#and they’re always going to the temple and listening to Good songs

[myexmosafespace]

I don’t mind if people are religious. They can believe what they want. But WHY must they make it their entire personality?!

[i520u]

⌕ dates with riize 𓂃 ࣪˖ ִֶָ𐀔

hello briize hello riize lovers i’m one of you please keep the requests coming

PAIRING riize x gn!reader (not proofread!)

TAGS sfw, fluff, headcanons

OSAKI SHOTARO ༄

literally all sunshines and rainbows throughout the rest of the relationship

if you get into an argument with him that has GOT to be your fault idk what to tell you

i feel like he’s the type of boyfriend to teach you how to drive

and when you hit the curb he’s like “that’s okay! we can try again when i fix the car!”

but at the same time he’s gripping that roof handle in the car for dear life but he’s just too sweet to tell you that your driving’s horrible

he never lets you drive again btw

HE’D FILM SOOO MANY DANCE TIKTOKS WITH YOU!!!

also i feel like instead of a gf effect, it’s the opposite with him because he gives you the bf effect

your entire fashion style is gonna change for sure like have you seen this man? that is a man of AESTHETICS

would be so enthusiastic with teaching you all the tiktok dance steps

and none of these tiktoks are cringe they’re actually those cool ones

the type to hug you at the end of the tiktok video or kiss the temple of your head idk…

i imagine his ideal dates might be cafe hopping/cafe hunting all across tokyo or just shopping around shibuya

takes you to one of those claw machines while you’re shopping and he’ll try winning you a random plushie of an anime that neither of you watch

so now you have a random plush of like… some dude from haikyuu

would pay for your drinks btw (coffee, milk tea, matcha)

SONG EUNSEOK ༄

OK LISTEN.

cake decorating

he just looks like he’d enjoy doing that like did you see how proud he was wearing that hello kitty hairclip

please this man is gonna hear you suggest it and he’s like “LET’S GO!!”

craziest part is that he’s gonna eat you up at decorating it too

you’ll see him make a cute flower on his cake using the cream and you’re like “how did you do that :( how dare you be better than me :(”

and he’s gonna giggle nervously and his face is gonna turn a light shade of red while he helped you out

“i’m not better than you, we’re equally good.” and then he compares your cakes together and the only reason why yours looks ok is because he helped you for the most part

if you genuinely feel a little gloomy that yours looked bad he would purposely mess up on the rest of his cake

because eunseok will never be caught dead leaving his beloved partner unhappy, no matter how small the issue might be

i feel like he would notice those little shift of emotions that you have that even you barely notice

and he’d do his best to cheer you up because you’re just his everything </3

after the cakes are done he takes 282629 pictures of you and your cake and then he’d probably say things like “keep posing, you’re so pretty”

i think most of his dates would involve domestic things like that

if you don’t live together he’d crash to your house, help you deep clean the entire house and he considers that a date too

a little bit more low maintenance when it comes to relationships if that makes sense

also i think he’s not very clingy but he LOVESSS a clingy partner even if he doesn’t verbally say or show it

he’s always have a light blush on his face whenever you just cling on him

so please cling onto him as much as possible

JUNG SUNGCHAN ༄

just a feeling… but

gym dates 😭

and he’s so cheesy about it okay like at first you’re reluctant because the thought of going to a gym scares you

but then the first time you go there and he’s like so touchy with you in a good way

purposely standing so close to you while he helps you out with the equipments

maybe at one point he’s even like “yeah just do it like that.” while helping you out with the weights and then giving you a kiss on the cheek

which catches you off guard you almost dropped the weights but he was holding it with you so you’re good

when you blush he would let out a flustered giggle and won’t comment on it

and then you make it even worse by saying something like “i’m just flushed from the workout” and he’s like “sure babe”

would always be close to you just in case you’re caught underneath the weight and you can’t lift it up anymore

at the end of the date you’re like “i can’t move my legs” and then he just carries you

takes you out to eat something sweet afterwards

he’s going to be all smiley the whole time too

at the end he’s like “didn’t i tell you it would be fun? do you wanna go to the gym with me again next week?”

if you say no he’s not gonna sulk and punch the wall or something he’s just gonna be like “aww that’s alright too.” and then kiss your head

then he would say something like “you were incredible on your first try though, i’m proud of you.”

clenches fist i want him so bad…

PARK WONBIN ༄

i swear wonbin’s a little weird

like have you seen his tiktoks… something’s strange about that man

i think he stated before that he loves shopping so you KNOW what that means

always send you vids he sees on the internet about some new shop opening up in hongdae or something and he’s like “let’s go bae”

sends you the weirdest tiktoks and is like “you”

and then you’re like “wonbin what”

and he won’t elaborate

sends you his fit checks

if you don’t approve he will actually sulk i’m not kidding

sometimes when he’s bored he’d write a song for you

like not a singing song but a musical one from his guitar if that makes sense

he loves matching with you. matching earrings, matching clothes, matching beanies.

ohh i feel like he’d also do those cute couple videos on tiktok like you know he would slow dance with you in the snow and post it for everyone to see this man LOVES soft launching you

his soft launches are also by no means him trying to hide you or keep you a secret, it’s more like… he just likes to have a mysterious vibe to his online person 😍

also i think he loves leaving kisses on your neck whenever you snuggle up to watch a movie or something

like you’re talking to him while you’re on his lap and he’s just like “mhm, and then what?” and then he gives you kisses down your jaw and neck

he’s all over you PLEASE no matter in public or private and it’s even worse (or better 😜) in private too

HONG SEUNGHAN ༄

definitely a gamer bf

dates with him involves him going out to see the sun for the first time that week ❤️

i’m just kidding but your dates probably involves a lot of going out because you feel like this man NEEDS to get some sunlight

also one of the guys that enjoys PDA

he wins the idgaf war he would kiss you at any point of time if he suddenly feels like it

you can just be talking like straight up gossiping about something that happened between your aunt and a scammer and he would just…

he would just grabbed the sides of your face and plant the deepest kiss ever

and then you’re all flustered and he would burst into laughter

he’s the biggest flirt ever he has this one stare that would leave you WEAK in the knees

definitely has a habit of staring at your lips when you talk which makes you SOOO nervous

plays with your hands or hair while you talk

just a thought but he’d definitely run his thumb over your lower lip after he kissed it WOAH

calls you with the most generic pet names but god it makes you run LAPS

also when you come over his house he’d make you pull for him on that FIFA game idk how the game works but i hope you get what i’m trying to say

LEE SOHEE ༄

AH i feel like him as a bf is so fun

he looks like so much fun from the instagram/tiktok posts tbh

the most normal boyfriend ever help idk how to explain it

sends you pictures of him at work with captions like “fighting my hardest battle (i’m at the work i willingly applied for)

various dates

he doesn’t always suggest ideas for dates but he goes ALL out for you when you suggest them

you want to watch the sunset? best believe he’ll take you to the prettiest beach he could find for you to enjoy

you want to have a movie date? he’s gonna set up the projector at his house HIMSELF

i don’t think he’s very keen on kissing in public but he has no problem holding you close to him

holds your hand, holds you by your waist, EVERYTHING

takes 0.5x pictures of you from your forehead

he has a picture of the two of you completing a heart drawn on your cheeks as his lockscreen

always yapping about you like

“my lover made me this lunch”

“my lover gave me this for my birthday”

“my lover tied my tie for me today”

his favourite type of dates are karaoke dates sorry like this man is beyonce’s son he’s GOING to use that godsent vocals of his

also i feel like anniversary celebrations are so grand with him his love for you is so genuine he wants to give you the world and more

i want him so bad… he’s my goat

ANTON LEE ༄

dates are SOPHISTICATED

he’s bred in BOSTON you know he goes crazy with that shit

make you dress up fancy in silk and satin and stuff everyone once in a while to take you to a fine dining i’m so serious

takes you on concert dates too

like… mitski or laufey or niki zenfaya concert dates

he would lift you up on his shoulders during these concerts so you would see clearly

also likes backhugging you

he’s so soft spoken so you don’t have the heart to ever start any arguments with him

when he was a swimmer he’d give you those vip pass or something (idk how dating an athlete works oops)

after his competition finish and he’s still wet from the water and its just covered by his towel and swim attire, he would go up to you with a flushed face and would ask you if he looked cool or not

i think he’s the type to enjoy talking to you most of the time during dates or just like an everyday occurrence

like he loves staring into your eyes as you speak he loves you so much but he’s too shy to tell you that so often

he’s not the type to just blurt out “i love you” but you can just tell that his feelings for you are true from the way he stares at you

would let you decorate his hair with your hairclips and would wear them out for the rest of the day

he’s soooo smitten by you it’s crazy

[vinylfoxbooks]

25 Days of Jegumas | Day 1 | Day 7 December 8 - Holiday Music | @noblehouseofgay | wc: 657

“We’re home,” Regulus hums, walking into the room with his son in his arms. James doesn’t respond verbally, but there are some sounds coming from the living room, and words that he can’t quite decipher.

There are a myriad of things that Regulus can walk in on with his partner, and most things he has seen already. So he’s not shocked when, of all things, he walks into the living room and James is playing Christmas music loud enough to not be heard from the entryway, but absolutely loud enough for James to be nearly belting too -- which makes sense what he was hearing upon walking into the house. They’re dancing around with a broom, singing into the end of it and twirling around the living room. 

He watches them for a while, smiling gently at their partner’s antics fondly, before he clears his throat to make himself known. James pauses in the middle of their dramatic rendition of White Winter Hymnal to whip themself around to see him, grinning brightly, “Hello the my favourite people in the world.” They do a funny little shimmy dance towards them, bringing their arms to wrap around Regulus’ waist, “My love, light of my life, my star.” They kiss him softly, pulling back and pressing a kiss to a very sleepy Harry’s head, “My world, my baby.” And they bring one of their hands to push little curls out of the way so they can kiss his temple. 

Regulus laughs softly, “You’re in a good mood.” 

They grin, “Christmas music always gets me in a good mood, my love. Was the playdate good?” 

Regulus nods, “Draco is definitely more haughty than Harry, but they warmed up to each other well.” 

“That’s good,” they smile, “It’s been so long since the last time they’ve seen each other. How was Narcissa?” 

“She’s doing well, I can’t tell what’s going on with Lucius, but that’s not my business.” 

They hum, “I see that it tuckered the boy out.” 

Regulus nods, “Mhm, I’m not sure if we should let him nap though, since it’s so close to bedtime.” 

James nods and gently runs their fingers over the little boy’s brow, “We can figure it out. Did you have fun, Haz?” Harry gently nods, eyes lidded with sleep, “Well, we don’t want you going to sleep right now…” they think for a moment before humming, “Do you two want to dance with me?” 

Regulus rolls his eyes but nods, and James moves to his side, wrapping an arm around his waist and pulling him into the center of the living room just as the song switches. Deck the Halls. Where James starts bouncing around and singing loudly, Regulus just bounces a bit, singing as well and trying to keep Harry as awake as possible.

They go through songs like that: You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch, Here Comes Santa Claus, Joy to the World, God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen, Up On the Housetop, the list goes on. And eventually Harry begins to perk up, squirming to get out of his dad’s arms and be let down so he can dance as well with the two. They take a break to eat some of the leftovers that Effie left when she came to visit earlier in the day and go back to their listening to music, though they all settle down with a board game that Harry can play.

And when the boy is in bed, after passing out as soon as his head hits the pillow, James and Regulus settle on their couch, the fire roaring. James has turned down their music and switched to the softer Christmas music, playing it low enough that they can hear it but loud enough that it can fill the silence between them. 

“You and your little obsession with Christmas music is something special…”

“Hey, it helped keep our son awake, didn’t it?” They push him with their shoulder.

Day 9

[vilf-lover]

i’m not one of those cool fanfic writers so don’t expect greatness and i’m idk how to make a title and fancy specifications but

this is how i imagine darlin getting everyone kicked out of the club because of them fighting went down ⭐️

gn!darlin

1400 words 😭😭😭 certified yapper

“I LOVE THIS SONG!!” angel shouted into darlin’s ear while an intense edm rendition of ‘baby’ by justin bieber roared from every crevice of the club

they were wondering if anyone was going to be able to hear after tonight, but they didn’t care because of how much fun they were having. though, they were questioning angel’s taste in music…

“OKAY I AM GOING TO GO GET A WATER AND GO SIT DOWN WITH MR PARTY POOPER OVER THERE” obviously darlin was referring to their wonderful mate that just happened to come to the club again- even after last time ;))

he claimed he came again for safety reasons but they knew it’s because he had a blast, even before their “dance lesson”. sam may not be a dancer, but he always talks about how music makes him feel truly alive, how he felt when he was human. a reminder of his livelihood.

darlin ends up sitting next to their mate the rest of their night as they both enjoy shirley temples and nice cold waters.

as the night grows older, the pack decides they’ll stay for 30 more minutes before leaving.

about five minutes before they plan to leave-“darlin’ i’m gonna use the restroom before we head out. don’t get in any trouble without me.” he chuckles as he jostles out of his seat and makes his way to the back.

about a minute passes before a man, about 6’0, shoulder-length hair, one full sleeve of tattoos sits on the chair next to them; in the seat sam was occupying.

“so gorgeous, you leaving here with that guy? because i know something that would make you much happier” he smiles smugly as the words leave his lips

they’re a bit taken aback. while this was not their first rodeo, no cowboy pun intended, they now felt way different when being hit on. as though it was an insult to them and sam.

“oh really.” they say in such an unenthused tone that most people would stand up and walk away right then and there.

it seems as though he takes this as a challenge. “yeah hun, i’m sure i could treat you better than he could. tenfold. how about i prove it?” you can hear the smirk on his face.

this is when darlin’ decides to stop being civil. there is nothing they hate more than a person that won’t take no for an answer. they would know after being in a relationship with one for way too long. boundaries are boundaries.

“listen. i am trying to give you the chance to leave this conversation right now. rejection is hard, i know. i’m sure you’re horny and lonely, but i’m not. so leave me alone.” they scoff and turn their chair back to the bar

“well didn’t know you were such a fucking bitch who didn’t know how to have fun but whatever” he starts mumbling to himself as he walks off, head hanging low

sam appears in the crowd of people, making his way back to his seat. “phew- sorry, the line was so long. how’re you doin’ darlin?”

“well- other than a guy poorly hitting on me, i’m doing okay” they scoff thinking about the interaction

sam is puzzled. “who did what? i left for like two minutes and you’re being ambushed. what am i going to do with such a fine specimen of a mate”

he leans in for a kiss as they both laugh and get up from their seats to meet everyone at the front

darlin and sam are walking out of the club with ash, milo, david and their mates when they hear something behind them

an agitated voice yells at the group, “oh so you have a little posse. and there’s your little boyfriend too. cute.”

confused, they all give glances to each other before darlin’ says to just keep looking forward and walk.

soon it would become obvious that this was not the end of the interaction.

“ignoring me? it’s good to know they’re all fucking bitches! just like you!” the man slurring his words and getting progressively louder as his sentences drag on

darlin’, upset, turns around and approaches the man while still keeping a good five feet of distance to try and maintain some civility. “can you leave me and my friends alone. you are obviously tipsy so i’m giving you this last warning”

they go to turn around before getting kicked in the stomach

“i’m not scared of you or your little friends! and i won’t take a pathetic ass threat!” he says, now screaming.

everyone is in shock- a person they don’t know is now attempting to hurt the person they all know won’t take shit.

“holy shit!” milo gasps, possibly for dramatic effect

david sighs while rubbing his temples, “this is not going to end well for him”

darlin is now standing up after falling into the ground, brushing the rubble off of their hands. there’s an annoyed look on their face as they walk over to sam. “i really did not want to do this tonight but can you take my bag and my rings?”

the man is standing there distraught, wondering why they are acting so leisurely after getting kicked.

darlin’ gives sam a kiss on the cheek and looks at the pack, “enjoy the show, i guess” they roll their eyes before turning back to the man

“what the fuck do you think you’re doing, you think this is some kind of jo-“ he tries to mutter a sentence, before getting punched square in the face

usually, darlin likes making fighting a game. something they can drag out and feel some adrenaline before ending it. but tonight? no, not tonight.

the man looks up, his nose is bleeding immensely. he looks terrified, skittering back on his feet and hands as darlin’ approaches them.

darlin’ is now towering over him, the dim illumination of a streetlight overhead creates a silhouette of their figure thats spine-chilling, they look menacing as ever

“i’ll let you stand up once.” they say under their breath, “give you some dignity. so it won’t be so embarrassing to remember tomorrow.”

they walk back as he very slowly gets up

the man laughs, “giving pity? not a good idea. i can destroy you hun. i just wasn’t prepared.”

he goes to throw a right jab after swinging his left leg in between their feet to knock them over.

in theory, it’s a good idea. make them unstable then hit them when they’re not excepting it. unfortunately for him- that’s not how it went…

darlin is not affected by the leg, and instead squeezes his leg in between their feet. making him stuck- falling directly on his side. a painful landing to say the least

as the pack is watching, they’re also making full commentary. not loud enough for them to hear, as that would be a detrimental mistake.

“do you think they’re going easy?” david asks

“oh absolutely” sam chuckles, “this is nothin’”

asher laughs, “yeah i think they’ve thrown a punch harder than that at me!”

the man is now in fetal position on his left side, wincing in pain.

darlin’ leans down to a crouch, frightenly close, and whispers, “next time, know. no means fucking no. don’t do this ever again. prick.”

the emphasis of their words would’ve been enough to make him topple over in the first place

he does nothing but nod as they walk off.

with impeccable timing, the security guard from the back of the club walks up to the group.

“i’ve been asked to escort you and your party off of the premises.” the man had a deep voice and is quite taller than anyone in the group.

darlin’ chuckles, “are you joking? i mean- this dude was harassing me and then my “party” this whole time and you didn’t feel the need to interject.”

the guard seems to give a glance that says “yeah, i know. i’m just doing my job” which everyone in that group has given before.

“okay. we were just leaving anyway. thanks sir, have a good night” david seems to be the only peaceful one at the moment. at most moments actually.

there’s silence in the pack as they continue walking away from the club until a overly-enthusiastic “wow! that was awesome!” spouts from asher

i am not a fic writer to say the least but i have a very active imagination and i hope this lives up to standard in one way or another

@rarelyisa

@infinitelovewithoutfulfillment

@aimedis

i hope you guys enjoy :>>

[embrosegraves]

𝕀 𝔾𝕦𝕖𝕤𝕤 𝕀'𝕞 𝕀𝕟 𝕃𝕠𝕧𝕖

Pierre Gasly x Fem!Reader You ever get a fic idea that just.. refuses, to leave your brain until you get it done?? yeah that's what this is

Warnings: None :D maybe some spelling and grammar errors, google translated French

Love was different for everyone. It means something different for each different person. Everyone has their own version of love, whether they’re aware of it or not. Everyone displays love differently. For some, love is about spending time with those around them. For others, love is giving things to show the intensity of their affection. There are many ways that people show their love for the people around them and Pierre Gasly is no stranger to many of them. 

When Pierre Gasly approached you with the intent to start dating you, you had made it clear that you believed there was no limit to show how you loved. So he formed a plan. For every date, he would bring you a gift. Showing you his budding love with material objects. Alongside the gifts he would give you a note, telling you how much his love was growing. For every holiday, Pierre would make sure to prioritise his time with you. Whenever he could, he would make sure that he was doing everything for you. His favourite way to show his love for you was taking you by the hand and giving a kiss to your temple at every chance he got. 

Pierre made it obvious with every chance he had, that he was head over heels in love with you. And while you could not match him gift-for-gift, you could do one thing that he couldn’t. You had decided a while ago, even before dating Pierre, that along with modelling you would start dabbling in music. You had grown up playing the piano, as many of your following already knew, but not many knew that you had also taken vocal lessons as a child. Pierre was also no stranger to your piano playing abilities. Often coming home from a race weekend to hear the soft sounds of the piano in your large living room. 

The thing about Pierre is that while he was a very attentive boyfriend, he wasn’t always the sharpest tool in the shed. It was this fact that let you practise and compose the piano melody for his gift even if he was in the room with you. He would sit and listen to you play and figure out what notes worked and what notes didn’t, complementing your playing all the while. The part that was trickiest when making the song, was finding the time to rent out a studio space so you could record the vocal tracks. As much as you could between photoshoots and brand promotions on your socials, you usually planned for your studio time to be when Pierre was at a race that you couldn’t attend. On such occasions you would bring along your mother (if she had the time) or Pierre’s mother. 

It was always special (and important) to spend time with Pascale. As much as Pierre joked that his mother was stealing his girlfriend, you never turned down an opportunity to be around the woman. She was one of the most comforting people you could be around. So it felt incredibly special for her to come with you as you poured your entire soul into showing how much you loved her youngest son. It was also your way of reassuring her that he was in good hands and that she could rest easy knowing her baby boy was being looked after. After all, if you had a son you’d want the same reassurance. 

It took everything in you to not show her the full song once it was completed. You wanted Pierre to be the very first person who heard the song in its entirety. You also weren’t sure when exactly to show him. It was by pure coincidence that you completed the song two days before your 3rd anniversary. It would be the perfect time to show him. You brainstormed ways to show him the song until you finally decided that you were going to compile a video of clips that showed your relationship with Pierre. 

Pierre would get home the night before so really you only had tomorrow and the morning after to make sure it was done. You were a little pressed for time but you were determined to have it ready for your anniversary. When you woke up in the morning you spent hours going through all the videos you had and picking out the ones you wanted to use. Taking a break to have some lunch and make yourself a hot drink about halfway through the day, you soon started to organise and arrange the videos to be exactly how you wanted them. After dinner you spent your time making sure the whole thing would last the duration of the song. Before calling it a night and going to bed. 

The next morning, you were quick to get out of bed and make a coffee, knowing that today was your last day to work on Pierre’s gift. Booting up your computer, hot coffee on the desk, you opened the editing software and got to work. You were glad that you had done the majority of the editing the night before as you only had to make a few last minute adjustments. To tie it all off, you added the audio file to play over the video. Not wanting to waste a minute of your day, you quickly saved the finished product and started to tidy up the apartment. On the rare occasion that Pierre would be home without you, he always made sure the apartment was clean for you, so it was only fair that you maintained that cleanliness as much as you could while he was away. Plus it was always nice to come home to a clean space. 

