#and like I know a lot of other black artists struggled with that too due to the lack of resources

[cherrysnax]

it makes me really happy how much art of black characters I see nowadays, I remember back when the like. on tumblr at least the black character w the most fanart was like Finn from Star Wars, and more than half of it just didn’t look like him at all

[rosypenguins]

Day 13! Jomies Headcanons! (I got quite a few!)

Jake:

💛Unironically listens to boy bands.

💛Has Spotify open 24/7. Is always looking for new artists and songs, and probably has over 3000 songs liked.

💛He’ll listen to any song of any genre, but tends to lean more towards alt-rock.

💛Used to listen to Billie Eilish in Middle School.

💛Whenever it’s too quiet, he’ll either hum to himself or make random noises with his mouth.

💛Physically incapable of standing still.

💛Probably ate an eraser as a kid.

💛Does not believe in closets. Keeps his clothes either on the floor or in his chair. (If it’s in his closet he’ll genuinely forget he even owns the item.)

💛”Processing your emotions? What the hell’s that?”

💛Oh yeah, he definitely has ADHD.

Drew:

🖤Really likes FPS games.

🖤Always has to have his weight shifted on one leg. He cannot stand up straight to save his life. (Heh cuz he’s gay-)

🖤Small waist. (He’s a twink in my eyes.)

🖤Could probably be picked up by the other Jomies. (Has yet to be tested due to safety concerns.) (The concerns being Drew beating the shit out of them.

🖤Doesn’t like black coffee but drinks it anyways. (Why? We don’t know.)

🖤TERRIBLE eating habits. He’ll literally just have a piece of toast and be like “welp that’ll last me for the next 48 hours.”

🖤Those hot-pink girly desserts are his guilty pleasure.

🖤Listens to a lot of rap music. Mostly emo rap. He says it’s cuz it sounds cooler but it’s actually because he finds the lyrics relatable.

🖤Stalks Jake’s instagram for purely platonic reasons.

🖤Doesn’t know how to show affection so he’ll sometimes just randomly punch Jake in the arm. No warning, no explanation.

🖤Cat person. Doesn’t really like dogs. (Terrified of Oreo but would rather die than admit it.)

🖤Bullies cats relentlessly, but will also meow back at them if he thinks no one’s around.

🖤Likes being cuddled way more than he’d like to admit.

🖤Having his hair played with puts him right to sleep.

🖤Struggled to make friends in Elementary school due to his temper. (His lack of attention at home led to him lashing out a lot.) Other kids found him to be intimidating so Drew didn’t really have any friends until Middle School.

🖤Was put in time-out a LOT in Kindergarten so it basically just became Drew’s Corner.

🖤IPad kid. Definitely had a mascot-horror phase when he was 10.

🖤“Processing your emotions? What the hell’s that?”

🖤Oh yeah, BPD. He has BPD.

Liam:

❤️Hands are always fucking clammy it cannot be helped.

❤️Definitely listens to Breakcore.

❤️Has a bunch of those weird, perverted anime stickers somewhere in his desk drawer because he thinks they’re funny. (They were included in a random anime sticker pack Henry bought online.)

❤️Had a super edgy werewolf OC back in Middle School. Drawings of it still exist in that same drawer.

❤️Lets Henry play with his hair when they’re alone together.

❤️Refuses to use chairs properly.

❤️Has so many 0.5 photos of the Jomies. (Except Drew because Drew threatened to break his phone if he ever took one of him. But Liam still managed to sneak a few bad photos of Drew as well.)

❤️Type of guy to moan when someone’s on the phone with their parent.

❤️Knows how to drive a manual. (I imagine his mom’s car is an older one soooooo if Liam wanted to drive around he had to learn.)

Henry:

💚Baby face. (Liam likes to hold his face.)

💚Wears anime merch with pride.

💚Pretends to be a girl online sometimes so people give him free shit.

💚Almost always hits Drew with the 🤓 emoji anytime he says something smart/logical in their group chat.

💚Would definitely like matcha because it tastes like g r a s s.

💚He ate grass as a kid. And leaves. And dirt.

💚The type of kid that always had to be the dog in any game he played.

💚Really likes bunnies. He held one once and felt his life was complete.

💚Oh, and frogs too. He loves frogs.

💚Typically takes the role of mediator during fights, even if he has no context on the situation.

💚Relies way too much on being funny. If a joke doesn’t land he genuinely hates himself for a couple seconds.

💚Sensitive to loud noise. (Unless the loud noise is on his terms.) (Like, he’ll have his music on full blast and shout at his friends standing right next to him and be completely fine, but if a balloon were to suddenly pop right beside him, it’d startle him quite a bit.)

💚Drew glaring at him and telling him to shut up hurts a little more than he’d like to admit.

💚Probably also has ADHD.

Zoey:

🩷This bitch knows how to steal shit. You got a necklace she likes she will find a way to take it.

🩷Can and will find a way to make everything said against her about her gender.

🩷“Oh my God, I am LITERALLY just a girl.”

🩷Definitely took dance for a P.E credit.

🩷Almost everything she owns is covered in flowers.

🩷Everything has to be aesthetic.

🩷Always had to initiate any sort of affection between her and Drew. She was always the one asking him out. Always the one to kiss him first, or reach for his hand. (Whereas Drew never really thought about that sort of stuff.)

🩷Her views on relationships were also very different from Drew’s. She wanted excitement and fun. She wanted to go out and do things. And whenever they were home alone, she wanted to make out with him and stuff, meanwhile, all Drew wanted to do was cuddle and watch stupid videos on his phone with her. (But she just found that boring.)

🩷Honestly, their best dates were their at-home ones. Where they’d watch movies together and Zoey would bring some face masks and they’d pamper each other and cuddle and whatnot. (Fun for Zoey and relaxing for Drew.)

🩷And because of their height difference, Zoey would sometimes grab Drew’s collar and pull him down to her level to kiss him. (And this definitely never once flustered Drew.)

🩷Probably knew Drew cared more about Jake than he did her and that pissed her off.

Lia:

💜Big fan of Olivia Rodrigo. (And one time, while her and Drew were waiting for the others after school, she was listening to one of her songs and singing along, and Drew ended up correcting her on a lyric, causing her to realize he ALSO listens to her music, and he was super embarrassed about it afterwards and made her promise not to tell anyone.)

💜So anyways Lia now wants to take Drew to an Olivia Rodrigo concert.

💜She’s also a big fan of Nessa Barrett.

💜Surprisingly really good at singing. She never took lessons or anything, she just sings in the shower a lot.

💜Sprays perfume on herself like 50 times in a day.

💜Always comparing herself to people online.

💜“Self-esteem? What’s that?”

💜Genuinely could not describe herself if she was asked to. She’s so used to changing herself for others she doesn’t even know who she is or what she wants to be.

💜Imposter Syndrome 100%

💜Had a huge crush on Hailey in Middle School but didn’t even know being gay was a thing so she didn’t really know how to explain her feelings at all.

@31days-of-freakblr

[lilyvalerieorchard]

As much as I hate Lily Orchard, white favoritism is a thing in pretty much every fandom. One example I can think off the top of my head in the toh fandom, was back when Thanks to Them aired, and many people mocked Luz's scene in the classroom (despite being literally a display of suicidal ideation) while writing thinkpieces about Hunter's mental health and abuse, basically ignoring the Black main character's mental health issues to focus on the white boy (hopefully this doesn't come off as me hating Hunter, I like him a lot, it's just an example)

Speaking of season 3, there was quite a group of people who hated on Luz due to her mental health issues, calling her selfish and ungrateful while she was struggling with self-destructive behavior while, once again, Hunter didn't get as much backlash for his ""selfish"" behavior in For the Future, as people mostly understood he was struggling with his mental health and grief. It's a sadly common thing in fandoms to narrow Black characters down as one dimensional and "bad", while white characters get a pass and sympathy from fans

Another example of racism in the fandom, is whitewashed art of Black and brown-skinned characters, mainly Luz, and how many artists don't take this topic seriously - that was more common in the early fandom, though, thankfully becoming less frequent as time went one

There's some other examples: in 2021, there was a Skara/Edric comic that spiraled huge controversy on Twitter due to Odalia objectifying Skara and referring to her as an "it", which has very clear racist undertones. Also, art on Twitter of Luz saying she's gonna "ruin" Amity's bloodline by joining her family, also having clear racist undertones (There's likely more, but these two are the first ones to come to my mind, as they received tons of deserved backlash)

So yeah, once again, I dislike Lily Orchard, but denying racism in the fandom is just... wrong. It may be a minority of fans, especially nowadays, but it's there and it harms people of color in the fandom, who tend to get mass harassment for calling it out. I also hope this doesn't come off as rude, the post just brought back some memories of my personal experiences in the fandom, and I thought I should share

Oh my...I never knew it was that bad. The large majority of the fandom loves Luz but to hear some truly nasty people treat her and the other BIPOC characters like this is just wrong. Speaking as comic and video game fan: I know how most of the Batfam fandom will erase Cass, Duke and Steph all while propping up white/white-passing male characters like Dick, Jason, Tim and Damian (nothing against either of them); how Marvel comic fans will downplay characters like Kamala and Miles or slut-shame MJ; how lead female characters of color in games like Forspoken, Dustborn and Mirror's Edge are lambasted as "too angry", "too vulgar", "too snarky", "too unlikeable" by gamers AND critics alike while angsty white male leads in certain popular games are given free passes. I feel you, There is rampant cishet white male favouritism in ALL of nerd culture and I absolutely hate it. For the record, I have nothing against cishet white male characters in general, I just cannot stand double standards that force female and minority characters to jump through multiple flaming hoops to prove their "authenticity". I looked up the whitewashing "fanart" people were drawing of Luz, Gus, Willow, and-

Disgusting.

*To those so-called "fans"*

If you think Luz, Guz, Willow, Darius, Camilia and others would be better if they were white, if you so happen to be inbred, racist piece of crap.

Get the Hell out and NEVER set foot in this fandom (or any fandoms) EVER AGAIN. Dana didn't create a beautiful whimsical masterwork of animation just so you could hijack it for portraying your own twisted Hapsburg utopia. In fact, she hates everything filth like you stand for. So once again, get out and get drenched by acid rain.

*sighs* That felt good.

Just remember: Plasma Lily stands with marginalized voices.

[skeleton-mischief]

Coffee Serrif

Does it really matter? No, but that doesn't mean that you're safe from his ever watching eyes

*FS!Gold Papyrus has said enough

- Official height is 6'4

- He/They

- Selectively mute

- Would play the Drums

- An artist, he has a box filled with old sketchbooks and still gets more even now. His favorite is using charcoal

- Consumes Whipped Cream

- Feels insecure in his friendships, since he doesn't only struggle socializing, but he isn't sure when someone actually is sincere with their interest

- Good friends with Rus, Stretch, and Cash

- Grows bashful from praise, he can't handle it

- Empathetic, kind, open minded, creative, timid, passive, intuitive, will avoid fights, pessimistic, impatient, reserved, and sensitive

- A cat person, he's a hub for them

- Video game expert genius. Would be excellent if you handed him a new game and controller

- Uses notes to communicate, if he talks he stutters and messes up frequently

- Curses rarely, only a handful of times

- A master sharpshooter who was taught by Wine

- Loves coffee drowned with whipped cream and caramel

- Likes chocolate, loves dark chocolate the most though or caramel chocolate

- Loves eating rye bread

- Once close with someone, he adores physical affection and is clingy

- Doesn't admit his frustration when Wine constantly tries to do everything for him, since he likes to do things on his own sometimes

- Grew to see Razz, Carmine, and Powder as role models overtime

- Knows sign language

- Wears gloves due to his sensitivity

- Stims with his hands

- Doesn't smoke often, but he uses matches when he does

- magic smells like hazelnut, magic tastes like toffee

- A soft romantic

- Prefers handshakes

- likes Hello Kitty, his favorite character is Choco

- Calls Chara "Kitty" because they're small and remind him of a cat (it's fucking cute bro)

- Cries vary in quality often, he cries a lot

- Would call his lover peaches

- He doesn't seem like it, but he's physically pretty agile and strong. He gets irritated when he's belittled

- Sometimes, when frustrated, he'll actively ignore someone or throw something to get them to shut up

- He can't be bothered with doing a lot of things, such as drinking or partying

- He loves any sort of video games and is an excellent gamer. The moment someone shows interest, he'd have to be reassured that he's not talking too much

- He's curious of humans, but he doesn't blindly trust them

- He doesn't judge others and often is a silent observer to figure out his opinion of them

- He has very acute senses, and he'll dodge drama as soon as it's present. He slips away with whoever he's spending time with easily

- When meeting Chara, he had a piece of paper with a smiling face as he was overly friendly as he joked how to greet another human despite his terrifying aura

- Very internet savvy, he's dangerous since he can hack into anything for information

- Like every swapfell variant of Papyri, he loves fast food

- He can be very mischievous, him and Rus are very slick with their pranks

- his hoodie changes what it says based off what he's feeling

- He has a black list which is to identify who is considered an enemy and who he watches. You do not want to be on that

- He visits multiple locations, but when he's in public he usually stalks around the corners without feeling the need to say something

- He's very well educated and can be seen reading up on mechanical engineering, he gave up working on the machine however

- He doesn't remember Gaster, except for faint sensations and memories in his dreams. They're never pleasant

- He doesn't actually like the Queen, but he works for her and knows how to behave in her presence

- He always has a hood or something on his head, he doesn't like it being bare

- His eyelights don't frequently light up unless he is surprised or feeling an intense emotion, such as crying or getting flustered. His magic is much smoother(?) in appearance and yet can feel more intense

Closing Notes: i honestly want to flesh him out more than what I have for him. He's fun and I love his character, this might be updated or something since he's just sooooooo- OURGH

[spot-splatter-splash]

We all know I love the Storm E. era content for this franchise (Lalaloopsy Girls & We're Lalaloopsy). But! I'm willing to admit that it is flawed. As much as I put it on a pedestal for it's humor, It's only fair that I acknowledge the strong point of the Webisodes and Nick Jr. Series. The animation.

Where I (personally) feel that the later pair adds more in terms of personality for the cast with the dynamic between Storm E. and Jewel being my favorite to watch and explore. The animation in those series does feel stiff when held next to the earliest set of media.

A lot of the time Its because of how sharp the joints are when they bend as opposed to the earlier series rounding them out. That created the ragdoll feel that the later series lack which breaks immersion.

This could have been a budgeting issue due to the declining popularity of the franchise. The puppet style animation bends at odd and sometimes sharp angles. Which breaks the illusion of them being rag dolls.

Mind you there is a way to make that style look good, if im not wrong the earlier series were rigs too. Just designed with more attention to the ragdoll feel. The bendiness of the limbs and squashing and stretching for emphasis when interacting with certain objects. Good examples that come to mind are Mouse and Pix E. In the episode Flight Plan And Peanut. In general Peanut has some of the cleanest animation.

While I hail the later series for the personality they give the characters that is not to say I think the eariler media is boring or does it poorly. I find the Webisodes and Nick Jr. Series really cute and pleasant to watch. But they also had more characters to work with and had to split that attention between them.

I have seen comments about the cast being boring in We're Lalaloopsy. A criticism which is subjective of course. But one I struggle to see. (I also see a lot of people shoot Storm E. down as being too mean. A rant for another post surely).

And while I acknowledge the subjectivness of it. I think Jewel, Storm E. and Spot are really well done in that series.

Spots is still an energetic artist who doesnt mind a mess. But added onto that she doesn't like conflict, struggles to voice her thoughts when frustrated, get attached easily, is eccentric and pleasantly weird, sensitive and forgiving almost to a fault. And yet still stands as her own person capable of putting her foot down when she reaches her breaking point. Shes lovable and I adore a weird girl whos just so comfortable being weird.

Jewel is clearly rising the ranks of favoritism. Shes still 'perfectly perfect' Jewel having a checklist for everything she deems important enough too. But now shes someone who can be easily frustrated, doesn't enjoy her schedule or plans being disrupted or altered, kinda of ditzy yet not entirely stupid. She focuses on herself to the point she talks over others and cant see that shes being an issue and has to be reined in. Perfectly perfect Jewel is actually wildly flawed. Shes not malicious but can come off as hostile or petty. Shes dramatic, a primadonna, self richeous and sometimes holier-than-thou and needs to have others correct her or to fail to learn and better herself. I am wildly enamored by this. She sucks shes my favorite. Her flaws are what makes her so fun to watch.

