#and it's like. exactly what i expected. which is to say it's good

[honeyedmiller]

Holidays With the Millers

a firefighter!joel miller x f!reader drabble

series masterlist

rating: explicit. 18+, minors do not interact.

warnings: fluff, a lil surprise, illusions to smut but none actually described.

word count: 1.9k

synopsis: your first of many holidays in the miller household is better than you could’ve ever expected.

a/n: happy holidays everyone 🤍

The holidays at the Miller household are… well, chaotically organized, to say the least. 

Turns out, Joel and Tommy put Sarah in charge years ago because they weren’t going to get in the way of a then-eleven-year-old who had a bright vision in mind but couldn’t execute it without the aid of her dad and uncle. 

Three years later, her curly hair bounces every which way as her bright green eyes scan the handiwork you’ve all done with a thorough inspection. 

You can’t help but want to laugh as you, Joel, Maria and Tommy all stand in a line—military style—as she looks between her checklist and the decorations that are hung up brilliantly. 

Once that familiar bright smile shines at all four of you, you know you’re in the clear. 

“Great job this year guys! Gotta give most credit to the ladies though,” Sarah snickers, and Tommy rolls his eyes while Joel barks a laugh. 

“Glad we passed the inspection, madam. Now get your keister upstairs and finish puttin’ your donations in the box I gave you,” Joel says, raising an eyebrow at Sarah. 

She salutes him with a giggle. “Sir, yes sir.” 

Joel had explained to you a couple of weeks back that the entirety of the fire stations in Austin got together and liked to do a toy drive for Christmas. It’s an annual thing, and all families of employees are welcomed to join in and volunteer. 

You went and bought a few toys and board games for the event, excited to hand them out. 

Joel looks down at his watch before looking back at everyone. “The event starts in an hour. We should get goin’ soon.” 

“You’ll be proud of me, brother. I brought my uniform with me.”

“You’re a grown ass man, Tommy. Knowing you I know Maria reminded you at least twice to not forget it.” 

Maria laughs and nudges Tommy in the ribs. “That’s exactly what happened.” 

You all laugh in unison as Tommy holds up his hands in surrender. “I got Dory brain. I don’t know what to tell y’all.” 

Joel rolls his eyes before looking at you with a smile, jerking his head toward the stairs. 

“C’mon pretty lady, let’s go finish gettin‘ ready.” 

“That’s not code for ‘let’s get a quickie in’ is it? Cus y’all really ain’t as slick as y’all think you are.” 

“Tommy!” All three of you say in unison, and your face heats before you shake your head. 

“Mind your business and focus on your own sex life, yeah?” Joel says before slapping him upside the back of his head, ushering you upstairs. You can hear Maria faintly scolding him and he just laughs before their voices drown out completely. 

“Jesus Christ, my brother is a pain in the ass,” Joel deadpans. 

You huff a laugh. “Better him than Andy and Cole. They’d say some even dumber shit and add fuel to the fire.” 

“Well,” Joel checks his watch again. “We do have an hour…” 

You give him an incredulous look. “Absolutely not, Miller. Hands to yourself.” 

He gives you a pouty look before it’s your turn to roll your eyes, heading into the bathroom to finish getting ready. 

-

You wish you would’ve taken Joel’s initial offer. You’re standing in the firehouse helping handing out the cookies you’ve made while subtly making eyes at your ridiculously handsome boyfriend in his uniform, joking with little kids while he gives out presents. 

You think back to when Joel drunkenly told you he wanted to have kids with you, and suddenly you don’t think the prospect is a little insane anymore. Of course, you want to have kids with him, but you’d at least like to be married first… and you’re only shy of half a year in a relationship with him. 

“I know that look. What are you thinking about?” Maria bumps you with her hip, and you flash her a smile. 

“How good Joel looks. How good he is with kids.” 

“Ah, the baby fever bug finally caught you huh?” 

“He’s actually the one who mentioned it. The night they went out. He came home drunk and said, and I quote, ‘we should have kids’.” 

Maria’s jaw drops as she looks between the two of you. “He didn’t.” 

“He did!” You laugh as you hand someone a cookie, smiling at the kid before looking back up to Maria. 

“Drunken words speak sober thoughts,” she says, shrugging as she wiggles her brows. 

“Right. And when’s that happening for you and Tommy?” 

“Please, that man needs to put a ring on this finger before I carry any of his children.” 

You toss your head back in a laugh. “Amen to that.” 

“Amen to what?” Joel asks, sliding up beside you. 

“Just girl talk. You all done handing out toys?” 

He eyes you and Maria suspiciously, but you toss a sweet smile his way and all seems to be forgotten. 

“Mhm. I actually came over here for a reason.” 

“And what would that be?” You quirk a brow as you put a hand on your hip. 

Joel pulls something from behind his back and hangs it over your heads. You look up to see mistletoe, and you can’t help but laugh at how adorably cheesy he is. 

“In front of all these people? You sure about that, cowboy?” You ask, putting a hand on his chest as he wraps his free hand around your waist, pulling your body flush to his. 

“You know by now I ain’t got a dang problem showin’ off my woman,” he says, inching his face closer to yours. 

His words make butterflies erupt in your stomach, and your face heats. He grins and leans in, pressing his lips to yours for a few seconds before pulling back. 

“I love you,” he says, pecking your lips twice more before moving back slightly. 

“I love you too.” 

And it hits you: for the first time in a long time, you get to spend a holiday season with your heart full of love with the most loving person. 

The lights shine a little brighter, the songs sound a little sweeter, and the Christmas magic has finally made its return back into your heart. 

-

Christmas came and went in a flash. As much as you love the holidays, it saddens you how fast they pass by. 

It was so nice to see Sarah so excited about opening her stocking and presents to see what you and Joel got her this year. She got some new makeup, clothes, and a vinyl player with some vinyls she’s been wanting. You also got her a certificate to get a manicure and pedicure done whenever she’d like to go. That sense of pure love poured into your heart when she gave you a tight hug and thanked you a bunch of times. 

You got Joel some new tools he’s been wanting, along with his favorite cologne and a few new clothing items. You also got him his absolute favorite coffee beans that he won’t allow himself to splurge on, so you decided to do it for him. 

The last gift was, in your opinion, a bit cliche, but Joel loved it. You’d bought some pretty red lacy lingerie with sparkles throughout the material and revealed yourself to him after doing your night routine in the bathroom. You gave him a much needed massage before he used his needy, skilled hands on you and gave you one hell of a blissful night as he unwrapped you like you truly are a present in itself. 

It’s New Year’s Eve now, and Tommy somehow convinces Joel to throw a party to ring in the new year. Everyone in your family is here along with a few of Joel and Tommy’s mutual friends, and you’re all chatting away while eating finger foods and sipping on drinks. 

Dick Clark’s New Year’s Eve special is playing on the flatscreen and there’s only fifteen minutes left until the clock strikes twelve. You’re chatting with your mom, Emily and Maria about Emily’s baby and how she’s doing before the conversation gets turned to Maria. 

“So how long have you and Tommy been together?” Emily asks her, sipping on her sparkling apple cider. 

“Two and a half years. Still doesn’t feel like it.” She laughs and looks over at him, her smile growing wider. 

“You think he’ll pop the question soon?” Your mom chimes in, and Maria shrugs. 

“I’m not sure, honestly. I mean, don’t get me wrong. That man has changed for the better within the past couple of years, but sometimes I have no clue what’s going on in his mind. When he thinks of something, he puts his whole heart into it and he’ll make it happen. We’ve talked about marriage before, but it’s not something that comes up too often.” 

“Maybe it’ll happen soon,” Emily says. You give her a look of confusion, but she doesn’t even meet your gaze. 

“I think I’ll probably know when it’s happening. I love that man with my whole heart but he’s terrible at keeping secrets.” 

You laugh as you glance at the countdown clock, noting that it’s only five minutes until twelve. 

Tommy comes up to Maria and wraps his arms around her shoulders, kissing her cheek as he whispers something in her ear. She nods and smiles at the three of you before standing up. 

“Ladies,” Tommy says with a smile, ushering Maria into the small sea of people. Josh finds Emily, and your mom goes to find your dad so you’re left to munch on the charcuterie board laid out in front of you. 

It isn’t until a minute before midnight that Joel comes up to you and wraps his arms around you as you stand in front him, giving your forehead a kiss as he smiles at you. You look around the room and notice Tommy and Maria are still missing. 

“Where’s Tommy and Maria?” You ask, putting a hand on Joel’s chest before your eyes scan the room once again. 

Joel smirks as he nods his head toward the backyard, and in the faint glow emitted by the Christmas lights outlines their silhouettes. Tommy’s on one knee holding something up as Maria’s hands cover her mouth, and it clicks for you. 

“Oh my god. Oh my god! You knew about this?!” 

You’re so giddy inside and you’re not even the one being proposed to. 

“Knew for a few months now,” he says with a deep chuckle. You look back over to them to see her nod her head yes before Tommy slips the ring on her finger. Your eyes well with tears as the indescribable happiness you feel for them courses through you. He leans in to kiss her passionately, and your eyes snap back to Joel. 

“Happy New Year!” Everyone shouts, startling you before you realize it’s finally twelve. 

“Happy New Year, darlin’,” Joel murmurs, tipping your chin so your lips can meet his. You wrap your arms around the back of his neck, getting so lost in his gentle kiss as your mind reels. 

So much has changed for you this year. You feel like you’ve lived twenty lives all wrapped up in three hundred and sixty five days, and falling in love was the last thing you expected. 

You’ve learned so many lessons this year, finally opened up your heart, and have taken a leap of faith that resulted in you being caught by the love of your life.

You can’t wait to see what the future holds with you and Joel, because you know it’ll be one that is full of security and love. 

You smile against his lips as you brush your hand through his thick locks, looking into his beautiful brown eyes that felt like home. That are home. 

“Happy New Year, Joel.” 

taglist: @raspberrybesitos ; @nostalxgic ; @endlessthxxghts ; @punkshort ; @clawdee

@pascalpvnk ; @bensonispunk ; @merz-8 ; @darkblue-tennesseee ; @typewriter83

@lizzie-cakes ; @sawymredfox ; @keylimebeag ; @nandan11 ; @pedropascalsbbg

@pimosworld ; @yxtkiwiyxt ; @anoverwhelmingdin ; @kikaaauu ; @buckyispunk

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@pedritospunk ; @ro-nahime-things ; @ananonymousaffair ; @just-mj-or-not ; @melsunshine

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-

divider by @saradika-graphics

[jeo9n]

INSTAGRAM

you’ve been texting jungkook on instagram non stop ever since he opened his account as a joke. but what you didn’t expect was for him to actually text you back.

౨ৎ

pairing: jeon jungkook x reader

genre: fluff, slow burn, friends to lovers, future smut

warnings: none

wordcount: 2k

you get woken up by your alarm at exactly 6am. like everyday, you open your eyes and the first thing you do is check your phone. catching up with everything that happened while you were asleep. texting your friends back that live in a different time zone than you.

you’re tired but you get out of bed anyway. you have to get ready for work. even if your body is screaming for you to stay in bed.

the first thing you do is make your bed so it prevents from laying back down. you already took a shower yesterday night, which you thank yourself as it saves you time this morning. so all you have to do is brush your teeth and wash your face.

when you’re done with that you make yourself a coffee and start to get dressed. you keep your outfit simple with some baggy jeans and a black long sleeve top because you’d rather be comfortable than fashionable. you always make sure to never leave the house without spraying perfume everywhere on your body. you forgot to but some on one day as you were running late, only noticing when you were already at work and someone might say it’s stupid but you didn’t feel good that day, you didn’t feel like yourself without your sweet perfume. you love to smell good, you love getting compliments on your scent, you love people smelling you before they even see you.

ever since that you never forgot to put perfume on again, but carrying around a travel size bottle of your favorite perfume in your bag just in case.

you pet your cats goodbye one last time before you leave your apartment. you hate leaving them home alone but thankfully they have each other so they are not really "alone" but it still hurts you.

you’re already on the way to the small coffee shop that you work at , as you remember you haven’t texted your boyfriend (jungkook) a good morning text yet. so you pull your phone at your pocket and text him right away. the chat is filled with hundreds of your messages texting him random stuff about how your day was and occasionally sending him some memes and reels you thought were funny.

y/n: good morning jungkoookkk!!

y/n: i’m on my way to work.

y/n: you’re probably asleep but have a good day.

you smile to yourself as you double text him. your not texting him in hopes to get a text back, cause that would be crazy. i mean, that guys is crazy famous of course he’s not going to text me back. you just think it’s funny, although sometimes you think it’s actually kinda weird and you should probably stop, but you never actually do.

as you open the door to your workplace you’re instantly greeted with the delicious smell of coffee, which reminds you, you still have your empty cup of coffee in your hands which you forgot to throw away. your coworker greets you good morning as she looks up from behind the counter.

"good morning. leslie." you greet back as you throw your coffee away. "ugh i really don’t feel like working today." you tell her, while taking of your jacket. she laughs and agrees with you.

"girl, i literally stayed up all night binge watching true crime documentaries." she tells me. "look at my eye bags! i can’t even cover them up with makeup." she says as she lifts up her hand to show me her dark eye bags. "but i guess it’s my own fault. i knew i should’ve turned the tv off after the first episode." she says in frustration and it makes me laugh. i can totally relate to her. you tell yourself one more episode and suddenly the sun comes up and you finished the whole show, wondering where the time went.

happened to me one too many times.

"yea…" you say, tying your apron at you back. "been there, done that." and she smiles softly in response. "should i make you a coffee? cause you really look like you need one." you tell her as you point to your eye bags, mocking her.

she laughs and kicks you jokingly "yes please! make it extra strong."

"will do." you say in a laugh, already on your way to the coffee machine. it’s definitely gonna be a long day for leslie today.

you put the coffee down carefully, not trying to spill the hot coffee all over the counter. "here you go, extra strong for you, your highness. " you bow to her jokingly while laughing like an idiot.

