over.

It takes a bit, for Shiho to warm up to these new members Haruka picked up. Nene finds herself struggling to gain the courage to sing with all her heart again- but seeing how hard Kohane, a complete newcomer to all this, is trying, it inspires her. She’s done this before, she can do it again. That’s how the two manage to impress Shiho, and the group finaly becomes a full quartet.

Fourth on the list and second to last is Echo-Show! A theater troupe situated at the Wonder Stage of PXL! Run by Tsukasa, this group was formed along the way by Tsukasa’s basically sibling figures he collected along the way.

It starts with a hospital- specifically, a hospital housing Saki Tenma and a Mr. Yoisaki. Tsukasa, ever the dutiful older brother, visited his sister whenever he could afford to- but during one such trip, he met a odd girl. Her silver hair seemed to reach to her knees, the girl clearly hadn’t been doing well- physically or mentally.

Tsukasa quickly got to what he did best- making people happy. He doesn’t quite get a laugh, but the girl smiles, and he considers that a win. Tsukasa introduced himself, and the girl introduced herself back in turn- saying that her name was Kanade and that her only living parent was in a coma- something Tsukasa offered his condolences for. 

The two became friends, and Tsukasa found himself visiting and checking on Kanade every so often. (In addition to Honami being Kanade’s housekeeper). Later on, Tsukasa had finally gotten his chance to form a troupe, having auditioned and been hired to perform at a small stage in PXL called the Wonder Stage, courtesy of the youngest Otori daughter. 

Tsukasa found himself a bit.. shit out of luck in regards to actors. His sister had been scooped up already- but he turned to his brother figure, Toya- Toya had recently defied his father, quitting classical music and looking for his own thing he wanted to do. Tsukasa reached out to Toya, asking if he wanted to join his troupe. 

Toya was a bit nervous, not having ever really been part of the shows Tsukasa put on for him and Saki as kids, but he wanted to give it a try. Plus he thought it would be something his dad would hate, which was a spiteful little bonus for him. This was one more addition to Tsukasa’s crew, but he didn’t think just the two of them was enough to work with, so he reached out to Kanade- who had become something of a sister to him.

Kanade vehemently did not want to perform on stage at first, but Tsukasa was understanding enough to say they’d start small in anything physical so that Kanade could work her body strength up. She could also help with any technological stuff behind the scenes as well- which is something she’d enjoy doing a lot more.

Their first test show wasn’t a huge hit (but not QUITE to the disastrous level of WXS’ first show LMAO), however it did attract the attention of one Minori Hanasato, who ends up being really into the show and their ideas behind it. Tsukasa, ever the resourceful one, basically scoops Minori up into the troupe.

There were.. incidents, involving the start of their fully formed troupe- Toya taking extra blame on himself and thinking he was bringing the group down, backing away for a while. (IE: the whole thing in the VBS main story where Toya questions his own resolve and Akito has to chase him down and prove otherwise.)

Last, but certainly not least (I would know, they’re the favorite child of this AU.) is House of Outcasts! A group youtube channel dedicated to doing skits and plays online. (Inspirationally I was thinking of both Starkid, as well as the Man On The Internet channel- or rather a less specifically gaming centered version of them). 

The group starts with Rui and Mizuki, two lonely souls who connected in middle school over their shared isolation and disconnect from their peers. Deemed too "weird" to fit in amongst them. This friendship carries into Mizuki’s first year and Rui’s second year of high school- Rui having recently transferred to Kamikou to get away from a suffocating prestigious school he’d been at for his first year.

Rui had his solo live shows he’d try every so often, but the story begins when Rui comes to visit Mizuki and show them the most recent idea he had- Mizuki finds themselves very impressed, and explains that with their abilities in editing software, they could probably post Rui’s show online and get decent publicity with it.

So Rui and Mizuki end up forming their group- and after a bit of time Rui offers to Mizuki that they could perform with him, if they were comfortable doing so. Mizuki is hesitant at first, afraid that people online would be judgemental, but gives it a try and finds that not only is it more fun than they thought- but most people watching didn’t seem to care.

That’s when their SEKAI appeared. A rooftop building underneath a fantastical sky of stars and the moon- a light energy not unlike a child’s imagination to offset the aching familiarity a rooftop brought the pair. It was there they found a sisterly Miku, and a excitable Len- who reminded Rui, painfully so, of his younger child self. It was a safe place- somewhere the two would be accepted and not judged. 

Things went on mostly as normal, in spite of the strange world they’d uncovered, and Mizuki ultimately invited their friend and classmate An into the group- An was more of a street musician than a street actor, but with a low activity in her search for the perfect partner, she ends up slotting into the group. Rui and An aren’t on the best of terms at first- not to say they didn’t like each other, it was just hard for the two to work on each other’s wavelengths. But they had managed.

It was later on then that they found Saki. The group had been out on a shopping trip when Saki spotted and recognized them, excitedly explaining that she was a huge fan and that their shows reminded her a lot of the ones her brother used to do for her- but a lot more in a style she really enjoyed. Hearing this, Rui ended up offering her to come aboard and perform with them, and Saki happily took it.

[theink-stainedfolk]

The General's Bride

---

The grand hall was brimming with tension as nobles and officials gathered under the gilded ceiling. The emperor sat atop his throne, his expression a mask of feigned indifference, though his sharp gaze darted between his court like a predator watching prey. Jian sat at the far end of the table, his delicate features serene, hands resting lightly on his lap. No one paid him much attention—just the forgotten "daughter" of the emperor, after all.

Luo Xingchen stood by the side, his imposing presence commanding respect, though his eyes flicked toward Jian every so often, warily watching his supposed spouse. He knew better than anyone that there was more to Jian than met the eye.

The council was in an uproar, bickering over the impending grain crisis. A drought in the south had left villages on the brink of starvation, and the emperor's advisors squabbled over who should bear the cost of relief. The wealthiest dukes argued to deflect the burden onto the poorer provinces, while others suggested raising taxes across the board.

Jian remained quiet, his expression calm but distant, as if the matter didn’t concern him. Yet, beneath the surface, his mind worked like a finely tuned machine, analyzing every word, every gesture, and every opportunity.

"Your Majesty," Duke Wen said, his voice heavy with feigned loyalty, "surely the southern provinces can tighten their belts. They’ve survived worse. Why should the burden fall upon those who have earned their wealth through diligence?"

"Earned," Jian murmured under his breath, barely audible. Xingchen, standing nearby, caught the word and smirked faintly, though he didn’t betray his thoughts.

Another official, a staunch supporter of Duke Wen, chimed in. "Precisely! It would be unjust to punish the prosperous for the failures of the weak. Let them endure; it will teach resilience."

The emperor nodded slightly, seemingly swayed by their arguments. Jian could see the cracks forming in the court’s unity, and it was the perfect moment to strike.

He leaned forward slightly, his voice soft yet cutting through the noise like a blade. "Forgive me for speaking out of turn, but if I may offer a humble observation?"

The room fell silent, all eyes turning to him in surprise. Jian rarely spoke during council meetings. The emperor’s gaze narrowed, suspicion flickering in his eyes.

"Speak," the emperor said, his tone clipped.

Jian rose gracefully, his movements deliberate, as though every step was calculated to draw attention. "It strikes me as peculiar that those who claim to have 'earned' their wealth would so eagerly shirk their duties to the empire. Are we not all bound to serve our people, regardless of our station?"

A murmur rippled through the room, and Duke Wen’s expression darkened. "What are you implying?" he demanded.

Jian tilted his head, his lips curving into a faint smile. "Merely that the empire's strength lies in its unity. If the wealthiest among us cannot bear to part with a fraction of their riches for the greater good, what message does that send to our soldiers, who risk their lives daily for the safety of our borders? Should they, too, withhold their service in times of need?"

The nobles bristled, but Jian wasn’t finished. He stepped closer to the map spread across the table, his slender fingers tracing the southern provinces. "Furthermore, consider this: the south may be impoverished now, but it is also the empire's breadbasket. If we allow its people to starve, who will sow the fields next season? Who will fill the granaries that feed our armies? Short-sightedness today will cost us dearly tomorrow."

Xingchen watched silently, a flicker of admiration in his eyes as Jian’s words turned the tide of the discussion.

The emperor’s gaze hardened. "And what do you propose, Jian?"

Jian’s smile widened, though his eyes remained cold and calculating. "A compromise, Your Majesty. Let the wealthiest provinces provide an initial relief fund to stabilize the south. In return, they will be granted tax incentives for the next harvest season, ensuring their contributions are repaid with interest. This way, the burden is shared, and the empire remains united."

The room erupted into murmurs once more, but this time, the tone had shifted. Jian’s proposal was difficult to argue against—it appealed to both morality and self-interest, leaving his opponents with little ground to stand on.