Finally Storm E. Shes polarizing and due to her being the most recent doll to make it into the animated series theres not much to compare her to. By design shes suppose to be the odd one out. A black sheep. I see a lot of critique about her being too different which is the point. Shes often yeilded as this unlikable asshole by some of the really critical fans but I feel that doesnt do Storm E. justice.

Shes different by design in both media shes in. Shes has a dry sense of humor, isn't as comfortable with affection as the other girls, isn't as open about her feelings as others, tends to fall to the back of the pack and a bit of a loner. But she's not a bad person. She does care about others she just has a hard time showing it. It does bother her when she hurts other people with her behavior.

We're Lalaloopsy handles this with her dynamic with Spot and Jewel. Spot is someone she has a soft spot for. Shes more open to Spot being in her space and feels like Spot kind of gets her as another artist. Spot likes Storm E. as she is. Her personality isn't the problem to Spot, it's certain actions that are. And that soft spot for Spot doesnt stop Spot from getting hurt. Storm E. (like Jewel) doesn't necessarily intend to harm others with her behavior. Intent doesn't negate hurting someone and Storm E. learns that. She does feel remorse and is apologetic. I like that shes never urged to be more like the others just corrected when her actions hurt someone.

Which is why her and Jewel work so well. They parallel eachother. Both of them have a tendancy to focus on and put themselves above others without any real malice behind it. Jewel needs to feel important and Storm E. feels she had to be independent. Storm E. is misunderstood and Jewel is melodramatic. Theyre polar opposites on the serface yet are so similar when cross examined. They clash but also relate to eachother.

The others get unique little peronality quirks too. Crumbs is very particular to an obsessive degree, Rosy will put herself last at the expense of her own well being and is anxious, Dot frequently fails, yet is excited by any chance to invent something.

Tangent oops, this post is getting long. The point is every bit of media for this series has merit and def worth watching for whatever it offers. Could be a good laugh, clean animation, fun dynamics, or a unique take on an old favorite.

Feel free to ask me about characters I can write essays about some of them. I know I haven't talked much about proper reboot stuff and thats because I'm in the process of watching everything I can to get a feel for the extended cast.

[thevampirearchive]

To the world, sincerely, a tired black artists and my fellow creatives

A lot of the weird demonization of Rema’s visuals really made me sad. I’m not surprised at the lack of cultural knowledge about Edo people and Benin City, Nigeria — virtually everywhere outside of the continent, African history, culture and traditions aren’t taught unless you are in special programs or majors. But to call something demonic and satanic because you don’t understand? The blatant xenophobia and racism has me so furious. I know we have a lot of unlearning to do, but I had imagined that the colonial ways of viewing black Africans was not alive and thriving amongst the diaspora. To see so many black Christian’s come together in the name of their white gods and forced religion to call something so sentimental, historically important and significant for Rema and many others demonic is like having a weird ‘dejavu’.

Everyday I think about how I see too many people complain about lack of representation of black people from all around the world in media; wether it be movies, tv, fiction, music genre and other industries predominantly white — and now, given visuals and such cool performance, we do as our oppressors once did. Word for word. It’s disgusting and I hope everybody who partook educated themselves and do better.

When will my people know peace when it comes to trying to share, showcase and be proud of what we’ve created? I never forgot how Fufu became a laughing stock, how so many still mock their parents pronunciations knowing that’s their third of even fourth language. And don’t let me start on Nollywood or the diasporic movie industries — why must you laugh when you don’t understand? Question things, yes, be curious and explore. But mocking?

To all my fellow Africans and black people of the diaspora— one day, we will be in a world where we’re known for more then our struggles. Where were not mocked for our ‘incorrect’ speech of languages violently forced upon us, that we adapted to fit who we are and our origins. One day we will have peace; no more silent genocides, or loud ones. No more having to hide our roots, traditions, practices, art/creations. Be ashamed of any aspects of our culture that does not warrant shame.

I ask that if you want representation, you seek it out because trust me it is out there. The continent has so many creations — sure some harder to find or consume due to language barriers but we all witnessed K-drama’s boom. You can watch French, Spanish and English films — so why are subtitles not good enough when it’s in Igbo? Xhosa? Wolof? Zulu? Bafang?

I ask that everybody, including myself, start to give africa it’s flowers. The more we pour into the good — art, creations, industries etc that inspire more to create and expand, the more we will see the uprise of what has always been within the continent but never given much thought by most of the world because it is African and the quality is regarded as ‘lesser’.

And I hope I get to witness more great artist come from all around the motherland, and be part amongst them when I eventually complete my African/Black centered work ✌🏾

[222-justfornow-333]

We don’t have a home anymore, despite the signed contract agreement that made the house ours. We had an attorney that was supposed to halt the eviction, but suddenly disappeared and left us out for the birds. It’s really the landlord’s son who ended our stay at the house. He had the workers stuff our belongings in black garbage bags and toss them out to the street, breaking some things in the process, despite the officer telling me to my face when I was in panic, “We are professionals and will be careful with your items.”

One of the things that blew me away is that my dad (now battling cancer) volunteered as a first responder during our time here, and yet many in the neighborhood stopped by with comments or made fun of us, and what I think I understand is that because they know that we are artists and were always making the exterior of the house look pretty and well kept, they felt high enough to insult or make fun of our situation.

From overnight to the next day, frantically hustling and carrying/dragging our belongings, even bigger than us such as furniture and whatever was left of our stuff into a couple of moving trucks, the landlord’s son also called the cops on us multiple times since we had our “trash” on the property. He did this anyway even after watching us in the direct sun, going without eating, or taking breaks for several hours, desperate to collect our things and bring them off the property to safety in the midst of his request for the Town Garbage to dispose of our belongings. Literal blood, sweat, and tears were shed that day. He destroyed a lot of furniture that I remember taking a few years for my parents to save up for. I will never forget the sound my grand piano made when I watched it be lifted into the air and drop, shattering inside that larger dump truck. We suffered bruises, scratches/cuts (due to anonymous sharp items we couldn’t see in many bags), bug bites, poison ivy, and sunburns. We are even getting sick (such as testing positive for covid) due to going and sleeping at hotels to motels, inns, etc.

In November, the landlord’s son sent workers to remove/destroy our own plants, rare shrubs, self-built wooden planters, and other of our wood framing to “clean up” the yard. He also had them destroy and take down our fence that we built too, which was supposed to enhance my brother’s safety, as he can’t help himself suffering from Asperger’s/autism. The house was poorly constructed, in which my Dad (battling cancer), has been making improvements and repairs to the house throughout the years. The lease shows that we were on a “pay to own” plan, which we've already invested for around 15 years... We paid out of pocket and were very rarely compensated to fix any issues with the house, but kicked out anyway…

At this point, I am not looking to cover the cost to replace what was ruined or lost, but we are running out of resources, going from motels to hotels, while struggling to pay for storage, as well as any other form of shelter.

Unfortunately, we live in a relatively expensive part of New York, and it would be a lot of gas to inspect houses and meet with real estate agents, including bringing our things from the storage units to the new location even if we found a more affordable, well built house in another state. I would especially like my little sister to continue her education here as well, but the market for homes here aren’t in a very sparing range.

Since middle school, it was always my biggest dream and concern to buy a house for my family; in fear that something like this would happen. I have tried so hard to find ways to make it happen, but around where I live, these corporations are either not hiring, or I am believed to be inadequate for the job, even though I applied to many fields I’ve had experience and felt confident in.

I would like to secure a final place for my family. FULLY paid off. No longer needing to worry about the greed and control from heartless and unconcerned landlords, like the many years ago growing up, and now.

Your help and contribution is abundantly appreciated.

-Rachel ( aka MW ) ❤️❤️❤️

[lorbanery]

I am a Sally Hansen hater. They put out some very cute nail polishes, but I've personally never met a Sally Hansen nail polish that ever actually dried.

But I saw these cute ass press on nails and I wanted a set for some photos I'm getting done and these were perfect. So I figured, what the hell? It's just plastic and super glue, even THEY couldn't fuck that up.

FORESHADOWING

Now, I've been applying press-ons all Pride month — this is my fourth set and third brand. So let's get it out of the way now: When I say these were a pain in the ass to get on? It's not just a skill issue. I know how to apply press-ons properly, I still consult the directions every time, and I've had a good amount of recent practice.

First things first, they call these "almond shaped", which you might agree with based on that top-down photo. But consider this from another angle:

Now, I don't have anything against claw nails. It's a very cool maximalist aesthetic that allows for a lot of artistic and style expression; and, let's be honest, it's a style that was created by Black women and femmes and the dislike of those kinds of nails is deeply rooted in misogynoir (that particular combination of sexism and racism that Black women experience). Besides, it's just created by the natural curve of the nail (or at least the curve of the false nails recreating the curve of the natural nail). But USUALLY you don't get that real claw look for AT LEAST another inch. I don't know why they have this extreme curve. For that matter, going back to the "almond shape"? Almonds aren't concave like the edge of these nails!

I know that's hard to achieve a perfect almond shape when you're doing it yourself. But I'm 87% sure these are molded, and also you are a MASSIVE manufacturer. You can afford to make nails that are ACTUALLY almond-shaped and not have this weird angle and concave edge that makes it look like I'm cosplaying an iguana.

Moving on. I have used press-on nails since the days you could only get semi-opaque white nails in square or oval shapes that required you to nail polish them yourself. I have NEVER found a press-on that was this cheap, flimsy plastic. Below are two comparison photos to show you how much they bend.

Onto the actual application. It is normal for some glue to seep out at the edges of the nail. It's even normal that, occasionally, your pressing down finger will get stuck to the press-on while the press-on didn't get stuck to your nail. But it happened for 8 out of 10 of these nails. All but the thumbs got a healthy, ugly coating of nail glue while I struggled through multiple attempts to get the press-ons to actually STICK TO MY NAIL.

Now, I will give SH this: I was able to wipe some acetone nail polish remover over them to remove most of the glue without straight up melting the plastic, or even losing the shiny finish. Which was inconceivable twenty years ago. I'm pretty sure that's one of the many reasons they started manufacturing them with colors and designs already on the nails. Because if you made a mistake while you were painting them yourself there was a high probability that the only remover you had on hand was acetone-based, so you were SOL.

So credit where credit is due, not only did these not melt, not only did they not lose their shine, I don't even see any evidence the design was affected in any way.

On the other hand I've never had this much leakage. Like, it was so bad that I, someone who had previously been under the impression that acetone was still a no-no for press-ons, broke out the acetone remover. And you can still see some of the leftover glue residue.

These nails are more expensive than Kiss nails but infinitely worse quality.

I guess we'll see how long the glue actually lasts, but I'm not holding my breath. I still have some leftover Kiss glue I could use instead, but honestly their glue is pretty shit too. Like not as bad as SH, but once the press-ons have lifted/popped off once, you'll get maybe a day out of the new glue application before they lift/pop off again. I wish I still had the OPI glue to use, but by the time I got frustrated enough with the Kiss glue, the OPI glue had leaked out and coated the whole applicator tip in semi-cured nail glue.

Anyway fuck Sally Hansen.

[gojoest]

I totally get how you feel! Also is it weird that I have some sort of a readers block for fics rn? This may be kinda weird to ask you about, but I wanted to see your perspective on it if that’s alright! Bc I know writers and artists block is a thing but i feel like reader block doesn’t get talked abt enough

oh the struggle is so real….reader’s block is definitely a thing, i feel like i’ve hit it too. like, currently i don’t have any motivation to write or read fanfics and it sucks so much bc i LOVE both of those activities :( i just can’t get into them. it can be due to stress, or that’s the case with me usually. when i’m under a lot of pressure i fall into this deep black pit where i can’t seem to enjoy the things i love the most and i don’t even feel like making time for them. this also includes other hobbies, like nothing quite hits the same and even if i try i can’t quite focus so i end up stressing out even more :/ so i think it’s good to take a step back and maybe explore different things that might get you back on track

[neutralgray]

9/11 and Spider-Man: A brief Retroactive Revisit

The year was 2001. I was seven years old and just started second grade. I don't remember a lot of the details but I remember enough. People were frightened. Teachers tried explaining to us what was going on in regards to the attacks on the world trade centers. We held school plays to honor the armed forces. Patriotic songs dominated the air waves. People were bound to one another by shared fear and patriotism. Of course these feelings were felt by us children, too. We were young and emulating our parents. If they were scared, then we certainly were. If they were proud and angry, so were many of us. For a little kid caught up in the aftermath of a terrorist attack, it was so easy to feel American.

Say what you can and will about American imperialism potentially leading into the events of the 9/11 attack, but the overarching timeline of "why" 9/11 happened didn't matter much to the average person just trying to live their life. The American government was responsible for a great many sins, often fueled by joint corporate/government interests and looked over due to American exceptionalism... but on a wholly individual level, little of the "why" or "how" mattered to us. We were attacked and guilty of no greater crime than having been born where we lived.

It was a very frightening and unsure time that is difficult to explain for those who simply did not live it.

As with many great tragedies, it affected the storytelling of that age. That fervent patriotism and fear and loss were the brushes that colored many stories. Even in the colorful and larger-than-life stories of superhero comics, this event could not simply be ignored. The pain was weighing directly on virtually every citizen, including those writers and artists.

Then in December, 2001, Spider-Man issue #36 was published. The front cover was simply black with the title overlaying it in stark white. Good comic covers usually tease the fun adventure the 22 pages will contain, but here there was nothing. The cover felt like a breath caught dead in one's throat.

The issue depicted the events of 9/11, as told in the world of Marvel. It was the same great tragedy it was in our world but now serving along first responders were the likes of Thor and Captain America. The comic tried to respectfully depict the great scope of the real world horror, and I personally think it did a good job considering it had to depict such an event co-existing next to colorful superheroes in spandex.

Spider-Man struggles to answer when a crying New Yorker demands to know how he let this happen-- where was he? He tries to console a child whose firefighter father ran into the wreckage only to lose grip of the boy when the he runs off screaming after seeing his father pulled out of the wreckage by other firefighters. The comic depicts our beloved superheroes helping but goes out of its way to ensure the reader that the real heroes in this scenario are the first responders-- the firefighters, police, and simple volunteers who were there to help. It shines a light on them all at the end, noticeably sweeping the colorful superheroes behind the lines of regular everyday heroes.

It was a product of its time and captures a lot of the raw emotions I remember from that period. It could be argued that any depiction of such an event so soon would be distasteful, let alone when you add in superheroes. I would not begrudge anyone who reads it and detests this story for its maybe tone-deaf approach. In the book's defense, though, I do genuinely believe that J Michael Straczynski was attempting to tell a very respectful and solemn story.

Since its release it's been a polarizing issue and while some of these criticisms may be fair, I wanted to address an issue I don't think is a fair criticism. Or rather, it's a criticism that I think misses the cultural context and the reason we tell ourselves stories.

Above is a controversial panel-- arguably the most talked about single panel in the comic. At ground zero for the terrorist attacks, characters such as Doctor Doom, Kingpin, and Magneto are present and assisting. It highlights their shared humanity with the heroes and superheroes. The story even depicts Doctor Doom, one of the most iconic and capable Marvel supervillains, weeping behind his mask at the tragic loss of innocent life. It's a depiction of everyone coming together under their umbrella of shared pain.

A lot has been made of this panel. The biggest criticism is the in-universe absurdity of someone like Doctor Doom crying at such an event. In the world of Marvel Comics, the entire world has been threatened with planet eaters, inter-dimensional dragons, omnicidal maniacs, hostile aliens, and forces beyond our dimension. In universe, the tragedy of 9/11 would be contextually really small compared to so many of the constant dangers the superheroes have faced time and time again. This also means that the tragedies caused by Doctor Doom and his ilk have certainly caused more actual damage in the world of Marvel than the 9/11 terrorist attacks. This criticism demands consistency--logical reasoning in the universe. Why would Doctor Doom cry for the loss of innocent life if he's done worse himself?

I can only speak for myself, but I strongly feel this criticism misses the point of story telling. Stories do not exist in a vacuum-- they don't merely come into being for us to absorb, interpret, and put away. Stories are ideas. They're ideas organized into a narrative that allows for us to share moral lessons, thoughts, and adventures with others. Stories have been used across millennia to explain everything from natural phenomenon to the nature of good and evil. To quote a friend of mine, sometimes it's the UN-REALITY of stories that allows their themes and emotional weights to really flourish. It's reductive to look at a story like this and claim it makes no sense because it's logically inconsistent in-universe. It may pain the nerd in all of us to say it, but that universe depicted on those pages in Spider-Man is not real. It's never been real. Ours is.