"you’re so stupid." she laughs with you, bringing the coffee up to her lips, trying to take a sip.

you worked a little longer today as usual since it was busy. but you don’t mind. working extra hours means extra money and you would never complain about that.

you take you shoes off and wash your hands as soon as you get home. after that you change into more comfy close just some sweatpants and hoodie and you already feel way better. you walk to your kitchen to feed your cats, who are acting like you leave them out to starve and never feed them. after your done with that you wash your hands again and make yourself something to eat since you only had breakfast today. you decide for pizza today as it doesn’t take long to be ready. you shove it into the oven and while you wait you brows through your phone. you lean against the counter and watch some tiktok’s to make to the time go by faster.

the pizza is done in under 20 times. thankfully. you cannot wait longer or else your stomach is gonna start eating itself. you sit down on your couch with your pizza on your lap. you try to take a bite but it’s still too hot so start browsing through netflix instead to find something to watch while your eating. when you find something your pizza has cooled down already so you start eating.

after your done, you get up and do the dishes right away so you don’t have to worry about it later. after that you decide to take a bath since you haven’t done that in a while and after that hectic day today you really need it.

the warm water hugs your body as you lay down in your bathtub. you feel your body start to relax enjoying the temperature of the water. your eyes are closed as you hear the notification sound from your phone, but you ignore it. you feel so comfortable right now you don’t want to move. so you stay put, enjoying this bath maybe a little too much.

after like twenty minutes you start to get bored and the water has gone cold, so you decide it’s time to get out. you quickly wash your body and get out. you do you skincare and brush your teeth while your body dries, after that you put some vanilla bodylotion on, quickly change into your pyjamas and head to bed, your cats joining you seconds after. one sleeps on top the pillow next to you while the one sleeps between your legs.

you go to grab your phone from your nightstand, checking it one last time before you go to sleep. your just scrolling trough your notifications not thinking anything by it. you stop at one particular notification and your hearts starts to beat faster. sitting straight in your bed, rubbing your eyes to make sure your seeing correctly. you cannot believe what you’re seeing.

jeon jungkook has fucking texted you back.

not only once. he double texted you back.

is this really happening right now?

abcdefghi__lmnopqrstuvwxyz: woww! how long have you been texting me for ? there are like a thousand messages lol

abcdefghi__lmnopqrstuvwxyz: i hope you had good day at work! i just woke up.

abcdefghi__lmnopqrstuvwxyz: i saw your message and there are so many. i felt bad so i texted back. looked like your were talking to yourself haha.

wait. i cannot believes this. am i dreaming?

my hands shake and i’m not sure what to text back. should i even text back? would he text back again?

i take a deep breath. my head is going crazy right now.

after i collected myself, i text back.

y/n: lol this is awkward.

y/n: i wasn’t thinking you actually text back.🫣

y/n: i hope my message weren’t bothering you or anything.

your struggle sending the message back cause your hands won’t stop shaking. but can you blame me? the love of my life just texting me back and my stupid ass ignored it because of that stupid bath i took.

i bite on my nails nervously, my heart is beating so fast it might jump out of my chest at any minute.

i wait for an answer back, which is stupid, i know.

just because he texted me back one time doesn’t mean he’s going to do it again.

i know he won’t. but still, i wait.

i wait for like an hour until i realize he’s actually not responding anymore so i decide to go sleep. or try to go to sleep, since my mind won’t stop thinking about what had just happened. i eventually falls asleep after what feels like hours.

the next morning i get woken up again by my alarm. this time grab my phone a little faster than usual. scrolling through my notifications with tired eyes.

my eyes widen as i find his notification again.

abcdefghi__lmnopqrstuvwxyz: haha no, you don’t bother me. i read through your messages last night.

abcdefghi__lmnopqrstuvwxyz: you’re funny haha.

abcdefghi__lmnopqrstuvwxyz: judging by the time i usually get the first message from you, i should get a message soon right?

you read the last text and it says sent an hour ago.

okay wait. he texted again? and he thinks i’m funny?

im definitely dreaming because there is no way that this is fucking happening.

your thumbs moves fast as you reply to him.

y/n: no way!!!

y/n: am i dreaming?? please tell me im not

y/n: is this really jungkook?

y/n: no, it can’t be

you wait a little bit to see if he’ll respond. but nothing comes so you start getting ready for work.

how am i going get through work today, when all i can think about is him.

[jburrgf]

About You II — The Love Trope Series

“Do you think I have forgotten about you?”

◦pairing: ¡lsu! joe burrow x ¡ex situashionship! reader

◦summary: second change trope, college relationships, slow burn love, right person wrong time.

◦description: after the dinner at Malone’s, your best friend and you go to the biggest party of the year, and there, you find out why you can’t forget Joe — at all.

◦playlist: About You - The 1975, Love Me Like You Do - Ellie Golding, Like Real People Do - Hoozier, I Bet You Think About Me - Taylor Swift, Called You Again - Lizzy McAlpine, Tolerate It, ImGonnaGetYouBack, Clean - Taylor Swift

PART TWO: FRIENDS

Joe and I didn’t happen overnight.

It was a slow burn, full of late-night conversations, stolen glances, and an undeniable pull neither of us could explain. He was juggling the pressures of being a star quarterback with the weight of expectations I couldn’t fully understand, and I was caught between wanting to be a part of his world and keeping my own identity intact.

We weren’t perfect. We fought. We drifted. We came back together, only to drift apart again. And then, just before graduation, Joe started pulling away for good.

I didn’t chase him.

And that was the end of it.

Or so I thought.

The faint hum of music and muffled voices filtered through the walls of our shared dorm as I sat on the edge of my bed, staring at the pile of clothes Maddie had dumped on me earlier. A crop top, a leather skirt, and heeled boots that looked like they belonged on a runway rather than at a party in a dingy warehouse.

Maddie was pacing, a hair curler in one hand and a bottle of glittery body spray in the other, a force of nature in her pre-party ritual. She was dressed to perfection already, wearing a sequined halter top and ripped jeans that made her legs look a mile long.

The mirror in Maddie’s dorm room was barely big enough for one person, but tonight, we were making it work. Her makeup brushes, palettes, and lip glosses were spread across the desk like an arsenal, the tiny lamp casting a warm glow on the chaos.

“Y/N, come on,” Maddie groaned, holding up two options—a cropped black sequin top and a deep green halter. “Which one says, ‘I’m here to have fun but also break hearts’?”

I glanced up, her mind still clouded, offering a weak smile. “The green one, I guess.”

Maddie frowned, dropping the tops onto her bed and placing her hands on her hips. “Okay, what’s going on with you? This is the biggest party of the year, and you’re sitting there like we’re about to go to a funeral.”

“I’m fine,” I muttered, brushing her hair behind her ear. “Just tired.”

Truthfully, exhaustion wasn’t the problem. My chest felt heavy in a way I couldn’t explain—like I was carrying the weight of something I didn’t have the courage to admit. Joe. His name felt like a forbidden word, a ghost haunting the edges of my thoughts as Maddie flitted around the room, oblivious.

“Liar,” Maddie shot back, narrowing her eyes as she crossed the room to sit beside Y/N. “You’ve been weird all weekend. Let me guess…” She tilted her head, a knowing smirk spreading across her lips. “This is about him, isn’t it?”

The mention of his name made my stomach flip, but I kept my face carefully neutral. “This has nothing to do with him.”

“Bullshit,” Maddie said, nudging her shoulder. “I know you, Y/N. You’ve been moping around ever since Malone’s friday. Did something happen with Joe that you’re not telling me?” she said, rolling her eyes. “Look, I know he’s... complicated. But tonight isn’t about him. It’s about you having fun. Forget about the past. It’s just one party.”

“Exactly. Just one party,” I said, grabbing the crop top she’d picked for me and holding it up with skepticism. “And I’m not even sure I want to go.”

Maddie marched over, snatched the shirt from my hands, and tossed it on the bed. “Oh, you’re going. Whether I have to drag you kicking and screaming or not.”

I sighed, running a hand through my hair. It wasn’t like I didn’t want to enjoy myself, but something in me felt heavy, like an anchor tied around my chest. Maddie didn’t need to know how often my mind drifted to Joe—how his face had been etched into my thoughts since that night at Malone’s, how his stupid note was still folded in my desk drawer.

“Y/N,” Maddie said, her voice softening as she sat beside me. “I know you miss him.”

I blinked, startled. “I didn’t say that.”

“You don’t have to,” she said, nudging me with her shoulder. “But trust me, wallowing isn’t going to help. You need to let loose, have a drink, and dance with someone who’s *not* Joe Burrow.”

I let out a dry laugh, shaking my head. “You make it sound so easy.”

“It *is* easy,”

I hesitated, my fingers tightening around the fabric of my jeans. “It’s… nothing happened. It’s just—ugh, I don’t even know, Maddie. I don’t want to talk about him.”

Maddie raised an eyebrow but didn’t push further. Instead, she stood, grabbed Y/N’s hands, and pulled her to her feet. “Okay, fine. No more Joe talk. But I’m not letting you go to this party looking like you just rolled out of bed.”

“You know i’m not thrilled about frat parties.” I said

“This isn’t just any frat party,” Maddie corrected, grabbing a curling iron and plugging it in. “It’s in the Kappa alumni barn. Do you know how hard it is to get invited to this? People are literally selling wristbands for $50 just to get in. We are *elite,* babe.”

“Lucky me,” I muttered under my breath.

”Come on, I’m going to pick out the perfect dress for you.” She threw open her closet, rifling through the racks of clothes like a woman on a mission. “We need something that says ‘I’m hot, but I don’t care if you notice.’”

“I was just going to wear jeans,” I offered weakly.

Maddie spun around, her expression scandalized. “Jeans? To this party? Y/N, we’re not freshmen anymore. This is senior year. Go big or go home.”

Before I could argue, she pulled out a sleek black dress with a subtle shimmer. It was simple, but the cut was flattering, and the fabric looked soft enough to melt into.

“This,” Maddie declared, holding it up like it was the Holy Grail.

I hesitated, glancing at my reflection. “I don’t know...”

“Trust me,” Maddie said, shoving the dress into my hands. “You’ll look amazing.”

With a reluctant sigh, I headed to the bathroom to change. The dress clung to my figure in all the right places, and when I stepped back into the bedroom, Maddie let out a low whistle.

“Y/N! You look... Wow. Just wow. Girl, if Joe doesn’t come crawling back to you after tonight, he’s an idiot.”

I finally turned to face my reflection, and to my surprise, I didn’t hate it. The dress hugged my figure in all the right places, and for the first time in weeks, I felt like maybe I could blend in tonight.

I rolled my eyes, but I couldn’t help the small smile that tugged at my llips. “It’s not about Joe.”

“Sure, it’s not,” Maddie teased, returning to the mirror to finish her makeup. “Now, sit down. I’m doing your hair and makeup.”

As Maddie curled my hair, the mood in the room shifted slightly. The music softened, and for a moment, it felt like the old days—just us two, laughing and talking about nothing.

“Listen,” Maddie said, her tone gentler now. “I know you’re going through it, but you deserve to have fun tonight. Forget about him, or at least try to. This party is going to be amazing. Everyone’s been talking about it for weeks. The lights, the DJ, the whole vibe—it’s gonna be insane.”

I nodded, her chest tightening. Maddie was right. I needed to let go, even if just for one night. “You’re right. Let’s do this.”

Maddie grinned, placing the final curl in my hair and fluffing it out with her fingers. “Now that’s the spirit. Look at us—two bad bitches, ready to take on the world.”

I laughed, feeling a flicker of excitement for the first time that night. Maybe this party wouldn’t be so bad after all. Maybe I could forget about Joe, even if just for a few hours. Maddie got all the makeup things right in front of us, and started to do my makeup.

Hold still!” Maddie ordered, her hand steady as she worked on my eyeliner.

“I am holding still,” I mumbled, trying not to blink.

“You keep flinching every time I get close. Do you not trust me?” she teased, stepping back to inspect her work. “Did you know they rented an actual DJ for tonight? And there’s going to be this crazy light show. Plus, rumor has it the football team’s throwing in a ton of money for drinks and food. This is basically LSU’s version of Coachella.”

I hummed noncommittally, watching her in the mirror as she worked. Her excitement was contagious, even if I wasn’t quite ready to feel it yet.

“Y/N,” Maddie said after a moment, her tone more serious. “Promise me you’ll try to have fun tonight. For real.”

I met her gaze in the mirror and nodded. “I’ll try.”

She smiled, satisfied. “Good. Now, glitter or no glitter?”

“No glitter,” I said immediately.

Maddie rolled her eyes but relented, finishing my makeup with a swipe of lip gloss.

Maddie, of course, looked flawless in her emerald green romper and heels, her hair styled in loose waves that framed her face. She had a way of commanding attention without even trying, and tonight was no exception.

“You’re stunning,” I said honestly.

“So are you,” she replied, grabbing her phone to snap a picture of us. “Okay, let’s take a pre-party selfie. Smile!”

I forced a grin, but even as the camera clicked, I couldn’t shake the nagging feeling in the pit of my stomach.

“You’re thinking too much,” Maddie said, catching my expression.

“I’m not,” I lied.

She rolled her eyes, grabbing her purse. “Come on. Let’s get out of here before you change your mind.”

By the time we were both ready, the campus was already buzzing with energy. The party was being held in an old warehouse on the edge of campus, the kind of space that was only used for events like this—loud, chaotic, and slightly dangerous.

As we stepped outside, the cool evening air hit my skin, and for the first time all day, I felt a flicker of anticipation. Maddie looped her arm through mine, grinning.

“Trust me, Y/N,” she said as we made our way toward the warehouse. “Tonight’s going to be unforgettable.”

The walk to the party was electric. The campus buzzed with excitement, groups of students streaming toward the barn like moths to a flame. Maddie chatted nonstop, filling the silence with stories and jokes that I barely registered.