Duke Wen scowled, but before he could protest, another noble spoke up. "It’s... a reasonable solution. Fair to all parties."

The emperor tapped his fingers on the armrest of his throne, his expression unreadable. Finally, he nodded. "Very well. Let it be as Jian suggests."

Jian bowed his head, his smile never wavering. "Thank you, Your Majesty. Your wisdom is unparalleled."

As the council dispersed, Xingchen approached him, his expression guarded. "That was impressive," he admitted grudgingly.

Jian glanced at him, his smile turning faintly smug. "Impressive, or necessary?"

"Both," Xingchen replied, his voice low. "But don’t think for a second that I didn’t notice what you were really doing."

Jian arched a brow, feigning innocence. "Oh? Do enlighten me, dear husband."

"You’ve just painted a target on Duke Wen’s back," Xingchen said, his tone sharp. "And you made it look like the emperor’s decision. If he retaliates, it’ll be against him, not you."

Jian’s smile widened, his dark humor glinting in his eyes. "Well, it wouldn’t be very intelligent to let my enemies see the knife coming, would it?"

Xingchen shook his head, a mixture of exasperation and reluctant admiration in his gaze. "You’re playing a dangerous game, Jian."

"Life is a dangerous game," Jian replied smoothly, brushing past him. "I merely play it better than most."

---

My ♡s: @paeliae-occasionally @willtheweaver @drchenquill @wyked-ao3 @the-inkwell-variable @corinneglass @seastarblue @frostedlemonwriter-deactivated2

[ranchthoughts]

Moments of ephemerality/permanence/YOLO/photography/voyeurism/control/hypocrisy/accountability etc. in Only Friends Ep. 10

last week's meta recap

Ephemerality and permanence (and YOLO and change)

Ray saying he is not addicted and he can stop drinking at any time - his dependence on alcohol is not permanent, he doesn't think there is a need to change, others believe there is a need to change

pointing out that some rehab centres are like resorts - appearing to the spoiled rich kid who wants to be pampered

Talk of death again between Sand and Ray ("I just don't want to sing at your funeral"), and from Ray's dad ("I don't want him to die like his mom")

Nick tells Dan to be chill about the kiss, the time was right, etc. (vs. Dan wanting to talk a bit more about the kiss and what it means); Nick says "We can kiss or have sex. We don't need to worry about it. We will part anyways in the end." (this relationship [all relationships?] is not lasting), Dan says he doesn't judge those who like to have fun but he seems to have more of an eye towards permanency than Nick; Nick refers to himself and Dan as players as he talks about being chill about their kiss

Nick's dad didn't think Nick's interest in animations would get him far in life

Top says if Mew tells him to go, Mew will never see him again (pretty much what Nick told Boston last week, which is interesting)

the doctor at the rehab facility asking about Ray's family history with alcoholism, both Sand and Ray's dad drawing explicit parallels between Ray's mother and Ray's drinking (the lasting and permanent effects of intergenerational trauma)

Boeing commenting to Mew "I know Top is your first love. Must be hard for you to cut ties with him" - the permanency of first love (and losing your virginity?), the idea that first love has more weight and staying power. Also reminds me of Top and others talking about how Ray will "always" be in love with Mew

Boeing saying he doesn't want Top back because he is tired of him (and tired of being Top's "sleeping pill")

Top proposing a trip and Mew saying he doesn't want to think that far ahead ("We don't know what the future holds"), similar to their earlier conversation about Top meeting Mew's moms and Mew saying who knows if they will be together still

Ray talking about Sand always there with him and helping him (the permanency of Sand), Ray talking about how no one ever wants to put up with him, that it takes patience to be with him (the impermanence of other people in Ray's life)

the permanency of photography again, with Boston's photos of Atom

second chances: Mew ready to give Top another chance, Boston and Nick giving it another go

Honesty, growth, and accountability

Following last week's surge in honesty (Nick to Boston, Sand and Nick, Ray and Sand, Mew and Ray, Mew to Cheum, etc.) we had some more this episode:

Ray making the first steps to go to rehab, and acknowledging the dynamic he and Sand have and what Sand has brought to his life (though not to Sand yet)

Ray throwing out some of his alcohol

Boston reconciling with Nick, being honest about missing him (and Nick being honest about missing him back), Boston saying he will take better care of the things he owns (Nick) in future

Nick and Dan having a conversation about their kiss

Nick being honest about his insecurities with Dan (no one liked him back or asked him out, the Kinky Head nickname, etc.)

Top and Mew talking at the pool and Mew being upfront about giving Top a second chance

Ray pushing Sand to talk to his dad, but acknowledging that it is not his place to make that decision for Sand, ultimately it is up to Sand if he doesn't want to

Ray's dad frankly confronting Ray about his alcoholism

Boeing telling Top straight up he initially approached Mew for revenge on Top but now he is legit into Mew (though of course, do we believe him)

This episode Mew says "People learn from their mistakes, don't they?". He was talking about wake boarding here but I mean, obviously that's not all he is talking about. And I think it provides a very good summation for the series - we've been wondering from the beginning if this show is about accountability, about these (young) characters learning from their mistakes and coming to terms with their actions having consequences (see some talk about that here, here, here, and here).

Consequences (and hypocrisy)

There was quite a bit about consequences this episode, as seems to be the theme for this latter half of Only Friends. Ray and Sand discuss consequences of Ray's continued drinking and make plans to go to rehab. Nick accepts the consequences of his actions and continues to pursue Dan and leave Boston behind. Top faces the consequences of his actions as Mew and Boeing meet outside his apartment door (and Mew and Boeing come up with a plan to exact further revenge).

The big example of consequences this week was the aftermath of Atom and Boston's hook up. After Boston made it clear last episode he agreed to a one time hookup and has no interest in repeating, Atom has been stewing. When Cheum finds him and asks what is wrong he lies and says Boston tricked him into going home with him, taking nude photos of him, and sleeping with him. Atom says he was drunk for the whole interaction and that Boston is blackmailing him with photos to get Atom to have sex with him again.

@wen-kexing-apologist talked about the respectability politics angle to this the other day, how Atom gets believed and Boston gets doubted because Atom has been "respectable" [monogamous] and Boston has been "suspicious" [promiscuous] in their sex lives thus far (though obviously, Cheum is coming at this from a very personal place of wanting to protect her brother, which is fully understandable, and initially has little reason to doubt her brother's claim) I pointed out Cheum's choice of wording in that scene ("Atom has always liked girls. What did you do to him?") and how it hearkens back to narratives of queer people as predatory, etc. Other people like @jojotichakorn (here) and @burnsuncomet (here) have written about that idea too.

I'd like to consider this through a consequences lens: Cheum, Mew, and Ray have accused Boston of sexual impropriety at minimum and rape at worst in front of a client (depends on how long the client was listening in). Boston has been hiding his sexuality and sex life from his father and the world at large, something he is so careful about he doesn't even permit vaguely incriminating photos with Nick. Boston has been recorded having sex twice without his consent, and those tapes have circulated/he has been threatened with them. Now Boston has been accused of rape, and specifically of raping a man. The consequences and repercussions of this for Boston specifically are immense. Atom felt embarrassed at being rejected by Boston and wanted to lash out, wanted to avoid accountability (and possible judgement) for his actions, so he created a narrative where he was the victim. Maybe Atom intended it to be a little lie to absolve him of responsibility and didn't register the magnitude of these accusations, maybe he did recognize the severity of his claims and did intend for this to be a serious method of exacting revenge and making Boston hurt for the embarrassment he felt, but regardless of intention, this is way out of proportion. We will see if these accusations of rape spread or grow in intensity in the episodes to come, but there has been at least one consequence so far - the friend group have officially kicked Boston out of hostel project, so presumably he has to scramble to find something else quick or else his graduation is in jeopardy.

There's also something that strikes me about this, which I can hopefully express satisfactorily:

In the actual events (though from Atom's perspective): Boston doesn't want to have sex with Atom again, Atom wants to have sex with Boston again. To Atom, the only acceptable outcome is Boston having sex/a lasting relationship with Atom, even if this goes against Boston's wishes. To Atom, Boston should place Atom's desires and feelings above his own, Boston should give up his autonomy to Atom. Boston's no should not be respected; in fact Boston's daring to say no is so unacceptable it deserves punishment (accusations of rape).

In the narrative Atom constructs: Atom doesn't want to have sex with Boston again, Boston wants to have sex with Atom again. Boston tries to force a repeat through blackmail against Atom's wishes - Boston places his desires and feelings above Atom, Boston removed/removes Atom's autonomy (Atom was drunk, Atom is being blackmailed). Atom's no should be respected, Boston ignoring this no is so unacceptable it deserves punishment (social shunning, kicking Boston off the group project, potentially other repercussions).