This was a story written by real people affected by a real tragedy. It wasn't written to humanize Doctor Doom or provide some new dynamic depth to a silly colorful supervillain. It was written to comfort real readers who were scared and angry and navigating many of these feelings through their unity as a country of people. It reminded the reader they were not alone in grappling these difficult emotions. For a kid who grew up in a post-9/11 world, I can personally attest that seeing my favorite superhero so scared and lost but still trying to do the right thing in the face of real world stakes helped me navigate those feelings, too.

My ultimate point in making this post is to stress that some stories (such as this one) need to be read with the meta-knowledge that it is a story. We may love and cherish our darlings in fiction but their stories are told for our sake, not theirs. A story doesn't have to make sense to them. It just has to make sense to us.

Those stories are the ones that bring us together.

[restinpeacesensei]

@talisman975

#I think you did the right thing with waiting! #sometimes it’s better to do something AFTER the hype has died down #it’s like going to the store after Black Friday it’s not worth going on that day and getting overwhelmed or harassed by everyone #plus I totally get being uncomfortable with certain comments at Akoya and the boys #they’re still high school kids after all #actually I think that’s something a lot of anime fans tend to forget since we HAVE so many anime that takes place in a high school #or a majority of the characters are minors yet they’re constantly sexualized #ngl I love that a character like Akoya and this show in general prefers to use the term pretty to describe the boys #Akoya may be a villain but he still prides himself to be pretty and beautiful #and I love him for that and I love that the show doesn’t say it’s bad that he does this

i love your black friday comparison, that puts it in perspective so much!! ;;O;; it's a double-edged sword tbh, it's usually a lot of fun and encouraging/motivating to be involved in communities during high activity but also more overwhelming. i wish i'd learned to speak up for myself earlier so i could have enjoyed the higher level of interaction without the discomfort, but it was only from going through that for so long that i figured it out. it was honestly really important for me to learn that from this whole experience.

(to be fair, i don't think anyone has meant to harass me. i know a lot of people and/or artists take and/or mean "hot"/"sexy" as a compliment. im just personally sensitive about that and/or uncomfortable with those words; to me it feels a bit like being catcalled. i do think the internet normalizes it WAY too much to say these types of things to random strangers, without knowing if the person is okay with it or not--because yes, it'd often be considered harassment irl, and the internet seems to make a lot of people forget this. but i also know most people aren't intending to bother me and aren't aware of how i feel unless i say it, so it's good for everyone that ive learned to state my boundaries.)

thank you so much for your validation and understanding of being uncomfortable!! \T--T/ though, the ages aren't the reason it makes me uncomfortable. (i personally like to imagine that akoya has aged along with me and is an adult now) it makes me uncomfortable bc 1) i didn't ask for or consent to it; 2) a lot of the comments are phrased in a way that focuses only on what the person saying it wants, as if the other is an object or tool for their enjoyment. i don't like hearing this bc it makes me feel like not being treated as a person.

sexualization in media is a complicated topic, and one that i try to avoid bc it's too easy for me to get uncomfortable and/or into an argument that i don't want to have. i was definitely affected growing up by sexualization/objectification in media and the objectifying comments that are made in reaction to it, and i still struggle today with feeling like a person in my own body because of it. yet i can't be too critical of the content bc i also draw "idealized" characters and fall for these characters bc they're designed to be so cute/pretty.

im uncomfortable with a lot of things about this show, and yet if it hadn't been exactly the way that it is, i don't think i would have been able to express personal/intimate thoughts and feelings and find connection over them. i was a (young) adult when i found the show, yet in a way it allowed me to make sense of growing up and/or almost have a high school experience that i didn't get to have (due to bullying and isolation irl). at the end of the day, all i can do is ask that people be respectful of my wishes when they interact directly with me. ive been grateful to find that most people are glad to do this. consent and boundaries are how it should be.

(i also love that akoya is allowed to just LIKE pretty things without being put down or made fun of for it T.T the way that aNYTHING considered "feminine" is often considered "shallow" or "silly" or boys aren't "allowed" to like it is so. limiting. and made me feel bad for a lot of things when i was younger)

[rickie-the-storyteller]

Happy Storyteller Saturday! What would you say is your favorite part of your writing process? How do you create your characters and once you do, what is your favorite kinds of scenes to write with them?

Happy Storyteller Saturday to you too!

There is a lot I enjoy about the writing process... I love the initial brainstorming of ideas of places the story could go... I also love to create characters and develop them into people. Something that I like to do (and have been doing for my Steph's Crew series) is come up with the main story, come up with a structure, and then think about potential conversations that my characters might have in each of those stages/moments in the story before I actually do any writing. I've posted some of the dialogues of my Steph's Crew story, and once I've posted all of the conversations in order, I'll get to posting the actual chapters.

My process when it comes to creating characters kind of varies? I'll be 100% honest with you - for my main character Steph, I used a character generator that I found online lol. That was about a year ago, when I first got the idea for this story. It gave me a good starting point: I got a name, age, basic backstory and a few rough ideas for a personality. A lot of stuff from there has been added, removed, or changed around... I feel like I'm better at developing characters than I am at creating them. Starting is the hardest part.

I get a lot of inspiration from my life, actually. I put a little bit of myself in every character I write. I mean, they aren't all like me, but they all represent different things to me. So for example:

Stephanie

Passionate, argumentative, knows what she wants and fights hard to get it

Cares deeply about her friends and wants to protect them

Gives good solid advice, learns through experience

Tends to hold on to the past (and can hold a grudge for an insane amount of time lol. I don't think I'm as bad as her, but still)

Bret

Really wants to do and be better, but struggles a lot with the process

Can be quite careless and thoughtless, but always ends up regretting it in the end

Deeply sensitive (though he may not seem like it at first glance)

Super creative and artistic

Loves music

Elise

(Probably the most similar to me lol.)

Major bookworm (down to her obsession with reading fantasy novels late into the night. She refers to it as her "fantasy-novel-before-bedtime time" when Bret calls her in the middle of the night to ask her for help with something)

Curious af (always wants to know more, always asking questions)

Kind of quirky and awkward, but owns it lol

Introverted, with a quiet confidence

Smart girl (really good student, works really hard and genuinely gets passionate about learning)

Tries hard at everything, kind of a perfectionist

Cares super deeply about her friends, and wants to help everyone out all the time

Used to be in a choir, but stopped (partially due to a toxic environment)

Super close with sibling (for her, it's Adam, and in my case, it's my younger sister, Hannah. She's my absolute best friend!)

She has this inexplicable (to some of the others lol) crush on Bret (bless his overly chaotic soul), and eventually ends up getting with him. Could be me subconsciously giving her my bad boy phase (I used to be into that aesthetic, but I grew out of it lol)

Dylan

He's black

Lives with a younger sibling and a single parent

Comes from a broken home (divorced parents)

Tends to bottle his emotions

Doesn't feel comfortable about sharing his problems sometimes

Alice

Sarcastic sense of humour

Very insecure, and has this tendency to compare herself with others (in her case, her genius twin sister Mary)

Uses humour as a coping mechanism sometimes (uses it to mask her insecurity)

Puts pressure on herself to be perfect (or at least make up for the areas she lacks in)

Feels bad when she fails, but is determined to improve and tries hard to change and be better than she was before

Yeah, these are all the ways that my characters are like me. I think it's fun to incorporate little pieces of your life into your writing (whether its just general stuff, or really specific things like the fantasy novel thing. I actually used to do that lol).

I don't know if I have a specific favourite type of scene that I like to write for my characters... mostly I just like it when they have good chemistry together, and when a conversation flows in a satisfying way that showcases all their individual personalities well. Like, I love to incorporate a bit of banter, some joking and teasing. I love the more lighthearted scenes. And I have included some romantic subplots in this story as well because I love love❤️️ (I enjoy writing the lovey dovey scenes, but it's slightly awkward for me, too, since I seriously lack experience in that department, so I don't really know if I'm capturing it right. It's fun, though).

Hope this answers your question! Thank you so much for the ask.

[preciousc04]

Curated Final Portfolio

1- Line

2- Order & Chaos

3- Black and white

4- 3 colors that become 4

5- Vibrating edges

6- Sketchbook pages

7- Museum

8- Midterm

9- Album and book cover

10- Sketchbook pages

Here is my curated portfolio. Overall, I'd say my favorite materials are paper and glue. I really enjoyed the action of cutting and pasting. While the process for making them takes a lot of patience, time, and thinking, I look forward to how clean everything looks in the end. I feel like lines really bring everything together. I'm stuck between choosing my favorite assignment. The white on black and black on white assignment is my first choice. I love how abstract but simple both pieces appear and how sharp the lines are. Making these pieces made me realize that abstract isn't as easy as it looks, that it isn't just random shapes and lines that are overrated. I also enjoyed just cutting random pieces of paper and deciding how to place them afterwards. Another assignment I loved was the midterm. Not only did I have full control over this project, but it pushed me way out of my comfort zone. It was a challenge for sure but I'm happy with the outcome. I had a lot of trouble with thinking about how I should do my artworks and wasting time planning for every possible outcome. After a few of these assignments, I realized with art that you don't always have to know what you want to do from beginning to end. So I solved this problem by using other works as inspiration and letting my artistic skills do the rest, without having a baseline of where to start. It caused me less stress and more room for liberty. The last time I remember using acrylic paint was high school. I never liked using it due to the thickness and how it dried, but it ended up being my most used medium while simultaneously being the most challenging. However, the more I used it, I got a better hang of it. I particularly struggled with the midterm assignment the most. First starting, I felt lost and I didn't know what I was going to do. I kept looking at other midterms and comparing myself to them, asking why theirs is much better than mine. I overcame this by instead using those same midterms as motivation. I kept the mindset of "If they did it, I can too." It pushed me to finish and it feels all worth it in the end. This class was very experimental but fun and I feel proud to have made these creative pieces.

[yallcantread]

heyy I hope you're doing well, and here's another random and totally-unrelated-to-this-blog question for you

what would you say are your all-time top 10 songs and why? (of artists other than you)

🦋see ya

Great question! Sorry that it took me long to answer this. I really thought about this question for a few days before compiling a list. So since I ramble a lot and seem to over explain, for your sake and mine I’ll offer 3. If you’d like more of my list just ask and I’m happy to oblige.

1. “Feel Good Inc.” by the Gorillaz - This song holds a special place in my heart as it was with me throughout my childhood. Its incredible melody and lyrics stayed with me every waking moment. Music plays a magical role in early childhood development, and despite not recalling much from when I was five, I vividly remember the first time I heard Feel Good Inc. It was during a family trip to New Orleans, and the music video was playing on a television channel, probably MTV. That moment started my obsession with the song, which remains to this day.

Feel Good Inc. introduced me to the genres of alternative rock and alternative rap. Its refusal to take itself too seriously is a significant reason why I adore it. Every aspect of the song is truly unique, unlike anything heard before its release. The lyrics possess an inherent uniqueness that showcases its point without sacrificing originality. Meaning it’s a song that isn’t commercial due to the lyricism, but was still able to become a popular song even without that mainstream commercial appeal. Personally, I struggle with writing music that sometimes sounds overly commercial, or formulaic. It isn’t on purpose but it just allows me to know I’m not trying hard enough. I’m making catchy baseless songs, nothing ground breaking.

Most Gen Z artists seem to emulate existing sounds rather than inventing groundbreaking ones. Even the most popular Gen Z artists of today often resemble replicas of others. However, Feel Good Inc. remains genuine. You can sense the sheer enjoyment the creators had during the recording process, making it an authentic piece of art. The song transitions through different sections, clearly demarcating the chorus and second verse. It’s an extraordinary once in a lifetime song. I’m happy I got to experience it when it came out.

2. “My Girl” by The Temptations - I love their entire discography. This song has been played almost in every single movie, show, and radio station but this song to me is still underrated. I love it. It’s so good. It’s so sweet and genuine. All of the temptations voices just sound perfect together. Papa Was A Rollin Stone and Just My Imagination by the temptations are definitely in my top 50. What I love about it is how David Ruffin first heard the song “My Girl” which was originally for Smokey Robinson and his group “The Miracles” and he begged Smokey Robinson to let the temptations record it. Smokey Robinson eventually gave in and it’s one of the best decisions he’s ever made. The usage of adjectives and metaphors in this song just smooth together so well. It’s a staple in the black community, for understandable reasons. In the Deep South, this song has been played in every single black household. It’s just culture. It’s hard to dislike the song and to find any flaws in it. Smokey Robinson has one of the best pens in music history as well, he wrote “My Girl” for his wife, who is also a miracles member. Claudette Rogers Robinson, bless her. What an amazing and talented individual she is. The song is artistically, culturally, and historically different. Music is amazing.

3. Your Body Is A Wonderland by John Mayer -

“Your Body Is A Wonderland” by John Mayer is, without a doubt, proof to this artist’s remarkable ability to produce awesome songs. When I first received my iPod, my mother, who has been my primary guide into the world of diverse themes and music, graciously provided me with a variety of songs that automatically synced onto my iPod. Among them was John Mayer’s entire discography, which naturally sparked my curiosity and took my interest. Mayer is an individual I deeply admire and find inspiring, as he stands among the greatest living guitar players on Earth today. I often wish I possessed even a fraction of his talent. One of the reasons I adore this particular song is its status as a quintessential pop song. Unlike many idealistic pop songs that heavily rely on beats or partying themes, “Your Body Is A Wonderland” opts for simplicity and relaxation. Its recording, bridge, and background vocals are proportionate, creating a harmonious piece of work that blends in well. The descriptive lyrics allow listeners to envision themselves staying in bed with a lover, cherishing the intimate connection shared between two individuals. It exudes a sense of sensuality without leaning excessively on explicit content. This era of music in the 2000s is often overlooked and underappreciated, despite housing an abundance of gems. Artists like Colbie Caillat, Natasha Bedingfield, Rob Thomas, John Mayer, and Ne-Yo delivered an array of soft pop songs that beautifully blend elements of happiness, sadness, and yearning, leaving an indelible impact. Overall, “Your Body Is A Wonderland” remains a testament to John Mayer’s artistry and showcases the magical ability of well-crafted pop songs to evoke emotions and transport listeners to a place of admiration and connection. I’d have to say Continuum, Room for Squares and Battle Studies are in my top 10 favorite albums. I didn’t know whether or not to mention Your Body Is A Wonderland or Heartbreak Warfare.

And those are 3 from my list. It isn’t my top 3 but just 3 i pulled that I thought would be interesting.

[tinyhistory]

Hey! Love your stories so much I just had to ask! Do you have any favorite drarry authors/stories? I sometimes compare the quality of other stories to ROA (oops!) because ROA is just that good. My personal favorites are ROA (of course!), the Foundations Series (saras_girl), the ordeal of being known (louisfake), denouement (the_never_was), Good to Me (And I'd Be So Good to You) (AWickedMemory), and To Hurt and Heal (cassisluna). Have you read these? Have a wonderful day! :)

Thank you, so glad you’ve enjoyed my stories! And thank you for so patiently waiting for a reply. I haven’t been online much in the past couple of weeks. Unfortunately I haven’t read any of your recs, but I’m always happy to add another fic to my to-read list.

I did a rec post a few months ago, but I’ll post an updated version now. The Skyhawke Archives appear to be down, which is crushing news. I’ve had to update a lot of the links.

So here are my favourite Drarry fanfics:

And We Are At Our Apogee (PG-13) by angelgazing

Summary: Draco wanted revenge, but it didn't work out that way.

My notes: Californian beaches, supermarkets, road trips, and a bittersweet ending.

-

A Reckless State of Mind (T) by Lomonaaeren

Summary: Draco is a Psyche-Diver, and his newest patient is Auror Potter, who’s been a pathological liar for over a year—and has just tried to violently end his own life.

Notes: The plot alone guarantees inclusion on this list. Probably the most creative fic I’ve ever read, and the twists and turns will keep you guessing.

-

Berlin, In the Year of Our Lord (PG) by Are

Summary: Harry is a green-tea addict. Draco stalks him.