But as we approached the barn, the music growing louder with each step, I couldn’t ignore the way my heart began to race. Part of me hoped Joe wouldn’t be there.

And another part of me—a part I hated—hoped he would.

I caved, mostly because Maddie was impossible to argue with, and by the time we arrived at the warehouse, I was already questioning my decision. The music was loud, the drinks were cheap, and the place was packed with bodies moving to a beat I couldn’t place.

It was an underground-style party. Everyone was wearing colorful, fluorescent paints, and the music had heavy beats. It was a fraternity party, but it wasn't at a house. Everything took place in a warehouse, surrounded by a parking lot that was already full when we arrived.

“Loosen up,” Maddie said when we got out of her car and were walking through the parking lot, heading to the party entrance. My friend showed something on her phone to someone, and we went in.

She dragged me toward the makeshift bar. “Come on, Y/N, I know why you're like this. But remember, we have to have fun, right?” she said, shaking my shoulders from side to side as electronic music played.

I rolled my eyes, letting out a small smile because the beat of the music was really contagious.

“Alright, but I’m not going to drink much!”

“I love you!” And that was what Maddie said before dragging me to the fraternity's makeshift bar, preparing something for me to drink.

I downed a few shots, one after the other, laughing and speaking loudly as people came over to greet us. I danced to a few songs with Maddie, swaying from side to side.I felt the urge to go to the bathroom, so I asked her to wait for me close to the bar. I started walking, looking for something like a bathroom, being careful not to open doors to already occupied rooms.

I found an empty bathroom at the beginning of one of the hallways. I fixed my makeup, washed my hands, and got ready to leave. I closed the door behind me, starting to walk down the hallway.

When I returned to the party, the music was louder, and people were dancing more. By that time of the night, the bar was even more crowded than usual, signaling that the party had reached its peak.

I tried to. I really did. But I wasn’t a natural at these things, and it wasn’t until I stepped outside onto the quieter patio that I felt like I could breathe again. I walked out of the warehouse, exiting through makeshift tarp doors. Outside, in the back, there was an Olympic-sized pool, illuminated and filled with inflatable balls.

The air outside was cool against my flushed skin, the sounds of the party muffled behind the thick metal doors of the warehouse-turned-dancefloor. I leaned against the railing near the Olympic-sized pool, my chest rising and falling as I tried to steady myself.

The stillness of the pool was a welcome contrast to the pulsing energy inside. Its surface reflected the night sky, fractured by the faint ripples of the water, and for a brief moment, I felt at peace.

“Finally found you!” Maddie shouted from afar, stepping out of the warehouse with a red cup in hand. “Are you okay?”

“Yeah… it just got way too crowded all of a sudden.”

“Yep, it’s about time for us to head out.” She patted my back, as if she knew me well enough to understand exactly how I was feeling.

The bass of the music hit me like a wave as soon as I stepped through the doors, the lights swirling in hypnotic patterns that danced across the crowd. The air was thick with heat and the mingling scents of sweat and cologne, and I almost turned back around.

I tugged at the hem of my dress, suddenly feeling too exposed in the sea of intoxicated strangers. Maddie was nowhere to be seen— I lost her when I got back inside. I should’ve texted her to meet me outside, but I didn't want to ruin her night.

The overhead lights twisted and flickered in a kaleidoscope of colors, casting long shadows that danced across the packed room. People swayed and spun to the beat of a song I didn’t recognize, the energy electric and wild.

And then it happened.

The opening chords of Innerbloom by RÜFÜS DU SOL floated through the speakers, and it was like the entire atmosphere shifted. The crowd slowed, their movements taking on a dreamlike quality as the tempo of the song washed over the room.

That’s when I saw him.

Joe.

He was standing near the edge of the dancefloor, just beyond the reach of the flashing lights. His blond hair caught the faint glow of the strobe, his tall frame relaxed yet commanding as he talked to someone I didn’t recognize. But it wasn’t the way he stood or the casual confidence in his posture that froze me in place. It was his eyes.

Because, as if sensing me, he looked up—and our eyes met.

Everything else faded.

For a second, I thought I was imagining it.

It was instant, like a magnetic pull I couldn’t fight even if I wanted to. The room, the music, the crowd—all of it faded away. All I could focus on was him.

Why does it always feel like this?

The way he looked at me was almost unbearable—like he’d been waiting for this moment as much as I had dreaded it. His gaze was steady, unflinching, and for a second, I thought he might come toward me.

But he didn’t move. Neither did I.

My breath caught in my throat. We just stared at each other, the space between us suddenly feeling both infinite and too small.

I wanted to run. I wanted to stay.

The flicker of the lights seemed to sync with the thrum of my heartbeat as he started walking toward me. Everything was in slow motion—the sway of his body, the way his hands slid casually into the pockets of his jeans, the way his jaw tightened when our eyes locked again.

The music, the crowd, the swirling lights—it all blurred into the background, like the universe itself had tilted to make room for this one moment.

*If you want me, if you need me... I'm yours.*

The words felt like a taunt, an echo of everything I hadn’t allowed myself to admit.

Joe’s gaze held mine, steady and unyielding, as though he could see every thought racing through my mind. His expression was unreadable—calm, almost curious—but his eyes told a different story. They were searching, pulling me in, and suddenly the space between us felt both infinite and far too small.

I couldn’t move. My feet were rooted to the ground, my pulse hammering in my ears as the world seemed to slow to a crawl.

He took a step forward.

The lights shifted, casting his face in shadow, and for a second, I thought I might faint. My breath hitched, and I gripped the edge of a nearby table to steady myself.

Another step.

The crowd parted like water around him, the sea of bodies moving in rhythm with the music but leaving him untouched. It felt unreal, like a scene from a movie, the kind you tell yourself could never happen in real life.

But it was happening.

And then he was in front of me.

“Y/N,” he said, his voice low, almost lost in the swell of the music. But I heard it. God, I felt it.

“Joe.” My voice came out softer than I intended, almost shaky.

Neither of us said anything for a moment. The room seemed to spin around us, the world a blur of light and sound, but we were still. Anchored.

“You came,” he finally said, his lips curling into the faintest hint of a smile.

“You called.”

He tilted his head slightly, studying me in that way he always did, like he could see straight through every wall I’d put up. “I wasn’t sure if you would.”

Why did he have to be here? Why did he have to look at me like that? Like he was still holding onto something I’d been trying so hard to let go of.

The muffled beat of the music reached me even out here, but it was quieter now, easier to ignore. I closed my eyes, focusing on my breathing.

But no matter how hard I tried, I couldn’t shake the image of Joe—his face, his voice, the way he said my name. It lingered like a ghost, refusing to let me be.

“Neither was I,” I admitted, my voice barely audible.

Another beat of silence passed, heavy and charged. His gaze flickered down to my lips for a fraction of a second, and my stomach flipped.

The song swelled, the lyrics a haunting echo in the background: If you want me, if you need me, I’m yours

The silence stretched between us, filled only by the song and the pounding of my heart. I didn’t know what to say, what to do. All I could do was look at him, and all he could do was look at me, like we were the only two people in the room.

Something flickered in his eyes—relief, maybe, or something deeper. He stepped closer, and I felt the warmth of him, the faint scent of his cologne mixing with the humid air of the warehouse.

The words hung between us, heavy and unspoken truths laced beneath them. I wanted to ask him why he cared, why he’d left that note, why he was standing here now, looking at me like I was the only thing that mattered. But I couldn’t.

The music swelled, the lyrics wrapping around us like a cocoon.

“I’m glad you did.”

The words hung between us, heavy and unspoken truths laced beneath them. I wanted to ask him why he cared, why he’d left that note, why he was standing here now, looking at me like I was the only thing that mattered. But I couldn’t.

The music swelled, the lyrics wrapping around us like a cocoon.

It felt like the universe was holding its breath, waiting for one of us to make the next move.

And then, without thinking, I took a step closer.

“Joe,” I said again, my voice steadier this time.

“Y/N…” His voice was barely a whisper now, lost beneath the music but somehow still clear as day.

For a moment, neither of us moved, the world narrowing down to just us.

And then someone bumped into me, breaking the spell. I stumbled, and Joe’s hand shot out, steadying me with an ease that made my stomach flip.

“Are you okay?” he asked, his brow furrowing in concern.

I nodded, my cheeks flushing. “Yeah, I’m fine.”

But I wasn’t fine. Not even close. Because standing this close to him, feeling his hand on my arm, hearing the way he said my name—it was all too much.

And yet, I didn’t want it to end.

He held out his hand. “I…”

“I can’t do this, Joe. I have to go,” I said, finally creating some distance between us. I walked out of the warehouse, but I knew he was following me.

“CAN YOU STOP?”

He froze, started, coming to an abrupt halt behind me. Even in the dark, I could tell he was looking at me with shock. I could see the way he looked at me, and it made me feel nauseous. Not because I didn’t like it, but because I missed it. God, I missed it so much.

“I’m sorry, Y/N,” he said, and I could feel the honesty in his voice eating away at me.

“You haven’t talked to me in months, and I’m not going to let you do to me what you’ve done before,” I said, stepping further away. “You forgot about me, Joe. Completely. You pushed me away, and now, I don’t want to come back. Just… stay away.”

Maddie came running after Joe soon after. With a confused expression, she purposely bumped into his shoulder as she walked past him toward me.

“Let’s go, Y/N,” my friend said, still shooting side-eyes at Joe, who stood there frozen. “Leave her alone, Joe. She doesn’t need you anymore.”

Maddie grabbed my hand and started walking with me through the parking lot. I got into the passenger seat, still dazed. It had been almost seven months, and that was the first time he had spoken to me.

When I looked in the rearview mirror, he was still standing there, in the middle of the street.

I knew I would see him again. I just didn’t want to believe it.

[antinitoniny]

santa doesn't know you like i do

"i wonder if santa could bring a whole damn 6ft man this midnight" you said, pouring yourself another glass of red wine.

"...is that what you wished for this christmas?" anton, your best friend asked. he seems concerned & LOOKS concerned.

"i mean, i can't really think of anything i want for christmas except for an intelligent, hot, athletic, 6foot man to ruin my 2025." you said

you & anton have been friends since your womb era considering the fact that both of your parents have been friends for decades.

your friendship is basically fixed & y'all can't do anything about it anymore. proven & tested when you tried to cut him off during elementary after stabbing his arm with a pencil but you found each other in one dining table the next evening.

now that your parents wanted some time to themselves, the "kids" are left to take care of the house this christmas eve.

now, you're sitting on the couch next to anton, trying to figure out how the hell would santa fit in the chimney.

"you brought the cookies out, didn't you?" you asked, checking the table near the tree.

"for santa? are we seriously gonna do that?" anton asked, looking at you like you're some 5-year-old.

"um, no? it's for my future husband that he's bringing over." you rolled your eyes jokingly.

"what did you wish for anyway?" you asked

"i wished for someone to like me back" anton said, sitting back comfortably, looking at the ceiling.

silence.

anton waited for your response but you weren't saying anything. curious (and nervous), anton looked at you to check your reaction.

there you are, spacing out.

"what's on your mind?" anton asked, popping your lil bubble.

"how the hell would santa grant that? it's not like he can put that in a box & leave it under the tree" you said

anton laughed loudly for a minute or two which made you think that he's going insane.

anton, on the other hand, found your thoughts funny. he expected you to tease him about his lil crush or ask him about who it is. but instead, you were worrying about santa.

"i can't think of anything else. plus, i don't really believe in santa." anton replied

silence.

but this time, it was because the conversation was done. silence has never been awkward with anton which is mainly why you've learned to love anton's company.

his presence doesn't make you worry about what you're gonna say next nor how you're gonna continue the conversation. you can just exist in one place in silence & it can be the best hours of your day.

"what exactly did you write to santa?" anton asked, looking at you. for some reason, you felt nervous to look back & engage in eye contact so you stared at the tree.

"good morning, santa. if i'm on your good kid list, i'd like to have a good company for christmas. preferably a 6ft man in his 20s, smart, nice, soft spoken, family oriented, athletic, and hot. thank you, santa. merry christmasㅡ with a bunch of hearts" you recited from your memory.

"that's basically me" anton whispered

"huh? are you badmouthing me on christmas?" you raised your brow

"i said that your wish is not that specific" he said sarcastically.

"santa observed me for years as a good kid, he knows me & he knows my type" you rolled your eyes jokingly at him

"i've been with you for more than a decade, i think i know you more than santa" anton mindlessly replied

"your point being?" you asked

anton gulped. he doesn't know what he's going to say & confessing to his longtime crush is definitely not part of his 2024 bingo card.

"that i'm more than qualified than santa in fulfilling your wish" anton said confidently, succeeding in hiding his nervousness (at least in his end)

"i don't think any of your friends fit the criteria" you said, lowkey hoping that anton will offer himself

"i do" and he did

"huh?"

"i fit your criteria, don't i? am i not enough as a christmas gift?" anton teased, leaning over to your side of the couch. anton's confidence grew once he saw how flustered you are.

"hahaha what are you saying? stop it hahahaㅡ i wonder if they're home? i'll checkㅡ" you said, standing up to go to the front door. your face is obviously heating up from the unexpected turn of events.

"i like you" anton interrupted you. you stood frozen to your spot, looking at anton who's already looking at you.

"i love our little moments together like how we spent hours just walking around town last weekend, talking about everything and nothing at the same time. you make the most random things feel important." anton smiled while recalling your little moments together. you couldn't help but smile as well.

"it's the way you laugh at your own jokes, even when no one else does. it's honestly one of my favorite things. you'll say something dumb, then look at me with that "I know it was bad but I’m laughing anyway" expression, and I’ll always laugh too, because I get it. " anton said, slightly teasing you. you rolled your eyes jokingly, chuckling of how accurate he is as if he has read your mind during those moments.