There's something there as well about monogamy/lasting relationships vs. promiscuity/ephemeral hookups there too:

In the actual events (though from Atom's perspective): Atom wanting a repeat, wanting a lasting relationship (of sorts) after a night together is fine and normal. In fact, Boston not wanting a lasting relationship is weird and bad and deserves to be punished. Atom pushing for a lasting arrangement (despite Boston not being interested - e.g. Boston not answering Atom's messages, Atom showing up at Boston's house uninvited) is understandable, flattering, and logical/to be expected.

In the narrative Atom constructs: Boston wanting a repeat, wanting a lasting relationship (of sorts) is wrong. Atom is perfectly understandable for not wanting a lasting relationship, not wanting a relationship after one hookup is perfectly normal, and Boston trying to force one on Atom (through blackmail) is sinister and deserves to be punished.

See the hypocrisy? See how Atom's accusations are a twisted version of what actually happened/what Atom thinks happened? In Atom's constructed narrative, everything he does is what Boston did in real life, but to Atom, Boston actually doing those things in real life is unacceptable and deserving of punishment.

One final note on hypocrisy - I also wanted to point out Ray's call out of Sand in this episode: "You make alcohol. You want me to quit drinking but you are selling liquor". We here on Tumblr have mentioned this before - interesting to have Ray say it so explicitly in show.

Random thoughts

Insecurity

Mew says he is giving Top another chance, but if he does something again Mew will blame himself. This is an interesting insight into Mew, and it reminded me of what he said when he was confronting Top about sleeping with Boston back in episode 6:

Mew is insecure and hard on himself. When it comes down to it, he blames himself for things going wrong. Sure he lashes out and has been plotting revenge for episodes and episodes now, but at his core there is part of him who thinks it is his fault this has been happening - he wasn't good enough. Makes sense for a character who wants to be top of the class academically, who has such a superiority complex around sex and relationships, and so on.

I will also draw a parallel here to Ray, who also is very hard on himself - he calls himself a burden, he constantly asks Sand to tell him the bad things about him, to hit him, to yell at him, etc. Ray thinks he deserves bad treatment, and one of the reasons he's struggled with Sand is because he can't/couldn't believe Sand would care about him.

Comparison

Lots of stuff about comparison this episode too with Boeing - Boeing looking like a Mew-Top hybrid, Boeing going toe to toe with Mew during bar trivia, Boeing constantly commenting on the similarities between he and Mew ("Top, you always date smart people", "I'm snooping on your Insta too", both of them liking plants, Boeing saying Mew is an upgraded version of himself), Boeing noting that he was Top's "record-setting" 3 month relationship which is the milestone Mew hopes to beat, and so on and so forth.

Labels

We have been talking about the limits of labels (see here and here), and how assigning labels to people (and letting that permanently/completely shape your understanding of them) is connected to control. I wanted to point out how this plays a role in the Atom and Boston plot here:

Cheum assumes Atom is heterosexual (he's only dated girls before)

Cheum assumes Boston must have forced Atom to sleep with him (Boston is a slut, Boston is gay (and Atom is not), etc.)

Boston is readily accepted as the aggressor by Ray and Mew as well, because Boston is known to be sexual, Boston is the slut

Obviously, enforcing such strict labels does real harm: Boston has to be the bad guy because he is a slut, Boston has to be the one who initiated the sex because he likes sex, Atom has to be the victim/can't have initiated because he is straight. Forcing people into strict labels doesn't allow people to change or experiment, and can make people jump to conclusions about events.

Recording and digital media

More Instagram mentions! This time, Mew goes through Boeing's Instagram profile (much like Nick went through Top's way back when), he accidentally likes a post which alerts Boeing to his scrolling, and Boeing reveals he has also been looking through Mew's profile. Again, we see Instagram as a means of surveillance (here and here), and one the characters aren't necessarily thinking consciously about. Boston finds Ray, Mew, and Cheum at the hostel based on Cheum's Instagram story; Ray finds Sand and Nick based on Nick's Instagram story, Nick figures out Top and Boston's connection/Boston's feelings for Top through Boston's Instagram comments; and now we have Boeing figuring out Mew is looking him up (and thus maybe thinking of him as a rival, being curious about him, etc.) through Instagram likes. Social media is omnipresent in these young people's lives and they may not be thinking about what their usage is actually revealing about them.

And of course, we have more about photography. Boston uses his lock screen photo of Nick (the photo he took when we first learned Boston likes keeping photo mementos of people he has slept with and that he doesn't like photos taken of himself) to signal his feelings for Nick, in a direct parallel to how Nick used a sexy photo of himself on Boston's phone to indicate his interest in Boston way at the beginning of the series. We see Boston taking photos of a client - photography is more than a hobby, more than something he does with people he has sex with. And finally, there are the photographs of Atom that Atom asked Boston to take of him. Atom claimed they were nudes, they clearly were not. Those photographs are a record of what happened that night, something that pokes holes in Atom's story (Atom looks content and carefully posed in them, Atom is not naked). Of course, pictures can be edited and fabricated (or destroyed) - they aren't as permanent or infallible as one might think - but they are a permanent, material, and external method of capturing and recording a moment in time (permanent vs ephemeral).

Boredom

Finally, we've been tossing around the idea of boredom, and there's been discussion of substance abuse and how Ray seeks to escape in alcohol and drugs, so I wanted to point out something Ray says after his first appointment:

Ray found the appointment boring and long - he has a hard time dealing with boredom, he isn't good at being patient. We've been talking about the YOLO attitudes of these young folks, these young RICH folks who have most of what they need right at their finger tips at all times, who don't have to consider consequences in ways that other people do. There is also of course the connection to be made here between Ray asking Sand to join a session with him and Ray asking Sand to come with him to his court mandated community service.

happy sunday ephemerality squad: @chickenstrangers, @clara-maybe-ontheroad, @colourme-feral, @distant-screaming, @lurkingshan, @neuroticbookworm, @rocketturtle4 @slayerkitty, @thatgirl4815, @twig-tea, @waitmyturtles, @wen-kexing-apologist

[maratherat]

Wildflowers, a RDR story - 0.3 - Business

Series Masterlist

-Valentine, New Hanover, November 1898-

I am finally done with my tarot card collection. I need to make sure to meet Madam Nazar as soon as I can to get paid for this exhausting job.

Recently, I've taken on several roles, including that of a collector. Along my travels across the states, I've unearthed many fascinating artifacts, and a lovely woman named Madam Nazar compensates well for these treasures. I'm also juggling a job as a naturalist, which entails studying animals to understand their behaviors and lifestyles better. This role can sometimes be dangerous, especially when it comes to interacting with fierce creatures.

Currently, I'm on my way to meet Cripps, who sent me a letter a couple of days ago inviting me to meet near the general store in Valentine. He emphasized the importance of this meeting, hinting that he has a "new idea" to discuss.

As I approach the general store, I spot the old man stepping out, accompanied by a young man carrying a heavy bag of supplies. "Oh, you made it! Follow me," Cripps exclaims upon noticing me. "Now, as I mentioned in my letter, we are going into business! I've been breaking down animals since I was knee-high to a splinter, and I worked as a tanner up in Wisconsin back in the sixties. It's a very long story," he adds, as I glance back at the young man, who seems to be losing patience.

"So, I've got three words for you: Cripps Trading Company." He exclaims with enthusiasm. "Pristine pelts and animal parts, for bulk sale. Now, I know there's a market out there. All I need is a partner. So, I'm thinking you could source the materials: skins, plumes, horns, and the like..." His proposal hangs in the air, and my uncomfortable thoughts drift to the implications of his suggestion. "So I'm supposed to kill the animals? Great, Harriet's going to hate me," I mutter under my breath, recalling the passionate animal rights advocate I know.

"Exactly! I'll process them and prepare them for sale, and then you can head out and make the sales yourself. Heck, we might even enjoy some good meals out of this venture!" Cripps continues, his excitement showing. Just then, the young man behind him drops the heavy bag with a huff, clearly wanting to redirect our conversation. "Why are you still here, Willis?" Cripps asks, almost oblivious to the young man's discomfort.

"Your provisions, Mr. Cripps," Willis replies, gesturing at the bag, clearly stating why he's still waiting. "Oh right!" Cripps responds, dismissing the concern. "Pack the rest on there, will you?" He gestures towards his horse before turning back to me.