Notes: Probably my all-time favourite fic, along with Blue Vase. It’s sparse and minimal and I love that writing style.

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Blue Vase (M) by ivyblossom

Summary: Let’s pretend.

Notes: Draco finds an amnesiac Harry and befriends him, pretending they were once lovers. It’s pensive, short, and bittersweet.

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The Boy Who Only Lived Twice (E) by lettered

Summary: Harry Potter is an Unspeakable. Draco Malfoy is the wizard who shagged him. Adventure! Intrigue! Secret identities, celebrities, spies! It's all right here, folks.

Notes: Action-heavy fics are damn hard to write, but lettered nails it. The action scenes are breakneck speed, the conversations are threaded with double meaning, and even the silences are tense.

-

Draco in Darkness (T) by Plumeria47.

Summary: Following an accident in his seventh year, Draco loses his eyesight.

Notes: This is one of the first fics I ever read (when it was over on FF in 2003) so it’s probably here just for nostalgia points alone. I read it when I was a kid and just thought it was a lovely golden fairytale, the best romance I’d ever read in my (very short, thus far) life. I love reading it again, even years later as an adult when I can see the tarnish on it; the things my childhood eyes didn’t notice. I don’t care. It’s my soft and fuzzy comfort fic.

-

The Flesh is Frail (NC-17) by wildestranger

Summary: None

Notes: Draco has injuries from curses and spells, and Harry keeps him company. Draco is angry; Harry is stubborn. They argue their way into a grudging relationship. It’s a short read and well worth your ten minutes.

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Good-bye to Yesterday (NC-17) by furiosity

Summary: Draco felt ready to face even a million years in Azkaban as long as it meant that at the end of it all, he would make Potter pay.

Notes: It’s not a dark fic, but it certainly dips in and out of the shadows. If you like your romance to be sharp as a razor and bitter as black coffee, give it a read.

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Hymn to Color (PG) by Lomonaaeren

Summary: Months after Draco cast a curse that took Harry’s eyesight, Harry is still trying to come to terms with it. Draco still wanted forgiveness, which was probably the problem.

Notes: Probably my very inadequate idea of “fluff”. It’s a quiet, introspective fic. Draco and Harry are well-written.

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Kings among runaways (PG) by enderxenocide.

Summary: Later, the toast will be slightly overcooked, Draco will burn the eggs, and there will be another fist fight in-between the living room and the front door, but they’ll eat breakfast with second-hand plates and Draco’s great-grandmother’s silverware.

Notes: Dreamy descriptions, abstract scenes, and the characters are lovingly delineated. Beautiful writing.

-

On Broken Glass (PG-13) by coffeejunkii

Summary: After the final battle, Draco is holding the shards that are left of his and Harry’s life.

Notes: Established relationship. Harry’s forgetful and seems to suffer both short-term and long-term memory loss; Draco stays by his side through six years of post-war amnesia. Very short, just a tiny ficlet. There’s sequels (in bite-size pieces) but I prefer to read the first ficlet and leave it there.

-

Paper Dolls (M) by cupiscent

Summary: In the final year of the War, Draco gets a letter, makes a choice and pays the price.

Notes: Short, succinct, and packs a punch. No character deaths, in case the summary has you feeling nervous.

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Portrait (PG-13) by Silent Blast

Summary: None.

Notes: Dorian Grey, but Drarry. Of course it’s going to be good.

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Shattered (NC-17) by femmequixotic

Summary: One damned accident involving one too-lucky curse, and suddenly you'd think he was five again, with their Harry, be carefuls and their quick Levitating charms ready the instant the potion gives way and his rebelling hands lose hold of whatever's in their grasp.

Notes: Draco’s an artist. Harry’s intrigued by his sculptures and paintings.

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Snatch (PG-13) by didntyoupotter

Summary: Harry is comatose, Hermione and Ron aren’t much help, and Draco isn’t sure about anything anymore.

Notes: The opening scene fools you into thinking this will be a light read with a streak of good humour. Don’t fall for it. By the third act, you’ll be hanging onto every word and feeling a lot of emotions. Also, back in the day, this was one of the Draco/Harry fics. Everyone knew of it. Pay your respects to your fandom history and read this beloved classic.

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The Stages of Acceptance (T) by Lomonaaeren.

Summary: Harry, already happily married to Ginny, receives the news that he's Draco's mate. Law and custom don't give him the option of ignoring the news. The stages of his reaction, one by one.

Notes: This is not a romance, and I love that the author just casually chucks all the Veela tropes in the bin and says “nope”. In Lomonaaeren’s own words, this fic is more practical than romantic. Harry is unfamiliar with the Veela concepts and hates the very idea of being “shackled” to someone; he rejects Draco at once. Draco is miserable and lonely. They do eventually come to understand each other better, but it’s a huge struggle with lots of setbacks. The general air of pessimism and misery does make the small glimpses of compassion and empathy feel so well-earned. I love a fic that rations out its happiness.

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The Stately Homes of Wiltshire (E) by waspabi

Summary: Malfoy Manor has mould, dry rot and an infestation of unusually historical poltergeists. Harry Potter is on the case.

Notes: This one needs no introduction. The writing is polished, the characterisation perfect, and the dialogue is fun. I love the humour woven throughout it.

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Then Comes a Mist and a Weeping Rain (E) by faithwood.

Summary: It always rains for Draco Malfoy. Metaphorically. And literally. Ever since he had accidentally Conjured a cloud. A cloud that's ever so cross.

Notes: Another one that most of us know. It’s a lighthearted and fun read.

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Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow (M) by novembersnow

Summary: In the war-torn years after Hogwarts, one man has no knowledge of his yesterdays.

Notes: Another classic back in the feverish heyday of the Harry Potter fandom, when books were still being released and everyone had worked themselves up into a shipping frenzy. And no wonder this fic was an instant hit. Draco has lost all his memories and Harry’s investigating as an Auror, but the longer you read, the more you start questioning everything. Good twists and turns that lead to a tender ending.

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Turn by Saras_Girl

Summary: One good turn always deserves another. Apparently.

Notes: An inevitable inclusion on any favourites list. I think my favourite thing about it is the characterisation. Everyone is so well-rounded; the characters are brought to life and feel like old friends. All their habits, styles, mannerisms, even the way they walk or talk. While I love everyone in this fic, I have to admit that Blaise is just amazing. Of all the thousands of Blaises imagined by fanfic writers, I love this one the best. “Old bean” indeed.

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Under the Ivy (PG-13) by coffeejunkii

Summary: It is impressive how much you can learn about someone by simply sharing a few rooms. They don’t spend time together, not really, but Harry still knows that Malfoy prefers raspberry jam over strawberry, that he hums along to the Wireless when he thinks no one is around, and that his leg is bothering him more than usual when the temperatures drop below freezing.

Notes: Another old, old favourite of mine. It’s like snuggling into a soft blanket. Remus owns a cottage and Harry moves in after the war. Later, Remus lets a room to Draco, who is an outcast after the war and has limited housing options. Harry isn’t happy at first with the new lodger, but he eventually warms up to Draco. A slow and gentle romance.

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Vale Sanare (M) by rurounihime

Summary: Draco’s world gains a new component, just when he thought he’d sorted everything out.

Notes: London nightclubs, one-night-stands, loud music and lonely nights. Draco has seizures due to a curse from the war, and the seizures have led to a fear of intimacy. Short and sweet.

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The Way Down (T) by lettered

Summary: Malfoy’s all, “Come out of there,” the way you say to a cat who is badly behaved. And Harry’s all like, “No, what, I’m a hermit! And I have a chest-monster! And I am crazy magically powerful!” and Malfoy’s all, “We all have problems, bub.” (thoughtfully) “You are crazy though. I’ll give you that.”

Notes: I just adore this fic. The fic starts well-grounded, giving you a solid backstory and matter-of-fact context, but as it goes on, it slowly unravels into dreamy scenes, lush settings, and repeated motifs. It’s just such a beautiful story.

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When Love beckons to you, follow him (PG-13) by megyal

Summary: Draco wakes up, lost, somewhere in a forest. He has no idea where he is or how he got there. As he is blundering around trying to find his way home, he hears Harry's voice in his head, telling him what to do.

Notes: I generally like my fics to be bittersweet or with a bit of heartache — but this fic is just a little cloud of softness. If you need something light and lovely without being syrupy-sweet, this is a good choice!

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The World of the Living (M) by fourth_rose

Summary: A traumatised war hero and a convicted criminal under the roof of an eccentric journalist make for a rather odd ensemble, but Luna has never had a problem with oddities as long as they make sense.

Notes: The story is told from Luna’s perspective, which gives everything a lovely dreamy quality. She takes in a couple of strays after the war — first Harry, who is avoiding his other friends and has quit his Auror job — and then she offers a room to Draco right after his trial. Draco is rude, angry, and ungrateful; Harry is churlish, withdrawn, and moody. Luna doesn’t seem to mind in the slightest, and over the course of the next few months, her house guests slowly warm up to each other.

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Voices From the Fog (E) by noeon

Summary: After years of running away, Harry crosses paths with an all-too familiar face and follows him to Amsterdam.

Notes: Harry drifts across Europe, trying to forget the war. He ends up in a woodworking shop in Amsterdam, alongside a moody Draco. Atmospheric settings and solid characterisation.

[horanghoe]

Spider-Boy Is A Dog In This One (3/3 - FINALE)

Back to ~ Main Masterlist

OR Back to ~ SVT Masterlist

Spider-Boy Is A Dog In This One - (1 / 3)

Spider-Boy Is A Dog In This One - (2 / 3)

Spider-Boy Is A Dog In This One - (3 / 3) - FINALE

Author: spookyhyuck

Pairing: Kwon Soonyoung, or Hoshi / Reader

Rating: 18 + (Part 3 AKA THIS PART includes NSFW smut, swearing throughout)

Genre: Supernatural AU / Fluff / Angst / Smut / General A/B/O goodness heh

Warnings (Other): Swearing used throughout; smut mentioned only in part 3 but sexual/adult references throughout. Mentions of heat, A/B/O power play, etc. Mentions of being cornered by males in the first part. One night stands. Let me know if you want me to add anything else here!

Warnings (Part 3 Smut): A lot of power play, consensual throughout. Slight use of bad-mouthing and downgrading. Hand restriction, spanking. Fluff at the end. Mentions of the usual A/B/O filth!

Synopsis: Bitten by a stray dog, you thought you would be able to sail through this weird illness, no problem. Well, you thought wrong. Got scared, changed your biological path and found love along the way. Oh, fate. You cruel, cruel mistress.

Word Count: 14,845 (14.8k / Total Approx. 40k)

Special mentions: @slightlymore /@slightlymore-main, literally everyone I coerced into proofreading this and not expressing its 101 page length,@chocolvte , and lastly @raibebe

Artistic property of spookyhyuck - all rights reserved. Reposting and modifying of any medium is not permitted.

/ SMUT BEYOND THIS LINE / MINORS DO NOT INTERACT PAST THIS LINE /

After about twenty minutes or so, the two of you and the quiet driver arrived at the packs’ tall suite-turnt-apartment building, just past 2:38 AM.

Due to the winter sky, it was pitch black and ice cold to any passer-by. Most people were fast asleep in their homes. Only creatures of the night and city misfits were out at this hour. Which side would you fall into, you wondered?

Hoshi helped you wiggle out of the black car that rushed you both there, bothering you like a mother-hen about your aching muscles. He scooped your legs up bridal-style until you reached the doors, dropping you gently.

It was endearing, and a little embarrassing, but you were grateful for the saved struggle of battling with every steep step up towards the huge glass doors.

“Do you think you can walk alright? Everything’s marbled in here, so it might be a bit cold, but - oh yeah, Jeonghan brought those slippers...”

You nodded up at his caring voice. “Soonie, thanks, I should be alright. Promise. As long as we don’t have to go too far? I might have a bit of a different answer for you if we’re going up to the top level on only stairs?”

“No, no, God no - there are two lifts. We should be fine.”

Even though you weren’t exactly sure what ‘fine' meant in this context or what exactly it entailed, you didn’t press him for an answer. He was tired. You could tell by the dip in his voice and the way he stretched his arms out, hands immediately resting on your body to support your hips and back.

So you let him breathe a few huffs of steadying winter air, waiting for Jeonghan to make it back down to the entrance. Hoshi had explained along the way that the security guards were called somewhere else for the rest of the week; hence the slim opportunity to sneak you in and not cause a whole breaching issue.

Thankfully - ironically - neither of you could feel the biting air on your skin. Hoshi’s thick coat kept him covered and your heat acted as a thermal pump inside of your body. It did help clear your mind a little though.

“Soonyoung,” You started with a curious tone. Hoshi looked up at you, flicking his phone into his pocket after sending a final text to his brother. “You might have failed to mention that I look absolutely ridiculous in this get-up.”

Hoshi laughed in shock, shaking his head at your scrutinising eyes in the glass doors reflection.

“Stop it, you look cute.”

You squinted up at him. “Cute?”

“Yeah,” He chuckled, placing a surprise kiss on your nose with a pout. He moved before you could poke him away and you blanched at his action. “Cute! That hoodie suits you. You can have it if you want.”

Well, now you felt sick.

“Have - Soonyoung, it’s a Balenciaga hoodie. I am never taking this out of your sight.” He laughed fully, cracking through the noise of cars in the night's endless city street percussion.

“Why not? You look good in my clothes, pup. You should wear them more often.”

Jeonghan couldn’t have opened the doors at a better time.

With a firm hand pressing to your back, you were guided by Hoshi out of the chilly air and into the building’s wide entry hall.

The floor was covered in obnoxiously expensive white marble, with one lift to the right and one to the left, as described. No one else was here, so you presumed whoever did work here, did so during the day.

Once inside, you acknowledged Jeonghan’s presence. As he did, yours.

“Hiya. You must be Y/N? My name’s Jeonghan, I’m Soonyoung’s older brother. Welcome.”

“Hi.” You mumbled, clearing your throat to project your voice more confidently.

“Yeah, my name’s Y/N! Thank you for having me, and sorry for any inconvenience.”

“No worries, nice to meet you, Y/N.”

Smiling politely, you both bowed your heads.

Standing back up, you took in each other’s appearances. A few tense seconds felt like an eternity. But strangely, you weren’t met with the coldness you had expected. He was judging your character, and it was revealing.

Jeonghan was tall and uniquely slender with long bleached hair tucked behind his hairs. It suited him. He wore joggers, but you knew that if Hoshi was anything to go by there weren’t any high street items in either of their closets. Yellow eyes were apparent and a thin iris had settled to indicate the pick-up of your heat-deep scent, but his smile persisted.

He had seen the way you had reacted when opening the door. Shifting closer to his brother’s body and dipping your eyes from natural politeness. But your daring glances humoured him greatly.

You looked tired. With your hair loose and eye bags very much prominent he immediately felt a fondness towards you. Your eyes hadn’t even settled yet; one fully seeped in a honey colour while the other struggled to choose. It looked a little painful, and he pitied you.

It was endearing. Seeing you struggle between reaching for support and deciding you could do it alone. You were brave, especially for a human. To transform mostly without aid and at the last moments be welcomed into the middle of a wolf den.

He could only imagine the brainwashing humans had infected you with your whole life, having to fight what you knew and loved to find a new home.

Of course, he could tell you were in the midst of the heat.

Hoshi’s kind hands trembled as Jeonghan’s gaze swept over you. Your scent truly was like the sweetest flower Jeonghan had ever smelt. But he had his own mate, he was older and Hoshi trusted him maybe the most out of every sibling. So he knew he was of no threat.

That didn’t mean your body's natural reactions didn’t affect him, however.

Soonyoung was resisting the innate urge to step between the two of you, ending the standoff and taking the heat. He hated how anxious you looked. It shook his bones into a terrible desperate mess. But he resisted.

Jeonghan was here to help, and he wouldn’t harm you, not without good reason.

Smiling even deeper and genuinely kindly, (which Hoshi was not exactly accustomed to seeing so soon into his older brother's interactions), Jeonghan brandished the thinly furred tiger-face slippers and placed them gently into your awaiting palms. You cooed immediately, missing Hoshi’s red ears as you thanked the older male and kicked them onto your feet.

As you stood, Jeonghan nodded towards the lift.

“Shall we get going then?”

You nodded, holding Hoshi’s arm wrapped securely around your hip to walk towards the lift.