"also, right, you've always hated wearing those big jackets in the winter, but I know you’d never leave the house without it because someone else might be cold. i mean, you always let someone borrow your jacket without a second thoughtㅡyou act like it’s no big deal, but I know it’s because you don’t mind being a little uncomfortable if it means someone else feels better." anton continued.

his words warmed your heart. you didn't know that he noticed that.

"is that why you always wear two jackets and i somehow find a magic jacket on my shoulder?" you laughed

"yeah, and you always tease me about how dramatic i am for wearing two jackets." anton sighed

"you could've just made me hold the other jacket just in case" you said

"you hate holding stuffㅡ it's always ME who's holding your bag anywhere" anton quickly rebutted which made you zip your mouth.

anton chuckled and continued.

"anyway, i admire your perspective on different things & how you view people. it's like, no matter how messy the situation looks, you always manage to find the good in it. you see beauty in the things other people might miss, like how you can walk through a crowded street and notice a little detail, like the color of someone’s shoes or the way a kid is laughing, that makes everything feel lighter. " he said.

"there’s something about the way you move through the world—so real, so unbothered, but always with purpose—that makes me want to be better too."

anton said, looking at you sincerely.

"i can’t help but fall more for the person you are when no one’s looking. I’m not sure when it happened, but somewhere along the way, you became someone I want to know more, be more, and be with." anton said, walking closer to you.

"so.. merry christmas?" anton laughed the awkwardness off.

"i don't know what to say, i'm really bad at words" you said, tearing up

"obviously, i'm aware. you're not obligated to say anythingㅡ i just wanted toㅡ i just felt likeㅡ" anton's words were soon interrupted by you.

"i love you. like, fuck it, i stabbed you with a pencil when we were 7 because i was sad because you didn't like me" you confessed. you were so close to crying because of anton's words and anton just stood there, laughing his ass off.

"you're pretty violent..." anton said, acting so offended

"h-heyㅡ"

"i'm sorry for the late confession. i should've known." anton suddenly said. he was about to say more but you immediately interrupted him with a hug.

"...maybe i should start believing in santa" anton chuckled, burying his face on your neck.

"merry christmas, ant." you said, breaking the hug to look at him.

"oh my god. thank you, santa" anton said, completely taken away by your beauty & by the thought of how the situation escalated to this.

you laughed at how chaotic he is. the anton you love, the anton you've loved that seemed to have never changedㅡ and you're glad that he didn't.

"i actually wrote your name on my santa wishlist" you confessed

"good to know. after all, santa won't give you somebody that loves you more than me".

[anonomano]

Connection ~ Carlos Sainz

Part one

Mafia!Carlos Sainz x Fem,Arranged!Reader

prologue part two

Synopsis: How will we get Carlos to agree to a marriage he doesn’t want?

Warnings: smut 18+ eventually, violence, toxic!carlos

Carlos was sitting at the breakfast table; notably not at the head spot, where his father use to sit. He was reading paperwork and eating an omelette prepared by his chefs, when his mother walked in.

“I found her!” she stated as she sat across from him. She was no longer wearing her mourning clothing. She was dressed in a mauve dress, amethysts decorated her ears and neck. Purple had always been her color. Her hair was up in a french twist, her signature style. She was back to herself again.

“Found who?” Carlos asked, not looking up from his work again. He had been very busy ever since he took over the business.

“Your wife”

The words stopped Carlos in his tracks. He slowly looked up at his mother. He hadn’t expected it so quickly, or for her to make the decision of who it would be. “What? No, if I must get married, I should be able to at least choose who I will get married to”

“Carlos” she sighed “sweetheart, your taste in women has never been exactly, shall I say, stellar” She grabbed his hand, the absence of her wedding ring becoming apparent “Besides, this girl is a family friend. Shes very sweet and very pretty. Her father is f/n l/n”

“y/n?” Carlos was shocked; he remembered the girl from gatherings early in life. It had been a long time, her father stopped bringing her to such events when she was four years old. Him and y/n used to be close friends. They had played together and even got fake married once. Ironic.

“Yes, I saw her a few years ago at her 16th birthday party. Shes a very nice girl. Perfect for the family. Plus consider it a gesture to her father. Him and Carlos always got along. You haven’t spoken to him since the funeral”

“Mother I respect you I do” she sat back “But, I will not marry this girl” I stood up “ I hardly even know her! If I must marry someone… I and I alone will choose who it will be”

“Its too late Carlos” She stands straightening her dress “I have already discussed this with her father. This marriage will be happening.”

“This is ridiculous! You aren’t in charge of me anymore!” Carlos leaps away from his chair wildly gesticulating at his mother “My father is dead… I am in charge you can’t undermine my authority like that!” he puts his hand to the bridge of his nose “Mother what exactly did you tell her father?”

——————————————————————————

“When I was discussing it with Reyes we had couple key things we talked about…” your father stated. You were now in a crowded room with your father at the head of the table; you were seated to his left. “First, you will get married before the end of the year, most likely in December”

“So soon?!” you say, shocked. Everything was happening so fast, it was already August.

“Yes, Darling, soon. Aswell as on the subject of children—“ his voice faded out you started to think about all of the choices being taken from you. This stranger you never met would choose where you live, how many children you have, and how you live your life. Everything would be so different.

“— this whole thing is good for the family; it keeps us involved, which is good. Carlos Jr. and myself never got along as well as his father and I” your father finished out as you regained your awareness of the situation.

“So I have to go live with him? and have his babies?” You question “How are babies even made?” an awkward silence sweeps over the room at the question. You look to your father while he looks away. Then to your brothers who are sharing glances with each other. You look at your mother last, shes looking right at you, pity on her face.

“Y/n, darling, that is something for the two of us to discuss at a later date” you slump into your seat, frustrated at the lack of information.

“Anyway, I will set up a dinner soon for the two of you to meet. Your mother and I, along with Reyes will also be attending” this cause some outrage from yoir brothers; they had always been protective of you and didn’t understand why they couldn’t go.

——————————————————————————

The dinner was not what you expected, neither was Carlos. He was seated at the head of the table, you had to admit he was very handsome; he was dressed in nice clothing, obviously very expensive and tailored to his body. You were seated on the opposite end. Your parents between you.

Despite the silence that plagued the dinner while you were eating, your parents decided to bring a conversation between the three of them to the study. Leaving you and Carlos alone.

“So, what are your hobbies?” You ask, trying to get to know the man that you will soon share your life with.

“I don’t have any, to busy”

“Alright, well, do you like kids?” you try

he sighs “look you don’t have to… we arent gonna…” he pauses briefly standing up “we aren’t getting married”

“What?”

“My mother set this whole thing up… I’m sorry you seem like a nice girl. But, I don’t even know you. I’m sure you don’t want to marry me.”

“Its just business”

He laughs a little “I don’t understand—“

“Thats what my dad said, its just business. We’ll get married, have kids, share responsibilities.”

“Darling, do you even understand what those responsibilities are?”

“Don’t!” You stand up quickly realizing what you did and then sit down “Please, don’t call me that.” you take a deep breath “I may not know everything but I am willing to learn my responsibilities I take that seriously”

“Do you want to marry me?”

“I…need too.”

He looks you, he seems to be contemplating something. “Alright then.”

——————————————————————————

You were sitting in your dinning room waiting for dinner when your parents arrived.

“Darling, I don’t know what you did but I am proud of you!” your father exclaimed as he was seated “He’s going to marry you”

“Really?” You were surprised “He said he didn’t—“

“Well, he changed his mind” your mother interrupted

“He really changed his mind, the wedding has been moves up!”

“Moved up? to when?”

“October, you are getting married in October!”

@formulas-bitch

[theartofwoompwoomp]

Hello? Would it be OK for a (female) human child who basically adopted Shadow as her’s(parent)

You know this is a very interesting idea. Mainly because it implies that the human could have chosen anyone as their parental guardian, yet they choose Shadow known for being the edgelord lol

Me????

shadow x humanchild!reader (platonic)

————————————————————————

Now when the whole sonic crew had asked who you wanted to stay with for the night no one was expecting you to choose Shadow.

heck, not even Shadow could believe it. Not that he let it show on his face, but he knew kids didn’t really like him. Most of them got scared and avoided him or would start crying.

but you,… you were practically glowing and cheering in excitement when he agreed.

he just couldn’t say no to you.

he knew children could be impulsive with their decisions, but you where dead set on staying with him. And no one opposed, some because they knew he’s lived with humans before, others because that’s what you wanted.

Regardless you were very happy to be with him.

As he was leading you towards his bike he hadn’t realized you didn’t have the gear to join him in the first place. 

And not wanting to risk you falling off, he decided to just teleport the both of you.

As he went to pick you up, you latched yourself tight small giggles escaping you, “ha, I caught you.”

Your childishness bringing a small smile on his face. “Hmm, so it seems.” Your own giggles intensifying at his reaction. You didn’t know why, but he made you feel safe.

Following his instructions to close your eyes, feeling as skin got cold, you gripped a bit tighter as everything got lighter.

Once you felt gravity again your head felt a little drowsy.

His hand hovering over your forehead helping it stay in place. You had passed out. The teleportation taking a toll on your small body. He wasn’t sure how to care for you exactly, but he knew a good start was food.

After setting you down on the couch he headed towards the kitchen. Opening an old recipe book Vanilla gave him. Scanning the pages he choose one that you might like. 

A smell hit your nose, whatever it was it smelled delicious. The scent feeling familiar as your eyes fluttered open. 

You were in a living room, no one was there but you could hear someone in the next room.

As you crept closer the scent got stronger. Hunger was also making itself evident the longer you sniffed the air.

“Oh, you’re awake.”

Jolting in place, you twist your head and see him. He had some cooking utensil in his hand. “I made some food, do you want some?”

He was gentle with his words, making sure to be patient for your response. 

At first he was worried when he saw you walking around. You were calm but so tense, almost as if you were afraid. But as he waited, he saw your worries slip from your face as smile stretched and your eyes twinkle.

You were practically jumping off your tiny feet when he mentioned food. Having everything set you both sat down to eat. 

At some point you did ask why he eats the smelly beans without cooking them, and he simply responded he’s always eaten them like that. 

when he got up to pick everything up, you shoved a handful of those smelly beans before he could stop you. “Wait— those aren’t for kids,” it was too late. you had eaten some of it, and spit out the rest.

Your face red as you gagged trying to get rid of the taste made him chuckle. He had forgotten how impulsive children could be. 

The next few hours went flying. Y’all had tried some games you knew: tag, hide-in-seek, and princess and dragons. He was the princess lol. All in all, he enjoyed the pure joy you brought in the little things.

Usually anger and a strange emptiness was the primary emotions he always felt. Which is why he’s surprised at the peace your presence brings him. It makes him want to be silly just to see your smile and giggles. 

You were definitely growing on him.

As he made sure you were tuck in bed your voice whispered through the air, “Shadow, thank you for choosing me.” 

…Choosing you?

If anything you had chosen him. Your eyes were already closing but he didn’t want to leave it at that. 

“Kid, Im the one that should be thanking you.”

And with that your soft breaths filled the room. He may have only met you recently, but in that short time you managed to give him a purpose.

You needed him, and he needs you. 

He’s not a perfect guardian, but maybe, just maybe, he can learn for you.

———————————————————————

Masterlist 

This took awhile to make but thank you soo much for the request ! 

[odyssean-flower]

The Winding Path of Fate Chapter 16 - Summer: A Homecoming

Masterpost

Pairing: Neuvillette x Female Reader Summary: You go home to attend your sister's birthday party.

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Have a pic of Neuvillette standing in wherever this is

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“The guesthouse has already been prepared for you, Monsieur Neuvillette. I hope it is to your standards. If you find anything lacking, please inform me or Mrs. Bernard immediately.”

“Thank you, madame, but considering the warm hospitality and consideration I have received from you and your family since I arrived here, I doubt that will be needed,” Neuvillette assured your mother, who seemed to blush at his words. 

“Oh...oh my, such kind words,” your mother stammered out, ignoring your pleading look. “W-well then, I shall take my leave now. Breakfast shall be served to you first thing in the morning. I wish you a very good night.”

With that, your mother left the room, closing the door behind her, which, in turn, locked you in with Neuvillette.

The two of you looked at each other in silence for a moment, neither of you knowing what to say in this unthinkable situation you somehow found yourself in.

“It appears that we are to share a bed for the night, Madame. I hope that doesn’t cause you any discomfort,” he said at last, though the furrow in his brow indicated that the question should have been asked to him instead.

“Yes. It appears so,” you nodded, trying to quell your flipping stomach. “It’s only for a night, though, so I, um, hope you can put up with me until then.”

“No, Madame, I should be the one requesting that of you,” he insisted. “I should apologize for the uncomfortable position I have put you in.”

You decided not to say anything more, lest you fall into a never-ending loop of apologies...again.

Neither of you moved from your spots. His gaze was uncharacteristically unfocused, looking at anywhere but you. Though you didn’t have the ability to read emotions like him, you knew exactly what he was thinking then. It was as though you were looking into a mirror.

How did things turn out this way?

Let us return to the beginning of the day...

While you didn’t expect fanfare or anything when you returned home, you didn’t expect the house to be completely empty.

Your father being away wasn’t a surprise. His favorite pastime was wandering the countryside and climbing the jagged mountains near the village with a zither or notebook under his arm. You just hoped he didn’t stumble into a hilichurl camp or something like last time. 

As for your mother and your sister Justine’s absence, it was soon explained with a letter given to you by your taciturn housekeeper, Mrs. Bernard.

Dear Sister,

I’m so sorry that I couldn’t welcome you back home! Dominic (do you remember him? He’s the viscount’s son I danced with) has invited me to a tour around Fontaine on those new flying machines for my birthday! He says he knows someone at the Institute and that they can lend it to him for the day. Mother is chaperoning us. 