"Now, with every opportunity comes a risk. Competitors, thieves, and me potentially losing interest in this whole idea... but if we combine our talents, we'll be unstoppable." He hands Willis a penny for his trouble, to which the young man sighs in disappointment, clearly dissatisfied with his pay. I can't help but laugh at the absurdity of the situation, feeling a mixture of apprehension and intrigue as we potentially embark on this new adventure. "And when we're rich, you'll thank me, saying, 'Cripps, you handsome genius!'" The excitement in Cripps's voice is evident as he mounts his horse, a gleam of ambition in his eye. He seems ready to charge off at any moment, fresh plans swirling in his mind. "I highly doubt that," I mutter under my breath, skepticism clouding my thoughts.

"So, are you in?" he asks, his enthusiasm unabated. 'Eh, what the hell?' I think, weighing the prospects. "Sure, I'll do it," I reply, deciding to take the plunge. "Good! You won't regret this. I already own a small wagon and most of what we'll need in terms of initial supplies. If you can grab that and bring it back to camp, we'll get everything set up. This is gonna be fun!" he says, urging his horse into a trot as he sets off from town. "See you later!" I call after him.

Feeling a mix of anticipation and fatigue, I head over to the saloon, craving a well-deserved drink. The establishment is fairly empty at this hour, casting a subdued atmosphere over the place. To my surprise, my friend Sam is behind the bar today. "Hey!" I call out, trying to catch his attention. "I'll take a whiskey, please." I slide a penny onto the bar, watching as he finishes cleaning a plate.

"I'll give you your usual, then?" he asks lightly, glancing up at me.

"Sure," I reply with a sigh, taking a seat at the wooden bar.

"Tough day? You look like shit," he remarks, his tone edged with concern.

"Yeah, I feel like shit too," I chuckle, resting my head on my hand as I try to shake off the weariness. Sam moves around, preparing a plate of fried chicken, the scent wafting through the air, making my stomach flutter but not with hunger. He sets the plate in front of me, the aroma usually inviting, now making me feel nauseous.

"You know what? Actually, I'm not hungry," I say, gently pushing the plate away.

"I made you a meal, and you don't want it? How ungrateful! I'll eat it myself then," he declares, not wasting a moment in grabbing the plate back and devouring the crispy pieces of chicken. "I fucking love fried chicken, man..." he mutters contentedly, clearly lost in his own enjoyment.

I can't help but chuckle at his antics.

Lately, we've teamed up to help Mrs. LeClerk avenge her husband's death. While Sam has been working as a bartender in Valentine, I've been busy collecting valuables, studying animals, hunting bounties, and now apparently starting a trading company.

"I've got another meeting in Emerald Ranch, and I don't think I can do it, it's too much," I sigh, feeling the weight of my various tasks. Sam raises an eyebrow at me, amusement written across his face. "You know, no one is forcing you to juggle all those jobs," he says, speaking with his mouth full.

I rise from my stool, adjusting my hat as I prepare to leave. "I know, but I need the money, and it feels good when people appreciate the work I do," I shrug. "I'll catch you later, partner." I wave at Sam, who nods in response.

As I make my way to Emerald Ranch, Scrawny Nag plods alongside me, his gait unsteady. Yes, I decided to name my horse Scrawny Nag; it just fits him. A letter had arrived recently, asking me to meet a certain Maggie Fike at Emerald Ranch, without offering much detail, except that it involves moonshine. I briefly wavered on whether to ignore the request, but the lure of making some money—and alcohol, was too tempting to resist.

When I arrive at the abandoned, rundown house at Emerald Ranch, I dismount and take a moment to gather myself before heading toward it. The wooden structure looks weathered, its paint peeling, hinting at years of neglect but still standing firm against the elements. With a deep breath, I approach, ready to see what awaits inside.

I slowly push the door open, scanning my surroundings; this could end very badly. As I step inside the dimly lit house, the air feels still, carrying a slight mustiness that hints at abandonment. The interior is sparsely furnished, with worn-out chairs and a table covered in a thin layer of dust, giving the place an eerie atmosphere. A few faded pictures hang on the walls, their subjects unrecognizable behind the grime. I cautiously take a few steps further when a voice cuts through the silence: "You must be Cripps' friend?"

I turn to see a woman standing there, her presence striking yet unsettling. Half of her face is scarred by burns, giving her a fierce appearance that commands attention. I nod in acknowledgment, slightly taken aback by her directness. "I'll try not to hold that against you. The name's Maggie. Thanks for coming!" she says, stepping closer, her voice strong despite the scars.

Just then, the same door I entered swings open abruptly, and I turn to see Cripps walking in, his jovial energy filling the room. "She's back!" he exclaims excitedly, grinning widely.

"Cripps? Did you know I was coming here?" I ask, recognizing the same man I encountered earlier that day.

"Maybe—" His words are abruptly cut off when Maggie pulls up her cane, which actually seems to be a riffle, and fires a shot at Cripps' feet. He jumps back, eyes wide with surprise.

"What the hell?" he screams, his cheerful demeanor vanishing in an instant.

"Damn, I missed it, didn't I?" Maggie replies, annoyance creeping into her voice. "Don't come in like a bull through the fence next time, you old fool! Your friend here managed to get it right," she points at me, her expression softening slightly.

"'Lightning' Maggie Fike! We all thought you were dead!" Cripps approaches her, the tone turning nostalgic.

"Yeah? Well, so did I!" she snaps back, her frustration evident.

"I guess you'll be wanting a drink?" she adds, a hint of humor returning.

"I know I will," I respond, eager for a break from the tension.

"Come on, give me a hand," Maggie urges Cripps, who turns to me with an amused smirk. "Biggest mistake of my life was not marrying this woman when I had the chance," he admits, his tone playful. I chuckle at that, enjoying their banter.

"Yeah, you always had a colorful memory of things," Maggie scoffs, handing us each empty glasses. "As you can see, I've hit my prime."

"Well, I heard what happened with Hixon, that evil son of a bitch. Where you been all this time?" Cripps pours us drinks, which I quickly grab, feeling the warmth of the moonshine already.

"Recovering, lying low. Could hardly get out of bed for six months," Maggie sighs, the weight of her past evident in her eyes.

"And your nephew?" Cripps asks, genuine concern in his voice. I lean in, eager to catch up on their shared history.

"Lem? Still in jail, as far as I know," she responds, her expression a mix of resignation and irritation.

"Eh... seen Danny-Lee yet?" I zone out slightly, the details of their conversation blending together in my mind, but I catch snippets of their connection and concern.

"Oh yeah, I've seen him. He's cooking for the Braithwaites now. Guess me and him are done," she says, taking a sip of her drink as if washing away memories.

"Well, there's always Marcel. Heard he's not working for LeClerk anymore. The feller's a windbag, but he knows his way around a still," Cripps adds, his tone shifting back to familiarity.

"Yeah... maybe. Feels like it would be easier for everyone if I just stayed gone. But life ain't about being easy; I'm taking back what's mine. I just need legs and muscles," Maggie replies, her voice rising in intensity, anger simmering beneath the surface.

"Well, you'll get that with this one. I promise you," Cripps says, pointing at me, suddenly making me feel self-conscious under their strong gazes.

"The two of us have a nice little business going," he exaggerates.

"Cripps, you're pushing it a little too far..." I warn him, trying to deflect the attention as the weight of their expectations begins to settle heavily on my shoulders.

"Well, as long as you know it won't be pretty. I don't do pretty anymore," Maggie states firmly, her expression serious. She leans forward slightly, her scarred face lit by the dim light in the room. "First things first, I need a cookhouse with a good basement. I reckon I could get one of my old spots up and running. The bastards seized them all after the raid... You buy me one of those back, and you'll have a fair investment. I'll teach you everything I know, so what do you say?" She slides a worn map of her former cookhouses across the table, the creases and smudges telling stories of past ventures.

I decide it's best if I choose a cookhouse near Emerald Ranch, "Sure, I'll do it," I reply, shaking her hand with a firm grip, a sense of determination settling in.

"Alright, partners it is," she confirms, her tone confident . "Meet me back there when you can, and we'll figure out what else we need once we're set up." With that, Maggie stands up and strides purposefully toward the door, her movements confident despite the scars that mark her path.

"Can I offer you a ride, Miss Fike?" Cripps asks, his attempt to convince her seeming genuine as he gestures to his horse.

"I suppose so!" she sighs, her tone lightening a bit as she relents. I finish my drink and follow them outside, the cool air greeting me as I step into the fading sunlight. I bid them farewell, watching as they head off, chattering away.

As I turn to make my way back to my camp, I can't help but reflect on the multitude of roles I've taken on. Bounty hunter, moonshiner, trader, naturalist, collector, hitman, outlaw... That's quite a few titles if you ask me. Each one carries its own weight and set of expectations, and I wonder how long I can juggle them all before something slips through the cracks. The anticipation of my new partnership with Maggie stirs a sense of excitement, mingled with the anxiety of the challenges that lie ahead.