Getting into bed that night, you were almost too jittery to fall asleep. Too excited for the day to come. Eventually however your mind and body became too exhausted to stay awake and you fell into a blissful sleep. Only slightly stirring when Pierre quietly climbed into bed beside you. Still asleep, you snuggled closer to him and slept soundly until morning. Pierre’s arms around you, face nuzzled into your hair. 

It was Pierre who woke up first the next morning, just as he’d planned. Every big event, Pierre was determined to serve you your breakfast while you relaxed in bed. He went full out as he always did with these things. He made you a full breakfast, a perfectly made coffee and a thornless rose with a sweet note and arranged them all neatly on a tray. He carefully carried the tray to the bedroom just in time to see you sitting up and stretching your arms above your head. 

“Bonjour Chérie.” His voice was soft as he knew that loud noises in the morning often irritated you. He placed the tray on your lap and moved to sit down in front of you. “How are you this morning?” 

“Hello Darling.” Barely a whisper, you answered him. “I’m doing perfectly today.” 

Pierre leaned in and gave you a kiss. “Joyeux anniversaire, Mon Amour.” He gave you another kiss. 

“I have something to show you later.” You said after drinking some of your coffee. “A gift for you.” 

“You are my gift.” 

“I can’t exactly put myself in a box and gift wrap it, can I?”

He laughed. “No, but I wouldn’t be surprised if you tried.” 

You spent the morning with Pierre. Talking with each other, laughing and catching up on any gossip either of you might’ve missed. This was your favourite way to spend time with him. Comfortable, at home and just being the best friends a pair of lovers could be. At around lunch time, you had finally managed enough courage to give Pierre the gift you made. 

“Mon Amour?” You were sitting at the kitchen island, watching as Pierre finished the dishes he insisted he did. 

“Hmm?” He turned the water off and turned to face you. 

“I still have something to give you.” You said. 

His face lit up with a loving smile. “You didn’t have to buy me anything, Chérie.” 

You shook your head, “I didn’t buy anything, I made something. And I did it because I wanted to.” 

You stood up and gestured for him to follow you to your shared office. Confused but curious, he wiped his hands dry and began to follow you. You told him to sit down while you dragged a chair to sit next to him. Turning the computer on, you navigated until you found the video file you were looking for. 

“You just have to double click on this one.” you said, pointing to the file labelled ‘pour-mon-amour.mov’. 

Excited at the idea that you had made a video, Pierre eagerly did as instructed. You were a little nervous about how he would react. You hadn’t ever done something like this before. 

The video started with a clip of you recording yourself while at the beach. In the clip, Pierre had come up behind you and lifted you into the air. You laughed out in surprise as Pierre had spun you around in circles. The piano had started playing and soon after, Pierre heard your voice singing. 

“Oh I’m obsessed.  With the way your head is laying on my chest. How you love the things I hate about myself.  And no one knows, but with you, I see hope again.” 

The next clip to appear was a video that Charles had sent you. He had recorded Pierre’s reaction to you showing up in the paddock after you had previously told him you wouldn’t be able to make it. Pierre had stopped in the middle of his sentence and started running to you. He had engulfed you in a hug and started rocking the both of you side to side. Squeezing you tightly, he had started speaking in French, telling you exactly how much he loved you. 

“When I overthink the little things in my head You seem to always help me catch my breath But then I lose it again When I look at you, that's the end.”

Now the video showed a montage of clips. Small videos of Pierre giving you a kiss on the cheek or spinning you around like a princess. Pierre helping you tie your hair up. A video of you beating Pierre in a game while he just smiled at you. Even a video that Yuki had taken of Pierre laying on his back with you laying on top of him. The two of you just gazing at each other. 

“And why do I get so nervous when I look into your eyes? Butterflies can't stop me fallin' for you

And darlin', this is more than anything I felt before You're everything that I want, but I didn't think I'd find Someone who is worth the wait of all the years of my heartbreak But I know now I found the one I love.” 

A video of you dragging Pierre to the middle of your open living room to start dancing with each other. He spun you under his arm and then pulled you in closed to start swaying with you cuddled close. Your arms had wrapped around his waist, your chin resting on his chest before you stood on your tiptoes to give him a kiss. 

The video continued to show bits and pieces of your entire relationship with Pierre. You were incredibly nervous to look at Pierre as he watched. You could bring yourself to look at the way his eyes were glued to the screen or look at the way his mouth was hung open in disbelief at the whole thing. You had looked firmly at your hands and played with the bracelet that Pierre had given you just that morning. 

You hadn’t even noticed that the video and song had stopped until Pierre took your hands in his. You looked up and saw his eyes closed as he brought both your hands to place a deep, lingering kiss to your knuckles. 

“Did you like it?” You asked timidly after clearing your throat. 

Opening his eyes, Pierre quickly and urgently brought your lips to his. His kiss was almost feverish, as if he was trying his damned best to pour every ounce of love he had for you into it. It took your breath away. As the kiss became more gentle, you both slowly pulled apart. 

Catching your breath you looked at Pierre. His eyes bore straight into yours as he whispered. “Je ne peux pas expliquer exactement combien je t'aime. Je ne pourrai jamais assez vous remercier pour cela.” [I can not explain exactly how much I love you. I will never be able to thank you enough for this.]

You wiped the stray tear that had fallen from his eyes. “Joyeux anniversaire, ma chérie.”

I'm literally so in love with this, I'm getting jealous of the fake romances I write lmao

This has been rattling around in my brain for so fucking long you guys have no idea. If you couldn't tell, the song is I GUESS I'M IN LOVE by Clinton Kane.

Likes, replies and reblogs are always welcome <3

[ocean-armin]

THUNDER

Armin x Reader

Synopsis: Armin and reader attend an Ambassadors gala together after the war, inspired by…ANOTHER Lana song :)

Tags: armin arlert x reader, post-canon, post final season/ch 139, alluding to death, shameless fluff, fem!reader if you squint (mentions of being his ‘wife’), language warning?

enjoy <3 glad to be back!

When someone says that ‘they’ll only be a minute’, do they ever really mean it?

From what you’ve experienced, the answer is no. After the Rumbling, remaining society has subscribed to thinking that they have all of the time in the world. Whether it be lingering too long in the grocery line, or goodbyes that entail chatting in the doorway when all you want to do is shut the door. Time is no longer a luxury.

You wish it was. You and Armin were supposed to have left the Ambassadors’ gala about thirty minutes ago. Armin told you that he’d only be a minute, as he had to wish everyone a formal goodbye. Placing a soft kiss to your temple and a squeeze to your hip, he rushed back to the group of other ambassadors to shake their hands. You were dismissed from your duty of ‘Commander’s Wife’ for the night; and were left to observe the long winded formalities of politicians and world-leaders, when they could just say ‘goodbye’ instead.

Now, you’ve found yourself against the doorway with your heels in hand, still nursing a glass of champagne. If there’s anything you’ve gotten good at as a commander’s wife, it’s observing your husband.

How could you not observe him? Armin Arlert has always known how to light up a room. You watch the familiar way in which his bright eyes crinkle at the corners when he smiles, golden strands of hair cascading into his eyes as he laughs. His cheeks still rosy with liquor, you smile to yourself. Such a lightweight. How lucky you were to call a man touched by Midas your own.

Armin’s ability to flip a switch in order to charm became evident at a young age, when you both served time in the Survey Corps. Even as a young commander, his charisma and implied innocence allowed for strategies of manipulation to come easy to him. Now, as his wife, you could distinguish this strategy from a mile away. You knew he was forcing his allure.

“Goodnight everyone, I’ll see you again at the leadership summit. Have a wonderful spring,” Armin beamed, offering firm handshakes and a final wave before he finally strode over to the doorway.

“Ready to go?” You asked, knowingly, placing your empty glass on a table. You stepped closer to loosen his tie, he nodded in response.

“More than ever,” Armin quietly murmured, taking your heels from your hands, and placing a firm hand on your lower back in return.

****

The crisp cut of the rain plummeted onto your skin as you two stepped outside, the chill aiding you to cut through Armin’s facade.

“…I know you were upset back there,” you mentioned quietly, taking his hand in yours as you walked.

“God, I thought I was better at masking it,” he groaned, giving your hand a squeeze.

“You’re pretty damn convincing, but not to me. You know that.” You smiled wearily at him.

“I know…those people are just…” he inhaled sharply, “so ridiculous.” His anger became apparent, clearing his throat as his voice wavered. “God, as much as they talk of peace and how ‘lucky’ they are, they’ll never really know, will they? They’ll never know what we went through. To lose so many people…to lose our families, to lose him.” Armin stammered.

You stopped your forward pace, standing on the cobblestone sidewalk in front of Armin to properly listen.

“They don’t, and they’ll never understand. It’s hard to watch you be so nice to them…but you’re always good at it,” you said softly, squeezing his hand in yours.

“Even worse, they’re all so fucking old! I’ve been a commander and politician since I was nineteen, fighting since fifteen! These people have been comfortable their whole lives, and they act like they’ve suffered? I’m just so fed up with being so jovial with them,” Armin’s voice cracked, wiping his eyes with the hand holding your heels.

“You don’t always have to be nice to them, Armin. They should know what you went through. For fuck’s sake, you’re a commander and ambassador at twenty-two. You shouldn’t have to be,” you hugged him. “I know it’s hard, I know I’m not the one to tell you that it’s easy to do, either. But respect and kindness aren’t the same.”

Armin’s back shook, body racking with sobs as he hugged back tightly.

“I miss him too. God, I can’t believe that people are so privileged to not experience what we have. But god, I’m the luckiest, so lucky for both of us to be alive. To love you, and to be your wife,” your voice cracked with tears. “To be able to see you actually happy, and not just the ‘Commander Arlert’ charm. To be with the real you tonight. All dressed up…sopping wet.”

Armin chuckled, hiccuping through his tears, pulling away to look at you.

“I love you, so so much. And I’m freezing out here…” he laughed, wiping his eyes.

“I love you too. Let’s go dry off, warm up a little. No more wasted time tonight,” you reach to cup his cheek, rubbing your thumb along it.

“No time with you is wasted.”

****

You act like fucking Mr. Brightside when you're with all your friends,

But I know what you're like when the party ends . . .

You roll like thunder, pouring all your drinks

The party's lit and you, my friend, half-cut when it begins

You roll like thunder, you're tryna catch that wind

That lightning in the bottle, that moonbeam in your hand

And you try to see the bright side when each new day begins,

But you're not satisfied at the rainbows end.

[not-a-matopoeia]

HEAD CANNON HILLS I PERSONALLY CHOOSE TO DIE ON:

Fight me (lol)

Bruce Wayne

Gray Hairs are mostly in and around his temples and beard- also he won’t dye it

Asexual but not sex repulsed (it just feels right)

Definitely experienced with makeup, sure to cover bruises and stuff but also he definitely had a phase where he wore eyeliner cause why not

Autistic

Dick Grayson

Crooked nose

Speaks some Roma still but has forgotten most of it, which makes him upset

People deffo thought he was gay all through school, and they weren’t wrong…or right (he’s some form of queer)

Gymnastics teacher as a side job

ADHD

Oldest Daughter SyndromeTM

Jason Todd

I think that Jason runs a book club with a bunch of middle aged women, and they talk about classic lit

Theater Kid (gay)

Good with kids, reluctantly

Has freckles

Hair is caused by Marie Antoinette syndrome

Struggled with body dysmorphia after being revived

Keeps all his receipts (they’re in a box in the kitchen) and is stingy with money

Tim Drake

Wears a Medical Identification bracelet for the spleen thing (it’s recommended guys I looked it up cause I’m normal)

Has acne

Chased Batman and Robin around with that damn camera (I fucking love this)

Has anxiety

Bisexual (not a HC but I thought I’d mention it)

Would eat the coffee grounds

Listens to video game osts

(Bring the skateboard back)

Damian

Strong nose

Just very strong features generally

Giggles, or full on cackles but there’s no In between

I think it’s be cute if he became an art therapist or a vet

Autistic

Cass

Cuts her own bangs, they look horrible<3

Lesbian

Tired to dye her hair once (with Steph and Babs)never again

Steph

Grew up in crime ally (idk where she lived so I choose to believe this- this could also be the truth, again I cannot remember rn)

Freckles

Butterfly Clips

Bisexual

Curly hair

Alfred

Had chased multiple people off of Wayne Manors premises with his shotgun ‘

Got second place in a chili cook off one time and still hasn’t recovered

Extra:

Dick and Jason are big into Taylor Swift, Jason because I think he’d like ballads/the lyrics in songs and Dick because he’s Dick

Selina Kyle actually likes the Robins, and her and Steph got along well

Jason and Steph have really thick Gotham accents, which I like to think is like a Jersey accent, Jason’s shows up more when he’s upset in any capacity, Steph’s is always there and was never trained out of her

Dick has this weird accent where it’s very clearly not anything American, but it’s not not American, and it’s because he moved so much and was around people woth so many different accents that his voice never settled on one

Damian talks to himself in Arabic- Jason knows a bit of it

Cass is a messy eater (this isn’t cannon is it?)

I think it’s be funny to imagine Tim, Cass and Steph going to High School together

Steph was that one girl in the Cookie Monster pjs in high school, and Tim was like this weird goth/skater kid

[axtssmnfr]

Pictures from my most recent trip to Iunu, the temple of Hutheru. March 2024.

Every time i visit i think i leave crying… this recent time i wrote something in my notes on the drive back home. it’s not a very good piece of writing, fueled by blinding emotion.

A Lament for Dendera

O Hathor, Your temple is ruined.

The unfaithful walk in Your sanctuary,

Your pure place is filled with refuse.

Your high walls, these gleaming images,

are cracked and chipped away

by those who shall never comprehend

Your beauty, Your power.

Power here is held by the greedy,

who say I will let you in Her innermost shrine, for a price,

and the scholars misguide the pilgrims.

Lonely is Your shrine, with no gold,

with no lapis, with no carnelian, or turquoise.

The feet of the impure trod upon Your most hidden places,

and everywhere is the scent of absence and decay.

And the faithful, who come silently, are persecuted

Your followers are shamed and denigrated

as the lowest of beings,

by the keepers of Your temple.

Yet the lotus flower is still set in Your innermost shrine,

and prayers of Your praise and names are muttered

Quietly, in echoing halls,

once filled with priests of great devotion

and the fires of Your light.

The faithful come quietly

and bow in the shadow;

now a spectacle of humor

to the keepers and scholars of Your temple.

I leave my offerings and obeisances to You,

O Great Hathor,

whose shrine sits vacant and dim,

filled with singing birds

who fly through Your halls and nest within the walls.

I give my life and my heart to You,

O Beautiful Hathor,

whose temple is but a curiosity to the people of Your land,

who no longer know of Your glory

O Hathor, may You forever care for the birds of Your great temple,

may You forever tend to the cats who roam it’s halls.

May You halt the one who stops the songs of Your praise,

may You guide Your followers

to the gates of Your temple

and to Your vacant arms,

that gladly accept the joyous, and saddened, tears of the people.

^^^^^

Some personal thoughts:

Dendera is one of my favourite temples. Something always happens when i visit. The first time i went, i was able to sneak up onto the uppermost roof, where people used to come to sleep in hopes of being healed. This recent time i was greeted by a pregnant cat who curled up in my lap as i sang a hymn for our Lady Huther. i cried as she did. and, in one of the hidden crypts, i found someone had offered a lotus flower.

Unfortunately the experience is always tainted by people. “Guides” who want you to pay for things you don’t need to pay for. Who say you aren’t allowed to take photos, aren’t allowed to look at something or lie in the hypostyle hall and stare at the ceiling, without personally paying them. (You don’t have to pay them, they’re making it up, and they’ll go away if you tell them to fuck off. Or they will get the guy with the gun and then you have to pay both of them.) Then they lead you to the shrine room and tell you to touch the wall for ‘healing’. And there is a mark where the oil of everyone who listened to them touched, and it is degrading the paint and carvings. So i have a lot of detestation for such people. they upset my heart. and that is why i have written this lament. that is why i leave Dendera crying each time.

[marie-swriting]

Lose This With You - Katherine Pierce

Masterlist

Summary : you're in a relationship with Katherine but she's always starting fights with you even though you could have something beautiful.

Warnings : reader is a vampire, arguing, mention of Katherine's traumas, angst, good ending, consumming alcohol (be careful with your alcohol consumption), maybe some grammatical mistakes as English is not my first language so tell me if you see some or if I missed any warnings.

Word count : 2k

French version

Song inspiration : Afterglow by Taylor Swift

“Oh my God, I’m so sick of arguing with you. I just feel like I’m talking to a brick wall every time.” you exclaim, massaging your temples.

“So you think I’m the only one in the wrong in this situation ?” Katherine retorts dryly.

“I’ve never said that ! I’m sure I’m also wrong as well but it doesn’t mean you can accuse me of things I didn’t do ! Could we, for once, talk about it calmly ? The only thing we do is yell at each other then act as if nothing happened. We never solve the problem.”

“But I’ve been talking since the beginning.”

“No, since the beginning, you’ve been shouting and throwing accusations at my face, it’s different. At least, listen to what I have to say.” you beg, Katherine shakes her head.

“I don’t wanna listen to you.”

“Katherine-” you sigh, though she cuts you off.

“No ! Actually, I don’t want to talk to you anymore. Leave.” she orders, emotionless. 

“Really ? You don’t even want to try to sort this out ?” you ask, exasperated.

“There’s nothing to sort out. I don’t even know why I decided to get with you in the first place. I don’t even care about you.”

As soon as you hear Katherine pronounce these words, your heart tightens in your chest and you look down. Your eyes stings but you don’t let a tear roll down your cheek. You don’t want to show her she’s hurt you, though she doesn’t need to see your face to know it. Your shoulders down are enough. Even if a part of Katherine wants to take back what she just said, her anger is stronger so she keeps talking, twisting the knife in your chest.

“So leave, I don’t want to see you ever again.”

“Very well,” you start after taking a deep breath and looking up to her, “but don’t come back to me crying when you’ll realise you’ve fucked it up.”

“It won’t happen.”

“Perfect, then !”

You keep your gaze on Katherine for a few seconds before leaving your shared apartment. You slam the door and Katherine holds back her tears when she’s confronted by the silence. Your breath is heavy whilst you start crying. You wipe your tears with anger before going to the Salvatores’.

Your friendship with the two brothers is, additionally, often the object of your arguments between you and Katherine, your last altercation is no exception. You were supposed to meet them for a few hours and when she learned about it, Katherine started to scream at you while you were confused about the reasons behind her annoyance. Sure, you know they’re not the best of friends, but the tension between the three of them is not like it used to be. Furthermore, you've been friends with Stefan and Damon longer than you know Katherine. You had met them when they had just been turned into vampires. You had tried to help them thanks to your two hundred years experience as a vampire. Therefore, your friendship with the two men is important for you. As for Katherine, you met her only a few years ago and your relationship is even newer. Notwithstanding, the love you have for Katherine is just as important. For the first time in your long life, you feel like you’ve discovered the real meaning of ‘love’, however your numerous fights are slowly ruining everything. Generally, you never give up that easily when a conflict erupts. You tried giving her space and coming back to her later and even leaving her alone until she’s calmed enough to settle everything, yet there’s nothing to do. As soon as a tough time is behind you, she finds you a new flaw. 

Over time, you got used to the disputes. You’ve already said awful things to each other, you’ve already stayed several days without talking until you make the first step. Yet, you’re more and more tired of this situation and knowing she doesn’t want to see you anymore doesn’t help to save your relationship. The more time goes by, the more you tell yourself it’s destined to fail. You can’t spend forever arguing. It’s not what you want. So you decide to give up. You tried but she doesn’t want to make an effort so what’s the point of trying so hard ?

Once you’re at Stefan and Damon’s, you pour yourself a glass of Bourbon before greeting them. They instantly understand what happened. Damon doesn’t even react when he sees you pouring another glass. He knows his bottle is doomed for the night, this one and the next one he has in stock.

While you explain to them your last fight, Katherine hasn’t moved yet. She’s still in the middle of your living room, overwhelmed by her emotions. This time, she tells herself she probably took things too far. Deep down, she’s aware she’s the reason behind all of your problems in your relationship, even if she refuses to admit it to you. The look on your face when she implied she never cared about you is still engraved in her mind. She hates seeing you in pain and yet, she feels like she’s almost always the cause of it. Well, it’s not just a feeling, she knows she is. And she hates herself for it. Katherine doesn’t understand why she persists to destroy your relationship. You do everything to make it work. You love her, more than you should, according to her, and she loves you. You give your all for her and in return, she only gives you back baseless accusations. 

Katherine lets a small sob leave her lips before breaking down. Just like you, Katherine is tired of this situation. But above all, she doesn’t want to lose you. However, with what she told you and the way you left, she thinks it’s already too late. She keeps crying the whole night, mad at herself for everything she put you through. Katherine wishes to erase what she said, start all over again, however it’s not possible. She knows you guys have the potential to be something beautiful, if she wouldn’t let her fears speak. At first, Katherine is desperate, certain she has destroyed everything, then she tells herself she might have a small chance to fix your relationship if, for the first time in her life, she doesn’t run away. Determined, but scared nonetheless, Katherine leaves your apartment to find you. She doesn’t have to think to know you’re at the mansion. You always go to them after a fight. Katherine only hopes they won’t close the door to her face and you’ll like to listen to her.

You wake up when you feel someone shaking you. When you open your eyes, you see Stefan in front of you. Without a word, he points at something behind him and you notice Katherine on the doorstep, looking at you with an awkward and sorry expression on her face. You sigh loudly before meeting her. You cross your arms on your chest to show your annoyance. 

“May we talk ?” she enquiries with a small voice.

“I don’t know, you told me you didn’t want to do it anymore yesterday.” you retort, drily.

“Please. It’ll only take a few minutes. I really need to talk to you.”

When you see her pleading look, you decide to do it, not without rolling your eyes at your incapacity to go up against her.

“Alright, but not here, I don’t want any prying ears.”