Oh, by the way, I’ve decided not to have the usual garden party this year. We’re going to hold an evening ball at the assembly-hall! Since you so insist on us not celebrating or even mentioning your marriage in any way, this ball will serve as a stealth celebration for you as well (don’t worry, we didn’t tell anyone. But just to warn you, Mother isn’t happy about it). I know how you feel about balls, but I do hope you can enjoy yourself as well. It’s a shame that Monsieur Neuvillette can’t come, but I suppose it can’t be helped. Everyone in the village is invited, and they’re all really excited. It’s been so long since we’ve had a large party like this, after all. Dominic says that he’ll invite some of his friends too. Anne, unfortunately, can’t attend as she’s busy with her babies.

I’ll be back around late afternoon, and I expect to hear all about Monsieur Neuvillette from you (I still can’t believe he’s part of our family now!!!!)

Love, Justine

“A flying tour...and a ball?” you said incredulously as you finished reading the letter. “I don’t think I had that much energy when I was her age.”

Still, you were happy that she was having a grand birthday celebration. Even if you had mixed feelings about a ball. Well, I suppose it’s fine if it’s just a village ball, you told yourself. If worst comes to worst, I can volunteer to play the role of musician all night. 

Indeed, you shouldn’t let your personal feelings cloud such a happy event. Even you enjoyed listening to the music, watching others dance, and eating the refreshments. Though, it was a shame that Anne, your best friend, couldn’t be there, as you hadn’t seen each other in ages. 

Neuvillette’s dodged a bullet by having to be in court today, you wryly mused to yourself. He frequently received invitations to balls and dinners, but almost always declined them. 

“The guest list is here, Madame Neuvillette,” Mrs. Bernard said, handing you a list of names. As your sister had written, all the families in the village were invited, and almost all of them accepted. The unfamiliar names, you assumed, were Dominic’s friends. 

“That’s a lot of guests. Did Mother hire any help for you?” you inquired as you followed Mrs. Bernard into the kitchen. Your family only had one housekeeper, but sometimes temporary help was hired from the village when it was needed. “Oh, and you don’t have to call me Madame Neuvillette, you know.”

“I am merely calling you by your proper title, Madame,” Mrs. Bernard said, unsmiling. You could count the number of times you saw her show emotion on one hand. “And no, several of your mother’s friends have offered to help prepare the refreshments. I am only baking the birthday cake and Conch Madeleines.”

“How far have you gotten with the cake?” you asked, rolling your sleeves up and putting on an apron. You usually helped with the measurements and the mixing, as Mrs. Bernard’s eyesight had worsened slightly over the years. 

The housekeeper stopped and gave you a look. “What?” you frowned.

“The wife of the Chief Justice has no place in a kitchen, especially after a long trip. I would advise you to rest in your room until the night’s entertainments.”

“Oh, come on, Mrs. Bernard, I’m not too good for kitchen work now just because I’m married to someone important. And you know how things are with our family. We need all the help we can get.” 

It wasn’t uncommon for members of the rural nobility to do work that their urban compatriots wouldn’t even deign to do, particularly if they lived on a meager income like yours did. You had grown up accustomed to mending your own clothes and helping with meal preparation.

“It is because I know our circumstances that I cannot approve of you helping me,” Mrs. Bernard replied curtly. Suddenly, her expression turned stormy. “Are you running into any issues with the staff at Monsieur Neuvillette’s household?”

“No, no, not at all,” you said, waving your hands in denial. Mrs. Bernard had been working for your family since your grandfather’s time, when there was still wealth and a fully staffed household, so she remembered a time when young ladies of the family didn’t need to lift a finger for anything except to ring the bell to summon a servant. “I’ve never run into any trouble there. Everything’s being done for me.”

It was the truth. In the beginning, you had tried to help out with the cooking and cleaning, but was firmly turned down every time. “You are here as Monsieur Neuvillette’s wife, not a tenant,” Marie had said. “He would be greatly aggrieved to hear that you feel obliged to do chores in his household.” Personally, you didn’t really understand the problem. You weren’t actually his wife and it wasn’t an obligation to help out in the house that you lived in. To go even further, you thought he ought to hire more staff if he were to live in a house of that size, even if he didn’t dwell there all that often. 

Come to think of it, there wasn’t much difference between the two households, particularly in the number of staff. But you decided that it was wiser to keep that to yourself.

“I’m glad to hear that. You must remember that you are of an old, noble bloodline and entitled to all the dignity and respect that entails,” Mrs. Bernard said, fixing you with a steely look. “Do not shrink yourself, even if your husband is the Iudex.”

“I know, I know,” you said, biting back your comments about all the good that a noble bloodline had done you. You knew Mrs. Bernard meant well, though a part of you shuddered at how she would react if she knew the truth behind your marriage. “I’ll be in my room, then.”

Mrs. Bernard nodded and turned back to the kitchen counter, which was fully taken up by mixing bowls and baking ingredients. You studied her stooped back and gray hair tied neatly in a bun. Had she gained more white hair since the last time you saw her?

You went upstairs with those uneasy thoughts in your mind. Mrs. Bernard had stayed loyal to your family even as family heirlooms and parts of the estate were sold to pay off debts, and servants quit in succession. In a wealthier family, she would probably be retired by now and settled comfortably in a cottage, receiving an annual income. 

If I were to truly comport myself with the dignity of a noble, then I would be giving money to my family to hire more servants, you thought as you gazed at a faded patch of wallpaper. An oil painting had once hung there, though you had no idea what the subject was or where it was now. The wall there had been bare ever since you could remember. At least one or two people to help in the kitchen and with the laundry, particularly now that Justine is out in society. Ah, come to think of it, she also needs a lady’s maid. And a footman... And... 

You did have money from Neuvillette, but it wasn’t enough to pay the yearly wages of a few servants.  You would have to ask Neuvillette for more. 

Wasn’t this the point of marrying rich? To help one’s family? If only this were a normal marriage, if only you weren’t married to the one person in Fontaine who you didn’t want to ask anything more of...

You shook your head, clearing the thoughts away like cobwebs. You had gotten into this marriage of your own accord and knew exactly what it was. It was pointless to have regrets about it now. 

Pushing open your bedroom door with more force than you intended, you breathed in the sweet-smelling air of your room. It was kept dusted and polished even after you moved out. Even the plants on your windowsill were watered. Seeing your familiar wooden writing desk and floral bedspread filled your heart with overpowering gladness, as though you were a weary traveler who had finally come home. 

Your bedroom was about half the size of Neuvillette’s guest room and didn’t have a window seat or its own bathroom, but it had always served as your sanctuary. If a room could be the embodiment of one’s soul, then this one would be yours. 

You went over to the window. The morning glory vines hanging from the eaves hadn’t been trimmed, so the visibility wasn’t good, but you always liked the way the vines framed the window. When you were younger, you pretended that it was the overgrown window in a crumbling castle. The house was practically covered in ivy and morning glory vines. It lent a wild and rustic appearance that you found charming, but your mother always complained about the “overgrown weeds.” 

I think Neuvillette’s house would also look lovely with a bit of greenery on the outside. Not excessively, of course, But a window box of flowers never hurt anyone, or perhaps a wisteria tree near the front door...

You turned to the tall bookcase that housed your carefully cultivated collection of books. Living in a small town far from the city meant that your means of buying new books was limited, but you made do. Your eyes drifted to the leather-bound spines occupying the middle shelf. Those were the albums and journals of your late teacher which she had bequeathed to you. She had more books, but they were donated to the school and local library. While you had brought your favorites with you to the city, you didn’t bring any of these with you out of fear of losing them. And because it still hurt too much to look at them.

But now... You ran a finger across their smooth, cracked spines. You hadn’t visited your teacher’s grave in a long time. You should find time to do it today. There are a lot of things I want to tell her about. 

Before that, you decided to take a little nap. The trip here had been rather taxing. You changed into a shift and closed the curtains on the blue sky beyond. It won’t be blue for long though. I hope it doesn’t rain during Justine’s tour.

The thought of rain reminded you of Neuvillette. He was probably still in the middle of a trial, as it hadn’t rained yet. You felt a little guilty, knowing that you promised to attend one of his trials. I’ll go to the next one for sure, you told yourself. I hope he doesn’t stand in the rain for too long. You had grown accustomed to the sight of him standing in the garden as rain fell upon him and readied towels for him whenever he came back indoors. He never talked about it, but you gathered that standing in the rain was soothing for him somehow. 

You climbed into bed and slipped under the covers, then stared up at the ceiling. Sleep wasn’t coming easily. 

Birdsong sounded outside the window. Faint shadows played on the wall opposite your bed. You could hear Mrs. Bernard moving around in the kitchen downstairs. Everything was so familiar and unchanged that you could almost fool yourself into believing that you had never left your village at all. The woman who had married the Iudex, petted a vishap’s snout, got attacked by a drunk at night (O Archons, how were you going to bring that up to your parents?), and spoke to the Hydro Archon, seemed to be someone else entirely. 

I feel like everything that happened in the past few months was a dream, and now I’m back to reality...

You could even sense the difference between your two lives in the bedding. The sheets in my room in the city are silkier and smell like detergent, while these sheets are more worn and stiffer, and smell like wildflowers...

You blinked at the intrusive thought. It would not do to compare. Or to grow accustomed to this, because it would all be over in the blink of an eye. The life that awaited you would be difficult, so it was better to prepare for it beforehand.

You tried to think about things that were more relevant to your future, like how you would advertise yourself or do some networking (perhaps you could ask Neuvillette to do some inquiring for you), but for some reason, your thoughts kept straying to other things. Like saving two slices of cake for Neuvillette and Marie. Marie would love the cake, and even though Neuvillette rarely ate sweets, you were sure he would enjoy it as well. It should be moist enough for him. The only question was, how were you going to keep the cakes fresh on the way home tomorrow? That reminds me, didn’t Neuvillette promise to take me to a restaurant? I hope he hasn’t forgotten about it. Well, he’s so busy these days that I wouldn’t be surprised if he had. Still, I was really looking forward to it...

A little voice in your head asked you if you were perhaps thinking about Neuvillette a little too much, but it was soon pulled under by a wave of drowsiness. 

“I hope you’re not going to hide away in the corner with the piano all night.”

You glanced up from the sheet music for a high-spirited country dance as Justine strode into the parlor. Her hair was up in curlers, and she was wearing her bathrobe and a facial mask. 

“Who else is going to play the music for all the dancing you and your friends are going to do? There’s no one as skilled on the piano as me in town, and no one else willing to take on the role of the musician all night.” 

You weren’t bragging. You had plenty of practice playing reels and jigs for Justine and her friends, who lived for dancing. Though, you had been a little rusty as of late, which was why you were warming up right now.

“Mr. Guillaume will be playing the violin, and Mrs. Allen has agreed to lend her harp. And Mother can take your place on the piano. You have to take a break at some point,” Justine leaned against the piano. “Just do one or two dances, please?”

“Oh, all right.” You supposed you could dance a cotillion or a longways set.

“You can practice with me, if you want. ...I doubt Monsieur Neuvillette danced much with you.”

“How do you know that?”

“It would have made the headlines of all the newspapers if he attended a ball with an unknown woman on his arm,” Justine said, as if it was obvious. Then, her face brightened. “Unless those secret evening balls the tabloids talk about are true...?”

“I wouldn’t know about that.” Though the thought of Neuvillette sneaking off at night to go dancing was rather amusing.

“Why wouldn’t you know? You’re his wife!”

“Well...just because two people are married, it doesn’t mean they have to know everything about each other,” you said. It occurred to you then that this was the perfect opportunity to “foreshadow” your eventual divorce. “To be honest, we don’t see each other all that often. His job keeps him very busy, you know, and he comes home very late. We live separate lives, and neither of us has much interest in each other. It’s not exactly the fairytale marriage you’re hoping for, I’m afraid.”

“Oh, I know that,” Justine waved her hand. “There’s some kind of circumstance behind it, right?” Your expression must have been comical because she let out a snort of laughter. “Come on, my serious and level-headed sister suddenly getting married to the Iudex in a secret wedding within a week? You have to be an idiot not to see something’s up. I think Mother suspects it as well, but she’s choosing to ignore it.”

“I see...” Now you felt foolish. “Um...you must want to know--”

“I won’t pry. As long as he’s good to you and supports you in every way, then it doesn’t matter,” Justine peered at you closely. You were surprised. She had always been a romantic and, like your mother, devoured romance novels. “He is good to you, right? He’s not cold or neglectful? Everyone says he doesn’t like humans and is only kind to the Melusines. If he's cruel to you, then--”

“No!” you said, a little too quickly. Justine raised her eyebrow. You cleared your throat. “I mean, he’s been nothing but gentlemanly and considerate. He’s very kind and gentle--nothing at all like how he presents in court. I don’t think he hates humans at all. It’s just that he...keeps a distance from most people due to the nature of his work.”

You thought back to all the conversations you had with Neuvillette, and what you had observed of him. He simply didn’t give off the air of someone who hated humans. Would someone like that sit in the seat of the Chief Justice for centuries? 

But you couldn’t say he wholeheartedly loved them either. There was a deliberate distance there, but the reason for it was unknown to you.

“Mm-hmm,” Justine made a sound. She was grinning. You then realized that you had fallen into deep thought. “So, tell me more about my brother-in-law.”

“B-Brother-in-law?” you spluttered.

“Isn’t that what he is?”

“Well...yes, but...” It had only occurred to you then that Neuvillette was technically related to your family now. You had never gave it much thought before, so focused on other aspects of the marriage. You cleared your throat again. “What do you want to know? Just so you know, I don’t know his true identity or anything.”

“I don’t care about that! I want to know what living with him is like. He’s so mysterious, after all! Ooh, I don’t know how you can bear seeing that handsome face every single day!” Now she was sounding more like her old self.

You had a feeling that she would keep pestering you if you didn’t throw her a bone. What’s the harm in telling her a few things, you thought. Plus, you did kind of wanted to talk to someone about him. 

“You get used to it after a few months,” you started, and Justine leaned forward in rapt attention.