-

Sam belongs to @sam-vdl , all RDR characters belong to rockstar games.

[elisajdb]

A Glimpse of the Future

A Time Travel story for @gochiweek

AN: For those not reading Life With You, Mrs. Niver is a character I created. She works for Chi-Chi's father and doesn't support Chi-Chi's marriage to Goku.

She had to stop her. She was making the biggest mistake of her life.

If I don’t do this, I’ll never forgive myself.

She watch them together for several days. Princess Chi-Chi and her fiancé, Son Goku. The Princess returned from the Tenkaichi Budokai announcing she will wed Son Goku. Oh, she and many people knew of the Princess’s engagement to the young man but she didn’t take it seriously.

For six years her Princess waited for Son Goku and he never sent a letter; never dropped by for a visit. Nothing. From what she pieced together, he didn’t propose to her. It wasn’t a formal arrangement between King Gyumao and Son Goku’s parents. From what she knew, he didn’t have parents. He was raised by King Gyumao’s sparring buddy, Son Gohan.

He's not someone from a rich background who would make the kingdom grow. He’s not someone with pristine lineage or history with the kingdom like my grandson, Kaifun.

He’s a bum. A strong, idiotic bum.

That was Mrs. Niver’s first impression of Son Goku when Princess Chi-Chi introduced him to her.

How careless our King is to give away our Princess, his only daughter, to this uneducated, freeloading bum.

He talked like a hick who seemed to be lucky in life because he can fight. He was strong winning the Tenkaichi Budokai and declared the Strongest Under the Heavens but what benefit is that to real life? What does that do for the kingdom?

Absolutely nothing. He doesn’t deserve Princess Chi-Chi.  

Mrs. Niver felt it in her old, cracked bones Son Goku will bring nothing but bad karma to Princess Chi-Chi.

 I have to show her the truth.

Mrs. Niver rubbed the pouch attached to her hips that will free Chi-Chi from her blind love for Son Goku. She visited a fortune teller of her princess’ future. The psychic wasn’t specific but what she told Mrs. Niver, wasn’t good.

Five years from now Princess Chi-Chi will suffer a great heartbreak.

Son Goku is a man with a dark past that will haunt Princess Chi-Chi for the rest of her life.

Those cryptic words were enough for Mrs. Niver to do something. “Tell me what I can do to save my Princess.”

The psychic gave Mrs. Niver a bag of powder. “Blow this on the princess. Let her see her future. Only she can change it. However,” she warned, “if she accepts her fate, she won’t remember what she learns.”

“Why not?”

“If one chooses to repeat the course life has set for them, it cannot be altered in the slightest way.”

Chi-Chi was unaware of Mrs. Niver’s plans as she admired herself in her mother's wedding dress in front of the mirror. Tomorrow she will wed Son Goku. Her dreams of being with the man she loves will finally come true. Chi-Chi couldn’t wait.

“Hello, Mrs. Niver,” Chi-Chi smiled at the old woman entering her bedroom. She knew Mrs. Niver wasn’t fond of her choice of a husband. Chi-Chi knew the old woman thought her grandson was a better match and urged her to be with him but Chi-Chi couldn’t go back on her promise to Goku. He wanted to marry her. He chose her. She thought so then when Goku touched her most private area. She knew now it was a misunderstanding but Goku still wanted to marry her and she still wanted to marry him.

Over the days leading to the wedding, Goku showed initiative he wanted to be married. He worked with her father and people from her village on building a home. He went on walks with her. She did most of the talking but Goku listened and asked questions. He was a little standoffish as it became clear to Chi-Chi Goku wasn’t used to anyone taking a personal interest in him that didn’t equal into personal gains for them, but as Chi-Chi showed she cared for Goku for himself, he was slowly coming around.

Mrs. Niver thought Chi-Chi looked beautiful in her mother’s wedding gown. If only she wore it for her grandson and not Son Goku.

“You look beautiful…. like your mother on her wedding day.”

“Thank you. I hope Goku thinks I am beautiful.”

“If you’re worried about that, that boy isn’t the right man for you.”

“Of course Goku is. He’s trying so hard to give marriage a try.”

Mrs. Niver shook her head. The child was so blind. “He shouldn’t be trying at all. He should know what he wants. He should be ready to provide for you. He should---”

“Mrs. Niver,” Chi-Chi put her hands up silencing the old woman. “I know you don’t like Goku but tomorrow he will be my husband. You should begin respecting him as you respect me and my father.”

Hell would freeze before she respects Son Goku. The young bride wouldn’t listen to reason. Mrs. Niver didn’t have a choice. She opened her pouch and scooped out a handful of purple powder. “May your eyes finally be open, Princess.”

Mrs. Niver blew the powder at Chi-Chi.

Chi-Chi coughed as she waved the powder away from her. Some of the grains entered her nose. She coughed. “What is that? What are you…..” Chi-Chi swoon. Suddenly, she felt dizzy. “What did you…?” Oh, she was so sleepy suddenly. What was that Mrs. Niver blew on her? Chi-Chi fell on her bed. Her body felt like a ton of steel. She couldn’t rise and she was so sleepy.

Mrs. Niver appeared over. “I’m doing this because I want to save you from your horrible future.”

“No….” Chi-Chi shook her head trying to fight off the sleep her body was succumbing to. “No…. Goku…..” she called wanting, needing him. “Goku…..” she choked his name before her eyes closed shut.

Chi-Chi’s eyes opened but she didn’t see her pink canopy hanging over her. She saw a white, textured ceiling. It looked familiar but she couldn’t place where she saw this ceiling. Oh! Our bedroom. Looking around, Chi-Chi saw a dresser chest, a vanity table and mirror and an opened closet. This was the bedroom of her future home with Goku.

Why am I here? Chi-Chi sat up confused. Why wasn’t she in her room at her father’s castle?

The sheets rolled down to settle around her waist shocking Chi-Chi as her naked breasts were exposed. She screamed and pulled the sheets over her breasts. She never slept naked!

The bathroom door slammed open as Goku ran out. “What? What is it, Chi-Chi?”

Chi-Chi saw her fiancé and screamed again! Why was he here? He can’t see her naked! They weren’t married yet. They----

Her eyes nearly popped from her skull when she saw Goku was naked, too. “What are you doing?!”

“Me?” Goku pointed at her. “You’re the one screaming.”

Chi-Chi pulled the sheets over her head and screamed. “Why are you naked?!!”

Goku cocked his head at her confused. “I slept naked and I went into the bathroom to take a dump. I was cleaning my hands when you screamed.”

Chi-Chi lowered the sheets to see Goku coming around the bed to her. She pulled her legs to her chest as he came closer. What was he doing? Why was Goku walking to her naked? Why…..

She saw what hung between his legs.

Is it really that big?

Chi-Chi covered the sheets over her head again. Goku grabbed it and pulled it down to her shoulders. He was sitting on the bed. She couldn’t see him below his chest so this was fine but it was very uncomfortable he was naked.

Chi-Chi stared at Goku nervous. She only saw Goku’s bare chest at the tournament. It was one time but she didn’t remember Goku’s chest being this big. His chest looked swollen and wider; muscles were so ripped and defined.

Wow.  

“How did you do that?”

Goku looked so confused. “Do what, Chi-Chi?”

“Your chest. How are you so big?”

Goku laughed. “I guess I am bigger but training with King Kai and under 100 times gravity would do that.”

King Kai? She thought Goku trained under Kami and his assistant, Mr. Popo. And what did he mean about one hundred times gravity? She imagined Goku trained under a rigorous workout but one hundred times gravity? She didn’t understand what that meant. Gingerly, Chi-Chi reached out to touch his chest. Oh, wow. It was so solid. “You feel so strong.”

Goku touched Chi-Chi’s forehead. “Are you feeling okay?”

No, but could she tell Goku what she thought without sounding like a crazy person? “I’m a little confused.”

“Bad dream?”

Did she dream she wore her mother’s wedding dress? Was she dreaming about her and Goku now? “Maybe. I’m confused.”

“It has been confusing for you.” Goku was frowning now. “Sorry about that but I am trying to make up for everything. You believe me, don’t ya?”

Chi-Chi didn’t know what Goku was talking about but she knew from his eyes and the guilt in his voice, he was sincere. “I believe you.”

“Good.” He smiled at her but it wasn’t innocent. It was wicked. “We got some time. Want me to keep making it up to you?”

“I guess.” What was he talking about?

Goku grinned as he pulled the sheets from Chi-Chi. He touched her knees and pushed her legs apart. Chi-Chi’s eyes grew. What was he doing?! She saw Goku lowering his face between her legs. “No!” Chi-Chi put a hand on Goku’s head and pushed him away. “What are you trying to do?!”