Katherine steps aside to let you walk out of the mansion whilst you close the door behind you. You both walk in the forest nearby. 

On top of being silent, with your stance, we can tell you’re on the defensive, ready to attack if Katherine says something wrong. This doesn’t help Katherine to muster up her courage, but she knows she needs to do it. She needs to talk to you. She’s ruined everything, so she has to be the one to do the right thing.

“I am sorry.” Katherine starts, looking you in the eyes.

“‘Sorry’ doesn’t mean anything if you don’t fix your behaviour.”

“I am deeply sorry. Not only for yesterday, but also for all the other times. You’re right, we never talk. Or more precisely, I never allow us to communicate.”, she admits, surprising you, “Everytime we finish arguing or rather when I finish screaming, I act as if nothing happened, I don’t take responsibility for my mistakes and it’s not the thing to do. Besides, I know I’ve been hurting you since the beginning of our relationship. I’m always searching for every unpleasant vice to use against you, I do everything to push you away and I think this time, I’ve succeeded, but it’s not what I want. I care about you, more than you know. I don’t know why I always have to break what I love so much. I want to stop ruining our relationship, I don’t want to hurt you anymore.”

“It’s all well and good what you’re saying, but how can I be sure those aren’t empty promises ?”

“Yesterday, when you left, I realised I’m destroying our relationship and I want it to stop. It’s just, I’m not used to having a bit of happiness so whenever I do, I’m afraid to lose it. I always lose everything, since the day my daughter was taken away from me and I’m scared you’re going to give up on me or you’ll end up hurting me, so I prefer to attack first. I know it’s not an excuse, I shouldn’t put my fears and my traumas on you, it’s not fair. You deserve that I treat you as well as you do. I don’t want to keep hurting you. I love you and I don’t want to lose this with you.”, Katherine continues as she waves between you two, “If it’s not too late, I’d like to have one last chance to prove to you I can be better. And for that, I need to apologise first. I am sorry that I hurt you. And I am sorry for always avoiding conversations, for giving you the silent treatment when you tried to talk to me, but above all, I am sorry to not allow myself to trust you while you do everything for me. I’m to blame and I’m taking responsibility for all my faults now. If I have already destroyed everything, you can tell me. However, I hope I’m still yours like you’re still mine and I hope you can tell me we’ll be alright, even when I lose my mind and, despite all the times I broke your heart, I’m still all you want. If it’s not the case, I’ll understand. I didn’t do anything to avoid this situation.” she states with teary eyes.

“First of all, I appreciate seeing you come to me and I’m glad you’ve realised a few things. I want to believe you really want to change, but how can I know it’s true ? How can I know, two weeks from now, we won’t be at each other’s throat again like we’ve been doing since the beginning ?” you ask, sceptical, “I don’t want to stay in a relationship where we slowly kill each other.”

“I promise you, from now on, I want to and I will make an effort. I love you too much to see you go.” she says, taking your hands, “Yesterday was enough to make me realise I won’t be able to live without you. Give me one last chance and if I keep blowing things out of proportion, still blame you for things that aren’t true, I’ll let you go. But I believe this love is worth the fight and I want to do it now.”

When you hear her determined tone, you can’t help but admit with this discussion, Katherine just proved to you she’s genuine in her promise. She really wants to make an effort for you, for the both of you. A part of you still fears it’s only a temporary promise yet you want to believe in Katherine, you want to believe she really wants to try with you.

“I can’t deny, you seem sincere. For the first time in our relationship, we’re talking and I’m happy about it. I don’t want to lose this with you either. I’d like to try one last time.” you smile, stroking her cheek.

“You won’t regret it, I promise.”

And you never did.

Masterlist

{This is my side blog so I'll be answering comments under the username @marie-sworld}

[wildernessuntothemselves]

You Are My Queen Now | Part 11

Word Count: 21k

Genre: Smut, angst, fluff

Summary: Growing up as a child of a minor lord, you had it instilled in you since a young age that you needed to find yourself a rich and affluent husband that would not only provide a comfortable life for you, but would also help further your family’s position in the court. So it was of the utmost importance that you remain a virgin in order to land such a coveted husband.

The problem lies when the man you secretly love, Prince Beomgyu, suddenly and unabashedly propositions you.

Warnings: highly inaccurate portrayal of a trial, mentions of candies that shouldn’t have existed back then, inaccurate portrayal of old dances, basically just think of this as occurring in a fantasy land lmao, hints at forced abortion, blowjobs, semi-public sex, riding/doggy/mating press, dry humping, orgasm denial, degradation, sub!gyu, dom!gyu, sub!oc, dom!oc, breeding kink, graphic-ish description of death, extremely unhealthy relationship dynamics, manipulative characters, mentions of and justifications of rape and blaming someone for their own rape, cheating, cumming in mouth, idk what else.

A/N: i recommend listening to the song gyu sings for oc at the end so here it is. Also as always this moodboard by my dear anon sets the mood for the story and helps you imagine it better.

Ryujin’s trial is a public and highly messy affair, held inside the city’s main temple in order to accommodate not only the nobility attending, but also a large number of common folk who flocked to see the spectacle that is the queen’s disgrace. 

You know that Beomgyu orchestrated it this way so that he can deal maximum damage to Ryujin’s name and reputation by having the public directly witness her trial and the crimes she’s being accused of committing, but it’s also a huge risk to take on his part because it might inadvertently smear his own name in the public’s eye if she successfully defends herself.

Well, perhaps that’s not the appropriate expression. She will never be able to defend herself against the jury Beomgyu has picked out for her. They’re all his peers and loyal subjects. Their verdict is as good as decided already. But that doesn’t mean that she can’t sway the general public, no matter how unlikely it is, before she is to hang. 

So why is he doing this? Why not go for a private trial? 

You know that Beomgyu orchestrated it this way so that he can deal maximum damage to Ryujin’s name and reputation by having the public directly witness her trial and the crimes she’s being accused of committing, but it’s also a huge risk to take on his part because it might inadvertently smear his own name in the public’s eye if she successfully defends herself.

Well, perhaps that’s not the appropriate expression. She will never be able to defend herself against the jury Beomgyu has picked out for her. They’re all his peers and loyal subjects. Their verdict is as good as decided already. But that doesn’t mean that she can’t sway the general public, no matter how unlikely it is, before she is to hang. 

So why is he doing this? Why not go for a private trial? 

You pull yourself out of your internal deliberation to watch Beomgyu herald the beginning of the trial from your seat, hidden away up on one of the balconies overlooking the scene below.  

“My good people, we are gathered here today to unravel the schemes and betrayal that have been taking place in the palace behind your back. I know you've heard many rumors, some in my favor and some denouncing me, and they’re making you feel uneasy and unsafe. Vicious rumors that I killed my own family members, that I am a mad man, that we’re on the brink of war. I couldn’t reveal anything sooner as the picture wasn’t fully clear yet, even to me, but now the truth is finally out and I am ready to reveal it all to you. I now stand here before you, allowing you to witness the trial of my own wife so you can discern the truth from the wicked lies for yourself. I have nothing to hide and I place my trust fully in the hands of the judge, the high priest, my loyal citizens, and, above all, the gods, knowing that only the truth shall prevail." 

You can see that the people present were already captivated by the charismatic and handsome young king. He has long been heralded for his kindness and generosity. Nothing bad was ever said about him amongst the people. On the contrary, unlike his private and reserved older brother, Beomgyu was always seen as the more approachable prince, the one with a heart of gold, and he was widely adored for it. Therefore it comes as no surprise that the common people were already on his side, quiet murmurs of approval and support already cutting through the silence that follows his grand opening.

Beomgyu then turns to the judge and bows to him. “Go on, good sir, please proceed.” 

The judge reads out what Ryujin is being charged with to everyone in the courtroom–treason, adultery and murder. The case laid out against her is that she, along with her lover Lord Soobin, and with the help of her father and traitors from inside this very kingdom, conspired to kill the king and the crown prince in order to claim the throne for herself and the son she planned to have with Beomgyu before getting rid of him too by pinning his father’s and brother’s death on him, getting him executed and successfully ascending to the throne using his heir. 

It’s almost exactly what she really did–except she had no role in the king’s and Yeonjun’s death– so it shouldn’t be too hard to pin the charges on her. 

The crowd buzzes with excitement following the revelation, like a hornet’s nest alive with morbid curiosity, eager to devour the accused queen alive with their judgment as the scandalous trial unfolds. You suspect most of them don’t really care about the truth. They just want something juicy to latch onto and gossip about in order to entertain themselves and forget the misery of their own grim lives as they watch someone else’s misfortune play out. They don’t care about seeing Ryujin go down–she was never loved in the kingdom anyway, only seen as the foreigner wife to the kind king Beomgyu, and he made sure to keep it that way, probably so he can pull something like this off later if he needed to.

But Ryujin, of course, refuses to go down easily, and she contests her charges when she gets the chance to defend herself.

She takes the stand with her head held high, an aura of confidence about her that you personally admire, but suspect may work against her in the eyes of the unforgiving public who may only see it as arrogance that adds insult to injury from the treacherous and promiscuous wife of their beloved king. 

"I didn’t kill the king or the crown prince. I never was unfaithful or treacherous towards my husband but he was. He is the one who did all the despicable things he’s accusing me of. He did it all and orchestrated this whole trial so he can get rid of me and be with her…”

The crowd breaks out in a heated discussion amongst themselves that only quiets down when the judge slams his hammer down to silence the ocean of murmurs, before he turns back to the queen. 

“And who is she?” He asks the question that is on most people’s tongue. 

Ryujin looks up into the balconies, and you cower in your seat even though you know she can’t possibly see you from down there. “The wife of lord Kang Taehyun."

The wife of lord Kang Taehyun, that's what you are, isn't it? You've promised yourself to him in front of gods and men and yet here you hide in Beomgyu's bed. 

“Care to elaborate, my child.” The priest leans forward, appearing intrigued to hear what she has to say about the king’s alleged infidelity and familicide. But it’s all for show, you know he must already be in cohorts with Beomgyu. 

Ryujin struggles to hold in her sneer but dares not speak personally against the man who holds the highest religious position in the kingdom, and therefore the public’s full support and respect, or the people will never listen to another word she says. 

“He has been obsessed with her ever since they were children. He wanted to be with her but couldn’t because he was already betrothed to me and so he kept her locked up in the palace and kept any man from approaching her so that she would have no one but him and let him do whatever he wanted to her. And for years his plan worked, until lord Taehyun came along and took her from him. She fell for him and he helped her escape. That is why he killed his father and brother–because they wouldn’t help him get her back, and once they were gone, he started working on his plan to get rid of me and lord Taehyun so he could finally be with her. He poisoned me so I’d lose our child and he sent his own sister to lord Taehyun’s castle to threaten him to hand her over or he’ll wage war against him. That is how he got her back, but he was never planning on letting him or I live. He needs us gone so he can be with her.”

The loud exclamations that burst out from the crowd at Ryujin’s flagrant story sound purposeful this time, knowing, and you wonder why that is. You look to Wonyoung who is sitting right next to you for an explanation, and she leans in to whisper in your ear. 

“Lord Taehyun has been going around telling people that Beomgyu stole you from him and is keeping you hostage at the palace because he’s obsessed with you and that’s why he killed father and brother.” 

Oh. 

So to everyone hearing this, it just seems like confirmation for what Taehyun has been saying.  Though it's curious how she said that Taehyun claimed Beomgyu is keeping you hostage rather than you escaping. Is that to protect your reputation or to protect his?

Once again you wonder why Beomgyu is doing this. This isn’t looking good for him if both your husband and his wife are saying the same thing. 

“But do not think that she is blameless. She encouraged his insanity from the start, reveled in it even. She wanted him too, but wasn’t content with just being his mistress. She wanted my place, wanted to be his wife, and I know she is here today to watch this farce of a trial so she can see me fall.” 

Everyone starts looking for you, scouring the temple to try to find you, even if they didn’t even know what you looked like. And just as irrationally, you cower again, wanting nothing but to run away from all of this. You didn’t want this. It’s not true what she’s saying. Yes, you love Beomgyu with all your heart, but it was never your intention to hurt her or Taehyun. 

Once again, the judge slams his hammer down, repeatedly this time, to get people to calm down. 

“Enough!” He shouts loudly, finally getting people to keep quiet, before he turns to Beomgyu. "My king, do you have anything to say against these grave accusations?"

"These are nothing but vile lies that she and the traitor have cooked up. That lady she is so disgustingly slandering has been nothing but a close and loyal friend to my family, her only crime being that she's the one who unveiled their schemes." Beomgyu speaks to the crowd instead of the judge, addressing them with an even and strong aura, as if he couldn’t be more sure of a thing in his entire life, so confident that you almost believe him yourself. And the crowd in turn is hanging onto his every word with bated breath, as if following a particularly suspenseful play, and on his part, Beomgyu drums it up for them. “Yes, that’s right. The lady testified privately that she was forced to give secret details about the castle to her husband, lord Taehyun, and that he provided his own men to help Ryujin kill my father and brother, in exchange for marrying his younger brother to my precious little sister, Wonyoung. They wanted to get rid of us so they could rule the kingdom in our place.” 

Beomgyu pauses in order for the crowd to digest his wild declarations. You don’t know who has a harder time receiving his claims–the crowd who are hearing these tales of betrayal and treason for the first time, or you who know they are highly embellished. 

You feel a hand wrap around your own and you look to the side to see wonyoung giving you a warning look. You must’ve looked like you’re about to bolt from your seat and say something if her next words are any indication. "If you make a scene, if you say anything right now, you'll be putting his life in jeopardy."

So this is why he did it. He wanted to set not only Ryujin up, but also Taehyun, and he wanted to make you sit there and go along with it because he knew that if he gave you a head’s up, you could’ve thought about it enough and opposed him. But now you can’t even deny it without risking his life. 

He is forcing you to go along with his loathsome plans, the fucking devil. 

“Is it true that my sister went to his castle to take her friend back to the palace? Yes, but that was based on her request.”

Upon your request? You wanted to give your marriage a try! You were making progress with Taehyun before Beomgyu ruined everything! And now he’s standing in front of a crowd, brazenly claiming that it was your own idea and that Taehyun was the one who began this war?

You don’t know if you want to laugh or cry, but you can’t even do either. You have to bottle everything up so that you won’t give him away. He’s so fucking cruel to do this to you. 

“She couldn’t just stand by and let that despicable man who calls himself her husband hurt us. She wanted to save us, and so she sent for us in secret, warning us of their dishonorable schemes and risking her life in the process in order to protect us. But we could have never let her take the fall for us, that is not how we repay loyalty in my family. We had to get her to safety, and so my dear sister so bravely volunteered to go right into the lion’s den and get her herself, and by the grace of the gods, they both returned to me safely. I don’t even want to imagine what he would’ve done to her had we not gotten her out of there in time, and I will not stand here and let this treacherous woman try to twist our friend’s courageous act into something so base and deplorable.” Beomgyu spits out, tugging on the heartstrings of those present with his false heroic tale about you. 

“My good people, you know me and you know the man she is aligning herself with–a man who has long been suspected of murdering his own father. Only someone like him could think of such a diabolical story in which I kill my own family just to steal another man’s wife. Who would do that? I loved my father and brother so much. It would be cheap of me to stand here and try to sell you on my love for them and how much their deaths have devastated me and my dear sister and mother. Only the gods will know how I truly felt when I lost them.”

At this moment, he lets his voice waver strategically, making the crowd swoon over the strong but grieving young king so cruelly and falsely accused of the most heinous, outrageous crimes. 

“Even our poor baby, she lies about–the child that never even saw the light of day, the one beautiful thing that came out of our loveless marriage. She accuses me of deliberately hurting it when it was the gods who saw fit to not have an innocent soul be born into such an ugly circumstance.”

“Don’t you dare stand there and try to deny it when you know you’re the one who killed our baby.” Ryujin growls at him.

And so, Beomgyu and Ryujin go back and forth, each giving their manipulated side of the story to try to sway the masses, but it's clear who the winner is. 

Ryujin’s tale, although almost completely factual, sounds too fantastical to believe. The kind and handsome prince they all knew is secretly a psychopathic murderer who is so obsessed with a woman that he is willing to kill his own family and risk a civil war just so he could have her? It sounded too ridiculous to be true. It was far more likely that a foreign queen and a notoriously cruel lord conspired together to get rid of the royal family and rule in their place. 

“I have heard enough.” The judge speaks up at length, silencing them both. “Do either of you have anyone who could corroborate your claims?” 

“I do, good sir.” 

Beomgyu brings out a few people to testify against his wife, most from his entourage, but a couple, surprisingly, from Ryujin’s own people. Beomgyu must’ve paid them a hefty price for their cooperation… or threatened them with severe punishment if they refused. Probably both. 

They all gave condemning testimony, claiming to have either overhead or had direct conversations with the queen where she discussed her malicious plans. 

Not a single person stood in her defense. 

Still, none of it was shocking–Beomgyu’s money and influence can do the most egregious things–at least until you saw a certain someone take the stand. 

“Identify yourself.” The judge orders the tall man. 

“I am lord Soobin Choi, a member of Queen Ryujin’s guards…” He pauses for a second to look around the room nervously before he takes a shaky breath and continues, “And her secret lover and co-conspirator.” 

It takes some time to quiet the room down after that. 

Lord Soobin confirms all the accusations raised against the queen. He confesses to having had an affair with her and to scheming to murder the king and crown prince, and then blaming it on Beomgyu and getting him executed. 

For the first time during the entirety of the trial, Ryujin seemed actually affected. She must’ve known Beomgyu would pin everything on her, known that he would rig the whole thing against her and call on false witnesses, but you suppose she hadn’t expected her own lover to testify against her. Soobin must’ve gotten a reduced sentence or even a pardon from Beomgyu for his role in this. 

You recall Ryujin calling Soobin spineless, that he’s the type of man who would throw you away in order to preserve himself. She turned out to be right, didn’t she? So why did she look so hurt? She must’ve held more affection for him than even she thought she did after all. 

Can you blame her? She had no one but him, and he’s sending her to the gallows to protect himself. You know what that’s like, trusting in the wrong man.

“There are no good men, darling. Only the lesser of two evils, and Beomgyu is that.”

That’s what she once said to you. At least Beomgyu is willing to put his life in danger in order to keep you safe, in order to give you what you want. Yes, he’s evil but he would burn this kingdom to the ground if it meant he could have you and protect you. 

But will you let him? Will you allow him to kill the one man who gave you a chance at freedom when he didn’t have to just so you can get your happily ever after?

_______________________________________

“You set him up.” You scream at Beomgyu as soon as you’re finally back in your chambers and alone. You haven’t been able to talk to him all day as he’s been busy with the aftermath of the first day of Ryujin’s trial and you’ve been sitting, more or less, alone, stewing in your anger and bitterness, and not allowed to interact with anyone except Wonyoung so you wouldn’t say anything stupid. And even Wonyoung didn’t talk to you much. She just stayed vague and elusive, telling you to wait until you can talk to Beomgyu directly. 

“I did what I had to do.” He says, pulling you back to the time he made that same excuse to justify taking you against your will. He is always saying that when he forces you to do something. He had to. Like he didn’t have any choice in it either, like you and him are in the same boat. 

You scoff resentfully. “You were never planning on letting him stay alive.” 

“Of course not,” He answers reflexively like he was waiting for the moment he could stop pretending, denial nowhere to be found as if you were stupid for believing it could go any other way. Yes, you were stupid. You came back thinking you could stop Taehyun from attacking Beomgyu. You pledged yourself to Beomgyu thinking you could stop him from setting Taehyun up. 

Exactly, stupid. 

“But neither did he. He’s been gathering his army from the moment you left. I warned him so many times to back down but he refused. He is the one who started this war. He’s been telling people that I kidnapped you, that I killed my father and brother to get you. He was never going to give up until one of us is dead.” Beomgyu gestures wildly, getting heated. “The question is, if one of us had to go down, which one would you rather it be?” 

“Neither.” Your reply only irks Beomgyu more. “You can’t do that anymore! You have to make a choice. You can’t just stick your fingers in your ears and act like an oblivious child. It’s either me or him.” 

“I don’t want either of you to get hurt.” You remain stubborn, elevating Beomgyu’s exasperation to new levels. “But one of us will. You realize that right? One of us isn’t going to come out of this alive.”

You tear up at the idea. You love them both and you don’t wish to see either of them get hurt. You’ve been doing everything available to you to prevent that from happening but they seem hellbent on killing each other. 

“You have to choose, and don’t give me that fake sympathy shit. You want what I’m giving you. You want my love and my riches. That’s what you really came back for.” He accuses and you shake your head, crying. “You were fine letting me sacrifice her for you but now that it’s time for you to do the same, that’s it’s your bastard who has to go, now you’re upset, now you pretend that you care?”

"I do care!" You scream, “He doesn’t deserve this.”

Beomgyu doesn’t seem convinced by your answer. “Then why didn’t you speak up in court?” He asks and you freeze, which makes him laugh triumphantly, “Why didn’t you deny it, huh? You could’ve said something. You could’ve thrown out my whole case right then and there but you didn’t. Why didn’t–” 

“To protect you!” You wail, hitting his chest, hot tears gushing down your face. “You knew I would never speak up against you, you bastard. That’s why you did it!” 

Beomgyu allows himself to soften at that. “I wanted to protect you too. He doesn’t only want to kill me. He wants to kill you too.”

“You expect me to believe you after what you just did?” 

“So don’t believe me.” He scoffs, pulling something out of his pocket and brandishing it in the air for you to see. “Believe him.” 

He hands you what appears to be a letter and you shakily take it from his hand. 

It’s from Taehyun. You know it is. Beomgyu must’ve gone back to his old ways and intercepted it. When did this even arrive? Are there more? 

You open the letter with trembling fingers, reading its content with equally trembling eyes. 

Are you having fun being his slut once again? I made something of you. I gave you the chance to be more than just his whore and yet you go falling back into his bed the first night you get back? 

Fuck, you’re such an idiot. 