“So...he’s an old man, basically?” Justine said after you finished talking. You were currently in the kitchen, watching Mrs. Bernard icing the cake. The three-tiered butterscotch cake was decorated with pink and blue roses (“Didn’t I tell you? It’s to celebrate your wedding!” Justine answered when you asked about the blue roses) and looked every bit as delicious as something you’d see in the window displays of the fancy cake shops in the Court. 

“What...? How did you get to that conclusion?” you whirled around to her. Mrs. Bernard let out a quiet snort.

“According to you, he enjoys long, solitary walks by the water, has a preference for moist foods, and loves talking to his daughters and asking about their day. That sounds just like Old Man Julien,” Justine replied matter-of-factly. Old Man Julien was an elderly neighbor of yours who had no teeth. And he did enjoy long walks and chewable foods. 

“...No, it doesn’t,” you said, even as you inwardly thought that you might have inadvertently ruined Neuvillette’s image. Although, he is old...and a man...so she’s technically correct...wait, why am I thinking about this!? “So what? Is that a crime? Nothing wrong with having distinctive tastes, is there?”

“Never said there was,” Justine was still grinning. You turned away from her with a huff, and she hopped around to face you. “And Sister, you’re a terrible liar!”

“What do you mean?”

“You are interested in Monsieur Neuvillette! I’ve never seen you talk so much about someone who isn’t some musty old historical figure!” Justine clapped her hands together.

“And smiling at that,” Mrs. Bernard added. You didn’t recall smiling. 

“That’s because he’s an interesting person. Like you said, he’s mysterious. No one knows what he is or where he came from. And he’s hundreds of years old, and...” Realizing that you sounded far too defensive, you clamped your lips shut. 

“Oh, Sister, you should just be honest with yourself,” Justine shook her head.

“I do not know what you are talking about. I did not lie about a single thing. And you should watch how you speak about your brother-in-law.”

“I know, I know... Ooh, I have an idea. Let me do your makeup! And then I’ll take pictures and send them to my brother-in-law, and then he’ll be so awestruck by your beauty that he’ll be eager to take you to balls every night!”

“Please don’t do that. It’s a secret marriage, remember?” you reminded her as she dragged you upstairs.

But she wasn’t listening to you as she chattered to herself. “...And then I’ll tie blue ribbons into your hair, to match those blue things in his hair.”

“Actually, those are horns,” you couldn’t help but correct her.

“They are!? ...I bet he let you touch them, didn’t he?” 

You suppressed a groan. You were beginning to regret telling her anything at all.

I hope Neuvillette’s having a more relaxing time than me, you thought.

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[thetempleofthemasaigoddess]

Her sweet peach

Roronoa Zoro x reader. NSFW!

Companion to His fourth sword.

*****

Peaches have long been your favourite fruit, ever since you begged your mother to buy one every time you accompanied at the market, to eat on the way home; the juicy, sweet taste filling your senses is still one of your life's small pleasures, enough to elicit a smile even in your darkest days.

Which is why you have been so happy to discover that the small, peaceful island your crew has just docked at is a horticulture centre, the favourable climate allowing the growing of a great number of fruits among which bananas, apples, plums… and peaches. 

The sun is shining, you’re free to enjoy an afternoon of rest since you’ve spent the morning helping Franky patch up the damages the Sunny had suffered after your last battle, and you have visited the nearby village to buy a few of the largest peaches you have ever seen.

This is living, you happily think to yourself as, clad in your favourite bikini, you lie on a beach chair, your sunglasses protecting your eyes from the sun’s rays. You're the only one among your friends who has chosen to spend the afternoon sunbathing on the deck, while the others take care of the ship or find other ways to occupy their time, which is why you expect to remain alone…

… until the sound of heavy footsteps, and the familiar clink of metal touching skin -specifically, of swords in their sheaths gently bumping against the leg of the man who carries them- announces the arrival of the person you have been thinking about more and more often, and deeply, over the last few weeks. 

“Hey.”

“Hi, Zoro.” you answer happily as you take off your sunglasses to observe, and admire, the tall figure of the swordsman now standing near your chair “Finished your training for the day?”

He nods, sweat glistening on his chest and shoulders; naked to the waist he's even a more attractive sight than usual, which is saying something, especially for someone who, like you, has had two months to appreciate Zoro’s beauty up close. 

You propose to take another chair so that the two of you can sunbathe together, but Zoro shakes his head, and sits on a corner of your chair, content in your company just like you are in his. You share a smile, not bothering to speak to express what you’re both thinking about. 

“You bought something at the market?” he asks, noticing the brown paper bag placed on the deck near you, from which you are picking a new fruit to enjoy; at this rate you’ll spoil your appetite for dinner, but you’re confident Sanji will forgive you.

“I did! These peaches are really delicious. Do you want one?”

Zoro smiles, amused by your enthusiasm; he has taken advantage of the closeness to start caressing your calf, the touch of his calloused hand moving up and down your skin both gentle and possessive. “Let’s share one.”

You do, taking turns in biting into the soft, fuzzy surface, until only the central stone remains and juice has dampened your fingers. “Wasn’t it good? I’ll have to go buy some more before we sail, they’ll last longer if I keep them in the fridge…”

“It was really good.” Zoro admits “Of course, I know an even better one.”

“Sorry?”

“I know of a peach that is sweeter and juicier than any other - than any other thing, really. I’ve never tasted it, but I just know it is delicious.”

You blink, staring at Zoro’s completely serious, even solemn, expression as you struggle to comprehend the meaning of his words. “What are you talking about? The seller at the market assured me this is the sweetest sort among the many cultivated here on the island.”

“I’m not talking about a variety of fruit; it’s a single, very special peach.”

“I… I don’t understand…”

But you should, after two months spent fooling around, one going on dates every time your ship docked at a new island or town, and exactly thirty-one days after the one you got to taste Zoro’s fourth sword for the first time. Yes, all things considered you should have expected this would happen, and that Zoro would find a way to settle the score between the two of you.

But no matter how clueless you are, this is the sort of surprise you can’t help but appreciate.

“You want me to show you?”

“I… guess so…” you answer, still confused -how can a particularly sweet, single peach exist? Even if such a distinction made sense, one should have to eat the fruit to judge it- and you see Zoro grin, the satisfied glint in his eyes expressing that he managed to get you exactly where he wanted you to be.

“Right…”

He moves slowly, with the sinuous and deliberate grace of a panther approaching his prey, as he stretches over you, swinging a leg over the beach chair and then resting his hands on the sides of the backrest. Soon his face is close enough to yours you’re breathing the same air, and there’s something in Zoro’s eyes, and in his smile, that makes your heart skip a beat.

“Zoro…”

“Let me taste you.” he murmurs, and a moment later he has pressed his lips to yours. 

You kiss avidly for a couple of minutes, but when you raise your hands to touch Zoro’s hair and face, he gently but resolutely moves them away. “Let me.” he mumbles, and a moment later you can feel his tongue caressing yours; you let him, pleasantly dizzy, but a sudden noise coming from underdeck makes you jump. “Wait…”

“Shh…” he murmurs, as his mouth descends towards your neck; you feel him gently bite the soft skin. His right hand descends on your body to cup your bikini-covered breast, the pad of his thumb gently stimulating your already hard nipple through the fabric. 

A moan erupts from your throat. Oh, God…! “Zoro, we can’t…”

“I say we can.”

“But the others… we’re on the deck, anyone could see…”

The island’s little port is empty, but Luffy and the others are nearby, busy working on the ship or going about their own business but free to step on deck any moment, through a door that is only a few steps to your right. You and Zoro have kept your relationship secret until now, mostly because you both feel the matter only concerns the two of you rather that the whole crew, and while you have nothing against telling your friends, you want to do it while you’re all gathered around the dinner table, not being surprised while you and Zoro make out. You should stop, and take this to one of the cabins like you’ve done so many times over the last two months…

“Zoro, please… we are completely in the open…” you murmur, sounding less urgent and resolved than you wish you did; Zoro knows neck kisses are your weak spot, and he’s mercilessly exploiting that knowledge against you… who, in turn, are starting to think that maybe it’s alright to take a few minutes for yourself, since the chance of being caught is after all negligible if you make it quick. You moan softly, the sweet torture of Zoro’s lips, teeth and tongue eliciting goosebumps on your skin as his hand caresses your chest; if he carries on like this he’ll suck a lovebite on your neck, which will be a pain to hide, but you can manage, and since the deck is silent you’ll allow yourself to enjoy this for a minute more… only a minute more…

… and then Zoro’s hand quickly pulls your bikini bra down, exposing your chest.

You jump - literally. “Zoro…!”

“God, you look so good…” 

“Zoro, we can’t… what has gotten into you?” you hiss, bewildered; he grins in response, his gaze unashamedly revelling in the sight in front of him. “As I said, I’m going to show you the sweetest peach in the world.” he explains “And you did say I had to return the favour, right?”

“... what?”

“That day in my cabin. When you… took care of my fourth sword.”

Despite his position of power, Zoro can’t help blushing as he mentions the moment you shared a month ago; the memory elicits a smile on your lips, followed by a surge of panic once his intentions finally become clear.

“You… you want to do it now? Here?”

“Well, I am in your debt, aren’t I? You said it yourself.” Zoro points out, his eyes still trained on your chest; it’s a sight he already had the chance to admire several times, but the naked, unashamed desire in his gaze is no less intense, and you have to admit it, it doesn’t leave you indifferent. At all “And there’s no time like the present, like they say.”

“I know, but… we could go under deck, make sure no one sees us…”

“No one can see us now. Now let me take care of you…”

He’s not forcing you to do anything, you are well aware; you could easily fix your bra, stand and walk away, either holding Zoro’s hand to find a safer place somewhere on the ship or on your own, after telling him you don’t feel comfortable with what he’s proposing and you’d rather wait for a more appropriate occasion.

You could do it; despite his enormous strength and occasional lack of social graces, Zoro is not a brute and would never pressure you to anything you’re not comfortable with; you know, and you love him for it, and remembering that you don’t want to be caught by one or more of your friends while you and Zoro fool around, especially not if you really end up doing what he’s suggesting, is harder and harder with any passing second…

What he is suggesting. God, you can feel your heart pounding at the mere thought.

You don’t openly say go on, but Zoro must see he has overcome your objections, because he grins and licks his lips in anticipation, like a man who sees an excellent meal served at his table… with the sole difference that in this case the thing he’s going to eat -or to eat out, as it happens- is not the delicious food Sanji prepares for the crew every day, but you. 

He kisses you again, deep and firm and passionate, intense like most of what he does is; you share a look, and suddenly you are completely unable to speak.

“Scream if you want; I like it.” Zoro invites you, and a moment later he has lowered his face to your chest and captured your nipple between his lips.

You don’t scream. You moan, and pant, and are forced to press a hand to your lips, but you don’t scream, your voice literally caught in your throat as Zoro plays with your chest, kissing, biting, sucking as if today were the last day of his life. “You have amazing tits, you know?” he murmurs into your skin “I’ve thought about this; I’ve dreamt of seeing them bounce as you move above me.”

The image his words are evoking is enough to make your head spin. You have thought about it as well, plenty of times in fact, the growing intimacy between you and Zoro naturally leading you to imagine and look forward to the day you’ll finally take your relationship to the next level. The fact that he envisions it with you on top is more than a little titillating, but right now… right now all you can think about is Zoro making good on his promise, and you feeling the kisses he’s placing on your chest on an even more delicate part of your body. 

Moving cautiously, you slip a hand behind your back to unclasp your bra; Zoro allows you to take it off, and then smiles up at you, aware that he has completely silenced your protests. He moves to sit on the bottom edge of the beach chair in order to have both of his hands free, and unclasps his swords from his belt to delicately place them on the deck next to him. A moment later he’s bent over you once more, his hands squeezing your breasts as he rubs his face against them. 

You lift your -slightly trembling- hand to caress Zoro’s hair, and this time he lets you, smiling into your skin. “Relax now.” he murmurs, and then his kisses start descending down your abdomen, soft, delicate pecks that leave a trail of fire behind them, the movement agonizingly slow. Torn between the impulse of telling him to hurry up because you can’t wait and the desire to savour any moment like a piece of delicious fruit, you are holding your breath by the time he reaches the hem of your bikini panties, and then… Zoro stops.

He stops, and you can feel him hold his breath for a moment, which immediately transforms the unhappy surge of frustration in your chest into worry.

“Are you alright?” you murmur, propping yourself up on your elbow to meet Zoro’s gaze “You don’t have to do it, you know.”

“I do want to do it.” he assures you, unsure like you’ve never seen him “It’s just… I want this to be good for you; I don’t even know what I have to do.”

“You really don’t?”

“I mean… I know the theory; putting it in practice is a different matter.” 

You can’t help but smile. “Zoro… you need to stop considering this thing between us a test or something you need to prove yourself worthy of. Would you have gotten angry if I had seriously asked you to stop?”

“Of course not. It’s just…”

“Yes?”

The silence stretches between you, heavy with unsaid secrets and shames. You can feel heat pool in your belly, your body already screaming with anticipation for what Zoro has promised, but rather than hurrying him you sit up, so that you’re face to face.

“Just what?” you gently invite him “What is it that worries you so much?”

“I’m not worried! But I was thinking that…” Zoro rubs the back of his neck, avoiding your gaze as he confesses: “That you might decide to do it with someone else. With Sanji, or with some guy you meet on some island we stop at. You know, someone who knows more about this than I do.”

“Zoro…”

“It’s stupid, I know; let me try, I’m sure I can do it…”

“Of course you can; and I wouldn’t mind either way.” you assure him, taking his face in your hands “Zoro… I like you. Very, very much, and I’m not going to stop being with you simply because… because of this, first of all because you could never disappoint me, and second because sex is only one of the many things of you I’m attracted to.”

You sigh, well aware that lust is no longer the only reason why you are blushing; it’s way too early for you and Zoro to be talking about feelings, which is something you feel difficult and embarrassing in the best of cases, but the last thing you want is for him to think he owes you or that you might start looking at other men because he doesn’t immediately become the perfect lover. The poor man is still a virgin, for God’s sake!