“Make you feel good. You always like it.” Goku settled himself between her legs again. He spread her and locked his arms under her legs so Chi-Chi couldn’t stop him.

Is he gonna put his mouth there?! Do couples do that?  “We’re not married!”

Goku raised his head confused. “Are you still mad at me? You’re acting weird.”

“I’m not mad.” But she was confused. Not long ago, she stood in her wedding dress talking to Mrs. Niver and now she was naked in bed with her naked fiancée who wanted to do things to her they couldn’t do until after the wedding. “We’re not married.”

“What are you talking about? We….” Goku counted on his fingers. “We’ve been married for seven years. I’ve been away for a while but we’re still married.”

“Seven years?” That’s impossible. They’re engaged and getting married tomorrow.

“Are you still mad I was away? I’m trying to make up to you.”

Away? Away from what? Chi-Chi didn’t trust herself to ask. “I----”

“You’re still stressed,” Goku figured out the problem and knew the solution. He gently pushed Chi-Chi to lie down. “Relax and let me take care of that.”

He was moving between her legs again. Chi-Chi shook her head. Chi-Chi didn’t know what Goku was going to do but she knew they couldn’t do this yet. They weren’t married. “Wait, Goku,” Chi-Chi tried to stop him as his tongue swiped between her legs causing a shocking shudder to pass over Chi-Chi.

He’s licking me!!

She gasped and squirmed as Goku’s tongue gorged on her. His tongue buried deep inside her and his nose pressed against her sex as he moaned and savored the taste coming from her most intimate area. It caused the most shocking pleasure to spread through Chi-Chi.

Oh… my….  She was beginning to feel hot but good. She heard a moan. Was that her? Is that what it feels like? Her legs relaxed and her hips moved on their own trying to keep up with Goku’s mouth, tongue and fingers? Is he using….  “Oh!” Chi-Chi pushed herself harder against Goku as she felt herself giving in.

It felt good but wasn’t this wrong? They weren’t married. They couldn’t do this before they married.

Maybe I’m dreaming or maybe me in my wedding dress was the dream and this is real.

Chi-Chi’s head tossed as she panted feeling Goku driving his fingers deeper in her and his teeth scraping the heart of where most of her pleasure was felt. She read about it; heard whispers of her maids talking about it when they didn’t know she was around but never dreamed it could feel this intense. When she felt Goku suck this precious spot and bite it with his teeth, Chi-Chi screamed but not of pain. This was a scream of pure addictive pleasure!

“Again!” Her hips bounced off the bed and her hand fisted Goku’s hair and pushed him firmer against her. She didn’t know what Goku was doing. She just needed to feel it again. There it was! That sweet feeling between her legs. It kept growing the more Goku licked her.

Keep your mouth there.

Goku was happy to oblige, licking more voraciously encouraged by Chi-Chi’s moans. He drove the pleasure between her legs to an intense level of ecstasy she never thought possible. It feels so good. I can’t stop. Chi-Chi succumbed herself to the sensual demands of her body. She gasped, moaned, and panted for the exquisite pleasure Goku was giving her until she reached the end where her body convulsed as a loud, joyous scream tore at her throat as waves of rippling pleasure overwhelmed her hot and sweating body.

Chi-Chi laid in bed as a mindless, vibrating vessel of pleasure with what she suspected was the goofiest smile on her face. Two days ago, she and Goku started kissing. He knew less than she and today he was doing that to her body down there! What kind of dream was this? Whatever it was, Chi-Chi didn’t want to wake from it. She was married to Goku and he just gave her the most amazing feeling in her life.

“All right.” Goku grabbed her legs and spread her wider. “Time for the main event.”

Chi-Chi raised her head to understand what Goku meant. She saw his penis; long, thick and very hard jutting at her.

It’s even bigger.

This might be a dream but she wasn’t ready for that! He was too big!

That can’t fit!

Goku hadn’t noticed Chi-Chi’s panic as he settled between her and brushed his tip at her entrance. Chi-Chi worried he was going to plow in hard when a knock tapped the door.

“Mom? Dad? Are you awake?”

Who the hell was that?!

“Gohan,” Goku muttered under his breath as he pulled himself off Chi-Chi.

Gohan? Isn’t his Grandpa dead?

“I’ll take care of this,” Goku grumbled before going back into the bathroom.

Chi-Chi watched Goku walk away or more correctly eyed his bouncing appendage as he went back into the bathroom. What is he gonna do?

Goku shut the bathroom door as the knock came again from the bedroom door. “Mom? Dad?”

“Uh… coming,” Chi-Chi nervously answered as she got out of bed. It was a child at the door but whose child? She didn’t have children and as far as knew, Goku didn’t have a child. Chi-Chi pulled on a night slip lying on the floor next to a cotton robe.

She went to the door and slowly turned the knob. A little boy stood on the other side. He could be no more than six or seven with long, shaggy hair and eyes similar to hers.

“Good Morning, Mom.”

Mom?!

“Good Morning.” Was he talking to her?

“Is Dad up?”

Dad? Does he mean Goku? “I….. I….” Chi-Chi knelt before the child. She tenderly touched his hair and caressed his face. This child had her eyes. He had long hair but the style, the spikes, were so much like Goku’s hair. “Are….. are you my son?”

“Mom?” the boy looked wary at her. “Are you okay?”

“Are you my son?” Chi-Chi repeated.

“Yes. I’m your son, Gohan. What?” Gohan was suddenly thrust into Chi-Chi’s arms. “Mom, what are you doing?”

“I have a boy!! A wonderful boy!” Chi-Chi picked up her son and swirled him around as she tightly hugged him. “I have a beautiful boy!” she laughed and cried. What a wonderful dream! She married Goku and they have a child. “Oh, look at you!” She pinched his cheek. “You’re so beautiful.”

“Mom!” Gohan tried to push Chi-Chi away as she rained his face with kisses. “What are you doing? Dad!” Gohan called for Goku as he stepped out of the bathroom naked. He picked up his boxers off the floor and pulled them on. “Dad, what’s wrong with Mom?”

Goku stared at Chi-Chi crying and kissing Gohan’s face. He shrugged. “Guess she’s happy to see you.”

“Goku!” Chi-Chi put down Gohan and ran to him. “We have a son! Oh, he’s a handsome one! I knew we would have cute babies! Do we have more?”

Goku mirrored the same confused look as Gohan. “No. We just have one.”

“We’ll have to work on more later,” Chi-Chi gushed. “Oh, I can’t believe it! We’re married and have a son. It’s a wonderful dream!”

Gohan looked at his father for an answer to his Mom’s strange behavior. Goku answered with a shrug. “So, was there something you need, Gohan?”

“I wonder if we are gonna train today since it’s raining.”

Goku looked out the window. It was raining but it was drying up. “We’ll wait until after the rain stops. You know Mom doesn’t like it when we spar in the rain. We bring dirt into the house. We can relax this morning with a big breakfast.” Goku looked at Chi-Chi. “When will breakfast be ready? I’m hungry.”

“Breakfast.” Chi-Chi put a hand on her chest. That was her job. I get to cook for Goku and our son!  Chi-Chi screamed joyfully confusing her husband and son. “I’ll cook you the yummiest breakfast!”

Chi-Chi grabbed Goku and Gohan’s hands and led them out of the room. Gohan looked at his father worried over his mother’s behavior.

“Dad?”

“Just go with it, son.”

Chi-Chi happily hummed to herself as she walked hand-in-hand with her husband and son down the hall. She married Goku and they have a cute child. Life was perfect.

Until she reached the end of the hall where the kitchen and living room connected. There was another person in their home. He stood by the sofa folding a blanket. No, this wasn’t a person. This was a monster. A green, evil monster!

Piccolo!

This wasn’t a dream. It was a nightmare! Piccolo was in her home!

What did he want? Is he here to kill Goku? Is he here to kill our son?

She wouldn’t allow it!

“Monster!” Chi-Chi screamed at Piccolo.

Piccolo rolled his eyes as he placed the folded blanket neatly on the sofa. “I have a name.”

“Not for long,” Chi-Chi vowed as she shocked everyone when she tackled Piccolo to the floor and punched his face over and over. “What are you doing in my house?! Get out of here! You won’t hurt my son!”

“Son!” Piccolo put his arms up to shield himself from Chi-Chi’s punches. “Stop hitting me! Dammit, Son! Get your woman off me!”

“Chi-Chi!” Goku pulled Chi-Chi off Piccolo. “What are you doing? Piccolo is our friend.”

“Friend?!” Was Goku crazy? “He tried to kill you! He put a hole in your chest at the tournament!”