You’ve been so preoccupied with your obsession with reclaiming Beomgyu’s love that you didn’t realize that Taehyun would have people in the palace monitoring what you’re doing and relaying it back to him. You didn’t think about how terribly he would take it, especially knowing him and his moral code. It’s the ultimate affront against him–lying with another man. That alone could make him go to war. You’re so fucking stupid. 

Even worse, you guiltily realize that you haven’t thought about him much since Beomgyu started paying attention to you again. Beomgyu was occupying your every waking moment, barely leaving you alone, and even when you were asleep, he was right there with his arms around you every single night. He simply didn’t allow any space for you to think about anyone else, and you just let him–craved it even.

God, and to think Taehyun saw how weak you are for Beomgyu.  

I was such a fool to believe in you. My brother tells me you've been fucking him long before his wedding night. If you've been selling him your body all this time, how can you not expect him to treat you like his property? Why did you even drag me into this if you were already his? Why did you lie to me and pretend that it was all forced and that you didn't intentionally sully yourself? Did you think that just because you didn't let him fuck you that that's somehow better, when you let him do everything else to you? No, you must’ve known it's the same, that's why you didn’t tell me. 

His words lash at you, breaking away the dirty skin to expose you for the harlot you are.

You feel so depraved, vile, detestable. You whored yourself out to Beomgyu so you can get the material things you wanted, and yet you unrepentantly hoped you could still manage to land a good, reliable husband who could afford you those same things you coveted. How long would it have taken for Taehyun to find out the truth? Would he have discarded you after finding out you were all used up? 

You’re really only fit to be a whore, only fit to belong to someone as fucked up as Beomgyu. You were just too stubborn to admit it earlier even though everyone else saw you for what you really are.

You talked a big game about wanting more, craving to be in charge of your life, and yet when I gave you that, you just ran back to him. Why? 

Truth is, you didn’t realize what you were asking for when you did this. Taehyun had warned you. Beomgyu had warned you. They all did. They told you that these things aren’t what they seem, but you were too stubborn. Or perhaps you thought too highly of yourself. You sought to distance yourself from the rest of the ladies by convincing yourself that you’re different from them, stronger and more resilient, but the truth is you only did that because they didn’t accept you. 

Was it to protect me? Or was it because you've been lying to yourself all this time? Was your love for me fake? My people tell me that you look happy now. They say you’re glowing again. Again… as if I dimmed your shine. Is that what you really wanted after all? Money? Luxury? An easy life? 

He’s right, isn’t he? Despite your best intentions, in the end you brought him into this mess just to go back to Beomgyu. But you swear you didn’t know that all of this would happen. You really wanted a new life. You thought things could be different if you were away from Beomgyu, that the real version of yourself–the one you saw in your mind–was different from what everyone else saw you as, different from how Beomgyu saw you, and that if you were given space and freedom to grow, you could become that person. You didn’t know that Beomgyu would go this far. You didn’t know that you were a fraud. 

But what good are your excuses now? You brought down Beomgyu’s wrath on him and now he’s stuck. He can’t back down and Beomgyu isn’t going to let him. 

I’m so fucking angry with you. You’re my wife and the fact that you’re letting him use you again when you now rightfully belong to me makes my blood boil. 

Or maybe I just can’t stand the fact that I bore myself to you. I showed you the most vulnerable parts of me that you promised you would embrace, but when you saw them, you turned away. 

Am I that ugly to you, angel, that you would run back to him to get away from me? 

No! You want to tell him. You loved him. You love him. You may have acted selfishly during your goodbye. You may continue to act selfishly now. You may be disgracefully enjoying the perks of Beomgyu’s doting ways and the leisure of palace life, but none of these are the reasons why you left. You left because you really, truly thought it would stop the war. You left to protect him. 

And to protect Beomgyu. 

I want to believe that you have a higher purpose in all of this, otherwise I could not bear to look at myself again. Otherwise I might have to hurt you. 

I wish I never met you, but I’m too intertwined in you to let go now. 

That sentence, more than anything else, is a stab in the gut for you. You cry freely at those words. It’s one thing to be hurt by someone, but to wish you never even met them? The person you promised yourself to in marriage? That requires a level of anguish and hatred that can’t be contained, so much so that you seek to distance yourself from them even in memories, even in reality itself. 

You're my wife. You're mine before gods and men, and I will have you back. You can't just run away each time you feel like you can't deal with the consequences of your actions. 

I'm gathering troops and supporters right now as you might've heard. Or maybe you didn't. He likes to keep you in the dark, doesn't he? Well, I'm coming for you, angel, and you better have a good explanation for what you've done.

The trembling in your hands spreads to your whole body at the clear threat. What will he do with you if he catches you? Who will get the worst fate, you or Beomgyu? 

Well there you go, Kai. You didn’t mess up too badly after all. Taehyun still thinks you left for Beomgyu and yet he still won't back down. If anything, it seems to spur him to retaliate more. 

This has turned into such a mess. 

“Don’t worry, I won’t let him touch a hair on your head.” Beomgyu embraces you and kisses your head lovingly. You jump in his arms. For a moment, you’d forgotten that he was even there. 

“Please.” You sob weakly, barely audible so that Beomgyu has to get close to you so he can hear you. “You have to stop this war, please.”

“I can’t. It's too late now.” He shakes his head, and vows, “But I can protect you and I will. This is for the best anyway. We can’t be together fully until they both die. I want to marry you, baby, just like you wanted. And I can't do that if either of them is alive.” 

So this is why he’s doing it. He wants to get them both out of the way so you and him can get married. 

It’s funny how a year ago you would’ve been over the moon that he’s trying so hard to find a way for you to be together, but now that your wish has come true, you’re filled with nothing but dread for the people who have to die in order for that to happen. The gods really do love their cruel games. 

"I know you’re sad now but when you can finally be my queen, you'll get over it." 

You feel nauseous. Is that what he thinks of you? That you’d gladly let Taehyun die just so you can be the queen? Is it? Is that what you are? 

At your silence, Beomgyu scoffs in disbelief. "You’re still worried for him? After what I just showed you? He wants you dead!"

"Yes." You meet his question with stubbornness yet again. "We fucked him up enough already. We did this to him."

Beomgyu laughs cruelly. "No, princess, you fucked him up. You’re the one who brought him into this mess. And you’re the one who made the poor bastard actually believe you could love him too, from the looks of it." 

"I do love him." You insist in a small voice and Beomgyu crowds you, furious that you would dare say that in front of his face. "You don’t. And you're not his either. He is right about one thing though. You should have never involved him in our business. Now look at the mess you made." He holds your face, not letting you look away from the truth. "Angel? He got you all wrong, baby. You’re no angel. That was my mistake once, and now it will be his death."

You try to shake your head. No, you’re not like that. You’re not a monster. You care about Taehyun. You do!

But Beomgyu holds your face in place, his fingers digging into your cheek painfully. “Stop denying it. I know you don’t really care about him.” 

“I do." You growl. "I love him!"

Beomgyu attacks your lips with his own. It would be wrong to call it a kiss–a kiss isn’t this angry or possessive or vengeful. It’s so overwhelming that you can do nothing but let him take what he wants, grabbing your chin and opening your mouth up to push his tongue inside. 

God, you hate him so much. He did this just to force you to choose. He revealed his betrayal in the trial just to force you to sit there and take it. He’s playing on your feelings and your love for him to manipulate you into giving him what he wants. He’s diabolical and he’s not going to stop until he accomplishes all his sordid plans. 

You have to do something or you’ll really be just as terrible as he is. You have to stop him somehow, and you may just have one trick up your sleeve that you had prepared exactly for a moment like this. 

“Good girl. Don’t think too hard. Just sit back and let me give you what you really want.” Beomgyu pushes you towards the bed and you know what he wants. Your menses has come and gone already. He wants to fuck you and, prior to today, that's all you wanted to do as well but now you just want to make him hurt. 

You gather your strength and turn the both of you around, pushing him onto the bed instead. But Beomgyu doesn’t think anything of it, grinning up at you. “Oh, you want to take control? I have to admit, I missed it.” He babbles excitedly as you straddle him. "Going to fuck me, baby? Going to finally take what's yours?"

You slap him, shocking him into silence. 

“Shut the fuck up, Beomgyu. I fucking hate you so much.” You wrap your hand around his neck tightly, making it hard for him to breathe but he doesn’t fight you off, he just lays still and grins up at you.

“I love you.” He utters gleefully, bucking his hips up against you, making you feel his erection. 

“You’re fucking sick.” You spit at him.  

“If I am sick then you must be too for wanting me.” 

That’s just what Taehyun said. You’re not comfortable with how aware Beomgyu is of how much you love him and how far you’ll let him go. Maybe if he thought he could actually face any lasting consequences for his actions, he may rethink them. But what have you done to oppose him that he wasn’t able to eventually turn around? Time and time again you fall right into his arms in the end, and everything just goes his way as always. 

Angry and feeling helpless, you slap him across the face again but, vexingly, he doesn’t lose a single inch of his grin. 

“You’re making me so hard, baby.”

"You like getting beaten up?" You mutter in disgust as if his eager reactions aren’t making you soaking wet. You really are the perfect pair–sick and rotten to the core. 

"I like anything you do to me." 

There it was again, that blind and stupid devotion, that need that you crave. But it doesn’t mean that you can't dwell on it while still punishing him. 

You remove your grip from around his neck and lean down to kiss the sensitive skin there instead. He cranes his head back to give you more space. "What do you want?" You purr to him between your kisses. 

"Want you to--ahh–" Beomgyu starts but moans out when you bite his neck. "No biting, baby. If I appear in court with marks it's going to look really bad for us."

"Yeah? Afraid they're going to know that you really killed your family and set up your wife just for my pussy?" 

"Yes, princess." He admits with not an ounce of guilt in his voice, and bucks harder against you. 

You move onto his legs so you can free his cock, wrapping your hand around it and delighting in how he melts into your touch after months of him pulling away.

"Fuck yeah." He grunts excitedly, his pupils dilated as he focuses on your every movement. 

This is the Beomgyu you know, horny and shameless. You have no idea how he managed to hold back for so long. He must’ve really resented the idea that you could be carrying Taehyun's baby to the point that he went against his nature and needs for three whole months even as you writhed and begged under his hands. 

Well, you'll take full advantage of his unleashed eagerness. 

You bend forward, letting a trial of your spit drool from your mouth down to his cock, and watch as his mouth hangs open in a silent gasp when it touches his dick. He can’t help but thrust up into your lubricated fist when you use the saliva to jerk him off, his thigh moving between your legs in the process and rubbing against your pussy. 

“That feels good, puppy?” You moan, opening your legs wide so you can better grind on him. 

“Y-yeah.. Been holding off for too long.” He laments, eyebrows furrowed as he focuses on your delicate hand fisting his big, hard cock. 

“Was it hard, baby?” You drawl suggestively, rocking your pussy over his thigh as your hand pumps up and down his cock. 

“So hard…” Fuck he looks so pathetic, it’s making you practically leak through your clothes and onto him. 

He’s so dumb, he doesn’t even realize that something is off, too focused on his dick and the fact that you’re finally touching it. And to think that he’s the one who did this to himself when you’ve been throwing yourself at him for months. 

“Poor puppy.” You pout, purposefully pulling your hand up to your mouth, directing his attention to it. He watches, slack jawed, as you slowly lick a wide stripe along the palm of it before putting it back on his cock and twisting it over the head. 

"Tell me what do you want?" You prompt and he answers mindlessly, still staring at your wet lips. "Want you to suck me off." 

"Oh, that's right. I never sucked you off, huh, puppy?” You coo sympathetically, lulling him into a false sense of security as if you weren’t baiting him for exactly this. “You know who I blew all the time though? Taehyun." You taunt him and his smug look finally falls. His eyes flash dangerously but you don’t back down. "You used to beg me to do it so much and I never did, but I was the one begging him to make me swallow his cock." 

"Shut up." He warns darkly. 

"I did it so many times, I can still taste his cock at the back of my th–"

Beomgyu jolts up and grabs you by the jaw. "Shut. Up."

"What are you going to do, Beomgyu? Rape me again?" 

He immediately takes his hand off. "No. I would never–"

"Would never take me against my will? Because you've never done it before, right? Never betrayed me? Never lied to me? Never hurt me?" You scoff and push him back down. 

"I deserve that. I hurt you and I deserve to be hurt." He whimpers, struggling to gather his words as you seat yourself over his cock. "But I don't want to hurt you anymore. I just want the world to let us be together. Don't you want that too?" 

You ignore him, your jaw set as you start grinding your pussy over his cock, and continue to rile him up. "He tasted so good, you know?" 

Tears build up in his eyes as he's forced to lie down and listen to what you’re saying. 

"Your little princess let him use my mouth like a pussy, fucking my face until he came and made me swallow." You hum salaciously, teasingly humping his cock. And the most fucked up thing is that neither one of you is losing your arousal.

"I know you're lying." He challenges your claims, but his voice wavers and you can see the way his eyes glisten with unshed tears. 

Yes, you're embellishing a lot just to hurt him more, but that doesn’t matter. He deserves it.

"This is why you're doing this, isn't it? You can't stand the fact that he touched what's yours and so you want to remove him from existence.” You confront him, “Well, you can kill him but you'll never erase what I let him do to me."

“Stop it, please.” He whines as if he’s the victim here, as if he’s helpless in all of this, as if he didn’t plan this whole thing meticulously. It pisses you off. "Why are you saying these awful things? What do you want?"

“I want to see him.” 

His eyes storm over but he remains in place. "Never."

"Let me see him and I'll let you have me exactly the way you want."

He shakes his head firmly. "I'll let you see his severed head when I bring it home to you."

You slap him again, his face now red from the hits, and the first trail of tears breaks free from his lashes. 

You grab his cock and use the head of it to rub your clit, making him let out little stuttered gasps. “You like this, don’t you, you little pervert? Like watching me use you to get off?”

Sliding his cock along your slit, you dip the head of it into your hole slightly every once in a while, making him lose his mind. His hips tremble but he doesn’t dare push up. “Please.” 

“Take me to him and I’ll let you fuck me. I won’t say no to you again.” 

His hands slide up your thighs to your hips. “That's what you said before.”

“You lied to me before. You hurt him again.” 

“And I’ll hurt him again and again, what’s different this time?” 

“This time I know that you’re a liar.” You sneer, “I just want to see him one more time. One more time and I’ll be completely yours.” 

He pauses in contemplation, then says, “There is something you’re not telling me. Why do you really want to see him?” 

You snort, trying to hide how sweaty and nervous you are right now. “Just like you always are? You don’t need to trust me, you just need to do it, and you’ll get everything you want. I’ll let you do anything to me.” You take the head of his cock inside your pussy, almost making him go cross-eyed, before taking it out. 

“Will you let me put a baby in you?” He sucks in a sharp breath. 

“Whatever you want.” 

“Will you testify against him in front of everyone?” 

You freeze. 

He doesn’t need you to testify against Taehyun for Ryujin to be convicted. He just wants to make Taehyun look worse in front of the public, and most importantly, he wants Taehyun to turn on you completely so you can’t possibly ever go back to him. 

It doesn't matter, with what you have in mind, you won’t be able to anyway. For once in your life you need to not be selfish. 

“I will.” You grit out. “Just let me see him.” 

You can still see the hesitation on his face but the prospect of what he has to gain if he follows along seems too great for him to refuse. “Fine.” 

You don’t let him think about it long. “Good boy.” You praise. “I love you so much.” 

The words flow from your mouth and seep into his body like a drug, making his muscles relax and his eyelids flutter down. “I love you too.” 

“Don’t cum, okay?” You tell him, moving over his dick once again. You should at least get your relief. You deserve it.

"But I need it." He groans, his hands moving up your body to grab at your tits. You arch into his touch, reaching a hand behind you to grab his balls. "You do, don't you? You’re so full. You must be dying to empty yourself inside me." 

He nods pathetically, playing with your tits as he buck up into you hard. "Please, please. Just put it in."

“No. You had many chances to fuck me, made me fucking beg you to do it and still you refused.” You growl at the whimpering man. 

“You were being punished.”

“And now so are you. You know, I still can’t believe you actually pulled it off. Knowing you, I expected you to break just a week in. Who knew a sick pervert like you could actually hold himself back.” You demean him. “Tell me, were you getting your rocks off somewhere else?”

His eyes widen and he shakes his head harshly at your implication. “No!” 

“Why not? It’s not like you never did it before.” You spit out in jealousy, referring to him sleeping with Ryujin.

His jaw tightens. “Did you expect me to just content myself with humping your pillows while you’re out there getting fucked by him?”

His tone was dark and husky, defensive and angry, but you disregard it completely, choosing to focus on what he unintentionally revealed. “Humping my pillows? Is that something you used to do?” 

His cheeks bloom with a vivid red, only realizing what he’d said when you called him out on it. 

You laugh cruelly. “Fuck, you really used to hump my pillows, didn’t you, you little pervert.”

“I couldn’t help it!” He groans, looking away. “You just made me so needy. I would get hard just by being near you, just by smelling your hair or feeling you touch my hand… you drove me wild with just an innocent look so I-I…” 

“You what?” You press again, wanting to hear him say it, and he squeezes his eyes shut even if he wasn’t looking at you. 

"I… I would sometimes take one of your dresses, lay it on a pillow and grind against it imagining I was fucking you until I came."

“Is that why my dresses used to go missing all the time, only to show up mysteriously later with weird stains on them?” You gasp and Beomgyu winces. "You used them to get off? That’s disgusting.”

"As if you didn’t play with your pussy thinking of me.” He shoots back defiantly and you slap him. 

“Why am I even surprised anymore? You've always violated me and my trust. I thought you were just protecting me when in reality you were lusting after me like a dog. Of course you couldn't trust anyone when you knew there were men out there like you." You scoff, indignation and arousal fighting to take the reins, and you grab his hands and put them on your ass. “Come on then, grind against me like you loved to do so much, you disgusting horny mutt.”

He whimpers but obeys, eagerly humping you. 

"Pathetic." You sneer, trying not to let your eyes roll to the back of your skull as his cock keeps rubbing against your clit. 

He's so pretty like this, completely debasing himself just for you. He's not hiding even his most twisted desires from you and he eagerly seeks to hear yours. It's safe letting the ugly side of you out in front of him. He'll lap it up and beg for more. 

God, you want him more than anything in this world. You want his love and his sickness. No one could make you feel as wanted as he does, and you covet that despite how destructive it is. This is why you must do something before he has you spiraling out of control. 

"Open your mouth, tongue out." You demand and he does, looking entirely too obscene. If someone would walk in on you now, they’d be shocked to see the way the king is acting for you. He’ll do anything for you. You’re struck by how powerful it makes you feel, more powerful than you ever felt with Taehyun. It's enthralling, exhilarating, addictive. 

You spit in his mouth. "Swallow."

He does without question, his eyes darkening even more and growing more hazy, and you sneer down at him cruelly. “You’re just a dumb dog, aren’t you?” 

“I’m whatever you want me to be, princess.” He proclaims earnestly. “Please, I’m so close.”

"Don't you dare cum." You warn him. "You haven't earned it yet." 

"I'm trying to. Please, I'm trying so hard." He cries, his movements growing desperate as his hips snap under you. You look down to see his dick gliding easy between your slick lips, the top part of it red and leaking. 

You dig your fingers into his shoulder and arch your back as you look back up at him. You’re so fucking close. “Don’t fucking cum, Beomgyu.” 

"Please, pl-ah-ease!" He whines deliriously, tears clinging to his pretty lashes once again. 

"No." You snarl one last time before the pleasure explodes to your entire body, making you gasp as you tremble over him, your pussy drenching his cock that still tries to rut against you. 

He whines as you peel his hands off you and pull away from his twitching cock.

"Please… please." He hiccups pathetically but you don't soften, grabbing his cock and stuffing it back in his pants, wet and still painfully hard. 

“No, please fuck me.” He begs breathlessly. 

You shake your head. “When you keep your promise. I'll let you fuck me to your heart's content once you give me what I want.” 

He sobs but doesn't make any move to disobey you, only wrapping his arms around you and clinging to you when you lay down next to him. 

“I love you.” He says helplessly, looking at you like you hold his life in your hand. "I'll do anything for you, you know that, right?"

"I know, darling." 

I know you’ll do anything to have me. I know you’ll do anything except let me go. 

_______________________

The meeting is set up at the mansion of Lord Seojun, a well-respected and trusted lord who currently isn’t partial to neither Beomgyu nor Taehyun. His estate is the perfect neutral zone to have this meeting. 

The way there was tense. Beomgyu kept trying to coax the real reason you want to meet Taehyun out of you or trying to discourage you from going on with the meeting all-together, telling you it isn’t too late to get back to the safety of the castle. 

It stressed you out. You were already nervous enough about facing your estranged husband following the harsh letter he sent you and the accusations swirling around. You didn’t need pressure from Beomgyu too–who, as you got closer and closer to the meeting place, inched closer and closer towards you in the carriage until he had you practically seated on his lap. 

You let him do what he wants, there was no one else inside with you and it seemed to calm his fidgeting slightly. But when his hands started wandering and his mouth began laying kisses and bites on your neck, you had to get off him. 

“No, Beomgyu.” You refuse him sternly. You appearing at the meeting place disheveled and covering in love bites will just make things ten times worse, whether from Taehyun who won’t take kindly to his wife showing up covered in the evidence of her lover, or lord Seojun who might just change his stance upon taking a look at you like that. “Calm down.”

“You didn’t tell him no when you let him fuck your mouth.” He bites at you and you know he’s been pissed about it ever since you’ve told him. “I want it too. I want you to go into that meeting with the taste of my cock on your tongue. Only then will I calm the fuck down.” 

You scoff at him. Men and their fragile egos. 

You weigh your options. It’s your reflexive reaction to deny him. This is neither the time nor the place for this. You should be focused on what you’re going to say to Taehyun and how you’re going to say it to him without Beomgyu listening in. But in order to do that, you have to make Beomgyu feel more at ease, like there is nothing for him to worry about. If you give him what he wants and make him feel less jealous, it would lessen the chance of him doing something stupid when he sees Taehyun. 

Reluctantly, you get on your knees and he eagerly spreads his legs for you to sit between them. You pause when your hands are on his pants. “You’ll behave once we get there?” 