“Are you okay? I can carry you if it still hurts?” Hoshi whispered, despite the two of you knowing Jeonghan could hear you even from outside.

You shook your head firmly. “No no, thank you Soonie, it’s okay. I just feel a little sore is all.”

Jeonghan opened the lift doors, walking in to lean on the right wall, next to the buttons. He listened out of concern for his pack, but he was met with the sweetness of his younger sibling’s courting. How sweet, he thought. He was really beginning to care about your wellbeing.

“Are you sure? You were complaining you were in agony, not much less than like, an hour ago?”

You groaned in appreciation, coming to stand in the lift. You moved so that Hoshi stood to your right, creating a distance between the other male and placing Hoshi in the space between you. A subconscious move on your part, but the wolves noticed.

In usual canine body language, this could offend the host. You were openly displaying that you intended to cower from Jeonghan, and Hoshi would have to speak on your behalf. However; he knew from experience that this was simply not the case.

You were nervous, and Jeonghan potentially could be a threat in a closed space in his own home. He had accepted this as soon as you had arrived.

The two boys shared a look, but Jeonghan casually shook his head.

‘No worries. She’s nervous.’

Hoshi nodded and recentered his attention towards your voice.

“Yeah, I feel a little better actually. It’s odd, but umm, good I guess? My eyes still hurt...”

The lift door chimed shut, starting the gradual ascent towards the tenth floor.

Hoshi nodded. “Yeah, it’s good. That will go soon too, hopefully.”

Despite yourself, you looked around the space, nose twitching and pulse steadily rising. There was that same feeling you had felt oncoming like cold dread at your office before being cornered by a bunch of mutts.

It was like something had put a pole in your body and started moving it around your gut, lungs and heart.

Shuffling towards him, you gripped Hoshi’s strong bicep. With a small whine, your irises contracted, blinking into what looked like a painful yellow transition.

Jeonghan watched with a small smile as you tried to find comfort. He had seen this behaviour before, with his own mate. He chose to speak to grant you some form of distraction, or space.

Floor 1

“So, little brother, Y/N - ” Jeonghan started with a mischievous smile. “How did you two meet?”

Hoshi groaned, flicking out his phone with a pout. Curiously, he seemed more like a boy than an independent charming man in the presence of his older brother. You laughed softly at their bickering.

“Yah quit it. You sound like Grandad.” You giggled at Jeonghan’s face mocking his brother for your amusement.

He looked to you for some form of answer as Hoshi sulked.

“Umm, Soonyoung helped me out, in the District 53 office… Then helped get me out to a hotel. But umm - we’re umm - not a thing… Not yet at least? I don’t - yeah.”

That hurt you just as much as it hurt Hoshi and he laughed without emotion at his screen. Jeonghan was more cautious than before when considering his answer. He simply nodded.

“Cool. Well, at least you didn’t meet at a family breeding auction or something stupid like that. Then I would have appreciated a bit more of an explanation.”

Hoshi shook his head with a scrunched nose. He looked up from his phone with a tutt.

“Hyung, that’s grim. I don’t do that shit.”

Floor 2

Jeonghan, visibly pleased, shrugged off his brother’s pointed eyes with a smile and charming wink at you. You smiled, dipping your head. He was conventionally attractive, but his actions were purely platonic.

You only had one wolf on your mind right now.

Plus, you didn’t hate the feeling of seeing a lot of familiar features in him. He seemed like someone you knew, and he was not directly threatening enough that his jokes stuck. You liked Jeonghan, you decided.

The three of you settled into a comfortable ambience in the slow lift. The two boys discussed their next week's agenda, while they just happened to be conveniently together in the lift.

You were grateful for the time they gave you to think.

Your muscles had begun to ease from the fire that had pumped under your skin back at the hotel. And even though you were exhausted, you felt safe sticking close to Hoshi.

You placed your cheek to his arm with a stifled yawn and he smiled down at you.

He reached his fingers to press the back of his phone-occupied knuckles against your forehead. Jeonghan watched with slight worry, which you appreciated. He eased at his brother’s statement as Hoshi dropped his hand back to his side.

“You’re not as fired up as earlier, pup. Are your eyes starting to feel any better?” You nodded, shying away from Jeonghan’s watchful eye.

“Yeah, the pain has mostly gone. Still there a little, though...”

Floor 3

At your timid response leaving the air open-ended for speech, Jeonghan continued the pair's itinerary discussion.

If you hadn't known better, you would’ve listened to that inkling in your head that told you he was either distracting Hoshi to give him something other to concentrate on than you, buying you time to think, or both at once.

Tutting, Hoshi flicked his phone on. You tuned back into the conversation when annoyance started melting into his aura.

“Three days straight, Hyung? That’s a bit much for Dino’s first placement isn’t it?”

Jeonghan shrugged, releasing a tight exhale.

“The board is pushing to see how far their training has gotten him. He’s surviving, for the most part. You know how tough the Pledis Security training can be, especially at his age.” Hoshi seemed to understand, nodding with a tutt and soft shake of his bowed head.

“Yeah - bastards.”

“Yeah, well. His behaviour around females is -”

You and Jeonghan caught eyes, a lopsided apologetic cheek pinching at the crescent in his eyes.

“Strained, at best. I’ve asked Woozi to keep an eye on him for a while.”

Hoshi peered up at this, seemingly sharing a tense moment with his brother, before shaking his head and flicking back through his phone.

“He needs space, not coddling. When’s the evaluation? I’m presuming there is one.”

Intrigued, you peered at Hoshi’s phone. Familiar colours and the layout of a calendar greeted you. Ah, Google Calendars. You were taken back to your office life for a second.

Dino must be a younger brother of his, you also realised. Hoshi tapped onto the specific day’s reminders, scrolling until he found ‘Dino’s intro’ in dark green.

Hoshi tapped a message into the info section that made you smile.

‘Good luck Dino-ahh~! LMK IF YOU NEED ANYTHING! Fighting :D!

Love 🐯’

He was too sweet.

He flicked through others, but you grew bored and defocused onto the space around you.

Floor 4

Jeonghan paused, his hesitance telling both you and Hoshi that he had hit the mark and revealed something the older wasn’t too happy to be sharing.

“Hyung?”

“It’s in two months. That was as far as I could stretch it. They - well, they didn’t exactly give us much of a choice. It’s fine. He’ll pass. We’ll make sure of it.”

Hoshi paused his insistent tapping to raise his head. “Yeah, or else, right Hyung?”

But once more, you grew distracted. Their voices turned into background noise as your eyes focused then de-focused on random objects. Your ears, too. They were bickering, but not about something important to this moment, so your mind wandered.

You didn’t know as an ex-human how to label what was happening, but essentially you were checking for scents and other things in your environment that could indicate a threat.

The phrase ‘curiosity killed the cat’ struck you; because upon sniffing the air and looking at the faded numbers on the lift’s power board, you realised just how deep into a den you had wandered.

The feeling of safety next to the two wolves began to dwindle in record time. And your gut squelched into cold dread at what you were being pulled into.

Oh God’s, what were you doing? Would you ever come out of here alive?

Floor 5

Hoshi hadn’t caught onto your intense change in mood yet, in the middle of emailing someone via phone.

Jeonghan was a little brighter in this respect, however.

Forever the sharpest knife of the bunch. Hence his joint position; Seungcheol brought warm familiarity to the business while Jeonghan dealt in backhands and cold cut-offs. Not to say that either one couldn’t switch roles - they did so frequently - but they had their strengths and used them to their fullest.

Like right now.

Jeonghan tilted his head as he watched your body sway - as you tried to decide between moving away into the corner, or rushing into Hoshi’s side to hide, completely.

He was amused at the struggle but also concerned for you. His partner had been bitten. And the state he had found her in was much of a publicity story that would plague him to his end days; causing havoc at an auction and outwitting every bidder there to end up stealing her from her ‘adopted’ home.

The city wasn’t as sick as the old days, but it still had its moments.

So he watched your two interactions like a mirror as to what he and his mate must have looked like together.

Lost, confused, afraid, a little disjointed. Crashing hard and fast into that beast called love.

After a little to-and-throwing, you managed to grip onto the sleeve of Hoshi’s coat with some desperate spur to your movements. In as much of a subtle movement as possible, you tried to tug him back into the corner of the elevator.

Backwards - away from the smells, people. And into the corner, into safety.

Floor 6

Hoshi’s body barely moved, but he clicked away his phone to turn slightly towards you in consideration, pocketing his phone in his coat.

"Y/N?" He asked curiously. "What's up?"

He was so naive sometimes.

Interjecting quickly and for your own sake, Jeonghan took no offence to the way you jolted at his voice, or how your eyes darted over him as a potential threat. If anything, he appreciated that you trusted him enough to be near you in this state. In this lift, this early into the relationship.

He wasn’t sure if you were incredibly stupid; or ridiculously smart.

"It probably stinks in here. A little more closed off than you’re used to right? Can be a lot to take in at first. Maybe a little overwhelming."

Hoshi frowned. “Y/N? Is that true? You should’ve said if you were feeling anxious?”

With both eyes set on you, your body began to tremble. A scorching heat prickled against your neck and you tugged Hoshi’s arm back with you until your back hit the corner. You released a long nasal whine, stuttered into breaths. Hoshi watched you in slight shock before moving.

"Hey, hey, hey. Don't get upset." Hoshi whispered, reaching towards your body.

His arms found your hips and he pulled you towards him. On edge, your body resisted. He felt the resistance of the tug in his gut and immediately his heart dropped.

"What's going on pup? Talk to me. Is it Jeonghan? He won’t hurt you, Y/N. You’re safe in here, I promise."

"No, no, it’s not that...I can't breathe Soonyoung, I-I don’t know what’s happening - it was fine downstairs! I would’ve said something!"

Your voice was stuttered into whines in probably the most desperate pitch he had heard from you yet, eyes brimming with tears.

"I tried to ignore it and like bottle in, or something, but as soon as we hit another level… it starts all over again and I just feel worse Hosh, I feel sick… it’s like I can feel that there are people up here and I can't… I can't breathe, I'm… I can’t do this..."

Jeonghan growled, but not at you. At Hoshi.

‘Soon, you're going to have to mark her. Remember that conversation we had before you left the hotel? Time to step up, cub.’

Hoshi grew stiff, nose scrunching in disgust as he looked towards his elder.

‘What the fuck? Scent her?! Weren’t you the one who taught me to be better than that?’

Floor 7

It was true, Jeonghan and his older brothers often had to correct their younger pack members' instinctual behaviours as their elders had done so before them.

Scenting - no matter on a newly turned or naturally conceived werewolf - was considered to have the same effect as a very mild sedative or more similarly, an aphrodisiac. Depending upon the scenario, the sentiment could be entirely comforting and loving or terrifying in its ability to make another comply with the marker's wants for up to half an hour at a time.

‘Hosh, this isn't the time to second guess. Look at her. The poor girl is terrified and is reaching for your help, your security. The longer you resist, the worse she'll get. I'm telling you, it only gets worse from here. Make the decision, or watch her fall apart.’

Hoshi huffed weakly.

His hands were tied. Jeonghan was right, and you weren’t giving him much of a reason not to help.

Your whines grew more persistent, legs trembling to the point where the bannister now supported most of your weight. Feeling Hoshi hesitate to comfort you only heightened these feelings, a tight twisting in your gut making you curl over in long whines of pain.

"I feel sick. It smells like a dog in here Soonyoung, like tons of dogs, and I can't - I can't take it, it's getting stronger up here like something's pushing on my chest…"

Hoshi caught you as you curled over, shushing you gently before pulling you into his embrace. Your nose hit his arm and you were as stiff as a board. Curling there you whined at length in repeating patterns, like a canine in pain.

"Y/N, look at me," Hoshi ordered. Your body buzzed with resistance before your head lifted to look at him. You hadn't even registered the tears against your cheek, but he wiped them away with patient hands. Holding your face and looking at you like the most precious item in the world.

“Focus on me. You need to calm down, pup. You’re freaking yourself out.”

Fingers against your neck and thumb heavy on your cheek, Hoshi kissed you with intent. He swallowed your whines, trembles, and breath. Until all you could think about was him.

Him.

It eased your brain and body enough that Hoshi could pull back, pleased. Starting to kiss your cheek. As your hands curled into the edges of his coat your gulps of air were met with shushes against your skin, a grumble passing through his chest that vibrated up your arm.

Pulling his kisses south, he groaned. His lips and tongue met your neck, the spot between your jaw and your ear. Your scent was strongest here.

Floor 8

"Fuck." He swore under his breath, laboured to stay in control. His canines scraped against your skin and your painful cries had turned into wantful ones. “Don’t move, Y/N. I’m going to scent you so you can calm down, okay? If you move - I-I might not be able to stop.”

Hoshi placed a hickey under your ear, kissing the spot before nuzzling your entire neck. It took all the emotional resilience in existence to not sink his teeth into your neck, but it was worth the look on your face at the end.

He nipped, licked and pecked the thin skin over your pulse until you were dizzy with sudden lust. It was so carnal, so instinctive, that Hoshi’s head swam with filthy-loving images of you beneath him, absorbing your pain away in a multitude of different ways. He knew when to stop as your pulse slowed; he could smell himself on you and your body had released its tension, resting against his torso.

As he pulled away, your head whooshed with… him.

It was like he had placed a part of himself onto you. The anxiety in your chest fizzled out to a fuzzy, familiar and affectionate sort of feeling. Thinking about it, you started to feel a little silly for panicking so much.

They weren’t there to harm you. Hoshi was pulling you into his arms and his own place of safety; not the jaws of some ferocious and blood-hungry feral dogs. You were a welcomed guest here, and you prayed your actions hadn’t directly offended him, or his brother.

"Better?" He panted, reaching to push hairs from your face. Dazed, you nodded. Hearing Jeonghan snicker, Hoshi curled his arms around you, pushing you to burrow into his chest. He laughed softly, pushing his oversized hoodie over your head and tugging the strings.

“Silly pup. You should tell me when you feel anxious. Tell me next time?”

You were aware you looked ridiculous, but to be honest, you didn't care. What distracted you was Hoshi's breath. The barely noticeable hard-on pressed against your thighs and his voice rumbling against your cheek. You nodded subtly, loving the chin that rested on the top of your head.

You peered up at him, shuffling further into him. He grinned back down at you, before settling his eyes into a half-smile.

"What?"

His eyes. God, his eyes grabbed that stick in your gut and slowed it down so much. You huffed, a million words being shared as he watched your face. Thank you, it read. Hoshi’s smile replied; you’re more than welcome. Grateful, you collapsed into his chest. Your smaller arms reached around his waist to hold onto him. He smiled at the gesture, tucking you into his body.

Floor 9

"I give you my blessing."

Those five words made Hoshi stiff, eyes turning to scan his elder. That would be an awfully cruel thing to say if he was lying, or attempting to make a joke.

"What?" Hoshi bit with a slight growl.

"You heard me. I said,’ I give you my blessing’.”

‘I like Y/N. The two of you make a good match. Plus, Hosh, she's incredibly brave to have followed you this far. Or maybe you’re just naive enough to bring her home and hope this isn’t happening.’

"Are you being fucking serious right now?" Hoshi snarled, keeping your head to his chest.

‘Easy tiger. Don't forget what you're holding onto.’ Looking down at you nuzzling firmly into his chest, Hoshi softened immediately, looking up with desperation in his eyes.

"Besides, it's truly no one else's decision to make. I love you brother. We all do. So by extension, we will all learn to love your mate."

Hoshi peered down. His mate. God's, if it ever got that far. He didn’t even know where or what this relationship was steering into. What was he going to do with you?

"Seungkwan included." Jeonghan smiled.

Hoshi groaned, tipping his head back with a laugh and a scoff. Seungkwan would chew his ear off about this - about you. Feeling the empty space above your head, made you peer up at him. He met your eyes as he looked back down. Smiling. For the first time, he was truly smiling. He brightened the space, like a kid.

Kissing your nose, he peppered your mouth before nuzzling your cheek. You whined at his sudden clinginess.

"I'm going to eat you alive, little flower" Hoshi laughed, chest and voice rumbling into your ear as he hovered at ear level.

You whined loudly, pushing him away from your face, but you were unable to hide your smile. He snickered. Hand snaking lower down your back to keep you close.

Jeonghan simply rolled his eyes.

Floor 10

"This is your stop."

As Hoshi helped you walk out, a little stiff on your joints, Jeonghan offered his hand for a handshake.