“He did it again when he killed me but we’re still friends.”

“Killed?” Chi-Chi turned to Piccolo. “He killed you? When did he do that?”

Goku put his hand on Chi-Chi’s forehead again. “Are you all right?”

Chi-Chi pushed his hand away. “Stop that! I’m fine! Tell me when he killed you!”

“Ya ain’t fine if ya askin’ that. He did it because it was the only way to stop my brother and get Gohan back. He kidnapped Gohan, remember? Piccolo and I teamed up to get Gohan back. I died during that.”

Brother? And when was Goku going to drop this news on her?! This was the first she heard of Goku having a brother! “Why didn’t you tell me you have a brother?! Why did he kidnap our son?!”

Piccolo, Goku and Gohan looked at each other confused. Piccolo voiced what the others were thinking. “Is she having one of those nervous breakdowns you humans have?”

Chi-Chi wondered that herself. What was going on with her? Was this a nightmare? How could she think she was preparing for her wedding to Goku and now found herself married to him, with a child and living with the monster who tried to kill Goku she thought days ago but is being told it happened years ago?

The room was suddenly too stuffy. She needed space. “I need some air. Water.” She looked for an exit. Saw the door and ran to it.

Outside, Chi-Chi breathed in the fresh air. This was Mount Paozu. Goku brought her here a few days ago. She turned to see a large dome home. She first laid eyes on it a couple of days ago when Goku, her father and men from her village built it. Not far off, she saw the home Goku lived in with his Grandpa. What truly startled her were the trees. They didn’t have any leaves. Two days ago they did.

How can it be Fall when it’s Spring?

“Chi-Chi,” Goku came outside with Gohan and Piccolo.

“Mom?” Gohan approached Chi-Chi with a glass of water. “I got you water.”

Chi-Chi took the glass. “Thank you…. Gohan.” Chi-Chi drank the entire water and handed the glass back to Gohan. She didn’t feel stuffy or hot anymore but she didn’t feel right. What was going on?

Goku, Gohan and Piccolo looked at her unnerved. “I don’t understand. I’m so lost.”

“What is it you don’t understand?” Goku asked. “We talked about this.”

If they did, Chi-Chi couldn’t remember. “Maybe you should tell me again what we talked about.”

Goku did so, telling Chi-Chi he was born on a planet named Vegeta but sent to Earth as a baby. He didn’t meet his brother until a reunion Goku had with his friends when Gohan was four years old. Gohan was kidnapped by his Uncle. Goku and Piccolo teamed up to save Gohan but Goku died. Instead of returning home, Gohan was taken by Piccolo to train and fight against aliens from Goku’s birth planet. Goku received training in the afterlife but returned to fight after everyone except Krillin and Gohan were killed. By the time, Goku explained Freeza and Super Saiyan, Chi-Chi needed another glass of water.

It was all too much. Goku’s an alien. Her son is half-alien. Goku died or will die and she will lose her husband and son for a year. Goku will leave again and be gone for a year and a half. They won’t have time to celebrate a happy reunion since Goku will have to train again and take their young son with him to fight Artificial Humans tied to a mad scientist Goku battled as a child.

Fighting and violence will consume her family. Her husband and son will be putting their lives on the line while she stays home alone, worrying and crying for her family. The happy peaceful life she envisioned for them won’t happen.

“I’m doing this because I want to save you from your horrible future.”

Mrs. Niver. The truth struck her like a bolt of lightning. It wasn’t a dream or a nightmare. Chi-Chi didn’t know how but somehow she was offered a glimpse of her future. This is what awaits her if she marries Goku.

“I’m doing this because I want to save you from your horrible future.”

A horrible future. Was it? This isn’t what she expected or wanted. It was a grim future but there was a light of hope. Goku and Gohan. She had a beautiful and bright child who was so earnest and kind. Even now as she looked at him, she saw his worry for her. She had Goku. There will be pains and heartbreak but Goku did become the husband she dreamed of. A man who loved and cared for her. All this time his concerns were for her. He wanted to make her happy. He wanted to make up for his absence.

It was a dark future and not what she expected but having Goku and Gohan, Chi-Chi thought it wouldn't be so bad. We'll make it work,

Suddenly Chi-Chi swooned stuck by a sudden dizzy spell. Goku caught her. “Chi-Chi?” he held her against him as he lowered them to the grass.

Slowly, she began to remember. Mrs. Niver. She blew some powder on her and she suddenly felt sleepy. I don't know why but I think I’m going back. “Goku… Gohan.”

Both her husband and son were at her side holding her hands. “Chi-Chi?” Goku looked worried. “What’s the matter?”

Chi-Chi could feel the heavy sleep overcoming her body again. She didn’t have long. “It’s time for me to go. Thank you for marrying me. I will be happy.”

“Chi-Chi?” Goku didn’t like how she sounded. “Don’t go.”

“Mom?” Gohan sounded scared, too. “Are you okay?”

“I’m more than okay, Gohan,” she told her beautiful son. “I’m happy.” She turned her head to Goku. “I know no matter what happens, I will be happy.”

Chi-Chi closed her eyes welcoming the sleep spell to take her again.  

When Chi-Chi opened her eyes, she saw the pink canopy of her bed above her. Her mind was foggy as she quietly sat up. What happened? Did she take a nap? She noticed she wore her mother’s dress. “Oh, no. I can’t get this wrinkled.” She stood and began unzipping her dress.

That’s when she saw Mrs. Niver. The old woman stared at her. When did she come in?

Suddenly, Chi-Chi remembered Mrs. Niver blowing something on her. Chi-Chi checked her dress for stains of the powder. Nothing. Her dress was fine but to be safe she thought it should be cleaned again.

“Why did you throw powder on me, Mrs. Niver? I’m wearing my mother’s dress. I can’t have this ruined before my wedding.”

“Princess?”

Chi-Chi stepped out of her wedding dress. “What is it, Mrs. Niver?”

The old woman stared for a long time. “Didn’t you see? Don’t you know what will happen?”

“What will happen?” Chi-Chi carefully placed her wedding dress over the mannequin. “I better ask Charlotte and Dani to clean this again before the wedding.”

“Are you still going through it?” Mrs. Niver asked. “Are you still going to marry Son Goku?”

“Of course I am. Why are you asking a silly question?”

Mrs. Niver shook her head. She saw the future and still wants to marry that bum. “You foolish child.” Mrs. Niver turned away. She couldn’t believe her attempt to save her Princess failed. “You foolish, foolish child.”

Chi-Chi looked on confused at Mrs. Niver as she left the room. She got dressed and left the room to follow her when she saw Goku walking to her. “Goku.” Chi-Chi greeted her fiancé with a hug and a kiss on his cheek. “Where have you been?”

“I had a fitting for my suit.” He frowned, “I can’t fight in it. Do I have to wear that for our wedding, Chi-Chi?”

“Yes, Goku, and why do you care to fight in it? We’re getting married. We’re not going to battle.”

“Mr. Lupp said sometimes it’s the same thing.”

“He’s just joking.”

“Oh.” Goku sounded relieved about that. “I know this is important to you.”

“It’s important for both of us.”

“Yeah,” Goku rubbed the back of his neck. “Aki told me that. I am trying to make sure I get this right. You believe me, don’t ya?”

“Sorry about that but I am trying to make up for everything. You believe me, don’t ya?”

“Believe?”

His tongue swiped between her legs causing a shocking shudder to pass over Chi-Chi.

She gasped and squirmed as Goku’s tongue gorged on her. His tongue buried deep inside her and his nose pressed against her sex as he moaned and savored the taste coming from her most intimate area. It caused the most shocking pleasure to spread through Chi-Chi.

“Chi-Chi?” Goku waved a hand over her face. “Are you all right? Your face turned red all of a sudden.

Chi-Chi touched her cheeks. She felt warm. How could she have such lustful thoughts for her fiance before they marry?

“Sorry. Guess I’m excited for our wedding.”

“I can’t wait to eat our wedding meal.” Goku patted his stomach. “I’m told there will be a big feast for us.”

“Yes, and when we marry, I’ll cook for you all the time. We’ll have wonderful meals together. You, me, Piccolo….” Piccolo? Why did she think of that monster?

“Piccolo? He ain’t living with us.” At least Goku didn’t think so. “Is he?”

“Oh, no! Never! I don’t know why I thought that.”

Goku didn’t understand it either so he laughed it off. “It’d be weird having him live us when he wants to kill me.”

Chi-Chi didn’t understand her mind. Why did she think of Goku doing something very intimate with her and why did she think of Piccolo living with her and Goku? Ugh! What a nightmare!

“I think the wedding is making me think crazy things. Maybe I need something to eat.”

Mom? I got you water.