“Now would be a good moment to tell me you also really like me, Zoro.”

“Of-of course I like you. For more than sex, that is.”

“And you wouldn’t do what you do with me with any other woman?”

“Of course not.”

“Thank you.” you say, and smile as you lie back down on the chair “Now go on; take your time and listen to your intuition. Your body knows what to do already, even if your mind doesn’t.”

Zoro nods, finally relieved, and gets to work. You can’t take your eyes off him as he bends to kiss your stomach once more, and then your thighs, and then finally the centre of your pleasure, his kiss slow, lingering and almost lazy, that opens in a new smile when Zoro feels you tremble, your body already reacting to his passion.

“Lift.” he orders, and you comply, allowing him to hook his thumbs around the side of your panties, and then slide them down your legs.

You are now completely bare, naked as the day you were born, visible to any of your friends who might decide to step on the deck for whatever reason. You don’t think you could survive the shame, but right now all you can think and care about is Zoro, once more looming over you, almost fascinated as he admires your nudity.

“You are beautiful.” he murmurs, almost reverent, and you smile as you spread your legs, just enough to let him catch a glimpse of your wet, warm folds. 

“This is all for you.” you murmur “Please, Zoro, I need you; I need to feel you…”

He groans. “Fuck, (name)...”

You help him get comfortable with your heels resting on his thighs while Zoro leans forward and wraps his arms around your thighs; you share a last smile, and a moment later he’s kissing you for the first time, the warm touch of his mouth sending a shiver of pleasure through your body. You tremble, his name leaving your lips in a whimper as his kisses multiply, sweet and worshipful, and a moment later you can feel his tongue on you, the slow, intense drag over your pubic hair sending a new jolt of pleasure through you. 

“You’re not… shaved.” Zoro murmurs, not breaking the contact so that you can feel his words reverberating against your skin.

“I’m not; is that… a problem?” you ask, a vein of uncertainty appearing in the sea of your pleasure; none of your previous partners complained, but you know Zoro shaves regularly, which might mean that he prefers his women equally hairless “I’m sorry, if you want I can…”

“It’s fine. No, I mean, it’s perfect.” he quickly reassures you; you can’t see his face from your position, but you can hear the smile in his voice “I like you the way you are.”

Those words, and the hidden meaning Zoro is perhaps slipping into them, touch you deeper than you expected them to. I like you as you are too, you’d like to say, and you’re about to, but then, as he keeps kissing your pubis to his heart’s content and his hands run up and down your thighs, Zoro’s tongue inadvertently brushes against your centre, the touch quick, almost absentminded, but enough to make you scream - a sudden, uncontrolled cry while Zoro is forced to quickly grab your legs once more to keep you still.

“Down, you…”

“Zoro, please…”

“Please what?” he asks, his handsome face suddenly peeking up between your legs; despite his lack of experience he knows you are at his mercy and is clearly proud of it “What do you want, (name)? Use your words.”

“You prat…” you mumble, but there’s no bite behind the insult, and you can’t help but smile “I know I told you to go slow, but…”

“... not too slow?”

“Exactly.”

“As you wish.” Zoro says, but nevertheless, when he dives back between your legs, it takes him a few more, agonizing minutes to actually reach the part of your body that desperately needs his attention. Completely naked under the sun, your muscles made tense by desire, you hold your breath, praying for a moment, just a moment of respite from the lust burning in your belly, but Zoro is determined to take his revenge for the sweet torture you inflicted on him four weeks ago, and by the time he finally takes pity on you you’re practically crying with desire, begging the swordsman to face-fuck you, now, otherwise you’ll lose your mind…

And Zoro finally does.

“Oh… you’re so wet…” he whispers, almost amazed; you can feel his voice vibrate against your clit, and your whole body has a new spasm.

“And whose fault is that?” you ask, or rather try to, because emotion has stuck your voice in your throat, and once again, you feel him grin. You whimper, because while you’ve always hated being manhandled as if you were an object, you can’t help feeling even more aroused now that Zoro is the one doing it; in a complete reversal of your positions a month ago, when you took care of his needs, he is now completely dominating you, your poor body completely at his mercy, surrendered and begging for a relief he could easily deny you.

Fortunately, he doesn’t.

“What a sweet little peach.” Zoro murmurs; he’s licking, almost lapping at your core with abandon, the completely lurid sound fueling your lust “You… taste so sweet… so juicy… hmm, (name), I want to lick you dry…”

The hand you have pressed to your mouth is not enough to stifle the symphony of moans, pants and cries Zoro’s tongue tears from your throat; he has taken your advice to let his instincts guide him to heart, and quickly learns how to give you pleasure without the need for further instruction. He is really treating your pussy as if it were a delicious fruit, savouring and tasting it, unashamedly pushing you to the brink as he holds your body close.

You can already feel pleasure mounting inside you, the lust only partially sated by his ministrations, and no matter how sweet it would be to just let go and find your relief, you want this to last, because, as you told Zoro that day in your cabin, the longer you’ll force yourself to resist, the more pleasant it will be once you finally come. 

You sigh his name, and a moment later, behind you, a door slams; Zoro tenses, and “No!” you cry “Don’t stop…”

He laughs. “Not so worried about being caught now, are we?”

“Not anymore, no.” you admit, by now beyond blushing “Rather, I-I have to admit… I wouldn’t mind that.”

Zoro groans. “Shit, (name)…”

Being seen right now, in the state you are, Zoro eating you out as if his life depended on it, one of your friends - no, the whole crew witnessing such an intimate moment… the mere thought makes you tremble, and not in fear and shame. You arch your back, pressing yourself against Zoro, as your hands find purchase on his shoulders. 

“More.” you urge him, your voice reduced to a growl. You have lost all control of yourself and you are proud, rather than embarrassed, of it; proud, and grateful, for the sweet, generous man who is giving everything he has to gift you a moment you will remember forever “Zoro, I want - I need more. Make me come. Darling, make me scream.”

Another groan - raw, deep, visceral, almost animalistic, as if the one taking care of your pleasure weren’t a clever, steadfast young man but an animal, a savage beast forced to an enormous strain in order to maintain at least a modicum of control as he ravishes you, just a step away from losing control, from giving in to his basest instincts to own you…

And then he stops again.

Light-headed as you are, it takes you a moment to realise it, to feel the absence of Zoro’s kisses on your core, and then you frown, disappointed but not worried, thinking that maybe he just needed a moment to catch his breath or clean his face.

But then the seconds pass, and nothing happens; Zoro is still holding you by the legs, unmoving, his face still inches away while the tide inside you stills, unable to mount to its release. You are painfully, desperately stretched, muscles tense towards a liberatory reward the man in front of you could easily give but that you can’t reach without him; still lying, you roll your hips, hoping to cover the brief distance between you, but you can’t, Zoro’s hands still keeping you in place.

You lift yourself on your elbow, finally meeting his eyes. “What’s wrong? Are you alright?” you ask, hoping to sound less frustrated than you are. You are almost there, dammit!

“Yeah, I’m good. I was just thinking…”

Zoro bites his lip; he’d have any reason to feel smug, but suddenly uncertainty is colouring his face. You can see traces of your fluid on his lips, a sight that has your hips spasm.

His mouth is no longer enough, you decide on that moment, no matter how sweet and passionate his kisses. You need more, more of him, all of him, body and heart and soul, like you need to give him yours - and you will soon, you are pretty confident Zoro would be glad to agree, but now you just need a minute more… you need to come, you need it desperately, otherwise you don’t know what will become of you…

“... are we a thing now?”

“... what?!”

“You said you don’t want to do this with anyone but me, and I don’t want anyone but you either.” Zoro reminds you; he’s focused on your conversation but otherwise perfectly calm and in control, as if he couldn’t care less about the poor, needy woman lying in front of him, out of her mind with lust and desperately needing to be fucked “Does this mean we are a couple? You know, since we’re exclusive… and we’ve been seeing each other for a while…”

“...”

“You don’t have to say yes if you don’t want… or if you need to think about it…”

“It’s not that.” you reassure him, amused despite your exasperation “You could have found a better moment to discuss it, that’s all; one doesn’t normally stop to talk while they’re in the middle of this. Zoro, I feel like I’m going to burst.”

“Oh! Uhm…” Zoro blinks, sincerely taken aback “Sorry, I didn’t think… I’ll finish now…”

“That would be nice, thank you. And Zoro?”

“Yes?”

You smile; you can’t help it. “And I’d love for us to be a couple.”

“... really?”

“Of course. The exclusive sort, of course.”

Zoro bites his lip, as if suddenly aware of his lack of timing and of the absurdity of the situation, but then he smiles, his eyes expressing all the joy he’s unable to voice. “That’s… good.”

“Very good, yes. Now would you mind making me come?”

Zoro hurries to nod, and then his face disappears between your legs once more; his new attack is immediately fiery, relentless even, as he quickly picks up the pace he had built until a moment ago, as if determined to make up for lost time. Relief fills you as your body finally finds the escape it was craving for; it feels like holding your breath for hours and then filling your lungs with clean, fresh air.

“I-I’m close.” you stammer, once more close to your breaking point; it’s never been like this for you, so intense, sweet and devoted despite its ardor, as if Zoro were channelling all his strength and his indomitable will, not against a foe or to fight for his life, but to give you pleasure, and to be a good partner for you “I’m almost… Zoro…”

He doesn’t answer, but he moans, and then does something so indescribably lurid with his tongue, that it pushes you over the brink; the tether inside you snaps, and then you’re coming, Zoro’s hands keeping you still as he eats you out, ravenous, passionate, hungry for you, for your sweet peach, angry and jealous enough he wants it, and you, all to himself.

You’ve got nothing against that, and you vow to make sure he knows it soon; your scream of pure pleasure fills the air as your body trembles, your nails digging into the flesh of Zoro’s shoulders keeping you from being swept away. 

Your orgasm is long, intense and absolutely sublime; he guides you through it, prolonging your pleasure as much as he can and then gently lowering your legs to the chair as you try to catch your breath. He places a last, sweet kiss on your belly and then stands -carefully; his legs look a bit wobbly- to come kneel again by your side.

“Are you alright?”

For a full minute all you can do is nod, and smile broadly. “I’m fine. And it was amazing, Zoro; thank you.”

“A-are you sure? I wasn’t sure… and then I stopped, like an idiot…”

You silence him with a finger to his lips; then you change your mind, and do it with your mouth, feeling pleasantly numb and yet wanting more. More of this; more of him. “It was perfect; you clearly are naturally talented in more than just swordsmanship.” you reassure him “Was it nice for you?”

“Very. I… I can't wait to do it again.” 

“And we will. And tonight we can look at the stars in the crow’s nest.”

“Sounds nice. We can drink the sakè we bought on the last island.”

It's nothing you haven’t done a thousand times already, but a large smile blossoms on your lips. “Yeah, fine.”

Zoro grins. He's been doing it more and more often recently, at least while the two of you are together; you had never noticed how lovely his smiles can be. “As I thought, you taste better than any peach in the world.”

“Well, thank you…”

You should probably cover yourself, since you're still naked and in plain sight, but you don't, and you don't care. Zoro rests his forehead against yours, and for a minute you remain still, enjoying the intimacy of a shared breath.

“So… it's official.” you comment after a while, feeling… not exactly shy, but a little trepidant “You're still in time to change your mind.”

“Why should I? I asked you, after all.”

“I know, but…”

“But nothing; I, err, don't really know what it means to be a b-boyfriend, but I promise I'll do my best.”

“Your best is enough.” you reassure him, and smile “And if not, once again, I can teach you.”

Zoro frowns. “Can you? How many other boyfriends have you had?”

“That's not what I meant, you dummy…”

You share a smile, laughing softly as your lips meet in the middle. 

[gayeilgeoir]

I’m not going to lie and say The Man by Taylor Swift is exactly the pinnacle of feminism, but it is a really interesting perspective to touch on.

In the song, Taylor talks not of what she would do as a man, but what the actions she does as a woman would be viewed as if they were preformed by a man.

“I would be complex, I would be cool”

Taylor is often portrayed by misogynists as a ditsy blonde obsessed with men, because she writes about being in love, and talks about her feelings being as important as her boyfriends.

“They’d say I played the field before I found someone to commit to, and that would be okay for me to do, every conquest I had made would make me more of a boss to you”

Taylor talks about past criticism for simply just engaging in relationships with men. She is criticised for being in too many relationships despite her currently relationship at the time of writing having went on for 3 years and lasting another 3. She talks about “conquests” a really interesting word for her to use. She never talks of the men she dates as if they’re “prizes” she talks of them in a way that humanises them. Here she parodies societal views on heterosexual relationships. She is being seen as a man who has won a woman, while the woman is degraded by being with the man, she looses worth

“I’m so sick of running as fast as I can….because if I was a man, than I’d be the man”

Taylor talks of putting in far more effort then men beside her to get to the same places. Her success is already insane, but she would be far more famous as a man. She talks of how her achievements are undermined, or miscredited. She is expected to be in debt to a man.

“What I was wearing, if I was rude, could all be separated from my good ideas and power moves?”

Now, the ? at the end of this changes the meaning entirely. Otherwise, it would be a doubtless definite, she wouldn’t be judged for her actions (or the actions of others, if what I was wearing refers to her previous sexual assault case in the rep era) but this suggests Taylor almost doesn’t believe this a possibility. She is shocked at the idea of being allowed to be “rude” (which for famous women is just standing up for yourself) and being humanised and your actions being respected. She is shocked at the privilege of men

“I’d be just like Leo”

Leonardo Di Caprio, is a man who dates a boatload of under 25 women and treats them horrifically. At this time, Taylor being 30 years old and having 9 previous boyfriends, all over age, and receiving so much criticism. Taylor talks of how dating for a woman is seen as a necessity, but you will always be judged for it. She compares her life to Di Caprio, not in a hateful way, but saying she is being judged for something so idiotic.