“Yes.” He answers breathlessly but it doesn’t even look like he heard what you said, too focused on your hands that unfasten his pants and pull out his cock. 

You open your mouth, your tongue prodding out to lick the head of his cock meekly. He’s bigger than Taehyun, and you don’t know how you’re going to take him in. Besides, the way he was sitting above you, emanating power, his face clearly showing how much he wants to eat you up, was intimidating. 

But Beomgyu doesn’t appreciate your hesitance, and he grabs you by the hair. “Don’t tease.” 

He is not going to be kind about this. He must’ve been stewing in rage ever since you provoked him about sucking Taehyun’s dick. 

You stare up at him demurely as you open your mouth, allowing him to slip his length inside. You do your best to suck on him but the problem soon becomes clear once he pushes your head down and his dick hits the back of your throat, making you gag and pull away. 

He looks at you in confusion. "I thought you said he trained your mouth." 

You scowl at him. “He didn’t train me. Unlike you, he didn’t treat me like a whore.” 

“No? His letter seemed to say otherwise.” Beomgyu cocks his head to the side, clearly goading you. “Besides, I want to make you a queen. You’re the one who wants to remain a whore.”

God, you want to slap him again, but you don’t. He’s just trying to get back at you because he’s jealous. You can shut him up another way more effectively and without sabotaging your mission. Leaning forward, you take his cock in your mouth again, taking in bit by bit and doing your best not to overwhelm yourself. 

You try to wrap your hands around the parts you can’t take but Beomgyu grabs them and holds them in the air above your head. "No. Just your mouth." 

You make a sound of annoyance but that only makes Beomgyu shiver in pleasure and buck his hips up, enjoying the way the vibrations felt on his cock. “Take more. Wanna see my cock stuffed all the way down your pretty throat.” 

How the hell you’re going to do that you don’t know, but you’re eager to not just shut him up, but to also have him turn into the needy, pathetic version of himself you so adore, and so you take in more and more of his length, bopping your head down until you feel him again at the back of your throat. This time you’re prepared for it, however, and you manage to shove in more than the last time. You even start to think that you might actually succeed in taking him but then his hips abruptly buck up and you gag once more. 

You pull away, coughing and trying to clear your throat. 

“What is it, baby? Can’t take me?” Beomgyu asks with faux sympathy, keeping your wrists locked in one hand while using the other to stroke your hair. "Either you were lying about blowing him or he just wasn't big enough."

“Don’t be crude, Beomgyu.” You glare at him and he grins widely. “So I am bigger than him, huh?” 

You try to get up but he uses his hold on you to keep you down. “No. Stay down.” He growls, pushing you back on your ass. He sighs and runs his thumb over your already inflamed lips. “I’ll teach you how to take my cock. It’s something I’ve always wanted to do anyway.”

“Was that another one of your perverted fantasies?” You snark, but it doesn’t work because Beomgyu isn’t the least bit ashamed about it, and he turns it on you. “Of course, princess, always knew you’d look prettiest with your lips wrapped around my cock.” 

You try to fight off your blush but you can still feel the heat creeping up on your cheek. Beomgyu coos and taps your lips with his cock. “Come on, open up.” 

You give him a small pout but relent, allowing him to push the first part of his dick inside. He’s much softer now that you’ve unintentionally stroked his ego. 

“That’s good. You’re doing good.” He encourages you, pupils dilated at the salacious sight in front of him. “Why don’t you move your tongue a little bit, yeah? Swirl it around the head like it's one of those candies you like to suck on so much…yeah like that, you little tease.” He moans out, making you blush even more. 

Is that another way you had unintentionally riled him up? Fuck, is that why he would always bring you those exotice sweets from faraway lands and handfeed them to you? That nasty pervert. 

“Now take a little bit more. Open wide and push your tongue down so my cock can fit in your little mouth. Good princess.” He praises you, forcing more of his cock inside until it reaches your throat. “Now try to relax your throat, don’t fight it–no, don’t pull back. You can do it.  It’s okay, princess.”

He doesn’t push you too much but he doesn’t let you pull back either, keeping one hand at the back of your head and letting his cock breach your throat before pulling it out and pushing in again, getting you used to the sensation. 

“Fuck, you’re doing so good for me. You’re my perfect princess.” He grunts, wrapping the loose ends of your hair that is starting to unravel around his fist in order to better control your movements. “Now take in a little bit more–it’s okay, baby. You can do it.” 

You start whining when the sensation becomes uncomfortable again and you feel yourself gagging around him, but he doesn’t let you go, keeping your head on his cock and forcing you to become acquainted with the uncomfortable feeling. "Stay. I was so good to you these past few months, eating you out and fingering you till you screamed. It's time you return the favor. Make your king feel good, my little brat." 

Only when your hands come up to grab at his thighs does he finally let you go. 

You sputter and cough, trying to clear your throat before you shoot him a glare. “You were choking me.” 

“That’s just how you do it properly, princess.” He explains innocently, and you almost believe his good intentions if not for what he says next. “Besides, didn’t you say you’re used to choking on his cock. Or were you lying just to make me jealous?” 

You don’t give him an answer and he scoffs. “Such a brat.” 

He pulls your head back to his cock and pushes in more easily this time, quickly going back to where he was. “Breathe through your nose. Don’t try to fight it.” He instructs firmly, “Open your mouth wider, princess, and relax your throat.” 

He presses your head down more, and your throat burns as it’s forced to take in his thick length. 

“Good girl.” Beomgyu groans, voice starting to get tight. “You’re making me feel so good.” 

He moves you up and down on his length and you do your best to breathe through your nose and fight back the gagging, but it seems like the less you gag, the more he pushes forward. He would make you take more of him until your throat is fluttering around his cock, then he’d pause with his cock buried there as you gag around him. “Baby, you don’t know how amazing this feels. It’s better than I even imagined it would be.” 

You whine in embarrassment as the coughing and gagging has you unintentionally slobbering around him, making a mess that dribbles down your chin and onto his pants, but when he lets you off his dick and you go to wipe your chin off, he stops you. “Don’t. I like seeing you like this, love knowing I’m the one to ruin my perfect princess.” He purrs, pulling your head closer to his cock again all too soon, prompting you to keep going. 

He bops your head up and down, moving you to his own pace, and you try to put every bit of advice he gave you to good use so you wouldn’t choke. Soon, even more spit and precum dribble out of your mouth, making an absolute mess of you and him, but Beomgyu just loves it. 

"Look at me, princess." He whines and you blink the tears away to try to focus on him but it doesn’t matter. He just wants your eyes on him while he fucks your face. 

"Going to cum. Keep it in your mouth." He orders, pulling his dick out until your lips are wrapped around the tip only, and he uses his hand to jerk himself off. His cock twitches and you feel his hot seed sputtering in your mouth, urging you to swallow but you obediently keep it there. 

Once he's done, he pulls his cock the rest of the way out. "Stick your tongue out. Show me."

You do, and he watches in rapture as some of his seed drips from your tongue onto the carriage floor. He will never get tired of seeing his cum in or on you, will he? 

When you see his spent cock twitch, you quickly pull your tongue back inside and swallow, not wanting him to get hard again, snapping Beomgyu out of his trance. 

"Why did you do that?" He asks irritably, clearly upset at you for interrupting his view. 

You roll your eyes, getting up. "I'm not going to get you off again." 

You clean the both of you up as much as you can before putting your hair together in what you hope resembles a proper enough hairdo. 

You keep him at bay the rest of the way there and before you finally exit the carriage, you turn to him, “For god’s sake Beomgyu, please behave in front of everyone.” 

Beomgyu’s scowl tells you that he doesn’t exactly appreciate your demand, but before he can say anything, you’re getting out of the carriage. 

______________________________

Every step you take towards the main hall, where you’re informed Taehyun and lord Seojun are already waiting for you, feels like walking towards your own doom, and maybe it is. Beomgyu’s words start playing between your ears, getting louder and louder with every step. 

It’s not too late to turn back. Let’s just go home and forget all about this, hide beneath the covers and stay safe in each other’s arms. You don’t need to do whatever it is you think you need to do. I’ll–

Before you know it, you’re standing in front of the heavy, ornate doors. 

Beomgyu says something to you, but you can’t really hear him because of the ringing in your ears. So you look at him, seeing the pleading expression on his face and how his hand is reaching out towards you. 

You don’t need to do this. 

But before you can reach out to take his hand, the doors open and you snap your head around to look inside, your frightened eyes somehow managing to find Taehyun’s own mismatched ones as if his one black eye was a magnet.  

You stand rooted in place, breath caught in your lungs and heart skipping a few beats.

Taehyun’s expression doesn’t give away much, leaving you to imagine the worst. From his letter you know he’s feeling angry, betrayed, vengeful. He probably wants nothing but to have you shackled up and shipped back to his castle to answer for what you did to him. 

“My king.” You hear someone call out. It’s probably lord Seojun, but you don’t dare tear your eyes away from Taehyun’s to confirm. 

It’s only when you feel someone’s hand on your lower back, immediately shifting Taehyun’s gaze from yours down to the person who dared touch you, can you break the spell and finally look away from him, turning your attention to the same person who touched you. 

“We can still leave.” Beomgyu whispers to you and you shake your head. “Why are you being stubborn? Look at you. You’re trembling, baby.”

He moves to take you in his arms but you quickly step away, throwing a nervous glance at Taehyun who seemed to be emanating a cold fury at what he’s witnessing. Yes, he was perfectly aware of what was happening back at the palace, but to have to stand here and see it for himself is probably too much to take, and you don’t want to enrage him any further. You want this meeting to go as quickly and with as little bloodshed as possible. 

“Don’t, Beomgyu, please. Let me just get this over with.” 

“Are you done?” Taehyun growls out, and you can feel the heat of his rage from all the way over here. “Or did you call this meeting just to make me watch this nauseating scene?” 

“Believe me, I don’t want to see your ugly face as much as you don’t want to see me. I’m only doing this for her. I would have been perfectly fine only seeing you when they dragged your dead body before me after your defeat.” Beomgyu speaks arrogantly and Taehyun laughs. “You think you can beat me? You? The frail Choi son who couldn’t once best his older brother except when he cravenly slit his throat while he slept?” 

Beomgyu’s haughty smile falls and his muscles lock up as he prepares to lunge at Taehyun but you quickly hold him back. “Stop it, Beomgyu! Both of you, stop it!” 

Taehyun regards you callously, his one good eye just as cold as his false one. “You may boss that maniac around but you do not give me orders, woman.”

Woman? He’s speaking to you as if you were a stranger, as if you mean nothing to him. You suppose it’s better than what he probably would rather call you, what everyone else calls you. 

“Don’t talk to her that way.” Beomgyu snarls but you hold onto him tightly.  

“Beomgyu, stay. Let me talk to him alone.” You whisper to him but he shakes his head. “No.” 

You lean closer to him so only he can hear you. “Come on, Beomgyu, we had a deal. Anything you want after, just let me talk to him.” 

He throws a hateful look towards Taehyun, obviously not happy with what’s happening, before he looks back at you and pulls you into a sudden kiss. Your hands shoot up to his chest, trying to push him away but his own hands hold onto you, one grabbing the back of your head and the other squeezing your ass. 

“My lord, this is not proper.” Lord Seojun’s reprimand makes you flush with humiliation, reminding you that you have more than one witness to Beomgyu’s mortifying display of ownership over you. 

“I can still taste my cock on your tongue, princess.” Beomgyu says loudly enough for Taehyun to hear before finally letting you pull away, ignoring your incensed look in favor of smirking at Taehyun. You follow his gaze to find that Taehyun looks to be seconds away from exploding. 

For Beomgyu, it was not enough to have you back, to have you promise to give yourself to him completely. No, he wants Taehyun to see how he has desecrated you. He wants him to know that your ruins belong completely to him. 

“Fucking stay here.” You grit out at Beomgyu, your outrage giving you the strength you need to make your way towards Taehyun without trembling anymore. 

“Is this what you left me for? Just to go back to being treated like a piece of meat?” Taehyun denounces in disgust once you’re standing in front of him. 

“It’s not like that–”

“Is it not?” He snaps, cutting you off. 

“No, it’s not. She’s going to be my queen.” Beomgyu interjects and you whirl your head back to yell at him. “Shut up, Beomgyu.” You hiss, throwing a pointed glance at Lord Seojun, goosebumps rising at the back of your neck as Taehyun laughs. 

“Yeah, that is why you’ve set up your wife and are now trying to kill me, isn’t it?” 

Beomgyu attempts to open his mouth again to argue but you send him a withering glare that finally shuts him up. 

“This is not the time for your bickering. We’re here for a reason.”

“And what is that reason?” Taehyun asks you hatefully. 

You grind your teeth and curl your hands into fists, trying to muster up more strength so you wouldn’t crumble in front of him. “I have something to tell you. Hear me out then you won’t have to see my face again.” 

“It’s not about what you or I want. It’s about what should be done and that is that you should come back with me.” 

You sigh. Typical Taehyun. “Just hear me out, okay?”

He bites his tongue and thankfully goes quiet, allowing you to lean close to him to whisper something in his ear. 

“What are you doing?” You hear Beomgyu yell but luckily what you have to tell Taehyun doesn’t take long and soon enough you’re pulling away. 

Taehyun has a shocked look on his face. He clearly wasn’t expecting what you just said.

“Do with that as you may.” You say defeatedly. 

“Why are you telling me this?” He narrows his eyes, shock and disbelief still prominent in his expression and you shrug weakly. 

“You’re right about what you said to me in your letter. I should have never involved you in any of this. He is my curse to bear and I was selfish for sharing him with the world.” You whisper to him quietly, simply. You can’t elaborate much further, not with Beomgyu and lord Seojun there. 

Taehyun’s expression softens ever so slightly, and you know he’s about to say something stupid. “I didn’t–”

“Yes, you did.” You shut him down, laughing painfully. “So don’t you dare go soft on me now.” 

But Taehyun can’t share your light-heartedness, no matter how fake it is. "You don’t have to go down with him. Come back with me." 

“To what end? So you can imprison or kill me for my infidelity?” You ask tiredly. He’s not making any sense. You guess you can’t blame him. He’s properly still reeling from what you revealed to him. 

Taehyun’s jaw clenches and he looks away, not giving you an answer. You didn't expect one anyway.  He's just being emotional.

It’s a funny thing to use to describe the cold lord but it is what it is. He doesn’t know what he’s asking. It would do neither of you any good to go back with him, least of all him. His court would never respect him again if he takes back a woman they all know is being accused of sleeping with another man while married to him. 

He won’t look at you the same. He barely even showed you any tendril of affection when you were together. You can’t imagine how distant and suspicious he’d be now, even if he miraculously decided to forgive you. 

There is no going back for either of you. 

You shake your head and look back at Beomgyu wistfully. He’s the only person in this world who will take you as you are, rotten and selfish and unworthy as you are. The only one who would look into your putrid soul and not flinch. “I am his, now and always.” 

You move to back away but Taehyun reaches his hand out to grab your wrist, and suddenly chaos breaks out. 

Beomgyu, seeing him grab you, launches at him. Taehyun prepares to take him, but before they could clash, you intervene, stepping in line of Beomgyu’s punch, making him lose his footing as he swerves to avoid you. You use the way he becomes unsteady on his feet to push him down to the floor face first, quickly straddling him and pulling his arm behind his back. 

“Let me go.” He shouts, thrashing around, and you’re forced to twist his arm painfully to get him to stop. Out of the corner of your eye, you see Taehyun inching closer.

“Stay back!” You yell at him, and he freezes in place. You think you can almost see a hint of pride in his surprised expression, but you don’t look at him long enough to confirm, quickly turning your attention back to the still-struggling Beomgyu. 

“Stop it, Beomgyu!” You plead with him. “Let’s just go home, please. I want to go home.” 

“Fine, let me go then.” Beomgyu growls back but you don’t do it yet. “Are you going to attack him if I let you go?” 

He goes quiet and you sigh, leaning down to whisper in his ear, “Don’t be stupid, baby. I’m all yours now. I promise. All yours.” 

That seems to calm him down a bit so you continue. “I miss you, baby. Don’t you miss me too?” 

“Yes.” He breathes out, starting to relax.   

“Okay, I’m going to let you go now and we’re going to get out of here and go back home. I’m going to do what you want and we’re going to be together. Okay, baby?” You plead, and he nods, right cheek rubbing against the floor. “Okay.” 

You finally let him go and he keeps his word, getting up and dusting off his clothes. “Come on.” He grabs your hand, throwing one last dirty glance at Taehyun before he drags you behind him towards the door. 

“Wait!” Taehyun shouts and you look back to see lord Seojun holding him back and shaking his head. “Let them go, son.” 

____________________

When you get back to the palace, you’re surprised to see that Beomgyu takes you to the throne room instead of back to your chambers. 

He orders the guards to not let anyone in and only lets go of you once you’re at the foot of the stairs leading up to the throne itself. You stand back and watch as he goes up to take his seat there. 

You know what he wants even without the hungry look on his face. "Come closer." 

You obey. He has given you what you wanted, now it’s time to give him what he wants, what you both want. You’ve done your part. All you can do now is sit back and hope for the best. You can never go back anyway. It’s time to give in, to stop fighting. 

"Get on your knees." He rasps once you’re standing in front of him. You kneel down and watch as he undoes his pants and takes out his cock that has been hard the whole ride back home, placing it against your cheek. “This is where a whore belongs, love.”

He bites down on his lip as he smears precum over your face and you stay still, letting him get his anger out. When he’s satisfied with having messed you up, he presses the head of his dick against your lips. "Open up." 

You take him in without a fight but he still grabs the back of your head and pushes it down his cock roughly. He wasn’t going to be gentle this time. He’s angry and you’ve stretched his patience thin. You’re honestly surprised he hasn’t gone completely off the rails yet. 

You try to heed everything he’s taught you last time–open your mouth wide, stick your tongue out to give his cock more space and to stimulate the sensitive underside, breathe through your nose, don’t fight it…

You do your best but there is no helping the way your throat contracts around his length or the hot tears that sting your eyes as he fucks your face ruthlessly. You really try your best, but soon you can’t breathe and you start getting light headed. 

You raise your hands to his thighs and peer up at him in a silent plea to let you breathe.

“Take it, you little slut.” He grunts, and you whine around his length and dig your nails into his thighs. “God, it drives me crazy when you whine. Makes me want to put my dumb brat in her place.” 

You whine even more–whether to please him or as an involuntary reaction to practically choking on his cock, you don’t know. But despite your dimming vision and your lungs screaming at you, there is not a tinge of fear inside you. You know Beomgyu will not let you pass out. 

And you’re right because a moment later, he pulls you off his length and gives you a moment to heave in some breaths. 

“My pretty slut.” He coos, tugging on your hair so you’re looking up at him, and brushes his thumb over your swollen lips. “Did you let him see you like this?” 

You shake your head as much as you can while he still holds you by the head. 

“No?” He cocks his head to the side. “He wasn’t so mean?” 

You shake your head again. 

“Then he’s a fool. My little princess needs some disciplining every once in a while, doesn’t she?” He asks mockingly, and when you don’t respond, he moves your head forcefully as if you were nodding.  

He lets go of your face and guides his cock to your mouth again. “Come on, show me how much you regret being a slut and letting another man fuck your whore mouth.” 

He was being so mean and unfair. It’s not like you went out and fucked random men. Taehyun is your husband. But that didn’t matter to Beomgyu. In his mind, you are his, and you being with any other man is a clear betrayal on your part. 

You suppose you’re no different though. 

It still isn’t any easier to take his cock–your throat still burns as it’s forced open by his rough thrusts, you still gag and drool around him, air still hardly reaches your lungs. And in a way, Beomgyu enjoys that immensely. He’s letting out all kinds of moans, gasps, curses, and sharp praise as he bucks his hips into your pliant mouth. 

You can hardly believe it when your nose hits his belly. But it’s too much. You really can’t breathe now. But he keeps your head down, his cock firmly stuffed down your throat. 

He wraps his hand around your neck, feeling his cock inside, and murmurs to you. "Look at me." 

You do, eyes watery and face a mess of tears and saliva. You’re not the one being touched but you swear you could cum just from the look on his face. You’re on your knees, with tears and drool dripping from your face, but somehow you don’t feel weak or powerless, not when he looks this fucked out above you–lids fluttering over his bleary eyes and mouth open in heavy pants as if he’s the one who can’t breathe. He looks entirely gone and you love it. 

“Fuck, I’m going to cum.” He quickly pulls you off and wraps a hand around the base of his cock tightly, squeezing his eyes shut and trying to staunch off his orgasm. 

You both take some time to catch your breath. You stay quiet, wiping your face with your sleeve as you watch him calm down a bit. You think he can’t look at you because if he does, he might just cum on the spot. You smile thinking about it. You’ll have to mess with him later. 

When he finally opens his eyes, he beckons for you to stand up. He turns you around then places you on his lap with your legs folded on either side of him. 

“Now this is where a queen belongs.” He murmurs, still a little breathless as he kisses your neck and his large hands come up to palm your breasts through your clothes. “You wanted a rich and powerful man, right? Well, who is more rich or powerful than I am?”

With you facing the door like this, you’re suddenly aware that someone could walk in at any moment–even though you know they wouldn’t dare–and you express your concern to Beomgyu.

"I don't care. Let them see who I really belong to." He says caressly. Once again, he makes you feel powerful despite the compromising position. “I fucking despise that you let him defile you like that when you know you’re mine.” 

He rips your bodice down to expose your breasts, his fingers pulling on your nipples, and you yelp, arching your back into his chest as a fresh wave of arousal drenches your already uncomfortably wet pussy. 

"You're so sensitive here, princess." He groans, his slender fingers flicking your nipples teasingly, making you grind down on his thighs to try to chase more pleasure. "That's it, baby, grind your pussy on me, make a mess for me."

"Beomgyu, please." You beg, not for anything in particular, just for him to give you more than he's giving you. 

But Beomgyu is not done being angry. "Tell me, baby. Did he play with your tits like this?" He grunts, suddenly groping your breasts roughly. 

"No.” You shake your head vigorously, “Only you, puppy.” 