When you reached for his hand, your body faltered. Freezing still, mid-air. Your mind was telling you that you couldn't touch this stranger - it was wrong, one hand on Hoshi and one on another man.

Jeonghan simply smiled, retracting his hand to push back into his pocket, leaning against the elevator door with a slight bow instead.

You copied this action quickly, apology written all over your face.

“See you both soon. Have a good night, be safe and shout if you need any help. Nice to meet you, Y/N. Glad you’re starting to feel a little better.”

“See you, Han.” Hoshi nodded.

“Bye, and thank you - for everything!” You followed.

And with that, your first meeting with Jeonghan had come to an end.

Hoshi watched as you released the biggest sigh he had ever seen from your little frame when the doors closed on Jeonghan's thoughtful features.

“You’re cute, pup.”

You pouted at him as you began walking down the hall, towards one of two opposite doors. Hoshi’s apartment was to the right.

“Jeonghan’s even taken a liking to you. That’s pretty rare, this early into the game.”

A small almost illegible copper plaque read ‘Floor 10, Suite 2. Kwon Soon-Young’ off to the side of his door.

“Thank you - for whatever it was you did. I feel a little lightheaded. But - Soon’ - I’m so embarrassed! I hope I didn’t offend either of you. I am really, truly sorry. I was just so - nervous?”

Hoshi shook his head with a tinkling laugh, twisting the keys in the door and stepping in to throw his keys and wallet rather haphazardly into the entryway bowl.

Huh. An entrance table. That was very domestic of him. Curiouser and curiouser.

“It’s cool, don’t stress about it pup. It’s pretty easy to spot when a wolf is offended; usually, violence is involved. So I think you’re fine.”

Stepping in behind Hoshi into his low-lit apartment, the first thing that hit you was how characteristic the design was. And clean. Cluttered, bright, but clean.

“Plus, I think Hannie would understand better than anyone else in this whole building what it is you’re going through. So, you’re good. Promise”

As soon as he closed the door and turned to face you - coat shuffled off and onto the nearest hook on the free-standing coat hanger - you stepped away from him to pad forward down the joining of the hallway to look around the open planned kitchen, before spinning around and edging back into his orbit.

Hoshi giggled, pinching your cheek. He kicked his shoes off before tucking them into a box near the door.

"You're such a nosey pup." He teased, but your rebuttal was swallowed when his hands reached for yours, fingers intertwining. He moved purposefully and intended to take things slow.

You needed a space to rest, alone. No longer riddled with anxiety that you had been left to fend for yourself. The thought pained him.

"Come on, I'll show you around." He spoke quietly, patrolling you first around the kitchen, then the lounge space.

⁵"Hoshi?" You mumbled, nose twitching so much you had to squeeze it to gain some composure.

"Hmm?" He responded.

"It - it smells like you. In here. Like, a lot? Is that normal?" Hoshi grinned, a playful look on his face.

"Well, err yeah, Y/N. I do live here." He teased, not minding and actually admiring the low growl and push that came from you. The push and pull.

He laughed; "No but really, it would probably be weird if it didn't stink of me. It’s my space and I’ve lived here alone for… years, so. My scent is probably all over. It’s normal." He shrugged humorously.

Hoshi’s nose wrinkled with joy at your pointed gaze.

"At least you don’t smell like a dog. That lift was awful.”

Hoshi's smile softened at the yawn joining the end of your sentence. You seemed to have calmed down here pretty quickly, weirdly enough. Or maybe, he thought, you were just that exhausted.

Hoshi giggled, following your yawn with his own.

"Come on, pup, I’ll take you to the spare room to get you settled in. I'm pretty tired too, you know."

He offered his strength, which you gladly accepted. Reaching to be lifted once more.

Heading back towards the door you hit the wall that split the space right to the spare room and left towards his.

Hoshi gently dropped your feet to the floor. Prepared to let you get settled into your new space alone. He thought you would have appreciated the privacy.

But you faltered. You looked to the door, then to him. Back to the door, then to him. Then again and again, until Hoshi had to make the unanimous decision to guide you there.

“Come on, we’ll both go.” His hand pushed at your lower back as he walked with you, egging you on and towards the door frame.

Entering the room felt... odd. It was too clean. Your nose twitched and ears ached to hear threats, a creaky floorboard making you jump at first. Hoshi laughed softly, watching you from the door as you stood stiff as a board in the middle of the room.

Hoshi moved to stand, but you panicked.

"Wait!" You yelped, hands flying out towards him before being retracted towards your body, fisted into tight balls.

"Wait. Please don’t leave me alone in here." Softer this time. Hoshi cocked his head.

"You don't want to get settled in here, flower? I thought you would've wanted a room of your own to burrow in, that's how Omega's usually work?" You thought about it for a second. He had given you a word to label this emotion.

"Oh - is that what this is? This feeling is the need to burrow?” Eventually, you joined the dots, linking your new ways to canine behaviours you had been taught in human-biased werewolf biology classes as a kid.

“So this room - I can use it like - like a den?" Oh, you looked so adorably clueless. Hoshi nodded with an enthusiastic grin.

"Yeah, a den. Usually, it’s somewhere safe, quiet and secluded. It’s odd to see more than two people burrowed in the same room at once. Unless it’s family or your siblings, I guess"

The image of Hoshi and his little brothers all snuggled into one room was incredibly adorable to you, but you remained unconvinced.

You tried to want it. You tried. You truly did. Considering the room in its entirety before turning, to meet his eyes. He smiled, understanding in his heart at your desperate emotions.

"How the hell is it meant to be a safe place, without you in it?" You whispered under your breath.

Hoshi smiled. He smiled until his cheeks reached his eyes. Stepping forward to place a gentle kiss on your cheek, the corner of your lips then eyes.

"You're so sweet, Y/N. I can stay here tonight if you want?" He offered patiently. "It's important you find a place to stay alone, though. You can come here when things get too much. But you don't always have to sleep alone." Hoshi permeated this by tucking hairs away from your face and neck.

You nodded. "Okay. Yeah, please, thank you."

"Come on then, let's get comfy. Think of it as a sleepover!” He offered, so youthful in spirit. “Are you more of a blanket or a pillow person?"

You grinned. "Blankets."

Hoshi gave you a wink before turning to reach into a cupboard.

He tugged out three very large and very fleecy looking bed throws, chucking them onto the bed and beginning to layer them up.

"It's almost like you expected this to happen." You teased, earning a scoff.

"Yeah, right. Expected to gain a beautiful pain in my backside...” You giggled, butterflies flying all over your belly.

“Are you hitting on me?” You accused.

“Maybe,” Hoshi stated with a huff of effort, standing to look at his den-making skills being put to the test. You came around him, a yawn immediately escaping your body at the image.

“What do you think? Not bad, huh? I had to make one for my cousin, once. Us Alpha boys are a bit different, we don’t really burrow as much as we do create a den.”

“It’s beautiful, Soonie” You mumbled, wiping your eyes with yet another rapid yawn escaping. “Bury me in this please.” You said in a cute voice, pointing towards the bed.

Hoshi laughed, head tipped back until you felt a kiss pressed to your temple. “You’re so silly.” He chuckled.

“Mmmm~” You hummed, looking away. You shuffled out of your tight skirt without much thought.

Unrestricted and with only Hoshi’s hoodie and underwear covering your body you practically clambered in, shoving blankets up and around you until you were comfortable, leaving only your head to poke out the top.

Hoshi watched you, dazzled with emotion.

“Oh my god, you’re so adorable, Y/N. Please let me take a pic - you need to see yourself right now.” You nodded, cheeks burning for the grin that stuck there.

Hoshi’s phone flicked out, snapping a photo of the covers piled on top of you with only your head poking out.

The rest of the night went in this order exactly;

Hoshi’s chest became a bookmark in your mental diary of favourite places you had ever slept.

You kept each other awake with laughter, long chats about who you both were, who made you the way you were today and why. For Hoshi, it was his family. For you, the people that surrounded you in childhood.

He showed you pictures of his family.

Told short stories about the harmless trouble he and his two closest siblings - Dokyeom and Seungkwan - had gotten into.

Explained the concept of hierarchy, what it meant, why it was important for them.

The only reason the two of you fell asleep was due to your overwhelming yawns, putting a deep ache into your cheeks and starting Hoshi’s yawns like an endless circle.

And in each other’s arms, in a cold room underneath fleece blankets, you had never felt so held before.

For the first time in almost three months, both your minds remained blank throughout your sleep.

Remaining healed and energised by each other, constantly.

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

Heavy steps pressed against the marble floor as you waited in the open planned room.

You had been waiting for hours.

And Hoshi was eager to just get home before he ripped someone a new hole in the centre of their chest.

Quietly, he entered his apartment. Closing the door behind him while his eyes maintained a steady gaze on your awaiting figure stood underneath the dim light at the end of the hall.

You knew he was coming, his message unread on your new phone laying on the sofa.

Hoshi’s car keys and phone hit the entryway bowl with a loud clatter.

He must have driven himself today, you realised. He also didn’t seem particularly pleased. Not his usual, chirpy, happy self.

His eyes had an edge to them tonight. Almost as if he was cautious of your body. Watching your every move as if you were a potential threat. A cold stranger, stood waiting for him in the hall.

He had avoided direct skinship since the first day you had arrived into his space and frankly, you were pulling your hair out at the sexual tension escalating into nothing and settling into clouds of scent within this glass-house of an apartment.

It smelt like a perfume factory.

Even Vernon, his floor partner and brother across the hall, had commented how your scent clung to Hoshi's clothes like a light cologne. It made the young males around him very distracted; moreover, confused as to why Hoshi smelt like a female deep in heat. Following the smell only to come face to face with an agitated Alpha, not a female standing in front of them.

As Hoshi shrugged off his blazer you immediately felt his mood hit the space. The muscles beneath his fitted black shirt moved in tense ways and his blazer was thrown onto the hanger with lesser care than the price tag it probably carried.

He seemed… agitated.

Well, you were too.

-----------

Jeonghan had sent out a call as the two of you had started making breakfast.

It had been two days of getting to know each other. Playing games, ordering food, watching films and talking about life. Peaceful. Just what the two of you had needed.

That particular morning was full of skimming touches that never settled and the smell of fresh toast made you feel like you were floating.

Hoshi had received a text as he placed a coffee on your side of the table, pressing an innocent hand to your scalp.

You had smiled up at him, missing his presence as he stepped away to take the phone call.

Having had an insane amount of deep, restful sleep in almost two weeks, it was fair to say your head was pretty bleary. This meant that the heavenly taste of freshly made hot food hitting your tongue was way more important to your mind than listening to Hoshi’s private phone calls.

At the rate you were going, he was bound to tell you if something important had happened, anyways. Which he did.

Coming back into the room he seemed rushed and pressed to find something. Taking a guess you pointed towards his seat, where his ring sat. He had been explaining it to you as he had made food for you what the ring represented, and how much it meant to him. It was sweet.

“Shit, thanks Y/N.” Hoshi thanked you with a sigh of relief.

“Is s’m’thing h’pp’ning?” You managed with a mouth full of food. He laughed at you, struck by the health flushing your cheeks. It amazed him how quickly you were recovering.

“Yeah, I’ve gotta run. I’m not sure how long I’ll be... Jeonghan has called an emergency meeting with some business partners. There’s been a breach in one of the accounts and we need to figure out who’s leaked the funds into the outer city packs. It could get pretty heated. I’m sorry, I hoped this wouldn’t happen again so soon, but he needs me there Y/N.”

Hoshi’s voice was pleading, eyes worried as you swallowed your food with a heavy heart.

“Oh.” You mumbled. Looking around the open plan kitchen, frightened at being left in such a lonely open space. Your sanctity had been ripped from under your feet. A sharp whine distracted you, looking up at Hoshi as he rounded the table.

“Y/N, please. Promise me you won’t try and leave, or do something stupid while I’m gone? There’s plenty of food in the cupboards. I’ll be as quick as I can, Jeonghan knows you’re still here, but I gotta go. Like, now.”

Pressed to react, you blurted out a rushed answer.

“Yeah, no worries! Of course, go! Please, stay safe... I’ll wait for you here?”

Hoshi nodded, a little relieved.

“Thanks, flower, you’re the best!”

And with that he hurried to get ready, the midnight shower taken to try and wash you out of his brain last night serving to have him clean and prepped. Ready to wear his cleanest black suit, with a fitted blazer on top.

He looked amazing. And as you padded to the door he gave one last pause, watching the way you caved in on yourself. It laid heavy in his heart. So heavy that between his option to stay and lengthen the pain or leave now and shoulder off the emotions for the day, he chose the latter.

It was selfish. And he knew it. Feeling the effect of his aching heart as soon as his apartment door clicked shut.

The silence in the hallway was all-consuming and pointed his guilt right back at him.

But he had to go.

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

Alone, and bored, you had paced in every which direction.

You had tried to relieve the anxiety in your body by any means available to you.

Food, films. A random murder-doc series on Netflix. Books, sexual acts, a shower.

Hell, you even tried a shot of Hoshi’s very expensive-looking cabinet whiskey. Fuck him and his cold shoulder; he had plenty of alcohol to spare, anyway.

Truth be told, you were mature enough to see why he didn’t approach you on the way out.

But it didn’t make you feel any better.

Your ego had been pierced and your sadness stewed over a steady eight hours into a cocktail of fed-up-ness, sexual tension from your heat, and anger, pure anger from his inability to make a move.

You had been dancing around each other like leaves in the wind. Innocent affection edging into something more until - he stopped, moved away, and blamed it on his inability to make a decision.

Well, you had your own brain, and you were willing and ready to use it.

----------

What Hoshi hadn’t expected to have to immediately confront was you, standing defiantly in the hallway as soon as he entered the apartment.

He had forgotten his rude exit the whole day

He had pushed it to the back of his mind to stay purely focused on business - but your face was full of fury. So strong in presence compared to the other times you had interacted that it was going straight to Hoshi’s head.

He noted the silence of the apartment.

No TV, like the nights before. No shy batting eyes or thumping nervous blood rushing beneath your skin. He could taste the airflow from open windows that had washed the apartment in a neutral scent of crisp clean air.

Above all, he could tell from the sixth sense that your body was about to burst from the seams with emotion.

He wasn't sure he'd be able to hold his composure if you pushed him tonight.

As Hoshi stepped to begin his stride to walk past you and down to the open living space; you cornered his step, mirroring his gate but off to the side. Your behaviour caught his attention and his surprise flattened into annoyance relatively quickly.

As he stepped forward, so did you. Your face remained stoic but Hoshi wasn’t convinced.

The two of you circled each other in that hallway. Like two wolves, wrestling for dominance.

Whether your body acted upon instinct or it was a premeditated act, Hoshi simply couldn't ignore your confrontational body language. A warning of a snarl rippled up his torso and against his tongue, pressing you to back off. Teeth not yet bared.

“Watch it Y/N.” Hoshi warned, not accustomed to that look on your face. Or how you kept walking; pushing him into smaller and smaller circles in the entryway of the dimly lit apartment.

You continued, winding smaller and smaller until you stood just beyond arm's reach.

This close, you could now see that Hoshi’s black suit was creased in multiple places from head to toe. Having had some altercation within the day. He finally kicked off his shoes without breaking eye contact, electricity sparking in the air.

His blonde hair was beginning to curl from agitation and it stuck to his forehead. His shirt collar lay unbuttoned and you could see the wolf’s pulse beating deeply with adrenaline from here. The shirt tie tugged loose on his elegant neck, was undoubtedly done to breathe easier when entering the building.

His eyes reflected a brighter blood-red than the usual maroon film over his natural dark brown ones, and his irises were pinched impossibly tight. Along with the slim fangs that snuck from his lips; his body was slowly beginning to tell you all that you needed to know.

He was pushing his inner lust down and it was starting to eat away at his body like an infection. And he looked terrifying in only the best way possible.

You took one steady stride, then paused.

Hoshi, quick on his feet, mirrored you.

He breathed a furious pace through his nostrils. Eyes darting to your exposed shoulders, body covered in a thin satin set of pyjamas and a satin robe skirting against the floor, then back to your face. Down, then back again. You couldn’t help but smile at his obvious trail of thoughts.

With such a threatening aura he could eat you alive, but he would never, and you loved it.