“And it’s all good if you’re bad, and it’s okay if you’re mad”

Taylor talks of not being allowed to properly feel emotion. Referring back to her quote “a man is allowed to react, a woman can only overreact” she talks of how, likely in the Reputation Era, every little thing she did was a reason for people to hate her. Everything was blown up tenfold. She was hated for things she would be praised for as a man.

“So it’s okay that im mad”

Taylor has maintained a highly apologetic tone throughout the song, but at the end, she chooses to be more direct. She has avoided confrontation to then say, I am allowed to be this way, and it is not for you to judge. She stops stepping around the fact and fully head on addresses it.

[changingplumbob]

Glenn: Did you talk to your brother

Silver: About what

Glenn: About us finding a house, thinking of having kids

Silver: I mean... sort of

Glenn: Is that yes or no

Silver: *sighs* No

Glenn: Why not? I thought you said in your time it was fine for people to pair off with siblings

Silver: I mean yeah but... I still feel guilty about... not going to the wedding. How do I say, yeah I know you found the love of your life and had a big get together I was invited to but I couldn't come because I was busy seducing your ex

Glenn: Technically I'm not his ex because we were never official-

Looking at Silver, Glenn realised that was a line of argument that would get him nowhere.

Glenn: It's one of those things that's harder to say than think huh

Silver: Basically

Glenn: I mean... he knows you have trouble with people right? Sure you might have had the same upbringing but it changed when he was kicked out. You told him how your dad basically got tunnel vision trying to make you the greatest werewolf ever, didn't you?

Silver: *chuckles* That was the title?

Glenn: Yes. Greatest werewolf ever. Definitely not pack alpha

Silver: *sighs* It's fine. We're immortal. We'll have time to figure things out

Glenn: Right. Because it's not like we're going to be hunted and killed or anything

Silver: Considering we've both lost parents to human idiocy you would think you wouldn't joke about that

Glenn: I'm trying to make a point. He's your brother. He loves you, you love him, why aren't you trying to get back to being close

Silver: I'm more interested in being close to you

Glenn took that as his opportunity to move in for a kiss but he only got one before Silver playfully pushed him off.

Silver: I'm trying to focus so we can sort out moving

Glenn: I mean yes but... I also feel like you're trying to avoid talking about Grayson

Silver: I don't know what you mean

Glenn: Beefcake... talk to me. Something is up

Silver: Just your pixel parts

Glenn: Please Silver

Silver sighed and laid the pen down, taking a moment to rest his head in his hands.

Silver: If I tell you then you'll be ashamed of me

Glenn: No I won't. Unless you like slaughtered children

Silver: I didn't slaughter children

Glenn ran his hand slowly up and down Silver's side, waiting for him to talk.

Silver: Glenn, I saw him

Glenn: I already know you went to see him after the show

Silver: Yes but... I mean before that... after he got kicked out

Glenn: What?

Silver: My dad said Grayson wasn't part of the pack anymore but I didn't want to accept it. Those first few days I snuck out when I could, which was a bit because there were so many injuries. I wanted to find him... and I did

Glenn: Oh Silver

Silver: No, don't hug me I stuffed up

Silver: I found him and he was asleep. I wanted to go talk to him but i could hear my parents argument in my head

Glenn: And you thought if you took him back your dad would kill him

Silver: Yeah. I guess I hadn't thought my searching plan through. I just wanted to find him. But I could have gone to him. I could have stuck by him and we could have left the pack life together but I didn't. I ran back home

Glenn: You were only like... it was definitely a teen number

Silver: Fourteen

Glenn: Exactly. You still needed your mum

Silver: But so did Grayson. How can I tell him I just... left him

Glenn kissed Silver on the cheek and rested his head on his shoulder. It was hard talking to him about Grayson. Not because there were any feelings left but because Glenn didn't know what it was like to have a brother.

Glenn: Maybe you're right, we've got time

Silver: He did tell me... well, Clive's pregnant

Glenn: Oh. Well that's good right? I mean you said werewolves can get each other pregnant so it's... it's expected

Silver: True. I just, I mean part of me wishes it was me pregnant with your kid. I know it's stupid. Grayson's older than me so why shouldn't he have kids first? It's just...

Glenn: He can have biological ones

Silver: Yeah...

Glenn: *sadly* And we can't

Silver: No, it's only ever happened between male werewolves. But we can have a house, with a garden for you

Glenn: And somewhere near a river so you can fish

Silver: And if you really insist, a dragon

Glenn: *beaming* You mean it?

Silver: Just a small one though. I don't know where we're going to get a kid but I'd rather not have them eaten when we bring them home

Silver's secret about seeing Grayson brought to you by @cawthorntales

Previous ... Next

[evenmyhivemindisempty]

Which of the Boyds would be best friends? Which ones would hate each other?

Steve Murphy

Who he likes best: Quinn! They’re both annoying in similar ways, and although they’re generally sticklers for the rules, they both get the importance of going off-script sometimes. Quinn also doesn’t require any small talk from his companions, or expect Steve to be anything other than what he is.

Who he can’t stand: He finds the Corinthian appalling both because of all the murders, but also for making him question his sexuality! Beyond that, the Corinthian also just tends to lay on the charm in a way Steve finds off-putting and fake.

Donald Pierce

Who he likes best: You know, I think it’s actually Steve? Pierce genuinely thinks Steve’s kind of cool, what with the chasing down drug lords and the working with black ops militia groups and stuff. He’d love to take Steve out for drinks and listen to his stories. Steve also presents fairly masc, but not in an especially threatening way. He’s a specific kind of dad-coded that doesn’t *quite* match up with Pierce’s darkest kinks, but it is enough to make Pierce hungry for his approval. Pierce also wants to make him hotter. He begs Steve to let him buy him a new wardrobe. And stop shaving his damn hairline! They can figure this out together!

Who he can’t stand: He finds Quinn an utter pain in the ass to work with. Quinn’s competent, but he doesn’t like taking orders he disagrees with, which definitely results in the two butting heads and getting into a few heated altercations. Quinn’s tendency to bluntly speak his mind is also absolutely gonna result in Pierce getting his feelings hurt sooner rather than later.

Cap Hatfield

Who he likes best: He likes Ty! He appreciates how family oriented Ty is, and he likes that he’s more capable of living off the land than a lot of the Boyd characters.

Who he can’t stand: Cap recognizes a predator when he sees one, and he instantly distrusts the Corinthian. None of the Corinthian’s methods of charming his prey are effective on Cap at all.

Clement Mansell

Who he likes best: Haha, Clement thinks the Corinthian is super cool! He loves his style, he thinks he’s a blast to hang out with, and he likes how agreeable the Corinthian is. Sure, the Corinthian is down for a concert! Yeah, he wants to try out that new steakhouse too! He’s so ready to hit up a dance club after!

Who he can’t stand: He genuinely cannot be around Danny. Clement delusionally thinks of himself as a struggling musician who’s only doing crime to pay the bills until he makes it; meanwhile, Danny’s a rich kid who grew up eating caviar and lobster, who’s got no logical reason for doing any of this crap. He doesn’t know the struggle at all! Plus, he’s got a daddy that loves him, and he’s still a brat! Clement would do anything for that kind of fatherly love!

The Corinthian

Who he likes best: Oh, he adores Pierce. He’s such a delicious mess of insecurities and trauma he’s staunchly avoided confronting for decades! And he was so damn pretty when he was younger. Exactly the Corinthian’s type!

Who he can’t stand: He thinks Quinn is deeply unfun. At least Steve has some tasty breakdowns and self-worth issues to exploit! Quinn is too sure of himself to be interesting, and he’s also not exciting in the ways the Corinthian likes.

Eli Klaber

Who he likes best: He likes Cap best, mostly because Cap’s fun to go to the shooting range with, and also because if Cap sees him in a pretty dress he’ll instantly think of him as a woman, without Klaber having to say anything at all.

Who he can’t stand: As far as he’s concerned, Steve is a tedious control freak with the blandest and most boring outfits known to mankind. Sure, Klaber dresses similarly when he’s out and about, but Steve seems to genuinely think those ugly suits look good! Horrifying.

Danny Maguire

Who he likes best: Haha, he likes Clement best! He kind of looks up to Clement in a weird way, and thinks his schemes are next-level impressive. He kind of digs his outfit choices too, and he really vibes with some of his music tastes. He’d love to do karaoke with Clement! He can bring the weed and the coke! Once Clement responds to his texts, they’ll make this happen!

Who he can’t stand: Yeah, definitely Steve. He’s DEA – that’s kind of Danny’s natural enemy. Beyond that, Danny also just thinks Steve is a giant buzzkill and an unpleasant workaholic/alcoholic.

Ty Shaw

Who he likes best: Haha he honestly likes Steve! He thinks his crime-fighting stories are super cool, and he’s an excellent guy to go duck hunting with!

Who he can’t stand: Danny’s probably the guy he most dislikes on the spot, but if he gets to know the Corinthian better, it’s definitely gonna be him. He thinks he’s stylish and erudite at first, but when he eventually clocks him as a threat to his friends and family, he’s gonna want him as far away as possible!

Quinn McKenna

Who he likes best: Cap. He’s just an easy guy to kick back with, and maybe go on some nice camping trips with. There’s not many people in Quinn’s life that are down for roughing it in the way he prefers, but Cap is totally fine sans electronics, making fires, and navigating by map and compass!

Who he can’t stand: Clement is an unpredictable criminal and liar, and his out-of-tune singing gives Quinn the worst headaches!

[acourtofthought]

do you think elain's avoidance of the bond is like her rebelling to fate, like the bond is something imposed to her?

I think her avoidance of the bond is many things.

I think it's that the bond called into question her loyalty to Greysen.

I think it's that the bond forces her to feel things that are completely against the way she was raised.

I think it's that the bond forces her to really look at herself and who she is as your mate is your equal.

I think it is her rebelling against a fate that decided for her.

Imagine you fall in love. You meet your fairytale prince and you're convinced you've found your happily ever after. He's your first love and nobody will ever compare so you plan your future with him. Then in the blink of an you feel drawn to a complete stranger who is nothing like you were raised to be want but you're consumed by the desire to have him and now you're disloyal. Now you second guess everything you once felt. So you shove the draw to the stranger deep down because you're scared to look at it too closely, scared to look at him too closely. You basically shove your head in the sand like an ostrich so you can go back to the "before". When things made sense.

I think the bond has created an identity crisis for Elain. Who she was and what she thought she wanted versus the mirror Fate / the Mother held up to her and told her to take a good long look. "You think you know what you want and who you are? Well I know child and I see you. You are him and he is you."

What 24 year old girl is going to immediately say, "oh you're so right! I'll listen to you!". A 24 year old is going to say, "I don't need to listen to you! Who are you to tell me these things!" It's no different than what happens with our own children, when they are convinced you don't know and you don't understand and it's not until they fully mature and maybe have their own children that they say, "damn, my mom was right." Or "I hate that my parents knew what they were talking about." Elain has spent her entire life being taught to behave a certain way, deciding for herself that a life with Graysen is what was going to make her happy, the relationship she's supposed to want and then here comes somebody she doesn't know and he draws out big things, scary things that she's not ready for. There is comfort in what is familiar and a long haired, BIG and strong, one-eyed fae male with a wicked scar down his face is NOT what she's familiar with. He looks like the morally gray anti-hero in a motorcycle gang while Elain comes off as the sweet church loving girl. Neither of those characterizations are the truth because Elain and Lucien are so extremely similar in personality despite appearances but that's exactly what one would see at first glance. Elain, as a lady, was not taught to want someone like Lucien. Elain was taught to act with propriety yet the bond makes these characters feel NSFW towards their mate which we know because Rhys had to winnow away so he didn't grab Feyre and Lucien had to physically restrain himself in his chair so he didn't reach out for Elain. We know the bond does these things to the characters and that means Elain is not sitting there completely unaffected.

I think the bond scares Elain. I think it overwhelms her when she's not used to feeling out of control. I think she's scared to give in to it as it means she's well and truly fae (something Nesta also struggled with). I think her giving in to the bond is her letting go of the expectations placed upon her when, as confirmed by Rhys, she's most likely been worried about disappointing those around her because they expect her to act a certain way. I think she's scared of who she will become when she finally breaks free of her humanity, shedding that cloak of civility.

"Elain has no interest in Lucien!" No, I think Elain is way too interested in Lucien and that's the problem because Lucien changes everything for her and many people struggle with letting go. Elain often adapts to new places but she's always been the same Elain. Proper, polite, kind, sweet. My guess is when we have her POV her thoughts about Lucien are anything but proper and polite and I think she's avoiding the bond because she's not ready to let go of the "who" she was always expected to be because of how others will then respond to her. Ever since she was a young child she was labeled by her mother and her sisters naturally fell into thinking those same things. Breaking free of that takes maturity and growth and I imagine that's what we'll see in her own book.

[diseaseriddencube]

girls literally only want one thing and it's fucking disgusting

[life size replica of Courier's bike]

[pareidolla]

// tw abuse rant (nothing angry just moreso exasperated)

i'm going to admit that while i'm enthusiastic for the pristine cut, i'm also a little concerned canon will politely dismiss the tower's abusive elements, and if that happens then i might?? scream????

[uncanny-tranny]

By implying that children are too stupid and rude to learn about the world and learn how the world works and how to interact with others, you are casting responsibility away from the people who are responsible for that child's upbringing and placing the blame on the children (who don't have the autonomy given to them to be allowed to decide what they want) who can't help what they do and do not learn, often.

If the children aren't okay, then investigate why before turning to thought-terminating clichés of, "Well, the kids are just stupid and dumb and aren't even worth the effort because they're lazy!"

[squorttle-pox]

idk if it means anything really, but i think it's interesting how after all their time together as a couple in a christianity-adjacent world, lucifer and lilith only had one (1) child, and it was only 200 years ago at that