“Good girl.” He hums, kissing your neck, his touch growing gentler, still needy and possessive, but not as rough. “God, I want to mark up your pretty skin all red and blue so everyone will know that you belong to me and not that bastard.” 

You feel his teeth graze against your skin, making you shiver. You wish he would so you wouldn’t have to stand in court and testify against Taehyun, but Beomgyu is too petty to let that happen, and he contents himself with pressing his plump lips against your skin in feather-light kisses. 

“But it’s okay, they will all know soon enough.”

You find yourself shivering again at the ominous vow, but your focus is quickly drawn elsewhere when one of Beomgyu’s hands leaves your breast and moves down to grab at your thigh close to where you need him the most. 

His hand stays there for a while, kneading the flesh there while his other hand plays with your breasts, until you can’t help but start whining, your arousal leaving a large wet spot on his pants. “Beomgyu, please, do something.” 

"Do what, baby?” He teases, fingers ghosting over your slick lips. “Want me to touch your pussy?" 

"Yes!" You heave, pushing your pussy into his hand. You hear him chuckle as he allows you, running his fingers between your lips a few times.  

"Did me fucking your face get you this wet?" Beomgyu spreads your lips apart, letting your arousal drip down lewdly as your poor pussy clenches around nothing. 

“Please fuck me, Beomgyu, I can’t take anymore.” You almost weep, the burning desire smoldering in your belly too much to take. You nearly double over when he suddenly presses two fingers inside you and spreads them apart. 

“Fuck.” He grunts, his own hips bucking up in need. "Don't even need to prepare you for my cock." 

"No, puppy, just take me. I want it." You plead, letting him push your body forward so he can prod his cock at your entrance. 

"Ready, baby? Ready to be my queen?" His hand grabs fistfuls of your ass as he waits for your response, the other holding onto your tattered dress so you wouldn’t fall off. 

Is this how all queens are treated? Their clothes ripped apart as they get fucked on the throne?

You don't really care. Everything Beomgyu has ever given you was wrong but it felt good anyways. "Yes, my king."

He pulls you back to sit on his cock, knocking the breath right out of your lungs. You've fucked Taehyun multiple times but Beomgyu still stretches you out, almost painfully.

"God, you're as tight as ever. I guess I could rest easy knowing he never gave it to you right.” Beomgyu boasts, moving you up and down his cock slowly. “My baby likes a big cock to fuck her dumb." 

Not to prove his point, but you can’t really say anything right now. You’re doing your best not to split apart on his cock. God, how did you even take him last time? It is too much, too much, but you love it anyway. He’s right. You want him to fuck you stupid. You don’t want to think anymore. You just want him to take you and take care of you. 

Beomgyu has one hand bunched up in your clothes to keep you moving over his cock and the other snaked around your waist and playing with your pussy, his fingers relentless as they rub circles over your clit in order to get you to loosen up and take him more easily. 

“You’re being such a good girl for me, trying so hard to take me in that tight little pussy of yours, huh?” Beomgyu praises you fondly, and you nod dumbly. He is stretching you so much you feel like you're going to explode. "Gonna make you my queen, baby. Gonna give you everything you ever wished for." You feel a weight being placed on top of your head and through the haze of arousal and pain, you vaguely register it being his crown. "You want it?"

"Yes." You sob, feeling like your body has turned to molten need that only he could manipulate and put back into shape. "I'll take everything you give me." 

He ruined you so completely, rotted you up from the inside, made you his long before you even realized it. What power do you have to resist him? 

"God you always know just what to say to drive me crazy." He growls, removing his hand from between your legs and using both of them to grab your hips as he simultaneously moves you over him and fucks you from underneath. 

You feel like a dumb doll, the way he’s bouncing you up and down on his cock so hard that the throne room around you looks out of focus as it fills up with the sound of slapping skin. You think you’re drooling on yourself and your moans sound incoherent to your own ears but you don’t care. You feel so incredibly lewd and entirely his. Only he could do this to you because you're his to do with whatever he wants. 

"Gonna cum." He grunts, and grabs you by the hair, pushing you off the seat. The crown clangs to the floor as he pushes you on your hands and knees, pressing your head and torso down to the floor with your ass in the air as he drapes his body over yours and slides into you again. "Mine. Always been mine. Want to cum inside you. Want to breed you like a good queen." He grunts as he ruts into you wildly. "Do you want my baby?"

"Yes. Do whatever you want with me, my king. I’m yours." You slur out. It comes so easy to you to accept him. It feels good to be utterly claimed by someone. Wonyoung was right. You don’t have to fight anymore. You don't have to beg for love. He will take care of you. He will love you. You just have to let him. 

"Fuck, I love you so much." He moans out, cumming inside you and filling you up with his warm seed. 

Perhaps you should be more cautious about that. Perhaps it’s not the best idea to risk a pregnancy right now when all eyes are on you. But at this particular moment in time, with him caging you under him and filling you up to the brim, you can think of nothing but him and what he wants and the life you had dreamt up together. And even if your mind wants to protest, your body relinquishes everything to him, your pussy cumming around his cock and milking every last drop of cum he has to give you.  

You’re so boneless and fucked out by now, that you’re glad when he flips you onto your back and lays you down. You don’t even have the energy to consider feeling ashamed when he leans back to watch his cum seep out of your pussy. 

“God, you make me so crazy.” He murmurs, and uses his cock to collect his seed and push it back in. 

You wince as his cock breaches your sore pussy once again. "How are you still hard?"

"I told you I can keep you fucked and happy." He starts to move his hips again, bending down to kiss you when you whine from the abuse on your poor pussy. “Just one more, baby. You can do that for me, can’t you?” 

You nod despite your continued whines. 

“Thank you, baby. God, I don’t think I will ever get enough of you.” Beomgyu keeps your legs in the air as he plows into you sloppily, the slick sounds of his cock moving inside you and dragging out his own cum too loud to ignore. 

You feel absolutely debauched, lying there on your back at the foot of the throne, getting fucked like an animal by the king. You feel equal parts like the whore everyone says you are and also like the most powerful woman in the world, like nothing could ever stop you with him by your side. He would do anything for you. He can’t get enough of you. He said it himself, and maybe you don’t want him to. 

“Do you feel good, my king?” You drawl, spurring him on. “Does my pussy feel good?” 

“It’s perfect. You’re perfect.” He answers, noting the change in your right away and eagerly feeding into it. 

Beomgyu gets so heated sometimes but he can be so easy to control too. He’s like a wild wolf. As long as you feed him attention and love, he will act docile and let you pet him, but if you cross him, he will tear you to shreds. 

“Is this what you always wanted? Fucking me in the open like this, staking your claim on me?” Your words make him weak and his growls turn to whines. 

“Yes. Mine.” He moans, his rabid thrusts growing erratic as his jaw slacks, and even though his eyes were hazy, they bore right into yours. 

“Poor, baby, you’ve waited so long.” You brush his wet hair back and he looks at you with big puppy eyes. 

“Yes. So long.” He whimpers, hips stuttering as you purposefully clench around him. “Can I cum?” 

“So fast?” You tease and he blushes. “Please. I’ll make it up to you. Just want to fill you up with my cum again.” 

“Okay, puppy, cum for me. Make me yours.” 

“Fuck, fuck, you’re perfect. My perfect queen.” Beomgyu cries, eyes rolling up in his skull as he shudders over you and pumps his seed inside you. 

By the time he goes still, you’re filled to the brim with him and his cum, and yet he doesn’t pull out yet. 

"I don’t want to ever be apart from you, want to stay inside you forever.” He mumbles, kissing your lips again and again. 

“Me too, baby.” You sigh tiredly, letting him kiss you until you’re both drunk on each other. This is what you’ve always wanted. If only it didn’t come at such a hefty prince. Nonetheless, you push that to the back of your mind, choosing to lose yourself in the bliss of the moment. 

You’re still firmly in that lovely daze when Beomgyu pulls out of you and helps you up, carrying you in his arms before he places you on the throne. He then grabs his fallen crown and places it upon your head once again. 

“Beomgyu, what are you doing?” You gasp, sobering up a bit at that. 

He kneels in front of you. "This is what I have to offer you. Myself and the whole kingdom.” He proclaims, looking up at you like you’re his own personal deity. “All of it can be yours but some sacrifices have to be made. Whatever you think he can give you, I can give you a million times more. Both me and my riches are at your feet. Isn’t that what you’ve always wanted?" 

Not exactly. Yes, you had unrealistic ambitions but even in your wildest dreams, you had never dared to wish for this much. You thought you could either have Beomgyu but become his whore or you could have respect and money but give up on your love. You never imagined that one day he’d be the king and he would lay down himself and his kingdom at your feet.  

If ever there existed a woman who possessed the power to reject such an offer then you haven’t met her. 

“Yes.”

He smiles, and bends down to press a kiss against your pussy.

___________________

You feel faint and your knees buckle under the skirt of your dress. You do your best to hold yourself together so the horde of people gathered in front of the platform you’re standing on can’t see how shaken up you are. 

You step forward to give your testimony hesitantly. It's time to keep your end of the deal and testify against Ryujin and Taehyun.

By doing this, you appear to condemn them in the eyes of both the people and the court, but in reality, you're only condemning yourself. Because when the truth comes out, everyone will know you had given false testimony.

“I was tricked by lord Taehyun.” You start your rehearsed story quietly, shakily, and some people shout at you to speak up. So you clear your throat and repeat your words, louder this time, but still shaky. “I was tricked by lord Taehyun. You see, I-I never had many suitors in my life, certainly not as many as the other, more noble ladies in waiting. It was a great source of embarrassment and pain for me, and he took advantage of that. He got close to me and deceived me into thinking he fancied me, that someone actually wanted to be with me at last.” 

You wince as you relay the fabricated tale, putting Taehyun into the role of the villain that rightfully belonged to Beomgyu. "The royal family were hesitant when I told them that he had asked for my hand in marriage and they warned me about him but I didn't listen. I was stubborn and I thought I knew better than them. I finally had the chance to get wed to an esteemed lord hailing from an ancient family just like all the other ladies and I wasn’t going to let that opportunity slip from my fingers." You continue shamefully, helped by the half-truth of your statement. People were listening to you with rapt attention now. 

"It was only after we got married that I noticed that he would ask me weird questions all the time about the palace and my life there. At first, I brushed it off as my new husband wanting to know more about me, but the questions got more and more specific until I couldn’t ignore the sinister truth behind them anymore. I started refusing to answer and that's when he got angry… " You choke up, letting out a few tears, not because you're a good actress, but because it hurts you to say these things about Taehyun, knowing what he told you about his own mother and father. 

But it was for his benefit in the end, even if it doesn't seem like it now. "He threatened to kill me like he killed his father." 

A singular gasp emits from the crowd as if they all inhaled together at the same time. 

“He forced me to give him the layout of the palace–the hallways, the rooms, where the entrances and exits are, and even when the guards would change shifts. He used the information I gave him along with what he had learned from queen Ryujin in order to carry out his nefarious plans.”

You pause, catching your breath and trying to not pass out from the horror of what you’re doing. “You cannot imagine my despair when I found out that they used the information they’d extracted out of me to kill the king and prince Yeonjun. I was disgusted with myself. How could I have hurt those who have taken me in and treated me as one of their own. Even though I didn’t give out that information willingly, I still felt responsible for what happened. I wanted to die too, but I needed to warn the rest of the family about what’s happening. I couldn’t continue being a coward anymore and risk their lives too.” 

“So I found a way to contact them by sending them a secret message and warning them about the plot against them. I also begged them for the forgiveness I didn’t deserve, hoping they would believe that I had no choice in the matter. I didn’t think they would ever forgive me and I fully prepared myself to die by my husband’s hands as a traitor… but they did. They believe me. They forgave me. And they didn’t give up on me.” You look at the royal family then, the pain in your eyes misconstrued by all present except them. “They kept pushing and pushing until they got me back, and so here I am, once again trying to make up for the harm I have caused them."

Your dejected voice and shattered glances may have seemed suspicious in any other circumstance but to the onlookers who were so hooked onto the tale of the tragic but brave royal family, they only saw a traumatized damsel in distress that was recalling her harrowing experience of betrayal and redemption at the hands of their beloved monarchs. It all just lent more credence to your made up story. 

Next, it’s Wonyoung’s turn to speak, and her testimony is the final nail in Ryujin’s coffin. She reiterates everything that her brother, Soobin, and you have been saying, and she even speaks up in “your” defense. 

“The lady who was standing in front of you just now has been a friend to our family for more than a decade. We lived together, we played together, we grew up together. At this point, I consider her part of my family.” Wonyoung attests and the crowd moves in awe of the charitable princess who is so kind to someone such as you. “So to stand here and watch her be forced to deny such despicable rumors about her and my brother is so disheartening. That murderous, vile lord has no shame. Is it not enough what he did to her? Now he wants to use her to take down my brother? But it’s okay, we know how to protect our own.”

Wonyoung looks up to where you’re sitting, hidden from sight. “We will do everything in our power to help you, sweetling.” She speaks to you but it’s loud enough for everyone to hear, before she turns to the priest and addresses him. "I beg you, my lord, to free my friend and dear sister from that prison of a marriage. I know that neither you nor the good people of this kingdom will stand to keep her bound to such a ruthless man.” 

The crowd roars in agreement, completely falling for the intricate lie the royals have weaved, and the priest raises his hand, silencing the crowd. "I will look into it, my child." He answers Wonyoung kindly, "Never despair, for the gods are always looking down on us and they will not allow evil to prevail for long." 

His words incite a shiver down your spine. You hope it’s not true, you hope the gods aren’t really looking down on you because if they are, then surely you'll end up in the deepest hell for all your sins. 

Once Wonyoung gets off the platform, the judge, priest and jury head to a private chamber to convene, the trial coming to an end and now it’s time for the verdict. 

You don't know why your heart is racing and your chest is tightening. You already know what they’ll come back with. Wonyoung holds your hand as you wait, as if you're the one who needs comforting. You can almost see Beomgyu's struggle not to glance at you, having to keep up appearances in front of the public. 

But the verdict comes as sure as death–guilty on all counts, and the sentence is death by decapitation.

The crowd cheers, victorious and satisfied with the juicy, turbulent story as Ryujin is quite literally dragged away, her feet not seeming to be able to carry her anymore. 

________________

The news of Ryujin’s conviction and the royal family seeking an annulment for your marriage reaches Taehyun and his supporters soon enough. They, of course, decry it, using it as proof that Beomgyu is just doing this to free you up for himself. But regardless of their protests, the annulment is still approved and Ryujin is still getting executed. 

You’re a single woman when you go to witness the execution of the woman who is married to the love of your life. Beomgyu tries to get you to sit it out, telling you that you don’t need to subject yourself to something so horrific, as if you weren’t the cause of that horror yourself. No. You owe it to her, despite what you may feel about her. That’s what Taehyun taught you. 

Soon you might be here to witness your own former husband’s execution. Or maybe it will be yours and Beomgyu’s if your parting gift to Taehyun proves to be too successful. It’s not your intent. You merely wished to give him an edge against Beomgyu’s oppressive forces and lies, but you don’t know how potent of a tool it might be, or if it will even help him at all. 

Your musings are cut short when you see Beomgyu raise his hand up, signaling for the executioner to prepare himself as the priest finishes his prayer and asks Ryujin for any last words before she meets her creators.

"I am not afraid to meet the gods.” She mutters hatefully, “But I know you all will be." 

The priest looks flustered at her proclamation but Beomgyu doesn’t even react to her words. He merely lets his hand drop, and with it swings the sword. 

Ryujin’s death is quick and humane, performed by an expert swordsman–blink and you would’ve missed it. Funny how, in a way, Beomgyu had more mercy for his wife that tried to kill him than Taehyun had for his brother and friend. 

You could have never expected the cheers that followed the sight of her head separating from her body, and you find them to be more morbid than the screams and heaving you’d witnessed at Jaeyun’s execution. It was disgusting. No one deserves to have their death elicit such sick glee. 

Just a couple of years ago, Ryujin arrived at the city with a grand parade and exuberant celebration, and now she’s being sent off to the underworld with flippant hate and gruesome cheer. How frighteningly easy it is to have people turn on you. Is this what’s going to happen to you when Taehyun uses your gift?

A cold shiver wracks your body as you imagine yourself in her shoes–your head rolling on the floor as the crowd itches to grab a hold of it and do with it god knows what. 

Just like the rich prey on the poor, enslaving them and hoarding all the money from them, so do the poor turn on the rich at the drop of a hat, sinking their teeth into them and ripping them to shreds the moment they fall. 

The royal family lets the cheers and shouts of approval last for a while, letting the people have their macabre fun, before Beomgyu raises one delicate hand to shush them, and as if under a spell, the crowd goes quiet.

“My good people, I thank you for the unconditional support and understanding you’ve shown me and my family against such unspeakable treason. If I stand here and speak for another hundred years, I would still not be able to fully express my gratitude for each and every one of you. If we come to win this war against the traitors, know that it will have been because of you and only you.“ Beomgyu speaks, appealing to the ego and patriotism of the crowd, wanting them to feel personally attached and invested in this cause, wanting them to feel like they were an integral part of unraveling a secret scheme to take down the kingdom and that their continued loyalty to the crown will save it. 

“But I am afraid it doesn’t end here. My wife isn’t the only traitor that should be brought to justice. Lord Taehyun must be made to answer for his crimes too. Not only that, but he wants to invite foreigners, strangers, to rule your lands! Are you just going to stand by and let them take what belongs to us?” Beomgyu shouts, riling the crowd up. “Tell me, who do you trust? A king who walks among you or a warlord who seeks to bring outsiders to rule you?” 

The answer is obvious, and it is shouted loudly by everyone present. 

“You.” They say, “Our king.” 

And with that, Beomgyu officially declares war on Taehyun and his supporters. 

_______________________________

Once again, Beomgyu is swept up with preparations and meetings following his announcement of war against Taehyun, and you’re left alone to contend with everything that has happened and will happen. 

It's all your fault. You should never have left. And it all started here, in this room–the ballroom–where you had to watch the love of your life dancing with the woman he was promised to and you couldn't handle it. You had to make your escape in the hopes that you would run away from having to watch him be with someone else when you loved him so painfully, in the hopes that you too could have a partner to share a lawful and honorable union with. 

And now that woman you so envied is dead, and that marriage you sacrificed so much for is dissolved, and you're on the brink of war. 

“What are you doing here, princess?” Beomgyu's gentle voice takes you out of your thoughts. 

You look at him to see that he's the only one standing in the ballroom where the guards who were constantly around you once stood. 

"Remember Ryujin's welcoming party?" You ask, catching him off guard. 

"Why are you bringing this up now, baby?" He admonishes but you pay him no mind. 

"When I saw you dancing with her, looking every bit like the perfect royal couple… I was filled with such hate, such ugly jealousy, I wanted to grab one of those ridiculous decorative glass pieces your mother put everywhere at the party and smash it over her head." You confess, still vividly seeing the scene as if it was taking place right in front of your eyes. "I hated her so much, I wished she would die."

"She's gone now, baby." Beomgyu reassures you, an inappropriate smile on his face. 

Yes, she is. Oh how foolish was your wish? How naive? Once again the gods take pleasure in perversing your wishes and turning them against you. 

You breathe out a short laugh. “It wasn’t just her. Whenever there was a ball at the palace, I always envied the women you’d dance with. I always wished that it would be me instead of them, but I never was.” You tell him wistfully, and he wraps his arms around you and pulls you towards him. “Believe me, princess, there was nothing I wanted more.” 

You tilt your head to the side. “Can we dance now?”

“Of course, anything for you.” He answers, and you know he’s not just talking about this. This is a man who has killed for you. Under the cover of the night, you allow yourself to feel flattered by it. “Let me get the musicians.”

That's right. The palace has live-in musicians. The royals love their music and like all people of their stature, everything must be made available to them at their whim. It's one of the many things you envied them for, but at this moment, you just wanted to be alone with him.

“No.” You shake your head. “Just us.” 

He smiles. “Then you’re going to have to suffer through my voice.”

“I love your voice.” You sigh, because of course you do. What don't you like about him? 

He grabs your arms and places them around his neck before he puts his hands on your waist and starts singing.

Something hides in every night

Brings desire from the deep

And with it comes a burning light

To keep us from our sleep

Goosebumps flash across your skin as Beomgyu's voice hits you, prompting you to press yourself closer to him as if answering the call of a siren, and Beomgyu happily welcomes you, holding you back just as tightly until you’re almost hugging. 

As the full star tries his best to make the white pearl shine

Glances of a new day have arrived

And though he's not alone, he fears to never love another

And leave his heart forever with her smile

He brushes your hair out of his face as he sings and you lean into his touch, into the welcoming warmth of him. You’re certain if he could rip his chest open and lock you inside, he would. 

My love, light is burning

As I am burning

My love, light is burning

As I am yearning

Beomgyu sings the lyrics quietly but you can feel his soul in them. He may not be the best singer out there but no one else could move you like he does. Because the words are spoken directly to you, made for you.

And meanwhile, a whole lot goes down

Somewhere in the darkness, us together for a while

You loved it then, so did I

A feeling deep inside you wants to love it all again

His song beckons you, asking you to join him, to give into him. 

His voice is so different from Taehyun’s. While Taehyun’s is melodic and sweet, Beomgyu’s is deep, unrefined, earthly. With the dark atmosphere in the room and the cryptic lyrics, it gives you shivers, and you cling to him, feeling as if he’s the only real thing in the universe. He holds onto you tightly as well, as if both of your souls could reunite if you got close enough. 

You want to fall into him and never get up again. 

Now don't leave it there, just give it a chance

If only I'd forget you after one last dance

But you're everywhere, yes you are

In every melody and in every little scar

His voice wavers a bit, and you see the pain behind his words. He’s begging you not to hurt him again. 

Yes you are, you are, love

He ends his song, resting his forehead against yours, his eyes never breaking away from yours, not willing to break your soul connection yet. 

“Everything will go our way, my love.” He promises. 

You want it bad. You want everything to work out for you, but you know something that Beomgyu doesn’t, something that could turn this whole thing around–your parting gift to Taehyun. And although you know it was the right thing to do, you still feel guilty for betraying Beomgyu like this, especially when you feel one of his hands move from your back to your belly, and he smiles at you fondly. 