“What game do you think you’re playing, Y/N? I told you, we can’t do anything-”

“No, Hosh,” You interrupted Hoshi’s voice, speaking through gritted canines. You noted how stiff his hands were at his side.

“You won’t do anything. And I can’t seem to figure out why. Your eyes already tell me what you want, now I just need your mouth to do the same."

Hoshi squinted at you with an aggravated scoff.

“You know why, Y/N. Stop playing cute. Have you maybe considered that this decision isn’t just about you? There are more important things going on in my life than mating with you, for fucks sake. I told you, we’ll have to wait. I’m not in a great mood, step down Y/N. Before you make me do something we both regret.”

Wow, an empty threat? Oh, you could see right through him and you could see his trembling reaching into his eyes and fingertips like a shaking dog. What a shame, you had never been one to step down from most anything.

Despite the jab in his tone, you couldn’t hide the smirk bubbling across your cheeks, blooming from your chest.

"There are more important things on your mind?"

Stepping forward into his bubble, you dimmed your smile to trace your fingertip against the dip in his collarbone, looking back up with a bitten lip.

Hoshi all but scowled down at you over his cheekbones, unamused and pissed.

“So is that why you texted me over thirty-five times today?”

“What?” Hoshi frowned.

Biting a smile down, you stepped closer. Not missing anywhere his eyes left for. You flattened your hand to his deeply beating chest. He was killing himself and you intended to push him until a final decision was made. Good, or bad.

“I said; you have more important things going on than me, so that must be why you couldn’t stop thinking about me all day? You’re avoiding me because I'm on your mind? Soonyoungie, that’s only going to make it worse. Your brothers have even told you that.”

Hoshi all but shoved your shoulders away from him.

But you knew this face. He was pissed by all intents and purposes; but also very hurt. You had caught him. A bullseye straight to the heart. You continued quickly before he managed to say something he may regret.

“Is that why your hands always hover at my hips - is it nerves? Are you that anxious to touch me? Or are you holding yourself back - wishing it was something more? You know that the time is right, but before you can help it - you're stalling from nerves all over again?"

Oh, if looks could kill. You pressed a hand to his chest against his attempt to step into your space.

That was not how this was going to go.

Hoshi stopped, but you could practically feel the air around you buzzing. The growl in his chest created a vibrato up into the bones of your wrist.

You lowered your hand, pleased to see that the male had at least chosen to wait.

“You’re too busy for me? There are other things on your mind?

“So that must be why you check on me constantly? Is that why you make my food or keep your door open at night, just in case? Whine, when I leave the room?

“Buy me new clothes, a new phone, pay for my shit, take me into your apartment because you couldn't stand to see me alone and in pain?

“What was it Hosh - were you unable to ignore your actions when faced with what you had left behind? Did the guilt eat away at you while you were gone?"

You let him process for a second. Hoshi’s neck ticked from anger, his hands twitching to do something, anything to stop you from talking down to him, but you beat him to it.

Hooking your index finger underneath the loosened black silk dress tie, you tugged his face down abruptly. He let you move him with the patience of a saint; lip curling as you challenged him up close. A growl curled over his tongue and ricocheted up his throat. But it had the opposite reaction than intended.

It made your head whizz and finally, finally the thrill of pushing his buttons was turning you on in a way you could only wish to describe.

“I can see right through your bullshit, mutt."

You were challenging him. In his home. His space. Your shared space in which his position was being directly challenged. This close, your breath fanned hot against each other’s skin and you had mere seconds to act before he moved to attack.

Oh how you had the nerve, he would never know.

“If you’re ever going to lie straight to my face, Kwon Soonyoung; make sure I don’t already know the truth first.”

That hit him hard. Hoshi’s irises pinched and his lip quivered. His hands reached to grip harshly at your hips, shoving them against him and very much keeping you there. Satin bunched up between his knuckles and his nose pressed to your cheek in so much tension you had to grip his scalp to keep him there.

Now was the time to strike.

"If you don't fuck me hard enough - like you’ve been absolutely dying to do - I'll be walking out of those doors tomorrow, straight into another Alpha's arms. To someone who’s prepared to act. Move, wolf, before I make you."

A tense silence that lasted milliseconds felt like minutes.

You’re not sure what happened first. But the band snapped and you were torn into each other’s emotions.

Your hand tugged Hoshi down by the collar to your face, only to meet lips, teeth and tongue. It was so desperate, so devouring, that your lungs burned upon impact.

Hoshi’s arms and body pushed you back until you hit the table, pinning your hip between the edge and his own. His hip pressed against you, erection pressing against the soft of your belly and riling you up further to stop any attempt of you dipping out of his hold.

The kiss was pure energy; frenzied and entirely devouring. Though it slowed, tongue caught between his teeth until your breath was sucked from your lungs, hands gripping hungrily against Hoshi’s scalp.

Finally, his lips detached, placing hot and heavy kisses on your jaw. Moving lower to leave hickeys and bruises and biting folds of skin on your neck and shoulders until his hand reached under the satin trouser waistband to squeeze your cheek in one of his palms. It fit so perfectly in his palm.

"You want another man's scent sticking to your pretty little pussy?" Hoshi growled into your skin. He squeezed harshly at your ass, stopping only when you yelped and tried to pull his hand away.

"You're such a filthy pup.” He spat, biting and palming and moving against your skin so passionately you felt you could scream.

“You should know better than to speak to an Alpha like that. In his home. In his face. You're lucky I'm patient, otherwise, your attitude could have ended you in so much shit you don't even know."

"Then do something about it, coward." You taunted, eyes shaking at the adrenaline of answering back.

"I'm going to fuck you into next week if you keep talking to me like such a heat-struck bitch." Tone tense, Hoshi snarled as you wiggled, thigh slipping between your own and pressing up against your crotch to pin your hip against the desk before you frustrated him any further.

Though initially you registered his comment as an insult; it was a statement that wound the core deep within your belly. Your heat had made you act differently, and in canine terms, you were classed as a bitch.

Thank fuck, he was finally starting to act on his instincts.

You whimpered at the fingers that wrapped around your throat, pressing against your airways until you gasped, moaning at the intake of air coupled with the hard-on rolling against your hip.

“God, you couldn’t even wait till I had come home, could you Y/N?

“I could smell you from the hallway, pup. I know what you've been doing, where you've been doing it. What would’ve happened If I left you here for two days again? Would you have let someone in, just to fuck you? God, I can’t believe you.”

With his hot mouth biting, sucking and nibbling at your neck and earlobe, your moans and pleasure distracted you enough for Hoshi to grab your wrists, pinning them behind you in one of his tight fists. Gasping softly, you pulled back.

"Soony-mmmf-"

"Shut up." He growled softly, turning your body in one fluid motion so that your face touched the wall.

But his actions grew juxtaposed from his words. Hoshi pressed a soft kiss to your cheek, allowing you to relax a little into the new position and not hurt yourself against the table.

Hoshi gripped your chin, only to slip his fingers into your mouth. You accepted them, whining at the thigh tensing and rolling against your core. Already, your legs twitched to draw him closer. One solid shiver shooting down your spine.

"I can't believe your nerve. Ignoring my messages all day just to act like such a brat when I get home. I can already smell you all over that silk. Did you need my attention, pup? Bet you couldn't get off at all, could you? Poor thing."

To your surprise, the hand fell from your mouth, presumably wiped on his legs before the same hand moved your robe to the side, connecting quickly and firmly with your right ass cheek. A cry slipped past your mouth when his hand stayed there, kneading so close to where you needed him, but not nearly close enough.

“Please, please Hosh, I’m -” Hoshi pinched your chin, bringing your neck up so you heard him better.

"You've got so much to learn, my messy little girl. So here's your first lesson. Most wolves bare their teeth and show their eyes as a threat, as a display of aggression, or to challenge someone’s leadership. It is a reminder that these clenched jaws can and will open your yielding throat.

"I want you to think of this next time you try to threaten me, instead of using your words. Do not corner me in our shared space, ever again. Understood?"

His palm squeezed your cheeks as his hips pressed against you. It was a painful taste of relief and you were begging for more.

You nodded softly. What he was asking for wasn’t unreasonable.

“Hosh-” You released a low whine, riling him up further.

“I don't want to hear another pretty word coming out of your pretty little mouth until you're asking permission to cum.” Hoshi snarled against the shell of your ear as he pulled your spine up by holding your neck and chin up; pressing your rib cage against his chest. His cock fit snug between your ass and at that angle, it pressured your core too.

It felt like all the blood rushed to your head when for the first time, Hoshi’s fangs felt solid and truly threatening against the thin skin on your neck. Like an actual weapon and not just a pricking tooth.

It terrified you; that he could rip your throat out if he so pleased. But you knew you were safe. Your filthy brain registering the emotion as pure exhilaration.

He responded as your pulse rushed; thrusting up against you so agonisingly slowly. You whined and moaned embarrassingly wantonly. Hoshi himself sighing at his quickly growing cock pressed against your clothed core.

But, he wasn’t being mean.

Despite his anger, he was still trying to be delicate with you.

He paused to move some hair from your neck, nose running up against your hairline and hot, slow kisses pressed against your spine. You moaned softly, another shiver shooting down your body as your hips began twitching for more. So overwhelmed, you could barely think.

You held onto his arm that rested softly on your throat, keeping your back pressed against him.

“Soonyoung, please.” You moaned airily, choked in tone.

He hummed. Spanking you once again before pulling back and gently loosening the hold on your wrists. You didn't care to move.

“Ouch.” You growled with a pout. He chuckled into your cheek with you before moving to take your robe off fully.

Flung to the floor, he hooked his fingers into the waistband of the silk trousers.

Hoshi’s body suddenly dipped behind you, trousers pulled down and over your hips in one solid motion down.

He anticipated your movement to face him, grasping your hands to your tailbone and gripping your hips. To show tail to another wolf was to show vulnerability. And in this scenario, trust was key to overcoming this instinct.

“Easy, flower.” He mumbled on your thighs, nuzzling there before speaking. Nipping at the skin lightly.

“I’m right behind you. Don’t move unless I tell you to. Shout chocolate, if you want to stop at any point, Y/N.” He waited until you had settled; having guessed that with him out of sight, you would panic.

He had guessed right, memorising your body and its nuances like an old lover. You nodded, touched by the obvious gesture of consent.

With your body staying still above him and trousers flung to the side he hummed, pleased.

"You look like such a feast from here, Y/N. I would love to eat you out until you cry, baby. Would you like that, my messy little pup? To get absolutely spoiled? Eat you up; inch, by inch."

Hoshi moved his hands up to squeeze at your sore ass and upper thighs, kneading them while spreading your legs further apart. The position made your heart flutter in your belly.

He saw how wet you were already; the dark stain on your satin clothes must have caught his nose way before you had even realised yourself what was happening.

When you twitched, your body spoke to him. It said Yes. Yes, please. Ravish me. Just do anything.

"Maybe not tonight though, pup. I'm desperate to feel you."

Sudden wetness pressed firmly to your core from behind and you were momentarily dazzled; a broken sob released from your lungs before you realised Hoshi’s mouth was covering you over your underwear.

Plain black lace.

Admittedly, they cost maybe less than a cafeteria’s meal deal, but Hoshi really couldn’t care less. You were priceless.

Hoshi’s tongue and lips pressed up against your covered core until your hips moved in tandem, arms flying out against the table to stop yourself from slipping.

"Fuck, you even taste floral. You're so beautiful Y/N. Can't believe I managed to keep my hands off you for so long."

He breathed a low rumble that shot up into your core before pulling back. His thumb joined his mouth in the onslaught. And at this angle, Hoshi was circling both over your hole and pushing amazing pressure onto your clit all at the same time.

“S-soonyoungie!” You cried out in a blur of moans. “T-too much! I’ll cum - hnngh -”

Hoshi slowed down and released his pressure, kissing your thigh in apology. He watched as you struggled to stay up on the table. Body quaking with desire. So, he made the executive decision to hold you against his body and walk you both down the hall into his bedroom.

You grunted a little at his strange ways. The feeling of suddenly being picked up sending you for a spin. You laughed in shock, despite the mood. The position was a little awkward, but he was strong so carried you with ease.

“Hosh- Soonyoung! I can walk, you know? I’m not a little dolly! Put-put me down!”

Silence.

That was what surprised you the most.

Hoshi’s emotions were only portrayed by the rumble against your back, the door shut firmly behind him with his heel as he half guided, half pushed you to the bed. You moved to sit up once you had hit the sheets belly down. But instead, he gripped your ankles; dragging you back down onto your belly.

Smack. You presumed that one was for talking back.

You yelped, growling in frustration when Hoshi used his knees to pin your thighs down to limit your movements, pressing against his crotch for a moment just to be able to think.

“Give me a reason not to absolutely break you, Y/N?” Hoshi snarled, upper body moving behind you. But, again. Despite his tone; Hoshi’s movements were smooth, and his hands were caring.

"Because you're a big softy..." You whimpered softly into the sheets.

Well, you weren't lying.

With a few moments free of Hoshi’s touch - Hoshi removing his blazer, buttoned shirt and belt from his trousers - your head got incredibly busy.

Your mind whirred with so many thoughts.

Your nose had finally registered the intense and wholly enveloping scent of Soonyoung in this room. You were in every sense surrounded; the feeling of becoming cared for settling into your gut.

Who were you to bite at the hand that fed you?

Hoshi had given you little reason to.

Sure, he had needed a push.

But from here on out, it was an equal game. And if you had learned anything about Hoshi by now, you knew he never moved with the intent to harm.

So despite his threatening aura, you knew better than to resist.

Unlike the first day you had met, you breathed him in. One whole lung of scent, pinching your irises and sending blood straight to your pulsing core. Finally, you had accepted him. And it sparked like party-poppers inside of your veins.

Sensing that your body had begun to ease, then react to what was happening, Hoshi softened a little. He had been selfish. Letting you fend for yourself but under his scrutiny. He wanted to help you. Guide you. It was time to put an end to this dangerous game of push and pull.

You hadn't noticed, but as Hoshi stripped behind you; you had begun to react to his body, scent and aura. Small whines and moans filled the air as you got off almost from the smell alone.

He moved back to release the pressure on your thighs, nuzzling at your shoulder blades before kissing at the nape of your neck. He was being sweet with you.

“Do you smell that, pup?" Hoshi growled softly against your skin blades. The feeling of stiff fabric, much like his silk shirt tie, was being firmly - if not very considerably - tied around your wrists.

You nodded softly, whining at the loss of contact as he moved back to tie the final knot. You ground down onto the knee between your legs and immediately praised his perceptiveness.

He kissed down your body, hands caressing your curves until he met your calves. Missing the one place you truly needed him and rumbling a slow growl against your skin.

Hoshi was, by now, in a different headspace. His thoughts were sinful but clear. Not jumbled like usual. He could be a little unpredictable, but he was the one deciding on what happened next. Leading the direction, with your permission.

"Can you tell why I didn’t let you in here those other nights, pup? Why I warned you that it might be dangerous for you to stay in here for too long?”

You took a second to respond, but you followed a low whine with a firm nod. You knew exactly why.

Everything that was happening pointed like a big red arrow down to your sopping wet core, soft moans falling from your lips as you grew more and more restless.

You could taste him in the air. Loved the way his scent settled against your skin.

Hoshi was also greatly affected by you.

Like the first day you had met, he was enamoured by you. Not only had you pushed him to a point, but you also held enough courage to push him over and make him face his actions. Unlike the first meeting, however; he now chose to feed his desires.

He had secretly loved the way members and business attendees had been attracted to him all day. Their sharp senses found notes of a light aroma all over him that lasted the entire day. Eyes watching him as he seemed ready to pounce at a moment's notice.

The feeling of unconditional, possessive, yet giving love, had started to bloom inside of him. Something carnal. It made not only his cock throb but his heart beat a little faster too.

Hoshi kissed, bit and kitten licked at your inner knees and thighs before working himself back up towards your core.

Before you could react, Hoshi had reached up to tear your underwear straight across the crotch, then once across the body. The fabric was putty in his hands and you sighed, no want nor will to complain as Hoshi’s mouth made contact with your awaiting pussy.

He took it slow, feeding his own flame. Working up a crescendo between his tongue, nose, fingers and teeth. Dipping in and tasting you with want, passion.

Your hips moved on their own and he didn’t find the want to correct you; palms too busy holding your hips forward and cheeks apart. Occasionally, he pulled back to give you air. Only to kiss or bite at your thigh, ass, or suckle far too lightly on your clit.