He flashed in her mind like a snapped photo. Was it a boy? It sounded like a boy. For a brief second, she thought she saw his face but closing her eyes to recall the image, Chi-Chi saw a white blur. Chi-Chi shook her head to clear her fuzzy thoughts. What was she thinking about? Did she see something?

Oh, dear. This wedding is making me delusional. 

“Chi-Chi?” Goku called her again. “We can eat if ya want. I’m hungry, too. What?” he noticed Chi-Chi smiling at him.

“Nothing.” Chi-Chi smiled at Goku. She couldn't remember what she thought about a few seconds ago. She just felt happy. This man she will marry. Strong. Brave. Innocent. Completely lovable. “I’m so happy I will marry you.” She raised herself on her toes and gently kissed his lips. “I can’t wait to be Mrs. Son Goku and have a family with you.”

Goku smiled in return. “I don’t fully understand marriage but I like ya wanna live with me on Mount Paozu. I like ya wanna be around me for me. I can’t wait either but I also wanna eat.”

Chi-Chi laughed and kissed Goku again. “Then let’s see what the cooks have for us.” Hand in hand, Chi-Chi and Goku left for the kitchen, looking forward to their wedding and their bright, adventurous future.

[dangermousie]

So, further pushing for New Tales of the Gisaeng...

This is a 50 ep family drama so it has a lot of narratives but I was in it for Damo, an icy upper class scion and Saran, a working class dancer with a birth secret.

Some reasons why you should watch:

He's smitten at first sight when he sees her perform...

He has a giant half-naked portrait of himself in his room. As he should. Look at those abs!

He's set up with a rich girl but he has no interest. Instead he sends flowers to Saran with this sign and the nerd in my DIES because this is a pun on his name which is Ah Damo (aka Salvadore Adamo, a French singer whose most famous song is...you guessed it...Tombe La Neige)

He invites her to a hotel and she makes him kneel in the street for treating her like a hooker. I have a whole post about it. And then later, they have wacko convos like:

Damo: Let's try a 'clean' love. I won't touch you in any way unless you initiate it. We'll see where it will all go. Saran: How do I know you won't try to get handsy again? Damo: If I try, I'll marry you. I can sign a contract if you wish.

Spoiler - she initiates a whole bunch of touching...

Poor dude has to literally recite "Our Father" not to grab her :P

She learns to play catch because he said he always wanted to do it with daddy evilest but daddy never bothered; and he fantasizes proposing to her and then freaks because he's in too deep and dumps her. Because he's a functional person from a functional family. He says it's because of status but we all know it's because he's a coward terrified of how obsessed he is.

On top of that, poor woman learns she's adopted blah blah her whole life has been a lie. So she decides to do the one sane thing: BECOME A GISAENG!!!! That woman takes "I will show you how unsuitable and tainted I am" to new levels and I love it. Meanwhile ML who doesn't know is losing his mind not having her in his life and is all "why don't you be MY SISTER!" ahahahaha omg hi Borgia! This is FL's are you insane face.

Anyway he finds out she's a gisaeng and tries to drag her away...

When he's begging her to quit and telling her he'll start a dance troupe just for her and she tells him "don't you dare" and to use this money instead to come to gisaeng house "and I'll play with you." He tells her he can't work or do anything except to think about this and she comments he's selfish to the end, just thinking how things affect him. And he asks her if she's going to guests' rooms and she says "next week". It gets better! He asks her how will she feel with drunks' holding her hands and she says she only feels things when they hug her. And he hauls off and slaps her and she slaps him back, harder. And there is a beat while he looks at her and then he grabs her into a hug and just won't let go but she struggles free and hits him again, repeatedly. And he tells her "you said you only feel when they hug you" and she snarls at him "bring money to the gisaeng house and make an appointment."

He comes to the gisaeng house with a friend because he knows she won't see him.

He proposes marriage with the world's biggest ring and gets turned down!!!

He does the sane thing and volunteers to work as the servant in the gisaeng house to show her he is serious and gets to call her my lady, flip her shoes and wipe her mouth and give her all his money. As one does.

He gets to scrub the floor on his hands and knees and watch her serve the guests...as one does.

He makes her soup in the middle of the night and begs her to come away with him. (When she asks if it's from pity and he looks at her and says "love. It's for love. What else do you have to offer?") Also, because he's Damo and therefore generally odd, he tells her working all these menial tasks as a servant made him really get into perfect physical shape so they should get married asap so as to take advantage of that.

He finally loses it after a client insults her badly and demands she leave with him. Her reaction? Have water poured on him.

His reaction? All right lady, I am bringing out the big guns and removing my shirt.

They are FUCKED UPPPPPPP

Shortly after, we get this. Mixed signals queen! I love you! (He tells her she's so awesome if they get married, she'd be marrying down.)

Yup, we have aristo wooing a quasi-hooker. Who is all "fine, I will be your mistress but I won't marry you, and if you won't mistress me, I will take another lover." And so she does - or is about to - and he crashes it all defeated and kneeling and begging and groveling and telling her he will give in and make her his mistress just not to leave himmmm.

And she's finally "OK, fine, you win, I will make an honest man out of you!"

And then we get 20 more eps of glorious insanity and his family cutting him off etc etc. Delish.

This drama ate my year back way when.

[wildechild3]

Modern Maurice AU

Part 2: Alec Edition

Alec:

Alec works part time for the Durhams as a groundskeeper so he can afford to go through his trades school (I kind of see him going into construction?) And he absolutely hates every second of working for the Durhams but he bears it because the job pays well enough. 'Only for a few more months' he tells himself every year.

He first saw Maurice during his first summer working for the Durhams. Just like in canon, he was immediately attracted to him and considered making a move.

However, Milly (kind of love the headcanon that him and Milly were friends with benefits ngl) tells him that Clive and Maurice are secretly together and he gives up on the idea. He just continues to admire from afar.

Maurice does not notice him at all.

By his second summer, Alec realizes he hasn't seen Maurice around in a while and asks Milly about him. She tells him they broke up and Alec would be lying if he said he wasn't a little happy.

Unfortunately though, Alec has no way of contacting Maurice so after some initial disappointment he starts to move on with his life.

However - as fate would have it - guess who's face pops up on Grindr? Alec goes back an forth between messaging him for a hot minute before deciding: Fuck it. Let's see what happens.

Maurice responds and Alec nearly has a heart attack. They agree to hookup but not much else.

Except afterwards Maurice does his little 'Do you ever wish you had a friend?' speech.

Alec realizes that Maurice isn't a total snob. Just mostly a snob. And then at the end he asks if he can see Maurice again, and Maurice agrees.

Then Maurice ghosts him for a week and Alec gets a bit (a lot) pissed. When Maurice finally messages him with an apology, Alec is slow to forgive but agrees to give it one more try.

Their second date is when Alec tells Maurice that he used to work for Clive, and Maurice suddenly realizes why Alec seemed so familiar. It's during this date that Maurice explains what happened between him and Clive - and Alec softens a lot now that he understands Maurice's initial hesitation towards him.

They start to see each other more and more. Alec is shocked by how Maurice reacts when he goes to hold the other's hand in public. Maurice stares at their hands and just starts beaming.

They become That CoupleTM who are always hanging off of one another. Their honeymoon phase is awful for anyone who has to be within 5 feet of them because Maurice gets addicted to the affection and Alec is just in awe of how this rich snobby asshole has morphed into his sweet doting boyfriend.

(Hint: Maurice's depression is doing a bit better. He definitely needs therapy though)

Him and Maurice decide to get a flat together - but Maurice wants to come out to his family first.

Alec has been out since secondary school* so he's right there with Maurice every step of the way - even as things went really poorly.

(*his parents are tentatively okay with it. His mother more than his father. And his older brother was just weird about it)

They move in together and Alec is very amused by how much pride Maurice takes in being able to use a crockpot. Though he has come home to the oven smoking a few times.

Alec graduates from trades school and immediately quits working for the Durhams and starts working for a construction company. Maurice decides to go back to school right after.

The day Alec proposes, he literally had no intention to. Him and Maurice had never talked about it. They were sitting out on their balcony, sharing cigarettes and getting drunk on cheap wine. The sun was setting and it was the first warm day of spring and Maurice was laughing at something Alec had said. And Alec just blurts out, "Wanna get married?"

Maurice freezes, then starts to tear up but he's smiling and says 'yes' at least a dozen times. Alec is also in tears but will deny it every time Maurice mentions it.

Neither really wants to plan a big ceremony (Maurice doesn't have any family who'd come anyway) so they settle for telling their friends and remaining family that they're going to the courthouse.

They have the best courthouse wedding ever <3

As mentioned in Maurice's post, the specifics about the kids will be in it's own separate post.