“I wonder if I got you pregnant.”

Your breath hitches at the thought. You wanted it. You really did, and he clearly is counting on it, which you can't understand. How can you bring a child into this mess right now?

"Aren't you scared that if I get pregnant, people will realize that Taehyun is telling the truth?"

Beomgyu stiffens at the mention of Taehyun's name. "No. People are gullible. They'll believe whatever they're told if it comes from someone they like and they'll ignore the truth even if it's being screamed in their face if it doesn't align with their preconceived notions about someone. They would never believe him over me. You saw it just now."

"They might if something shifts the tide." You mutter under your breath, but Beomgyu hears it and he doesn’t let your words slide. 

"What are you talking about? Is this about what you told him?" He presses, holding onto you when you try to wiggle away. 

He's not being rough about it though. He's still giving you those same sad, pleading eyes that make you wish he was being mean instead. Because god help you, you're still weak for him despite everything. 

"Baby, please, tell me what you told him. It's not too late. I can save us. I just need you to let me." He pleads but you shake your head, eyelashes beading with tears. "It is too late. He probably has them by now." 

"Has what?" Beomgyu asks. 

"The letters you sent me." You finally confess. It doesn't matter now anyway. "I lied about getting rid of them. I hid them in case you betrayed him." 

You had gathered all the letters, wrapped them up in the pearl necklace Taehyun gave you, and left them in a hidden nook at the cliff you used to go to to clear your mind. You wanted to believe that Beomgyu would be content with having you back, but you needed a fail-safe in case he didn’t, and that’s exactly what happened.

To your surprise, Beomgyu doesn’t look angry, he doesn’t look shocked, instead he looks relieved. 

"I'm happy you told me the truth, princess." He croons, brushing off tears you hadn’t known you were crying. 

"You're not mad?" You cling onto him, seeking the forgiveness he’s dangling in front of you. 

"I am upset that you decided to hurt me like that." He says and you wince. You didn’t want to hurt him. He forced you to do this. "But it's fine. No harm done. And I'm happy you confessed."

No harm done? 

"But he must have the letters by now. Aren’t you scared about what’s going to happen when he reveals them to the world?" You ask, confused, but Beomgyu smiles cryptically and shakes his head. 

You hear buzzing in your ear as he steps back and pulls something familiar out of his pocket–the same wad of letters you had rolled up and left on that cliff, sans the necklace. 

He hands them to you silently and you receive them like a death sentence–Taehyun's death sentence. 

Unfurling them, you’re met with the undeniable sight of those same words that haunted and tormented you all those nights ago. 

You are mine. I cannot bear the thought of another man occupying your heart. I can’t even imagine you calling a name that is not mine. Ah… if I were to hear it I swear I would do anything to rip any memory of him out of your brain. I would take you again and again until you can’t even remember how he felt anymore. 

How could you do this to me? The fact that these thoughts even exist in my mind… What have you done to me? You play with my heart. You torture me. What have I become? Would you hate me if you saw me like that? Would you be scared of me if you could read my mind?

Princess, I want to hurt you so bad right now…I want you to beg for pleasure and mercy. 

You tremble as you gaze at him. Would he actually hurt you if you push him enough?

Yes, he has hurt you emotionally, even physically when he took you against your will, but would he actually harm you? Even in his worst moments, he hasn't gone that far, but what if he loses hope in you?

All this time, he has been sure of one thing and that is your love for him. He told you that he always believed you'd come back to him and choose him. But what if something happens to shake that belief?

When it comes down to it, I still can’t believe you would give up on our love so easily. I would never give up on my love for you. Even after all we’ve been through, I… It takes so much to upset me.

I can be vengeful, princess. I can be as perverse as I am sweet. They will tell you awful things about me in the following days, I’m sure. They will say that I am ruthless, that I would do anything to get what I want.. to get to you. And they will have the guts to say it with disdain, as if it was a sin. You are dangerous, my princess. You are dangerous to me. But I am worse without you. That’s why you are my princess. I need you to keep me sane.

He's almost boasting about the lengths he would go for you. How could you think you could sway someone who not only has no remorse, but is proud of what he's done? 

You should have never left his side. You unleashed him on the world. None of this would’ve happened if you had just stayed. 

And Beomgyu has never shied away from telling you as much.

Don’t worry, princess. I will get you back. The universe made you perfect for me so how could you belong to another? 

Our story is not over yet, princess. We will see each other again. I still have hope. I have to. Every problem has a solution, no matter how drastic or insane. 

Have you forgotten what I said to you that night? You destroyed me, and I will make sure you destroy him too. Do you think he will still love you when his blood is on your hands?

No, you haven't forgotten. You remember his words clearly. 

"If he ever tries to take you from me again, I'll murder him in front of your eyes."

How could you have possibly forgotten this anger? It's clear he would’ve never spared Taehyun. 

If you hadn’t dragged Taehyun into this, he would be safe now. He would have found someone else more worthy, a woman strong and free as an eagle who could soar beside him, not a songbird who longs for the safety and luxury of her gilded cage, for the gentle and deceiving touch of her owner. 

You said you wanted money, stability, provisions… and so you ran off to him? What a fucking joke. What man can provide for you better than I can? 

My stupid princess, all your life I've coddled you, spoiled you, and it made you think you can get away with doing whatever you want. That was my mistake, I admit. I made you so naive that you actually think that man can protect you.

But it’s okay, I'll fix it all soon. You’re mine. I will have you again, and when I do… The things I’m going to do, princess, you’re going to wish you never left my side.

Never again, love. You’ll never be able to leave me once I’m done with you. 

We will be happy again. But for now I hope you’re crying for me. I hope you’re begging for my forgiveness.

The warnings were all there. His possessiveness and entitlement because of everything he provided for you. His warnings that he's going to take revenge and make you regret leaving him. 

He kept his word. And Beomgyu wasn't going to make his past mistakes again. 

"How…" You croak, trying to find your voice through your choked tears. "How did you get these?"

"I've had them for almost as long as you've been here. My spies saw you hiding them." He informs you, not needing to say more. 

There goes the one chance Taehyun had to prove the truth of his claims, and you watch in despair as Beomgyu takes the letters back from you and pockets them again, no doubt to dispose of them himself. 

He's the devil. You can never outsmart him….What's worse is that you feel a tinge of relief at that, the fact that you haven’t hurt him, can't hurt him. Because, may the gods curse you, you still don't want to. It took everything in you to force yourself to betray him, to go through with the meeting, and it was all for naught. 

You don't think you can do it again, not that you even had anything left you could do.

"I hate you." You mutter tiredly. 

"I know but I also know that you love me." He says, cupping your face gently and pressing a kiss to your lips that you don't reciprocate. "The question is, do you hate me enough to hurt me again?" 

Tears fill up your eyes again, "I didn’t want to hurt you. I just wanted to give him a chance." 

"You think that comes free? You think you can just balance the scales and have neither of us get hurt?" His voice gets high with barely contained fury. "Stop being so fucking naive, princess. It's time you make your choice once and for all. Me or him?"

You press your lips together and shake your head. 

"Do you want to save him?" He deadpans and you nod hesitantly, sensing something is off. 

“Then kill me.” 

“W-what?” Your mouth goes dry at the unexpected challenge. 

You watch with shaking pupils as Beomgyu pulls out a dagger from his clothes–-your dagger, the one Taehyun gifted you. 

He holds it out to you and you reach out for it in a daze, not believing that he’s actually giving it back to you. But as soon as you wrap your hand around the hilt, he encases his own hands around it and points the dagger at the middle of his chest, right over where his heart is, just a few centimeters of skin and flesh separating it from the sharp blade. 

“What are you doing, Beomgyu?” You freak out, any wrong move and the dagger could plunge in and hurt him. 

"If you want to save him then kill me. Because as long as I live, he won’t ever be safe.” 

You shake your head. “Stop this, please.” You’re growing hysterical. You’ve never felt this much panic and distress before, your body flooding with terror at the proximity of the dagger to your beloved’s heart. “Please!”

“I’m sick and tired of you pretending to care about these people, pretending like you don’t want what I want so I’m giving you your out. Kill me now and end it or don’t and stop pretending like this isn’t exactly what you want.” 

“Beomgyu–” You whine pitifully, trying to pull your trembling hands away but he won’t let you. Your entire body weight feels like it’s being held by his hands right now, your vision growing hazy and developing black spots as you grow faint.  

“Choose!” 

“You! I choose you!” You bawl and he finally lets your hands go and the dagger falls to the ground with a clang. You almost fall along with it too but Beomgyu holds you fast in his arms. 

"It's okay." He shushes you, smoothening his hand over your hair soothingly while you hang onto him and cry into his chest. "You just needed to make a choice. That's all I wanted. I'll take care of the rest."

It's hopeless fighting against him. He will always win. He has been dictating your life ever since you were children and he will continue doing so until your death. So just give in. You’re so tired of fighting him. You don’t even have the strength to kill him and end it because you love him too much. You love your captor, your rapist, your owner. You're just as rotten as him and you don’t deserve to feel sorry for yourself.

Taehyun is going to die and you’re going to live with the knowledge that you killed him and countless more because you were selfish enough to spread your misery around. 

____________________________

A/N: as always, feedback keeps me going so please drop a message and let me know what you think. only two chapters left now. is gyu going to kill tyun? will tyun figure out a way to come on top? is oc going to give in? what more tricks does gyu have up his sleeve?

[chicago-pd-is-weird]

Oneshot - Hank Voight and The Crackhead Detective

Just a little oneshot based on what I think Hank’s retirement would generally be like! This comes from the co-written story called Hank Voight and The Crackhead Detective. It’s pinned in my profile right now!

“It’s a good gig, Hank,” Kate said as she sat at the table. It had been several years since she first met the Sergeant. “And it’s at the kids’ school. You’d see the three of them every day, along with all the other kids of Chicago. I know you love to help troubled youth here. This is a great opportunity to show them what a real policeman is. Not the crap they see on the news.” She sipped her hot cocoa as Hank finally settled across from her with coffee.

“I don’t know. I’d rather stay here and take the scumbags off the street.”

“Yeah, but they’re forcing you into retirement. You can’t hit the field like you used to. It’s either retirement or a place in the Ivory Tower until you die. Look, Adam is more than capable of taking over the unit, and I know you don’t want to be on a desk job. This is how you can still be out there and making a difference.”

Hank avoided her gaze, staring at the steam coming from his mug. He didn’t say anything for a while, contemplating the idea. Kate had been talking about this to him for months, weaseling the idea into his head every time they saw one another, which was quite often seeing as Hank was practically a grandfather to her kids. He let out a long sigh, then finally met her eyes. He felt he didn’t have much of a choice, seeing as they really were making him retire from Intelligence. He nodded. “Alright, set it up.”

—

Three months later…

—

Kate smiled as she walked on Adam’s arm into the school, looking around at the colorful displays and billboards the students had made. “You think Lillia will remember that one line?”

“If not, we can shout it from the audience,” Adam replied with a small laugh. “I think I have her entire song memorized myself at this point.”

“Aww, do you sing it to your unit at work?”

“I’ll admit, I’ve been caught singing a few times before I’ve had my coffee.”

Kate laughed and moved into the auditorium with Adam, taking a seat in the front row, instinctively closer to the doors. Despite being off-duty, the two were still police, and were ready to jump into action should something happen.

Just as they got settled, someone walked up to them, a familiar voice hitting their ears. “Well, if it isn’t the Ruzeks.”

Kate and Adam both looked up, Kate smiling and standing to greet him. “Sergeant Voight, to what do we owe the pleasure?” She hugged him gently, looking him over. He was dressed in his white shirt and tie. He wore his name tag on his chest and displayed the stripes on his sleeve proudly.

As she hugged him, he smiled widely and kissed her temple. “Just here doing my job.”

Adam was next, shaking Hank’s hand but going in for a hug afterwards. “I don’t think I’ve ever seen you so happy, Boss.” Adam still called Hank “Boss” despite the two of them being the same rank. In his mind, Voight would always be his superior.

Hank didn’t seem to mind. “I owe it to Kate. She pulled a lot of strings to get me here.”

Kate waved her hand dismissively. “Oh stop it, Hank. They needed a new SRO. I just highly recommended you to anyone who would listen. Same way I convinced you to take the job.”

“By talking about it at every opportunity?”

Kate laughed and nodded, sitting back down in her seat with Adam as Hank settled beside them. “Has it been alright?”

“It’s been… really great. Better than I thought it would be.” Hank smiled over at her. “You know me really well. I didn’t think I’d like it half as much as I do now.”

“Hank, I make a living out of reading people.” Kate smiled. “I clocked you the first week I was with you.”

“Except you thought you’d make him take furlough halfway through the week,” Adam chimed in.

Kate scoffed. “To be fair, I had no idea everyone in the Intelligence Unit was a misfit and an outlier. I mean, come on. Everyone I’d treated similarly had taken furlough. I think the record was two and a half days.”

“I shattered that,” Hank said with a smile. Despite the torture he’d endured after first meeting Kate, he’d come to love her that first week, though admittedly, not until the last day. He knew she was a person underneath her quirky exterior the morning of the fifth day, which made him warm up to her quickly after that.

“Exactly. There was you, and then everyone in your unit at the time. I mean, everyone laughed at some point, I think with the exception of Al, who was really tense, but after I brought him bananas and oranges, he opened up to me. Antonio invited me to his boxing gym after that. Jay and Kevin invited me out to Molly’s with Kim. And then Adam fell in love with me, for goodness sake.” She shrugged and smiled. “You just had a whole bunch of misfits that I happened to fit in with.”

Hank smiled. “I guess that’s just who I am - I’ve taken in strays since I was on the beat.” He shrugged a little as he stood. “Look, I’m gonna take another lap or two around to make sure everything’s alright, but save this seat for me when the show starts?”

Kate nodded. “Consider it done.”

Hank leaned down to kiss her head again, then shook Adam’s hand before leaving the auditorium. He roamed the hallways, watching the people as they filed in. He made his way out to the back of the auditorium, where the kids were lined up in the hallways, chatting as they got ready for the concert. First, Hank caught sight of Lillia, who walked over and hugged him. “Hi Grandpa Hank!”

“Hey Lillia,” he said softly, embracing her before pulling away to look down at her, hands on her shoulders. “Are you ready?”

“I… I’m trying to make sure I remember it,” she said, shifting her weight. “It’s hard.”

“You’ve got this, alright? Your mom is saving me a seat in the front row.”

“You’re gonna listen to me sing?” She smiled up at him.

“I wouldn’t miss it for the world. Get back to your spot, okay?” He patted her back softly as she returned back to her spot. Hank walked further down the hallway, greeting a lot of the kids he knew, though he was seeking out one person in particular. He stopped to talk to Carter and Damien, who each hugged him and told him they’d be singing a duet. Again, Hank told them he’d be in the front row, beside their parents. He continued on, still seeking out one person. When he didn’t find him, he walked back through the hallway again. The kids started to file backstage in order as the show began.

Hank sighed, slowly moving through the halls as his mind raced with thoughts. He stopped at a corner just in time to see the kid he was looking for running up. “Hey, uh, Sergeant Voight, am I too late?”

Hank smiled down at him, putting a hand on his back. “Come on, everyone’s lined up backstage.”

“Are you sure I should do this? I don’t think-“

“Of course I’m sure, Camden,” he replied before letting him finish. “I’ve heard you sing. Look, I’ll be in the front row. Just find me, and sing to me. Nobody else matters.”

Camden sighed and stopped, turning to face him. “I don’t think I can do this…”

“Of course you can,” Hank replied, putting firm hands on his shoulders. “I’ll be watching, alright? I know you can do this. Just find me. Front row. To your left.”

Camden looked over Hank’s face for a moment, then slowly nodded. Hank smiled and adjusted Camden’s tie before pointing down the hallway. He turned and ran down it without another word to get his spot in line.

Hank smiled, then walked back through and into the auditorium just as the announcements were over. He sat down beside Kate again, watching the performances one by one.

.

When Camden took the stage, everything was quiet. He swallowed hard, looking like a deer in the headlights. His hands were by his side, gripping his pants tightly. At first, nothing happened as he looked over the crowd. The piano player took a long time to shuffle through the music before finding his piece.

Kate looked up at him, leaning over to Adam. “Poor thing looks more nervous than Lillia did.” She held his hand, using her other hand to rub his arm. Adam only hummed in response.

The piano music started, Camden looking out over the crowd. He seemed overwhelmed by the lights and the dozens of people in the audience. They could see his heart beating out of his chest, and he couldn’t hear anything but the thumping inside his own head.

When Camden missed his cue, it took him a moment to realize it before frowning as the piano stopped. The piano player looked to him. Camden cleared his throat and looked down, then back up.

Hank got up, standing and walking up to the stage, standing below it. “Hey, hey Camden,” he said softly. Camden’s eyes met Hanks as his face was illuminated. “Hey, don’t look at them. Look at me. It’s just me. Sing to me, okay? I’m right here, front row.”

Camden swallowed hard again, then nodded. Hank nodded to the piano player who started playing again. Hank slowly walked backward and took his seat in the front row, ignoring the knowing look from Kate and Adam. His eyes were locked with Camden’s as he began singing on cue.

Everyone in the audience was surprised by the melodious voice that came from the young man on stage. Even Kate and Adam were taken aback, seemingly entranced with everyone else in the audience as Camden sang “Africa” by Toto. When the chorus swelled, Camden closed his eyes and sang with deep passion and energy. Hank’s face split into a wide smile.

When the performance was over, Hank stood and clapped loudly, Kate and Adam following. Everyone else in the audience stood and clapped, cheering for the young man on stage. Hank cheered the loudest from the front row. Camden smiled widely, motioning Hank up on stage. Hank waved his hand dismissively, but Kate and Adam urged him to go. Hank reluctantly moved up the steps and into the stage, walking over and putting a hand on Camden’s shoulder as he smiled. “I told you you could do it.”

Camden smiled and hugged Hank. “Not without you.” Hank chuckled, but Camden grabbed the microphone. “Sergeant Voight believed in me. I think we’re all really thankful he decided to come to our school and be our SRO. Me, most of all. He believes in all of us.”

Hank walked with Camden backstage as the audience continued to applaud. When they were out in the hallways behind the auditorium, Camden hugged him again. “I meant it.”

“I know, kid. I know.” He smiled and hugged the boy tightly. “Now, you need to keep singing, alright? Sign up for chorus on Monday.”

“Yes sir,” Camden said, nodding and then taking his place backstage once more until the show was over.

Hank went back to the auditorium to take his seat beside Kate as the last few performances went. Then, everyone went out and bowed before the show was over. Hank stuck around with Kate and Adam as they greeted Lillia, Carter, and Damien. Camden came over to hang around them, and Hank introduced Camden to Kate’s children.

.

When they finally left, Hank watched everyone file out, doing one more round to ensure everything was good before the administrators locked up for the night. Camden sat outside on the steps as Hank walked out. He frowned. “Hey, nobody come to get you?”

“Ma prolly forgot about me again,” he said with a shrug. “She’ll remember eventually.”

Hank sighed. “You’re not going to sit out here in the cold?”

Camden shrugged. “Don’t really have a choice. It’s safer here than walking ten blocks home in the dark anyways.”

Hank shook his head. “Come on, I’ll give you a ride home.”

“Nah you don’t have to-“

“It’s on my way. Come on.” Hank urged the boy, who barely had a coat, to go with him as he walked down the steps. Camden followed him and got into the passenger seat of his SUV. Hank turned on the heat, allowing Camden to soak it up as he drove him home, not in any particular hurry to return the boy to his drugged-up mother.

.

When they arrived at Camden’s house, Hank looked to him. He put his hands on his shoulders. “Hey, look at me.” Camden met his eyes. “You’re better than your mom and dad. You’re better than drugs and jail and gangs and guns. You can have a better life. Don’t let them pull you into it. I’ve seen what happens to kids who let themselves get pulled in. Don’t let them, alright?”

Camden nodded slowly, letting out a small breath. “What if they make me?”

“Then- here.” He rustled around in his center console for a moment before pulling out a card. “Then you come talk to me, or you call the number on that card.”

Camden took the card. “Ruzek?”

“He’s my very good friend. You met him earlier. He’s a cop too, and if you can’t wait to see me, you call him, alright? You won’t be in any trouble if you call. We’ll protect you.”

Camden nodded slowly, taking the card and putting it in his pocket. “Thanks.”

“You’re welcome.”

That’s when Camden’s mother, in her nightgown, stepped out onto the porch. She waved at Hank in the car, urging Camden to come in. Camden reluctantly got out, saying bye to Hank and walking inside the house with his mother.

Hank sighed, waiting for a moment before slowly pulling out of the driveway. He’d seen that movie before, and hoped this time would turn out even better than Erin did.

[trashcanplant]

Many Well Wishes for the New Year

It was getting late as all of the neighbors piled into Paulette’s observatory. They greeted everyone at the door with a smile, all dressed in hues of blue and yellow and star themes. It was the yearly Turnover party after all!

He walked quickly up to the platform she had set up, decorated in silver tinsel and golden stars.

“Is everyone here? I’d appreciate if everyone would listen, please” Paulette began, holding a small cup of fruit juice in the air. She scanned the crowd, smiling at each of his neighbors and friends.

“I want to say that this year has been a very good one. I think we’ve all made a lot of friends, and in turn, grown for the better! I know that there are people who couldn’t be here tonight to witness the turning over of the morning star, but I believe that they’re here with us. In spirit.” They smiled, making eye contact with a morose Penny who was standing next to Poppy.

“I’d like to thank my cousin, Howdy, for helping me set up all these decorations. I’d also like to thank the Fruitbat family, who aren’t with us right now, but who gave us the fruit punch that we’re drinking tonight. And I’d like to thank.. you. Thank you for being here to witness this incredible celestial event with me. It means a lot that everyone has so graciously welcomed me into this neighborhood. I truly love each and every one of you.” She smiled and raised his glass.

“To the new year!” Paulette toasted, looking down at their neighbors as they cheered. She then turned his eyes to the skylight and watched as a colorful aurora rose across the sky. It cast blues and pinks and greens and teals all across the observatory. They smiled as shooting stars painted the night sky. The party could truly begin now!