He was such a shit, honestly.

When you reached a point, however, Hoshi tipped you over with great care.

And you realised suddenly like a drop of clarity what you had been missing from all those unsatisfying self-nut sessions.

Him.

Hoshi felt the same way as you. A quickie in the shower was no longer that; finishing too early or not at all was driving the two of you insane.

He continued holding you in euphoria until he heard your whines from over sensitivity seep over your moans. Pulling up to swipe at his lips and chin, he pulled back to kneel above you on the bed.

He peered down as you rolled onto your back. You were breathing deeply and your lips had been bitten red. You moaned softly as he smoothed his hand over your belly. Reaching for him as his trousers were tugged over his strong thighs; lifted then thrown to the ground.

Hoshi laughed softly at your face.

"Already so fucked out, pup? What happened to all that barking earlier, hmm? All bark and no bite is it?"

You whined nasally, huffing up at him, about to talk back.

“Ah - ah.” He raised his brows with a taunting smile.

You chose the wise option; not to bark directly at his stupidly handsome face and receive another hard spank. Hoshi followed your face inch by inch back as your eyes kept steady defiance until your scalp hit the bed.

"Good thing one of us knows how to bite or we'd both be bottoms." He whispered, giggling despite the pure sexual tension in the air. You growled softly, but he merely smiled.

He was reaching his limits in terms of patience and honestly, you didn't mind.

His solid body and chest pressed against your own. You couldn’t breathe, eyes and face not sure where to go as you took in his toned but slender torso, arms, shoulders.

“Y-you’re hot…” You mumbled as he kissed hotly against your jaw. Hoshi laughed softly, shaking his head. Dragging open kisses to the swell of your breast.

He peered up at your blissed-out face as he groped at one breast, finger and thumb twisting and releasing in tandem while his mouth made work on your other side.

“You’re cute. But still not in my good books.” He mumbled into your skin.

Noticing that you had barely noticed his words, Hoshi gnawed at the side of your breast with sharp teeth, reaching to tug a knee up and spank the direct underside of your thigh.

“Soonyoung! Play nice!” You cried out, gripping to the bed under you as Hoshi raised to kneel. He pinched your chin, forcing you to make direct eye contact.

"Lesson two. Pay attention when an Alpha is talking to you, pup. It's basic manners."

Once more he was an entire oxymoron. His words bit and yet didn't stick; voice silky as he turned you back onto your belly.

“Bite me.” You bit back. Your light growl was met with the unamused kissing of his teeth and another swipe across your backside.

He pumped himself first before tugging his underwear off and to the floor.

“I might.” He growled into your cheek, reaching under your belly with his arm to lift you to your knees. It was such a power move that honestly you were a little dazed.

"Can I play with you like this, pup?" Hoshi asked gently.

He held you as you wobbled, all the blood rushing to your head causing your head to become slightly fuzzier.

"Y-yeah… Hold on, my legs…"

Hoshi giggled. "Easy pup." Holding you until you adjusted, stronger in stance.

"You ready?" He whispered.

You nodded eventually, stable on your knees. "Mmhmm."

"So fucking ready." You moaned dumbly, forehead back against the sheets while his fingers ran up and down your slit, his free hand pumping his cock. This would have to do for tonight.

“Do you think you're good to go, or do you need stretching out?"

Three days of being highly strung meant fun nights were ahead; tonight, he wanted this coupling to happen as hard, fast and passionately as physically possible.

"Don't know…" Hoshi heard you mumble, sighing deeply as his thumb circled your clit.

Hoshi slid his middle finger straight into your core, completely accepted and sucked into your tightness. He hummed in appreciation, licking his lips as another came to play, hooking down towards your belly.

He moved at a slow but harsh pace, fingers hitting deep and slow until your hips twitched for more, irrelevant of the need for stretching out.

"Soonie - please, I'm ready…" You whimpered, leg twitching to not grind back onto his palm. Hoshi reached down to plant a gentle kiss onto your shoulder blades. He had heard your request.

He tapped his dick against you a few times - mostly for his own sadism, but also to see you try to behave and stay patient - before easing in with a gradual movement. Thrusting in and out with the utmost care until your pain burned into pleasure.

His breath hit heavily against your skin, standing your senses to attention. You were enveloped; tight but ready, willing and able to accommodate his girth. But God, it was such a beautiful stretch.

"O-h my fuck, Kwon Soonyoung." You managed to cry out as Hoshi stretched you out, one arm next to your shoulder and the other intent on arching your back as much as possible.

The way he stretched you out - well, it was burned into your memory. He was not the thickest and not the longest; hitting just nice on the scale.

The two of you moaned and moved and worked on easing together until he bottomed out. Hoshi's hand found your hair, reaching to tug your head up.

"Hoshi!" You yelped at the slight burn.

What you didn't expect was the quick exit and thrust into your gut that made you cry out immediately. He was testing the waters.

"Fuck, please move!" You moaned, hips starting to grasp any movement possible. Before it struck you; he wasn't moving because he was waiting for you to give in. To release the tenseness in your muscles.

So you released it all with one big gasp of a breath, Hoshi's hand slowly releasing its grip on your hair and scalp as he rested on his knees and hands. Your toes curled at the pressure pressing up against your bladder.

Placing angel-like kisses on your back, shoulder, neck, Hoshi pecked his way up to your shoulder.

"Stop fighting my presence, Y/N. You're safe. Nothing will happen here that you don't want to happen. I care about you and want to make you feel good. I can't do that if you don't let me in."

Your heart thumped heavily in your stomach and you cried out.

Fuck. He was right. And being finally able to accept him truly felt like a miracle.

With your defences successfully lowered, Hoshi began to pull out. Only to thrust solidly back into you in one slick motion. A pattern of one tap, two soon became a rapid three tap, five.

His adrenaline took over, pounding you and your pussy so completely down into the sheets you could do nothing more than whine, moan and cry out his name.

"H-Hoshi I’m - so close -" You managed to garble, trapped as his torso lowered to your back. At this angle, it hurt good and pleasure swelled in your gut faster than expected.

"Hoshi please, I need - please, please -" Hoshi moaned softly, reaching to slip a hand under your belly to fumble at your clit. However clumsy, the release of tension was appreciated.

Hoshi rumbled a growl against your back so deep you felt it against your tailbone.

‘You can cum, beautiful. Hurry.’

Wherever his voice was, it echoed like an instruction clear and sanctified inside your brain.

You came once around his cock, pussy clenching down as his nimble fingers danced against your bud. Unlike the hips that caused that deep body sweeping ache in the pit of your womb.

Hoshi started to reach his crescendo shortly after; his body language and stuttering pace served as a fair warning that he was going to ride you through this together, no matter how much noise you both made.

"Y/N - I won't - I won't last much longer. If you're sure you want me to mark you. If you’re sure you want this. To be linked for life. Now's the time to yell. Quick, Y/N. I want to hear you say it."

Hoshi's panted and parted words against your cheek were hot and dove straight through the lust into your brain.

Nodding with conviction your garbled one last plea, your Omega features finally found a home in your brain. For you weren't just taking this, you were actively involved. An equal, with a kind teacher.

"Please, please Soonyoung, I want this - I'm so ready, please, fuck -"

You sobbed, pleasure turning into mind-numbing sensitivity as his thrusts slowed, becoming shallower and shallower until his teeth buried into your shoulder. The poison in his gums sent sparkling cracks like live electricity into your body through your bloodstream until it hit your brain.

Your body tipped over the edge one last final time and milked him for all that he was worth.

Soonyoung sang your praises as he licked and kissed the sore wound at your skin, nuzzling your neck. The scenting served to ground you from the poison mixing into your blood, your teary cheeks met with kisses and loving fingertips.

"Such a pretty pup, Y/N. You did so well. Shh, you're alright."

You almost cursed at the feeling of Hoshi pulling out, missing his cock already. But you were spent. Slowly coming back into the space with tears, sobs and panting breaths.

“F-fuck, Soonyoung - what’s happening? It hurts, f-fuck, please -”

"Hey, hey, hey, calm down. Don't fight it. Breathe, pup. You'll start to feel a little differently in a minute. Focus on my voice."

You hadn't passed out due to your orgasm, thankfully.

But your new issue was that the reaction your body had to Hoshi's bite was so strong you had to be held together. Body trembling in a foreign kind of chemical pain that mixed with the quivering aftermath of an amazing orgasm.

Oddly, the tingling spreading in your every cell was sadistically pleasant after a few seconds.

You understood now, why wolf bites were associated with sinful lust. If you weren’t so spent, your body would have been raring to go all over again.

Hoshi lowered your torso to the bed, loving hands undoing the tie around your wrists and shushing your noises.

"I'm all yours now, Y/N. We’re bonded. Try to relax - I’ve been told it tends to hurt more if you fight it. Breathe. You’re so brave pup, let it settle."

He placed kisses on your skin, tentative to listen to your noises. You sniffled, sobbed and hiccuped. So overwhelmed by emotions and feelings that the post-nut clarity made you cry with such relief it was hard to calm back down.

Hoshi collapsed on his side with a grunt. Gently guiding you to your side as he lay beside you. He reached for your skin with care, pulling your body towards him.

"Give it a second, keep remembering to breathe. You got this."

"It hurts Soonie -" You gulped against Hoshi's chest, finally feeling the chemical beating in your chest.

It felt as if popping candy had been poured into your bloodstream. Causing you to curl into him as the poison hit your heart.

A few solid and laboured pumps of your heart later - coupled with a few loud cries and panted breaths - your mind caught up and you began to calm down.

"Easy, pup. I'm here. You're okay. Focus on me."

Feeling the aftermath of your activities, Hoshi breathed heavily over the top of your head. His chest and rib cage moved against you, your trembling hands pressing against his skin.

In the afterglow, Soonyoung kissed your forehead. Granting you space to think before talking. You wiped your eyes, slipping your arms under his and pulling closer against him until you were truly enveloped.

You both felt whole, for once. It was the strangest thing.

'Are you good, Y/N?' Hoshi's voice prompted softly.

Before you realised it was received mentally you just nodded. But then it struck you. You frowned as you moved to look up at him, sparks still whooshing underneath your skin.

"What the fuck, Soonyoung? Were you just in my head?" You mumbled with pinched brows.

He all but burst into laughter, giggling at your reaction. He nodded.

"Yeah, we can do that now. You might also be able to talk to others like that, now. I'm not really sure how it works with Omegas though. Guess it depends on the scenario. Think of it like whispering, I guess. I'll teach you how, sometime?"

With such a tired smile like that, you couldn't resist a nod and quick kiss to his chest.

"Please, and thank you."

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

"Hey, Hosh?" You asked after a while, pulling back to see his gorgeous naturally dark brown eyes ready to see your face. He hummed in response, waiting for your question.

"Why is everything so loud, suddenly? Have I like, levelled up after mad sex, or have I gone legitimately mad?"

Hoshi giggled at you, pinching your cheeks. Shaking his head.

"Quit playing!" You quipped at him, laughing against his skin. "Seriously, like - even the air sounds different? Or is that - oh!” You gasped.

“That’s not the air. That’s your - pulse. Okay, great. I can hear your blood moving. Fantastic. This isn’t going to become distracting or anything. What if I start to hear everyone’s pulse? Oh my god, I might have to wear earplugs… What if I can never not wear them out in public again? Oh God, I’m not sure I want that Hosh?"

Hoshi shook his head gently, moving hairs away from your eyes with a shy giggle before explaining.

"Stop panicking, Y/N. You're not mad. It's just - your hearing might be a little more sensitive than before. Like this -" He traced the outside of your ear, giggling as you flinched away from the sudden intense sound of a finger sounding next to your brain.

"Or this." He whispered, flicking his fingers together at an arm’s length away from your head.

"Huh." You scoffed, amused at the clarity. Such a minute sound but when you strained to listen to it, it was almost as if it was right next to your ear.

“You'll learn to tune it out, but honestly it does come in handy sometimes. It might take a while to get used to. No biggy. We'll figure it out together."

You peered up at him, intrigued as he grew timid.

"Cause like, we are kind of together now if you think about it? I mean, aren't we? Like, I don't want to pressure you into making a decision or anything, but umm, it would be a little tricky if you wanted to pull out now, so..."

Wow, you had never seen such a shy emotion run through a man before. With a reassuring grin, you hugged him closer with the small strength you had left. He held you back, hand splaying over your spine.

"Of course we're a thing now, idiot. That was the best sex of my life Soonyoung. My ears have legitimately expanded. I'd say I love you if I wasn't so mad at you for biting me in such a sensitive spot, clown boy."

At your accusatory tone, Hoshi scratched his neck apologetically. You pulled back to watch his beautiful smile.

"Ahh, sorry about that. You look hot as shit though. Or at least, you will when it heals. Sorry, not sorry?"

You scoffed at his direct hit on you for maybe the first time but settled into a silent agreement.

This was good. The two of you had bonded and your hearts were tied together with tight strings of fate. All tangled up and delightfully warm.

“How does any of this extra sense help you guys, though? Isn’t it super overwhelming?”

Hoshi stalled at your innocence, scratching his head and rolling onto his back.

“Err, well, that’s hard to explain, to be honest?” He let out a large exhale, hand drifting to your shoulders as you shuffled onto your belly. Leaning against his side, your hip sat on top of his. You placed your chin on your hands on top of his chiselled chest, enjoying this new skinship.

He was hot as fuck.

“You can generally read a room a lot faster and clearer when things like smells and small actions are involved? I’m not really sure how to explain it.

“It's not something you like, have to verbally explain - usually you just kinda get it? Sorry, I know that's not very helpful."

You nodded, open to understanding.

You presumed it was a lot like asking a multilingual person what language they thought in. It depends on the situation and mood.

"Wolves tend to act a little differently depending on what time of the month it is, or their place of hierarchy in a pack.

“Maybe I'll ask Jeonghan to introduce you to a Beta soon? You might be able to feel it a bit better then. Meeting the pack won't be for a while yet though, flower. That might be a lil' much.”

You hummed in thought before nodding.

“Sure, that would be nice. I think I kind of get it, though. When I can feel you near I feel a lot more… stable in myself? Like a missing piece has returned?

“You smell nice, I guess. If I know you're in the room then I can do things more carelessly, I guess. I'm not sure I would be able to put a finger on why I feel this way though. Don't let it go to your head."

Hoshi smiled, running a thumb between and over your eyebrows.

He had never mentioned it, but you had grounded him to this earth. The incessant threat and anxiety surrounding his disease had gone; the symptoms eased into nothing but an old memory when he was around you.

"You make me feel safer too, Y/N. Please don't forget that."

Oof. That shit hurt.

"I get scared too, sometimes. Especially when I know there's a possibility someone I love is in agonising pain, and I can't be there to support them. Like at the hotel - I was stressed for literal hours, Y/N."

Your smile became playful, tongue poking your cheek. Hoshi quirked his brow.

"What are you smiling about?"

"Nothing, just you saying that you love me. It's cute."

Hoshi scoffed before laughing from his belly, eyes crescented against plump cheeks. He held you closer, chin atop the crown of your head. You smiled against your hand.

"Stop it." He giggled as his bashful side started showing.

"Say it again." You hummed, almost purring. Hoshi groaned playfully.

"Fine, okay. I guess I like, love you. Like, a lot?"

And he did. Truly. Over the past few days, the consistent ache in his bones that he had known his whole life due to Moon Fever, had diminished almost entirely. He did not doubt that if the two of you truly did stick together, it would dissipate into a memory.

You pulled your body up on your elbows with a mockingly angry face.

"Kwon Soonyoung! That was barely half an effort! Give it some conviction wolf, Christ!"

Hoshi erupted into nervous laughter, hiding his face as he grew beet red.

"Ahh shit. How else am I meant to say it? I think you've got me good here. I'm fucked up, long term."

You snorted. "That makes two of us."

"I love you, Y/N. Seriously, whatever happens, let's be there for each other."

"That was cringe as hell and definitely quoted from somewhere you humongous nerd," You poked, ignoring his offended noises above.

"But, obviously, I love you too, Soonyoung.

“And of course I'll always wait for you. Always."

Spider-Boy Is A Dog In This One - (1 / 3)

Spider-Boy Is A Dog In This One - (2 / 3)

Spider-Boy Is A Dog In This One - (3 / 3) - FINALE

well would you look at that: updated 03/OCTOBER/2021