Marnie sat down on one of Paulette’s couches, idly sipping her punch. She noticed that no music was playing, which was truly a disgrace. All this beauty with no scenic score? Marnie reached into her tote bag and took out a record. She walked over to the player and started spinning the songs. It was gentle instrumental music that had an heir of wonder around it. Light theremin followed in the song. She was sufficiently satisfied and sat back down. If someone wanted to talk to her, they would find her.

At the food table was Antoni and Dandy. They were laughing and serving their neighbors food. He turned to his sister for a moment.

“Hey, Dandy.” He spoke as a cheesy grin spread across his face.

“Yes, Antoni?” She asked, her rhinophores twitching slightly as she listened to the twinkling of the stars and the sound of her brother.

“What’s your plans for the new year?” He asked, taking one of the saltwater taffies from her side of the table. Dandy grinned.

“Well… probably not a lot. Maybe get out of the shop more often. But overall, I think I’m happy keeping you safe and making candy.” She replied, giving her brothers hair a ruffle.

“Hey! You stop that Candace Dandelion Pizzario!” He shouted with a tease. Dandy gasped at her full name being used before putting Antoni in a headlock.

“Only if you make me Antoni Bluebell!” She shouted back.

Frank, who just wanted some pizza quickly turned away and walked back over to where he was standing with Deirdre.

“Those two always play so rough, don’t they, Ms. Dewmoore?” He asked, rubbing his temple. Deirdre looked up from her book and over at the twins.

“I think they’re just like that. Similar to you and Julie, just more physical, wouldn’t you say?” She asked in turn. Frank chuckled lightly.

“I suppose you’re right. Speaking of Julie, where did she go?” He asked, looking around before his eyes found her talking to Marnie on the couch. The musician was braiding her hair.

“Looks like it’s a Turnover miracle. It seems our best friends are friends, Mr. Frankly.” Deirdre smiled, walking over to them and sitting on the couch with them. Frank followed in suite.

“—And I was telling Eddie that the right dance to do during a Turnover party is the Hokey Pokey! Oh! Hiya Frank! Hi Deedee!” Julie said, waving at them.

“It’s Deirdre, Ms. Joyful.” Deirdre said with a low chuckle.

“Right right, I’m sorry! Frank, Deirdre, what do you think is the right dance to do at a Turnover party?” Julie asked, tilting her head. Marnie looked on from behind the mass amounts of hair.

“Quit moving so much, Jules.” Marnie chided as she gently wrapped the braid in a hair tie. Julie mumbled an apology, looking at the academics.

“Well, I think it depends on the party, Julie. I like a dance like Ma Navu myself, but I think there’s plenty of dances that can be done at a Turnover party.” Deirdre said. Julie tilted her head and Marnie gave it a light pat as a reminder. Frank chuckled.

“Oh yes, a folk dance like that is perfect! Maybe that’s a bit slow though?” Frank asked while Julie rolled her eyes in boredom.

Sitting by the window and looking onward at the stars was Penny. She was waiting for Poppy to return from the food table when a gentle furry hand patted on her shoulder.

“Hey. You alright there, Penn?” Barnaby asked. Penny nodded slowly. She didn’t really talk to Barnaby often, and was confused why he was talking to her. He sighed lightly and sat down.

“I get how you’re feeling right now. That silly scarecrow just makes everything better, y’know? It’s been almost a month, but it’s like he’s still around. Just sayin’, he wouldn’t want ya to be all sad. So perk up, okay?” Barnaby spoke to her, patting her back before he noticed Wally in the corner.

“Hold on a second-“ Penny interrupted his standing. The comedian simply sat back down.

“Yeah?”

“Does Grover like Turnover? Is he… celebrating right now with his other friends?” Penny asked a bit sadly. Barnaby took a breath. He didn’t know the answer, really only knowing that Grover’s favorite holiday was Mail-In-Times day. But seeing Penny frown made him want to make her feel better.

“Of course he does! He’s sitting under the stars right now and celebrating with us. Just in his winter town. If he coulda been here, he woulda.” He said. The answer seemed to soothe Penny’s conscious and Barnaby left. Poppy approached her with a small plate with of star-shaped cookies.

“Peachpie are you okay? You look upset.” Poppy asked. Penny immediately took a cookie and felt better as she bit into it.

“I’m just peachy, dearie!” She responded with a smile. Poppy smiled worriedly and wiped crumbs from Penny’s lips.

Up the split level was Paulette and Howdy. The two caterpillars were clinking their glasses together lightly.

“I gotta say Paul, this sure is one good party! The whole neighborhood’s here!” Howdy said with a guffaw. Paulette smirked gently and put the glass against her lips.

“I certainly did my best. If anything, I owe this party to you! Thank you for advertising for me.” He thanked. Howdy scoffed lightly and pat Paulette on the back.

“Of course! I know how nervous ya get when ya have to talk to a lotta people. Nice job on the speech, by the way.” He complimented. Paulette smiled carefully and sighed.

“Happy new year, Howdy.” She said.

“Happy new year, Paulie.” He replied.

(penny and dandy belong to @cherrythepuppet)

[trickster-jpeg]

Just A Man, I'm Not A Hero. Just A Boy, Who Had To Sing This Song.

Summary: Marc just gotten the call that his mom had died, and he has no idea how to feel about it.

Warnings: Suicidal ideation, self blame, a lot of internal conflict, and references to child abuse.

Word Count: 983 It's On AO3 -> Here

His mom was dead. Gone, deceased, never coming back. He was never going to see her again and he felt physically sick. He’d just gotten the phone call about the funeral, about the shiva, and he was fucking terrified. How could she just be gone? He’d felt her lingering over his shoulder, his identity, his entire life, and now he was just supposed to accept the fact that she’d never be there again. He’d done everything he physically could to get away from her, and now that he knew that he’d never have to see her again, he was terrified. He wanted her back. He didn’t want her to be gone. He wanted his mom back.

He missed her. Missed the way she’d smile at him. The times she’d rub little circles into his back until he fell asleep. How she’d leave the door open just a sliver with the landing light on, just because he was terrified of the dark. She’d hold him and let him sleep next to her when he’d woken up crying his eyes out from a nightmare, singing to him in a soft and hushed voice. The way he’d try to squirm away as she’d fuss over his appearance before going to temple. Always making a show of singing him happy birthday, making sure he had a nice cake and a party. The way she’d smiled at him the first time he held his baby brother and made sure that he knew he’d always be there for him, to look out for him. Because that’s what big brothers did.

It should’ve been me. I should’ve been the one to die. I never should’ve brought him into that cave. I broke her heart by killing her son.

He had also been her son. Her first born. He’d been the one to survive, and after that she had treated him like he was dead to her. Like he’d drowned alongside his brother. That the boy that had survived wasn’t a boy but a creature. Some monster that had crawled into the corpse of the person he was, the son she knew, and replaced him to suck the life force out of the family. And he hated himself for it. He had hated himself more than he had ever thought he was capable of feeling anything before and it was all because she did.

Society tells children that their parents know everything. That they’re meant to be respected and listened to, that they pass wisdom onto their next of kin in the hopes that their children can be better people than they were. Kids are never told that their parents are wrong. Your parents are smart, they know a lot more than a child would so you should take their word as gospel. But what happens when the people that you’re dependent on to survive suddenly turn their backs on you? What to do when your mom starts drinking? When she suddenly starts to scream at you. To blame you. When she starts to beat you. Tries to abandon you. He was never told what to do when his mom threatens to kill him. When she tried to kill him.

“I brought you into this world and I can take you out of it.”

She made him feel disgusting. So fucking worthless. So small, so weak, so fucking scared. And so incredibly fucking angry. He hated her. Hated the way she made him feel. Hated the things that she did to him, the things she forced him to go through. How he had to stay quiet. How he had conditioned himself into being good and not talking about it just because her reputation would be ruined. Because it would make her look bad and he didn’t want her to look bad because he loved her. And any time he thought about telling someone, just to say something- anything, he just wanted to punish himself because of how awful a son he would’ve been to destroy her image and make people see her like that in that light. Because if he told people lies about his mom he’d be a bad son, and good sons don’t speak badly of their mothers.

The more he thought about it the sicker he felt. The emptier he felt. It made him want to scream until his throat bled. Made him want to choke on his own blood until he was gagging from the overwhelming iron taste filling his mouth, drowning his lungs. The urges he’d get to try and kill himself in the most painful, damaging ways and purposefully survive so he had to live with the things he’d done to himself. The burning desires to grasp at his hair and tear it from his scalp, to gouge and gnaw at the skin on his fingers until he’d peeled down to the bones.

All he could think about was the nights as a child that he’d spent wishing she would just die. He could only think about the guilt that choked him like a noose after realising what he’d thought, what he’d whispered aloud to himself as he lay in bed with the moon dusting a faint light across his face. The betrayal he felt in his mind at even considering that acceptable for a split second, just for a selfish craving to be released from the never ending nightmare of both his waking and sleeping life.

But now that she was gone, all he wanted was to hug her one last time. To apologise to her. To try and make peace. And deep down he was fucking ashamed more than he would ever fully be able to even comprehend. Because he was still just that scared little boy stuck in the water-filled cave, just barely able to keep his head up above the water level. That scared little boy who just needed a mom.

[andrevasims]

Question Tag Thingies

I kept forgetting to do these, but now I remembered lol

There was 2 different but similar tag game things, so I’ll just do them together!

Tagged by @pikselis @twofee @mdpthatsme @polynovskaya and @thesimofmanu! Thanks so much for thinking of me ^_^

Underneath a read-more cause it got kinda long :P

Rules: Tag 9 people you would like to get to know more/catch up with

Last Song: I was listening to a mix on YouTube of 2000s hip hop at work :P

I can listen to music while I’m working, but so I don’t pull my phone out all the time I try to find hour-long DJ mixes (in hopes that fast/dance-y music will keep my energy up as I do boring work all day lol)

I use the app PlayTube instead of the official YouTube app or YouTube Music, because it has no ads (for FREE!!) and also lets the video continue playing when I lock my phone or minimize the app. Its autoplay feature is actually pretty good at finding another similar hour-long mix to play after the one I searched, so I usually don’t even notice the video changed.

Though PlayTube is probably the 3rd or 4th unofficial YouTube app I’ve had in the past few years, because after a while they either must get Cease & Desist’d or something by YouTube, or they just end up doing what I’m trying to avoid and make you pay for things and/or show ads.

Last Show: Do web shows count? I don’t really watch anything else lol - For that it would be UNHhhh :P I think they’re so funny, and their dynamic reminds me a lot of my friend & me. My friend also watches them, so we’re always joking about who acts like Trixie & who acts like Katya lol

Currently Watching: Umm idk, gameplay videos on YouTube lol

Currently Reading: Not really currently, but I reread Ghost World by Daniel Clowes after getting a physical copy of it - idk if that counts because it’s a comic lol but it’s just my favorite.... thing in general, so I’m really happy I have a physical copy of it that I can see & hold & stuff lol

Current Obsession: I guess my PS2, but now that I’ve reinstalled TS2 it’s fallen a bit to the wayside :P I’ve had it on my computer desk hooked up to my monitor for quite a while now, just no active interest in playing my PS2 games. But then I got the first 2 Katamari games, and that’s been really fun!

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

15 Questions for 15 Mutuals

1. Are you named after anyone?

Umm well I named myself lol but it’s basically a shortening of my last name, so... I’m named after myself :P

2. When was the last time you cried?

When I got a migraine last week. It was this super intense aching pain behind my eyes & temples that lasted for hours/days, and I was woken up by the worst of it after the acetaminophen I took wore off.

Although it hurt, tbh I’m kinda used to just powering through pain, so I didn’t think much of it other than it sucks, but then I started crying as like an instinctive reaction to the pain? idk as I was crying I was like “What, this doesn’t even hurt that bad” lol it was completely automatic

3. Do you have kids?

Nope, I don’t plan on having any either - I’m getting an (elective) hysterectomy in a few weeks actually lol so if for some reason I ever change my mind despite never doing so yet, they’re not coming from me :P

4. Do you use sarcasm a lot?

Pretty much never - I’m very literal about things, and although I can recognize when people are using it I just don’t really see like... the point in adding to it myself I guess? Like if we’re using sarcasm to “secretly” talk about not liking something, I’d rather just openly talk about not liking the thing instead of going “Ohh yeahhh this thing is sooo goood *eyeroll*” over & over lolsdfgdf

5. What sports do you play/have you played?

Roller derby, kind of? I’ve never done any sports even as a kid, but back in 2017 I spent a few weeks training with my city’s roller derby team. I didn’t know how to roller skate at all before I started, but as it’d be hard to find enough people to make a team otherwise they just teach everyone roller skating from the beginning.

I never got on the team, mainly because it involved time/money I didn’t really have at that point, and idk what my results on their final skill evaluation was so I’m not sure if I’d have made it anyway lol. I wasn’t that set on playing on the team though, I just thought I’d try something new for once and I got to learn how to roller skate out of it!

6. What’s the first thing you notice about other people?

Probably how they treat others, like if they’re talking to people or in a group nearby me I end up listening to their conversations - I mean they’re right there and I have no control over my sense of attention/focus sooooo lol

7. Scary movies or happy endings?

I like both, only having one or the other gets a little boring :P

8. Any special talents?

idk how special I’d actually call it, but a lot of my coworkers point it out as something I’m really good at (which I think is weird because it seems normal but that’s just me lol) - I guess my ability to figure out solutions to things?

Like I’m not that smart tbh but I know the steps to basic troubleshooting, trial & error, process of elimination, etc.... That just feels like common sense to me, but apparently not everyone uses it lol

9. Where were you born?

Midwest US, where everyone used to joke about how cold it was but now they don’t because climate change yaaaay -_-

10. What are your hobbies?

Whatever lets me be creative, like customizing/decorating things I have, taking photos, drawing, and video games of course!

11. Do you have any pets?

Nooo, I love cats but my apartment is really small and since I’m at work all day I’d feel bad for making a cat live here lol

12. How tall are you?

5′5″, I actually thought I was 5′4″ until like 6 months ago lol - I swear I was before, though I’m not really measuring my height regularly :P

13. Fave subject in school?

Probably history, cause it’s interesting to learn about but mainly it had the least (or the easiest) homework lol

14. Dream job?

idk, I thought it was art but now every way that could go sounds like I’d hate it at some point lol - tbh I like what I do now, because it lets me do a lot of things the way I want to without being told what to do directly, and it involves a lot of organizing/categorizing which I really enjoy doing in general.

I don’t really want to do this specific job at this specific company for my whole life, but my dream job would be really similar to it I think

15. Eye colour?

Brown ^_^

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

Since I’m late to this I’m not gonna tag anybody, but feel free to jump on if you want!

[sistrrrenchantress]

6 Questions Tag Game

Thanks @dwellerinroots for the tag! I haven’t actually ever done one of these so here goes nothing.

1. Last Song?

Ughgh I think Malibu by Hole. I last listened to a podcast and I only use Spotify so I’m like 98% it was Malibu. Anyways I love that song. It’s hopeful and sad and when I was in high school I really wanted someone to whisk me away and we’d go live somewhere by the beach in like a van. You know like those kinda romantic, hazy dreams of van-life before you realize that it’s not realistic.

2. Last Show?

I was gonna say The Last of Us, but actually I watched Modern Family last night. TBH my partner likes TLoU a lot more than I do, but it’s got some scenes that melt my heart a bit. Anyways Modern Family always acts like a personal pick-me-up since it’s kinda nostalgic. Plus sometimes I wish my family was more like them. It also kinda helped me realize what wasn’t healthy about my own personal relationships and know that life goes on even if your family sucks sometimes so even if it’s a mess it kinda has helped me? Idk why I’m trying to explain myself here lmao. I had a class where everyone said it was problematic and I don’t want people thinking I agree with everything in the show or whatever.

3. Currently Watching?

I just finished watching Wakanda Forever so I think it counts since I started this before it ended lmao. Anyways I thought it was okay. Not good, but not terrible. But I also think it was closer to terrible than good. It just felt confused, like it didn’t know what message or arc Shuri was supposed to have so idk idk. I’m not a movie critic so… yeah

4. Currently Reading?

I’m still reading Hyperion. I know it’s been a month, but in my defense the blues have hit me like a truck and I’ve solely been focusing on keeping my GPA. I have one more short story left, which is the Consol’s. Also, I should’ve mentioned but it’s a collection of sci-fi short stories (Canterbury Tales style) taking place eons into the future after Earth has literally imploded. It follows a group of people brought together on a pilgrimage to travel to the mysterious Time Temple on the planet of Hyperion. There’s more but I really don’t wanna spoil anything for anyone who might want to read or was already planning. Anyways the priest’s tale is my absolute favorite, because I like it’s spooky vibe and other spoiler-filled reasons. However they’re all written really well and I would recommend this to just about everyone since I think it’s just a really fun read.

5. Current Obsession?

Oof I don’t really have one because I’ve been feeling down. However Cyberpunk 2077 was it for a while, then TES again, and I’m just floating now. Anyways I’m always interested in TES, the Witcher, Dragon Age, etc. It’s just not as intense as other people though. I feel kinda boring now. Well, at least I’ve been getting back into art and blender and messing around with trying to learn my father’s language again. And I love writing and creating generally so that’s really that.

6. Unrelated Stuff I’ve Been Doing?

I already talked about this a little I guess. I’m learning Polish again and watching more shows with the dub in Spanish so I don’t lose it since I just don’t talk to my family much anymore. I’ve been messing with blender and unreal engine. I re-started this art-schedule-thing that I got from a yt video. I really want to improve my digital art. I also have like 10 billion tabs open with videos on blender and unreal so maybe I’ll post what I’m working on one day. I kinda gave up on my NaNoWriMo because I’m too moody and I don’t know what’s wrong with my executive function but we haven’t been on the same page recently. However, listening to podcasts (like Unresolved Textual Tension or You’re Wrong About and Rotten Mango) has kinda helped my mood a little. But if I’m being real here, real life kinda takes up most of my time. So school (gotta love deciding for a dual degree really late in my undergrad) and all the volunteer/internship things I have to do kinda just take up most of my life. That’s a little depressing lmao, but it is what it is.

Anyways, thanks for the tag! I don’t feel like I’m active enough to tag anyone and I’m shy so anyone who sees and wants to do it, feel free.

[estrellami-1]

I listened to that song like 5 times back-to-back thinking about this the entire time. OP, I’m kissing your brain. I hope you like it.

~~~~~~~~~

Eddie looks like sin. He’s debauched. Eyes wide, chest heaving as he pants, sweat beading at his temples, hair wild and in his face, flushed down to his chest. He looks Steve directly in the eye as he speaks. “Thank you, Hideout!” He says, grinning wide, and right, they’re in public right now, Steve should maybe not be eye-fucking his boyfriend.

He tunes back in as Eddie takes a deep breath and holds it for a second before releasing it, his breathing coming easier. Steve smiles as he recalls the day he’d taught Eddie that trick. “Now, I know many of you might not think of our guest for this next song as being very metal, but forgive me this once. This man is very important to me. Took me in when I was a wee lad-“ here he adopts an absolutely atrocious Scottish accent which really just makes Steve fall in love with him even more, because God, his boyfriend is such a dork- “and raised me as his own. Not to mention he’s got the sickest skills I’ve seen in this podunk town of Bumfuck, Indiana. So, without further ado, please welcome my uncle, Wayne Munson!” He grins even wider and throws an arm behind him as Wayne emerges from the curtains, holding a fiddle.

“I didn’t need all that, boy,” Wayne grouses, but Steve can see the pleased flush to his cheeks, knows Eddie can see it too. Knows that Wayne knows they can see it.

“Alright, boys,” Eddie says, turning back to the small crowd that had gathered. “Hit it!” He slides his fingers down the strings of his guitar, using that as the opening for “The Devil Went Down to Georgia,” and then the drums kick in. Wayne raises the fiddle to his chin, waiting for his cue.

He starts a second later, fingers flying over the strings, bow moving so fast Steve’s almost scared it’ll break or start a fire, just from the friction. He’s good, really good, even Steve’s untrained ear can tell, and he grins and joins in when the crowd starts clapping to the beat.

Then Eddie starts singing, and even though it’s little more than rhythmic talking—he’d done more vocally-complex songs already that night—Steve was hooked. Then again, he was always hooked when it came to Eddie.

When it comes time in the song for the devil to play his fiddle, Eddie and Wayne play together, electric guitar and fiddle, fingers a blur as Eddie complements Wayne’s playing, the guitar somehow only adding to the fiddle.

Steve is awestruck. He’s heard Wayne play before—the tail end of slower songs—and he knows he is good, but to know he has this kind of talent, and to know that he and Eddie had practiced this… Steve is about four seconds away from stomping up onto the stage and pulling Eddie into a bruising kiss.

After the next verse, when it is Johnny’s turn to fiddle, Eddie lets Wayne have the spotlight, simply strumming complementary chords.

The crowd is going wild, and Steve is halfway there with them. Wayne adds on to the original song, a slight riff here and there, different, more complex-sounding fingering than the original. Steve is obsessed.

Far too soon, the song is over, and Steve slips to the back to congratulate Wayne as he walks off stage.

He grins and hands the man a glass of whiskey in exchange for the fiddle, carefully laying it in its case, smiling when Wayne groans about being too old for this shit.

“You say that every time, Wayne,” Steve reminds him. Wayne shoots him a rude gesture in return, and Steve laughs out loud.

A few minutes later, Eddie comes bounding into the back after their last song, pouncing at Wayne and wrapping his arms around his uncle’s torso. “Wayne! Holy shit, that was great, thank you so much! The crowd loved you!”

“Well of course they did,” Wayne mutters, but he looks pleased regardless.

“Eds,” Steve murmurs, gesturing him over with a flick of his head. When they’re standing in front of each other, he lets a grin fill his face as he leans forward to whisper into Eddie’s ear his exact plan for that night.

He delights in the shade of red Eddie turns, pressing a chaste kiss to his cheek before cackling as he walks away.

Guitarist Eddie, nephew son of fiddler Wayne